-----BEGIN PRIVACY-ENHANCED MESSAGE----- Proc-Type: 2001,MIC-CLEAR Originator-Name: webmaster@www.sec.gov Originator-Key-Asymmetric: MFgwCgYEVQgBAQICAf8DSgAwRwJAW2sNKK9AVtBzYZmr6aGjlWyK3XmZv3dTINen TWSM7vrzLADbmYQaionwg5sDW3P6oaM5D3tdezXMm7z1T+B+twIDAQAB MIC-Info: RSA-MD5,RSA, A2cdP4fGzeIokZO/wJT3mNY9+GWb3aRPvuoIonVDyuPF3ELXwLKB/xarGVOdgs38 d32/bI8ibajnFS+oOSl93Q== 0000910472-08-000404.txt : 20080703 0000910472-08-000404.hdr.sgml : 20080703 20080703121905 ACCESSION NUMBER: 0000910472-08-000404 CONFORMED SUBMISSION TYPE: 8-K/A PUBLIC DOCUMENT COUNT: 4 CONFORMED PERIOD OF REPORT: 20080331 ITEM INFORMATION: Results of Operations and Financial Condition ITEM INFORMATION: Other Events ITEM INFORMATION: Financial Statements and Exhibits FILED AS OF DATE: 20080703 DATE AS OF CHANGE: 20080703 FILER: COMPANY DATA: COMPANY CONFORMED NAME: Millennium India Acquisition CO Inc. CENTRAL INDEX KEY: 0001358656 STANDARD INDUSTRIAL CLASSIFICATION: BLANK CHECKS [6770] IRS NUMBER: 000000000 STATE OF INCORPORATION: DE FISCAL YEAR END: 1231 FILING VALUES: FORM TYPE: 8-K/A SEC ACT: 1934 Act SEC FILE NUMBER: 811-22156 FILM NUMBER: 08937345 BUSINESS ADDRESS: STREET 1: 330 EAST 38TH STREET STREET 2: SUITE 40H CITY: NEW YORK STATE: NY ZIP: 10016 BUSINESS PHONE: 917-640-2151 MAIL ADDRESS: STREET 1: 330 EAST 38TH STREET STREET 2: SUITE 40H CITY: NEW YORK STATE: NY ZIP: 10016 8-K/A 1 f8kwrapper.htm MILLENNIUM INDIA ACQUISITION COMPANY INC. GemCom,LLC

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C.  20549

FORM 8-K

CURRENT REPORT

Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934


Date of report (Date of earliest event reported): July 2, 2008


MILLENNIUM INDIA ACQUISITION COMPANY INC.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)


DELAWARE

(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation)

 

333-133189

20-4531310

(Commission File Number)

(IRS Employer Identification No.)



330 East 38th Street

Suite 40H

New York, New York 10016

(Address of principal executive offices and zip Code)

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (917) 640-2151



Check the appropriate box below if the Form 8-K filing is intended to simultaneously satisfy the filing obligation of the registrant under any of the following provisions (see General Instruction A.2. below):


 

¨

Written communications pursuant to Rule 425 under the Securities Act (17 CFR 230.425)

 

¨

Soliciting material pursuant to Rule 14a-12 under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.14a-12)

 

¨

Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 14d-2(b) under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.14d-2(b))

 

¨

Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 13e-4(c) under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.13e-4(c))

 



Item 2.02

Results of Operations and Financial Condition.

The audited financial statements (the “Financial Statements”) of each of SMC Global Securities Limited (“SMC”) and SAM Global Securities Limited (“SAM” and, together with “SMC”, the “SMC Group”) for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2008, are attached hereto as Exhibits 99.1 and 99.2, respectively.  The Financial Statements are not the financial statements of the registrant.  The registrant’s principal asset is its ownership of a 14.75% equity interest, in each of SMC and SAM.  The remainder of the registrant’s assets are invested in cash and cash equivalents.  

Item 8.01

Other Events.

On July 2, 2008 the registrant issued a press release announcing the release of the Financial Statements by SMC Group, a copy of which is attached hereto as Exhibit [99.3] and incorporated herein by reference.

Item 9.01

Financial Statements and Exhibits.

(d)

Exhibits


99.1

Financial Statements of SMC Global Securities Limited for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2008

99.2

Financial Statements of SAM Global Securities Limited for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2008

99.3

Press Release of Financial Statements [Press release dated July 2, 2008]


SIGNATURES

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned hereunto duly authorized.

 

 

 

 

  

MILLENNIUM INDIA ACQUISITION COMPANY INC.


/s/ F. Jacob Cherian

Date:        July 2, 2008

  

F. Jacob Cherian

Chairman and Chief Executive Officer






EX-99.1 2 smcglobalfs0207.htm GemCom, LLC

SMC Global Securities Limited


 


Index to Consolidated Financial Statements



Pages


Report of Independent Auditor

2

           

Consolidated Statements of Income for the years ended March 31, 2006,

2007 and 2008

3


Consolidated Balance Sheets as of March 31, 2007 and 2008

4


Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended March 31, 2006,

2007 and 2008

6


Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity for the years

ended March 31, 2006, 2007 and 2008

8


Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

9








REPORT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITOR


To the Board of Directors of

SMC Global Securities Limited:


In our opinion, the accompanying consolidated balance sheets and the related consolidated statements of income, of shareholders’ equity and of cash flows present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of SMC Global Securities Limited and its subsidiaries at March 31, 2008 and 2007 and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended March 31, 2008 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.  These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management.  Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits.  We conducted our audits of these statements in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States of America.  Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement.  An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, and evaluating the overall financial statement presentation.  We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.


Price Waterhouse


Gurgaon, India

July 2, 2008






SMC Global Securities Limited


Consolidated Statements of Income


For the year ended March 31,

(Rs. in thousands, except per share data)


2006

2007



2008

2008
Convenience translation into US$ (unaudited)

Revenues:

 

 

 

 

Commission income

    222,593

   355,176

626,938

15,666

Proprietary trading, net

    191,238

    212,636

592,972

14,817

Distribution income, net

       6,819

      21,627

43,149

1,078

Interest and dividends

     23,652

      54,524

158,894

3,970

Other income

        6,542

       7,451

24,840

621

Total revenues

450,844

651,414

1,446,793

36,152

Expenses:

 

 

 

 

Exchange, clearing and brokerage fees

      95,228

   142,885

429,630

10,735

Employee compensation and benefits

     25,360

     67,640

214,075

5,349

Information and communication

     21,564

    37,455

34,691

867

Advertisement expenses

     23,889

     25,210

27,056

676

Depreciation and amortization

      11,639

     20,647

39,567

989

Interest expense

      19,566

      40,153

90,893

2,271

General and administrative expenses

      39,237

     54,374

120,820

3,019

Total expenses

236,483

388,364

956,732

23,907

Earnings before income taxes

214,361

263,050

490,061

12,245

Income taxes

71,999

87,070

195,579

4,887

Earnings after income taxes

142,362

175,980

294,482

7,358

Share in profits of equity investee

8,809

73,233

6,531

163

Earnings before extraordinary gain

151,171

249,213

301,013

7,521

Share in extraordinary gain of equity investees

-

3,956

62,597

1,564

Net income

151,171

253,169

363,610

9,085

Earnings per share:

 

 

 

 

Basic and diluted: Earnings before extraordinary gain

32.60

33.21

38.80

0.97

Basic and diluted: Extraordinary gain

-

0.53

8.07

0.20

Basic and diluted: Net income

32.60

33.74

46.87

1.17

Weighted average number of shares used to compute basic and diluted earnings per share

4,636,881

7,505,100

7,757,206

7,757,206


                                                            The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements






SMC Global Securities Limited


 Consolidated Balance Sheets

 As of March 31,

(Rs. in thousands)

2007

2008

2008
Convenience translation into US$ (unaudited)

Assets

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents

            18,847

53,103

1,327

Receivables from clearing organisations (net of allowance for doubtful debts of Rs Nil in 2007 and Rs Nil in 2008)

