OMB Number: 3235-0288 |
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 20-F
NORSAT INTERNATIONAL INC.
British Columbia, Canada
(Mark One)
[ ] REGISTRATION STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(b) OR (g) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
OR
[ X ]ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 For the fiscal year endedDecember 31st, 2014
OR
[ ]TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from _________________ to ________________
[ ] 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: 0-12600 |
Norsat International Inc.
(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)
British Columbia, Canada
(Jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)
110–4020 Viking Way, Richmond, British Columbia, Canada V6V 2L4
(Address of principal executive offices)
Arthur Chin, 604-821-2809, achin@norsat.com
110–4020 Viking Way, Richmond, British Columbia, Canada V6V 2L4
(Name, Telephone, E-mail and/or Facsimile number and Address of Company Contact Person)
Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act.
Title of each class | Name of each exchange on which registered |
N/A | N/A |
Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act.
N/A
Title of Class
Securities for which there is a reporting obligation pursuant to Section 15(d) of the Act.
Common Shares
Title of Class
Indicate the number of outstanding shares of each of the issuer's classes of capital or common stock as of the close of the period covered by the annual report:58,316,532 common shares.
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act
[ ] Yes [ X ] No
If this report is an annual or transition report, indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.
[ ] Yes [ X ] No
Note – Checking the box above will not relieve any registrant required to file reports pursuant to Section13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 from their obligation under those Sections.
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.
[ X ] Yes [ ] No
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).
[ X ] Yes [ ] No
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, or a non-accelerated filer. See definition of accelerated filer and large accelerated filer in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large accelerated filer [ ] | Accelerated filer [ ] | Non-accelerated filer [ X ] |
Indicate by check mark which basis of accounting the registrant has used to prepare the financial statements included in this filing:
U.S. GAAP [ ] | International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board [ X ] | Other [ ] |
If “Other” has been checked in response to the previous question, indicate by check mark which financial statement item the registrant has elected to follow.
Indicate by check mark which financial statement item the registrant has elected to follow.
Item 17 [ ] Item 18 [ ]
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 [ X ] No
(APPLICABLE ONLY TO ISSUERS INVOLVED IN BANKRUPTCY PROCEEDINGS DURING THE PAST FIVE YEARS)
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has filed all documents and reports required to be filed by Sections 12, 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 subsequent to the distribution of securities under a plan confirmed by a court. [ ] Yes [ ]No
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Table Of Contents
PART I | 5 | |
1. | IDENTITY OF DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT, AND ADVISERS | 5 |
2. | OFFER STATISTICS AND EXPECTED TIMETABLE | 5 |
3. | KEY INFORMATION | 6 |
A. | SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA | 6 |
B. | CAPITALIZATION AND INDEBTEDNESS | 8 |
C. | REASONS FOR THE OFFER AND USE OF PROCEEDS | 8 |
D. | RISK FACTORS | 8 |
4. | INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY | 15 |
A. | HISTORY AND DEVELOPMENT OF THE COMPANY | 15 |
B. | BUSINESS OVERVIEW | 20 |
C. | ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE | 26 |
D. | PROPERTY, PLANTS AND EQUIPMENT | 26 |
4A. | UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS | 26 |
5. | OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS | 27 |
A. | OPERATING RESULTS | 27 |
B. | LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES | 59 |
C. | RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT, PATENTS AND LICENSES, ETC. | 63 |
D. | TREND INFORMATION | 64 |
E. | OFF-BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS | 65 |
F. | TABULAR DISCLOSURE OF CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS | 66 |
G. | SAFE HARBOR | 66 |
6. | DIRECTORS, SENIORMANAGEMENT ANDEMPLOYEES | 66 |
A. | DIRECTORS AND SENIOR MANAGEMENT | 66 |
B. | COMPENSATION | 69 |
C. | BOARD PRACTICES | 72 |
D. | EMPLOYEES | 78 |
E. | SHARE OWNERSHIP | 79 |
7. | MAJOR SHAREHOLDERS AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS | 83 |
A. | MAJOR SHAREHOLDERS | 83 |
B. | RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS | 84 |
C. | INTERESTS OF EXPERTS AND COUNSEL | 84 |
8. | FINANCIAL INFORMATION | 84 |
A1 – A3. | CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS AND OTHER FINANCIAL INFORMATION | 84 |
B. | SIGNIFICANT CHANGES | 84 |
9. | THEOFFER ANDLISTING | 84 |
10. | ADDITIONALINFORMATION | 85 |
A. | SHARE CAPITAL | 86 |
B. | MEMORANDUM AND ARTICLES OF ASSOCIATION | 86 |
C. | MATERIAL CONTRACTS | 89 |
D. | EXCHANGE CONTROLS | 89 |
E. | TAXATION | 89 |
F. | DIVIDENDS AND PAYING AGENTS | 93 |
G. | STATEMENT BY EXPERTS | 93 |
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H. | DOCUMENTS ON DISPLAY | 93 |
I. | SUBSIDIARY INFORMATION | 94 |
11. | QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK | 94 |
12. | DESCRIPTION OF SECURITIES OTHER THAN EQUITY SECURITIES | 94 |
PART II | 94 | |
13. | DEFAULTS, DIVIDEND ARREARAGES AND DELINQUENCIES | 94 |
14. | MATERIAL MODIFICATIONS TO THE RIGHTS OF SECURITY HOLDERS AND USE OF PROCEEDS | 94 |
15. | CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES | 94 |
16. | [RESERVED] | 95 |
16A. | AUDIT COMMITTEE FINANCIAL EXPERT | 95 |
16B. | CODE OF ETHICS | 96 |
16C. | PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES | 96 |
16D. | EXEMPTIONS FROM THE LISTING STANDARDS FOR AUDIT COMMITTEES | 96 |
16E. | PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES BY THE ISSUER | 96 |
16F. | CHANGE IN REGISTRANT’S CERTIFYING ACCOUNTANT | 97 |
16G. | CORPORATE GOVERNANCE | 98 |
16H. | MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURE | 98 |
PART III | 98 | |
17. | FINANCIALSTATEMENTS | 98 |
18. | FINANCIALSTATEMENTS | 98 |
19. | EXHIBITS | 99 |
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FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This annual report includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the US Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Section 21E of the US Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the safe harbor provisions of the US Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Words such as “believe,” “anticipate,” “expect,” “intend,” “seek,” “will,” “plan,” “could,” “may,” “project,” “goal,” “target” and similar expressions often identify forward-looking statements but are not the only way we identify these statements. All statements other than statements of historical fact included in this annual report, including the statements in the sections of this annual report entitled “Item 3D. Key Information – Risk Factors,” “Item 4. Information on the Company” and “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects” and elsewhere in this annual report regarding our future performance, plans to increase revenues or margins or preserve or expand market share in existing or new markets, reduce expenses and any statements regarding other future events or our future prospects, are forward-looking statements.
We have based these forward-looking statements on our current knowledge and our present beliefs and expectations regarding possible future events. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions, the impact of current global economic conditions and possible regulatory and legal developments. For a description of some of the risks we face, see “Item 3D. Key Information –Risk Factors,” “Item 4. Information on the Company,” “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects,” “Item 8 A1. Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information” and “Item 11. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk”. In light of these risks, uncertainties and assumptions, the forward-looking events discussed in this annual report might not occur, and actual results may differ materially from the results anticipated. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
Norsat International Inc. is referred to in this annual report as “Norsat”, “we”, “our”, “our company”, “the Company” or “us”.
All dollar amounts presented in the Annual Report on Form 20-F are presented in United States dollars unless otherwise indicated. Reference should be made to Item 3A for information on exchange rates between the Canadian dollar and the United States dollar.
Unless we indicate otherwise, all information in this Annual Report is stated as of March 18, 2015, the date as of which we prepared information for our annual report to shareholders.
PART I
1. | IDENTITY OF DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT, AND ADVISERS |
Not applicable.
2. | OFFER STATISTICS AND EXPECTED TIMETABLE |
Not applicable.
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3. | KEY INFORMATION |
A. | Selected financial data |
Table 1 below summarizes selected consolidated financial data for Norsat International Inc. (“the Company”, “Norsat”, or “we”) for the last four fiscal years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, 2012 and 2011 which have been extracted from the Company’s audited consolidated financial statements and related notes and should be read in conjunction with such financial statements appearing under the heading “Item 8 A. Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information” and with the information appearing under the heading “Item 5 - Operating and Financial Review and Prospects”.
Our consolidated financial statements for fiscal years 2011 through 2014 are prepared in accordance with the International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”) as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board.
In this Form 20-F Annual Report, unless otherwise specified, all monetary amounts are expressed in United States dollars. All references to "US$" or "$" are to U.S. dollars and all references to "Cdn$" are to Canadian dollars. The following table sets forth, for each period indicated, exchange rates Canadian dollar expressed in U.S. dollars:
USD to CAD | 2014 | 2013 | 2012 | 2011 | |||||
December 31 | 0.8620 | 0.9402 | 1.0051 | 0.9833 | |||||
Annual average | 0.9055 | 0.9711 | 1.0008 | 1.0144 |
Table 1: Selected Financial Information
Financial results for 2012 and 2011 have been restated below for discontinued operations compared to previously reported financial results.
Subsequent to December 31, 2014, the Company consolidated its outstanding common shares on the basis of one new common share for every ten existing common shares. As a result, earnings per share and weighted average common shares outstanding are reflected on a post-consolidated basis. For further information please see Item 10B.
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Income Statement Data | Year ended December 31, | ||||||||
(‘000, except per share amounts) | 2014 | 2013 | 2012 | 2011 | |||||
$ | $ | $ | $ | ||||||
Sales | 36,179 | 36,417 | 42,429 | 37,792 | |||||
Earnings before income taxes | 3,701 | 2,976 | 2,553 | 1,761 | |||||
Current income tax (recovery)/ expense | (214) | 270 | 782 | 811 | |||||
Deferred income tax (recovery)/ expense | (279) | (1,001) | (3,283) | 479 | |||||
Earnings from continuing operations | 4,195 | 3,707 | 5,054 | 471 | |||||
Net earnings for the period | 4,195 | 3,707 | 5,135 | 411 | |||||
| Earnings from continuing operations and net earnings per share – basic and diluted | 0.73 | 0.64 | 0.87 | 0.81 | ||||
# | # | # | # | ||||||
| Weighted average number of shares – basic | 5,758 | 5,780 | 5,815 | 5,805 | ||||
| Weighted average number of shares – diluted | 5,761 | 5,782 | 5,815 | 5,817 | ||||
Dividends per share | - | - | - | - | |||||
Balance Sheet Data | As at December 31, | ||||||||
2014 | 2013 | 2012 | 2011 | ||||||
$ | $ | $ | $ | ||||||
Cash and cash equivalents | 5,514 | 3,273 | 5,054 | 4,193 | |||||
| Total assets, excluding future income tax assets | 35,592 | 33,778 | 36,710 | 39,064 | ||||
Total assets | 40,492 | 38,678 | 40,882 | 40,261 | |||||
Net assets | 28,984 | 26,424 | 24,234 | 18,678 | |||||
Acquisition loan | 2,371 | 4,413 | 6,953 | 9,650 | |||||
Promissory note payable | - | - | 693 | 597 | |||||
Issued capital | 39,851 | 39,851 | 39,851 | 39,851 | |||||
Other Financial Data | Year ended December 31, | ||||||||
2014 | 2013 | 2012 | 2011 | ||||||
$ | $ | $ | $ | ||||||
EBITDA(1) | 5,091 | 4,613 | 4,646 | 3,759 | |||||
Adjusted EBITDA(1) | 4,685 | 5,120 | 4,815 | 4,209 |
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Note:
(1) | EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA are non-IFRS measures. Please refer to “Non-IFRS Measures” under the heading “Item 5 - Operating and Financial Review and Prospects”. The following table sets forth, for the years indicated, a reconciliation of IFRS to non-IFRS measures: |
Years ended December 31 | 2014 | 2013 | 2012 | 2011 | |||||
(‘000) | |||||||||
$ | $ | $ | $ | ||||||
Net earnings | 4,195 | 3,707 | 5,135 | 411 | |||||
Interest expense | 115 | 236 | 536 | 533 | |||||
Amortization and depreciation | 1,275 | 1,401 | 1,476 | 1,525 | |||||
Tax (recovery) expense | (494) | (731) | (2,501) | 1,290 | |||||
EBITDA | 5,091 | 4,613 | 4,646 | 3,759 | |||||
Foreign exchange (gain)/loss | (586) | (888) | 250 | (100) | |||||
(Earnings)/loss from discontinued | |||||||||
operations | - | - | (81) | 60 | |||||
Acquisition costs | 180 | 131 | - | 490 | |||||
Write-down of inventory | - | 1,264 | - | - | |||||
Adjusted EBITDA | 4,685 | 5,120 | 4,815 | 4,209 |
B. | Capitalization and indebtedness |
Not applicable.
C. | Reasons for the offer and use of proceeds |
Not applicable.
D. | Risk factors |
Investors should carefully consider the risks and uncertainties described below before making an investment decision. If any of the following risks actually occur, our business, financial condition or operating results could be materially harmed. This could cause the trading price of our common shares to decline, and you may lose all or part of your investment. The items of the following list of risk factors are in no particular order or priority to the Company.
RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH FINANCIAL RESULTS
The Company’s inability to generate sufficient cash flows from its operations may affectits ability to continue as a going concern.The Company’s consolidated financial statements have been prepared on a going concern basis, which presumes the realization of assets and the settlement of liabilities in the normal course of operations. The application of the going concern basis is dependent upon the Company having sufficient available cash resources and achieving profitable operations to generate sufficient cash flows to fund continued operations. Should the Company fail to generate sufficient cash flows from operations, it will require additional financing to remain a going concern. At December 31, 2014, the Company had accumulated a deficit of $11,877,494. Although we generated net profit from our continued operations throughout 2012 to 2014, in the third quarter of 2011 and from the fourth quarter of 2006 through to the fourth quarter of 2010, we have also reported losses in the first, second and fourth quarters of 2011. This past performance cannot be used as an indication of our future performance.
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The Company’s inability to accurately forecast its results from quarter-to-quarter may affect its cash resources and result in wide fluctuations in the market price of the Company's stock.The operating results have varied on a quarterly basis in the past and may fluctuate significantly in the future as a result of a variety of factors, many of which are described below. Due to these and other factors, most of which are outside of the Company’s control, the quarterly revenues and operating results are difficult to forecast. As a result, the Company may not be able to accurately predict its necessary cash expenditures during each quarter or obtain financing in a timely manner to cover any shortfalls. The Company also believes that period-to-period comparisons of its operating results may not be meaningful and one should not rely on any such comparisons as an indication of its future performance.
RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH BUSINESS AND OPERATIONS
The Company’s exposure to business and operation risks includes but is not limited to the following:
The Company recognizes the threats posed by operating in an uncertain global economic environment.The uncertain global economy and financial markets continue to limit overall visibility to end markets. This uncertainty may continue to impact our industry, resulting in lower demand for some of the products we manufacture and limiting end-market visibility for our customers. This environment can pose significant risk to our business by impacting demand for our customers’ products, the financial condition of our customers or suppliers, as well as the level of customer consolidations. A deterioration in economic environment may accelerate the effect of the various risk factors described in this Annual Report, as well as result in other unforeseen events that will impact our business and financial condition.
To succeed, the Company must be able to control spending and prudently allocate financial resources to optimize value. To drive sales, the Company’s products must meet the needs of the Company’s existing and potential customers and be competitively priced; additional judgement will need to be exercised if the granting of credit to customers is required to close the transaction. In view of the current difficulty, both in obtaining credit and accessing the capital markets, stewardship of cash continues to be critical to the success of the Company.
The Company cannot be sure it will be able to identify emerging technology and market trends, enhance its existing technologies or develop new technologies in order to effectively compete in the communications industry.The communications industry is characterized by rapid technological changes, short technology and product life cycles, pressure to provide improved solutions at increasingly lower prices and frequent introduction of new technologies and products. To succeed, the Company must be able to identify emerging trends and enhance our existing technologies and develop new technologies and products to meet market requirements. To drive sales, the Company’s products must meet the needs of existing and potential customers and be competitively priced. Additionally, there must be sufficient interest in and demand for our products. If the Company does not develop these new technologies and products in a timely and cost effective manner, or if others develop new technologies ahead of us, the Company may not achieve profitability in the communications industry and may not be able to participate in selling these new technologies or products. While the Company is able to continue to develop products with funding contributions from the Canadian Federal Government through the SADI program; without the SADI program contribution, the Company’s product development costs would not be sustainable, thereby jeopardizing our ability to maintain product innovation and leadership.
The Company has customer concentration.A significant portion of the Company’s revenues have been recognized from a limited number of customers. A decline in revenue from the customers on which we are dependent or the loss of a large customer could have a material effect on our financial condition and operating results.
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For the year ended December 31, 2014, one customer of the Sinclair Technologies operating segment individually represented 10% or more of total consolidated revenue (2013 – one customer, 2012 – one customer, 2011 – no customer). The one customer represented 11% for the year ended December 31, 2014 (2013 – 14%, 2012 – 11%, 2011-Nil).
While the Company has been diversifying our customer base, the efforts to date may be insufficient to offset the effects of the quarterly variance of sales and delays associated with selling to the Government sector. The Company expects that a majority of the Satellite Systems revenues will continue to be dependent on sales to a small number of customers. The Company also expects that customers will vary from period-to-period as existing customers are under no obligation to continue buying from Norsat.
The Company cannot be sure that it will be able to compete effectively with its current competitors.The Company’s markets are intensely competitive. Some competitors have technologies and products that may be more advantageous and compete directly with the Company. Some of these competitors are large, established companies which have significantly greater resources than those of the Company.
Aggressive pricing is a common business dynamic in our markets. Some of our competitors have greater scale as well as a broader service offering than we have. Some of our current or potential competitors may also increase or shift their presence in new lower-cost regions to try to offset the continuous competitive pressure and increasing labor costs, may develop or acquire services comparable or superior to those we develop, combine or merge to form larger competitors, or adapt more quickly than we may to new technologies, evolving industry trends and changing customer requirements.
The Company’s ability to compete effectively will depend on its ability to increase sales, attract new customers in a timely and cost effective manner and sell these products at competitive prices. The Company is dependent on others for the supply and manufacture of components and products it sells. The Company has outsourced substantially all of the manufacturing of the microwave products it sells. The Company relies on its suppliers to provide components for the production of other products. If either the manufacturers or suppliers cannot deliver products to the Company on time, its revenues and profits will be adversely affected.
The Company has limited intellectual property protection.The Company’s success and ability to compete are dependent, in part, upon its proprietary technology, brand and reputation in the marketplace, and customer relationships. While the Company currently holds four patents (US Patents# 6931245; 7218289; 8200150; 8125400;) and has applied for patent protection on certain other parts of its technology, it relies primarily on trade secrets and does not have adequate trademark and patent protection on all of its technology. The Company also enters into confidentiality, and non-compete agreements with its employees and limits the access to and distribution of the product design documentation and other proprietary information. The Company cannot be sure that these efforts will deter misappropriation or prevent an unauthorized third party, including former associates and former employees, from obtaining or using information, which it deems to be proprietary. Although the Company believes that its technology does not currently infringe upon patents or trademarks held by others, it cannot be sure that such infringements do not exist or will not exist in the future, particularly as the number of products and competitors in its industry segment grows.
If the Company experiences rapid growth and does not manage it effectively, profitability may be affected. If its technologies and products achieve widespread acceptance the Company may experience rapid growth. This growth may require the Company to hire more employees, recruit additional management, improve the Company’s financial control systems, and expand and manage the technical, sales and support service operations. The Company would need
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increased revenues and additional funding to operate these increased activities. If the Company does not manage its growth effectively, its profitability may be impacted.
The Company depends on its key employees and it cannot be sure that it will be able to keep these employees or hire and train replacements. The Company’s success depends on the skills, experience and performance of the senior management and other key personnel. While it offers competitive compensation packages and stock options to attract key employees, the Company does not carry key person insurance on these employees. Highly skilled technical employees and management in the communications industry are in demand and the market for such persons is highly competitive. The Company cannot be sure that it will be able to retain these employees or hire replacements. If the Company does not successfully retain the key personnel or hire and train replacements it will be unable to develop the new products and technologies necessary to compete in its markets or to effectively manage its business.
The Company intends to expand its international operations, and thus faces a number of risks including tariffs, export controls and other trade barriers; political and economic instability in foreign markets; and fluctuations in foreign currencies.These external risks may not be under the Company’s control. Additional human and financial resources may be required for this expansion which the Company may not be able to attract or afford. Failure to expand internationally may impact the Company’s prospects for revenue growth and profitability.
The Company may encounter difficulties completing or integrating our acquisitions which could adversely affect our operating results.The Company expects to expand its presence in new end markets or expand our capabilities, some of which may occur through acquisitions. These transactions may involve acquisitions of entire companies and/or acquisitions of selected assets of companies. Potential difficulties related to our acquisitions include:
integrating acquired operations, systems and businesses;
retaining customer, supplier, employee or other business relationships of acquired operations;
addressing unforeseen liabilities of acquired businesses;
limited experience with new technologies; and
not achieving anticipated business volumes.
Any of these factors could prevent the Company from realizing the anticipated benefits of an acquisition, including additional revenue, operational synergies and economies of scale. The Company’s failure to realize the anticipated benefits of acquisitions could adversely affect its business and operating results. The Company’s acquisition of Sinclair Technologies Holdings Inc. in 2011 has resulted in the recording of a significant amount of goodwill and intangible assets at the time of acquisition. The Company’s failure to support the carrying value of goodwill and intangible assets in periods subsequent to the acquisitions could require write-downs that adversely affect our operating results.
In certain instances, the Company sells products which may be subject to export and/or re-export restrictions.The export laws of the governments of Canada and United States apply to products that the Company sells. The United States Department of Commerce, through its Export Administration Regulations, and the Government of Canada, through its Export Controls Division, regulate exports and re-exports of "dual-use" items, i.e., goods, software and technologies with commercial and proliferation/ military applications. In ascertaining whether such items may be subject to export control restrictions, the Company is sometimes forced to rely on information in the specifications of certain components from the manufacturers and vendors. Should this information later prove to be incorrect, the Company may be subjected to penalties and fines. It may also be subjected to penalties and fines should there be a breach in the processes.
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The Company buys components and products which may, in certain instances, be subject to contractual obligations to purchase minimum quantities during a given period, maintain resale records and abide by certain resale restrictions.Failure to fulfil any or all of these may negatively impact liquidity should the Company be forced to take ownership of any un-purchased units. It may also affect the Company’s ability to continue supplying products as originally specified and thus affect obligations to fulfil orders.
The Company may be subject to product liability claims, which are not fully covered by insurance.The manufacture, sale and marketing of the Company’s products expose us to the risk of product liability claims. Given the complex nature of our products, the products may contain undetected errors or performance problems may arise. Although the Company’s products undergo testing prior to release into the market, it is possible that such products may yet still contain errors and performance problems, which are discovered only after commercial introduction. If these defects and errors are discovered after shipment, they could result in a loss of sales revenues, delay in market acceptance, product returns, warranty claims and the loss of a potential market. In addition, components and other products manufactured and distributed by others, which are incorporated into the Company’s products, may also contain such defects and errors, which could substantially reduce the performance of the products. The Company is also at risk of exposure to potential product liability claims from distributors and end-users for damages resulting from defects in products that it distributes. Although product defects have not been a significant factor, the Company maintains comprehensive general liability insurance which provides limited coverage against claims originating in product failure. The Company cannot be sure that this insurance will be adequate to cover all claims brought against us or that this insurance will continue to be available to us on acceptable terms. If these claims are not fully covered by the Company’s product liability insurance, they could severely and negatively impact the business liability insurance coverage and the available cash resources. A product liability claim, even one without merit or for which the Company has substantial coverage, could result in significant legal defence costs, thereby increasing the expenses, lowering the earnings and, depending on revenues, potentially resulting in additional losses.
The Company’s operations may be disrupted by natural disasters and extreme weatherconditions.The Company’s headquarters is located in the Greater Vancouver region which has, in recent times, been subjected to high winds and extreme weather conditions. While the Company has managed to continue operating through some of these conditions, employee productivity during these periods is negatively impacted.
Long sales and implementation cycles forthe Company’sproducts may adversely affect its operating results.The Company’s customers generally devote substantial time, money and other resources to their purchasing decisions. Typically, the larger the potential sale, the more time, money and other resources will be invested. As a result, it may take many months or a few years after the first contact with a customer before a sale may actually be completed. The Company may invest significant sales and other resources in a potential customer that may not generate revenue for a substantial period of time, if at all. Long sales and implementation cycles may affect the size or timing of the order or even cause it to be cancelled. For example, purchasing decisions may be postponed, or large purchases reduced, during periods of economic uncertainty; the Company’s or its competitors may announce or introduce new products; or the customer’s own budget and purchasing needs may change. In addition, long sales and implementation cycles may impact the margins the Company earns on its products. It may cost the Company more to produce its products by the time the purchasing decision is made due to increased supply costs or currency fluctuations. If these events were to occur, sales of the Company’s products may be cancelled or delayed, which would reduce its revenue.
Mergers or other strategic transactions by competitors could weakenthe Company’scompetitive position or reduce its revenue.If one or more of the Company’s competitors were to merge or partner with another of its competitors, the change in the competitive landscape could adversely affect the Company’s ability to compete effectively. The Company’s competitors may
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also establish or strengthen co-operative relationships with existing or prospective clients, thereby limiting the Company’s ability to promote its products and services. Disruptions in the Company’s business caused by these events could reduce its competitiveness and ultimately its revenue.
Ifthe Company’ssuppliers do not supply it with a sufficient amount and quality of components at acceptable prices, and in a timely manner, its ability to manufacture theCompany’sproducts would be harmed and the business would suffer.The Company relies on third-party suppliers to provide components and product subassemblies. A supplier’s failure to supply components or product subassemblies in a timely manner, or failure to supply components or product subassemblies that meet the Company’s quality, quantity or cost requirements, or its inability to obtain substitute sources of these components or product subassemblies in a timely manner or on terms acceptable to the Company, could adversely affect its ability to manufacture or source products. The Company may experience delays in the manufacture or sourcing of products and the business and financial results would suffer if the Company fails to identify alternate suppliers, or if the Company’s supply is interrupted or reduced or if there is a significant increase in cost.
The Company’slevel of indebtedness and failure to comply with its indebtedness arrangements may adversely affect its business and operations.The Company relies on the availability of indebtedness arrangements with its lenders. The arrangements contain numerous restrictive covenants that limit the Company’s discretion with respect to certain business matters. These covenants place significant restrictions on the Company’s ability to pledge or create liens or other encumbrances on its assets. These financial covenants require the Company to meet certain financial ratios and financial condition tests. If the lender was to demand or cancel these facilities, there can be no assurance that the Company’s assets would be sufficient to repay in full the indebtedness. It is possible that the Company will not have sufficient funds at the time to fund its operations. In addition, there can be no assurance that future borrowings or equity financing will be available to the Company or available on acceptable terms, in an amount sufficient to meet its repayment obligations. In the event that the lending arrangements cannot be refinanced, or if they can only be refinanced on terms that are less favourable than the current terms, the Company’s business and operations may be adversely affected.
The Company is subject to the risk of increased income taxes and our ability to successfully defend tax audits could adversely affect our financial condition and operating results.The Company conducts business operations in a number of countries. The Company develops its tax filing positions based upon the anticipated nature and structure of our business and the tax laws, administrative practices and judicial decisions currently in effect in the jurisdictions in which the Company have assets or conduct business, all of which are subject to change or differing interpretations, possibly with retroactive effect. In addition, certain of our subsidiaries provide financing, products and services to, and may from time-to-time undertake certain significant transactions with, other subsidiaries in different jurisdictions. Moreover, several jurisdictions in which the Company operates have tax laws with detailed transfer pricing rules which require that all transactions with non-resident related parties be priced using arm’s length pricing principles, and that contemporaneous documentation must exist to support such pricing.
The Company is subject to tax audits and reviews by local tax authorities of historical information and our contemporaneous documentation which could result in additional tax expense in future periods relating to prior results. Any such increase in our income tax expense and related interest and penalties could have a significant impact on the Company’s future earnings and future cash flows.
