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APT Satellite Holdings Limited Proxy Solicitation & Information Statement 2009

Oct 16, 2009

49643_rns_2009-10-16_d7639838-d51f-495a-890a-841862fc1557.pdf

Proxy Solicitation & Information Statement

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THIS CIRCULAR IS IMPORTANT AND REQUIRES YOUR IMMEDIATE ATTENTION

Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited and The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited take no responsibility for the contents of this circular, make no representation as to its accuracy or completeness and expressly disclaim any liability whatsoever for any loss howsoever arising from or in reliance upon the whole or any part of the contents of this circular.

If you are in any doubt as to any aspect of this circular or as to the action to be taken, you should consult your licensed securities dealer, bank manager, solicitor, professional accountant or other professional adviser.

If you have sold or transferred all your shares in APT Satellite Holdings Limited, you should at once hand this circular and the accompanying form of proxy to the purchaser or transferee or to the bank, licensed securities dealer or other agent through whom the sale or the transfer was effected for transmission to the purchaser or transferee.

This circular is for information purposes only and does not constitute an invitation or offer to acquire, purchase or subscribe for securities of APT Satellite Holdings Limited.

(Incorporated in Bermuda with limited liability) (Stock code: 1045)

VERY SUBSTANTIAL ACQUISITION RELATING TO SATELLITE PROCUREMENT CONTRACT IN RESPECT OF APSTAR 7 SATELLITE

AND

NOTICE OF SPECIAL GENERAL MEETING

A notice convening a special general meeting of APT Satellite Holdings Limited to be held at its principal place of business, 22 Dai Kwai Street, Tai Po Industrial Estate, Tai Po, New Territories, Hong Kong on Wednesday, 4 November 2009 at 11 a.m. is set out on pages 121 to 122 of this circular. A form of proxy for use at the special general meeting is enclosed. Whether or not you are able to attend the meeting, you are requested to complete the accompanying form of proxy in accordance with the instructions printed thereon and return it to the Company’s branch share registrars in Hong Kong, Tricor Tengis Limited, at 26th Floor, Tesbury Centre, 28 Queen’s Road East, Wanchai, Hong Kong, as soon as possible but in any event not less than 48 hours before the time appointed for the holding of the meeting. Completion and return of the form of proxy will not preclude you from attending and voting at the special general meeting or any adjournment thereof if you so wish.

19 October 2009

CONTENTS

Page
Definitions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Letter from the Board. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Appendix I

Financial information on the Group. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
13
Appendix II

Unaudited pro forma net assets statement of the Group. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
110
Appendix III –
General Information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
115
Notice of SGM. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121

DEFINITIONS

In this circular, the following expressions shall, unless the context requires otherwise, have the following meanings:

  • “APSTAR 7 Satellite”

Spacebus 4000 C2 Platform having 28 C-band and 28 Ku-band high power geostationary communications satellite

  • “APT (HK)” APT Satellite Company Limited, a company incorporated in Hong Kong and a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company

  • “Business Day” a day other than Saturday and Sunday on which banks are open for business in Hong Kong and Paris

  • “Company” APT Satellite Holdings Limited

  • “Contractor” Thales Alenia Space France, a company incorporated under the laws of France and a wholly owned subsidiary of TAS

  • “Deliverable Items” the APSTAR 7 Satellite and other deliverable items, including but not limited to the dynamic satellite simulator, satellite control centre, base band subsystem to be delivered by the Contractor under the Satellite Procurement Contract

  • “Director(s)” director(s) of the Company

  • “Effective Date” the date when (i) both the Contractor and APT (HK) sign the Satellite Procurement Contract; and (ii) the amount of the down payment has been credited to the Contractor’s bank account. If APT (HK) has made the down payment within 3 Business Days after the date of signing of the Satellite Procurement Contract, the Effective Date shall be the date of signing of the Satellite Procurement Contract.

  • “Euro” the official currency of member states of the European Union

  • “Export Licence” any governmental (except the People’s Republic of China) export licences, permits, consents, approvals, authorizations or the like required

  • “Group” the Company and its subsidiaries

  • “Hong Kong” the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China

  • “HK$” Hong Kong Dollars

1

DEFINITIONS

  • “Independent Third Party(ies)”

  • person(s), or in the case of companies, their ultimate beneficial owner(s), who are independent of and not connected with the Company and its subsidiaries and its connected persons or in the case of a corporation (the ultimate beneficial owner) their respective associates (“connected persons” and “associates” as defined in the Listing Rules)

  • “Latest Practicable Date” 14 October 2009, being the latest practicable date for ascertaining information for the inclusion in this circular

  • “Listing Rules” the Rules Governing the Listing of Securities on The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited

  • “Satellite Control Centre and Base the ground equipment and facilities for the telemetry, tracking and Band Subsystem” control of APSTAR 7 Satellite “Satellite Procurement Contract” a contract for the procurement of APSTAR 7 Satellite dated 29 September 2009 between APT (HK) and the Contractor, in respect of the manufacturing and delivering on ground the APSTAR 7 Satellite by the Contractor to APT (HK)

  • “SFO” the Securities and Futures Ordinance (Chapter 571 of the Laws of Hong Kong)

  • “SGM” the special general meeting of the Company to be convened for the purpose of considering and, if thought fit, passing the resolution to approve the Satellite Procurement Contract and the transactions contemplated thereunder

  • “Share(s)” share(s) of HK$0.1 each in the capital of the Company “Stock Exchange” The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited “TAS” Thales Alenia Space, a company incorporated under the laws of France

For the purpose of this circular, the amounts denominated in Euro and US Dollars have been translated into HK$ at an exchange rate of Euro=HK$11.305 and US$=HK$7.8, respectively.

2

LETTER FROM THE BOARD

(Incorporated in Bermuda with limited liability) (Stock code: 1045)

Executive Directors: Cheng Guangren (President) Qi Liang (Vice President)

Non-Executive Directors: Rui Xiaowu (Chairman) Lim Toon Yin Yen-liang Wu Zhen Mu Yong Foo Chong Wu Jinfeng Tseng Ta-mon (Alternate Director to Yin Yen-liang)

Registered office: Clarendon House 2 Church Street Hamilton, HM 11 Bermuda

Head office and principal place of business: 22 Dai Kwai Street Tai Po Industrial Estate Tai Po New Territories Hong Kong

Independent Non-Executive Directors: Huan Guocang Lui King Man Lam Sek Kong Cui Liguo

19 October 2009

To the Shareholders

Dear Sir/Madam,

VERY SUBSTANTIAL ACQUISITION RELATING TO SATELLITE PROCUREMENT CONTRACT IN RESPECT OF APSTAR 7 SATELLITE

AND

NOTICE OF SPECIAL GENERAL MEETING

INTRODUCTION

The board of directors announced that on 29 September 2009, APT (HK), a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company, entered into a Satellite Procurement Contract with the Contractor, an Independent Third Party, for the manufacturing and delivering of APSTAR 7 Satellite, a Spacebus 4000 C2 Platform with 28 C-band and 28 Ku-band high power geostationary communications satellite. The signing of the Satellite Procurement Contract is the first step in the implementation of the Company’s plan for the commissioning of APSTAR 7 Satellite for the replacement of APSTAR 2R.

3

LETTER FROM THE BOARD

The purpose of this circular is to provide you with, among other matters, (i) further information on the Satellite Procurement Contract and the transactions contemplated thereunder; (ii) information required under Chapter 14 of the Listing Rules; and (iii) a notice convening the SGM.

SATELLITE PROCUREMENT CONTRACT

Date : 29 September 2009 Parties : (1) APT (HK), a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company (2) the Contractor

To the best of the directors’ knowledge, information and belief, having made all reasonable enquiry, the Contractor and its ultimate beneficial owners are third parties independent of the Company and its connected persons (as defined under the Listing Rules).

Subject matter : The Contractor will (a) manufacture and deliver the APSTAR 7 Satellite to APT (HK) in accordance with the delivery schedule as defined in the Satellite Procurement Contract, including, inter alia, (i) the design, development, manufacture, assembly, integration, test and shipment of the APSTAR 7 Satellite; (ii) the performance of the launch campaign, launch and early operational phase, in-orbit test and on site support; (iii) the delivery of other Deliverable Items (other than items set forth in (b)) and the provision of all necessary technical data and information, facilities and documentation, and (iv) training of the personnel of APT (HK) as necessary and (b) the delivery of Satellite Control Centre and Base Band Subsystem for the telemetry, tracking and control of the APSTAR 7 Satellite; and (c) on-line support for in-orbit operation through the lifetime of the APSTAR 7 Satellite. It is expected that the APSTAR 7 Satellite shall have a nominal operational lifetime of 15 years.

The Contractor undertakes to perform the technical interface between the APSTAR 7 Satellite and the designated launch vehicle ensuring full compatibility between the APSTAR 7 Satellite and the designated launch vehicle according to its interface manual.

Contract price : The total contract price under the Satellite Procurement Contract comprises:

  • (a) the APSTAR 7 Satellite, and related services and Deliverable I t e m s : a s u m o f E u r o 1 2 4 , 8 0 0 , 0 0 0 ( a p p r o x i m a t e l y HK$1,411,000,000);

  • (b) Satellite Control Centre and Base Band Subsystem: a sum of Euro 1,500,000 (approximately HK$17,000,000); and

4

LETTER FROM THE BOARD

  • (c) On-line support for in-orbit operations: a sum of Euro 2,200,000 (approximately HK$25,000,000).

APT (HK) shall pay the down payment equivalent to Euro 5,080,000 (approximately HK$57,000,000) within 3 Business Days after the date of signing of the Satellite Procurement Contract.

The contract price shall be paid by APT (HK) to the Contractor in accordance with the payment plan in the Satellite Procurement Contract upon completion of each applicable milestone, within 30 days from the date of receipt of such invoice.

All payments under the Satellite Procurement Contract shall be made in Euros. In case of delayed payment after the invoice has been approved, costs and charges, including interest calculated at average 1 month Euro Interbank Offer Rate for the calendar month (when the delay first occurs) + 1.5% per annum shall be charged until actual payment.

Major Conditions :

The Satellite Procurement Contract is subject to the approval of the Company. If APT (HK) does not obtain the said approval from the Company within 45 days after the Effective Date, the Satellite Procurement Contract shall be deemed terminated, unless otherwise agreed by the parties. In case of such termination, the Contractor shall be entitled to keep the amount of the down payment received from APT (HK) and APT (HK) shall pay to the Contractor an amount of Euro 2 million (approximately HK$22,610,000) within 10 days after the date of termination.

Delivery : The Contractor shall deliver the APSTAR 7 Satellite to the nearest airport of the designated launch site no later than 27.5 months after the Effective Date.

If the APSTAR 7 Satellite is not delivered by the delivery date as stated above, the Contractor agrees to pay to APT (HK), as liquidated damages of Euro 48,187.50 (approximately HK$544,760), Euro 96,375 (approximately HK$1,089,519) and Euro 64,250 (approximately HK$726,346) for each day of delay in the first, second and third 40 days of delay periods respectively, except for the first 30 days of delay where the liquidated damages payment for the first 30 days will not be paid until the occurrence of the 31st day of delay. The maximum payment to APT (HK) for the late delivery of the APSTAR 7 Satellite is 6.5% of the contract price. The liquidated damages is subject to a 30% reduction in case the launch service is also delayed not due to the reason attributable to the delay of delivery of the APSTAR 7 Satellite.

5

LETTER FROM THE BOARD

If the APSTAR 7 Satellite is not available for the completion of the launch readiness review within 35 days after the date of its delivery to the designated launch site for reasons attributable to the Contractor, then the Contractor shall pay to APT (HK) an amount of Euro 20,000 (approximately HK$226,100) for each day of delay, up to a maximum of Euro 900,000 (approximately HK$10,174,500).

The liquidated damages provided above shall be in lieu of all other rights by law, in equity or contract and shall be the sole remedy to which APT (HK) shall be entitled for late delivery of the APSTAR 7 Satellite, other than the right to terminate for default by the Contractor.

  • Title and risk : The transfer of title and risk to the APSTAR 7 Satellite shall pass to APT (HK) upon lift-off of the launch vehicle from the ground support equipment.

Transfer of risk and the transfer of title to the Deliverable Items (other than the APSTAR 7 Satellite and the documentation to be delivered by the Contractor to APT (HK) under the Satellite Procurement Contract) shall pass to APT (HK) at the time of physical delivery and final acceptance of the APSTAR 7 Satellite.

  • Termination : (1) APT (HK), may by written notice to the Contractor, terminate the Satellite Procurement Contract in whole or in part, prior to completion. In such event, it is agreed that the termination charges applicable to any portion of the work under the Satellite Procurement Contract shall be negotiated but shall in no event exceed the total costs, direct and indirect, incurred by the Contractor in the performance of the work prior to the termination of the Satellite Procurement Contract, including reasonable costs properly incurred with respect to termination and settlement with vendors and subcontractors as a result of such termination, plus a 6% profit on such costs.

  • (2) APT (HK) may terminate the Satellite Procurement Contract in whole or in part by written notice of default if:

    • (a) the Contractor fails to deliver the APSTAR 7 Satellite to the place of delivery on or before 120 days after the scheduled delivery date;

    • (b) the Contractor fails to perform any of its material obligations and has not cured such failure within 45 days after receipt from APT (HK) of a written notice of such default;

6

LETTER FROM THE BOARD

  • (c) the Contractor becomes subject of voluntary or involuntary liquidation, insolvency, bankruptcy or other corporate reorganisation proceedings, or arrangement, if such proceeding or arrangement is not dismissed within 45 days after the filing thereof; or

  • (d) the Contractor is unable (i) to confirm to APT (HK) in writing by the Effective Date plus 120 days any Export Licence (except for satellite propellant) have been or will be obtained by the Effective Date plus 180 days; or (ii) to obtain by the Effective Date plus 180 days any Export Licence (except for satellite propellant) or a letter issued by the concerned governmental authorities exempting the Contractor from such export licences.

Upon such partial or complete termination, the Contractor shall, within 2 months reimburse to APT (HK) any amount paid to the Contractor under the Satellite Procurement Contract up to the date of termination plus an additional sum ranging from 4% to 8% of such reimbursement (depending on the circumstances of termination).

  • (3) The Contractor shall be entitled to, after providing written notice to APT (HK), to stop all or part of the work if:

  • (a) APT (HK) fails to make any undisputed payment to the Contractor within 30 days after such payment has become due and payable; or

  • (b) APT (HK) fails to perform any of its material obligations under the Satellite Procurement Contract, and has not cured such failure within 30 days after receipt from the Contractor of a written notice of such default.

Upon such work stoppage, APT (HK) shall indemnify the Contractor against all reasonable costs and expenses properly incurred by the Contractor in respect of such stoppage and any subsequent resumption of the work, provided that the Contractor shall take all reasonable steps to minimise the occurrence of such costs and expenses.

7

LETTER FROM THE BOARD

Indemnity

  • : (1) Each party shall indemnify and hold harmless the other party, its officers, employees, agents, assignees or successors or any of them (“Indemnitees”) from any loss, damage, liability or expense, resulting from any loss or damage to property or injury, or death to persons, arising from any occurrence in the performance of the Satellite Procurement Contract until the transfer of title to the APSTAR 7 Satellite to APT (HK), except to the extent caused by the gross negligence or wilful misconduct of the Indemnitees and subject to the aggregate liability of Euro 20 million (approximately HK$226,000,000).

  • (2) After the engine start command is sent to the launch vehicle for the purpose of launch and subject to the limitation of liability, APT (HK) shall indemnify and hold harmless the Contractor and its subscontractors, their employees and/or representatives from any and all liabilities which may arise from losses or damages of any kind suffered by third parties including but not limited to those suffered by employees, and representatives of such third parties and the customers of APT (HK) arising out of the operation of the APSTAR 7 Satellite, provided that such losses or damages are not caused by gross negligence or wilful misconduct of the Contractor. The launch and on-orbit insurance taken by APT (HK) to cover its exposure shall include a waiver of subrogation against the Contractor, its subcontractors and their employees and/or representatives and insurance companies.

  • (3) The Contractor shall indemnify and hold harmless APT (HK), its directors, officers, shareholders, employees, agents, and consultants from and against any liability, expense or legal and similar costs as a result of any threatened or actual claim or action alleging the infringement of any patent, copyright, or industrial design, mask work, trademark, or any other intellectual property right, or alleging unauthorised use or disclosure of any proprietary technical data and information in respect of the APSTAR 7 Satellite or any other item delivered or used under the Satellite Procurement Contract or in respect of all activities and services to be performed by the Contractor under the Satellite Procurement Contract.

8

LETTER FROM THE BOARD

Guarantees

  • : (1) The Contractor shall arrange the issuance of a parent company guarantee equivalent to the total contract price by TAS in favour of APT (HK) within 2 months after the Effective Date, which shall be valid from the Effective Date up to the date of completion of in-orbit acceptance review of the APSTAR 7 Satellite or the Effective Date plus 34 months or the date on which APT (HK) notifies the Contractor of the termination of the Satellite Procurement Contract or the date on which the Contractor is entitled to terminate the Satellite Procurement Contract, whichever is earlier.

  • (2) The Contractor shall arrange the issuance of a parent company guarantee equivalent to the 10% of the APSTAR 7 Satellite contract price by TAS in favour of APT (HK) within 1 month after the in-orbit acceptance review for orbital performance incentive warranty payback, which shall be valid during the warranty payback period.

  • (3) APT (HK) shall arrange the issuance of a parent company guarantee by the Company equivalent to the total contract price in favour of the Contractor within 3 months after the Effective Date, which shall be valid from the Effective Date up to the date of completion of in-orbit acceptance review of the APSTAR 7 Satellite or the Effective Date plus 34 months, whichever is earlier.

TOTAL COST FOR THE COMMISSIONING OF APSTAR 7 SATELLITE

The contract price and the terms of the Satellite Procurement Contract have been negotiated on an arm’s length basis having regard to the value of similar assets and services in the market. The contract price will be funded by the existing available bank facilities, internal resources of the Company and external borrowings in the future. As at the Latest Practicable Date, no external borrowings have been made by the Company in respect of APSTAR 7. Prior to any external borrowings, the Group will finance the milestone payment of Satellite Procurement Contract with cash flows generated internally from operations. The Group has sufficient working capital for its present requirement, particularly the cash flow requirement for the next 12 months from the Latest Practicable Date.

In addition to the Satellite Procurement Contract, the Company has to enter into contracts in respect of launch service, launch and in orbit insurance, additional ground facilities for telemetry, tracking and command. It is expected that these agreements may constitute notifiable transactions or connected transaction of the Company under the Listing Rules. In the event that the launch service agreement is entered into between APT (HK) and a connected person of the Company, the relevant reporting, announcement and independent shareholders’ approval requirement under the Listing Rules will be complied with.

9

LETTER FROM THE BOARD

REASONS AND BENEFITS FOR ENTERING INTO THE TRANSACTION

The Group of the Company is engaged in the provision of satellite transponder capacity and related services. Its strategy is to become one of the leading regional providers of satellite transponder capacity and related services focusing the Asia Pacific region. After the completion of the termination of the 1999 lease agreement and ancillary agreement in respect of APSTAR 2R in July 2009, APT (HK) has began the commissioning of APSTAR 7 Satellite which is in line with the Company’s plan for the replacement of APSTAR 2R, which will expire at the end of 2012.

The Directors believe that the Company will benefit from expanding the satellite services and customer base, further increasing the revenue of the Company and strengthening competitive advantage and growth potential for long-term development of the Company. The Company will also secure the opportunity of future satellite continuity as a result of the entering into the Satellite Procurement Contract.

The Directors (including the independent non-executive Directors) believe that the terms of the transaction (including the forfeiture provision in the event shareholders approval is not obtained, having regard to the agreement by the Contractor to commence preparation of manufacturing of APSTAR 7 after the Effective Date to meet the delivery schedule and the minimal risk that shareholders approval is not obtained) are fair and reasonable and in the interests of the shareholders as a whole.

It is expected that approval by the Company of the Satellite Procurement Contract will be given to APT (HK) after the approval by shareholders at the special general meeting of the transactions contemplated under the Satellite Procurement Contract. In the absence of any unforeseeable circumstances, the Company considers that the risk associated with the forfeiture of the down payment and the payment of the compensation in the event that APT (HK) fails to proceed with the transaction is minimal.

INFORMATION ON THE PARTIES TO THE SATELLITE PROCUREMENT CONTRACT AND THEIR RESPECITVE HOLDING COMPANIES

The Contractor

The Contractor, a company organised under the laws of France and a wholly owned subsidiary of TAS. The Contractor is the counterparty to the Satellite Procurement Contract, pursuant to which it shall manufacture and deliver to APT (HK) the APSTAR 7 Satellite in accordance with the Satellite Procurement Contract.

TAS

TAS, a company organised under the laws of France, is a European leader in satellite systems and major player in orbital infrastructures. TAS is a joint venture between Thales (67%) and Finmeccanica (33%). TAS sets the global standard in solutions for space telecoms, radar and optical earth observation, defence and security, navigation and science. The company, which achieved revenues of Euro 2 billion in 2008, with 11 industrial sites in France, Italy, Spain and Belgium. Further information of TAS can be obtained from its website: www.thalesaleniaspace.com

10

LETTER FROM THE BOARD

The Company

The Company is an investment holding company. Its subsidiaries are principally engaged in the maintenance, operation, provision of satellite transponder capacity and related services; satellite-based broadcasting and telecommunications services; and other related services.

APT (HK)

APT (HK) is principally engaged in the maintenance, operation, provision of satellite transponder capacity and related services; satellite-based broadcasting and telecommunications services; and other service.

FINANCIAL EFFECT OF THE ACQUISITION ON THE GROUP

The APSTAR 7 Satellite, upon completion of its construction and delivery to APT (HK), will be treated as an addition of assets in the accounts of APT (HK).

Based on the unaudited pro forma net assets statement of the Group as set out in Appendix II to this circular and assuming that the construction and delivery of APSTAR 7 Satellite had been completed on 31 December 2008, there would have been an increase of approximately HK$1,453 million in the Group’s property, plant and equipment. Such increase would be due to the inclusion of APSTAR 7 Satellite as the Group’s property, plant and equipment. As payment for the down payment under the Satellite Procurement Contract would have been funded by internal resources, the Group’s cash position would have decreased by approximately HK$57 million. The remaining balance of the contract price would also be funded by internal resources and bank borrowings and be payable upon completion of each applicable milestone in accordance with the payment plan stipulated in the Satellite Procurement Contract. The acquisition would result in an increase in the short-term and long-term construction payable by approximately HK$584 million and HK$812 million, respectively. Details of all the adjustments made are set out in the unaudited pro forma net assets statement of the Group contained in Appendix II to this circular.

FINANCIAL AND TRADING PROSPECTS OF THE GROUP

As the construction and delivery of the APSTAR 7 Satellite will only be completed in 2012, save as disclosed above, the Satellite Procurement Contract and the transactions contemplated thereunder are not expected to have any material impact on the financial and trading prospect of the Group for the financial year ending 31 December 2009.

Following the completion of construction and delivery of the APSTAR 7 Satellite to APT (HK), which will replace the APSTAR 2R that will expire at the end of 2012, the directors of the Company believe that the Company will benefit from expanding the satellite services capacity as a result of the increase in total number of transponders on board APSTAR 7 thereby further increasing the revenue of the Company and strengthening competitive advantage and growth potential for long-term development of the Company. The Company will also secure the opportunity of future satellite continuity as a result of the entering into the Satellite Procurement Contract.

11

LETTER FROM THE BOARD

LISTING RULES REQUIREMENTS

The transaction contemplated under the Satellite Procurement Contract constitutes a very substantial acquisition of the Company as the contract price exceeds 100% of the market capitalisation of the Company. The Satellite Procurement Contract and the transactions contemplated thereunder are therefore subject to the approval by the shareholders of the Company at the SGM by poll under Chapter 14 of the Listing Rules. As no shareholders have any material interest in the acquisition, no shareholders are required to abstain from voting at the SGM on the resolution to approve the Satellite Procurement Contract and the transactions contemplated thereunder.

SGM

The Special General Meeting of the Company will be held at its principal place of business, 22 Dai Kwai Street, Tai Po Industrial Estate, Tai Po, New Territories, Hong Kong on Wednesday, 4 November 2009 at 11 a.m. for the purpose of considering and, if thought fit, passing the ordinary resolution to approve the Satellite Procurement Contract and the transactions contemplated thereunder. A notice convening the SGM is set out on pages 121 to 122 of this circular.

A form of proxy for use at the SGM is enclosed. Whether or not you are able to attend the meeting, you are requested to complete the accompanying form of proxy in accordance with the instructions printed thereon and return it to the Company’s branch share registrars in Hong Kong, Tricor Tengis Limited, at 26th Floor, Tesbury Centre, 28 Queen’s Road East, Wanchai, Hong Kong, as soon as possible but in any event not less than 48 hours before the time appointed for the holding of the meeting. Completion and return of the form of proxy will not preclude you from attending and voting at the special general meeting or any adjournment thereof if you so wish.

RECOMMENDATION

The Directors (including the independent non-executive Directors) believe that the terms of the transactions are fair and reasonable and in the interests of the shareholders as a whole. Accordingly, the Directors recommend the shareholders to vote in favour of the ordinary resolution to be proposed at the SGM to approve the Satellite Procurement Contract and the transactions contemplated thereunder.

GENERAL

Your attention is drawn to the further information contained in the appendices to this circular.

By Order of the Board Rui Xiaowu Chairman

12

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

1. FINANCIAL SUMMARY

The following is a summary of the audited consolidated results of the Group for each of the years ended 31 December 2006, 2007 and 2008 and the audited consolidated balance sheets as at 31 December 2006, 2007 and 2008 and the unaudited consolidated results of the Group for the six months ended 30 June 2009, which were extracted from annual reports of the Company for the years ended 31 December 2007 and 2008 and the 2009 interim report of the Company.

On 9 July 2009, the termination of the 1999 lease arrangement and ancillary agreement was completed. For details please refer to announcement of the Company dated 1 June 2009, the circular of the Company dated 22 June 2009, the announcement of the Company dated 9 July 2009. Save as above, since 31 December 2008, there has been no acquisition or disposal of assets or subsidiaries by the Company.

CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENT

For the
six months ended
30 June 2009
HK$’000
(unaudited)
Turnover
229,519
Cost of services
(132,917)
Gross profit
96,602
Other net income
7,357
Administrative expenses
(34,203)
Valuation (losses)/gains on
investment properties
(216)
Impairment loss recognised in respect of
property, plant and equipment

Profit from operations
69,540
Finance costs
(15)
Share of results of jointly controlled entities

Gain on disposal of a subsidiary

Gain on disposal of a jointly controlled entity

Profit/(loss) before taxation
69,525
Income tax
(16,711)
Profit/(loss) for the year
52,814
Attributable to:
Equity shareholders of the Company
52,814
Minority interests

Profit/(loss) for the year
52,814
Earnings/(loss) per share
– Basic
12.78 cents
– Diluted
12.78 cents
2008
HK$’000
(audited)
403,672
(277,581)
126,091
68,871
(84,838)
(12)
(8,397)
101,715
(24,844)
2,397
3,193
9,590
92,051
(42,551)
49,500
49,587
(87)
49,500
12.00 cents
12.00 cents
2007
HK$’000
(audited)
451,626
(314,792)
136,834
26,334
(81,896)
226
(98)
81,400
(55,345)
(894)


25,161
(20,445)
4,716
5,581
(865)
4,716
1.35 cents
1.35 cents
2006
HK$’000
(audited)
426,988
(338,259)
88,729
37,542
(88,957)
156

37,470
(64,140)
2,182


(24,488)
(56,128)
(80,616)
(79,480)
(1,136)
(80,616)
(19.23 cents)
(19.23 cents)

13

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET

For the
six months ended
30 June 2009
HK$’000
(unaudited)
Non-current assets
Property, plant and equipment
2,073,716
Interest in leasehold land held for
own use under an operating lease
14,256
Investment properties
4,943
Interest in jointly controlled entities

Amount due from a jointly
controlled entity

Club memberships
5,537
Prepaid expenses
29,247
Deferred tax assets

2,127,699
Current assets
Trade receivables, net
82,368
Deposits, prepayments and other
receivables
14,415
Amount due from immediate holding
company
199
Amount due from a jointly controlled
entity

Other financial assets

Pledged bank deposits
7,352
Cash and cash equivalents
628,826
733,160
Current liabilities
Payables and accrued charges
38,645
Rentals received in advance
58,407
Loan from a minority shareholder
6,088
Secured bank borrowings due
within one year
46,230
Current taxation
99,867
249,237
Net current assets
483,923
Total assets less current liabilities
carried forward
2,611,622
2008
HK$’000
(audited)
2,183,468
14,444
5,159


5,537
19,023

2,227,631
67,143
26,728
155

102,277
808
121,541
318,652
41,335
40,608
6,088

98,242
186,273
132,379
2,360,010
2007
HK$’000
(audited)
2,508,321
14,820
5,171
3,529
69,839
5,537
14,137
9,174
2,630,528
80,409
23,240
101
5,530

83,749
312,025
505,054
38,727
33,679
7,488
217,961
93,087
390,942
114,112
2,744,640
2006
HK$’000
(audited)
2,721,582
15,195
2,496
4,423
72,294
5,537
25,207
8,747
2,855,481
80,261
38,482
82
2,741

89,190
341,325
552,081
53,777
34,155
7,488
156,820
93,080
345,320
206,761
3,062,242

14

APPENDIX I

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

For the
six months ended
30 June 2009
HK$’000
(unaudited)
Total assets less current liabilities
brought forward
2,611,622
Non-current liabilities
Secured bank borrowings due after
one year
186,601
Deposits received
25,561
Deferred income
212,966
Deferred tax liabilities
96,720
521,848
Net assets
2,089,774
Capital and reserves
Share capital
41,327
Share premium
1,287,536
Contributed surplus
511,000
Capital reserve
9,330
Revaluation reserve
368
Exchange reserve
3,607
Other reserves
123
Accumulated profits
236,483
2,089,774
Minority interests

Total equity
2,089,774
2008
HK$’000
(audited)
2,360,010

23,093
209,370
86,982
319,445
2,040,565
41,327
1,287,536
511,000
9,330
368
7,212
123
183,669
2,040,565

2,040,565
2007
HK$’000
(audited)
2,744,640
462,374
19,624
207,787
66,164
755,949
1,988,691
41,327
1,287,536
511,000
9,557
368
4,007
115
133,855
1,987,765
926
1,988,691
2006
HK$’000
(audited)
3,062,242
773,534
20,419
222,141
63,915
1,080,009
1,982,233
41,327
1,287,536
511,000
9,614

2,639
109
128,217
1,980,442
1,791
1,982,233

15

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

2. AUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF THE GROUP FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2008

The following financial information is a reproduction of the relevant information extracted from the audited financial statements of the Group for the year ended 31 December 2008 as published in the 2008 annual report of the Company.

CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENT

For the year ended 31 December 2008 (Expressed in Hong Kong dollars)

Note
Turnover
3 & 14
Cost of services
Gross profit
Other net income
4
Administrative expenses
Valuation (losses)/gains on
investment properties
17
Impairment loss recognised in respect of
property, plant and equipment
15(a)
Profit from operations
Finance costs
5 (a)
Share of results of jointly controlled entities
19
Gain on disposal of a subsidiary
9
Gain on disposal of a jointly controlled entity
10
Profit before taxation
5
Income tax
6 (a)
Profit for the year
Attributable to:
Equity shareholders of the Company
11
Minority interests
Profit for the year
Earnings per share
13
– Basic
– Diluted
2008
$’000
403,672
(277,581)
126,091
68,871
(84,838)
(12)
(8,397)
101,715
(24,844)
2,397
3,193
9,590
92,051
(42,551)
49,500
49,587
(87)
49,500
12.00 cents
12.00 cents
2007
$’000
451,626
(314,792)
136,834
26,334
(81,896)
226
(98)
81,400
(55,345)
(894)


25,161
(20,445)
4,716
5,581
(865)
4,716
1.35 cents
1.35 cents

16

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET

At 31 December 2008 (Expressed in Hong Kong dollars)

Note
Non-current assets
Property, plant and equipment
15 (a)
Interest in leasehold land held for
own use under an operating lease
16
Investment properties
17
Interest in jointly controlled entities
19
Amount due from a jointly controlled entity
19
Club memberships
Prepaid expenses
20
Deferred tax assets
28 (b)
Current assets
Trade receivables, net
21
Deposits, prepayments and other receivables
20
Amount due from immediate holding company
Amount due from a jointly controlled entity
19
Other financial assets
22
Pledged bank deposits
33
Cash and cash equivalents
23
Current liabilities
Payables and accrued charges
24
Rentals received in advance
Loan from a minority shareholder
Secured bank borrowings due
within one year
25
Current taxation
28 (a)
Net current assets
Total assets less current liabilities
carried forward
2008
$’000
2,183,468
14,444
5,159


5,537
19,023

2,227,631
67,143
26,728
155

102,277
808
121,541
318,652
41,335
40,608
6,088

98,242
186,273
132,379
2,360,010
2007
$’000
2,508,321
14,820
5,171
3,529
69,839
5,537
14,137
9,174
2,630,528
80,409
23,240
101
5,530

83,749
312,025
505,054
38,727
33,679
7,488
217,961
93,087
390,942
114,112
2,744,640

17

APPENDIX I

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

Note
Total assets less current liabilities
brought forward
Non-current liabilities
Secured bank borrowings due after one year
25
Deposits received
26
Deferred income
27
Deferred tax liabilities
28 (b)
Net assets
Capital and reserves
Share capital
29
Share premium
Contributed surplus
31
Capital reserve
31
Revaluation reserve
31
Exchange reserve
31
Other reserves
31
Accumulated profits
31
Minority interests
Total equity
2008
$’000
2,360,010

23,093
209,370
86,982
319,445
2,040,565
41,327
1,287,536
511,000
9,330
368
7,212
123
183,669
2,040,565

2,040,565
2007
$’000
2,744,640
462,374
19,624
207,787
66,164
755,949
1,988,691
41,327
1,287,536
511,000
9,557
368
4,007
115
133,855
1,987,765
926
1,988,691

18

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

BALANCE SHEET

At 31 December 2008 (Expressed in Hong Kong dollars)

Note
Non-current assets
Property, plant and equipment
15 (b)
Interest in subsidiaries
18 (a)
Current assets
Loans to subsidiaries
18 (b)
Amounts due from subsidiaries
18 (b)
Other receivables and prepayments
Cash and cash equivalents
23
Current liabilities
Payables and accrued charges
24
Net current assets
Capital and reserves
Share capital
29
Share premium
Contributed surplus
31
Capital reserve
31
Accumulated profits
31
2008
$’000

615,862
615,862

1,336,714
297
493
1,337,504
4,922
1,332,582
1,948,444
41,327
1,287,536
584,358
9,330
25,893
1,948,444
2007
$’000

615,862
615,862
1,201,712
126,184
353
10,503
1,338,752
2,439
1,336,313
1,952,175
41,327
1,287,536
584,358
9,557
29,397
1,952,175

19

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY

For the year ended 31 December 2008 (Expressed in Hong Kong dollars)

At 1 January 2007
Exchange differences on
translation of financial
statements of overseas
subsidiaries
Revaluation surplus
Cancellation of share options
Net profit/(loss) for the year
Balance at
31 December 2007
At 1 January 2008
Exchange differences on
translation of financial
statements of overseas
subsidiaries
Reversal of minority interest
arising from disposal
of a subsidiary
Cancellation of share options
Net profit/(loss) for the year
Balance at
31 December 2008
Share
capital
$’000
41,327





41,327
41,327





41,327
Attributable to equity shareholders
Share
Contributed
Capital
Revaluation
premium
surplus
reserve
reserve
$’000
$’000
$’000
$’000
1,287,536
511,000
9,614








368


(57)





1,287,536
511,000
9,557
368
1,287,536
511,000
9,557
368










(227)





1,287,536
511,000
9,330
368
of the Company
Exchange
Other Accumulated
reserve
reserves
profits
$’000
$’000
$’000
2,639
109
128,217
1,368
6






57


5,581
4,007
115
133,855
4,007
115
133,855
3,205
8






227


49,587
7,212
123
183,669
Total
$’000
1,980,442
1,374
368

5,581
1,987,765
1,987,765
3,213


49,587
2,040,565
Minority
interests
$’000
1,791



(865)
926
926

(839)

(87)
Total
equity
$’000
1,982,233
1,374
368

4,716
1,988,691
1,988,691
3,213
(839)

49,500
2,040,565

20

APPENDIX I

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY

For the year ended 31 December 2008 (Expressed in Hong Kong dollars)

The Company
At 1 January 2007
Cancellation of share options
Net loss for the year
Balance at 31 December 2007
At 1 January 2008
Cancellation of share options
Net loss for the year
Balance at 31 December 2008
Share
capital
$’000
41,327


41,327
41,327


41,327
Share
premium
$’000
1,287,536


1,287,536
1,287,536


1,287,536
Contributed
surplus
$’000
584,358


584,358
584,358


584,358
Capital Accumulated
reserve
profits
$’000
$’000
9,614
30,224
(57)
57

(884)
9,557
29,397
9,557
29,397
(227)
227

(3,731)
9,330
25,893
Total
$’000
1,953,059

(884)
1,952,175
1,952,175

(3,731)
1,948,444

21

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

CONSOLIDATED CASH FLOW STATEMENT

For the year ended 31 December 2008 (Expressed in Hong Kong dollars)

Note
Operating activities
Profit before taxation
Adjustments for:
Depreciation
Amortisation of leasehold land
held for own use
Impairment loss recognised in respect
of property, plant and equipment
Interest income
Gain on disposal of property,
plant and equipment
Finance costs
Net valuation losses/(gains) on
investment properties
Share of results of jointly controlled entities
Impairment loss for trade and
other receivables
Gain on disposal of a subsidiary
Gain on disposal of a jointly
controlled entity
Operating profit before changes in
working capital
Decrease/(Increase) in trade receivables, net
(Increase)/Decrease in prepaid expenses
Increase in amount due from
immediate holding company
(Increase)/Decrease in deposits, prepayments
and other receivables
Increase/(Decrease) in payables
and accrued charges
Increase/(Decrease) in rentals
received in advance
Decrease/(Increase) in amounts due from
a jointly controlled entity
Increase/(Decrease) in deferred income
Increase/(Decrease) in deposits received
Cash generated from operations
Overseas tax paid
Net cash generated from operating activities
2008
$’000
92,051
214,470
376
8,397
(11,433)
(51,595)
24,844
12
(2,397)
5,637
(3,193)
(9,590)
267,579
7,468
(4,886)
(54)
(4,499)
5,937
8,316
5,530
13,283
3,469
302,143
(7,404)
294,739
2007
$’000
25,161
222,461
375
98
(22,181)
(261)
55,345
(226)
894
80


281,746
(227)
11,070
(19)
14,992
(4,188)
(476)
(89)
(14,354)
(795)
287,660
(18,616)
269,044

22

APPENDIX I

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

Note
Investing activities
Purchases of property, plant and
equipment
Proceeds from disposal of property,
plant and equipment
Repayments from/(Advances to) jointly
controlled entities
Interest received
Decrease in pledged bank deposits
Proceeds from disposal of a subsidiary
9
Proceeds from disposal of a jointly
controlled entity
10
Repayment to a minority shareholder
Purchases of other financial assets
Net cash generated from investing activities
Financing activities
Interest paid
Repayment of bank borrowings
Net cash used in financing activities
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents at 1 January
Effect of foreign exchange rates changes
Cash and cash equivalents at 31 December
2008
$’000
(5,528)
141,559
69,839
12,157
82,942
4,796
16,572
(1,000)
(102,277)
219,060
(23,649)
(683,056)
(706,705)
(192,906)
312,025
2,422
121,541
2007
$’000
(11,426)
295
(245)
22,431
5,441




16,496
(64,243)
(253,013)
(317,256)
(31,716)
341,325
2,416
312,025

23

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

Notes on the Financial Statements

For the year ended 31st December 2008

1 SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

(a) Statement of compliance

These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with all applicable International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRSs”) issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (“IASB”), which collective term includes all applicable individual International Financial Reporting Standards, International Accounting Standards (“IASs”) and Interpretations issued by the IASB. As Hong Kong Financial Reporting Standards (“HKFRSs”), which collective term includes all applicable individual Hong Kong Financial Reporting Standards, Hong Kong Accounting Standards (“HKASs”) and Interpretations issued by the Hong Kong Institute of Certified Public Accountants (“HKICPA”) and accounting principles generally accepted in Hong Kong, are consistent with IFRSs, these financial statements also comply with HKFRSs and the disclosure requirements of the Hong Kong Companies Ordinance. These financial statements also comply with the applicable disclosure provisions of the Rules Governing the Listing of Securities on The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited (“listing rules”). A summary of the significant accounting policies adopted by the Group is set out below.

(b) Basis of preparation of the financial statements

The consolidated financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2008 comprise the Company and its subsidiaries (together referred to as the “Group”) and the Group’s interest in jointly controlled entities.

The measurement basis used in the preparation of the financial statements is the historical cost basis except that investment property (see note 1(f)) is stated at fair value as explained in the accounting policies set out below.

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with IFRS and HKFRSs requires management judgements, estimates and assumptions that affect the application of policies and reported amounts of assets, liabilities, income and expenses. The estimates and associated assumptions are based on historical experience and various other factors that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis of making the judgements about carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from these estimates.

The estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognised in the period in which estimate is revised if the revision affects only that period, or in the period of the revision and future periods if the revision affects both current and future periods.

Judgements made by management in the application of IFRS and HKFRSs that have significant effect on the financial statements and estimates with a significant risk of material adjustment in the next year are discussed in note 40.

(c) Subsidiaries and minority interest

Subsidiaries are entities controlled by the Group. Control exists when the Group has the power to govern the financial and operating policies of an entity so as to obtain benefits from its activities. In assessing control, potential voting rights that presently are exercisable are taken into account.

An investment in a subsidiary is consolidated into the consolidated financial statements from the date that control commences until the date that control ceases. Intra-group balances and transactions and any unrealised profits arising from intra-group transactions are eliminated in full in preparing the consolidated financial statements. Unrealised losses resulting from intra-group transactions are eliminated in the same way as unrealised gains but only to the extent that there is no evidence of impairment.

24

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

Minority interests represent the portion of the net assets of subsidiaries attributable to interests that are not owned by the Company, whether directly or indirectly through subsidiaries, and in respect of which the Group has not agreed any additional terms with the holders of those interests which would result in the Group as a whole having a contractual obligation in respect of those interests that meets the definition of a financial liability. Minority interests are presented in the consolidated balance sheet within equity, separately from equity attributable to the equity shareholders of the Company. Minority interests in the results of the Group are presented on the face of the consolidated income statement as an allocation of the total profit or loss for the year between minority interests and the equity shareholders of the Company.

Where losses applicable to the minority exceed the minority’s interest in the equity of a subsidiary, the excess, and any further losses applicable to the minority, are charged against the Group’s interest except to the extent that the minority has a binding obligation to, and is able to, make additional investment to cover the losses. If the subsidiary subsequently reports profits, the Group’s interest is allocated all such profits until the minority’s share of losses previously absorbed by the Group has been recovered.

Loan from holder of minority interests is presented as financial liabilities in the consolidated balance sheet in accordance with note 1(l).

In the Company’s balance sheet, an investment in a subsidiary is stated at cost less any impairment losses (see note 1(i)).

(d) Jointly controlled entities

A jointly controlled entity is an entity which operates under a contractual arrangement between the Group or Company and other parties, where the contractual arrangement establishes that the Group or Company and one or more of the other parties share joint control over the economic activity of the entity.

An investment in a jointly controlled entity is accounted for in the consolidated financial statements under the equity method and is initially recorded at cost and adjusted thereafter for the post acquisition change in the Group’s share of the jointly controlled entity’s net assets, unless it is classified as held for sale (or included in a disposal group that is classified as held for sale). The consolidated income statement includes the Group’s share of the post-acquisition post-tax results of the jointly controlled entities for the year, including any impairment loss on goodwill relating to the investment in jointly controlled entities recognised for the year (see note 1(e) and (i)).

When the Group’s share of losses exceeds its interest in the jointly controlled entity, the Group’s interest is reduced to nil and recognition of further losses is discontinued except to the extent that the Group has incurred legal or constructive obligations or made payments on behalf of the jointly controlled entity. For this purpose, the Group’s interest in the jointly controlled entity is the carrying amount of the investment under the equity method together with the Group’s long-term interests that in substance form part of the Group’s net investment in the jointly controlled entity.

Unrealised profits and losses resulting from transactions between the Group and its jointly controlled entities are eliminated to the extent of the Group’s interest in the jointly controlled entity, except where unrealised losses provide evidence of an impairment of the asset transferred, in which case they are recognised immediately in the income statement.

(e) Goodwill

Goodwill represents the excess of the cost of a business combination or an investment in a jointly controlled entity over the Group’s interest in the net fair value of the acquiree’s identifiable assets, liabilities and contingent liabilities.

Goodwill is stated at cost less accumulated impairment losses. Goodwill is allocated to cash-generating units and is tested annually for impairment (see note 1(i)). In respect of jointly controlled entities, the carrying amount of goodwill is included in the carrying amount of the interest in the jointly controlled entity.

25

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

Any excess of the Group’s interest in the net fair value of the acquiree’s identifiable assets, liabilities and contingent liabilities over the cost of a business combination or an investment in a jointly controlled entity is recognised immediately in the income statement.

On disposal of a cash generating unit, or a jointly controlled entity during the year, any attributable amount of purchased goodwill is included in the calculation of the profit or loss on disposal.

(f) Investment property

Investment properties are land and/or buildings which are owned or held under a leasehold interest (see note 1(h)) to earn rental income and/or for capital appreciation. These include land held for a currently undetermined future use.

Investment properties are stated in the balance sheet at fair value. Any gain or loss arising from a change in fair value or from the retirement or disposal of an investment property is recognised in the income statements. Rental income from investment properties is accounted for as described in note 1(r)(iv).

When the Group holds a property interest under an operating lease to earn rental income and/or for capital appreciation, the interest is classified and accounted for as an investment property on a property-byproperty basis. Any such property interest which has been classified as an investment property is accounted for as if it were held under a finance lease (see note 1(h)), and the same accounting policies are applied to that interest as are applied to other investment properties leased under finance leases. Lease payments are accounted for as described in note 1(h).

Where other land and buildings are reclassified to investment properties, the cumulative increase in fair value of investment properties at the date of reclassification is included in the revaluation reserve, and will be transferred to retained profits upon the retirement and disposal of the relevant properties.

(g) Other property, plant and equipment

The following items of property, plant and equipment are stated in the balance sheet at cost less accumulated depreciation and impairment losses (see note 1(i)):

  • buildings held for own use which are situated on leasehold land, where the fair value of the building could be measured separately from the fair value of the leasehold land at the inception of the lease (see note 1(h)); and

  • other items of plant and equipment.

Subsequent cost reimbursements are included as reductions to the asset’s carrying amount, as appropriate, only when it is probable that future economic benefits associated with the cost reimbursements will flow to the Group and can be measured reliably.

Gains or losses arising from the retirement or disposal of an item of property, plant and equipment are determined as the difference between the net disposal proceeds and the carrying amount of the item and are recognised in the income statement on the date of retirement or disposal. Any related revaluation surplus is transferred from the revaluation reserve to retained profits.

26

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

Depreciation is calculated to write off the cost or valuation of items of property, plant and equipment, less their estimated residual value, if any, using the straight line method over their estimated useful lives as follows:

  • Buildings situated on leasehold land are depreciated over the shorter of the unexpired term of lease and their estimated useful lives, being no more than 50 years after the date of completion.

  • – Leasehold improvement Over the lease term – Furniture and equipment, motor vehicles, and computer equipment 5 years – Communication satellite equipment 5 to 15 years – Communication station 5 years – Communication satellites 9 to 15 years

Where parts of an item of property, plant and equipment have different useful lives, the cost or valuation of the item is allocated on a reasonable basis between the parts and each part is depreciated separately. Both the useful life of an asset and its residual value, if any, are reviewed annually.

(h) Leased assets

An arrangement, comprising a transaction or a series of transactions, is or contains a lease if the Group determines that the arrangement conveys a right to use a specific asset or assets for an agreed period of time in return for a payment or a series of payments. Such a determination is made on an evaluation of the substance of the arrangement and is regardless of whether the arrangement takes the legal form of a lease.

(i) Classification of assets leased to the Group

Assets that are held by the Group under leases which transfer to the Group substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership are classified as being held under finance leases. Leases which do not transfer substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership to the Group are classified as operating leases, with the following exceptions:

  • property held under operating leases that would otherwise meet the definition of an investment property is classified as an investment property on a property-by-property basis and, if classified as investment property, is accounted for as if held under a finance lease (see note 1(f)); and

  • land held for own use under an operating lease, the fair value of which cannot be measured separately from the fair value of a building situated thereon at the inception of the lease, is accounted for as being held under a finance lease, unless the building is also clearly held under an operating lease. For these purposes, the inception of the lease is the time that the lease was first entered into by the Group, or taken over from the previous lessee.

  • (ii) Assets acquired under finance leases

Where the Group acquires the use of assets under finance leases, the amounts representing the fair value of the leased asset, or, if lower, the present value of the minimum lease payments, of such assets are included in fixed assets and the corresponding liabilities, net of finance charges, are recorded as obligations under finance leases. Depreciation is provided at rates which write off the cost of the assets in equal annual amounts, to residual values, over the term of the relevant lease or, where it is likely the Group will obtain ownership of the asset, the life of the asset, as set out in note 1(g). Impairment losses are accounted for in accordance with the accounting policy as set out in note 1(i). Finance charges implicit in the lease payments are charged to the income statement over the period of the leases so as to produce an approximately constant periodic rate of charge on the remaining balance of the obligations for each accounting period. Contingent rentals are charged to the income statement in the accounting period in which they are incurred.

27

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

(iii) Operating lease charges

Where the Group has the use of assets under operating leases, payments made under the leases are charged to the income statement in equal instalments over the accounting periods covered by the lease term, except where an alternative basis is more representative of the pattern of benefits to be derived from the leased asset. Lease incentives received are recognised in the income statement as an integral part of the aggregate net lease payments made. Contingent rentals are charged to the income statement in the accounting period in which they are incurred.

The cost of acquiring land held under an operating lease is amortised on a straight-line basis over the period of the lease term except where the property is classified as an investment property (see note 1(f)).

(i) Impairment of assets

  • (i) Impairment of investments in equity securities and other receivables

Investments in equity securities (other than investments in subsidiaries and associates) and other current receivables that are stated at cost are reviewed at each balance sheet date to determine whether there is objective evidence of impairment. Objective evidence of impairment includes observable data that comes to the attention of the group about one or more of the following loss events:

  • significant financial difficulty of the debtor;

  • a breach of contract, such as a default or delinquency in interest or principal payments;

  • it becoming probable that the debtor will enter bankruptcy or other financial reorganization;

  • significant changes in the technological, market, economic or legal environment that have an adverse effect on the debtor; and

  • a significant or prolonged decline in the fair value of an investment in an equity instrument below its cost.

If in a subsequent period the amount of an impairment loss decreases and the decrease can be linked objectively to an event occurring after the impairment loss was recognised, the impairment loss is reversed through profit or loss. A reversal of an impairment loss shall not result in the asset’s carrying amount exceeding that which would have been determined had no impairment loss been recognised in prior years.

Impairment losses are written off against the corresponding assets directly, except for impairment losses recognised in respect of debtors included within trade and other receivables, whose recovery is considered doubtful but not remote. In this case, the impairment losses for doubtful debts are recorded using an allowance account. When the Group is satisfied that recovery is remote, the amount considered irrecoverable is written off against trade debtors directly and any amounts held in the allowance account relating to that debt are reversed. Subsequent recoveries of amounts previously charged to the allowance account are reversed against the allowance account. Other changes in the allowance account and subsequent recoveries of amounts previously written off directly are recognised in profit or loss.

28

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

(ii) Impairment of other assets

Internal and external sources of information are reviewed at each balance sheet date to identify indications that the following assets may be impaired or, except in the case of goodwill, an impairment loss previously recognised no longer exists or may have decreased:

  • property, plant and equipment;

  • construction in progress;

  • pre-paid interests in leasehold land classified as being held under an operating lease;

  • investments in subsidiaries, associates and a jointly-controlled entity; and

  • goodwill.

If any such indication exists, the asset’s recoverable amount is estimated. For goodwill and other intangible assets that have indefinite useful lives, the recoverable amount is estimated annually whether or not there is any indication of impairment.

(i) Calculation of recoverable amount

The recoverable amount of an asset is the greater of its net selling price and value in use. In assessing value in use, the estimated future cash flows are discounted to their present value using a pre-tax discount rate that reflects current market assessments of time value of money and the risks specific to the asset. Where an asset does not generate cash inflows largely independent of those from other assets, the recoverable amount is determined for the smallest group of assets that generates cash inflows independently (i.e. a cashgenerating unit).

(ii) Recognition of impairment losses

An impairment loss is recognised in profit or loss whenever the carrying amount of an asset, or the cash-generating unit to which it belongs, exceeds its recoverable amount. Impairment losses recognised in respect of cash-generating units are allocated first to reduce the carrying amount of any goodwill allocated to the cash-generating unit (or group of units) and then, to reduce the carrying amount of the other assets in the unit (or group of units) on a pro rata basis, except that the carrying value of an asset will not be reduced below its individual fair value less costs to sell, or value in use, if determinable.

(iii) Reversals of impairment losses

In respect of assets other than goodwill, an impairment loss is reversed if there has been a favourable change in the estimates used to determine the recoverable amount. An impairment loss in respect of goodwill is not reversed.

A reversal of an impairment loss is limited to the asset’s carrying amount that would have been determined had no impairment loss been recognised in prior years. Reversals of impairment losses are credited to profit or loss in the year in which the reversals are recognised.

29

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

(iii) Interim financial reporting and impairment

Under the Listing Rules, the Group is required to prepare an interim financial report in compliance with IAS/HKAS 34, Interim financial reporting, in respect of the first six months of the financial year. At the end of the interim period, the Group applies the same impairment testing, recognition, and reversal criteria as it would at the end of the financial year (see notes 1(i)(i) and (ii)).

Impairment losses recognised in an interim period in respect of goodwill and unquoted equity securities carried at cost are not reversed in a subsequent period. This is the case even if no losses, or a smaller loss, would have been recognised had the impairment been assessed only at the end of the financial year to which the interim period relates. No impairment losses were recognised in respect of goodwill and unquoted equity securities carried at cost during the interim period.

(j) Trade and other receivables

Trade and other receivables are initially recognised at fair value and thereafter stated at amortised cost less impairment losses for bad and doubtful debts, except where the receivables are interest-free loans made to related parties without any fixed repayment terms. In such cases, the receivables are stated at cost less impairment losses for bad and doubtful debts. The impairment loss is measured as the difference between the asset’s carrying amount and the present value of estimated future cash flows, discounted at the financial asset’s original effective interest rate (i.e. the effective interest rate computed at initial recognition of these assets), where the effect of discounting is material.

(k) Other investments in debts and equity securities

The Group’s and the Company’s policies for investments in debts and equity securities, other than investments in subsidiaries, associates and jointly controlled entities, are as follows:

Investments in debt and equity securities are initially stated at cost, which is their transition price unless fair value can be more reliably estimated using valuation techniques whose variables include only data from observable markets. Cost includes attributable transaction costs, except where indicated otherwise below.

Investments are recognised/derecognised on the date the group commits to purchase/see the investments or they expire.

(l) Interest-bearing borrowings

Interest-bearing borrowings are recognised initially at fair value less attributable transaction costs. Subsequent to initial recognition, interest-bearing borrowings are stated at amortised cost with any difference between the amount initially recognised and redemption value being recognised in the income statement over the period of the borrowings, together with any interest and fees payable, using the effective interest method.

(m) Trade and other payables

Trade and other payables are initially recognised at fair value and thereafter stated at amortised cost unless the effect of discounting would be immaterial, in which case they are stated at cost.

(n) Cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents comprise cash at bank and on hand, demand deposits with banks and other financial institutions, and short-term, highly liquid investments that are readily convertible into known amounts of cash and which are subject to an insignificant risk of changes in value, having been within three months of maturity at acquisition. Bank overdrafts that are repayable on demand and form an integral part of the Group’s cash management are also included as a component of cash and cash equivalents for the purpose of the consolidated cash flow statement.