193,335

529,751

13,237

Receivables from customers (net of allowance for doubtful debts of Rs. 1,598 in 2007 and Rs. 14,034 in 2008)

           176,575

1,028,358

25,696

Due from related parties

3,000

203,432

5,083

Securities owned:

 

 

 

       Marketable, at market value

           378,855

865,828

21,635

       Not readily marketable, at estimated fair value

              2,694

-

-

Commodities, at market value

-

18,637

466

Derivatives assets held for trading

-

1,905

48

Investments

108,377

17,374

434

Deposits with clearing organisations and others

           924,485

1,927,960

48,175

Property and equipment (net of accumulated depreciation of Rs. 31,929 in 2007 and Rs. 59,991 in 2008)

            72,746

97,005

2,424

Intangible assets (net of accumulated amortization of Rs. 10,054 in 2007 and Rs. 22,200 in 2008)

             11,017

25,736

643

Deferred taxes, net

4,918

12,006

300

Other assets

57,351

129,008

3,224

Total Assets

1,952,200

4,910,103

122,692

Liabilities and Shareholder’s Equity

 

 

 

Payable to broker-dealers and clearing organizations

18,695

39,908

997

Payable to customers

           552,972

1,047,706

26,180

Derivatives held for trading

               7,965

363

9

Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities

60,124

124,975

3,123

Due to related parties

152,995

776,024

19,391

Overdrafts and long term debt

           572,031

629,293

15,725

Total Liabilities

1,364,782

2,618,269

65,425

Commitments and contingencies (Note 28)

 

 

 


                                                            The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements






SMC Global Securities Limited


Consolidated Balance Sheets


As of March 31,

(Rs. in thousands)

2007

2008

2008
Convenience translation into US$ (unaudited)

Shareholders' Equity

 

 

 

Common Stock

             75,051

88,035

2,200

(15,000,000 common shares authorized; 7,505,100 and 8,803,500 equity shares issued and outstanding as of March 31, 2007 and 2008; par value Rs. 10)

(5,000,000 preference shares authorized; Nil and Nil issued and outstanding as of March 31, 2007 and 2008; par value Rs. 10)

 

 

 

Additional paid in capital

             43,500

1,371,543

34,272

Retained earnings

           468,867

832,477

20,801

Accumulated other comprehensive income / (loss)

-

(221)

(6)

Total Shareholders' Equity

587,418

2,291,834

57,267

Total Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity

1,952,200

4,910,103

122,692


                                                                 The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements











SMC Global Securities Limited


Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows


For the year ended March 31,

(Rs. in thousands)

2006

2007

2008

2008 Convenience translation into US$ (unaudited)

Cash flows from operating activities

 

 

 

 

Net profit

151,171

253,169

363,610

9,085

Adjustments to reconcile net profit to net cash provided/ (used) in operating activities:

 

 

 

 

Depreciation and amortization

11,639

20,647

39,567

989

Deferred tax expense / (benefit)

975

(7,629)

(6,909)

(173)

Share of profits in equity investees and extraordinary gain

(8,809)

(77,189)

(6,531)

(163)

(Gain)/Loss on sale of property and equipment

(278)

(325)

23

1

Fair value (gain) / loss on trading securities

(5,536)

7,478

31,140

778

Extraordinary gain

-

-

(62,597)

(1,564)

Allowance for doubtful debts

-

1,598

10,979

274

Provision for gratuity

384

819

2,163

54

Changes in assets and liabilities:

 

 

 

 

Receivables from clearing organizations

4,393

(193,335)

(335,605)

(8,386)

Receivables from customers

(23,645)

(80,126)

(758,540)

(18,954)

Dues from related parties

(83,106)

80,224

(196,307)

(4,905)

Dues to related parties

(19,764)

152,993

622,386

15,552

Securities owned

(203,068)

(94,853)

(515,419)

(12,879)

Commodities

-

-

533,171

13,323

Derivatives held for trading, net

(644)

4,216

(9,507)

(238)

Deposits with clearing organizations and others

(154,883)

(364,113)

(788,978)

(19,715)

Other assets

724

(45,270)

(54,674)

(1,366)

Payable to broker-dealers and clearing organizations

53,561

(58,250)

17,340

433

Payable to customers

190,225

61,870

(114,061)

(2,850)

Book overdraft

(17,890)

16,824

111,111

2,776

Accrued expenses

18,379

25,614

51,692

1,292

Net cash from operating activities

(86,172)

(295,638)

(1,065,946)

(26,636)

Cash flows from investing activities

 

 

 

 

Purchase of property and equipment

(23,824)

(44,008)

(40,653)

(1,016)

Proceeds from sale of property and equipment

450

334

387

10

Purchase of investments

(1,959)

-

(4,890)

(122)

Acquisition of intangible assets

(5,590)

(8,471)

(21,852)

(546)

Acquisition of business, net of cash acquired

-

-

(82,334)

(2,057)

Net cash used in investing activities

(30,923)

(52,145)

(149,342)

(3,731)


                                                    The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements


SMC Global Securities Limited


Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows



For the year ended March 31,

(Rs. in Thousands)


2006

2007

2008

2008

Convenience translation into US$ (unaudited)

Cash flows from financing activities

 

 

 

 

Net movement in overdrafts and long term debt

42,987

    359,058

(91,046)

(2,275)

Proceeds from issue of share capital, net of incremental  costs

72,500

-

1,341,027

33,509

Net cash provided by financing activities

115,487

359,058

1,249,981

31,234

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents

-

-

(437)

(11)

Net (decrease) / increase in cash and cash equivalents during the year

(1,608)

11,275

34,256

856

 

 

 

 

 

Add: Balance as of beginning of the year

9,180

7,572

18,847

471

Balance as of end of the year

7,572

18,847

53,103

1,327


                                                            Supplemental cash flow information:


Year ended March 31,

2006

2007

2008

2008

US $

Income taxes paid

73,510

79,472

352,509

8,808

Interest paid

19,566

40,153

82,955

2,073


                                                           The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements









SMC Global Securities Limited


Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity


(Rs. in thousands)

Common Stock


Additional Paid in Capital

Retained earnings

Accumulated other comprehensive income / (loss)

Total

Shares

Par value

 

 

Balance as of April 1, 2005

4,605,100

46,051

-

64,527

-

110,578

Issuance of common shares

2,900,000

29,000

43,500

-

-

72,500

Net income for the year

-

-

-

151,171

-

151,171

Balance as of March 31, 2006

7,505,100

75,051

43,500

215,698

-

334,249

Net income for the year

-

-

-

253,169

-

253,169

Balance as of March 31, 2007

7,505,100

75,051

43,500

468,867

-

587,418

Issuance of common shares

1,298,400

12,984

1,328,043

-

-

1,341,027

Net income for the year

-

-

-

363,610

(221)

363,389

Balance as of March 31, 2008

8,803,500

88,035

1,371,543

832,477

(221)

2,291,834

Balance as of March 31, 2008

Convenience translation into US$ (unaudited)

8,803,500

2,200

34,272

20,801

(6)

57,267


                                                   The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements




SMC Global Securities Limited


Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

(Rs. in thousands, except per share data)

 


1.

Description of Business


SMC Global Securities Limited (the “Company” or “SMC Global”) is a limited liability company incorporated and domiciled in India. The Company is a trading member of the National Stock Exchange of India Limited (“NSE”) in the capital market and trading and clearing member in the futures and options market. The Company held 40.0% of outstanding common shares of SMC Comtrade Limited (“SMC Comtrade”) as of March 31, 2007. On April 26, 2007 SMC Comtrade became the wholly owned subsidiary of the Company, with the acquisition of remaining 60.0% of outstanding common shares of SMC Comtrade Limited. SMC Comtrade is a trading and clearing member of National Commodity Exchange of India (“NCDEX”) and Multi Commodity Exchange of India (“MCX”) in the commodity market. SMC Comex International, DMCC (“SMC Comex”) a wholly owned subsidiary of SMC Comtrade holds trading and clearing membership for Dubai Gold Commodity Exchange (“DGCX”). SMC Insurance Broker Private Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of SMC Comtrade is a Insurance Regulatory Development Authority (“IRDA”) registered insurance broker for life and non-life insurance.

