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Chinasoft International Limited Proxy Solicitation & Information Statement 2005

Jan 7, 2005

49152_rns_2005-01-07_7c7f8ee6-df78-400b-b4c4-8ed910e5dd78.pdf

Proxy Solicitation & Information Statement

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THIS CIRCULAR IS IMPORTANT AND REQUIRES YOUR IMMEDIATE ATTENTION

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

If you have sold or transferred all your shares in Melco International Development Limited (the “Company”), you should at once hand this circular, together with the enclosed form of proxy, to the purchaser or transferee or to the bank, the licensed securities dealer or other agent through whom the sale or transfer was effected for transmission to the purchaser or transferee.

This circular is for your information purposes only and does not constitute an invitation or offer to acquire or subscribe for securities.

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

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(Incorporated in Hong Kong with limited liability) Website: http://www.melco.hk.cn

(Stock Code: 200)

MAJOR TRANSACTION ESTABLISHMENT OF A JOINT VENTURE GROUP FOR PURSUANCE OF GAMING AND HOSPITALITY BUSINESSES AND MAJOR AND CONNECTED TRANSACTION FURTHER ACQUISITION OF INTEREST IN THE LAND AND REFRESHMENT OF GENERAL MANDATE TO ALLOT AND ISSUE SHARES

Financial Adviser to Melco International Development Limited

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(A wholly-owned subsidiary of Value Convergence Holdings Limited)

Independent Financial Adviser to the Independent Board Committee

A letter from the Independent Board Committee containing its advice and recommendation to the Independent Shareholders concerning the Connected Transaction and the Refreshment of General Mandate is set out on pages 36 to 37 of this circular. A letter from Dao Heng Securities, the Independent Financial Adviser to the Independent Board Committee and the Independent Shareholders, is set out on pages 38 to 59 of this circular.

A notice convening an extraordinary general meeting (“EGM”) of the Company to be held at 4:00 p.m. on Thursday, 20, January 2005 at 38th Floor, The Centrium, 60 Wyndham Street, Central, Hong Kong, is set out on pages 134 to 136 of this circular. A proxy form is also enclosed. Whether or not you intend to attend and vote at the EGM, please complete and return the enclosed proxy form in accordance with the instructions printed thereon to the Company’s registered office, 38th Floor, The Centrium, 60 Wyndham Street, Central, Hong Kong as soon as possible and in any event not less than 48 hours before the time appointed for holding of the EGM or any adjournment thereof. Completion and return of the proxy form will not preclude you from attending and voting in person at the EGM or any adjourned meeting should you so wish.

5 January 2005

CONTENTS

Page
Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Letter from the Board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
The Definitive Agreements regarding proposed establishment of the JV Group
The purpose of the JV Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
The Subscription Agreement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Conditions precedent of the Subscription Agreement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
The Proposed Shareholders Deed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Basis of determination of the capital contribution from PBL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
The corporate structure before and after the establishment of the JV Group . . . . . . . 16
Deemed profit accrued to the Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
The Connected Transaction
Principal terms of the Second Agreement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Board composition of Great Wonders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Principal terms of the Second Convertible Bond . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Fund raising exercises carried out by the Company in the past twelve months . . . . . 24
Shareholding structure of the Company before and after full conversion
of the Convertible Bonds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Effects of the Second Agreement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Information on PBL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Information of the Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Reasons and benefits for the proposed establishment of the JV Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Information on STDM and the Land . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Reasons and benefits of entering into the Second Agreement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
The Refreshment of General Mandate
Previous General Mandate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
New General Mandate to allot and issue securities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Reasons for the Refreshment of General Mandate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Implications under the Listing Rules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Extraordinary general meeting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Recommendation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Letter from the Independent Board Committee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Letter from Dao Heng Securities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

– i –

CONTENTS

Page
Appendix I – Accountants’ report of Great Wonders. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
Appendix II – Financial information of the Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
**Appendix III ** – Property valuation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
**Appendix IV ** – Unaudited pro forma financial information
on the Enlarged Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115
Appendix V – General information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123
Notice of extraordinary general meeting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134

– ii –

DEFINITIONS

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

“associate” has the same meaning as ascribed to it in the Listing Rules “AGM” the annual general meeting of the Company held on 20 May 2004

“Better Joy” Better Joy Overseas Limited, a company owned as to 77% by Mr. Lawrence Ho and as to 23% by Dr. Stanley Ho

“Board” the board of Directors “Company” Melco International Development Limited, a company incorporated in Hong Kong, the securities of which are listed on the Stock Exchange

  • “connected person”

has the same meaning as ascribed to it in the Listing Rules

  • “Connected Transaction”

  • the Second Agreement and all transactions contemplated thereunder including the issue of the Second Convertible Bond by the Company to STDM and the allotment and issue of Shares upon conversion of the Second Convertible Bond

  • “Controlling Shareholders”

  • Mr. Lawrence Ho and his associates, namely, Dr. Stanley Ho, Madam Lucina Laam King Ying, Lasting Legend and Better Joy

  • “Convertible Bonds”

the First Convertible Bond and the Second Convertible Bond

  • “Dao Heng Securities” or “Independent Financial Adviser”

Dao Heng Securities Limited, the independent financial adviser to advise the Independent Board Committee and the Independent Shareholders in connection with the Connected Transaction and the Refreshment of General Mandate

  • “Definitive Agreements”

the Subscription Agreement and the Proposed Shareholders Deed

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

  • “Dr. Stanley Ho”

Dr. Ho Hung Sun, Stanley, the Chairman and an Executive Director of the Company

“EGM”

an extraordinary general meeting of the Company to be convened on Thursday, 20, January 2005 for the purpose of considering and approving the Definitive Agreements and all transactions contemplated thereunder, the Connected Transaction and the Refreshment of General Mandate

– 1 –

DEFINITIONS

  • “Enlarged Group”

  • “First Convertible Bond”

  • “First Agreement”

  • “Gaming Business”

  • “Greater China region”

  • “Great Wonders”

  • “Group”

  • “Heads of Agreement”

  • “Hong Kong”

  • “Hospitality Business”

  • “HK$”

the Group as enlarged immediately after the establishment of the JV Group as contemplated under the Subscription Agreement

  • a redeemable HK$100 million 5-year convertible bond carrying a right to subscribe for the new Shares at HK$4.00 per Share issued by the Company on 9 November 2004 pursuant to the First Agreement

  • an agreement dated 8 September 2004 entered into between STDM and the Company for the purpose of acquiring 50% equity interests of Great Wonders which has applied for the concession of the Land for developing the Hospitality Business

  • the business currently engaged by Mocha Slot including the leasing of electronic gaming machines and the provision of related management services by Mocha Slot to casino operators in Macau

  • such territorial regions covering the PRC, Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan

  • Great Wonders, Investments, Limited, a joint venture company formed by STDM and the Company in Macau pursuant to the First Agreement

the Company and its subsidiaries from time to time

  • the legally binding heads of agreement dated 11 November 2004 entered into between the Company and PBL in relation to the proposed establishment of the JV Group, details of which are set out in the announcements of the Company respectively dated 23 November 2004 and 7 December 2004

the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the PRC

  • the equity interests of the Company from time to time in Great Wonders and all rights, benefits and obligations of the Company in respect of all transactions related to the development of the luxury hotel housing a casino and an electronic gaming machine lounge on the Land through Great Wonders in accordance with the Land Acquisition Agreements

Hong Kong dollars, the lawful currency of Hong Kong

– 2 –

DEFINITIONS

  • “Independent Board Committee”

  • the independent board committee of the Company comprising the Independent Non-executive Directors, namely Sir Roger Lobo, Mr. Robert Kwan and Dr. Lo Ka Shui, to advise the Independent Shareholders in respect of the Connected Transaction and the Refreshment of General Mandate

  • “Independent Shareholders”

  • Shareholders other than Dr. Stanley Ho and his associates, namely Madam Lucina Laam King Ying, Mr. Lawrence Ho, Lasting Legend and Better Joy or, as the case may be, the Controlling Shareholders

  • “Independent Third Party(ies)”

  • independent third party(ies) not connected with the Company and its subsidiaries, the controlling shareholder, directors, chief executive or substantial shareholders of the Company and its subsidiaries, or an associate of any of them under the Listing Rules

  • “JV1” or “JV2” or “JV3” the proposed subsidiary(ies) of JVCo to be established pursuant to the Subscription Agreement

  • “JV Group”

  • the proposed group of companies comprising Melco PBL Holdings, JV1, JV2 and JV3 together with such other subsidiaries of Melco PBL Holdings, if any, from time to time

  • “Lasting Legend”

  • Lasting Legend Limited, a company wholly-owned by Mr. Lawrence Ho

  • “Land”

  • a parcel of land with an area of 5,230 square meters located at Baixa da Taipa, Macau, described with the Land Registry Office of Macau under the no 21407, folio 125 of the Book B49.

  • “Land Acquisition Agreements” the First Agreement and the Second Agreement

  • “Latest Practicable Date”

  • 30 December 2004, being the latest practicable date prior to the printing of this circular for ascertaining certain information contained herein

  • “Letter of Confirmation”

  • the confirmation letter dated 11 November 2004 issued by SJM to Great Wonders (and counter-signed by Great Wonders) in relation to the proposed execution of the Proposed Lease Agreement between SJM and Great Wonders

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

  • “Macau”

the Macau Special Administrative Region of the PRC

– 3 –

DEFINITIONS

  • “Melco Entertainment”

a company with the proposed name of Melco Entertainment Limited to be established by the Company on or before the date of completion of the Subscription Agreement as its wholly-owned subsidiary for the purpose of holding (i) 80% equity interests in Mocha Slot and (ii) either 50% (assuming the Second Agreement is not completed) or 70% (assuming the Second Agreement is completed) equity interests in Great Wonders

  • “Melco Leisure”

  • Melco Leisure and Entertainment Group Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company, used for the purpose of holding the relevant equity interests of the Company in the JV Group companies upon establishment of the JV Group

  • “Melco PBL Holdings” or “JVCo”

  • Melco PBL Holdings Limited, a company incorporated on 17 December 2004 under the laws of Cayman Islands with the entire issued share capital currently owned by the Company. Pursuant to the Subscription Agreement, it is intended that Melco PBL Holdings will become the principal holding company within the JV Group

  • “Mr. Lawrence Ho”

  • Mr. Ho, Lawrence Yau Lung, the Managing Director and Executive Director of the Company and son of Dr. Stanley Ho

  • “Mocha Slot”

  • Mocha Slot Group Limited, a company incorporated under the laws of the British Virgin Islands and the equity interests in which are held as to 80% by the Company directly and 20% by Dr. Stanley Ho as at the date of this circular

  • “MOP$” pataca, the lawful currency of Macau

  • “Nasdaq” the electronic stock exchange operated by the National Association of Securities Dealers in the United States of America

  • “New General Mandate”

  • the proposed general mandate to be sought for the approval of the Independent Shareholders (by way of poll) at the EGM to authorize the Directors to allot and issue securities in the manner as set out in the Notice of EGM included in this circular

  • “PBL” Publishing and Broadcasting Limited, a company incorporated under the laws of Australia, the securities of which are listed on the Australian Stock Exchange

  • “PBL Asia”

  • PBL Asia Investments Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of PBL, used for the purpose of holding the relevant equity interests of PBL in the JV Group companies upon establishment of the JV Group

– 4 –

DEFINITIONS

“Placing”

the top-up placing of 75,900,000 Shares at a price of HK$5.20 per Share on 15 October 2004 as disclosed in the announcement of the Company dated 15 October 2004

  • “Previous General Mandate”

the general mandate approved at the extraordinary general meeting of the Company held on 15 October 2004 to authorize the Directors to allot and issue securities up to 20% of the issued share capital of the Company as at the date of passing the relevant ordinary resolution

  • “Proposed Lease Agreement” the proposed lease agreement to be entered into between SJM and Great Wonders, in respect of a proposed lease by SJM from Great Wonders for an area of approximately 18,000 square meters at the hotel to be developed on the Land for the purpose of operating a casino with not less than 160 gaming tables

  • “Proposed Shareholders Deed” the proposed shareholders deed substantially in the form of the draft annexed to the Subscription Agreement with such amendments as the Directors may make or agree to make, to be entered into amongst the Company, Melco Leisure, PBL, PBL Asia and Melco PBL Holdings on or before the date of completion of the Subscription Agreement for the purpose of regulating the respective rights and obligations of the shareholders of the JV Group

“PRC”

The People’s Republic of China

  • “Refreshment of General the proposed grant of the New General Mandate to the Directors Mandate” in replacement of the Previous General Mandate

  • “Share(s)”

  • ordinary share(s) of HK$1.00 each in the share capital of the Company

  • “Shareholder(s)”

holder(s) of Share(s)

  • “Second Convertible Bond”

  • a redeemable HK$56 million 5-year convertible bond carrying a right to subscribe for the new Shares at HK$8.20 per Share proposed to be issued by the Company to STDM pursuant to the Second Agreement

  • “Second Agreement”

an agreement entered into between STDM and the Company on 11 November 2004 regarding the further acquisition of 20% equity interests of Great Wonders for a consideration of HK$56 million

“SFO”

Securities and Futures Ordinance (Chapter 571, the Laws of Hong Kong)

– 5 –

DEFINITIONS

Sociedade de Jogos de Macau, S.A., a company incorporated under the laws of Macau

“SJM” Sociedade de Jogos de Macau, S.A., a company incorporated under the laws of Macau “STDM” Sociedade de Turismo e Diversoes de Macau, S.A.R.L. a company incorporated under the laws of Macau “Stock Exchange” The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited “Subscription Agreement” the subscription agreement dated 23 December 2004 entered into amongst the Company, Melco PBL Holdings, PBL and PBL Asia in relation to the proposed establishment of the JV Group, which has the effect of superseding the Heads of Agreement. Information of this Subscription Agreement is set out in the announcement of the Company dated 23 December 2004 “US$” United States dollars, the lawful currency of the United States of America “Value Convergence” Value Convergence Holdings Limited, a company incorporated in Hong Kong, the securities of which are listed on the Growth Enterprise Market operated by the Stock Exchange (Stock code: 8101) and a 67.57% owned subsidiary of the Company “%” per cent.

For the purpose of this circular, the amount in US$ and MOP$ are respectively translated into HK$ at the following exchange rates:

US$1.00: HK$7.78

MOP$1.03:HK$1.00.

– 6 –

LETTER FROM THE BOARD

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(Incorporated in Hong Kong with limited liability) Website: http://www.melco.hk.cn (Stock Code: 200)

Executive Directors: Dr. Stanley Ho (Chairman) Mr. Lawrence Ho (Managing Director) Mr. Frank Tsui

Non-executive Directors: Mr. Ng Ching Wo Mr. Ho Cheuk Yuet

Registered office, head office and principal place of business: Penthouse 38th Floor The Centrium 60 Wyndham Street Central Hong Kong

Independent Non-executive Directors: Sir Roger Lobo Mr. Robert Kwan Dr. Lo Ka Shui

5 January 2005

To the Shareholders

Dear Sir or Madam,

MAJOR TRANSACTION ESTABLISHMENT OF A JOINT VENTURE GROUP FOR PURSUANCE OF GAMING AND HOSPITALITY BUSINESSES AND MAJOR AND CONNECTED TRANSACTION FURTHER ACQUISITION OF INTEREST IN THE LAND AND REFRESHMENT OF GENERAL MANDATE TO ALLOT AND ISSUE SHARES

INTRODUCTION

By the announcement of the Company dated 23 November 2004, the Board announced that on 11 November 2004, the Company has entered into two separate agreements, namely the Heads of Agreement and the Second Agreement, with PBL and STDM respectively in relation to, inter alia, the Gaming Business and the Hospitality Business. Supplemental information on the Heads of Agreement has also been provided by the Company in its clarification announcement dated 7 December 2004.

– 7 –

LETTER FROM THE BOARD

Subsequent to the execution of the Heads of Agreement, the Company and PBL proceeded with the negotiations on the terms of the Definitive Agreements in accordance with the terms laid down in the Heads of Agreement. Also, pursuant to the Heads of Agreement, the Company has incorporated JVCo under the laws of Cayman Islands on 17 December 2004 bearing the name of Melco PBL Holdings with a view that Melco PBL Holdings will ultimately become the principal holding company within the JV Group. As at the date of this circular and subject to the completion of the Subscription Agreement, Melco PBL Holdings is and shall remain as a wholly-owned subsidiary of Melco.

As disclosed in the further announcement of the Company dated 23 December 2004, Melco and Melco PBL Holdings, have entered into the Subscription Agreement with PBL and PBL Asia, a whollyowned subsidiary of PBL, which has the effect of superseding the Heads of Agreement. At the same time, the Company and the PBL have agreed upon the principal terms of the Proposed Shareholders Deed. The Subscription Agreement has incorporated and the Proposed Shareholders Deed, when executed, will incorporate substantially the same terms as contained in the Heads of Agreement relating to the establishment of the JV Group and seek to expand and specify those terms in greater details. According to the Subscription Agreement, the terms of the Definitive Agreements embody the entire agreement between the relevant parties with regard to the establishment of the JV Group.

In addition to the above, the Board proposes to seek Independent Shareholders’ approval (by way of poll) at the EGM for the Refreshment of General Mandate since the Previous General Mandate has, to a substantial extent, been utilized by the Company as a result of the Placing as disclosed in the announcement of the Company dated 15 October 2004.

The purpose of this circular is to set out (i) further information on the Definitive Agreements in respect of the proposed establishment of the JV Group; (ii) the principal terms of the Second Agreement; (iii) the principal terms of the Second Convertible Bond; (iv) the valuation report of the Land; (v) details of the Refreshment of General Mandate; (vi) the recommendation from the Independent Board Committee in respect of the Connected Transaction and the Refreshment of General Mandate; (vii) a letter of advice from the Independent Financial Adviser to the Independent Board Committee and the Independent Shareholders in respect of the Connected Transaction and the Refreshment of General Mandate; and (viii) the notice convening the EGM at which necessary resolution(s) will be proposed to the Shareholders or the Independent Shareholders (as the case may be) to consider and if thought fit, approve the Definitive Agreements and the transactions contemplated thereunder, the Connected Transaction and the Refreshment of General Mandate.

THE DEFINITIVE AGREEMENTS REGARDING PROPOSED ESTABLISHMENT OF THE JV GROUP

The Purpose of the JV Group

The Definitive Agreements set out the principal terms agreed by the Company and PBL in connection with the establishment of the JV Group that intends to become a premier gaming and entertainment group for pursuance and development of the gaming, entertainment and hospitality businesses in Asia Pacific region and the Greater China Region including, but not limited to, Macau, Thailand, Japan, Singapore, Philippines, Vietnam and Indonesia (but excluding Australia and New Zealand).

– 8 –

LETTER FROM THE BOARD

The Subscription Agreement

Date : 23 December 2004

Parties : The Company (as guarantor)

Melco PBL Holdings (as issuer)

PBL, an Independent Third Party (as guarantor)

PBL Asia, an Independent Third Party (as subscriber for shares of Melco PBL Holdings)

The principal terms of the Subscription Agreement agreed by the Company, Melco PBL Holdings, PBL and PBL Asia include the followings:

  • Principal terms : (i) Melco PBL Holdings is currently 100% indirectly owned by the Company. It is contemplated that under Melco PBL Holdings, certain subsidiaries will be incorporated, including but not limited to, JV1;

  • (ii) It is contemplated that JV1 will be established as a wholly-owned subsidiary of Melco PBL Holdings. The Company will take the necessary steps to transfer to and procure JV1 to acquire, 80% equity interests in Melco Entertainment, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company to be formed for the purpose of holding (i) 80% equity interests in Mocha Slot and (ii) either 50% (assuming the Second Agreement is not completed) or 70% (assuming the Second Agreement is completed) equity interests in Great Wonders pursuant to the Land Acquisition Agreements. It is anticipated that the Company will retain the control of the composition of the board of directors of Melco Entertainment and hence it is expected that Melco Entertainment and its subsidiaries shall remain the indirect subsidiaries of the Company after establishment of the JV Group;

  • (iii) Upon completion of the Subscription Agreement (which is subject to the fulfillment of the conditions precedent mentioned in the paragraph headed “Conditions precedent of the Subscription Agreement” below), PBL Asia will subscribe such number of new shares representing 50% equity interests in Melco PBL Holdings for a total consideration of US$163 million (equivalent to approximately HK$1.27 billion) in case the Independent Shareholders approve (by way of poll) the relevant resolution(s) regarding the Second Agreement at the EGM (which such amount remains the same as contained in the Heads of Agreement) or a total consideration of US$105 million (equivalent to approximately HK$817 million) in case the Independent Shareholders do not approve (by way of poll) the relevant resolution(s) regarding the Second Agreement at the EGM. The different amounts of capital contribution to be made by the PBL Asia reflect the strategic importance valued by PBL and PBL Asia in the acquisition of additional 20% equity interests in Great Wonders by the Company pursuant to the Second Agreement

– 9 –

LETTER FROM THE BOARD

as with the additional 20% equity interests, Melco PBL Holdings will obtain a controlling interest of 56% in Great Wonders upon establishment of the JV Group while without the successful acquisition of 20% equity interests of Great Wonders by the Company, Melco PBL Holdings will only have an equity interest of 40% in Great Wonders. Save for the lesser amount of capital contribution of US$105 million to be made by PBL Asia in case the Independent Shareholders do not approve (by way of poll) the relevant resolution(s) regarding the Second Agreement, the original amount of capital contribution of US$163 million to be made by PBL Asia to the JV Group (assuming the Second Agreement is completed) remains the same as contained in the Heads of Agreement;

  • (iv) Following the proposed subscription of such number of new shares representing 50% equity interests in Melco PBL Holdings by PBL Asia, the equity interests in Melco PBL Holdings will be owned as to 50% by the Company, via Melco Leisure and 50% by PBL with PBL Asia and upon such time, Melco PBL Holdings will cease to be a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company and become a jointly controlled company in the consolidated accounts of the Company;

  • (v) It is contemplated that apart from managing and operating the businesses of Melco Entertainment, namely the Gaming Business and the Hospitality Business jointly with the Company, JV1 shall become the principal investment vehicle for all future expansion and acquisition activities, if any, in the gaming, entertainment and hospitality industries in the Asia Pacific region (excluding Australia and New Zealand) and the Greater China Region;

  • (vi) After establishment of the JV Group, if the relevant authority in Macau does not grant the concession of the Land to Great Wonders by the deadline of 1 September 2005 (or such other date as may be agreed between the Company and PBL Asia), then PBL Asia may by written notice require the Company to (a) reimburse PBL Asia, within 10 business days of such deadline, 60% of any sum utilized from the capital contribution made by PBL Asia in the Gaming Business, and Hospitality Business; and either (b) purchase, within 10 business days of the date of the relevant notice given by PBL Asia, all the equity interests held by PBL Asia in Melco PBL Holdings at a consideration equivalent to the total capital contribution originally made by PBL Asia less the total sum utilized from the said capital contribution in the Gaming Business and Hospitality Business or (c) procure Melco PBL Holdings, within 10 business days of the date of the relevant notice given by PBL Asia (or such later date as may be agreed by PBL Asia), to return an amount equivalent to the total capital contribution originally made by PBL Asia less the total sum utilized from the said

– 10 –

LETTER FROM THE BOARD

capital contribution in the Gaming Business and Hospitality Business, whether by way of share buy-back, capital reduction or other suitable method of return of capital in consideration for PBL Asia agreeing all its shares in Melco PBL Holdings to be bought back or cancelled by Melco PBL Holdings; and

  • (vii) As guarantors to the Subscription Agreement, the Company and PBL respectively guarantee the due performance of the obligations of their respective subsidiaries, namely, Melco PBL Holdings and PBL Asia, under the Subscription Agreement.

Conditions precedent of the Subscription Agreement

Completion of the Subscription Agreement is conditional on, amongst other things :

  • (i) satisfactory completion of the due diligence in terms of business operation, financial and legal status performed by PBL on the Gaming Business and the Hospitality Business;

  • (ii) the issuance of a letter by the relevant authority in Macau to STDM and/ or Great Wonders confirming that it intends to grant the concession of the Land to Great Wonders for use of the development of the luxury hotel housing a casino and an electronic gaming machine lounge on the Land on terms reasonably satisfactory to PBL Asia;

  • (iii) each of the Company and PBL having obtained all requisite consents and approvals, if required, from the relevant regulatory authorities, including but not limited to the relevant gaming regulatory authorities in Macau and/ or Australia and approval from the Shareholders in connection with the Definitive Agreements and the transactions contemplated thereby; and

  • (iv) the warranties and representations given by the Company under the Subscription Agreement remaining true and accurate in all material respects.

If the conditions precedent set out above are not fulfilled or waived (as the case may be) on or before 30 June 2005 or such later date as may be agreed in writing between the parties to the Subscription Agreement, any party may by written notice to the other parties at any time thereafter to terminate the Subscription Agreement. Completion of the Subscription Agreement is expected to occur two business days after satisfaction (or waiver by the relevant party, as the case may be) of the conditions precedent.

On the date of completion of the Subscription Agreement, PBL Asia will make the relevant capital contribution to Melco PBL Holdings in one lump sum payment and each party to the Subscription Agreement will deliver certain completion documents to the others, including the executed counterparts of the Proposed Shareholders Deed, to implement completion.

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LETTER FROM THE BOARD

The Proposed Shareholders Deed

Upon completion of the Subscription Agreement, the Company (as guarantor), Melco Leisure (as shareholder of Melco PBL Holdings), PBL (as guarantor), PBL Asia (as shareholder of Melco PBL Holdings) and Melco PBL Holdings shall execute the Proposed Shareholders Deed for the purpose of regulating the respective rights and obligations of the shareholders of the JV Group.

The principal terms of the Proposed Shareholders Deed include the following:

Principal terms : (i) Unless Melco Leisure and PBL Asia unanimously agree otherwise, the board of Melco PBL Holdings shall comprise six directors to be identified, each of Melco Leisure and PBL Asia shall have the right to appoint three directors to the board. Each shareholder of Melco PBL Holdings may remove the director(s) nominated by it. The chairperson of the board to be identified will be initially appointed by Melco Leisure who will hold office for a period of twelve months. Thereafter, the right to appoint and remove the chairperson shall rotate between PBL Asia and Melco Leisure on a twelve-month rotating basis. The chairperson does not have a casting vote;

  • (ii) There shall be an executive board committee, which will consist of four members to be identified, out of which two will be appointed by Melco Leisure and the remaining two will be appointed by PBL Asia. The executive board committee will be charged with the overall responsibilities for formulating business strategies of the JV Group, appointing senior management (if any) of Melco PBL Holdings as well as implementing the relevant business plan and yearly budget of the JV Group;

  • (iii) Each of the Company, Melco Leisure, PBL and PBL Asia shall endeavour to achieve a listing of the JV Group on Nasdaq as soon as reasonably practicable and within a desired timeframe of 30 June 2005. However, it is anticipated by the relevant parties that the intention to have the JV Group listed on Nasdaq will be subject to a whole range of contingencies and unknown future events, and whether a listing could be achieved at all, or on Nasdaq, or within the desired timeframe of 30 June 2005, are all presently unclear. As at the date of this circular, the proposal remains at a very preliminary stage and no listing application has yet been filed. Shareholders are cautioned that there can be no assurance that the intention of the Company, Melco Leisure, PBL and PBL Asia in this regard will ultimately be realized;

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LETTER FROM THE BOARD

  • (iv) It is contemplated that under JV1, certain subsidiaries including but not limited to JV2 and JV3 will be formed for pursuance of the JV Group’s gaming, entertainment and hospitality businesses (other than the Gaming Business and the Hospitality Business of Melco Entertainment) in the Greater China Region and/ or other countries in the Asia Pacific region (excluding Australia and New Zealand and the Greater China Region);

  • (v) It is proposed that if established, JV2 will be held as to 80% by JV1 and 20% by the Company. It is intended that JV2 shall be the immediate holding company of all gaming, entertainment and hospitability ventures and businesses, including but not limited to operation and/ or management of casino(s) and/ or hotel(s), of the JV Group (other than the businesses of Melco Entertainment , namely the joint operation of the respective Gaming Business and the Hospitality Business by it with the Company) in the Greater China region. Upon incorporation of JV2, the Company and PBL will respectively have an indirect attributable interests in JV2 as to 60% and 40% respectively;

  • (vi) It is proposed that if established, JV3 will be held as to 80% by JV1 and 20% by PBL. It is intended that JV3 shall be the immediate holding company of all gaming, entertainment and hospitability ventures and businesses, including but not limited to operation and/ or management of casino(s) and/ or hotel(s), of the JV Group in the Asia Pacific region other than the Greater China region, Australia and New Zealand. Upon incorporation of JV3, the Company and PBL will respectively have an indirect attributable interests in JV3 as to 40% and 60% respectively;

  • (vii) As long as Melco Leisure holds a direct separate interest of 20% (in addition to the relevant attributable interests therein held via Melco PBL Holdings) in any JV Group companies, including but not limited to Melco Entertainment and JV2, the board of such JV Group companies shall comprise seven directors to be identified of whom four directors will be nominated by Melco Leisure and three directors will be nominated by PBL Asia;

  • (viii) As long as PBL Asia holds a direct separate interest of 20% (in addition to the relevant attributable interests therein held via Melco PBL Holdings) in any JV Group companies, including but not limited to JV3, the board of such JV Group companies shall comprise seven directors to be identified of whom four directors will be nominated by PBL Asia and three directors will be nominated by Melco Leisure;

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LETTER FROM THE BOARD

  • (ix) During the term of the Proposed Shareholders Deed, unless with the prior written consent of the other, each of Melco or PBL will not, other than through the JV Group, whether directly or indirectly, carry on the business of owning, operating or managing a casino; a gaming slots business; or a hotel with a casino in such territories in which the JV Group operates or intends to operate save and except for a passive investment of a limited amount in any public company that engages in such business;

  • (x) If a potential business opportunity is rejected by the board of Melco PBL Holdings and subject to certain preventive measures against conflict of interests, any shareholder or its affiliates may, notwithstanding the restrictions mentioned in paragraph (ix) above, separately participates in such potential business opportunity provided that such participating shareholder or its affiliates shall grant a fiveyear term option to the other shareholder(s) to allow either such other shareholder(s) or Melco PBL Holdings to reconsider the situation and participate again in the relevant business opportunity;

  • (xi) In case the relevant gaming authorities in Australia directs PBL and/ or PBL Asia to terminate any Definitive Agreements or otherwise end the joint venture relationship with the Group or any connected persons of the Group, PBL Asia may by written notice request the other shareholder(s) of Melco PBL Holdings to purchase, within a prescribed timeframe, all the shares of Melco PBL Holdings held by PBL Asia under the customary pre-emptive rights provisions . As at the date of this circular, so far as the Directors are aware, PBL and/or PBL Asia have not received any direction or indication from any gaming authorities in Australia requiring PBL and/ or PBL Asia to terminate any Definitive Agreements or to cease the joint venture relationship with the Group or any connected persons of the Group;

  • (xii) Subject to the situation mentioned in paragraph (xi) above and other exceptional circumstances, including deadlock for a continuous period of 90 days without resolution or, any events of default by the other shareholder(s), no shareholder is allowed to dispose any shares of Melco PBL Holdings within a period of five years from the date of execution of the Proposed Shareholders Deed unless the disposal or transfer of shares are made to the wholly-owned subsidiary of either the transferring shareholder or Melco or PBL (as the case may be);

  • (xiii) Each shareholder of Melco PBL Holdings is entitled to the customary pre-emptive rights, namely, the first right of refusal entitled by a shareholder to decide whether or not to purchase any shares of Melco PBL Holdings from the other shareholder who wants to dispose those shares and tag-along rights, namely, in case the other shareholder is

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LETTER FROM THE BOARD

allowed to sell any shares of Melco PBL Holdings (the “seller”) to a third party buyer, the rights of the shareholder to sell to the buyer the same proportion of its shares of Melco PBL Holdings as the number of shares to be sold by the seller bears to the total number of shares held by the seller on the same terms and conditions as the buyer purchases any of the shares from the seller, in case of permitted disposal of shares of Melco PBL Holdings by the other shareholder(s) under certain circumstances;

  • (xiv) As guarantor to the Proposed Shareholders Deed, the Company will guarantee to PBL Asia the due performance of the obligations of Melco Leisure under the Proposed Shareholders Deed; and

  • (xv) As guarantor to the Proposed Shareholders Deed, PBL will guarantee to Melco Leisure the due performance of the obligations of PBL Asia under the Proposed Shareholders Deed.

Basis of determination of the capital contribution from PBL

According to the Subscription Agreement, PBL will make a capital contribution of US$163 million (equivalent to approximately HK$1.27 billion) in case the Independent Shareholders (by way of poll) approve the relevant resolution(s) regarding the Second Agreement at the EGM, or a total consideration of US$105 million (equivalent to approximately HK$817 million) in case the Independent Shareholders (by way of poll) do not approve the relevant resolution(s) regarding the Second Agreement at the EGM, to the Melco PBL Holdings which such amounts were arrived at after arm’s length negotiations between the Company and PBL for financing the future potential business development of the JV Group. Upon establishment of the JV Group, Melco PBL Holdings will indirectly own 64% equity interests in Mocha Slot and either 56% equity interests in Great Wonders (in case the Second Agreement is completed) or 40% equity interests in Great Wonders (in case the Second Agreement is not completed). The relevant capital contribution amounts were determined with reference to (i) the confidence of PBL in the market potential of the gaming and hospitality industries in the Asia Pacific region and the Greater China Region; (ii) the invaluable established business reputation, expertise and connection possessed by Dr. Stanley Ho and Mr. Lawrence Ho in the gaming and hospitality businesses in the Greater China Region; and (iii) the injection of the 64% in Mocha Slot and either 56% or 40% equity interests in Great Wonders (depending on whether or not the Second Agreement is completed) by the Company into the JV Group. The Directors believe the fact that PBL Asia will make a capital contribution of US$163 million in case the Independent Shareholders (by way of poll) approve the relevant resolution(s) regarding the Second Agreement at the EGM, as opposed to a capital contribution of US$105 million in case the Independent Shareholders (by way of poll) do not approve such relevant resolution(s) reflects the strategic importance valued by PBL and PBL Asia in the Hospitality Business as the same may be considered as a milestone of PBL group to extend its gaming and hospitality business to the Greater China Region and with the acquisition of additional 20% equity interests in Great Wonders by the Company pursuant to the Second Agreement, Melco PBL Holdings will ultimately be able to obtain a control of 56% equity interests in Great Wonders, which in turn represents a majority interest in the Hospitality Business. The Directors also consider that the JV Group, if established pursuant to the Definitive Agreements, will be an unprecedented new venture formed for pursuance of gaming, entertainment and hospitality businesses in

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LETTER FROM THE BOARD

the whole Asia Pacific region (excluding Australia and New Zealand) and the Greater China Region and the relevant amount of capital contribution agreed to be made by PBL was generally based on the same vision shared by the Company and PBL for setting up a joint venture with sufficient available resources enabling it to become a prominent market player in the said industries. Save for the terms of the Definitive Agreements disclosed herein, the Directors confirm that as at the date of this circular, no separate negotiation or agreement has been entered into between the Company and PBL or any third party with regard to the development of the Land that requires disclosure under Rule 13.09 or Rule 13.23 of the Listing Rules.

