Arbuthnot Regulatory News (ARBB)

20 Mar 2007 07:02

Arbuthnot Banking Group PLC20 March 2007 ARBUTHNOT BANKING GROUP PLC Preliminary results for the year to 31 December 2006 Arbuthnot Banking Group PLC ("Arbuthnot") today announces final results for theyear ended 31 December 2006. Arbuthnot is the holding company for ArbuthnotSecurities Limited, Arbuthnot Latham & Co Limited and Secure Trust Bank PLC. Financial Highlights 2006 2005 IncreaseOperating income £57.8m £56.3m +3%Profit before income tax £14.7m £7.7m +92%Profit before tax and exceptional items £8.2m £7.4m +12%Basic earnings per share 63.8p 45.8p +39%Total dividends 32.5p 32.0p +2%Net assets £43.3m £33.1m +31%Tier 1 & 2 Capital £48.2m £37.0m +30% Commenting on the results, Henry Angest, Chairman and Chief Executive ofArbuthnot, said: "Arbuthnot Banking Group made good progress in 2006. We are particularly pleasedthat Arbuthnot Securities again substantially raised its profits. This togetherwith the £12.6 million profit realised on the sale of Ropemaker Streetdemonstrates the Group's ability to create significant value through taking anindependent and long term view." __________________________________________________________________________ Press enquiries: Arbuthnot Banking Group PLC: Tel: 020 7012 2400 Henry Angest, Chairman and Chief ExecutiveAndrew Salmon, Chief Operating OfficerPaul Sheriff, Group Finance Director Maitland: Tel: 020 7379 5151 Emma BurdettLydia Pretzlik Operational Highlights Investment Banking - Arbuthnot Securities - Total income of £21.7m (2005: £19.5m) - Profit before tax and exceptional items up 77% to £5.0m (2005: £2.8m) - 35 transactions including six IPO's in 2006 - Corporate client list increased from 60 to 71 (now 75) Private Banking - Arbuthnot Latham - 18% deposit growth, 11% loan book growth and 11% client growth - Strong investment management performance with average absolute returns of 12.7%, being 3.3% ahead of the benchmark - Net investment of £1.1m in developing business - Profit before tax and exceptional items broadly unchanged at £0.3m (2005: £0.4m) Retail Banking - Secure Trust Bank - Appointment of new management team bringing expertise from Barclays, GE and HSBC - Key aspects of new strategy include: - Enhancement of the core "OneBill" product - Focus on building customer base of "OneBill" - Move away from taking risk in unsecured lending - Profit before tax and exceptional items reduced by 11% to £6.8m (2005: £7.5m) - Investment of £1.5m in 2007 and a further £1.5m in 2008 Switzerland - Appointment of Chief Executive - Swiss Bank to be operational in 2007 (subject to regulatory approval) Sale and Leaseback - 20 Ropemaker Street - £12.6m exceptional profit achieved - Lease agreed on favourable terms including a five year and nine year option to break the lease CHAIRMAN'S STATEMENT Profits before tax for 2006 were £14.7 million (2005: £7.7 million). A betterreflection of underlying performance is pre-tax profit before exceptional items,which amounted to £8.2 million (2005: £7.4 million). This is a particularlysatisfying result since it was achieved in a year when two of the group's threebusinesses operated in a phase of transition. Secure Trust Bank started itsturnaround under a new management team, while the phase of long term investmentin Arbuthnot Latham continued in 2006. That the Group was able to improveprofitability against such a challenging background reflects a continued strongperformance at Arbuthnot Securities, and also the benefits of our strategy ofdiversifying our income across the financial services sector. Arbuthnot Securities Since recording losses in the first two years in which it was owned by the Group(2003 and 2004), the performance of Arbuthnot Securities has improvedsignificantly. Pre-tax pre-exceptional profits for 2006 rose to £5.0 million(2005: £2.8 million), on total income of £21.7 million (2005: £19.5 million).Income was well balanced with primary income and secondary income/corporateretainers each representing 50%, which provides some reassurance that thebusiness is not overexposed to any downturn in the rate of new issuance on theAIM market. Costs remained well under control, with headcount at the year end of74, (2005: 74). The corporate client list recorded very pleasing growth, from 60at the start of the year to 71 at the year end, which has produced a sharpimprovement in retainer income. Arbuthnot Securities completed 35 transactions during the year, including sixIPOs. Features of the year include fund raisings for four listed investmentfunds (for which a total of approximately £250 million was raised), the IPO ofNationwide Accident Repair Services (by the end of 2006 its share price hadrisen by approximately 50%) and the IPO of Matchtech (a recruitment businesswith an £85 million market capitalisation). Arbuthnot Latham Arbuthnot Latham continued its transition into a full service private bankingbusiness growing client numbers by 11%. This involves investment in growing awealth management business, principally by recruiting more client relationshipmanagers and asset management expertise and has a negative impact on profits.There is typically a lead-time of 12 to 18 months before client relationshipmanagers make a positive profit contribution. As a result, pre-taxpre-exceptional profits in Arbuthnot Latham were broadly unchanged at £0.3mafter taking account of a net £1.1m investment in people and infrastructure(2005: £0.4 million). A key component in the development of this business is achieving growth inassets under management. The performance of the discretionary funds has beenmost encouraging, with average returns of 3.3% above the benchmark, and anaverage return of 12.7% in 2006. Another important factor for the growth of Arbuthnot Latham's franchise is thedevelopment of its own offshore capability through the establishment of a bankin Switzerland. Good progress was made here in 2006: we have announced theappointment of Hans-Rudolf Strasser as Chief Executive, progressed outsourcingarrangements and held satisfactory discussions with regulators in Switzerlandand the UK. Applications are due to be made to the relevant regulatory bodiesshortly and it is anticipated that trading will commence in the second half of2007. The cost of this investment in 2007 is expected to be £0.7 million. Secure Trust Bank During 2006, Secure Trust Bank continued to experience a decline in customernumbers for its "OneBill" account, and disappointing trading in other productsand services offered by the bank, including insurance, estate agency andpersonal lending. Taken together, these factors produced a decline in thisdivision's profit before tax and exceptional items to £6.8 million (2005: £7.6million). In addition, as previously announced, a provision of £2.9 million wasdeemed to be appropriate against outstanding debts on the affinity insurancearrangement terminated in 2005. To address the continued decline at Secure TrustBank, the Board decided to effect senior management changes. Gary Jennison,formerly Managing Director of Barclays Bank branch network was hired as the newChief Executive. He joined in September 2006, and swiftly brought in a newmanagement team, including a new Chief Operating Officer, a Sales and MarketingDirector and a Finance Director. The new management team has undertaken a comprehensive review of the businessand produced a strategy to arrest the decline and restore growth. This strategyinvolves the strengthening of the core "OneBill" product through the addition ofancillary benefits for the customer and the extension of the offering. Therelaunch of "OneBill" is scheduled to take place in the second half of 2007. Theimplementation of this strategy requires a significant investment in upgradingsystems and operational processes, as well as in sales and marketing. Thisinvestment, most of which will be expensed rather than capitalised, is expectedto affect the income statement for Secure Trust Bank by approximately £1.5million in 2007, with a further £1.5 million expected to impact the 2008 result.Despite the effect of this programme on short term results, the Board isconfident that the implementation of this strategy will restore this business togrowth and that the prospects for the business are promising. Sale and Leaseback of 20 Ropemaker Street In 2003, the Group bought the freehold building of 20 Ropemaker Street for £18.0million including fit out costs with the intention of owning the building forthe long term. In 2006, we were urged by our property advisers, who have anoutstanding track record, to review our position. As a result of the strongproperty market and very favourable lease terms, including the ability toterminate the lease in 2011 and 2015, the Board felt a sale and leaseback of thebuilding was an opportunity too good to miss. A profit of £12.6 million wasgenerated as a result of this transaction. The exceptional profit from the sale and leaseback of the building allowed somewell deserved bonuses to be awarded for sustained and outstanding performance.It is the Group's longstanding philosophy to reward outstanding performance withcash awards when the business generates significant profits for shareholders andwe intend to continue this practice. As Chairman of the Remuneration Committee,I decided not to accept any reward myself. Board Changes and Personnel There were a number of changes to the Group Board during 2006. Gary Jennison wasappointed Chief Executive of Secure Trust Bank and joined the Board in September2006 and Paul Sheriff was appointed Group Finance Director and joined the Boardin October 2006. I welcome both of these colleagues to the Board. Colin Wakelin retired from the Board in December 2006 and David Lascelles willbe retiring in May 2007 and I am grateful to both for their contribution overeight and four years respectively. As announced in last year's Annual Report,Stephen Lockley left the Group in September. Additionally, Keith Deakin andDerek Pearson left the Board in February 2007. These results once again reflect the continuing hard work and dedication of ouremployees. On behalf of the Board I extend our thanks to all staff for theircommitment which contributed to the Group's success in 2006. Dividend The Board is proposing an increased final dividend of 22p, from 21.5p last year,bringing the total dividend for the year to 32.5p (2005: 32p). If approved, thefinal dividend will be paid on 24 May 2007 to shareholders on the register at 27April 2007. Outlook 2007 will be a year of investment as the strategy takes effect at Secure TrustBank and the bank in Zurich is established. Arbuthnot Latham will aim to achievepayback for the significant investment in people made over the last three years.Arbuthnot Securities will seek to build on the strong performance of 2006. All three divisions have made a satisfactory start to 2007. As ever with ourbusiness, Corporate Finance fees are unpredictable and can be individuallysignificant. However, our corporate pipeline is encouraging and the year hasbegun well with two important corporate transactions completed: a 50 millioneuro placing for Camper & Nicholsons Marina Fund and a £30 million placing forAurum Mining plc. Recognising that 2007, like 2006, is an important year of transition for theGroup, the Board remains cautiously optimistic about the outlook. CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENT Profit Profit before before exceptional Exceptional exceptional Exceptional items items Year to items items Year to 2006 2006 31.12.06 2005 2005 31.12.05 £000 £000 £000 £000 £000 £000 Interest and similar income 19,168 - 19,168 18,070 - 18,070 Interest expenseand similar charges (9,042) - (9,042) (8,573) - (8,573) -------- -------- ------ -------- -------- ------Net interest income 10,126 - 10,126 9,497 - 9,497 -------- -------- ------ -------- -------- ------ Fee and commissionincome 47,787 - 47,787 45,685 - 45,685 Fee and commissionexpense (4,241) - (4,241) (1,904) - (1,904) -------- -------- ------ -------- -------- ------Net fee andcommission income 43,546 - 43,546 43,781 - 43,781 ------- -------- ------ -------- -------- ------ Net tradingincome 4,102 - 4,102 3,069 - 3,069 -------- -------- ------ -------- -------- ------Operating income 57,774 - 57,774 56,347 - 56,347 -------- -------- ------ -------- -------- ------ Gain on saleof ArbuthnotHouse - 12,623 12,623 - - - Gain on sale ofminority interestin subsidiary - - - - 850 850 Impairment losses onloans and advances (1,986) (2,900) (4,886) (1,641) - (1,641) Operating expenses (47,559) (3,212) (50,771) (47,339) (541) (47,880) -------- -------- ------ -------- -------- ------Profit before income tax 8,229 6,511 14,740 7,367 309 7,676 Income tax expense (2,092) (1,953) (4,045) (2,035) (162) (2,197) Profit ondiscontinuedactivity after taxation - - - - 1,405 1,405 -------- -------- ------ -------- -------- ------ Profit for the year 6,137 4,558 10,695 5,332 1,552 6,884 ======== ======== ====== ======== ======== ====== Attributable to: Equity holders of the Company 4,833 4,558 9,391 4,937 1,552 6,489 Minority interest 1,304 - 1,304 395 - 395 -------- -------- ------ -------- -------- ------ 6,137 4,558 10,695 5,332 1,552 6,884 ======== ======== ====== ======== ======== ====== Earnings per share for profit attributable to theequity holders of theCompany during theyear (expressed inpence per share): - basic and fully diluted 32.8p 31.0p 63.8p 34.8p 11.0p 45.8p CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET 31.12.06 31.12.05 £000 £000 ASSETS Cash 181 188 Loans and advances to banks and building societies 54,214 28,587 Trading securities - long positions 9,095 5,383 Loans and advances to customers 155,594 140,151 Debt securities held-to-maturity 105,961 88,389 Intangible assets 3,025 3,000 Property, plant and equipment 10,638 31,458 Investment Securities 5,856 2,477 Other assets 22,730 26,471 -------- --------Total assets 367,294 326,104 ========= ======== LIABILITIES Deposits from banks 7,729 9,190 Trading securities - short positions 2,303 2,785 Deposits from customers 270,448 239,433 Debt securities in issue 10,106 12,716 Other liabilities 29,886 26,998 Current tax liabilities 3,486 790 Deferred tax liabilities 35 1,116 --------- --------Total liabilities 323,993 293,028 --------- -------- EQUITY Share capital 150 143 Share premium account 21,085 17,115 Retained earnings 17,866 11,111 Other reserves 1,402 3,395 --------- -------Capital and reserves attributable to the Company'sequity holders 40,503 31,764 Minority interest 2,798 1,312 --------- --------Total equity 43,301 33,076 --------- -------- Total equity and liabilities 367,294 326,104 ========= ======== CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY Attributable to equity holders of the Company ---------------------- Share Share Other Retained Minority Total capital premium reserves earnings interest account £000 £000 £000 £000 £000 £000Balance at 1 January2005 130 13,370 3,395 9,106 89 26,090Issue