Any failure to successfully manage the Company’sinternational operations would have a material adverse effect on its financial condition and operating results.The Company has operations in numerous countries, including Canada, United States, United Kingdom and Switzerland. International operations are subject to inherent risks which may adversely affect us, including:
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labor unrest and differences in regulations and statutes governing employee relations;
changes in regulatory requirements;
inflation and rising costs;
difficulty in staffing and managing foreign operations;
ability to build infrastructure to support operations;
changes in local tax rates or adverse tax consequences, including the repatriation of earnings;
compliance with a variety of foreign laws, including changing import and export regulations;
adverse changes in trade policies between countries in which we maintain operations;
economic and political instability;
potential restrictions on the transfer of funds; and
foreign exchange risks.
RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH THE VALUE OF NORSAT SHARES
The exercise of the existing outstanding options may substantially dilute the value of theCompany’s common shares. The Company has unlimited number of Common Stock authorized, of which 5,831,658 were outstanding on a post-consolidated basis at March 18, 2015. See Item 10B below for more information. Although the Board of Directors has no present intention to do so, it has the authority, within parameters set by the Toronto Stock Exchange (the “TSX”), without action by the shareholders, to issue authorized and unissued shares of Common Stock. Any series of Preferred Stock, if and when established and issued, could also have rights superior to shares of the Company’s Common Stock, particularly in regard to voting, the payment of dividends and upon liquidation of Norsat.
The current financial market volatility can result in wide fluctuations in the market price of our stock.Although the Company has reported profitability in all four quarters of 2014, 2013 and 2012, the third quarter of 2011 and in 17 consecutive quarters starting from the fourth quarter of 2006, we have also reported losses in the first, second and fourth quarters of 2011. Despite the previously mentioned profitable results, the uncertainty and volatility in current financial markets can result in wide fluctuations in the market price of our stock. The Company’s operating results have varied on a quarterly basis in the past and may fluctuate significantly in the future.
RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH FOREIGN EXCHANGE
The Company’s operations are heavily exposed to fluctuations in foreign currencies.Most of the Company’s sales are denominated primarily in US dollars, Canadian dollars and Great British pounds. While the Company expects its revenues and expenses will continue to be denominated primarily in US dollars, a portion of its revenues and expenses may be denominated in other foreign currencies in the future. As the functional currency is the United States dollar, the Company could experience and has experienced the risks of fluctuating currencies. A stronger Canadian dollar increases operating expenses on conversion to the U.S. dollar. From time to time the Company may choose to engage in currency hedging activities, which may be unsuccessful and expensive.
A 5% (2013 – 3%) strengthening (weakening) in the US$ against the Cdn$ would result in a gain (loss) in net earnings and a decrease (increase) in the net financial liabilities of approximately $65,000 (2013 - $88,000).
A 6% (2013 – 6%) strengthening (weakening) in the US$ against the GBP would result in a loss (gain) in net earnings and a decrease (increase) in the net financial assets of approximately $22,000 (2013 - $12,000). For further information, please refer to note 7 Financial Instruments Risk under the heading “Currency Risk” set forth in the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements Years Ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2013 files as Exhibit 99.4 to this annual report on Form 20-F.
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RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH INTEREST RATES
Borrowings under the Company’s operating line of credit bear interest at LIBOR or Prime rate plus a margin. If the Company borrows under this facility, it is exposed to interest rate risks due to fluctuations in these rates. A one-percentage increase in these rates would increase interest expense by approximately $42,000 annually, assuming the Company borrows a maximum of $3.7 million under our credit facilities.
In addition, borrowings under the Company’s acquisition loan bear interest at LIBOR or Prime rate plus a margin. The Company is exposed to interest rate risks due to fluctuations in these rates. A one-percentage increase in these rates would increase interest expense by approximately $24,000, based on a principal amount of $2.4 million, which is the balance outstanding as at December 31, 2014. For further information, please refer to note 7 Financial Instruments Risk under the heading “Interest rate risk” set forth in the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements Years Ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2013 files as Exhibit 99.4 to this annual report on Form 20-F.
4. | INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY |
A. | History and Development of the Company |
1. | The Company was incorporated in British Columbia, Canada on October 15, 1982 pursuant to theCompany Act(British Columbia). Effective September 27, 1989, the Company changed its name to NII Norsat International, Inc. At the Company’s Annual General Meeting held on June 9, 1999, shareholders passed a special resolution to change the Company’s name back to Norsat International Inc. Since July 2, 1999, the Company has operated under the name Norsat International Inc. (herein “Norsat” or the “Company”). | |
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2. | Norsat was incorporated under and continues to operate under the laws of the Province of British Columbia, Canada. The Company is administered from British Columbia. The corporate laws pertinent to Norsat are those of the Province of British Columbia, although it is also subject to the securities legislation of British Columbia, Ontario and the United States. | |
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3. | The Company’s principal business is located at the following address: |
110 - 4020 Viking Way
Richmond, British Columbia
Canada V6V 2L4
Telephone: 604-821-2800
Fax: 604-821-2801
Email: investor@norsat.com
www.norsat.com
4. | The principal business events in Norsat’s 32 year history are presented below in in chronological order: | |
1982 | The Company developed the first commercial-grade satellite receivers. | |
1983 | In March 1983, the Company, based in Surrey, British Columbia, completed its initial public offering on the Vancouver Stock Exchange. |
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The Company broke with industry norm and introduced a gallium arsenide low noise amplifier (LNA) instead of a silicon based LNA.
1984 | The Company developed a new series of low noise blocker (LNB) compatible satellite receivers featuring synthesized video, audio, and infrared remote control. | |
1985 | The Company introduced synthesized receivers (JR Series) that enable internal melding of phase and frequency for a very high degree of accuracy; these receivers gain significant traction with private networks. | |
1987 | The Company became a leading provider of Ku band private networks for business television and won a landmark deal to supply GTE Spacenet. |
The Company also introduced the Microsat, an IBM PC compatible satellite communications expansion card for broadcast data networks, with optional audio/video capability. The Company later applied for a patent on key elements of this technology; the patent was eventually awarded in 1991.
1988 | The Company introduced external reference receivers that provide a stable reference source, by minimizing temperature drift, for very low data rate applications. It also introduced a broadcast satellite data multiplexing network control system and a satellite delivered personal computer bulletin board service. | |
1989 | In September 1989, the Company changed its name to NII Norsat International, Inc. | |
1990 | In August 1990, the Company graduated to the Toronto Stock Exchange. | |
1991 | The Company was issued United States Patent No. 5,019,910 entitled “Apparatus for Adapting Computer for Satellite Communications.” | |
1992 | The Company introduced C-band and Ku-band receivers with noise figures of less than 1.5 dB. | |
1993 | The Company introduced the first digital LNB optimized for low data rate applications. | |
1994 | The Company introduced the Microsat 150 Multimedia PC receiver that enables a personal computer or laptop to capture real time satellite video, listen to and edit directly from the computer keyboard selections of audio programs, and monitor real time data broadcasts. | |
1995 | The European Space Agency extended a grant to the Company to develop portable terminals. | |
1996 | The Company introduced video scrambling technology (N-Code II) for cable distribution networks so authorized cable subscribers may receive telecasts. | |
1997 | The Federal Court of Appeal ruled that the use of U.S. based DTH systems in Canada contravened the Radio communication Act. Aurora Distributing, a division of Diamond Pacific Inc., the Company’s consumer products subsidiary, withdrew from the U.S. based DTH receiving market after Norsat settled a lawsuit in which it was a distributor for those systems. | |
1998 | The Company acquired IMT Comsys, a private company and originally the Satellite Communications Division of MPR Teltech. IMT Comsys’ products included Ka-band | |
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VSATs, solid state power amplifiers and low noise block downconverters (LNBs). The acquiree also had development contracts with the European and Canadian Space Agencies for Ka-band subscriber terminals.
The Company’s US Subsidiary, Diamond Pacific, was named the Master Systems Operator by the US Satellite Broadcasting Company, a major supplier of premium movie channels, to support its Multiple Dwelling Unit (MDU) market.
1999 | Norsat introduced a line of C-band and Ku-band TNBs (Two-way Norsat block converters), a critical component for the proliferation of wireless broadband media. |
Norsat released the NCS-300 Subscriber Management System to enable cable system operators to easily deliver pay-per-view television.
2000 | In April, Norsat acquired Winnipeg-based SpectraWorks, a leading developer of systems and software for broadcasting multimedia broadband content across satellite, terrestrial and digital cable networks. Through this acquisition, Norsat added digital video broadcast (DVB) hubs to manage the flow of content into and out of the Internet backbone and between subscriber terminals; and a 100 Mbps IP encapsulator to enable end-to-end multimedia broadcast solutions. |
In August, the Company formally exited consumer satellite DBS. The Company discontinued the operations of Norsat America, a distribution business geared towards consumer-oriented, Direct Broadcasting Systems.
Norsat also became a leading provider of Ka-band satellite terminals for various consumer Internet applications through its relationship with SES Astra and Koreasat.
In October 2000, the Company began trading on NASDAQ. It was later de-listed in 2003.
2001 | In June 2001, the Company received a $9.4 million Technology Partnerships Canada investment for the development of satellite interactive terminals. |
In December 2001, the Company signed a contract for its pico-terminals with an Asian military. This was completed in October 2002.
The Company introduced a compact IP encapsulator that enables the transport of Internet content at very high speeds (i.e. 200 Mbps) for both the satellite and cable markets.
2002 | The Company built on its portable terminal experience by introducing a commercial grade flyaway terminal for news gathering organizations. It sold its first NewsLink system to CBS News. | |
2003 | The OmniLink family of portable satellite terminals which includes the NewsLink and SecureLink systems were launched, providing rapidly deployable broadband satellite data and video connectivity for a wide range of applications. | |
2004 | The Company became a key supplier of newsgathering equipment to the US Army. | |
2005 | The Company launched the GLOBETrekker, a backpack able satellite terminal initially capable of transmitting and receiving IP-based video and data content. | |
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The Company was issued United States Patent No. 6931245 entitled “Down Converter for the Combined Reception of Linear and Circular Polarization Signal from Collocated Satellite.”
2006 | In May 2006, the Company was awarded a GSA schedule, facilitating the purchase of its systems by various government agencies. |
In September 2006, the Company relocated its international headquarters to Richmond, British Columbia.
2007 | The Company launched a line of Low Noise Amplifiers, the GLOBETrekker X-band and the Rapid Application Development Environment variant of the GlobeTrekker, which includes an environmentally-controlled baseband enclosure that is compatible with most commercial and specialized modems. |
In addition, the Company introduced the Extended Ku-Band Transmitter and unveiled the Norsat Rover, a single backpack portable satellite terminal.
The Company was issued United States Patent No.7218289 for the GLOBETrekkerTMdesign entitled “Portable High-Speed Data & Broadcast Quality Video and Communication Terminal and Case”.
2008 | The Company announced entry into the marine satellite industry and the Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access (WiMAX) network business in 2008. |
The Company received a repayable contribution from the Canadian government to assist in research and development activities. The funding program was made through the Ministry of Industry’s Strategic and Aerospace Defence Initiative (“SADI”). The total contribution will be a maximum of Canadian $5.97 million through to the year 2011. The contract was subsequently extended to December 31, 2012.
In September 2008, the Company was awarded a $5.5 million contract from the U.S. Department of Defence for the delivery of portable satellite systems.
2009 | The Company was awarded a contract to manage a Vessel Monitoring System (“VMS”) in Europe. | |
2010 | The Company was awarded a $1.7 million contract with a European military. |
The Company was named one of BC Business Top 100 companies
The Company was awarded $4.2 million in contract orders with US Government organizations.
2011 | On January 21, 2011 Norsat acquired Sinclair Technologies Holdings Inc. (“Sinclair”) for $18.5 million. |
Norsat obtained a $12 million loan in connection with the acquisition of Sinclair. As of December 31, 2014, the loan balance had been paid down to $2.4 million.
The Company’s Satellite Solutions segment was awarded a Cdn$3.5 million sales contract to provide satellite-based communications network and ongoing satellite airtime to the First Nations’ Emergency Society of British Columbia (“FNESS”).
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Our Satellite Solutions’ segment released a High Definition-capable version of our GLOBETrekkerTMsystem.
The Company’s Satellite Solutions segment was awarded a new satellite-based communication equipment and services program valued at $1.3 million from the NATO Consultation, Command and Control Agency (“NATO”).
2012 | Norsat launched a Satellite Locator application for iPhone and Android phones that enable users to locate geostationary satellites, assess obstructions and point satellite ground terminals. |
The Company’s legal structure was reorganized such that all the assets and liabilities of Sinclair Technologies Inc. (“STI”), a wholly owned subsidiary of Sinclair Technologies Holdings Inc. (“STHI”), were transferred to STHI. Immediately afterwards all the assets and liabilities of STHI were transferred to Norsat International Inc. (“Norsat”). As of June 29, 2012, STI and STHI were dissolved under the Business Corporation Act (Ontario) and hence, ceased to exist as legal entities. “Sinclair Technologies” continues to operate as a division of Norsat.
The Company divested its Italian subsidiary that operated the Company’s vessel monitoring unit for cash consideration of Euro 70,000 ($85,764). The vessel monitoring unit formed part of the Company’s Maritime segment. Subsequent to the sale, we began reporting other Maritime Solutions revenue under our Satellite Solutions segment.
Norsat won a BC Export Awards for Advancing Technology and Innovation for export success and leadership.
In 2012, the Company was issued United States Patent No.8200150 entitled “Automatic Satellite Acquisition System for Portable Satellite Terminal” and United States Patent No.8125400 entitled “Compact Antenna Feed Assembly and Support Arm with Integrated Waveguide.”
2013 | The Company received a second repayable contribution from the Canadian government to assist in research and development activities. The funding program was made through the Ministry of Industry’s Strategic and Aerospace Defence Initiative (“SADI”). The total contribution will be a maximum of Canadian $13.3 million through to the year 2017. |
The Company acquired certain business assets and assumed certain liabilities of CVG, Incorporated (“CVG”), a US-based satellite communication business for $0.5 million. The acquired assets included new products and associated intellectual property (“IP”) that aligned with the Company’s existing product roadmap and allowed the Company to immediately enter new and additional areas within the satellite communications markets with solid state power amplifiers (“SSPAs”), high power block upconverters (“BUCs”), SATCOM baseband kits and Microsatellite terminals (terminals with antenna sizes below 1 metre).
The Company’s legal structure was reorganized on December 31, 2013 such that wholly owned subsidiaries of Norsat, Norsat International (America), Inc. (“Norsat US”), a Virginia corporation, and Sinclair Technologies, Inc. (“Sinclair US”), a New York corporation, were merged. Sinclair US was merged into Norsat US,
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which was the surviving corporation in the merger under the Virginia Stock Corporation Act and the New York Business Corporation Law.
2014 | The Company launched a number of new products including the ATOM series of Ku-band BUCs and SSPAs, and the 700 – 800 MhZ TXC Series of Ceramic Combiners. The ATOM series of BUCs and SSPAs are the most compact, lightweight, and energy efficient transmitters available in the market. The TXC Series Combiners feature improved performance and are designed to allow a number of transmitters to share a single antenna. | |
2015 | On January 16, 2015, the Company consolidated its outstanding common shares on the basis of one new common share for every ten existing common shares. |
On February 10, 2015, the Company’s shares of common stock commenced trading on the NYSE MKT. Norsat’s ticker symbol is “NSAT” and its shares ceased trading on the OTCBB concurrent with the listing of its shares on the NYSE MKT. The Company’s common shares also continue to trade on the Toronto Stock Exchange (the “TSX”) under the symbol “NII”.
5. | Capital Expenditures |
During 2014, the Company made purchases of property and equipment in the amounts of $623,286 (2013-$584,787, 2012-$547,662) primarily relating to the purchase of equipment for product development and test equipment and operations. There are currently no major capital projects or divestitures in progress.
B. | Business overview |
1. Norsat Business and Principal Activities
Norsat is a leading provider of innovative communication solutions that enable the transmission of data, audio and video for remote and challenging applications. Norsat’s products and services include leading-edge product design and development, production, distribution and infield support and service of fly-away satellite terminals, microwave components, antennas, Radio Frequency (RF) conditioning products, maritime based satellite terminals and remote network connectivity solutions.
Our business currently operates primarily through three business segments: RF antennas and filters (“Sinclair Technologies”), Satellite Solutions, and Microwave Products.
Our common shares trade on The Toronto Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol ‘NII’ and on the OTC Bulletin Board (“OTCBB”) under the ticker symbol ‘NSATF’. See Item 10B below with respect to Norsat’s common shares commencing trading on the NYSE MKT and ceasing trading on the OTCBB concurrently on February 10, 2015.
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Geographic Split
The Company generated revenues from external customers located in the following geographic locations:
(‘000) | Year ended December 31, | ||||||
2014 | 2013 | 2012 | |||||
$ | $ | $ | |||||
Canada | 5,224 | 6,203 | 7,569 | ||||
United States | 21,875 | 21,731 | 24,333 | ||||
Europe and other | 9,080 | 8,483 | 10,527 | ||||
Total | 36,179 | 36,417 | 42,429 |
Customer concentration
For the year ended December 31, 2014, one customer of the Sinclair Technologies operating segment individually represented 10% or more of total consolidated revenue (2013 and 2012 –one customer). The one customer represented a total of 11% for the year ended December 31, 2014 (2013-14%, 2012-11%)
Business Segments
Our business currently operates primarily through three business segments: RF antennas and filters (“Sinclair Technologies”), Satellite Solutions, and Microwave Products.
(a) Sinclair Technologies Business Segment
Sinclair Technologies specializes in RF antenna and filter products designed for high performance, reliability and durability in extreme mechanical/electrical environments and weather conditions. Within these two main product lines, we offer over 2,000 distinct products, including base station antennas, mobile/transit antennas, covert antennas, filters, receiver multicouplers, and accessories. Engineers in our Sinclair Technologies segment are experienced in custom designing complete systems based on the customer’s unique needs. With a strong focus on R&D and continuous product enhancement, we continue to expand our product offerings and improve existing designs to better serve customers.
Antennas
Our Sinclair Technologies segment has developed an exceptionally broad range of antennas, especially in the frequency bands allocated to public safety, air traffic control and land mobile radio applications. Some of these frequencies are currently being “re-farmed” or re-allocated to new applications by governing bodies such as the FCC in the US and Industry Canada. This “re-farming” of frequencies creates new demand, which we can satisfy through engineering derivative modifications to our existing products. This, in turn, preserves our leadership position in the antenna market.
Our Sinclair Technologies segment also manufactures several lines of omni-directional, yagi and panel dipole antennas covering the 30 MHz to 1900 MHz bands. Our family of collinear omnidirectional antennae has a strong reputation with private mobile radio operators who use these
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antennas to provide coverage solutions. Sinclair Technologies was instrumental in developing low passive inter-modulation (“PIM”) antennas.
Filters
Sinclair Technologies also produces an extensive portfolio of RF filter products used to optimize the performance of antenna systems including cavity filters, transmitter combiners, duplexers, isolators, circulators and receiver multi-couplers. Our filter product line is based on standard cavity and combines resonator technologies, as well as very small high-performance filters, using cross-coupled technology.
Radio Frequency Based Communications - Market Profile
The antenna and filter products supplied by our Sinclair Technologies segment are used primarily by the Land Mobile Radio (“LMR”) industry and specifically by the following industry segments:
Public safety operators, including several police forces, coast guards and navies, and a large set of ambulance and fire dispatch services;
Private sector networks including rail, ground and air transportation networks used by natural resource, utility, taxi, trucking, and construction companies, as well as other dedicated network operators. These customers are generally served through an extensive set of dealers specializing in radio systems;
Mobile radio, public safety, aviation and heavy transport industries; and
Original equipment manufacturers.
Sinclair Technologies products are well established globally. Operating in the 30 MHz to 1.9 GHz frequency range, Sinclair antennas and filters are integral components of many wireless communications networks - controlling, enhancing and propagating radio frequency signals associated with these systems. Most Sinclair products support both voice and data.
Competition
The primary competition for antenna and filter products are PCTEL Inc. (NASDAQ:PCTI) Tel. Kathrein – Werke KG, Laird PLC (LSE: LRD.L), Bird Technologies Group, EMR Corporation, Axell Wireless, RFI Corporation, COMPROD., dbSpectra and Radio Frequency Systems (RFS).
(b) Satellite Solutions Business Segment
Our Satellite Solutions segment, established in 2003, provides a comprehensive portfolio of fly-away satellite terminals and software interfaces designed for easy portability and reliable connectivity in locations where traditional communication infrastructure is insufficient, unreliable, damaged or non-existent.
Products
The upgraded Norsat GLOBETrekker™ 2.0 is an intelligent, auto-acquire, rapidly deployable fly-away satellite terminal. GLOBETrekker now includes a modular architecture that enables easy component swapping in the field, a simple one-touch interface, elevated electronics for all terrain deployment and a variety of other feature enhancements that improve usability, performance and ruggedness. The terminal is built to military-grade specifications (MIL-STD-810G) and is easily transported via airline checkable packaging. GLOBETrekker is ideal for users with mission critical
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communication requirements such as military, resource, emergency response, and transportation applications.
The Norsat ROVER™ is an ultra-portable fly-away satellite terminal with assisted acquire technology. Easily assembled in a matter of minutes, the ROVER is ideal for the rapid deployments of military and other highly mobile operations. The ROVER is easily capable of data transfer rates in excess of 12 Mbps, yet is still compact enough to fit into a single backpack.
SigmaLink™ is a fly-away satellite terminal with antenna sizes up to 2.4m, suitable for longer term deployments, yet portable enough for mobile operations. SigmaLink is ideal for use by government and peacekeeping agencies, broadcasters, resource exploration companies, distance education institutions, financial institutions, and large corporations.
Norsat’s GLOBETrekker, Rover and SigmaLink fly-away terminals offer superior ease of use, ruggedness, and portability compared to competitive offerings. All systems are shipped with LinkControl software, the industry’s most intuitive and powerful suite of satellite pointing tools. LinkControl seamlessly integrates the various hardware components, automates the process of satellite acquisition, and enables users to pre-configure settings for rapid field deployments.
We also have available the RANGER - an assisted-acquire micro-sat terminal. The RANGER is a ruggedized, high performance and portable terminal ideal for rapid deployments where portability is essential.
We also offer a series of SATCOM Baseband Kits. These convenient, all-in-one tool kits can be used for worldwide satellite system field deployments. Baseband kits support a variety of applications and are available in Compact Flyaway Kits, Emergency Communications Kits and Red/Black Gateway Kits. Key features include the ability to provide core office functions while operating in emergency situations, market leading portability, and connectivity support in challenging environments.
Norsat’s satellite communications for the maritime market includes the COM series, which is a high performance very small aperture terminal (“VSAT”) solution, designed for militaries, fisheries, Oil & Gas and other commercial applications.
Recently, Norsat announced the launch of the Journey Manpack ultra-portable Ku-Band satellite terminal, which is a 6-segment, carbon fiber portable terminal weighing less than 18 kilograms (40punds), including the backpack, ideal for military Special Forces and government applications that require maximum portability and quick set up.
Satellite–based Communications - Market Profile
Norsat’s satellite-based communications business includes Satellite Solutions and Microwave Products. These products employ satellites that are orbiting the earth to transmit and receive content. Our equipment interoperates with satellites that orbit the earth at the same speed as the earth rotates. These satellites appear to remain at the same point relative to the earth’s surface, thus giving the impression that they are stationary. These satellites are known as geostationary satellites, or satellites in geostationary orbit (orbiting approximately 22,300 miles above the earth).
While geostationary satellites are operated on a commercial basis and are fairly standard in their operation, some are owned and operated by militaries and may have unique characteristics. Our equipment has been standardized so that it can operate on most satellites, without further customization. These products permit users to establish a broadband communications link (up to 10 Mbps) between any two points on earth. This broadband communications link is capable of transporting a broad range of content including voice, data and motion video.
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The satellite industry continues to see increased demand, driven primarily by the backlog of satellite launches, across all sectors of the market including the commercial and military markets. Our products operate primarily on widely deployed commercial Ku-band satellites. However, some of our products operate on other commercial (C-band and Ka-band) and military (Ka-band and X-band) satellites as well.
Competition
In this sector, the Company faces competition from General Dynamics Corp. (NYSE: GD), C3ISR, a segment of L-3 Communications Holdings Inc. (NYSE: LLL), TeleCommunication Systems Inc. (NASDAQ: TSYS), Globecomm Systems Inc. (NASDAQ: GCOM) and Ultra electronics, Gigasat, a segment of Ultra electronics Holdings PLC (LSE: ULE). From time to time, the Company also faces competition from Swe-Dish, a subsidiary of Rockwell Collins (NYSW: COL). At times, the Company also faces competition from systems integrators who construct systems on a custom basis for the military including Thales, Finmeccanica S.p.A. (OTC: FINMY), Airbus Group (Euronext: EAD), Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) and Raytheon Company (NYSE: RTN).
In the broadcast and commercial markets, the Company faces competition from terrestrial alternatives such as microwave radio vendors and the traditional providers of portable satellite systems including: Swe-Dish, a subsidiary of Rockwell Collins (NYSW: COL); VisLink Plc’s Advent business unit; Ultra electronics, Gigasat and Holkirk Communications, a subsidiary of Sematron (UK) Ltd. The Company also faces competition from service providers such as Harris Caprock Communications and Spacenet, a subsidiary of Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd. (NYSE:GILT).
(c) Microwave Products Business Segment
Products
Our Microwave Products segment designs, develops and markets receivers, transmitters and power amplifiers that enable the transmission, reception and amplification of signals to and from satellites. Our product portfolio of microwave components includes a comprehensive range of satellite receivers (“LNBs”), transmitters (“BUCs”), transceivers, solid-state power amplifiers (“SSPAs”) and other microwave components.
Low Noise Block Down Converters (“LNBs”), are required by every satellite antenna (or “dish”) irrespective of aperture or location. The LNB is mounted at the focal point of the dish to convert incoming microwave signals into electrical signals that are routed to the remote receiver or indoor unit. Reliability is critical for these products as they are used in remote areas around the world.
Satellite transmitters or Block Up Converters (“BUCs”) convert electrical signals into microwave signals that can be transmitted to an orbiting satellite. A BUC is required to transmit to a satellite for applications such as news gathering, broadband internet access, and broadcasting.
Norsat’s product offering includes the new ATOM Series BUCs. These Block Up Converters are the smallest, lightest and most energy efficient transmitters available on the market today. The high efficiency ATOM reduces power consumption significantly; delivering overall cost savings over the lifetime of the device.
Norsat is a market leader in microwave products. Through more than three decades of participation in this market, we have developed a reputation for quality, reliability and innovation. We believe that we have the largest market share of any of our competitors in this space.
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Market Profile
The Company’s primary customers include resellers, system integrators, antenna manufacturers and service providers located in North America, Europe and Asia. These customers integrate Norsat’s components into a complete satellite solution for end user customers located all over the world. On the microwave components side of the business, the Company will be focusing on the solid-state amplifier line and on military satellite components.
Competition
The primary competition for this business unit comes from New Japan Radio Co, Ltd (Tokyo Stock Exchange: 6911) and to a lesser extent from the Company’s own suppliers. The Company also faces competition in the BUC market from Wavestream, a subsidiary of Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd. (NYSE:GILT).
2. Marketing
The Company sells most of its microwave components and portable satellite, other than those bound for the US Government, through resellers. Almost all of the portable satellite systems sold to the US Government have been through the Company’s direct sales force.
Norsat also sells Antenna and Radio Frequency Conditioning Products to approximately 1,800 distinct customers. The Company markets these products in North America through a direct sales force, OEMs, distributors and manufacturer representatives. In Europe, Middle East and Africa the Company’s products are sold through a direct sales force, OEMs, and system integrators. The Company will continue to use these sales channels and pursue opportunities to cross-sell these products to customers within all of the Company’s divisions.
The Company’s primary value proposition is rooted in its longevity and reputation for quality. Customers with critical applications tend to place significant value in the quality of Norsat products and the after-sales support infrastructure.