   

The Company’s shares are listed on the Delhi Stock Exchange, Ludhiana Stock Exchange, Ahmedabad Stock Exchange and Calcutta Stock Exchange in India.


The Group engages in proprietary transactions and offers a wide range of services to meet client’s needs including brokerage services, clearing member services, distribution of financial products such as mutual funds and initial public offerings.


2.

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies


Basis of preparation


The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of SMC Global Securities Limited, its wholly-owned subsidiary (‘Group’) and their equity affiliates. The statement of income includes the results of SMC Comtrade from the date of acquisition. All significant intercompany transactions have been eliminated. The Group accounts for investments in entities that are not variable interest entities where the Group owns a voting or economic interest of 20% to 50% and/or for which it has significant influence over operating and financing decisions using the equity method of accounting. The Group’s equity in the profits/(losses) of affiliates is included in the statements of income unless the carrying amount of an investment is reduced to zero and the Group is under no guaranteed obligation or otherwise committed to provide further financial support.


The Group consolidates investments in which it holds, directly or indirectly, more than 50% of the voting rights or where it exercises control.

Use of Estimates

In preparing these financial statements, management makes use of estimates concerning certain assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and certain revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Estimates, by their nature, are based on judgment and available information. Therefore, actual results could differ from those estimates and could have a material impact on the financial statements, and it is possible that such changes could occur in the near term. Significant estimates and assumptions are used when accounting for certain items, such as but not limited to, valuation of securities, allowances for uncollectible accounts receivable, future obligations under employee benefit plans, useful lives of property and equipment, valuation allowances for deferred taxes and contingencies.

Foreign Currency and Convenience Translation


The accompanying financial statements are reported in Indian rupee (“INR” or “Rs.”). The Indian rupee is the functional currency for the Group and its affiliates, other than SMC Comex. The functional currency of SMC Comex is its local currency. Assets and liabilities of SMC Comex are translated at year-end rates of exchange, and income statement accounts are translated at weighted average rates of exchange for the year. Gains or losses resulting from foreign currency transactions are included in net income.

For the convenience of the reader, the financial statements as of and for the year ended March 31, 2008 have been translated into U.S. dollars (US$) at US$1.00 = Rs. 40.02 based on the noon buying rate on March 31, 2008 by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York. Such translation should not be construed as representation that the rupee amounts have been or could be converted into U.S. dollars at that or any other rate, or at all. The convenience translation is unaudited.

Revenue Recognition

a) Proprietary Trading

Revenues from proprietary trading consist primarily of net trading income earned by the Group when trading as principal. Net trading income from proprietary trading represents trading gains net of trading losses. Proprietary revenue includes both realized and unrealized gains and losses. The profit and loss arising from all transactions entered into for the account and risk of the Group are recorded on a trade date basis.

Derivative financial instruments are used for trading purposes and carried at fair value. Market value for exchange-traded derivatives, principally futures and options is based on quoted market prices. The gains or losses on derivatives used for trading purposes are included in revenues from proprietary trading. Purchases and sales of derivative financial instruments are recorded on trade date. The transactions are recorded on a net basis when the legal right of offset exists.

b) Commission Income

Commission income is recognized on trade date basis as securities transactions occur. The Group reports commission income on transactions as revenue on gross basis and reports commissions paid to sub brokers as commission expense.

c) Distribution Income

The Group earns distribution income on distribution of initial public offerings, mutual funds and other securities on behalf of the lead managers of those offerings, mutual funds and other securities. The Group’s primary obligation is distribution and collection of the subscription forms through its sub-broker network for which it is compensated by the lead managers. It recognizes distribution income net of distribution revenues attributable to sub-brokers when significant obligations have been fulfilled and the right to recognize revenue has been established.

Securities Transactions

Securities owned consist of securities and derivative instruments used for trading purposes and for managing risk exposure in trading inventory. Proprietary security transactions are recorded on a trade date basis at fair value. Changes in fair value of securities (i.e., unrealized gains and losses) are recognized as proprietary trading revenues in the current period.  

Marketable securities are valued at market value, based on quoted market prices and securities not readily marketable are valued at fair value as determined by management.


Investments


Equity securities held for purposes other than trading which do not have a readily determinable fair value, are accounted at cost or equity method of accounting subject to an impairment charge for any other than temporary decline in value.  The impairment is charged to income.  In order to determine whether a decline in value is other than temporary, the Group evaluates, among other factors, the duration and extent to which the value has been less than the carrying value, the financial condition of and business outlook for the investee, including key operational and cash flow indicators, current market conditions and future trends in the industry and the intent and ability of the Group to retain the investment for a period of time sufficient to allow for any anticipated recovery in value.  

Cash and Cash Equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents consist of cash and highly liquid investments with maturities of 90 days or less at the date of acquisition.

Property and Equipment

Property and equipment are carried at cost less accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is provided over estimated useful life using the straight-line method. The estimated useful lives of assets are as follows:

Buildings

50 years

Equipment, vehicles and furniture

5 years

Computer hardware

3 years

Satellite equipment (“VSAT”)

10 years

Purchased Intangible Assets

Purchased intangible assets are amortized over their useful lives unless these lives are determined to be indefinite. Purchased intangible assets are carried at cost, less accumulated amortization. Amortization is computed over the estimated useful lives of three years using the straight-line method.

Impairment of Long-Lived Assets

Long-lived assets and certain identifiable intangible assets to be held and used are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of such assets may not be recoverable. Indefinite lived intangible assets are tested annually for impairment. Determination of recoverability of long-lived assets and certain identifiable intangible assets is based on an estimate of undiscounted future cash flows resulting from the use of the asset and its eventual disposition. Measurement of an impairment loss for long-lived assets and certain identifiable intangible assets that management expects to hold and use is based on the fair value of the asset. Long-lived assets and certain identifiable intangible assets to be disposed of are reported at the lower of carrying amount or fair value less costs to sell.


Receivables and Payables

Customer Receivables and Payables


Customer securities transactions are recorded on a settlement date basis. Receivables from and payables to customers include amounts due on cash transactions, including derivative contracts transacted on behalf of the Group’s customers. Securities owned by customers, including those that collateralize margin or other similar transactions, are not reflected on the financial statements.


Brokers-Dealers and Clearing Organisations Receivables and Payables


Amounts due from and due to other broker-dealers and clearing organizations include net receivables or payables arising from unsettled regular-way transactions, failed settlement transactions and commissions.  

Allowance for Doubtful Accounts

Management estimates an allowance for doubtful accounts to reserve for potential losses from unsecured and partially secured customer accounts deemed uncollectible. The facts and circumstances surrounding each receivable from customers and the number of shares, price and volatility of the underlying collateral are considered by management in determining the allowance. Management continually evaluates its receivables from customers for collectibility and possible write-off. The Group manages the credit risk associated with its receivables from customers through credit limits and continuous monitoring of collateral.

Membership in Exchanges

Exchange memberships owned by the Group are originally carried at cost. Adjustments to carrying value are made if the Group determines that an “other-than-temporary” decline in value has occurred. In determining whether the value of the exchange memberships the Group owns are impaired (that is, fair market value is below cost) and whether such impairment is temporary or other-than-temporary, the Group consider many factors, including, but not limited to, information regarding recent sale and lease prices of exchange memberships, historical trends of sales prices of memberships, the current condition of the particular exchange’s market structure, legal and regulatory developments affecting the particular exchange’s market structure, trends in new listings on the particular exchange, general global and national economic factors and the Group’s knowledge and judgment of the securities market as a whole .