of shares 13 3,745 - - - 3,758Sale of minorityinterest in Arbuthnot SecuritiesLimited - - - - 832 832Profit for 2005 - - - 6,489 395 6,884Final dividendrelating to 2004 - - - (2,989) (4) (2,993)Interim dividendrelating to 2005 - - - (1,495) - (1,495) ------ ------- -------- ------- ------- -------At 31 December 2005/ 1 January 2006 143 17,115 3,395 11,111 1,312 33,076 Issue of shares 7 3,970 - - - 3,977Sale of minorityinterest in ArbuthnotSecurities Limited - - - - 187 187Transfer on sale ofproperties - - (1,993) 1,993 - -Profit for 2006 - - - 9,391 1,304 10,695Final dividendrelating to 2005 - - - (3,060) (5) (3,065)Interim dividendrelating to 2006 - - - (1,569) - (1,569) ------ ------- -------- ------- ------- -------At 31 December 2006 150 21,085 1,402 17,866 2,798 43,301 ====== ======= ======== ======= ======= ======= CONSOLIDATED CASH FLOW STATEMENT Year to Year to 31.12.06 31.12.05 £000 £000 Cash flows from operating activities Interest received 19,168 18,099Interest paid (9,042) (8,573)Fees and commissions received 43,546 45,193Net trading and other income 4,102 3,069Recoveries on loans previously written off 10 178Cash payments to employees and suppliers (51,816) (47,062)Taxation paid (2,470) (226) --------- ----------Cash flows from operating profits beforechanges in operating assets and liabilities 3,498 10,678 Changes in operating assets and liabilities: - net increase in trading securities (4,194) 2,142- net increase in loans and advances to customers (17,439) (11,917)- net decrease in other assets 3,797 (14,704)- net decrease in deposits from other banks (1,461) (21,640)- net increase in amounts due to customers 31,015 36,437- net increase in other liabilities 2,927 10,269 --------- ----------Net cash from operating activities: Continuing activities 18,143 10,397Discontinued activity - 868 --------- ---------- 18,143 11,265 ========= ==========Cash flows from investing activities Purchase of investments (3,435) (1,311)Investment in subsidiaries - (1,093)Disposal of subsidiary, net of cash disposed - 926Disposal of minority interest 187 1,682Purchase of property, plant and equipment (2,253) (1,273)Purchase of computer software (428) (310)Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment 34,244 209Net purchases of debt securities (16,833) (25,058) --------- ----------Net cash used in investing activities 11,482 (26,228) ========= ==========Cash flows used in financing activities Issue of shares 3,977 3,758Issue of debt securities - 10,149Repayment of debt securities (2,610) (5,356)Dividends paid (4,633) (4,488) --------- ----------Net cash from financing activities (3,266) 4,063 ========= ========== Net increase in cash and cash equivalents: Continuing activities 26,359 (12,694)Discontinued activity - 1,794 --------- ---------- 26,359 (10,900) Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year 57,359 68,259(Note (1)) --------- ---------- Cash and cash equivalents at end of year 83,718 57,359 ========= ========== Note (1): The cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year have been restatedto include certificates of deposit with an original maturity of less than threemonths. They previously included certificates of deposit with remaining maturityof less than three months. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES - see later in statement NOTES 1. Segmental Analysis of Profits Year to 31.12.06 Retail Private Investment Subordinated Group Group banking banking banking loan notes costs total £000 £000 £000 £000 £000 £000Segment profit 6,759 341 4,959 - (3,182) 8,877Subordinatedloan notesinterest - - - (648) - (648) -------- ------- --------- --------- -------- ------Profit beforeexceptionalitems 6,759 341 4,959 (648) (3,182) 8,229Exceptionalitems (3,358) 12,366 (274) - (2,223) 6,511 -------- ------- --------- --------- -------- ------Profit beforetax 3,401 12,707 4,685 (648) (5,405) 14,740 -------- ------- --------- --------- -------- ------Discontinuedactivity - - - - - - Year to 31.12.05 Retail Private Investment Subordinated Group Group banking banking banking loan notes costs total £000 £000 £000 £000 £000 £000Segment profit 7,576 449 2,801 - (2,841) 7,985Subordinatedloan notesinterest - - - (618) - (618) -------- ------- --------- --------- -------- ------Profit beforeexceptionalitems 7,576 449 2,801 (618) (2,841) 7,367Exceptionalitems (163) (171) 698 - (55) 309 -------- ------- --------- --------- -------- ------Profit beforetax 7,413 278 3,499 (618) (2,896) 7,676 -------- ------- --------- --------- -------- ------Discontinuedactivity - 1,405 - - - 1,405 The profit before tax figures exclude the results of Arbuthnot Insurance BrokersLimited ("AIB") which was sold in October 2005 and the profits of which (up tothe date of sale) are shown as a discontinued activity in the income statement.AIB was previously included within the private banking division. 2. Earnings per ordinary share Basic and fully diluted Earnings per ordinary share are calculated on the net basis by dividing theprofit attributable to shareholders of £9,391,000 (31.12.05: £6,489,000) by theweighted average number of ordinary shares 14,716,433 (31.12.05: 14,167,472) inissue during the period. Adjusted Earnings per ordinary share before exceptional items are calculated on the netbasis by dividing the profit before exceptional items attributable toshareholders of £4,833,000 (31.12.05: £4,937,000) by the weighted average numberof ordinary shares 14,716,433 (31.12.05: 14,167,472) in issue during the period. 3. These preliminary results, which were approved by the Board of Directors on19 March 2007, are unaudited. Under IFRS, only a complete set of financialstatements comprising a balance sheet, income statement, statement of changes inequity, cash flow statement, together with comparative financial information andfinancial notes, can provide a fair presentation of the company's financialposition, results of operations and cash flow. The figures for the year ended 31 December 2005 are derived from the GroupAccounts for the year. A copy of the Group Accounts for that year, on which theauditors gave an unqualified opinion, has been delivered to the Registrar ofCompanies. BUSINESS REVIEW The business review considers each of the Group's businesses and the keyperformance measures. Investment Banking - Arbuthnot Securities 2006 2005 Increase ----------- ---------- ----------Total income £21.7m £19.5m +11%Corporate clients 71 60 +18%Gross trading & commission income £9.6m £9.0m +7%Corporate finance fees £12.1m £10.5m +15% The turnaround in Arbuthnot Securities continued to progress broadly as plannedin 2006, despite more difficult conditions for new issues on the AIM marketduring the second half of the year. Profit before tax and exceptional items roseby 77% to £5.0 million compared to a £2.8 million profit in 2005 and a £1.6million loss in 2004. Corporate fee income amounted to £12.1 million (2005: £10.5 million). ArbuthnotSecurities completed 35 transactions during the year, including six IPOs.Features of the year include the fund raisings for four listed investment funds(for which a total of approximately £250 million was raised), the IPO ofNationwide Accident Repair Services (by the end of 2006 its share price hadrisen by approximately 50%) and the IPO of Matchtech (a recruitment businesswith an £85 million market capitalisation, which is also trading at a healthypremium). The corporate client list also grew significantly from 60 at the start of theyear to 71 