30

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

(o) Employee benefits

  • (i) Salaries, annual bonuses, paid annual leave, leave passage and the cost to the Group of nonmonetary benefits are accrued in the year in which the associated services are rendered by employees of the Group. Where payment or settlement is deferred and the effect would be material, these amounts are stated at their present values.

Contributions to Mandatory Provident Funds as required under the Hong Kong Mandatory Provident Fund Schemes Ordinance, are recognised as an expense in the income statement as incurred.

The employees of the Group participate in retirement plans managed by respective local governments of the municipalities in which the Group operates in the People’s Republic of China (the “PRC”). The Group’s contributions to the plan are calculated based on fixed rates of the employees’ salary costs and charged to the income statement when incurred. The Group has no other obligation for the payment of retirement and other post-retirement benefits of staff other than the contributions described above.

(ii) Share based payments

The fair value of share options granted to employees is recognised as an employee cost with a corresponding increase in a capital reserve within equity. The fair value is measured at grant date using the binomial lattice model, taking into account the terms and conditions upon which the options were granted. Where the employees have to meet vesting conditions before becoming unconditionally entitled to the options, the total estimated fair value of the share options is spread over the vesting period, taking into account the probability that the options will vest.

During the vesting period, the number of share options that is expected to vest is reviewed. Any adjustment to the cumulative fair value recognised in prior years is charged/credited to the income statement for the year of the review, unless the original employee expenses qualify for recognition as an asset, with a corresponding adjustment to the capital reserve. On vesting date, the amount recognised as an expense is adjusted to reflect the actual number of share options that vest (with a corresponding adjustment to the capital reserve) except where forfeiture is only due to not achieving vesting conditions that relate to the market price of the Company’s shares. The equity amount is recognised in the capital reserve until either the option is exercised (when it is transferred to the share premium account) or the option expires (when it is released directly to retained profits).

(iii) Termination benefits

Termination benefits are recognised when, and only when, the Group demonstrably commits itself to terminate employment or to provide benefits as a result of voluntary redundancy by having a detailed formal plan which is without realistic possibility of withdrawal.

(p) Income tax

Income tax for the year comprises current tax and movements in deferred tax assets and liabilities. Current tax and movements in deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognised in the income statement except to the extent that they relate to items recognised directly in equity, in which case they are recognised in equity.

Current tax is the expected tax payable on the taxable income for the year, using tax rates enacted or substantively enacted at the balance sheet date, and any adjustment to tax payable in respect of previous years.

Deferred tax assets and liabilities arise from deductible and taxable temporary differences respectively, being the differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and their tax bases. Deferred tax assets also arise from unused tax losses and unused tax credits.

31

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

Apart from certain limited exceptions, all deferred tax liabilities, and all deferred tax assets to the extent that it is probable that future taxable profits will be available against which the asset can be utilised, are recognised. Future taxable profits that may support the recognition of deferred tax assets arising from deductible temporary differences include those that will arise from the reversal of existing taxable temporary differences, provided those differences relate to the same taxation authority and the same taxable entity, and are expected to reverse either in the same period as the expected reversal of the deductible temporary difference or in periods into which a tax loss arising from the deferred tax asset can be carried back or forward. The same criteria are adopted when determining whether existing taxable temporary differences support the recognition of deferred tax assets arising from unused tax losses and credits, that is, those differences are taken into account if they relate to the same taxation authority and the same taxable entity, and are expected to reverse in a period, or periods, in which the tax loss or credit can be utilised.

The limited exceptions to recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities are those temporary differences arising from goodwill not deductible for tax purposes, the initial recognition of assets or liabilities that affect neither accounting nor taxable profit (provided they are not part of a business combination), and temporary differences relating to investments in subsidiaries to the extent that, in the case of taxable differences, the Group controls the timing of the reversal and it is probable that the differences will not reverse in the foreseeable future, or in the case of deductible differences, unless it is probable that they will reverse in the future.

The amount of deferred tax recognised is measured based on the expected manner of realisation or settlement of the carrying amount of the assets and liabilities, using tax rates enacted or substantively enacted at the balance sheet date. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are not discounted.

The carrying amount of a deferred tax asset is reviewed at each balance sheet date and is reduced to the extent that it is no longer probable that sufficient taxable profit will be available to allow the related tax benefit to be utilised. Any such reduction is reversed to the extent that it becomes probable that sufficient taxable profit will be available.

Additional income taxes that arise from the distribution of dividends are recognised when the liability to pay the related dividends is recognised.

Current tax balances and deferred tax balances, and movements therein, are presented separately from each other and are not offset. Current tax assets are offset against current tax liabilities, and deferred tax assets against deferred tax liabilities if, and only if, the Company or the Group has the legally enforceable right to set off current tax assets against current tax liabilities and the following additional conditions are met:

  • in the case of current tax assets and liabilities, the Company or the Group intends either to settle on a net basis, or to realise the asset and settle the liability simultaneously; or

  • in the case of deferred tax assets and liabilities, if they relate to income taxes levied by the same taxation authority on either:

  • the same taxable entity; or

  • different taxable entities, which, in each future period in which significant amounts of deferred tax liabilities or assets are expected to be settled or recovered, intend to realise the current tax assets and settle the current tax liabilities on a net basis or realise and settle simultaneously.

32

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

(q) Provisions and contingent liabilities

Provisions are recognised for liabilities of uncertain timing or amount when the Company or Group has a legal or constructive obligation arising as a result of a past event, it is probable that an outflow of economic benefits will be required to settle the obligation and a reliable estimate can be made. Where the time value of money is material, provisions are stated at the present value of the expenditures expected to settle the obligation.

Where it is not probable that an outflow of economic benefits will be required, or the amount cannot be estimated reliably, the obligation is disclosed as a contingent liability, unless the probability of outflow of economic benefits is remote. Possible obligations, whose existence will only be confirmed by the occurrence or non-occurrence of one or more future events are also disclosed as contingent liabilities unless the probability of outflow of economic benefits is remote.

(r) Revenue recognition

Provided it is probable that the economic benefits will flow to the Group and the revenue and costs, if applicable, can be measured reliably, revenue is recognised in the income statement as follows:

  • (i) Transponder utilisation income and related services

Income from provision of satellite transponder capacity and related services is recognised in the income statement in equal instalments over the accounting periods covered by the contract term, except where an alternative basis is more representative of the pattern of benefits to be derived from the satellite transponder capacity utilised.

  • (ii) Service income

Service income in respect of provision of satellite-based broadcasting and telecommunications services and other service is recognised when services are provided.

  • (iii) Interest income

Interest income is recognised as if accrued using the effective interest method.

  • (iv) Rental income from operating leases

Rental income receivable under operating leases is recognised in the income statement in equal instalments over the periods covered by the lease term, except where an alternative basis is more representative of the pattern of benefits to be derived from the use of the leased asset. Lease incentives granted are recognised in the income statement as an integral part of the aggregate net lease payments receivable. Contingent rentals are recognised as income in the accounting period in which they are earned.

(s) Translation of foreign currencies

Foreign currency transactions during the year are translated at the foreign exchange rates ruling at the transaction dates. Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated at the foreign exchange rates ruling at the balance sheet date. Exchange gains and losses are recognised in the income statements, except those arising from foreign currency borrowings used to hedge a net investment in a foreign operation which are recognised directly in equity.

Non-monetary assets and liabilities that are measured in terms of historical cost in a foreign currency are translated using the foreign exchange rates ruling at the transaction dates. Non-monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies that are stated at fair value are translated using the foreign exchange rates ruling at the dates the fair value was determined.

The functional currency of the Group’s main operations is the United States dollar which is translated into Hong Kong dollar for reporting of the financial statements. As the Hong Kong dollar is pegged to the United States dollar, the impact of foreign currency exchange fluctuations is insignificant to the Group.

33

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

The results of foreign operations are translated into Hong Kong dollars at the exchange rates approximating the foreign exchange rates ruling at the dates of the transactions. Balance sheet items are translated into Hong Kong dollars at the foreign exchange rates ruling at the balance sheet date. The resulting exchange differences are recognised directly in a separate component of equity.

On disposal of a foreign operation, the cumulative amount of the exchange differences recognised in equity which relate to that foreign operation is included in the calculation of the profit and loss on disposal.

(t) Borrowing costs

Borrowing costs are expensed in the income statement in the period in which they are incurred, except to the extent that they are capitalised as being directly attributable to the acquisition or construction of an asset which necessarily takes a substantial period of time to get ready for its intended use or sale.

The capitalisation of borrowing costs as part of the cost of a qualifying asset commences when expenditures for the asset are being incurred, borrowing costs are being incurred and activities that are necessary to prepare the asset for its intended use or sale are in progress. Capitalisation of borrowing costs is suspended or ceases when substantially all the activities necessary to prepare the qualifying asset for its intended use or sale are interrupted or complete.

(u) Related parties

For the purposes of these financial statements, a party is considered to be related to the Group if:

  • (i) the party has the ability, directly or indirectly through one or more intermediaries, to control the Group or exercise significant influence over the Group in making financial and operating policy decisions, or has joint control over the Group;

  • (ii) the Group and the party are subject to common control;

  • (iii) the party is an associate of the Group or a joint venture in which the Group is a venturer;

  • (iv) the party is a member of key management personnel of the Group or the Group’s parent, or a close family member of such an individual, or is an entity under the control, joint control or significant influence of such individuals;

  • (v) the party is a close family member of a party referred to in (i) or is an entity under the control, joint control or significant influence of such individuals; or

  • (vi) the party is a post-employment benefit plan which is for the benefit of employees of the Group or of any entity that is a related party of the Group.

Close family members of an individual are those family members who may be expected to influence, or be influenced by, that individual in their dealings with the entity.

(v) Segment reporting

A segment is a distinguishable component of the Group that is engaged either in providing products or services (business segment), or in providing products or services within a particular economic environment (geographical segment), which is subject to risks and rewards that are different from those of other segments.

In accordance with the Group’s internal financial reporting system, the Group has chosen business segment information as the primary reporting format and geographical segment information as the secondary reporting format for the purposes of these financial statements.

34

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

Segment revenue, expenses, results, assets and liabilities include items directly attributable to a segment as well as those that can be allocated on a reasonable basis to that segment. Segment assets of the Group include trade receivables and property, plant and equipment. Segment revenue, expenses, assets, and liabilities are determined before intra-group balances and intra-group transactions are eliminated as part of the consolidation process, except to the extent that such intra-group balances and transactions are between Group entities within a single segment. Inter-segment pricing is based on terms similar to those available to other external parties.

Segment capital expenditure is the total cost incurred during the period to acquire segment assets (both tangible and intangible) that are expected to be used for more than one period.

Unallocated items mainly comprise financial and corporate assets, tax balances, corporate and financing expenses.

2 CHANGES IN ACCOUNTING POLICIES

The IASB has issued a number of new Interpretations and an amendment to IFRSs that are first effective for the current accounting period commencing 1 January 2008 or available for early adoption. The equivalent new and revised HKFRSs and Interpretations consequently issued by HKICPA have the same effective date as those issued by the IASB and are in all material respects identical to the pronouncements issued by the IASB. There have been no other material changes to HKFRSs.

These developments have had no material impact on the Group’s financial statements as either they were consistent with accounting policies already adopted by the Group or they were not relevant to the Group’s and the Company’s operations.

The Group has not applied any new standard or interpretation that is not yet effective for the current accounting period (see note 41).

3 TURNOVER

The principal activities of the Group are the maintenance, operation, and provision of satellite transponder capacity and related services and satellite-based broadcasting and telecommunications services and other services.

Turnover represents income received and receivable from provision of satellite transponder capacity and related services, satellite-based broadcasting and telecommunications services and other service. The amount of each category of revenue recognised in turnover during the year is as follows:

Income from provision of satellite transponder
capacity and related services
Income from provision of satellite-based
broadcasting and telecommunications services
Service income
2008
$’000
385,391
18,153
128
403,672
2007
$’000
395,032
56,453
141
451,626

35

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

4 OTHER NET INCOME

2008 2007
$’000 $’000
Other net income primarily includes the following:
Interest income 11,433 22,181
Rental income in respect of properties 549 592
Gain on disposal of property, plant and
equipment_(note 15(d))_ 51,595 261

5 PROFIT BEFORE TAXATION

Profit before taxation is arrived at after charging/(crediting):

(a) Finance costs

Interest on bank borrowings wholly repayable within five years
Other borrowing costs
(b)
Staff costs
Staff costs (including directors’ emoluments)
Pension contributions
Salaries, wages and other benefits
(c)
Other items
Auditors’ remuneration
– audit services
– other services
Depreciation
Amortisation on leasehold land held for own use
Foreign currency exchange gain
Operating lease charges: minimum lease payments
– land and buildings and equipment
– satellite transponder capacity
Impairment loss on trade and other receivables
Impairment loss on property, plant and equipment_(note 15(a))_
2008
$’000
22,033
2,811
24,844
2008
$’000
2,185
47,247
49,432
2008
$’000
1,165
10
214,470
376
(687)
546
4,533
5,637
8,397
2007
$’000
52,254
3,091
55,345
2007
$’000
2,767
47,222
49,989
2007
$’000
1,266
10
222,461
375
(2,251)
961
4,830
80
98

36

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

6 INCOME TAX IN THE CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENT

(a) Taxation in the consolidated income statement represents:

Current tax – Overseas
Tax for the year
Deferred tax – Hong Kong
Origination of temporary differences
Effect on deferred tax balances at 1 January
resulting from a change in tax rate
2008
$’000
12,560
33,248
(3,257)
29,991
42,551
2007
$’000
18,623
1,822
1,822
20,445

Taxation is charged at the appropriate current rates of taxation ruling in the relevant countries.

The provision for Hong Kong Profits Tax was calculated at 16.5% (2007: 17.5%) of the estimated assessable profits for the year. Overseas tax includes the withholding tax paid or payable in respect of Group’s income from provision of satellite transponder capacity to the customers which are located outside Hong Kong.

In February 2008, the Hong Kong Government announced a decrease in the Profits Tax rate from 17.5% to 16.5% applicable to the Group’s operations in Hong Kong as from the year ended 31 December 2008. This decrease is taken into account in the preparation of the Group’s and the Company’s 2008 financial statements. Accordingly, the provision for Hong Kong Profits Tax for 2008 is calculated at 16.5% (2007: 17.5%) of the estimated assessable profits for the year and the opening balance of deferred tax has been reestimated accordingly.

37

APPENDIX I

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

(b) Reconciliation between tax expense and accounting profit at applicable tax rates:

Profit before taxation
Notional tax on profit before tax, calculated
at the rates applicable to losses
in the countries concerned
Overseas withholding tax
Tax effect of non-deductible expenses
Tax effect of non-taxable revenue
Tax effect of unused tax losses not recognised
Tax effect of prior year’s unrecognised
deferred tax utilised this year
Effect on deferred tax balances
resulting from a change in tax rate
Others_(note)_
Actual tax expenses
2008
$’000
92,051
14,985
12,560
4,310
(13,401)
13,170
(166)
(3,257)
14,350
42,551
2007
$’000
25,161
4,056
18,623
2,287
(4,629)
1,463
(1,355)


20,445

Note: In November 2007, a subsidiary of the Company was requested to supply information to the Inland Revenue Department (“IRD”) in respect of the nature of the gain arising from the disposal of certain transponders in 2006 and as to whether such transaction should be taxable. The subsidiary of the Company sent a reply letter to the IRD together with the requested relevant information. Up to the date of the audited financial statements, no assessment has yet been made by the IRD. Management believes such transaction should be treated as capital in nature and is in the process of gathering relevant documentary evidence to support its grounds; however, due to difficulty assessing the probability on the success of claiming the gain as non-taxable in nature, a tax provision of $14,350,000 in respect of such transaction was made as of 31 December 2008.

38

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

7 DIRECTORS’ REMUNERATION

Directors’ remuneration disclosed pursuant to section 161 of the Hong Kong Companies Ordinance is as follows:

Executive directors
Cheng Guangren_(note c)
Tong Xudong
(note c)
Qi Liang
(note c)
Ni Yifeng
Non-executive directors
Rui Xiaowu
(note a)
Lim Toon
Yong Foo Chong
Yin Yen-liang
Wu Zhen Mu
Tseng Ta-mon
(note b)_
Zhao Liqiang
Independent non-executive
directors
Huan Guocang
Lui King Man
Lam Sek Kong
Cui Liguo
Directors’
fees
$’000
27
50
27
23

50
50
50
50

23
200
200
200
200
1,150
Salaries,
allowances
and benefits
in kind
$’000
1,494
2,360
1,071
1,813











6,738
Retirement
scheme
contributions
$’000
87
151
73
97











408
Performance
related
incentive
payments
$’000
289
470
201
210











1,170
Termination
benefits
$’000



579











579
2008
Total
$’000
1,897
3,031
1,372
2,722

50
50
50
50

23
200
200
200
200
10,045

39

APPENDIX I

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

Executive directors
Ni Yifeng
Tong Xudong
Non-executive directors
Rui Xiaowu_(note a)
Zhao Liqiang
Lim Toon
Yong Foo Chong
Ho Siaw Hong
Yin Yen-liang
Wu Zhen Mu
Tseng Ta-mon
(note b)_
Independent non-executive
directors
Huan Guocang
Lui King Man
Yuen Pak Yiu, Philip
Lam Sek Kong
Cui Liguo
Directors’
fees
$’000
50
50

50
50
41
9
50
50

200
200
99
101
101
1,051
Salaries,
allowances
Performance
and
Retirement
related
benefits
scheme
incentive
in kind
contributions
payments
$’000
$’000
$’000
2,840
165
78
2,331
145
68







































5,171
310
146
2007
Total
$’000
3,133
2,594

50
50
41
9
50
50

200
200
99
101
101
6,678

In addition to the above emoluments, certain Directors were granted share options under the Company’s share option scheme. The details of these benefits in kind are disclosed under the paragraph “Share option schemes” in the Directors’ report and note 30.

Notes:

  • (a) Mr. Rui Xiaowu, a non-executive director, has waived his directors’ fees for 2008 and 2007.

  • (b) Mr. Tseng Ta-mon was an alternate director. Alternate directors are not entitled to receive any directors’ fees.

  • (c) The amounts represented the actual amount paid or receivable by respective directors for the year. In addition to the amounts disclosed above, directors and key management are entitled to a performance related incentive payment of $2,980,000. The allocation of the said incentive payment has yet to be determined.

40

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

8 INDIVIDUALS WITH HIGHEST EMOLUMENTS

Of the five highest paid individuals of the Group, there are three directors (2007: two) whose remuneration is disclosed in note 7. The aggregate of emoluments in respect of the other two (2007: three) individuals are as follows:

Salaries and other emoluments
Performance related incentive payments
Retirement benefits contributions
Termination benefits
2008
$’000
3,014
628
206
932
4,780
2007
$’000
4,839
192
330
5,361

The emoluments of the two (2007: three) individuals with the highest emoluments are within the following bands:

$Nil to $1,000,000
$1,000,001 to $1,500,000
$2,000,001 to $2,500,000
Number of individuals
2008
2007



1
2
2
2
3
Number of individuals
2008
2007



1
2
2
2
3
3

41

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

9 GAIN ON DISPOSAL OF A SUBSIDIARY

Pursuant to a disposal agreement dated 2 April 2008, CTIA VSAT Network Limited (“CTIA”), a subsidiary of the Company, disposed of its entire equity interest in Beijing Asia Pacific East Communication Network Limited (“BAPECN”) to an independent third party at a total consideration of RMB4,800,000 (approximately $5,328,000). Beijing Zhong Guang Xian Da Data Broadcast Technology Co Limited, a jointly controlled entity of the Company, in which BAPECN has 35% equity, was also disposed of as part of the sale.

Net assets disposed of:

Property, plant and equipment
Trade receivables
Deposits, prepayment and other receivables
Cash and bank balances
Payables and accrued charges
Rentals received in advance
Loan from a shareholder
Minority interest
Other reserves and exchange reserves
Waive on loan from CTIA
Gain on disposal of a subsidiary
Consideration
2008
$’000
8,160
161
287
532
(3,767)
(1,388)
(990)
2,995
(839)
(1,011)
990
3,193
5,328

An analysis of the net inflow of cash and cash equivalents in respect of the disposal of a subsidiary is as follows:

Consideration
Cash and bank balance disposed of
Net cash inflow from disposal of a subsidiary
2008
$’000
5,328
(532)
4,796

42

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

10 GAIN ON DISPOSAL OF A JOINTLY CONTROLLED ENTITY

Pursuant to a disposal agreement dated 3 October 2008, the Group disposed of its entire equity interest in a jointly controlled entity, APT Satellite Telecommunications Limited (“APT Telecom”), to an independent third party at a consideration of $88,550,000.

Net assets (representing the Group’s portion) disposed of:

Property, plant and equipment
Trade receivables
Deposits, prepayment and other receivables
Payables and accrued charges
Loan from a shareholder
Disposal cost
Gain on disposal of a jointly controlled entity
Net consideration
Consideration
Receipt from other receivables
Repayment to shareholder
Net cash inflow from disposal of a jointly controlled entity
2008
$’000
78,100
61
1,172
(6,268)
(67,139)
5,926
1,056
9,590
16,572
88,550
1,457
(73,435)
16,572

11 PROFIT ATTRIBUTABLE TO SHAREHOLDERS

The consolidated profit attributable to shareholders includes a loss of $3,731,000 (2007: $884,000) which has been dealt with in the financial statements of the Company.

12 DIVIDEND

Dividends payable to equity shareholders of the company attributable for the year.

2008 2007
$’000 $’000
Final dividend

13 EARNINGS PER SHARE

(a) Basic earnings per share

The calculation of basic earnings per share is based on the profit attributable to shareholders of $49,587,000 (2007: $5,581,000) and the weighted average of 413,265,000 ordinary shares (2007: 413,265,000 shares) in issue during the year ended 31 December 2008.

(b) Diluted earnings per share

Diluted earnings per share is the same as the basic earnings per share as there were no dilutive potential ordinary shares in existence during the years 2008 and 2007.

43

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

14 SEGMENTAL REPORTING

Segment information is presented in respect of the Group’s business and geographical segments. Business information is chosen as the primary reporting format because this is more relevant to the Group’s internal financial reporting.

Inter-segment pricing is based on terms similar to those available to external third parties.

Business segments

The Group comprises two main business segments, namely provision of satellite transponder capacity and related services and provision of satellite-based broadcasting and telecommunications services.

Turnover from external customers
Inter-segment turnover
Total
Service income
Segment result
Service income
Unallocated other net income
Unallocated administrative expenses
– staff costs
– office expenses
Profit from operations
Finance costs
Share of results of jointly
controlled entities
Gain on disposal of a subsidiary
Gain on disposal of a
jointly controlled entity
Profit before taxation
Income tax
Profit for the year
Depreciation for the year
Impairment loss for the year
Significant non-cash expenses
(other than depreciation)
Provision of satellite
transponder capacity
and related services
2008
2007
$’000
$’000
385,391
395,032
11,115
14,028
396,506
409,060
120,833
126,873
212,011
216,557
1,739

657
25
Provision of
satellite-based
broadcasting and
telecommunications
services
2008
2007
$’000
$’000
18,153
56,453
1,357
1,260
19,510
57,713
(8,904)
9,644
2,459
5,904
6,658
98
4,980
55
Inter-segment
elimination
2008
2007
$’000
$’000


(12,472)
(15,288)
(12,472)
(15,288)

(2)
Consolidated
2008
2007
$’000
$’000
403,544
451,485


403,544
451,485
128
141
403,672
451,626
111,929
136,515
128
141
68,859
26,560
(48,990)
(47,792)
(30,211)
(34,024)
101,715
81,400
(24,844)
(55,345)
2,397
(894)
3,193

9,590

92,051
25,161
(42,551)
(20,445)
49,500
4,716
Consolidated
2008
2007
$’000
$’000
403,544
451,485


403,544
451,485
128
141
403,672
451,626
111,929
136,515
128
141
68,859
26,560
(48,990)
(47,792)
(30,211)
(34,024)
101,715
81,400
(24,844)
(55,345)
2,397
(894)
3,193

9,590

92,051
25,161
(42,551)
(20,445)
49,500
4,716
451,485
141
451,626
136,515
141
26,560
(47,792)
(34,024)
81,400
(55,345)
(894)

25,161
(20,445)
4,716

44

APPENDIX I

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

Provision of
satellite-based
Provision of satellite
broadcasting and
transponder capacity
telecommunications
Inter-segment
and related services
services
elimination
2008
2007
2008
2007
2008
2007
$’000
$’000
$’000
$’000
$’000
$’000
Segment assets
2,186,865
2,629,907
8,154
36,272
(35,465)
(41,872)
Investment in and amounts due
from jointly controlled entities

78,898




Unallocated assets
Total assets
Segment liabilities
350,007
330,908
60,997
76,449
(35,465)
(41,872)
Unallocated liabilities
Total liabilities
Capital expenditure incurred
during the year
7,098
9,343
359
1,340
Consolidated
2008
2007
$’000
$’000
2,159,554
2,624,307

78,898
386,729
432,377
2,546,283
3,135,582
375,539
365,485
130,179
781,406
505,718
1,146,891
Consolidated
2008
2007
$’000
$’000
2,159,554
2,624,307

78,898
386,729
432,377
2,546,283
3,135,582
375,539
365,485
130,179
781,406
505,718
1,146,891
3,135,582
365,485
781,406
1,146,891

Geographical segments

The Group’s operating assets consist primarily of its satellites which are used, or are intended for use, for transmission to multiple countries but not located within a specific geographical area. Accordingly, no segment analysis of the carrying amount of segment assets by location of assets is presented.

In presenting information on the basis of geographical segments, segment revenue, segment assets and capital expenditure is based on the geographical location of customers.

Other regions Other regions
Hong Kong in the PRC Singapore Indonesia Others Unallocated
2008 2007 2008 2007 2008 2007 2008 2007 2008 2007 2008 2007
$’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000
Turnover from
external customers 54,292 65,065 165,162 170,758 53,976 61,486 77,235 90,505 53,007 63,812
Segment assets 10,892 6,794 19,548 39,070 7,731 3,894 25,105 16,499 3,867 14,152 2,479,140 3,055,173
Capital expenditure
incurred during
the year 2008 558 369 6,899 10,314

45

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

15 PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT

(a) The Group

Land
and
buildings
$’000
Cost:
At 1 January 2007
102,233
Exchange adjustments

Additions

Disposals

Transfer
(3,222)
At 31 December 2007
99,011
At 1 January 2008
99,011
Exchange adjustments

Additions

Disposals
(582)
Effect of cost adjustment_(Note ii)_

Transfer

At 31 December 2008
98,429
Accumulated depreciation:
At 1 January 2007
19,364
Exchange adjustments

Charge for the year
2,031
Impairment loss

Transfer
(1,141)
Written back on disposal

At 31 December 2007
20,254
At 1 January 2008
20,254
Exchange adjustments

Charge for the year
2,018
Impairment loss (Note i)

Written back on disposal
(582)
At 31 December 2008
21,690
Net book value:
At 31 December 2008
76,739
At 31 December 2007
78,757
Leasehold
improvements
$’000
8,154
71
4,792


13,017
13,017
51
75
(1,105)

93
12,131
4,727
68
496



5,291
5,291
51
459

(1,105)
4,696
7,435
7,726
Furniture and
equipment,
motor
vehicles, and
Communication
computer
satellite
Communication
Communication
equipment
equipment
station
satellites
$’000
$’000
$’000
$’000
45,612
163,500
14,483
4,966,051
177
699
924

903
2,925
8

(2,270)
(31,090)



(277)
1,101

44,422
135,757
16,516
4,966,051
44,422
135,757
16,516
4,966,051
151
492
715

1,000
754
25

(1,913)
(11,597)
(17,256)
(125,179)



(11,700)
286
493


43,946
125,899

4,829,172
40,968
111,782
8,709
2,394,261
125
479
556

1,849
12,078
2,442
203,565

98






(2,244)
(31,090)


40,698
93,347
11,707
2,597,826
40,698
93,347
11,707
2,597,826
92
388
507

1,270
10,864
475
199,384

6,657

1,740
(1,598)
(9,180)
(12,689)
(35,236)
40,462
102,076

2,763,714
3,484
23,823

2,065,458
3,724
42,410
4,809
2,368,225
Construction
in progress
$’000
1,360
87
2,055
(8)
(824)
2,670
2,670
38
5,603
(882)
(28)
(872)
6,529













6,529
2,670
Total
$’000
5,301,393
1,958
10,683
(33,368)
(3,222)
5,277,444
5,277,444
1,447
7,457
(158,514)
(11,728)
5,116,106
2,579,811
1,228
222,461
98
(1,141)
(33,334)
2,769,123
2,769,123
1,038
214,470
8,397
(60,390)
2,932,638
2,183,468
2,508,321

46

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

Note (i) Impairment loss

During 2008, the Group conducted a review of the Group’s property, plant and equipment and determined that certain assets were impaired as the recoverable amount of these assets is estimated to be less than their carrying amount. Accordingly, an impairment loss of $8,397,000 (2007: $98,000) in respect of a communication satellite, APSTAR 1A, and TV uplink and broadcasting equipment has been recognised and charged to income statement. It was concluded that no further impairment is required.

