20-F
As
filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on December 24, 2008
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
FORM 20-F
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o |
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Registration statement pursuant to Section 12(b) or 12(g) of the Securities Exchange Act of
1934 |
OR
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þ |
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Annual report pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 |
For
the fiscal year ended September 30, 2008
OR
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o |
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Transition report pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 |
For the transition period from to
OR
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o |
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Shell company report pursuant to Section 13 or 15 (d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 |
Date of event requiring this shell company report
Commission file number 0-30082
(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)
(Translation of Registrants name into English)
(Jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)
172 John Street, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5T 1X5
(Address of principal executive offices)
Andrew Patient, Tel. 416-593-3725 Fax 416-593-4434, 172 John Street, Toronto Ontario,
Canada M5T 1X5
(Name, Telephone, Email and/or Facsimile number and Address of Company Contact Person)
Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act: None
Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:
(Title of Class)
The Nasdaq Capital Market
(Name of each exchange on which registered)
Securities for which there is a reporting obligation pursuant to Section 15(d) of the Act.
(Title of Class)
Indicate the number of outstanding shares of each of the issuers classes of capital or common
stock as of the close of the period covered by the annual report: At September 30, 2008, there
were 8,585,636 common shares outstanding.
Indicate by check mark if the Registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of
the Securities Act. YES: o NO: þ
If this report is an annual or transition report, indicate by check mark if the Registrant is not
required to file reports pursuant to 13 or 15 (d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. YES: o NO: þ
Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant: (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by
Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for
such shorter period that the Registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been
subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. YES: þ NO: o
Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer,
or a non accelerated filer:
Large accelerated filer o Accelerated filer o Non-accelerated filer þ
Indicate by check mark which basis of accounting the Registrant has used to prepare the financial
statements included in this filing:
U.S. GAAP o International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the International
Accounting Standards Board o Other þ
Indicate by check mark which financial statement item the Registrant has elected to follow.
Item
17: þ Item 18: o
If this is an annual report, indicate by check mark whether the Registrant is a shell company (as
defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). YES: o NO: þ
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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PART I
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Item 1.
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Identity of Directors, Senior Management and Advisers
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4 |
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Item 2.
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Offer Statistics and Expected Timetable
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4 |
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Item 3.
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Key Information
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4 |
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Item 4.
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Information on the Company
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11 |
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Item 4A.
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Unresolved Staff Comments
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15 |
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Item 5.
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Operating and Financial Review and Prospects
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15 |
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Item 6.
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Directors, Senior Management and Employees
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35 |
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Item 7.
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Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions
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47 |
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Item 8.
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Financial Information
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50 |
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Item 9.
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The Offer and Listing
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50 |
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Item 10.
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Additional Information
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52 |
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Item 11.
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Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
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62 |
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Item 12.
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Description of Securities Other than Equity Securities
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64 |
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PART II
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Item 13.
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Defaults, Dividend Arrearages and Delinquencies
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64 |
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Item 14.
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Material Modifications to the Rights of Security Holders and Use of Proceeds
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64 |
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Item 15.
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Controls and Procedures
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64 |
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Item l6A
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Audit Committee Financial Expert
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65 |
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Item l6B
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Code of Ethics
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66 |
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Item l6C
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Principal Accountant Fees and Services
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67 |
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Item 16D
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Exemptions from the Listing Standards for Audit Committees
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67 |
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Item 16E
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Purchase of Equity Securities by the Issuer and Affiliated Purchases
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68 |
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PART III
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Item 17.
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Financial Statements
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69 |
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Item 18.
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Financial Statements
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69 |
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Item 19.
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Exhibits
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70 |
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Signatures
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71 |
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Certifications
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72 |
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Exhibit Index
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70 |
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2
The certifications are exhibits, not part of body.
References in this annual report to the Company and Envoy mean Envoy Capital Group Inc. and its
subsidiaries, unless otherwise specified.
The Company presents its consolidated financial statements in Canadian dollars. In this annual
report, except where otherwise indicated, all dollar amounts are expressed in Canadian dollars.
References to $ are to Canadian dollars, references to U.S. are to United States dollars and
references to £ are to British pounds. See Selected Financial Data in Item 3 of this Form 20-F.
Special Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
This annual report on Form 20-F contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the U.S.
Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including statements relating to Envoys outlook
or future economic performance, anticipated profitability, revenues, commissions and fees, expenses
and other financial items, and Envoys plans and expectations relating to its business and
prospects. The words expect, anticipate, estimate, may, will, should, intend,
believe, and similar expressions, are intended to identify forward-looking statements.
Forward-looking statements are based on estimates and assumptions made by Envoy in light of its
experience and its perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future
developments, as well as other factors that the Company believes are appropriate in the
circumstances. Many factors could cause Envoys actual results, performance or achievements to
differ materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements, including,
without limitation, the factors described in Item 3.D Risk Factors. These factors should be
considered carefully, and readers should not place undue reliance on Envoys forward-looking
statements. The Company has no intention and undertakes no obligation to update or revise any
forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
3
PART I
Item 1: Identity of Directors, Senior Management and Advisers
Not applicable.
Item 2: Offer Statistics and Expected Timetable
Not applicable.
Item 3: Key Information
A. Selected Financial Data1
The following tables sets forth selected financial data for Envoy for the fiscal years indicated
below and should be read in conjunction with the more detailed audited consolidated financial
statements and the related notes thereto (the Consolidated Financial Statements) appearing under
Item 17 in this Form 20-F and the discussion under Item 5 Operating and Financial Review and
Prospects herein. The selected consolidated financial data does not include statements of
operations data or balance sheet data of any acquired operations prior to their respective
acquisition effective dates. The Companys historical results are not necessarily indicative of the
results that may be expected for any future period.
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Fiscal Years Ended |
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September 30 |
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2008 |
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2007 |
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2006(2) |
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2005(3) |
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2004(4) |
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(all amounts in thousands except |
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per share data) |
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Statement of Operations Data: |
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Net Revenue |
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$ |
11,260 |
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$ |
17,551 |
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$ |
9,672 |
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$ |
19,567 |
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$ |
15,838 |
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(Loss) Earnings From Continuing
Operations (5) |
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(10,158 |
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2,641 |
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(5,392 |
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3,074 |
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(4,781 |
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Earnings From
Discontinued Operations |
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375 |
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7,528 |
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2,868 |
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1,674 |
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(Loss) Earnings From
Continuing Operations Basic
Earnings Per Share |
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(1.11 |
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0.20 |
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(0.27 |
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0.14 |
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(0.28 |
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Earnings (Loss) From
Continuing Operations
Diluted Earnings Per Share |
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(1.11 |
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0.20 |
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(0.27 |
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0.14 |
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(0.28 |
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Net (Loss) Earnings (5) |
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(10,158 |
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3,017 |
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2,136 |
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5,942 |
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(3,106 |
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Net (Loss) Earnings Per
Share Basic |
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(1.11 |
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0.23 |
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0.10 |
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0.27 |
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(0.18 |
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Net Earnings (Loss) Earnings
Per Share Diluted (5) |
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(1.11 |
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0.23 |
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0.10 |
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0.27 |
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(0.18 |
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4
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1 |
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The Consolidated Financial Statements of Envoy have been prepared by management in accordance with
Canadian Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (Canadian GAAP) which vary in certain
significant respects from U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (U.S. GAAP).
Reconciliation to U.S. GAAP for fiscal 2008, 2007 and 2006 is set forth in Note 22 to the Notes to
the Consolidated Financial Statements. The fol1owing would be the adjustments under U.S. GAAP to
the information provided above as an increase (decrease) to: Net Revenue 2008 $4,255, 2007
($5,148), 2006 $nil, 2005 $nil and 2004 $nil; Earnings (loss) from continuing operations 2008
$1,686, 2007 ($1,240), 2006 $nil, 2005 $344 and 2004 ($464); Earnings (loss) from continuing
operations earnings per share basic 2008 $0.18, 2007 ($0.09), 2006 $nil, 2005 $0.01 and 2004
($0.03); Earnings (loss) from continuing
operations earnings per share diluted 2008 $0.18, 2007 ($0.09), 2006 $nil, 2005 $0.01 and 2004
($0.03); Net earnings (loss) 2008 $4,490, 2007 ($1,240), 2006 ($2,700), 2005 $344 and 2004 $(464);
and Net earnings (loss) per share basic 2008 $0.49, 2007 ($0.09), 2006 ($0.13), 2005 $0.01 and 2004
$(0.03); Net earnings (loss) per share diluted 2008 $0.49, 2007 ($0.09), 2006 ($0.13), 2005 $0.01
and 2004 $(0.03). |
At a meeting held on August 14, 2003, the Companys shareholders approved the consolidation of the
Companys common shares on the basis to be determined by its board of directors (not to exceed a
ratio of 1 for 10). On January 15, 2005, the Companys board of directors approved the
consolidation of the common shares (a reverse stock split) on the basis of a 1 for 5 ratio. On
January 21, 2005 the Company filed Articles of Amendment consolidating its common shares on the
basis of 1 new common share for every 5 common shares outstanding. Outstanding shares and earnings
per share figures for all periods presented have been adjusted to give effect to the share
consolidation. Information on the number of shares outstanding, and stock options are disclosed on
a post-consolidation basis.
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As at September 30 |
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2008 |
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2007 |
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2006(2) |
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2005(3) |
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2004(4) |
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(all amounts in thousands) |
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Balance Sheet Data: |
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Current Assets |
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$ |
28,823 |
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$ |
38,832 |
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$ |
68,701 |
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$ |
44,759 |
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$ |
59,432 |
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Total Assets(7) |
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36,482 |
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50,792 |
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81,274 |
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84,057 |
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88,880 |
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Total Debt(6) |
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70 |
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157 |
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252 |
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361 |
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659 |
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Shareholders
Equity(7) |
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32,159 |
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45,157 |
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75,047 |
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73,555 |
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76,891 |
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Retained (Deficit)
Earnings(8) |
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(7,064 |
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3,094 |
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(40,266 |
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(42,403 |
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(48,344 |
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2 |
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The exchange rate utilized with respect to the Statement of Operations Data for the
fiscal year ended September 30, 2006 of Watt Gilchrist Limited (Gilchrist) and Parker Williams
Design Limited (PWD) is £1.00 to $2.0571 and with respect to the Balance Sheet Data of Gilchrist
and PWD is £1.00 to $2.1044. Except
as set forth in footnotes 5, 6 and 7, no other acquisitions by Envoy materially affect the
comparability of the information in the Selected Financial Data. |
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3 |
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The exchange rate utilized with respect to the Statement of Operations Data for the
fiscal year ended September 30, 2005 of Watt Gilchrist Limited (Gilchrist) is £1.00 to $2.2641
and with respect to the Balance Sheet Data of Gilchrist is £1.00 to $2.0648. The exchange rate
utilized with respect to the Statements of Operations Data for the fiscal year ended September |
5
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30,
2005 of Parker Williams Design Limited (PWD) is £1.00 to $2.2428. The exchange rate utilized with
respect to the Balance Sheet Data of PWD is £1.00 to $2.0648. Except as set forth in footnotes 5, 6
and 7, no other acquisitions by Envoy materially affect the comparability of the information in the
Selected Financial Data. |
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4 |
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The exchange rate utilized with respect to the Statement of Operations Data for the
fiscal year ended September 30, 2004 of Gilchrist is £1.00 to $2.3759 and with respect to the
Balance Sheet Data of Gilchrist is £1.00 to $2.2878. Except as set forth in footnotes 5, 6 and 7,
no other acquisitions by Envoy materially affect the comparability of the information in the
Selected Financial Data. |
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5 |
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As reflected in Note 22 to the Consolidated Financial Statements, the net (loss)
earnings from continuing operations for the fiscal years ended September 30, 2008, 2007, 2006, 2005
and 2004 were ($8,472), $1,401, ($5,392), $3,418 and ($5,245), respectively under U.S. GAAP. The
net (loss) earnings for the fiscal years ended September 30, 2008, 2007, 2006, 2005 and 2004 were
($5,668), $1,777, ($564), $6,286 and ($3,571), respectively under U.S. GAAP. The diluted net (loss)
earnings per share for the years ended September 30, 2008, 2007, 2006, 2005 and 2004 were ($0.62),
$0.14, ($0.03), $0.28 and ($0.21), respectively under U.S. GAAP. |
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As described above, on January 21, 2005, Envoy filed Articles of Amendment consolidating its common
shares on the basis of 1 new common share for every 5 common shares outstanding. Outstanding shares
and earnings per share figures for all periods presented have been adjusted to give effect to the
share consolidation. |
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6 |
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Total debt includes both the current and long term portion of debt. |
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7 |
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As reflected in Note 22 to the Consolidated Financial Statements, the shareholders
equity as at September 30, 2008, 2007, 2006, 2005 and 2004 was $32,589, $41,140, $72,589, $73,550
and $77,066, respectively under U.S. GAAP. Total assets as of September 30, 2008 under U.S. GAAP
would exclude fair value adjustments of $472. In addition, total assets as of September 30, 2007,
2006, 2005 and 2004 under U.S. GAAP would include the unrealized gain on private equities of
$1,147, $nil, $nil and $nil, respectively, include the unrealized gain (loss) on securities for
sale of $nil, $242, ($6) and $174, respectively, exclude capitalized incorporation costs of $66,
$nil, $nil, and $nil, respectively, and it would exclude cash held in escrow relating to the sale
of the UK operations of $2,803, $2,700, $nil and $nil, respectively. |
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8 |
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Retained earnings as of September 30, 2008, 2007, 2006, 2005 and 2004, excludes the
cumulative foreign currency translation adjustment of $nil, ($77), ($51), ($2,153) and 74,
respectively. See Note 2(f) in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements of Envoy. |
Envoy has never paid any dividends on its common shares and does not anticipate that it will pay
any cash dividends on its common shares in the foreseeable future. Any decision to pay dividends in
the future will be at the discretion of Envoys board of directors, after taking into account such
factors as Envoys financial condition, operating results, current and anticipated cash
needs and plans for expansion.
6
Exchange Rates:
On December 15, 2008, the noon buying rate for Canadian dollars as certified for customs purposes
by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York was $1.00 U.S. to $1.2352. The following table sets forth
for the periods indicated certain information regarding the exchange rates of Canadian dollars into
U.S. currency. The rate of exchange means the noon buying rate in New York City for cable transfers
in foreign currencies as certified for customs purposes by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York.
Fiscal Year Ended September 30,
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2008 |
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2007 |
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2006 |
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2005 |
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2004 |
Average * |
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$ |
1.0101 |
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$ |
1.0885 |
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$ |
1.1151 |
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$ |
1.2171 |
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$ |
1.2034 |
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* |
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The Average rate means the average rates each period, calculated by using the average of the
exchange rates on the last day of each month during the fiscal period. |
For the Month Ended
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November |
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October |
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September |
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August |
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July |
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June |
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2008 |
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2008 |
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2008 |
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2008 |
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2008 |
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2008 |
High |
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$ |
1.2952 |
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$ |
1.2995 |
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$ |
1.0821 |
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$ |
1.0716 |
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$ |
1.0274 |
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$ |
1.0320 |
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Low |
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$ |
1.1477 |
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$ |
1.0585 |
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$ |
1.0298 |
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$ |
1.0237 |
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$ |
0.9975 |
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$ |
0.9948 |
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B. Capitalization and Indebtedness
Not applicable.
C. Reasons for the Offer and Use of Proceeds
Not applicable.
D. Risk Factors
Envoys business, financial condition and results of operations could be materially adversely
affected by any of the following risks. In addition, risk and uncertainties not currently known to
the Company or that the Company currently deems to be immaterial may also materially and adversely
affect its business.
Risks Related to Envoys Business and Industry
The Company has a limited number of large clients.
The Company receives a significant portion of its revenues from a limited number of large clients.
The loss of any such clients could adversely impact the Companys prospects, business, financial
condition and results of operations.
The Companys results of operations and its business depend on its relationship with a limited
number of large clients. Set forth below is the percentage of net revenue during the fiscal year
7
ended September 30, 2008 for each of the Companys clients that accounted for 10% or more of its
net revenue:
Fiscal Year Ended September 30, 2008
Client
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The Great Atlantic and Pacific Company |
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22 |
% |
Dubai Maritime City Retail Development LLC |
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19 |
% |
McDonalds Restaurants of Canada Limited |
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15 |
% |
Meijer, Inc. |
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12 |
% |
Wal-Mart Canada Corp. |
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10 |
% |
The Company expects its reliance on a limited number of clients will continue in the future.
There can be no assurance that the Company will be able to maintain its historical rate of growth
or its current level of revenue derived from any client in the future.
The Company is dependent on its key personnel.
The Companys success depends in part upon its ability to hire and retain key senior management and
skilled technical, client service and creative personnel able to create and maintain solid
relationships with clients. An inability to hire or retain qualified personnel could have a
material adverse effect on the Company.
The Company is exposed to the risks of doing business internationally.
The Companys operations are subject to a number of risks inherent in operating in different
countries. These include, but are not limited to risks regarding:
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currency exchange rate fluctuations; |
|
|
|
restrictions on repatriation of earnings; and |
|
|
|
changes in the political or economic conditions of a specific country or region, particularly
in emerging markets. |
The occurrence of any of these events or conditions could adversely affect the Companys ability to
increase or maintain its operations in various countries.
Currency exchange rate fluctuations could adversely affect the Companys results of operations.
The Company is subject to currency risk through its activities in the United States, Middle East
and Europe. Unfavourable changes in the exchange rate may affect the operating results of the
Company. The Company does not actively use derivative instruments to reduce its exposure to foreign
currency risk. However, dependent on the nature, amount and timing of foreign currency receipts and
payments, the Company may from time to time enter into foreign currency contracts to mitigate the
associated risks.
Market rate fluctuations could adversely affect the Companys results of operations.
The Company is subject to market risk through the risk of loss of value in Envoys portfolios
resulting from changes in interest rates, foreign exchange rates, credit spreads, and equity
8
prices. The Company is required to mark to market its held-for-trading investments at the end of
each reporting period. This process could result in significant write-downs of the Companys
investments over one or more reporting periods, particularly during periods of overall market
instability, which would
have a significant unfavourable effect on the Companys financial position
The Company may be unsuccessful in evaluating material risks involved in completed and future
investments.
The Company regularly reviews investment opportunities and as part of the review, the Company
conducts business, legal and financial due diligence with the goal of identifying and evaluating
material risks involved in any particular transaction. Despite the Companys efforts, it may be
unsuccessful in ascertaining or evaluating all such risks. As a result, it might not realize the
intended advantages of any given investment and may not identify all of the risks relating to the
investment. If the Company fails to realize the expected benefits from one or more investments, or
does not identify all of the risks associated with a particular investment, the Companys business,
results of operations and financial condition could be adversely affected.
The Company is subject to credit risk.
The Company manages its credit risk with respect to accounts receivable by acting as an agent for
its customers, by dealing primarily with large creditworthy customers and by billing whenever
possible in advance of rendering services or making commitments. The Company had one customer who
represented 32% of accounts receivable as at September 30, 2008, and one customer who represented
19% of accounts receivable as at September 30, 2007. Should the Company fail to efficiently manage
its outstanding accounts receivable, the Companys results of operations may be adversely affected.
Certain of the Companys financial assets, including cash and cash equivalents are exposed to the
risk of financial loss occurring as a result of default of a counterparty on its obligations to the
Company. The Company may, from time to time, invest in debt obligations.
The Company is also exposed, in the normal course of business, to credit risk from the sale of its
investments and advances to investee companies.
The Company may need to raise additional capital to grow its business, which it may not be able to
do.
The Companys future liquidity and capital requirements are difficult to predict because they
depend on numerous factors, including the success of its existing services, attracting and
maintaining clients, as well as competing market developments. As a result, the Company may not be
able to generate sufficient cash from its operations to meet additional working capital
requirements, support additional capital expenditures or take advantage of investment or
acquisition opportunities. Accordingly, the Company may need to raise additional capital in the
future.