at the year end. The Hemscott 'Corporate Advisers Rankings Guide'shows the Arbuthnot corporate clients list to be the fastest growing in themarket. Secondary commission and trading income amounted to £9.6 million (2005: £9.0million). Highlights include the £35 million secondary placing of shares inDelta, a corporate client, in May 2006. Secondary revenues and brokershipretainers represent 50% of the Company's total income. It is a positive featureof Arbuthnot Securities' earnings profile that it is less dependent on revenuefrom AIM issuance than many of its competitors. The satisfactory contributionfrom secondary income and trading partly reflects the benefit of the researchhiring programme undertaken over the last two years during which the researchteam has been largely rebuilt. This growth in income has been achieved against a background of stable pre-bonuscosts. Total headcount ended 2006 where it started the year at 74. However, thispicture masked 12 changes of individuals which reflect the on-going process ofupgrading the quality of the firm's personnel. Following the appointment of a new Chief Executive in September 2004, actionstaken towards the end of that year put the business on a sustainable footing in2005. In 2006 the business made further progress in more difficult marketconditions. It now has significant momentum, with the structure and positioningto deliver strong growth into the future. Earlier this year Arbuthnot Securitiesbecame a member of the Dubai International Financial Exchange and a team of fouranalysts has also been recruited to be based in a new office in Glasgow. Thecorporate pipeline is encouraging and 2007 has started well with two substantialfundraisings and a net four new corporate clients in the first two months. Private Banking - Arbuthnot Latham---------------------------------- 2006 2005 Increase ----------- ---------- ----------Operating income £13.6m £12.4m +10%Customer deposits £244.0m £206.9m +18%Customer loans £120.0m £107.1m +12%Total assets £286.0m £246.2m +16% The past year has marked a period of continued progress for Arbuthnot Latham.Business volumes have risen strongly with client growth of 11% and furtherinvestment has been made in both people and services. This investment hasresulted in customer deposits growing by 18% to £244 million and the loan bookgrew by 12% to £120 million. Arbuthnot Latham continues to improve its service delivery. At the end of thefirst quarter the new investment management product was launched. Integral tothis product is a bespoke risk profiling tool which ensures that each client'sportfolio reflects the level of risk they are willing to take. As a result ofthe introduction of this new product, the rate of growth in assets undermanagement increased steadily throughout the year. The new product wasunderpinned by excellent performance of the discretionary portfolios, whichrecorded an average relative return of 3.3% above the benchmark, and an averageabsolute return of 12.7% for 2006. At the end of 2006 internet banking wasintroduced and take-up of this service during early 2007 has been encouraging. Arbuthnot Latham continued to invest in quality staff to provide our clientswith the level of service that they have come to expect across the increasedproduct range and was pleased to attract a number of senior private bankers,pensions consultants and specialists in the finance of 'super yachts' andhigh-end overseas property. Changes to the pensions legislation in April 2006,known as 'A Day', have created opportunities particularly for our self-investedpersonal pension (SIPP) product. During 2006 an investment of £1.1 million was made in more client relationshipmanagers and asset management expertise that has had a negative impact onprofits in the short-run. There is typically a lead-time of 12-18 months beforeclient relationship managers make a positive contribution. It is anticipatedthat this investment will ensure that the bank is well placed to deliver animproved return in 2007. Looking to 2007, continued investment will be made to expand and improve theservices to our clients. In particular, in the second quarter of 2007 a creditcard will be introduced and improvements to our back office systems will beimplemented. Plans for Arbuthnot Banking Group to open a banking business in Switzerland arewell advanced. The Chief Executive Officer has been recruited and the process ofobtaining a regulatory licence is proceeding. It is anticipated that theservices we will be able to offer in Switzerland will also be attractive to manyof Arbuthnot Latham's clients. Retail Banking - Secure Trust Bank---------------------------------- 2006 2005 Increase ----------- ---------- ----------Operating income £24.2m £25.9m -7%Unsecured lending £29.9m £32.3m -7%Expenses £16.1m £16.9m -5%Customer numbers ('000) 46 49 -5% Despite the increasingly competitive environment and the continuing reduction incustomer numbers, the Retail Banking Division delivered a reasonably robustoperating income of £24.2 million and profits before tax and exceptional itemsof £6.8 million. In 2005, the business entered into an arrangement to write motor insurancebusiness through an affinity arrangement. Higher transaction volumes and a veryhigh level of customer cancellations led to the business being terminated inlate 2005. In 2006, a bad debt provision of £2.9 million has been madereflecting the difficulty in recovering the outstanding amounts. As a result of the changing landscape for unsecured personal lending in the UK,Secure Trust Bank has cut back on new lending outside of the "OneBill" account.This has resulted in a 7% reduction in unsecured loans during 2006. Theimpairment charge (excluding the £2.9 million provision above) rose £0.3 millionto £1.9 million. The decision was also taken to close the loss making EstateAgency business at the end of 2006 and this has already been implemented. In 2006, the senior management team has been replaced at Secure Trust Bank. InSeptember, Gary Jennison joined as Chief Executive Officer, having previouslybeen responsible for UK branch operations for Barclays. In addition to thisappointment, a new Chief Operating Officer, Sales and Marketing Director andFinance Director have been appointed to the business bringing in expertise fromGE, Barclays and HSBC respectively. The new management team has undertaken a comprehensive review of the businessand has produced a strategy to arrest the decline and restore growth. Key themesinclude the enhancement of the core "OneBill" product, a focus on building thecustomer base of "OneBill" and a move away from taking risk in unsecured lendingoutside of the "OneBill" account. Additionally, the "OneBill" product will beenhanced through the addition of ancillary benefits for the customer. Theproduct is scheduled to be re-launched in the second half of 2007. The investment of approximately £4 million over the next 18 months, most ofwhich will be expensed, will affect the profitability of Secure Trust Bank byapproximately £1.5 million in 2007 and a further £1.5 million in 2008. Profitsshould start improving in 2008 as a result of this investment. The business currently trades under a number of different brands including"OneBill", Secure Trust Bank, Secure Homes and SecureDirect. This leads toconfusion within the customer base and it is anticipated that the business willbe rebranded in the second half of 2007 to coincide with the re-launch of the"OneBill" product. 