The corporate structure before and after the establishment of the JV Group

Set out below are the respective corporate charts of the Gaming Business and the Hospitality Business currently held by the Group and the proposed corporate structure of the JV Group:

Existing corporate structure of the Gaming Business and the Hospitality Business held by the Group:

The Company 80% 50% (Note 2) Mocha Slot Great Wonders (Gaming Business) (Hospitality Business) (Note 1)

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LETTER FROM THE BOARD

Proposed corporate structure of the JV Group:

==> picture [313 x 482] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----

PBL The Company
100% 100%
PBL Asia Melco Leisure
20% 50% 50%
Melco PBL Holdings
100%
JV1
Melco
80% 20%
Entertainment
(Note 3)
Mocha Slot
80%
(Gaming Business)
(Note 1)
50% Great Wonders
(Hospitality Business)
(Note 2)
80% 20%
JV2
80%
JV3
----- End of picture text -----

Notes:

  1. The remaining 20% equity interests in Mocha Slot are held by Dr. Stanley Ho.

  2. Great Wonders is a joint venture company formed between the Company and STDM for the purpose of development of the Land. As at the date of this circular, Great Wonders is held as to 50% by the Company and 50% by STDM. Subject to the completion of the Second Agreement as mentioned in this circular, Great Wonders will be owned as to 70% by the Company and 30% by STDM.

  3. Melco Entertainment is a company to be formed by the Company as its wholly-owned subsidiary. Upon the incorporation of Melco Entertainment and subject to the establishment of the JV Group, the Company will transfer to and procure Melco Entertainment to acquire (i) 80% equity interests in Mocha Slot and (ii) 50% (assuming the Second Agreement is not completed) or 70% (assuming the Second Agreement is completed) equity interests in Great Wonders.

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LETTER FROM THE BOARD

Currently, the Company owns 80% and 50% equity interests in Mocha Slot and Great Wonders respectively and accordingly, treats Mocha Slot a non wholly-owned subsidiary and Great Wonders a jointly controlled company in the consolidated accounts of the Company respectively. Upon completion of the Second Agreement, Great Wonders will also become a non wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company.

Upon establishment of the JV Group, Melco PBL Holdings will indirectly hold 80% equity interests in Melco Entertainment which, in turn, will own (i) 80% equity interests in Mocha Slot; and (ii) either 50% or 70% equity interests in Great Wonders, depending on whether the Second Agreement is completed or not. JVCo will be owned as to 50% by PBL via PBL Asia and as to 50% by the Company via Melco Leisure and will be treated as a jointly controlled company by the Company. The Company will then indirectly own (i) 48% attributable interests in Mocha Slot and (ii) either 30% or 42% attributable interests in Great Wonders, depending on whether the Second Agreement is completed or not, respectively. As it is anticipated that the Company will retain the control of the composition of the board of directors of Melco Entertainment, it is expected that Melco Entertainment, Mocha Slot and Great Wonders (assuming the Second Completion is completed) shall remain as the indirect subsidiaries of the Company after establishment of the JV Group.

The Company will use its best endeavours to ensure that throughout the holding of its investment in the Gaming Business together with other gaming ventures and business through the proposed JV Group, the operation of the proposed JV Group will comply with the applicable laws in the relevant jurisdictions. As the JV Group has not been established yet, the parties have not entered into detailed discussion with regard to mode of implementing the relevant systems or measures against money laundering. However, it is expected that after establishment of the JV Group and upon its commencement of any gaming ventures and businesses, including but not limited to operation and/ or management of casino(s) (other than the Hospitality Business as the casino in the hotel to be constructed on the Land will be operated by SJM), PBL, which has already engaged in the gaming business in Australia for years and at all times, is subject to the stringent supervision and control by the gaming authorities in Australia, will contribute its expertise and knowledge of the operation and/ or management of casinos to the JV Group, in particular, the expertise and knowledge that relates to anti-money laundering measures with a view to formulating the relevant internal control systems and risk management measures for the JV Group to counter and prevent any potential money laundering activities or other crimes that related to the gaming business. Shareholders are reminded that, in accordance with the Stock Exchange’s guidelines on gambling business, that if the operation of the proposed JV Group does not comply with applicable laws in the relevant jurisdictions, the Stock Exchange may, depending on the circumstances of the case, direct the Company to take remedial action, and/ or may suspend dealings in, or may cancel the listing of, Shares under Rule 6.01 of the Listing Rules. As the Group’s business includes financial services, information technology and other leisure and entertainment business, if the Company cannot take the requisite remedial action in the circumstance aforementioned, it is the Company’s intention to maintain active trading and listing status of Shares by divesting its investment in the proposed JV Group.

Deemed profit accrued to the Group

The Directors estimate that the Company will generate a deemed profit of approximately HK$425.9 million (assuming the Second Agreement is completed) by virtue of allotting shares of JVCo, which represents 50% equity interests in Melco PBL Holdings, for a consideration of US$163 million (equivalent to approximately HK$1.27 billion), being the capital contribution to be made by PBL Asia in case the Independent Shareholders (by way of poll) approve the relevant resolution(s) regarding the Second

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Agreement at the EGM, and if the Independent Shareholders (by way of poll) do not approve the relevant resolution(s) regarding the Second Agreement at the EGM, the deemed profit generated will be approximately HK$221.8 million in the light of the lesser capital contribution amount of US$105 million (equivalent to approximately HK$817 million) to be made by PBL Asia in such case. The relevent allotment of shares of Melco PBL Holdings is treated as a deemed disposal by the Group under the Listing Rules. The deemed profit is arrived at by deducting the decrease in attributable interests of the Company in net asset value of Mocha Slot and Great Wonders and proportional goodwill arising from the deemed disposal of equity interests in Mocha Slot from the attributable cash contribution to be made by PBL in Melco PBL Holdings to the Group. Melco PBL Holdings will apply the cash contribution to be made by PBL for pursuance of the gaming, entertainment and hospitality businesses in Asia Pacific region and the Greater China Region, including but not limited to, Macau, Thailand, Japan, Singapore, Philippines, Vietnam and Indonesia (excluding Australia and New Zealand). Set out below are the respective calculations of the relevant deemed profits of the Group arising from the proposed establishment of the JV Group based on two different scenarios, namely, with successful completion of the Second Agreement (“Scenario I”) and without completion of the Second Agreement (“Scenario II”) :

Scenario I Scenario II
(Approximately) (Approximately)
HK$’000 HK$’000
50% of the capital contribution to be made by PBL to
Melco PBL Holdings 635,000 408,500
Less: 50% of the net assets contributed by the Group to
Melco PBL Holdings
– unaudited net asset value of Mocha Slot_(Note 1)_ (1,736) (1,736)
– unaudited net asset value of Great Wonders_(Note 2)_ (62,400) (40,000)
– goodwill arising from the deemed disposal of 80%
equity interests in Mocha Slot_(Note 3)_ (145,000) (145,000)
Deemed profits arising from allotting the shares of Melco
PBL Holdings to PBL(Note 4) 425,864 221,764

Notes:

  1. Based on unaudited management accounts as at 30 June 2004

  2. Based on total consideration paid or to be paid by the Group to acquire the equity interests of Great Wonders, i.e. approximately HK$156 million and HK$100 million in Scenario I and II respectively

  3. Based on the unamortised goodwill of Mocha Slot as shown in the interim report of the Company set out in the Appendix II to this circular

  4. The deemed profits were calculated for illustration purposes only. The final deemed profits will be subject to the amount of the net assets value and the unamortised goodwill of Mocha Slot at the completion date of the disposal.

THE CONNECTED TRANSACTION

The Second Agreement entered into between the Company and STDM is concerned with the further acquisition of 20% issued share capital of Great Wonders by the Company from STDM for a consideration of HK$56 million. Following the acquisition under the First Agreement as disclosed in the announcement and the circular of the Company respectively dated 13 September 2004 and 11 October 2004, the Company currently owns 50% equity interests in Great Wonders and upon completion of the

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Second Agreement, the Group’s equity interests in Great Wonders will increase from 50% to 70%. Great Wonders is a joint venture company formed by the Company and STDM pursuant to the First Agreement, which has applied to the Macau Government for the concession of the Land for the purpose of developing a luxury hotel in pursuance of the Hospitality Business. According to the Second Agreement, the Company will issue the Second Convertible Bond to STDM to satisfy the purchase consideration.

Principal terms of the Second Agreement

Date : 11 November 2004 Parties : STDM, as vendor The Company, as purchaser

  • Principal terms : As soon as practicable and in any event not later than 21 days after the fulfillment of the condition precedent mentioned in “Condition of the Second Agreement” below, the Company will buy and STDM will sell 20% issued share capital of Great Wonders for a purchase consideration of HK$56 million

  • Consideration : HK$56 million. The consideration was determined after arm’s length negotiation and on normal commercial terms and with reference to the 20% interest in the Land with the total valuation of HK$288 million as at 5 August 2004 as disclosed in the circular of the Company dated 11 October 2004. The consideration of HK$56 million payable under the Second Agreement represents an approximately 2.77% discount to HK$57.6 million, being 20% of the valuation of the Land of HK$288 million as at 5 August 2004 and an approximately 23.5% discount to HK$73.2 million, being 20% of the valuation of the Land of HK$366 million as at 10 December 2004 according to the valuation report as contained in Appendix III to this circular.

The aggregate consideration of HK$156 million paid or payable by the Company under the Land Acquisition Agreements represents an approximately 22.62% discount to HK$201.6 million, being 70% of the valuation of the Land of HK$288 million as at 5 August 2004 and an approximately 39.11% discount to HK$256.2 million, being 70% of the valuation of the Land of HK$366 million as at 10 December 2004.

While the amount of HK$100 million previously paid by the Company for the 50% equity interests in Great Wonders pursuant to the First Agreement represented an approximately 30.55% discount to the 50% interest in the Land based on the valuation of the Land of HK$288 million as at 5 August 2004, the Directors consider that the consideration with a discount of approximately 23.5% granted by STDM in the Second Agreement is fair and reasonable, particularly with reference to the fact that a controlling interest in Great Wonders will be conferred on the Company after completion of the Second Agreement. The Company will satisfy the purchase consideration by issuing the Second Convertible Bond with terms set out in the section headed “Principal terms of the Second Convertible Bond” in this “Letter from the Board”.

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LETTER FROM THE BOARD

  • Condition of : The Second Agreement is conditional upon the approval by the Independent the Second Shareholders (by way of poll) at the EGM in compliance with the Listing Rules Agreement before 31 January 2005. If this condition is not fulfilled before 31 January 2005, unless the parties otherwise agree, STDM may, by notice to the Company, terminate the Second Agreement and the obligations of the parties thereunder.

  • Other terms : The following terms will supersede the relevant terms in the First Agreement to give effect to the increase in equity interests in Great Wonders by the Company.

  • (i) Each of the Company and STDM shall take part in the management of Great Wonders as a company owned as to 70% by the Company and as to 30% by STDM upon the completion of the Second Agreement. STDM acknowledges that, as the majority shareholder, the Company may control the operation and management of Great Wonders;

  • (ii) STDM and the Company will provide funding for the development of the Land as well as operation of Great Wonders on a 70% by the Company and 30% by STDM basis;

  • (iii) All costs and expenses (including but not limited to, any premium payable to Macau Government for change of usage of the Land and all costs and expenses for building, decorating and fitting out the hotel) incurred or to be incurred in relation to the development of the hotel shall be borne by the parties as shareholders of Great Wonders on a 70% by the Company and 30% by STDM basis;

  • (iv) The Company shall be the coordinator of the development of the hotel to be erected on the Land;

  • (v) The development of the Land will consist of a luxury hotel with a casino and an electronic gaming machine lounge; and

  • (vi) The hotel shall be managed by a reputable international hotel management company. Subject to Macau Government’s approval, the casino therein shall be operated by SJM whereas the electronic gaming machine lounge shall be managed by Mocha Slot Management Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Mocha Slot.

Board composition of Great Wonders

As at the date of this circular, Great Wonders is owned as to 50% by the Company and as to 50% by STDM and the board of directors of Great Wonders comprises five directors, one of them is Dr. Stanley Ho who is jointly appointed by the Company and STDM as the chairperson representing both companies. The other four directors, two of whom, namely, Mr. Lawrence Ho and Mr. Frank Tsui, who are Executive Directors of the Company, are nominated by the Company and the remaining two directors are nominated by STDM. Upon completion of the Second Agreement, it was agreed between the Company

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and STDM that the Company will appoint additional directors to control the board of directors of Great Wonders to reflect its majority shareholding interest in Great Wonders. It is currently expected that the Company will not charge a fee for acting as coordinator of the development of the Land.

Principal terms of the Second Convertible Bond

Principal amount : HK$56 million Tenor : 5 years from the date of issue Coupon : 4% per annum from 1 March, 2005 Commencement date : Subject to the term specified in paragraph headed “Coupon” above, the of interest payment date on which the concession of the Land is granted to Great Wonders and thereafter to be paid on a 6-month basis. Conversion price : HK$8.2 per Share. The initial conversion price is subject to adjustments in the event of, among others, consolidation, sub-division or re-classification, capitalization of profits or reserves, capital distribution, rights issue and other dilutive events.

This initial conversion price is determined after arm’s length negotiation taking into account the 5-year tenor of the Second Convertible Bond, the current increase in the price performance of the Shares as reflected in the increase in average prices of the Shares below and the potential dilution effect on the shareholding structure of the Company. This initial conversion price represents:

  • (i) a discount of approximately 16.75% to the closing price of the Shares of HK$9.85 on 11 November 2004, being the last trading day of the Shares immediately before the release of the announcement of the Company dated 23 November 2004 regarding, inter alia, the Heads of Agreement and the Connected Transaction;

  • (ii) a premium of approximately 19.37% over the average closing price of the Shares on the Stock Exchange for the 5 trading days immediately before the date of the announcement of the Company referred to subparagraph (i) above;

  • (iii) a discount of approximately 56.38% to the closing price of the Shares of HK$18.80 on the Latest Practicable Date; and

  • (iv) a premium of approximately 333.86% over the net asset value per Share of approximately HK$1.81, based on the audited consolidated net assets of the Company as at 31 December 2003 and the then Shares in issue.

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LETTER FROM THE BOARD

  • Exercise period : The period commencing 3 years from the date of issue of the Second Convertible Bond up to and including the maturity date of the Second Convertible Bond.

The holder of the Second Convertible Bond will have the right at any time during the exercise period to convert in whole or, subject to prior written consent by the Company, in part the Second Convertible Bond into new Shares at the initial conversion price of HK$8.2 per Share (subject to adjustments). Shares to be issued under the Second Convertible Bond will rank pari passu in all respects with the Shares in issue as at the conversion date.

Based on the initial conversion price of HK$8.2 per Share, a maximum amount of 6,829,268 new Shares will fall to be allotted and issued upon full conversion of the whole of HK$56 million Second Convertible Bond, representing approximately 1.48% of the existing issued share capital of the Company or approximately 1.46% of the enlarged issued share capital of the Company upon full conversion of the Second Convertible Bond.

No fraction of a Share shall be issued on conversion and in lieu thereof, the Company shall pay such amount in Hong Kong dollars equal to such amount of the Second Convertible Bond that is not converted.

  • Early redemption : The Company has the option to redeem the Second Convertible Bond commencing 2 years from the date of its issue till the maturity date of the Second Convertible Bond.

Forced conversion

  • : The Company has the option to require STDM to convert the Second Convertible Bond into new Shares if the 60-day average price of the Shares is over HK$8.2 per Share as quoted on the Stock Exchange provided that the option may not be exercised unless the concession of the Land has been granted to Great Wonders.

  • Put option : If the concession of the Land is not granted to Great Wonders on or before 1 September 2005, the Company shall have the right to terminate the Second Convertible Bond. In such event, any and all liabilities of the Company to pay the consideration under the Second Agreement shall cease and all sums of money due under the Second Convertible Bond shall cease to be payable immediately, and the Company shall forthwith transfer the 20% equity interest in Great Wonders back to STDM. If any interest has been paid by the Company to STDM pursuant to the Second Convertible Bond, STDM shall forthwith repay such interest to the Company.

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  • Voting : The holder of the Second Convertible Bond shall not be entitled to attend or vote at any meeting of the Company by reason of its being the holder of the Second Convertible Bond

  • Transferability : The Second Convertible Bond is not transferable Application for listing : Application has been made to the Listing Committee of the Stock Exchange for the listing of, and permission to deal in, the new Shares which may be issued under the Second Convertible Bond. However, no application will be made for the listing of the Second Convertible Bond on any stock exchange

  • Termination clause : Other than the term specified in paragraph headed “Put option” above, there is no termination clause of the Second Convertible Bond

The Shares to be allotted and issued upon conversion of the Second Convertible Bond will be subject to the approval by the Independent Shareholders (by way of poll) at the EGM. The issue of the Second Convertible Bond shall have no impact on the conversion prices of the other convertible securities previously issued by the Company, including but not limited to, the First Convertible Bond or the exercise prices of any outstanding share options as at the Latest Practicable Date.

Fund raising exercises carried out by the Company in the past twelve months

Save for the following fund raising exercises, the Company has not undertaken any fund raising exercise over the past twelve months :

  • (i) as part of the Group reorganization as disclosed in two announcements and circular of the Company respectively dated 23 March 2004, 1 April 2004 and 23 April 2004, the Company acquired 80% equity interests in Mocha Slot on 9 June 2004 for a total consideration of HK$398 million (comprising HK$353 million for 80% equity interests in Mocha Slot which was settled by way of issue of a total of 153,478,261 Shares at the then issue price of HK$2.3 per Share and HK$45 million for a shareholder’s loan of the same face value previously granted by Better Joy to Mocha Slot which was settled by way of issue of two convertible notes by the Company to Better Joy in the aggregate sum of HK$45 million with a conversion right to convert the same into 19,565,216 Shares at an initial conversion price (subject to adjustment, if any) of HK$2.3 per Share);

  • (ii) as disclosed in the announcement and circular of the Company respectively dated 13 September 2004 and 11 October 2004, the Company has entered into the First Agreement with STDM pursuant to which the Company has agreed to acquire 50% equity interests in Great Wonders from STDM for a consideration of HK$100 million, which would be settled by way of issue of the First Convertible Bond to STDM with the principal amount of HK$100 million with a conversion right to convert the same into 25,000,000 Shares at an initial conversion price (subject to adjustment, if any) of HK$4.0 per Share. After obtaining the Independent Shareholders’ approval (by way of poll) of the First Agreement, the First Convertible Bond and the issue and allotment of Shares upon conversion of the First

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Convertible Bond at the extraordinary general meeting of the Company held on 2 November 2004, the Company issued the First Convertible Bond to STDM on 9 November 2004; and

  • (iii) as disclosed in the announcement of the Company dated 15 October 2004, the Company has carried out a top-up placing of 75,900,000 Shares at a placing price of HK$5.2 per Share on 15 October 2004. The net proceeds generated from the Placing were approximately HK$377 million, out of which approximately HK$94 million was earmarked for the expansion of the Gaming Business, as to approximately HK$207 million for the development of the Hospitality Business and as to the remaining approximately HK$75 million as working capital for the Group. As at the Latest Practicable Date, the Company has utilized a total sum of approximately HK$3.5 million for acquisition of hardware and systems for the Gaming Business and a total sum of approximately HK$17.2 million, mainly for engaging the relevant independent professionals, including architects and surveyors, in relation to the relevant application for the concession of the Land in respect of the Hospitality Business. It is the present intention of the Company to utilize the net proceeds of Placing according to the intended application thereof as disclosed in the announcement dated 15 October 2004. To the extent that the net proceeds from Placing are not immediately required for the above purposes, the Company has placed such funds in short-term deposits with banks and/ or financial institutions.

Shareholding structure of the Company before and after full conversion of the Convertible Bonds

Issued Shares as Issued Shares as Upon conversion of the Upon conversion of the Upon conversion of Upon conversion of Upon conversion of Upon conversion of
at the date of the First Convertible the Second Convertible the Convertible
Latest Practicable Date Bond in full Bond in full Bonds in full
Number of Number of Number of Number of
Shares % Shares % Shares % Shares %
Better Joy_(Note 1)_ 124,701,087 26.92 124,701,087 25.54 124,701,087 26.53 124,701,087 25.19
Mr. Lawrence Ho_(Note 2)_ 59,570,818 12.86 59,570,818 12.20 59,570,818 12.67 59,570,818 12.03
Shun Tak Shipping
Company Limited
(Note 3) 39,083,147 8.44 39,083,147 8.00 39,083,147 8.31 39,083,147 7.89
Dr. Stanley Ho_(Note 4)_ 15,023,867 3.24 15,023,867 3.08 15,023,867 3.19 15,023,867 3.03
Madam Lucina 222,287 0.05 222,287 0.05 222,287 0.05 222,287 0.04
Laam King Ying
STDM_(Note 5)_ 25,000,000 5.12 6,829,268 1.45 31,829,268 6.43
Others (Public) 224,642,848 48.49 224,642,848 46.01 224,642,848 47.79 224,642,848 45.38
Total 463,244,054 100.00 488,244,054 100.00 470,073,322 100.00 495,073,322 100.00

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Notes:

  1. Better Joy is owned as to 77% by Mr. Lawrence Ho and as to 23% by Dr. Stanley Ho.

  2. Interest of Mr. Lawrence Ho includes his personal interest and interest held through Lasting Legend, a company controlled and wholly-owned by him.

  3. Interest of Shun Tak Shipping Company Limited includes interest held by itself and its wholly-owned subsidiaries.

  4. Interest of Dr. Stanley Ho includes his personal interest and interest held through two companies controlled and wholly-owned by him, namely, Sharikat Investments Limited and Dareset Limited.

  5. Upon full conversion of the First Convertible Bond at the initial conversion price at HK$4.00 per share , there will be an additional 25,000,000 Shares in issue.

As at the date of this circular, Mr. Lawrence Ho is the controlling Shareholder of the Company. Upon conversion of the Convertible Bonds in full, the control of the Company would not be changed.

Effects of the Second Agreement

Following the acquisition under the First Agreement as disclosed in the announcement and the circular of the Company respectively dated 13 September 2004 and 11 October 2004, the Company currently owns 50% equity interests in Great Wonders and treats Great Wonders as a jointly controlled company in the consolidated accounts of the Company. Upon completion of the Second Agreement, the Group’s equity interests in Great Wonders will increase from 50% to 70% and Great Wonders will therefore become a non-wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company.

According to the paragraph headed “I. Unaudited pro forma statement of assets and liabilities of the Enlarged Group” as contained in Appendix IV to this circular, the Group’s net tangible assets (assuming the JV Group is established) would be approximately HK$1,112.2 million upon completion of the First Agreement and the Second Agreement as opposed to approximately HK$807.9 million if the Second Agreement cannot be completed and based on 463,244,054 Shares in issue as at the Latest Practicable Date, the net tangible asset per Share will increase from approximately HK$1.74 to HK$2.40 representing an increase of approximately 37.9% should the Second Agreement is completed. Reference should be made to the said paragraph contained in Appendix IV to this circular for the effect of the inclusion of Great Wonders as a subsidiary of the Company on the assets and liabilities of the Company and the underlying assumptions on preparing the said statement.

INFORMATION ON PBL

PBL is a company incorporated in Australia and whose securities are listed on the Australian Stock Exchange. PBL is one of Australia’s largest diversified media and entertainment companies, the core businesses of which include television production and broadcasting, magazine publishing and distribution, as well as gaming and entertainment. Through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Crown Limited, PBL operates one of the largest entertainment complex in Australia including, the Crown Casino, which is the largest casino in the Southern Hemisphere and two luxury hotels, namely, the Crown Towers and the Crown Promenade Hotel, both located in Melbourne, Australia.

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INFORMATION OF THE GROUP

Currently, the Group’s business is broadly divided into three divisions, namely, (i) leisure and entertainment division; (ii) investment banking and financial services division; and (iii) technology division. The leisure and entertainment division of the Group comprises the operation of two floating restaurants, namely, Jumbo and Tai Pak, in Aberdeen, Hong Kong, the Gaming Business and the Hospitality Business.

Information on the Gaming Business

As part of the Group reorganization as disclosed in two announcements and circular of the Company respectively dated 23 March 2004, 1 April 2004 and 23 April 2004, the Company acquired 80% equity interests in Mocha Slot on 9 June 2004 for a total consideration of HK$398 million (comprising HK$353 million for 80% equity interests in Mocha Slot which was settled by way of issue of a total of 153,478,261 Shares at the then issue price of HK$2.3 per Share and HK$45 million for a shareholder’s loan of the same face value previously granted by Better Joy to Mocha Slot which was settled by way of issue of two convertible notes by the Company to Better Joy in the aggregate sum of HK$45 million with a conversion right to convert the same into Shares at an initial conversion price (subject to adjustment, if any) of HK$2.3 per Share). The Gaming Business of the Group currently includes the leasing of a wide variety of electronic gaming machines and the provision of related management services by Mocha Slot to casino operators in Macau. Currently, Mocha Slot manages three slot machine lounges in Macau for SJM, which is one of the three concessionaires to engage in casino gaming operations in Macau, all under the “Mocha Slot” brand with over 500 slot machines in total.

Information on Mocha Slot

Mocha Slot and its wholly-owned subsidiary, Mocha Slot Management Limited, were established in March 2003 and have been in operation since September 2003. As disclosed in the circular of the Company dated 23 April 2004, the audited consolidated net assets value of Mocha Slot as at 31 December 2003 was approximately HK$1.25 million and the audited consolidated net profit before tax and after tax for the period from 20 March 2003 (date of incorporation) to 31 December 2003 were approximately HK$1.47 million and HK$1.25 million respectively. Based on its unaudited consolidated management accounts, the net asset value of Mocha Slot was approximately HK$8 million as at 30 September 2004 and the consolidated net profit before tax and after tax for the period from 1 January 2004 to 30 September 2004 were approximately HK$8 million and HK$6.8 million respectively. Since the acquisition of Mocha Slot was completed on 9 June 2004, according to the unaudited consolidated management accounts of Mocha Slot as at 30 September 2004, the contribution from Mocha Slot to the Group was approximately HK$3.3 million.

Information on the Hospitality Business

The Hospitality Business is concerned with the entering into of the Land Acquisition Agreements to acquire altogether 70% equity interests in Great Wonders, which has applied for the concession of the Land, for developing a luxury hotel housing a casino and an electronic gaming machine lounge. It is agreed between the Company and STDM that upon completion of the hotel, the casino will be operated by SJM and the electronic gaming machine lounge will be managed by Mocha Slot (subject to the

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approvals of the Macau government authorities). On 11 November 2004, SJM issued a Letter of Confirmation to Great Wonders (which was counter-signed by Great Wonders), regarding a confirmation given by SJM to enter into the Proposed Lease Agreement upon (i) the successful grant of the concession of the Land to Great Wonders and (ii) obtaining of the relevant approvals by SJM from the Macau government authorities, in respect of a proposed lease by SJM from Great Wonders for an area of approximately 18,000 square meters at the hotel to be developed on the Land for the purpose of operating a casino with not less than 160 gaming tables. According to the Letter of Confirmation and subject to the terms of the Proposed Lease Agreement, the expected duration of the lease shall be a period from the commencement of business of the hotel to the expiry of SJM’s concession to operate casinos in Macau and as the proposed monthly rental, Great Wonders shall receive an amount equal to the aggregate of (i) 40% of the gross monthly revenue generated from 60 gaming tables and (ii) such percentage to be further agreed between SJM and Great Wonders (but in any case not less than 30%) of the gross monthly revenue generated from the remaining gaming tables.

SJM is a company incorporated under the laws of Macau and is majority owned by STDM with Dr. Stanley Ho as its managing director. SJM has been selected by the Macau government authorities as one of the three concessionaires to engage in casino gaming operations in Macau from 1 April 2002 to 31 March 2020. By reason of the fact that Dr. Stanley Ho, who is the Chairman and Executive Director of the Company, has an equity interest in, as well as being a director of, SJM and STDM respectively, SJM is considered as a connected person under the Listing Rules. Accordingly, upon (i) completion of the Second Agreement (which will then render Great Wonders to become a 70% owned subsidiary of the Company) and (ii) fulfillment of the conditions as set out in the Letter of Confirmation, namely, the successful grant of the concession of the Land to Great Wonders and obtaining of the relevant approvals by SJM from the Macau government authorities, the proposed execution of the Proposed Lease Agreement may constitute a possible non-exempt continuing connected transaction of the Company under Chapter 14A of the Listing Rules and if such circumstances arise, the Company will comply with the relevant requirements of the Listing Rules as to reporting, announcement and the Independent Shareholders’ approval (by way of poll) (as the case may be).

Information on Great Wonders

Great Wonders was a company initially established by STDM on 15 September 2004 pursuant to the First Agreement. According to the First Agreement, STDM subsequently transferred 50% equity interests in Great Wonders to the Company to make Great Wonders a joint venture company between STDM and the Company. Currently, except for applying the concession of the Land for developing a luxury hotel and the signing of the Letter of Confirmation with SJM as well as a development contract with an independent contractor to develop the hotel on the Land with the contract amount of approximately HK$1,500 million, Great Wonders does not carry out any other business and thus it does not have any contribution to the Group. Also, as the concession of the Land has not yet been granted, Great Wonders only has a net asset value of MOP$ 1 million (equivalent to approximately HK$0.97 million) representing its issued share capital as at the Latest Practicable Date.

As disclosed in the announcement of the Company dated 15 October 2004 regarding the Placing, the Company expected to apply the net proceeds of the Placing of approximately HK$377 million, as to approximately HK$94 million for expansion of the Gaming Business, as to approximately HK$207 million for the development of the Hospitality Business and as to the remaining approximately HK$75 million as working capital for the Group. As at the Latest Practicable Date, the Company has utilized a total sum of approximately HK$3.5 million for acquisition of hardware and systems for the Gaming Business and a total sum of approximately HK$17.2 million, mainly for engaging the independent professionals, including architects and surveyors, in relation to the relevant application for the concession

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of the Land in respect of the Hospitality Business. It is the present intention of the Company to utilize the net proceeds of Placing according to the intended application thereof as disclosed in the announcement dated 15 October 2004.

REASONS AND BENEFITS FOR THE PROPOSED ESTABLISHMENT OF THE JV GROUP

The Directors believe that the Gaming Business and the Hospitality Business have marked a cornerstone of success for the Group to tap the burgeoning leisure and entertainment market in Macau and provided the Group with a strategic springboard to expand its leisure and entertainment business to overseas countries if opportunities arise.

The Directors consider that the proposed establishment of the JV Group has provided a good opportunity for the Group to extend its operation coverage into the leisure and entertainment industry in the Asia Pacific region. Through the establishment of the JV Group, the Company intends to utilize the combined expertise and knowledge of the Group and PBL to achieve its objectives of establishing a foothold beyond its existing market turf and becoming one of the prominent regional market players in the leisure and entertainment industry, thereby enhancing its growth potential and long-term profitability. The Directors believe that choosing PBL as the partner of the JV Group is due to the remarkable performance, reputation and business knowledge of PBL in relation to the casino and hotels operated by it, which can help to enhance the brand recognition of the Group in the Asia Pacific region and improve the services standard of the Group in its leisure and entertainment business. Upon formation, it is intended that the proposed JV Group will become a premier gaming and entertainment group for pursuance and development of the gaming, entertainment and hospitality businesses in Asia Pacific region and the Greater China Region including, but not limited to, Macau, Thailand, Japan, Singapore, Philippines, Vietnam and Indonesia (but excluding Australia and New Zealand). The Directors currently expect the JV Group to achieve significant operational synergies between the Group and PBL’s group, particularly with synergies driven by the expansion of geographical footprints and business networks as well as enhancement of services quality. In addition, the Directors believe that the relevant capital contribution by PBL to the JV Group, will increase the financial resources available to the Group for development of its leisure and entertainment business and will create significant value for the Shareholders in the long-term.

The Directors consider that the terms of the Definitive Agreements are entered into or agreed upon, as the case may be, after arm’s length negotiation between parties thereto and the terms of the Definitive Agreements and all transactions contemplated thereby are fair and reasonable and in the interest of the Group and of the Shareholders as a whole.

INFORMATION ON STDM AND THE LAND

STDM is a company engaged in a wide range of businesses including gaming and hospitality businesses in Macau. As disclosed in the announcement of the Company relating to the First Agreement on 13 September 2004, the Company acquired 50% equity interests in Great Wonders which has applied to the concession of the Land. The Land is a parcel of land with an area of 5,230 square meters located at Baixa da Taipa, Macau, described with the Land Registry Office of Macau under the no 21407, folio 125 of the Book B49. The Land is currently vacant and owned by a joint venture company, which is held as to 50% by an Independent Third Party, as to 25% by STDM and as to 25% by a company of which STDM is a substantial shareholder (as defined under the Listing Rules.). This joint venture company has applied to

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the Macau Government to give up or renounce the rights and obligations relating to the Land in order to enable Great Wonders to apply to the Macau Government for a new concession relating to the Land. The consideration payable by STDM to this joint venture company for such renunciation is HK$200 million and will be paid by installments by 1 September 2005. As disclosed in the circular of the Company relating to the First Agreement dated 11 October 2004, the Land is valuated at HK$288 million by Jones Lang LaSalle Limited, an independent valuer as at 5 August 2004. According to the valuation report as contained in Appendix III to this circular, Jones Lang LaSalle Limited revaluated the Land as at 10 December 2004 at HK$366 million. Shareholders are advised to refer to that valuation report for the bases and assumptions on the valuation. The existing leasehold of the Land is for residential purpose and the lease term will expire in March 2005. The premium of the existing leasehold of the Land has been fully settled. As at the Latest Practicable Date, Great Wonders has applied to the relevant Macau government authorities for the grant of the concession of the Land. However since the concession of the Land has not yet granted to Great Wonders, no application has been made for the change of use of the Land from residential purpose to hotel development and hence the premium payable by Great Wonders for the new leasehold of the Land with the proposed use thereof as hotel development that replace the existing one has not been assessed by the relevant Macau government authorities. It is expected that the concession of the Land to Great Wonders will be granted on or before 1 September 2005. The total investment amount for development of the Land is expected to be approximately HK$1,500 million. On 24 November 2004 Great Wonders entered into a development contract with an independent contractor to develop the hotel on the Land. Without taking into account of the proposed establishment of the JV Group, the estimated capital commitment shared by the Group will be HK$1,050 million, being 70% of the total investment amount for development of the Land, should the Second Agreement be completed. As disclosed in the announcement of the Company regarding the Placing on 15 October 2004, the Company expected to apply approximately HK$207 million raised from the Placing in the development of the Land. The Company will consider various financing methods including debts/equity financing to fund the remaining balance of the estimated capital commitment for developing the hotel on the Land.