Advertising Costs

The Group expenses all advertising costs as incurred.

Employee Benefits

i) Provident Fund


In accordance with Indian law, employees are entitled to receive benefits under the Provident Fund, which is a defined contribution plan. Both the employee and the employer make monthly contributions to the plan at a predetermined rate (presently 12.0%) of the employees’ basic salary. These contributions are made to the fund administered and managed by the Government of India. The Group’s monthly contributions are charged to income in the period they are incurred. The Group has no further obligations under the plan beyond its monthly contributions.

ii) Gratuity Plan


The Group has a defined benefit retirement plan (the “Gratuity Plan”) covering all its employees in India. The Gratuity Plan provides a lump sum payment to vested employees at retirement or termination of employment based on the respective employee's salary and years of employment with the Group.


The Group provides for the Gratuity Plan on the basis of actuarial valuation. All actuarial gains or losses are expensed off in the year in which they arise.


The funded status of the Group’s retirement related benefit plan is recognized in the balance sheet. The funded status is measured as the difference between the fair value of plan assets and the projected benefit obligation at March 31, the measurement date.

Income Taxes

In accordance with the provisions of SFAS 109, "Accounting for Income Taxes", income taxes are accounted for under the asset and liability method. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statements carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases and operating loss carry forwards. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in the statement of income in the period of enactment. Based on management’s judgment, the measurement of deferred tax assets is reduced, if necessary, by a valuation allowance for any tax benefits for which it is more likely than not that some portion or all of such benefits will not be realized. Due to the intent and the ability of the Group to receive dividends and/or to liquidate investments in a tax-free manner, the Group has not recorded a deferred tax liability on the undistributed earnings of equity accounted associates.


Earnings Per Share


In accordance with the provisions of SFAS 128, "Earnings Per Share", basic earnings per share is computed on the basis of the weighted average number of shares outstanding during the period. The Company does not have any dilutive securities and hence the basic and diluted earnings per share are same.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

In July 2006, the FASB issued Interpretation 48, Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes—an interpretation of FASB Statement 109 (“FIN 48”). The interpretation clarifies the accounting for uncertainty in income taxes recognized in a company's financial statements and prescribes a recognition threshold and measurement attribute for the financial statement recognition and measurement of a tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return. The interpretation also provides guidance on derecognition, classification, interest and penalties, accounting in interim periods, disclosure and transition. FIN 48 became effective beginning April 1, 2007 for us. The adoption of FIN 48 did not result in a cumulative effect adjustment to retained earnings as of April 1, 2007.


In September 2006, the FASB issued SFAS 157, Fair Value Measurements, which establishes a framework for measuring fair value in generally accepted accounting principles, and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. This Statement applies under other accounting pronouncements that require or permit fair value measurements. SFAS 157 is effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007, which is fiscal year commencing April 1, 2008 for us. The Group is in the process of evaluating the impact SFAS 157 will have on the financial statements.


In February 2007, the FASB issued FASB Statement 159, The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities ("SFAS 159"). SFAS 159 allows the company to choose to measure certain financial assets and financial liabilities at fair value. Unrealized gains and losses on items for which the fair value option has been elected are reported in earnings. SFAS 159 is effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007, which is fiscal year commencing April 1, 2008 for us. The Group in the process of evaluating the impact SFAS 159 will have on the Group’s financial statements.


In April 2007, the FASB issued FSP No. FIN 39-1, Amendment of FASB Interpretation No. 39 (“FSP FIN 39-1”). FSP FIN 39-1 modifies FIN No. 39, Offsetting of Amounts Related to Certain Contracts, and permits companies to offset cash collateral receivables or payables with net derivative positions. FSP FIN 39-1 is effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007 which is fiscal year commencing April 1, 2008 for us with early adoption permitted. The Group in the process of evaluating the impact  FSP FIN 39-1 will have on the Group’s financial statements.


In June 2007, the Accounting Standards Executive Committee of the AICPA issued Statement of Position 07-1, Clarification of the Scope of the Audit and Accounting Guide Investment Companies and Accounting by Parent Companies and Equity Method Investors for Investments in Investment Companies (“SOP 07-1”). The intent of SOP 07-1 is to clarify which entities are within the scope of the AICPA Audit and Accounting Guide, Investment Companies (the “Guide”). Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) has agreed to propose an indefinite delay of the effective dates of SOP 07-1. The Group in the process of evaluating the impact SOP 07-1 will have on the Group’s financial statements.

In December 2007, FASB issued SFAS No. 160, Non-controlling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements – An Amendment of ARB No. 51 (SFAS 160). SFAS 160 establishes new accounting and reporting standards for the non-controlling interest in a subsidiary and for the deconsolidation of a subsidiary. This Statement requires the recognition of a non-controlling interest as equity in the consolidated financial statements and separate from the parent’s equity. Purchases or sales of equity interests that do not result in a change in control will be accounted for as equity transactions. The Group will be required to adopt this new Statement prospectively to all non-controlling interest, including any that arose before the effective date, for fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2008 which is fiscal year commencing April 1, 2009 for us. Early adoption is prohibited. The Group in the process of evaluating the impac t SFAS 160 will have on the Group’s financial statements.

In December 2007, FASB issued SFAS No. 141 (Revised 2007), Business Combinations (SFAS 141R). This Statement replaces SFAS No. 141, Business Combinations. SFAS 141R requires an acquirer to recognize the assets acquired, the liabilities assumed including contingencies and non-controlling interest in the acquiree, at the acquisition date, measured at their fair value, with limited exceptions specified in the statement. In a business combination achieved in stages, this Statement requires the acquirer to recognize the identifiable assets and liabilities as well as the non-controlling interest in the acquiree at full amounts of their fair values. This Statement requires the acquirer to recognize contingent consideration at the acquisition date, measured at its fair value at that date. The Group will be required to apply this new Statement prospectively to business combinations consummated in fiscal years beginning after Decembe r 15, 2008 which is fiscal year commencing April 1, 2009 for us. Early adoption is prohibited.

In March 2008, FASB issued SFAS No. 161, Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities – An Amendment of FASB Statement No. 133 (SFAS 161). SFAS 161 requires enhanced disclosures on derivative and hedging activities by requiring objectives to be disclosed for using derivative instruments in terms of underlying risk and accounting designation. This Statement requires disclosures on the need of using derivative instruments, accounting of derivative instruments and related hedged items, if any, under SFAS 133 and effect of such instruments and related hedge items, if any, on the financial position, financial performance and cash flows. The Group will be required to adopt this new Statement prospectively, for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2008 which is fiscal year commencing April 1, 2009 for us. The Group in the process of evaluating the impact SFAS 161 will have on the Group’s financial statements.

       3.

 Business Combination


The Company held 40.0% of outstanding common shares of SMC Comtrade Limited (“SMC Comtrade”) as of March 31, 2007. On April 26, 2007 SMC Comtrade became the wholly owned subsidiary of the Company, with the acquisition of remaining 60.0% of outstanding common shares of SMC Comtrade Limited. The purchase price was Rs. 90,000, comprising of cash only. The acquisition was made to consolidate the group structure and realize benefits of synergies in operations of both entities.   