Note (ii) Effect of cost adjustment

According to an agreement signed with Thales Alenia Space France (“Thales”) on 8 December 2001, the Group is entitled to a payment in the amount of US$1,500,000 (approximately $11,700,000) upon successful delivery of a satellite by Thales to its own customers with technical designs that are identical to APSTAR VI satellite. During the year, $11,700,000 was recognised from Thales in respect of delivery of a satellite with the same technical design of APSTAR VI, and treated as a reduction to the cost of property, plant and equipment – communication satellites.

(b) The Company

Cost:
At 1 January 2007, 31 December 2007 and 31 December 2008
Accumulated depreciation:
At 1 January 2007, 31 December 2007 and 31 December 2008
Net book value:
At 31 December 2007 and 31 December 2008
Motor vehicle
$’000
411
411

(c) The analysis of net book value of land and buildings held by the Group is as follows:

Medium-term leases outside Hong Kong
Medium-term leases in Hong Kong
Land and buildings
2008
2007
$’000
$’000


76,739
78,757
76,739
78,757
Land and buildings
2008
2007
$’000
$’000


76,739
78,757
76,739
78,757
78,757

(d) Fixed assets under finance leases

  • (i) The fair value of the buildings held for own use, which are situated on leasehold land as disclosed above cannot be measured separately from the fair value of the leasehold land at the inception of the lease, and therefore is accounted for as being held under a finance lease.

  • (ii) In August 2004, the in-orbit tests of APSTAR V with 54 transponders were completed and APSTAR V was put into service on 13 August 2004. Based on the arrangements entered into by the Group and the vendor, Loral Orion, Inc (“Loral Orion”), the Group assumed the risks and rewards of 37 transponders (“APT Transponders”) for the entire operational life of APSTAR V under finance leases, while the risks and rewards relating to the other 17 transponders remained with Loral Orion. As at 31 December 2008, the net book value of communication satellites held under finance leases in connection with APSTAR V amounted to $670,814,000 (2007: $834,448,000).

47

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

Pursuant to the various amended agreements with Loral Orion, Loral Orion has options to take up 4 APT Transponders from the fourth year and another 4 APT Transponders from the fifth year after completion of in-orbit tests of APSTAR V, for their remaining operational lives at a total consideration of $282,865,000. On 29 September 2006 and 18 August 2008, Telesat Satellite LP (“Telesat,” the successor of Loral Orion) partially exercised its right to take up 2 and 4 APT Transponders ahead of schedule, at a total consideration of $70,716,000 and $141,433,000 respectively. As a result, a gain of $17,503,000 and $51,490,000 arising from disposal of the 2 and 4 APT Transponders was recognised in 2006 and 2008 respectively. The consideration in relation to the remaining 2 APT Transponders to be taken up by Telesat is $70,716,000. The remaining APT transponders subject to this arrangement had a net book value of $43,278,000 at 31 December 2008 (2007: $143,048,000).

(e) In-orbit insurance of satellites

As of 31 December 2008, the Group did not have full in-orbit insurance coverage for its satellites. The in-orbit satellites had a net book value in aggregate of $2,065,458,000 (2007: $2,368,225,000) as of 31 December 2008.

16 INTEREST IN LEASEHOLD LAND HELD FOR OWN USE UNDER AN OPERATING LEASE

Cost:
At 1 January 2007, 31 December 2007 and 31 December 2008
Accumulated depreciation:
At 1 January 2007
Charge for the year
At 31 December 2007
At 1 January 2008
Charge for the year
At 31 December 2008
Net book value:
At 31 December 2008
At 31 December 2007
The Group
$’000
18,678
3,483
375
3,858
376
4,234
14,444
14,820

17 INVESTMENT PROPERTIES

The investment properties were revalued at 31 December 2008 at $5,159,000 (2007: $5,171,000) by Savills Valuation and Professional Services Limited, an independent professional property appraiser, on an open market value basis by reference to net rental income allowing for reversionary income potential. The valuation loss of $12,000 (2007: $226,000 gain) has been recognised in the income statement during the year.

The investment properties, which are situated in the PRC under medium-term leases, are rented out under operating leases and the rental income earned from the investment properties during the year was $254,000 (2007: $297,000).

48

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

18 INTEREST IN, LOANS TO AND AMOUNTS DUE FROM SUBSIDIARIES

(a) Interest in subsidiaries

The Company
2008 2007
$’000 $’000
Unlisted shares, at cost 615,862 615,862
  • (b) Loans to and amounts due from subsidiaries under current assets are unsecured, interest-free and repayable on demand.

(c) Particulars of subsidiaries

The following list contains only the particulars of subsidiaries which principally affected the results, assets or liabilities of the Group. The class of shares held is ordinary unless otherwise stated.

All of these are controlled subsidiaries as defined under note 1(c) and have been consolidated into the Group financial statements.

Proportion of ownership Proportion of ownership interest
Place of Particulars of issued Group’s
incorporation and paid up capital effective held by the held by
Name of company and operation* and debt securities interest Company subsidiary Principal activities
APT Satellite Investment British Virgin Islands US$1,400 100% 100% Investment holding
Company Limited
Acme Star Investment Limited Hong Kong HK$2 100% 100% Inactive
APT Satellite Company Limited Hong Kong Ordinary Class 100% 100% Provision of satellite
“A” HK$100; transponder capacity
Non-voting
Deferred Class “B”
HK$542,500,000
APT Satellite Enterprise Limited Cayman Islands US$2 100% 100% Provision of satellite
transponder capacity
APT Satellite Global Company Cayman Islands US$2 100% 100% Investment holding
Limited
APT Satellite Link Limited Cayman Islands US$2 100% 100% Provision of satellite
transponder capacity
APT Satellite Telewell Limited Hong Kong HK$2 100% 100% Inactive

49

APPENDIX I

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

Proportion of ownership Proportion of ownership interest
Place of Particulars of issued Group’s
incorporation and paid up capital effective held by the held by
Name of company and operation* and debt securities interest Company subsidiary Principal activities
APT Satellite TV Development Hong Kong HK$2 100% 100% Provision of satellite
Limited television uplink and
downlink services
APT Satellite Vision Limited Hong Kong HK$2 100% 100% Satellite leasing
APT Telecom Services Limited Hong Kong HK$2 100% 100% Provision of
telecommunication
services
Haslett Investments Limited British Virgin Islands US$1 100% 100% Inactive
Skywork Corporation British Virgin Islands US$1 100% 100% Investment holding
The 138 Leasing Partnership Hong Kong Partners capital N/A N/A N/A Inactive
HK$329,128,857
Ying Fai Realty (China) Limited Hong Kong/PRC HK$20 100% 100% Property holding
亞訊通信技術開發(深圳) Wholly-owned Registered capital 100% 100% Provision of satellite
有限公司(APT Communication foreign enterprises, HK$5,000,000 transponder capacity
Technology Development PRC
(Shenzhen) Co., Ltd.)
CTIA VSAT Network Limited Hong Kong HK$5,000,000 60% 60% Investment
Middle East Ventures Limited British Virgin Islands US$1 100% 100% Investment holding
  • The place of operations is the place of incorporation/establishment unless otherwise stated.

No loan capital has been issued by any of the subsidiaries.

50

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

19 INTEREST IN JOINTLY CONTROLLED ENTITIES AND AMOUNT DUE FROM A JOINTLY CONTROLLED ENTITY

The Group
2008 2007
$’000 $’000
Share of net assets 3,529

Details of the jointly controlled entities of the Group during the year are set out below:

Particulars Proportion of ownership Proportion of ownership interest
Form of Place of of issued Group’s
Name of business incorporation and paid up effective held by the held by the Principal
joint venture structure and operation capital interest Company subsidiary activity
APT Satellite Incorporated Hong Kong HK$153,791,900 Property
Telecommunications holding
Limited
(“APT Telecom”)
北京中廣信達數據廣播 Joint venture, PRC Registered Provision of
技術有限公司 Incorporated capital data
(Beijing Zhong Guang RMB11,000,000 transmission
Xian Da Data Broadcast services
Technology Co. Limited)
(“Zhong Guang Xian Da”)

APT Telecom is considered as a jointly controlled entity as the Group and the other shareholder of APT Telecom both have the right to appoint an equal number of directors to the board of directors. The Group disposed of its interest in APT Telecom during the year (see note 10).

Zhong Guang Xian Da is considered as a jointly controlled entity as the Group and the other shareholders of Zhong Guang Xian Da exercise joint control over it pursuant to a shareholders’ resolution. The Group disposed of its interest in Zhong Guang Xian Da during the year (see note 9).

In 2007, the amounts due from a jointly controlled entity were unsecured and interest-free. They were fully settled during the year.

Within one year or on demand
After one year but within five years
2008
$’000


2007
$’000
4,950
2,700
7,650

51

APPENDIX I

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

Summary financial information on jointly controlled entities – Group’s effective interest:

Non-current assets
Current assets
Non-current liabilities
Current liabilities
Net assets
Income
Expenses
Profit/(Loss) for the year
2008
$’000





4,706
(2,309)
2,397
2007
$’000
76,670
2,011
(68,624)
(6,528)
3,529
938
(1,832)
(894)

20 PREPAID EXPENSES, DEPOSITS, PREPAYMENTS AND OTHER RECEIVABLES

Prepaid expenses represent the advance payment of license fee for the right to use certain designated transmission frequencies. Part of the prepaid expenses which fall due within one year are included as part of deposits, prepayments and other receivables.

Balance at 31 December
Less: current portion (included in deposits,
prepayments and other receivables under
current assets)
Non-current portion
The Group
2008
2007
$’000
$’000
29,104
25,057
(10,081)
(10,920)
19,023
14,137
The Group
2008
2007
$’000
$’000
29,104
25,057
(10,081)
(10,920)
19,023
14,137
14,137

21 TRADE RECEIVABLES, NET

Due from third parties
Due from shareholders of the Company
Due from holding company and its subsidiaries
of a shareholder of the Company
The Group
2008
2007
$’000
$’000
64,584
74,313
41
2,628
2,518
3,468
67,143
80,409
The Group
2008
2007
$’000
$’000
64,584
74,313
41
2,628
2,518
3,468
67,143
80,409
80,409

The trade receivables are expected to be recovered within one year.

52

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

(a) Ageing analysis

The Group allows a credit period of 30 days to its trade customers. The following is an ageing analysis of trade receivables (net of allowance for doubtful debts) at the balance sheet date:

0 – 30 days
31 – 60 days
61 – 90 days
91 – 120 days
Over 120 days
The Group
2008
2007
$’000
$’000
57,087
53,923
2,920
8,276
2,532
4,032
2,379
3,001
2,225
11,177
67,143
80,409
The Group
2008
2007
$’000
$’000
57,087
53,923
2,920
8,276
2,532
4,032
2,379
3,001
2,225
11,177
67,143
80,409
80,409

The Group’s credit policy is set out in note 32(a).

(b) Impairment of trade receivables

Impairment losses in respect of trade receivables are recorded using an allowance account unless the Group is satisfied that recovery of the amount is remote, in which case the impairment loss is written off against trade receivables directly (see note 1(j)).

The movement in the allowance for doubtful debts during the year, including both specific and collective loss components, is as follows:

At 1 January
Impairment loss recognised
Uncollectible amounts written off
Reversal as a result of disposal
of a subsidiary
Exchange difference
At 31 December
The Group
2008
2007
$’000
$’000
13,532
18,382
5,824
80
(187)
(5,229)
(5,302)


299
13,867
13,532
The Company
2008
2007
$’000
$’000











The Company
2008
2007
$’000
$’000











At 31 December 2008, the Group’s trade receivables of $13,867,000 (2007: $13,532,000) were individually determined to be impaired. The individually impaired receivables related to customers that were in financial difficulties and management assessed that only a portion of the receivables is expected to be recovered. Consequently, specific allowances for doubtful debts of $5,824,000 (2007: $80,000) were recognised. The Group does not hold any collateral over these balances.

53

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

(c) Trade receivables that are not impaired

The ageing analysis of trade receivables that are neither individually nor collectively considered to be impaired are as follows:

Less than 1 month past due
1 to 3 months past due
More than 3 months past due
At 31 December
The Group
2008
2007
$’000
$’000
57,087
53,923
5,452
12,308
4,604
14,178
67,143
80,409
The Company
2008
2007
$’000
$’000







The Company
2008
2007
$’000
$’000







Receivables that were past due but not impaired relate to a number of independent customers that have a good track record with the Group. Based on past experience, management believes that no impairment allowance is necessary in respect of these balances as there has not been a significant change in credit quality and the balances are still considered fully recoverable. The Group does not hold any collateral over these balances.

22 OTHER FINANCIAL ASSETS

The Group The Company
2008 2007 2008 2007
$’000 $’000 $’000 $’000
Financial assets at fair value through profit and loss
– unlisted financial assets in the PRC 102,277

Other financial assets are unquoted, interest bearing debt securities with an effective interest rate of 1.45%, and with maturity dates in January 2009. The amounts have been fully settled at respective maturity dates. As at 31 December 2008, no other financial assets are individually determined to be past due or impaired.

23 CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS

Deposits with banks and other
financial institutions
Cash at bank and on hand
Cash and cash equivalents in the
balance sheet and cash flow statement
The Group
2008
2007
$’000
$’000
114,046
302,784
7,495
9,241
121,541
312,025
The Company
2008
2007
$’000
$’000

9,809
493
694
493
10,503
The Company
2008
2007
$’000
$’000

9,809
493
694
493
10,503
10,503

54

APPENDIX I

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

24 PAYABLES AND ACCRUED CHARGES

The ageing analysis of accounts payable and accrued charges as of the balance sheet date is as follows:

0 – 3 months
4 – 6 months
7 – 9 months
9 – 12 months
Accrued expenses
At 31 December
The Group
2008
2007
$’000
$’000
5,979
9,072






5,979
9,072
35,356
29,655
41,335
38,727
The Company
2008
2007
$’000
$’000
17
11






17
11
4,905
2,428
4,922
2,439
The Company
2008
2007
$’000
$’000
17
11






17
11
4,905
2,428
4,922
2,439
11
2,428
2,439

25 SECURED BANK BORROWINGS

Bank loans
Less: Amount due within one year included
under current liabilities
Amount due after one year
The bank borrowings are repayable as follows:
Within one year or on demand
After one year but within five years
The Group
2008
2007
$’000
$’000

680,335

(217,961)

462,374

217,961

462,374

680,335
The Group
2008
2007
$’000
$’000

680,335

(217,961)

462,374

217,961

462,374

680,335
462,374
217,961
462,374
680,335

The secured bank borrowings are subject to the fulfillment of covenants relating to certain of the Group’s balance sheet ratios, as are commonly found in lending arrangements with financial institutions (see note 29(b)(ii)). If the Group were to breach the covenants the drawn down facilities would become payable on demand. The Group regularly monitors its compliance on these covenants. Further details of the Group’s management of liquidity risk are set out in note 32(b). As at 31 December 2007, none of the covenants relating to drawn down facilities had been breached. The Group has fully repaid the borrowings during the year.

26 DEPOSITS RECEIVED

The amount represents deposits received in respect of provision of satellite transponder capacity service, satellitebased broadcasting and telecommunications services and other services.

27 DEFERRED INCOME

Deferred income represents unrecognised revenue received in respect of income for provision of transponder utilisation service and related services for future periods. Deferred income is recognised in the income statement according to revenue recognition policy of transponder utilisation income and related services as mentioned in note 1(r)(i).

55

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

28 INCOME TAX IN THE BALANCE SHEET

(a) Current taxation in the balance sheet represents:

Overseas tax payable
Balance of overseas tax provision relating to prior years
The Group
2008
2007
$’000
$’000
7,254
7,224
90,988
85,863
98,242
93,087
The Group
2008
2007
$’000
$’000
7,254
7,224
90,988
85,863
98,242
93,087
93,087

(b) Deferred tax assets and liabilities recognised

  • (i) The Group

The components of deferred tax (assets)/liabilities recognised in the consolidated balance sheet and the movements during the year are as follows:

Depreciation
allowances in
excess of
related
Deferred tax arising from:
depreciation
$’000
At 1 January 2007
373,375
Charged/(credited) to
consolidated income statement
(9,152)
At 31 December 2007
364,223
At 1 January 2008
364,223
Effect on deferred tax balances
resulting from a change in tax rate
(20,813)
Charged/(credited) to
consolidated income statement
(37,991)
At 31 December 2008
305,419
Net deferred tax assets recognised
in the consolidated balance sheet
Net deferred tax liabilities recognised
in the consolidated balance sheet
Losses
$’000
(483,728)

38,835
Deferred
Other
lease temporary
income differences
$’000
$’000

166,063
(542)
(27,652)
(209)

138,411
(751)

138,411
(751)
(7,909)
43
(26,143)
(650)

104,359
(1,358)
The Group
2008
$’000

86,982
86,982
Deferred
Other
lease temporary
income differences
$’000
$’000

166,063
(542)
(27,652)
(209)

138,411
(751)

138,411
(751)
(7,909)
43
(26,143)
(650)

104,359
(1,358)
The Group
2008
$’000

86,982
86,982
Total
$’000

55,168

1,822
(444,893)
56,990
(444,893)

25,422

98,033

56,990
(3,257)

33,249
(321,438)
86,982
2007
$’000
(9,174)
66,164
56,990

(ii) The Company

The Company did not have any deferred tax assets/liabilities recognised in the balance sheet.

56

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

(c) Deferred tax assets not recognised

The Group has not recognised deferred tax assets in respect of tax losses of $64,180,000 (2007: $131,302,000) and other deductible temporary differences of $905,000 (2007: $36,221,000) as the realisation of the assets was considered less than probable. The decrease in deferred tax assets not recognised was primarily attributable to disposals of a subsidiary, BAPECN, and a jointly controlled entity, APT Telecom, during the year. The tax losses do not expire under current tax legislation.

29 SHARE CAPITAL

(a) Authorised and issued share capital

Issued and
Number fully paid
of shares share capital
’000 $’000
Ordinary shares of $0.10 each
At 31 December 2007 and 31 December 2008 413,265 41,327

The Company’s authorised share capital is 1,000,000,000 shares of $0.10 each. There were no changes in the Company’s authorised or issued share capital during either year.

The holders of ordinary shares are entitled to receive dividends as declared from time to time and are entitled to one vote per share at meetings of the Company. All ordinary shares rank equally with regard to the Company’s residual assets.

(b) Capital management

The Group’s primary objectives when managing capital are to safeguard the Group’s ability to continue as a going concern, so that it can continue to provide returns for shareholders, by pricing products and services commensurately with the level of risk and by securing access to finance at a reasonable cost.

The Group actively and regularly reviews and manages its capital structure to maintain a balance between the higher shareholder returns that might be possible with higher levels of borrowings and the advantages and security afforded by a sound capital position, and makes adjustments to the capital structure in light of changes in economic conditions.

Consistent with industry practice, the Group monitors its capital structure on the basis of a net debt-toadjusted capital ratio. For this purpose the Group defines net debt as total debt (which includes interestbearing loans and borrowings and trade and other payables) less cash and cash equivalents and pledged deposits.

During 2008, the Group’s strategy, which was unchanged from 2007, was to maintain the net debt-toadjusted capital ratio at a percentage that is below 50%. In order to maintain or adjust the ratio, the Group may adjust the amount of dividends paid to shareholders, issue new shares, return capital to shareholders, raise new debt financing or sell assets to reduce debt.

57

APPENDIX I

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

The net debt-to-adjusted capital ratio at 31 December 2008 and 2007 was as follows:

Current Liabilities:
Payables and accrued charges
Loan from a minority shareholder
Secured bank borrowings
due within one year
Non-current liabilities:
Secured bank borrowings
due after one year
Total debt
Less: Cash and cash equivalents
Pledged bank deposits
Net debt
Total equity
Adjusted capital
Net debt-to-adjusted capital ratio
The Group
2008
2007
$’000
$’000
41,335
38,727
6,088
7,488

217,961
47,423
264,176

462,374
47,423
726,550
(121,541)
(312,025)
(808)
(83,749)
(74,926)
330,776
2,040,565
1,988,691
2,040,565
1,988,691
N/A
17%
The Company
2008
2007
$’000
$’000
4,922
2,439




4,922
2,439


4,922
2,439
(493)
(10,503)


4,429
(8,064)
1,948,444
1,952,175
1,948,444
1,952,175
1%
N/A

In December 2002, the Group entered into a US$240 million secured term loan facility (the “Loan Facility”), which was secured by the assignment of the construction, launching and related equipment contracts relating to APSTAR V and APSTAR VI under construction and their related insurance claim proceeds, assignment of all present and future utilisation agreements of the transponders of satellites under construction, first fixed charge over certain bank accounts which would hold receipts of the transponder income and the termination payments under construction, launching and related equipment contracts. In October 2004, the Group entered into a Deed of Amendment and Restatement to amend certain terms of the Loan Facility for the purpose of adjusting for the cancellation of the unutilised portion relating to APSTAR V satellite and APSTAR VI backup satellite. Accordingly, the maximum aggregate amount under the Loan Facility was reduced to US$165 million and certain financial covenants were amended. In May 2005, the Group entered into a Second Deed of Amendment and Restatement. The second amendment extended the availability period of drawing under the facility with respect to APSTAR VI to 30 June 2005 and amended the financial covenants. The Group has fully repaid all amounts borrowed under the Loan Facility during the year.

58

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

This Loan Facility agreement contained the following covenants:

(i) Restricted Distributions

The Loan Facility provides that the Group may make annual dividend payments only when Projected EBITDA plus free cash less capital expenditure for that year is less than (i) 130% of project debt service (as defined in the Loan Facility) of that year before the release of certain pledged assets and (ii) 180% of Project Debt Service after the release of certain pledged assets.

(ii) Financial Covenants

The Loan Facility provides that certain earnings and cash flow ratios of APT Satellite Company Limited (“APT”) and the Group must be measured over various periods during its term. APT and the Group undertakes to ensure that (i) it maintains its aggregate consolidated net worth at not less than US$200 million, (ii) the aggregate of consolidated total liabilities shall not exceed 120% of consolidated net worth, (iii) consolidated EBITDA shall not be less than US$25 million, (other than for the year ended 31 December 2006, where it will not be less than US$20 million), (iv) the ratio of the aggregate outstanding principal under each tranche to the value of the satellite financed by such tranche shall not exceed 50% and (v) after the release of certain pledged assets, borrower’s EBITDA shall be at least 180% of debt service.

(iii) Block Account/Withdrawal Conditions

Under the Loan Facility, (i) insurance proceeds obtained as a result of total or material partial loss relating to APSTAR V and APSTAR VI and (ii) Termination sum of related construction contracts must be deposited in a designated account. The withdrawal of deposited amounts in such accounts may only occur in accordance with provision contained in the Loan Facility.

(iv) Others

The Loan Facility includes covenants customary for agreements of this type, including restrictions on APT and the Company’s ability to incur indebtedness, certain ownership restrictions, restrictions on affiliated transactions, covenants with respect of compliance with laws, maintenance of licenses and permits required for the Group’s business and a requirement that all future transponder utilisation agreements be entered into on an arms-length basis. Among others, APT should notify the lender if its ultimate holding company, APT Satellite International Company Limited, directly owns less than 50.01% of the voting rights in the Group.

For the years presented, the Group complied with all the above covenants. As at 31 December 2008, the Group is not subject to externally imposed capital requirements.

30 SHARE OPTIONS

At the annual general meeting on 22 May 2001, the Company adopted a share option scheme (“Scheme 2001”) and granted options to its employees on 19 June 2001. On 22 May 2002, the Company adopted a new share option scheme (“Scheme 2002”) at its 2002 annual general meeting. Thereafter, no further options can be granted under the Scheme 2001. The options granted on 19 June 2001 shall continue to be valid until their expiry.

The total number of shares which may be issued upon exercise of all options to be granted under Scheme 2001 and Scheme 2002 shall not in aggregate exceed 10% of the total number of shares of the Company in issue on the adoption date of the Scheme 2002 (i.e. 412,720,000 shares). As at the date of this report, 413,265,000 shares of the Company were in issue.

Under Scheme 2002, the total number of shares to be issued upon exercise of the options granted to each eligible person (including both exercised and outstanding options) in any 12-month period shall not exceed 1% of the total number of shares in issue. The exercise price (subscription price) shall be such price as determined by the Board of Directors in its absolute discretion at the time of the making of the offer but in any case the exercise price shall not be lower than the highest of (i) the closing price of the shares as stated in The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong

59

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

Limited’s (the “Exchange’s”) daily quotations sheet on the date of the offer of grant, which must be a trading day; (ii) the average closing price of the shares as stated in the Exchange’s daily quotations sheets for the five trading days immediately preceding the date of the offer of grant; and (iii) the nominal value of a share.

During the year, no options were granted under the Scheme 2002.

Under the Scheme 2001, the maximum entitlement of each eligible person was that the total number of shares issued or issuable under all options granted to such eligible person (including both exercised and outstanding options) upon such grant being made shall not exceed 25% of the total number of the shares for the time being issued and issuable under the Scheme 2001. In addition, the subscription price was determined by the Board of Directors on a caseby-case basis and would not be less than the nominal value of the shares nor at a discount of more than 20% below the average closing price of the shares as stated in the Exchange’s daily quotation sheets on the five dealing days immediately preceding the date on which the invitation to apply for an option under Scheme 2001.

Movements in share options

The particulars of the share options granted under the Scheme 2001 outstanding during the year are as follows:

At 1 January
Cancelled during the year
At 31 December
Options vested at 31 December
2008
Number
3,370,000
(80,000)
3,290,000
3,290,000
2007
Number
3,390,000
(20,000)
3,370,000
3,370,000

The above granted options have an exercise price of $2.765 per share and are exercisable within the period from 22 May 2003 to 21 May 2011.

Fair value of share options and assumptions

The fair value of services received in return for share options granted are measured by reference to the fair value of share options granted. The estimated fair value of the services received is measured based on a binomial lattice model. The contractual life of the option is used as an input into this model. Expectations of early exercise are incorporated into the binomial lattice model. No share options were granted in 2008.

31 RESERVES

The contributed surplus of the Group arose as a result of the Group reorganisation in 1996 and represented the excess of the par value of the shares of the subsidiaries which the Company acquired over the par value of the Company’s shares issued in consideration thereof.

The contributed surplus of the Company also arose as a result of the Group reorganisation in 1996 and represented the excess of the value of the subsidiaries acquired over the par value of the Company’s shares issued for their acquisition. Under the Companies Act 1981 of Bermuda (as amended), the Company may make distributions to its shareholders out of the contributed surplus under certain circumstances.

Capital reserve comprises the fair value of the actual or estimated number of unexercised share options granted to employees of the Company recognised in accordance with accounting policy adopted for share based payments in note 1(o)(ii).

Revaluation reserve has been set up and is dealt with in accordance with the accounting policy adopted in note 1(f).

The exchange reserve comprises all foreign exchange differences arising from the translation of the financial statements of foreign operations. The reserve is dealt with is accordance with accounting policy adopted in note 1(s).

60

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

Other reserves represent the Enterprise Expansion Fund and General Reserve Fund set aside by a subsidiary in accordance with the relevant laws and regulations of the PRC, which are not available for distribution.

At 31 December 2008, the Company’s reserves available for distribution amounted to $610,251,000 (2007: $613,755,000) as computed in accordance with the Companies Act 1981 of Bermuda (as amended).

32 FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

Exposure to credit, liquidity, interest rate and currency risks arises in the normal course of the Group’s business. These risks are limited by the Group’s financial management policies and practices described below.