The Companys ability to obtain additional financing will be subject to a number of factors,
including market conditions and its operating performance. These factors may make the timing,
amount, terms and conditions of additional financing unattractive for the Company. If the Company
raises additional funds by selling equity securities, the relative equity ownership
9
of its existing
investors could be diluted or the new investors could obtain terms more favorable than previous
investors. If the Company raises additional funds through debt financing, it might incur
significant borrowing costs. If the Company is unable to raise additional funds when needed, or on
terms acceptable to it, the Companys ability to operate and grow its business could be impeded.
The Company is subject to recessionary economic cycles.
The marketing and communications industry is cyclical and as a result it is subject to downturns in
general economic conditions and changes
in client business and marketing budgets. Such downturns in the economic cycle may have material
adverse effects on the Companys business, results of operations and financial condition.
The Company may be subject to certain regulations that could restrict the Companys activities.
From time to time, governments, government agencies and industry self- regulatory bodies in Canada,
the United States, the European Union and other countries in which the Company operates have
adopted statutes, regulations and rulings that directly or indirectly affect the activities of the
Company and its clients. For further discussion of such regulations, see the discussion in the
Government Regulations section under Item 4.B. Though the Company does not expect any existing or
proposed regulations to materially adversely impact the Companys business, the Company is unable
to estimate the effect on its future operations of the application of existing statutes or
regulations or the extent or nature of future regulatory action.
The Company competes for clients in a highly competitive industry, which may reduce market share
and decrease profits.
The marketing and communication services industry is highly competitive and fragmented. The
Companys principal competitors are large multinational communications services companies, as well
as regional and national branding and marketing services firms. Many of the Companys competitors
have larger client bases and significantly greater financial, marketing, public relations, revenues
and other resources than the Company does. There can be no assurance that the Company will be able
to compete effectively against these companies, and the competition for clients against such
current and future competitors may reduce the Companys market
share and decrease profits.
Risks related to the Companys common shares
Because the Company is a Canadian company, it may be difficult to enforce liabilities against the
Company based solely upon the federal securities laws of the United States.
The Company was organized under the laws of the Province of Ontario, and its principal executive
offices are located in Toronto, Ontario. Many of its directors, controlling persons and officers
are residents of Canada and a substantial portion of their assets and a majority of the Companys
assets are located outside the United States. Consequently, it may be difficult to enforce against
the Company or any of its directors, controlling persons, or officers, liabilities based solely
upon the federal securities laws of the United States.
10
The Company believes that it is a Passive Foreign Investment Company, which may have adverse tax
consequences for the Companys shareholders in the United States.
Under U.S. federal income tax laws, the Company believes that it is a passive foreign investment
company (PFIC), which may have adverse tax consequences for the Companys shareholders in the
United States. U.S. shareholders are urged to read the section titled Certain United States
Federal Income Tax Considerations in Item 10 of this Form 20-F and to consult their tax advisors
concerning the U.S. federal income tax consequences of holding the common shares of a PFIC.
Item 4: Information on the Company
Envoys businesses include an international consumer and retail branding company and a merchant
banking and financial services company.
Envoy conducts its branding services through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Watt International Inc.
(Watt International), which is
one of the worlds leading brand strategy and design consultancies. Envoy provides consulting,
branding, packaging and retail design services to clients in Canada, the United States, Mexico,
United Arab Emirates, China and South America, as well as project work for clients in other
countries around the globe. With two offices located in North America, Watt Internationals clients
include: Meijer, Inc., The Great Atlantic and Pacific Company, Dubai Maritime City Retail
Development LLC, McDonalds Restaurants of Canada Limited, and Wal-Mart Stores Inc.
In 2008, the top three customers accounted for 22%, 19% and 15% of net revenue. In 2007, the top
three customers accounted for 17%, 15% and 15% of net revenue. In 2007, one other customer
accounted for 11% of net revenue. In 2008, two other customers accounted for 12% and 10% of net
revenue, respectively.
Watt International subsists under the laws of the Province of Ontario.
In Fiscal 2006, Envoys board of directors approved the creation of a merchant banking operation
focused on providing financial services as well as equity and debt capital to small and mid-cap
companies. Envoy Capital Group was officially launched in fiscal 2007.
The merchant banking division investments currently consist of a blend of professionally managed
market diversified funds and direct investments in growth stage public companies. A certain portion
of the portfolio is also invested in common shares of private companies. The merchant bank business
earnings consist of both realized and unrealized gains in the market value of its investments, plus
dividends and interest income.
The principal place of business of Envoy is 172 John Street, Toronto, Canada M5T 1X5. Envoy may be
reached by telephone at (416) 593-1212 or facsimile at (416) 593 4434. Envoys website is www.envoy.to.
Information contained on Envoys website does not constitute a part of this Form 20-F.
A. History and Development of the Company
Envoy was incorporated under the laws of the Province of British Columbia, Canada as Potential
Mines Ltd. in December 1973 and was continued under the laws of the Province
11
of Ontario, Canada in
December 1997. At the Companys annual general meeting held on March 30, 2007 the shareholders
voted to amend the corporations articles of incorporation by changing its name to Envoy Capital
Group Inc. Envoys registered office is located at 172 John St., Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5T 1X5
(telephone 416/593-3725).
Since December 1997, Envoy has shifted the nature of its business to providing marketing,
communications and consumer and retail branding services for promoting clients products, services
and business messages utilizing such media as print, broadcast and the Internet. Envoy has grown,
in large part, through strategic acquisitions. Certain material transactions by Envoy since January
1, 2006 are described below.
Effective September 15, 2006, Envoy completed the sale of all of the shares of its wholly owned UK
subsidiary ECGH, including the related business and assets of Gilchrist and PWD. The sale price of
$27 million was paid in cash. Pursuant to the terms and conditions of the sale purchase agreement,
$2.7 million was held in escrow to secure potential third party claims. In January, 2008, the
Company received $2,834,568, representing the withheld amount plus accrued interest.
On September 15, 2006, the Company announced its intention to repurchase its common shares under a
substantial
issuer bid in the form of a modified Dutch Auction tender offer. On January 25, 2007, pursuant to
this Dutch Auction tender offer, the Company announced that it would take up and pay for the shares
at a purchase price of US$2.70 (CDN$3.19) per share for a total purchase price of US$24.4 million
(CDN$28.7 million). Costs relating to the offering totaled approximately $1.5 million. On January
30, 2007, the Company took up and paid for 9,002,383 shares. Payment for the shares was made from
available cash on hand.
B. Business Overview
Services in the Envoy Group:
Consumer and retail branding Watt International, a wholly owned subsidiary of Envoy that
management believes to be one of the worlds leading brand strategy and design consultancies,
provides the following services: strategic brand consulting, corporate identity and communications,
retail branding and store design, and package design.
In Fiscal 2006, Envoy established a merchant banking organization focused on providing financial
services as well as equity and debt capital to small and mid-cap companies. Envoy Capital Group was
officially launched in fiscal 2007.
The Merchant Bank division investments currently consist of a blend of professionally managed
market diversified funds and direct investments in growth stage public companies. A certain portion
of the portfolio is also invested in common shares of private companies. The Merchant Bank business
earnings consist of both realized and unrealized gains in the market value of its investments, plus
dividends and interest income.
Our Strategic Direction:
At the Companys annual general meeting held on March 30, 2007 the shareholders voted to amend the
corporations articles of incorporation
by changing its name to Envoy Capital Group Inc. and removing the maximum number of common shares
that the corporation is
12
authorized to issue. In addition, the shareholders also voted to reduce the
stated capital of the corporations common shares by $40.3 million for the purpose of eliminating
the deficit on the consolidated balance sheet of the corporation as at September 30, 2006.
On September 15, 2006, the Company announced its intention to repurchase its common shares under a
substantial issuer bid in the form of a modified Dutch Auction tender offer. On January 25, 2007,
pursuant to this Dutch Auction tender offer, the Company announced that it would take up and pay
for the shares at a purchase price of US$2.70 (CDN$3.19) per share for a total purchase price of
US$24.4 million (CDN$28.7 million). Costs relating to the offering totaled approximately $1.5
million. On January 30, 2007, the Company took up and paid for 9,002,383 shares. Payment for the
shares was made from available cash on hand.
On September 15, 2006, Envoy sold its wholly owned subsidiary ECGH, including related assets and
business operations. Envoy believes that the sale of ECGH, which represented non-core holdings of
Envoy, will enhance shareholder value.
On June 30, 2005, Envoy sold all the shares of its advertising business, John Street, to the
management of John Street.
During fiscal 2004, Envoy sold all the shares of its corporate event and corporate travel business.
Envoy remains focused on the expansion and prosperity of its core business of consumer and retail
branding. Watt International, its branding business, has proven successful at creating and
executing private label programs and landmark store design, making Envoy a world authority in brand
strategy and design for the retail sector.
Industry Overview:
Consumer and Retail Branding
In all areas of marketing and product design, companies are looking to extend their customer
relationships and influence consumer behavior. Consumer and retail branding services encompass the
entire customer experience, from product packaging to the retail environment, and are a key
component of a companys marketing communications strategy.
The consumer and retail branding services sector is rapidly evolving into a global marketplace, as
companies are increasingly looking for expertise in the development and maintenance of their brands
on a global basis. Companies are looking to firms that can deliver a consistent message to
consumers through packaging and retail design, regardless of geography.
Retail is the second largest industry in the United States and one of the largest industries
worldwide. Unlike other, more volatile sectors, the retail industry continues to grow at a steady
rate, particularly as developing countries achieve greater economic stability.
Watt International has continued to service clients in various segments of the market. During
fiscal 2008, Watt International continued to focus its efforts to transform the business model to
strategically driven operations and align itself with the market conditions to retain and service
existing clients and to grow by providing innovative solutions in domestic and international
markets.
13
Government Regulations:
The marketing communications industry is subject to extensive government regulation, both domestic
and foreign, with respect to the truth in and fairness of advertising. There are also a number of
U.S. federal and state laws and regulations directed at the advertising and marketing of specific
products, such as food
and drug products. In addition, there has been an increasing tendency on the part of businesses to
resort to the judicial system, as well as industry self-regulatory procedures, to challenge
comparative advertising of their competitors on the grounds that the advertising is false and
deceptive. There can be no assurance Envoy will not be subject to claims against it or Envoys
clients by other companies or governmental agencies or that such claims, regardless of merit, would
not have a material adverse effect on Envoys future operating performance.
Merchant Banking
The financial services sector is experiencing a period of instability as forces of change with
respect to globalization, regulatory changes, consolidations, and advances in technology change the
entire context of financial services throughout the world.
Competition in the financial services sector is increasing both domestically and in the
international marketplace. Within Canada, recent changes to federal law and regulation have opened
up new opportunities for foreign banks to operate and encouraged the start up of new banks,
offering more choice to consumers. New banks are arriving on the scene virtually every year. Some
have established traditional branches, while others have focused on electronic channels, or
specific products or market segments. Recent entrants have included both global competitors and
domestic newcomers.
Envoy Capital Group is a merchant banking division of Envoy that focuses on providing financial
services as well as equity and debt capital, to small and mid-cap companies. Envoy Capital Groups
objective is to provide loans and equity investments of between $500,000 and $3,000,000 to publicly
listed and private companies, operating in a variety of industries including media and
marketing services, resources and real estate.
Government Regulations:
The banking and financial industry is one of the most regulated industries in the world. The
Company is required to adhere to extensive rules and regulations governing both financial services
and securities exchanges. Recent changes to federal law and regulation have opened up new
opportunities for foreign banks to operate in Canada, encouraged the start up of new banks with new
ownership rules, and given certain non-bank financial institutions direct access to the payments
system. Many of the old barriers prohibiting financial institutions from competing in each others
business have disappeared over the past 15 years.
C. Organizational Structure
Envoy has operations in the United States and Canada. Envoy owns 100% of Watt International, its
sole operating subsidiary.
14
D. Property, Plants and Equipment
Envoy currently operates offices in Toronto, Canada. The terms of our principal leases are as
follows:
Envoys principal executive offices consist of a four-story office building of approximately 20,000
square foot located at 172 John Street, Toronto, Ontario. These premises have been leased pursuant
to a lease with a term that commenced on July 1, 1999 and expires in June 2009 at a current annual
rent of $206,670. In connection with the lease negotiation, the landlord advanced to Envoy $750,000
as a loan, with an interest rate of 3.5% per annum to be repaid over 10 years. The leasehold
improvements involved modernization of the facilities and other modifications expected to benefit
both Envoy and the landlord. The principal balance of this loan at September 30, 2008 was $69,599.
The offices of Envoys wholly owned subsidiary, Watt International, consist of an office building
of approximately 26,600 square feet located at 300 Bayview, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. The premises
are leased pursuant to a lease with a current annual rent of $466,836 that expires in March 2010.
In September 2006, Envoy sold all the shares of its United Kingdom subsidiaries, and has no further
lease obligations in the United Kingdom.
Item 4A: Unresolved Staff Comments
Not applicable.
Item 5: Operating and Financial Review and Prospects
The following discussion should be read in conjunction with, and is qualified in its entirety by,
the Consolidated Financial Statements of Envoy and the Notes relating thereto, included as item 17
in this Form 20-F. The information contained in this Item 5 refers to Financial Statements of
Envoy, which are presented in Canadian dollars and are prepared in accordance with Canadian GAAP.
Canadian GAAP differs in certain significant respects from U.S. GAAP. Reconciliation to U.S. GAAP
is set forth in Note 22 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. Historical results of
operations, percentage relationships and any trends that may be inferred there from are not
necessarily indicative of the operating results of any future period.
Overview
Net Revenue
The Company presents as net revenue fee income earned as compensation for its services, net of pass
through costs. Further, the balance sheet reflects the following:
(i) |
|
deferred revenue representing fees billed and collected in advance of such fees being earned; |
15
(ii) |
|
unbilled accounts receivable representing fees earned but not yet billed as well as well as
reimbursable pass-through costs; and |
(iii) |
|
work in process represents costs incurred on projects for which revenue has not yet been
recognized for accounting purposes. |
Included in work in process are charges for staff time at standard cost and third party charges.
The standard cost rate provides for the recovery of actual labour and overhead costs incurred.
Net revenue represents the Companys compensation for its non-agency services and is recognized
only when collection of such net revenue is probable. The Companys non-agency projects are
short-term in nature. Fees earned for non-agency services are recognized either upon the
performance of the Companys services when the Company earns a per-diem fee, or in the case of a
fixed fee, when the Companys services are substantially complete and accepted by the client. Fees
earned but not yet billed are included in accounts receivable. Fees billed to clients in excess of
fees recognized as net revenue are classified as deferred revenue.
Securities transactions are recorded on a trade-date basis. Changes in fair value of
held-for-trading investments are reflected in the consolidated statements of operations and are
calculated on an average cost basis. Dividend income is recorded on the ex-dividend date.
Interest income is recorded on an accrual basis.
Operating Expenses
Salaries and benefits, general and administrative expenses and occupancy costs represent our
operating expenses. Salaries and benefits expenses include salaries, employee benefits, incentive
compensation, contract labour and other payroll related costs, which are expensed as incurred.
General and administrative costs include business development, office costs, technology,
professional services and foreign exchange. Occupancy costs represent the costs of leasing and
maintaining company premises.
Tax Matters
With respect to Envoys 2008 fiscal year, Envoy had tax loss carry forwards sufficient to cover its
Canadian income tax liabilities and has approximately $25.1 million in loss carry forwards. Details
on income taxes are set forth in Note 14 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
A. Operating Results
Net revenue from the continuing operations for the twelve months ended September 30, 2008 was $11.3
million, compared to $17.6 million for the twelve months ended September 30, 2007, a decrease of
$6.3 million. The decrease was a result of losses sustained on investments in the merchant banking
segment. Investment losses for the twelve months ended September 30, 2008 were ($4.3) million
compared to gains of $5.1 million in the same period last year.
Salaries expense for the twelve months ended September 30, 2008, was $12.8 million, compared to
$11.3 million in the twelve months ended September 30, 2007, a increase of $1.5
16
million. The labour to net revenue ratio for the twelve months ended September 30, 2008 was
113.8%, compared to 64.5% in the twelve months ended September 30, 2007. The deterioration in the
salary ratio was due to a decline in revenue base as a result of losses in the merchant banking
segment.
Occupancy costs increased to $0.6 million for the twelve months ended September 30, 2008, from $0.5
million for the twelve months ended September 30, 2007 a decrease of $0.1 million. The occupancy
cost to net revenue ratio was 4.6% for the twelve months ended September 30, 2008 compared to 3.1%
for the twelve months ended September 30, 2007, again, due to decline in total net revenue.
The Consolidated Financial Statements have been prepared by management in accordance with generally
accepted accounting principles in Canada, which vary in certain significant respects from generally
accepted accounting principles in the United States. A description of the significant differences,
as applicable to the Company, is included in note 22 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
17
SELECTED ANNUAL INFORMATION
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Fiscal 2008 |
|
|
Fiscal 2007 |
|
|
Fiscal 2006 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net revenue |
|
$ |
11.3 million |
|
|
$ |
17.6 million |
|
|
$ |
9.7 million |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net (loss) earnings: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
From continuing operations |
|
|
(10.2) million |
|
|
|
2.6 million |
|
|
|
(5.4) million |
|
From discontinued operations |
|
|
|
|
|
|
0.4 million |
|
|
|
7.5 million |
|
Total |
|
|
(10.2) million |
|
|
|
3.0 million |
|
|
|
2.1 million |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net (loss) earnings per share |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Basic |
|
$ |
(1.11 |
) |
|
$ |
0.23 |
|
|
$ |
0.10 |
|
Diluted |
|
$ |
(1.11 |
) |
|
$ |
0.23 |
|
|
$ |
0.10 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
From continuing
operations |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Basic |
|
$ |
(1.11 |
) |
|
$ |
0.20 |
|
|
$ |
(0.27 |
) |
Diluted |
|
$ |
(1.11 |
) |
|
$ |
0.20 |
|
|
$ |
(0.27 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
From discontinued
operations |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Basic |
|
$ |
nil |
|
|
$ |
0.03 |
|
|
$ |
0.37 |
|
Diluted |
|
$ |
nil |
|
|
$ |
0.03 |
|
|
$ |
0.37 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
As at: |
|
Sep 30, 2008 |
|
|
Sep 30, 2007 |
|
|
Sep 30, 2006 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total assets |
|
$ |
36.5 million
|
|
|
$ |
50.8 million
|
|
|
$ |
81.3 million |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total long-term financial liabilities
|
|
$ |
nil
|
|
|
$ |
0.1 million
|
|
|
$ |
0.2 million |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash dividends declared |
|
$ |
nil
|
|
|
$ |
nil
|
|
|
$ |
nil |
|
18
FISCAL YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2008, COMPARED TO FISCAL YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2007
On a consolidated basis, the net loss for the year ended September 30, 2008 was ($10.2) million
compared to earnings of $3.0 million for the year ended September 30, 2007. On a fully diluted per
share basis the net loss for fiscal year 2008 was ($1.11) per share compared to earnings of $0.23
in fiscal 2007.
The comparative results for fiscal 2007 include a final adjustment to the gain on disposal of the
UK and European operations. The amount is included as discontinued operations as a result of the
sale of the ECG Holdings (UK) in fiscal 2006. Income from discontinued operations (net of taxes)
amounted to approximately $0.4 million.
Consumer and Retail Branding Segment
Net revenue for the Branding segment represents compensation for services rendered, net of any
pass-through costs such as production costs incurred on behalf of clients in acting as agent for
them.