2007 will be a transition year for Secure Trust Bank with a number ofinitiatives being planned and developed in the first half for implementation inthe second half of the year. FINANCIAL REVIEW Highlights Summarised Profit & Loss Account £'000 2006 2005------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Net interest income 10,126 9,497Net fee and commission income 43,546 43,781Net trading income 4,102 3,069------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Operating income 57,774 56,347Operating expenses (47,559) (47,880)Impairment losses (1,986) (1,641)Other items 6,511 850------------------------------------------------------------------------------Profit before income tax 14,740 7,676------------------------------------------------------------------------------Basic earnings per share 63.8p 45.8p Summarised Balance Sheet £'000 2006 2005------------------------------------------------------------------------------AssetsLoans and advances to customers 155,594 140,151Liquid assets 160,356 117,164Other assets 51,344 68,789------------------------------------------------------------------------------Total assets 367,294 326,104Liabilities------------------------------------------------------------------------------Customer deposits 270,448 239,433Other liabilities 53,545 53,595------------------------------------------------------------------------------Total liabilities 323,993 293,028Equity 43,301 33,076------------------------------------------------------------------------------Total equity and liabilities 367,294 326,104 The aim of Arbuthnot Banking Group is to maximise revenues and profits throughproviding a range of financial services to customers and clients in its threechosen niche markets of private banking (Arbuthnot Latham), investment banking(Arbuthnot Securities) and retail banking (Secure Trust Bank/OBC InsuranceConsultants). The Group's revenues are derived from a combination of netinterest income from its lending, deposit-taking and money market activities;fees for services provided to customers and clients; commissions earned on thesale of financials instruments and products; and equity market-making profits. Background market conditions were generally favourable in 2006. The FTSE 100index rose by 11% and the IPO market was strong in the first six months thoughit weakened in the second half. Base rates increased from 4.5% to 5.0% givinglimited opportunity for the Group to increase net interest margins. At the sametime, the well-publicised pressures on the consumer, particularly in relation tounsecured debt, have led to tighter credit control and a reduction in newunsecured lending. Against this mixed background, an improved operatingperformance from the Group's businesses enabled total operating income toincrease by 3% to £57.8 million, profit before tax to rise by 92% to £14.7million and earnings per share to increase by 39% to 63.8p. The statutory operating profit for the Group is shown above. The Board believesa truer reflection of the Group's on-going business is afforded by the measureof 'Adjusted profit before tax' and 'Adjusted earnings per share' that excludesitems that are one-off or non-recurring and not part of the on-going businessprofitability £'000 2006 2005------------------------------------------------------------------------------Operating income 57,774 56,347Operating expenses (47,559) (47,339)Impairment losses (1,986) (1,641)-------------------------------------------------------------------------------Adjusted profit before tax 8,229 7,367-------------------------------------------------------------------------------Adjusted earnings per share 32.8p 34.8p Adjusted profit before tax rose by 12% to £8.2 million resulting in an adjustedearnings per share of 32.8p. This is principally due to the increasedprofitability of Arbuthnot Securities resulting in a higher minority interest. Sale and Leaseback of Arbuthnot House In 2003, the Group bought the vacant freehold building of 20 Ropemaker Streetfor £18.0 million including fit out costs. In 2006, as a result of a strongproperty market and very favourable lease terms, the Group entered into a saleand leaseback of the building. A profit of £12.6 million was generated as aresult of this transaction. The lease on the building is a 15 year lease withbreak clauses at five and nine years for an annual rent of £1.7 million perannum. Rights Issue In April 2006, £4 million net of expenses was raised via a placing and openoffer which has been earmarked to fund development of the private bankingoperation in Switzerland. Balance Sheet Strength and Cash flow Total assets of the Group increased to £367.3 million (2005: £326.1 million) asa result of the ability to attract customer deposits in the private bank. Netassets of the Group increased to £43.3 million (2005: £33.1 million), due to thecash arising from operating performance combined with the profit on the sale andleaseback transaction and the proceeds from the rights issue. The Group's total liquid resources (including longer duration certificates ofdeposit) rose by £43.2 million to £160.4 million (2005: £117.2 million). Cashand cash equivalent rose by £26.3 million to £83.7 million (2005: £57.4 million)principally as a result of the cash received on the sale of Arbuthnot House. Segmental Analysis The primary business segments are Investment Banking (Arbuthnot Securities),Private Banking (Arbuthnot Latham), Retail Banking (Secure Trust Bank) and Groupcosts. Arbuthnot Securities £'000 2006 2005------------------------------------------------------------------------------Net interest income 338 119Net fee and commission income 16,191 15,462Net trading income 4,102 3,069------------------------------------------------------------------------------Operating income 20,631 18,650Operating expenses (15,946) (15,151)------------------------------------------------------------------------------Profit before tax 4,685 3,499Gain on sale of shares to minority - (850)Restructuring costs 274 152------------------------------------------------------------------------------Adjusted profit before tax 4,959 2,801 Operating income rose 11% to £20.6 million with expenses rising 5% to £16.0million. Adjusted profit before tax rose 77% to £5.0 million in 2006. Under the terms of the Arbuthnot Securities Long Term Incentive Plan, the Grouphas sold 40% of the issued ordinary share capital in Arbuthnot SecuritiesLimited to its staff via the Arbuthnot No. 2 ESOP Trust. Arbuthnot Latham (including Arbuthnot Commercial Finance) £'000 2006 2005------------------------------------------------------------------------------Net interest income 5,910 5,328Net fee and commission income 7,645 7,049------------------------------------------------------------------------------Operating income 13,555 12,377Operating expenses (13,417) (12,113)Bad debt provision (54) 14Profit on disposal of Arbuthnot House 12,623 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------Profit before tax 12,707 278Profit on disposal of Arbuthnot House (12,623) -Restructuring costs 257 171------------------------------------------------------------------------------Adjusted profit before tax 341 449------------------------------------------------------------------------------ £'000 2006 2005------------------------------------------------------------------------------AssetsAdvances (including Group companies) 120,082 107,079Liquid assets 149,442 106,821Other assets 16,465 