(a) Credit risk

The Group’s credit risk is primarily attributable to trade and other receivables, other financial assets and cash investments. The maximum exposure to credit risk is presented by the carrying amount of those financial assets. Management has a credit policy in place and the exposures to these credit risks are monitored on an ongoing basis.

In respect of trade and other receivables, periodic credit evaluations are performed of customers’ financial condition. The Group generally does not require collateral because it usually receives trade deposits which represent a quarter of utilisation fees payable to the Group. The transponder utilisation agreements are subject to termination by the Group if utilisation payments are not made on a timely basis.

At the balance sheet date, the Group has a certain concentration of credit risk as 20% (2007: 15%) and 72% (2007: 53%) of the total trade receivables were due from the Group’s largest customer and the five largest customers respectively within the satellite transponder business segment.

The credit risk on liquid funds and other financial assets is limited because the majority of counter parties are financial institutions with high credit ratings assigned by international credit-rating agencies and statecontrolled financial institutions with good reputation. The Group’s management does not expect any losses from non-performance by these counter parties.

(b) Liquidity risk

Individual operating entities within the Group are responsible for their own cash management, including the short term investment of cash surpluses and the raising of loans to cover expected cash demands, subject to approval by the parent company’s board. The Group’s policy is to regularly monitor current and expected liquidity requirements and its compliance with lending covenants, to ensure that it maintains sufficient reserves of cash and adequate committed lines of funding from major financial institutions to meet its liquidity requirements in the short and longer term.

61

APPENDIX I

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

The following table details the remaining contractual maturities at the balance sheet date of the Group’s and the Company’s non-derivative financial liabilities and derivative financial liabilities, which are based on contractual undiscounted cash flows (including interest payments computed using contractual rates or, if floating, based on rates current at the balance sheet date) and the earliest date the Group and the Company can be required to pay:

The Group
Payables and accrued charges
Loan from a minority shareholder
The Company
Payables and accrued charges
The Group
Payables and accrued charges
Loan from a minority shareholder
Secured bank borrowings
The Company
Payables and accrued charges
Total
contractual
Carrying undiscounted
amount
cash flow
$’000
$’000
41,335
(42,221)
6,088
(6,088)
47,423
(48,309)
$’000
$’000
4,922
(4,922)
4,922
(4,922)
Total
contractual
Carrying undiscounted
amount
cash flow
$’000
$’000
38,727
(45,388)
7,488
(7,488)
680,335
(763,331)
726,550
(816,207)
$’000
$’000
2,439
(2,439)
2,439
(2,439)
2008
Within
More than
1 year
1 year but
or on
less than
demand
2 years
$’000
$’000
(42,156)
(65)
(6,088)

(48,244)
(65)
$’000
$’000
(4,922)

(4,922)

2007
Within
More than
1 year
1 year but
or on
less than
demand
2 years
$’000
$’000
(45,131)
(233)
(7,488)

(259,666)
(284,113)
(312,285)
(284,346)
$’000
$’000
(2,439)

(2,439)
More than
2 year but
less than
5 years
$’000



$’000


More than
2 year but
less than
5 years
$’000
(24)

(219,552)
(219,576)
$’000

More
than
5 years
$’000

$’000
More
than
5 years
$’000


$’000

(c) Interest rate risk

The Group is subject to interest rate risk due to fluctuation in interest rates. As of 31 December 2007, the Group’s outstanding bank loans consisted of variable interest rate loans only. During the year, all existing bank loans were repaid in full. From time to time, the Group may enter into interest rate swap agreements designed to mitigate exposure to interest rate risks, although the Group did not consider it necessary to do so in 2008. Upward fluctuations in interest rates increase the cost of new bank loans and the interest cost of outstanding bank loans. As a result, a significant increase in interest rates could have a material adverse effect on the financial position of the Group.

62

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

(i) Interest rate profile

The Group 2008 2007
Effective Effective
interest interest
rate rate
% $’000 % $’000
Variable rate borrowings:
Secured bank borrowings 6.13 680,335

(ii) Sensitivity analysis

At 31 December 2008, it is estimated that a general increase of one percentage point in interest rates would decrease the Group’s profit after taxation and total equity by nil (2007: $5,613,000) so far as the effect on interest-bearing financial instruments is concerned.

On the whole, interest rate risk of the Group is expected to be low due to high volume of cash and cash equivalents and extinguishment of external borrowings as at 31 December 2008. The Group consistently monitors the current and potential fluctuation of interest rates to monitor the interest rate risk on a reasonable level.

(d) Foreign currency risk

The Group’s reporting currency is the Hong Kong Dollar. The Group’s revenues, premiums for satellite insurance coverage and debt service and substantially all capital expenditures were denominated in United States Dollars. The Group’s remaining expenses were primarily denominated in Hong Kong Dollars. The Group does not hedge its exposure to foreign exchange risk. Gains and losses resulting from the effects of changes in the United States Dollar to the Hong Kong Dollar exchange rate are recorded in the consolidated income statement.

The Group does not utilise derivative financial instruments to hedge its foreign currency rate risks.

In respect of other trade receivables and payables and cash and cash equivalents held in currencies other than the functional currency of the operations to which they relate, the Group ensures that the net exposure is kept to an acceptable level, by buying or selling foreign currencies at spot rates where necessary to address short-term imbalances.

(i) Exposure to currency risk

The following table details the Group’s exposure at the balance sheet date to currency risk arising from forecast transactions or recognised assets or liabilities denominated in a currency other than the functional currency of the entity to which they relate.

The Group
Trade receivables
Deposits, prepayments and other receivables
Other financial assets
Cash and cash equivalents
Payables
Overall net exposure
2008
Renminbi
’000
238
1,316
90,003
28,082
(2,245)
117,394
2007
Renminbi
’000
14,672
1,413

40,361
(4,714)
51,732

63

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

(ii) Sensitivity analysis

The following table indicates the approximate change in the Group’s profit after tax (and retained profits) and other components of consolidated equity in response to reasonably possible changes in the foreign exchange rates to which the Group has significant exposure at the balance sheet date.

The Group 2008 2007
Increase/Decrease Effect on profit Increase/Decrease Effect on profit
in foreign after tax and in foreign after tax and
exchange rates retained profits exchange rates retained profits
% ’000 % ’000
Renminbi +/-5 +/-6,670 +/-5 +/-2,752

(e) Fair values

The following financial assets and liabilities have their carrying amount approximately equal to their fair value: trade receivables, deposits, prepayments and other receivables, cash and cash equivalents, payables and accrued charges.

  • (i) Finance lease liabilities

The fair value is estimated as the present value of future cash flows, discounted at current market interest rates for similar financial instruments.

  • (ii) Other financial assets

Other financial assets are carried at amounts not materially different from their fair value as at 31 December 2008.

33 PLEDGE OF ASSETS

The Group has repaid borrowings under the Loan Facility during the year. The assets under fixed charges were APSTAR V and APTSTAR VI satellites of nil in 2008 (2007: $2,317,238,000), and bank deposits of nil (2007: $83,749,000). As at 31 December 2008, approximately $808,000 is related to other pledges.

At the balance sheet date, certain of the Group’s banking facilities are secured by the Group’s land and buildings with a net book value of $4,422,000 (2007: $4,538,000).

34 CONTINGENT LIABILITIES

  • (a) In the years before 1999, overseas withholding tax was not charged in respect of the Group’s transponder utilisation income derived from the overseas customers. From 1999, overseas withholding tax has been charged on certain transponder utilisation income of the Group and full provision for such withholding tax for the years from 1999 onwards has been made in the financial statements. The Directors of the Company are of the opinion that the new tax rules should take effect from 1999 onwards and, accordingly, no provision for the withholding tax in respect of the years before 1999 is necessary. The Group’s withholding tax in respect of 1998 and before, calculated at the applicable rates based on the relevant income earned in those years, not provided for in the financial statements amounted to approximately $75,864,000.

  • (b) The Company has given guarantees to banks in respect of the secured term Loan Facility granted to its subsidiary in previous years. The guarantees were terminated due to repayment of borrowings under the Loan Facility in full during the year.

64

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

35 COMMITMENTS

At 31 December 2008, the Group had the following outstanding capital commitments not provided for in the Group’s financial statements:

Contracted for
Authorised but not contracted for
The Group
2008
2007
$’000
$’000
534
3,398
965

1,499
3,398
The Group
2008
2007
$’000
$’000
534
3,398
965

1,499
3,398
3,398

36 LEASING ARRANGEMENTS

The Group as lessee

At 31 December 2008, the Group had commitments for future minimum lease payments under non-cancellable operating leases which fall due as follows:

(i) Land and buildings:

Within one year
After one year but within five years
The Group
2008
2007
$’000
$’000
278
592
25
257
303
849
The Group
2008
2007
$’000
$’000
278
592
25
257
303
849
849

Operating lease payments represent rental payable by the Group for its office properties. Leases are negotiated for a period of one to three years and rentals are fixed for the whole lease term.

(ii) Satellite transponder capacity:

Within one year
After one year but within five years
The Group
2008
2007
$’000
$’000
48
2,414


48
2,414
The Group
2008
2007
$’000
$’000
48
2,414


48
2,414
2,414

Operating lease payments represent rentals payable by the Group for the leasing of satellite transponders for a period of one to three years and rentals are fixed for the whole lease term.

The Group as lessor

Property rental income earned during the year was $549,000 (2007: $592,000). At the balance sheet date, certain properties with an aggregate carrying value of $11,235,000 (2007: $11,407,000) were held for rental purposes and the Group had contracted with tenants for the future minimum lease payments under non-cancellable operating leases which fall due within one year amounting to $251,124 (2007: $442,563) and after one but within five years amounting to nil (2007: $66,924). Depreciation charged for the year in respect of these properties was $160,000 (2007: $160,000).

65

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

Service income earned relating to leasing of facilities equipment during the year was $96,504 (2007: $440,170). At the balance sheet date, the Group had contracted with customers for the future minimum lease payments under noncancellable operating leases which fall due within one year amounting to $96,504 (2007: $96,504).

The Company did not have any leasing arrangements at the balance sheet date.

37 RETIREMENT BENEFITS SCHEMES

The Group operates a Mandatory Provident Fund Scheme under the Hong Kong Mandatory Provident Fund Schemes Ordinance for all qualifying employees in Hong Kong under the jurisdiction of the Hong Kong Employment Ordinance. Under the scheme, the employer and its employees are each required to make contributions to the scheme at 5% of the employees’ relevant income, subject to a cap of monthly relevant income of $20,000 and thereafter contributions are voluntary. Contributions to the scheme vest immediately. The assets of the scheme are held separately from those of the Group, in funds under the control of trustees.

As stipulated by the regulations of the PRC, the subsidiaries in the PRC participate in basic defined contribution pension plans organised by their respective Municipal Governments under which they are governed. Employees in the PRC are entitled to retirement benefits equal a fixed proportion of their salaries at their normal retirement age. The Group has no other material obligation for payment of basic retirement benefits beyond the annual contributions which are calculated at a rate on the salaries, bonuses and certain allowances of employees.

38 MATERIAL RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

  • (a) During the year, the Group entered into the following transactions with related parties:
2008 2007
$’000 $’000
Income from provision of satellite transponder capacity and
provision of satellite-based telecommunication services to
certain shareholders and its subsidiary of the Company_(note i)_ 11,432 11,975
Income from provision of satellite transponder capacity and
provision of satellite-based telecommunication services
to a holding company and its subsidiaries of a shareholder
of the Company_(note i)_ 40,745 32,630
Management fee income from a jointly controlled entity_(note ii)_ 363 580
Management fee expenses to a subsidiary of a shareholder
of the holding company_(note iii)_ (1,216) (472)

Certain of these transactions also constitute connected transactions under the Listing Rules. Further details of these transactions are disclosed under the paragraph “Continuing Connected Transactions” in the Directors’ report.

66

APPENDIX I

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

(b) At the balance sheet date, the Group had the following amounts included in the consolidated balance sheet in respect of amounts owing by and to related parties:

Rentals Rentals
Amounts due Amounts due received in
from immediate from a jointly Trade Payables and advance and
holding company controlled entity receivables accrued charges deferred income
2008 2007 2008 2007 2008 2007 2008 2007 2008 2007
$’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000
Immediate holding company 155 101
Jointly controlled entities 75,369
Certain shareholders and its
subsidiary of the Company 41 2,628 1,266 219 190 2,540
Holding company and its
subsidiaries of a shareholder
of the Company_(note (i))_ 2,518 3,468 15 178,177 197,692

Notes:

(i) The terms and conditions of these transponder capacity utilisation agreements are similar to those contracted with other customers of the Group.

(ii) Management fee income arose from a reimbursement of cost of service provided to a jointly controlled entity under the agreement.

(iii) Management fee expenses incurred for services rendered to a subsidiary of the Company.

  • (c) Key management personnel remuneration

Remuneration for key management personnel, including amounts paid to the Company’s directors as disclosed in note 7 and certain of the highest paid employees as disclosed in note 8, is as follows:

Short-term employee benefits
Performance related incentive payment
Other long-term benefits
Termination benefits
2008
$’000
12,902
5,259
756
1,511
20,428
2007
$’000
11,057
367
706
12,130

Total remuneration is included in “staff costs” (see note 5(b)).

39 ULTIMATE CONTROLLING PARTY

The Directors consider the controlling party of the Group 31 December 2008 to be APT Satellite International Company Limited, which is incorporated in the British Virgin Islands. This entity does not produce financial statements available for public use.

67

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

40 ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES AND JUDGEMENTS

(a) Key sources of estimation uncertainty

The financial statements are based on the selection and application of significant accounting policies, which require management to make significant estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amount of assets and liabilities, revenues and expenses, and related disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements. Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions.

(b) Critical accounting judgement in applying the Group’s accounting policies

The following are some of the more critical judgement areas in the application of the Group’s accounting policies that currently affect the Group’s financial condition and results of operations.

(i) Depreciation

Depreciation of communication satellites is provided for on the straight-line method over the estimated useful life of the satellite, which is determined by engineering analysis performed at the in-services date and re-evaluated periodically. A number of factors affect the operational lives of satellites, including construction quality, component durability, fuel usage, the launch vehicle used and the skill with which the satellite is monitored and operated. As the telecommunication industry is subject to rapid technological change and the Group’s satellites have been subjected to certain operational lives, the Group may be required to revise the estimated useful lives of its satellites and communication equipment or to adjust their carrying amounts periodically. Accordingly, the estimated useful lives of the Group’s satellites are reviewed using current engineering data. If a significant change in the estimated useful lives of our satellites is identified, the Group accounts for the effects of such change as depreciation expenses on a prospective basis. Details of the depreciation of communication satellites are disclosed in notes 1(g) and 15.

(ii) Trade receivables and other receivables

The management of the Group estimates the provision of bad and doubtful debts required for the potential non-collectability of trade receivables and other receivables at each balance sheet date based on the ageing of its customer accounts and its historical write-off experience, net of recoveries. The Group performs ongoing credit evaluations of its customers and adjusts credit limits based upon payment history and the customers’ current credit worthiness. The Group does not make a general provision on its trade receivables and other receivables, but instead, makes a specific provision on its trade receivables and other receivables. Hence, the Group continuously monitors collections and payments from customers and maintains allowances for bad and doubtful accounts for estimated losses resulting from the inability of its customers to make required payments. If the financial condition of the customers of the Group were to deteriorate, actual write-offs would be higher than estimated. For the year ended 31 December 2008, the Group had made provisions for bad debts in the amount of $5,637,000 (2007: $80,000).

The Group periodically reviews the carrying amounts of provision for bad and doubtful debts to determine whether there is any indication that the provision needs to be written off. If the Group becomes aware of a situation where a customer is not able to meet its financial obligations due to change of contact information by the customer without notification or after seeking professional advice from lawyers or debt collection agent that the probability of recovery is remote, the Group will consider to write off the debt.

(iii) Impairment of property, plant and equipment

The Group periodically reviews internal or external resources to identify indications that the assets may be impaired. If the recoverable amount of an asset is estimated to be less than its carrying amount, the carrying amount of the asset is reduced to its recoverable amount. In assessing the recoverable amount of these assets, the Group is required to make assumptions regarding estimated future cash flows and other factors to determine the net realisable value. If these estimates or their related assumptions change in the future, the Group may be required to adjust the impairment charges previously recorded.

68

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

The Group applies the foregoing analysis in determining the timing of the impairment test, the estimated useful lives of the individual assets, the discount rate, future cash flows used to assess impairments and the fair value of impaired assets. It is difficult to precisely estimate the price of the transponder capacities and related satellite services and residual values because the market prices for our assets are not readily available. The estimates of future cash flows are based on the terms of existing transponder capacity and service agreements. The dynamic economic environment in which the Group operates and the resulting assumptions used in setting depreciable lives on assets and judgement relating to the utilisation rate of the assets, price and amount of operating costs to estimate future cash flows impact the outcome of all of these impairment tests. If these estimates or their related assumptions change in the future, the Group may be required to record impairment loss for these assets not previously recorded.

The Group periodically reviews the carrying amounts of its property, plant and equipment through reference to its use value and fair market value as assessed both by the Group and by an independent professional property appraiser. If the use value or fair market value of the property, plant and equipment are lower than their carrying amount, the Group may be required to record additional impairment loss not previously recognised. Details of the impairment loss of property, plant and equipment are disclosed in note 15.

(iv) Contingencies and provisions

Contingencies, representing an obligation that are neither probable nor certain at the date of the financial statements, or a probable obligation for which the cash outflow is not probable, are not recorded.

Provisions are recorded when, at the end of period, there is an obligation of the Group to a third party which is probable or certain to create an outflow of resources to the third party, without at least an equivalent return expected from the third party. This obligation may be legal, regulatory or contractual in nature.

To estimate the expenditure that the Group is likely to bear in order to settle an obligation, the management of the Group takes into consideration all of the available information at the closing date for its consolidated financial statements. If no reliable estimate of the amount can be made, no provision is recorded. For details, please refer to note 34 on contingent liabilities.

69

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

41 POSSIBLE IMPACT OF AMENDMENTS, NEW STANDARDS AND INTERPRETATIONS ISSUED BUT NOT YET EFFECTIVE FOR THE ANNUAL ACCOUNTING PERIOD ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2008

Up to the date of issue of these financial statements, the IASB/HKICPA have issued a number of amendments, new standards and interpretations which are not yet effective for the year ended 31 December 2008 and which have not been adopted in these financial statements.

The Group is in the process of making an assessment of what the impact of these amendments, new standards and new interpretations is expected to be in the period of initial application. So far it has conducted that the adoption of them is unlikely to have a significant impact on the Group’s results of operations and financial position.

Of these developments, the following relate to matters that may be relevant to the Group’s operations and financial statements:

Effective for
accounting periods
beginning on or after
IAS/HKAS 1 (Revised) Presentation of financial statements 1 January 2009
IAS/HKAS 23 (Revised) Borrowing costs 1 January 2009
IFRS/HKFRS 8 Operating segments 1 January 2009
Amendment to IAS 27 Consolidated and separate financial statements 1 January 2009
– Cost of an investment in a subsidiary,
joint-controlled entity or associate
Amendment to IFRS/ Share-based payment – Vesting 1 January 2009
HKFRS 2 conditions and cancellations
Amendments to IFRS 7 Financial instruments – Disclosures 1 January 2009
IAS/HKAS 27 (Revised) Consolidated and separate financial statements 1 July 2009
IFRS/HKFRS 3 (Revised) Business combinations 1 July 2009

70

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

3. UNAUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF THE GROUP FOR THE SIX MONTHS ENDED 30 JUNE 2009

CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENT

For the six months ended 30 June 2009 – Unaudited

(Expressed in Hong Kong dollars)

Note
Turnover
3,4
Cost of services
5
Gross profit
Other net income
5
Valuation (losses)/gains on investment properties
11
Administrative expenses
Profit from operations
3
Finance costs
5
Share of profits of jointly controlled entity
Gain on disposal of a subsidiary
6
Profit before taxation
5
Income tax
7
Profit for the period
Attributable to:
Equity shareholders of the Company
Minority interests
Profit for the period
Earnings per share
9
– Basic
– Diluted
Six months ended 30 June
2009
2008
$’000
$’000
229,519
197,987
(132,917)
(141,497)
96,602
56,490
7,357
8,858
(216)
117
(34,203)
(47,592)
69,540
17,873
(15)
(15,036)

2,037

3,193
69,525
8,067
(16,711)
(1,272)
52,814
6,795
52,814
6,882

(87)
52,814
6,795
12.78 cents
1.67 cents
12.78 cents
1.67 cents

71

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

For the six months ended 30 June 2009 – Unaudited (Expressed in Hong Kong dollars)

Profit for the period
Other comprehensive income for the period
(after tax and reclassification adjustments):
Exchange differences on translation of:
– financial statements of overseas subsidiaries
Others
Total comprehensive income for the period
Attributable to:
Equity shareholders of the Company
Minority interests
Total comprehensive income for the period
Six months ended 30 June
2009
2008
$’000
$’000
52,814
6,795
(3,605)
4,083

8
49,209
10,886
49,209
10,973

(87)
49,209
10,886

72

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET

At 30 June 2009 – Unaudited (Expressed in Hong Kong dollars)

Note
Non-current assets
Property, plant and equipment
10
Interest in leasehold land held for own
use under an operating lease
Investment properties
11
Club memberships
Prepaid expenses
Current assets
Trade receivables, net
12
Deposits, prepayments and other receivables
Amount due from immediate holding company
Other financial assets
13
Pledged bank deposits
14
Cash and cash equivalents
15
Current liabilities
Payables and accrued charges
16
Rentals received in advance
Loan from a minority shareholder
Secured bank borrowings due within one year
17
Current taxation
Net current assets
Total assets less current liabilities carried forward
At 30 June
At 31 December
2009
2008
$’000
$’000
2,073,716
2,183,468
14,256
14,444
4,943
5,159
5,537
5,537
29,247
19,023
2,127,699
2,227,631
82,368
67,143
14,415
26,728
199
155

102,277
7,352
808
628,826
121,541
733,160
318,652
38,645
41,335
58,407
40,608
6,088
6,088
46,230

99,867
98,242
249,237
186,273
483,923
132,379
2,611,622
2,360,010
At 30 June
At 31 December
2009
2008
$’000
$’000
2,073,716
2,183,468
14,256
14,444
4,943
5,159
5,537
5,537
29,247
19,023
2,127,699
2,227,631
82,368
67,143
14,415
26,728
199
155

102,277
7,352
808
628,826
121,541
733,160
318,652
38,645
41,335
58,407
40,608
6,088
6,088
46,230

99,867
98,242
249,237
186,273
483,923
132,379
2,611,622
2,360,010
2,227,631
67,143
26,728
155
102,277
808
121,541
318,652
41,335
40,608
6,088

98,242
186,273
132,379
2,360,010

73

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

Note
Total assets less current liabilities brought
forward
Non-current liabilities
Secured bank borrowings due after one year
17
Deposits received
Deferred income
Deferred tax liabilities
NET ASSETS
Capital and reserves
Share capital
18
Share premium
Contributed surplus
Capital reserve
Revaluation reserve
Exchange reserve
Other reserves
Accumulated profits
TOTAL EQUITY
At 30 June
At 31 December
2009
2008
$’000
$’000
2,611,622
2,360,010
186,601

25,561
23,093
212,966
209,370
96,720
86,982
521,848
319,445
2,089,774
2,040,565
41,327
41,327
1,287,536
1,287,536
511,000
511,000
9,330
9,330
368
368
3,607
7,212
123
123
236,483
183,669
2,089,774
2,040,565
At 30 June
At 31 December
2009
2008
$’000
$’000
2,611,622
2,360,010
186,601

25,561
23,093
212,966
209,370
96,720
86,982
521,848
319,445
2,089,774
2,040,565
41,327
41,327
1,287,536
1,287,536
511,000
511,000
9,330
9,330
368
368
3,607
7,212
123
123
236,483
183,669
2,089,774
2,040,565

23,093
209,370
86,982
319,445
2,040,565
41,327
1,287,536
511,000
9,330
368
7,212
123
183,669
2,040,565

74

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY

For the six months ended 30 June 2009 – Unaudited (Expressed in Hong Kong dollars)

Balance at 1 January 2008
Changes in equity for the
six months ended 30 June 2008
Reversal of minority interest
arising from disposal of
a subsidiary
Total comprehensive income
for the period
Balance at 30 June 2008
and 1 July 2008
Changes in equity for the
six months ended
31 December 2008
Cancellation of share options
Total comprehensive income
for the period
Balance at 31 December 2008
Balance at 1 January 2009
Changes in equity for the
six months ended 30 June 2009
Total comprehensive income
for the period
Balance at 30 June 2009
Attributable to equity shareholders of the Company Attributable to equity shareholders of the Company Attributable to equity shareholders of the Company Attributable to equity shareholders of the Company
Total
$’000
1,987,765

10,973
1,998,738

41,827
2,040,565
2,040,565
49,209
2,089,774
Minority
interests
$’000
926
(839)
(87)






Total
equity
$’000
1,988,691
(839)
10,886
Share
capital
$’000
41,327


41,327


41,327
41,327

41,327
Share Contributed
premium
surplus
$’000
$’000
1,287,536
511,000




1,287,536
511,000




1,287,536
511,000
1,287,536
511,000


1,287,536
511,000
Capital Revaluation
reserve
reserve
$’000
$’000
9,557
368




9,557
368
(227)



9,330
368
9,330
368


9,330
368
Exchange
reserve
$’000
4,007

4,083
8,090

(878)
7,212
7,212
(3,605)
3,607
Other Accumulated
reserves
profits
$’000
$’000
115
133,855


8
6,882
123
140,737

227

42,705
123
183,669
123
183,669

52,814
123
236,483
1,998,738

41,827
2,040,565
2,040,565
49,209
2,089,774

75

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED CASH FLOW STATEMENT

For the six months ended 30 June 2009 – Unaudited (Expressed in Hong Kong dollars)

Note
Cash generated from operations
Tax paid
Net cash generated from operating activities
Net cash generated from investing activities
Net cash generated from/(used in) financing
activities
Net increase/(decrease) in cash and
cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents at 1 January
15
Effect of foreign exchange rates changes
Cash and cash equivalents at 30 June
15
Six months ended 30 June
2009
2008
$’000
$’000
189,615
78,067
(5,348)
(3,119)
184,267
74,948
90,187
7,518
232,831
(114,254)
507,285
(31,788)
121,541
312,025

2,422
628,826
282,659

76

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

NOTES ON THE UNAUDITED INTERIM FINANCIAL REPORT

(Expressed in Hong Kong dollars unless otherwise indicated)

1. BASIS OF PREPARATION

This interim financial report of APT Satellite Holdings Limited (the “Company”) and its subsidiaries (the “Group”) has been prepared in accordance with the applicable disclosure provisions of the Rules Governing the Listing of Securities on The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited, including compliance with International Accounting Standard (“IAS”) 34, “Interim financial reporting”, issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (“IASB”) and Hong Kong Accounting Standard (“HKAS”) 34, “Interim financial reporting”, issued by the Hong Kong Institute of Certified Public Accountants (“HKICPA”). It was authorised for issue on 19 September 2009.

The interim financial report has been prepared in accordance with the same accounting policies adopted in the 2008 annual financial statements, except for the accounting policy changes that are expected to be reflected in the 2009 annual financial statements. Details of these changes in accounting policies are set out in note 2.

The preparation of an interim financial report in conformity with IAS 34 and HKAS 34 requires management to make judgements, estimates and assumptions that affect the application of policies and reported amounts of assets and liabilities, income and expenses on a year to date basis. Actual results may differ from these estimates.

This interim financial report contains condensed consolidated financial statements and selected explanatory notes. The notes include an explanation of events and transactions that are significant to an understanding of the changes in financial position and performance of the Group since the 2008 annual financial statements. The condensed consolidated interim financial statements and notes thereon do not include all of the information required for a full set of financial statements prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRSs”) or Hong Kong Financial Reporting Standards (“HKFRSs”).

The interim financial report is unaudited, but has been reviewed by the Company’s auditors, KPMG, in accordance with Hong Kong Standard on Review Engagements 2410 “Review of interim financial information performed by the independent auditor of the entity” issued by the HKICPA.

The financial information relating to the financial year ended 31 December 2008 that is included in the interim financial report as being previously reported information does not constitute the Company’s statutory financial statements for that financial year but is derived from those financial statements. Statutory financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2008 are available from the Company’s registered office. The auditors have expressed an unqualified opinion on those financial statements in their report dated 7 April 2009.