The geographical breakdown of net revenue is as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net revenue for the year ended September 30 |
|
|
|
(in millions) |
|
|
|
2008 |
|
|
% of total |
|
|
2007 |
|
|
% of total |
|
By customer location: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
USA and South America |
|
$ |
6.4 |
|
|
|
41 |
% |
|
$ |
6.4 |
|
|
|
52 |
% |
Canada |
|
|
5.3 |
|
|
|
34 |
% |
|
|
4.1 |
|
|
|
33 |
% |
Middle East and Asia |
|
|
3.8 |
|
|
|
25 |
% |
|
|
1.9 |
|
|
|
15 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
15.5 |
|
|
|
100 |
% |
|
$ |
12.4 |
|
|
|
100 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net revenue for the year ended September 30, 2008 was $15.5 million, compared to $12.4 million for
the year ended September 30, 2007, an increase of $3.1 million. The main reason for the increase
was significant international business wins.
Net revenue from the U.S. and South American based customers remained steady in fiscal 2008 with
$6.4 million generated both this year and last, whereas net revenue from Canadian customers
increased by approximately $1.2 million in fiscal 2008 as compared to the same period last year.
Canadian revenue growth was a result of increased business with existing clients. Net revenue from
the Middle East and Asia region increased $1.9 million in fiscal 2008 as compared to fiscal 2007,
primarily as a result of the net revenue from new projects in Dubai. Approximately one-half of the
increase in net revenue for the Middle East region was a result of increased subcontractor work
managed by the branding division, resulting in a similar increase in labour costs, as described
below.
Operating expenses, excluding depreciation, for the twelve months ended September 30, 2008 were
$13.6 million compared with $10.2 million for the twelve months ended September 30, 2007, an
increase of $3.4 million. Expressed as a percentage of revenue operating expenses were 87.4% this
year compared to 82.6% last year.
19
Salaries and benefits expenses for the current fiscal year were $11.0 million compared to $8.0
million last year, an increase of $3.0 million or 37.5%. The main reason for the increase in
labour costs was the need to subcontract significant portions of the work in the Middle East
region. Approximately $1.2 million of net revenue in fiscal 2008 was subcontracted work, compared
to almost none in fiscal 2007. Certain new business required that the Company act as lead
consultant on the project and subcontract work that was outside its expertise. The result was an
increase to both net revenue and labour. As margins are smaller on the subcontracted portion,
labour costs as a percentage of revenue increased. Salaries and benefits expense as a percent of
net revenue was 70.7% for the fiscal year 2008 compared to 64.8% for the same period last year.
Salaries and benefits continue to be closely monitored to align costs with current and expected
revenues.
General and administrative expenses were $1.7 million for the twelve months ended September 30,
2008, compared to $1.4 million for twelve months ended September 30, 2007, an increase of $0.3
million. General and administrative expenses as a percent of net revenue were 11.2% for the current
year compared to 11.5% last year. The Company continues to focus on ways to reduce or eliminate
discretionary expenses while balancing the need to maintain the quality of its service while
investing to grow its net revenue.
Occupancy costs for the twelve months ended September 30, 2008 and for the same period last year
were $0.8 million. Occupancy costs as a percent of net revenue were 5.4% this year compared to
6.2% last year.
Depreciation expense for the year ended September 30, 2008 and year ended September 30, 2007 was
$0.4 million.
Interest (income) expense was minimal for the twelve months ended September 30, 2008 and the
comparative period last year.
Pre-tax earnings from the Branding segment were $1.6 million in fiscal 2008 compared to $1.8
million in fiscal 2007.
Merchant Banking Segment
Investment income from Merchant Banking activities includes realized and unrealized gains and
losses from the Companys investments plus interest and dividend income earned during the period.
Envoys Merchant banking activities were reported as a new operating segment in fiscal 2007.
The Merchant Banking segment experienced net investment losses of approximately ($4.3) million for
the twelve months ended September 30, 2008, compared to net investment gains of $5.1 million for
the twelve months ended September 30, 2007. A significant downturn in the markets beginning in
June, 2008 resulted in considerable negative returns on the investment portfolio. Of the ($4.3)
million loss in fiscal 2008, approximately ($3.8) million was sustained in the fourth quarter
alone. Investment gains going forward will continue to be a function of general market and
economic conditions as well as the success of individual securities selected for investment.
Accordingly, the income generated from such investment activity is unlikely to be consistent from
period to period.
20
For the twelve months ended September 30, 2008 the Company recognized losses attributable to the
sale of marketable securities or adjustments to market value of ($4.9) million. For the same period
last year, the Company recognized gains of $4.1 million. Interest and dividend income for the
Merchant Banking segment for the fiscal year 2008 was approximately $0.7 million, compared to $1.1
million last year. Interest earned for the period was largely attributable to cash held in short
term interest bearing corporate notes or discount securities.
For the twelve months ended September 30, 2008, the Company experienced a negative return of
(12.2%) compared to last year when the Company generated a positive return of approximately 15.7%
on its invested capital. Investment returns were significantly impacted by the deterioration of
worldwide stock markets. Late in the third quarter of fiscal 2008, domestic, U.S. and
international markets began a slide which continued through the end of the fiscal year and beyond.
Management made a decision early in the downturn to preserve capital by divesting from much of its
liquid holdings and was able to mitigate a good portion of the potential downside. In comparison
to other widely-used benchmarks the Company outperformed, as the Dow Jones Industrial Average lost
(23.1%) over the Companys fiscal year period, while the S&P 500 and TSX lost (24.9%) and (17.5%),
respectively.
Operating expenses for the Merchant Banking business are comprised largely of salaries and
benefits. Total operating expenses for the twelve months ended September 30, 2008 were
approximately $1.5 million, compared to $1.9 million for the same period last year, as a result of
lower management compensation.
Fiscal 2008 pre tax loss from the Merchant Banking segment totaled approximately ($5.8) million,
compared to earnings of $3.3 million last year.
Corporate
Corporate expenses include salaries and benefits for the accounting, financial and administrative
functions of Envoy. In addition, the corporate expenses include the costs of regulatory compliance
such as audit and legal expenses, board fees, listing fees and shareholder relations. Credit
amounts generated by the corporate segment relate to a recovery in excess of actual costs as a
result of subleasing excess space at the Companys corporate office. Due to the unpredictable
nature of certain maintenance and operating costs, there is no assurance that recovered amounts
will continue to be in excess of actual expenditures. For the twelve months ended September 30,
2008 these expenses, excluding depreciation, totaled approximately $2.0 million, compared to
approximately $2.4 million in the prior year.
In fiscal 2007, the Corporate segment of the Companys operations earned approximately $0.4 million
in interest revenue from cash set aside to fund the Companys substantial issuer bid, which closed
in January 2007. Approximately $30 million was segregated for this purpose and held in secure cash
investments bearing a nominal interest rate. As the substantial issuer bid was completed, it is
not expected that additional interest income will be earned within the corporate segment.
21
Income Taxes
Given the current operating loss, along with the uncertainty surrounding investment markets going
forward, the Company has increased its valuation allowance on its future tax assets. As a result
of the valuation allowance, the current value of the tax asset reflects managements assessment of
those timing differences and loss carryforwards which are more likely than not to be used in future
periods. Income tax expense for the year was $3.7 million. All of the expense is a result of a
revaluation of the Companys future tax asset.
Income from discontinued operations
Income from discontinued operations represents income from Envoys UK subsidiaries which were
disposed of in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2006. The income from discontinued operations, net of
income taxes and minority interests, for the fiscal year 2008 was $nil and for the fiscal year 2007
was approximately $0.4 million. Income from discontinued operations in fiscal 2007 represents the
settlement of potential liabilities more favourably than expected.
Discontinued operations as detailed in note 21 to the Financial Statements as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Fiscal year: |
|
2008 |
|
|
2007 |
|
|
2006 |
|
|
Net revenue |
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
21,432,172 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Operating expenses |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
17,460,973 |
|
Interest income |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(60,327 |
) |
Depreciation |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1,294,822 |
|
Income tax expense |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
582,122 |
|
|
|
|
Earnings from discontinued operations
(excluding gain on sale) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2,154,582 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Minority interest |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
347,599 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Gain on sale of discontinued operations |
|
|
|
|
|
|
375,514 |
|
|
|
5,721,229 |
|
|
|
|
|
Earnings from discontinued operations |
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
375,514 |
|
|
$ |
7,528,212 |
|
|
Net earnings (loss)
Net loss for the twelve months ended September 30, 2008 was ($10.2) million, compared to earnings
of $3.0 million for the twelve months ended September 30, 2007. On a per share basis the net loss
in the current year was ($1.11) per share compared to earnings of $0.23 last year.
The earnings per share calculations are based on fully diluted weighted average shares outstanding
of 9,122,688 this year compared to 13,155,910 last year.
22
THREE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2008, COMPARED TO THREE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2007
On a consolidated basis, the net loss for the fourth quarter of fiscal 2008 was ($8.3) million,
compared to net earnings of $0.4 million for the fourth quarter of fiscal 2007.
The comparative results for the fourth quarter of fiscal 2007 include a final adjustment to the
gain on disposition of the UK and European operations. The amount is included as discontinued
operations as a result of the sale of ECG Holdings (UK) in fiscal 2006. Income from discontinued
operations was nil in fiscal 2008. From continuing operations, fully diluted net loss per share
for this years fourth quarter was ($0.95), compared to $nil last year. Earnings from discontinued
operations in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2008 were $nil compared to $0.04 per fully diluted share
in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2007.
Consumer and Retail Branding Segment
Net revenue for the Branding segment represents compensation for services rendered, net of any
pass-through costs such as production costs incurred on behalf of clients in acting as agent for
them.
The breakdown of net revenue is as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net revenue for the three months ended September 30 |
|
|
|
(in millions) |
|
|
|
2008 |
|
|
% of total |
|
|
2007 |
|
|
% of total |
|
By customer location: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
USA and South America |
|
$ |
1.5 |
|
|
|
44 |
% |
|
$ |
2.2 |
|
|
|
65 |
% |
Canada |
|
|
1.3 |
|
|
|
37 |
% |
|
|
0.9 |
|
|
|
26 |
% |
Middle East and Asia |
|
|
0.7 |
|
|
|
19 |
% |
|
|
0.3 |
|
|
|
9 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
3.5 |
|
|
|
100 |
% |
|
$ |
3.4 |
|
|
|
100 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net revenue for the three months ended September 30, 2008 was $3.5 million, compared to $3.4
million for the three months ended September 30, 2007, an increase of $0.1 million. The principal
reason for the increase in net revenue from last year to this year was new business wins in the
Middle East region. New developments continue to be built and the Company has positioned itself
well in the region.
Net revenue from U.S. and South American customers decreased by approximately $0.7 million for the
fourth quarter of fiscal 2008 as compared to the same period last year, while net revenue from the
Canadian based customers increased by $0.4 million. Net revenue from the Middle East and Asia
region increased $0.4 million.
Operating expenses, excluding depreciation, for the fourth quarter of 2008 were $3.4 million,
compared to $3.0 million in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2007, mainly due to increased labour
costs. Expressed as a percentage of revenue, operating expenses were 99.2% this year compared to
88.2% last year.
Salaries and benefits expenses for the fourth quarter of 2008 were $2.9 million compared to $2.6
million for the fourth quarter last year, an increase of $0.3 million or 11.5%. Salaries
23
and benefits levels increased as a result of the increase in revenue, as well as an increase in
subcontracted labour, as discussed in the full year results analysis. Salaries and benefits
expense as a percent of net revenue was 83.1% for this years fourth quarter compared to 74.9% for
the same period last year.
General and administrative expenses were $0.4 million in the current quarter compared to $0.3
million in the same period last year. General and administrative expenses as a percent of net
revenue were 11.1% for this years fourth quarter compared to 8.4% in the same period last year.
Occupancy costs for both the current quarter and last years comparable period were $0.2 million.
Occupancy costs as a percent of net revenue were 5.9% in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2008 compared
to 4.7% in the same period last year.
Depreciation expense for the three months ended September 30, 2008 and three months ended September
30, 2007 was $0.1 million.
There was a small amount of interest income for the three months ended September 30, 2008 and a
small amount of interest expense for the same period last year.
Pre-tax losses from the Branding segment were ($0.1) million in fiscal 2008 compared to pre-tax
earnings of $0.3 million in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2007.
Merchant Banking Segment
For the fourth quarter ended September 30, 2008 the merchant banking segment experienced net
investment losses of ($3.8) million, compared to investment gains of $1.0 million in the same
period last year. The majority of the losses in the current quarter were due to downward
adjustment to market value of its investments as at September 30, 2008 compared to their value at
the end of the prior quarter. The business also realized losses on sale of some investments as
part of the decision to rebalance its portfolio during the market downturn.
Operating expenses for the Merchant Banking business were comprised largely of salaries and
benefits. Total operating expenses for the quarter were approximately $0.2 million, compared to
$0.5 million for the same period last year.
During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2008 pre tax losses from the Merchant Banking business totaled
approximately ($4.0) million, compared to pre-tax earnings of $0.5 million in the same period last
year.
Corporate
Corporate expenses include salaries and benefits for the accounting, financial and administrative
functions of Envoy. In addition, the corporate expenses include the costs of regulatory compliance
such as audit and legal expenses, board fees, listing fees and shareholder relations. During the
current quarter these expenses totaled approximately $0.5 million, compared to $0.9 million for the
same period last year.
24
Income Taxes
The income tax expense for the period was $3.7 million. The reason for the disparity from the
substantially enacted tax rate of 33% was an adjustment to the value of the future tax asset based
on the Companys results for the fourth quarter along with the overall volatility in the market and
economic uncertainty at year end. The current value of the future tax asset reflects managements
assessment of those timing differences and loss carryforwards which are more likely than not to be
used in future periods.
Income from discontinued operations
The income from discontinued operations, net of income taxes and minority interests, for the fourth
quarter of fiscal 2008 was nil compared to $0.4 million for the fourth quarter of fiscal 2007.
Net (loss) earnings
Net loss for the three months ended September 30, 2008 was ($8.3) million, compared to earnings of
$0.4 million for the three months ended September 30, 2007. On a per share basis the net loss in
the current quarter was ($0.95) per share compared to earnings of $0.04 last year. The earnings per
share calculations are based on fully diluted weighted average shares outstanding of 8,688,245 for
the current quarter compared to 9,747,620 in the same period last year.
25
SUMMARY OF QUARTERLY RESULTS
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Q4 2008 |
|
|
Q3 2008 |
|
|
Q2 2008 |
|
|
Q1 2008 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net revenue |
|
|
($0.3) million |
|
|
$ |
3.5 million |
|
|
$ |
3.3 million |
|
|
$ |
4.7 million |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net earnings (loss): |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
From continuing
operations |
|
|
($8.25) million |
|
|
|
($1.28) million |
|
|
|
($0.98) million |
|
|
|
$0.36 million |
|
Including
discontinued
operations |
|
|
($8.25) million |
|
|
|
($1.28) million |
|
|
|
($0.98) million |
|
|
|
$0.36 million |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net earnings per share |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
From continuing
operations |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Basic |
|
|
($0.95 |
) |
|
|
($0.14 |
) |
|
|
($0.10 |
) |
|
$ |
0.04 |
|
Diluted |
|
|
($0.95 |
) |
|
|
($0.14 |
) |
|
|
($0.10 |
) |
|
$ |
0.04 |
|
Including
discontinued
operations |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Basic |
|
|
($0.95 |
) |
|
|
($0.14 |
) |
|
|
($0.10 |
) |
|
$ |
0.04 |
|
Diluted |
|
|
($0.95 |
) |
|
|
($0.14 |
) |
|
|
($0.10 |
) |
|
$ |
0.04 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Q4 2007 |
|
|
Q3 2007 |
|
|
Q2 2007 |
|
|
Q1 2007 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net revenue |
|
$ |
4.5 million |
|
|
$ |
4.3 million |
|
|
$ |
3.8 million |
|
|
$ |
5.0 million |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net earnings (loss): |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
From continuing
operations |
|
|
($0.01) million |
|
|
$ |
0.20 million |
|
|
$ |
0.86 million |
|
|
$ |
1.59 million |
|
Including
discontinued
operations |
|
$ |
0.36 million |
|
|
$ |
0.20 million |
|
|
$ |
0.86 million |
|
|
$ |
1.59 million |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net earnings (loss)
per share |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
From
continuing
operations |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Basic |
|
$ |
0.00 |
|
|
$ |
0.02 |
|
|
$ |
0.07 |
|
|
$ |
0.08 |
|
Diluted |
|
$ |
0.00 |
|
|
$ |
0.02 |
|
|
$ |
0.07 |
|
|
$ |
0.08 |
|
Including
discontinued
operations |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Basic |
|
$ |
0.04 |
|
|
$ |
0.02 |
|
|
$ |
0.07 |
|
|
$ |
0.08 |
|
Diluted |
|
$ |
0.04 |
|
|
$ |
0.02 |
|
|
$ |
0.07 |
|
|
$ |
0.08 |
|
26
RECONCILIATION TO U.S. GENERALLY ACCEPTED ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES
Summary of material adjustments to net earnings (loss) for the years ended September 30, 2008, 2007
and 2006 required to conform to US GAAP. Detailed information can be found in note 22 to the
Financial Statements.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2008 |
|
|
2007 |
|
|
2006 |
|
|
Net (loss) earnings Canadian GAAP |
|
$ |
(10,158,145 |
) |
|
$ |
3,016,719 |
|
|
$ |
2,136,186 |
|
Cash held in escrow 22(a) |
|
|
2,803,549 |
|
|
|
(103,549 |
) |
|
|
(2,700,000 |
) |
Capitalized incorporation costs 22(f) |
|
|
66,339 |
|
|
|
(66,339 |
) |
|
|
|
|
Income recognized on reclassification
of investments 22(g) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
77,416 |
|
|
|
|
|
Gains on privately-held securities 22(g) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(1,147,500 |
) |
|
|
|
|
Fair value adjustment on restricted
securities 22(g) |
|
|
1,619,615 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net (loss) earnings based on
U.S. GAAP |
|
$ |
(5,668,642 |
) |
|
$ |
1,776,747 |
|
|
$ |
(563,814 |
) |
|
Net (loss) earnings from continuing
operations |
|
$ |
(8,472,191 |
) |
|
$ |
1,401,233 |
|
|
$ |
(5,392,026 |
) |
Net earnings from discontinued
operations (Notes 21) |
|
$ |
2,803,549 |
|
|
$ |
375,514 |
|
|
$ |
4,828,212 |
|
|
The following adjustments are required in order to conform total assets based on Canadian GAAP to
total assets based on U.S. GAAP:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2008 |
|
|
2007 |
|
|
Total assets based on Canadian GAAP |
|
$ |
36,482,044 |
|
|
$ |
50,792,314 |
|
Cash held in escrow 22(a) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(2,803,549 |
) |
Capitalized incorporation costs 22(f) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(66,339 |
) |
Investments held for trading 22(g) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(1,147,500 |
) |
Fair value adjustment on restricted
securities 22(g) |
|
|
472,115 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total assets based on U.S. GAAP |
|
$ |
36,954,159 |
|
|
$ |
46,774,926 |
|
|
The following adjustments are required in order to conform shareholders equity based on Canadian
GAAP to shareholders equity based on U.S. GAAP:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2008 |
|
|
2007 |
|
|
Shareholders equity based on Canadian GAAP |
|
$ |
32,159,321 |
|
|
$ |
45,157,001 |
|
Cash held in escrow 22(a) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(2,803,549 |
) |
Capitalized incorporation costs 22(f) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(66,339 |
) |
Gains on privately-held securities 22(g) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(1,147,500 |
) |
Fair value adjustment on restricted
securities 22(g) |
|
|
472,115 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Shareholders equity based on U.S. GAAP |
|
$ |
32,631,436 |
|
|
$ |
41,139,613 |
|
|
27
The Companys comprehensive income represents U.S. GAAP net earnings plus the results of certain
changes in shareholders equity during a period from non-owner sources that are not reflected in
the consolidated statements of operations.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2008 |
|
|
2007 |
|
|
2006 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net (loss) earnings for the year in
accordance with U.S. GAAP |
|
$ |
(5,668,642 |
) |
|
$ |
1,776,747 |
|
|
$ |
(563,814 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Unrealized gain (loss) on available
for sale securities arising during
the year |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
242,378 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Less: reclassification adjustment
for gains realized in net income |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(242,378 |
) |
|
|
5,859 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Change in cumulative translation
adjustment account |
|
|
76,519 |
|
|
|
(25,514 |
) |
|
|
2,101,995 |
|
|
|
|
$ |
(5,592,123 |
) |
|
$ |
1,508,855 |
|
|
$ |
1,786,418 |
|
|
B. Liquidity and Capital Resources
As at September 30, 2008, Envoy had working capital of $24.5 million, compared to September 30,
2007, when it had a working capital of $33.3 million. Included in working capital is an investment
portfolio of marketable securities, the current portion of which was $17.7 million at September 30,
2008 and $27.6 million at September 30, 2007. The principal reason for the decrease was the
deterioration in market value of the investments.