As at the date of this circular, the Company does not have any contractual commitment to the development of the Land except for the obligations under the Land Acquisition Agreements, being the aggregate consideration of HK$156 million paid and/ or payable to STDM for an aggregate of 70% equity interests in Great Wonders and the related contribution of approximately HK$750 million, being 50% of the total estimated investment amount of HK$1,500 million for the development of the Land (assuming the Second Agreement is not completed) or approximately HK$1,050 million, being 70% of the said investment amount (assuming the Second Agreement is completed). The Company will notify the Stock Exchange when it has made any capital commitment to Great Wonders that exceeds the estimated capital commitment shared by the Group of HK$1,050 million, representing 70% of the total investment amount for development of the Land (assuming the Second Agreement is completed), in the light of Rule 14.07 of the Listing Rules. The Stock Exchange has indicated that it will reserve the rights to aggregate any further capital commitment of the Company, if any, to the development of the hotel on the Land for the purpose of Rule 14.15(2) of the Listing Rules and in such case, the Company will take necessary steps to fulfill the relevant disclosure and/ or approval requirements in the light of Rule 14.06 of the Listing Rules.

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REASONS AND BENEFITS OF ENTERING INTO THE SECOND AGREEMENT

Based on the Second Agreement per se, the Directors consider that the acquisition as contemplated by the Second Agreement will facilitate the Group to obtain control of Great Wonders and will enable the Group to have more operational flexibility in the Hospitality Business. Taking into account of the proposed establishment of the JV Group pursuant to the Subscription Agreement, the acquisition will also benefit the Group in terms of allowing the Group to retain a higher effective interest in Great Wonders and thus, the Hospitality Business, after the same being injected into the JV Group as, with the successful completion of the Second Agreement, the effective interests in Great Wonders held by the Company via the JV Group would be 42%, whereas, without the successful completion of the Second Agreement, the effective interests held by the Company in Great Wonders via the JV Group would only be 30%.

The Directors are of the view that the terms of the Second Agreement including the terms of the Second Convertible Bond are fair and reasonable and that they are arrived at after arm’s length negotiations and are upon normal commercial terms and in the interests of the Independent Shareholders as a whole.

THE REFRESHMENT OF GENERAL MANDATE

Previous General Mandate

At the AGM held on 20 May 2004, the Shareholders approved, amongst other things, an ordinary resolution to grant to the Directors a general mandate to issue securities not exceeding 20% of the aggregate nominal amount of the issued share capital of the Company as at the date of passing of such resolution. At the date of the passing of that resolution, there were 223,888,313 Shares in issue and thus that general mandate granted at the AGM entitled the Directors to issue and allot a total of 44,777,662 Shares, representing 20% of 223,888,313 Shares then in issue. No Share has ever been allotted and issued under the said general mandate granted at the AGM.

At the extraordinary general meeting held on 15 October 2004, the Independent Shareholders approved an ordinary resolution to grant to the Directors the Previous General Mandate to issue securities not exceeding 20% of the aggregate nominal amount of the issued share capital of the Company as at the date of passing of the resolution. At the date of passing of that resolution, there were 379,557,880 Shares in issue and thus the Previous General Mandate entitled the Directors to issue and allot a total of 75,911,576 Shares, representing 20% of 379,557,880 Shares then in issue.

As a result of the Placing as disclosed in the announcement of the Company dated 15 October 2004, 75,900,000 Shares were issued and placed to not less than six institutional investors who are all Independent Third Parties and hence, the Previous General Mandate has, to a substantial extent, been utilized by the Company.

Save for the Placing, the issue of securities and convertible notes by the Company for acquisition of 80% equity interests in Mocha Slot as disclosed in the announcement and the circular of the Company respectively dated 23 March 2004 and 23 April 2004 and the issue of the First Convertible Bond by the Company for acquisition of 50% equity interests in Great Wonders as disclosed in the announcement and circular of the Company respectively dated 13 September 2004 and 11 October 2004 (a summary of the details of which is contained in the paragraph headed “Fund raising exercises carried out by the Company in the past twelve months” above), the Company has not undertaken any fund raising exercise over the past twelve months.

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New General Mandate to allot and issue securities

As the Previous General Mandate granted to the Directors at the extraordinary general meeting held on 15 October 2004 has, to a substantial extent, been utilized for the issue of 75,900,000 Shares pursuant to the Placing, the Board proposed to put forward an ordinary resolution for approval by the Independent Shareholders (by way of poll) at the EGM to consider and, if thought fit, to approve the following:

  • (i) the Directors be granted with the New General Mandate to allot and issue securities not exceeding 20% of the issued share capital of the Company as at the date of passing of the relevant resolution; and

  • (ii) such mandate be extended to Shares repurchased by the Company pursuant to the general mandate to repurchase Shares granted to the Directors at the annual general meeting of the Company held on 20 May 2004.

As at the date of the announcement of the Company dated 23 November 2004 regarding, inter alia, the establishment of the JV Group and the Second Agreement, the then number of Shares in issue was 459,887,882 Shares. Subsequent to the date of such announcement, a total of 3,356,172 Shares have been issued by the Company pursuant to the exercise of the share options under the share option scheme of the Company. As at the Latest Practicable Date, the Company had an aggregate of 463,244,054 Shares in issue. Subject to the passing of the ordinary resolution for the approval of the Refreshment of General Mandate by the Independent Shareholders (by way of poll) at the EGM and on the basis that no further Shares are issued and/ or repurchased by the Company between the Latest Practicable Date and the date of the EGM, the Company would be allowed under the New General Mandate to allot and issue up to 92,648,810 Shares, being 20% of 463,244,054 Shares in issue as at the Latest Practicable Date.

Since the date of the last extraordinary general meeting of the Company held on 15 October 2004, the Company has not arranged for any refreshment of any general mandate for issue of securities save for the Refreshment of General Mandate. The New General Mandate, if granted, will be the second refreshment of general mandate after the AGM held on 20 May 2004. Also, the New General Mandate, if granted, will have the effect of replacing the Previous General Mandate and any unused part of the Previous General Mandate will be revoked.

Reasons for the Refreshment of General Mandate

As mentioned above, although the Previous General Mandate was recently granted on 15 October 2004, it has been substantially utilized after the Placing as 75,900,000 Shares have been issued out from the maximum number of 75,911,576 Shares entitled to be issued under the Previous General Mandate, the Directors consider that the granting of the New General Mandate could enhance the financing flexibility of the Company to raise capital, if and when required, through placing of Shares for further development of the Group. In addition, the Directors consider that if investment opportunities arise, investment decisions may have to be made in a timely manner and under this circumstance, the New General Mandate would provide the Group with the flexibility as allowed under the Listing Rules to allot and issue new Shares to raise capital through placing of new Shares as consideration for funding such potential investments, including but not limited to, any potential acquisitions in the future as and when opportunities arise. The

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Directors confirmed that as at the date of this circular, no such potential acquisitions have been identified and there are no negotiations or agreements entered into by the Company relating to any such potential acquisitions. The increased amount of capital which may be raised under the exercise of the New General Mandate would provide the Group with more options of financing, apart from other financing methods, such as debt financing and funding through internal resources, when any funding need is required for further development of the Group in future.

As at the Latest Practicable Date, the Directors considered that there was no immediate funding need for the Group’s current operations and the Directors confirmed that they have no present intention of exercising the New General Mandate to allot and issue securities of the Company.

IMPLICATIONS UNDER THE LISTING RULES

The proposed establishment of the JV Group pursuant to the Definitive Agreements

Based on the proposed capital contribution of US$163 million (equivalent to approximately HK$1.27 billion) by PBL (assuming the Second Agreement is completed) and the market capitalization of the Company before the execution of the Heads of Agreement on 11 November 2004, the proposed establishment of the JV Group constitutes a major transaction of the Company under Rule 14.06 of the Listing Rules and is subject to the requirements of reporting, announcement and the approval of the Shareholders as set out in Chapter 14 of the Listing Rules. Pursuant to Rule 14.46 of the Listing Rules, the Stock Exchange will require any shareholder and his associates to abstain from voting at the relevant general meeting on the relevant resolution(s) if such shareholder has a material interest in the transaction. Since Dr. Stanley Ho and his respective associates, namely Mr. Lawrence Ho, Madam Lucina Laam King Ying, Better Joy and Lasting Legend, do not have any interest other than the interest as being the Shareholders in the proposed establishment of the JV Group pursuant to the Definitive Agreements, all Shareholders are entitled to vote on the relevant resolution(s) regarding the Definitive Agreements at the EGM.

The Connected Transaction

STDM is a connected person for the purpose of the Listing Rules by virtue of the fact that Dr. Stanley Ho, who is the Chairman and Executive Director of the Company, has an equity interest in, as well as being a director of, STDM. As a result, the Land Acquisition Agreements, the issuance of the Convertible Bonds and the estimated capital commitment shared by the Company in developing the Land constitute a major transaction and non-exempt connected transaction of the Company under Rule 14.08 and Rule 14A.16(5) of the Listing Rules respectively (by virtue of the fact that some of the relevant percentage ratios as specified in Rule 14.07 of the Listing Rules are more than 25% but less than 100% and the purchase consideration payable to STDM pursuant to the Land Acquisition Agreements exceeds HK$10,000,000) and hence, the Connected Transaction is subject to the requirements of reporting, announcement and approval by the Independent Shareholders (by way of poll) at the EGM as set out in Chapter 14A of the Listing Rules.

Dr. Stanley Ho, who beneficially owns approximately 3.27% shareholding interest in the Company, and his associates, including Madam Lucina Laam King Ying, Mr. Lawrence Ho, Better Joy and Lasting Legend, will abstain from voting on the relevant resolution(s) regarding the Second Agreement and the transactions contemplated thereunder at the EGM.

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The Refreshment of General Mandate

Pursuant to Rule 13.36(4) of the Listing Rules, the Refreshment of General Mandate requires the approval of the Independent Shareholders (by way of poll) at the EGM at which the controlling Shareholders and their associates shall abstain from voting. As at the Latest Practicable Date, Mr. Lawrence Ho was the controlling Shareholder of the Company and therefore Mr. Lawrence Ho together with his associates, namely, Dr. Stanley Ho, Madam Lucina Laam King Ying, Lasting Legend and Better Joy will abstain from voting on the relevant resolution concerning the Refreshment of General Mandate at the EGM.

As at the Latest Practicable Date, the total number of issued shares of the Company were 463,244,054 Shares and were held as to approximately 3.24% by Dr. Stanley Ho, approximately 0.05% by Madam Lucina Laam King Ying, approximately 0.39% by Mr. Lawrence Ho personally, approximately 12.47% by Lasting Legend, approximately 26.92% by Better Joy and approximately 8.44% by Shun Tak Shipping Company Limited (a company in which Dr. Stanley Ho holds 27.78% shareholding interest and is a director). Based on the interest of Dr. Stanley Ho in Shun Tak Shipping Company Limited, Shun Tak Shipping Company Limited is not an associate of Dr. Stanley Ho under the definitions of the Listing Rules. Accordingly, Shun Tak Shipping Company Limited is not required to abstain from voting on the relevant resolution(s) regarding the Connected Transaction and the Refreshment of General Mandate at the EGM.

EXTRAORDINARY GENERAL MEETING

A notice convening the EGM to be held at 4:00 p.m. on Thursday, 20 January 2005 at 38th Floor, The Centrium, 60 Wyndham Street, Central, Hong Kong is set out on pages 134 to 136 of this circular at which ordinary resolution(s) will be proposed and, if thought fit, passed by the Shareholders or, as the case may be, the Independent Shareholders (by way of poll), to approve the Definitive Agreements and the transactions contemplated thereunder, the Connected Transaction and the Refreshment of General Mandate.

Dr. Stanley Ho and his associates, namely, Madam Lucina Laam King Ying, Mr. Lawrence Ho, Lasting Legend and Better Joy will abstain from voting on the relevant resolution(s) regarding the Connected Transaction and the Refreshment of General Mandate at the EGM.

The Independent Board Committee comprising the three Independent Non-executive Directors namely, Sir Roger Lobo, Mr. Robert Kwan and Dr. Lo Ka Shui, has been appointed to advise the Independent Shareholders on whether or not the Connected Transaction and the Refreshment of General Mandate are fair and reasonable and in the interests of the Independent Shareholders as a whole. Dao Heng Securities has been appointed as the Independent Financial Adviser to advise the Independent Board Committee in respect of the Connected Transaction and the Refreshment of General Mandate.

A proxy form for use by the Shareholders at the EGM is enclosed. Whether or not you are available to attend the EGM in person, you are requested to complete the accompanying proxy form in accordance with the instructions printed thereon and return the same to the registered office of the Company at 38th Floor, The Centrium, 60 Wyndham Street, Central, Hong Kong as soon as possible and in any event not less than 48 hours before the time appointed for holding of the EGM or any adjournment

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LETTER FROM THE BOARD

thereof. Completion and return of a proxy form will not preclude you from attending and voting in person at the EGM or any adjourned meeting should you so wish.

RECOMMENDATION

The Board considers that the terms of the Definitive Agreements are entered into or agreed upon, as the case may, after arm’s length negotiation between parties thereto and the terms of the Definitive Agreements and all transactions contemplated thereby are fair and reasonable and in the interest of the Group and of the Shareholders as a whole and accordingly recommends the Shareholders to vote in favour of the relevant resolution(s) regarding the Definitve Agreements and the transactions contemplated thereunder to be proposed at the EGM.

Your attention is drawn to (i) the letter from the Independent Board Committee set out on pages 36 to 37 of this circular which contains the recommendations of the Independent Board Committee to the Independent Shareholders concerning the Connected Transaction and the Refreshment of General Mandate; and (ii) the letter from Dao Heng Securities to the Independent Board Committee set out on pages 38 to 59 of this circular containing its advice to the Independent Board Committee in this regard.

The Independent Board Committee, having taking into account the advice from Dao Heng Securities in relation to the Connected Transaction and the Refreshment of General Mandate, considers that both the Connected Transaction and the Refreshment of General Mandate are fair and reasonable so far as the Independent Shareholders are concerned and that the Connected Transaction and the Refreshment of General Mandate are in the interest of the Company and the Shareholders as a whole. Accordingly, the Independent Board Committee recommends the Independent Shareholders to vote in favour of the relevant resolution(s) to be proposed at the EGM to approve the Connected Transaction and the Refreshment of General Mandate.

GENERAL

As at the date of this circular, the Board comprises three Executive Directors, namely, Dr. Stanley Ho, Mr. Lawrence Ho and Mr. Frank Tsui, two Non-executive Directors, namely, Mr. Ng Ching Wo and Mr. Ho Cheuk Yuet and three Independent Non-executive Directors, namely, Sir Roger Lobo, Mr. Robert Kwan and Dr. Lo Ka Shui.

Your attention is also drawn to the additional information set out in the appendices to this circular.

By Order of the Board Melco International Development Limited Ho, Lawrence Yau Lung Managing Director

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LETTER FROM THE INDEPENDENT BOARD COMMITTEE

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(Incorporated in Hong Kong with limited liability) Website: http://www.melco.hk.cn

Penthouse 38th Floor The Centrium 60 Wyndham Street Central Hong Kong

5 January 2005

To the Independent Shareholders

Dear Sir or Madam,

MAJOR AND CONNECTED TRANSACTION FURTHER ACQUISITION OF INTEREST IN THE LAND AND REFRESHMENT OF GENERAL MANDATE TO ALLOT AND ISSUE SHARES

We have been appointed as members of the Independent Board Committee to advise you in connection with the Connected Transaction and the Refreshment of General Mandate, details of which are set out in the “Letter from the Board” in the circular dated 5 January 2005, of which this letter forms part. Terms used in this letter have the same meanings as defined in the said circular unless the context otherwise requires.

We wish to draw your attention to the letter of advice from Dao Heng Securities as set out on pages 38 to 59 of this circular, which contains its advice and recommendation to us as to whether or not the Connected Transaction and the Refreshment of General Mandate are fair and reasonable and in the interests of the Independent Shareholders as a whole, as well as the principal factors and reasons for its advice and recommendation.

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LETTER FROM THE INDEPENDENT BOARD COMMITTEE

Having considered, amongst other matters, the factors and reasons considered by, and the opinion of, Dao Heng Securities as stated in its aforementioned letter of advice, we are of the opinion that the Connected Transaction and the Refreshment of General Mandate are fair and reasonable so far as the Independent Shareholders are concerned and the Connected Transaction and the Refreshment of General Mandate are in the interests of the Company and the Independent Shareholders as a whole. We therefore recommend the Independent Shareholders to vote in favour of the relevant resolution(s) to be proposed at the EGM to approve the Connected Transaction and the Refreshment of General Mandate.

Yours faithfully, For and on behalf of

the Independent Board Committee Sir Roger Lobo Robert Kwan Dr. Lo Ka Shui Independent Non-executive Directors

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LETTER FROM DAO HENG SECURITIES

The following is the text of the letter of advice to the Independent Board Committee from Dao Heng Securities in connection with the terms of the Second Agreement and the Refreshment of General Mandate, which has been prepared for the purpose of inclusion in this circular.

==> picture [130 x 37] intentionally omitted <==

5 January 2005

To the Independent Board Committee Melco International Development Limited 38th Floor, The Centrium 60 Wyndham Street Central Hong Kong

Dear Sirs,

MAJOR AND CONNECTED TRANSACTION FURTHER ACQUISITION OF INTEREST IN THE LAND AND REFRESHMENT OF GENERAL MANDATE TO ALLOT AND ISSUE SHARES

INTRODUCTION

We refer to our engagement by Melco International Development Limited (the “Company”, together with its subsidiaries, the “Group”) as an independent financial adviser to advise the Independent Board Committee with respect to the Second Agreement and the Refreshment of General Mandate. Details of the principal terms of the Second Agreement and the Refreshment of General Mandate are contained in the letter from the Board in the circular dated 5 January 2005 to the Shareholders (the “Circular”), of which this letter forms part. Terms defined in the Circular bear the same meanings herein unless the context otherwise requires.

On 11 November 2004, the Company has conditionally agreed to acquire from STDM an additional 20% issued share capital of Great Wonders at a consideration of HK$56 million. The Company will issue the Second Convertible Bond to STDM to satisfy the purchase consideration.

STDM is a connected person for the purpose of the Listing Rules by virtue of the fact that Dr. Stanley Ho, who is the chairman and an executive Director of the Company, has an equity interest in, as well as being a director of, STDM. As a result, the Second Agreement together with the First Agreement, the issuance of the Convertible Bonds and the estimated capital commitment shared by the Company in

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LETTER FROM DAO HENG SECURITIES

developing the Land constitute a major transaction and non-exempt connected transaction of the Company under Rule 14.08 and Rule 14A.16(5) of the Listing Rules respectively and are subject to the requirements of reporting, announcement and approval by the Independent Shareholders (by way of poll) at the EGM as set out in Chapter 14A of the Listing Rules.

Dr. Stanley Ho, who beneficially owns 3.27% shareholding interest in the Company, and his associates, including Madam Lucina Laam King Ying, Mr. Lawrence Ho, Better Joy and Lasting Legend, will abstain from voting on the relevant resolution(s) regarding the Second Agreement and the transaction contemplated thereunder at the EGM.

The Board also proposed to put forward an ordinary resolution for approval by the Independent Shareholders (by way of poll) at the EGM to consider and, if thought fit, to approve the followings:

  • (i) the Directors be granted with the New General Mandate to allot and issue securities not exceeding 20% of the issued share capital of the Company as at the date of passing of the relevant resolution; and

  • (ii) such mandate to be extended to Shares repurchased by the Company pursuant to the general mandate to repurchase Shares granted to the Directors at the annual general meeting of the Company held on 20 May 2004.

Pursuant to Rule 13.36(4) of the Listing Rules, the Refreshment of General Mandate requires the approval of the Independent Shareholders (by way of poll) at the EGM at which the controlling Shareholders and their associates shall abstain from voting. As at the Latest Practicable Date, Mr. Lawrence Ho was the controlling Shareholders and therefore Mr. Lawrence Ho together with his associates, namely Dr. Stanley Ho, Madam Lucina Laam King Ying, Lasting Legend and Better Joy will abstain from voting on the relevant resolution concerning the Refreshment of General Mandate at the EGM.

Our role as the independent financial adviser to the Independent Board Committee is to give our opinion as to whether the terms of the Second Agreement and the Refreshment of General Mandate are fair and reasonable so far as the Independent Shareholders are concerned.

In formulating our recommendations, we have relied on the accuracy of the information and representations contained in the Circular, which have been provided by the Directors and have assumed that all information and representations made or referred to in the Circular are true and accurate in all material respects. We have no reason to doubt the truth, accuracy and completeness of the information and representations provided to us by the Directors and have been advised by the Directors that no material facts have been omitted from the information provided and referred to in the Circular. We consider that we have reviewed sufficient information to reach an informed view and to justify relying on the accuracy of the information contained in the Circular and to provide a reasonable basis for our advice. We have not, however, conducted any independent investigation into the business and affairs or the future prospects of the Group.

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LETTER FROM DAO HENG SECURITIES

I. THE SECOND AGREEMENT

Background

On 11 November 2004, the Company entered into the Second Agreement with STDM, pursuant to which the Company will buy and STDM will sell 20% issued share capital of Great Wonders for a consideration of HK$56 million. The Company will issue the Second Convertible Bond to STDM to satisfy the purchase consideration. The Second Agreement is conditional upon the approval by the Independent Shareholders (by way of poll) at the EGM in compliance with the Listing Rules before 31 January 2005. If this condition is not fulfilled before 31 January 2005, unless the parties otherwise agree, STDM may, by notice to the Company, terminate the Second Agreement and the obligations of the parties thereunder.

As stated in the letter from the Board, Great Wonders was a new company initially established by STDM on 15 September 2004 pursuant to the First Agreement. Pursuant to the First Agreement, the Company acquired a 50% equity interest in Great Wonders at a consideration of HK$100,000,000 which was settled by issuance of a 5-year convertible bond carrying an interest rate of 4% per annum with conversion price at HK$4.00 per Share. As disclosed in the announcement of the Company relating to the First Agreement on 13 September 2004, the Company acquired 50% equity interests in Great Wonders which has applied to Macau Government for the concession of the Land. The Land is a parcel of land with an area of 5,230 square metres in Macau. The Land is currently vacant and owned by a joint venture company, which is held as to 50% by an Independent Third Party, as to 25% by STDM and as to 25% by a company of which STDM is a substantial shareholder (as defined under the Listing Rules). This joint venture company has applied to the Macau Government to give up or renounce the rights and obligations relating to the Land in order to enable Great Wonders to apply to the Macau Government for a new concession. It is expected that the concession of the Land to Great Wonders will be granted on or before 1 September 2005.

Independent Shareholders should note that under the terms of the Second Convertible Bond, if the concession of the Land is not granted to Great Wonders on or before 1 September 2005, the Company shall have the right to terminate the Second Convertible Bond. In such event, any and all liability of the Company to pay the consideration under the Second Agreement shall cease and all sums of money due under the Second Convertible Bond shall cease to be payable immediately, and the Company shall forthwith transfer the 20% equity interests in Great Wonders back to STDM. If any interest has been paid by the Company to STDM pursuant to the Second Convertible Bond, STDM shall forthwith repay such interest to the Company.

Principal factors and reasons considered

In arriving at our opinion and recommendation to the Independent Board Committee in relation to the Second Agreement, we have considered the following principal factors and reasons:

1. Reasons for and benefits of the Second Agreement

As stated in the letter from the Board, currently, the Group’s business is broadly divided into three divisions, namely (i) leisure and entertainment division; (ii) investment

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LETTER FROM DAO HENG SECURITIES

banking and financial services division; and (iii) technology division. The leisure and entertainment division of the Group comprises the operation of two floating restaurants, namely, Jumbo and Tai Pak, in Aberdeen, Hong Kong, the Gaming Business and the Hospitality Business.

Based on the Second Agreement per se, the Directors consider that the acquisition as contemplated by the Second Agreement will facilitate the Group to obtain control of Great Wonders from 50% to 70% (assuming no Subscription Agreement) or from 40% to 56% (assuming completion of Subscription Agreement) and will enable the Group to have more operational flexibility in the Hospitality Business as it is agreed under the Second Agreement that each of the Company and STDM shall take part in the management of Great Wonders as a company owned as to 70% by the Company and as to 30% by STDM upon completion of the Second Agreement. Taking into account the proposed establishment of the JV Group pursuant to the Subscription Agreement, the acquisition will also benefit the Group in terms of allowing the Group to retain a higher effective interest in Great Wonders and thus, the Hospitality Business, after the same being injected into the JV Group as, with the successful completion of the Second Agreement, the effective interests in Great Wonders held by the Company via the JV Group would be 42%, whereas, without the successful completion of the Second Agreement, the effective interests held by the Company in Great Wonders via the JV Group would only be 30%.

It is stated in the letter from the Board that according to the Subscription Agreement, the JV Group will be owned as to 50% by the Company and 50% by PBL. PBL will make a capital contribution of US$163 million (equivalent to HK$1,270 million) in case the Independent Shareholders approve (by way of poll) the relevant resolution(s) regarding the Second Agreement at the EGM or a total consideration of US$105 million (equivalent to approximately HK$817 million) in case the Independent Shareholders do not approve (by way of poll) the relevant resolution(s) regarding the Second Agreement at the EGM whilst the Company will transfer to the JV Group 80% equity interests in Melco Entertainment, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company to be formed for the purpose of holding (i) 80% equity interests in Mocha Slot and (ii) either 50% (assuming the Second Agreement is not completed) or 70% (assuming the Second Agreement is completed) equity interests in Great Wonders. It is stated in the letter from the Board that the different amounts of capital contribution to be made by PBL Asia reflect the strategic importance valued by PBL and PBL Asia in the acquisition of additional 20% equity interests in Great Wonders by the Company pursuant to the Second Agreement as with the additional 20% equity interests, Melco PBL Holdings will obtain a controlling interest of 56% in Great Wonders upon establishment of the JV Group while without the successful acquisition of 20% equity interests of Great Wonders by the Company, Melco PBL Holdings will only have an equity interest of 40% in Great Wonders. Independent Shareholders are advised to refer to the letter from the Board for details of the Subscription Agreement in respect of establishment of the JV Group for pursuance of the Gaming Business and the Hospitality Business.

The Company acquired 80% equity interests in Mocha Slot on 9 June 2004 for the total consideration of HK$398 million and 50% interests in Great Wonders on 9 November 2004 for a consideration of HK$100 million and will acquire additional 20% interests in

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LETTER FROM DAO HENG SECURITIES

Great Wonders under the Second Agreement for a consideration of HK$56 million. Therefore, the cost of the Company’s capital contribution to the JV Group by way of transfer its 80% equity interests in Melco Entertainment, a company to be established for holding (i) 80% equity interests in Mocha Slot for pursuance of the Gaming Business; and (ii) 70% equity interests in Great Wonders for pursuance of Hospitality Business amounted to approximately HK$443.2 million (assuming the Second Agreement is completed) or approximately HK$398.4 million (assuming the Second Agreement is not completed), representing approximately 34.9% or 48.8% of the capital contribution by PBL to the JV Group respectively whilst the JV Group is owned equally between the Company and PBL. We concur with the Board’s view that the different amounts of capital contribution to be made by PBL Asia reflect the strategic importance valued by PBL and PBL Asia in acquisition of Great Wonders. In view of the capital contribution by the Company to the JV Group which represents approximately 34.9% (assuming the Second Agreement is completed) or 48.8% (assuming the Second Agreement is not completed) of the capital contribution by PBL to the JV Group, we consider that it is beneficial for the Company to obtain further 20% in Great Wonders in order to have PBL Asia contributed additional HK$453 million to Melco PBL Holdings in which the Company will own 50% interests.

Also, it is stated in the letter from the Board that the Company anticipated that after establishment of the JV Group, it will retain the control of the composition of the board of directors of Melco Entertainment and in case the Second Agreement is completed, Melco Entertainment together with, inter alia, Great Wonders, shall remain as indirect subsidiaries of the Company after establishment of the JV Group. It is stated in the letter from the Board that the Company owns 50% equity interests in Great Wonders and accordingly, treats Great Wonders a jointly controlled company in the consolidated accounts of the Company. Upon completion of the Second Agreement and establishment of the JV Group, Great Wonders will also become an indirect non wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company thereby enabling the Group to consolidate the results, assets and liabilities of Great Wonders. Given the above, together with a deemed profit of approximately HK$425.9 million (assuming successful completion of the Second Agreement) or approximately HK$221.8 million (without completion of the Second Agreement) as a result of the proposed establishment of the JV Group to be accrued to the Group (details are set out in the paragraph headed “Deemed profit accrued to the Group” in the letter from the Board in the Circular), we concur with the Directors’ view that although the Subscription Agreement is not conditional upon the successful completion of the Second Agreement, it is beneficial for the Company to obtain additional 20% interests in Great Wonders for a consideration of HK$56 million as opposed to the additional capital contribution of HK$453 million to the JV Group by PBL Asia.

Independent Shareholders are advised to refer to the letter from the Board for the conditions precedent of the Subscription Agreement and should note that the Subscription Agreement is conditional upon, amongst others, the issuance of a letter by the relevant authority in Macau to STDM and/ or Great Wonders confirming that it intends to grant the concession of the Land to Great Wonders for use of the development of the luxury hotel housing a casino and an electronic gaming machine lounge on the Land on terms reasonably satisfactory to PBL Asia.

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LETTER FROM DAO HENG SECURITIES

2. Operating environment of Great Wonders

It is stated in the letter from the Board that the Hospitality Business is concerned with the entering into of the Land Acquisition Agreements to acquire altogether 70% equity interests in Great Wonders, which has applied for the concession of the Land, for developing a luxury hotel housing a casino and an electronic gaming machine lounge. In order to assess the operating environment of Great Wonders, we have looked into the tourism industry in Macau by visitor arrivals during the period from 2001 to 2004.

Chart 1: Visitor arrivals in Macau during 2001-2004

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----- Start of picture text -----

5000
4000
3000
2000
1000
0
Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3
2001 2002 2003 2004
Visitors (’000)
----- End of picture text -----

Source: Statistics and Census Service, Government of Macau Special Administrative Region

As shown in Chart 1 above, the number of visitors rose significantly during the period from 2001 to 2004 except for the outbreak of severe acute respiratory syndrome in Asia in the first quarter of 2003. Total number of visitor arrivals in the first three quarters of 2004 rose approximately 37.1% as compared with the corresponding period in 2003. The increase might be due to the influx of visitors from China after the mainland government eased travel restrictions. We are of the view that the relaxation of travel restrictions in the PRC helps to stimulate the tourism industry as well as casinos and hotels business in Macau and provide a favourable operating environment for Great Wonders. Therefore, we concur with the Directors’ view that the Second Agreement by its own, will have the merits of facilitating the Group to obtain control of Great Wonders and rendering Great Wonders to become a 70% non-wholly owned subsidiary of the Company thereby enabling the Group to consolidate the results, assets and liabilities of Great Wonders, whilst Great Wonders has applied for the concession of the Land for development of a luxury hotel housing a casino and an electronic gaming machine lounge, which help broadening the potential earning base of the Group.

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LETTER FROM DAO HENG SECURITIES

3. Basis of consideration

The consideration of HK$56 million was determined after arm’s length negotiation and on normal commercial terms and with reference to the 20% interest in the Land with the total valuation of HK$288 million (“Previous Valuation”) as at 5 August 2004 as disclosed in the circular of the Company dated 11 October 2004. The consideration of HK$56 million payable under the Second Agreement represents a discount of approximately 2.8% to HK$57.6 million, being 20% of the Previous Valuation. As stated in the valuation report by Jones Lang LaSalle Limited (which is set out in the Appendix III to the Circular), the Land has been valued at HK$366 million (“Current Valuation”) as at 10 December 2004 and therefore, the consideration of HK$56 million under the Second Agreement for the acquisition of 20% interests in Great Wonders represents a discount of approximately 23.5% to HK$73.2 million, being 20% of the Current Valuation. Having discussed with the valuer, the key financial parameters adopted in the residual valuation of the Land as extracted from the property valuation reports set out in Appendix III to the Circular and Appendix II to the circular of the Company dated 11 October 2004 are set out as follows:

Previous Current
Valuation as at Valuation as at
5 August 2004 10 December 2004
(HK$ million) (HK$ million)
Estimated gross development value of the
proposed development 851.2 978.0
Less:
Estimated construction cost 360.5 378.0
Estimated professional fees, legal costs,
stamp duty, etc. 48.0 54.0
Estimated interest charges 45.9 55.0
Estimated developer’s profit and
risk margin 108.8 125.0
Valuation of the Land 288.0 366.0

It is stated in the valuation report (which is set out in Appendix III to the Circular), the Land has been valued for use as residential properties as the application for change of use from residential to other uses has not been made to the Macau Government. Having discussed with the valuer, the Macau residential properties rose significantly during the period between the dates of the Previous Valuation and the Current Valuation ranging from 10% to 25% depending on the quality of the housing. Based on the aforesaid and the above table, we consider the estimated gross development value of the proposed development under the Current Valuation which rose 14.9% as compared to that under the Previous Valuation to be reasonable. Therefore, the difference between the Previous Valuation and the Current Valuation is primarily due to the fact that the surge in Macau property prices outgrew the increase in other estimated costs such as construction cost, professional fees

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LETTER FROM DAO HENG SECURITIES

and interest charges (such estimated costs of the proposed development have been computed based on the prevailing market construction cost for residential properties and the prevailing market interest rate) in four months’ time.

The Company will satisfy the consideration by issuing the Second Convertible Bond with terms set out in the letter from the Board and major terms of which are summarised as follows:

Tenor : 5 years from the date of issue Coupon : 4% per annum from 1 March 2005

  • Conversion price : HK$8.2 per Share (“Conversion Price”)

  • Exercise period : the period commencing 3 years from the date of issue of the Second Convertible Bond up to and including the maturity date of the Second Convertible Bond

  • Early redemption : the Company has the option to redeem the Second Convertible Bond commencing 2 years from the date of its issue till the maturity date of the Second Convertible Bond

  • Forced conversion : the Company has the option to require STDM to convert the Second Convertible Bond into new Shares if the 60-day average price of the Shares is over HK$8.2 per Share as quoted on the Stock Exchange provided that the option may not be exercised unless the concession of the Land has been granted to Great Wonders

  • Put option : if the concession of the Land is not granted to Great Wonders on or before 1 September 2005, the Company shall have the right to terminate the Second Convertible Bond. In such event, any and all liability of the Company to pay the consideration under the Second Agreement shall cease and all sums of money due under the Second Convertible Bond shall cease to be payable immediately, and the Company shall forthwith transfer the 20% equity interests in Great Wonders back to STDM. If any interest has been paid by the Company to STDM pursuant to the Second Convertible Bond, STDM shall forthwith repay such interest to the Company

(i) Conversion Price

The premiums/ discounts of the conversion prices over/ to the closing prices of the Share for different periods are set out in the following table.