2.

CHANGES IN ACCOUNTING POLICIES

The IASB has issued one new IFRS, a number of amendments and new interpretations that are first effective for the current accounting period of the Group and the Company. The equivalent new HKFRS, amendments and new interpretations, consequently issued by the HKICPA have the same effective date as those issued by the IASB and are in all material respects identical to the pronouncements issued by the IASB.

77

APPENDIX I

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

Of these, the following developments are relevant to the Group’s financial statements:

  • IFRS/HKFRS 8, Operating segments

  • IAS/HKAS 1 (revised 2007), Presentation of financial statements

  • Amendments to IAS 27/HKAS 27, Consolidated and separate financial statements – cost of an investment in a subsidiary, jointly controlled entity or associate

  • Amendments to IFRS/HKFRS 7, Financial instruments: Disclosures – improving disclosures about financial instruments

  • IAS/HKAS 23 (revised 2007), Borrowing costs

  • Amendments to IFRS/HKFRS 2, Shared-based payment – vesting conditions and cancellations

The amendments to IAS/HKAS 23 and IFRS/HKFRS 2 have had no material impact on the Group’s financial statements as the amendments and interpretations were consistent with policies already adopted by the Group. In addition, the amendments to IFRS/HKFRS 7 do not contain any additional disclosure requirements specifically applicable to the interim financial report. The impact of the remainder of these developments on the interim financial report is as follows:

  • IFRS/HKFRS 8 requires segment disclosure to be based on the way that the Group’s chief operating decision maker regards and manages the Group, with the amounts reported for each reportable segment being the measures reported to the Group’s chief operating decision maker for the purposes of assessing segment performance and making decisions about operating matters. During the period ended 30 June 2009, the Group adopted IFRS/HKFRS 8 which has no effect on the disclosures of the consolidated financial statements as the presentation of segment information in prior years, which was based on a disaggregation of the Group’s financial statements into segments, has been prepared in a manner that was consistent with internal reporting provided to the Group’s most senior executive management.

  • As a result of the adoption of IAS/HKAS 1 (revised 2007), details of changes in equity during the period arising from transactions with equity shareholders in their capacity as such have been presented separately from all other income and expenses in a revised consolidated statement of changes in equity. All other items of income and expense are presented in the consolidated income statement, if they are recognised as part of profit or loss for the period, or otherwise in a new primary statement, the consolidated statement of comprehensive income. The new format for the consolidated statement of comprehensive income and the consolidated statement of changes in equity has been adopted in this interim financial report and corresponding amounts have been restated to conform to the new presentation. This change in presentation has no effect on reported profit or loss, total income and expense or net assets for any period presented.

  • The amendments to IAS/HKAS 27 have removed the requirement that dividends out of pre-acquisition profits should be recognised as a reduction in the carrying amount of the investment in the investee, rather than as income. As a result, as from 1 January 2009 all dividends receivable from subsidiaries, whether out of pre- or post-acquisition profits, will be recognised in the Company’s profit or loss and the carrying amount of the investment in the investee will not be reduced unless that carrying amount is assessed to be impaired as a result of the investee declaring the dividend. In such cases, in addition to recognising dividend income in profit or loss, the Company would recognise an impairment loss. In accordance with the transitional provisions in the amendment, this new policy will be applied prospectively to any dividends receivable in the current or future periods and previous periods have not been restated.

78

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

3. SEGMENTAL REPORTING

The Group manages its businesses by service offering and geography. The first time adoption of IFRS/HKFRS 8, Operating segment, has resulted in no changes to segmental reporting as the presentation of segment information in prior years is consistent with the internal reporting to the Group’s most senior executive for the purposes of assessing segment performance and making decisions about operating matters. The Group continues to maintain two main business segments, namely provision of satellite transponder capacity and related services and provision of satellite-based broadcasting and telecommunications services; the Group’s total segmental turnover is further disaggregated based on the geographical locations of customers.

Inter-segment pricing is based on terms similar to as those available to external third parties.

(a) Segment results, assets and liabilities

In accordance with IFRS/HKFRS 8, segment information disclosed in the interim financial report has been prepared in a manner consistent with the information used by the Group’s most senior executive management for the purposes of assessing segment performance and allocating resources between segments. In this regard, the Group’s senior executive management monitors the results, assets and liabilities attributable to each reportable segment on the following bases:

Segment assets include all tangible assets, intangible assets and current assets with the exception of investment properties, club memberships and other corporate assets. Segment liabilities included payables and accrued charges, rental received in advance, current taxation, deposits received, deferred income and bank borrowings managed directly by the segments.

Turnover and expenses are allocated to the reportable segments with reference to sales generated by those segments and the expenses incurred by those segments or which otherwise arise from the depreciation or amortisation of assets attributable to those segments.

Additionally, segment turnover, on an aggregate basis, are allocated based on the geographical locations of customers.

79

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

The following table represents turnover and profit information for business segments for the six months ended 30 June 2009 and 2008.

For the six months ended
Turnover from external customers
Inter-segment turnover
Total
Service income
Segment result
Service income
Unallocated other net income
Unallocated administrative expenses
– staff costs
– office expenses
Profit from operations
Finance costs
Share of profits of jointly controlled
entities
Gain on disposal of a subsidiary
Profit before taxation
Income tax
Profit for the period
Depreciation for the period
Significant non-cash expenses
(other than depreciation)
Capital expenditure incurred
during the period
Provision of satellite
transponder capacity
and related services
2009
2008
$’000
$’000
219,196
185,097
5,445
5,294
224,641
190,391
92,582
47,960
102,379
107,725

3,948
4,436
1,484
Provision of
satellite-based
broadcasting and
telecommunications
services
2009
2008
$’000
$’000
9,465
12,810
834
679
10,299
13,489
3,927
(496)
174
1,515

4,998
66
551
Inter-segment
elimination
2009
2008
$’000
$’000


(6,279)
(5,973)
(6,279)
(5,973)







Consolidated
2009
2008
$’000
$’000
228,661
197,907


228,661
197,907
858
80
229,519
197,987
96,509
47,464
858
80
6,376
8,975
(20,989)
(22,890)
(13,214)
(15,756)
69,540
17,873
(15)
(15,036)

2,037

3,193
69,525
8,067
(16,711)
(1,272)
52,814
6,795
102,553
109,240

8,946
4,502
2,035
Consolidated
2009
2008
$’000
$’000
228,661
197,907


228,661
197,907
858
80
229,519
197,987
96,509
47,464
858
80
6,376
8,975
(20,989)
(22,890)
(13,214)
(15,756)
69,540
17,873
(15)
(15,036)

2,037

3,193
69,525
8,067
(16,711)
(1,272)
52,814
6,795
102,553
109,240

8,946
4,502
2,035
197,907
80
197,987
47,464
80
8,975
(22,890)
(15,756)
17,873
(15,036)
2,037
3,193
8,067
(1,272)
6,795
109,240
8,946
2,035

80

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

The following table represents aggregate turnover based on geographical locations of customers for the six months ended 30 June 2009 and 2008.

Other regions Other regions
Hong Kong in the PRC Singapore Indonesia Others Total
For the six months ended 2009 2008 2009 2008 2009 2008 2009 2008 2009 2008 2009 2008
$’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000
Turnover from
external customers 30,575 24,871 75,199 79,901 36,815 32,114 51,600 27,437 35,330 33,664 229,519 197,987

The following table represents certain assets and liabilities information regarding business segments as at 30 June 2009 and 31 December 2008.

Provision of
satellite-based
Provision of satellite
broadcasting and
transponder capacity
telecommunications
Inter-segment
and related services
services
elimination
At
At 31
At
At 31
At
At 31
30 June
December
30 June
December
30 June
December
2009
2008
2009
2008
2009
2008
$’000
$’000
$’000
$’000
$’000
$’000
Segment assets
2,233,877
2,186,865
9,233
8,154
(36,711)
(35,465)
Investment properties
Club memberships
Unallocated assets
Total assets
Segment liabilities
628,893
350,007
42,116
60,997
(36,711)
(35,465)
Deferred tax liabilities
Loan from minority shareholder
Unallocated liabilities
Total liabilities
Consolidated
At
At 31
30 June
December
2009
2008
$’000
$’000
2,206,399
2,159,554
4,943
5,159
5,537
5,537
643,980
376,033
2,860,859
2,546,283
634,298
375,539
96,720
86,982
6,088
6,088
33,979
37,109
771,085
505,718
Consolidated
At
At 31
30 June
December
2009
2008
$’000
$’000
2,206,399
2,159,554
4,943
5,159
5,537
5,537
643,980
376,033
2,860,859
2,546,283
634,298
375,539
96,720
86,982
6,088
6,088
33,979
37,109
771,085
505,718
2,546,283
375,539
86,982
6,088
37,109
505,718

4. SEASONALITY OF OPERATIONS

The Group’s operations are not subject to significant seasonality fluctuations.

81

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

5. PROFIT BEFORE TAXATION

Profit before taxation is arrived at after charging/(crediting):

(a)
Finance costs
Interest on borrowings
Other finance costs
Total finance costs
(b)
Other items
Depreciation
Amortisation
Interest income
Rental income
Gain on disposal of property, plant and equipment
Six months ended 30 June
2009
2008
$’000
$’000
14
14,136
1
900
15
15,036
102,553
109,240
188
188
(859)
(5,933)
(285)
(274)
(2)
(65)

6. GAIN ON DISPOSAL OF A SUBSIDIARY

Pursuant to a disposal agreement dated 2 April 2008, CTIA VSAT Network Limited (“CTIA”), a subsidiary of the Company, disposed of its entire equity interest in Beijing Asia Pacific East Communication Network Limited (“BAPECN”) to an independent third party at a total consideration of RMB4,800,000 (approximately $5,328,000). Beijing Zhong Guang Xian Da Data Broadcast Technology Co. Limited, a jointly controlled entity of the Company, in which BAPECN has 35% equity, was also disposed of as part of the sale.

Net assets disposed of:

Six months ended
30 June 2008
$’000
Property, plant and equipment 8,160
Trade receivables 161
Deposits, prepayment and other receivables 287
Cash and bank balances 532
Payables and accrued charges (3,767)
Rentals received in advance (1,388)
Loan from a shareholder (990)
2,995
Minority interest (839)
Other reserves and exchange reserves (1,011)
Waive on loan from CTIA 990
Gain on disposal of a subsidiary 3,193
Consideration 5,328

82

APPENDIX I

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

An analysis of the net outflow of cash and cash equivalents in respect of the disposal of a subsidiary was as follows:

At 30 June 2008
$’000
Cash and bank balance disposed 532
Net cash outflow 532

7. INCOME TAX

Current tax – Overseas
Deferred tax
Six months ended 30 June
2009
2008
$’000
$’000
6,973
5,659
9,738
(4,387)
16,711
1,272

No provision for Hong Kong Profits Tax has been made in the financial statements as the Group operating in Hong Kong utilised tax losses brought forward from prior years. Taxation for the overseas subsidiary is calculated using the estimated annual effective tax rate of taxation that is expected to be applicable in the relevant country. Overseas tax includes the withholding tax paid or payable in respect of Group’s income from provision of satellite transponder capacity to customers which are located outside of Hong Kong.

8. DIVIDENDS

Dividends payable to equity shareholders attributable to the interim period:

2009 2008
$’000 $’000
Interim dividend declared and paid after the interim period

9. EARNINGS PER SHARE

(a) Basic earnings per share

The calculation of basic earnings per share is based on the profit attributable to equity shareholders of the Company of $52,814,000 (six months ended 30 June 2008: $6,882,000) and the weighted average of 413,265,000 ordinary shares (30 June 2008: 413,265,000 shares) in issue during the six months ended 30 June 2009.

(b) Diluted earnings per share

Diluted earnings per share is the same as the basic earnings per share as there were no dilutive potential ordinary shares in existence during the six months ended 30 June 2009 and 2008.

83

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

10. PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT

(a) Acquisitions

During the six months ended 30 June 2009, the Group acquired property, plant and equipment with a cost of $4,502,000 (six months ended 30 June 2008: $2,035,000).

(b) In-orbit insurance of satellites

At 30 June 2009, the Group did not have full in-orbit insurance coverage for its satellites. The in-orbit satellites have a net book value in aggregate of $1,957,753,000 at 30 June 2009 (31 December 2008: $2,065,458,000).

(c) Effect of cost adjustment

According to an agreement signed with Thales Alenia Space France (“Thales”) on 8 December 2001, the Group is entitled to a payment in the amount of US$1,500,000 (approximately $11,700,000) upon successful delivery of a satellite by Thales to its own customers with technical designs that are identical to APSTAR 6 satellite. During the period, $11,700,000 (six months ended 30 June 2008: $11,700,000) was recognised from Thales in respect of delivery of a satellite with the same technical design of APSTAR 6, and treated as a reduction to the cost of property, plant and equipment – communication satellites.

(d) Impairment loss

During 2008, the Group conducted a review of the Group’s property, plant and equipment and determined that certain assets were impaired as the recoverable amount of these assets was estimated to be less than their carrying amount. Accordingly, an impairment loss of $8,397,000 in respect of a communication satellite, APSTAR 1A, and TV uplink and broadcasting equipment had been recognised and charged to income statement for the year ended 31 December 2008. During the six months period ended 30 June 2009, the Group conducted a review and it was concluded that no further impairment is required.

11. INVESTMENT PROPERTIES

Investment properties carried at fair value were revalued at 30 June 2009 at $4,943,000 (31 December 2008: $5,159,000) by Savills Valuation and Professional Services Limited, an independent professional property appraiser, on an open market value basis by reference to net rental income allowing for reversionary income potential. The valuation loss of $216,000 (six months ended 30 June 2008: gain of $117,000) has been recognised in the income statement during the six months ended 30 June 2009.

12. TRADE RECEIVABLES, NET

The following is an ageing analysis of trade receivables (net of allowance for doubtful debts) at the balance sheet date:

0 – 30 days
31 – 60 days
61 – 90 days
91 – 120 days
Over 120 days
At 30 June
At 31 December
2009
2008
$’000
$’000
61,704
57,087
5,543
2,920
5,540
2,532
5,744
2,379
3,837
2,225
82,368
67,143
At 30 June
At 31 December
2009
2008
$’000
$’000
61,704
57,087
5,543
2,920
5,540
2,532
5,744
2,379
3,837
2,225
82,368
67,143
67,143

The Group allows a credit period of 30 days to its trade customers. The trade receivables are expected to be recovered within one year.

84

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

13. OTHER FINANCIAL ASSETS

At 30 June At 31 December
2009 2008
$’000 $’000
Financial assets at fair value through profit and loss
– unlisted financial assets in the PRC 102,277

Other financial assets as at 31 December 2008 were unquoted, interest bearing debt securities with an effective interest rate of 1.45%, and have been fully settled during the period.

14. PLEDGED BANK DEPOSITS

At 30 June 2009, the pledged bank deposits of $7,352,000 (31 December 2008: $808,000) are primarily related to certain commercial arrangements during the period.

15. CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS

Deposits with banks and other financial institutions
Cash at bank and on hand
Cash and cash equivalents in the balance sheet and cash flow statement
At 30 June
At 31 December
2009
2008
$’000
$’000
380,276
114,046
248,550
7,495
628,826
121,541
At 30 June
At 31 December
2009
2008
$’000
$’000
380,276
114,046
248,550
7,495
628,826
121,541
121,541

16. PAYABLES AND ACCRUED CHARGES

All payables and accrued charges are expected to be settled within one year.

17. SECURED BANK BORROWINGS

Bank loans, net of unamortised finance cost
Less: Amount due within one year included under current liabilities
Amount due after one year
At 30 June 2009, the bank borrowings are repayable as follows:
Within one year or on demand
After one year but within five years
At 30 June
At 31 December
2009
2008
$’000
$’000
232,831

(46,230)

186,601

46,230

186,601

232,831
At 30 June
At 31 December
2009
2008
$’000
$’000
232,831

(46,230)

186,601

46,230

186,601

232,831

85

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

On 29 June 2009, APT Satellite Company Limited (“APT HK”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company, entered into a general banking facilities (the “Banking Facilities”) arrangement, secured by certain properties of APT HK, assignment of cash receipts to be generated from contracts relating to APSTAR 2R and APSTAR 5, APSTAR 2R insurance claim proceeds, and charge over a charged account (the “Charged Account”) which holds customer deposits and payments received on services provided or to be provided by APSTAR 2R and APSTAR 5 and any accrued interest within the Charged Account. At 30 June 2009, US$30,000,000 (approximately $234,000,000) has been drawn down against the Banking Facilities.

The Banking Facilities contained the following covenants:

(i) Financial Covenants

The Banking Facilities required that certain financial ratios of the Group must be met over various periods during the term. The Company as the guarantor undertakes to ensure that (i) the Group maintains its aggregate consolidated net worth at not less than $1,600,000,000, (ii) the aggregate of consolidated total liabilities shall not exceed 120% of consolidated net worth and (iii) consolidated EBITDA at each financial year shall not be less than US$20,000,000.

(ii) Charged Account Conditions

APT HK shall maintain the Charged Account with deposits for not less than one month’s interest of the term loan.

(iii) Others

The Banking Facilities include covenants customary for agreements of this type, including restrictions on APT HK and the Company’s ability to incur additional indebtedness and certain ownership restrictions.

If the Group were to breach the covenants, the drawn down facilities would become payable on demand. For the period ended 30 June 2009, the Group complied with all of the above covenants.

At 30 June 2009, a letter of guarantee issued by a bank to a subsidiary of the Company is secured by the Group’s land and buildings with a net book value of approximately $4,364,000 (31 December 2008: $4,422,000).

18. SHARE CAPITAL

There were no movements in the share capital of the Company in either the current or the prior interim reporting period.

19. SHARE OPTIONS

At the annual general meeting on 22 May 2001, the Company adopted a share option scheme (“Scheme 2001”) and granted options to its employees on 19 June 2001. On 22 May 2002, the Company adopted a new share option scheme (“Scheme 2002”) at its 2002 annual general meeting. Thereafter, no further options can be granted under the Scheme 2001. The options granted on 19 June 2001 shall continue to be valid until their expiry.

During the six months ended 30 June 2009 and 2008, no options were granted, exercised or cancelled under the Scheme 2002.

86

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

Movements in share options

The particulars of the share options granted under the Scheme 2001 outstanding during the period are as follows:

At 1 January
At 30 June
Options vested at 30 June
2009
Number
3,290,000
3,290,000
3,290,000

The above granted options have an exercise price of $2.765 per share and are exercisable within the period from 22 May 2003 to 21 May 2011.

Fair value of share options and assumptions

The fair value of services received in return for share options granted are measured by reference to the fair value of share options granted. The estimated fair value of the services received is measured based on a binomial lattice model. The contractual life of the options is used as an input into this model. Expectations of early exercise are incorporated into the binomial lattice model.

20. CONTINGENT LIABILITIES

  • (a) In the years before 1999, overseas withholding tax was not charged in respect of the Group’s transponder utilisation income derived from the overseas customers. From 1999, overseas withholding tax has been charged on certain transponder utilisation income of the Group and full provision for such withholding tax for the years from 1999 onwards has been made in the financial statements. Directors of the Company are of the opinion that the new tax rules should take effect from 1999 onwards and, accordingly, no provision for the withholding tax in respect of the years before 1999 is necessary. The Group’s withholding tax in respect of 1998 and before, calculated at the applicable rates based on the relevant income earned in those years, not provided for in the financial statements amounted to approximately $75,864,000.

  • (b) The Company has given bank guarantees in respect of certain secured banking facilities granted to a subsidiary of the Company. The extent of such facilities utilised at 30 June 2009 amounted to $234,000,000 (31 December 2008: nil).

21. COMMITMENTS

(a) Capital commitments

At 30 June 2009 and 31 December 2008, the Group has the following outstanding capital commitments not provided for in the Group’s financial statements:

Contracted for
Authorised but not contracted for
At 30 June
At 31 December
2009
2008
$’000
$’000
240
534
10,966
965
11,206
1,499

87

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

In addition, at 30 June 2009, a subsidiary of the Company was contractually committed to enter into a termination of the 1999 lease agreement and ancillary agreement in respect of the remaining life of APSTAR 2R for an estimated amount of US$69,500,000 (approximately $542,000,000). The agreements are completed subsequent to the balance sheet date (see note 23(a)).

(b) Operating lease commitments

At 30 June 2009 and 31 December 2008, the total future minimum lease payments under non-cancellable operating leases are payable as follows:

At 30 June 2009
Within one year
After one year but within five years
At 31 December 2008
Within one year
After one year but within five years
Land and
buildings
$’000
190
17
207
278
25
303
Satellite
transponders
capacity
$’000



48

48
Total
$’000
190
17
207
326
25
351

22. MATERIAL RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

(a) During the period, the Group entered into the following transactions with related parties:

Six months ended 30 June Six months ended 30 June
2009 2008
$’000 $’000
Income from provision of satellite transponder capacity and
provision of satellite-based broadcasting and telecommunication
services to subsidiaries of a shareholder of the Company_(note i)_ 26,029 5,392
Income from provision of satellite transponder capacity
and provision of satellite-based telecommunication
services to a holding company and its subsidiaries of a
shareholder of the Company_(note i)_ 22,980 19,479
Management fee income from a jointly controlled entity_(note ii)_ 240
Management fee expenses to a subsidiary of a shareholder
of the holding company_(note iii)_ (707) (346)

88

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

Notes:

  • (i) The terms and conditions of these transponder capacity utilisation agreements are similar to those contracted with other customers of the Group.

  • (ii) Management fee income arose from a reimbursement of cost of service provided to a jointly controlled entity under the agreement.

  • (iii) Management fee expenses incurred for services rendered to a subsidiary of the Company.

(b) Key management personnel remuneration

Remuneration for key management personnel, including amounts paid/payable to the Company’s directors and certain of the highest paid employees, is as follows:

Short-term employee benefits
Other long-term benefits
Performance related incentive payments
Termination benefits
Six months ended 30 June
2009
2008
$’000
$’000
5,565
5,725
364
366

922
944
1,511
6,873
8,524
Six months ended 30 June
2009
2008
$’000
$’000
5,565
5,725
364
366

922
944
1,511
6,873
8,524
8,524

23. NON-ADJUSTING POST BALANCE SHEET EVENT

  • (a) On 9 July 2009, APT HK, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company, completed the termination of the 1999 Lease Agreement and Ancillary Agreement (the “Termination”), with Telesat Canada and Telesat Asia Pacific Satellite (HK) Limited (collectively “Telesats”) in respect of the remaining life of APSTAR 2R for an agreed amount of US$68,855,000 (approximately $537,069,000).

Pursuant to the Termination, Telesats are refunded the remainder of advance lease payments previously made in return for the termination of unexpired leasing period from July 2009 and onward. Telesats’ right of future replacement satellites to occupy the orbital slot currently used by APSTAR 2R has also been terminated in the same transaction. The original 1999 lease agreement and ancillary agreement were accounted for as a disposal of property, plant and equipment in the financial statements of the Group. It is expected that, with the Termination, the return of the remaining life span of transponders capacity will be treated as an addition to assets.

  • (b) Pursuant to various amended agreements entered into with Loral Orion Inc. (“Loral”) in 2003, Loral has an option to take up four APT Transponders from the fourth year and another four APT transponders from the fifth year after completion of in-orbit test of APSTAR 5, for their remaining operational lives at a total consideration of approximately $282,865,000. On 29 September 2006 and 18 August 2008, Telesat Satellite LP (“Telesat”, the successor of Loral) exercised its right to take up two and four Transponders, respectively, at a total consideration of approximately $70,716,000 and $141,433,000 respectively.

On 13 August 2009, Telesat exercised its option right to take up two transponders on APSTAR 5 for a consideration of US$9,066,000 (approximately $70,716,000).

89

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

24. COMPARATIVE FIGURES

As a result of the application of IAS/HKAS 1 (revised 2007), Presentation of financial statements, and IFRS/HKFRS 8, Operating segments, certain comparative figures have been adjusted to conform to current period’s presentation and to provide comparative amounts in respect of items disclosed for the first time in 2009. Further details of these developments are disclosed in note 2.

25. POSSIBLE IMPACT OF AMENDMENTS, NEW STANDARDS AND INTERPRETATIONS ISSUED BUT NOT YET EFFECTIVE FOR THE ANNUAL ACCOUNTING PERIOD ENDING 31 DECEMBER 2009

Up to the date of issue of this interim financial report, the IASB/HKICPA has issued a number of amendments, new standards and interpretations which are not yet effective for the accounting period ending 31 December 2009 and which have not been adopted in this interim financial report.

Of these developments, the following relate to matters that may be relevant to the Group’s operation and financial statements:

Effective for
accounting periods
beginning on or after
Amendments to IAS/HKAS 27,Consolidated and separate financial statements 1 July 2009
IFRS/HKFRS 3 (revised),Business combinations 1 July 2009

The Group is in the process of making an assessment of what the impact of these amendments, new standards and new interpretations is expected to be in the period of initial application. So far it has concluded that while the adoption of them may result in new or amended disclosures, it is unlikely to have a significant impact on the Group’s results of operations and financial position.

90

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

4. STATEMENT OF INDEBTEDNESS

Borrowings

As at the close of business on 30 September 2009, being the latest practicable date for the purpose of this indebtedness statement, the Group had total outstanding interest-bearing bank borrowings of approximately US$30,000,000 (approximately HK$233,000,000). APT (HK) entered into an arrangement of general banking facilities with Bank of China (Hong Kong) Limited on 29 June 2009 which including a term loan facility in the maximum loan amount of US$50,000,000 which was earmarked to be applied to finance the termination of the 1999 lease agreement and ancillary agreement of APSTAR 2R and working capital requirements of the Group. As at 30 September 2009, US$30,000,000 has been drawn down against the above term loan facility. The Group’s bank borrowings are denominated in US$ and bears an interest of 1, 2 or 3 month(s)LIBOR +1.8% per annum.

The aforesaid interest-bearing bank borrowings was secured by certain properties of APT (HK), assignment of cash receipts to be generated from contracts relating to APSTAR 2R and APSTAR 5, APSTAR 2R insurance claim proceeds, and charge over a charged account which holds customer deposits and payments received on services provided or to be provided by APSTAR 2R and APSTAR 5 and any accrued interest within the charged account. The net book value of the pledged properties of APT (HK) as at 30 September 2009 amounted to approximately HK$4,335,000. As at 30 September 2009, the Group also had pledged bank deposits of approximately HK$11,000,000 to secure above bank borrowings.

Contingent liabilities

  • (a) In the years before 1999, overseas withholding tax was not charged in respect of the Group’s transponder utilisation income derived from the overseas customers. From 1999, overseas withholding tax has been charged on certain transponder utilisation income of the Group and full provision for such withholding tax for the years from 1999 onwards has been made in the financial statements. The Directors are of the opinion that the new tax rules should take effect from 1999 onwards and, accordingly, no provision for the withholding tax in respect of the years before 1999 is necessary. The Group’s withholding tax in respect of 1998 and before, calculated at the applicable rates based on the relevant income earned in those years, not provided for in the financial statements amounted to approximately HK$75,864,000. In the normal course of its business, the Group is subject to various claims under its customer and vendor contracts. The amount of the ultimate liquidated damages, if any, cannot be ascertained but the Directors are of the opinion that any resulting liability would not materially affect the financial position of the Group.

  • (b) The Company has given bank guarantees in respect of certain secured banking facilities granted to APT (HK). The extent of such facilities utilized as at 30 September 2009 amounted to HK$234,000,000.

91

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

Capital commitments

At 30 September 2009, the Group has the following outstanding capital commitments not provided for in the Group’s financial statements:

Contracted for
Authorised but not contracted for
At 30 September
2009
$’000
936
9,306
10,242

For the purpose of the above indebtedness statement, foreign currency amounts have been translated into Hong Kong dollars at the rates of the exchange prevailing at the close of business on 30 September 2009.

5. DISCLAIMER

Save as aforesaid and apart from intra-group liabilities and normal payables, the Group did not, at the close of business on 30 September 2009, have any outstanding loan capital issued and outstanding or agreed to be issued, bank overdrafts, charges or debentures, mortgages, loans, or other similar indebtedness or any finance lease commitments, hire purchase commitments, liabilities under acceptances (other than normal trade bills), acceptance credits or any guarantees or other material contingent liabilities.