Approximately $2.0 million in cash was generated from operations during the twelve months ended
September 30, 2008, compared to $1.6 million for the twelve months ended September 30, 2007. The
main source of funds was the sale of investments held for trading. The cash provided from
continuing operations was used to finance an increase in accounts receivable due to the growth of
the branding business. The accounts receivable balance at year end was particularly high due to
several large invoices not collected until October 2008.
The Company used approximately $2.9 million of working capital to repurchase 1,064,930 shares of
the Company pursuant to the normal course issuer bid. A similar amount of funds was used to
repurchase shares in fiscal 2007 under the previous normal course issuer bid.
The Company used funds not otherwise invested in the market to pay down its operating line of
credit in fiscal 2008 in order to minimize interest charges. The revolving credit facility is
available up to a maximum of $2.0 million, and was almost fully utilized at September 30, 2007.
At September 30, 2008, there were no borrowings under the credit facility.
During fiscal 2008, the Company reinvested the proceeds from loans receivable into capital assets
to support the branding business. In the prior year, the Company used proceeds from
28
the sale of investments to fund its substantial issuer bid resulting in the repurchase of more than
40% of the outstanding shares.
Despite the current economic conditions, the Company has access to significant liquid capital
resources and is not exposed to any investments with distressed credit.
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES
The significant accounting policies used by Envoy in preparing its Financial Statements are
described in Note 2 to the Financial Statements and should be read to ensure a proper understanding
and evaluation of the estimates and judgements made by management in preparing those Financial
Statements. Envoys Financial Statements are prepared in accordance with Canadian generally
accepted accounting principles. Envoy also prepared a reconciliation to United States generally
accepted accounting principles, which is included in Note 22 to the Financial Statements.
Inherent in the application of some of these policies is the judgment by management as to which of
the various methods allowed under generally accepted accounting principles is the most appropriate
to apply in the case of Envoy. As well, management must take appropriate estimates at the time the
Financial Statements are prepared.
Although all of the policies identified in Note 2 to the Financial Statements are important in
understanding the Financial Statements, the policies discussed below are considered by management
to be central to understanding the Financial Statements, because of the higher level of measurement
uncertainties involved in their application.
Goodwill
Goodwill represents the price paid for acquisitions in excess of the fair market value of net
tangible and intangible assets acquired. Goodwill is carried at cost, less impairment losses if
any.
The Company uses a two-step impairment test on an annual basis, or when significant business
changes have occurred that may have had an adverse impact on the fair value of the goodwill. To
determine whether impairment has occurred, the fair value of the reporting unit is compared to its
carrying amounts, including goodwill. When the fair value is in excess of its carrying amount, the
goodwill is not considered to be impaired, and the second step of the impairment test is not
necessary.
When the carrying amount of the reporting unit as determined in the first step exceeds the fair
value, then the fair value of the goodwill is determined in the same manner as followed on a
business combination. An impairment loss is recognized when the carrying amount of the goodwill
of a reporting unit exceeds its fair value. It is not reversed in the event that the fair value
subsequently increases.
Income Taxes
Envoy accounts for income taxes using the asset and liability method. Under this method, future
income taxes are recognized at the enacted or substantially enacted tax rate expected to
29
be applicable at the anticipated date of the reversal for all significant temporary differences
between the tax and accounting bases of assets and liabilities and for certain tax carryforward
items. Future income tax assets and liabilities are recognized only to the extent that, in the
opinion of management, it is more likely than not that the future income tax assets will be
realized. Future operating results and future tax rates could vary materially, and accordingly the
value of income tax assets and liabilities could change by material amounts.
Revenue Recognition Branding segment
The Company presents as net revenue its net commission and fee income earned as compensation for
its services. Further, the balance sheet reflects the following:
|
(i) |
|
deferred revenue representing fees billed and collected in advance of such fees being
earned; |
|
|
(ii) |
|
unbilled accounts receivable representing fees earned but not yet billed as well as
well as reimbursable pass-through costs; and |
|
|
(iii) |
|
work in process represents costs incurred on projects for which revenue has not yet
been recognized for accounting purposes. |
Included in work in process are charges for staff time at standard cost and third party charges.
The standard cost rate provides for the recovery of actual labour and overhead costs incurred. The
third party charges are for actual costs related to outsourced goods and services for specific
projects.
The Company recognizes net revenue and profits for Consumer and Retail Branding on the completed
contract basis, and accordingly revenue and profit are recognized only when the contract or
contract milestone is substantially complete. Anticipated losses are provided for when the
estimate of total costs on a contract indicates a loss.
Net revenue for the Consumer and Retail Branding segment represents compensation for services
rendered, net of any pass-through costs such as production costs incurred on behalf of clients in
acting as agent for them. In circumstances where the Company retains subcontractors, such as
architects or engineers, to perform services as an agent to the Company, the revenue for such
services is included in net revenue and the cost of the subcontractors services is included in
salaries and benefits expense or general and administrative expenses, as appropriate.
Revenue Recognition Merchant banking segment
Securities transactions are recorded on a trade-date basis. Changes in fair value of
held-for-trading investments are reflected in the consolidated statements of operations. Dividend
income is recorded on the ex-dividend date. Interest income is recorded on an accrual basis.
Financial Instruments
Effective October 1, 2006, the Company adopted Canadian Institute of Chartered Accountants
Handbook Section 3855 Financial Instruments recognition and measurement
30
(CICA Section 3855) and Section 3861 Financial Instruments disclosure and presentation. CICA
Section 3855 establishes standards for recognizing and measuring financial assets, financial
liabilities and non-financial derivatives.
Under the new standards, financial assets and financial liabilities are initially recognized at
fair value and their subsequent measurement is dependent on their classification as described
below. Their classification depends on the purpose for which the financial instruments were
acquired or issued, their characteristics and the Companys designation of such instruments. The
standards require that all financial assets be classified either as held-for-trading (HFT),
available-for-sale (AFS), held-to-maturity (HTM), or loans and receivables. The standards
require that all financial assets, including all derivatives, be measured at fair value with the
exception of loans and receivables, debt securities classified as HTM, and AFS financial assets
that do not have quoted market prices in an active market.
HFT financial assets are financial assets typically acquired for resale prior to maturity. They
are measured at fair value at the balance sheet date. Interest and dividends earned, gains and
losses realized on disposal and unrealized gains and losses from market fluctuations are included
in net revenue for the period.
HTM financial assets are those non-derivative financial assets with fixed or determinable payments
and a fixed maturity, other than loans and receivables that an entity has the positive intention
and ability to hold to maturity. These financial assets are measured at amortized cost.
AFS financial assets are those non-derivative financial assets that are designated as AFS, or that
are not classified as loans and receivables, HTM investments or HFT. AFS financial assets are
carried at fair value with unrealized gains and losses included in Other Comprehensive Income (OCI)
until realized when the cumulative gain or loss is recognized in net income.
Loans and receivables are accounted for at amortized cost using the effective interest method.
At each financial reporting period, the Companys management estimates the fair value of
investments based on the criteria below and reflects such valuations in the consolidated financial
statements.
(i) Publicly-traded investments:
Securities which are traded on a recognized securities exchange and for which no sales
restrictions apply are recorded at fair values based on quoted market prices at the consolidated
balance sheet dates or the closing price on the last day the security traded if there were no
trades at the consolidated balance sheet dates.
Securities which are traded on a recognized securities exchange but which are escrowed or
otherwise restricted as to sale or transfer may be recorded at amounts discounted from market
value. In determining whether a discount is appropriate for such investments, the Company
considers the nature and length of the restriction, the business risk of the investee company,
its stage of development, market potential, relative trading volume and price volatility and any
other factors that may be relevant to the ongoing and realizable value of the investments.
31
(ii) Privately-held investments:
Securities in privately-held companies designated as HFT are recorded at fair value based on
objective evidence including recent arms length transactions between knowledgeable, willing
parties, such as significant subsequent equity financing by an unrelated, professional investor,
discounted cash flow analysis, operational results, forecasts and other developments since
acquisition.
Discontinued operations
The results of operations of a business that has either been disposed of, or is held for sale, is
reported as discontinued operations if the operations and cash flows of the component have been (or
will be) eliminated from the Companys ongoing operations, and the Company will not have any
significant continuing involvement in the operations of the component after the disposal
transaction. The results of discontinued operations, less applicable taxes are reported as a
separate element of income or loss before extraordinary items for both current and prior periods.
Recently Adopted Accounting Policies
Effective October 1, 2007, the Company adopted prospectively the following Canadian Institute of
Chartered Accountants Handbook (CICA Handbook) new accounting standards for interim and annual
financial statements for fiscal years beginning on or after October 1, 2007:
(i) CICA Handbook Section 1535, Capital Disclosures, which requires the disclosure of both
qualitative and quantitative information that enables users of financial statements to evaluate the
entitys objectives, policies and processes for managing capital including disclosures of any
externally imposed capital requirements and the consequences of noncompliance;
(ii) CICA Handbook Section 3862, Financial Instruments Disclosure, which requires disclosure of
information related to the significance of financial instruments to a companys financial position
and performance. A company is also required to disclose information related to the risks of its use
of financial instruments and how those risks are managed;
(iii) CICA Handbook Section 3863, Financial Instruments Presentation, which establishes
standards for presentation of financial instruments. It deals with the presentation of financial
instruments and the circumstances in which financial assets and financial liabilities are offset.
The initial adoption of this standard did not have a material effect on the financial position or
earnings of the Company.
10. IMPACT OF RECENTLY ISSUED ACCOUNTING STANDARDS
Goodwill and Intangible Assets
The CICA issued a new accounting standard, Section 3064, Goodwill and Intangible Assets, which
clarifies that costs can be deferred only when they relate to an item that meets the definition of
an asset. As a result, start-up costs must be expensed as incurred. Section 1000,
32
Financial Statement Concepts, was also amended to provide consistency with this new standard. These
new standards are effective for years beginning on or after October 1, 2008. The Company is
currently assessing the impact of these standards on its consolidated financial statements.
International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS)
On February 13, 2008 the Canadian Accounting Standards Board (AcSB) confirmed January 1, 2011 as
the official changeover date for publicly listed Canadian companies to start using International
Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS). The transition will affect interim and annual financial
statements relating to years beginning on or after January 1, 2011. The Company continues to
monitor, and assess, the impact of the convergence of Canadian GAAP and IFRS.
Fair Value Measurements (SFAS 157)
FASB issued SFAS 157 which defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value in
U.S. GAAP and expands disclosures about fair values. This Standard applies under other accounting
pronouncements where fair value is the relevant measurement attribute and as a result does not
require any new fair value measurements. The Standard is applicable for fiscal years beginning
after November 15, 2007. The Company is currently considering the impact of the adoption of this
Standard but believes that the impact will not be significant.
Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities (SFAS 159)
In February 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 159, The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and
Financial Liabilities. SFAS No. 159 permits companies to measure financial instruments and certain
other items at fair value. The objective of this statement is to improve financial reporting by
providing companies with the opportunity to mitigate volatility in reported earnings caused by
measuring related financial assets and financial liabilities differently without having to apply
complex hedge accounting provisions. SFAS No. 159 is expected to expand the use of fair value
measurement for accounting for financial instruments. SFAS No. 159 is effective for fiscal years
beginning after November 15, 2007. The Company is currently considering the impact of the adoption
of this Standard but believes that the impact will not be significant.
FIN 141(R), Business Combinations and FAS 160, Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Financial
Statements
These Statements are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008. FIN 141(R)
requires the acquiring entity in a business combination to recognize all (and only) the assets
acquired and liabilities assumed in the transaction; establishes the acquisition-date fair value as
the measurement objective for all assets acquired and liabilities assumed; and requires the
acquirer to disclose to investors and other users all of the information they need to evaluate and
understand the nature and financial effect of the business combination. FAS160 requires all
entities to report non-controlling (minority) interests in subsidiaries in the same way as
equity in the consolidated financial statements. The impact of adopting these Standards is not
expected to be material.
33
FAS 161, Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities.
This standard is intended to improve financial reporting about derivative instruments and hedging
activities by requiring enhanced disclosures to enable investors to better understand their effects
on an entitys financial position, financial performance, and cash flows. It is effective for
financial statements issued for fiscal years and interim periods beginning after November 15, 2008
with early adoption encouraged. The impact of adopting this Standard is not expected to be
material.
FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS
All statements in this annual report on Form 20-F that do not directly and exclusively relate to
historical facts constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of that term in Section
27A of the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the 1933 Act), and Section 21E of
the United States Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the Exchange Act). These
statements represent Envoys intentions, plans, expectations and beliefs, and are subject to risks,
uncertainties and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of Envoy. These factors could
cause actual results to differ materially from such forward-looking statements. These factors
include but are not restricted to the timing and size of contracts, acquisitions and other
corporate developments; the ability to attract and retain qualified employees; market competition
in our industry; general economic and business conditions, foreign exchange and other risks
identified in the MD&A, in this Annual Report or Form 20-F filed with the U.S. Securities and
Exchange Commission (the SEC), or Envoys Annual Information Form filed with the Canadian
securities authorities. The words believe, estimate, expect, intend, anticipate,
foresee, plan, and similar expressions identify certain of such forward looking statements,
which are valid only as of the date on which they are made. In particular, statements relating to
future growth are forward looking statements. Envoy disclaims any intention or obligation to
publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information,
future events or otherwise. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these
forward-looking statements
C. Research and Development, Patents and Licenses, etc.
Not applicable.
D. Trend Information
Not applicable.
E. Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
None.
34
F. Commitments and Contractual Commitments
Set out below is a summary of the amounts due and committed under contractual cash obligations at
September 30, 2008:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total |
|
|
Due in year 1 |
|
|
Due in year 2 |
|
|
Due in year 3 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Operating leases |
|
$ |
1,088,837 |
|
|
$ |
769,670 |
|
|
$ |
317,647 |
|
|
$ |
1,520 |
|
Long term debt |
|
|
69,599 |
|
|
|
69,599 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total contractual
cash obligations |
|
$ |
1,158,436 |
|
|
$ |
839,269 |
|
|
$ |
317,647 |
|
|
$ |
1,520 |
|
|
G. Safe Harbor
See Special Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements in the introduction to this Form 20-F.
Item 6: Directors and Senior Management and Employees
A. Directors and Senior Management
The following table sets forth certain information regarding the directors and senior managers of
Envoy as of November 30, 2008. Each director is elected at the annual meeting of shareholders to
serve until the next annual meeting or until a successor is elected or appointed.
|
|
|
Name |
|
|
Age |
|
Positions Held with Envoy |
|
|
|
Geoffrey B. Genovese
|
|
President, Chairman and Chief |
54
|
|
Executive Officer and Director |
|
|
|
J. Joseph Leeder
|
|
Executive Vice President Mergers |
54
|
|
& Acquisitions and Chief Financial Officer |
|
|
|
John H. Bailey
|
|
Executive Vice President, |
63
|
|
Corporate Secretary and Director |
|
|
|
David Hull 1 2 3
|
|
Director |
52 |
|
|
|
|
|
Hugh Aird 1 2 3
|
|
Director |
52 |
|
|
|
|
|
David Parkes 1 2 3
|
|
Director |
52 |
|
|
|
|
|
1 |
|
Member of the Audit Committee |
|
2 |
|
Member of the Compensation Committee |
|
3 |
|
Member of the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee |
35
The principal occupations, business experiences and positions for the past five years and, in
certain cases, prior years of the directors and executive officers of Envoy are as follows:
Geoffrey B. Genovese: Mr. Genovese founded The Incentive Design Company Ltd. (IDC), a business
and marketing communications company, in 1981. Envoy acquired IDC in July 1991. Mr. Genovese
currently serves as Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Envoy and Chief Executive
Officer of Watt International. Mr. Genovese was appointed Chairman in September 2001. Mr. Genovese
has been a Director of Envoy since July 1991.
J. Joseph Leeder, CA: Mr. Leeder joined Envoy in 1998 as Vice President and Chief Financial
Officer. Prior to joining Envoy, Mr. Leeder was a partner of KPMG LLP in Canada, an accounting
firm, and an Executive Vice President of KPMG Corporate Finance Inc., a subsidiary of KPMG LLP. Mr.
Leeder left Envoy on May 30, 2003, and joined USC Forest Group as its Chief Financial Officer. Mr.
Leeder rejoined Envoy as Vice President Mergers and Acquisitions on October 24, 2005, and became
the Chief Financial Officer on January 1, 2006.
John H. Bailey: Mr. Bailey is a barrister and a solicitor who has been in private practice since
1973. Mr. Bailey earned a Bachelor of Commerce and a Bachelor of Laws degree from the University of
Toronto, and a Master of Laws degree from York University. Mr. Bailey has been a Director of Envoy
since April 1994, Corporate Secretary since August 1997, and Executive Vice-President since
February 2004.
David Hull: Mr. Hull has been the President of Hull Life Insurance Agencies Inc. since May 1991.
Hull Life Insurance Agencies Inc. specializes in estate planning and life and disability insurance.
Prior thereto, Mr. Hull served as Executive Vice President of Hull Life Insurance Agencies Ltd. and
Thomas I. Hull Insurance Ltd., members of The Hull Group of Companies. Mr. Hull has been a Director
of Envoy since January 1995.
Hugh Aird: Mr. Aird has been the Vice-Chairman North America of Edelman Public Relations, since
January, 2006. Prior to joining Edelman in 2006, Mr. Aird was the Director of Business Development
of Blackmont Capital. Prior to joining Blackmont Capital in 2005, Mr. Aird was a Senior
Relationship Manager at Morgan Stanley Canada. Mr. Aird was Vice President, Business Development,
Mulvihill Capital Management Inc. Prior to joining Mulvihill Capital Management Inc. in 2001, Mr.
Aird was Vice Chairman of Merrill Lynch Canada Inc. (formerly Midland Walwyn Capital Inc.). Mr.
Aird first became a director of Envoy on August 20, 1997. As a result of personal commitments, Mr.
Aird resigned as a director on April 1, 2003. On November 24, 2003, Mr. Aird was re-elected as a
director of Envoy.
David Parkes: Mr. Parkes is currently working for his Consulting Company David Parkes & Assoc. Mr.
Parkes was President and CEO of Freefone Inc. until 2005. Prior to joining Freefone Inc. in 2003,
Mr. Parkes founded David Parkes & Assoc. in 2001. Mr. Parkes was President and CEO of Look
Communications Inc. until 2001 and President and CEO of TeleSpectrum Canada Inc. until 1999. Mr.
Parkes has been a Director of Envoy since October 2002. Mr. Parkes is a director of SelectCore
Ltd., a prepaid telecommunications provider based in Ontario, Canada, and Mitec Telecom Inc., a
Quebec, Canada based designer and manufacturer of radio and amplifier equipment.