3.Research and Development
Research and development activities and projects are focused on developing new products in the different business segments the Company is involved in. The Company spent approximately 8% of its annual revenues excluding any government contributions and allocated 16% of its staff towards research and development activities.
4. Intellectual Property
The Company relies on patent, trademark, trade secret and copyright laws to protect our proprietary technology and to protect us against claims from others. The Company believes it has direct intellectual property rights covering substantially all of our material technologies. However, there can be no assurance that claims of infringement will not be asserted against the Company or against its customers in connection with their use of our systems and products, nor can there be any assurance as to the outcome of any such claims, given the technological complexity of our systems and products.
The Company has renewed interest in employing patent protection due to competition in its markets. The Company has a patent portfolio of four patents. The Company does not believe that any single patent is material to our business as a whole.
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C. | Organizational structure |
The Company conducts its business through Norsat International Inc., the holding and principal operating company, and the following four wholly-owned subsidiaries as at December 31, 2014:
Norsat International (America), Inc. incorporated and located in Richmond, VA, United States of America;
Norsat International (UK) Ltd. incorporated and located in Lincolnshire, England
Sinclair Technologies Ltd. registered and located in Somersham, United Kingdom
Norsat S.A., incorporated in Lausanne, Switzerland
The mandate of Norsat International (America), Inc. is to market, distribute and support sales of satellite systems, antennas and Radio Frequency conditioning products into the U.S. markets.
The mandate of Norsat International (UK) Ltd. is to market and support microwave component products sold into the Europe Middle East and Africa regions.
The mandate of Sinclair Technologies Ltd. is to market and support sales of antennas and Radio Frequency conditioning products into the Europe Middle East and Africa regions.
Norsat S.A. has limited activities and is in the process of being dissolved.
D. | Property and equipment |
Description of Property
The Company's head office and principal place of business has been located in Richmond, British Columbia, Canada since September 2006. The Company leases its head office premises.
The lease is for approximately 30,400 square feet of space. This location houses the Company's corporate office, engineering and production department and includes warehouse space.
The Company has leased premises in Aurora, Ontario, Canada. The lease is for approximately 45,246 square feet of space. This location houses the Antenna and RF Conditioning Products operating segment’s sales office, engineering and production department, and includes warehouse space as well.
Most of the Company’s products are produced and shipped out of the Richmond and Aurora locations.
Norsat also operates out of leased premises in Lincoln and Somersham, England; and Hamburg, New York.
There are no known environmental issues that may affect the Company’s utilization of its assets at any of the above locations.
4A. | UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS |
Not applicable
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5. | OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS |
A. | Operating results |
The following information should be read in conjunction with the Company’s 2014 consolidated financial statements and related notes included therein, which are prepared in accordance with International Financial Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board. All amounts following are expressed in United States Dollars unless otherwise indicated.
The Company currently generates revenue from three business segments, Sinclair Technologies, Satellite Solutions and Microwave Products, as described herein. The Company’s annual and quarterly operating results are primarily affected by the level of its sales and costs of operations over these three business segments. Economic factors such as market prices of similar products and worldwide political environment may also play an important role to affect the Company’s operating performance and volatility of its share price. To management’s knowledge, there are no known economic, political fluctuations, and inflation that have materially affected, directly or indirectly the Company’s operations.
Summary of 2014
Our consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with IFRS as issued by the IASB and accounting policies we adopted in accordance with IFRS. These consolidated financial statements reflect all adjustments that are, in the opinion of management, necessary to present fairly our financial position as at December 31, 2014 and the results of operations, comprehensive income and cash flows for the year ended December 31, 2014.
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The following table shows certain key operating results, financial information and other financial data for the years indicated:
(‘000, except per share amounts) | Year ended December 31, | ||||||
2014 | 2013 | 2012 | |||||
$ | $ | $ | |||||
Sales | 36,179 | 36,417 | 42,429 | ||||
Earnings before income taxes | 3,701 | 2,976 | 2,553 | ||||
Current income tax (recovery)/expense | (214) | 270 | 782 | ||||
Deferred income tax (recovery)/expense | (279) | (1,001) | (3,283) | ||||
Earnings from continuing operations | 4,195 | 3,707 | 5,054 | ||||
Net earnings | 4,195 | 3,707 | 5,135 | ||||
Earnings from continuing operations and net earnings per share – basic and diluted(1) | 0.73 | 0.64 | 0.88 | ||||
EBITDA(2) | 5,091 | 4,613 | 4,646 | ||||
Adjusted EBITDA(2) | 4,685 | 5,120 | 4,815 | ||||
Weighted average common shares outstanding - basic(1) | 5,758 | 5,780 | 5,815 | ||||
Weighted average common shares outstanding - diluted(1) | 5,762 | 5,782 | 5,815 | ||||
As at December 31 | |||||||
2014 | 2013 | 2012 | |||||
$ | $ | $ | |||||
Total assets, excluding deferred income tax assets | 35,592 | 33,778 | 36,710 | ||||
Total assets | 40,492 | 38,678 | 40,882 | ||||
Acquisition loan | 2,371 | 4,413 | 6,953 | ||||
Promissory note payable | - | - | 693 | ||||
Issued capital | 39,851 | 39,851 | 39,851 | ||||
Shareholders’ equity | 28,984 | 26,424 | 24,233 |
*Sales for 2012 were restated to reflect discontinued operations. Please refer to section 5A under the heading “Discontinued Operations” for further discussion.
Note:
(1) | Subsequent to December 31, 2014, the Company consolidated its outstanding common shares on the basis of one new common share for every ten existing common shares. As a result, earnings per share and weighted average common share outstanding are reflected on a post-consolidated basis. For further information please see Item 10B below. | |
(2) | EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA are non-IFRS measures. Please refer to “Non-IFRS Measures” in this section below. |
On April 16, 2013, we acquired certain business assets and assumed certain liabilities of CVG for cash consideration of $0.5 million and have included CVG’s sales of $1.5 million in our 2013 sales results.
We recorded deferred income tax recovery of $3.0 million as a result of the reorganization of our legal structure in 2012.
In 2012, we sold our maritime vessel monitoring unit, with related revenues and costs being reclassified to net earnings (loss) from discontinued operations. Please refer to Section 5A “Discontinued Operations”.
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The following table shows quarterly unaudited financial data for the periods indicated:
(‘000, except per share amounts) | Three months ended (unaudited) | ||||||||
Mar 31 | Jun 30 | Sep 30 | Dec 31 | ||||||
2014 | $ | $ | $ | $ | |||||
Sales | 9,118 | 9,584 | 8,107 | 9,371 | |||||
Net earnings for the period | 2,177 | 1,000 | 968 | 51 | |||||
Net earnings per share – basic and diluted(1) | 0.38 | 0.17 | 0.17 | 0.01 | |||||
EBITDA(2) | 2,459 | 1,052 | 1,200 | 380 | |||||
Adjusted EBITDA(2) | 1,592 | 1,334 | 1,017 | 742 | |||||
# | # | # | # | ||||||
Weighted average common shares outstanding – basic(1) | 5,767 | 5,766 | 5,761 | 5,764 | |||||
Weighted average common shares outstanding - diluted(1) | 5,771 | 5,770 | 5,763 | 5,770 | |||||
2013 | $ | $ | $ | $ | |||||
Sales | 8,354 | 8,598 | 8,788 | 10,677 | |||||
Net earnings for the period | 412 | 914 | 683 | 1,698 | |||||
Net earnings per share – basic and diluted(1) | 0.07 | 0.16 | 0.12 | 0.29 | |||||
EBITDA(2) | 845 | 1,259 | 1,045 | 1,464 | |||||
Adjusted EBITDA(2) | 796 | 819 | 1,361 | 2,144 | |||||
# | # | # | # | ||||||
Weighted average common shares outstanding - basic(1) | 5,804 | 5,783 | 5,767 | 5,767 | |||||
Weighted average common shares outstanding - diluted(1) | 5,811 | 5,787 | 5,768 | 5,768 | |||||
2012* | $ | $ | $ | $ | |||||
Sales | 10,409 | 10,425 | 10,997 | 10,598 | |||||
Net earnings (loss) for the period | 518 | 2,771 | 975 | 871 | |||||
Net earnings (loss) per share – basic and diluted(1) | 0.09 | 0.48 | 0.17 | 0.15 | |||||
EBITDA(2) | 1,229 | 644 | 1,398 | 1,375 | |||||
Adjusted EBITDA(2) | 1,156 | 735 | 1,659 | 1,265 | |||||
# | # | # | # | ||||||
Weighted average common shares outstanding - basic(1) | 5,832 | 5,820 | 5,804 | 5,804 | |||||
Weighted average common shares outstanding - diluted(1) | 5,833 | 5,820 | 5,804 | 5,804 |
*Sales for 2012 and were restated to reflect discontinued operations. Please refer to Item 5A below under the heading “Discontinued Operations” for further discussion.
Note:
(1) | Subsequent to December 31, 2014, the Company consolidated its outstanding common shares on the basis of one new common share for every ten existing common shares. As a result, earnings per share and weighted average common share outstanding are reflected on a post-consolidated basis. For further information please see Item 10B below. |
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(2) | EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA are non-IFRS measures. Please refer to “Non-IFRS Measures” in this section below. |
Quarterly results from our three revenue generating business segments fluctuate from quarter-to-quarter due to seasonal influences on sales volumes. In our Sinclair Technologies segment, the first and second quarters are historically the strongest, as most of Sinclair’s customers build inventories during these quarters prior to commencing installation in the spring and summer seasons. For our other two segments, the third and fourth quarters are typically the strongest, as these have traditionally been the periods when military sales occur. The timing of contract awards also creates significant fluctuations in our quarterly results as some large contracts represent a significant share of sales for a given quarter. The timing of these orders is unpredictable.
We are working to reduce quarterly revenue fluctuations by cultivating revenue streams that are more stable in nature and distributed throughout the year. Our acquisition of Sinclair reflects this strategy as Sinclair’s sales are generally more evenly distributed than those of our other segments. They also tend to be strongest during periods when sales from our other segments are relatively weak. We have mitigated revenue instability by creating revenue backlog, which is expected to help reduce some of the volatility in our financial results in 2015.
Results of Operations
Sales and Gross Margin
Year ended Dec 31, | |||||||
Sales ($000’s) | 2014 | 2013 | 2012 | ||||
$ | $ | $ | |||||
Sinclair Technologies | 21,700 | 22,477 | 24,173 | ||||
Satellite Solutions | 2,753 | 4,822 | 8,678 | ||||
Microwave Products | 11,726 | 9,118 | 9,578 | ||||
Total | 36,179 | 36,417 | 42,429 | ||||
Year ended Dec 31, | |||||||
Gross Margin | 2014 | 2013 | 2012 | ||||
Sinclair Technologies | 40% | 43% | 44% | ||||
Satellite Solutions | 24% | 9% | 38% | ||||
Microwave Products | 44% | 42% | 44% | ||||
Total | 40% | 38% | 43% |
Fiscal 2014 Compared to Fiscal 2013
For the year ended December 31, 2014, Norsat recorded total sales of $36.2 million down slightly compared to $36.4 million in 2013.
Sinclair Technologies sales were $21.7 million, compared to $22.5 million in 2013. The year-over-year decrease in revenues reflects softness in the infrastructure and public safety markets.
Satellite Solutions sales were $2.8 million in 2014, compared to $4.8 million in 2013. Sales from this segment were impacted by reduced military ordering of satellite equipment and services. In addition, service revenues declined to $0.7 million compared to $2.3 million as airtime contracts, warranties and post-service contracts expired.
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Microwave Products sales were $11.7 million for fiscal 2014, compared to $9.1 million in fiscal 2013. The $2.6 million increase was mainly driven by the product deliveries on the ATOM new line of products.
On a consolidated basis, gross profit was $14.4 million compared to $13.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2013 and gross profit margin percentage was 40% in 2014, compared to 38% in 2013. Sinclair Technologies gross profit margin percentage was 40% in 2014, compared to 43% achieved in 2013. The decrease in gross margin was due to increase in labor and overheads costs. Gross profit margins from the Satellite Solutions segment were 24%, compared to 9% in 2013, which reflects a decrease in inventory write-off of $0.5 million in 2014, compared to $1.2 million in 2013, partially offset by a combination of a greater proportion of lower-margin revenues and lower sales volume in the first three quarters of 2014. Gross profit margins from Microwave Products were 44%, compared to 42% in 2013, reflecting higher margin products in the sales mix.
Fiscal 2013 Compared to Fiscal 2012
For the year ended December 31, 2013, total sales were $36.4 million, compared to $42.4 million in 2012.
Sinclair Technologies sales were $22.5 million, compared to $24.2 million in 2012. The year-over-year change in sales was largely the result of reduced government spending in Canada and the negative impact of US government budget sequestration.
Satellite Solutions sales were $4.8 million in 2013, compared to $8.6 million in 2012. Sales from this segment were significantly impacted by reduced US military ordering of satellite equipment and services, reflecting the impact of US budget sequestration. Service revenues also declined as warranties and post-service contracts expired.
Microwave Products sales were $9.1 million, compared to $9.6 million in 2012. Our Microwave segment was significantly impacted by the US budget sequestration, which resulted in some customers delaying projects. The negative sales impact was partially offset by the fourth quarter win of the large new contract for our CVG products.
On a consolidated basis, gross profit margin percentage was 38% in 2013, compared to 43% in 2012. Sinclair Technologies maintained a gross profit margin percentage of 43%, comparable to the 44% achieved in 2012. Gross profit margins from the Satellite Solutions segment were 9%, compared to 38% in 2012, reflecting a greater proportion of lower-margin revenues in the mix and a $1.2 million inventory write-down. The write-down was resulted from a comprehensive review of certain satellite product lines due to changing market demand, new information indicating decreased future prospects and the non-renewal of a previous long-term US government contract. Gross profit margins from Microwave Products were 42%, compared to 44% in 2012, reflecting lower margin products in the sales mix.
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Expenses
Year ended Dec 31, | |||||||
Expenses ($000’s) | 2014 | 2013 | 2012 | ||||
$ | $ | $ | |||||
Selling and distributing | 5,413 | 6,277 | 7,213 | ||||
General and administrative | 3,982 | 3,709 | 5,097 | ||||
Product development, net | 1,579 | 1,433 | 2,373 | ||||
Other (Income)/ Expense | (296) | (572) | 924 | ||||
Total Expenses | 10,678 | 10,847 | 15,607 |
Product development expenses, net include:
Year ended Dec 31, | |||||||
Product Development Costs ($000’s) | 2014 | 2013 | �� | 2012 | |||
$ | $ | $ | |||||
Product Development | 2,846 | 3,513 | 3,420 | ||||
Less: Government Funding | (1,267) | (2,080) | (1,047) | ||||
Product Development, net | 1,579 | 1,433 | 2,373 |
Fiscal 2014 Compared to Fiscal 2013
For the year ended December 31, 2014, total expenses were $10.7 million, compared to $10.8 million in 2013.
Selling and distributing expenses decreased to $5.4 million, from $6.3 million, reflecting the strengthening of the US dollar against the Canadian dollar, as a significant portion of the Company’s expenses are in Canadian Dollars, and employee-related costs savings.
General and administrative expenses increased to $4.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2014, from $3.7 million in 2013. In 2014, corporate development costs related to external costs to pursue a potential acquisition increased to $0.2 million compared to approximately $0.1 million in 2013. In addition, investments were made in organizational infrastructure and bonuses increased due to the Company substantially achieving its 2014 targets and objectives. These increases were offset by the decrease in expenses, reflecting the strengthening of the US dollar against the Canadian Dollar, as a significant portion of the Company’s expenses are in Canadian dollars.
For the year ended December 31, 2014, direct product development expenses decreased to $2.8 million from $3.5 million for the same period last year. The decrease reflects the accelerated development of the newly acquired CVG product lines in 2013, costs not incurred in 2014, and the impact of the strengthening of the US dollar against the Canadian Dollar, as a significant portion of the Company’s expenses are in Canadian Dollars, and employee-related costs savings.
Government contributions decreased to $1.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2014 from $2.1 million in the same period in 2013. In 2013 we secured a new repayable government contribution under the SADI program, which enables the Company to claim eligible costs incurred between July 27, 2013 and December 31, 2017. The timing of the award meant that over five quarters worth of government contributions were recorded in 2013, compared to just four quarters in 2014.
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As a result net product development expenses increased to $1.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2014 from $1.4 million in the same period last year.
Other income for the year ended December 31, 2014 decreased to $0.3 million from a $0.6 million income during the same period last year. The decrease reflects a $0.6 million gain on foreign exchange for the year ended December 31, 2014, compared to a $0.9 million gain in the same period in 2013. The change reflects a $47,000 impairment charge on certain property and equipment in 2014 and $0.1 million less in interest charges compared to 2013.
Fiscal 2013 Compared to Fiscal 2012
For the year ended December 31, 2013, total expenses decreased to $10.8 million, from $15.6 million in 2012.
Selling and distributing expenses decreased to $6.3 million, from $7.2 million in 2012. The year-over-year change reflects reduced personnel expenses and decreased sales commissions as a result of the lower sales volumes in 2013.
General and administrative expenses decreased to $3.7 million, from $5.1 million in 2012. The $1.4 million decrease reflects a $0.5 million reduction in bonuses accrued due to lower sales volumes and earnings in 2013, the absence of approximately $0.3 million in severance costs paid in 2012 for the former President of the Sinclair Technologies division, and other employee-related cost savings.
Net product development expenses increased by $0.1 million year over year, reflecting investments made to accelerate development of the newly acquired CVG product lines. On March 28, 2013, we secured a new repayable government contribution under the SADI program, which enables us to claim eligible costs incurred between July 27, 2012 and December 31, 2017. The timing of the award meant that five quarters worth of government contributions were recorded in 2013, compared to less than four quarters worth recorded in in 2012. Claims for the year ended December 31, 2013 were $2.2 million, compared to $1.0 million during the same period in 2012. As a result, net product development costs declined to $1.4 million for 2013, from $2.4 million in 2012. Product development continues to be a core focus for us and is reflected through our development programs in the Sinclair Technologies and Satellite Solutions business units.
Other income for 2013 was $0.6 million, compared to other expenses of $0.9 million in 2012. The $1.5 million increase in other income was mainly driven by a $1.1 million year-over-year foreign exchange difference realized as the US dollar strengthened against the Canadian dollar, and by a $0.3 million decrease in interest expenses resulting from the reduction in acquisition loan balances outstanding and the redemption of promissory notes in 2013.
Net Earnings for the Period
Year ended Dec 31, | |||||||
Earnings (in 000’s, except earnings per share) | 2014 | 2013 | 2012 | ||||
$ | $ | $ | |||||
Earnings before income taxes | 3,701 | 2,976 | 2,553 | ||||
Income tax recovery, net | 494 | 731 | 2,501 | ||||
Net earnings for the period | 4,195 | 3,707 | 5,135 | ||||
Net earnings per share - basic & diluted | 0.07 | 0.06 | 0.09 |
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Fiscal 2014 Compared to Fiscal 2013
Earnings before income taxes for the year ending December 31, 2014 increased to $3.7 million, from $3.0 million in 2013, reflecting a $0.6 million higher gross profit, $0.4 million less net expenses, and $0.1 million less interest charges compared to the same period in 2013. This was offset by $0.3 million less gain on foreign exchange for the year ended December 31, 2014 compared to same period in 2013.
Income tax recovery for the year ended December 31, 2014 was $0.5 million compared to $0.7 million for the same period in 2013, reflecting a current income tax recovery of $0.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2014 compared to a current tax expense of $0.3 million in 2013. Deferred income tax recovery of $0.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2014, compared to a deferred income tax recovery of $1.0 million in 2013.
For the year ended December 31, 2014, net earnings increased to $4.2 million, or $0.73 per share, basic and diluted, from net earnings of $3.7 million, or $0.64 per share, basic and diluted, during the same period in 2013.
Fiscal 2013 Compared to Fiscal 2012
For the year ended December 31, 2013, earnings before income taxes increased to $3.0 million, from $2.6 million in 2012, reflecting lower operating expenses and a higher foreign exchange gain, partially offset by a lower gross margin.
Net income tax recovery was $0.7 million, compared to $2.5 million in 2012. The significant income tax recovery in 2012 resulted from the reorganization of our legal structure.
Net earnings in 2013 were $3.7 million, compared to $5.1 million in 2012, reflecting reduced gross margin of $4.3 million and income tax recovery of $1.8 million, offset by lower overall expenses of $4.8 million. Earnings per share were $0.06 per share, basic and diluted, compared to $0.09 per share, basic and diluted, in 2012.
Outlook
For fiscal 2015 the Company is expecting modest revenue growth compared to 2014 due to the increased quotation activity and backlog. The Company expects solid growth from its satellite solutions division from 2014 levels, due to a healthy backlog of military spending from our Datacom contract and our recently announced contract from a Eurasian defense contractor to deliver an array of satellite terminals. The Company’s Sinclair Technologies division’s prospects are expected to remain strong, driven by the Positive Train Control market, while government spending continues to be slow, especially in Canada. The Microwave segment, while supported by Norsat’s diversification activities, including the additions into the ATOM product portfolio may not initially be able to replicate the same volumes of the Harris deliveries in 2014.
Going forward, the Company will continue to work to diversify its business by broadening its product portfolio and expanding its customer base on a geographic and market sector basis. Norsat continues to focus on markets beyond the US, as well as on the commercial, resource, transportation and public safety segments. The Company is also continuing to pursue other new revenue opportunities.
The current global economic uncertainties, coupled with Norsat’s stable financial position and capital structure, continue to create excellent conditions for realizing growth through business combinations. The Company will continue to actively pursue merger and acquisition opportunities that provide strong value, further key strategic objectives and have the potential to be accretive to shareholders.
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Management will also continue to execute a balanced growth strategy that incorporates investment in staffing levels, new product introductions, continued enhancement of existing product lines, greater diversification by geographic region as well as by industry verticals, and a broadening of the solutions we provide to customers. In addition, the Company continues to evaluate other strategic opportunities for improving overall operating and financial performance.
Based on the outlook and information currently available to the company, due to the timing on delivery of orders, backlog and the impact of the large Harris contract in 2014, the Company expects revenues in the first quarter of 2015 to be lower compared to the first quarter of 2014.
Critical Accounting Estimates
Accounting Estimates
We have discussed the development and selection of our critical accounting estimates and policies with the Audit Committee of our Board of Directors, and the Audit Committee has reviewed the following disclosures.
Significant Management Judgements
The following are significant management judgments in applying accounting policies of the Company that have the most significant effect on recognition and measurement of assets, liabilities, income and expenses:
Recognition of deferred tax assets
The extent to which deferred tax assets can be recognized is based on an assessment of the probability of our future taxable income against which the deferred tax assets can be utilized. In addition, significant judgment is required in assessing the impact of any legal or economic limits or uncertainties in various tax jurisdictions.
Recognition of service and contract revenues
Determining when to recognize revenues from after-sales services requires an understanding of the customer’s use of the related products, historical experience and knowledge of the market. Recognizing construction contract revenue also requires significant judgment in determining milestones, actual work performed and the estimated costs to complete the work.
Recognition of Government contributions
We recognize Government contributions of eligible expenditures when there is reasonable assurance that we will comply with the conditions attached to the grant and the grant will be received. We estimate Government contributions based on labour costs and expenses incurred and our assessment of what will ultimately be approved for payment by Government agencies. Uncertainty relates to the acceptability of the contribution amounts claimed, actual timing and ultimate collectability that can vary from our estimation
Estimation Uncertainty
Information about estimates and assumptions that have the most significant effect on the recognition and measurement of assets, liabilities, income and expenses is provided below. Actual results may be substantially different.
Selling prices of multi-element sales arrangements
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Determining selling prices for multi-element arrangement follows a hierarchy of selling prices. If vendor-specific objective evidence and third-party evidence of selling price do not exist, then management’s best estimate of selling price for the deliverable is used. This requires significant judgment in determining the selling price based on an understanding of the customer’s use of the related product or service, historical experience and knowledge of the market.
Impairment of long-lived assets
In assessing impairment, management estimates the recoverable amount of each asset or cash generating units based on expected future cash flows and uses an interest rate to discount them. Estimation uncertainty relates to assumptions about future operating results and the determination of a suitable discount rate. In 2014, the Company recognized an impairment loss of approximately $47,000 (2013- $nil) on its property and equipment.
Useful lives of depreciable assets
We review our estimate of the useful lives of depreciable assets at each reporting date, based on the expected utilization of the assets. Uncertainties in these estimates relate to technical obsolescence that may change the utilization of certain software and equipment.
Inventories
We estimate the net realizable values of inventories, taking into account the most reliable evidence available at each reporting date. The future realization of these inventories may be affected by future technology or other market-driven changes that may reduce future selling prices. A change to these assumptions could impact our inventory valuation and impact our gross margins.
Business combinations
We use valuation techniques in determining fair values of the various elements of a business combination based on future expected cash flows and a discount rate. Estimation uncertainty relates to assumptions about future operating results and the determination of a suitable discount rate.
Share-based payment - stock options
We measure the cost of equity-settled share-based transactions by reference to the fair value of the equity instruments at the date at which they are granted. Estimating fair value for share-based payment transactions requires determining the most appropriate valuation model, which is dependent on the terms and conditions of the grant. This estimate also requires determining the most appropriate inputs to the valuation model including the expected life of the stock option, volatility and dividend yield and making assumptions about them.
Share-based payment - restricted share units
We measure the cost of equity-settled share-based transactions by reference to the fair value of the equity instruments at the date at which they are granted. For restricted share units, we use the TSX share price at grant date as fair value of the restricted share units. The resulting fair value of the restricted share units is then adjusted for an estimated forfeiture amount. Determining the forfeiture rate is based on historical experience. Actual number of restricted share units that vest is likely to be different from estimation.
Provision for warranties
We provide for warranty expenses by analyzing historical failure rates, warranty claims, current sales levels and current information available about returns based on warranty periods.
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Uncertainty relates to the timing and amount of actual warranty claims that can vary from our estimation.
Allowance account for credit losses
We provide for bad debt by analyzing the historical default experience and current information available about customer’s credit worthiness on an account by account basis. Uncertainty relates to the actual collectivity of customer balances that can vary.
Accounting Policies
Business Combinations
Business combinations are accounted for using the acquisition method. The cost of the business combination is measured as the aggregate of the consideration transferred, measured at the acquisition date at fair value and the amount of any non-controlling interest in the acquiree. For each business combination, the acquirer measures the non-controlling interest in the acquiree either at fair value or at the appropriate share of the acquiree’s identifiable net assets. The acquiree’s identifiable assets, liabilities and contingent liabilities that meet the conditions for recognition under IFRS 3 Business Combinations are recognized at their fair values at the acquisition date. Acquisition costs are expensed in the period that they are incurred.
Goodwill is initially measured at the excess of the consideration transferred over the fair value of the net identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed. If the consideration transferred is lower than the fair value of the net assets of the subsidiary acquired, the difference is recognized immediately in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings and Comprehensive Income.
After initial recognition, goodwill is measured at cost less any accumulated impairment losses.
Foreign Currency Translation
Functional and presentation currency
Our consolidated financial statements are presented in United States dollars. The functional currency of the parent company is United States dollars and the functional currency of the Company’s Sinclair Technologies’ operating segment is Canadian dollars.
Foreign currency transactions and balances
Foreign currency transactions are translated into the functional currency of the respective currency of the entity or division, using the exchange rates prevailing at the dates of the transactions (spot exchange rate). Foreign exchange gains and losses resulting from the settlement of such transactions and from the re-measurement of monetary items denominated in foreign currency at period-end exchange rates are recognized in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings and Comprehensive Income.
Non-monetary items are not re-translated at period end and are measured at historical cost (translated using the exchange rates at the transaction date), except for non-monetary items measured at fair value which are translated using the exchange rates as at the date when fair value was determined.
Foreign operations
In our financial statements, all assets, liabilities and transactions of our foreign operations with a functional currency other than US dollars are translated into US dollars upon consolidation.
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Each of our foreign operations determines its own functional currency and items included in the financial statements of each foreign operation are measured using that functional currency and presented in US dollars.