The Group allocates the purchase price of its acquisitions to the tangible assets, liabilities and intangible assets acquired, based on their estimated fair values. The excess purchase price over those fair values is recorded as goodwill. Any negative goodwill being the excess of fair value of the acquired net assets over cost is initially adjusted in accordance with SFAS 141 “Business Combinations” against the values assigned to specified assets and the unadjusted balance is recognized as an extraordinary gain. The fair value assigned to assets acquired is based on valuations using management’s estimates and assumptions. The allocation of purchase price is as follows:


 

Rs. in thousands

Assets

 

Cash & cash equivalents

             7,666

Receivables and deposits

130,277

Commodities and mutual funds

331,085

Investments

6,251

Other assets

10,305

Liabilities

 

Payable to exchanges, customers

304,071

Debts

22,318

Accounts payable

6,598

Net assets acquired

152,597

Less:  Purchase price allocation

90,000

Extraordinary gain

62,597

         



Unaudited pro forma financial information

The unaudited financial information in the table below summarizes the combined results of operations of SMC Global and SMC Comrade, on a pro forma basis, as though the companies had been combined as of the beginning of each of the periods presented. The pro forma financial information is presented for informational purposes only and is not indicative of the results of operations that would have been achieved if the acquisition had taken place at the beginning of each of the periods presented. The pro forma financial information for all periods presented also includes adjustments to depreciation on acquired property and equipment, amortization charges from acquired intangible assets.


Year ended, March 31

2007

 2008

2008

 

 

 

US $

Total revenue

979,019

1,472,158

36,786

Earnings before extraordinary gain

442,186

315,060

7,872

Net income

446,142

377,657

9,436

Earnings per share before extraordinary gain

58.92

40.61

1.01

Earnings per share

59.45

48.68

1.21


During the year, the Company also completed the acquisition of business of Somayajulu and Company Limited. The acquisition was made to increase the presence of the Group in Southern India. The purchase price of Rs. 10,000 for this acquisition was allocated to property and equipment, customer relationship and goodwill.


4.

Deposits with Clearing Organizations and Others


SMC Global is a member of the clearing organisation at which it maintains cash on deposits required for the conduct of its day-to-day clearance activities. The Group also maintains deposits with its bankers as margin for credit facilities availed.


5.

Receivables from Exchange and Clearing Organizations


As of March 31,

 

2007

2008

2008

 

 

 

 

US $

Receivable from clearing organizations and exchange

193,335

529,751

13,237

Total

 

193,335

529,751

13,237


6.

Securities Owned


Securities consist of trading securities at market values, as follows:


As of March 31,

2007

2008

2008

 

 

 

US $

Equity shares

378,855

865,828

21,635

Total

378,855

865,828

21,635


Securities consist of trading securities at estimated fair value, as follows:


As of March 31,

2007

2008

2008

 

 

 

US $

Equity shares

2,694

-

-

Total

2,694

-

-



7.

Derivatives assets held for trading


These consist of exchange traded futures and options at market values, as follows:


As of March 31,

2007

2008

2008

 

 

 

US $

Exchange traded derivatives held for trading

-

1,905

48

Total

-

1,905

48


8.

Other Assets


Other assets consist of:


As of March 31,

2007

2008

2008

US $

Advance for application of shares

26,400

3,169

79

Purchase consideration paid in advance

10,000

-

-

Advance for purchase of property

-

13,600

340

Prepaid expenses

7,475

18,988

475

Security deposits paid

5,753

22,249

556

Advance tax, net

3,024

48,196

1,204

Others

4,699

22,806

570

Total

57,351

129,008

3,224





Prepaid expenses primarily include the un-expired portion of annual rentals paid for use of leased telecommunication lines, insurance premiums and bank guarantee charges.


Security deposits primarily include deposits for telecommunications, VSAT and assets taken on operating lease.


Advance tax primarily includes taxes paid to Indian taxation authorities for income tax and service tax, net off amount of provision for income tax.


Others primarily includes advances paid for property being taken on lease, connectivity, advertisement and legal expenses.


9.

Property and Equipment


Property and equipment consist of:


As of March 31,

2007

2008

2008

US $

Building

9,962

10,320

258

Equipment

10,996

14,387

360

Furniture and Fixture

11,480

18,787

469

Computer Hardware

40,274

67,287

1,681

Vehicle

7,246

11,768

294

Satellite Equipment

24,717

34,447

861

Total property and equipment

104,675

156,996

3,923

Less: Accumulated depreciation

31,929

59,991

1,499

Total property and equipment, net

72,746

97,005

2,424





Depreciation expense amounted to Rs. 8,741, Rs. 16,262 and Rs. 29,135 for the years ended March 31, 2006, 2007 and 2008 respectively.   


Property and equipment includes following assets under capital lease:


As of March 31,

2007

2008

2008

US $

Vehicle

2,686

4,214

105

Total leased property and equipment

2,686

4,214

105

Less: Accumulated depreciation

785

679

17

Total leased property and equipment, net

1,901

3,535

88




The gross carrying amounts of fully depreciated assets included in the overall balance of property and equipment above, which are still in active use were Rs. 13,425 and Rs. 18,618 as of March 31, 2007 and 2008.


10.

Intangible Assets


Intangible assets consist of:


As of March 31,

2007

2008

2008

US $

Intangible assets subject to amortization

 

 

 

Software

20,571

36,857

921

Customer relationship

-

7,500

187

Intangible assets not subject to amortization

 

 

 

Goodwill

-

1,500

38

Membership in exchange

500

2,079

52

Total intangible assets

21,071

47,936

1,198

Less: Accumulated  amortization

10,054

22,200

555

Total intangible assets, net

11,017

25,736

643







Amortization expense amounted to Rs. 2,898, Rs. 4,385 and Rs. 10,432 for the years ended March 31, 2006, 2007 and 2008 respectively.   


The expected future annual amortization expense of intangible asset is as follows:

For the year ended March 31,

 

2009

10,978

2010

8,618

2011

2,561




11.

Investments


Investments consist of:


As of March 31,

2007

2008

2008

US $

Investments accounted for by equity method

106,418

4,997

125

Investments carried at cost

1,959

12,377

309

Total

108,377

17,374

434


As part of its corporate strategy and in the normal course of its business, the Group makes investments in the equity of companies which are engaged in businesses similar to Group’s core business.


Investments at cost: SMC Global holds 970,000 shares, representing 8.3% interest in SAM Global Securities Limited (“SAM Global”). The carrying value of the investment at original acquisition cost is Rs. 1,959. The Group accounts for its investment in SAM Global under cost method of accounting. The equity shares of SAM Global are listed but not actively traded at stock exchanges therefore the market rate is not available. SMC Comtrade holds shares in SMC Share Broker Limited. These investments are accounted for at cost. The market value of the said investment is not readily determinable. Based on a review of the financial statements of SAM and SMC Share Broker Limited, the Group has determined that there is no impairment in the carrying value of the investment.


SMC Comtrade holds 14,000 shares, representing 39.8% interest in Pullin Investment Private Limited ("Pullin"). The Group accounts for its share of equity in earnings/ (losses) of Pullin under equity method of accounting. The carrying amount of equity investments without readily determinable market value is Rs. 2,504.


SMC Comtrade holds 18,200 shares, representing 39.8% interest in Abhichaya Investment Private Limited ("Abhichaya"). The Group accounts for its share of equity in earnings/ (losses) of Abhichaya under equity method of accounting. The carrying amount of equity investments without readily determinable market value is Rs. 2,493.


The Group’s equity share in the extraordinary gain of SMC Comtrade for the year 2007 was Rs. 3,956. On April 26, 2007 SMC Comtrade became the wholly owned subsidiary of the company, with the acquisition of remaining 60.0% of outstanding common shares. Refer Note 3 “Business Combination” for the detail of extraordinary gain for the year 2008 amounting to Rs.  62,597.


12.

Overdrafts and Long Term Debt


Bank Overdrafts


The Group’s debt financing is generally obtained through the use of overdraft facilities from banks. The interest rates on such borrowings reflect market rates of interest at the time of the transactions. The balance of these facilities was Rs. 492,062 and Rs. 388,594 as of March 31, 2007 and 2008, respectively, at average effective interest rates of 9.8% and 10.1%, respectively.  Fixed deposits have been placed by the Group with bankers to secure these debts. These deposits are classified in the balance sheet under “Deposits with clearing organizations and others”.


Book Overdraft


Book overdrafts were Rs. 78,688 and Rs. 238,254 at March 31, 2007 and 2008, respectively.