36
The Business Corporations Act (Ontario) (OBCA) requires that at least 25% of Envoys directors be
Canadian residents. There are no arrangements or understandings between any director or executive
officer of Envoy with major shareholders, customers or others, pursuant to which he or she was
selected as such.
There are no family relationships between any of the persons named above.
B. Compensation
The following table sets forth in, Canadian dollars all compensation for the fiscal year ended
September 30, 2008 paid to the Chief Executive Officer of Envoy and the four other most highly
compensated officers who served as executive officers of the Company (the Named Executive
Officers):
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Annual Compensation |
|
|
Long-Term Compensation |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Awards |
|
|
Payouts |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Securities |
|
|
Restricted |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Under |
|
|
Shares or |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Name and |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Other |
|
|
Option/SARs |
|
|
Restricted |
|
|
LTIP |
|
|
All Other |
|
Principal |
|
Salary |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Annual |
|
|
Granted |
|
|
Share Units |
|
|
Payouts |
|
|
Compensation |
|
Position |
|
($) |
|
|
Bonus |
|
|
($) |
|
|
(#) |
|
|
($) |
|
|
($) |
|
|
($) |
|
|
Geoffrey B. Genovese, |
|
$ |
550,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
321,086 |
1 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
162,617 2 |
|
Chairman, President
and Chief Executive
Officer |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
J. Joseph Leeder, |
|
$ |
400,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
20,603 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Vice President,
Mergers and
Acquisitions and Chief
Financial Officer |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
John H. Bailey, |
|
$ |
300,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Executive Vice
President, and
Secretary |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Colin Beaton |
|
$ |
260,691 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Managing Director,
Watt Retail Design
Practice |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Patrick Rodmell, |
|
$ |
331,923 |
|
|
$ |
75,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Managing Director,
Watt International Inc. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1 |
|
Included in this amount is $300,000 which was paid to a corporation
related to Mr. Genovese as an annual management fee. |
|
2 |
|
Mr. Genovese received taxable benefits for life insurance premiums paid
by the Corporation and a car allowance. |
37
There were no options granted under the Stock Option Plan to the Named Executive Officers of the
Company in the most recently completed fiscal year.
The following table sets forth options exercised under the Stock Option Plan to the Named Executive
Officers of the Company in the most recently completed fiscal year and the value of unexercised
options held by them as at the most recent fiscal year:
Stock Options Exercised During 2008 Fiscal Year
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Unexercised Options |
|
Value of Unexercised In |
|
|
Number of |
|
|
|
|
|
at |
|
the Money Options at |
|
|
Shares |
|
Aggregate |
|
FY-End Exercisable/ |
|
FY-End |
|
|
Acquired on |
|
Value Realized |
|
Unexercisable |
|
Exercisable/Unexercisable |
Name |
|
Exercise |
|
($) |
|
(#) |
|
($) |
Geoff Genovese |
|
Nil |
|
Nil |
|
80,000/nil |
|
nil/nil |
Joseph Leeder |
|
Nil |
|
Nil |
|
nil/nil |
|
nil/nil |
John H. Bailey |
|
Nil |
|
Nil |
|
40,000/nil |
|
nil/nil |
Patrick Rodmell |
|
|
13,333 |
|
|
$ |
23,466 |
|
|
15,000/nil |
|
nil/nil |
Colin Beaton |
|
Nil |
|
Nil |
|
nil/nil |
|
nil/nil |
The Company does not provide any pension, retirement plan or other remuneration to its directors or
officers that constitutes an expense to the Company, nor are there any plans or arrangements in
respect of compensation received or that may be received by executive officers in the Companys
most recently completed or current fiscal year to compensate such officers in the event of a
termination of employment or a change in control of the Company.
Employment Contracts and Termination Agreements:
The Company and its subsidiary, Watt International, have entered into employment contracts with the
Named Executive Officers.
Geoffrey B. Genovese has agreed to act as the Companys Chairman, President and Chief Executive
Officer at an annual base salary of $550,000, together with an annual bonus of up to 100% of salary
and fees paid to Mr. Genoveses management company, based on pre-set specific performance criteria
approved annually, in
advance, by the Compensation Committee. This agreement provides for a severance payment equivalent
to $300,000 plus an amount equal to three times the total remuneration and other compensation paid
to Genovese and his management company during the 12-month period preceding termination, if Mr.
Genoveses employment is terminated, without cause, by the Company or if there is a change of
control of the Company and Mr. Genovese elects to terminate his employment with the Company. In
addition, if there is a change of control of the Company, Mr. Genovese is entitled to receive, at
the sole discretion of the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors, a one-time bonus of up
to a maximum of $1,000,000. An annual fee of $300,000 is also payable to Mr. Genoveses management
company pursuant to a management agreement with the Company. The management agreement is
automatically renewable on September 30th of each year, unless terminated by either party.
Joseph J. Leeder has agreed to act as the Companys Executive Vice President, Mergers and
Acquisitions and Chief Financial Officer at an annual base salary of $400,000, together with
38
an
annual bonus of up to 100% of salary, based on pre-set specific performance criteria approved
annually, in advance, by the Compensation Committee. This agreement also provides for a severance
payment equal to the greater of $800,000 and two times the total remuneration and other
compensation earned by Mr. Leeder during the twelve month fiscal period of the Corporation
immediately preceding the date of termination, if Mr. Leeders employment is terminated, without
cause, by the Corporation. If there is a change of control (as defined) of the Corporation and Mr.
Leeder elects to resign within twelve months of the date on which the change of control occurs, Mr.
Leeder is entitled to receive a severance
payment equal to the same amount to which he would have been entitled if his employment had been
terminated by the Corporation, without cause.
John H. Bailey was appointed Executive Vice President of the Company on February 1, 2004. Pursuant
to the terms of an agreement dated February 1, 2004 between the Company and Semper Consulting Inc.
(Semper), Semper agreed to provide certain financial advisory services as well as general advice
of a strategic nature, including the personal services of John H. Bailey. In consideration for
these services, the Company has agreed to pay Semper an annual fee of $300,000 and to reimburse
Semper for all expenses incurred by it in the performance of its services. The agreement has a term
ending on May 31, 2010, unless sooner terminated pursuant to the provisions thereof. If the Company
terminates the agreement for any reason, other than cause, or if there is a change of control of
the Company and Semper elects to terminate the agreement, Semper is entitled to receive a payment
equal to three times the fees paid to Semper during the twelve-month period ending on the month
immediately preceding the month in which the agreement is terminated. Semper is wholly-owned by the
spouse of John H. Bailey.
Colin Beaton has agreed to act as the General Manager of Watt International Inc. (Dubai Branch) at
an annual base compensation of AED $910,900 (Cdn $262,885), together with a discretionary cash
bonus based on the performance of Watt International Inc. (Dubai Branch). This agreement provides
for a severance payment equivalent to his base salary for a period of one hundred and twenty days,
if his services are terminated by Watt International Inc. (Dubai Branch).
Patrick Rodmell has agreed to act as the President and CEO of Watt International Inc. at an annual
base salary of $350,000.00, together with an annual cash bonus based on the
performance of Watt International Inc. This agreement provides for a severance payment equivalent
to his base salary for a period of one year, if his employment is terminated, without cause, by
Watt International Inc.
Compensation of Directors:
All non-executive directors of the Company or any of its affiliates are compensated for their
services as directors and members of a committee through a combination of annual and meeting
attendance fees. Messrs. Aird, Hull and Parkes are each entitled to receive an annual
directors/committee members fee of $30,000. As the Lead Director, Mr. Aird receives an additional
$50,000 per year. A non-executive director receives an additional annual fee of $10,000 for
presiding over a committee of the Board (other than the Audit Committee). For his part, the
Chairman of the Audit Committee receives an additional annual fee of $40,000. In addition, each
director receives an attendance fee of $1,000 for each Board or committee meeting attended. No
compensation is paid to the other directors who are also executive
39
officers, for their services as
directors. Directors are also entitled to participate in the Companys Stock Option Plan.
In the fiscal year ended September 30, 2008, Envoy paid approximately $215,000 to John H. Bailey
Professional Corporation for legal services provided to Envoy. John H. Bailey Professional
Corporation is wholly-owned by John H. Bailey.
Directors and Officers Liability Insurance:
The Company maintains liability insurance for the benefit of the directors and officers of the
Company and its subsidiaries against liability incurred by them in their respective capacities. The
current annual policy limit is $15,000,000. Under the policy, individual directors and officers are
reimbursed for losses incurred in their
capacities as such, subject to a deductible of $250,000 for claims arising in the United States and
$150,000 for all other claims. The deductible is the responsibility of the Company. The Company
paid the annual premium of $142,000.
C. Board Practices
Corporate Governance:
The Company is subject to a variety of corporate governance guidelines and requirements enacted by
the CSA, The Nasdaq Capital Market (Nasdaq) and by the SEC under its rules and those mandated by
the United States Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. During the recent past, there were several changes to
the corporate governance and corporate governance disclosure requirements applicable to the
Company. Specifically, the Canadian Securities Administrators introduced in final form National
Instrument 58-101 Disclosure of Corporate Governance Practices (NI 58-101) and National Policy
58-201 Corporate Governance Guidelines (National Policy 58-201), both of which came into force
on June 30, 2005 and effectively replaced the Corporate Governance Guidelines of the Toronto Stock
Exchange. Also, in 2005, amendments were made to Multilateral Instrument 52-110 Audit Committees
(MI 52-110).
The Company is required to disclose certain specified corporate governance information under NI
58-101. The disclosure required addresses items such as the constitution and independence of
corporate boards, the functions to be performed by boards and their committees, the orientation and
education of directors, ethical business conduct and compensation matters. Set out below is a
description of certain corporate governance practices of the Company, required by NI 58-101.
As new regulations come into effect, the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee and the
Companys Board of Directors (the Board) will continue to review the Companys corporate
governance practices and make appropriate changes.
Board of Directors:
The articles of the Company provide that there shall be a Board of not less than three or more than
ten directors. There are currently five directors on the Board. National Policy 58-201 recommends
that boards of directors of reporting issuers be composed of a majority of independent directors
(within the meaning of such term in NI 58-101).
40
The Board, on the recommendation of the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee, is
responsible for determining whether or not each director is independent. To achieve this, the Board
analyses all of the relationships each director has with the Company and its subsidiaries in light
of the concept of independence in NI 58-101 and director independence standards adopted by the
Board. These standards are available in the Governance section of the Companys website at
www.envoy.to. In general, a director who meets these standards and who does not otherwise have a
material relationship with the Company would be considered independent. Based on the information
provided by each director, and having considered the independence standards mentioned above, the
Board determined that three of the Companys five directors are independent within the meaning of
such term in NI 58-101. Therefore, the Board is composed of a majority of independent directors.
The three independent directors are: Messrs. Hugh Aird, David Hull and David Parkes. Two directors
have material relationships with the Company and are therefore not independent. Mr. Geoffrey
Genovese, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company, is considered to have a material
relationship with the Company by virtue of his executive officer position. Mr. John Bailey is
considered to have a material relationship with the Company by virtue of his position as Executive
Vice President and Secretary of the Company.
The current Chairman of the Board is the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company, and
is not an independent director. Because the Chairman is an executive officer, the Board has also
adopted a policy that it have an independent lead director (Lead Director) who is charged with
the duty to ensure that the Board discharges its responsibilities effectively and independently of
management. The Lead Director chairs meetings of directors without management present. The Board
has determined that the Lead Director shall be appointed by the Board based on the recommendations
of the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee. On September 22, 2004, Hugh Aird was
appointed the Lead Director.
Where appropriate, the directors meet without management following Board meetings and at meetings
of independent directors. The Board also meets without the President and Chief Executive Officer
when his performance and compensation are being discussed. Since October 1, 2007, the independent
directors have held six meetings without non-independent directors present. In addition, the
compensation committee held five meetings and the audit committee met nine times since October 1,
2007.
Between October 1, 2007 and November 30, 2008, inclusive, the Board held 8 meetings. The attendance
of the directors at such meetings was as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
Director |
|
Board Meetings Attended 1 |
|
Hugh Aird |
|
8 of 8 |
John Bailey |
|
8 of 8 |
Geoff Genovese |
|
8 of 8 |
David Hull |
|
8 of 8 |
David Parkes |
|
7 of 8 |
|
Note: 1 In addition, Messrs. Aird, Hull and Parkes attended six meetings of the independent
directors, at which Messrs. Genovese and Bailey were not eligible to attend. Messrs. Aird, Hull and
Parkes also attended nine meetings of the audit committee and five meetings of the compensation
committee. |
41
Mandate of the Board:
The Board has adopted a Board Mandate, under the title Envoy Capital Group Inc. Corporate
Governance Guidelines. A copy of this Board Mandate is available in the Governance section of the
Companys website at www.envoy.to, and is incorporated by reference herein as Exhibit 11.3 to this
Form 20-F.
The Board has the responsibility for the overall stewardship of the Company, establishing the
overall policies and standards for the Company in the operation of its businesses, and reviewing
and approving the Companys strategic plans. In addition, the Board monitors and assesses overall
performance and progress in meeting the Companys goals. Day-to-day management is the
responsibility of the President and Chief Executive Officer and senior management.
In addition to the Boards statutory responsibilities under the OBCA, the Boards stewardship
responsibilities include the following: (a) assessing the principal risks arising from or
incidental to the business activities of the Company; (b) appointing all senior executives of the
Company and, through the Compensation Committee of the Board, developing and implementing the
executive compensation policies and reviewing the performance of the President and Chief Executive
Officer with reference to the Companys policies, stated budget and other objectives; (c)
overseeing the Companys policies regarding public communications, investor relations and
shareholder communications; and (d) monitoring and assessing, through the Audit Committee of the
Board, the scope, implementation and integrity of the Companys internal
information, audit and control systems.
Board Committees:
The directors have established the Audit Committee, the Compensation Committee and the Nominating
and Corporate Governance Committee to focus resources and expertise in certain areas of the Boards
mandate.
(a) Audit Committee
The Audit Committee is comprised of three directors, David Parkes (Chairman), Hugh Aird and David
Hull. All three members of the Audit Committee are independent directors of the Company. Among
other things, the Audit Committee is responsible for reviewing the Companys annual and quarterly
consolidated financial statements and reporting to the Board in connection therewith. On September
22, 2004, the Audit Committee adopted a new Audit Committee Charter, which specifies the auditors
accountability to the Board and the authority and responsibilities of the Audit Committee in
compliance with MI 52-110. No changes to the Audit Committee Charter were required as a result of
the amendments to MI 52-110 which became effective on June 30, 2005. A copy of the Audit Committee
Charter is available in the Governance section of the Companys website at www.envoy.to, and is
incorporated by reference herein as Exhibit 15.1 to this Form 20-F.
(b) Compensation Committee
The purpose of the Compensation Committee is to assist the Board in its oversight responsibilities
relating to the compensation, nomination, evaluation and succession of the
42
executive officers of
the Company; the administration of the Companys Stock Option/Stock Appreciation Right Plan; and
the review of executive compensation disclosure. The Compensation Committee is comprised of three
directors, David
Hull (Chairman), David Parkes and Hugh Aird, all of whom are independent directors. A copy of the
Compensation Committee Charter is available in the Governance section of the Companys website at
www.envoy.to, and is incorporated by reference herein as Exhibit 15.2 to this Form 20-F.
(c) Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee
The Board has delegated to the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee of the Board
responsibility for co-coordinating and managing the process of recruiting, interviewing and
recommending candidates to the Board; developing and recommending standards of performance of the
Board as a whole, its committees and individual directors; assessing the effectiveness of the Board
as a whole and its committees and the contribution of individual directors; making recommendations
to the Board regarding the composition of committees of the Board; providing new directors with an
orientation program through a review of past Board materials and other public and private documents
concerning the Company; reviewing and making recommendations to the Board with respect to
developments in the area of corporate governance and the structure and practices of the Board; and
reviewing and assessing compliance by the Company with applicable corporate governance rules and
guidelines established by securities regulators and stock exchanges. The Nominating and Corporate
Governance Committee is comprised of three independent directors, David Hull (Chairman), Hugh Aird
and David Parkes. A copy of the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee Charter is available
in the Governance section of the Companys website at www.envoy.to, and is incorporated by
reference herein as Exhibit 15.3 to this Form 20-F.
Position Descriptions:
The Board has a broad responsibility for supervising the management of the business and affairs of
the Company. The Chair of the Board is responsible for establishing the Agenda for each Board
meeting and ensuring agenda items are dealt with. The Board has not found it necessary to develop
specific position descriptions for the Chair of Board committees. The Board is currently of the
view that the general mandates of committees on which such directors may sit are sufficient to
delineate the role and responsibilities of the Chair of each committee.
The Companys by-laws state that the Chief Executive Officer of the Company shall exercise general
supervision over the affairs of the Company. The Board has not found it necessary to develop a
specific position description for the Chief Executive Officer beyond this description.
Orientation and Continuing Education:
New directors are given the opportunity to individually meet with members of senior management to
improve their understanding of the Companys business. All directors have regular access to senior
management to discuss Board presentations and other matters of interest.
43
The Company also gives directors a reference manual, which contains information about the Companys
history and current status, corporate governance materials, its investments and its shareholders.
This reference manual is updated regularly. It includes the Companys Code of Business Conduct,
which also applies to the directors, as well as governance and responsibilities of the Board and
its committees, and a description of the duties and obligations of directors. As part of its
mandate, the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee is also responsible for providing
orientation and continuing education for all board members, including reimbursing
costs of attending certain outside director education programs. During their regular scheduled
Board meetings, directors are given presentations on various aspects of the Companys business.
Nomination of Directors:
The members of the Companys Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee are all independent
directors. The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee has the responsibility for assessing
potential Board nominees, screening their qualifications and making recommendations for approval by
the Board of nominees for election or appointment to the Board. To help achieve this task, the
Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee develops qualifications and criteria for the
selection of directors.
The Board aims to have a sufficient range of skills, expertise and experience to ensure that it can
carry out its responsibilities effectively. Directors are chosen for their ability to contribute to
the broad range of issues that the Board must deal with. The Board reviews each directors
contribution through the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee and determines whether the
Boards size allows it to function efficiently and effectively. The Nominating and Corporate
Governance Committee is mandated to review the size of the Board from time to time and recommend
changes in size when appropriate.
Each year, the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee reviews how directors are compensated
for serving on the Board and its committees. It compares their compensation to that of similar
companies and recommends any changes to the Board. In 2004, the Board conducted a review of the
compensation of non-management directors. This was partly to address the risks and responsibilities
associated with being an effective director. As a result, a new compensation
arrangement was adopted for these non-management directors, which came into effect on October 1,
2004. All non-management directors of the Company are compensated for their services as directors
and members of a committee through a combination of annual and meeting attendance fees. Messrs.
Aird, Hull and Parkes are each entitled to receive an annual directors/committee members fee of
$30,000.00. As the Lead Director, Mr. Aird receives an additional $50,000 per year. A
non-management director receives an additional annual fee of $10,000 for presiding over a committee
of the Board (other than the Audit Committee). The Chairman of the Audit Committee receives an
additional annual fee of $40,000. In addition, each director receives an attendance fee of $1,000
for each Board or committee meeting attended. No compensation is paid to the other directors, who
are also executive officers, for their services as directors. Directors are also entitled to
participate in the Companys Stock Option Plan.
Other Board Committees:
The Board has not established any committees other than the Audit Committee, the Compensation
Committee and the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee.
44
Assessments:
As part of its charter, the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee is required to survey
every year all directors on the effectiveness and performance of the Board and the Boards
committees, as well as individual directors. This is done primarily by distributing questionnaires
to each director and will often include individual interviews with the Chairman of the Nominating
and Corporate Governance Committee.