The functional currency of our foreign operations has remained unchanged during the reporting period.
For foreign operations with a non-US dollar functional currency, the Company translates assets and liabilities into US dollars using the period-end exchange rates. Goodwill and intangible assets arising from acquisition of a foreign operation have been treated as assets and liabilities of the foreign operation and translated into US dollars at the period-end exchange rate. Income and expenses have been translated into US dollar at the average rate over the reporting period. Exchange differences are charged/ credited to other comprehensive income and recognized in the currency translation reserve in equity. On disposal of a foreign operation, the related cumulative translation differences recognized in equity are reclassified to profit or loss and are recognized as part of the gain or loss on disposal.
Share-Based Payments
Stock Options
We grant stock options to buy common shares of the Company to directors, senior officers, employees and service providers pursuant to an incentive share option plan. The Board of Directors grants such options for periods of up to 5 years, with vesting periods determined at its sole discretion and at prices equal to the closing market price on the day the options were granted.
We recognize compensation expense for stock options awarded based on the fair value of the options at the grant date using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. Measurement inputs include the price of the common shares on the grant date, exercise price of the option, expected volatility of our common shares (based on weighted average historic volatility), weighted average expected life of the option (based on historical experience and general option holder behavior) and the risk-free interest rate. The fair value of the options is amortized over the vesting period and is included in operating expenses with a corresponding increase in contributed surplus. The amount recognized as an expense is adjusted to reflect the number of share options expected to eventually vest. When options are exercised, the proceeds are credited to issued capital.
Restricted Share Units
We grant restricted share units (“RSUs”) to directors, senior officers and employees pursuant to an incentive restricted share unit plan. The RSU plan gives the eligible persons the right to receive, at the discretion of the Board, common shares, which are not to be issued from treasury, without any monetary consideration payable to us. The vesting of the RSUs is subject to time-based vesting terms, condition and restrictions as determined by the Board in its sole discretion. Each RSU is convertible into one common share.
We recognize compensation expenses for RSUs awarded based on the fair value of the common shares at the grant date. The fair value, which is determined by multiplying our share price by the number of RSUs granted, is amortized over the vesting period and is included in operating expenses with a corresponding increase in equity. The amount recognized as an expense is adjusted to reflect the number of RSUs expected to eventually vest.
Treasury Shares
When we reacquired our own shares, the amount of the consideration paid is recognized as a deduction from shareholders’ equity. No gains or losses are recognized in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings and Comprehensive Income on the purchase, sale, issue or cancellation
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of our own shares. Repurchased shares are classified as treasury shares and are presented as a deduction from total shareholders’ equity. We have granted restricted share units as part of our long term incentive plan. We shall purchase common shares in the open market to satisfy the delivery of these share units. Treasury shares are recorded at the cost of the shares acquired in the open market. When treasury shares are sold or released subsequently, the amount received is recognized as an increase in treasury shares, and the resulting surplus or deficit on the transaction is transferred to/from issued capital.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents consist of highly liquid interest bearing term deposits that are readily convertible to known amounts of cash with original terms to maturity of up to three months. The cash and cash equivalents act as our primary source of cash and fluctuate directly as a result of our cash flows from operating, investing and financing activities.
Allowance Account for Credit Losses
All of our trade and other receivables have been reviewed for indicators of impairment. We maintain an allowance account for credit losses for estimated losses that may arise if any of our customers are unable to make required payments. We provide for bad debts by setting aside a percentage of sales towards the allowance account. The percentage is based on our historical default experience and is reviewed periodically to ensure consistency with default experience. In addition, periodically throughout the fiscal year, we specifically analyze the age of outstanding customer balances, historical bad debt experience, customer credit-worthiness and changes in customer payment terms to evaluate estimates of collectability of our trade and other receivables balance. The allowance set aside is then adjusted to align with the specific analysis performed.
Inventories
Parts and supplies inventory is stated at the lower of weighted average cost and net realizable value. Finished goods and work in process inventories include parts and supplies, labour and manufacturing overhead and are stated at the lower of weighted average cost and net realizable value. Inventory is recorded net of any obsolescence provisions. When there is a significant change in economic circumstances, inventory that had been previously written down below cost may be written back up provided the reversal does not exceed the original write-down.
Prepaid Expenses and Other
Included in short-term prepaid expenses and other are prepayments related to materials, insurance premiums and other deposits required in the normal course of business which are less than one year.
Long-term prepaid expenses and other include other deposits of greater than one year.
Property and Equipment
Property and equipment are stated at cost less applicable tax credits, government assistance, and net of accumulated depreciation and accumulated impairment losses. Amortization of property and equipment is recorded on a straight-line basis at the following annual rates, which approximate the useful lives of the assets:
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Assets | Period | |
Equipment | 3 to 5 years | |
Furniture and fixtures | 5 to 10 years | |
Leasehold improvements | Shorter of term of lease or | |
useful life |
When significant parts of property and equipment are required to be replaced in intervals, the Company recognizes such parts as individual assets with specific useful lives and depreciation, respectively. When a major inspection is performed, its cost is recognized in the carrying amount of the property and equipment as a replacement if the recognition criteria are satisfied. All other repair and maintenance costs are recognized in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings and Comprehensive Income as incurred.
The assets’ residual values, useful lives and methods of depreciation are reviewed at each financial year end.
Intangible Assets
Intangible assets acquired separately are measured on initial recognition at cost. The cost of intangible assets acquired in a business combination is their fair value as at the date of acquisition. Following initial recognition, intangible assets are carried at cost less any accumulated amortization and any accumulated impairment losses.
The useful lives of intangible assets are assessed as either finite or indefinite.
Intangible assets with finite lives are amortized over the useful economic life and assessed for impairment whenever there is an indication that the intangible asset may be impaired. The amortization period and the amortization method for an intangible asset with a finite useful life are reviewed at least at each financial year end. Changes in the expected useful life or the expected pattern of consumption of future economic benefits embodied in the asset is accounted for by changing the amortization period or method, as appropriate, and are treated as changes in accounting estimates. The amortization expense on intangible assets with finite lives is recognized in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings and Comprehensive Income.
Intangible assets with indefinite useful lives are not amortized, but are tested for impairment annually, either individually or at cash generating unit level. The assessment of indefinite life is reviewed annually to determine whether the indefinite life continues to be supportable. If not, the change in useful life from indefinite to finite is made on a prospective basis.
Gains or losses arising from disposal of an intangible asset are measured as the difference between the net disposal proceeds and the carrying amount of the asset and are recognized in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings and Comprehensive Income when the asset is derecognized.
We record amortization of intangible assets on a straight-line basis at the following annual rates, which approximate the useful lives of the assets:
Assets | Period | |
Software | 1 to 3 years | |
Customer relationship | 5 to 12 years | |
Product designs | 20 years | |
Brand | Indefinite | |
Other | 1.5 years to 15 years |
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Brand is developed through years of advertising, promotional campaign and customer satisfaction. It contains beneficial elements to us that have been created over time and continue to create value for us. Hence, brand which reflects consumer awareness and recognition is considered indefinite in nature.
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets
At each reporting date, we assess whether there is an indication that an asset may be impaired. If any indication exists, or when annual impairment testing for an asset is required, we estimate the asset’s recoverable amount.
The recoverable amount is the higher of an asset’s or cash-generating unit’s fair value less costs of disposal and value in use. In assessing value in use, the estimated future cash flows are discounted to their present value using a pre-tax discount rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and the risks specific to the asset. For an asset that does not generate largely independent cash inflows, the recoverable amount is determined for the cash-generating unit to which the asset belongs.
An impairment loss is recognized when the carrying amount of an asset, or its cash-generating unit, exceeds its recoverable amount. A cash-generating unit is the smallest identifiable group of assets that generates cash inflows that are largely independent of the cash inflows from other assets or groups of assets. Impairment losses are recognized in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings and Comprehensive Income.
An impairment loss is reversed if there is an indication that an impairment loss recognized in prior periods may no longer exist. An impairment loss is reversed only to the extent that the asset’s carrying amount does not exceed the carrying amount that would have been determined, net of depreciation or amortization, if no impairment loss had been recognized previously. Such reversal is recognized in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings and Comprehensive Income.
The following criteria are also applied in assessing impairment of specific assets:
Goodwill is tested for impairment annually or when circumstances indicate that the carrying value may be impaired. Impairment is determined for goodwill by assessing the recoverable amount of each cash-generating unit to which the goodwill relates. Where the recoverable amount of the cash generating unit is less than their carrying amount an impairment loss is recognized to the extent the carrying amount exceeds the recoverable amount. Impairment losses relating to goodwill are not reversed in future periods.
Intangible assets with indefinite lives are tested for impairment annually either individually or at the cash generating unit level, as appropriate, or when circumstances indicate that the carrying value may be impaired.
Goodwill
Goodwill represents the future economic benefits arising from a business combination that are not individually identified and separately recognized. Goodwill is initially measured at the excess of the consideration transferred over the fair value of the net identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed. If the consideration transferred is lower than the fair value of the net assets of the subsidiary acquired, the difference is recognized immediately in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings and Comprehensive Income. After initial recognition, goodwill is measured at cost less any accumulated impairment losses.
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Deferred Revenue
Revenue that has been paid for by customers but will qualify for recognition within the next year under our policies is reflected in current liabilities as deferred revenue (revenue that can be recognized in one year or less). Included in deferred revenue are amounts related to installation, training, extended warranty, airtime and post contract support associated with the sale of our products.
Revenue that has been paid for by customers but will not qualify for recognition within the next year under our policies is reflected in non-current liabilities as long-term deferred revenue (revenue that can be recognized in more than one year). Included in long-term deferred revenue are extended warranty and other services provided by us to customers.
Comprehensive Income
Comprehensive income is comprised of net earnings for the period and other comprehensive income. Included in accumulated other comprehensive income are unrealized foreign exchange amounts on the translation of certain subsidiaries’ and divisions’ functional currency to United States dollars.
Financial Instruments
Financial assets
Financial assets are classified into one of four categories:
financial assets at fair value through profit or loss (“FVTPL”);
held-to-maturity investments;
available-for-sale financial assets; and
loans and receivables.
We determine the classification of its financial assets at initial recognition, depending on the nature and purpose of the financial asset.
All financial assets, except financial assets at fair value through profit or loss, are recognized initially at fair value plus directly attributable transaction costs.
Our financial assets include cash and cash equivalents and trade and other receivables.
The carrying value of these instruments approximates their fair value due to their immediate or short-term to maturity, or their ability for liquidation at comparable amounts.
The subsequent measurement of financial assets depends on their classification as follows:
i. | Financial assets at FVTPL |
Financial assets are classified as FVTPL when the financial asset is held for trading or is designated upon initial recognition as FVTPL. Financial assets are classified as held for trading if they are acquired for the purpose of selling or repurchasing in the near term, it is part of an identified portfolio of financial instruments that are managed together and for which there is evidence of a recent actual pattern of short-term profit taking or it is a derivative that is not designated as an effective hedging instrument.
Financial assets classified as FVTPL are carried in the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position at fair value with changes in fair value recognized in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings and Comprehensive Income.
We have not designated any financial assets as FVTPL.
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ii. | Held-to-maturity investments |
Non-derivative financial assets with fixed or determinable payments and fixed maturities are classified as held-to-maturity when we have the positive intention and ability to hold it to maturity. After initial measurement held-to-maturity investments are measured at amortized cost using the effective interest method. The losses arising from impairment are recognized in the Consolidated Statement of Earnings and Comprehensive Income.
We have not designated any financial assets as held-to-maturity investments.
iii. | Available-for-sale financial assets |
Non-derivative financial assets are designated as available–for-sale or are prescribed to this classification if not classified as (a) loans and receivables, (b) held-to-maturity investments or (c) financial assets at fair value through profit or loss. After initial measurement, available-for-sale financial assets are subsequently measured at fair value with unrealized gains or losses recognized as other comprehensive income in the available-for-sale reserve until the investment is derecognized, at which time the cumulative gain or loss is recognized in the Consolidated Statement of Earnings and Comprehensive Income and removed from the available-for-sale reserve.
We have not designated any financial assets as available-for-sale assets.
iv. | Loans and receivables |
Loans and receivables are non-derivative financial assets with fixed or determinable payments that are not quoted in an active market. After initial measurement, such financial assets are subsequently measured at amortized cost using the effective interest method. The impairment loss of receivables is based on a review of all outstanding amounts periodically throughout the fiscal year. Bad debts are written off during the period in which they are identified. The losses arising from impairment are recognized in the Consolidated Statement of Earnings and Comprehensive Income. Interest income is recognized by applying the effective interest rate.
The effective interest method calculates the amortized cost of a financial asset and allocates interest income over the corresponding period. The effective interest rate is the rate that discounts estimated future cash receipts over the expected life of the financial asset, or, where appropriate, a shorter period.
We have classified cash and cash equivalents and trade and other receivables as loans and receivables.
De-recognition
A financial asset is derecognized when the rights to receive cash flows from the asset have expired.
Impairment of financial assets
Financial assets, other than those at FVTPL, are assessed for indicators of impairment at each reporting date. Financial assets are impaired when there is objective evidence that, as a result of one or more events that occurred after the initial recognition of the financial asset, the estimated future cash flows of the investment have been impacted.
Objective evidence of impairment could include the following:
significant financial difficulty of the issuer or counterparty;
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default or delinquency in interest or principal payments; or
it has become probable that the borrower will enter bankruptcy or financial reorganization.
For financial assets carried at amortized cost, the amount of the impairment is the difference between the asset’s carrying amount and the present value of the estimated future cash flows, discounted at the financial asset’s original effective interest rate.
The carrying amount of trade receivables are reduced through the use of an allowance account. When a trade receivable is considered uncollectible, it is written off against the allowance account. Subsequent recoveries of amounts previously written off are credited against the allowance account. Changes in the carrying amount of the allowance account are recognized in the Consolidated Statement of Earnings and Comprehensive Income.
Financial liabilities
Financial liabilities are classified as either financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss or other financial liabilities. We determine the classification of its financial liabilities at initial recognition. All financial liabilities are recognized initially at fair value, net of transaction cost except FVTPL.
The financial liabilities include trade and other payables, accrued liabilities and acquisition loan.
Subsequent measurement of financial liabilities depends on their classification as follows:
i. | FVTPL |
FVTPL include financial liabilities held for trading and financial liabilities designated upon initial recognition as at fair value through profit or loss.
Financial liabilities are classified as held for trading if they are acquired for the purpose of selling in the near term. This category includes derivative instruments that are not designated as hedging instruments in hedge relationships as defined by IAS 39. Gains and losses on liabilities held for trading are recognized in the Consolidated Statement of Earnings and Comprehensive Income.
We have not designated any financial liabilities upon initial recognition as FVTPL.
ii. | Other financial liabilities |
After initial recognition at fair value less transaction costs, other financial liabilities are subsequently measured at amortized cost using the effective interest method.
The effective interest method is a method of calculating the amortized cost of a financial liability and of allocating interest expense over the corresponding period. The effective interest rate is the rate that discounts estimated future cash payments over the expected life of the financial liability.
Gains and losses are recognized in the Consolidated Statement of Earnings and Comprehensive Income.
We have classified trade and other payables, accrued liabilities and acquisition loan as other financial liabilities.
De-recognition
A financial liability is derecognized when the obligation under the liability is discharged, cancelled, or expired.
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Fair value measurement
Our financial assets include cash and cash equivalent and trade and other receivables. Our financial liabilities include trade and other accounts payable, accrued liabilities and acquisition loan.
We have classified its cash and cash equivalents and trade and other receivables, as loans and receivables, measured at amortized cost using the effective interest rate method. Trade and other payables, accrued liabilities and acquisition loan are classified as other financial liabilities, measured at amortized cost using the effective interest rate method.
The carrying value of our financial assets and liabilities is considered to be a reasonable approximation of fair value due to their immediate or short term maturity, or their ability for liquidation at comparable amounts.
Revenue Recognition
Our revenues consist of sales of hardware, consulting, bandwidth, installation, training, extended warranty and post contract customer support. These services are set forth separately in the contractual arrangements such that the total price of the customer arrangement is expected to vary as a result of the inclusion or exclusion of services.
We have single deliverable and multiple deliverable revenue arrangements.
For single deliverable revenue arrangements relating to the sale of hardware, we recognize revenue when all of the following conditions have been satisfied:
we have transferred to the buyer the significant risks and rewards of ownership of the goods;
we retain neither continuing managerial involvement to the degree usually associated with ownership nor effective control over the good sold;
the amount of revenue can be measured reliably;
it is probable that the economic benefits associated with the transaction will flow to us; and
the costs incurred or to be incurred in respect of the transaction can be measured reliably.
For single deliverable revenue arrangements relating to the sale of services, we recognize revenue by reference to the stage of completion of the transaction at the end of the reporting period when the outcome of a transaction can be estimated reliably. The outcome of a transaction can be estimated reliably when all the following conditions are satisfied:
the amount of revenue can be measured reliably;
it is probable that the economic benefits associated with the transaction will flow to the entity;
the stage of completion of the transaction at the end of the reporting period can be measured reliably; and
the costs incurred for the transaction and the costs to complete the transaction can be measured reliably.
Multiple deliverable revenue arrangements are to be divided into more than one unit of accounting and the criteria for revenue recognition are considered separately for each accounting unit if the following criteria are met:
the delivered item(s) has standalone value and
when a general right of return exists for the delivered item, the delivery or performance of undelivered item is probable and substantially in the control by us.
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For those contracts where the services are not essential to the functionality of any other element of transaction, we determine selling price for these services based on a hierarchy of selling prices:
Vendor specific objective evidence (“VSOE”) of selling price,
If VSOE does not exist then third party evidence of selling price (“TPE”) is used, or
If neither VSOE nor TPE exist, then management’s best estimate of selling price for the deliverable is used.
Arrangement consideration is allocated to all deliverables based on their relative selling prices. As a result of the hierarchy of selling prices, we are required to determine the selling price for each deliverable provided the conditions for separation have been met.
Hardware is considered a separate unit of accounting because (1) the delivered item has standalone value to customers as it is sold separately by us and (2) there is no general right of return on products and the delivery or performance of the undelivered item is probable and substantially in the control by us. In establishing selling price for hardware, we rely on third party evidence based on stand-alone sales of largely interchangeable products. Our hardware components are customized in nature and specific to a customer’s order requirements. As a result, establishing VSOE of selling price would not be possible.
We recognize revenue from the sale of hardware products upon the later of transfer of title or upon shipment of the hardware product to the customer; so long as persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, delivery has occurred, the fee is fixed or determinable, and collectability is reasonably assured.
Our multiple-element sales arrangements include arrangements where hardware with embedded software licenses and the associated post contract customer support (“PCS”) are sold together. We use VSOE to determine selling price of the undelivered PCS elements based on fair value labour rates and consistent renewal rates.
Our multiple-element sales arrangements include rights for the customer to renew PCS after the bundled term ends. These rights are irrevocable to the customer’s benefit, are for specified prices, are consistent with the initial price in the original multiple-element sales arrangement, and the customer is not subject to any economic or other penalty for failure to renew. Further, the renewal PCS options are for services comparable to the bundled PCS and cover similar terms and periods.
PCS revenue associated with hardware is recognized ratably over the term of the PCS period, which typically is one year. PCS revenue includes support levels that provide customers with access to telephone support for trouble-shooting, diagnosis and extends to on-site repair of products. PCS is considered a separate unit of accounting because (1) the delivered item has standalone value to customers as it is sold separately by us and (2) there is no general right of return and the delivery or performance of the undelivered item is probable and substantially in the control by us.
Extended warranty of 1 to 3 years can be purchased separately by customers. Revenue on extended warranty is deferred and recognized in income on a straight-line basis over the contracted period. Extended warranty revenue is recognized after our one year manufacturer’s warranty expires.
Revenue is recognized on installation, training, and consulting services when these services have been performed. Selling price on these items is determined by reference to third party evidence of comparable services. Installation, training and consulting services are separate units of accounting because (1) the delivered item has standalone value to customers as it is sold separately by us and (2) there is no general right of return and the delivery or performance of the undelivered item is probable and substantially in the control by us.
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For reseller arrangements, fees are fixed or determinable on delivery to the reseller because our agreements with customers and resellers do not contain product return rights.
Construction Contracts
We also earn revenue from fixed-price construction contracts. These contracts specifically negotiated for the construction of a combination of products and services are awarded at agreed prices. Revenue from fixed-price contracts is recognized under the percentage-of-completion method. Under this method, contract revenue is matched with the contract costs incurred in reaching the stage of completion, resulting in the reporting of revenue, expenses and profit which can be attributed to the proportion of work completed. Contract revenue is recognized as revenue in profit or loss in the accounting periods in which the work is performed. Contract costs are usually recognized as an expense in the Consolidated Statement of Earnings and Comprehensive Income in the accounting periods in which the work to which they relate is performed. However, any expected excess of total contract costs over total contract revenue for the contract is recognized as an expense immediately.
If circumstances arise that change the original estimates of revenues, costs or extent of progress toward completion, estimates are revised. These revisions may result in increases or decreases in estimated revenues or costs and are reflected in the Consolidated Statement of Earnings and Comprehensive Income in the period in which the circumstances that give rise to the revision become known by management. Provisions for estimated losses, if any, are recognized in the year or period in which the loss is determined. Contract losses are measured as the amount by which the estimated costs of the contract exceed the estimated total revenue from the contract. Contract work-in-progress revenue is recorded to the extent that revenue has been recognized, but not yet billed to the customer.
Research and Development Costs
Research costs are expensed as incurred. Development costs are deferred if we can demonstrate (i) the technical feasibility of completing the product or process, (ii) the intention to complete the project, (iii) the ability to use or sell the product in commercial production, (iv) future economic benefits that the product or process can generate, including the existence of a market for the output of the project (v) the availability of adequate technical, financial and other resources to complete the development and to use or sell the product, and (vi) the ability to measure reliably the expenditure attributable to the project during development. If these criteria are not met, development costs are expensed as incurred. The Company did not capitalize any development costs for the years ended 2014 and 2013.
Government Contributions
Government funding of eligible research and development expenditures are credited when earned against product development expenses or the cost of property and equipment, to which the funding relate. We amortize the cost of the related property and equipment over its useful life according to our accounting policy relating to property and equipment. We recognize government grants only when there is reasonable assurance that we will comply with the conditions attached to the grant and the grant will be received. We present the grant as a deduction of the carrying amount of the asset the grant relates to in the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position. The grant is recognized in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings and Comprehensive Income over the life of the depreciable assets as a reduced depreciation expense.
Government repayment
The Company is required to make annual repayments under the SADI I contract as described in note 8a. On a quarterly basis, the Company calculates the repayment based on actual revenues
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achieved for the reporting period. If the revenue criteria for repayment have been met, a liability will be recognized with a corresponding increase in product development expenses. The Company will set up a liability in the period the actual revenues are recognized that cause the grant to become repayable. Given historical sales volume, the accrual for repayment, if any, is likely to be recognized in the fourth quarter of the fiscal year. Depending on the sales volume achieved during the repayment period, the amount of the repayment can significantly impact our gross margins percentages and amounts.
Income Taxes
Income tax expense consists of current and deferred income tax expense. Income tax expense is recognized in the Consolidated Statement of Earnings and Comprehensive Income.
Current income tax expense is the expected tax payable on the taxable income for the year, using tax rates enacted or substantively enacted at period end, adjusted for amendments to tax payable with regards to previous years.
Deferred income taxes are recorded using the statement of financial position liability method. Under this method, deferred income tax assets and liabilities are recognized for future tax consequences attributable to differences between the consolidated financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases. Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are measured using the enacted or substantively enacted tax rates expected to apply when the asset is realized or the liability is settled.
The effect on deferred income tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in earnings in the period that substantive enactment occurs.
A deferred income tax asset is recognized to the extent that it is probable that future taxable profits will be available against which the asset can be utilized.
Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are offset when there is a legally enforceable right to set off current tax assets against current tax liabilities, when they relate to income taxes levied by the same taxation authority, and when we intend to settle its current tax assets and liabilities on a net basis.
We accounts for income tax credits in accordance with IAS 12 Income taxes.
Profit or Loss from Discontinued Operations
A discontinued operation is a component of the Company that either has been disposed of, or is classified as held for sale, and:
represents a separate major line of business or geographical area of operations
is part of a single coordinated plan to dispose of a separate major line of business or geographical area of operations or
is a subsidiary acquired exclusively with a view to resale.
Profit or loss from discontinued operations, including prior year components of profit or loss, is presented in a single amount in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings and Comprehensive Income. This amount, which comprises the post-tax profit or loss of discontinued operations and the post-tax gain or loss resulting from the measurement and disposal of assets classified as held for sale, is further analyzed in Section 11.0 “Discontinued Operations”.
The disclosure for the discontinued operations in the prior year relate to all operations that have been discontinued by the end of the reporting period for the latest period presented.
Net Earnings Per share
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Basic net earnings per share are computed by dividing net earnings by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period.
Diluted net earnings per share is computed similar to basic net earnings per shares, except that the weighted average shares outstanding are increased to include additional shares for the assumed exercise of stock options and warrants at the beginning of the reporting period, if dilutive. The number of additional shares is calculated assuming that outstanding stock options and warrants were exercised and the proceeds from such exercises were used to repurchase common shares at the average market price during the reporting period. Stock options and warrants are dilutive when the market price of the common shares at the end of the period exceeds the exercise price of the options and warrants and when we generate net earnings.
Provisions and Contingent Liabilities
Provisions for product warranties, legal claims, onerous contracts or other claims are recognized when we have a present legal or constructive obligation as a result of a past event, it is probable that an outflow of resources embodying economic benefits will be required to settle the obligation, and a reliable estimate can be made of the amount of the obligation. Timing or amount of the outflow may still be uncertain. The expense relating to any provision is presented in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings and Comprehensive Income, net of any reimbursement.
Provisions are measured at the estimated expenditure required to settle the present obligation, based on the most reliable evidence available at the reporting date, including risks and uncertainties associated with the present obligation. Where there are a number of similar obligations, the likelihood that an outflow will be required in settlement is determined by considering the class of obligations as a whole. Provisions are discounted to their present values, where the time value of money is material.
In those cases where the possible outflow of economic resources as a result of present obligations is considered improbably or remote, no liability is recognized.
Segment Reporting
The Company’s business operates primarily through three operating segments – RF antennas and filters (“Sinclair Technologies”), Satellite Solutions and Microwave Products. These reportable segments are strategic business units that offer different products and services, which is also the basis for the Company’s chief operating decision makers to identify these reportable segments. They are managed separately because each business is in a different stage in its life cycle and they require different marketing strategies. These operating segments are monitored by the Company’s chief operating decision makers and strategic decisions are made on the basis of segment operating results.
The accounting policies of the segments are the same as those described in the summary of significant accounting policies.
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Related Party Transactions
Compensation of key management personnel, including the Company’s President and Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, and General Manager (2013 - President and Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, and General Managers, 2012 - President and Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, General Manager and former President of a significant subsidiary) in the ordinary course of their employment are as follows:
(‘000s) | Year ended Dec 31, | ||||||
2014 | 2013 | 2012 | |||||
$ | $ | $ | |||||
Short-term employee benefits | 1,136 | 1,351 | 2,115 | ||||
Share-based payments | 146 | 138 | 73 | ||||
Total | 1,282 | 1,489 | 2,188 |
The amounts disclosed in the table are the amounts recognized as an expense during the reporting period related to key management personnel.
The Company’s related party transactions relate solely to compensation of key management personnel.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
In 2014, we have adopted the following accounting policies:
IFRIC 21 Levies clarifies that the obligating event that gives rise to the liability is the activity that triggers the payment of the levy, as identified by the government’s legislation. If this activity arises on a specific date within an accounting period then the entire obligation is recognized on that date. The same recognition principles apply in the annual and interim financial statements. IFRIC 21 has no material effect on the Company’s financial statements as the Company has no significant levies that needs to be paid. IFRIC 21 has been applied retrospectively in accordance with its transitional provisions and had no material effect on the Company’s financial statements for any period presented.