32,292------------------------------------------------------------------------------Total assets 285,989 246,192Liabilities------------------------------------------------------------------------------Customer deposits (including Group companies) 243,975 206,911Other liabilities 13,988 14,207------------------------------------------------------------------------------Total liabilities 257,963 221,118Capital 28,026 25,074------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 285,989 246,192 Note: The above balance sheet is for Arbuthnot Latham only Operating income rose by 10% but continued investment in new staff led to an 11%rise in expenses. Adjusted profit before tax in 2006 was similar to 2005 withadjusted operating profit of £0.3 million compared to £0.4 million in 2005. The2006 figure includes an investment in people and infrastructure of £1.1 millionrelating to the wealth management and asset management businesses. Total assets increased by 16% to £286.0 million (2005: £246.2 million) withloans increasing by 12% and customer deposits by 18%. Secure Trust Bank (including OBC Insurance Consultants) £'000 2006 2005------------------------------------------------------------------------------Net interest income 4,526 4,668Net fee and commission income 19,710 21,270------------------------------------------------------------------------------Operating income 24,236 25,938Operating expenses (16,003) (16,870)Impairment losses (4,832) (1,655)------------------------------------------------------------------------------Profit before tax 3,401 7,413Restructuring costs 458 163Bad debt provision ('Yes Car Credit') 2,900 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------Adjusted profit before tax 6,759 7,576 Operating income fell by 7% to £24.2 million with operating expenses (beforerestructuring costs) falling by 5%. Adjusted profit before tax fell 11% to £6.8 million. The impairment charge(before affinity bad debt) rose 17% to £1.9 million as a result of arrears onthe unsecured loan book. Group & Other Costs £'000 2006 2005------------------------------------------------------------------------------Group costs (including head office property) (3,182) (2,841)Subordinated loan stock (648) (618)-------------------------------------------------------------------------------Total Group & other costs (3,830) (3,459) Group and other costs increased from £3.5 million in 2005 to £3.8 million in2006. In addition to the above items, £1.9 million relates to long term bonusesmade possible by the sale and leaseback of Arbuthnot House and there is afurther £0.3 million relating to restructuring costs. Exceptional Items In addition to the £12.6 million profit on the sale and leaseback of thebuilding, there was the bad debt provision of £2.9 million, restructuring costsin the three divisions of £1.0 million and Group restructuring costs of £0.3million. Bonuses totalling £1.9 million were granted to a number of keyindividuals to recognise their outstanding contribution to the Group. The total exceptional items resulted in an exceptional profit of £6.5 million in2006. Capital The international measure for capital adequacy is the risk asset ratio whichrelates regulatory capital to on and off balance sheet assets. The Group's regulatory capital is divided into two tiers defined by the EuropeanCommunity Banking Consolidation Directive as implemented in the UK by the FSA'sInterim Prudential Sourcebook for Banks. Tier 1 comprises mainly shareholders'funds, minority interest, after deducting goodwill and other intangible assets.Tier 2 comprises qualifying subordinated loan capital and revaluation reserves.Tier 2 capital cannot exceed 50% of tier 1 capital. Total capital is reduced bydeducting investments in subsidiaries that are not consolidated for regulatorypurposes. Risk weighted assets are determined according to a broad categorisation of thenature of each asset or exposure and counterparty. £'000 2006 2005 -----------------------------------------------------------------------------Tier 1 37,543 23,213Tier 2 11,456 14,620Less deductions (828) (803)------------------------------------------------------------------------------Total capital 48,171 37,030 Total risk weighted assets 211,423 200,640 Risk asset ratio 22.8% 18.5% The Group's capital position has significantly improved during 2006, largely dueto the sale and leaseback transaction. The Group has capacity to raise furtherTier 2 capital should this be required. The Group's capital management policy is focused on optimising shareholdervalue. There is a clear focus on delivering organic growth and capital resourcesare sufficient to support planned levels of growth. The Board constantly reviewsthe capital position. Risk Management The Group regards the monitoring and controlling of risks as a fundamental partof the management process. Consequently, senior management are involved in thedevelopment of risk management policies and in monitoring their application The principal non-operational risks inherent in the Group's business are credit,counterparty, liquidity and market risks. Credit risk is managed through theCredit Committees of Secure Trust Bank and Arbuthnot Latham & Co, withsignificant exposures also being approved by the Group Risk Committee. Of thetotal gross loan book of £159.0 million at 31 December 2006, some £29.9 millionrepresents largely unsecured loans to customers of Secure Trust Bank and £129.1million represents the commercial lending portfolio, most of which is wellsecured against cash, property, factored debts or other assets. A provision of£3.5 million (2.2% of total outstandings) is carried against the loan book. Market risk arises in relation to movements in interest rates, currencies andequity markets. The Group's treasury function operates mainly to provide aservice to clients and does not take significant unmatched positions in anymarkets for its own account. Hence, the Group's exposure to adverse movements ininterest rates and currencies is limited to the interest earnings on its freecash and interest rate repricing mismatches. Through Arbuthnot Securities the Group is also involved in market-making andunderwriting in UK equities. The market-making book is well controlled and isrelatively modest in relation to the Group's overall financial resources (netlong positions outstanding at 31 December 2006 were £6.8 million). Themarket-making book is subject to Group-approved limits, both in aggregate and inrelation to individual stocks. Outstanding positions are monitored against theselimits both intraday and overnight. All significant underwriting transactionsare individually approved by the Group Risk Committee. A conservative approach is also taken to managing the liquidity profile andcapital of the Group. Both of the banking subsidiaries operate with liquiditymargins and risk asset ratios in excess of the minimum levels set by theregulators. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES The principal accounting policies applied in the preparation of theseconsolidated financial statements are set out below. These policies have beenconsistently applied to all the years presented, unless otherwise stated. 