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LETTER FROM DAO HENG SECURITIES

Table 1: Comparison of Conversion Price with the Share closing prices in different periods

Premium/
(Discount) of the
Closing price Conversion Price
/average over/to the closing
closing price price/ average
per Share closing price per
for the Share in the
period/ respective period/
Date/period NTA per Share NTA per Share
(HK$) (%)
As at 11 November 2004
(being the last trading
day prior to the date of
the Second Agreement) 9.85 (16.8)
5 days up to and including
11 November 2004 10.08 19.4
One month up to and including
11 November 2004 8.76 (6.4)
Three months up to and
including 11 November 2004 5.14 59.5
Six months up to and
including 11 November 2004 3.68 122.8
One year up to and including
11 November 2004
(the “One-year Period”) 2.94 178.9
As at the Latest Practicable
Date 18.80 (56.4)
From 25 November 2004 (being
the first trading day after the
issue of the announcement
regarding the Second
Agreement) to the Latest
Practicable Date
(the “Latest Period”) 14.03 (41.6)
Net tangible asset value (“NTA”) of
the Group as at 30 June 2004 0.952 761.3
based on 463,244,054 Shares
in issue as at the Latest Practicable Date

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LETTER FROM DAO HENG SECURITIES

The table above shows that the conversion price represents substantial premiums ranging from approximately 19.4% to 178.9% over the average Share closing price of (i) the five days up to 11 November 2004; (ii) the three months up to 11 November 2004; (iii) the six months up to 11 November 2004; and (iv) the One-year Period, while it represents discounts of approximately 6.4% and 16.8% to (i) the Share closing price on 11 November 2004; and (ii) average Share closing price for the one month ended 11 November 2004.

Chart 2: The closing prices and the trading volume of the Share for the Oneyear Period

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----- Start of picture text -----

14.00 240,000,000
12.00
200,000,000
10.00 Conversion price of HK$8.2 per Share
160,000,000
8.00
120,000,000
6.00
80,000,000
4.00
2.00 40,000,000
0.00 0
Volume traded Closing price
Closing price (HK$)
Trading volume (Shares)
Nov-03 Dec-03 Jan-04 Feb-04 Mar-04 Apr-04 May-04 Jun-04 Jul-04 Aug-04 Sep-04 Oct-04 Nov-04
----- End of picture text -----

As shown in Chart 2, the Shares were traded at prices substantially lower than the conversion price within the range from HK$1.90 to HK$2.65 during most of the time in the One-year Period. The Share price has surged since 14 September 2004 and attained the highest price in the One-year Period of HK$11.40 recorded on 3 November 2004. We have looked at the announcements published by the Company during such period to look for the reason for such surge in Share prices. On 13 September 2004, the Company published an announcement in relation to its entering into of the First Agreement and on 15 October 2004, the Company published an announcement in relation to a top-up placing exercise with fund raising amount of approximately HK$377 million, which was intended to be applied on the expansion of the Company’s “Mocha” slot machine operations in Macau and for development of the luxury hotel to be established on the Land. We consider that the upsurge of the Share price in recent months might reflect the market response to these corporate action exercised by the Company.

In order to assess the fairness and reasonableness of the conversion price of the Second Convertible Bond, we have looked into the recent issuance of convertible notes by listed companies in Hong Kong. We have identified 52 convertible note issues during the One-year Period and we consider that it would be more appropriate to compare the convertible bonds by other Hong Kong listed companies with issue size comparable to that of the Second Convertible Bond in the One-Year Period as there might be correlation among the issue size, the interest rate, maturity as well as the conversion price. Of these 52 convertible note issues, ten of them have maturity

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LETTER FROM DAO HENG SECURITIES

from three to six years and have issue size of less than HK$80 million and fixed conversion prices while the Second Convertible Bond has issue size of HK$56 million and fixed conversion price of HK$8.2 per share, which are considered comparable issues (“Comparable Issues”) to the Second Convertible Bond. Set out below is a summary of the ten Comparable Issues.

Table 2: Summary of the Comparable Issues

Premium/
(discount) of the
conversion price
over/to the average
closing price of
shares
in the last five
Principal trading days prior Interest
Date of Stock amount of to the related rate per
announcement code Company Principal business convertible note Maturity announcement annum
(HK$ million) (Year) (%) (%)
**23 November 2004 ** 200 The Company Leisure and entertainment, 56.0 5 19.4 4.0
investment banking and
financial services;
and technology
8 January 2004 76 South Sea Petroleum Development, exploration 72.0 3 (18.0) 5.0
Holdings Ltd. and production of crude oil
(formerly known and electronics
as Sen Hong manufacturing services
Resources Holdings
Limited)
20 February 2004 959 A-max Holdings Limited Manufacture, development 14.6 5 (91.3) 1.5
and sales of liquid crystal
display, modules and panels and
other electronic consumables
29 March 2004 8119 Thiz Technology Developer and provider of 10.0 3 24.2 2.5
Group Limited a range of Linux solutions
13 April 2004 1051 Credit Card DNA Security Manufacture and sale of 69.0 3 6.7 2.0
(Holdings) System food products, development of
e-business security, provision of
management services, provision
of financial information services,
manufacture and sale of
financial pagers
8 April 2004 547 Sun Innovation Holdings Installation, maintenance and 69.0 5.5 2.3 1.0
Limited servicing, manufacturing and
trading of fire prevention
suppression systems and equipment
and property investment

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LETTER FROM DAO HENG SECURITIES

Premium/
(discount) of the
conversion price
over/to the average
closing price of
shares
in the last five
Principal trading days prior Interest
Date of Stock amount of to the related rate per
announcement code Company Principal business convertible note Maturity announcement annum
(HK$ million) (Year) (%) (%)
15 May 2004 613 Yugang International Packaging business, property 70.0 3 _(Note)_18.2 3.0
Limited investment business and
infrastructure business
11 June 2004 273 China United Manufacture of gift packaging 55.0 5 (12.9) 7.8
International Holdings and switching power supply,
Limited property investment and
development, investment
in marketable securities,
securities brokerage and
investment holding
24 June 2004 351 Central China Telecommunication and 20.0 3 (18.3) 8.5
Enterprises Limited technology based businesses
29 June 2004 8091 Universal Technologies Provision of enterprise solutions 4.0 3 13.6 3.5
Holdings Limited with a focus on online
payment logistics
11 November 2004 1215 Guo Xin Group Limited Trading of consumer goods and 32.1 3 8.1 3.0
operation of commodity futures
trading in the PRC

Note: Average conversion price

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LETTER FROM DAO HENG SECURITIES

Four Comparable Issues had their conversion price set at a discount ranging from approximately 12.9% to 91.3% to the average closing price of shares in the last five trading days prior to the publish of the related announcement, while six Comparable Issues had their conversion price set at a premium ranging from approximately 2.3% to 24.2%. The conversion price of the Second Convertible Bond represents a premium of approximately 19.4% over the average closing price of the Shares in the last five trading days prior to the date of the Second Agreement, which lies in the high end of the range of that of the ten Comparable Issues. Given that (i) the Conversion Price is higher than the Share price most of the time in the One-year Period; (ii) the Conversion Price is significantly higher than the NTA per Share based on the financial statements of the Group as at 30 June 2004; and (iii) the Conversion Price represents a premium of approximately 19.4% over the average closing price of the Shares in the last five trading days prior to the date of the Second Agreement, which lies in the high end of the range of the Comparable Issues, we consider that the conversion price as stipulated under the Second Convertible Bond is acceptable.

(ii) Interest rate

As stated in the interim report (“Interim Report”) of the Company for the six months ended 30 June 2004, the Group has obtained banking facilities of approximately HK$149.8 million from various banks and interest rates for such facilities range from Hong Kong Interbank Offer Rate plus 1.05% to the best lending rate as quoted by The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation (“Prime Rate”). Based on the average Hong Kong Interbank Offer Rate during November 2004 ranging from approximately 0.21% to 1.07% and the existing Prime Rate of 5.00%, the interest rates of the Group’s banking facilities range from approximately 1.26% to 5.00%.

It is also noted from the Interim Report that the Group was provided with a loan from a minority shareholder of a subsidiary amounted to approximately HK$24.6 million. Such loan was unsecured, interest bearing at 4% per annum and the balance was subsequently settled on 7 July 2004. Subsequent to 31 December 2003, the Company has issued convertible bonds with an aggregate amount of HK$145,000,000 carrying interest rate of 4% per annum, which is equivalent to that of the Second Convertible Bond.

As stated in Table 2 above, the interest rates of the Comparable Issues range from 1.0% to 8.5% while the interest rate of 4% carried by the Second Convertible Bond falls within the range of that of the ten Comparable Issues. Based on the fact that (i) the interest rates of the Group’s banking facilities range from approximately 1.26% to 5%; (ii) interest on the previous loan from minority shareholder of a subsidiary of 4% per annum; (iii) the interest rate of the existing convertible bonds of the Group is 4% per annum; and (iv) the interest rate of 4% carried by the Second Convertible Bond falls within the range of that of the ten Comparable Issues, we consider that the interest rate of 4% carried by the Second Convertible Bond is acceptable.

Based on the above, we consider that the interest rate as stipulated under the Second Convertible Bond is fair and acceptable.

– 50 –

LETTER FROM DAO HENG SECURITIES

(iii) Other terms of the Second Convertible Bonds

We note that there are other clauses under the Second Convertible Bond that should be brought to the Shareholders’ attention and they are exercise period, early redemption, forced conversion and put option (details of which are set out in this paragraph above). We consider that (i) the exercise period commencing 3 years from the date of issue thereof to its maturity represents a lock-up period for STDM and therefore, no immediate dilution to the Shareholders’ interests in the Company; (ii) early redemption clause allows the flexibility to the Company to redeem the Second Convertible Bond commencing 2 years from the date of its issue till the maturity date of the Second Convertible Bond so that it would reduce interest expenditure of the Group should it have sufficient cash to redeem the Second Convertible Bond; (iii) forced conversion clause provides the Company with an option to require STDM to convert the Second Convertible Bond into new Shares if 60-day average price of the Shares is over the Conversion Price so that it would reduce interest expenditure of the Group; and (iv) the put option provides the Company with the right to terminate the Second Agreement if the concession of the Land is not granted to Great Wonders on or before 1 September 2005. Therefore, we are of the view that the aforesaid other terms under the Second Convertible Bond would safeguard the interests of the Company under the Second Agreement as well as the Second Convertible Bond and are in the interests of the Company and its Shareholders as a whole.

(iv) Alternative way of financing

The Directors are of the view that it is beneficial for the Company to lock in a fixed financing cost by issuing the Second Convertible Bond and the consideration under the Second Agreement to be satisfied by issuance of the Second Convertible Bond which is built in with a put option (details of which are out in this paragraph above) and such put option can safeguard the interests of the Company as well as its shareholders as the concession of the Land may or may not be granted to Great Wonders by Macau Government.

In light of the above, we concur with the Directors’ view that the Second Convertible Bond is at present a feasible way of raising fund to satisfy the consideration under the Second Agreement.

4. Effect on the financial position of the Group

(i) Indebtedness and gearing ratio

Based on the unaudited condensed consolidated balance sheet of the Group for the six months ended 30 June 2004, the unaudited consolidated NTA of the Group as at 30 June 2004 was approximately HK$441.1 million and unaudited condensed consolidated profit attributable to the Shareholders for the six months ended 30 June 2004 was approximately HK$60.1 million. Based on the interest rate of 4.0% carried by the Second Convertible Bond and assuming no conversion of the Second Convertible

– 51 –

LETTER FROM DAO HENG SECURITIES

Bond, this will translate into interest expense of approximately HK$2.24 million per annum, representing approximately 0.5% of the Group’s NTA as at 30 June 2004 and approximately 3.7% of the Group’s unaudited condensed consolidated profit attributable to the Shareholders for the six months ended 30 June 2004.

As at 30 June 2004, the Group had total liabilities of approximately HK$254.1 million, which is mainly the current liabilities of approximately HK$231.6 million, and net asset of approximately HK$831.0 million. The Group’s indebtedness as at 30 June 2004 amounted to approximately HK$137.8 million, comprising a convertible bond due within one year of HK$22.5 million, a convertible bond due after one year of HK$22.5 million, loan from a minority shareholder of a subsidiary of HK$24.6 million (which was subsequently settled on 7 July 2004) and bank loan and overdraft of HK$68.2 million. Subsequent to 30 June 2004, the Company issued the First Convertible Bond of HK$100 million in order to satisfy the consideration under the First Agreement. Having adjusted for the aforementioned, the gearing ratio of the Group is approximately 28.6% (being the total borrowings divided by the net asset value of the Group). Whilst upon completion of the Second Agreement, the gearing ratio of the Group will be increased to 35.4%. Given the Second Convertible Bond has no immediate effect on its cashflow position and can secure a longer term of financing resources for the Group, we consider the increase in gearing ratio as a result of the Second Agreement to be acceptable.

(ii) Net asset value

It is stated in the Interim Report that the net asset value of the Group amounted to approximately HK$831.0 million. Based on 463,244,054 Shares in issue as at the Latest Practicable Date, the net asset value of the Group as at 30 June 2004 was approximately HK$1.79 per Share. Although the issuance of the Second Convertible Bond will increase the Group’s non-current liabilities by HK$56.0 million, the assets of the Group will also increase by the same amount upon completion of the Second Agreement. Therefore, there is no material change to the Group’s net asset value as a result of the completion of the Second Agreement and the issuance of the Second Convertible Bond. Assuming full conversion of the Second Convertible Bond, approximately 6,829,268 Shares will be issued and the addition of HK$56.0 million equity capital to the Group, the net asset value per Share of the Group will increase from approximately HK$1.79 to HK$1.89.

However, according to the paragraph headed “I. Unaudited pro forma statement of assets and liabilities of the Enlarged Group” as contained in Appendix IV to the Circular, the Group’s net tangible assets would be approximately HK$441.1 million upon completion of the First Agreement as opposed to approximately HK$541.3 million upon completion of the Second Agreement and therefore the net tangible asset per Share will increase from approximately HK$0.95 to HK$1.17 representing an increase of approximately 23.2%. The increase in net tangible assets of the Group is stemmed from a negative goodwill of HK$100.2 million which represents the excess of the fair value of the Land and the total consideration under the Land

– 52 –

LETTER FROM DAO HENG SECURITIES

Acquisition Agreements. Assuming full conversion of the Second Convertible Bond, approximately 6,829,268 Shares will be issued and the addition of HK$56 million equity capital to the Group, the net tangible asset value per Share of the Group will increase from approximately HK$1.17 to HK$1.27.

5. Dilution effect on the interests of Independent Shareholders

A table showing the changes in the shareholding interests of the Group before and after full conversion of the Convertible Bonds is set out in the paragraph headed “Shareholding structure of the Company before and after full conversion of the Convertible Bonds” in the letter from the Board. Based on the Conversion Price of HK$8.2, 6,829,268 Shares will be issued to STDM, representing approximately 1.47% and 1.45% of the existing issued share capital and the issued share capital as enlarged by the full conversion of the Second Convertible Bond of the Group.

As the Conversion Price is significantly higher than that of the First Convertible Bond of HK$4.00 per Share, it is highly likely that the full conversion of the Second Convertible Bond would be following that of the First Convertible Bond. Upon full conversion of the Convertible Bonds, 31,829,268 Shares will be issued to STDM, representing approximately 6.87% and 6.43% of the existing issued share capital and the issued share capital as enlarged by the full conversion of the Convertible Bonds of the Company.

The shareholding interests of public Shareholders will be reduced from approximately 48.49% to:

  • (i) 47.79% in case of full conversion of the Second Convertible Bond without converting any First Convertible Bond; and

  • (ii) 45.38% in case of full conversion of the Convertible Bonds.

Given the Conversion Price represents a premium of approximately 358.1% over the net asset value per Share of approximately HK$1.79, based on the unaudited net asset value of the Company as at 30 June 2004 and the Shares in issue as at the Latest Practicable Date and benefits brought to the Group by the Second Agreement as discussed in the paragraph headed “Reasons for and benefits of the Second Agreement” above, we consider that the potential dilution of public Shareholders from approximately 48.49% to utmost 45.38% to be acceptable.

– 53 –

LETTER FROM DAO HENG SECURITIES

6. Other areas for Shareholders’ attention

(i) Developing stage of the Group’s Gaming Business

The Group first participated in the gaming business by acquisition of 80% equity interests in Mocha Slot in June 2004. Dr. Stanley Ho, the chairman and an executive director of the Company since 1987, is the managing director and founder of STDM, which is a company engaged in a wide range of businesses including gaming and hospitality businesses in Macau with over 40 years of history. Given the extensive experience of Dr. Stanley Ho in the areas of gaming and entertainment, who is a key management of the Group, we are of the view that the Company’s management possesses relevant experience which is favourable to the development of the Group’s Gaming Business. However, Shareholders should note that, since the Group’s Gaming Business is still in developing stage, its turnover and operating performance might fluctuate in near future.

(ii) Regulatory restrictions

It is stated in the letter from the Board that completion of the Subscription Agreement is conditional on, amongst other things, each of the Company and PBL having obtained all requisite consents and approvals, if required, from the relevant regulatory authorities, including but not limited to the relevant gaming regulatory authorities in Macau and or Australia and approval from the Shareholders in connection with the Definitive Agreements and the transactions contemplated thereby. Shareholders should note that there is no assurance for the Company and PBL to obtain all requisite consents and approvals, if required, from the relevant regulatory authorities for pursuance of Gaming Business and the Subscription Agreement may or may not proceed for completion.

(iii) Risk of gaming business

The four-decade monopoly of gaming industry in Macau came to an end since the Macau Government liberalized its gaming and tourism industry in 2002. Recently, about 1 to 1.2 million visitor arrivals in Macau are recorded every month. The increased number of tourists from mainland China and the liberalization of the gaming industry attracts new concessionaires in co-operation to develop Macau’s gaming industry and intensifies the competition of the gaming industry in Macau, which may affect the profitability of Melco PBL Holdings in future.

7. Conclusion

Despite the fact that the Gaming Business will involve certain business risks as detailed in the paragraph headed “6. Other areas for Shareholders’ attention” above, having considered:

  • (i) that although the Subscription Agreement is not conditional upon the successful completion of the Second Agreement, it is beneficial for the Company to obtain

– 54 –

LETTER FROM DAO HENG SECURITIES

additional 20% interests in Great Wonders for a consideration of HK$56 million as opposed to the additional capital contribution of HK$453 million to the JV Group by PBL Asia;

  • (ii) that the consideration of the Second Agreement was determined at after arm’s length negotiation and on normal commercial terms and with reference to the 20% interest in the Land with the total valuation of HK$288 million as at 5 August 2004 as disclosed in the circular of the Company dated 11 October 2004 while it represents a discount of approximately 23.5% to the 20% interest in the Land with valuation of HK$366 million as at 10 December 2004;

  • (iii) that the Conversion Price of the Second Convertible Bond represents a substantial premium over the unaudited net tangible asset value of the Company as at 30 June 2004 and significant premium over the closing price during most of the time in the One-year Period and the premium over the average closing price of Shares in the last five trading days prior to the suspension pending the publish of the announcement relating to the Second Agreement is within the range of those of the Comparable Issues;

  • (iv) that the interest rate of the Second Convertible Bond of 4.0% per annum falls within the range of interest rate carried by the Comparable Issues and is equivalent to other convertible bonds of the Company including the First Convertible Bond;

  • (v) that other terms of the Second Convertible Bond would safeguard the interests of the Company under the Second Agreement as well as the Second Convertible Bond and are in the interests of the Company and its Shareholders as a whole;

  • (vi) that the Second Convertible Bond provides the Company with the right to reverse the Second Agreement should the concession of the Land not be granted to Great Wonders by Macau Government;

  • (vii) that there is no immediate dilution effect on the shareholding interests of the public Shareholders; and

  • (viii) the Group’s net tangible assets would be approximately HK$441.1 million upon completion of the First Agreement as opposed to approximately HK$541.3 million upon completion of the Second Agreement and therefore the net tangible asset per Share will increase from approximately HK$0.95 to HK$1.17 representing an increase of approximately 23.2%,

we consider that the terms of the Second Agreement and the terms of the issue of the Second Convertible Bond are acceptable.

– 55 –

LETTER FROM DAO HENG SECURITIES

II. REFRESHMENT OF GENERAL MANDATE

Background

At the AGM held on 20 May 2004, the Shareholders approved, amongst other things, an ordinary resolution to grant to the Directors a general mandate to issue securities not exceeding 20% of the aggregate nominal amount of the issued share capital of the Company as at the date of passing of such resolution. At the date of the passing of that resolution, there were 223,888,313 Shares in issue and thus that general mandate granted at the AGM entitled the Directors to issue and allot a total of 44,777,662 Shares, representing 20% of 223,888,313 Shares then in issue. As stated in the letter from board in the Company’s circular dated 30 September 2004 in relation to the Previous General Mandate, (i) the issue of 153,478,261 Shares by the Company as the consideration for acquisition of 80% equity interests in Mocha Slot; and (ii) the issue of 150,000 Shares pursuant to the Company’s share option scheme during the period from the date of AGM up to and including 28 September 2004, resulted in an increase of Shares in issue by approximately 68.62% from 223,888,313 Shares at the time when the general mandate approved in the AGM to 377,516,574 Shares as at 28 September 2004. Therefore, the Directors, by that time, proposed to seek the then Independent Shareholders’ approval on the Previous General Mandate in order to maintain the financial flexibility for the Group’s future business development. As stated in the letter from the Board in the Circular, no Share has ever been allotted and issued under the said general mandate granted at the AGM.

On 15 October 2004, the Company announced that it entered into a placing and subscription agreement whereby the Company agreed to issue 75,900,000 new Shares to Better Joy Overseas Limited and Better Joy Overseas Limited agreed to sell to independent third parties an equal amount of Shares, representing 20% of the then existing issued share capital of the Company. It is stated in the letter from the Board that the Company expected to apply the net proceeds of the Placing of approximately HK$377 million, as to approximately HK$94 million for expansion of the Gaming Business, as to approximately HK$207 for development of the Hospitality Business and as to the remaining approximately HK$75 million as working capital for the Group. It is stated in the letter from the Board that, as at the Latest Practicable Date, the Company has utilised a total sum of approximately HK$3.5 million for acquisition of hardware and systems for the Gaming Business and a total sum of approximately HK$17.2 million, mainly for engaging the independent professionals, including architects and surveyors, in relation to the relevant application for the concession of the Land in respect of the Hospitality Business. As advised by the Directors, there is no change in such use of proceeds as the Company is obliged to finance directly the development of Mocha Slot and Great Wonders before the establishment of the JV Group and the Subscription Agreement is yet to become unconditional.

As stated in the letter from the Board, save for the Placing, the issue of securities and convertible notes by the Company for acquisition of 80% equity interests in Mocha Slot as disclosed in the announcement and circular of the Company respectively dated 23 March 2004 and 23 April 2004 and the issue of the First Convertible Bond by the Company for acquisition of 50% equity interests in Great Wonders as disclosed in the announcement and circular of the Company respectively dated 13 September 2004 and 11 October 2004, the Company has not carried out any fund raising exercise over the past twelve months.

– 56 –

LETTER FROM DAO HENG SECURITIES

The issue of 75,900,000 new Shares under the Placing was pursuant to the general mandate to allot, issue and deal with the Shares to the Directors by its Shareholders at an extraordinary general meeting of the Company on 15 October 2004. The Board therefore proposes to pass an ordinary resolution in the EGM to adopt the Refreshment of General Mandate so as to allow flexibility to issue any additional new Shares. Mr. Lawrence Ho was the controlling Shareholder of the Company and therefore, Mr. Lawrence Ho together with his associates, namely, Dr. Stanley Ho, Madam Lucina Laam King Ying, Lasting Legend and Better Joy will abstain from voting on the relevant resolution concerning the Refreshment of General Mandate at the EGM.

Principal factors and reasons considered

In arriving at our opinion and recommendation to the Independent Board Committee in relation to the Refreshment of General Mandate, we have considered the following factors:

1. Latest business development of the Group

It is stated in the Interim Report that the Group’s various business segments are well positioned to take advantage of the economic upturns. The acquisition of Mocha Slot gives the Group entry to the booming Macau gaming business and an important and significant source of revenue. The Group is planning to expand this line of business and has been discussing with Macau casino operators on opening of more Mocha Slot lounges in Macau.

On 23 November 2004, the Company announced that apart from the entering into of the Second Agreement, the Company also entered into the Heads of Agreement with PBL in connection with the establishment of the JV Group for pursuance of the gaming, entertainment and hospitality businesses in Asia Pacific region and the Greater China Region including, but not limited to, Macau, Thailand, Japan, Singapore, Philippines, Vietnam and Indonesia (but excluding Australia and New Zealand). It is stated in the letter from the Board that on 23 December 2004, the Company entered into the Subscription Agreement with PBL Asia which set forth the respective obligations of the Company and PBL, details of which have been set out in the letter from the Board. The completion of the Subscription Agreement is subject to certain conditions including, inter alia, completion of the due diligence, the receipt of approvals, if required, of all relevant regulatory authorities, the approvals of the respective board of directors of the Company and PBL as well as approval from the Shareholders. Independent Shareholders are advised to refer to the letter from the Board for the terms and conditions of the Subscription Agreement and details of the JV Group.

2. Recent fund raising activities

During the past 12 months, the Company carried out several fund raising activities, including:

  • (i) the Placing announced on 15 October 2004 (the net proceeds of which are applied to the Group’s Gaming and Hospitality Businesses). As stated in the letter from the Board, it is the present intention of the Company to utilise the net proceeds of Placing according to the intended application thereof as disclosed

– 57 –

LETTER FROM DAO HENG SECURITIES

in the announcement dated 15 October 2004, that is approximately 80% of which to be applied for expansion of the Group’s Gaming and Hospitality Businesses;

  • (ii) the issue of securities and convertible notes by the Company for acquisition of 80% equity interests in Mocha Slot announced on 23 March 2004. Such acquisition completed on 9 June 2004; and

  • (iii) the issue of the First Convertible Bond by the Company for acquisition of 50% equity interests in Great Wonders as announced on 13 September 2004.

As stated in the Company’ interim report for the six months ended 30 June 2004, the Group has focused on expanding its principal business of leisure and entertainment in Macau and, by which, the Group’s revenue stream has been widened. Given the above, we consider that the fund raising activities of the Company during the past 12 months and the application of net proceeds derived therefrom are in line with the business of the Group and its development strategy.

3. Financial flexibility

As discussed with the management of the Company, the Group will continue to develop and expand its hospitality and gaming businesses in future. However, the management of the Company further advised that the Company at present does not have any concrete fund-raising plan in near future. Despite, as stated in the letter from the Board, there was no immediate funding need for the Group’s current operations and the Directors confirmed that they have no present intention of exercising the New General Mandate to allot and issue securities of the Company, the Directors consider that if investment opportunities arise, investment decisions may have to be made in a timely manner and under this circumstance, the New General Mandate would provide the Group with the flexibility as allowed under the Listing Rules to allot and issue new Shares to raise capital through placing of new Shares or convertible bonds as consideration for funding such potential investments, including but not limited to, any potential acquisitions in the future as and when opportunities arise. It is further stated in the letter from the Board in the Circular that the Directors confirmed that, as at the date of the Circular, no such potential acquisitions have been identified and there are no negotiation or agreements entered into by the Company relating to any such potential acquisitions. The increased amount of capital which may be raised under the exercise of the New General Mandate would provide the Group with more options of financing, apart from other financing methods, such as debt financing and funding through internal resources, when any funding need is required for further development of the Group in the future.

– 58 –

LETTER FROM DAO HENG SECURITIES

4. Other financing alternatives

Instead of raising fund by way of issuing equity capital, the Group may consider other financing alternatives such as banking financing and debt issuance in order to meet its financing requirements arising from potential acquisitions. However, these financing alternatives usually will result in the Group incurring financing costs. As such, we concur with the Directors’ view that equity financing such as issuance of new Shares and convertible bonds will be one of the suitable means to fund the Group’s potential acquisitions and investments as and when such opportunities arise.

Having considered (i) that the Previous General Mandate granted on 15 October 2004 has been substantially utilised to issue 75,900,000 new Shares under the Placing (the net proceeds from which are mainly used for expansion of the Company’s “Mocha” slot machine operations in Macau and for development of the luxury hotel and casino on the Land); (ii) the recent business development of the Group; and (iii) the financial flexibility provided by the New General Mandate so as to cope with the Group’s further business development in the future, we consider the Refreshment of General Mandate to be reasonable despite the Previous General Mandate has been granted to the Directors in the last three months. Having considered the above factors, we are of the view that the Refreshment of General Mandate is in the interests of the Company and the Shareholders as a whole.

RECOMMENDATION

Having taken into account the above factors and reasons, we consider that (i) the terms of the Second Agreement, including the Second Convertible Bond, are fair and reasonable as far as the interests of the Independent Shareholders are concerned and are in the interests of the Company and its Shareholders as a whole; and (ii) the Refreshment of General Mandate is in the interests of the Company and its Shareholders as a whole. Accordingly, we recommend the Independent Board Committee to advise the Independent Shareholders to vote at the EGM in favour of the resolutions in relation to the Second Agreement, including the Second Convertible Bond, and the Refreshment of General Mandate.

Yours faithfully, For and on behalf of

Dao Heng Securities Limited

Venus Choi

Venus Choi Jenny Leung Executive Director Director, Corporate Finance

– 59 –

ACCOUNTANTS’ REPORT ON GREAT WONDERS

APPENDIX I

==> picture [92 x 46] intentionally omitted <==

5th January 2005

The Directors

Melco International Development Limited

Dear Sirs,

Great Wonders, Investments, Limited, (“Great Wonders”) was established in Macau on 15th September 2004 (“date of establishment”) as a limited liability company.

As at 31st October 2004, the registered capital of Great Wonders was MOP$1 million and comprised amount due from shareholders of MOP$1 million. Great Wonders had not commenced operation since the date of establishment to 31st October 2004.

The accounting policy adopted by Great Wonders are consistent with that of the Group.

Up to the date of this report, Great Wonders had entered into a development contract with an independent contractor to develop the hotel on the Land. The contract amount was HK$1,448 million.

No audited accounts have been prepared up to the date of this report.

Yours faithfully, PricewaterhouseCoopers Certified Public Accountants Hong Kong

– 60 –

FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF THE GROUP

APPENDIX II

1. UNAUDITED INTERIM RESULTS OF THE GROUP FOR THE SIX MONTHS ENDED 30TH JUNE 2004

Set our below is an extract of the financial information of the Group from its interim report for the six months ended 30th June 2004.

Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Profit and Loss Account

FOR THE SIX MONTHS ENDED 30TH JUNE 2004

Note
Turnover
2
Other revenues
Cost of inventories sold
Staff costs
Depreciation of fixed assets
7
Amortisation of intangible assets
7
Commission expense
Gain on disposal of investment properties
Other operating expenses
Total operating expenses
Operating profit/(loss)
3
Finance costs
Profit/(loss) before taxation
Taxation credit
4
Profit/(loss) after taxation
Minority interests
Net profit/(loss) attributable to shareholders
Basic earnings/(loss) per share
5
Fully diluted earnings/(loss) per share
5
Unaudited
Six months ended
30th June
2004
2003
HK$’000
HK$’000
210,865
58,377
4,638
5,223
(86,312)
(5,629)
(50,108)
(33,223)
(5,943)
(7,536)
(3,274)
(1,725)
(27,161)
(5,795)
57,175

(36,676)
(30,097)
(152,299)
(84,005)
---------------------
---------------------
63,204
(20,405)
(1,235)
(344)
61,969
(20,749)
814

62,783
(20,749)
(2,689)
5,866
60,094
(14,883)
HK24.84 cents
(HK10.24 cents)
HK24.09 cents
N/A

– 61 –

APPENDIX II

FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF THE GROUP

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET

AS AT 30TH JUNE 2004

Note
Non-current assets
Fixed assets
7
Investment securities
Intangible assets
7
Other non-current assets
Current assets
Inventories
Trade receivables
8
Prepayments, deposits and other receivables
Other investments
Bank balances and cash
Current liabilities
Trade payables
9
Accrued liabilities and other payables
Taxation payable
Deferred tax liabilities
Loan from a minority shareholder of a subsidiary
10
Bank loans and overdrafts
Convertible notes due within one year
11
Net current assets
Total assets less current liabilities
Financed by:
Share capital
12
Reserves
Shareholders’ funds
Minority interests
Non-current liabilities
Rental deposits due after one year
Convertible notes due after one year
11
Unaudited
Audited
30th June
31st December
2004
2003
HK$’000
HK$’000
183,726
187,916
20,637
20,637
389,860
22,998
4,402
9,065
2,085
4,137
327,096
236,390
21,667
9,966
44,813
40,638
165,814
142,771
561,475
433,902
-------------
-------------
86,492
108,470
28,780
41,643
735

262
324
24,636

68,158

22,500

231,563
150,437
-------------
-------------
329,912
283,465
-------------
-------------
928,537
524,081
377,366
221,997
453,625
238,725
830,991
460,722
75,046
62,952

407
22,500

928,537
524,081
Unaudited
Audited
30th June
31st December
2004
2003
HK$’000
HK$’000
183,726
187,916
20,637
20,637
389,860
22,998
4,402
9,065
2,085
4,137
327,096
236,390
21,667
9,966
44,813
40,638
165,814
142,771
561,475
433,902
-------------
-------------
86,492
108,470
28,780
41,643
735

262
324
24,636

68,158

22,500

231,563
150,437
-------------
-------------
329,912
283,465
-------------
-------------
928,537
524,081
377,366
221,997
453,625
238,725
830,991
460,722
75,046
62,952

407
22,500

928,537
524,081
433,902
-------------
108,470
41,643

324


150,437
-------------
283,465
-------------
524,081
221,997
238,725
460,722
62,952
407
524,081

– 62 –

FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF THE GROUP

APPENDIX II

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY

FOR THE SIX MONTHS ENDED 30TH JUNE 2004

At 1st January 2004
Profit for the period
Realisation of investment
properties revaluation
reserve upon disposal of
investment properties
Issuance of shares
Share issuance expenses
Exercise of share option
At 30th June 2004
At 1st January 2003
Loss for the period
At 30th June 2003
Unaudited Unaudited
Share
Capital
HK$’000
221,997


153,478

1,891
377,366
Investment
properties
Share
revaluation
Capital Accumulated
premium
reserve
reserve
loss
HK$’000
HK$’000
HK$’000
HK$’000
49,677
82,948
357,785
(251,685)



60,094

(56,175)


211,033



(60)



8



260,658
26,773
357,785
(191,591)
Unaudited
Total
HK$’000
460,722
60,094
(56,175)
364,511
(60)
1,899
830,991
Share
Capital
HK$’000
145,287

145,287
Investment
properties
Share
revaluation
premium
reserve
HK$’000
HK$’000
19,189
79,214


19,189
79,214
Capital Accumulated
reserve
loss
HK$’000
HK$’000
357,785
(225,351)

(14,883)
357,785
(240,234)
Total
HK$’000
376,124
(14,883)
361,241

– 63 –

FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF THE GROUP

APPENDIX II

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED CASH FLOW STATEMENT

FOR THE SIX MONTHS ENDED 30TH JUNE 2004

Net cash used in operation activities
Net cash generated from/(used in) investing activities
Net cash generated from/(used in) financing activities
Increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents at 1st January
Cash and cash equivalents at 30th June
Unaudited
Six months ended
30th June
2004
2003
HK$’000
HK$’000
(125,699)
(34,591)
79,900
(334)
68,842
(62,301)
23,043
(97,226)
142,771
219,229
165,814
122,003

– 64 –

FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF THE GROUP

APPENDIX II

NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

1. Basis of preparation and accounting policies

These unaudited consolidated condensed accounts are prepared in accordance with Hong Kong Statement of Standard Accounting Practice (“SSAP”) 25, “Interim Financial Reporting”, issued by the Hong Kong Institute of Certified Public Accountants.