Amendments to IAS 32 Offsetting Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities clarify the application of certain offsetting criteria in IAS 32, including the meaning of ‘currently has a legally enforceable right of set-off’ and some gross settlement mechanisms may be considered equivalent to net settlement. The amendments have been applied retrospectively in accordance with their transitional provisions. As the Company does not currently present any of its financial assets and financial liabilities on a net basis using the provisions of IAS 32, these amendments had no material effect on the Company’s financial statements for any period presented.
Amendments to IAS 36 Recoverable Amount Disclosures for Non-Financial Assets clarify that an entity is required to disclose the recoverable amount of an asset or cash generating unit whenever an impairment loss has been recognized or reversed in the period. In addition, they introduce several new disclosures required to be made when the recoverable amount of impaired assets is based on fair value less costs of disposal, including additional information about fair value measurement including the applicable level of the fair value hierarchy, a description of any valuation techniques used and key assumptions made and the discount rates used if fair value less costs of disposal is measured using a present value technique. The amendments have been applied retrospectively in accordance with their transitional provisions.
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In 2013, the Company has adopted the following accounting policies:
IFRS 10 Consolidated Financial Statements builds on existing principles by identifying the concept of control as the determining factor in whether an entity should be included within the consolidated financial statements of the parent company. The standard provides additional guidance to assist in the determination of control where this is difficult to assess. IFRS 10 Consolidated Financial Statements replaces SIC-12 Consolidation-Special Purpose Entities and parts of IAS 27 Consolidated and Separate Financial Statements. The adoption of IFRS 10 did not require any adjustments to the Company’s financial statements.
IFRS 12 Disclosure of Interests in Other Entities is a new and comprehensive standard on disclosure requirements for all forms of interests in other entities, including subsidiaries, joint arrangements, associates, special purpose vehicles and other off-balance sheet vehicles. The adoption of IFRS 12 did not require any adjustments to the Company’s financial statements.
IFRS 13 Fair Value Measurements explains how to measure fair value by providing a clear definition and introducing a single set of guidance for (almost) all fair value measurements. It clarifies how to measure fair value when a market becomes less active and improves transparency through additional disclosures. The adoption of IFRS 13 did not require any adjustments to the Company’s financial statements.
In 2012, the Company has early adopted the Annual Improvements to IFRSs 2009-2011 Cycle of IAS 1 Presentation of Financial Statements. The amendments to IAS 1 clarifies the requirements for comparative information when entities apply accounting policies retrospectively, makes a retrospective restatement of items in the financial statements, or when items are reclassified in its financial statements. By early adopting the standard, the Company has determined that they are not required to present a third statement of financial position for items that have been reclassified retrospectively.
The following new accounting pronouncements have been issued but are not effective and may have an impact on the Company:
IFRS 9 Financial Instruments will replace IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement, and is currently being developed in stages by the IASB. It addresses the classification, measurement and derecognition of financial assets and financial liabilities. The new standard replaces the current multiple classification and measurement models for financial assets and liabilities with a single model that has only two classification categories: amortized cost and fair value. In November 2013, the IASB issued an amendment to IFRS 9 which includes a new hedge model that aligns accounting more closely with risk management as well as enhancements to the disclosures about hedge accounting and risk management. IFRS 9 has also been amended not to require the restatement of comparative period financial statements for the initial application of the classification and measuring requirements of IFRS 9, but instead requires modified disclosures on transition to IFRS 9. The ISAB has now deferred the effective date to annual period beginning on or after January 1, 2018. Early adoption of the standard is permitted. The Company has not early adopted this standard and is currently assessing the impact that this standard will have on the Company’s financial statements.
IFRS 15 Revenue from Contracts with Customers will replace IAS 18 Revenue, IAS 11 Construction Contracts and some revenue related interpretations. IFRS 15 establishes a new control-based revenue recognition model, changes the basis for deciding whether revenue is to be recognized over time or at a point in time, and improves disclosures about revenue. IFRS 15 provides more detailed guidance on contracts involving the delivery of two or more goods and services as to when to account separately for the individual performance obligations in a multiple element arrangement, how to allocate the transaction price and when to combine contracts. IFRS 15 also provides guidance on how to treat arrangements with variable pricing, such as performance based pricing and how revenue can be constraint. In addition, IFRS 15 provides
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guidance on time value of money as to when to adjust a contract price for a financing component. The ISAB has an effective date to annual period beginning on or after January 1, 2017. Early adoption of the standard is permitted. The Company has not early adopted this standard and is currently assessing the impact that this standard will have on the Company’s financial statements.
Non-IFRS Measures
Management uses non-IFRS measures, EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA as supplemental measures to evaluate the performance of the Company. EBITDA is defined as earnings before income tax expense, financing costs, depreciation and amortization. Adjusted EBITDA is defined as EBITDA adjusted with foreign exchange gain or loss, corporate development costs, write-down of inventory, impairment charges or recoveries, discontinued operations and other non-cash charges. Corporate development costs are predominately external costs incurred to pursue acquisition.
Management believes that EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA provide important measures of the Company’s operating performance because they allow management, investors and others to evaluate and compare the Company’s core operating results, including its return on capital and operating efficiencies, from period to period by removing the impact of its capital structure (interest expenses), asset base (depreciation and amortization) and tax consequences. Both EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA do not have any standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS, other companies may calculate these non-IFRS measures differently, and therefore our EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA may not be comparable to similar titled measures of other companies. Accordingly, investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on them and are also urged to read all IFRS accounting disclosures presented in the audited consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes for year ended December 31, 2014.
The following table sets forth, for the years indicated, a reconciliation of IFRS to non-IFRS measures:
(‘000s) | Years ended December 31, | ||||||
2014 | 2013 | 2012 | |||||
$ | $ | $ | |||||
Net earnings | 4,195 | 3,707 | 5,135 | ||||
Interest expense | 115 | 236 | 536 | ||||
Amortization and depreciation | 1,275 | 1,401 | 1,476 | ||||
Tax recovery | (494) | (731) | (2,501) | ||||
EBITDA | 5,091 | 4,613 | 4,646 | ||||
Foreign exchange (gain)/loss | (586) | (888) | 250 | ||||
Earnings from discontinued operations | - | - | (81) | ||||
Acquisition costs | 180 | 131 | - | ||||
Write-down of inventory | - | 1,264 | - | ||||
Adjusted EBITDA | 4,685 | 5,120 | 4,815 |
Adjusted EBITDA for the year ended December 31, 2014 was $4.7 million, compared to $5.1 million the same period in 2013, reflecting a combination of a decrease of gross profit by $0.4 million, excluding the $1.3 million write-off in inventory in 2013, due to lower margined product mix mostly in the Satellite Solutions and Sinclair Technologies segments, partially offset by a decrease in operating expenses of $0.1 million, excluding depreciation and amortization.
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(‘000s) | Years ended December 31, | ||||||
2014 | 2013 | 2012 | |||||
$ | $ | $ | |||||
Current Assets (A) | 23,630 | 20,232 | 21,810 | ||||
Current Liabilities (B) | 9,861 | 10,241 | 14,262 | ||||
Less Acquisition Loan | (2,371) | (4,413) | (6,953) | ||||
Adjusted Current Liabilities (C) | 7,490 | 5,828 | 7,309 | ||||
Working Capital (A) - (B) | 13,769 | 9,991 | 7,548 | ||||
Adjusted Working Capital (A)–(C) | 16,140 | 14,404 | 14,501 | ||||
Current Ratio (A)/(B) | 2.4 | 2.0 | 1.5 | ||||
Adjusted Current Ratio (A)/(C) | 3.2 | 3.5 | 3.0 |
Adjusted Working Capital
Adjusted Working Capital is a non-IFRS measure that does not have a standardized meaning and may not be comparable to a similar measure disclosed by other issuers. We use working capital changes as a supplemental financial measure in our evaluation of liquidity. We believe that monitoring working capital items assists in assessing the efficiency of allocation of short-term financial resources. Adjusted Working Capital is calculated by subtracting current liabilities, excluding acquisition loan, from current assets. As at December 31, 2014, Adjusted Working Capital increased 12% to $16.1 million, from $14.4 million at December 31, 2013. As at December 31, 2012, Adjusted Working Capital was $14.5 million.
Adjusted Current Ratio
Adjusted Current Ratio is a non-IFRS measure that does not have a standardized meaning and may not be comparable to a similar measure disclosed by other issuers. We believe that monitoring our current ratio helps to assess the health of our liquidity. Adjusted Current Ratio is defined as current assets divided by current liabilities, excluding the acquisition loan. As at December 31, 2014, Adjusted Current Ratio was 3.2 times compared to 3.5 times as at December 31, 2013. As at December 31, 2012, Adjusted Current Ratio was 3.0 times.
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The following table sets forth, for the periods indicated, a reconciliation of IFRS to non-IFRS measures:
(‘000s) | Three months ended (unaudited) | ||||||||
Mar 31 | Jun 30 | Sep 30 | Dec 31 | ||||||
2014 | $ | $ | $ | $ | |||||
Net earnings | 2,177 | 1,000 | 968 | 51 | |||||
Interest expense | 33 | 32 | 29 | 21 | |||||
Amortization and depreciation | 319 | 303 | 277 | 375 | |||||
Tax recovery | (70) | (283) | (74) | (67) | |||||
EBITDA | 2,459 | 1,052 | 1,200 | 380 | |||||
Foreign exchange (gain)/loss | (867) | 282 | (363) | 362 | |||||
Acquisition costs | - | - | 180 | - | |||||
Adjusted EBITDA | 1,592 | 1,334 | 1,017 | 742 | |||||
2013 | $ | $ | $ | $ | |||||
Net earnings | 412 | 914 | 683 | 1,698 | |||||
Interest expense | 110 | 33 | 52 | 41 | |||||
Amortization and depreciation | 332 | 340 | 357 | 372 | |||||
Tax recovery | (9) | (28) | (47) | (647) | |||||
EBITDA | 845 | 1,259 | 1,045 | 1,464 | |||||
Foreign exchange (gain) loss | (49) | (503) | 252 | (588) | |||||
Acquisition costs | - | 111 | 17 | 4 | |||||
Gain on bargain purchase | - | (47) | 47 | - | |||||
Write-down of inventory | - | - | - | 1,264 | |||||
Adjusted EBITDA | 797 | 819 | 1,361 | 2,144 | |||||
2012 | 796 | 819 | 1,361 | 2,144 | |||||
Net earnings | 518 | 2,771 | 975 | 871 | |||||
Interest expense | 145 | 103 | 136 | 152 | |||||
Amortization and depreciation | 360 | 385 | 373 | 358 | |||||
Tax expense/(recovery) | 206 | (2,615) | (86) | (6) | |||||
EBITDA | 1,229 | 644 | 1,398 | 1,375 | |||||
Foreign exchange (gain)/loss | (111) | 57 | 414 | (110) | |||||
Loss/(earnings) from discontinued operations | 38 | 34 | (153) | - | |||||
Acquisition costs | 1,156 | 735 | 1,659 | 1,265 | |||||
Adjusted EBITDA | 1,088 | 412 | 1,790 | 919 |
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Business Combinations
a)Acquisition of US-Based Satellite Communication Business
On April 16, 2013, the Company entered into a definitive agreement to acquire certain business assets and assume certain liabilities of CVG, Incorporated (“CVG”), a US-based satellite communication business. The Company financed the transaction with cash from operations. The acquired assets include new products and associated intellectual property (“IP”) that align with the Company’s existing product roadmap and allow the Company to immediately enter new and additional areas within the satellite communications markets with solid state power amplifiers (“SSPAs”), high power block upconverters (“BUCs”), SATCOM baseband kits and Microsatellite terminals (terminals with antenna sizes below 1 metre).
The CVG acquisition has been accounted for as an acquisition of a business and the identified assets, and liabilities below are a result of management’s best estimates and assumptions after taking into account all relevant information available. The Company conducted studies and analysis of the acquired assets and liabilities to arrive at the purchase price allocation below.
The assessed fair value of the identifiable assets and liabilities of CVG as at April 16, 2013 are as follows:
(‘000s) | Fair value recognized on acquisition | |
Assets | $ | |
Inventories | 793 | |
Property and equipment, net | 259 | |
Assets held for sale | 33 | |
Total Assets | 1,085 | |
Liabilities | ||
Accrued liabilities | 21 | |
Provisions | 534 | |
Total Liabilities | 555 | |
Total identifiable net assets at fair value | 530 | |
Purchase consideration transferred | 530 |
We recognized $32,778 assets held for sale at acquisition date, comprised of assets redundant to our operation. Subsequent to the acquisition, we disposed all of the assets held for sale and realized $32,778 in 2013.
Provisions relate to product warranty liabilities for products sold by CVG prior to the acquisition.
Purchase consideration
The Company paid cash consideration of $0.5 million and financed the purchase from the Company’s cash and cash equivalents.
Acquisition-related costs, including legal, professional fees and relocation expenses amounting to approximately $0.1 million have been recognized as a general and administrative expense in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings and Comprehensive Income in 2013.
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b)Acquisition of Sinclair Technologies Holdings Inc.
On January 21, 2011, the Company acquired 100% of the outstanding shares of Sinclair Technologies Holdings Inc. (“Sinclair”), a private company based in Aurora, Ontario specializing in the manufacture of antenna and radio frequency conditioning products.
The Company acquired Sinclair because the Company believes the acquisition of Sinclair complemented the Company’s core businesses and supported the Company’s goal of becoming a leading provider of innovative communication solutions that enable the transmission of data, audio and video for challenging applications and environments. With the addition of Sinclair’s product lines and customer base, the Company has diversified into the commercial space and into the municipal government level. In addition, by combining forces with Sinclair, the Company was able to realize opportunities to cross sell its customer base, resell Sinclair’s products using its Microwave Products segment, and expose Sinclair’s products to the Company’s relationships in Europe and the military markets.
The identified assets, liabilities and purchase price below are a result of management’s best estimates and assumptions after taking into account all relevant information available. The Company conducted studies and analysis of the acquired assets and liabilities to arrive at the final purchase price allocation below. The assessed fair value of the identifiable assets and liabilities of Sinclair as at January 21, 2011 are as follows:
(‘000s) | Fair value recognized on acquisition | |
Assets | $ | |
Cash and cash equivalents | 726 | |
Short-term investments | 30 | |
Trade and other receivables | 2,301 | |
Inventories | 4,845 | |
Prepaid expenses and other | 153 | |
Property and equipment, net | 598 | |
Intangible assets | 10,138 | |
Deferred tax assets | 67 | |
Total Assets | 18,858 | |
Liabilities | ||
Trade and other payables | 2,065 | |
Deferred income tax liabilities | 2,910 | |
Taxes payable | 741 | |
Total Liabilities | 5,716 | |
Total identifiable net assets at fair value | 13,142 | |
Goodwill on acquisition of Sinclair | 5,360 | |
Purchase consideration transferred | 18,502 |
Goodwill is primarily related to growth expectations, expected future profitability, the substantial skill and expertise of Sinclair’s workforce and expected cost synergies. Goodwill arising on the acquisition of Sinclair is not deductible for tax purposes.
In 2012, the Company has collected substantially all of the trade and other receivables recognized on acquisition.
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Purchase consideration
The fair value of the purchase consideration is summarized as follows:
(‘000s) | ||
$ | ||
Cash | 15,962 | |
Shares issued, at fair value | 2,037 | |
Promissory notes payable | 503 | |
Total purchase consideration | 18,502 |
The Company paid cash consideration of $15,962,056, financed from the Company’s cash and cash equivalents in the amount of $3,962,056, debt financing from its principal banker of $12,000,000, contingent consideration of 4,028,932 common shares issued from treasury with a fair value of $2,036,900 and promissory notes with a total face value of $750,000 plus interest at 3% per annum with a fair value of $502,937. The issuance of the common shares and the payment of promissory notes are contingent upon Sinclair achieving certain financial metrics.
The Company discounted the promissory notes with a total face value of $750,000 using a discount rate of 20% for the duration of its maturity. The 4,028,932 common shares were discounted compared to the acquisition date’s listed stock exchange price using the Black-Scholes Option Pricing model. The assumptions used for the fair value discount of the common shares were as follows:
Assumptions | ||
Risk-free interest rate | 1.70% | |
Expected life | 1.57 years | |
Vesting period | Immediately | |
Expected volatility | 60.4% | |
Expected dividends | nil |
$1,000,000 of the cash consideration was held in escrow and acts as a security for certain events should the Company be subject to any liabilities, claims or similar arising from representation or warranties made by the vendors. The $1,000,000, less claimed amounts, if any, is releasable to the vendors on January 21, 2013. The Company released $1,000,000 in cash from escrow to the vendors as part of the purchase consideration in 2013.
The 4,028,932 common shares component of the purchase consideration was held in escrow and to be released to the vendors, at rate of 100%, 75% or 0%, subject to Sinclair achieving certain financial metrics for the year ended December 31 2011. Based on Sinclair’s fiscal 2011 financial results, the Company released from escrow 100% of the common shares to the vendors in 2012.
The promissory notes were held in escrow and were to be released to the vendors, at a rate of 100%, 75% or 0%, subject to Sinclair achieving certain financial metrics for the year ended December 31, 2012. On May 30, 2012, the vendors and the Company agreed to a reduction in the final contingent payment from the original face value of $750,000 to $725,000 for immediate release of the promissory notes from escrow. The timing of the payout remained unchanged: 50% of the principal plus interest was paid on March 29, 2013 and the balance of the principal plus interest on June 28, 2013. In 2013, the Company paid $755,258 in cash to the vendors, representing full settlement of a promissory note with total principal payments owing of $725,000 and accumulated interest of $30,258.
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The Company paid its principal banker $108,000 in financing fees to acquire the $12,000,000 debt financing. The financing fee of $108,000 was capitalized as part of the cost of the debt and is being amortized over the term.
The Company incurred transaction costs of approximately $800,000 of which $500,000 and $300,000 were incurred in 2011 and 2010 respectively, in relation to the acquisition that were recognized in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings and Comprehensive Income.
Goodwill is primarily related to growth expectations, expected future profitability, the substantial skill and expertise of Sinclair’s workforce and expected cost synergies. Goodwill arising on the acquisition of Sinclair is not deductible for tax purposes. The year-to-date change to Goodwill on acquisition of Sinclair is as follows:
(‘000s) | ||
$ | ||
Balance, December 31, 2010 | - | |
Goodwill acquired through business combination | 5,360 | |
Foreign exchange translation | (82) | |
Balance, December 31, 2011 | 5,278 | |
Foreign exchange translation | 111 | |
Balance, December 31, 2012 | 5,389 | |
Foreign exchange translation | (285) | |
Balance, December 31, 2013 | 5,104 | |
Foreign exchange translation | (368) | |
Balance, December 31, 2014 | 4,736 |
For the purpose of annual impairment testing, goodwill is allocated to Sinclair, the cash-generating unit in which goodwill belongs.
The recoverable amount of Sinclair Technologies was determined based on value in use calculations, covering a five-year forecast , followed by an extrapolation of expected cash flows for the remaining useful lives using growth rates for revenue estimated by management. The cash flow projection is based on the annual budget approved by the Board of Directors. The growth rate is approximately 2%. The present value of the expected cash flows is determined by applying a suitable discount rate. The discount rate for 2014 is 16.8%.
The growth rates of revenue reflect the long-term average growth rates for the product lines and industry of the segment.
The discount rate reflects appropriate adjustments relating to market risk and specific risk factors of the segment.
Management’s key assumptions to cash flow forecasting include moderately increasing net profit margins, based on past experience and current trends in the markets that the segment operates. The Company believes that this is the best available input for forecasting cash flows.
The recoverable amount of Sinclair Technologies based on value in use exceeds its carrying value by approximately $2.2 million.
The impairment test performed resulted in no impairment of Goodwill as at December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012.
Apart from the considerations in determining the value in use of the segment described above, the Company is not aware of any other probable changes that would necessitate changes in its
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key estimates. Sensitivity testing was conducted as a part of the 2014 annual test. If the discount rate used is increased by 1%, the recoverable amount of Sinclair Technologies would reduce by approximately $1.5 million, which is approximately $0.7 million above its carrying value.
Discontinued Operations
On July 17, 2012, the Company sold Norsat Italia S.r.l., a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company for cash consideration of Euro 70,000 ($85,764). Norsat Italia S.r.l operated the Company’s vessel monitoring unit. Proceeds of Eur 60,000 (US$76,369) and Eur 10,000 (US$13,583) were received in 2012 and 2013, respectively. The Consolidated Statements of Earnings and Comprehensive Income have been re-presented to show the discontinued operation separately from continued operations.
(‘000s, except per share amounts) | Year ended Dec 31, | |||
2012 | ||||
Results of discontinued operation | $ | |||
Revenue | 278 | |||
Expenses | 291 | |||
Results from operating activities | (13) | |||
Gain on sales of discontinued operation | 94 | |||
| Net earnings for the period – from discontinued operations | 81 | ||
Net earnings per share – basic | 0.00 | |||
Net earnings per share - diluted | 0.00 | |||
Weighted average number of shares outstanding | ||||
-Basic | 58,183 | |||
-Diluted | 58,185 | |||
Cash flows provided by discontinued operation | ||||
Net cash provided by operating activities | 84 | |||
Net cash provided by investing activities | 25 | |||
Net cash provided by financing activities | - | |||
Net cash flows for the period | 109 |
B. | Liquidity and capital resources |
Liquidity
Our principal cash requirements are for working capital, capital expenditures and acquisition loan repayment.
Our balance sheet remains sound. As at December 31, 2014, we had $5.5 million in cash and cash equivalents, an increase of $2.2 million from $3.3 million as at December 31, 2013. To meet our working capital requirements and to provide additional short-term liquidity in each period, we may draw on our $3.7 million operating line of credit. As at December 31, 2014, there were no amounts drawn under our operating line of credit. Please refer to “Capital Resources” below for changes in our operating line of credit amount as at March 18, 2015.
Cash generated from operating activities was $4.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2014, compared to $50,367 and $2.3 million for the comparable periods in 2013 and 2012, respectively.
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Cash used in investing activities was $0.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2014 compared to $0.9 million and $0.1million in 2013 and 2012, respectively. Investing activities for the year ended December 31, 2013 were comprised of the $0.5 million of cash used to acquire CVG.
Cash used in financing activities was $1.1 million compared to $1.0 million and $1.4 million in 2013 and 2012, respectively. In 2014, we purchased $0.1 million of treasury shares, which is equivalent to 225,800 common shares at a weighted average share price of $0.50. We also repaid $1.9 million of the acquisition loan and received $1.0 million in government funding in 2014.
Our working capital requirements are mainly for materials, production, selling, operations and general administrative expenses. Our working capital may be improved by increasing sales, shortening collection cycles and monetizing inventory.
Adjusted Working Capital1as at December 31, 2014 was at $16.1 million, compared to $14.4 million at December 31, 2013 and $14.5 million at December 31, 2012. The current ratio as at December 31, 2014 was 3.2 times, compared to 3.5 times as at December 31, 2013 and 3.0 times for the 2012 year.
Trade and other receivables were $7.6 million as at December 31, 2014, up from $6.8 million as at December 31, 2013 and $7.1 million as at December 31, 2012. Net government funding receivables were $0.6 million as at December 31, 2014, compared to $0.5 million in 2013 and $0.6 million in 2012.
Trade and other payables and accrued liabilities increased to $5.4. million as of December 31, 2014 compared to $4.1 million in 2013 and $5.8 million in 2012. The increase in 2014 over 2013 reflects an approximately $0.6 million vendor payment accrued related to a significant contract, $0.4 million payable for government contributions received but not yet recorded as a reduction to product development expenses and timing of other vendor payments. The $1.7 million reduction in 2013 over 2012 reflects improvement in cash flow that enabled us to reduce our payables with suppliers and differences in timing of payables and settlement.
Current deferred revenue was $1.2 million as at December 31, 2014, compared to $0.6 million and $0.2 million as at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. The increase in 2014 reflects the deferred revenue of a significant Satellite contract.
Inventory as at December 31, 2014 was $10.1 million, compared to $9.6 million as at December 31, 2013 and $9.0 million as at December 31, 2012. The increase in inventory in 2014 reflects an increase of $1.0 million in work in progress from $1.7 million as at December 31, 2014 compared to $0.6 million in 2013 related to a significant Satellite contract, partially offset by approximately $0.3 million increase of inventory obsolescence provision. The increase in inventory in 2013 over 2012 reflects our increased projection for sales in the first quarter of 2014, offset by the impact of the $1.1 million net increase to our provision for excess and slow-moving inventory.
As of December 31, 2014, shareholders’ equity increased to $29.0 million, from $26.4 million at December 31, 2013 and $24.2 million at December 31, 2012. The increase in 2014 over 2013 reflects $4.2 million in 2014 earnings, a $0.1 million increase in contributed surplus from stock-based compensation on options and restricted share units; offset by a $1.8 million increase in accumulated other comprehensive loss due to foreign exchange movement.
1Adjusted Working Capital is calculated by subtracting current liabilities from current assets and is a non-IFRS measure. See “Non-IFRS Measures” under this Item. |
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Going forward, we may deploy cash for any suitable investments consistent with our long-term strategy of entering new geographic markets, broadening our customer base, and expanding into new market verticals. In addition to utilizing some or all of our current cash resources, we may also raise additional capital from equity markets or utilize debt to complete investment and financing transactions that would accelerate our growth in the areas outlined above.
Capital Resources
Our objectives and policies for managing capital are to maintain a strong capital base so as to maintain investor, creditor and market confidence, sustain future development of the business and to safeguard our ability to support normal operating requirements on an ongoing basis.
Our capital consists of the items included in the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position in the shareholders’ equity section, and the operating line of credit (if drawn). We manage our capital structure and make changes based on economic conditions and the risk characteristics of our assets. As at December 31, 2014 shareholders’ equity was $29.0 million (2013 - $26.4 million and 2012 - $24.2 million).
To manage our capital requirements, we have a planning and budgeting process that helps determine the funds required to ensure we have the appropriate liquidity to meet our operating and growth objectives. We plan to continue to fund our short-term cash requirements through operations, and if required, we have an operating line of credit in place that can be drawn upon.
On March 28, 2013, we entered into an agreement with the Canadian Federal Minister of Industry (the “Minister”) through the Strategic Aerospace & Defense Initiative (“SADI I”). Under this agreement, the Minister will provide funding of 30% of eligible spending related to the research and development of the aerospace, defense, space or security (“A&D”) technology development projects to a maximum funding amount of Cdn$13.3 million. The agreement covers eligible costs starting from July 27, 2012 up to and including December 31, 2017 (“SADI II”). We are obliged to repay the funding over the repayment period. Funding is conditional on maintaining certain reporting requirements. As at December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, we were in compliance with these reporting requirements.
For the year ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, there were no other changes in our approach to capital management.
As at December 31, 2014 the Company had the following externally imposed capital requirements under its operating line of credit agreements and the acquisition loan agreement:
Working capital ratio (current assets divided by current liabilities) cannot be less than 1.25:1.00 – calculated quarterly,
Debt service coverage ratio cannot be (i) less than 1.10 to 1.00 for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2014, (iii) less than 1.20 to 1.00 for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2015, and thereafter. The ratio is based on earnings before interest, tax, depreciation, amortization and share-based payments (“EBITDAS”) plus loss on sale of assets less cash taxes, dividends, distributions, advances to related parties, gains on sale of assets and unfunded capital expenditures divided by the aggregate principal and interest payments made during the relevant fiscal year. This ratio shall be calculated annually and based on the Company’s consolidated financial statements. For the fiscal year ending December 31, 2013, the debt service coverage ratio calculation shall exclude business acquisitions (share or asset purchases) from unfunded capital expenditures.
Funded debt to EBITDAS(1), less unfunded capital expenditures cannot at any time exceed 2.50:1.00 – calculated quarterly, on a rolling 12 month basis. Funded debt includes the
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Company’s operating line of credit and acquisition loan. EBITDA is defined as earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization and is a non-IFRS measure. Unfunded capital expenditures are defined as capital expenditures which are not financed by external sources, such as being financed by the Company’s own cash and cash equivalents. Funded debt includes only the acquisition loan.