Long Term Debt


Long-term debt outstanding comprises of loans taken against vehicles. The long-term debt was Rs. 1,281 and Rs. 2,445 at March 31, 2007 and 2008, respectively, at average effective interest rates of 8.3% and 8.3%, respectively. Long-term debt is secured by pledge of vehicles. Aggregate maturities of long-term debt subsequent to March 31, 2008 are Rs. 1,258 in fiscal 2009, Rs. 881 in fiscal 2010 and Rs. 306 in fiscal 2011.


Refer Note 21 for assets pledged as collateral.



13.

Net Capital Requirements


The Group is subject to regulations of SEBI and stock exchanges, which specifies minimum net capital requirements. The net capital for this purpose is computed on the basis of the information contained in Company’s statutory books and records kept under accounting principles generally accepted in local jurisdiction. The Company submits periodic reports to the regulators.


SMC Global is subject to regulations of SEBI and NSE in India. The Company is required to maintain net capital of Rs. 30,000. As of March 31, 2007 and 2008, the net capital as calculated in the periodic reports was Rs. 111,742 and Rs. 1,360,282, which was in excess of its net capital requirement.


SMC Comtrade is subject to regulations of MCX and NCDEX in India, which specifies minimum net capital requirements of Rs. 5,000 each. As of March 31, 2008, the net capital as calculated in the periodic reports was Rs. 336,774, which was in excess of its net capital requirement.


SMC Comex is subject to regulations of DGCX in Dubai. The Company is required to maintain net capital of USD 350 thousand which is equivalent to Rs. 14,007. As of March 31, 2008, the net capital as calculated in the periodic reports was Rs. 15,896 which was in excess of its net capital requirement.


14.

Exchange, Clearing and Brokerage fees


As per regulations in India, specified securities transactions are liable for securities transaction tax (“STT”). The securities transactions tax in respect of proprietary trading amounted to Rs. 62,598, Rs. 89,893 and Rs. 284,232 for the years ended March 31, 2006, 2007 and 2008 respectively. Under the Indian Income Tax Act 1961, the Company can set-off amount paid for STT towards its liability for taxes on income arising from taxable securities transactions. STT that cannot be set off against taxes on income is charged to expense. STT charged to expense amounted to Rs. 8,323 Rs. 19,716 and Rs. 122,700 for the years ended March 31, 2006, 2007 and 2008 respectively. With effect from April 1, 2008 the income tax provision related to STT has been amended. The STT will be treated as an expense and will be deducted from income to determine taxable income.


15.

Payable to Broker Dealers and Clearing Organizations


As of March 31,

2007

2008

2008

US $

Payable to clearing organizations

-

7,408

185

Commission payable

18,695

32,500

812

Total

18,695

39,908

997


16.

Accounts Payable, Accrued Expenses and Other Liabilities


As of March 31,

2007

2008

2008

US $

Security deposits

18,405

27,568

689

Accrued expenses

17,849

38,400

960

Other liabilities

1,341

12,779

319

Provision for gratuity

1,467

4,014

100

Salary payable

7,427

24,739

618

Others

13,635

17,475

437

Total

60,124

124,975

3,123


Security deposits primarily include deposits taken from sub-brokers for satellite equipment and deposits from employees.


17.

Distribution Income


The net distribution income comprises of:


Year ended March 31,

2006

2007

2008

2008

US $

Gross distribution revenue

37,221

117,443

291,640

7,287

Less: Distribution revenues attributable to sub-brokers

30,402

95,816

248,491

6,209

Net distribution income

6,819

21,627

43,149

1,078


18.

Income Taxes


The provisions for income taxes consist of:


Year ended March 31,

2006

2007

2008

2008

US $

Domestic taxes

 

 

 

 

Current

71,024

94,699

202,488

5,060

Deferred

975

(7,629)

(6,909)

(173)

Aggregate taxes

71,999

87,070

195,579

4,887


A reconciliation of the income tax expense to the amount computed by applying the statutory income tax rate to income before income tax expense is summarized below:


Year ended March 31,

2006

2007

2008

2008

US $

Net income before taxes

214,361

263,050

490,061

12,245

Enacted tax rates in India

33.7%

33.7%

34.0%

 

Computed tax expense

72,154

88,543

166,571

4,163

Permanent differences

 

 

 

 

    Securities transaction tax charged to expense

2,801

6,637

41,706

1,042

    Exempt income

-

-

(7,339)

(183)

    Provision for litigation reserve

3,366

-

-

-

    Other permanent differences

346

(295)

778

19

Rebate allowed under Indian Income tax act

(6,529)

(7,815)

(6,435)

(161)

Others

(139)

-

298

7

Income taxes recognized in the statement of income

71,999

87,070

195,579

4,887


Significant components of activities that gave rise to deferred tax assets and liabilities included in the financial statements are as follows:


As of March 31,

2007

2008

2008

US $

Deferred tax assets:

 

 

 

Provision for gratuity

494

1,365

34

Allowance for doubtful debts

538

4,770

119

Revenue/expenses not recognized for tax purposes

7,191

11,528

288

Others (including deferred VSAT recovery)

2,979

6,354

159

Total deferred tax assets

11,202

24,017

600

 

 

 

 

Deferred tax liabilities:

 

 

 

Property and equipment

6,284

12,011

300

Total deferred tax liabilities

6,284

12,011

300

Net deferred tax (liabilities)/assets

4,918

12,006

300


The Group’s major tax jurisdiction is India. In India, the assessment is not yet completed for the financial year 2005-06 and onwards. The Group continues to recognize interest and penalties related to income tax matters as part of the income tax provision.


19.

Derivatives and Risk Management


The Group enters into exchange traded derivative contracts for trading purposes.  The Group generally enters into offsetting contracts to achieve economic hedges at prices that result in a profit spread for the Group. At March 31, 2007 and 2008, the Group had outstanding derivative contracts with notional amounts of Rs. 2,740,504 and Rs. 1,897,874, respectively, in futures and options contracts. The notional amount of a derivative contract does not change hands; it is simply used as a reference to calculate payments. Accordingly, the notional amount of the Group’s derivative contracts outstanding at March 31, 2007 and 2008 significantly exceeds the possible losses that could arise from such transactions. The fair values of outstanding derivative positions are as below:


As of March 31,

2007

2008

2008

 

 

 

US $

Derivative assets

-

1,905

48

Total

-

1,905

48


As of March 31,

2007

2008

2008

US $

Derivative liabilities

7,965

363

9

Total

7,965

363

9


The Group receives collateral in connection with customer trades. Under the agreements with customers, the Group is permitted to use the securities for meeting margin/other obligation in stock exchange in whatever manner which may include pledging of shares in favor of bank and / or taking loan against the same. At March 31, 2007, the fair value of securities received as collateral under the agreements with customers was Rs. 1,092,918, and the fair value of the collateral that had been re-pledged was Rs. 129,120. At March 31, 2008, the fair value of securities received as collateral under the agreements with customers was Rs. 1,321,094 and the fair value of the collateral that had been re-pledged was Rs. 371,557.

(a)

Market Risk arising from Trading Activities

Market risk is the risk that price changes could affect the value of the securities positions that arise from normal trading activity. Market risk increases when markets move sharply and volatility increases.

The Group's exposure to market risk is determined by a number of factors; including size, composition and diversification of positions held, market volatility and changes in interest and foreign exchange rates. The overall level of market risk from financial instruments is often limited by other financial instruments recorded both on and off balance sheet. Management actively monitors its market risk by reviewing the effectiveness of hedging strategies and setting market risk limits. The Group manages market risk with central oversight, analysis and formation of risk policy, specific maximum risk levels to which the individual trader must adhere and continuous monitoring by the senior management.