The Companys Board Mandate states that the Nominating and Corporate Governance
Committee will report to the Board annually on the evaluation of the performance of the Board, each
of its committees and that of individual directors, based on the results of the directors annual
questionnaire. In addition, the performance of the Lead Director is annually evaluated by the chair
of the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee by means of formal interviews with each of the
directors.
Shareholder Communication:
The objective of the Companys shareholder communication policy is to ensure open and timely
exchange of information relating to the Companys business, affairs and performance, subject to the
requirements of applicable securities legislation and other statutory and contractual obligations
limiting the disclosure of such information. Information material to the Companys business is
released through news wire services, the general media, telephone conferences and shareholder
mailings, thereby ensuring timely dissemination. Additionally, individual queries, comments or
suggestions can be made at any time directly to the Companys secretarial department located at its
head office.
D. Employees
As at November 30, 2008, Envoy had 87 full-time employees based in Toronto, Canada, 12 employees
based in Dubai, UAE and 2 based in the United States. Of this total, 97 employees were engaged in
consumer and retail branding and 4 were engaged in merchant banking.
As at November 30, 2007, Envoy had 77 full-time employees based in Toronto, Canada and 1 based in
the United States. Of this total, 73 employees were engaged in consumer and retail branding and 4
were engaged in merchant banking.
As at November 30, 2006, Envoy had 76 full-time employees based in Toronto, Canada and 1
based in the United States. Of this total, 72 employees were engaged in consumer and retail
branding.
As at November 30, 2005, Envoy had 109 full-time employees based in Toronto, Canada, 2 based in the
United States and 115 based in the United Kingdom and Continental Europe. Of this total, 219
employees were engaged in consumer and retail branding.
As at January 31, 2005, Envoy had 158 full-time employees based in Toronto, Canada, 17 based in the
United States and 153 based in the United Kingdom and Continental Europe. Of this total, 20
employees were engaged in marketing, and 326 in consumer and retail branding.
45
E. Share Ownership
As of September 30, 2008, the options and other rights to purchase common shares of Envoy consisted
of stock options to purchase 225,000 common shares.
Options
Stock Option Plan
The Company has established a Stock Option Plan pursuant to which options to purchase common shares
and stock appreciation rights may be granted to directors, officers, employees or certain
consultants to the Company or any of its subsidiaries, as determined by the Board, at prices to be
fixed by the directors, subject to limitations imposed by any Canadian stock exchange on which the
common shares are listed for trading and any other regulatory authority having jurisdiction in such
matters. The common shares subject to each option shall become purchasable at such time or times as
may be determined by the directors. Stock appreciation rights (SARs) may only be granted in
conjunction with an option and, when exercised, entitle the holder to receive an amount equal in
value to the excess of the market value of the common shares over the price of the related option.
The
excess amount is payable in common shares having a market value equal to such excess. Options are
non-assignable and non-transferable by the option-holder and shall be exercisable during the
option-holders lifetime only by the option-holder. Stock appreciation rights are non-transferable
and terminate when the related option terminates.
The maximum number of common shares currently reserved for issuance upon exercise of options under
the Stock Option Plan is 800,000 common shares. As at September 30, 2008 options to purchase
225,000 common shares had been granted and were outstanding under the Stock Option Plan. There are
no SARs outstanding under the Stock Option Plan. The aggregate number of common shares reserved for
issuance to any one individual under the Stock Option Plan may not exceed 5% of the issued and
outstanding common shares.
The following table describes the options to acquire common shares that are outstanding pursuant to
the Stock Option Plan or otherwise as of November 30, 2008:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Number of Common |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Shares Under |
|
Exercise |
|
|
Class of Optionee |
|
Options Granted |
|
Price |
|
Date of Expiry |
|
Geoffrey Genovese |
|
|
80,000 |
|
|
$ |
4.00 |
|
|
May 24, 2009 |
John H. Bailey |
|
|
40,000 |
|
|
$ |
4.00 |
|
|
May 24, 2009 |
Joseph Leeder |
|
|
nil |
|
|
|
n/a |
|
|
|
|
n/a |
Patrick Rodmell |
|
|
15,000 |
|
|
$ |
4.00 |
|
|
May 24, 2009 |
Other |
|
|
90,000 |
|
|
$ |
4.00 |
|
|
May 24, 2009 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total |
|
|
225,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
46
The following table sets forth shares owned by the Named Executive Officers and Directors as of
November 30, 2008:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Number of Common |
|
Percent of |
Identity of Person |
|
Shares Owned |
|
Outstanding Class |
Geoffrey Genovese |
|
|
419,221 |
|
|
|
4.9 |
% |
Joseph Leeder |
|
|
nil |
|
|
|
nil |
|
Colin Beaton |
|
|
nil |
|
|
nil |
Patrick Rodmell |
|
|
13,333 |
|
|
|
0.2 |
% |
John H. Bailey |
|
|
25,000 |
|
|
|
0.3 |
% |
Hugh Aird |
|
|
250 |
|
|
|
0.0 |
% |
David Hull |
|
|
55,700 |
|
|
|
0.7 |
% |
David Parkes |
|
|
10,000 |
|
|
|
0.1 |
% |
Item 7: Major Shareholders And Related Party Transactions
A. Major Shareholders
Ownership of Envoys securities are recorded on the books of its transfer agent in registered form,
however the majority of such shares are registered in the name of intermediaries such as brokerage
firms and clearing houses on behalf of their respective clients and in general Envoy does not have
knowledge of the beneficial owners thereof, except for the beneficial ownership by officers and
directors of Envoy. Envoy is not directly or indirectly owned or controlled by another corporation
or entity or by any foreign government. Envoy is not a party to any arrangement, and does not know
of any other arrangements, the operation of which may at a subsequent date result in a change in
control of Envoy.
At a special meeting of the shareholders Envoy held on March 30, 2007, the shareholders approved an
amendment to the Articles of the Company to increase its authorized share capital from 40,000,000
common shares to an unlimited number of common shares.
As of November 30, 2008, Envoy had an authorized share capital of unlimited common shares without
par value, of which 8,558,377 common shares were issued and outstanding.
On January 15, 2005, the Companys board of directors approved the consolidation of the common
shares (a reverse stock split) on the basis of a 1 common share for every 5 common shares
outstanding. On January 21, 2005 the Company filed Articles of Amendment
consolidating its common shares on the basis of 1 new common share for every 5 common shares
outstanding. The effective date for post consolidation trading of the shares was February 10, 2005.
Amounts shown for shares and earnings per share figures for all periods presented have been
adjusted to give effect to the share consolidation.
As of November 30, 2008, the Company had 5,526,317 transferable common share purchase warrants (the
Warrants) outstanding. Following the consolidation described above, each
47
five whole Warrants
entitles the holder thereof, through February 20, 2009, to purchase one common share at a price of
Cdn$9.00 per common share.
The following table sets forth certain information regarding the ownership of outstanding common
shares of Envoy as of November 30, 2008 with respect to each person known by Envoy to be the
beneficial owner or, in the case of Envoy directors or Executive Officers, the beneficial owner of
more than 2.5% of Envoys outstanding common shares. As used in this table, beneficial ownership
refers to the sole or shared power to vote or direct the voting or to dispose or direct the
disposition of any security. A person is deemed to be the beneficial owner of securities that can
be acquired within 60 days from the date of this Form 20-F through the exercise of any option,
warrant or right. Common shares subject to options, warrants or rights which are currently
exercisable or exercisable within 60 days are deemed outstanding for computing the ownership
percentage of the person holding such options, warrants or rights, but are not deemed outstanding
for computing the ownership percentage of any other person. To the best of our knowledge, no
significant change in the percentage ownership of any major shareholder of the Company has taken
place during the past three years, with the exception of Messrs. Steven N. Bronson and Richard L.
Scott, who owned 10.2% and 9.8% of the common
shares at November 30, 2006, respectively. Both Messrs. Bronson and Scott tendered their shares
under the Companys substantial issuer bid, as discussed in Item 16E,
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Number of |
|
|
Identity of |
|
Common Shares |
|
Percent of |
Person or Group |
|
Beneficially Owned |
|
Outstanding Class |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Geoffrey B. Genovese |
|
|
419,221 |
|
|
|
4.9 |
% |
See also Item 6.E Share Ownership for information regarding outstanding stock options to purchase
common shares.
As of November 30, 2008 there were 8,558,377 outstanding common shares of Envoy of which 323,575
were held of record by 6 Non-U.S. residents and 8,234,802 were held of record by 19 U.S. residents.
The foregoing information regarding the number and the country of residence of Envoys shareholders
does not reflect those shareholders whose shares are being held of record by brokerage clearing
houses and in general the ultimate beneficial owners of these shares are not known to Envoy. The
Companys major shareholders do not have different voting rights.
B. Related Party Transactions
As disclosed in Note 8 to the Financial Statements, the following are transactions that took place
during fiscal 2008 and prior that involved related parties:
During fiscal 2008, the Company paid $215,000 (2007 $244,786; 2006 $230,785) for legal services
to a director of the Company. Subsequent to year end, this director became an employee of the
Company.
In April 2007, Envoy founded Sereno Capital Corporation (Sereno), a Capital Pool Company, under
the specific provisions of the TSX-V program. During the year, the
48
Company invested $200,000 in
Sereno and at September 30, 2008 Envoy owned an approximate 30% interest. Members of Envoys
management group are also officers and directors of Sereno and exercise significant influence. The
investment in Sereno has
been accounted for using the equity method.
During fiscal 2006, ECG Properties Inc. (ECGP), a newly created wholly-owned subsidiary of the
Company, entered into an agreement with an officer of the Company to jointly purchase three
investment properties located on Queen Street West in Toronto. The agreement provided that the
costs of acquisition, including legal fees, disbursements, land transfer taxes and development
costs, be funded equally by both parties. During the first quarter of fiscal 2007 the agreement was
terminated and the Company purchased the related partys interest in the properties for a cash
payment of $945,133 net of a loan receivable of $56,221.
In June 2007, ECGP sold one of its investment properties to an officer of the Company. The net
selling price was $625,000.
In March 2006, the Company, through its subsidiary ECGH, acquired an additional 5% of the shares of
PWD from two former employees pursuant to the terms and conditions of the sale and purchase
agreement for £52,679 ($104,758).
In June 2006, Envoy increased its ownership in PWD to approximately 80% by acquiring, through its
subsidiary ECGH, approximately 10% of the shares from three shareholder managers in accordance with
the terms and conditions of the sale and purchase agreement for £166,833 ($341,174) plus future
payment consideration calculated based on performance. Future consideration payments were due on
June 30, 2008. The group of three shareholder managers continued to own collectively approximately
20% of PWD. Effective September 15, 2006 Envoy sold its wholly owned UK subsidiary ECGH, including
PWD and Gilchrist. See note 21 to the Consolidated Financial Statements, Discontinued Operations.
Envoy subsequently sold PWD through its sale of ECGH.
Related party transactions are recorded at the exchange amount, being the amount agreed to by the
related parties.
Except as disclosed above, no director or executive officer, and no relative or spouse of the
foregoing persons (or relative of such spouse) who has the same house as such person or is an
executive officer or director of any parent or subsidiary of Envoy has, or during the last fiscal
year of Envoy had, any material interest, direct or indirect, in any transactions, or in any
proposed transaction, which in either such case has materially affected or will materially affect
Envoy.
There are no outstanding loans currently owed to Envoy by any director or executive officer.
Under the applicable Canadian provincial securities laws, insiders (generally officers and
directors of Envoy and its subsidiaries) are required to file individual insider reports of changes
in their ownership in Envoys securities within 10 days following any trade in Envoys securities.
Copies of such reports are available for public inspection at the offices of the British Columbia
Securities Commission, 701 West Georgia Street, Pacific Centre, Vancouver, British Columbia V7Y 1L2
(telephone 604/899-6500), at the offices of the Alberta
49
Securities Commission, 410-300 5th Avenue,
S.W., Calgary, Alberta T2P 3C4 (telephone 403/297-2489), at the offices of the Quebec Securities
Commission, Stock Tower Exchange, 800 Victoria Square, Montreal, Quebec M42 1G3 (telephone
514/395-0337) and at the offices of the Ontario Securities Commission, 20 Queen Street West, Suite
1903, Toronto, Ontario M5H 3S8 (telephone 416/593-8314)
C. Interests of Experts and Counsel
Not applicable.
Item 8: Financial Information
See Item 17 Financial Statements.
Item 9: The Offer and Listing
A. Price History
Envoys common shares are listed for trading on the TSX under the symbol ECG and on Nasdaq under
the symbol ECGI. The common shares began trading on Nasdaq on June 6, 2000 and on the TSX on
September 3, 1997. From March 1984 until September 2, 1997 Envoys shares traded on the Vancouver
Stock Exchange.
On February 10, 2005, Envoys common shares were consolidated (reverse stock split) on the basis of
1 new common share for every 5 common shares outstanding. The data presented for periods prior to
that date are adjusted accordingly for comparability.
The following table sets forth the reported high and low sale prices in Canadian dollars for the
common shares on the TSX for the fiscal, quarterly and monthly periods indicated.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
High |
|
Low |
Fiscal 2004 |
|
$ |
10.75 |
|
|
$ |
2.45 |
|
Fiscal 2005 |
|
|
4.50 |
|
|
|
2.30 |
|
Fiscal 2006 |
|
|
2.70 |
|
|
|
1.50 |
|
Fiscal 2007 |
|
|
4.71 |
|
|
|
2.35 |
|
Fiscal 2008 |
|
|
3.24 |
|
|
|
2.00 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Quarterly 2008 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
First Quarter |
|
|
3.24 |
|
|
|
2.72 |
|
Second Quarter |
|
|
3.05 |
|
|
|
2.00 |
|
Third Quarter |
|
|
3.14 |
|
|
|
2.37 |
|
Fourth Quarter |
|
|
2.60 |
|
|
|
2.00 |
|
50
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
High |
|
Low |
Quarterly 2007 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
First Quarter |
|
|
3.10 |
|
|
|
2.35 |
|
Second Quarter |
|
|
4.71 |
|
|
|
2.60 |
|
Third Quarter |
|
|
4.42 |
|
|
|
3.05 |
|
Fourth Quarter |
|
|
3.61 |
|
|
|
2.76 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
For the month ending |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
November 30, 2008 |
|
|
1.89 |
|
|
|
1.29 |
|
October 31, 2008 |
|
|
2.15 |
|
|
|
1.10 |
|
September 30, 2008 |
|
|
2.36 |
|
|
|
2.00 |
|
August 31, 2008 |
|
|
2.52 |
|
|
|
2.16 |
|
July 31, 2008 |
|
|
2.60 |
|
|
|
2.29 |
|
June 30, 2008 |
|
|
2.97 |
|
|
|
2.64 |
|
The following table sets forth the reported high and low sale prices in U.S. dollars of trading for
the common shares as reported on Nasdaq for the fiscal, quarterly and monthly periods indicated.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
High |
|
Low |
Fiscal 2004 |
|
|
U.S. $8.05 |
|
|
|
U.S. $1.85 |
|
Fiscal 2005 |
|
|
3.75 |
|
|
|
1.80 |
|
Fiscal 2006 |
|
|
2.36 |
|
|
|
1.31 |
|
Fiscal 2007 |
|
|
4.07 |
|
|
|
2.13 |
|
Fiscal 2008 |
|
|
3.39 |
|
|
|
1.90 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Quarterly 2008 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
First Quarter |
|
|
3.39 |
|
|
|
2.71 |
|
Second Quarter |
|
|
3.04 |
|
|
|
2.23 |
|
Third Quarter |
|
|
3.22 |
|
|
|
2.37 |
|
Fourth Quarter |
|
|
2.66 |
|
|
|
1.90 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Quarterly 2007 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
First Quarter |
|
|
2.69 |
|
|
|
2.13 |
|
Second Quarter |
|
|
4.04 |
|
|
|
2.50 |
|
Third Quarter |
|
|
4.07 |
|
|
|
2.81 |
|
Fourth Quarter |
|
|
3.45 |
|
|
|
2.81 |
|
51
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
High |
|
Low |
For the month ending |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
November 30, 2008 |
|
|
1.59 |
|
|
|
1.08 |
|
October 31, 2008 |
|
|
2.04 |
|
|
|
0.82 |
|
September 30, 2008 |
|
|
2.20 |
|
|
|
1.90 |
|
August 31, 2008 |
|
|
2.62 |
|
|
|
2.11 |
|
July 31, 2008 |
|
|
2.66 |
|
|
|
2.22 |
|
June 30, 2008 |
|
|
3.00 |
|
|
|
2.58 |
|
On November 30, 2008 the closing price of the common shares as reported on the TSX was
$1.65 and on NASDAQ was U.S. $1.36.
See Item 6.E. with respect to Share Ownership for information regarding outstanding stock options
to purchase 225,000 common shares.
B. Plan of Distribution
Not applicable.
C. Markets
See above Item 9.A. Price History for disclosure on Markets.
D. Selling Shareholders
Not applicable.
E. Dilution
Not applicable.
F. Expenses of the Issue
Not applicable.
Item 10: Additional Information
A. Share Capital
Not applicable.
B. Memorandum and Articles of Association
Envoys Articles of Incorporation and By-Laws were previously filed as an Exhibit to its Annual
Report on Form 20-F, dated May 15, 2000 for the fiscal year ended September 30, 1999. Subsequent
amendments to Envoys Articles of Incorporation, dated January 9, 2004 and January 21, 2005, were
previously filed as an Exhibit to its Annual Report on Form 20-F, dated December 29, 2005 for the
fiscal year ended September 30, 2005. A subsequent
52
amendment to Envoys Articles of Incorporation
dated March 30, 2007 are included in this Annual Report as Exhibit 1.4.
C. Material Contracts
None.
D. Exchange Controls and Other Limitations Affecting Security Holders
There is no governmental law, decree or regulation in Canada that restricts the export or import of
capital, or that affects the remittance of dividends, interest or other payments to a non-resident
holder of common shares of Envoy, other than withholding tax requirement. See Item l0.E.
Taxation.
There is no limitation imposed by the laws of
Canada, the laws of Ontario or British Columbia or by the charter or other constituent documents of
Envoy on the right of a non-resident to hold or vote common shares of Envoy, other than as provided
in the Investment Canada Act (Canada) (the Investment Act) . The following discussion summarizes
the material provisions of the Investment Act which relate to the acquisition by a non-resident of
common shares of Envoy. This summary is not a substitute for independent advice from an investors
own advisor, and it does not take into account any future statutory or regulatory amendments.
The Investment Act generally prohibits implementation of a reviewable investment by an individual,
government or agency thereof, corporation, partnership, trust or joint venture that is not a
Canadian as defined in the Investment Act (a non-Canadian) , unless after review the minister
responsible for the Investment Act (the Minister) is satisfied that the investment is likely to
be of net benefit to Canada. An investment in common shares of Envoy by a non-Canadian, other than
a WTO investor (as defined in the Investment Act) at any time Envoy is not controlled by a WTO
investor, is reviewable under the Investment Act if the investment is to acquire control of Envoy
and the value of the assets of Envoy is over $5,000,000 for a direct acquisition and over
$50,000,000 for an indirect acquisition or if an order for review is made by the Federal Cabinet on
the grounds that the investment relates to Canadas cultural heritage or national identity. An
investment in common shares of Envoy by a WTO investor, or by a non-Canadian at any time Envoy is
controlled by a WTO investor, is reviewable under the Investment Act if the investment is to
acquire control of Envoy and the value of the assets of Envoy is not less than $295,000,000 for
2008. A non-Canadian would acquire control of Envoy for the purposes of the Investment Act if such
investor acquired a
majority of the voting interest of Envoy unless it could be established that, on the acquisition,
Envoy was not controlled in fact by the acquirer through the ownership of common shares.