Credit Facilities
Operating Line of Credit
On July 3, 2013, we renewed and amended our existing credit facility with HSBC Bank Canada (the “Bank”). The acquisition loan was extended for three years, ending on June 30, 2016. As a result, monthly principal repayments have been reduced to $160,000 (previously $250,000); with applicable interest rate spread ranging from 0.5% to 3.5% (previously 1% to 4%) depending on our funded debt to EBITDA ratio determined on a rolling 12-month basis based on our consolidated financial statements.
At our request, the demand revolving operating line of credit has been reduced to US$2.2 million (previously US$2.8 million). If drawn, applicable interest rates are as follows:
the Bank’s Prime Rate plus 0.5% per annum for amounts outstanding in Canadian dollars (previously the Bank’s Prime Rate plus 1.35% per annum) and/or
the Bank’s U.S. Base Rate plus 0.50% per annum for amounts outstanding in US dollars (previously the Bank’s U.S. Base Rate plus 1.35% per annum).
The covenants were amended and reflected under the “Capital Resources” section above.
The following summarizes the Company’s credit facilities extended by the Bank as at December 31, 2014:
The Company has a secured revolving operating line of credit with the Bank of US$2.2 million (2013 - $2.25 million and 2012 - US$2.8 million) subject to an interest rate at the Bank’s Prime Rate plus 0.5% per annum for amounts outstanding in Canadian dollars and/or the Bank’s U.S. Base Rate plus 0.5% per annum for amounts outstanding in US dollars. The operating line of credit is payable upon demand by the Bank. As at December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, the Company had no borrowings outstanding with respect to the operating line of credit.
In addition, the Company has a secured non-revolving demand loan of US$1.0 million (2013 and 2012 - $1.0 million) to assist in financing the working capital requirements of the Company, subject to an interest rate at the Bank’s US base rate plus an applicable spread and/or the Bank’s LIBOR rate plus an applicable spread. The applicable spread ranges from 0.5% to 3.5% (previously 1% to 4%) depending on the Company’s funded debt to EBITDAS ratio determined on a rolling 12 month basis based on the Company’s consolidated financial statements. As at December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, the Company had no borrowings outstanding with respect to the non-revolving demand note.
The Company also has an additional revolving demand note with HSBC Bank USA in the principal amount of US$0.5 million (2013 and 2012 - $0.9 million) subject to an interest rate of prime plus 1.5% per annum and payable upon demand. As at December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, the Company had no borrowing outstanding with respect to the revolving demand note.
Accordingly, as at December 31, 2014, the Company has access to undrawn credit facilities totaling $3.7 million (2013 - $4.15 million, 2012 - $4.7 million) and is in compliance with its externally imposed covenants.
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There are currently no major capital projects or divestitures in progress.
As at December 31, 2014, there were no amounts drawn under our operating line of credit.
Acquisition Loan
On December 22, 2010, the Company secured a non-revolving acquisition loan of Cdn$13.2 million or US$12 million with the Bank subject to an interest rate at the Bank’s banker’s acceptance rate plus an applicable spread for amounts outstanding in Canadian dollars and/or the Bank’s LIBOR rate plus an applicable spread for amounts outstanding in U.S. dollars. The acquisition loan was repayable in full within 48 months of the date of the initial advance, January 21, 2011. A portion of the loan is repayable in Canadian dollars and the remaining loan is repayable in U.S. dollars
The loan is secured by all assets of the Company under a general security assignment.
On July 3, 2013, the Company renewed and amended its existing credit facility with the Bank. The acquisition loan was extended for 3 years, ending on June 30, 2016. As a result, monthly principal repayments have been reduced to $160,000 (previously $250,000), with applicable interest rate spread ranging from 0.5% to 3.5% (previously 1% to 4%) depending on the Company’s funded debt to EBITDAS ratio determined on a rolling 12 month basis based on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
For the year ended December 31, 2014, the Company made principal repayments totaling $1.9 million (2013 - $2.37 million, 2012 - $2.8 million) against the acquisition loan. As at December 31, 2014, the Company’s combined weighted average interest rate was 2.77% (2013 – 3.02%, 2012 – 4.29%).
The Company has externally imposed capital requirements under its acquisition loan agreement as explained in the above section “Capital Resources”.
As at December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, the Company is in compliance with its bank covenants.
C. | Research and development, patents and licenses, etc. |
In 2008, the Company’s receipt of an award by the Canadian Ministry of Industry is an external validation of the Company’s excellence in research & development activities. The Cdn$5.97 million repayable contribution through the Ministry’s Strategic Aerospace and Defense Initiative (SADI) program provides the Company with a significant contribution towards assisting R&D efforts and provides for continued investment in technological innovation. The Company has claimed the maximum funding of Cdn$5.97 million under this agreement as at December 31, 2012.
In 2013, the Company received another award by the Canadian Ministry of Industry as an external validation of the Company’s excellence in research & development activities. The Cdn$13.3 million repayable contribution through the SADI program continues to provide the Company with a significant contribution towards assisting R&D efforts and provides for continued investment in technological innovation.
In 2014, 2013 and 2012, the Company continued to develop products in all business lines. The Company’s product development efforts continue to be performed through the support of the Canadian Federal Government through the SADI grants awarded in 2008 and 2013.
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The following table provides further details of the Company’s research and development expenditures:
Year ended Dec 31, | |||||||
Product Development Costs ($000’s) | 2014 | 2013 | 2012 | ||||
$ | $ | $ | |||||
Product Development | 2,846 | 3,513 | 3,420 | ||||
Less: Government Funding | (1,267) | (2,080) | (1,047) | ||||
Product Development, net | 1,579 | 1,433 | 2,373 |
D. | Trend information |
Radio Frequency Based Communications - Trends
Communication networks, and in particular, mobile wireless communications systems, are widely used in public safety, national security, natural resource management, and other specialized applications.
Limited availability of licensed and unlicensed frequencies is causing governments to re- assign spectrum for public safety networks. As an example, US Broadcasters were recently required to vacate the 700 MHz frequency band to allow spectrum for new public safety networks;
Demand by mobile radio users for more radio channels is causing network operators to reduce channel spacing and increase demand for filter products;
Large competitors are more focused on the larger cellular market and appear to be reducing investment in new product development for the PMR market; and
Original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) are driving greater efficiencies and increasing their bargaining power by favouring fewer vendors with a broad product portfolio
Satellite-Based Communications - Trends
Although we continue to see softness in the satellite-based communications market as a result of the US budget cuts and decrease in U.S. military spending, investments to develop new products have been well received by other global militaries, which we believe will translate into future revenue growth. In addition, we believe that a number of longer term trends are positively influencing the sector. Specific trends include the following:
There is a growing expectation that organizations and individuals are always “connected” to some type of communications infrastructure, regardless of where they may be positioned geographically.
As companies are increasingly required to look beyond traditional locations to meet the world’s demand for natural resources, there has been a proliferation of remote sites far removed from existing infrastructure. Demand for bandwidth is ever-expanding as users increasingly expect that video and audio files are capable of being transmitted, and that the transmissions will occur in real time.
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In the era of 24-hour news coverage, viewers have come to expect media to cover a breaking story nearly instantaneously, regardless of where it occurs around the world. Media outlets need to be able to deploy quickly to meet this expectation.
Major media are experiencing competition from alternative news sources that typically make content available over the Internet. Partly in response, governments and non-governmental organizations are increasingly producing their own content relating to events they deem significant, and making this available to third parties or directly to the public.
The nature of modern military operations is such that mobility and rapid establishment of communication links in the field are increasingly considered vital.
Major organizations that have global operations are increasingly aware of, and plan for, natural or manmade crisis events. Their plans often include establishing communication capabilities that are not dependent on terrestrial infrastructure as part of their contingency or emergency action plans.
A number of large-scale disasters in recent years have proven the critical importance of first responders being able to establish rapid communication links to coordinate recovery efforts.
Experience with information technology and communication equipment in recent decades has conditioned users to expect that related hardware will become smaller and more portable over time, while offering improved functionality. Providers who are able to meet this expectation can realize competitive advantages.
Applications for satellite technology are becoming ubiquitous. From their traditional role in the broadcast and telecommunications fields, communications satellites have more recently been extended to such applications as broadband services, cellular and Internet backhaul, location-based services and satellite imagery. As a result, a broader base of users has a need for ground-based satellite equipment.
E. | Off-balance sheet arrangements |
Not applicable.
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F. | Tabular disclosure of contractual obligations |
The Company’s known contractual obligations at December 31, 2014 are quantified in the following table:
Contractual Obligations (‘000s) | Payments due by period | ||||||||||
Less than | 1-3 years | 3-5 years | More than 5 | Total | |||||||
1 year | years | ||||||||||
$ | $ | $ | $ | $ | |||||||
Acquisition loan | 2,371 | - | - | - | 2,371 | ||||||
Operating lease obligations | 791 | 932 | - | - | 1,723 | ||||||
Purchase obligations | 4,741 | 30 | - | - | 4,771 | ||||||
Total | 7,903 | 962 | - | - | 8,865 |
Although the acquisition loan is due on demand, it is not expected that the demand feature will be exercised. The scheduled repayment on the debt is over the next year.
The Company, in the normal course of business, enters into purchase commitments, including inventory purchase obligations as disclosed above. The operating lease obligations are related to office premises. In addition, the Company is required to make repayment of SADI I government contributions with repayment contingent on 2015 financial results compared to those achieved in 2014. As at December 31, 2014, the Company did not accrue any liability for repayment as the amount cannot yet be determined. Future interest payment of approximately $66,000 on the acquisition loan balance of $2,371 million, based on a weighted average interest rate of 2.77% as at December 31, 2014, has not been included under acquisition loan.
G. | Safe harbor |
Statements in this report relating to matters that are not historical fact are forward-looking statements based on current expectations, forecasts and assumptions that involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual outcomes and results to differ materially. Factors that could cause or contribute to such differences include, but are not limited to, general economic conditions, changes in technology, reliance on third party manufacturing, managing rapid growth, global sales risks, limited intellectual property protection and other risks and uncertainties described in Norsat’s public filings with securities regulatory authorities.
6. | Directors, Senior Management and Employees |
A. | Directors and Senior Management |
Directors
The following section sets forth certain information regarding the current directors, as of March 18, 2015:
Fabio Doninelli
Chairman of the Board, member of the Audit Committee and Compensation Committee
Mr. Fabio Doninelli became a director and Chairman of the Board of Norsat on March 7, 2011. Mr. Doninelli is President and Board Member of Prismafin S.A., an international investment organization with offices in Chiasso and Zurich, Switzerland. Mr. Doninelli has extensive experience in strategic advisory, portfolio management, and structuring funds. From 1982 to
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1986, Mr. Doninelli served as Vice President of Trading for the Zurich Stock Exchange. Mr. Doninelli also serves as Strategy Advisor to the Boards of several public and private companies around the world. Mr. Doninelli is also Chairman of Lifeware SA, which is an online life insurance software company with offices in Chiasso, Lugano, Zurich and Frankfurt, Germany. Mr. Doninelli, who lives in Mendrisio Switzerland, exercises direction over the 198,558 post-conversion Norsat common shares held by Prismafin S.A.
Joseph Caprio
Director, Chair of the Compensation Committee and member of the Audit Committee
Mr. Caprio became a director of Norsat on April 30, 2005. Mr. Caprio has 35 years of experience as a recognized organizational development expert. Mr. Caprio is a former Associate Dean at Colgate University and has served as a management consultant and as the operating officer of entrepreneurial businesses. Mr. Caprio, who lives in New York, is a strong proponent of the participative management philosophy of the American Management Association and has counseled a number of successful organizations. Mr. Caprio holds a BS degree in management from the University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI and an MA degree from Colgate University, Hamilton, NY.
James Topham
Director and Chair of the Audit Committee
Mr. Topham became director and Chair of Audit Committee of Norsat on May 12, 2011. Mr. Topham has 30 years of public practice experience as a Chartered Accountant and prior to his retirement in 2008, was a Technology Partner of KPMG’s Vancouver office. Mr. Topham currently serves on the Board of two other public technology companies as well as working with several other private technology companies. Mr. Topham was also a founder and for the first nine years, board member of the BC Technology Industry Association (“BCTIA”). In 2003, Mr. Topham founded the predecessor to the BC Cleantech CEO Alliance, to promote the cleantech industry in BC. He is a founder of Social Venture Partners Vancouver (formerly known as BC Social Venture Partners), which has raised several million dollars towards funding specific community projects. Mr. Topham has a computer science major and a Bachelor of Commerce degree with Honours, and was the most distinguished graduate, from the Commerce Faculty of the University of Saskatchewan (1972).
Shannon Byrne Susko
Director and member of the Compensation Committee
Ms. Susko became director of Norsat on May 7, 2014. Ms. Susko has been working with CEOs, Boards, executive teams, and individuals for over 10 years. She is the former President of DST Subserveo and former Co-founder, President and Chief Executive Officer of Subserveo Inc. Her technical expertise is coupled with extensive sales, marketing, operations, and mergers and acquisitions experience. Ms. Susko has and continues to serve on several for-profit and not-for-profit boards at a regional, national and international level. Ms. Susko was Vancouver’s ACG and BIV 2011 Dealmaker of the Year, and Canada’s Top 40 under 40 recipient for the year 2000. Ms. Susko holds a Bachelor of Commerce and Bachelor of Science degree from Saint Mary’s University and a Masters of Computer Science from the Technical University of Nova Scotia. She has also recently received the ICD.D designation from the Institute of Corporate Directors.
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Amiee Chan
Director, President and Chief Executive Officer
Dr. Chan became a director of Norsat on August 5, 2009. This appointment was in addition to her responsibilities as President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company. SeeSenior Managementsection below.
Senior Management
The following section sets forth certain information regarding the current senior management, as of March 18, 2015:
Amiee Chan,
Executive Officer President and Chief Executive Officer
Dr. Chan was appointed as the President and CEO, on September 8, 2006. Dr. Chan has over 15 years of experience in executive management and research & development in the telecommunications industry. Offering a rare blend of technical and corporate strength, Dr. Chan’s strategic vision has driven Norsat’s innovative product development program and resulted in consistent revenue growth since her appointment as CEO in 2006. In 2012 Dr. Chan won a Women’s Executive Network Top 100 Award, ranked third in PROFIT/Chatelaine’s list of Top Female Entrepreneurs, and led Norsat to win a BC Export Award for Advancing Technology & Innovation. Dr. Chan holds an Executive MBA from Simon Fraser University where she majored in Strategy and New Ventures and a Ph. D. in Satellite Communications from the University of British Columbia. An accomplished engineer, she has been published over a dozen times, holds three US patents, and has been involved in high level research teams such as the NASA ACTS Terminal Program. Dr. Chan is a member of the UBC Engineering Advisory Council and serves on the Dean’s External Advisory Board for the Beedie School of Business at SFU.
Arthur Chin,
Executive Officer Chief Financial Officer
Mr. Chin was appointed Chief Financial Officer on February 1, 2011, bringing 16 years of professional experience in both public practice and in public companies. Since leaving public practice in 2002, he has served in senior financial positions with several international companies, assisting them in planning and analysis of their financial reporting, handling corporate accounting and tax, corporate communications efforts, and providing corporate development strategies. Mr. Chin was previously with Norsat between 2002 and 2005 and was the Company’s Corporate Controller. Prior to rejoining Norsat, he held senior financial positions mostly in the high technology industry with DDS Wireless International Inc., a TSX listed company that provides wireless mobile data solutions and Ascalade Communications Inc., formerly a TSX listed company that designed, developed and manufactured digital wireless and communication products and also with the Canadian Tourism Commission. Prior to his corporate experiences he was in Big 4 public practice, most recently as a Manager in the assurance practice of Deloitte and originally with PricewaterhouseCoopers. Mr. Chin is a Chartered Accountant of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of British Columbia.
Ken Broom
General Manager, Sinclair Technologies
Mr. Broom was appointed General Manager of the Company’s Sinclair Technologies division on November 22, 2013. Mr. Broom brings more than 20 years of operations management experience in the high tech battery industry. Most recently, he held the position of VP of Operations at BAK Battery,
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a manufacturer of lithium-ion batteries for personal electronics, electric vehicles and battery storage applications. Prior to BAK, he was General Manager of E-One Moli Energy Corporation, a producer of lithium-ion batteries based in British Columbia. During the past three decades, Mr. Broom has held leadership positions in quality, engineering, product design, operations, R&D and general management. Mr. Broom holds a degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of Waterloo and is a licensed Professional Engineer in Ontario.
B. | Compensation |
Compensation of Directors
As part of a Director's total compensation and to create a direct linkage with corporate performance as well as shareholder value, the Board believes that a meaningful portion of a Director's compensation shall be provided and held in equity namely stock options and Restricted Share Units (“RSUs”).
Under the current compensation plan each independent Board member shall receive stock options (at market value) upon joining the Board. The number of stock options will be determined by the Board at the time of grant.
The Company pays its Directors, who are not executive officers of the Company the following base annual fees:
Chairman of the Board | Cdn$32,500 | |
Chairman of the Audit Committee | Cdn$27,500 | |
Chairman of the Compensation Committee | Cdn$27,500 | |
Director | Cdn$22,500 |
In addition each independent director will be paid Cdn $1,000 for each Board meeting attended in person and Cdn $250 for each Board meeting attended by conference call during the calendar year.
Each independent Board member also receives an additional 60% of their base annual fees in the form of RSUs. The RSUs vest ratably over their annual term of appointment.
Fees of CHF 5,000 per year are also paid to each director responsible for the Company’s Swiss subsidiary.
Fees of Cdn$5,000 per year was also paid to each director responsible for the Company’s U.S. subsidiary up until May 6, 2014.
The Company also reimburses its Directors for disbursements incurred on behalf of the Company.
Changes in Board compensation, if any, will come with the full discussion and concurrence by the Board.
During the Company’s fiscal year ended December 31, 2014, the aggregate cash compensation incurred by the Company or its subsidiaries to its directors, all of whose financial statements are consolidated with those of the Company, was $145,654.
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In addition, the Company issued a total of 167,508 RSUs in 2014 to the Board of Directors. The value of these RSUs was $79,949 at grant dates based on the closing price on the Toronto Stock Exchange of Cdn$0.55 on February 28, 2014 and Cdn$0.52 on May 9, 2014.
The Company issued 100,000 stock options at a fair value of $16,938 at grant date to Ms. Shannon Byrne Susko upon joining the Board of Directors on May 7, 2014.
All compensation awarded to, earned by, paid to or payable to the Board of Directors is reported below in US dollars. The following table sets forth all annual and long-term compensation earned from the Company and its subsidiaries for the year ended December 31, 2014 by each director:
Share- | Option | Non-Equity | ||||||
based | based | Incentive plan | All Other | |||||
Name and | Fees | awards | awards | compensation | Pension | Compensation | ||
Principal Position | earned ($) | ($)(1) | ($)(2) | ($) | Value ($) | ($) | Total ($) | |
(a) | (b) | (c) | (d) | (e) | (f) | (g) | (h) | |
Fabio Doninelli (Chairman of the Board) | 38,564 | 25,563 | Nil | Nil | Nil | Nil | 64,127 | |
Joseph Caprio (Director and Chair of the Compensation Committee)(3) | 28,523 | 20,435 | Nil | Nil | Nil | Nil | 48,958 | |
James Topham (Director and Chair of the Audit Committee) | 28,523 | 21,631 | Nil | Nil | Nil | Nil | 50,154 | |
Shannon Susko (Director and member of Compensation Committee)(4) | 15,068 | 12,319 | 16,938 | Nil | Nil | Nil | 44,325 | |
Andrew Harries(5) | 10,476 | Nil | Nil | Nil | Nil | Nil | 10,476 |
NOTES:
(1) | Amounts represent the grant date fair value of Restricted Share Units based on the assumption of 100% vesting. The fair value is determined by multiplying the Company’s share price by the number of RSUs granted | |
(2) | Amounts represent the grant date fair value of options based on the assumption of 100% vesting. The fair value is determined under the Black-Scholes Options Pricing Model. For underlying assumptions of the inputs to the model please refer to note 16c under the heading “Share purchase option plan” set forth in the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements Years Ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 filed as Exhibit 99.4 to this annual report on Form 20-F. | |
(3) | Joseph Caprio was appointed as Chair of the Compensation Committee on May 7, 2014. | |
(4) | Shannon Susko became a Director and member of the Compensation Committee on May 7, 2014. | |
(5) | Andrew Harries ceased to be a Director and Chair of the Compensation Committee on May 7, 2014 |
There were no other arrangements under which independent directors were compensated during 2014. No independent directors earned any compensation for consultancy or other services provided to the Company.
Although Dr. Chan is a member of the Board of Directors, her compensation is summarized in the next section “Compensation of Officers”.
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Compensation of Officers
During the Company’s fiscal year ended December 31, 2014, the aggregate cash compensation awarded to, earned by, paid or payable by the Company or its subsidiaries to its named executive officers, all of whose financial statements are consolidated with those of the Company, was $1,104,129 (2013-$1,052,323).
The following table reported in United States Dollars sets forth all annual and long term compensation accrued or paid by the Company and its subsidiaries for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 to each member of senior management.
Non-Equity Incentive | ||||||||||
plan compensation ($) | ||||||||||
Share- | Option | Long- | ||||||||
Name and | based | based | Annual | term | All Other | |||||
Principal | Salary | awards | awards | Incentive | incentive | Pension | Compensation | Total | ||
Position | Year | ($) | ($)(1) | ($)(2) | Plans (3) | plans | Value ($) | ($)(4) | ($) | |
(a) | (b) | (c) | (d) | (e) | (f1) | (f2) | (g) | (h) | (i) | |
Amiee Chan, President and CEO(5) | 2014 | 258,611 | 42,671 | 13,902 | 199,777 | N/A | 22,919 | 5,506 | 543,386 | |
2013 | 277,346 | 95,688 | 30,511 | 91,524 | N/A | 18,444 | 5,455 | 518,967 | ||
2012 | 280,224 | 48,038 | N/A | 275,917 | N/A | 27,807 | 5,431 | 637,378 | ||
Arthur Chin, CFO | ||||||||||
2014 | 221,666 | 36,575 | 11,916 | 114,158 | N/A | 16,791 | Nil | 401,106 | ||
2013 | 237,725 | 68,147 | 21,742 | 52,300 | N/A | 14,501 | Nil | 394,415 | ||
2012 | 240,192 | 34,861 | N/A | 180,144 | N/A | 21,017 | Nil | 476,214 | ||
Ken Broom, General Manager of Sinclair Technologies(6) | ||||||||||
2014 | 148,172 | Nil | 1,111 | 28,751 | N/A | 5,926 | Nil | 183,960 | ||
2013 | 79,182 | Nil | 10,267 | 8,890 | N/A | 2,092 | Nil | 100,431 |
NOTES:
(1) | Amounts represent the grant date fair value of Restricted Share Units based on the assumption of 100% vesting. The fair value is determined by multiplying the Company’s share price by the number of RSUs granted. | |
(2) | Amounts represent the grant date fair value of options based on the assumption of 100% vesting. The fair value is determined under the Black-Scholes Options Pricing Model. For underlying assumptions of the inputs to the model please refer to note 16c under the heading “Share purchase option plan” set forth in the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements Years Ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 filed as Exhibit 99.4 to this annual report on Form 20-F. | |
(3) | Amounts paid or accrued related to the fiscal year of performance. | |
(4) | Perquisites under All Other Compensation are not in excess of CDN$50,000 or 10% of the total base salary paid to each Named Executive Officer for the years indicated and thus are not reported. | |
(5) | Dr. Chan received in 2014 director’s fee of $5,506 (2013 - $5,455, 2012 - $5,431) for being a director of the Company’s Swiss subsidiary. The amount is included under All Other Compensation. | |
(6) | Mr. Broom joined the Company on May 13, 2013 and was promoted to General Manager of the Sinclair Technologies division on November 22, 2013. His 2013 compensation includes the portion Mr. Broom earned in the position of Director of Operations for the Sinclair Technologies division from May 13 2013 to November 21, 2013. |
The bonus amounts (under Annual Incentives Plans) were paid pursuant to the Company’s Employee Compensation Plan. The plan remunerates employees based on successful completion of both corporate and/or personal objectives and each employee is tiered to a level to match their responsibilities within the Company.
Reference is also made to item C immediately below – specifically “Board practices -Performance Bonus” under the heading “Annual Cash Incentive Compensation Plan”.
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C. | Board practices |
Mandate of the Board
The Board of Directors is responsible for the stewardship of the Company and endorses a system of corporate governance designed to effectively manage and supervise the management of the business and the affairs of the Company. The Board also provides considerable guidance to Management in pursuit of the Company’s objectives.
The Board acknowledges that good corporate governance is important to the effective performance of the Company and plays a key role in protecting the interests of shareholders.
The Board continues to review the existing or proposed amendments to governance guidelines and practices in order to implement the most effective corporate governance policies and practices for the Company. The Board has adopted, and will continue to adopt changes to their governance guidelines and practices as necessary to comply with the United States Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 and any new rules issued by the United States Securities and Exchange Commission, the Ontario Securities Commission, the Toronto Stock Exchange, and other applicable securities regulatory authorities.
Decisions Requiring Board Approval
In general, the Company’s management operates the business on a day-to-day basis. The Board approves the annual budget and strategic plans and reviews the performance of senior management against those standards. In addition, the Board approves all major acquisitions, dispositions, financings, both debt and equity, and changes in the structure of the Company. The Board also determines the responsibility and compensation of the Chief Executive Officer. The Board appoints the officers of the Company. The Directors also determine the directors’ compensation and consider the declaration of dividends.
Board Size
The Board has carefully considered issues relating to its size. The optimal size for the Board represents a balance between two opposing needs: a business need for strong, professional and industry sector representation; and the need to be small enough to facilitate open and effective dialogue and decision-making. The Board has currently determined that number to be five members.
Composition of the Board
The Board is currently composed of five directors, four of whom are considered “independent” to the Company. An “independent” director is a director who is independent of management and is free from any interest and any business or other relationship which could, or could reasonably be perceived to materially interfere with the director’s ability to act with a view to the best interests of the Company, other than interests and relationships arising from shareholdings.
Board and Executive Diversity
The Board recognizes the benefits to the Company of diversity, both at the Board level and within the Executive levels. When there are vacancies within these positions, the Board and management considers the existing level of diversity representation such as gender and age and will establish an objective recruitment criteria. Ultimately, appointments to the Board and Executive are made on merit, based on a balance of skills, background, experience and knowledge and through a formal, rigorous and transparent process against objective criteria recommended by the Board and or management depending on the role. In identifying the highest
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quality candidates, the Board and management will take into account diversity considerations, with a view to ensuring that the Company benefits from a broader range of perspectives and relevant experience.
The Company has adopted a written policy relating to the identification and nomination of directors. With respect to Board composition, the Board has currently adopted a diversity objective and targeted a representation of least one woman director. With respect to executive officer positions, the Board and management carefully considers diversity including gender and despite the current small number of executive positions within the Company, the Board has adopted a minimum target representation of least one woman within these roles.
The current members of the Board and Executive officers have the wide range of skills and experience required to govern and lead the Company. The Board is currently comprised of five directors of which two are women. While in the executive level, there are currently three positions of which one position is filled by a woman. This representation meets or exceeds the Board’s targeted representation of at least one woman on the Board and within the Executive levels.
Because of the small size of the Board, the Board has not appointed a separate nominating committee to be responsible to propose and assess potential new directors. At present, a majority of the directors are independent of management of the Company, which will encourage an objective nomination process.
Majority Voting Policy
The Board has adopted a majority voting policy. Under this policy, a director who is elected in an uncontested election with more votes withheld than voted in favour of his or her election will be required to tender his or her resignation to the Board Chairman for consideration by the Board. The resignation will be effective when accepted by the Board. The Board expects that resignations will be accepted, unless extenuating circumstances warrant a contrary decision. The Board will announce its decision (including the reason for not accepting any resignation) by press release within 90 days of the Meeting where the election was held.
Director Term Limits
On March 3, 2015, the Board adopted a term limit policy for directors who join the Board after March 3, 2015, requiring them to tender their resignation to the Chairman after 10 years of service on the Board. The Board has the discretion to extend a director’s term for such period as the Board deems appropriate if it is in the best interests of the Company to do so.