(b) Credit Risk

Credit risk that could result from counterparties defaulting is limited for the Group’s operations that operate on regulated exchanges, since the settlement risk is essentially transferred to recognized clearing organizations. The Group’s business also includes clearing and executing trades for the accounts of customers. As such, the Group guarantees to the respective clearinghouse its customers' performance under these contracts. The Group provides clearing services of futures and options to other brokers.


The Group may require other brokers to deposit funds, thereby reducing risks associated with the clearing of futures and options. Additionally, to reduce its risk, the Group requires customers to meet, at a minimum, the margin requirements established by each of the exchanges at which the contract is traded. This margin is a deposit from the customer, which reduces the risk to the Group of failure on behalf of the customer to fulfill any obligation under the contract. To minimize its exposure to risk of loss due to market variation, the Group adjusts these margin requirements, as needed, due to daily fluctuations in the values of the underlying positions. If necessary, certain positions may be liquidated to satisfy resulting changes in margin requirements.

(c) Liquidity Risk

Liquidity risk relates to the Group’s capacity to finance security positions and liquidity requirements of exchanges and clearing organizations. The Group’s financial resources, relative to its capital employed, and the liquid nature of most of the instruments traded, limit this risk. In addition, the Group maintains credit facilities with commercial banks. At March 31, 2007and 2008, the Group, with certain limitations, had access to Rs. 71,677 and Rs. 467,327 in unutilized bank borrowings and Rs. 210,000 and Rs. 496,000 in unutilized bank guarantees.   


(d) Compliance, Legal and Operational risks

The Group operates under significant regulatory and legal obligations imposed by local governments and securities regulators. The legal and regulatory obligations under which the Group operates relate, among other things, to their financial reporting, their trading activities, capital requirements and the supervision of their employees. Failure to fulfill legal or regulatory obligations can lead to fines, censure or disqualification of management and/or staff and other measures that could have negative consequences for the Group’s activities and financial performance. Certain violations could result in them losing their trading permissions. If that were to occur, the Group would lose its ability to carry out a portion of its existing activities, which could have a material effect on the Group’s financial statements.


See Note 28 for an overview of pending regulatory and litigation matters.



20.

Employee Benefits


Gratuity Plan


The following table sets forth the status of the Gratuity Plan of SMC Global, and the amounts recognized in SMC Global’s balance sheets and statements of income.


As of March 31,

2006

2007

2008

2008

US $

Accumulated benefit obligation

526

990

1,911

48

Change in projected benefit obligation

 

 

 

 

Projected benefit obligation as of beginning of the year

648

1,032

1,851

46

Service cost

247

494

995

25

Interest cost

46

79

200

5

Actuarial loss/(gain)

91

246

3,197

80

Benefits paid

-

-

-

 

Acquisition of subsidiary

 

 

146

4

Projected benefit obligation as of end of the year

1,032

1,851

6,389

160

Change in plan assets

 

 

 

 

Employer contribution

-

384

1,748

44

Fair value of plan assets as of end of the year

-

384

2,375

59

Funded status of plan

(1,032)

(1,467)

(4,014)

(101)

Accrued benefit cost

(1,032)

(1,467)

(4,014)

(101)


The components of net gratuity cost are reflected below:


Year ended March 31,

2006

2007

2008

2008

US $

Service cost

247

494

995

25

Interest cost

46

79

200

5

Amortization

91

246

3,197

80

Net gratuity costs

384

819

4,392

110


The assumptions used in accounting for the gratuity plans for the years ended March 31, 2006, 2007 and 2008 are set out below:


Weighted-average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations


Year ended March 31,

2006

2007

2008

Discount rate

8.0%

10.0%

8.0%

Long term rate of compensation increase

8.0% for first 5 years and 6.0% thereafter

8.0% for first 5 years and 6.0% thereafter

7.0%


Weighted-average assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit cost:


Year ended March 31,

2006

2007

2008

Discount rate

8.0%

10.0%

8.0%

Long term rate of compensation increase

8.0% for first 5 years and 6.0% thereafter

8.0% for first 5 years and 6.0% thereafter

7.0%

Expected rate of return on assets

-

7.5%

8.0%


SMC Global expects to contribute Rs. 2,000 to its Gratuity plan during the year ending March 31, 2009. The following benefit payments, which reflect expected future service, as appropriate, are expected to be paid:


For the year ended March 31,

 

2009

45

2010

70

2011

112

2012

307

2013

251

2014-2018

4,437





The group makes contributions to the gratuity plan operated by a large private life insurance company in India. At March 31, 2008, allocation of plan assets between equity and debt is 60:40. The management of the Group evaluates the allocation percentage on a periodic basis and reallocates the percentage based on market conditions, risk factors etc. The discount rate is based on the Government securities yield.


Provident Fund


The Group’s contribution towards the provident fund amounted to Rs. 1,034, Rs. 2,068 and Rs. 3,102 for the years ended March 31, 2006, 2007 and 2008 respectively.


21.

Collateral and Significant Covenants


The Group has provided its assets as collateral for credit facilities availed from banks and for margin requirements with exchanges. Amounts that the Group has pledged as collateral, which are not reclassified and reported separately, consist of the following:


As of March 31,

2007

2008

2008

US $

Fixed deposits

877,500

1,835,695

45,870

Securities owned

217,500

371,557

9,284

Property and equipment

9,531

9,531

238

Total

1,104,531

2,216,783

55,392


The fixed deposits are classified in the balance sheet under “Deposits with clearing organizations and others”.


State Bank of Bikaner and Jaipur, one of the bankers to the Group, has created first pari-passu charge over the current assets of SMC, as a security for credit facilities provided to the Group.


Canara Bank, one of the bankers to the Group, has created first charge over book debts, outstandings, money receivables, claims, and equitable mortgage on specified office building for credit facilities provided to the Group. The bank also has charge on advances against checks/ drafts of bill of exchange whatever may be the tender thereof drawn, accepted or endorsed by the Group with or without documents such as railway receipts, lorry receipts, air ways bill, post parcel, bill of lading or any other document of title to the goods, invoices, etc.


Oriental Bank of Commerce, one of the bankers to the Group, has created equitable mortgage on specified property together with all buildings, super structures, property and equipment constructed or to be constructed, installed and or to be installed and all accretions there to, for credit facilities provided to the Group.


Centurion bank of Punjab, one of the bankers to the Group, has created equitable mortgage on specified property for credit facilities provided to the Group.


SMC Global has executed an undertaking in favour of Yes Bank, one of the bankers to the Group, agreeing to continue to maintain more than 26.0% holding in SMC Comtrade.


22.

Related Party Transactions


Significant related party transactions comprise of:


Year ended March 31,

2006

2007

2008

2008

US $

Services provided by SMC Group to:

 

 

 

 

Companies in which principal shareholders having not less than 10.0% shareholding

7

370

2,118

53


Services received by SMC Group from:

 

 

 

 

Companies in which principal shareholders having not less than 10.0% shareholding

-

-

1,789

45


The balances receivable from and payable to related parties are as follows:


As of March 31,

2007

2008

2008

US $

Amounts due from related parties:

 

 

 

Companies in which principal shareholders having not less than 10.0% shareholding

3,000

203,432

5,083

Amounts due to related parties:

 

 

 

Companies in which principal shareholders having not less than 10.0% shareholding

152,995

776,024

19,391


The services between related parties pertain to commission income/expense on execution of trades. Amount due to/from related parties include funds transferred between the Group and related parties for offsetting customer balances pending cash settlement by the customer and balances for trades executed in the normal course of business. There is no change in the method of establishing the terms.


23.

Segment


The Group follows the provisions of SFAS 131 “Disclosures about Segments of an Enterprise and Related Information”. SFAS 131 establishes standards for reporting information regarding operating segments in annual financial statements and requires selected information for those segments to be presented in interim financial reports issued to stockholders.


The group has recognized two segments in the current year: Capital and derivatives markets and commodities. The recognition of the segments is made as SMC Comtrade became wholly owned subsidiary on April 26, 2007 and SMC Comtrade financial statements are consolidated with the financial statements of the Company.