These condensed accounts should be read in conjunction with the 2003 annual accounts.

The accounting policies and methods of computation used in the preparation of these condensed accounts are consistent with those used in the annual accounts for the year ended 31st December 2003.

2. Segment information

The Group’s business can be principally segregated into four segments during this interim period:–

The leisure and entertainment segment, which mainly comprises (a) Mocha – leasing of electronic gaming machines and provision of management services to casino operators in Macau; and (b) Jumbo – restaurant operations.

The technology segment, which mainly comprises (a) Elixir – provision of gaming technology infrastructure and systems in Macau and (b) iAsia – development and sale of financial trading and settlement systems in Asia.

The investment banking and financial services segment (operated through Value Convergence), which mainly comprises (a) provision of corporate finance advisory service, initial public offerings and mergers and acquisition advisory services; and (b) broking and dealing for clients in securities, futures and options contracts.

The property and other investments segment, which mainly comprises property investments, other investments and related activities. One of the investment properties of this segment was disposed of during the period at a gain of approximately HK$57 million.

An analysis of the Group’s revenue and results for the period by business segment is as follows:

Revenue
Segment turnover
Intersegment sales
Segment results
Unallocated costs
Operating profit
Finance costs
Profit before taxation
Taxation credit
Profit after taxation
Minority interests
Net profit attributable
to shareholders
Six months ended 30th June 2004
Investment
banking and
Property and
Leisure and
financial
other
entertainment
Technology
services
investments
HK$’000
HK$’000
HK$’000
HK$’000
37,741
105,961
65,292
2,096
(38)
(187)


37,703
105,774
65,292
2,096
(5,228)
9,046
9,017
59,180
Group
HK$’000
211,090
(225)
210,865
72,015
(8,811)
63,204
(1,235)
61,969
814
62,783
(2,689)
60,094

– 65 –

FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF THE GROUP

APPENDIX II

2. Segment information (Continued)

Revenue
Segment turnover
Segment results
Unallocated costs
Operating profit
Finance costs
Loss before taxation
Taxation
Minority interests
Net loss attributable
to shareholders
Six months ended 30th June 2003
Investment
banking and
Property and
Leisure and
financial
other
entertainment
Technology
services
investments
HK$’000
HK$’000
HK$’000
HK$’000
25,127
10,047
20,693
2,510
(7,126)
(7,515)
(5,922)
5,317
Group
HK$’000
58,377
(15,246)
(5,159)
(20,405)
(344)
(20,749)

5,866
(14,883)

Unallocated costs represent corporate expenses.

3. Operating profit/(loss)

Operating profit/(loss) is stated after crediting and charging the following:

Crediting:
Write-back of over-provision for long service payment obligation
Gain on disposal of fixed assets:
– investment properties
– other fixed assets
Charging:
Loss on disposal of fixed assets
Six months ended
30th June
2004
2003
HK$’000
HK$’000

629
57,175

1,526


317
Six months ended
30th June
2004
2003
HK$’000
HK$’000

629
57,175

1,526


317
317

– 66 –

FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF THE GROUP

APPENDIX II

4. Taxation and deferred taxation

Hong Kong profits tax has been provided at the rate of 17.5% (2003: 17.5%) on the estimated assessable profit for the year. Taxation on overseas profits has been calculated on the estimated assessable profit for the year at the rates of taxation prevailing in the countries in which the Group operates.

The amount of taxation credited to the consolidated profit and loss account represents:

Current taxation:
– Provision for overseas taxation
– Over-provision of Hong Kong taxation in prior years
Deferred taxation relating to the origination and reversal
of timing differences
Taxation credit
Six months ended
30th June
2004
2003
HK$’000
HK$’000
(129)

619

324

814
Six months ended
30th June
2004
2003
HK$’000
HK$’000
(129)

619

324

814

The taxation on the Group’s profit/(loss) before taxation differs from the theoretical amount that would arise using the Hong Kong taxation rate as follows:

Profit/(loss) before taxation
Calculated at a taxation rate of 17.5%
Effect of different taxation rates in Macau
Expenses not deductible for taxation purposes
Income not assessable for taxation purposes
Over-provision of current taxation in prior years
Utilisation of previously unrecognised tax losses
Unrecognised deferred tax assets arising from estimated tax losses
Taxation credit
Six months ended
30th June
2004
2003
HK$’000
HK$’000
61,969
(20,749
(10,845)
3,631
206

(529)
(265
12,112
141
619

2,842
71
(3,591)
(3,578
814
Six months ended
30th June
2004
2003
HK$’000
HK$’000
61,969
(20,749
(10,845)
3,631
206

(529)
(265
12,112
141
619

2,842
71
(3,591)
(3,578
814

Deferred tax assets are recognised to the extent that realisation of the related tax benefit through the future taxable profits is probable.

The deferred tax liabilities provided for at the balance sheet date mainly arose from accelerated depreciation allowance. The movements during the period are as follows:

Six months ended
30th June Year ended
2004 2003
HK$’000 HK$’000
As at 1st January 324
Acquisition of subsidiary 262
(Credited)/charged to profit and loss account (324) 324
262 324

– 67 –

APPENDIX II

FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF THE GROUP

4. Taxation and deferred taxation (Continued)

The major components of the net deferred liabilities/(assets) not provided for at the balance sheet date are as follows:

Accelerated depreciation allowances
Tax losses
As at
30th June
31st
2004
HK$’000
2,982
(78,850)
(75,868)
As at
December
2003
HK$’000
3,147
(78,101)
(74,954)

The tax losses of the Group as at 30th June 2004 and 31st December 2003 were available for carry forward but subject to the approval of the Inland Revenue Department of Hong Kong and the tax bureau in Macau. These tax losses have no expiry date.

5. Earnings/(loss) per share

The calculations of basic earnings/(loss) per share are based on (i) the Group’s net profit attributable to shareholders of approximately HK$60,094,000 (2003: net loss of approximately HK$14,883,000); and (ii) 241,921,542 (2003: 145,287,134) weighted average ordinary shares in issue during the period.

The calculation of diluted earnings per share for the six months ended 30th June 2004 are based on (i) the adjusted net profit attributable to shareholders of approximately HK$60,184,000 which is the net profit attributable to the shareholders for the period adjusted for interest expense of approximately HK$90,000; and (ii) 249,800,077 ordinary shares, being the 241,921,542 weighted average ordinary shares in issue during the period plus the weighted average number of 6,699,262 ordinary shares deemed to be issued at no consideration if all outstanding options with dilutive effect on the basic earnings/(loss) per share had been exercised and the weighted average number of 1,179,273 ordinary shares deemed to be issued if all the convertible notes have been converted into ordinary shares since their issuance. The diluted loss per share for the period ended 30th June 2003 has not been presented as the conversion of potential ordinary shares would have anti-dilutive effect to basic loss per share.

6. Interim dividend

The directors declared an interim dividend of 1 HK cent per ordinary share (2003: nil) totalling HK$3.77 million for the period. The declared dividend is not reflected as a dividend payable in the accounts for the period.

– 68 –

APPENDIX II

FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF THE GROUP

7. Capital expenditure

Opening net book
amount as at
1st January 2004
Acquisition of Mocha
Slot Group Limited
(“Mocha Slot”)
(note 13(a))
Goodwill arising from
acquisition of the
technology segment
(note 13(b))
Other additions
Disposals
Depreciation/
amortisation charge
Closing net book amount
as at 30th June 2004
Goodwill
HK$’000
19,705
361,427
8,709


(3,021)
386,820
Trading
rights
HK$’000
3,293




(253)
3,040
Total
intangible
Investment Construction-
assets
properties
in-progress
HK$’000
HK$’000
HK$’000
22,998
159,000

361,427


8,709




12,030

(82,000)

(3,274)


389,860
77,000
12,030
Other
fixed
assets
HK$’000
28,916
64,449

7,934
(660)
(5,943)
94,696
Total fixed
assets
HK$’000
187,916
64,449

19,964
(82,660)
(5,943)
183,726

Goodwill represents the excess of the cost of an acquisition over the fair value of the Group’s share of the net assets of the acquired subsidiaries at the date of acquisition. The goodwill is included in intangible assets and is amortised using the straight-line method over its estimated useful life ranging from 10 years to 20 years.

Trading rights represent rights on The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited (“HKSE”) and Hong Kong Futures Exchange Limited (“HKFE”) acquired as part of the consideration for original membership shares in the HKSE and the HKFE following merger of HKSE and HKFE and their respective clearing houses in March 2000 and subsequent listing of HKSE. Trading rights are amortised over their estimated useful lives of 10 years.

8. Trade receivables

Included in trade receivables are trade debtors and their ageing analysis is as follows:

Within 30 days
31
HK$’000
Balance at 30th June 2004
305,564
Provision for doubtful debts
Balance at 31st December 2003
233,123
Provision for doubtful debts
to 90 days
Over 90 days
HK$’000
HK$’000
15,183
13,183
3,312
6,288
Total
HK$’000
333,930
(6,834)
327,096
242,723
(6,333)
236,390

(a) The Group’s leisure and entertainment segment and the property and other investment segment are largely operated on cash on delivery or payment in advance terms, except for those well-established customers to whom credit terms of 30-60 days would be granted.

– 69 –

FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF THE GROUP

APPENDIX II

8. Trade receivables (Continued)

  • (b) Trade receivables arising from the ordinary course of business of broking in securities and equity options transactions and dealing in futures and options in the investment banking and financial services segment as at 30th June 2004 amounted to approximately HK$281,004,000 (31st December 2003: HK$235,922,000). The settlement terms of the trade receivables arising from the broking in securities and equity options transactions are two days after the trade date of those transactions; and the trade receivables arising from the dealing in futures and options are one day after the trade date.

Loans to margin clients (included in investment banking and financial services) are secured by client’s pledged securities, repayable on demand and bear interest at commercial rates.

  • (c) Other trade receivables are due immediately from date of billing but the Group will generally grant a normal credit period of 30 days on average to its customers.

9. Trade payables

Included in trade payables are trade creditors and their ageing analysis is as follows:

Within 30 days
31
HK$’000
Balance at 30th June 2004
76,316
Balance at 31st December 2003
104,658
to 90 days
Over 90 days
HK$’000
HK$’000
6,123
4,044
3,416
396
Total
HK$’000
86,492
108,470

10. Loan from a minority shareholder of a subsidiary

The loan form a minority shareholder of a subsidiary is unsecured, interest bearing at 4% per annum and repayable on demand. The balance was subsequently settled on 7th July 2004.

11. Convertible notes

Convertible note due 30th June 2005
(“2005 Convertible Note”) at par
Convertible note due 30th June 2006
(“2006 Convertible Note”) at par
As at
30th June
31st
2004
HK$’000
22,500
22,500
45,000
As at
December
2003
HK$’000

On 9th June 2004 (“Date of Issuance”), the Company issued at par the 2005 Convertible Note and 2006 Convertible Note with principal amount of HK$22,500,000 and HK$22,500,000 respectively, which are interest-bearing at 4% per annum. The convertible notes were issued to partially replace the shareholders’ loans of Mocha Slot acquired by the Company during the period.

The 2005 Convertible Note and 2006 Convertible Note are convertible into fully paid ordinary shares of HK$1 each of the Company at an initial conversion price of HK$2.3 per share since the Date of Issuance until, and including, the day immediately before 30th June 2005 and 30th June 2006 respectively. As at 30th June 2004, none of the convertible notes had been converted into the ordinary shares of the Company.

– 70 –

FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF THE GROUP

APPENDIX II

12. Share capital

At 1st January 2003 and 2004
Increase in authorised ordinary share capital_(note a)
At 30th June 2004
At 1st January 2003
Issue of right shares
Exercise of share options
At 31st December 2003
Issue of shares
(note b)_
Exercise of share options
At 30th June 2004
Authorised
Ordinary shares of
HK$1 each
No. of shares
HK$’000
480,000,000
480,000
220,000,000
220,000
700,000,000
700,000
Issued and fully paid
Ordinary shares of
HK$1 each
No. of shares
HK$’000
145,287,134
145,287
72,643,567
72,644
4,066,306
4,066
221,997,007
221,997
153,478,261
153,478
1,891,306
1,891
377,366,574
377,366
Authorised
Ordinary shares of
HK$1 each
No. of shares
HK$’000
480,000,000
480,000
220,000,000
220,000
700,000,000
700,000
Issued and fully paid
Ordinary shares of
HK$1 each
No. of shares
HK$’000
145,287,134
145,287
72,643,567
72,644
4,066,306
4,066
221,997,007
221,997
153,478,261
153,478
1,891,306
1,891
377,366,574
377,366
221,997
153,478
1,891
377,366

(a) By a special resolution passed on 20th May 2004, the authorized ordinary share capital of the Company was increased from HK$480,000,000 to HK$700,000,000 by the creation of an additional 220,000,000 authorised ordinary shares of HK$1 each.

(b) On 9th June 2004, 153,478,261 ordinary shares of HK$1 each were issued at a premium of HK$1.375 each as the purchase consideration for the acquisition of Mocha Slot during the period (see Note 13(a) for details).

– 71 –

FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF THE GROUP

APPENDIX II

13. Acquisitions

  • (a) On 9th June 2004, the Group completed the acquisition of 80% of the issued share capital of Mocha Slot which is engaged in the leasing of gaming machines and provision of related management services to casino operators in Macau. The purchase consideration was settled by issuance of new shares of the Company (notes 12(b)). The fair value of the net identifiable assets of Mocha Slot at the date of acquisition was approximately HK$4,737,000. Direct costs related to the acquisition amounted to approximately HK$706,000 and were fully settled in cash. The resulting goodwill of approximately HK$361,427,000 is amortised on a straight-line basis of 10 years.

The fair value of the assets and liabilities arising from the acquisition of Mocha Slot are as follows:

Fixed assets_(note 7)_
Accounts receivables
Bank balances and cash
Other current assets
Shareholders’ loans
Deferred tax liabilities
Other current liabilities
Fair value of net identifiable assets acquired
Minority interests
The Company’s share of the fair value of net identifiable assets acquired
Purchase consideration – settled by issuance of new shares
Direct costs related to the acquisition – settled by cash
Total costs of acquisition
Less: the Company’s share of the fair value of net identifiable assets
acquired
Goodwill arising from acquisition of Mocha Slot
Payment of direct costs related to the acquisition
Bank balance and cash acquired
Net cash inflow from acquisition of Mocha Slot
HK$’000
64,449
5,832
10,971
7,569
(69,556)
(262)
(14,266)
4,737
(947)
3,790
364,511
706
365,217
3,790
361,427
(706)
10,971
10,265
  • (b) On 31st May 2004, the Company completed the acquisition of the subsidiaries comprising the technology segment from Value Convergence and on 1st June 2004, the acquisition of an additional 10% equity interest in EGL from Mr. Gordon Lee and Mr. Leong Van Tat in aggregate consideration of HK$28,227,000. Goodwill arising from these acquisitions, which comprised Value Convergence’s minority shareholders’ entitlement to the gain on disposal of the companies comprising the technology segment by Value Convergence and the direct costs related to the acquisitions, amounted to approximately HK$8,709,000 and is amortised on a straight-line basis of 20 years.

14. Capital commitments

At 30th June 2004, the Group had contracted commitments in respect of renovation project as follows:

Contracted but not provided for

30th June 31st December
2004 2003
HK$’000 HK$’000
6,092 4,547

– 72 –

APPENDIX II

FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF THE GROUP

15. Related party transactions

Parties are considered to be related if one party has the ability, directly or indirectly, to control the other party or exercise significant influence over the other party in making financial and operating decisions or vice versa. Parties are also considered to be related if they are subject to common control or common significant influence.

  • (a) The trade receivables as at 30th June 2004 include amounts due from related companies in relation to sales of computer hardware and software to related companies of approximately HK$31,535,000 (31st December 2003: HK$1,808,000).

  • (b) The prepayments, deposits and other receivables as at 30th June 2004 include amounts due from customers on contracts in relation to sales of computer hardware and software to related companies of approximately HK$1,414,000 (31st December 2003: HK$1,702,000).

  • (c) The accruals and other payables as at 30th June 2004 include deposits received from related companies in relation to sales of computer hardware and software of approximately HK$202,000 (31st December 2003: HK$10,180,000).

  • (d) Significant related party transactions, which were carried out in the normal course of the Group’s business, are as follows:

Note
Catering income earned from directors
and related companies
(i)
Insurance premiums charged
by a related company
(ii)
Property management fees charged
by a related company
(iii)
Brokerage commission income earned
from certain directors of the Group
or their relatives
(iv)
Sales of computer hardware and software
to related companies
(v)
Six months ended
30th Jun 2004
2004
2003
HK$’000
HK$’000
1,414
679
796
453
250
204
160

89,935

Notes:

  • (i) The Group earned catering income in respect of restaurant operations from certain directors and related companies for services provided at a discount ranging between 15% and 40%.

  • (ii) The Group paid insurance premiums to Jardine Shun Tak Insurance Brokers Limited, an associate of Shun Tak Holdings Limited (“STHL”), to insure the properties and employees of the Group under the terms and conditions applicable to customers of comparable standing. Dr. Stanley Ho, a director of the Company, is also a director and has direct and indirect beneficial interests in STHL.

  • (iii) The Group paid management fees to Shun Tak Property Management Limited (“STPML”), a subsidiary of STHL, on a reimbursement basis for building management expenditure paid by STPML on behalf of the Group.

  • (iv) Brokerage commission income earned from transactions with related parties was at prices and terms no less than those transacted with other third party customers of the Group.

  • (v) Service fees charged and computer hardware and software sold to related companies were conducted in the normal course of business at prices and terms no less than those charged to and contracted with other third party customers of the Group.

16. Events subsequent to the balance sheet date

Please refer to page 5 of the interim report for the details of significant events subsequent to 30th June 2004.

– 73 –

FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF THE GROUP

APPENDIX II

2. AUDITED CONSOLIDATED RESULTS OF THE GROUP

(i) Consolidated Profit & Loss Accounts

Set our below are the audited consolidated profit and loss accounts of the Group for the years ended 31st December 2003, 2002 and 2001 extracted from the audited financial statements of the Group for the relevant years. Certain of the 2002 and 2001 comparative figures have been reclassified to conform to the presentation of the audited financial statements for the year ended 31st December 2003.

Turnover
Other revenues
Other income
Cost of inventories sold
Staff costs (include directors’ emoluments)
Depreciation and amortisation
Commission expense
Other operating expenses
Total operating expenses
Loss before finance costs and taxation
Finance costs
Loss before taxation
Taxation
Loss after taxation
Minority interests
Net loss attributable to shareholders
Basic loss per share (HK cents)
Fully diluted loss per share
2003
HK$’000
164,036
5,494
10,186
(36,703)
(76,499)
(19,232)
(26,088)
(51,968)
(210,490)
-------------
(30,774)
(2,007)
-------------
(32,781)
(1,201)
(33,982)
7,648
(26,334)
(15.9)
N/A
2002
HK$’000
82,838
4,084

(24,159)
(55,747)
(5,927)

(39,219)
(125,052)
-------------
(38,130)

-------------
(38,130)

(38,130)
2,534
(35,596)
(27.1)
N/A
2001
HK$’000
99,409
291

(28,312)
(60,386)
(6,040)

(26,054)
(120,792)
-------------
(21,092)

-------------
(21,092)

(21,092)
2,457
(18,635)
(15.4)
N/A

– 74 –

FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF THE GROUP

APPENDIX II

(ii) Audited Accounts

Set out below is a summary of the audited consolidated profit and loss accounts of the Group for the two years ended 31st December 2002 and 2003, the audited consolidated balance sheets of the Group as at 31st December 2002 and 2003, the audited balance sheets of the Company as at 31st December 2002 and 2003 and the audited consolidated cash flow statement of the Group for the two years ended 31st December 2002 and 2003, together with the relevant notes to the accounts as extracted from the audited financial statements of the Group for the year ended 31st December 2003.

CONSOLIDATED PROFIT AND LOSS ACCOUNT

Note
Turnover
2, 26(d)
Other revenues
2
Other income
3
Cost of inventories sold
Staff costs (include directors’ emoluments)
Depreciation and amortisation
Commission expense
Other operating expenses
26(d)
Total operating expenses
Loss before finance costs and taxation
4
Finance costs
5
Loss before taxation
Taxation
6
Loss after taxation
Minority interests
Net loss attributable to shareholders
7
Basic loss per share (HK cents)
9
Fully diluted loss per share
9
2003
HK$’000
164,036
5,494
10,186
(36,703)
(76,499)
(19,232)
(26,088)
(51,968)
(210,490)
-------------
(30,774)
(2,007)
-------------
(32,781)
(1,201)
(33,982)
7,648
(26,334)
(15.9)
N/A
2002
HK$’000
82,838
4,084

(24,159)
(55,747)
(5,927)

(39,219)
(125,052)
-------------
(38,130)

-------------
(38,130)

(38,130)
2,534
(35,596)
(27.1)
N/A

– 75 –

APPENDIX II

FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF THE GROUP

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET

Note
Non-current assets
Intangible assets
11
Fixed assets
12
Investment securities
14
Pledged bank deposits
24
Other non-current assets
Current assets
Inventories
15
Trade receivables
16, 26(a)
Prepayment, deposits and other receivables
26(b)
Amounts due from related companies
18
Other investments
17
Bank balances and cash
Current liabilities
Trade payables
19
Accrued liabilities and other payables
26(c)
Rental deposits due within one year
Deferred tax liabilities
6
Net current assets
Total assets less current liabilities
Financed by:
Share capital
20
Reserves
22
Shareholders’ funds
Minority interests
Non-current liabilities
Rental deposits due after one year
2003
HK$’000
22,998
187,916
20,637
304
8,761
240,616
-------------
4,137
236,390
9,537
429
40,638
142,771
433,902
-------------
108,470
41,319
324
324
150,437
-------------
283,465
-------------
524,081
221,997
238,725
460,722
62,952
407
524,081
2002
HK$’000

177,326

1,100
178,426
-------------
2,986
2,782
8,939
2,407
4,000
219,229
240,343
-------------
2,356
15,230
582
18,168
-------------
222,175
-------------
400,601
145,287
230,837
376,124
24,258
219
400,601

– 76 –

APPENDIX II

FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF THE GROUP

BALANCE SHEET

Note
Non-current assets
Fixed assets
12
Interest in subsidiaries
13
Current assets
Prepayments, deposits and other receivables
Bank balances and cash
Current liabilities
Accrued liabilities and other payables
Net current assets/(liabilities)
Total assets less current liabilities
Financed by:
Share capital
20
Reserves
22
Shareholders’ funds
2003
HK$’000

389,624
389,624
-------------
673
15,440
16,113
-------------
3,742
-------------
12,371
401,995
221,997
179,998
401,995
2002
HK$’000
4
303,551
303,555
-------------
214
3,175
3,389
-------------
3,462
-------------
(73)
303,482
145,287
158,195
303,482

– 77 –

FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF THE GROUP

APPENDIX II

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY

Note
Total equity as at 1st January
Surplus on revaluation of properties
22
Net gain not recognised in the profit and
loss account
Loss for the year
22
Issue of right shares, including share premium
20, 22
Share issue expenses
22
Exercise of share option
20, 22
Total equity as at 31st December
2003
HK$’000
376,124
3,734
3,734
(26,334)
105,333
(2,441)
4,306
460,722
2002
HK$’000
374,469
2,600
2,600
(35,596)
35,090
(439)

376,124

– 78 –

APPENDIX II

FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF THE GROUP

CONSOLIDATED CASH FLOW STATEMENT

Note
Net cash used in operation
23(a)
Hong Kong profits tax paid
Net cash outflow from operating activities
Investing activities
Purchase of subsidiaries net of cash and
cash equivalents acquired
23(c)
Proceeds from partial disposal of investment
in a subsidiary
Interest income from authorised financial
institutions
Dividend income
Purchase of fixed assets
Purchase of long term investment
Increase in pledged bank deposits
Proceeds from disposal of fixed assets
Purchase of investment securities
– unlisted equity securities
Purchases of other investment less proceeds
from subsequent disposals
Disposal of other investments acquired
in previous years
Increase in other non-current assets
Net cash outflow from investing activities
Net cash outflow before financing
Financing activities
Proceeds from issue of shares
23(b)
Share issuance expenses
23(b)
Interest paid
Repayment of bank loan
23(b)
Net cash (outflow)/inflow from financing
(Decrease)/increase in cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of year
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of year
Analysis of balances of cash and cash equivalents
Bank balances and cash
Time deposits with original maturity
of less than three months when acquired
2003
HK$’000
(43,931)
(877)
(44,808)
-------------
22,142
4,200
712
200
(8,366)

(184)
326
(19,837)
(30,452)
4,000
(3,247)
(30,506)
-------------
(75,314)
-------------
109,639
(2,441)
(2,007)
(106,335)
(1,144)
-------------
(76,458)
219,229
142,771
125,770
17,001
142,771
2002
HK$’000
(22,068)

(22,068)
-------------


3,538

(996)
(4,250)
(189)


(4,000)


(5,897)
-------------
(27,965)
-------------
34,651



34,651
-------------
6,686
212,543
219,229
14,394
204,835
219,229

– 79 –

APPENDIX II

FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF THE GROUP

NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

1. Principal accounting policies

The principal accounting policies adopted in the preparation of these accounts are set out below:

(a) Basis of preparation

The accounts have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in Hong Kong and comply with accounting standards issued by the Hong Kong Society of Accountants (“HKSA”). They have been prepared under the historical cost convention except that, as disclosed in the accounting policies below, certain investment properties and investments in securities are stated at fair value.

In the current year, the Group has adopted SSAP12 “Income Taxes” issued by the HKSA which is effective for accounting periods commencing on or after 1st January 2003. Management considered that the adoption of SSAP 12 does not have material impact to the accounts of the Group.

The principal accounting policies below have taken into account the adoption of the new standard.

(b) Consolidation

The consolidated accounts include the accounts of the Company and its subsidiaries made up to 31st December. The results of subsidiaries acquired or disposed of during the year are included in the consolidated profit and loss account from the effective date of acquisition or up to the effective date of disposal, as appropriate.

All significant intercompany transactions and balances within the Group are eliminated on consolidation.

Minority interests represent the interests of outside shareholders in the operating results and net assets of subsidiaries.

(c) Subsidiaries

Subsidiaries are those entities in which the Company, directly or indirectly, controls the composition of the board of directors, controls more than half of the voting power or holds more than half of the issued share capital.

In the Company’s balance sheet, the investments in subsidiaries are stated at cost less provision for impairment losses. The results of subsidiaries are accounted for by the Company on the basis of dividends received and receivable.

(d) Revenue recognition

Revenue from the provision of catering services, technology consultation services and investment banking and financial services and underwriting commission income are recognised when the services are rendered.

Revenue from sales of computer hardware and software are recognised over the period of the contract based on the percentage of completion method, which is measured by reference to the costs incurred to date as a percentage of total estimated costs for each contract.

Revenue from the sale of other products is recognised on the transfer of risks and rewards of ownership, which generally coincides with the time when the goods are delivered to customers and title has passed.

All transactions related to securities trading, futures and options contracts dealings and the related commission income are recorded in the accounts based on trade dates. Accordingly, only those transactions whose trade dates fall within the accounting period have been taken into account.

Operating lease rental income is recognised on a straight-line basis over the lease terms.

Interest income is recognised on a time proportion basis, taking into account the principal amounts outstanding and the interest rates applicable.

Dividend income is recognised when the right to receive payment is established.

– 80 –

APPENDIX II

FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF THE GROUP

1. Principal accounting policies (Continued)

(e) Intangibles

  • (i) Goodwill

Goodwill represents the excess of the cost of an acquisition over the fair value of the Group’s share of the net assets of the acquired subsidiary at the date of acquisition.

Goodwill on acquisitions occurring on or after 1st January 2001 is included in intangible assets and is amortised using the straight-line method over its estimated useful life.

  • (ii) Trading rights

Trading rights represent rights on The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited (“HKSE”) and Hong Kong Futures Exchange Limited (“HKFE”) acquired as part of the consideration for original membership shares in the HKSE and HKFE following merger of HKSE and HKFE and their respective clearing houses in March 2000 and subsequent listing of HKSE. Trading rights were recognised as intangible assets and are amortised using the straight-line method over their estimated useful lives.

(f) Fixed assets

  • (i) Investment properties

Investment properties are interests in land and buildings in respect of which construction work and development have been completed and which are held for their investment potential, and rental income being negotiated at arm’s length.

Investment properties are not depreciated and are stated at their open market values on the basis of annual professional valuations performed at the end of each financial year. Changes in the value of investment properties are dealt with as movements in the investment property revaluation reserve. If the total of the reserve is insufficient to cover a deficit, on a portfolio basis, the excess of the deficit is charged to the profit and loss account. Any subsequent revaluation surplus is credited to the profit and loss account to the extent of the deficit previously charged.

Upon the disposal of an investment property, the relevant portion of the revaluation reserve realised in respect of previous valuations is released from the investment properties revaluation reserve to the profit and loss account.

  • (ii) Other fixed assets

Other fixed assets are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and accumulated impairment losses.

  • (iii) Depreciation

Investment properties held on leases with unexpired periods of 20 years or less are depreciated over the remaining portion of the leases.

Leasehold land of other properties is depreciated over the period of the lease while other fixed assets are depreciated at rates sufficient to write off their cost less accumulated impairment losses over their estimated useful lives on a straight-line basis. The principal annual rates are as follows:

Restaurants, vessels, ferries and pontoons 5% to 10% Long term leasehold land over the lease terms Long term leasehold buildings 2.5% Leasehold improvements 20% or over the lease terms, whichever is shorter Furniture, fixtures and equipment 10% to 20%

Improvements are capitalised and depreciated over their expected useful lives to the Group.

– 81 –

APPENDIX II

FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF THE GROUP

1. Principal accounting policies (Continued)

(f) Fixed assets (Continued)

  • (iv) Gain or loss on sale

The gain or loss on disposal of a fixed asset other than investment properties is the difference between the net sales proceeds and the carrying amount of the relevant asset, and is recognised in the profit and loss account. Any revaluation reserve balance remaining attributable to the investment property is transferred to retained earnings and is shown as a movement in reserves.

(g) Impairment of assets

At each balance sheet date, both internal and external sources of information are considered to assess whether there is any indication that the tangible and intangible assets are impaired. If any such indication exists, the recoverable amount of the asset is estimated and where relevant, an impairment loss is recognised to reduce the asset to its recoverable amount. Such impairment losses are recognised in the profit and loss account except where the asset is carried at valuation and the impairment loss does not exceed the revaluation surplus for that same asset, in which case it is treated as a revaluation decrease.

(h) Investments securities and other investments

Investment securities are stated at cost less any provision for impairment losses.

The carrying amounts of individual investments are reviewed at each balance sheet date to assess whether the fair values have declined below the carrying amounts. When a decline other than temporary has occurred, the carrying amount of such securities will be reduced to its fair value. The impairment loss is recognised as an expense in the profit and loss account. This impairment loss is written back to profit and loss account when the circumstances and events that led to the write-downs or write-offs cease to exist and there is persuasive evidence that the new circumstances and events will persist for the foreseeable future.

Other investments are carried at fair value. At each balance sheet date, the net unrealised gains or losses arising from the changes in fair value of other investments are recognised in the profit and loss account. Profits or losses on disposal of other investments, representing the difference between the net sales proceeds and the carrying amounts, are recognised in the profit and loss account as they arise.

(i)

Trade receivables

Provision is made against trade receivable to the extent they are considered to be doubtful. Trade receivable in the balance sheet are stated net of such provision.

(j)

Contracts in progress

Contract revenue and contract costs are recognised based on the percentage of completion method as detailed in note 1(d). When the outcome of a contract cannot be estimated reliably, contract revenue is recognised only to the extent of contract costs incurred that it is probable will be recoverable. When it is probable total contract costs will exceed total contract revenue, the expected loss is recognised as an expense immediately.

The aggregate of the costs incurred and the profit/loss recognised on each contract is compared against the progress billings up to the year-end. Where costs incurred and recognised profits (less recognised losses) exceed progress billings, the balance is shown as due from customers on contracts, under current assets. Where progress billings exceed costs incurred plus recognised profits (less recognised losses), the balance is shown as due to customers on contracts, under current liabilities. Costs incurred in the period in connection with future activity on a contract are excluded and shown as work-in-progress included in inventories.

Amounts due from customers on contracts are included in prepayments, deposits and other receivables.

– 82 –

APPENDIX II

FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF THE GROUP

1. Principal accounting policies (Continued)

(k) Inventories

Inventories comprise stocks and work in progress.

Stocks are stated at the lower of cost and net realisable value. Cost, calculated on the first-in, first-out basis, comprises all costs of purchase, cost of conversion and other costs incurred in bringing the inventories to their present location and condition. Net realisable value is determined on the basis of anticipated sales proceeds less estimated selling expenses.

Accounting policy for work-in-progress is set out in note 1(j).

(l)

Deferred taxation

Deferred taxation is provided in full, using the liability method, on temporary differences arising between the tax bases of assets and liabilities and their carrying amounts in the accounts. Taxation rates enacted or substantively enacted by the balance sheet date are used to determine deferred taxation. Deferred tax assets are recognised to the extent that it is probable that future taxable profit will be available against which the temporary differences can be utilised.

Deferred taxation is provided on temporary differences arising on investments in subsidiaries except where the timing of the reversal of the temporary difference can be controlled and it is probable that the temporary difference will not reverse in the foreseeable future.

In prior year, deferred taxation was accounted for at the current taxation rate in respect of timing differences between profit as computed for taxation purposes and profit as stated in the accounts to the extent that a liability or an asset was expected to be payable or recoverable in the foreseeable future.

(m)

Operating leases

Leases where substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership of assets remain with the leasing company are accounted for as operating leases. Payments made under operating leases net of any incentives received from the leasing company are charged to the profit and loss account on a straight-line basis over the lease periods.

When the Group is the lessor, assets leased out under operating leases are included in fixed assets in the balance sheet. They are depreciated over their expected useful lives on a basis consistent with similar owned fixed assets. Rental income (net of any incentives) given to lessees is recognised on a straight line basis over the lease terms.