Measures for Receiving Shareholder Feedback
Management has been asked to make the Board aware on an ongoing basis of any significant shareholder concerns communicated to management. Currently the CEO and CFO respond to shareholder inquiries and direct appropriate matters to senior management. Senior management will meet with shareholders to discuss their concerns where appropriate.
The Board’s Expectation of Management
The Board expects management to operate the Company in accordance with good, prudent business practices. Management is expected to report to the Board on financial and operating matters and to make the Board aware of all important issues and major business developments. The Board also expects management to find new business opportunities for business acquisitions and expansion and to make the appropriate reports to the Board regarding those opportunities.
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Directors’ and Officers’ Liability Insurance
The Company has purchased, at its expense, Directors’ and Officers’ liability insurance. The Directors’ and Officers’ liability insurance coverage was $10,000,000. Total premiums expensed during 2014 were $42,666.
Director’s Service Contracts
The term of office for each of the present directors expires at the Annual General Meeting. The current directors have served as such as follows: Mr. Doninelli since March 2011; Mr. Caprio since May 2005; Mr. Topham since May 2011, Ms. Susko since May 2014 and Dr. Chan since August 2009.
The Company does not provided benefits for its non-executive directors.
Board Committees
The Board currently has two standing committee being the Audit Committee and the Compensation Committee.
Audit Committee
The Company’s Audit Committee is comprised of three directors of the Board namely: Mr. Topham (Chair), Mr. Caprio, and Mr. Doninelli, each of whom is independent and an “unrelated” director. Each member of the Audit Committee considers himself financially literate and capable of reading and understanding financial statements, and Mr. Topham has an accounting designation and related financial expertise. The board has adopted a formal written charter for the Audit Committee under which the committee is responsible for, among other things, reviewing the Company’s annual and quarterly financial statements, financial reporting procedures, internal controls and performance and independence of the Company’s external auditors. The Audit Committee is directly responsible for the appointment, compensation and oversight of the auditors including pre-approving all non-audit services provided by the audit firm.
During fiscal 2014, the Audit Committee met four times to carry out its responsibilities.
As part of its oversight of the Company’s financial statements, the committee reviewed and discussed with both management and the Company’s external auditors the annual financial statements, and with management the quarterly financial statements, prior to their issuance. Management advised the Audit Committee in each case that all financial statements were prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and reviewed significant accounting issues with the committee.
On May 6, 2014, Grant Thornton LLP was appointed as the auditor of the Company for fiscal year ending December 31, 2014. Grant Thornton has been the auditor of the Company since March 29, 2010.
The Audit Committee discussed with the external auditors matters relating to its independence, including a review of audit and non-audit fees and the disclosures made to the Committee pursuant to Independence Standards Board Standard No. 1 (Independence Discussions with Audit Committees).
The Audit Committee reviewed and approved audit fees, audit related fees, tax fees and other services fees charged by Grant Thornton LLP.
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Taking all of these reviews and discussions into account, on March 3, 2015, the Audit Committee recommended to the Board of Directors that the Board approve the Company’s consolidated financial statements for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2014.
In addition, at the end of 2014 the Committee completed a comprehensive Request for Proposal process for the Company’s 2015 financial audit requirements. After tabulation of the results and full consideration by the Audit Committee, it was determined that PricewaterhouseCooopers LLP be recommended to the Board for appointment and for inclusion in the proxy documents of the Annual General Meeting of Shareholders to be held on May 6, 2015. On March 3, 2015, the Board approved the Committee’s recommendation. Please refer to Item 16F “Change in Registrant’s Certifying Accountant”.
A copy of the Audit Committee’s charter can be found on our website at www.norsat.com under Investors/Corporate Governance/ Board Mandate.
Compensation Committee
The Board dissolved the Compensation Committee by unanimous vote on November 9, 2006. All functions of the Compensation Committee were performed by the independent members of the Board.
On November 6, 2012, the Company reconstituted its Compensation Committee.
The Company’s Compensation Committee is comprised of three directors of the Board namely: Mr. Caprio (Chair), Mr. Doninelli, and Ms. Susko, each of whom is independent and an “unrelated” director.
It is the responsibility of the Compensation Committee to (a) review the Company’s annual Information Circular prior to release to any shareholder, government body or the public, (b) review the performance and compensation package of the Chief Executive Officer and executive management, (c) review stock option grants and restricted share units and (d) perform such other duties and tasks as shall be requested by the Board.
During 2014, the Compensation Committee has met twice and reviewed Board compensation, the Company’s incentive compensation plan based on 2013 financial results and provided recommendations to the Board of Directors on compensation levels and targets of the Chief Executive Officer and executive management for 2014 and 2015.
Also during 2014, the committee members while sitting as members of the Board periodically reviewed and approved stock option and RSU grants.
A copy of the Compensation Committee’s charter can be found on our website at www.norsat.com under Investors/Corporate Governance/ Board Mandate.
Compensation Discussion and Analysis
Based upon the review and recommendations of the Compensation Committee, the Board reviews and gives final approvals with respect to the Company’s Executive Compensation Plan, RSU and Stock Option Plans. The Board sets the compensation of the Chief Executive Officer, reviews and approves management’s recommendations for compensation and bonuses for senior management and grants of RSUs and stock options. The Board is also responsible for reviewing executive management succession and development plans.
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Compensation Objectives
The Company has established compensation policies to address the following objectives:
To assist the Company to attract and retain highly qualified individuals.
To reward employees annually for achieving financial results.
To create among employees a sense of ownership in the Company and to align the interests of the employees with those of the shareholder.
To create a variable component to compensation that is linked to the Company’s business strategy, the Company’s ability to pay and the employee’s ability to influence results.
To ensure competitive compensation that is also financially affordable for the Company.
To provide a rational methodology for incentive compensation, RSU and stock option grants that employees understand and support.
To attract and retain talented individuals to lead those functions important to the Company’s success.
The Company has a “results oriented” compensation plan creating a significant variable component to compensation that is linked to key operating metrics. The Company’s compensation plan is comprised of a combination of base salary, an annual cash incentive plan, an annual long-term equity award, and benefits. To ensure competitiveness, the Company participates in annual compensation surveys, conducted by independent consultants, of salaries, benefits and other incentive programs in the high technology industry in Canada.
Base Salary and Benefits
Base salaries for the executives are targeted, on average at the 75th percentile of the comparator group and other relevant external market data as well as the individual’s skill performance, and experience. In addition to the base salary, the Company offers a benefit package to all employees to cover group life insurance, health and dental and group retirement savings plans. Executives also receive a car allowance.
Annual Cash Incentive Compensation Plan
The Company’s annual cash incentive compensation plan for executives is based on the Compensation Objectives discussed above. Payments under this plan are determined based on the Company’s performance and success in achieving specific operating targets: 50% on annual revenue targets and 50% on annual EBITDA targets. However, no bonus shall be paid if the Company is not profitable.
The cash bonuses for executives are determined as a percentage of base salary and calculated at 75% of base salary for the CEO, 50% of base salary for the CFO and 30% of base salary for the General Manager.
Annual Long-Term Equity: Restricted Share Units Award
On May 9, 2012, the shareholders of the Company approved the adoption of the terms of a Restricted Share Unit Plan (the “RSU Plan”).
Under the RSU Plan, restricted share units (“RSUs”) are issued to directors, officers and employees of the Company, or its subsidiaries (“Eligible Persons”). The RSU Plan gives Eligible Persons the right to receive, at the discretion of the Board (or a committee thereof), Common Shares, which are not to be issued from treasury, without any monetary consideration payable to the Company. The Company has engaged a trustee to purchase the Common Shares on the public market, through the facilities of the TSX, in connection with the granting of RSUs to Eligible Persons, which Common Shares are held by the trustee until such Eligible Person’s RSUs vest.
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The vesting of RSUs will be subject to time-based vesting terms, conditions and restrictions, as determined by the Board (or a committee thereof) in its sole discretion. To the extent that such criteria are attained, each RSU would be converted into one Common Share held by the trustee. On termination of employment for any reason whatsoever, all unvested RSUs will be forfeited. Upon death or total disability all unvested RSUs will immediately vest.
The RSUs will be accounted for as a compensation expense under the fair value method of accounting.
In 2014, the Company has awarded a total of 326,628 (2013 – 430,196) RSUs to the Board of Directors and senior management. 127,907 RSUs granted to the Board of Directors vest over 6 and 12 month periods while the remaining units vest ratably over 12, 24 and 30 month periods.
Annual Long-Term Equity: Stock Option Award
On May 9, 2012, the shareholders of the Company approved the adoption of a new stock option plan (the “New Stock Option Plan”) in order to modernize and incorporate the changes to the Toronto Stock Exchange (the “TSX”) policies and regulations. In addition, the New Stock Option Plan addressed amendments to applicable Canadian income tax regulations, whereby issuers are required to collect withholding taxes from optionees in connection with option exercises.
Under the New Stock Option Plan, any increase in the number of outstanding common shares of the Company results in an increase in the number of common shares that are available to be issued under the plan in the future, and any exercise of an option previously granted under the plan results in an additional grant being available under the plan. All validly outstanding options existing on May 9, 2012 were counted for the purposes of calculating what may be issued under the New Stock Option Plan.
In 2014, the Company has awarded a total of 260,144 (2013 – 459,020) stock options to the Board of Directors and senior management at a weighted average exercise price of Cdn$0.53 and fair value of Cdn$0.19 related to fiscal 2013 performance.
Long Service: Stock Option Award
In 2011, the Company amended its compensation plan such that employees are entitled to a loyalty/long service grant of options at each fifth year anniversary with the Company. In 2014, no stock options were awarded to the Board or senior management related to long service.
Pension Plan Benefits
Other than contributions to group retirement savings plans on behalf of the employee, the Company does not provide retirement benefits under defined benefit or defined contribution plans for its Named Executive Officers.
Termination and Change in Control Benefits
The Company has an employment agreement with each of the Named Executive Officers:
Dr. Chan’s contract may be terminated by her with six weeks’ notice and by the Company by paying: a) salary, accrued vacation pay and pro-rated performance bonus to the date of termination; and b) a lump sum severance equal to twelve (12) months base salary (based on the Executive’s base salary at the time of termination) plus performance bonus at the 1.0x level (based on the Executive’s on-target reward level at the time of termination).
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Mr. Chin’s contract may be terminated by him with eight weeks’ notice and by the Company by paying: a) salary, accrued vacation pay and pro-rated performance bonus to the date of termination; and b) a lump sum severance equal to twelve (12) months base salary (based on the Executive’s base salary at the time of termination) plus performance bonus at the 1.0x level (based on the Executive’s on-target reward level at the time of termination).
Mr. Broom’s contract may be terminated by him with eight weeks’ notice and by the Company with a combination of notice and pay of two months, plus a further one month salary for each full year of employment with Company, but not less than four months up to a maximum of twelve months.
Each agreement contains a twelve month Non-Competition and Non-Solicitation clause. The Company has no compensatory plan or arrangement to compensate the Named Executive Officers in the event of the termination of employment (resignation, retirement, or change of control) or in the event of a change in responsibilities following a change in control, except for usual notice or payment in lieu of notice requirements in the employment agreements of such Named Executive Officers in the event of termination without just cause. The vesting of RSUs and stock options is governed by the Company’s respective Plans.
If the employment of the Named Executive Officer were terminated without just cause on December 31, 2014, the Named Executive Officer would be paid an incremental amount outlined in the table below:
Payment ($) | |||
Amiee Chan | Cdn$499,800 | ||
Arthur Chin | Cdn$367,200 | ||
Ken Broom | Cdn$53,333 | ||
Total | Cdn$920,333 |
E. | Employees |
The chart below provides a breakdown of the number of employees (including full time equivalents) by function as at December 31:
2014 | 2013 | 2012 | ||
Senior Management | 3 | 3 | 3 | |
Research and Development | 26 | 24 | 27 | |
Sales and Marketing | 30 | 28 | 30 | |
Production and Logistics | 92 | 88 | 90 | |
Finance and Administration | 10 | 11 | 13 | |
Total | 161 | 154 | 163 |
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The following table shows the number of employees by geographical location as at December 31:
2014 | 2013 | 2012 | ||
Canada | 151 | 144 | 154 | |
United States | 6 | 6 | 5 | |
Other | 4 | 4 | 4 | |
Total | 161 | 154 | 163 |
The Company believes that its work force is reasonably skilled, capable and motivated and that the relations with the Company’s employees are good. The Company’s work force is not unionized or part of any collective labour agreement.
E. | Share ownership |
The following table sets forth securities owned or controlled by Directors and Officers of the Company as at December 31, 2014:
Name, Position, | Number of common shares | As a % of outstanding | |
Country of residence | owned(1) | common shares | |
Fabio Doninelli (Chair of the Board and member of the Audit and Compensation Committees) Switzerland | 222,231(2) | 3.81% | |
Joseph Caprio (Director and Chair of the Compensation Committee and member of the Audit Committee) USA | 22,734(3) | 0.39% | |
James Topham (Director and Chair of the Audit Committee) Canada | 7,014 | 0.12% | |
Shannon Susko (Director and member of the Compensation Committee) Canada | 1,308 | 0.02% | |
Amiee Chan (Director, President and CEO) Canada | 69,897 | 1.20% | |
Arthur Chin (CFO) Canada | 6,514 | 0.11% | |
Ken Broom (General Manager of Sinclair Technologies) Canada | Nil | Nil |
NOTES:
(1) | The information as to common shares beneficially owned or over which a director or nominee exercises control or direction, not being within the knowledge of the Company, has been furnished by the respective directors or nominees individually. Number of common shares owned reflects post-consolidated number of common shares. Please refer to Item 10B below for further information. |
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(2) | Mr. Fabio Doninelli directly owns 23,673 shares of the Company. By virtue of his position as President of Prismafin S.A., Mr. Fabio Doninelli also exercised direction over 198,558 common shares of the Company held by Prismafin S.A, bringing his total number of common shares controlled to 222,231. | |
(3) | Mr. Caprio directly owns 18,684 shares of the Company. By virtue of Mr. Caprio’s spouse, he exercises direction over an additional 4,050 shares of the Company, bringing his total number of common shares controlled to 22,734. |
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Outstanding option-based awards and share-based awards
The following table sets forth details of the Directors and Executive Officers outstanding stock options and restricted share units as at December 31, 2014 and the fiscal year-end value of in-the-money unexercised options. Number of shares and share prices are presented on a post-consolidated basis. For more information please see Item 10B below:
Option - based awards | Share - based awards | ||||||
No. of | Options | Options | Value of | Number of | Market value of | ||
securities | exercise | expiration | unexercised | shares not | share based | ||
Name | underlying | price | date | in the money | vested | awards that have | |
unexercised | (Cdn) | options | not | ||||
options | (Cdn)(1) | vested(Cdn$)(2) | |||||
Fabio Doninelli (Chairman of the Board and member of the Audit and Compensation Committees) | 15,000 | $8.60 | 4-Mar-16 | Nil | - | - | |
2,321 | $5.40 | 5-Mar-18 | Nil | - | - | ||
- | - | - | - | 4,830 | $24,150 | ||
Joseph Caprio (Director and Chair of the Compensation Committee and member of the Audit Committee) | 2,000 | $7.00 | 1-Apr-15 | Nil | - | - | |
10,000 | $4.80 | 14-Dec-16 | $2,000 | - | - | ||
1,607 | $5.40 | 5-Mar-18 | Nil | - | - | ||
- | - | - | - | 3,635 | $18,175 | ||
James Topham (Director and Chair of the Audit Committee) | 10,000 | $7.30 | 12-May-16 | Nil | - | - | |
1,964 | $5.40 | 5-Mar-18 | Nil | - | - | ||
- | - | - | - | 4,087 | $20,435 | ||
Shannon Susko (Director and member of the Compensation Committee) | 10,000 | $5.40 | 7-May-16 | Nil | |||
1,308 | $6,540 | ||||||
Amiee Chan (President and CEO) | 4,000 | $7.00 | 1-Apr-15 | Nil | - | - | |
20,000 | $4.80 | 14-Dec-16 | $4,000 | - | - | ||
16,047 | $5.40 | 5-Mar-18 | Nil | - | - | ||
8,267 | $5.30 | 25-Feb-2019 | Nil | - | - | ||
- | - | - | - | 18,850 | $94,250 | ||
Arthur Chin (CFO) | 10,000 | $7.00 | 1-Feb16 | Nil | - | - | |
11,429 | $5.40 | 5-Mar-18 | Nil | - | - | ||
7,086 | $5.30 | 25-Feb-2019 | Nil | - | - | ||
- | - | - | - | 14,253 | $71,265 | ||
Ken Broom (General Manager of Sinclair Technologies) | 2,500 | $4.80 | 13-May-18 | $500 | - | - | |
3,500 | $5.10 | 22-Nov-18 | Nil | - | - | ||
661 | $5.30 | 25-Feb.-2019 | Nil | - | - | ||
- | - | - | - | 152 | $760 |
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NOTES:
(1) | Calculated using the closing share price on the Toronto Stock Exchange on December 31, 2014, Cdn$5.00, less the exercise price of the stock option(s). | |
(2) | Calculated using the closing share price on the Toronto Stock Exchange on December 31, 2014, Cdn$5.00. |
Incentive plan awards–value vested or earned during the year
The following table sets forth details of the aggregate dollar value that would have been realized if awards had been exercised on the vesting date and the value of non-equity compensation earned during the year ended December 31, 2014 for each Director and Executive of the Company:
Option-based | Share-based | Non-equity incentive plan | ||
awards - | awards– | compensation–Value earned | ||
Name | Value vested | Value vested | during the year($) | |
during the | during the year | |||
year ($) | ($)(1) | |||
Fabio Doninelli (Chairman of the Board and member of the Audit and Compensation Committees) | Nil | 18,054 | N/A | |
Joseph Caprio (Director and Chair of the Compensation Committee and member of the Audit Committee) | Nil | 14,021 | N/A | |
James Topham (Director and Chair of the Audit Committee) | Nil | 15,236 | N/A | |
Shannon Susko (Director and member of the Compensation Committee) | Nil | 7,225 | N/A | |
Amiee Chan, (President and CEO) | Nil | 47,675 | N/A | |
Arthur Chin (CFO) | Nil | 34,180 | N/A | |
Ken Broom (General Manager of Sinclair Technologies) | Nil | N/A | N/A |
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Note:
(1) | Amounts in this column reflect share-based awards that were vested and released in 2014. All of the Cdn$ values were converted to U.S. dollars at the average rate for 2014 of Cdn$1.00 to US$0.9055. The number of RSUs vested and TSX Closing Prices were adjusted to reflect the 1 to 10 conversion of common shares on January 16, 2015 as described under Item 10B below. | |
Closing Price on TSX | ||||
Name | RSUs vested | Vesting Date | on vesting dates | |
(Cdn$) | ||||
$ | ||||
Fabio Doninelli | 1,617 | 9-May-2014 | 5.20 | |
Joe Caprio | 1,102 | 9-May-2014 | 5.20 | |
James Topham | 1,360 | 9-May-2014 | 5.20 | |
Amiee Chan | 10,125 | 9-May-2014 | 5.20 | |
Arthur Chin | 7,259 | 9-May-2014 | 5.20 | |
Fabio Doninelli | 1,890 | 7-Nov-2014 | 6.10 | |
Joe Caprio | 1,599 | 7-Nov-2014 | 6.10 | |
James Topham | 1,599 | 7-Nov-2014 | 6.10 | |
Shannon Susko | 1,308 | 7-Nov-2014 | 6.10 |
7. | Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions |
A. | Major shareholders |
The Company's authorized capital consists of unlimited number of common shares without par value, of which 58,316,532 common shares were issued and outstanding as at December 31, 2014.
Subsequent to December 31, 2014, the Company consolidated its outstanding common shares on the basis of one new common share for every ten existing common shares. As no fractional common shares were issued in connection with the share consolidation and any fractional shares that result from the share consolidation were rounded to the nearest whole number, the 58,316,532 pre-consolidation common shares issued and outstanding as at December 31, 2014 were being reduced to 5,831,658 common shares on a post-consolidated basis.
To the knowledge of the directors and senior officers of the Company, the only persons or companies who beneficially own, directly or indirectly, or control or direct shares carrying more than 10% of the voting rights attached to all outstanding Common Shares of the Company are as follows:
Name | Number of Common | Percentage of Common | |
Shares(1) | Shares | ||
Privet Fund Management LLC | 856,366 | 14.68% |
Note:
(1) | The information as to the Common Shares held by the listed company is not within the knowledge of management of the Company. Consequently, such information has been obtained from publicly available disclosure. |
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B. | Related party transactions |
Reference is made under exhibit 99.4 Audited Consolidated Financial Statements Years Ended and as at December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, specifically note 22 “Related Party Transactions”.
C. | Interests of experts and counsel |
Not Applicable.
8. | FINANCIAL INFORMATION |
A1–A3. Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information
Reference is made under exhibit 99.4 Audited Consolidated Financial Statements Years Ended and as at December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 to this Form 20-F.
A4.–A6.
Not applicable
A7. Litigation
From time to time the Company may enter into legal proceedings relating to certain potential claims. It is impossible at this time for the Company to predict with any certainty the outcome of any such claims. However, management is of the opinion, based on legal assessment and information available, that it is unlikely that any liability would be material in relation to the
Company’s consolidated financial position. As at March 9, 2015, we are not aware of any legal proceedings outstanding by or against us which may have a significant effect on the Company’s financial position or profitability.
A8. Dividend Policy
Our Company has not paid any dividends during its history. The Company has no fixed dividend policy. Payment of dividends in the future will depend upon, among other factors, the Company’s earnings, capital requirements and financial condition. The Company does not anticipate that dividends will be paid in the foreseeable future.
B. | Significant Changes |
None.
9. | The Offer and Listing |
On February 10, 2015, the Company’s shares of common stock commenced trading on the NYSE MKT. Norsat’s ticker symbol is “NSAT” and its shares ceased trading on the OTCBB concurrent with the listing of its shares on the NYSE MKT. The Company’s Common Shares also continue to trade on the Toronto Stock Exchange (the “TSX”) under the symbol “NII”.
On January 16, 2015, the Company consolidated its outstanding common shares on the basis of one new common share for every ten existing common shares. The table below reflects the 1 to 10 share consolidation.
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The high and low share prices (in Canadian dollars) for the Company’s common shares on the Toronto Stock Exchange, the OTC Bulletin Board and NYSE MKT for a) the five most recent full financial years, b) the two most recent financial years by quarter and any subsequent full quarter, c) and the most recent six months are listed below:
TSX | OTC BB | NYSE MKT | ||||||||
(CDN. Dollars) | (U.S. Dollars) | (U.S Dollars) | ||||||||
High | Low | High | Low | High | Low | |||||
a) | 2014 | 6.40 | 4.70 | 5.50 | 4.10 | |||||
2013 | 6.10 | 4.20 | 10.10 | 4.10 | ||||||
2012 | 5.50 | 3.50 | 5.50 | 3.50 | ||||||
2011 | 9.60 | 4.40 | 9.50 | 4.30 | ||||||
2010 | 8.40 | 5.00 | 8.00 | 4.20 | ||||||
b) | 2014 | |||||||||
Fourth quarter | 6.40 | 4.70 | 5.50 | 4.10 | ||||||
Third quarter | 5.40 | 4.80 | 5.00 | 4.40 | ||||||
Second quarter | 5.80 | 4.90 | 5.30 | 4.40 | ||||||
First Quarter | 6.10 | 4.80 | 5.30 | 4.40 | ||||||
2013 | ||||||||||
Fourth quarter | 5.70 | 4.30 | 5.30 | 4.20 | ||||||
Third quarter | 5.30 | 4.20 | 5.10 | 4.10 | ||||||
Second quarter | 6.10 | 4.50 | 10.10 | 4.50 | ||||||
First Quarter | 5.80 | 5.00 | 5.90 | 5.00 | ||||||
c) | Last 6 Months | |||||||||
February(1) | 2015 | 6.90 | 5.59 | 4.81 | 4.60 | 5.55 | 4.80 | |||
January | 2015 | 5.00 | 5.85 | 4.52 | 4.28 | |||||
December | 2014 | 5.30 | 4.70 | 5.20 | 4.40 | |||||
November | 2014 | 6.40 | 5.00 | 5.40 | 4.50 | |||||
October | 2014 | 5.90 | 5.10 | 5.20 | 4.50 | |||||
September | 2014 | 5.20 | 4.80 | 4.80 | 4.40 |
Note:
(1) | February 2015 share prices on the OTC BB cover the period February 1 to 9, 2015 whereas the NYSE MKT prices reflect the remaining period from February 10 to February 27, 2015. |
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10. | Additional Information |
A. | Share capital |
Not applicable
B. | Memorandum and Articles of Association |
Incorporation
The Company was incorporated on October 15, 1982 under theCompany Actof the Province of British Columbia under the name Norsat International Inc. Effective September 27, 1989, the name of the Company was changed to NII Norsat International Inc., and on July 2, 1999 was further amended to its present name, Norsat International Inc. Our incorporation number is 255727. Our memorandum of incorporation (the “Memorandum”) and our articles (the “Articles”) were included as exhibits in Item 3.1 and 3.2 with our Annual Report filed in June 2000. Effective March 28, 2006, Norsat was registered under the BCBusiness Corporation Act(the “Act”). On June 30, 2011, the Company filed a Notice of Change of Articles on EDGAR and filed its updated articles under the Business Corporations Act (British Columbia) (“BCA”). The amendments principally reflect the provisions of the BCA that modernized British Columbia corporate legislation. The New Articles do not include a number of provisions in the previous articles that are now covered by the BCA to avoid the possibility of conflict or the possibility of having to comply both with the statutory provision and a corresponding but different provision in the new articles and include the use of the new terminology adopted under the BCA.
Powers and Functions of the Directors
Our Articles state that it is the duty of any of our directors who are directly or indirectly interested in a contract or proposed contract with us to declare the nature of their interest in accordance with the provisions of the Act. Our Articles also state that a director shall not vote in respect of the approval of any contract or transaction with our Company in which he is interested and if he shall do so his vote shall not be counted, but shall be counted in the quorum present at the meeting at which the vote is taken.
Directors Power to Vote on Compensation for Themselves
Subject to the Act, our Articles provide that the directors may determine to be paid out of our funds or capital as remuneration for their service. The directors may also determine the proportions and manner that the remuneration will be divided among them.
Directors Borrowing Powers
Our Articles provide that the directors, on our behalf, may:
a) | borrow money in any manner or amounts, on any security from any source and upon any terms and conditions that they consider appropriate; | |
b) | issue bonds, debentures and other debt obligations either outright or as security for any liability or obligation of the Company or any other persons and at such discounts or premiums and on such other terms as the directors consider appropriate; and | |
c) | guarantee the repayment of money by any other person or the performance of any obligation of any other person; and | |
d) | mortgage, charge, whether by way of specific or floating charge, grant a security interest in, or give other security on the whole or any part of the present and future assets and undertaking of the Company. |
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Retirement of Directors Under an Age Limit Requirement
Our Articles do not require directors to retire pursuant to an age limit.
Number of Shares Required for a Director’s Qualification
Our Articles do not provide for a requirement of shares for a director’s qualification.
Share Capital
The Company has an unlimited number of Common Stock authorized.
On January 16, 2015, the Company has undergone a share consolidation on the basis of ten pre-consolidation common shares for each one post consolidation common share. As no fractional common shares were issued in connection with the share consolidation and any fractional shares that result from the share consolidation were rounded to the nearest whole number, the 58,316,532 pre-consolidation common shares issued and outstanding as at December 31, 2014 were reduced to 5,831,658 common shares on a post-consolidated basis. 5,831,658 common shares were outstanding at March 18, 2015.
This annual report on Form 20-F reflects the share capital consolidation on a retroactive basis. Hence, the number of common shares, options, restricted share units and price per share calculations reflect the impact of the share capital consolidation.
Common Shares
The Holders of our Common Shares are entitled to dividends if, as and when declared by the Board of Directors, to one vote per Common Share and, upon dissolution of the Company, to receive the remaining property and the assets of the Company available for distribution.