6. SUBSEQUENT CHANGE OF INDEBTEDNESS

Save as disclosed above, the Directors confirmed that there has been no material change in the indebtedness, commitments and contingent liabilities of the Group since 30 September 2009 until the Latest Practicable Date.

7. WORKING CAPITAL

Taking into account the Satellite Procurement Contract entered on 29 September 2009 and the financial resources available to the Group, including the internally generated funds and the available banking facilities, the Directors are of the opinion that the Group has sufficient working capital for its present requirements, that is for at least the next 12 months from the date of this circular.

92

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

8. MANAGEMENT DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS

For the year ended 31 December 2006

Business Review

The Group’s in-orbit satellites and their corresponding telemetry, tracking and control system (TT&C system) have been operating under normal condition during the period. The Group has achieved significant growth in utilization rates for APSTAR VI, despite the fierce market competition. As of 31 December 2006, the utilization rates of APSTAR V and APSTAR VI were at 71% and 65% respectively.

APSTAR VI

Being the latest advanced high power satellite in the Asia Pacific region, APSTAR VI has been welcomed by customers. Its utilization has been increased from 45% in 31 December 2005 to 65% as at 31 December 2006 evidencing the strengthening of competitive edges of APT in the region.

APSTAR V

APSTAR V has recorded its utilization rate at 71% as at 31 December 2006.

Both APSTAR V and APSTAR VI have provided the latest advanced and comprehensive satellite communication and broadcasting services to our customers. The effective improvement of transponder resources together with the strengthening of marketing activities of our group in the region has resulted in the significant increase in utilization rates of our satellites especially in the sales in South East Asia and Taiwan.

Forming Strategic Alliance in Sales and Marketing with Intelsat

Subsequent to the signing of a strategic cooperation agreement by and between APT and Intelsat Limited (“Intelsat”) on 2 December 2005, both sides have entered into master agreements which provide a cooperative framework for the transponder service between APT and Intelsat in December 2006. This strategic move allows Intelsat to make use of APSTAR V and APSTAR VI in the region. Meanwhile, APT can have access to Intelsat’s capacity.

Both APT and Intelsat are interested in exploring additional growth initiatives such as IPTV, uplink services in the region which will help expand the Group’s scopes of business.

Satellite TV Broadcasting and Uplink Services

APT Satellite TV Development Limited (“APT TV”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Group, has successfully established the satellite TV broadcasting platform based on the Satellite TV Uplink and Downlink Licence of Hong Kong. As of 31 December 2006, APT TV uplink and broadcast up to 68 satellite TV channels for the region.

93

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

Satellite-based Telecommunications Services

APT Telecom Services Limited (“APTS”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Group, provides satellite-based external telecommunication services such as VSAT, wholesales voice services, facilities management services, and teleport uplink services under the Fixed Carrier Licence of Hong Kong to telecom operators or users of the region including satellite operators, ISPs, and wholesale voice players.

Both broadcasting and telecommunication services boost the Group competitive edge and help expand the customer base of the Group.

Business Prospects

APT has experienced significant demand growth in the Asia Pacific region in the second half of 2006. It is anticipated that the growth of demand will grow steadily in 2007. Meanwhile, the utilization rates of APSTAR V and APSTAR VI will continue to increase as a result of the increase of demand in services for transponder broadcasting, and telecommunication. Though, the market competition and price pressure will continue to exist throughout the coming year, the Group believes APSTAR V and APSTAR VI will be successful in market competition in 2007.

Financial Review

The following discussion and analysis of the Group’s financial position and results of operations should be read in conjunction with the financial statements and the related notes.

Highlights:
HK$ thousand 2006 2005 Change
Turnover 426,988 336,512 27%
Loss for the year (80,616) (136,574) –41%
Loss attributable to equity shareholders
of the Company (79,480) (135,564) –41%
Total assets 3,407,562 3,614,289 –6%
Total liabilities 1,425,329 1,552,737 –8%
Basic Loss per share_(HK cents)_ (19.23 cents) (32.80 cents) –41%
Gearing ratio_(%)_ 42% 43% –1%

94

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

The Group recorded a loss for the year of HK$80,616,000, a decrease of loss of HK$55,958,000, as compared to last year, mainly as a result of increase of turnover. The Group’s turnover in 2006 increased by 27% compared to last year mainly attributable to the followings:

Satellite Transponder Capacity Services and Related Services

Revenue from Satellite Transponder Capacity Services and Related Services for the year ended 31 December 2006 increased approximately 25% to HK$363,074,000. The increase of revenue was mainly due to commencement of some new utilisation services contracts for APSTAR VI.

Satellite-based Broadcasting and Telecommunications Services

Revenue from Satellite-based Broadcasting and Telecommunications Services for the year ended 31 December 2006 increased approximately 40% to HK$63,817,000. This primarily reflected the increase of new customers in VSAT.

Other net income

Other net income increased from HK$30,831,000 in 2005 to HK$37,542,000 in 2006. The increase was mainly due to the inclusion of a gain of HK$17,503,000, representing the amount of the agreed consideration of two transponders taken up by a vendor which was offset with the net book value of two transponders.

Operating expenses

The Group’s cost of services increased by HK$37,066,000, an increase of 12% in 2006, as compared to 2005. The increase was primarily due to inclusion of full year of inorbit insurance and depreciation of APSTAR VI while only 7 months costs of service of APSTAR VI was recorded in 2005 upon the commencement of operation of APSTAR VI in June 2005. Administrative expenses increased by HK$11,758,000, an increase of 15% in 2006 as compared to 2005, mainly because of the inclusion of an impairment loss for accounts and other receivables of HK$8,347,000 and the increase of selling expenses in respect of increased turnover.

Finance costs

The Group’s finance costs increased from HK$36,942,000 in 2005 to HK$64,140,000 in 2006 mainly due to no interest related to APSTAR VI was capitalized in 2006 while only 7 months interests was recorded in 2005 upon the commencement of operation of APSTAR VI in June 2005.

95

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

Share of results of jointly controlled entities

The Group maintained its interest in APT Satellite Telecommunications Limited (“APT Telecom”) at 55% as at 31 December 2006. As at 31 December 2006, APT Telecom recorded a profit of HK$3,966,000, mainly due to the revaluation gain of HK$6,120,000 caused by the cost adjustment on investment property held by APT Telecom in 2006. The Group’s share of results of APT Telecom was HK$2,182,000.

Income Tax

Income tax increased from HK$13,172,000 in 2005 to HK$56,128,000 in 2006, mainly due to a net deferred tax liability recognized as a result of tax settlement of APSTAR IIR. In prior years, the Group was in dispute with Hong Kong’s Inland Revenue Department (the “IRD”) in relation to the transfer of the entire business of APSTAR IIR and substantially all of the satellite transponders of APSTAR IIR. Having considered the advice from the tax advisor, the Company believe that it would be in the best interest of the Company that the dispute be settled as soon as practicable to avoid further incurrence of time, effort and professional cost. During the year, the subsidiary submitted a settlement proposal to the IRD, via its tax advisor with a view to compromising on the tax assessment dispute. In September 2006, IRD accepted the proposal of treating sale proceeds from the disposal of APSTAR IIR of HK$2,114,758,000 as taxable income arising over the remaining life of APSTAR IIR until the tax assessment year of 2012/2013. In addition, IRD accepted the Company continuing to claim the deduction of statutory depreciation allowances in respect of APSTAR IIR and other expenditures related to the transaction to offset such taxable income.

With the proposal accepted by IRD, the tax dispute in respect of the years of assessment of 1999/2000 and 2000/2001 is settled. The net assessable profit for 1999/2000 of the subsidiary was revised to zero and the profits tax previously paid of HK$21,589,259 were refunded. In addition, as the subsidiary was in a tax loss position in 2000/2001, 2001/2002 and 2002/03, the Tax Reserve Certificate in the amount of HK$78,385,377 previously paid, with interest from the date of purchase in March 2006 until the date of IRD accepting the proposal were redeemed and the provisional tax paid for 2002/2003 of HK$82,868 was refunded.

As a result of the proposal accepted by IRD, a deferred tax asset of HK$123,239,000 has been recognised based on the total cumulative tax losses carried forward and the depreciation allowances in respect of Apstar IIR to be deducted in the future. Furthermore, a deferred tax liability of HK$166,063,000 has been recognised for related deferred lease income to be taxable in the future.

Capital Expenditure, liquidity, financial resources and gearing ratio

During the year, the Group’s principal use of capital was the capital expenditure related to the satellite equipments and office equipments which had been funded by internally generated cash. The capital expenditure incurred for the year ended 31 December 2006 amounted to HK$6,234,000.

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During the year, the Group repaid bank loan of HK$191,226,000 (equivalent to US$24,516,000), the funding for which came from the receipt from a vendor and internally generated cash. As at 31 December 2006, the Group complied with all the financial covenants over the past twelve-month period. As a result of the above repayment, total outstanding of bank loan reduced from HK$1,127,295,000 to HK$936,069,000. The debt maturity profile (excluding the borrowing transaction cost) of the Group was as follows:

Year of Maturity
Repayable within 1 year or on demand
Repayable after one year but within five years
HK$
159,413,000
776,656,000
936,069,000

As at 31 December 2006, the Group’s total liabilities were HK$1,425,329,000, a decrease of HK$127,408,000 as compared to 2005, which was mainly due to partly repayment of bank loan as described above. As a result, the gearing ratio (total liabilities/ total assets) has slightly decreased to 42%, representing a 1% decrease as compared to 2005.

As at 31 December 2006, the Group has approximately HK$341,325,000 (2005: HK$326,440,000) free cash and HK$89,190,000 (2005: HK$68,699,000) pledged deposit. Together with cash flow generated from operations, the Group could meet with ease all the debt repayment schedules in the coming year.

Capital structure

The Group continues to maintain a prudent treasury policy and manage currency and interest risks on a conservative basis. During the year, the Group made no hedging arrangement in respect of exchange rate fluctuation as majority of its business transactions was settled in United States dollars. Interest under Bank Loan was computed at the London Inter-Bank Offering Rate plus a margin. The Group would consider the fluctuation risk of the floating interest rate and would take appropriate measure in due course to hedge against interest rate fluctuation.

Charges on group assets

As at 31 December 2006, the assets of APSTAR V and APSTAR VI of HK$2,506,454,000 (2005: HK$2,752,162,000) and bank deposit of HK$89,190,000 (2005: HK$68,699,000) were pledged to secure a bank loan facility. The bank loan facility is also secured by the assignment of APSTAR V and APSTAR VI and their related insurance claims proceeds, and the assignment of all their present and future agreements of provision of transponder utilization services.

In addition, certain of the Group’s banking facilities were secured by the Group’s properties with aggregate carrying value of approximately HK$4,655,000 (2005: HK$4,771,000).

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Capital commitments

As at 31 December 2006, the Group has the outstanding capital commitments of HK$4,852,000 (2005: HK$2,290,000), which was contracted but not provided for in the Group’s financial statements, mainly in respect of the purchases of equipment.

Contingent liabilities

In the years before 1999, overseas withholding tax was not charged in respect of the Group’s transponder utilisation income derived from the overseas customers. From 1999, overseas withholding tax has been charged on certain transponder utilisation income of the Group and full provision for such withholding tax for the years from 1999 onwards has been made in the financial statements. The Directors of the Company are of the opinion that the new tax rules should take effect from 1999 onwards and, accordingly, no provision for the withholding tax in respect of the years before 1999 is necessary. The Group’s withholding tax in respect of 1998 and before, calculated at the applicable rates based on the relevant income earned in those years, not provided for in the financial statements amounted to approximately HK$75,864,000.

The Company has given guarantees to banks in respect of the secured term loan facility granted to its subsidiary. The extent of such facility utilised by the subsidiary at 31 December 2006 amounted to HK$936,069,000 (2005: HK$1,127,295,000).

Human Resources

As at 31 December 2006, the Group had 161 employees (2005: 161). With regard to the emolument policy, the Group remunerates its employees in accordance with their respective responsibilities and current market trends. On 19 June 2001, the Company first granted share options under the share option scheme adopted at the annual general meeting on 22 May 2001 (“Scheme 2001”) to its employees including executive directors. On 22 May 2002, the Group adopted a new share option scheme (“Scheme 2002”) at the annual general meeting to comply with the requirements of the Rules (“Listing Rules”) Governing the Listing of Securities on The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited (“Stock Exchange”). To further motivate employees for better contribution to the Group, the Group has also established an incentive bonus scheme.

The Group provides on the job training to employees to update and upgrade their knowledge on related job fields.

For the year ended 31 December 2007

Business Review

The Group’s in-orbit satellites and their corresponding telemetry, tracking and control system (TT&C system) have been operating under normal condition during the year. The Group has maintained comparatively high utilisation rates for APSTAR V and APSTAR VI, despite the fierce market competition in the Asia Pacific region including China market.

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APSTAR VI

APSTAR VI commenced commercial operation in June 2005. It contains 38 C band and 12 Ku band transponders. As at 31 December 2007, its utilisation rate was 59%.

APSTAR V

APSTAR V commenced commercial operation in August 2004. It contains 38 C band and 16 Ku band transponders. As at 31 December 2007, its utilisation rate was at 72%.

Both APSTAR V and APSTAR VI are the latest advanced high power satellites in the region providing most advanced satellite telecommunication and broadcasting services that are warmly received by our customer thereby strengthening the competitive edge and marketing expansion of our group.

New Satellites in China Market

As a result of the launch of two new satellites in mid 2007, the market competition of the China Market has been more intense. APT obtained new customers and new utilisations by optimising our services on a continuous basis which off-set part of the customer loss. As a whole, such customer loss due to new satellites will not cause adverse impact to the Group.

Satellite TV Broadcasting and Uplink Services

APT Satellite TV Development Limited (“APT TV”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Group, successfully established the satellite TV broadcasting platform based on the Satellite TV Uplink and Downlink Licence of Hong Kong. As of 31 December 2007, APT TV uplink and broadcast for the region up to 72 satellite TV channels representing an increase of 6% as compared to the same period of last year.

Satellite-based Telecommunications Services

APT Telecom Services Limited (“APTS”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Group, provides satellite-based external telecommunication services such as VSAT (Very Small Aperture Telecommunication), facilities management services, and teleport uplink services under the Fixed Carrier Licence of Hong Kong to telecom operators or users of the region.

Business Prospects

Because of the increase in new satellite supplies in the region particularly China market, market competition will continue to be fierce. However, it is expected the demand will still grow steadily. The Group will endeavour to secure our foothold in China market and expand overseas market so as to further increase the satellite utilisation and improve the Group’s performance.

99

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

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Financial Review

The following discussion and analysis of the Group’s financial position and results of operations should be read in conjunction with the financial statements and the related notes.

Highlights:
HK$ thousand 2007 2006 Change
Turnover 451,626 426,988 +24,638
Gross profit 136,834 88,729 +48,105
Profit/(Loss) after taxation 4,716 (80,616) +85,332
Profit/(Loss) attributable to shareholders 5,581 (79,480) +85,061
Basic Earnings/(Loss) per share_(HK cents)_ 1.35 cents (19.23 cents) +20.58 cents
In percentage
Total assets 3,135,582 3,407,562 –8%
Total liabilities 1,146,891 1,425,329 –20%
Gearing ratio_(%)_ 37% 42% –5%

The Group, with turnover growth of 6% over the prior year, has recorded a gross profit for the year amounted to HK$136,834,000, a 54% increase as compared to 2006 and profit for the year of HK$4,716,000 (2006: loss for the year HK$80,616,000). It was mainly due to higher income generating from the new customers for the provision of Satellite Transponder Capacity Services during the year. The Group’s cost of services recorded a decrease of 7% to HK$314,792,000, mainly due to a reduction of depreciation and premium cost in satellite inorbit insurance. Administrative expenses decreased by HK$7,061,000, a decrease of 8% in 2007 as compared to 2006. The decrease was mainly due to an impairment loss for trade and other receivables of HK$8,347,000 was provided in prior year. The Group’s finance costs decreased from HK$64,140,000 in 2006 to HK$55,345,000 in 2007. The decrease was mainly due to decrease in borrowing amount after repayment of bank loan during the year of 2007.

Satellite Transponder Capacity Services and Related Services

Revenue from Satellite Transponder Capacity Services and Related Services for the year ended 31 December 2007 increased approximately 9% to HK$395,032,000. The increase of revenue was mainly due to commencement of some new utilisation services contracts.

Satellite-based Broadcasting and Telecommunications Services

Revenue from Satellite-based Broadcasting and Telecommunications Services for the year ended 31 December 2007 decreased approximately 13% to HK$56,453,000. This was mainly due to the termination of wholesale voice services in the second half of 2007.

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Income tax

Income tax recorded a decrease of HK$35,683,000, mainly due to a deferred tax liability recognised as a result of tax settlement of APSTAR IIR in 2006. In prior years, a subsidiary of the Company was in dispute with Hong Kong’s Inland Revenue Department (the “IRD”) in relation to the transfer of the entire business of APSTAR IIR and substantially all of the satellite transponders of APSTAR IIR. Having considered the advice from its independent tax advisor, management believed that it would be in the best interest of the Company that the dispute be settled as soon as practicable to avoid further incurrence of time, effort and professional cost. In 2006, the subsidiary of the Company submitted a settlement proposal to the IRD, via its tax advisor with a view to compromising on the tax assessment dispute. In September 2006, the IRD accepted the proposal of treating sale proceeds from the disposal of APSTAR IIR of HK$2,114,758,000 as taxable income arising over the remaining life of APSTAR IIR until the tax assessment year of 2012/2013. In addition, the IRD accepted the Company continuing to claim the deduction of statutory depreciation allowances in respect of APSTAR IIR and other expenditures related to the transaction to offset such taxable income.

With the proposal accepted by the IRD, the tax dispute in respect of the years of assessment of 1999/2000 and 2000/2001 is settled. The net assessable profit for 1999/2000 of the subsidiary was revised to zero and the profits tax previously paid of HK$21,589,259 were refunded. In addition, as the subsidiary was in a tax loss position in 2000/2001, 2001/2002 and 2002/2003, the Tax Reserve Certificate in the amount of HK$78,385,377 previously paid, with interest from the date of purchase in March 2006 until the date of the IRD accepting the proposal was redeemed and the provisional tax paid for 2002/2003 of HK$82,868 was refunded.

As a result of the proposal being accepted by the IRD, a deferred tax asset of HK$123,239,000 has been recognised based on the total cumulative tax losses carried forward and the depreciation allowances in respect of APSTAR IIR to be deducted in the future. Furthermore, a deferred tax liability of HK$166,063,000 has been recognised for the related deferred lease income to be taxed in the future.

Share of results of jointly controlled entities

The Group maintained its interest in APT Satellite Telecommunications Limited (“APT Telecom”) at 55% as at 31 December 2007. As at 31 December 2007, APT Telecom recorded a loss of HK$1,624,000. The Group’s share of results of APT Telecom was HK$894,000.

Capital expenditure, liquidity, financial resources and gearing ratio

During the year, the Group’s principal use of capital was the capital expenditure related to the satellite equipments and office equipments which had been funded by internally generated cash. The capital expenditure incurred for the year ended 31 December 2007 amounted to HK$10,683,000.

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APPENDIX I

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

During the year, the Group repaid bank loan of HK$253,013,000 (equivalent to US$32,438,000), the funding for which came from internally generated cash. As at 31 December 2007, the Group complied with all the financial covenants over the past twelve-month period. As a result of the above repayment, total outstanding secured bank borrowings reduced from HK$930,354,000 to HK$680,335,000. The debt maturity profile (stated at amortised cost) of the Group was as follows:

Year of Maturity
Repayable within 1 year or on demand
Repayable after one year but within five years
HK$
217,961,000
462,374,000
680,335,000

As at 31 December 2007, the Group’s total liabilities were HK$1,146,891,000, a decrease of HK$278,438,000 as compared to 2006, which was mainly due to partly repayment of bank loan as described above. As a result, the gearing ratio (total liabilities/total assets) has decreased to 37%, representing a 5% decrease as compared to 2006.

As at 31 December 2007, the Group has approximately HK$312,025,000 (2006: HK$341,325,000) cash and cash equivalents and HK$83,749,000 (2006: HK$89,190,000) pledged deposits. Together with cash flow generated from operations, the Group could meet with ease all the debt repayment schedules in the coming year.

Capital structure

The Group continues to maintain a prudent treasury policy and manage currency and interest risks on a conservative basis. During the year, the Group made no hedging arrangement in respect of exchange rate fluctuation as majority of its business transactions was settled in the United States dollars. Interest under Bank Loan was computed at the London Inter-Bank Offering Rate plus a margin. The Group would consider the fluctuation risk of the floating interest rate and would take appropriate measure in due course to hedge against interest rate fluctuation.

Charges on group assets

As at 31 December 2007, the assets of APSTAR V and APSTAR VI of HK$2,317,238,000 (2006: HK$2,506,454,000) and bank deposit of HK$83,749,000 (2006: HK$89,190,000) were pledged to secure a bank loan facility. The bank loan facility is also secured by the assignment of APSTAR V and APSTAR VI and their related insurance claims proceeds, and the assignment of all their present and future agreements of provision of transponder utilisation services.

In addition, certain of the Group’s banking facilities were secured by the Group’s properties with aggregate carrying value of approximately HK$4,538,000 (2006: HK$4,655,000).

102

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

Capital commitments

As at 31 December 2007, the Group has the outstanding capital commitments of HK$3,398,000 (2006: HK$4,852,000), which was contracted but not provided for in the Group’s financial statements, mainly in respect of the purchases of equipment.

Contingent liabilities

  • (i) In the years before 1999, overseas withholding tax was not charged in respect of the Group’s transponder utilisation income derived from the overseas customers. From 1999, overseas withholding tax has been charged on certain transponder utilisation income of the Group and full provision for such withholding tax for the years from 1999 onwards has been made in the financial statements. The Directors of the Company are of the opinion that the new tax rules should take effect from 1999 onwards and, accordingly, no provision for the withholding tax in respect of the years before 1999 is necessary. The Group’s withholding tax in respect of 1998 and before, calculated at the applicable rates based on the relevant income earned in those years, not provided for in the financial statements amounted to approximately HK$75,864,000.

  • (ii) The Company has given guarantees to banks in respect of the secured term loan facility granted to its subsidiary. The extent of such facility utilised by the subsidiary at 31 December 2007 amounted to HK$683,056,000 (2006: HK$936,069,000).

Human Resources

As at 31 December 2007, the Group had 147 employees (2006: 161). With regard to the emolument policy, the Group remunerates its employees in accordance with their respective responsibilities and current market trends. On 19 June 2001, the Company first granted share options under the share option scheme adopted at the annual general meeting on 22 May 2001 (“Scheme 2001”) to its employees including executive directors. On 22 May 2002, the Group adopted a new share option scheme (“Scheme 2002”) at the annual general meeting to comply with the requirements of the Rules (“Listing Rules”) Governing the Listing of Securities on The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited (“Stock Exchange”). To further motivate employees for better contribution to the Group, the Group has also established an incentive bonus scheme.

The Group provides on the job training to employees to update and upgrade their knowledge on related job fields.

For the year ended 31 December 2008

Business Review

The Group’s in-orbit satellites and their corresponding telemetry, tracking and control system (TT&C system) have been operating under normal condition during the year. In spite of the financial tsunami, global economic crisis, and the fierce market competition in Asia Pacific region particularly in China market, the Group had, during the period, successfully opened new market and expanded customer base thereby further increased the utilisation rates for APSTAR V and APSTAR VI.

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FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

APSTAR VI

APSTAR VI commenced commercial operation in June 2005. It contains 38 C band and 12 Ku band transponders. As at 31 December 2008, its utilisation rate was 71.9 %, representing an increase of 12.9 % as compared to last year.

APSTAR V

APSTAR V commenced commercial operation in August 2004. It contains 38 C band and 16 Ku band transponders. As at 31 December 2008, the utilisation rate of the Group’s transponders thereon was 83.1%, representing an increase of 11.1% approximately as compared to last year.

The outstanding performances of APSTAR V and APSTAR VI have strengthened the competitive advantage of the Group resulting in promising performance in marketing especially in overseas market.

The additions of two satellites in mid 2007 and one satellite in the first half of 2008 in China market have led to fierce market competition in China market. However, the Group had, during the period, successfully secured its market share through services improvement and enhancement. As a whole, the intensive market competition has not resulted in a significant impact on the financial performance of the Group.

Satellite TV broadcasting and uplink services

APT Satellite TV Development Limited (“APT TV”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Group, successfully established the satellite TV broadcasting platform based on the Satellite TV Uplink and Downlink Licence of Hong Kong. As of 31 December 2008, APT TV uplink and broadcast up to 87 satellite TV channels in the region representing an increase of 20.8% as compared to last year.

Satellite telecommunication services and facility services

APT Telecom Services Limited (“APTS”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Group, provides satellite-based external telecommunication services such as VSAT (Very Small Aperture Telecommunication), facilities management services, and teleport uplink services under the Fixed Carrier Licence of Hong Kong. Through a marketing effort in the second half of 2008, the Group has commissioned a cooperation with a multinational IT firm for the provision of advanced and environmentally friendly facility services to an internationally well known airliner for 12 years, further boosting the Group’s profit and utilisation of resources.

104

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

Business Prospects

As the current global economic crisis is expected to last for a period of time, which may result in a number of uncertainties on the demand of transponder in the region. Meanwhile, new satellites are expected to be launched, which may further intensify the market competition in the region. The Group, however, by beefing up the competitive edge, improving the resource utilisation, exploring into new markets and enhancing customer services, is fully confident riding over unfavourable external factors and coping with future challenges.

Financial Review

The following discussion and analysis of the Group’s financial position and results of operations should be read in conjunction with the Financial Highlights and the related notes.

Highlights:
HK$ thousand 2008 2007 Change
Turnover 403,672 451,626 –11%
Gross profit 126,091 136,834 –8%
Profit for the year 49,500 4,716 +950%
Profit attributable to shareholders 49,587 5,581 +788%
Basic Earnings per share_(HK cents)_ 12.00 cents 1.35 cents +10.65 cents
Total assets 2,546,283 3,135,582 –19%
Total liabilities 505,718 1,146,891 –56%
Gearing ratio_(%)_ 20% 37% –17%

The Group recorded a turnover and profit for the year of HK$403,672,000 and HK$49,500,000 for 2008. The turnover decreased by 11%, primarily due to termination of wholesale voice services in the second half of 2007, and disposal of an operating subsidiary, Beijing Asia Pacific East Communication Network Limited (“BAPECN”) on 2 April 2008; the turnover of this subsidiary was included in the consolidated income statement up to the date of disposal.

Satellite Transponder Capacity Services and Related Services

Revenue from Satellite Transponder Capacity Services and Related Services for the year ended 31 December 2008 decreased approximately 2.5% to HK$385,391,000. The decrease of revenue was mainly due to the net effect of loss of the some service contracts in the first half of 2008 and the commencement of some new utilization services contracts in the second half of 2008.

105

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

Satellite-based Broadcasting and Telecommunications Services

Revenue from Satellite-based Broadcasting and Telecommunications Services for the year ended 31 December 2008 decreased approximately 147% to HK$18,153,000. This was mainly due to the termination of wholesale voice services in the second half of 2007 and the disposal of an operating subsidiary.

For the year ended 31 December 2008, profit attributable to equity shareholders amounted to HK$49,587,000, representing an increase of 788% as compared with 2007. The cause for the increase in net profit was principally the result of the following factors:

Other net income

Other net income increased from HK$26,334,000 in 2007 to HK$68,871,000 in 2008. The increase was mainly due to gain on sale of certain transponders of HK$51,489,000.

Gain on sale of a subsidiary

The Group sold its entire equity interest in BAPECN on 2 April 2008, realizing a gain of HK$3,193,000. Pursuant to a disposal agreement dated 2 April 2008, CTIA VSAT Network Limited (“CTIA”), a subsidiary of the Company, disposed of its entire equity interest in Beijing Asia Pacific East Communication Network Limited (“BAPECN”) to an independent third party at a total consideration of RMB4,800,000 (approximately HK$5,328,000). Beijing Zhong Guang Xian Da Data Broadcast Technology Co Limited, a jointly controlled entity of the Company, in which BAPECN has 35% equity, was also disposed of as part of the sale.

Share of result and gain on sale of a jointly controlled entity

The Group sold its entire equity interest in APT Satellite Telecommunications Limited (“APT Telecom”) on 3 October 2008, realising a gain of HK$9,590,000. Pursuant to a disposal agreement dated 3 October 2008, the Group disposed of its entire equity interest in a jointly controlled entity, APT Satellite Telecommunications Limited (“APT Telecom”), to an independent third party at a consideration of HK$88,550,000.