(n) Translation of foreign currencies

Transactions in foreign currencies are translated into Hong Kong dollars at exchange rates ruling at the transaction dates. Monetary assets and liabilities expressed in foreign currencies at the balance sheet date are translated at rates of exchange ruling at the balance sheet date. Exchange differences arising in these cases are dealt with in the profit and loss account.

The balance sheet of subsidiaries expressed in foreign currencies are translated in Hong Kong dollars at the rates of exchange ruling at the balance sheet date whilst the profit and loss account is translated at an average rate. Exchange differences are dealt with as a movement in reserves.

(o) Segregated accounts

Segregated accounts maintained by the Group to hold clients’ monies are treated as off balance sheet items. As at 31st December 2003, the Group maintained trust accounts with Hong Kong Futures Exchange Clearing Corporation Limited in conjunction with its future brokerage business and authorised institutions as a result of its normal business transactions with amounts of approximately HK$6,116,000 (2002: nil) and HK$249,349,000 (2002: nil) respectively, which are not dealt with in the accounts.

– 83 –

APPENDIX II

FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF THE GROUP

1. Principal accounting policies (Continued)

(p) Employee benefits

  • (i) Pension obligations

The Group operates a number of defined contribution plans, the assets of which are generally held in separate trustee-administered funds. The pension plans are generally funded by payments from employees and by the Group.

The Group’s contributions to the defined contribution retirement scheme are expensed as incurred and are reduced by contributions forfeited by those employees who leave the scheme prior to vesting fully in the contributions.

The Group also contributes to the Mandatory Provident Fund (“MPF”) scheme which is available to all Hong Kong employees. Contributions to the MPF scheme by the employees are calculated as a percentage of employees’ basic salaries with a maximum of HK$1,000 per employee per month and are expensed as incurred. The assets of the MPF scheme are held separately from those of the Group in an independently administered fund.

  • (ii) Employee leave and long service payment entitlements

Employee entitlements to annual leave and long service payment are recognised when they accrue to employees. A provision is made for the estimated liability for annual leave and long service payment as a result of services rendered by employees up to the balance sheet date.

Employee entitlements to sick leave and maternity leave are not recognised until the time of leave.

(q) Borrowing costs

Borrowing costs are charged to the profit and loss account in the year in which they are incurred.

(r) Segment reporting

In accordance with the Group’s internal financial reporting the Group has determined that business segments be presented as the primary reporting format and geographical as the secondary reporting format.

Unallocated costs represent corporate expenses. Segment assets consist primarily of intangible assets, fixed assets, inventories, investments in securities, receivables and operating cash. Segment liabilities comprise operating liabilities and exclude items such as taxation and certain corporate borrowings. Capital expenditure comprises additions to fixed assets including additions resulting from acquisitions through purchases of subsidiaries.

In respect of geographical segment reporting, sales are based on the country in which the customer is located and total assets and capital expenditure are where the assets are located.

2. Turnover, revenue and segment information

Turnover and revenue are principally arising from the following business segments:

The investment banking and financial services segment, which mainly comprises broking and dealing for clients in securities and future and option contracts mainly on the HKSE and HKFE and the provision of other related financial services including margin financing, securities underwriting, placing, advisory services and investment holding.

The technology segment, which mainly comprises sales of technology solution systems and related services to customers principally in Asia.

The leisure and entertainment segment, which mainly comprises restaurant operations and related activities.

The property and other investments segment, which mainly comprises property investment, other investments and related activities.

– 84 –

APPENDIX II

FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF THE GROUP

2. Turnover, revenue and segment information (Continued)

Revenue recognised during the year are as follows:

Turnover (see primary reporting formal
– business segments for details)
Other revenues
Proceeds from insurance claim
Underwriting commission income
Interest income from authorised institutions and banks
Others
Total revenues
2003
HK$’000
164,036
93
3,572
1,227
602
5,494
----------
169,530
2002
HK$’000
82,838
177

3,538
369
4,084
----------
86,922

Primary reporting formal – business segments

Year ended/As at 31st December 2003
Investment
banking and
Property and
financial
Leisure and
other
services
entertainment
Technology
investments
HK$’000
HK$’000
HK$’000
HK$’000
Revenues
Turnover
75,504
54,861
29,203
4,468
Other revenues
223
801
108
4,362
75,727
55,662
29,311
8,830
Segment results
3,005
(11,713)
(9,413)
2,258
Unallocated costs
Loss before finance cost
and taxation
Segment assets
389,105
33,596
25,662
226,155
Segment liabilities
113,443
8,246
23,323
5,832
Other segment information:
Depreciation and amortisation
6,693
4,324
6,277
1,938
Capital expenditures
11,359
312
12,980
2,192
Impairment of assets


3,080
1,200
Provision for doubtful
receivables
1,934

122
Year ended/As at 31st December 2003
Group
HK$’000
164,036
5,494
169,530
(15,863)
(14,911)
(30,774)
674,518
150,844
19,232
26,843
4,280
2,056

– 85 –

APPENDIX II

FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF THE GROUP

2. Turnover, revenue and segment information (Continued)

Primary reporting formal – business segments (Continued)

Revenues
Turnover
Other revenues
Segment results
Unallocated costs
Loss before finance cost and taxation
Segment assets
Segment liabilities
Other segment information:
Depreciation
Capital expenditures
Impairment of assets
Fixed assets written off
Provision against deposit paid
Year ended/As at 31st December 2002
Property and
Leisure and
other
entertainment
investments
HK$’000
HK$’000
77,929
4,909
1,633
2,451
79,562
7,360
(21,395)
(8,684)
36,482
382,287
12,367
6,020
5,580
347
207
789

9,054
3,858


3,500
Group
HK$’000
82,838
4,084
86,922
(30,079)
(8,051)
(38,130)
418,769
18,387
5,927
996
9,054
3,858
3,500

Secondary reporting format – geographical segments

Hong Kong
The People’s Republic of China
excluding Hong Kong (“PRC”)
United Kingdom
Macau
Unallocated costs
Loss before finance costs and taxation
Investment securities
Total assets
Turnover
HK$’000
143,674


20,362
164,036
Year ended 31st December 2003 Year ended 31st December 2003 Year ended 31st December 2003
Segment
results
HK$’000
(15,715)
(501)

353
(15,863)
(14,911)
(30,774)
Total
Capital
assets
expenditure
HK$’000
HK$’000
631,548
24,504
614
564
992

20,727
1,775
653,881
26,843
20,637
674,518
26,843

No geographical segment analysis for the year ended 31st December 2002 is presented as the Group’s revenues, assets and liabilities are principally derived from operations carried out in Hong Kong for the year ended 31st December 2002.

– 86 –

APPENDIX II

FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF THE GROUP

3. Other income

Realised gain on trading of other investments
Unrealised gain on holding of other investments
Total
2003
HK$’000
9,228
958
10,186
2002
HK$’000

4. Loss before finance costs and taxation

Loss before finance costs and taxation is stated after crediting and charging the following:

5.

Charging
Auditors’ remuneration
Loss on disposal of fixed assets
Fixed assets written off
Impairment of fixed assets
Impairment of investment securities – unlisted equity securities
Provision for doubtful receivables
Provision against deposit paid
Depreciation of fixed assets
Amortisation of intangible assets
Operating leases in respect of land and buildings
Termination benefits
Pension costs – contributions to defined contribution plans
Forfeiture of pension contributions
Crediting
Rental income:
Gross
Outgoings
Net of outgoings
Finance costs
Interest on bank loans and overdrafts wholly repayable within five years
Others
2003
HK$’000
674
478

3,080
1,200
2,056

16,154
3,078
6,009
1,175
3,056
(2,127)
(5,467)
84
(5,383)
2003
HK$’000
1,967
40
2,007
2002
HK$’000
437

3,858
143
8,912

3,500
5,927

375
3,638
1,967
(6,180
300
(5,880
2002
HK$’000

– 87 –

FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF THE GROUP

APPENDIX II

6. Taxation and deferred taxation

Hong Kong profits tax has been provided at the rate of 17.5% (2002: 16%) on the estimated assessable profit for the year. In 2003, the government enacted a change in the profits tax rate from 16% to 17.5% for the fiscal year 2003/2004. Taxation on overseas profits has been calculated on the estimated assessable profit for the year at the rates of taxation prevailing in the countries in which the Group operates.

The amount of taxation charged to the consolidated profit and loss account represents:

Current taxation:
– Hong Kong profits tax
– Under provisions in prior years
Deferred taxation relating to the origination and reversal
of timing differences
Taxation charges
2003
HK$’000
(354)
(523)
(324)
(1,201)
2002
HK$’000


The taxation on the Group’s loss before taxation differs from the theoretical amount that would arise using the Hong Kong taxation rate as follows:

Loss before taxation
Calculated at a taxation rate of 17.5% (2002: 16%)
Effect of different taxation rates in Macau
Expenses not deductible for taxation purposes
Utilisation of previously unrecognised tax losses
Under-provision of current taxation in prior years
Unrecognised deferred tax assets arising from estimated tax losses
Taxation charge
2003
HK$’000
(32,781)
5,737
(5)
(457)
71
(523)
(6,024)
(1,201)
2002
HK$’000
(38,130
6,101




(6,101

Deferred income tax assets are recognised to the extent that realisation of the related tax benefit through the future taxable profits is probable.

The deferred tax liabilities provided for at the balance sheet date arose from accelerated depreciation allowance. The movements during the year are as follows:

As at 1st January
Charged to profit and loss account
Group
2003
HK$’000

324
324
2002
HK$’000

– 88 –

APPENDIX II

FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF THE GROUP

6. Taxation and deferred taxation (Continued)

The major components of the net deferred liabilities/(assets) not provided for at the balance sheet date are as follows:

Accelerated depreciation allowances
Tax losses
Group
2003
HK$’000
3,147
(78,101)
(74,954)
2002
HK$’000
582
(20,258)
(19,676)

Included in the Group’s net deferred assets not provided for as at 31st December 2003 was an amount of approximately HK$49,982,000 attributable to the tax losses of Value Convergence Holdings Limited and its subsidiaries, which have become subsidiaries of the Group during the year.

Accelerated depreciation allowances
Tax losses
Company
2003
HK$’000

(2,513)
(2,513)
2002
HK$’000
(1)
(2,268)
(2,269)

The tax losses of the Group and the Company as at 31st December 2003 were available for carry forward but subject to the approval of the Hong Kong Inland Revenue Department and the tax bureau in Macau. These tax losses have no expiry date.

7. Loss attributable to shareholders

The loss attributable to shareholders is dealt with in the accounts of the company to the extent of a loss of HK$8,685,000 (2002: HK$10,933,000).

8. Dividends

No dividends have been paid or declared by the Company during the year ended 31st December 2003 (2002: nil).

9. Loss per share

The calculation of basic loss per share is based on the Group’s net loss attributable to shareholders of HK$26,334,000 (2002: HK$35,596,000) and the weighted average number of 165,762,626 (2002: HK$131,231,244) ordinary shares in issue during the year, taking into account the issuance of rights shares in August 2003 (Note 20(b)).

Diluted loss per share has not been presented as the conversion of potential ordinary shares would have antidilutive effect to the basic loss per share (2002: anti-dilutive).

– 89 –

FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF THE GROUP

APPENDIX II

10. Directors’ and senior management’s emoluments

(a) Directors’ emoluments

The aggregate amounts of emoluments payable to directors of the Company during the year are as follows:

Fees
Other emoluments:
Basic salaries, allowances, share options and benefits in kind
Retirement benefits scheme contributions
2003
HK$’000
951
3,557
27
3,584
----------
4,535
2002
HK$’000
1,745
1,984
42
2,026
----------
3,771

Directors’ fees disclosed above include approximately HK$854,000 (2002: HK$600,000) paid to independent non-executive directors.

During the year, no (2002: 4,843,484) share options were granted to directors of the Company in respect of their services provided to the Group, further details of which are set out in note 21 to the accounts. No value in respect of the share options granted during the year has been charged to the profit and loss account, or is otherwise included in the above directors’ emoluments disclosure.

The emoluments of the directors fell within the following bands:

Emolument bands
HK$nil
– HK$1,000,000
HK$1,000,001 – HK$1,500,000
HK$1,500,001 – HK$2,000,000
Number of directors
2003
2002
6
9

1
2

(b) Five highest paid individuals

The five individuals whose emoluments were the highest in the Group for the year include two (2002: two) directors whose emoluments are reflected in the analysis presented above. The emoluments payable to the remaining three (2002: three) individuals during the year are as follows:

Basic salaries, allowances, share options, and benefits in kind
Retirement benefits scheme contribution
2003
HK$’000
7,602
28
7,630
2002
HK$’000
2,112
42
2,154

The emoluments fell within the following bands:

Number of directors
2003 2002
Emolument bands
HK$nil
– HK$1,000,000
3
HK$1,000,001 – HK$1,500,000 1
HK$1,500,001 – HK$2,000,000 1
HK$4,000,001 – HK$4,500,000 1

– 90 –

APPENDIX II

FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF THE GROUP

10. Directors’ and senior management’s emoluments (Continued)

  • (c) During the year, no (2002: nil) directors or the above highest paid individuals waived or agreed to 10 Directors’ and senior management’s emoluments waive any emoluments. No (2002: nil) emoluments have been paid to the directors of the Company or the above highest paid individuals as an inducement to join or upon joining the Group, or as compensation for loss of office.

11. Intangible assets

Cost
At 1st January 2003
Acquisition of subsidiaries_(Note: 23(c))_
At 31st December 2003
Accumulated amortisation
At 1st January 2003
Charge for the year
At 31st December 2003
Net book value
At 31st December 2003
At 1st January 2003
Group
Goodwill
Trading rights
HK$’000
HK$’000


22,319
3,757
22,319
3,757


(2,614)
(464)
(2,614)
(464)
19,705
3,293

Total
HK$’000

26,076
26,076

(3,078)
(3,078)
22,998

The addition of goodwill during the year arose from the acquisition of Value Convergence Holdings Limited during the year (see note 23(c) for further details). The goodwill is amortised over their estimated useful lives of 10 years.

Trading rights are amortised over their estimated useful lives of 10 years.

– 91 –

FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF THE GROUP

APPENDIX II

12. Fixed assets

Investment
properties
HK$’000
Cost of valuation
At 1st January 2003
155,000
Acquisition of subsidiaries
(Note 23(c))

Additions

Surplus on revaluation
4,000
Write-off

Disposals

Exchange translation

At 31st December 2003
159,000
-------------
Accumulated depreciation
and impairment
At 1st January 2003

Acquisition of subsidiaries
(Note 23(c))

Charge for the year

Impairment charge

Write-off

Disposals

Exchange translation

At 31st December 2003

-------------
Net book value
At 31st December 2003
159,000
At 31st December 2002
155,000
Group
Restaurant
vessels,
ferries and
pontoons
HK$’000
43,497

168




43,665
-------------
33,193

1,777




34,970
-------------
8,695
10,304
Leasehold
Furniture,
land and
Leasehold
fixtures and
buildings
improvements
equipment
HK$’000
HK$’000
HK$’000
614
686
50,961

2,756
54,732

5,230
2,968





(16,902)

(1,421)
(1,247)

226
73
614
7,477
90,585
-------------
-------------
-------------
180
365
39,694

259
38,752
9
2,139
12,229


3,080


(16,902)

(883)
(746)

211
68
189
2,091
76,175
-------------
-------------
-------------
425
5,386
14,410
434
321
11,267
Total
HK$’000
250,758
57,488
8,366
4,000
(16,902)
(2,668)
299
301,341
-------------
73,432
39,011
16,154
3,080
(16,902)
(1,629)
279
113,425
-------------
187,916
177,326

The analysis of the cost or valuation at 31st December 2003 of the above asset is as follows:

At cost
At valuation
Investment
properties
HK$’000

159,000
159,000
Restaurant
vessels,
ferries and
pontoon
HK$’000
43,665

43,665
Leasehold
Furniture,
land and
Leasehold
fixtures and
buildings
improvements
equipment
HK$’000
HK$’000
HK$’000
614
7,477
90,585



614
7,477
90,585
Total
HK$’000
142,341
159,000
301,341

– 92 –

APPENDIX II

FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF THE GROUP

12. Fixed assets (Continued)

The analysis of the cost or valuation at 31st December 2002 of the above asset is as follows:

Restaurant
vessels,
Investment
ferries and
properties
pontoon
HK$’000
HK$’000
At cost

43,497
At valuation
155,000

155,000
43,497
Cost
At 1st January 2003 and 31st December 2003
Accumulated depreciation
At 1st January 2003
Charge for the year
At 31st December 2003
Net book value
At 31st December 2003
At 31st December 2002
Leasehold
Furniture,
land and
Leasehold
fixtures and
buildings
improvements
equipment
Total
HK$’000
HK$’000
HK$’000
HK$’000
614
686
50,961
95,758



155,000
614
686
50,961
250,758
Company
Furniture,
fixtures and
equipment
HK$’000
6
------------
2
4
6
------------

4
Leasehold
Furniture,
land and
Leasehold
fixtures and
buildings
improvements
equipment
Total
HK$’000
HK$’000
HK$’000
HK$’000
614
686
50,961
95,758



155,000
614
686
50,961
250,758
Company
Furniture,
fixtures and
equipment
HK$’000
6
------------
2
4
6
------------

4
6
------------
4

The Group’s investment properties and leasehold land and buildings are located in Hong Kong and are held under long term leases.

The Group’s investment properties comprise: (i) a residential building located at 5 Tung Shan Terrace, Stubbs Road, Hong Kong which was revalued on an open market, existing tenancy basis by FPDSavills (Hong Kong) Limited, an independent firm of professional valuers, as at 31st December 2003 at HK$82,000,000 (2002: HK$80,000,000); and (ii) 509 car parking spaces located on the lower basement, basement and G/F to 5/F of Jumbo Court Public Carpark, 3 Welfare Road, Aberdeen, Hong Kong, was revalued on an open market, existing tenancy basis by FPDSavills (Hong Kong) Limited, an independent firm of professional valuers, as at 31st December 2003 at HK$77,000,000 (2002: HK$75,000,000).

The investment properties are leased to third parties under operating leases arrangements, with leases negotiated for terms ranging from 6 months to 3.5 years. As at 31st December 2003, the Group had future aggregate minimum lease receivables under non-cancellable operating leases as follows:

Not later than one year
Later than one year and not later than five years
Group
2003
HK$’000
3,396
1,953
5,349
2002
HK$’000
3,353
455
3,808

At 31st December 2003, certain investment properties with net book value of HK$82,000,000 (2002: nil) were pledged as security for the Group’s banking facilities.

– 93 –

FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF THE GROUP

APPENDIX II

13. Investments in subsidiaries

Investments at cost:
Unlisted shares
Provision for impairment
Due from subsidiaries_(note a)
Due to subsidiaries
(note a)_
Provision for amounts due from subsidiaries
Company
2003
HK$’000
390
(390)

707,864
(9,498)
(308,742)
389,624
2002
HK$’000
390
(390

603,551

(300,000
303,551

Note:

  • (a) Included in the amounts due from/(to) subsidiaries are loans to subsidiaries of HK$187 million which are interest bearing at prime rate minus two per cent to prime rate per annum. Other amounts due from/(to) subsidiaries are unsecured, interest-free and have no fixed terms of repayment.

  • (b) The following is a list of the principal subsidiaries at 31st December 2003:

Principal Particulars of
Place of activities and issued Effective
Name incorporation place of operation share capital Interest held
Double Crown Hong Kong Property Investment 2 ordinary shares 100%
Limited1 in Hong Kong of HK$1 each
Palmsville British Virgin Investment holding 1 ordinary share 100%
Developments Islands in Hong Kong of US$1 each
Limited 1,4
Proven Success British Virgin Investment holding 1 ordinary share 100%
Limited1 Islands in Hong Kong of US$1 each
Melco Services British Virgin Investment holding 1 ordinary share 100%
Limited1 Islands in Hong Kong of HK$1 each
Melco Finance and British Virgin Investment holding 1 ordinary share 100%
Technology Limited1 Islands in Hong Kong of HK$1 each
Aberdeen Restaurant Hong Kong Restaurant operations 8,060 A shares 86.68%
Enterprises Limited and property of HK$1,000 each
investment and 33,930 B shares
in Hong Kong of HK$500 each
Sea Palace, Limited Hong Kong Dormant 390 ordinary shares 86.46%
of HK$5 each
Tai Pak Sea-Food Hong Kong Catering, restaurant 5 founders’ shares 84.76%
Restaurant Limited vessel holding and of HK$100 each and
letting in Hong Kong 13,495 ordinary shares
of HK$100 each
Jumbo Watertours Hong Kong Inactive 100 ordinary shares 100%
Limited of HK$1 each
Jumbo Catering Hong Kong Provision of management 200 ordinary shares 86.68%
Management Limited services in Hong Kong of HK$5,000 each

– 94 –

APPENDIX II

FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF THE GROUP

13. Investments in subsidiaries (Continued)

Principal Particulars of Particulars of
Place of activities and issued Effective
Name incorporation place of operation share capital Interest held
Value Convergence Hong Kong Investment holding 238,154,999 ordinary 67.57%
Holdings Limited2 in Hong Kong shares of HK$ 0.1 each
iAsia Online Systems British Virgin Provision of online 1 ordinary share 67.57%
Limited2 Islands trading software of US$1 each
in Hong Kong
Elixir Group Limited2 Hong Kong Provision of hardware 833,333 ordinary shares 52.37%
and software of HK$1 each
in Hong Kong
Elixir Group (Macau) Macau Provision of hardware 2 ordinary shares 52.37%
Limited2 and software in Macau of MOP450,000
and MOP50,000 each
VC CFN Corporation British Virgin Investment holding 1 ordinary share of US$1 67.57%
Limited2 Islands in Hong Kong
VC CEF Brokerage Hong Kong Provision of brokerage 230,000,000 ordinary 67.57%
Limited2 and securities margin shares of HK$1 each
financing services
in Hong Kong
VC CEF Futures Hong Kong Provision of futures 30,000,000 ordinary 67.57%
Limited2 and options contracts shares of HK$1 each
dealing in Hong Kong
VC CEF Capital Hong Kong Provision of corporate 20,000,000 ordinary 67.57%
Limited2 finance and advisory shares of HK$1 each
services in Hong Kong
VC CFN Capital PRC Provision of consultancy 67.57%
(Shenzhen) Limited3 services in the PRC
VC CFN Investments Hong Kong Provision of securities 2 ordinary shares 67.57%
Limited2 investment service of HK$1 each
to group companies
in Hong Kong
iAsia Services Hong Kong Provision of management 10,000 ordinary shares 67.57%
Limited2 service in Hong Kong of HK$1
iAsia Network British Virgin Provision of system 1 ordinary share of 67.57%
Solutions Limited2 Islands customisation and US$1
network support
services in Hong Kong
iAsia Technology British Virgin Investment holding 1 ordinary share 67.57%
(Asia) Limited 2 Islands in Hong Kong of US$1 each
  • 1 Share held directly by the company

  • 2 Acquired by the Group during the period (note 23(c))

3 Incorporated in December 2003 and the registered capital amounted to HK$1,000,000 was paid up in March 2004.

4 The company name of Palmsville Developments Limited has been changed to “Melco Leisure and Entertainment Group Limited” with effect from 17th March 2004.

– 95 –

APPENDIX II

FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF THE GROUP

14. Investment securities

Unlisted equity investments, at cost
Provision for impairment
Listed equity investment in Hong Kong, at cost
Provision for impairment
Total
Group
2003
HK$’000
26,499
(5,862)
20,637
----------
4,250
(4,250)
20,637
2002
HK$’000
4,662
(4,662

----------
4,250
(4,250

15. Inventories

Food and beverages
Consumable stores
Merchandise
Work in progress
Group
2003
HK$’000
2,268
52
1,776
41
4,137
2002
HK$’000
2,947
39

2,986

At 31st December 2003, no inventory was carried at net realisable value (2002: nil).

16. Trade receivables

Trade receivables
Within 30 days
31-90 days
Over 90 days
Less: Provision for doubtful receivables
2003
HK$’000
233,123
3,312
6,288
242,723
(6,333)
236,390
2002
HK$’000
1,770
983
29
2,782
2,782

(a) The Group’s leisure and entertainment segment and the property and other investments segments are largely operated on cash on delivery or payment in advance terms, except for those well-established customers to whom credit terms of 30 to 60 days would be granted.

– 96 –

APPENDIX II

FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF THE GROUP

16. Trade receivables (Continued)

  • (b) Trade receivables arising from the ordinary course of business of broking in securities and equity options transactions and dealing in futures and options in the investment banking and financial services segment as at 31st December 2003 amounted to approximately HK$235,922,000 (2002: nil). The settlement terms of trade receivables arising from the broking in securities and equity options transactions are two days after the trade date of those transactions; and trade receivables arising from the dealing in futures and options are one day after the trade date.

Loans to margin clients (included in investment banking and financial services) are secured by client’s pledged securities, repayable on demand and bear interest at commercial rates.

  • (c) Other trade receivables are due immediately from date of billing but the Group and the Company will generally grant a normal credit period of 30 days on average to its customers.

17. Other investments

Unlisted debt securities, at fair value
Equity securities listed in Hong Kong, at market value
Group
2003
HK$’000

40,638
40,638
2002
HK$’000
4,000
4,000

18. Amounts due from related companies

Particulars of the amounts due from related companies of the Group disclosed pursuant to Section 161B of the Hong Kong Companies Ordinance are as follows:

At 31st
Note
Sociedade Turismo
e Diversoes de Macau
(a)
iAsia Services Limited
(b)
Maximum
amount
outstanding
December
during
At 1st January
2003
the year
2003
HK$’000
HK$’000
HK$’000
429
429
425

1,982
1,982
429
2,407
Maximum
amount
outstanding
December
during
At 1st January
2003
the year
2003
HK$’000
HK$’000
HK$’000
429
429
425

1,982
1,982
429
2,407
2,407

Notes:

  • (a) The amount due from Sociedade Turismo e Diversoes de Macau (“STDM”), a related company of which Dr. Stanley Ho is director and/or has direct and/or indirect beneficial interests, represented receivables in respect of the sales of souvenirs by the Group and remains unsettled (note26(d)(iv)). The balance with STDM is unsecured, interest-free and has no fixed terms of repayment.

  • (b) iAsia Services Limited (“iAsia Services”) has become a subsidiary of the Group during the year and since then the balance due from iAsia Services as at 31st December 2003 were eliminated upon consolidation. iAsia Services was a related company of which Mr. Lawrence Ho and Dr. Stanley Ho are directors and Mr. Lawrence Ho, Dr. Stanley Ho, and Mr. Peter So are beneficial shareholders. The amount due from iAsia Services represented payments for leasehold improvements and rental deposits paid by the Group on behalf of iAsia Services, and is unsecured and interest-free. The amount has been fully repaid before the year end date.

– 97 –

APPENDIX II

FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF THE GROUP

19. Trade payables

Trade payables
Within 30 days
31-90 days
Over 90 days
Group
2003
HK$’000
104,658
3,416
396
108,470
2002
HK$’000
2,356

2,356

Included in the trade payables aged within 30 days were trade payables in relation to the segment of investment banking and financial services of approximately HK$98,096,000.

20. Share capital

Authorised
Ordinary shares of HK$1 each
No. of shares Amount
’000 HK$’000
At 1st January 2003 and 31st December 2003 480,000 480,000
Issued and fully paid
Ordinary shares of HK$1 each
No. of shares Amount
’000 HK$’000
At 1st January 2002, ordinary shares of HK$1 each 121,087 121,087
Issue of shares by placement_(note a)_ 24,200 24,200
At 31st December 2002, ordinary shares of HK$1 each 145,287 145,287
Issue of rights shares_(note b)_ 72,644 72,644
Exercise of share options_(note 21)_ 4,066 4,066
At 31st December 2003, ordinary shares of HK$1 each 221,997 221,997

Note:

(a) In August 2002, 24,200,000 ordinary shares of HK$1 each were issued at a price of HK$1.45 per share by way of placement for a total consideration of HK$35,090,000 before related expenses.

(b) In August 2003, the company issued 72,643,567 rights shares of HK$1 each at a price of HK$1.45 per rights share on the basis of one rights shares for every two ordinary shares in issue. Proceeds of approximately HK$105.3 million before issuance expenses were raised.

– 98 –

FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF THE GROUP

APPENDIX II

21. Share option

(a) Melco International Development Limited

The Company operates a share option scheme (the “Scheme”) for the purpose of providing incentives and rewards to eligible participants who contribute to the success of the Group’s operations. Eligible participants of the Scheme included the Company’s directors, including independent non-executive directors, executives, employees, consultants, professional and other advisers of the Group. The Scheme became effective on 8th March 2002 following its approval by the Company’s shareholders at an extraordinary general meeting on the same date and, unless otherwise cancelled or amended, will remain in force for 10 years from that date.

The maximum number of shares of the Company which may be issued upon the exercise of all outstanding options granted and yet to be exercised under the Scheme must not exceed 30% of the total issued share capital of the Company from time to time. The total number of shares which may be issued upon the exercise of all options to be granted under the Scheme shall not in aggregate exceed 10% of the total number of the Company’s shares in issue as at 8th March 2002. The Company may seek approval of the Company’s shareholders in a general meeting for refreshing the 10% limit under the Scheme save that the total number of shares of the Company which may be issued upon the exercise of all options to be granted under the Scheme under the limit as “refreshed” may not exceed 10% of the total number of the shares of the Company in issue as at the date of approval of the limit. The maximum number of shares issuable under share options to each eligible participant in the Scheme within any 12-month period, is limited to 1% of the shares of the Company in issue at any time. Any further grant of share options in excess of this limit is subject to shareholders’ approval in a general meeting.

Share options granted to a director, chief executive or substantial shareholder of the Company, or to any of their associates, are subject to approval in advance by the independent non-executive directors. In addition, any share options granted to a substantial shareholder or an independent non-executive director of the Company, or to any of their associates, which would result in the shares issued and to be issued upon the exercise of all options granted to such person within any 12-month period being more than 0.1% of the shares of the Company in issue at any time and with an aggregate value (based on the price of the Company’s shares at the date of the grant) in excess of HK$5 million, are subject to shareholders’ approval in advance in a general meeting.

The offer of a grant of share options may be accepted within 14 days from the date of the offer, upon payment of a nominal consideration of HK$1 in total by the grantee. The exercise period of the share options granted is determinable by the directors, and commences after a certain vesting period and ends on a date which is not later than the expiry date of the Scheme.

The exercise price of the share options is determinable by the directors, but may not be less than the higher of: (i) the closing price of the Company’s share on The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited (the “Stock Exchange”) on the date of the offer of the share options; (ii) the average Stock Exchange closing price of the Company’s shares for the five days immediately preceding the date of the offer; and (iii) the nominal value of the Company’s shares on the date of the offer of the share options.

Share options do not confer rights on the holders to dividends or to vote at shareholders meetings. No share option has been granted or been lapsed/cancelled during the year.

– 99 –

FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF THE GROUP

APPENDIX II

21. Share option (Continued)

(a) Melco International Development Limited

The followings have option were outstanding under the Scheme during the year ended 31st December 2003:

Category of
participant
Directors4.5
Employees6
Employees7
Sub-total
Others8
Total
At
1st January
2003
4,843,484
500,000
3,805,114
4,305,114
2,960,115
12,108,713
Adjustment
in relation
to issuance of
rights shares1
2,421,740
250,002
1,902,556
2,152,558
1,480,057
6,054,355
Adjusted
share price
Date
at date
Adjusted
Exercised
At
of grant
of grant
exercise
during
31st December
of share
of share
price of share
the year
2003
options2
options1
options1, 3
(1,816,306)
5,448,918
8th March
HK$0,82
HK$1.00
2002

750,002
8th March
HK$0,82
HK$1.00
2002
(2,250,000)
3,457,670
13th September
HK$1.1067
HK$1.1067
2002
(2,250,000)
4,207,672

4,440,172
13th September
HK$1.1067
HK$1.1067
2002
(4,066,306)
14,096,762

1 The number of share options granted, the share price at grant date and the exercise price of the share options were adjusted upon completion of the rights issue in 24th September 2003 as detailed in Note 20(b).

  • 2 The vesting period of the share options is from the date of the grant until the commencement of the exercise period.

  • 3 At 31st December 2003, the Company had 14,096,762 share options outstanding under the Scheme. The exercise in full of the outstanding share options would, under the present capital structure of the Company, result in the issue of 14,096,762 additional ordinary shares of the Company and additional share capital of HK$14,097,000 and share premium of HK$8,427,000, before issue expenses.

  • 4 Mr. Peter So, who held 1,816,306 physically settled options as at 31st December 2003, resigned on 1st April 2004.

  • 5 As at 31st December 2003, 5,448,918 physically settled options may be exercised during the period from 8th September 2002 to 7th March 2012.

  • 6 Among 750,002 physically settled options as at 31st December 2003, 375,001 physically settled options may be exercised during the period from 8th March 2003 to 7th March 2012 and the other 375,001 physically settled options may be exercised during the period from 8th March 2004 to 7th March 2012.

  • 7 Among 3,457,670 physically settled options as at 31st December 2003, 1,113,835 physically settled options may be exercised during the period from 13th September 2002 to 7th March 2012; 1,113,835 physically settled options may be exercised during the period from 13th March 2003 to 7th March 2012; 615,000 physically settled options may be exercised during the period from 13th September 2003 to 7th March 2012; and 615,000 physically settled options may be exercised during the period from 13th September 2004 to 7th March 2012.

  • 8 Among 4,440,172 physically settled options as at 31st December 2003, 2,220,085 physically settled options may be exercised during the period from 13th September 2003 to 7th March 2012 and 2,220,085 physically settled options may be exercised during the period from 13th September 2004 to 7th March 2012.

– 100 –

APPENDIX II

FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF THE GROUP

21. Share option (Continued)

(b) Value Convergence Holdings Limited (“VC”)

(i) Pre-IPO share option plan

As at 31st December 2003, options of VC comprising an aggregate of 9,740,208 underlying shares granted on 6th April 2001 (“Pre-IPO Share Options”) pursuant to the Pre-IPO share option plan adopted by VC on 14th March 2001 (“Pre-IPO Share Option Plan”) at an exercise price of HK$3.6 per share, after adjustment arising from the issue of rights and bonus shares and capital reorganisation as detailed in note 20(a) and (b) to the 2003 annual report of VC respectively, were outstanding, which represents 4.1% of the shares of VC in issue as at 31st December 2003. The exercise price represents a discount of 30% of the adjusted IPO offer price. The Pre-IPO Share Options have duration of approximately 4.5 years from the date of grant, i.e. between 6th April 2001 to 8th October 2005. According to the Pre-IPO Share Option Plan, any Pre-IPO Share Option granted shall lapse upon the expiration of 3 months after the relevant grantee ceases to be employed by VC and its subsidiaries (“VC Group”). The following are details of the outstanding Pre-IPO Share Options at 31st December 2003 (after adjustments arising from the issue of rights and bonus shares and capital reorganisation):

As at 31st December 2003
No. of underlying
Shares comprised
Total no. in the Pre-IPO
Categories of grantees of grantees Share Options
Directors of the Company 5 8,478,020
Employees 3 1,262,188
Total 8 9,740,208

Certain Pre-IPO Share Options comprising a total of 516,979 underlying shares (after adjustments arising from the issue of rights and bonus shares and capital reorganisation) which had been granted to one employee lapsed during the year as the relevant employee failed to exercise the same within 3 months after the relevant employee ceased to be the employee of the VC Group. None of the Pre-IPO Share Options were exercised during the year.