Certain transactions relating to common shares of Envoy would be exempt from the Investment Act
including:
(a) an acquisition of common shares of Envoy by a person in the ordinary course of that persons
business as a trader or dealer in securities;
(b) an acquisition of control of Envoy in connection with the realization of security granted for a
loan or other financial assistance and not for a purpose related to the provision of the Investment
Act;
53
(c) an acquisition of control of Envoy by reason of an amalgamation, merger, consolidation or
corporate reorganization following; which the ultimate direct or indirect control in fact of Envoy
through the ownership of common shares, remained unchanged;
(d) an acquisition of voting interests by any person in the ordinary course of a business carried
on by that person that consists of providing, in Canada, venture capital on terms and conditions
not inconsistent with such terms and conditions as may be fixed by the Minister; and
(e) an acquisition of control of a Canadian business for the purpose of facilitating its financing
and not for any purpose related to the provisions of the Investment Act on the condition that the
acquirer divest itself of control within two years after it is acquired or within such longer
period as is approved by the Minister.
E. Taxation
Certain Canadian Federal Income Tax Considerations
The following discussion is intended to be a general summary of certain material Canadian federal
income tax considerations applicable to holders of common shares described below and is not
intended to be, nor should it be construed to be, legal or tax advice to any particular person, and
no opinion or representation with respect to income tax considerations is hereby given or made. It
does not take into account any particular partys circumstances and does not address consequences
peculiar to any party subject to special provisions of Canadian income tax law. Each person should
consult their own tax advisors with respect to the tax consequences of an investment in the common
shares in their own particular circumstances.
The following summary is based upon the current provisions of the Income Tax Act (Canada) (the
ITA), and the regulations thereunder and the Canada- United States Income Tax Convention (1980)
as amended (the Convention), all proposed amendments to the ITA and the regulations thereunder
publicly announced by the Department of Finance, Canada prior to the date hereof, and the current
published administrative policies and assessing practices of the Canada Revenue Agency. Except for
the foregoing, this summary does not take into account or anticipate any changes in the law or the
Convention or the administrative policies or assessing practices of the Canada Revenue Agency
whether by legislative, governmental or judicial action or decision, and does not take into account
or anticipate provincial, territorial or foreign tax legislation or considerations, which may
differ significantly from the Canadian federal income tax considerations described herein.
The summary discusses the principal Canadian federal income tax considerations under the ITA and
the regulations thereunder generally applicable to purchasers of common shares who at all times:
(i) for purposes of the ITA, are not, have not been and will not be or be deemed to be resident in
Canada while they held or hold common shares, deal at arms length with Envoy, are not affiliated
with Envoy, hold their common shares as capital property, do not use or hold, and will not and will
not be deemed to use or hold their common shares in, or in the course of carrying on a business in
Canada, and are not financial institutions for the purposes of the mark-to-market rules; and (ii)
for purposes of the Convention, are residents of the U.S. and not residents of Canada, are
qualifying persons entitled to the benefits of the Convention, and will not hold their common
shares as part of the business property of, or so that their common shares are effectively
connected with, a permanent establishment in Canada or in connection with a fixed base in Canada (a
U.S. Holder).
54
Amounts in respect of common shares paid or credited or deemed to be paid or credited as, on
account or in lieu of payment of, or in satisfaction of, dividends to a U.S. Holder will generally
be subject to Canadian non-resident withholding tax. Such withholding tax is levied at a rate of
25%, which may be reduced pursuant to the terms of the Convention. Under the Convention, the rate
of Canadian non-resident withholding tax on the gross amount of dividends beneficially owned by a
U.S. Holder is 15%. However, in certain circumstances, the rate of such withholding is 5%.
A U.S. Holder will not be subject to tax under the ITA in respect of any disposition of common
shares (other than a disposition to Envoy) unless at the time of such disposition such common
shares constitute taxable Canadian property of the holder for purposes of the ITA. If the common
shares are listed on a designated stock exchange, for the purposes of the ITA, such as the TSX, at
the time they are disposed of, they will generally not constitute taxable Canadian property of
the U.S. Holder at the time of a disposition of such shares unless at any time during the 60-month
period immediately preceding the disposition of the common shares, 25% or more of the issued shares
of any class or series of Envoy, or an interest therein or an option in respect thereof, was owned
by the U.S. Holder, by persons with whom the U.S. Holder did not deal at arms length or by the
U.S. Holder and persons with whom the U.S. Holder did not deal at arms length. The common shares
may also be taxable Canadian property in certain other circumstances. Under the Convention, gains
derived by a U.S. Holder from the disposition of common shares will generally not be taxable in
Canada unless the value of the common shares is derived principally from real property situated in
Canada. If the common shares are listed on a recognized stock exchange for the purposes of the ITA
at the time they are disposed of by a U.S. Holder, the U.S. Holder will generally not be required
to comply with the provisions of section 116 of the ITA, which requires notification to be given to
the Canada Revenue Agency when certain property is disposed of.
Certain United States Federal Income Tax Considerations
The following is a general discussion of certain material anticipated United States federal income
tax considerations relevant to U.S. Holders, defined below, of Envoys common shares who hold such
shares as capital assets (as defined in Section 1221 of the United States Internal Revenue Code of
1986, as amended (the Code)). This discussion is based on the Code, U.S. Treasury regulations
thereunder (the Treasury Regulations), administrative rulings, and court decisions, all as in
effect as of the date hereof and all of which are subject to differing interpretations and/or
change at anytime (possibly with retroactive effect). This discussion is intended to be a general
description of the United States federal income tax considerations material to a purchase,
ownership and a disposition of common shares. Readers are cautioned that this discussion does not
address all relevant tax consequences relating to an investment in the common shares, nor does it
take into account tax consequences peculiar to persons subject to special provisions of United
States federal income tax law, such as financial institutions, persons actually or constructively
owning 10% or more of the voting power of Envoys stock, persons that hold common shares through a
partnership or other pass through entity, or persons that hold common shares that are a hedge
against, or that are hedged against, currency risk or that are part of a straddle or conversion
transaction, or persons whose functional currency is not the United States dollar. Therefore,
investors should consult a tax advisor regarding the particular consequences of purchasing common
shares.
55
U.S. HOLDERS SHOULD CONSULT THEIR OWN TAX ADVISORS WITH RESPECT TO THE APPLICATION OF THE UNITED
STATES FEDERAL INCOME TAX LAWS TO THEIR PARTICULAR SITUATIONS AS WELL AS ANY TAX CONSEQUENCES
ARISING UNDER THE UNITED STATES FEDERAL ESTATE OR GIFT TAX RULES OR UNDER THE LAWS OF ANY STATE,
LOCAL OR FOREIGN TAXING JURISDICTION OR UNDER ANY APPLICABLE TAX TREATY.
Except as otherwise described, this discussion applies to investors that are (i) citizens or
individual residents of the United States; (ii) corporations (or other entities taxable as
corporations), that are created or organized in or under the laws of the United States, any state
of the United States or the District of Columbia; (iii) estates, the income of which is subject to
federal income taxation, regardless of its source; or (iv) trusts (a), if a court within the United
States is able to exercise primary supervision over the administration of such trust and one or
more United States persons as described in Section 7701(a)(30) of the Code has the authority to
control all substantial decisions of such trust /or (b) that was in existence on August 20, 1996,
was treated as a U.S. person under the code on the previous day and has a valid election in effect
under applicable Treasury Regulations to be treated as a U.S. person (a U.S. Holder).
The United States federal income tax treatment of a holder of common shares that is a partnership
(or other entity taxable as a partnership for United States federal tax purposes) generally will
depend on the status of the partner and the activities of the partnership. Partners in partnerships
holding common shares should consult their tax advisors about the United States federal income tax
consequences of the purchase, ownership and disposition of common shares.
Passive Foreign Investment Company Rules
Special United States federal income tax rules apply to U.S. Holders owning shares of a passive
foreign investment company (a PFIC). A non-United States corporation generally will be classified
as a PFIC for United States federal income tax purposes in any taxable year in which, after
applying relevant look-through rules with respect to the income and assets of subsidiaries, either
at least 75% of its gross income is passive income, (the income test), or on average at least
50% of the gross value of its assets is attributable to assets that produce passive income or are
held for the production of passive income, (the asset test). For this purpose, passive income
generally includes, among other things, dividends, interest, certain rents and royalties, and gains
from the disposition of passive assets. Envoy believes that it was a PFIC for the taxable year
ended September 30, 2007, and depending on its income, assets and activities, it may be a PFIC in
the current taxable year and in subsequent taxable years.
If Envoy is classified as a PFIC for any taxable year during which a U.S. Holder holds common
shares, Envoy will continue to be treated as a PFIC with respect to such U.S. holder in all
succeeding years, regardless of whether Envoy continues to meet the income test or asset test
described above. However, under Treasury Regulations, such U.S. Holder will not be treated as
holding stock in a PFIC, if in a subsequent taxable year in which Envoy is not a PFIC, such holder
elects to recognize any unrealized gain in such common shares as of the last day of the last
taxable year during which Envoy qualified as a PFIC (a deemed sale election). Any gain so
recognized will be subject to the adverse ordinary income and any special interest charge
consequences described below. Any loss realized on the deemed sale is not recognized.
56
If a U.S. Holder holds common shares of Envoy in any year in which it is classified as a PFIC,
unless a U.S. Holder has a valid qualified electing fund (QEF) election or a mark-to-market
election, described below, in effect with respect to the common shares, the following income tax
consequences will result to the U.S. Holder:
1. Distributions with respect to Envoys common shares made by Envoy during the taxable year to a
U.S. Holder that are excess distributions must be allocated ratably to each day of the U.S.
Holders holding period. The amounts allocated to the current taxable year and to taxable years
prior to the first year in which Envoy was classified as a PFIC are included as ordinary income in
a U.S. Holders gross income for that year. The amount allocated to each other prior taxable year
is taxed as ordinary income at the highest tax rate in effect for the U.S. Holder in that prior
year and the tax is subject to an interest charge at the rate applicable to deficiencies in income
taxes (the special interest charge).
2. The entire amount of any gain realized upon the sale or other disposition of Envoys common
shares will be treated as an excess distribution made in the year of sale or other disposition and
as a consequence will be treated as ordinary income and, to the extent allocated to years prior to
the year of sale or disposition, will be subject to the interest charge described above.
QEF Election
A U.S. Holder that owns common shares may elect to have Envoy treated as a QEF, provided that Envoy
provides such person with certain information. A QEF election must be made by a U.S. Holder before
the due date (with regard to extensions) for such persons U.S. federal income tax return for the
taxable year for which the election is made and once made, is effective for all subsequent taxable
years of such U.S. Holder unless revoked with the consent of the Internal Revenue Service (the
IRS). A U.S. Holder that has a QEF election in effect with respect to all years that such holder
holds Envoys stock and Envoy is a PFIC is referred to herein as an Electing U.S. Holder. Envoy
intends to make available to U.S. Holders, in accordance with applicable procedures, the annual
information statement currently required by the IRS, which will include information as to the
allocation of Envoys ordinary earnings and net capital gain among the common shares and as to
distributions on such common shares. Such statement may be used by Electing U.S. Holders for
purposes of complying with the reporting requirements applicable to the QEF election.
An Electing U.S. Holders gain or loss on the sale or other disposition of such common shares
generally will be a capital gain or loss. Such capital gain or loss generally will be long-term if
such Electing U.S. Holder had held the common shares for more than one year at the time of the
disposition. For non-corporate U.S. Holders, long-term capital gain is generally subject to a
maximum federal income tax rate of 15% for taxable years beginning on or before December 31, 2010
(and, possibly, a higher rate thereafter).
A U.S. Holder holding common shares with respect to which a QEF election is not in effect for any
taxable year in which Envoy is a PFIC may avoid the adverse ordinary income and special interest
charge consequences (described above) upon any subsequent disposition of such common shares if such
person elects to recognize any unrealized gain in such common shares as of the first day in the
first year that the QEF election applies to such common shares
57
(a deemed sale election). Any gain so recognized, however, will be subject to the adverse
ordinary income and special interest charge consequences described above.
In any year that Envoy is treated as a PFIC, an Electing U.S. Holder will be required to include
currently in gross income such U.S. Holders pro rata share of Envoys annual ordinary earnings and
annual net capital gains. Such inclusion will be required whether or not such U.S. Holder owns
common shares for an entire year or at the end of Envoys taxable year. The amount so includable
will be determined without regard to the amount of cash distributions, if any, received from Envoy.
Electing U.S. Holders will be required to pay U.S. federal income tax currently on such imputed
income, unless, as described below, an election is made to defer such payment. The amount currently
included in income will be treated as ordinary income to the extent of the Electing U.S. Holders
allocable share of Envoys ordinary earnings and generally will be treated as long-term capital
gain to the extent of such U.S. Holders allocable share of Envoys net capital gains. Such net
capital gains ordinarily would be subject to a maximum 15% United States federal income tax rate
for taxable years beginning on or before December 31, 2010 (and, possibly, a higher rate
thereafter) in the case of non-corporate U.S. Holders, unless Envoy elects to treat the entire
amount of its net capital gain as ordinary income. No portion of such ordinary earnings will be
eligible for the favorable 15% United States federal income tax rate applicable to so-called
qualified dividend income.
If an Electing U.S. Holder demonstrates to the satisfaction of the IRS that amounts actually
distributed to him have been previously included in income as described above by such U.S. Holder
or a previous U.S. Holder, such distributions generally will not be taxable. An Electing U.S.
Holders adjusted tax basis in his common shares will be increased by any amounts currently
included in income under the QEF rules and will be decreased by any subsequent distributions from
Envoy that are treated as non-taxable distributions of previously-included income (as described in
the preceding sentence). For purposes of determining the amounts includable in income by Electing
U.S. Holders, the tax bases of Envoys assets, and Envoys ordinary earnings and net capital gains,
will be computed on the basis of United States federal income tax principles. Accordingly, it is
anticipated that such tax bases and such ordinary earnings and net capital gains may differ from
the figures set forth in Envoys financial statements.
An Electing U.S. Holder who sells his common shares prior to the end of Envoys taxable year will
be required to include in income, as of the last day of Envoys taxable year, a portion of Envoys
ordinary earnings and net capital gains attributable on a pro rata basis to the period during which
such common shares were held during such taxable year. However, the amount of such U.S. Holders
taxable gain on the sale should be reduced, or the amount of his taxable loss increased, by the
amount of such income inclusion. If an Electing U.S. Holder sells his common shares in a taxable
year of such U.S. Holder ending during Envoys then current taxable year, such U.S. Holder may
nevertheless have to include his proportionate share of Envoys ordinary earnings and net capital
gains in gross income for his taxable year which includes the last day of Envoys above referred
taxable year. While the matter is unclear, such U.S. Holder should be able to claim a loss in his
subsequent taxable year equal to the amount by which such holders adjusted tax basis in the common
shares would have increased to reflect the imputed income under the QEF rules.
An Electing U.S. Holder may elect to defer, until the occurrence of certain events, payment of the
United States federal income tax attributable to amounts includable in income for which no
58
current distributions are received, but will be required to pay interest on the deferred tax
computed by using the statutory rate of interest applicable to an extension of time for payment of
tax.
Under temporary Treasury Regulations, an individual is required to include in income his
proportionate share of the investment expenses of certain pass-through entities. It is not clear
under such Treasury Regulations whether a PFIC for which a QEF election is in effect may be treated
as a pass-through entity. If these provisions were to apply to Envoy, each individual Electing
U.S. Holder would be required to include in income an amount equal to a portion of Envoys
investment expenses and would be permitted an offsetting deduction (if otherwise allowable under
the Code) to the extent that the amount of such expenses included in income, plus certain other
miscellaneous itemized deductions of such U.S. Holder, exceed 2% of such U.S. Holders adjusted
gross income.
Generally, a QEF election that is made with respect to Envoy will remain in effect throughout an
Electing U.S. Holders holding period for Envoys shares, even if Envoy does not qualify as a PFIC
in every taxable year following the taxable year in which the election is made.
In any year in which Envoy is not treated as a PFIC, an Electing U.S. Holder will have the tax
consequences described below, under the heading, Ownership and Disposition of Common Shares if
Envoy is Not a PFIC.
Mark-to-Market Election
A U.S. Holder generally may make a mark-to-market election with respect to shares of marketable
stock of a PFIC. Under the Code and Treasury Regulations, the term marketable stock includes
stock of a PFIC that is regularly traded on a qualified exchange or other market. Because
Envoys common shares are traded on a qualified exchange or other market, a market-to-market
election will be available with respect to the common shares.
As a result of a mark-to-market election, a U.S. Holder will generally be required to report gain
annually in an amount equal to the excess of the fair market value of the common shares at the end
of the taxable year over the adjusted tax basis of the common shares at that time and will
generally be required to report loss annually in an amount equal to the excess of the adjusted tax
basis of the common shares at the end of the taxable year over the fair market value of the common
shares at that time, but only to the extent of any prior net market-to market gains. Any gain under
this computation and any gain on an actual sale or other disposition of the common shares will be
treated as ordinary income. Any loss under this computation will be treated as ordinary loss. Any
loss on an actual sale or other disposition will be treated as an ordinary loss to the extent of
the prior net mark-to-market gain and thereafter will be considered capital loss. Thus, a U.S.
Holder that makes a mark-to- market election will be taxed on appreciation with respect to the U.S.
Holders common shares even though such U.S. Holder has no corresponding receipt of cash. In
addition, unlike the case of a QEF election, a U.S. Holder that has made a mark-to-market election
generally cannot obtain any favorably-taxed long-term capital gains with respect to the common
shares. The U.S. Holders adjusted tax basis in the common shares is adjusted for any gain or loss
taken into account under the mark-to-market election. Under Treasury Regulations, if a U.S. Holder
has made a QEF election and subsequently makes a mark-to-market election with respect to the
59
same stock, the mark-to-market election will automatically terminate the QEF election, and such
U.S. Holder may not make another QEF election with respect to the stock before the sixth taxable
year thereafter. Unless either (i) the mark-to-market election is made as of the first taxable year
in which Envoy is a PFIC during the U.S. Holders holding period for the common shares, or (ii) a
QEF election has been in effect with respect to such U.S. holders common stock for all years in
which Envoy was a PFIC during such U.S. holders holding period, any mark-to-market gain for the
election year generally will be subject to the excess distribution rules applicable to dispositions
described above.
U.S. Holders are urged to consult their tax advisors concerning the United States federal income
tax consequences of holding and disposing of stock of a PFIC.
Ownership and Disposition of Common Shares if Envoy is Not a PFIC
U.S. Holders who do not hold common shares during any taxable year in which Envoy is classified as
a PFIC will not be subject to the rules described above, under the heading Passive Foreign
Investment Company Rules. Instead, such U.S. Holders will be required to include the gross amount
of any distribution on common shares (without reduction for Canadian tax withheld) in their gross
income as a taxable dividend, to the extent such distribution is paid out of Envoys current or
accumulated earnings and profits as determined under United States federal income tax principles.
U.S. Holders must include in income an amount equal to the United States dollar value of such
dividends on the date of receipt, based on the exchange rate on such date. Provided that Envoy is
not treated as a PFIC, described above, during any year in which a U.S. Holder holds Envoys common
shares in the case of a non-corporate U.S. Holder, including individuals, such dividends generally
will be eligible for a maximum rate of tax of 15% for dividends received in a taxable year
beginning before January 1, 2011, provided certain conditions are satisfied. To the extent that
distributions paid by Envoy exceed Envoys current or accumulated earnings and profits, they will
be treated first as a return of capital up to the U.S. Holders adjusted tax basis in the shares,
and then as a gain from the sale or exchange of the shares.
U.S. Holders will generally be entitled to a foreign tax credit, or deduction, for United States
federal income tax purposes, in an amount equal to the Canadian tax withheld from a distribution on
common shares. For taxable years beginning on or before December 31, 2006, dividends paid by Envoy
generally will constitute foreign source passive income or financial services income for
foreign tax credit purposes. For taxable years beginning after December 31, 2006, such dividends
generally will be treated as passive category income or general category income, for United
States foreign tax credit purposes. The Code applies various limitations on the amount of foreign
tax credit that may be claimed by a United States taxpayer. Because of the complexity of those
limitations, U.S. Holders should consult their own tax advisors with respect to the amount of
foreign taxes they may claim as a credit. Dividends paid by Envoy on the common shares will not
generally be eligible for the dividends received deductions.