Prior to the date of sale, the share of result of APT Telecom to the Group was HK$2,397,000, representing an increase of HK$3,291,000 as compared to 2007.

Income tax

The income tax expenses increased from HK$20,445,000 in 2007 to HK$42,551,000 in 2008. The increase was mainly due to a tax provision of HK$14,350,000 in respect of disposal of certain transponders. In November 2007, a subsidiary of the Company was requested to supply information to the Inland Revenue Department (“IRD”) in respect of the nature of the gain arising from the disposal of certain transponders in 2006 and as to whether such transaction should be taxable. The subsidiary of the Company sent a reply letter to

106

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

the IRD together with the requested relevant information. Up to the date of the audited financial statements, no assessment has yet been made by the IRD. Management believes such transaction should be treated as capital in nature and is in the process of gathering relevant documentary evidence to support its grounds; however, due to difficulty assessing the probability on the success of claiming the gain as non-taxable in nature, a tax provision of $14,350,000 in respect of such transaction was made as of 31 December 2008.

Capital expenditure, liquidity, financial resources and gearing ratio

During the year, the Group’s principal use of capital was the capital expenditure related to satellite equipment and office equipment which had been funded by internally generated cash. The capital expenditure incurred for the year ended 31 December 2008 amounted to HK$7,457,000.

During the year, the Group has fully repaid the bank loan of HK$683,056,000 (equivalent to US$85,571,000), the funding of which came from the proceeds on the sale of certain transponders, BAPECN, APT Telecom and internally generated cash.

As at 31 December 2008, the Group’s total liabilities were HK$505,718,000, a decrease of HK$641,173,000 as compared to 2007, primarily due to repayment of the bank loan as described above. As a result, the gearing ratio (total liabilities/total assets) has decreased to 20%, representing a 17% decrease as compared to 2007.

Capital structure

The Group consistently adheres to conservative fund management. The global financial crisis resulted in no significant impact to the Group’s financial position. The solid capital structure and financial strength continue to provide for a solid foundation for the Group’s future development.

Foreign exchange exposure

The Group mainly earned revenue in the United States Dollar and Renminbi. The Group’s insurance coverage premiums on satellite and debt services and substantially all capital expenditures were denominated in the United States Dollar; the remaining expenses were primarily denominated in the Hong Kong Dollar. The effect of exchange rate fluctuation in the United States Dollar is insignificant as the Hong Kong dollar is pegged to the United States Dollar. In the past several years, appreciation of Renminbi against the Hong Kong Dollar maintained an increasing trend until the second half of 2008 when it stabilised. The management expects that the exchange rate of Renminbi to remain stable and does not foresee a material adverse foreign exchange risk to the Group. Therefore, the Group presently does not engage in any foreign currency hedging activities.

107

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

Charges on group assets

The Group has repaid the bank loan on 30 December 2008. The assets under fixed charges were APTSTR V and APSTAR VI of nil in 2008 (2007: HK$2,317,238,000), and bank deposits of nil (2007: HK$83,749,000). As at 31 December 2008, approximately HK$808,000 is related to other pledges.

In addition, certain of the Group’s banking facilities were secured by the Group’s properties with aggregate carrying value of approximately HK$4,422,000 (2007: HK$4,538,000).

Capital commitments

As at 31 December 2008, the Group has outstanding capital commitments of HK$1,499,000 (2007: HK$3,398,000), which were contracted but not provided for in the Group’s financial statements, mainly in respect of the future purchases of equipment.

Contingent liabilities

  • (a) In the years before 1999, overseas withholding tax was not charged in respect of the Group’s transponder utilisation income derived from the overseas customers. From 1999, overseas withholding tax has been charged on certain transponder utilisation income of the Group and full provision for such withholding tax for the years from 1999 onwards has been made in the financial statements. The Directors of the Company are of the opinion that the new tax rules should take effect from 1999 onwards and, accordingly, no provision for the withholding tax in respect of the years before 1999 is necessary. The Group’s withholding tax in respect of 1998 and before, calculated at the applicable rates based on the relevant income earned in those years, not provided for in the financial statements amounted to approximately $75,864,000.

  • (b) The Company has given guarantees to banks in respect of the secured term loan facility granted to its subsidiary in previous years. The guarantees were terminated due to repayment of borrowings under the Loan Facility in full during the year.

Human Resources

As at 31 December 2008, the Group had 85 employees (2007: 147). With regards to the emolument policy, the Group remunerates its employees in accordance with their respective responsibilities and current market trends. On 19 June 2001, the Company first granted share options under a share option scheme adopted at the annual general meeting on 22 May 2001 (“Scheme 2001”) to its employees including executive directors. On 22 May 2002, the Group adopted a new share option scheme (“Scheme 2002”) at the annual general meeting to comply with Listing Rules. To further motivate employees for better contribution to the Group, the Group has also established an incentive bonus scheme.

The Group provides on the job training to employees to update and upgrade their knowledge on related job fields.

108

FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

APPENDIX I

9. OUTLOOK

Though the current global economic crisis has given rise to uncertainties on the demand of transponder services in the Asia Pacific region and new satellites are expected to be launched, which may intensify the market competition in the region, the directors of the Company believe that the Satellite Procurement Contract is in line with the long-term development strategy of the Group. The Group will benefit from expanding the utilization of transponder resources, further increasing the revenue of the Group and strengthening competitive advantage and growth potential for long-term development of the Group by securing the opportunity of future satellite continuity by entering into the Satellite Procurement Contract.

10. MATERIAL ADVERSE CHANGE

As at the Latest Practicable Date, to the best of the Directors’ knowledge, information and belief, after making all reasonable enquiries, the Directors are not aware of any material adverse change in the financial or trading position or operation of the Group since 31 December 2008, the date to which the latest published audited consolidated accounts of the Group were made up.

109

UNAUDITED PRO FORMA NET ASSETS STATEMENT OF THE GROUP

APPENDIX II

The following is the full text of a report, prepared for the purpose of inclusion in this circular, received from the independent reporting accountants of the Company, KPMG, Certified Public Accountants, Hong Kong. As described in the section headed “Documents available for inspection” in Appendix III, a copy of the following Accountants’ Report is available for public inspection.

==> picture [92 x 35] intentionally omitted <==

8th Floor Prince’s Building 10 Chater Road Central Hong Kong

19 October 2009

The Board of Directors APT Satellite Holdings Limited

Dear Sirs

We report on the unaudited pro forma net assets statement (“the Pro Forma Financial Information”) of APT Satellite Holdings Limited (“the Company”) and its subsidiaries (collectively referred to as the “Group”) set out on page 112 in Appendix II of the investment circular, dated 19 October 2009 (the “Circular”) which has been prepared by the directors of the Company solely for illustrative purposes to provide information about how the satellite procurement contract in respect of APSTAR 7 Satellite between the Group and Thales Alenia Space France might have affected the financial information presented. The basis of preparation of the unaudited Pro Forma Financial Information of the Group is set out in notes 1 to 7 on page 113 and 114 of the Circular.

Responsibilities

It is the responsibility solely of the directors of the Company to prepare the unaudited Pro Forma Financial Information in accordance with Paragraph 4.29 of the Rules Governing the Listing of Securities on The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited (the “Listing Rules”) and with reference to Accounting Guideline 7 “Preparation of Pro Forma Financial Information for inclusion in Investment Circulars” issued by the Hong Kong Institute of Certified Public Accountants (“HKICPA”).

It is our responsibility to form an opinion, as required by paragraph 4.29(7) of the Listing Rules, on the unaudited Pro Forma Financial Information and to report our opinion to you. We do not accept any responsibility for any reports previously given by us on any financial information used in the compilation of the unaudited Pro Forma Financial Information beyond that owed to those to whom those reports were addressed by us at the dates of their issue.

110

UNAUDITED PRO FORMA NET ASSETS STATEMENT OF THE GROUP

APPENDIX II

Basis of opinion

We conducted our work in accordance with Hong Kong Standard on Investment Circular Reporting Engagements (“HKSIR”) 300 “Accountants’ Reports on Pro Forma Financial Information in Investment Circulars” issued by the HKICPA. Our work consisted primarily of comparing the unadjusted financial information with source documents, considering the evidence supporting the adjustments and discussing the unaudited Pro Forma Financial Information with the directors of the Company. The engagement did not involve independent examination of any of the underlying financial information.

Our work did not constitute an audit or review made in accordance with Hong Kong Standards on Auditing or Hong Kong Standards on Review Engagements issued by the HKICPA, and accordingly, we do not express any such audit or review assurance on the unaudited Pro Forma Financial Information.

We planned and performed our work so as to obtain the information and explanations we considered necessary in order to provide us with sufficient evidence to give reasonable assurance that the unaudited Pro Forma Financial Information has been properly compiled by the directors of the Company on the basis stated, that such basis is consistent with the accounting policies of the Group and that the adjustments are appropriate for the purposes of the unaudited Pro Forma Financial Information as disclosed pursuant to paragraph 4.29(1) of the Listing Rules.

The unaudited Pro Forma Financial Information is for illustrative purposes only, based on the judgements and assumptions of the directors of the Company, and because of its hypothetical nature, it does not provide any assurance or indication that any event will take place in the future and may not be indicative of the net assets of the Group as at 31 December 2008 or any future date.

Opinion

In our opinion:

  • a) the unaudited Pro Forma Financial Information has been properly compiled by the directors of the Company on the basis stated;

  • b) such basis is consistent with the accounting policies of the Group, and

  • c) the adjustments are appropriate for the purposes of the unaudited Pro Forma Financial Information as disclosed pursuant to Paragraph 4.29(1) of the Listing Rules.

Yours faithfully

KPMG

Certified Public Accountants Hong Kong

111

UNAUDITED PRO FORMA NET ASSETS STATEMENT OF THE GROUP

APPENDIX II

1. UNAUDITED PRO FORMA NET ASSETS STATEMENT OF THE GROUP

The following is the unaudited pro forma net assets statement of the Group prepared to illustrate the effect of the Satellite Procurement Contract on the assets and liabilities of the Group. The unaudited pro forma net assets statement of the Group was prepared based on the Group’s unadjusted net assets as at 31 December 2008 extracted from the audited consolidated balance sheet of the Group as at 31 December 2008, as set out in annual report of the Group for the year ended 31 December 2008, after making pro forma adjustment relating to the acquisition as set out in note 2 below.

This unaudited pro forma net assets statement of the Group has been prepared for illustrative purposes only and because of its hypothetical nature, it may not give a true picture of the financial position of the Group that would have been attained had the acquisition been completed on 31 December 2008 or at any future date.

The Group as at
31 December 2008
Pro forma
(audited)
adjustments
HK$’000
HK$’000
Notes
Non-current assets
Property, plant and equipment
2,183,468
1,453,000
<2>
Interest in leasehold land held for
own use under an operating lease
14,444
Investment properties
5,159
Club memberships
5,537
Prepaid expenses
19,023
2,227,631
Current assets
Trade receivables, net
67,143
Deposits, prepayments and
other receivables
26,728
Amount due from immediate
holding company
155
Other financial assets
102,277
Pledged bank deposits
808
Cash and cash equivalents
121,541
(57,000)
<2>
318,652
The Group
after the
acquisition
HK$’000
3,636,468
14,444
5,159
5,537
19,023
3,680,631
67,143
26,728
155
102,277
808
64,541
261,652

112

UNAUDITED PRO FORMA NET ASSETS STATEMENT OF THE GROUP

APPENDIX II

The Group as at
31 December 2008
Pro forma
(audited)
adjustments
HK$’000
HK$’000
Notes
Current liabilities
Payable and accrued charges
41,335
Construction payable

584,000
<2>
Rentals received in advance
40,608
Loan from a minority shareholder
6,088
Current taxation
98,242
186,273
Net current assets/(liabilities)
132,379
Total assets less current liabilities
2,360,010
Non-current liabilities
Deposits received
23,093
Construction payable

812,000
<2>&<4>
Deferred income
209,370
Deferred tax liabilities
86,982
319,445
Net assets
2,040,565
The Group
after the
acquisition
HK$’000
41,335
584,000
40,608
6,088
98,242
770,273
(508,621)
3,172,010
23,093
812,000
209,370
86,982
1,131,445
2,040,565

Notes:

  1. The unaudited pro forma net assets statement of the Group was prepared based on the Group’s unadjusted net assets as at 31 December 2008 extracted from the audited consolidated balance sheet of the Group as at 31 December 2008 as set out in the annual report of the Group for the year ended 31 December 2008.

  2. The adjustments represent: i) the payment of Euro5,080,000 (equivalent to HK$57,000,000) relating to the down payments of the procurement of the APSTAR 7 Satellite; ii) the additions to the property, plant and equipment of Euro128,500,000 (equivalent to approximately HK$1,453,000,000) and iii) accrual of the remaining balance of the contract price of Euro123,420,000 (equivalent to approximately HK$1,396,000,000) payable to the contractor as at 31 December 2008.

Total contract price of the APSTAR 7 Satellite is as follows:

APSTAR 7 Satellite, and related services and Deliverable Items
Satellite Control Centre and Base Band Subsystem
On-line support for in-orbit operations
Total contract price
HK$’000
1,411,000
17,000
25,000
1,453,000

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APPENDIX II UNAUDITED PRO FORMA NET ASSETS STATEMENT OF THE GROUP

  1. Payments to be made by the Company at each milestone per the Satellite Procurement Contract, are expected to be funded from internal sources and external borrowings in the future.

  2. The amount represents the payments in respect of the Satellite Procurement Contract to be settled within 30 months from the Effective Date. The estimated discounted cash flow would be HK$772,000,000 and are based on the average interest rate of the bank borrowings of the Group as at 30 September 2009.

  3. The above unaudited pro forma net assets statement of the Group has not taken into account the capitalization of interest expenses incurred due to external borrowings in the future.

  4. For the purpose of the unaudited pro forma net assets statement of the Group, the amounts denominated in Euro have been translated into HK$ at an exchange rate of Euro1=HK$11.305.

  5. No adjustment has been made to reflect any operating results or other events subsequent to 31 December 2008. Also, no adjustment has been made to reflect any future capital expenditure.

114

GENERAL INFORMATION

APPENDIX III

1. RESPONSIBILITY STATEMENT

This circular includes particulars given in compliance with the Listing Rules for the purpose of giving information with regard to the Group. The Directors collectively and individually accept full responsibility for the accuracy of the information contained in this circular and confirm, having made all reasonable enquiries that to the best of their knowledge and belief there are no other facts the omission of which would make any statement herein misleading.

2. SHARE CAPITAL

The authorised and issued share capital of the Company as at the Latest Practicable Date were as follows:

Number of Par value Total
Shares per Share nominal value
HK$ HK$
Authorised shares: 1,000,000,000 0.10 100,000,000
Issued and fully paid shares: 413,265,000 0.10 41,326,500

3. DISCLOSURE OF INTERESTS

(a) Interests of Directors

As at the Latest Practicable Date, the interests and short positions in the Shares, underlying shares and debentures of the Company and its associated corporations (within the meaning of Part XV of the SFO) of the Directors and the chief executive of the Company which were required to be notified to the Company and the Stock Exchange pursuant to Divisions 7 and 8 of Part XV of the SFO (including interests and short positions which they were taken or deemed to have under such provisions of the SFO), or which were required, pursuant to Section 352 of the SFO, to be recorded in the register referred to therein, or which were otherwise required to be notified to the Company and the Stock Exchange pursuant to the Model Code for Securities Transactions by Directors of Listed Issuers (“Model Code”) set out in Appendix 10 to the Listing Rules, were as follows:

Approximate
Nature of Number of Number of percentage of
Name interests Shares Share Option(1) shareholding (%)
Lo Kin Hang, Brian Personal 5,000 800,000 0.20
(Vice President and Company Secretary)
Chen Xun_(Vice President)_ Personal 6,000(2) 260,000 0.06
Yang Qing_(Vice President)_ Personal 130,000 0.03

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APPENDIX III

GENERAL INFORMATION

(1) The share options were granted on 19 June 2001 under the share option scheme adopted at the annual general meeting of the Company held on 22 May 2001 and all the above share options have an exercise price of HK$2.765 per share and are exercisable within the period from 22 May 2003 to 21 May 2011.

  • (2) The capacity in which Chen Xun held 6,000 shares of the Company was being a trustee.

Save as disclosed above, as at the Latest Practicable Date, none of the Directors or chief executive of the Company had any interests or short position in the Shares, underlying shares and debentures of the Company and its associated corporations (within the meaning of Part XV of the SFO) which were required to be notified to the Company and the Stock Exchange pursuant to Divisions 7 and 8 of Part XV of the SFO (including interests and short positions which they were taken or deemed to have under such provisions of the SFO), or which were required, pursuant to Section 352 of the SFO, to be recorded in the register referred to therein, or which were otherwise required to be notified to the Company and the Stock Exchange pursuant to the Model Code.

(b) Other disclosure under the SFO and substantial shareholders’ interests

As at the Latest Practicable Date, so far as was known to the Directors and the chief executive of the Company, the following persons (other than a Director or chief executive of the Company) had an interest or a short position in the Shares and underlying shares which would fall to be disclosed to the Company and the Stock Exchange under the provisions of Divisions 2 and 3 of Part XV of the SFO or who were, directly or indirectly, interested in 10% or more of the nominal value of any class of share capital carrying rights to vote in all circumstances at general meetings of any other member of the Group (including any company which will become subsidiary of the Company by reason of an acquisition which has been agreed or proposed since 31 December 2008, being the date to which the latest audited consolidated accounts of the Group were made up) or had any option of such capital:

Approximate
Number of percentage of
Name of shareholder Note shares interested issued share capital
China Aerospace Science & Technology Corporation 1 257,400,000 62.28%
APT Satellite International Company Limited 214,200,000 51.83%
China Aerospace International Holdings Limited 1(c) 31,200,000 7.55%
Temasek Holdings (Private) Limited 2 22,800,000 5.52%

Notes:

  1. China Aerospace Science & Technology Corporation (“CASC”) was deemed to be interested in the shares of the Company by virtue of:

  2. (a) CASC’s beneficial interests in 6,000,000 shares of the Company;

  3. (b) CASC’s interests through its controlled corporation being APT Satellite International Company Limited (being CASC’s 14.29% direct interest and 28.58% indirect interest by virtue of its 100% shareholding in China Satellite Communications Corporation (中國衛星通信集團公司) (“CSCC”), which was deemed to be interested in the shares of the Company by virtue of CSCC’s 100% shareholding in China Telecommunications Broadcast Satellite Corporation (中國通信廣播衛星公 司); and

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GENERAL INFORMATION

APPENDIX III

  • (c) CASC’s interests through its controlled corporation being China Aerospace International Holdings Limited (“CASIL”) (being CASC’s 44.47% shareholding in CASIL, which was deemed to be interested in the shares of the Company by virtue of CASIL’s 100% shareholding in Sinolike Investments Limited, which holds 16,800,000 shares of the Company and which was deemed to be interested in the shares of the Company by virtue of its 100% shareholding in CASIL Satellite Holdings Limited which holds 14,400,000 shares of the Company.

  • Temasek Holdings (Private) Limited (“Temasek”) was deemed to be interested in the shares of the Company by virtue of its interests through its controlled corporation (being Temasek’s 54.99% shareholding in Singapore Telecommunications Limited (“SingTel”), which was deemed to be interested in the shares of the Company by virtue of SingTel’s 100% shareholding in Singasat Private Limited).

Save as disclosed above, as at the Latest Practicable Date, so far as known to the Directors and the chief executive of the Company, no person (other than a Director or chief executive of the Company) had any interest or short position in the Shares and the underlying shares which would fall to be disclosed to the Company and the Stock Exchange under the provisions of Divisions 2 and 3 of Part XV of the SFO, or who was, directly or indirectly, interested in 10% or more of the nominal value of any class of share capital carrying rights to vote in all circumstances at general meetings of any other member of the Group (including any company which will become subsidiary of the Company by reason of an acquisition which has been agreed or proposed since 31 December 2008, being the date to which the latest audited consolidated account of the Group were made up) or had any option of such capital.

(c) Particulars of Directors’ service contracts

Save as disclosed below, no Director entered into service contract with the Company or any of its subsidiaries:

Mr. Cheng Guangren (Executive Director and President) and Mr. Qi Liang (Executive Director and Vice President) entered into a service contract with the Company, respectively, for an initial term of three years, commencing on 20 June 2008, and continuing thereafter until terminated by either party giving to the other not less than six months’ notice but not more than one year or to pay compensation or make other payments equivalent to more than one year’s emoluments (other than statutory compensation).

(d) Miscellaneous

As at the Latest Practicable Date,

  • (i) none of the Directors or experts named in the section headed “Expert’s qualifications and consents” in this appendix had any direct or indirect interests in any assets which had been, since 31 December 2008, being the date to which the latest published audited consolidated accounts of the Group were made up, acquired or disposed of by, or leased to the Company or any member of the Group (including any company which will become a subsidiary of the Company by reason of an acquisition which has been agreed or proposed since 31 December 2008, or were proposed to be acquired or disposed of by, or leased to, the Company or any member of the Group (including any company which will become a subsidiary of the Company by reason of an acquisition which has been agreed or proposed since 31 December 2008; and

117

GENERAL INFORMATION

APPENDIX III

  • (ii) none of the Directors was materially interested in any contract or arrangement entered into by the Company or any member of the Group (including any company which will become a subsidiary of the Company by reason of an acquisition which has been agreed or proposed since 31 December 2008 which contract or arrangement was subsisting as at the Latest Practicable Date and which was significant in relation to the business of the Group (including any company which will become subsidiary of the Company by reason of an acquisition which has been agreed or proposed since 31 December 2008.

4. DIRECTORS’ INTERESTS IN COMPETING BUSINESS

As at the Latest Practicable Date, the following Director of the Company was also director in other business, which competed or might compete, either directly or indirectly, with the Group’s business:

Name of Director Name of the Companies Principal Activities Yong Foo Chong SingTelSat Pte Ltd Provision of satellite capacity for telecommunication and video broadcasting services

Save as disclosed above, to the best knowledge of the Directors, none of the Directors or their respective associates had any interests in any business which competed or might compete with the business of the Company.

5. MATERIAL CONTRACTS

Set out below are the material contracts (not being contracts entered into in the ordinary course of business) entered into by any member of the Enlarged Group within the two years immediately preceding the Latest Practicable Date:

  • (a) the agreement dated 1 June 2009 between the Company, Telesat Canada and Telesat Asia Pacific Satellite (HK) Limited in relation to the termination and cancellation of the lease agreement dated 18 August 1999 between APT (HK) and Telesat Asia Pacific Satellite (HK) Limited (formerly known as Loral Asia Pacific Satellite (HK) Limited), as amended and supplemented, and the ancillary satellite service agreement in respect of APSTAR-2R/ Telestar 10; and

  • (b) the Satellite Procurement Contract.

6. LITIGATION

As at the Latest Practicable Date, there was no litigation or claim of material importance known to the Directors to be pending or threatened by or against the Company or any member of the Group.

118

GENERAL INFORMATION

APPENDIX III

7. EXPERT’S QUALIFICATIONS AND CONSENTS

The qualification of the experts who have provided their advice which is contained in this circular is set out as follows:

Name Qualification KPMG Certified Public Accountant

KPMG have given and have not withdrawn their written consent to the issue of this circular with the inclusion of their letter and the reference to their names in the form and context in which it appears.

As at the Latest Practicable Date, KPMG were not beneficially interested in the share capital of any member of the Group and did not have any right, whether legally enforceable or not, to subscribe for or to nominate persons to subscribe for securities in any member of the Group.

8. GENERAL

  • (a) The registered office of the Company is at Clarendon House, 2 Church Street, Hamilton, HM 11,Bermuda. The Company’s head office and principal place of business in Hong Kong is situated at 22 Dai Kwai Street, Tai Po Industrial Estate, Tai Po, New Territories, Hong Kong.

  • (b) The secretary of the Company is Dr. Lo Kin Hang Brian, DBA, MSCIT, MBA, MPA, FCIS, FCS(PE), CEng, MIET.

  • (c) The branch share registrars of the Company in Hong Kong is Tricor Tengis Limited of 26thFloor, Tesbury Centre, 28 Queen’s Road East, Wanchai, Hong Kong.

  • (d) In the event of inconsistency, the English text of this circular shall prevail over the Chinese text.

9. DOCUMENTS AVAILABLE FOR INSPECTION

Copies of the following documents will be available for inspection during normal business hours at the head office of the Company at 22 Dai Kwai Street, Tai Po Industrial Estate, Tai Po, New Territories, Hong Kong up to and including the date of SGM on 4 November 2009:

  • (a) the memorandum of association and bye-laws of the Company;

  • (b) the Satellite Procurement Contract;

  • (c) the annual reports of the Company and the audited accounts of each of the subsidiaries of the Company for the years ended 31 December 2006, 31 December 2007 and 31 December 2008, and the unaudited interim report of the Company for the six months ended 30 June 2009;

119

GENERAL INFORMATION

APPENDIX III

  • (d) the letter issued by KPMG in connection with the Unaudited Pro Forma Net Assets Statement of the Group, the text of which is set out in Appendix II to this circular;

  • (e) service contracts as referred to in the paragraph headed “Particulars of Directors’ service contracts” in this appendix;

  • (f) the consent letter issued by KPMG referred to in the paragraph headed “Expert’s qualifications and consents” in this appendix;

  • (g) the material contracts as referred to in the paragraph headed “Material Contracts” in this appendix;

  • (h) the circular of the Company dated 22 June 2009 in relation to the very substantial acquisition relating to the agreement dated 1 June 2009 between the Company, Telesat Canada and Telesat Asia Pacific Satellite (HK) Limited in relation to the termination and cancellation of the lease agreement dated 18 August 1999 between APT (HK) and Telesat Asia Pacific Satellite (HK) Limited, as amended and supplemented, and the ancillary satellite service agreement in respect of APSTAR-2R/Telestar 10; and

  • (i) this circular.

120

NOTICE OF SGM

(Incorporated in Bermuda with limited liability) (Stock code: 1045)

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a special general meeting (the “SGM”) of APT Satellite Holdings Limited (the “Company”) will be held at its principal place of business, 22 Dai Kwai Street, Tai Po Industrial Estate, Tai Po, New Territories, Hong Kong on Wednesday, 4 November 2009 at 11 a.m. to consider and, if thought fit, pass with or without modifications, the following resolution which will be proposed as an ordinary resolution as indicated below:

ORDINARY RESOLUTION

“THAT:

  • (a) the transactions contemplated under the Satellite Procurement Contract entered into on 29 September 2009 between APT Satellite Company Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company and Thales Alenia Space France in respect of APSTAR 7 Satellite (a copy of which has been produced to the meeting and marked “A” and signed by the chairman of the meeting for identification purposes) be and is hereby approved; and

  • (b) the directors of the Company be and are hereby authorised to do all such things and sign, seal, execute, perfect and deliver all such documents on behalf of the Company as they may in their discretion consider necessary, desirable or expedient, for the purposes of or in connection with the implementation and/or give effect to any matters relating to the Satellite Procurement Contract and all transactions contemplated thereunder.”

By Order of the board of APT Satellite Holdings Limited Dr. Brian Lo Company Secretary

Hong Kong, 19 October 2009

Registered office: Clarendon House 2 Church Street Hamilton, HM 11 Bermuda

Head office and principal place of business:

22 Dai Kwai Street Tai Po Industrial Estate Tai Po New Territories Hong Kong

121

NOTICE OF SGM

Notes:

  1. A member entitled to attend and vote at the above meeting is entitled to appoint one or, if he/she is the holder of two or more shares, more proxies to attend and vote on his/her behalf. A proxy need not be a member of the Company.

  2. In order to be valid, the form of proxy must be deposited with the Company’s branch share registrars in Hong Kong, Tricor Tengis Limited, at 26th Floor, Tesbury Centre, 28 Queen’s Road East, Wanchai, Hong Kong, together with the power of attorney or other authority, if any, under which it is signed, or a notarially certified copy of that power of attorney or other authority, not less than 48 hours before the time appointed for holding the meeting or adjourned meeting (as the case may be).

  3. The form of proxy for use in connection with the above meeting is enclosed and such form is also published on the website of the Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited (www.hkexnews.hk) and the Company (www.apstar.com).

122