(ii) New share option scheme

The new share option scheme (“New Share Option Scheme”) was adopted by VC on 29th November 2001 (which supersedes the previous share option scheme of the Company adopted on 14th March 2001).

As at 31st December 2003, options comprising an aggregate of 4,228,002 underlying Shares granted on 9th July 2002 (“New Share Options”) pursuant to the New Share Option Scheme at an exercise price of HK$1.0 per share, after adjustments arising from the issue of rights and bonus shares and capital reorganisation, were outstanding, which represents 1.8% of the shares of VC in issue as at 31st December 2003. The adjusted closing price of the VC’s shares immediately before 9th July 2002 was HK$0.65. The New Share Options have duration of 10 years from the date of grant, i.e. between 9th July 2002 to 8th July 2012. Accordingly to the New Share Option Scheme, any New Share Option’s granted shall lapse upon the expiration of 3 months after the relevant grantee ceases to be employed (if applicable) by VC Group. The following are details of the outstanding New Share Options as at 31st December 2003 (after adjustments arising from the issue of rights and bonus shares and capital reorganisation):

– 101 –

APPENDIX II

FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF THE GROUP

21. Share option (Continued)

  • (b) Value Convergence Holdings Limited (“VC”) (Continued)
As at 31st December 2003
No. of underlying
Shares comprised
Total no. in the New
Categories of grantees of grantees Share Options
Directors of the Company 3 1,473,171
Employees 26 1,821,823
Other eligible persons 5 933,008
Total 34 4,228,002

Certain Share Options to subscribe for a total of 682,569 underlying shares (after adjustments arising from the issue of rights and bonus shares and capital reorganisation) granted to ten employees lapsed during the year as the relevant employees failed to exercise the same within 3 months after the relevant employees ceased to be the employees of VC Group. None of the New Share Options were exercised during the year.

22. Reserves

Group

At 1st January 2002
Issue of shares
Share issue expenses
Surplus on revaluation
of investment properties
Revaluation surplus
attributable to minority
shareholders
Net loss for the year
At 31st December 2002
and 1st January 2003
Surplus on revaluation
of investment properties
Revaluation surplus
attributable to minority
shareholders
Net loss for the year
Issue of right shares
Share issuance expenses
Exercise of share option
At 31st December 2003
Investment
Share
properties
premium
revaluation
HK$’000
HK$’000
8,738
76,614
10,890

(439)


3,000

(400)


19,189
79,214

4,000

(266)


32,689

(2,441)

240

49,677
82,948
Capital
Accumulated
reserve
losses
HK$’000
HK$’000
357,785
(189,755)









(35,596)
357,785
(225,351)





(26,334)






357,785
(251,685)
Total
HK$’000
253,382
10,890
(439
3,000
(400
(35,596
230,837
4,000
(266
(26,334
32,689
(2,441
240
238,725

– 102 –

FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF THE GROUP

APPENDIX II

22. Reserves (Continued)

At 1st January 2002
Issue of shares
Share issue expenses
Net loss for the year
At 31st December 2002
and 1st January 2003
Issue of rights shares
Share issue expenses
Exercise of share option
Net loss for the year
At 31st December 2003
Company
Share
premium
HK$’000
8,738
10,890
(439)

19,189
32,689
(2,441)
240

49,677
Capital
Accumulated
reserve
losses
HK$’000
HK$’000
357,785
(207,846)





(10,933)
357,785
(218,779)







(8,685)
357,785
(227,464)
Total
HK$’000
158,677
10,890
(439)
(10,933)
158,195
32,689
(2,441)
240
(8,685)
179,998

23. Consolidated cash flow statement

(a) Reconciliation of operating loss to net cash used in operations

Operating loss
Realised gain on trading of other investments
Unrealised gain on holding of other investments
Depreciation and amortisation
Gain on partial disposal of investment in a subsidiary
Loss on disposal of fixed assets
Exchange loss
Fixed assets written off
Impairment of fixed assets
Impairment of investment securities
Provision against deposit paid
Interest income from authorised financial institutions
Dividend income
Operating loss before working capital changes
(Increase)/decrease in inventories
(Increase)/decrease in accounts receivables
Decrease/(increase) in prepayments, deposits and other receivables
Decrease/(increase) in amount due from related companies
Increase/(decrease) in accounts payables
(Decrease)/increase in rental deposits
Increase in accrued liabilities and other payables
Net cash used in operations
2003
HK$’000
(30,774)
(9,228)
(958)
19,232
(149)
478
48

3,080
1,200

(712)
(200)
(17,983)
(749)
(119,225)
7,168
1,978
58,626
(70)
26,324
(43,931)
2002
HK$’000
(38,130)


5,927



3,858
142
8,912
3,500
(3,538)
(19,329)
166
215
(9,447)
(1,961)
(218)
49
8,457
(22,068)

– 103 –

FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF THE GROUP

APPENDIX II

23. Consolidated cash flow statement

(b) Analysis of changes in financing during the year

Share capital
including premium
2003
2002
HK$’000
HK$’000
At 1st January
164,476
129,825
Minority interests’
share of loss


Revaluation surplus
attributable to minority
shareholders


Acquisition of subsidiary
attributable to minority
interest


Partial disposal of
investment in subsidiaries
attributable to minority
interest


Cash (outflows)/inflows
from financing
107,198
34,651
Bank borrowings of
subsidiaries acquired


At 31st December
271,674
164,476
Minority
2003
HK$’000
24,258
(7,648)
266
42,025
4,051


62,952
interests
2002
HK$’000
26,392
(2,534)
400




24,258
Bank loan
2003
2002
HK$’000
HK$’000










(106,335)

106,335


(c) Acquisition of subsidiaries

Net assets acquired
Fixed assets
Intangible assets
Other long-term assets
Trade and other receivables
Bank balances and cash
Trade and other payables
Bank borrowings
Minority shareholders’ interests
Goodwill
Satisfied by
Cash
2003
HK$’000
18,477
25,478
6,534
118,428
122,900
(43,297)
(106,335)
(42,025)
100,160
598
100,758
100,758
100,758

Analysis of the net inflow in respect of the acquisition of subsidiaries:

Cash consideration
Bank balances and cash in hand acquired
Net cash inflow in respect of the acquisition of subsidiaries
2003
HK$’000
(100,758)
122,900
22,142

– 104 –

APPENDIX II

FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF THE GROUP

24. Pledge bank deposits

As at 31st December 2003, the Group’s bank deposits amounting to HK$304,000 (2002: HK$1,100,000) were pledged to secure a letter of guarantee to the extent of HK$120,000 (2002: HK$1,031,000) granted by a bank for the Group’s water and electricity deposits and for tendering of contracts with the Macau government by a subsidiary of the Group.

25. Commitments

(a) Capital commitments

At 31st December 2003, the Group had contracted commitments in respect of renovation project as follows:

Contracted but not provided for Group
2003
HK$’000
4,547
2002
HK$’000

(b) Commitments under operating leases

The Group leases certain of its office properties and furniture under operating lease arrangements. At 31st December 2003, the Group had future aggregate minimum lease payments under non-cancellable operating leases as follows:

Not later than one year
Later than one year and not later than five years
Group
2003
HK$’000
4,853
4,958
9,811
2002
HK$’000
373
1,349
1,722

26. Related party transactions

Parties are considered to be related if one party has the ability, directly or indirectly, to control the other party or exercise significant influence over the other party in making financial and operating decisions or vice versa. Parties are also considered to be related if they are subject to common control or common significant influence.

(a) The trade receivables include amounts due from related companies in relation to sales of computer hardware and software to related companies of approximately HK$1,808,000 (2002: nil).

  • (b) The prepayments, deposits and other receivables include amounts due from customers on contracts in relation to sales of computer hardware and software to related companies of approximately HK$1,702,000 (2002: nil).
Contract costs incurred plus attributable profits
Less: Progress billings to date
Group
2003
HK$’000
5,683
(3,981)
1,702
2002
HK$’000

(c) The accruals and other payables include deposits received from related companies in relation to sales of computer hardware and software of approximately HK$10,180,000 (2002: nil).

– 105 –

APPENDIX II

FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF THE GROUP

26. Related party transactions (Continued)

  • (d) Significant related party transactions, which were carried out in the normal course of the Group’s business are as follows:
Notes
Catering income received from directors and
related companies
(i)
Insurance premiums paid to a related company
(ii)
Management fees paid to a related company
(iii)
Souvenirs sold to a related company
(iv)
Brokerage commission income earned from certain
directors of the Group or their relatives
(v)
Sales of computer hardware and software
to related companies
(vi)
Group
2003
HK$’000
2,486
1,173
569
418
106
15,634
2002
HK$’000
3,601
954
442
416

Notes:

  • (i) The Group received catering income in respect of restaurant operations from certain directors and related companies for services provided at a discount ranging between 15% and 40%.

  • (ii) The Group paid insurance premiums to Jardine Shun Tak Insurance Brokers Limited, an associate of Shun Tak Holdings Limited (“STHL”), to insure the properties and employees of the Group under the terms and conditions applicable to customers of comparable standing. Dr. Stanley Ho, a director of the Company, are also a director and/or has direct and/or indirect beneficial interests in STHL.

  • (iii) The Group paid management fees to Shun Tak Property Management Limited (“STPML”), a subsidiary of STHL; on a cost reimbursement basis for building management expenditure paid by STPML on behalf of the Group.

  • (iv) The sales of souvenirs to Sociedade de Turismo e Diversoes de Macau (“STDM”), a related company of which Dr. Stanley Ho is director and/or has direct and/or indirect beneficial interests, were made according to the published prices and conditions offered to customers of the Group, except that a longer credit period was normally granted. The balance due from STDM at 31st December 2003 was HK$429,000 (2002: HK$425,000) (note 18).

  • (v) Brokerage commission income earned from transactions with related parties was at prices and terms no less than those transacted with other third party customers of the Group.

  • (vi) Service fees charged and computer hardware and software sold to related companies were conducted in the normal course of business at prices and terms no less than those charged to and contracted with other third party customers of the Group.

27. Post Balance Sheet Events

On 19th March 2004, the board of directors of the Company has approved the proposed conditional Group reorganisation and asset acquisition involving issue of consideration shares and convertible notes. The Company has conditionally agreed to purchase the entire interests in the business segment of sales of technology solution systems and related services from Value Convergence Holdings Limited, a 67.57%owned subsidiary, at a consideration of approximately HK$27.9 million to be settled in cash. In addition, the Company has conditionally agreed to acquire 80% of the issued share capital of Mocha Slot Group Limited from its shareholders at an aggregate consideration of approximately HK$353 million, which will be settled by the issue and allotment of 153,478,261 of new shares of the Company to the sellers.

The said proposed Group reorganisation and asset acquisition are subject to independent shareholders’ approval.

– 106 –

APPENDIX II

FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF THE GROUP

28. Comparative figures

The accounts as at and for the year ended 31st December 2002 were audited and reported on by certified public accountants other than PricewaterhouseCoopers, whose report dated 2nd April 2003 expressed an unqualified opinion on those accounts. Certain of the 2002 comparative figures have been reclassified to conform to the current year ’s presentation

29. Approval of accounts

The accounts were approved by the board of directors on 21st April 2004.

– 107 –

APPENDIX III

PROPERTY VALUATION

仲 量 聯 行

Jones Lang LaSalle Limited Valuation Advisory Services 28/F One Pacific Place 88 Queensway Hong Kong tel +852 2846 5000 fax +852 2968 0078 Company Licence No.: C-003464

5 January 2005

The Directors Melco International Development Limited Penthouse 38/F The Centrium 60 Wyndham Street, Central Hong Kong

Dear Sirs

We refer to the instruction by Melco International Development Limited (hereinafter referred to as “the Company”) for us to provide our opinion of the open market value of the property interest in a development site known as Site A1, Baixa da Taipa – Lote BT17, Taipa, Macau (hereinafter referred to as “the Property”) for reference purpose.

As instructed by the Company, we have prepared the valuation on the following assumptions:

  • A residential plot ratio of 10 has been allowed for the Property;

  • The building covenant of the land grant upon which the Property is held has expired. We have been instructed to disregard any cost and fees, if any for the extension of such building covenant and to assume that the land grant of the Property would not be adversely affected by such expiry;

  • The owner of the property is in possession of a proper legal title to the property and is entitled to freely transfer the property within the residual lease term; and

  • The subject land grant will be extended for an initial period of 25 years and renewable thereafter in accordance with the laws of Macau and will be subject to payment of applicable ground rent, and that the premium, if any, will not have a significant impact on the value of the property.

We have based on our experience of valuing the property interest as “overseas consultants” in Macau. We confirm that we have carried out inspections, made relevant enquiries and obtained such further information as we deem necessary to derive our opinion of the open market value of the Property as at 10 December 2004 (“the date of valuation”).

– 108 –

PROPERTY VALUATION

APPENDIX III

1.0 INTRODUCTION

We would like to point out that the valuation presented in this report represent 100% interest of the Property and not the share holdings within the company holding the property interest.

Unless otherwise stated, our valuation report is prepared in accordance with the “Hong Kong Guidance Notes on The Valuation of Property Assets” published by the Hong Kong Institute of Surveyors (“HKIS”) and the requirements contained in Chapter 5, and Practice Note 12 of the Rules Governing the Listing of Securities on the Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited. If the Guidance Notes are silent on subjects requiring guidance, we refer to the “Appraisal and Valuation Standards” published by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors subject to variation to meet local established law, custom, practices and market conditions.

Our valuation is made on the basis of the open market value defined by HKIS as “the best price at which the sale of an interest in a property would have been completed unconditionally for cash consideration on the date of valuation, assuming:

  • (a) a willing seller;

  • (b) that, prior to the date of valuation, there had been a reasonable period (having regard to the nature of the property and the state of the market) for the proper marketing of the interest, for the agreement of price and terms and for the completion of the sale;

  • (c) that the state of the market, level of values and other circumstances were, on any earlier assumed date of exchange of contracts, the same as on the date of valuation;

  • (d) that no account is taken of any additional bid by a prospective purchaser with a special interest; and

  • (e) that both parties to the transaction had acted knowledgeably, prudently and without compulsion”.

Our valuation has been made on the assumption that the owner sells the property interest on the open market without the benefit of deferred-terms contract, leaseback, joint venture, management agreements or any similar arrangements which would serve to affect the value of such property interest. In addition, no forced sale situation in any manner is assumed in our valuation.

Unless otherwise stated, we have valued the property interest on the assumption that it is freely disposable and transferable for the existing use to both local and overseas purchasers without payment of any premium to the relevant authorities.

No allowance has been made in our valuation for any compensation, charges, mortgages or amounts owing on the Property nor for any expenses or taxation which may be incurred in effecting a sale. Unless otherwise stated, it is assumed that the property interest is free from encumbrances, restrictions and outgoings of an onerous nature that could affect its value.

– 109 –

APPENDIX III

PROPERTY VALUATION

We have adopted the direct comparison approach and the residual approach in the course of the assessment.

The direct comparison approach is based on comparing the property to be valued directly with other comparable properties, which have recently transferred its legal ownership. However, given the heterogeneous nature of real estate properties, appropriate adjustments are usually required to allow for any qualitative and quantitative differences that may affect the price likely to be achieved by the property under consideration.

The residual approach involves firstly the assessment of Gross Development Value (GDV) which is the value of the proposed development, as if completed, as at the date of valuation. The Gross Development Value (GDV) of the residual approach is assessed by reference with the Direct Comparison Approach. Estimated total cost of the construction of the development including fees, plus an allowance for interest and other associated expenditure including developer’s risk and profit are deducted from the gross development value. The resultant figure is the residual value. This method is subject to a number of hypothetical assumptions/ parameters. A slight change in one or more of the assumptions/ parameters would have a significant impact on the conclusions reached.

We have relied to a very considerable extent on the information provided by the Company. We have accepted advice given to us on such matters as the identification of the Property, land tenure and development conditions, premium arrangement for the land grant extension, particulars of occupancy, site area, plot ratio, indicative cost estimate of the proposed residential development, translated document together with all other relevant matters.

We have also had regard to relevant construction costs based on data published by professional quantity surveyors and cost estimates provided by local cost consultants in the course of the assessment.

Dimensions, measurements and areas included in the valuation report are based on information contained in copies of documents provided to us and are therefore only approximations.

We have been advised by the Company that no material factors have been omitted from the information supplied and we have no reason to suspect that any material information has been withheld. Our valuation is totally dependent on the adequacy and accuracy of the information supplied and/or subsequent assumptions made. Should these prove to be incorrect or inadequate, the accuracy of our valuation may be affected.

The Company provided us with a copy of development conditions of the Nova Taipa project (which includes the Property) in Portuguese stipulated in an Official Gazette of Macau – No.9 dated 1 March 1993 together with a translation of the said document in English. This document is hereinafter referred as the “land grant of the Property”.

We have not been provided with any other title document in relation to the Property. We have conducted land search record in Portuguese issued by Conservatoria do Registo Predial (“CRP”) in relation to the Property. We have not examined the original documents to verify ownership and encumbrances or to ascertain the existence of any lease amendments, which may not appear on the copies handed to us. All documents have been used for reference only.

– 110 –

APPENDIX III

PROPERTY VALUATION

We have also relied on the legal opinion issued by C & C Advogados, the Company’s Macau legal advisor, which opinion was dated 3 January 2005 (the “Macau Legal Opinion”) of the Property.

We have carried out on-site inspection as to the exterior of Property on 10 December 2004. We had not carried out site measurements to verify the correctness of the site area of the Property. We have assumed that the site area shown on the documents provided by the Company and the identification of the Property are correct.

We are not instructed to arrange for any investigation to be carried out to determine whether or not any deleterious or hazardous material has been used in the construction of the Property. However, should it be established subsequently that contamination exists at the Property or on any neighbouring land, or that the premises have been or are being put to any contaminative use, we reserve the right to adjust the value reported herein.

We are not instructed to carry out any investigations on site in order to determine the suitability of the ground conditions and the services, nor did we undertake archaeological, ecological or environmental surveys. Our valuation is on the basis that these aspects are satisfactory and that no extraordinary expenses or delays will be incurred during the construction period.

The valuation certificate is attached hereto.

Yours faithfully

For and on behalf of

Jones Lang LaSalle Limited C K Lau MRICS, MHKIS, RPS (GP) Regional Director Licence No.: E-131615

Note: Mr Lau is a Chartered Surveyor and a Registered Professional Surveyor. He has over 18 years of valuation and advisory experience in Hong Kong and has more than 5 years experience in valuation of properties in Macau.

– 111 –

PROPERTY VALUATION

APPENDIX III

2.0 VALUATION CERTIFICATE

Property

Development site known as Site A1, Baixa da Taipa – Lote BT17, Taipa, Macau

Description, age and tenure

The property comprises a plot of land forming a trapezoidal shaped site. The site is bounded on the northeast by Avenida Dr Sun Yat Sen, the southeast by Rua de Hong Chau, the southwest by Rua de Nam Keng and the northwest by Avenida Kwong Tung.

Particulars of occupancy

Site formation works were underway at the date of our inspection.

Open Market Value as at 10 December 2004

HK$366,000,000

(Hong Kong Dollars Three Hundred and Sixty Six Million)

According to the site plan prepared by Direccao dos Servicos de Cartografia e Cadastro, the site area of the property is about 5,230 m[2] .

As advised by the Company, a residential plot ratio of 10 has been allowed for the Property which would mean a total maximum developable gross floor area (“GFA”) of about 52,300 m[2] .

No development plans have been provided to us to indicate the design and layout of the proposed residential development.

We have been instructed to value the property on the assumption that a residential development of a plot ratio of 10 could be built on the Property. In the course of our valuation, we have further assumed that the development will be finished to a standard commensurate with newly completed residential development in the locality.

– 112 –

APPENDIX III

PROPERTY VALUATION

Property

Description, age and tenure

Open Market Particulars of Value as at occupancy 10 December 2004

The land is held under a land grant for a term of 25 years from 7 March 1980 (i.e. the land grant will expire by March 2005).

According to the land grant of the Property, the annual ground rent payable for the property during the development period is MOP9 per m[2] on the site area. After the issuance of occupation permit for the development, the annual ground rent will be payable in the following manner (subject to the revision in accordance with Macau law):

Residential use: MOP4.5 per m[2] on the gross construction area;

Parking use: MOP4.5 per m[2] on the gross construction area.

Notes:

  • (1) According to the Land Registry search record, the registered owner of the property is Nova Taipa Urbanizacoes Lda.

  • (2) As instructed by the Company, we have valued the Property with the benefit of a developable residential plot ratio of 10. We have not been instructed to value the Property for other uses, such as hotel uses. We have been given to understand that the application for change of use from residential to other uses has not been made to the Macau Government.

  • (3) We have in the course of the valuation taken into account the following legal opinion provided by C & C Advogados (the “Macau Legal Advisor”):

  • Lease term

The existing lease term will expire in March 2005. Given the specific circumstances of this case, it is not possible to have it extended. Instead it is necessary to have a new lease replacing the existing one, and that has already been applied by Nova Taipa Urbanizacoes Lda, the holder of the existing lease for the development. It is expected that such new lease will be granted in due time by the Macau Government, subject to the payment of a premium and compliance with development conditions.

  1. Land premium

The premium of the existing leasehold has been fully settled. The premium for the new lease that will replace it has not yet been assessed by the Government. The development has not been completed under the existing covenant. The land is assignable, subject to the approval of the Macau Government and such approval is in line with the common practice in Macau. The Macau Legal Advisor has been given to understand that such approval has already been requested by Nova Taipa Urbanizacoes Lda on 14th July 2004 but not granted yet.

– 113 –

PROPERTY VALUATION

APPENDIX III

  1. Building covenant

The building covenant of the property has expired and that no construction works have been carried out.

  • (4) For the purpose of this valuation and in accordance with the instruction by the Company, we have assumed the following:

  • The land grant will be extended for an initial term of 25 years and renewable thereafter in accordance with the laws in Macau and will be subject to payment of applicable ground rent, and that the premium, if any, will not have a significant impact on the value of the property.

  • The building covenant of the land grant upon which the Property is held has expired. We have been instructed to disregard any cost and fees, if any for the extension of such building covenant and to assume that the land grant of the Property would not be adversely affected by such expiry; and

  • The owner of the property is in possession of a proper legal title to the property and is entitled to freely transfer the property within the residual lease term.

  • (5) The key financial parameters adopted in the residual valuation are as follows:

Estimated gross development value of the proposed development : HK$978,000,000 Estimated construction costs : HK$378,000,000 Estimated professional fees, legal costs, stamp duty, etc : HK$54,000,000 Estimated interest charges : HK$55,000,000 Estimated developer ’s profit and risk margin : HK$125,000,000

– 114 –

APPENDIX IV UNAUDITED PRO FORMA FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE ENLARGED GROUP

I. UNAUDITED PRO FORMA STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES OF THE ENLARGED GROUP

The following is a summary of the unaudited pro forma statement of assets and liabilities of the Enlarged Group. It is based on the unaudited consolidated balance sheet of the Group as at 30th June 2004, as shown in the interim reports of the Company set out in the Appendix II to the Circular, the published information disclosed in the circular despatched to the Shareholders dated 11th October 2004 in respect of the acquisition of 50% of the equity interests in Great Wonders under the First Agreement, and assuming that the agreement to establish the joint venture group with PBL and the further acquisition of 20% of the equity interest in Great Wonders under the Second Agreement (“Scenario I”) had been completed as at 30th June 2004 for the purpose of illustrating how the Scenario I might have affected the financial position of the Group as at 30th June 2004. As it is prepared for illustrative purpose only and, because of its nature, may not give a true picture of the financial position of the Enlarged Group as at 30th June 2004 or any future date.

Scenario I

Non-current assets
Fixed assets
Investment securities
Intangible assets
Investment in a
jointly controlled entity
Other non-current assets
Current assets
Inventories
Trade receivables
Prepayments, deposits
and other receivable
Other investments
Bank balances and cash
Current liabilities
Trade payables
Accrued liabilities and
other payable
Taxation payable
Deferred tax liabilities
Loan from a minority
shareholder of
a subsidiary
Bank loans and overdrafts
Convertible notes
due within one year
Net current assets
Total assets less
current liabilities
Non-current liabilities
Convertible notes due
after one year
Minority interests
Net assets
Enlarged
Group
Pro forma
Pro forma
immediately
Pro forma
adjustments
adjustment
after
adjustments
for the deemed
for the
acquisition
for the further
disposal of
acquisition
of 50% equity
acquisition
equity interest
of 50% equity
shares of
of 20% equity
in Mocha
shares of
Great
interest in
Slot and Great
The Group
Great Wonders(1)
Wonders(2)
Great Wonders(3)
Wonders(4)
HK$’000
HK$’000
HK$’000
HK$’000
HK$’000
183,726

183,726
366,000

20,637

20,637


389,860

389,860
(100,200)
(145,000)

100,000(1)
100,000
(100,000)

4,402

4,402


2,085

2,085


327,096

327,096


21,667

21,667


44,813

44,813


165,814

165,814

1,270,000(4)
561,475

561,475

1,270,000
---------------
---------------
---------------
---------------
---------------
86,492

86,492


28,780

28,780


735

735


262

262


24,636

24,636


68,158

68,158


22,500

22,500


231,563

231,563


---------------
---------------
---------------
---------------
---------------
329,912

329,912

1,270,000
---------------
---------------
---------------
---------------
---------------
928,537
100,000
1,028,537
165,800
1,125,000
---------------
---------------
---------------
---------------
---------------
22,500
100,000
122,500
56,000

906,037

906,037
109,800
1,125,000
---------------
---------------
---------------
---------------
---------------
75,046

75,046
109,800
699,136(5)
830,991

830,991

425,864
Enlarged
Group
HK$’000
549,726
20,637
144,660

4,402
2,085
327,096
21,667
44,813
1,435,814
1,831,475
---------------
86,492
28,780
735
262
24,636
68,158
22,500
231,563
---------------
1,599,912
---------------
2,319,337
---------------
178,500
2,140,837
---------------
883,982
1,256,855

– 115 –

APPENDIX IV UNAUDITED PRO FORMA FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE ENLARGED GROUP

Provided that the Second Agreement is not completed (“Scenario II”), the pro forma statement of assets and liabilities of the Enlarged Group will be different from the above. The following is the unaudited pro forma statement of assets and liabilities for Scenario II.

Scenario II

Non-current assets
Fixed assets
Investment securities
Intangible assets
Investment in a
jointly controlled entity
Other non-current assets
Current assets
Inventories
Trade receivables
Prepayments, deposits
and other receivable
Other investments
Bank balances and cash
Current liabilities
Trade payables
Accrued liabilities and
other payable
Taxation payable
Deferred tax liabilities
Loan from a minority
shareholder of
a subsidiary
Bank loans and overdrafts
Convertible notes
due within one year
Net current assets
Total assets less
current liabilities
Non-current liabilities
Convertible notes due
after one year
Minority interests
Net assets
Enlarged
Melco Group
Pro forma
Pro forma
immediately
adjustments
adjustment
after
for the deemed
for the
acquisition
disposal of
acquisition
of 50% equity
equity interest
of 50% equity
shares of
in Mocha
shares of
Great
Slot and Great
The Group
Great Wonders(1)
Wonders(2)
Wonders(4)
HK$’000
HK$’000
HK$’000
HK$’000
183,726

183,726

20,637

20,637

389,860

389,860
(145,000)

100,000
100,000

4,402

4,402

2,085

2,085

327,096

327,096

21,667

21,667

44,813

44,813

165,814

165,814
817,000(4)
561,475

561,475
817,000
---------------
---------------
---------------
---------------
86,492

86,492

28,780

28,780

735

735

262

262

24,636

24,636

68,158

68,158

22,500

22,500

231,563

231,563

---------------
---------------
---------------
---------------
329,912

329,912
817,000
---------------
---------------
---------------
---------------
928,537
100,000
1,028,537
672,000
---------------
---------------
---------------
---------------
22,500
100,000
122,500

906,037

906,037
672,000
---------------
---------------
---------------
---------------
75,046

75,046
450,236(5)
830,991

830,991
221,764
Enlarged
Group
HK$’000
183,726
20,637
244,860
100,000
4,402
2,085
327,096
21,667
44,813
982,814
1,378,475
---------------
86,492
28,780
735
262
24,636
68,158
22,500
231,563
---------------
1,146,912
---------------
1,700,537
---------------
122,500
1,578,037
---------------
525,282
1,052,755

– 116 –

APPENDIX IV UNAUDITED PRO FORMA FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE ENLARGED GROUP

Notes:

  • (1) These represent the adjustments in relation to the acquisition of 50% equity shares in Great Wonders by issuance of HK$100 million First Convertible Bond, the details of which were disclosed in the circular despatched to the Shareholders dated 11th October 2004.

  • (2) This column represents the unaudited pro forma statement of assets and liabilities of the enlarged Melco Group immediately after the acquisition of 50% equity shares in Great Wonders and assuming that the acquisition had been completed as at 30th June 2004. As at the Latest Practicable Date, the acquisition has not yet been completed.

  • (3) These represent the adjustments in relation to the further acquisition of 20% equity shares in Great Wonders. Melco acquired a total of 70% equity interest of Great Wonders which is the aggregate of the acquisition of 50% equity interest as disclosed in Note (1) and the further acquisition of 20% equity interest as described in Second Agreement. The effect in the acquisition of 50% equity interest of Great Wonders was shown in the second column of the above statement of assets and liabilities. It was also assumed that the concession of the Land can be transferred to Great Wonders and the completion of First and Second Agreements are on the same date.

According to the valuation report by an independent property valuer, Jones Lang La Salle Limited, as contained in Appendix III to this Circular, the valuation of the Land is approximately HK$366,000,000 as at 10th December 2004. A negative goodwill of HK$100,200,000, which represents the excess of the fair value of the Land attributable to the Enlarged Group of HK$256,200,000 and the total consideration of HK$156,000,000, is recognised to the balance sheet. The negative goodwill is amortised based on the useful life of the Land. The amount of the Land and the negative goodwill will be varied and depend on the final valuation of the Land upon the completion of the change of the concession to Great Wonders.

  • (4) The deemed profits on the disposal of the equity interest in Mocha Slot and Great Wonders by alloting such number of shares representing 50% equity interests of Melco PBL Holdings to PBL Asia at approximately HK$1,270 million and HK$817 million respectively in Scenario I and II are calculated as follows:
50% of the capital contribution to be made by PBL to
Melco PBL Holdings
Less: 50% of the net asset contributed by the Group to
Melco PBL Holdings
– unaudited net assets value of Mocha Slot
– unaudited net assets value of Great Wonders

– realisation of the goodwill arising from the
deemed disposal of 80% equity interests in
Mocha Slot

Deemed profits arising from allotting shares of
Melco PBL Holdings to PBL
**
Scenario I
HK$’000
635,000
(1,736)
(62,400)
(145,000)
425,864
Scenario II
HK$’000
408,500
(1,736)
(40,000)
(145,000)
221,764
  • Based on unaudited management accounts as at 30th June 2004

  • ** Based on total consideration paid or to be paid by the Group to acquire the equity interests of Great Wonders, i.e. approximately HK$156 million and HK$100 million in Scenario I and II respectively

  • *** Based on the unamortised goodwill of Mocha Slot as shown in the interim report of the Company set out in the Appendix II to this circular

  • **** The deemed profits were calculated for illustration purposes only. The final deemed profits will be subject to the amount of the net assets value and the unamortised goodwill of Mocha Slot at the completion date of the disposal.

  • (5) Minority interests represent the share of the total net assets of the Melco PBL Holdings to the minority shareholders. The 50% of the total net assets consist the capital contributed by PBL Asia as at 30th June 2004 amounting to approximately HK$635,000,000 and HK$408,500,000 for Scenario I and II respectively, unaudited net assets value of Mocha Slot as at 30th June 2004 amounting to approximately HK$1,736,000 and unaudited net assets value of Great Wonders as at 30th June 2004 amounting to approximately HK$62,400,000 and HK$40,000,000 for Scenario I and II respectively.

  • (6) The Hong Kong Institute of Certified Public Accountants has issued a number of new Hong Kong Financial Reporting Standards and Hong Kong Accounting Standards (“New Accounting Standards”), which are effective for accounting periods beginning on or after 1st January 2005. The New Accounting Standards may result in changes in future as to how the results and financial position are prepared and presented.

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APPENDIX IV UNAUDITED PRO FORMA FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE ENLARGED GROUP

II. UNAUDITED PRO FORMA ADJUSTED NET TANGIBLE ASSETS

(a) Group

The following is the statement of unaudited net tangible assets of the Group as at 30th June 2004. The unaudited consolidated net assets and the intangible assets figures are extracted from the unaudited interim result of the Group set out in Appendix II to the Circular.

Group

Unaudited
Unaudited consolidated
consolidated Less: net tangible
net assets Intangible assets assets of
of the Group of the Group the Group
as at as at as at
30th June 2004 30th June 2004 30th June 2004
HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000
830,991 (389,860) 441,131

(b) Enlarged Group

The statement of unaudited pro forma adjusted net tangible assets has been prepared to show the effect of the net tangible assets of the Enlarged Group as at 30th June 2004 as if the Scenario I and II had occurred on 30th June 2004.

The unaudited pro forma adjusted net tangible assets of the Enlarged Group has been prepared for illustrative purpose only and, because of its nature, it may not give a true picture of the financial position of the Enlarged Group as at 30th June 2004 or any future date.

Scenario I

Scenario II

Less: Pro forma
Unaudited intangible assets Unaudited
pro forma of Enlarged pro forma
net assets Group net tangible
of the Enlarged after completion assets of
Group as at of the transaction the Enlarged
30th June 2004 in Scenario I Group
(Note 1) (Note 1)
HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000
1,256,855 (144,660) 1,112,195
Less: Pro forma
Unaudited intangible assets Unaudited
pro forma of the Enlarged pro forma
net assets Group after net tangible
of the Enlarged completion of the assets of
Group as at transactions the Enlarged
30th June 2004 in Scenario II Group
(Note 1) (Note 1)
HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000
1,052,755 (244,860) 807,895

Note:

(1) Please refer to part I of this Appendix for the pro forma net assets and intangible assets value for Scenario I and II respectively.