Dividend Record
Our Company has not paid any dividends during its history. The Company has no fixed dividend policy. Payment of dividends in the future will depend upon, among other factors, the Company’s earnings, capital requirements and financial condition. The Company does not anticipate that dividends will be paid in the foreseeable future.
Alteration of Share Rights
A special resolution is required to effect a change in the rights of shareholders. A special resolution is a resolution passed by a two-thirds majority of the votes cast by shareholders of the Company who being entitled to do so, vote in person or by proxy at a meeting of the shareholders of the Company, or a resolution in writing signed by every shareholder of the Company who would have been entitled to vote at a meeting of the shareholders of the Company.
Meetings of Shareholders: Annual Meetings
The annual general meeting of our shareholders is held at such time and on such day in each year as the directors of the Company may, from time to time, determine for the purpose of receiving the reports and statements required by the Act to be presented to the annual meeting, electing directors, appointing auditors and for the transaction of such other business as may properly be brought before the meeting. Annual general meetings are required to be held once in every calendar year at a time, not being more than 15 months after the holding of the last preceding annual general meeting.
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General or Extraordinary Meetings
The directors of the Company may, at any time, call a general or extraordinary meeting of the shareholders of the Company, for the transaction of any business, which may properly be brought before such a meeting of shareholders.
Place of Meetings
Meetings of shareholders of the Company are to be held at such place within Canada as the directors of the Company, from time to time, determine.
Notice of Meetings
Notice of the time and place of each meeting of shareholders of the Company is required to be sent to our shareholders not less than 21 days before the date of the meeting.
A shareholder of the Company and any other person entitled to attend a meeting of shareholders of the Company may, in any manner and at any time, waive notice of or otherwise consent to a meeting of shareholders of the Company.
Quorum
No business will be transacted at any general meeting unless the requisite quorum is present at the commencement of the business. Subject to the Act, the quorum for the transaction of business at a meeting of shareholders is at least one person, or who represents by proxy, one or more shareholders who, in aggregate, hold at least 5% of the issued shares entitled to be voted at the meeting.
Foreign Ownership Limitations
Neither the Act nor the incorporation documents of the Company impose limitations on the rights, including the right of non-resident or foreign shareholders, to hold or exercise voting rights attached to the Common Shares.
Change of Control
No provisions of the Company’s Articles exist that would have the effect of delaying, deferring or preventing a change in control of the Company or that would operate with respect to any proposed merger, acquisition or corporate restructuring of the Company.
Share Ownership Reporting Obligations
No provision of the Company’s Articles imposes any requirements on shareholders requiring share ownership to be disclosed. The securities laws of the Company’s home jurisdiction require disclosure of shareholdings by: (a) persons who are directors or senior officers of the Company; and (b) a person who has direct or indirect beneficial ownership of, control or direction over, or a combination of direct or indirect beneficial ownership of and control over securities of the Company carrying more than 10% of the voting rights attached to all of the Company’s outstanding voting securities.
Securities legislation in Canada requires that shareholder ownership must be disclosed once a person owns beneficially or has control or direction over greater than 10% of the issued shares of the Company. This threshold is higher than the 5% threshold under U.S. securities legislation at which shareholders must report their share ownership.
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C. | Material Contracts |
None.
D. | Exchange controls |
To the best of the Company's knowledge, there are no governmental laws, decrees or regulations in Canada relating to restrictions on the export or import of capital, or affecting the remittance of interest, dividends or other payments to non-resident holders of the Company’s Common Shares. Any remittances of dividends to United States residents are, however, subject to a 15% withholding tax (10% if the shareholder is a corporation owning at least 10% of the outstanding common shares of the Company) pursuant to Article X of the reciprocal tax treaty between Canada and the United States.
Except as provided in the Investment Canada Act, there are no limitations under the laws of Canada, the Province of British Columbia or in the charter or any other constituent documents of the Company on the right of foreigners to hold or vote the Common Shares of the Company.
E. | Taxation |
United States Federal Income Tax Consequences
The following summary describes certain of the material U.S. federal income tax consequences to U.S. Holders (as defined below) arising from the purchase, ownership and disposition of Common Shares. This summary is based on the provisions of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code"), final, temporary and proposed U.S. Treasury Regulations promulgated thereunder, and administrative and judicial interpretations thereof, all as in effect as of the date hereof, and all of which are subject to change, possibly with retroactive effect.
This summary does not deal with all aspects of U.S. federal income taxation that may be relevant to particular U.S. Holders in light of their particular circumstances, or to U.S. Holders subject to special rules, including, without limitation, certain retirement plans, insurance companies, U.S. Holders of securities held as part of a "straddle," "synthetic security," "hedge," "conversion transaction" or other integrated investment, persons that enter into "constructive sales" involving Common Shares or substantially identical property with other investments, U.S. Holders whose functional currency is not the United States dollar, certain expatriates or former long-term residents of the United States, financial institutions, broker-dealers, tax-exempt organizations and U.S. Holders who own (directly, indirectly or through attribution) 10% or more of the Company's outstanding voting stock. The following discussion does not address the effect of any applicable state, local or foreign tax laws. This summary does not consider the tax treatment of persons who own Common Shares through a partnership or other pass-through entity, and deals only with Common Shares held as "capital assets" as defined in Section 1221 of the Code.
This discussion is addressed only to "U.S. Holders." A U.S. Holder is a holder of Common Shares that is a U.S. citizen, an individual resident in the United States for U.S. federal income tax purposes, a domestic corporation, an estate the income of which is includible in its gross income for U.S. federal income tax purposes without regard to its source, or a trust if either: (i) a U.S. court is able to exercise primary supervision over the administration of the trust and one or more U.S. persons have the authority to control all the substantial decisions of the trust or (ii) the trust was in existence on August 20, 1996 and, in general, would have been treated as a U.S. Holder under rules applicable prior to such time, provided the trust elects to continue such treatment thereafter.
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U.S. holders of Common Shares are advised to consult with their own Tax advisors with respect to the U.S federal, state and local tax consequences, as well as the tax consequences in other jurisdictions, of the purchase, ownership and sale of Common Shares applicable in their particular Tax situations.
Sale or Exchange of Common Shares
Subject to the passive foreign investment company (PFIC) rules, upon the sale, exchange or other disposition of common shares, a United States Holder will recognize capital gain or loss in an amount equal to the difference between his or her adjusted tax basis in his or her shares and the amount realized on the disposition. A United States Holder's adjusted tax basis in the common shares will generally be the initial cost, but may be adjusted for various reasons including the receipt by such United States Holder of a distribution that was not made up wholly of earning and profits as described above under the heading "Treatment of Dividend Distributions”. A United States Holder that uses the cash method of accounting calculates the dollar value of the proceeds received on the sale date as of the date that the sale settles, while a United States Holder who uses the accrual method of accounting is required to calculate the value of the proceeds of the sale as of the "trade date," unless he or she has elected to use the settlement date to determine his or her proceeds of sale. Capital gain from the sale, exchange or other disposition of shares held more than one year is long-term capital gain and is eligible for a maximum 15% rate of taxation for non-corporate taxpayers. Absent legislative action to extend the current rates, such maximum rate will increase to 20% for long-term capital gain that is recognized after 2012. A reduced rate does not apply to capital gains realized by a United States Holder that is a corporation. Capital losses are generally deductible only against capital gains and not against ordinary income. In the case of an individual, however, unused capital losses in excess of capital gains may offset up to $3,000 annually of ordinary income. Gain or loss recognized by a United States Holder on a sale, exchange or other disposition of common shares generally will be treated as U.S. source income or loss for U.S. foreign tax credit purposes. A United States Holder who receives foreign currency upon disposition of common shares and converts the foreign currency into U.S. dollars subsequent to receipt will have foreign exchange gain or loss based on any appreciation or depreciation in the value of the foreign currency against the U.S. dollar. United States Holders should consult their own tax advisors regarding the treatment of a foreign currency gain or loss.
Treatment of Dividend Distributions
Subject to the passive foreign investment company (PFIC) rules, in the event that we pay a dividend, a United States Holder will be required to include in gross income as ordinary income the amount of any distribution paid on common shares, including any Canadian taxes withheld from the amount paid, on the date the distribution is received, to the extent that the distribution is paid out of our current or accumulated earnings and profits as determined for U.S. federal income tax purposes. In addition, distributions of the Company's current or accumulated earnings and profits will be foreign source "passive category income" for U.S. foreign tax credit purposes and will not qualify for the dividends received deduction available to corporations. Distributions in excess of such earnings and profits will be applied against and will reduce the United States Holder's tax basis in the common shares and, to the extent in excess of such basis, will be treated as capital gain.
Distributions of current or accumulated earnings and profits paid in Canadian dollars to a United States Holder will be includible in the income of the United States Holder in a dollar amount calculated by reference to the exchange rate on the date the distribution is received. A United States Holder who receives a distribution of Canadian dollars and converts the Canadian dollars into U.S. dollars subsequent to receipt will have foreign exchange gain or loss based on any appreciation or depreciation in the value of the Canadian dollar against the U.S. dollar. Such gain or loss will generally be ordinary income and loss and will generally be U.S. source gain or loss
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for U.S. foreign tax credit purposes. United States Holders should consult their own tax advisors regarding the treatment of a foreign currency gain or loss.
United States Holders will generally have the option of claiming the amount of any Canadian income taxes withheld either as a deduction from gross income or as a dollar-for-dollar credit against their U.S. federal income tax liability, subject to specified conditions and limitations. Individuals who do not claim itemized deductions, but instead utilize the standard deduction, may not claim a deduction for the amount of the Canadian income taxes withheld, but these individuals generally may still claim a credit against their U.S. federal income tax liability. The amount of foreign income taxes that may be claimed as a credit in any year is subject to complex limitations and restrictions, which must be determined on an individual basis by each shareholder. The total amount of allowable foreign tax credits in any year cannot exceed the pre-credit U.S. tax liability for the year attributable to foreign source taxable income and further limitations may apply under the alternative minimum tax. A United States Holder will be denied a foreign tax credit with respect to Canadian income tax withheld from dividends received on common shares to the extent that he or she has not held the common shares for at least 15 days of the 31-day period beginning on the date which is 15 days before the ex-dividend date or to the extent that he or she is under an obligation to make related payments with respect to substantially similar or related property. Instead, a deduction may be allowed. Any days during which a United States Holder has substantially diminished his or her risk of loss on his or her common shares are not counted toward meeting the 16-day holding period.
Subject to possible future changes in U.S. tax law, individuals, estates or trusts who receive "qualified dividend income" (excluding dividends from a PFIC) in taxable years beginning after December 31, 2002 and before January 1, 2013 generally will be taxed at a maximum U.S. federal rate of 15% (rather than the higher tax rates generally applicable to items of ordinary income) provided certain holding period requirements are met. Subject to the discussion of the PFIC rules below, the company believes that dividends paid by it with respect to its common shares should constitute "qualified dividend income" for United States federal income tax purposes and that holders who are individuals (as well as certain trusts and estates) should be entitled to the reduced rates of tax, as applicable Qualified dividend income received after 2012 generally will be taxed at a maximum U.S. federal rate of 15%, except for individuals, (and certain estates and trusts) otherwise in the highest tax bracket of 39.6% in which qualified dividend income will be taxed at 20%. In addition to the applicable federal tax on qualified dividend income, taxpayers with substantial investment income will be subject to a 3.8% surtax on investment income. Taxpayers subject to this surtax and in the highest tax bracket will pay 23.8% on qualified dividend income. Holders are urged to consult their own tax advisors regarding the impact of the "qualified dividend income" provisions of the Internal Revenue Code on their particular situations, including related restrictions and special rules.
Information Reporting and Backup Withholding
Payments made within the United States, or by a U.S. payer or U.S. middleman, of dividends and proceeds arising from certain sales or other taxable dispositions of common shares will be subject to information reporting. Backup withholding tax, at the then applicable rate, will apply if a United States Holder (a) fails to furnish the United States Holder's correct U.S. taxpayer identification number (generally on Form W-9), (b) is notified by the IRS that the United States Holder has previously failed to properly report items subject to backup withholding tax, or (c) fails to certify, under penalty of perjury, that the United States Holder has furnished the United States Holder's correct U.S. taxpayer identification number and that the IRS has not notified the United States Holder that the United States Holder is subject to backup withholding tax. However, United States Holders that are corporations generally are excluded from these information reporting and backup withholding tax rules. Any amounts withheld under the U.S. backup withholding tax rules will be allowed as a credit against a United States Holder's U.S. federal income tax liability, if any, or will be refunded, if the United States Holder follows the requisite procedures and timely
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furnishes the required information to the IRS. United States Holders should consult their own tax advisors regarding the information reporting and backup withholding tax rules.
Recently enacted legislation requires U.S. individuals to report an interest in any "specified foreign financial asset" if the aggregate value of such assets owned by the U.S. individual exceeds $50,000 (or such higher amount as the IRS may prescribe in future guidance). Stock issued by a foreign corporation is treated as a specified foreign financial asset for this purpose.
Non-United States Holders generally are not subject to information reporting or back-up withholding with respect to dividends paid on or upon the disposition of shares, provided in some instances that the non-United States Holder provides a taxpayer identification number, certifies to his foreign status or otherwise establishes an exemption.
Canadian Federal Income Tax Considerations
The following discussion summarizes the material Canadian Federal income tax considerations relevant to an investment in the Common Shares by a holder who, for income tax purposes, is resident in the United States and not in Canada, holds the Common Shares as capital property, deals at arm's length with the Company, does not use or hold the Common Shares in carrying on a business through a permanent establishment or in connection with a fixed base in Canada and, in the case of an individual investor, is also a United States citizen. The tax consequences of an investment in the Common Shares by an investor who is not as described above may be expected to differ from the tax consequences discussed herein.
This discussion is based upon the provisions of the Income Tax Act (Canada) (the "Tax Act"), regulations under the Tax Act, specific proposals to amend the Tax Act publicly announced prior to the date hereof, the Canada-United States Income Tax Convention (1980), as amended (the "Convention"), and administrative practices published by Canada Revenue Agency, all of which are subject to change. Any such change, which may or may not be retroactive, could alter the tax consequences to a holder as otherwise described herein. The discussion does not take in account the tax laws of the various provinces or territories of Canada.
Taxation of Distributions from the Company
Dividends paid or credited on the Common Shares to U.S. residents will be subject to a Canadian withholding tax. Under the Convention, the rate of withholding tax generally applicable is 15% of the gross amount of the dividends, including stock dividends and payments deemed to be dividends upon the repurchase of Common Shares by the Company, as described below. The rate of withholding tax is reduced if the beneficial owner of the dividend is a company, which owns at least 10% of the voting stock of the Company at the time the dividend, is paid. In this case, the rate is 5% of the gross amount of the dividends.
If Common Shares are purchased by the Company, a holder will be deemed to have received a dividend to the extent that the amount paid on the repurchase exceeds the paid-up capital, as defined in the Tax Act, of the Common Shares acquired. The portion, if any, of the acquisition proceeds that are deemed to be a dividend will be subject to Canadian withholding tax on dividends, as described above. Further, the holder will be deemed to have disposed of the Common Shares for the amount paid by the Company for the Common Shares less the amount deemed to have been received as a dividend. If this results in a capital gain to a holder, the tax consequences will be as described below.
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Taxation of Capital Gains on Sale of Common Shares
A U.S. Holder will not be subject to tax under the Canadian Tax Act in respect of any capital gain realized on the disposition or deemed disposition of common shares unless the common shares constitute or are deemed to constitute "taxable Canadian property" other than "treaty-protected property", as defined in the Canadian Tax Act, at the time of such disposition. Generally, common shares will not be "taxable Canadian property" to a U.S. Holder at a particular time, where the common shares are listed on a designated stock exchange (which currently includes the TSX and NYSE) at that time, unless at any time during the 60-month period immediately preceding that time: (A) the U.S. Holder, persons with whom the U.S. Holder did not deal at arm's length, or the U.S. Holder together with all such persons, owned 25% or more of the issued shares of any class or series of shares of the capital stock of Norsat; and (B) more than 50% of the fair market value of the common shares was derived directly or indirectly from one or any combination of (i) real or immoveable properties situated in Canada, (ii) "Canadian resource properties", (iii) "timber resource properties" and (iv) options in respect of, or interests in, property described in (i) to (iii), in each case as defined in the Canadian Tax Act. In certain circumstances set out in the Canadian Tax Act, the common shares of a particular U.S. Holder could be deemed to be "taxable Canadian property" to that holder. Even if the common shares are "taxable Canadian property" to a U.S. Holder, they generally will be "treaty-protected property" to such holder by virtue of the Convention if the value of such shares at the time of disposition is not derived principally from "real property situated in Canada" as defined for these purposes under the Convention and the Canadian Tax Act. Consequently, on the basis that the value of the common shares should not be considered to derive or to have derived their value principally from such "real property situated in Canada" at any relevant time, any gain realized by the U.S. Holder upon the disposition of the commons shares generally will be exempt from tax under the Canadian Tax Act.
F. | Dividends and paying agents |
Not applicable.
G. | Statement by experts |
Not applicable.
H. | Documents on display |
Copies of the most recent annual report, financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2014 and subsequent interim financial statements of the Company may be obtained, upon request, from the Chief Financial Officer of the Company. The Company may require the payment of a reasonable fee in respect of a request made by a person who is not a security holder of the Company.
We are subject to the informational requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and file reports and other information with the SEC. The public may read and copy any materials the Company files with the SEC at the SEC's Public Reference Room at 100 F Street, NE, Washington, DC 20549. The public may obtain information on the operation of the Public Reference Room by calling the SEC at (800) SEC 0330. The SEC maintains an Internet site (http://www.sec.gov) that contains reports, proxy and information statements, and other information regarding issuers that file electronically with the SEC.
We are required to file reports and other information with the securities commissions in British Columbia and Ontario. You are invited to read and copy any reports, statements or other information, other than confidential filings, that we file with those provincial securities
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commissions. These filings are also electronically available from the Canadian System for Electronic Document Analysis and Retrieval (SEDAR) (http://www.sedar.com), the Canadian equivalent of the SEC’s electronic document gathering and retrieval system. We ‘‘incorporate by reference’’ information that we file with the SEC, which means that we can disclose important information to you by referring you to those documents. The information incorporated by reference is an important part of this report and more recent information automatically updates and supersedes more dated information contained or incorporated by reference in this report. Our SEC file number is 0-12600. As a foreign private issuer, we are exempt from the rules under the Securities Exchange act of 1934, as amended, prescribing the furnishing and content of proxy statements to shareholders. We have included in this report certain information disclosed in our Proxy Statement (Information Circular) prepared under Canadian securities rules. We will provide without charge to each person, including any beneficial owner, on the written or oral request of such person, a copy of any or all documents referred to above which have been or may be incorporated by reference in this report (not including exhibits to such incorporated information that are not specifically incorporated by reference into such information). Requests for such copies should be directed to us at the following address: Norsat International Inc., 110 – 4020 Viking Way, Richmond, British Columbia, Canada V6V 2L4 Attention: Chief Financial Officer.
I. | Subsidiary Information |
Reference is made under “Item 4C. Organization Structure”.
11. | Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk |
Reference is made under Exhibit 99.4 Audited Consolidated Financial Statements Years Ended and as at December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 attached to this Form 20-F, specifically Note 7 “Financial Instruments Risk”.
12. | Description of Securities Other than Equity Securities |
Not applicable.
PART II
13. | Defaults, Dividend Arrearages and Delinquencies |
None.
14. | Material Modifications to the Rights of Security Holders and Use of Proceeds |
Not applicable.
15. | Controls and Procedures |
Disclosure Controls and Procedures
Disclosure controls and procedures are designed to provide reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed by the issuer in the reports that it files under the Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported, within the time limits specified in the Commission’s rules and forms and that all relevant information is gathered and reported to senior management, including the President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Chief Financial
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Officer (CFO), on a timely basis so that appropriate decisions can be made regarding public disclosure. The CEO and the CFO have evaluated the effectiveness of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures. They have concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as at December 31, 2014.
Internal Controls over Financial Reporting
Management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting. Our internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (i) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of our assets; (ii) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that our receipts and expenditures are being made only in accordance with authorizations of our management and directors; and (iii) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of our assets that could have a material effect on our financial statements.
Internal control over financial reporting is designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards and the requirements of the Securities and Exchange Commission in the United States, as applicable. Management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal controls over financial reporting for the Company. Our CEO and CFO have assessed the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as at December 31, 2014, in accordance with the Internal Control – Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). Based on this assessment, our CEO and CFO have determined that our internal control over financial reporting is effective as at December 31, 2014.
While our CEO and CFO believe that our internal controls over financial reporting provide a reasonable level of assurance that they are effective, they do not expect that our disclosure controls and procedures or internal control over financial reporting will prevent all errors and fraud. A control system, no matter how well conceived or operated, can only provide reasonable, not absolute, assurance that the objectives of the control system are met.
Changes in Internal Controls over Financial Reporting
During 2014, there were no material changes in internal control over financial reporting that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.
16. | [Reserved] |
16A. | Audit Committee Financial Expert |
Reference is made to “Item 6-C – Board Practices”. Norsat’s Board of Directors has determined that it has at least one audit committee financial expert serving on its Audit Committee. Mr. James Topham has been determined to be such audit committee financial expert. The Commission has indicated that the designation of Mr. Topham as an audit committee financial expert does not make Mr. Topham an “expert” for any other purpose, impose any duties, obligations or liability on Mr. Topham that are greater than those imposed on members of the Audit Committee and board of directors who do not carry this designation or affect the duties, obligations or liability of any other member of the Audit Committee. Mr. Topham is “independent” as that term is defined in the listing standards of the NYSE MKT. As a result, Mr. Topham serves as the chair of the audit committee of Norsat.
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16B. | Code of Ethics |
Norsat’s Code of Ethics, which provides guidelines for the behaviour of all directors, officers and employees, including Norsat’s principal executive officer, principal financial officer, in carrying out their responsibilities is posted on the Company web site at www.norsat.com under the heading Investors, Corporate Governance, Corporate Policies.
16C. | Principal Accountant Fees and Services |
The following table sets forth fees paid or accrued in Canadian Dollars by the Company to Grant Thornton LLP in 2014, 2013 and 2012:
Period | Audit Fees | Audit Related Fees | All Other Fees | Total | |
Cdn$ | Cdn$ | Cdn$ | Cdn$ | ||
2014 | 191,220 | 146,186 | - | 337,406 | |
2013 | 210,043 | - | - | 210,043 | |
2012 | 221,812 | - | - | 221,812 |
Audit Feesare for services rendered for the audit of the annual consolidated financial statements and for the reviews of our quarterly financial statements.
Audit Related Feesin 2014 are for services rendered in connection with an acquisition pursued by the Company.
16D. | Exemptions from the listing standards for Audit Committees |
Not applicable
16E. | Purchases of Equity Securities by the Issuer |
During 2014, the Company purchased voting shares in the open market to settle awards to employees vesting under our Restricted Share Unit Plan. We purchased a total of 22,580 common shares at an average share price of Cdn$5.51, for approximately Cdn$124,484 ($112,720). The amount was recorded under treasury shares, reducing shareholders’ equity. These shares are held by a third party trustee to be released to participants at vesting of the RSUs.
Total | Average Price | Total Number of | Maximum Number of | ||
Number of | Paid per Share | Shares Purchased | Shares that May Yet | ||
Period | Shares | as Part of Publicly | Be Purchased Under | ||
Purchased | Announced Plans | the Plans or Programs | |||
or Programs | |||||
May 2014 | 21,430 | Cdn$5.50 | N/A | N/A | |
November 2014 | 1,150 | Cdn$6.10 | N/A | N/A |
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16F. | Change in Registrant’s Certifying Accountant |
On March 3, 2015, the Company determined it will not propose Grant Thornton LLP (the “Former Auditor”) for reappointment as the auditor of the Company on the expiry of its term of office at the Annual General Meeting of Shareholders of the Company (or any adjournment thereof) to be held on May 6, 2015 (the “Meeting”). The Company will propose that the shareholders of the Company appoint at the Meeting PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP (“PwC”) as independent auditor of the Company.
The termination of the Former Auditor and the proposed appointment at the Meeting of PwC have been considered and recommended by the Audit Committee of the Company’s Board of Directors and approved by the Board of Directors of the Company on March 3, 2015.
The Former Auditor’s reports for the Company’s two most recently completed fiscal years, namely the fiscal years ending December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013 did not contain an adverse opinion or disclaimer of opinion, nor were they qualified or modified as to uncertainty, audit scope, or accounting principles.
In connection with the audit of the Company’s consolidated financial statements for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, there were no disagreements, resolved or not, with the Former Auditor on any matter of accounting principles or practices, financial statement disclosure, or auditing scope or procedure which disagreement(s), if not resolved to the satisfaction of the Former Auditor, would have caused them to make reference to the subject matter of the disagreement(s) in connection with its reports on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
None of the reportable events described in Item 16F (a)(1)(v) (A) through (D) occurred within the Company’s fiscal years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013.
During the fiscal years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, the Company did not consult with PwC regarding either:
(A) | any application of accounting principles to a specified transaction, either completed or proposed; or the type of audit opinion that might be rendered on the Company’s financial statements, and neither a written report or oral advise was provided to the Company that the new accountant concluded was an important factor considered by the registrant in reaching a decision as to the accounting, auditing or financial reporting issue; or | |
(B) | any matter that was the subject of a disagreement as described in Item 16F(a)(1)(iv), or a reportable event as described in 16F(a)(1)(v). |
Letter of Former Auditor:
In connection with requirements under Canadian law, the Company provided a form of notice to Former Auditor regarding the Audit Committee’s recommended change in auditor. A copy of the Company’s form of notice was furnished on March 10, 2015 on EDGAR as Exhibit 99.1on Form 6-K. In response, the Company received a letter from its Former Auditor acknowledging its agreement with the Company’s letter. A copy of the Former Auditor’s letter was filed as Exhibit 99.2 to the aforementioned Form 6-K.
Letter of Successor Auditor:
In connection with requirements under Canadian law, the Company provided a form of notice to PwC regarding the Audit Committee’s recommended change in auditor. A copy of the Company’s form of notice was furnished on March 10, 2015 on EDGAR as Exhibit 99.1 on Form 6-K. In
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response, the Company received a letter from PwC acknowledging its agreement with the Company’s letter. A copy of the letter is filed as Exhibit 99.3 to the aforementioned Form 6-K.
16G. | Corporate Governance |
The Company does not have any significant ways in which its corporate governance practices differ from those followed by domestic listed companies in the United States following SEC listing standards.
16H. | Mine Safety Disclosure |
Not applicable.
PART III
17. | Financial Statements |
Not applicable.
18. | Financial Statements |
Not applicable.
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19. | Exhibits |
Exhibit No | Description | Form | Filing Date | Film No | Exhibit | Filed asexhibits tothis Form 20-F | |
1.1 | Articles of Incorporation | 6K | June 30, 2011 | 11941737 | 99.1 | ||
1.2 | Notice of Change of Articles | 6K | June 30, 2011 | 11941737 | 99.2 | ||
4.1 | Share Purchase Agreement dated January 18, 2011 for the acquisition of Sinclair Technologies Holdings Inc. | 6K | February 3, 2011 | 11570932 | |||
4.2 | Letter on Change in Registrant’s Certifying Accountant | 6K | April 13, 2010 | 10746721 | 99.2 | ||
5.1 | Change of Auditor Notice | 6K | March 10, 2015 | 15686751 | 99.1 | ||
5.2 | Letter from Former Auditor-Grant Thornton LLP | 6K | March 10, 2015 | 15686751 | 99.2 | ||
5.3 | Letter from Successor Auditor – PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP | 6K | March 10, 2015 | 15686751 | 99.3 | ||
99.1 | Certification pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, CEO and CFO | X | |||||
99.2 | Certification required by Rule 13(a) or 15(d) of the Exchange Act, CEO | X | |||||
99.3 | Certification required by Rule 13(a) or 15(d) of the Exchange Act, CFO | X | |||||
99.4 | Audited Consolidated Financial Statements Years Ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012 | X |
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.
Norsat International Inc. | ||
(Registrant) | ||
“Arthur Chin” | ||
Date: | March 18, 2015 | Arthur Chin, Chief Financial Officer |
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