A U.S. Holder that sells common shares will generally recognize a gain or loss in an amount equal
to the difference, if any, between the amount realized on the sale and the U.S. Holders adjusted
tax basis in the shares. Unless Envoy is treated as a PFIC during any year in which the U.S. Holder
holds Envoys common shares (described above), any gain or loss recognized upon the sale of shares
held as capital assets will be a long-term or short-term capital gain or
60
loss, depending on whether the common shares have been held for more than one year. Such gain or
loss generally will be treated as United States source income or loss for United States foreign tax
credit purposes.
Backup Withholding and Information Reporting
United States backup withholding tax and information reporting requirements generally apply to
certain payments to certain non-corporate holders of the common shares. Information reporting
generally will apply to payments of dividends on, and to proceeds from the sale or disposition of,
common shares by a payor within the United States to a U.S. Holder (if such person is other than an
exempt recipient, including a corporation, not a United States person that provides an appropriate
certification or certain other persons).
A payor within the United States will be required to withhold tax (currently imposed at a rate of
28%) on any payments made to a common shareholder (if that common shareholder is not an exempt
recipient) consisting of dividends on, or proceeds from the sale or disposition of, the common
shares, if the selling common shareholder fails to timely furnish a correct taxpayer identification
number on IRS Form W-9 or otherwise fails to comply with, or establish an exemption from, such
backup withholding tax requirements. Moreover, a payor or middleman may rely on a certification
provided by a payee that is not a United States person only if such payor or middleman does not
have actual knowledge or a reason to know that any information or certification stated in such
certificate is incorrect. Investors will be allowed a refund or a credit equal to any amounts
withheld under the United States backup withholding tax rules against their United States federal
income tax liability, provided that they furnish the required information to the IRS.
F. Dividend and Paying Agents
Not applicable.
G. Statement by Experts
Not applicable.
H. Documents on Display
Any statement in this Annual Report about any of our contracts or other documents is not
necessarily complete. If the contract or document is filed as an exhibit to this Annual Report, the
contract or document is deemed to modify our description. You must review the exhibits themselves
for a complete description of the contract or document.
The Company is subject to the informational reporting requirement of the Exchange Act and files
reports and other information with the SEC. You may examine all reports and other information filed
by Envoy with the SEC, including the documents that are exhibits to this Annual Report, without
charge, at the public reference facilities maintained by the SEC at 100 F Street, N.E., Washington,
D.C., 20549. For more information on the public reference rooms, call the SEC at l.800.SEC.0330.
Envoys reports and other information filed with the SEC are also available to the public from
commercial document retrieval services and the website maintained by the SEC at http://www.sec.gov.
61
I. Subsidiary Information
Not applicable.
Item 11: Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk
Except as described below, Envoy does not have a material position or exposure with respect to any
market risk sensitive instruments (as defined in Item 11 in Form 20-F).
The investment operations of the Companys business involve the purchase and sale of securities
and, accordingly, the majority of the Companys assets are currently comprised of financial
instruments. The use of financial instruments can expose the Company to several risks, including
market, credit and liquidity risks. A discussion of the Companys use of financial instruments and
its risk management is provided below.
(i) Liquidity risk
Liquidity risk is the risk that the Company will have sufficient cash resources to meet its
financial obligations as they come due. The Companys liquidity and operating results may be
adversely affected if the Companys access to the capital markets is hindered, whether as a result
of a downturn in stock market conditions generally or related to matters specific to the Company,
or if the value of the Companys investments declines, resulting in losses upon disposition.
The Company generates cash flow primarily from its financing activities and proceeds from the
disposition of its investments, in addition to interest and dividend income earned on its
investments. From time to time, the Company will invest in private equities which have no immediate
market and would be illiquid until one is created. Investments in private equities tend to be
relative small, comprising less than 5% of available capital and the Company has sufficient
marketable securities which are freely tradable and relatively liquid to fund its obligations as
they become due under normal operating conditions.
(ii) Market risk:
Market risk is the risk that the fair value of, or future cash flows from, the Companys financial
instruments will significantly fluctuate because of changes in market prices. The value of the
financial instruments can be affected by changes in interest rates, foreign exchange rates, and
equity and commodity prices. The Company is exposed to market risk in trading its investments and
unfavourable market conditions could result in dispositions of investments at less than favourable
prices. The Company manages market risk by having a portfolio which is not singularly exposed to
any one issuer or class of issuers. The Company also has set thresholds on purchases of investments
over which the approval of the board of directors is required.
(iii) Currency risk:
The Company is subject to currency risk through its activities in the United States and overseas.
The Company invoices a substantial portion of its consumer branding customers in foreign currency
and, as such, changes in the exchange rate affect the operating results of the Company. The Company
does not actively use derivative instruments to reduce its exposure to foreign currency risk.
However, dependent on the nature, amount and timing of foreign
62
currency receipts and payments, the Company may from time to time enter into foreign currency
contracts to mitigate the associated risks. At September 30, 2008, the Company had outstanding
foreign exchange contracts to purchase 500,000 US dollars at 1.0641 expiring November 2008 and
5,000,000 Euros at an average rate of 1.5090 expiring between October and December 2008. The
Company also had an outstanding contract to sell 1,000,000 Euros at 1.4920, expiring September 30,
2009. The net liability of $83,650 arising from these contracts has been included in accounts
payable and accrued liabilities. The gains and losses from these contracts have been included in
general and administrative expenses.
(iv) Credit risk:
The Company manages its credit risk with respect to accounts receivable by dealing primarily with
large creditworthy customers and by billing whenever possible in advance of rendering services. As
at September 30, 2008, one customer represented 32% of accounts receivable (2007 one customer
represented 19% of accounts receivable).
The Companys loans receivable are secured by both a general security agreement on the assets in
the investee company as well as collateralized by the underlying shares.
Certain of the Companys financial assets, including cash and cash equivalents are exposed to the
risk of financial loss occurring as a result of default of a counterparty on its obligations to the
Company. The Company may, from time to time, invest in debt obligations. The Company is also
exposed, in the normal course of business, to credit risk from advances to investee companies.
(v) Interest rate risk:
Interest risk is the impact that changes in interest rates could have on the Companys earnings and
liabilities. All of the Companys interest bearing investments are at fixed rates, hence there is
no exposure to interest rate fluctuations while investments are held. As at September 30, 2008, the
Company had no liabilities which bore interest at rates fluctuating with the prime rate or
overnight lending rate. The Company has a credit facility which can be repaid by the Company at any
time, without notice or penalty, which provides the Company with some ability to manage and
mitigate its interest risk. It is managements opinion that the Company is not exposed to
significant interest rate risk.
63
Item 12: Description of Securities Other Than Equity Securities
Not applicable
PART II
Item 13: Defaults, Dividends Arrearages and Delinquencies
A. There has been no material default in the payment of principal, interest, a sinking or purchase
fund installment or any other material default relating to the indebtedness of the Company its
significant subsidiary.
B. There is no preferred stock of Envoy its significant subsidiary and accordingly there has been
no material arrearage in the payment of dividends or any other material delinquency not cured
within 30 days, with respect to any class of preferred stock of Envoy or of its significant
subsidiary.
Item 14: Material Modifications to the Rights of Security Holders and Use of Proceeds
A. There have been no material modifications in the constituent instruments defining any class of
registered securities of Envoy.
B. There has been no material limitation or qualification of the rights evidenced by any class of
registered securities of Envoy by the issuance or modification of any other class of securities of
Envoy.
C. There has been no material withdrawal or substitution of assets securing any class of registered
securities of Envoy.
D. Not applicable.
E. Not applicable.
Item 15: Controls and Procedures
We maintain disclosure controls and procedures that are designed to ensure that the information
required to be disclosed in our Exchange Act reports is recorded, processed, summarized and
reported within the time periods specified in the SECs rules and forms, and that such information
is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief
Financial Officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. After
evaluating the effectiveness of the Companys disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in
Exchange Act Rules l3a 15(e) and 15d- 15(e)) as of September 30, 2008, our Chief Executive
Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that as of such date, the Companys disclosure
controls and procedure were effective.
There were no changes in our internal controls or in other factors that could significantly affect
these disclosure controls and procedures during the 2008 fiscal year, including any significant
deficiencies or material weaknesses of internal controls that would require corrective action.
64
Management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial
reporting for the Company. Management has designed such internal control over financial reporting
to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the
preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with Canadian GAAP, and
reconciled to US GAAP, as applicable.
Because of its inherent limitations, the Companys internal control over financial reporting may
not prevent or detect all possible misstatements or frauds. Also, projections of any evaluation of
effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because
of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with policies or procedures may
deteriorate.
Management has assessed the effectiveness of the Companys internal control over financial
reporting and concluded that such internal control over financial reporting is effective as of
September 30, 2008.
This annual report does not include an attestation report of our independent auditors regarding
internal control over financial reporting. Managements report was not subject to attestation by
our independent auditors pursuant to temporary rules of the SEC that permit our Company to provide
only managements report in this annual report.
Item 16A: Audit Committee Financial Expert
The Companys Board of Directors has determined that David Parkes, an independent director of the
Company, is an audit committee financial expert. The Audit Committee has determined that all three
members of the Audit Committee are Financially Literate. Financially Literate means that a member
has the ability to read and understand a set of financial statements that present a breadth and
level of complexity of accounting issues that are generally comparable to the breadth and
complexity of the issues that can reasonably be expected to be raised by the Companys financial
statements. David Parkes was determined to be Financially Literate based on his experience as the
President and CEO of a number of telecommunications companies where he was responsible for
supervising the preparation of financial statements of a similar breadth and complexity to the
Companys financial statements, where he was responsible for making judgments and decisions related
to accounting matters on behalf of management and where he was accountable for internal controls
and financial reporting procedures. Hugh Aird was determined to be Financially Literate based on
his experience as an investment banker where he analyzed and evaluated financial statements of a
similar breadth and complexity to the Companys financial statements and based on his experience as
a director and senior officer of other companies where he has been responsible for overseeing
management and the preparation of financial statements in his capacity as a director and senior
officer. David Hull was determined to be Financially Literate based on his experience as the
President of an insurance agency where he has been responsible for supervising the preparation of
financial statements and where he has been responsible for making judgments and decisions related
to accounting matters on behalf of management and where he was accountable for internal controls
and financial reporting procedures. The particulars of each members experience can be found in the
biographies under Item 6A.
65
Item 16B: Code of Business Conduct
The Board has adopted a Code of Business Conduct (the Code). All of the Companys employees,
directors and officers must follow the Code, which provides guidelines for ethical behaviour. A
copy of the Code is available in the Governance section of the Companys website at www.envoy.to,
and is incorporated by reference herein as Exhibit 11.1 to this Form 20-F.
The Code sets out in detail the principles and general business tenets and ethics and compliance
policies applicable to the Companys business and activities.
The Code addresses topics such as:
honest and ethical conduct and conflicts of interest; compliance with applicable laws and Company
policies and procedures; business integrity and fair dealing; public disclosure; use of corporate
property and opportunities; confidentiality; compliance with insider trading and other legal
requirements; and records and document retention.
The Board expects all employees at all levels of the companies within its group, as well as
officers, directors, customers, suppliers, vendors, contractors and partners, to read, understand
and comply with the Code. If any employee is uncertain about a situation, the employee is expected
to refer the matter to a supervisor or Human Resources representative. All employees are also
expected to report in good faith any violations or potential violations of the Code and to
co-operate in internal investigations about a reported violation. Supervisors are expected to
answer employee questions about the Code or direct them to the right source of information; provide
timely advice and guidance to employees on ethics and compliance concerns; handle all employee
reports promptly and confidentially; encourage employees to ask questions and get advice before
they act; and report in good faith any violations of the Code or situations that could result in
violations to the Companys Chief Legal Officer. In addition to employees and supervisors
responsibilities detailed above, senior management has the responsibility to continuously promote
ethical business conduct, in line with the Companys values and general business principles.
No material change report has been filed since October 1, 2007 that pertains to any conduct of a
director or executive officer that constitutes a departure from the Code.
In addition to the Code, the Company has also developed procedures for the receipt, retention and
treatment of complaints regarding accounting, internal controls, auditing matters or evidence of an
activity that may constitute corporate fraud or violation of applicable law and for the
confidential and anonymous submission by employees of concerns regarding questionable accounting or
auditing matters. The complete Complaint Procedures for Accounting and Auditing Matters is
available in the Governance section of the Companys website at www.Envoy.to, and is incorporated
by reference herein as Exhibit 11.2 to this Form 20-F.
Directors and officers of the Company are required under the OBCA to disclose any material interest
in any material contract or transaction with the Company and refrain from voting with respect
thereof, subject to certain exceptions.
66
Item 16C: Principal Accountant Fees and Services
(a) |
|
AUDIT FEES were $250,000 in 2008 and $250,000 in 2007. These fees include year end audit
work, consents, reviews and assistance with regulatory filings. |
(b) |
|
AUDIT-RELATED FEES were $15,650 in 2008 and $10,000 in 2007. These fees include assistance
with due diligence and accounting research. |
(c) |
|
TAX FEES were $42,500 in 2008 and $25,000 in 2007. These fees include tax compliance services
and tax advice. |
(d) |
|
All OTHER FEES were $nil in 2008, and $nil in 2007. |
(e) |
|
In accordance with the Companys Audit Committee Charter, the Audit Committee ensures the
independent auditor submits a formal written statement delineating all relationships between
the independent auditor and the Company and pre-approves all audit fees and non-audit services
to be provided to the Company or any subsidiary by the independent auditor. All services
provided to the Company after the adoption of the Audit Committee Charter were pre-approved by
the Audit Committee. |
Item 16D: Exemptions from the Listing Standards for Audit Committees
Not Applicable.
67
Item 16E: Purchases of Equity Securities by the Issuer and Affiliated Purchasers
From October 1, 2007 through November 30, 2008, the Company repurchased and cancelled 1,092,189
common shares for cash consideration of $2,992,359. The Company repurchased 188,309 shares for cash
consideration of $572,942 pursuant to the terms of a normal course issuer bid which began on
February 7, 2007 and ended on February 6, 2008. In addition, the Company repurchased 903,880 shares
for cash consideration of $2,419,417 pursuant to the terms of a normal course issuer bid which
began on February 7, 2008 and ends on February 6, 2009. The Company is authorized to repurchase and
cancel up to 10% of the public float of the shares.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(d) Maximum Number |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(c) Total Number |
|
(or Approximate |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(b) Average |
|
of Shares (or Units) |
|
Dollar Value) of Shares |
|
|
(a) Total Number |
|
Price Paid |
|
Purchased as Part |
|
(or Units) that May Yet |
|
|
of Shares (or |
|
per Share |
|
of Publicly Announced |
|
Be Purchased Under the |
Period |
|
Units) Purchased |
|
(or Units) |
|
Plans or Programs |
|
Plans or Programs |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
October 1, to
October 31, 2007 |
|
|
93,740 |
|
|
$ |
3.08 |
|
|
|
93,740 |
|
|
|
94,612 |
|
November 1, to
November 19, 2007 |
|
|
94,569 |
|
|
$ |
3.01 |
|
|
|
94,569 |
|
|
nil |
February 7, to
February 29, 2008 |
|
|
30,000 |
|
|
$ |
2.61 |
|
|
|
30,000 |
|
|
|
873,880 |
|
March 1, to
March 31, 2008 |
|
|
211,755 |
|
|
$ |
2.63 |
|
|
|
211,755 |
|
|
|
662,125 |
|
April 1, to
April 30, 2008 |
|
|
353,570 |
|
|
$ |
2.65 |
|
|
|
353,570 |
|
|
|
308,555 |
|
May 1, to
May 31, 2008 |
|
|
79,800 |
|
|
$ |
2.81 |
|
|
|
79,800 |
|
|
|
228,755 |
|
June 1, to
June 30, 2008 |
|
|
40,400 |
|
|
$ |
2.85 |
|
|
|
40,400 |
|
|
|
188,355 |
|
July 1, to
July 31, 2008 |
|
|
43,673 |
|
|
$ |
2.52 |
|
|
|
43,673 |
|
|
|
144,682 |
|
August 1, to
August 31, 2008 |
|
|
13,800 |
|
|
$ |
2.37 |
|
|
|
13,800 |
|
|
|
130,882 |
|
September 1, to
September 30, 2008 |
|
|
103,623 |
|
|
$ |
2.21 |
|
|
|
103,623 |
|
|
|
27,259 |
|
October 1, to
October 3, 2008 |
|
|
27,259 |
|
|
$ |
2.02 |
|
|
|
27,259 |
|
|
nil |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total |
|
|
1,092,189 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1,092,189 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
68
PART III
Item 17: Financial Statements
|
|
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(a) |
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Envoy Capital Group Inc. |
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(i)
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Auditors Report on the financial statements for the year ended
September 30, 2008
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F-1 |
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Comments by Auditor for U.S. Readers on Canada-U.S. Reporting
Differences |
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Auditors Report on the financial statements for the year ended
September 30, 2008 and 2007 |
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(ii)
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Consolidated Balance Sheets as at September 30, 2008 and 2007
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F-2 |
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(iii)
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Consolidated Statements of Operations for the years ended September
30, 2008, 2007 and 2006
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F-3 |
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(iv)
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Consolidated Statements of (Deficit) Retained Earnings for the years
ended September 30, 2008, 2007 and 2006
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F-4 |
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(v)
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Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended September
30, 2008, 2007 and 2006
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F-5 |
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(vi)
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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
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F-6 |
Item 18: Financial Statements
Envoy has elected to provide financial statements pursuant to Item 17.
69
Item 19: Exhibits
EXHIBIT INDEX
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Exhibit No. |
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Description |
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1.1*
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Articles of Incorporation and By-Law No. 1 (as amended on May 2, 2000) of Envoy
Communications Group Inc. |
1.2**
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Articles of Amendment (as amended on January 9, 2004) and By-Law No. 1 of Envoy
Communications Group Inc. |
1.3**
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Articles of Amendment (as amended on January 21, 2005) and By-Law No. 1 of Envoy
Communications Group Inc. |
1.4
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Articles of Amendment (as amended on March 30, 2007) and By-Law No. 1 of Envoy Capital Group
Inc. |
8.1
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List of Significant Subsidiaries (contained in Item 4.C hereof) |
11.1***
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Code of Business Conduct |
11.2***
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Complaint Procedures for Accounting and Auditing Matters |
11.3***
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Board Mandate |
12.1
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Certification of CEO Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 |
12.2
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Certification of CFO Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 |
13.1
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Certifications of CEO and CFO Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 |
15.1***
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Audit Committee Charter |
15.2***
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Compensation Committee Charter |
15.3***
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Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee Charter |
17
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Financial Statements |
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* |
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Incorporated by reference to the Companys Annual Report on Form 20-F, filed on May 15, 2000
(Commission File No. 000-30082) |
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** |
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Incorporated by reference to the Companys Annual Report on Form 20-F, filed on December 29,
2006 (Commission File No. 000-30082). |
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*** |
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Incorporated by reference to the Companys Annual Report on Form 20-F, filed on December 29,
2005 (Commission File No. 000-30082). |
70
SIGNATURES
The registrant hereby certifies that it meets all of the requirements for filing on Form 20-F and
that it has duly caused and authorized the undersigned to sign this Annual Report on its behalf.
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ENVOY CAPITAL GROUP INC.
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Date: December 22, 2008 |
/s/ GEOFFREY B. GENOVESE
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Name: |
Geoffrey B. Genovese |
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Title: |
Chairman, President and
Chief Executive Officer |
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71