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APPENDIX IV UNAUDITED PRO FORMA FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE ENLARGED GROUP

III. LETTER FROM THE AUDITORS OF THE COMPANY ON THE UNAUDITED PRO FORMA FINANCIAL INFORMATION

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==> picture [87 x 35] intentionally omitted <==

5th January 2005

The Directors

Melco International Development Limited

Dear Sirs

We report on the unaudited pro forma financial information of Melco International Development Limited (the “Company”) and its subsidiaries (hereinafter collectively referred to as the “Group”) set out on pages 115 to 118 under the headings of “I. Unaudited Pro Forma Statement of Assets and Liabilities of the Enlarged Group” and part (b) of “ II. Unaudited Pro Forma Adjusted Net Tangible Assets” in Appendix IV of the Company’s circular dated 5th January 2005 in connection with a major transaction regarding the establishment of a joint venture group for pursuance of gaming and hospitality business and a major and connected transaction regarding the further acquisition of interest in the land (“Major Transactions”). The unaudited pro forma financial information has been prepared by the directors of the Company, for illustrative purposes only, to provide information about how the Major Transactions might have affected the relevant financial information of the Group as at 30th June 2004.

Responsibilities

It is the responsibility solely of the directors of the Company to prepare the unaudited pro forma financial information in accordance with paragraph 13 of Appendix 1B and paragraph 4.29 of the Rules Governing the Listing of Securities on The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited (the “Listing Rules”).

It is our responsibility to form an opinion, as required by paragraph 4.29 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.

Basis of opinion

We conducted our work with reference to the Statements of Investment Circular Reporting Standards and Bulletin 1998/8 “Reporting on pro forma financial information pursuant to the Listing Rules” issued by the Auditing Practices Board in the United Kingdom, where applicable. Our work, which involved no

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APPENDIX IV UNAUDITED PRO FORMA FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE ENLARGED GROUP

independent examination of any of the underlying financial information, consisted primarily of comparing the unadjusted financial information with the source documents, considering the evidence supporting the adjustments and discussing the unaudited pro forma financial information with the directors of the Company.

Our work does not constitute an audit or review in accordance with Statements of Auditing Standards issued by the Hong Kong Institute of Certified Public Accountants, and accordingly, we do not express any such assurance on the unaudited pro forma financial information.

The unaudited pro forma financial information has been prepared on the bases set out in Section I of Appendix IV for illustrative purpose only and, because of its nature, it may not be indicative of the financial position of the Group at 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 of the Listing Rules.

Yours faithfully PricewaterhouseCoopers Certified Public Accountants Hong Kong

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APPENDIX IV UNAUDITED PRO FORMA FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE ENLARGED GROUP

IV. INDEBTEDNESS

(a) Borrowings

As at the close of business on 31st October 2004, being the latest practicable date for the purpose of ascertaining certain information relating to this indebtedness statement, the Group had total outstanding borrowings of approximately HK$161.8 million, comprising secured bank borrowings and overdrafts of approximately HK$49.8 million, unsecured bank borrowings and overdrafts of approximately HK$67 million, convertible notes of approximately HK$45 million. All of the secured and unsecured bank borrowings and overdrafts amounting to approximately HK$116.8 million were due within one year. Approximately HK$22.5 million of the total convertible notes were due within one year and the remaining convertible note amounting to HK$22.5 million were due more than one year. The secured bank borrowings were secured by fixed assets of the Group with a net book value of approximately HK$77 million as at 30th June 2003.

There were no borrowings outstanding for Great Wonders as at 31st October 2004.

(b) Contingent liabilities

As at 31st October 2004, the Group did not have any material contingent liabilities.

There were no contingent liabilities for Great Wonders as at 31st October 2004.

(c) Capital commitments

As at 31st October 2004, the Group had capital commitments for a renovation project amounting to approximately HK$2.7 million and the acquisition of 50% equity shares in Great Wonders by the issuance of HK$100 million convertible bonds.

There was no capital commitment outstanding for Great Wonders as at 31st October 2004.

Save as aforesaid or otherwise disclosed herein, and apart from intra-group liabilities and normal trade payable, the Group and Great Wonders did not have any mortgages, debentures, loan capital, bank loans and overdrafts, debt securities or other similar indebtedness, finance lease or hire purchase commitment, liabilities under acceptances or acceptance credit, or any guarantees or other contingent liabilities outstanding at the close of business on 31st October 2004.

V. FINANCIAL AND TRADING PROSPECTS OF THE ENLARGED GROUP

Looking ahead, the Board is optimistic about the prospects of the gaming, hospitality and entertainment businesses in the Asia Pacific region, in particular, in Macau of the Greater China Region, as it is expected that the tourism industry in Macau will continue to expand in the coming years due to the relaxation of the rules governing the entry of visitors from the PRC to Macau under the individual travel scheme, which was introduced by the PRC Government in July 2003 to allow travellers from mainland PRC to visit Macau on an individual basis.

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APPENDIX IV UNAUDITED PRO FORMA FINANCIAL INFORMATION ON THE ENLARGED GROUP

According to the Statistic and Census Service of the Government of Macau, tourist arrivals for the nine months ended 30 September 2004 soared by 45.3% from approximately 8.4 million to approximately 12.2 million and out of these 12.2 million visitors, more than half came from the PRC. Given the increased attractions of various gaming, entertainment and leisure facilities and the increasing number of tourists from the PRC, the Directors are of the view that the future prospects of the Gaming Business and the Hospitality Business as well as other gaming ventures operated or to be operated by the JV Group are promising.

VI. WORKING CAPITAL

As at the Latest Practicable Date, the Directors of the Company were of the opinion that, based on the expected cash flows, and taking into account the internal resources of the Enlarged Group, and assuming that the banking facilities of the Enlarged Group will not be withdrawn, the Enlarged Group will have sufficient working capital for its present requirements in the absence of unforeseen circumstances.

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GENERAL INFORMATION

APPENDIX V

1. RESPONSIBILITY STATEMENT

This circular includes particulars given in compliance with the Listing Rules for the purpose of giving information with regard to the Company. The Directors collectively and individually accept full responsibility for the accuracy of the information contained in this circular and confirm, having made all reasonable enquires, that to the best of their knowledge and belief, opinions expressed in this circular have been arrived at after due and careful consideration and there are no other facts the omission of which would make any statement in this circular misleading.

2. PARTICULARS OF DIRECTORS

Name

Address

Executive Directors

Dr. Stanley Ho, G.B.S. No. 1 Repulse Bay Road Hong Kong Mr. Lawrence Ho 35 Black’s Link Hong Kong Mr. Frank Tsui 13A, Block 4 Braemar Hill Mansions 21 Braemar Hill Road Hong Kong

Non-executive Directors

Mr. Ng Ching Wo 13B, Elegant Garden 11 Conduit Road Mid-levels Hong Kong Mr. Ho Cheuk Yuet 12A, Kenville Building 32 Kennedy Road Hong Kong

Independent non-executive Directors

Sir Roger Lobo, C.B.E., LL.D., J.P. Woodland Heights E1, 2 Wongneichung Gap Road Happy Valley Hong Kong Mr. Robert Kwan, M.A. (CANTAB), F.C.A., Flat 4A, MacDonnell House F.H.K.S.A., C.P.A., J.P. 6-8 MacDonnell Road Hong Kong Dr. Lo Ka Shui Unit 2A, Serenity Place 22 Mount Cameron Road The Peak Hong Kong

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GENERAL INFORMATION

APPENDIX V

3. SHARE CAPITAL

The authorized and issued share capital of the Company as at the Latest Practicable Date were, and immediately following the conversion of the Second Convertible Bond (assuming no new Shares have been issued whether pursuant to the exercise of the conversion rights attached to the two convertible notes issued by the Company to Better Joy for acquisition of 80% equity interests in Mocha Slot as disclosed in the announcement and the circular of the Company respectively dated 23 March 2004 and 23 April 2004, or the exercise of the conversion rights attached to the First Convertible Bond issued by the Company for acquisition of 50% equity interests in Great Wonders as disclosed in the announcement and circular of the Company respectively dated 13 September 2004 and 11 October 2004, or exercise of any outstanding share options, subsequent to the Latest Practicable Date) are:

Authorised HK$
700,000,000 Shares of HK$1.00 each in the share capital of the Company 700,000,000
Issued and fully paid up and to be issued
463,244,054 Shares in issue as at the Latest Practicable Date 463,244,054
6,829,268 Shares to be issued upon full conversion of
the Second Convertible Bond_(Note)_ 6,829,268
470,073,322 Shares 470,073,322

Note: Based on the initial conversion price of HK$8.2 per Share, a total of 6,829,268 Shares will be issued upon full conversion of the Second Convertible Bond. The Shares to be issued upon conversion of the Second Convertible Bond will rank pari passu in all respects with each other and with the then issued Shares including rights to dividends, voting and return of capital.

4. DISCLOSURE OF DIRECTORS’ AND SHAREHOLDERS’ INTERESTS

As at the Latest Practicable Date, the interests and short positions of the Directors and chief executive of the Company in the Shares, underlying Shares and debentures of the Company or any of its associated corporations (within the meaning of Part XV of the SFO) which (a) 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 (b) were required, pursuant to section 352 of the SFO, to be entered in the register

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APPENDIX V

GENERAL INFORMATION

referred to therein; or (c) were required, pursuant to the Model Code for Securities Transactions by Directors of Listed Companies contained in the Listing Rules to be notified to the Company and the Stock Exchange were as follows:

(i) Interests in Shares and underlying Shares

Approximate
Number of Number of percentage
issued underlying of the total
Nature of Shares Shares number of
Name of Director interest interested interested issued Shares
(Note 1)
Dr. Stanley Ho Corporate 2,377,500 0.51%
(Note 2)
Personal 12,646,367 2.73%
Mr. Lawrence Ho Corporate 182,455,599 19,565,216 43.61%
(Note 3) (Note 4)
Personal 1,816,306 0.39%
Mr. Frank Tsui Personal 1,800,000 0.39%
Mr. Ho Cheuk Yuet Personal 1,816,306 0.39%
Dr. Lo Ka Shui Personal 1,000,000 0.22%

Notes:

  1. As at the Latest Practicable Date, the total number of issued shares of the Company were 463,244,054 Shares

  2. Dr. Stanley Ho is taken to be interested in 2,377,500 Shares as a result of him being beneficially interested in the entire issued share capital of each of Sharikat Investments Limited and Dareset Limited which in turn hold an aggregate of approximately 0.51% of the issued share capital of the Company.

  3. Mr. Lawrence Ho is taken to be interested in 57,754,512 Shares as a result of him being beneficially interested in the entire issued share capital of Lasting Legend which in turn holds approximately 12.47% of the issued share capital of the Company. Mr. Lawrence Ho is also taken to be interested in 124,701,087 Shares as a result of him being beneficially interested in 77% of issued share capital of Better Joy which in turn holds approximately 26.92% of the issued share capital of the Company.

Dr. Stanley Ho and Mr. Lawrence Ho are beneficially interested in 23% and 77% of issued share capital of Better Joy respectively. If their indirect shareholding interests in the Shares through Better Joy are taken into account, Dr. Stanley Ho and Mr. Lawrence Ho are effectively interested in 9.43% and 33.59% respectively of the issued share capital of the Company.

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GENERAL INFORMATION

APPENDIX V

  1. Two convertible notes respectively due 2005 and 2006 were issued by the Company to Better Joy on 9 June 2004 pursuant to the Mocha Acquisition Agreements as disclosed in the announcement and the circular of the Company respectively dated 19 March 2004 and 23 April 2004. As at the Latest Practicable Date, the total outstanding principal amount of the said convertible notes is HK$45 million. If Better Joy exercises the conversion rights attached to the said convertible notes in full at the conversion price of HK$2.30 per Share, a total of 19,565,216 Shares will be issued to Better Joy. As Mr. Lawrence Ho is beneficially interested in 77% of issued share capital of Better Joy, under the SFO, he is deemed to be interested in these 19,565,216 underlying Shares.

As mentioned above, Dr. Stanley Ho and Mr. Lawrence Ho are beneficially interested in 23% and 77% of issued share capital of Better Joy respectively. If this is taken into account, Dr. Stanley Ho and Mr. Lawrence Ho are effectively interested in 4,500,000 underlying Shares and 15,065,216 underlying Shares of the Company.

(ii) Interests in equity derivatives of the Company

Number of
underlying
Date of Shares
grant of Expiry date Exercise comprised
the share of the Price per in the share
options by share underlying options
Name of Director the Company options Share outstanding
(HK$)
Mr. Lawrence Ho 19 February 2004 7 March 2012 2.405 1,800,000
Mr. Frank Tsui 8 March 2002 7 March 2012 1.00 16,306
19 February 2004 7 March 2012 2.405 1,800,000

(iii) Interests in shares of Value Convergence

Approximate
Number of percentage of
issued shares the total number
of Value of issued shares
Nature of Convergence of Value
Name of Director interest interested Convergence
Dr. Stanley Ho Corporate 7,384,651 3.10%
(Note 1)
Mr. Lawrence Ho Corporate 4,232,627 1.78%
(Note 2)

Notes:

  1. Dr. Stanley Ho is taken to be interested in 7,384,651 shares of Value Convergence as a result of him being beneficially interested in 65% of the issued share capital of Bailey Development Limited which in turn holds approximately 3.10% of the issued share capital of Value Convergence.

  2. Mr. Lawrence Ho is taken to be interested in 4,232,627 shares of Value Convergence as a result of him being beneficially interested in the entire issued share capital of Golden Mate Co., Ltd. which in turn holds approximately 1.78% of the issued share capital of Value Convergence.

– 126 –

GENERAL INFORMATION

APPENDIX V

(iv) Interests in equity derivatives of Value Convergence

Approximate
Number of percentage of
underlying the total number
shares of Value of issued shares
Nature of Convergence of Value
Name of Director interest interested Convergence
Dr. Stanley Ho Personal 735,000 0.31%
(Note 1)
Mr. Lawrence Ho Personal 1,226,057 0.51%
(Note 2)

Notes:

  1. The personal interest of Dr. Stanley Ho represents his derivative interest in Value Convergence comprising the physically settled options which were granted on 6 April 2001 and may be exercised during the period from 6 April 2001 to 8 October 2005 at an exercise price of HK$3.60 per Value Convergence’s share.

  2. The personal interest of Mr. Lawrence Ho represents his derivative interest in Value Convergence comprising the physically settled options as follows:

  3. (a) 735,000 physically settled options which were granted on 6 April 2001 and may be exercised during the period from 6 April 2001 to 8 October 2005 at an exercise price of HK$3.60 per Value Convergence’s share; and

  4. (b) 491,057 physically settled options which were granted on 9 July 2002 and may be exercised during the period from 9 July 2002 to 8 July 2012 at an exercise price of HK$1.00 per Value Convergence’s share.

Save as disclosed herein, as at the Latest Practicable Date:

  • (i) none of the Directors or chief executives of the Company or their respective associates had any interests or short positions in the Shares, underlying Shares and debentures of the Company or any of its associated corporations (within the meaning of Part XV of the SFO) which (a) 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 (b) were required, pursuant to section 352 of the SFO, to be entered in the register referred to therein, or (c) were required, pursuant to the Model Code for Securities Transactions by Directors of Listed Companies contained in the Listing Rules to be notified to the Company and the Stock Exchange.

  • (ii) none of the Directors had any direct or indirect interest in any assets which had been, since 31 December 2003, being the date to which the latest published audited financial statements of the Group were made up, acquired or disposed of by or leased to any member of the Group or were proposed to be acquired or disposed of by or leased to any member of the Group;

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GENERAL INFORMATION

APPENDIX V

  • (iii) none of the Directors was materially interested in any contract or arrangement entered into by any member of the Group subsisting at the date of this circular which was significant in relation to the business of the Group; and

  • (iv) none of the Directors had service contract with the Company or any of its subsidiaries not terminable by the employing company within one year without payment of compensation (other than statutory compensation).

5. SHAREHOLDERS WITH NOTIFIABLE INTERESTS

As at the Latest Practicable Date, the interests and short positions of substantial shareholders of the Company and other persons in the Shares, underlying Shares and debentures of the Company which (a) were required to be notified to the Company and the Stock Exchange pursuant to Divisions 2 and 3 of Part XV of the SFO; or (b) were required, pursuant to section 336 of the SFO, to be entered in the register referred to therein; or (c) were directly or indirectly, interested in ten per cent. or more of the nominal value of any class of share capital carrying rights to vote in all circumstances at general meetings of the Company were as follows:

Approximate
Number of Number of percentage of
issued underlying the total
Nature of Shares Shares number of
Name interest interested interested issued Shares
(Note 1)
Better Joy Corporate 124,701,087 26.92%
(Note 2)
Corporate 19,565,216 4.22%
(Note 2 & 4)
Lasting Legend Corporate 57,754,512 12.47%
(Note 2)
Mr. Lawrence Ho Corporate 182,455,599 39.39%
(Note 3)
Corporate 19,565,216 4.22%
(Note 4)
Personal 1,816,306 0.39%
Shun Tak Shipping Company Corporate 39,083,147 8.44%
Limited
JPMorgan Chase & Co. Corporate 24,630,000 5.32%

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GENERAL INFORMATION

APPENDIX V

Notes:

  1. As at the Latest Practicable Date, the total number of issued shares of the Company are 463,244,054 Shares

  2. The Shares (and underlying Shares) held by Better Joy and Lasting Legend also represent the corporate interest of Mr. Lawrence Ho in the Company.

  3. Mr. Lawrence Ho is taken to be interested in 57,754,512 Shares as a result of him being beneficially interested in the entire issued share capital of Lasting Legend which in turn holds approximately 12.47% of the issued share capital of the Company. Mr. Lawrence Ho is also taken to be interested in 124,701,087 Shares as a result of him being beneficially interested in 77% of issued share capital of Better Joy which in turn holds approximately 26.92% of the issued share capital of the Company.

Dr. Stanley Ho and Mr. Lawrence Ho are beneficially interested in 23% and 77% of issued share capital of Better Joy respectively. If their indirect shareholding interests in the Shares through Better Joy are taken into account, Dr. Stanley Ho and Mr. Lawrence Ho are effectively interested in 9.43% and 33.59% respectively of the issued share capital of the Company.

  1. Two convertible notes respectively due 2005 and 2006 were issued by the Company to Better Joy on 9 June 2004 pursuant to the Mocha Acquisition Agreements as disclosed in the announcement and the circular of the Company respectively dated 19 March 2004 and 23 April 2004. As at the Latest Practicable Date, the total outstanding principal amount of the said convertible notes is HK$45 million. If Better Joy exercises the conversion rights attached to the said convertible notes in full at the conversion price of HK$2.30 per Share, a total of 19,565,216 Shares will be issued to Better Joy. As Mr. Lawrence Ho is beneficially interested in 77% of issued share capital of Better Joy, under the SFO, he is deemed to be interested in these 19,565,216 underlying Shares.

  2. As mentioned above, Dr. Stanley Ho and Mr. Lawrence Ho are beneficially interested in 23% and 77% of issued share capital of Better Joy respectively. If this is taken into account, Dr. Stanley Ho and Mr. Lawrence Ho are effectively interested in 4,500,000 underlying Shares and 15,065,216 underlying Shares of the Company.

Save as disclosed herein, so far as the Directors were aware, as at the Latest Practicable Date, no other persons had interests or short positions in the Shares, underlying Shares and debentures of the Company which were required to be notified to the Company and the Stock Exchange pursuant to Divisions 2 and 3 of Part XV of the SFO, nor were there any other persons, required, pursuant to section 336 of the SFO, to be entered in the register referred to therein, or directly or indirectly, interested in ten per cent. or more of the nominal value of any class of share capital carrying rights to vote in all circumstances at general meetings of the Company.

6. MATERIAL ADVERSE CHANGE

As at the Latest Practicable Date, the Directors were not aware of any material adverse change in the financial or trading position of the Group since 31 December 2003, being the date to which the latest published audited financial statements of the Group were made up.

7. QUALIFICATION AND CONSENT OF EXPERTS

  • (i) The following is the qualification of the respective experts who has given opinion or advice which is contained in the circular.

Name

Qualification

Dao Heng Securities

A deemed licensed corporation under transitional arrangement within the meaning of the SFO to carry out types 1,4,6,7 and 9 regulated activities under the SFO

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GENERAL INFORMATION

APPENDIX V

PricewaterhouseCoopers

Certified Public Accountants

Jones Lang LaSalle Limited

Chartered Surveyors

C&C Advogados

Macau legal adviser

  • (ii) As at the Latest Practicable Date, none of Dao Heng Securities, PricewaterhouseCoopers, Jones Lang LaSalle Limited and C&C Advogados have any shareholding in any member of the Group or any right (whether legally enforceable or not) to subscribe for or to nominate persons to subscribe for securities in any member of the Group.

  • (iii) As at the Latest Practicable Date, none of Dao Heng Securities, PricewaterhouseCoopers, Jones Lang LaSalle Limited and C&C Advogados have any interest, direct or indirect, in any assets which have been, since 31 December 2003 (being the date to which the latest published audited accounts of the Group were made up), acquired or disposed of by or leased to any member of the Group, or are proposed to be acquired or disposed of by or leased to any member of the Group.

  • (iv) Each of Dao Heng Securities, PricewaterhouseCoopers, Jones Lang LaSalle Limited and C&C Advogados has given, and has not withdrawn, its written consent to the issue of this circular, with inclusion of their respective documents including the letter of the Independent Financial Adviser set out in the section headed “Letter from Dao Heng Securities”, and the valuation report prepared by Jones Lang LaSalle Limited set out in Appendix III to this circular and the references to its name included herein in the form and context in which they respectively appear.

8. PROCEDURES FOR DEMANDING A POLL BY SHAREHOLDERS

Article 74 of the articles of association of the Company provides that at any general meeting a resolution put to the vote of the meeting shall be decided by a show of hands unless a poll is (before or on the declaration of the result of the show of hands or on the withdrawal of any other demand for a poll) demanded:

  • (i) by the chairman of the meeting; or

  • (ii) by at least three members present in person or by proxy for the time being entitled to vote at the meeting; or

  • (iii) by any member or members present in person or by proxy and representing not less than one-tenth of the total voting rights of all the members having the right to vote at the meeting; or

  • (iv) by a member or members present in person or by proxy and holding shares in the Company conferring a right to vote at the meeting being shares on which an aggregate sum has been paid up equal to not less than one-tenth of the total sum paid up on all the shares conferring that right.

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GENERAL INFORMATION

APPENDIX V

9. MATERIAL CONTRACTS

Apart from the Subscription Agreement and the Land Acquisition Agreements, during the two years immediately preceding the date of this circular, the following contracts, not being contracts entered into in the ordinary course of business, have been entered into by the Group:

  • (i) an additional capital injection agreement dated 16 January 2003 entered into between Jafco Co., Limited and Zonic Technology Limited, a subsidiary of the Company, pursuant to which Zonic Technology Limited agreed to inject a sum of 300,000,000 yens in, and became a limited liability partner of, JAFCO-G9(A) Investment Enterprise (Limited) Partnership;

  • (ii) the underwriting agreement dated 11 August 2003 entered into between the Company and Kim Eng Securities (Hong Kong) Limited in relation to the issue of 72,643,567 rights shares of HK$1.00 each at HK$1.45 per rights shares of the Company on the basis of one rights share for every two shares of the Company then in issue on 29 August 2003;

  • (iii) the sale and purchase agreement dated 19 March 2004 entered into between the Company (as purchaser), Better Joy (as vendor) and Mr. Lawrence Ho (as warrantor), pursuant to which Better Joy has agreed to sell, and the Company has agreed to purchase or procure the purchase of 65% of the then issued share capital of Mocha Slot;

  • (iv) the sale and purchase agreement dated 19 March 2004 entered into between the Company (as purchaser) and Chang Tan (as vendor), pursuant to which Chang Tan has agreed to sell, and the Company has agreed to purchase or procure the purchase of 8% of the then issued share capital of Mocha Slot;

  • (v) the sale and purchase agreement dated 19 March 2004 entered into between the Company (as purchaser) and Chang Wang (as vendor), pursuant to which Chang Wang has agreed to sell, and the Company has agreed to purchase or procure the purchase of 7% of the then issued share capital of Mocha Slot;

  • (vi) the sale and purchase agreement dated 19 March 2004 entered into between the Company (as purchaser) and Value Convergence (as vendor), pursuant to which Value Convergence has agreed to sell, and the Company has agreed to purchase or procure the purchase of the entire issued share capital of iAsia Technology Limited;

  • (vii) the memorandum of agreement for sale and purchase dated 23 April 2004 entered into between Double Crown Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company (as vendor) and Grandford Properties Limited (as purchaser), in relation to the sale of a property, namely, all that piece of ground situated at Tung Shan Terrace, Stubbs Road, Hong Kong and registered in the Land Registry as The Remaining Portion of Inland Lot No. 2937 together with the messages erections and buildings thereon known as “Art Court” No. 5 Tung Shan Terrace; and

  • (viii) the placing and subscription agreement dated 15 October 2004 entered into between the Company. Better Joy (as Vendor) and Deutsche Bank AG, Hong Kong Branch (as placing agent), in relation to the top-up placing of 75,900,000 Shares at a price of not less than HK$4.95 and not more than HK$5.30.

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GENERAL INFORMATION

APPENDIX V

10. COMPETING INTERESTS

Dr. Stanley Ho, the Chairman and Executive Director of the Company, has an equity interest in, as well as being a director of STDM and SJM. As part of the businesses of STDM and SJM include gaming and hospitality businesses in Macau, there is a possibility that such part of businesses of STDM and SJM may compete with the Hospitality Business of the Group and/or the intended business of the JV Group. Save as disclosed, as at the date of this circular, none of the Directors and their respective associates had any business or interest in a business which competes or may compete with the business of the Group.

11. LITIGATION

As at the Latest Practicable Date, save as aforesaid or otherwise disclosed herein, neither the Company nor any of its subsidiaries is engaged in any litigation or arbitration of material importance and no litigation or claim of material importance is known to the Directors to be pending or threatened against the Company or any of its subsidiaries.

12. SERVICE CONTRACTS

There is no existing or proposed service contracts between any of the directors of the Company and any of its subsidiaries, other than contracts expiring or determinable by the employer within one year without payment of compensation (other than statutory compensation).

13. MISCELLANEOUS

  • (i) The registered office of the Company is 38th Floor, The Centrium, 60 Wyndham Street, Central, Hong Kong.

  • (ii) The secretary of the Company is Mr. Samuel Tsang, a solicitor admitted in Hong Kong, England and Wales and Australia.

  • (iii) The chief financial officer of the Company is Mr. Clarence Chung, a Fellow of the Hong Kong Institute of Certified Public Accountants and a fellow member of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants; and a member of the Society of Management Accountants of Canada.

  • (iv) The share registrars and transfer office of the Company in Hong Kong is Standard Registrars Limited at Ground Floor, Bank of East Asia Harbour View Centre, 56 Gloucester Road, Wanchai, Hong Kong.

  • (v) In the event of inconsistency, the English text of this circular shall prevail over the Chinese text.

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GENERAL INFORMATION

APPENDIX V

14. DOCUMENTS AVAILABLE FOR INSPECTION

Copies of the following documents will be available for inspection at the registered office of the Company at 38th Floor, The Centrium, 60 Wyndham Street, Central, Hong Kong, during normal business hours on any weekday, except Saturday, Sunday and public holidays, from the date hereof up to and including 20 January 2005:

  • (i) the memorandum and articles of association of the Company;

  • (ii) the letter dated 5 January 2005 from the Independent Board Committee, the text of which is set out on pages 36 to 37 of this circular;

  • (iii) the letter of advice dated 5 January 2005 from Dao Heng Securities to the Independent Board Committee, the text of which is set out on pages 38 to 59 of this circular;

  • (iv) the valuation report on the Land received from Jones Lang LaSalle Limited, the text of which is set out in Appendix III to this circular;

  • (v) the respective written consents of Dao Heng Securities, PricewaterhouseCoopers, Jones Lang LaSalle Limited and C&C Advogados as referred to in the paragraph headed “Qualification and consent of Experts” in this appendix;

  • (vi) the material contracts referred to in the section headed “Material Contracts” in this Appendix;

  • (vii) the Subscription Agreement and the Proposed Shareholders Deed;

  • (viii) the Land Acquisition Agreements; and

  • (ix) the circulars of the Company respectively dated 23 April 2004, 14 May 2004, 27 August 2004 and 11 October 2004 regarding proposed group reorganisation assets acquisition involving issue of consideration shares and convertible notes and increase of authorised share capital; sale of property; connected transaction in respect of service arrangement with SJM; discloseable and connected transaction in respect of the First Agreement, respectively; and

  • (x) annual report 2003 of the Company and interim report of the Company for the six months ended 30 June 2004.

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NOTICE OF EXTRAORDINARY GENERAL MEETING

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(Incorporated in Hong Kong with limited liability) Website: http://www.melco.hk.cn (Stock Code: 200)

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN (the “Notice”) that an extraordinary general meeting (the “Meeting”) of Melco International Development Limited (the “Company”) will be held at 38th Floor, The Centrium, 60 Wyndham Street, Central, Hong Kong, on Thursday, 20 January 2005 at 4:00 p.m. for the purpose of considering and, if thought fit, passing (with or without amendments) the following as, as appropriate, ordinary resolutions of the Company:

ORDINARY RESOLUTIONS

  1. THAT the Definitive Agreements and all transactions contemplated thereunder including the establishment of the JV Group (all capitalized terms stated herein are defined in the circular dated 5 January 2005 despatched to the shareholders of the Company) be and are hereby approved, ratified and confirmed and the directors of the Company and (as the case may be) Melco Leisure, be and are hereby authorized to do all things and execute such documents as they may consider necessary, expedient or desirable to effect and implement the terms of the Definitive Agreements and all transactions contemplated thereby.”

  2. THAT the Second Agreement and all transactions contemplated thereunder including the issue of the Second Convertible Bond and the allotment and issue of shares of the Company upon conversion of the Second Convertible Bond (all capitalized terms stated herein are defined in the circular dated 5 January 2005 despatched to the shareholders of the Company) be and are hereby approved, ratified and confirmed.”

  3. THAT the mandate to issue shares of the Company given to the directors of the Company at the extraordinary general meeting of the Company held on 15th October, 2004 (to the extent that the same has not been utilized) be and is hereby revoked and replaced by the following mandate:

  4. ‘(I) THAT:

    • (a) subject to paragraph (c) of Item (I) of this Resolution and pursuant to Section 57B of the Companies Ordinance, the exercise by the directors of the Company during the Relevant Period of all the powers of the Company to allot, issue and deal with additional shares in the capital of the Company and to make or grant offers, agreements and options (including warrants, bonds, debentures, notes and other securities which carry rights to subscribe for or are convertible into shares of the Company) which might require the exercise of such power be and is hereby generally and unconditionally approved;

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NOTICE OF EXTRAORDINARY GENERAL MEETING

  • (b) the approval in paragraph (a) of Item (I) of this Resolution shall authorise the directors of the Company during the Relevant Period to make or grant offers, agreements and options (including warrants, bonds, debentures, notes and other securities which carry rights to subscribe for or are convertible into shares of the Company) which might require the exercise of such power after the end of the Relevant Period;

  • (c) the aggregate nominal amount of share capital allotted or agreed conditionally or unconditionally to be allotted (whether pursuant to an option or otherwise) by the directors of the Company pursuant to the approval in paragraph (a) of Item (I) of this Resolution, otherwise than pursuant to (i) a Rights Issue, (ii) the exercise of any rights of subscription or conversion under any existing warrants, bonds, debentures, notes and other securities issued by the Company, (iii) any option scheme or similar arrangement for the time being adopted for the grant or issue to officers and/or employees of the Company and/or any of its subsidiaries of shares or rights to acquire shares of the Company or (iv) any scrip dividend or similar arrangement providing for the allotment of shares in lieu of the whole or part of a dividend on shares of the Company in accordance with the Articles of Association of the Company, shall not exceed the aggregate of:

  • (aa) 20 per cent. of the aggregate nominal amount of the share capital of the Company in issue at the date of passing this Resolution; and

  • (bb) the aggregate nominal amount of share capital of the Company repurchased by the Company after the date of passing this Resolution pursuant to the general mandate to repurchase shares given by the Company to the directors from time to time (subject to a maximum number equivalent to ten per cent. of the then existing issued share capital of the Company),

and the said approval shall be limited accordingly;

  • (d) for the purposes of this Resolution:

“Relevant Period” means the period from the passing of this Resolution until whichever is the earlier of:

  • i. the conclusion of the next annual general meeting of the Company;

  • ii. the expiration of the period within which the next annual general meeting of the Company is required by the Companies Ordinance to be held; and

  • iii. the revocation or variation of the authority given under this Resolution by ordinary resolution of the shareholders of the Company in general meeting; and

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NOTICE OF EXTRAORDINARY GENERAL MEETING

“Rights Issue” means an offer of shares of the Company or issue of options, warrants or other securities giving the right to subscribe for shares of the Company, open for a period fixed by the directors of the Company to holders of shares whose names appear on the register of members of the Company (and, where appropriate, to holders of other securities entitled to the offer) on a fixed record date in proportion to their then holdings of such shares of the Company (or, where appropriate, such other securities), (subject in all cases to such exclusions or other arrangements as the directors of the Company may deem necessary or expedient in relation to fractional entitlements or having regard to any restrictions or obligations under the laws of, or the requirements of any recognised regulatory body or any stock exchange in, any territory applicable to the Company).

  • (II) THAT the directors of the Company be and are hereby authorised to exercise the powers of the Company referred to in paragraph (a) of Item (I) of this Resolution in respect of the share capital of the Company referred to in sub-paragraph (bb) of paragraph (c) of Item (I) of such Resolution.’”

By order of the Board Melco International Development Limited Samuel Tsang Company Secretary

Hong Kong, 5 January 2005

Registered Office: 38th Floor The Centrium 60 Wyndham Street Central Hong Kong

Notes:

  1. Any member of the Company entitled to attend and vote at the Meeting may appoint one or more than one proxy to attend and to vote in his stead. A proxy need not be a member of the Company.

  2. Where there are joint registered holders of any share, any one of such persons may vote at the Meeting, either personally or by proxy, in respect of such share of the Company as if he were solely entitled thereto; but if more than one of such joint holders be present at the Meeting personally or by proxy, that one of the said persons so present whose name stands first on the register of members of the Company in respect of such share shall alone be entitled to vote in respect thereof.

  3. In order to be valid, the proxy form duly completed and signed in accordance with the instructions printed thereon together with the power of attorney or other authority, if any, under which it is signed or a notarially certified copy thereof must be delivered to the registered office of the Company at 38th Floor, The Centrium, 60 Wyndham Street, Central, Hong Kong, not less than 48 hours before the time appointed for holding the Meeting or any adjournment thereof.

  4. Whether or not you propose to attend the Meeting in person, you are strongly urged to complete and return the proxy form in accordance with the instructions printed thereon. Completion and return of the proxy form will not preclude you from attending the Meeting and voting in person if you so wish. In the event that you attend the Meeting after having lodged the proxy form, it will be deemed to have been revoked.

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