1. Basis of presentation The Group's consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordancewith International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) as adopted by theEuropean Commission. This means those International Accounting Standards,International Financial Reporting Standards and related Interpretations(SIC-IFRIC interpretations), subsequent amendments to those standards andrelated interpretations, future standards and related interpretations issued oradopted by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) that have beenendorsed by the European Union. The consolidated financial statements have beenprepared under the historical cost convention, as modified by the revaluation ofcertain fixed assets and financial assets and financial liabilities held at fairvalue through profit or loss. These consolidated financial statements are the second full financial statementsprepared by the Group in accordance with IFRS. 2. Consolidation Subsidiaries are all entities (including special purpose entities) over whichthe Group has the power to govern the financial and operating policies,generally accompanying a shareholding of more than one-half of the votingrights. The existence and effect of potential voting rights that are currentlyexercisable or convertible are considered when assessing whether the Groupcontrols another entity. Subsidiaries are fully consolidated from the date onwhich control is transferred to the Group. They are de-consolidated from thedate that control ceases. The purchase method of accounting is used to account for the acquisition ofsubsidiaries by the Group. The cost of an acquisition is measured as the fairvalue of the assets given, equity instruments issued and liabilities incurred orassumed at the date of exchange, plus costs directly attributable to theacquisition. Identifiable assets acquired and liabilities and contingentliabilities assumed in a business combination are measured initially at theirfair values at the acquisition date, irrespective of the extent of any minorityinterest. The excess of the cost of acquisition over the fair value of theGroup's shares of the identifiable net assets acquired is recorded as goodwill.If the cost of acquisition is less than the fair value of the net assets of thesubsidiary acquired, the difference is recognised directly in the incomestatement. Inter-company transactions, balances and unrealised gains on transactionsbetween Group companies are eliminated. Unrealised losses are also eliminatedunless the transaction provides evidence of impairment of the asset transferred.Accounting policies of subsidiaries have been changed where necessary to ensureconsistency with the policies adopted by the Group. 3. Segment reporting A business segment is a group of assets and operations engaged in providingproducts or services that are subject to risks and returns that are differentfrom those of other business segments. 4. Foreign currency translation (a) Functional and presentation currency All Group entities operate primarily in the United Kingdom and items included intheir financial statements are measured using pounds sterling ('the functionalcurrency'). The consolidated financial statements are presented in poundssterling, which is the Company's functional and presentation currency. (b) Transactions and balances Foreign currency transactions are translated into the functional currency usingthe exchange rates prevailing at the dates of the transactions. Foreign exchangegains and losses resulting from the settlement of such transactions and from thetranslation at year-end exchange rates of monetary assets and liabilitiesdenominated in foreign currencies are recognised in the income statement. 5. Interest income and expense Interest income and expense are recognised in the income statement for allinstruments measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method. The effective interest method is a method of calculating the amortised cost of afinancial asset or a financial liability and of allocating the interest incomeor interest expense over the relevant period. The effective interest rate is therate that exactly discounts estimated future cash payments or receipts throughthe expected life of the financial instrument or, when appropriate, a shorterperiod to the net carrying amount of the financial asset or financial liability.When calculating the effective interest rate, the Group takes into account allcontractual terms of the financial instrument but does not consider futurecredit losses. The calculation includes all fees paid or received betweenparties to the contract that are an integral part of the effective interestrate, transaction costs and all other premiums or discounts. Once a financial asset or a group of similar financial assets has been writtendown as a result of an impairment loss, interest income is recognised using therate of interest used to discount the future cash flows for the purpose ofmeasuring the impairment loss. 6. Fee and commission income Fees and commissions which are not considered integral to the effective interestrate, are generally recognised on an accrual basis when the service has beenprovided. Loan commitment fees are deferred and recognised as an adjustment tothe effective interest rate on the loan. Commission and fees arising fromnegotiating, or participating in the negotiation of, a transaction for a thirdparty - such as the issue or the acquisition of shares or other securities orthe purchase or sale of businesses - are recognised on completion of theunderlying transaction. Asset and other management, advisory and service feesare recognised based on the applicable service contracts, usually on atime-apportioned basis. The same principle is applied for financial planning andinsurance services that are continuously provided over an extended period oftime. 7. Financial assets The Group classifies its financial assets in the following categories: financialassets at fair value through profit or loss; loans and receivables;held-to-maturity investments; and available-for-sale financial assets.Management determines the classification of its investments at initialrecognition. (a) Financial assets at fair value and through profit or loss This category comprises financial assets held for trading. (b) Loans and receivables Loans and receivables are non-derivative financial assets with fixed ordeterminable payments that are not quoted in an active market. They arise whenthe Group provides money, goods or services directly to a debtor with nointention of trading the receivable. (c) Held-to-maturity Held-to-maturity investments are non-derivative financial assets with fixed ordeterminable payments and fixed maturities that the Group's management has thepositive intention and ability to hold to maturity. (d) Available-for-sale Available-for-sale investments are those intended to be held for an indefiniteperiod of time, which may be sold in response to needs for liquidity or changesin interest rates, exchange rates or equity prices. Included in available-for-sale are equity investments in special purposevehicles set up to acquire and enhance the value of commercial properties. Theseinvestments are of a medium term nature. There is no open market for thesesecurities and due to the nature of the underlying assets any valuation wouldcontain significant estimation. Consequently, the Directors believe that it isappropriate to hold the investments at cost. Purchases and sales of financial assets at fair value through profit or loss arerecognised on trade-date - the date on which the Group commits to purchase orsell the asset. Loans are recognised when cash is advanced to the borrowers.Financial assets are initially recognised at fair value plus transaction costsfor all financial assets not carried at fair value through profit or loss.Financial assets are derecognised when the rights to receive cash flows from thefinancial assets have expired or where the Group has transferred substantiallyall risks and rewards of ownership. Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss are subsequently carriedat fair value. Loans and receivables and held-to-maturity investments arecarried at amortised cost using the effective interest method. Gains and lossesarising from changes in the fair value of the 'financial assets at fair valuethrough profit or loss' category are included in the income statement in theperiod in which they arise. The fair values of quoted investments in active markets are based on current bidprices for long positions and offer prices for short positions (taking intoaccount the size and liquidity of the holding). 8. Offsetting financial instruments Financial assets and liabilities are offset and the net amount reported in thebalance sheet when there is a legally enforceable right to offset the recognisedamounts and there is an intention to settle on a net basis, or realise the assetand settle the liability simultaneously. 9. Impairment of financial assets The Group assesses at each balance sheet date whether there is objectiveevidence that a financial asset or group of financial assets is impaired. Afinancial asset or a group of financial assets is impaired and impairment lossesare incurred if, and only if, there is objective evidence of impairment as aresult of one or more events that has occurred after the initial recognition of the asset (a 'loss event') and that loss event (or events) has an impact on the estimated future cash flows of the financial asset or group of financialassets that can be reliably estimated. If there is objective evidence that an impairment loss on loans and receivablesor held-to-maturity investments carried at amortised cost has been incurred, theamount of the loss is measured as the difference between the asset's carryingamount and the present value of estimated future cash flows discounted at thefinancial asset's original effective interest rate. The carrying amount of theasset is reduced through the use of an allowance account and the amount of theloss is recognised in the income statement. If a loan or held-to-maturityinvestment has a variable interest rate, the discount rate for measuring anyimpairment loss is the current effective interest rate determined under thecontract. When a loan is uncollectable, it is written off against the related provisionfor loan impairment. Such loans are written off after all the necessaryprocedures have been completed and the amount of the loss has been determined.Subsequent recoveries of amounts previously written off decrease the amount ofthe provision for loan impairment in the income statement. 10. Intangible assets (a) Goodwill Goodwill represents the excess of the cost of an acquisition over the fair valueof the Group's share of the net identifiable assets of the acquired subsidiaryat the date of acquisition. Goodwill on acquisitions of subsidiaries is includedin 'intangible assets'. Goodwill is tested annually for impairment and carriedat cost less accumulated impairment losses. Gains and losses on the disposal ofan entity include the carrying amount of goodwill relating to the entity sold. (b) Computer software Acquired computer software licences are capitalised on the basis of the costsincurred to acquire and bring to use the specific software. These costs areamortised on the basis of the expected useful lives (three to five years). Costs associated with developing or maintaining computer software programs arerecognised as an expense as incurred. 11. Property, plant and equipment Land and buildings comprise mainly branches and offices and are stated at latestvaluation with subsequent additions at cost less depreciation. Plant andequipment is stated at historical cost less depreciation. Historical cost includesexpenditure that is directly attributable to the acquisition of the items. Land is not depreciated. Depreciation on other assets is calculated using thestraight-line method to allocate their cost to their residual values over theirestimated useful lives, applying the following annual rates, which are subjectto regular review: Freehold buildings 2% Office equipment 5% to 15% Computer equipment 20% to 33% Motor vehicles 25% Gains and losses on disposals are determined by comparing proceeds with carryingamount. These are included in the income statement. 12. Cash and cash equivalents For the purposes of the cash flow statement, cash and cash equivalents comprisebalances with less than three months' maturity from the date of acquisition,including cash, loans and advances to banks and building societies andshort-term highly liquid debt securities. 13. Post-retirement benefits The Group contributes to a defined contribution scheme and to individual definedcontribution schemes for the benefit of certain employees. The schemes arefunded through payments to insurance companies or trustee-administered funds atthe contribution rates agreed with individual employees. The Group has no further payment obligations once the contributions have beenpaid. The contributions are recognised as an employee benefit expense when theyare due. Prepaid contributions are recognised as an asset to the extent that acash refund or a reduction in the future payments is available. There are no post-retirement benefits other than pensions. 14. Deferred tax Deferred tax is provided in full, using the liability method, on temporarydifferences arising between the tax bases of assets and liabilities and theircarrying amounts in the consolidated financial statements. Deferred tax isdetermined using tax rates (and laws) that have been enacted or substantiallyenacted by the balance sheet date and are expected to apply when the relateddeferred tax asset is realised or the deferred tax liability is settled. Deferred tax assets are recognised where it is probable that future taxableprofits will be available against which the temporary differences can beutilised. 15. Borrowings Borrowings are recognised initially at fair value, being their issue proceeds(fair value of consideration received) net of transaction costs incurred.Borrowings are subsequently stated at amortised cost; any difference betweenproceeds net of transaction costs and the redemption value is recognised in theincome statement over the period of the borrowings using the effective interestmethod. 16. Share capital (a) Share issue costs Incremental costs directly attributable to the issue of new shares or options orto the acquisition of a business are shown in equity as a deduction, net of tax,from the proceeds. (b) Dividends on ordinary shares Dividends on ordinary shares are recognised in equity in the period in whichthey are approved. 17. Fiduciary activities The Group commonly acts as trustees and in other fiduciary capacities thatresult in the holding or placing of assets on behalf of individuals, trusts,retirement benefit plans and other institutions. These assets and income arisingthereon are excluded from these financial statements, as they are not assets ofthe Group. The 2006 Annual Report will be posted to shareholders and copies may be obtainedfrom the Company Secretary, Arbuthnot Banking Group PLC, Arbuthnot House, 20Ropemaker Street, London EC2Y 9AR. This information is provided by RNS The company news service from the London Stock Exchange