The accounting policies of the segments are the same as those described in note 2 Summary of Significant Accounting Policies. Revenues and expenses are directly attributable to segments. Management evaluates performance based on stand-alone revenues and earnings after taxes for the companies in Group. The Group’s operations and customers are primarily based in India.




Year ended March 31,

2008

 

Capital and derivates markets

Commodities

Total

US $

Revenue from external customer excluding interest income

1,106,536

202,954

1,309,490

32,721

Interest income

119,851

17,452

137,303

3,431

Revenues from transactions with other operating segments

-

-

-

-

Interest expense

75,810

15,083

90,893

2,271

Depreciation and amortization

34,406

5,161

39,567

989

Income taxes

165,527

30,052

195,579

4,887

Earnings after taxes

239,827

54,655

294,482

7,358

Total assets

4,249,896

660,207

4,910,103

122,692



Year ended March 31,

2007

 

Capital and derivates markets

Commodities

Elimination

Total

Revenue from external customer excluding interest income

599,161

327,606

327,606

599,161

Interest income

52,253

-

-

52,253

Revenues from transactions with other operating segments

-

-

-

-

Interest expense

40,153

9,620

9,620

40,153

Depreciation and amortization

20,647

3,313

3,313

20,647

Income taxes

186,205

55,569

55,569

186,205

Earnings after taxes

175,980

178,332

178,332

175,980

Total assets

1,952,200

747,524

747,524

1,952,200


24.

Common Stock


The company has issued and allotted 1,298,400 common shares of par value Rs. 10 each at a premium of Rs. 1,037.8 to Millennium India Acquisition Company Inc., USA through private placement on preferential basis on January 21, 2008.


Incremental costs of Rs  19,475 net of tax, directly attributable to the issue of new shares are deducted from additional paid in capital.


25.

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

Assets and liabilities for which fair value approximates carrying value: The fair values of certain financial assets and liabilities carried at cost, including cash and cash equivalents, receivables and payables from and to clearing organizations, broker-dealers and customers and accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities, approximate fair value due to their short-term nature.

Securities and trading liabilities: Fair values of trading assets and trading liabilities are the amounts recognized in the financial statements, which are based on market prices, where available. If quoted prices are not available, fair values are determined based on book value.

Borrowings: The carrying value of overdraft facilities approximates fair value due to the fact that interest rates are comparable with market rates.

26.

Concentration


The following table gives details in respect of percentage of commission income generated from top two, five and ten customers:


Year ended March 31,

(in %)

2006

2007

2008

Revenue from top two customers

4.0%

17.8%

4.1%

Revenue from top five customers

9.3%

26.1%

9.4%

Revenue from top ten customers

14.7%

33.9%

14.1%

     

27.

Dividend


Final dividends proposed by the Board of Directors are payable when formally declared by the shareholders, who have the right to decrease but not increase the amount of the dividend recommended by the Board of Directors. The Board of Directors can declare interim dividends without the need for shareholders’ approval.  


Dividends payable to equity shareholders are based on the net income available for distribution as reported in the Company’s unconsolidated financial statements prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in India (“Indian GAAP”). Dividends are declared and paid in Indian rupees. Net income in accordance with US GAAP may, in certain years, either not be fully available or will be additionally available for distribution to equity shareholders. Under Indian GAAP the retained earnings available for distribution to equity shareholders, subject to certain restrictions was Rs. 210,453, Rs 398,336 and Rs. 630,823 as of March 31, 2006, 2007 and 2008 respectively.


Under the Indian Companies Act, dividends may be paid out of the profits of a company in the year in which the dividend is declared or out of the undistributed profits of previous fiscal years. Before declaring a dividend greater than 10.0% of the par value of its equity shares, a company is required to transfer to its reserves a minimum percentage of its profits for that year, ranging from 2.5% to 10.0%, depending on the dividend percentage to be declared in such year.


28.

Commitments and Contingent Liabilities


a) Operating Leases


SMC Global has certain operating leases for office premises. Rental expenses for operating leases are accounted for on a straight-line method. Rental expense amounted to Rs. 1,226, Rs. 3,786 and Rs. 18,130 for the years ended March 31, 2006, 2007 and 2008 respectively. There are no non-cancelable lease arrangements.


b) Guarantees


As of March 31, 2007 and 2008, guarantees of Rs. 950,000 and Rs. 1,949,175 are provided by various banks to exchange clearing houses for the Company, in the ordinary course of business, as a security for due performance and fulfillment by the Company of its commitments and obligations.


As of March 31, 2007 and 2008, the Company has provided corporate guarantees of Rs. 246,500 and Rs. 236,500 to banks for guarantees issued by banks for SMC Comtrade to exchange clearing houses, in the ordinary course of business.


As of March 31, 2007 and 2008, the Company has provided corporate guarantees of Rs. 200,000 and Rs. 290,000 to banks for guarantees issued by banks for SAM Global Securities Limited to exchange clearing houses, in the ordinary course of business.


The initial term of these guarantees is generally for a period of 12 to 15 months. The bankers charge commission as consideration to issue the guarantees. The commission charged generally is in the range of 1.0% to 1.3% of the guarantee amount. The Group recognizes commission expense over the period of the guarantee. The unamortized commission expense is included in prepaid expenses and classified in the balance sheet under “other assets”. The potential requirement for the Group to make payments under these agreements is remote. Thus, no liability has been recognized for these transactions. The fair value of the guarantees is considered to be insignificant given the risk of loss on such guarantees at the date of its inception and, therefore, no amount was recognized towards fair value of guarantees given in the financial statements on the inception date.


c) Litigation


The Group is involved, from time to time, in investigations and proceedings by governmental and regulatory agencies, certain of which may result in adverse judgments, fines or penalties. Factors considered by management in estimating the Group’s reserves for these matters are the merits of the claims, the total cost of defending the litigation, the likelihood of a successful defense against the claims, and the potential for fines and penalties from regulatory agencies. The Group is carrying reserves of Rs. 10,000 for potential losses to the extent that such matters are probable and can be estimated, in accordance with SFAS 5, “Accounting for Contingencies.”  As litigation and the resolution of regulatory matters are inherently unpredictable, the Group cannot predict with certainty the ultimate loss or range of loss related to matters where there is only a reasonable possibility that a loss may be incurred. The Group believes, based on current knowledge and after consultation with legal counsel, that the resolution of loss contingencies will not have a material adverse effect on the financial statements of the Group.


Show Cause Notice (“SCN”) dated November 23, 2004, December 6, 2004 and November 17, 2006 from Securities and Exchange Board of India (“SEBI”)


There was a sharp fall in the Indian stock market on May 17, 2004. SEBI alleged that sale transactions of SMC Global on this day had significant impact on lowering the price of significant number of the selected scrips and Nifty Futures on a large number of occasions and the sell orders placed by it appear to have added to the momentum of such fall and aggravated the market crisis.

In addition to the aforesaid allegations, SEBI has alleged certain other irregularities, pursuant to inspections conducted on SMC Global.


SEBI had asked the Company to show cause as to why appropriate action under SEBI Act and Regulations should not be taken against the Company.


The Company has submitted its response, denying the allegations. The Company has submitted that it has carried out bonafide transactions and followed rules and regulations in respect of dealings on May 17, 2004. There was no motive behind the Company’s transactions to artificially depress the prices of securities. The other irregularities alleged are not sustainable and even in cases when these exist; the lapses were nominal and administrative in nature. SEBI has not responded to the Company in this regard and the matter is pending with SEBI.


The Company has filed an application for consent before the Securities and Exchange Board of India in September 2007. The terms of consent proposes abatement of proceedings against the Company on payment of specified monetary amount. SEBI has accepted the consent proposal in June 2008 subject to payment of Rs. 1,500 as settlement charges, which the Company has paid on June 27, 2008.


Order by SEBI dated October 5, 2005 in the matter of Digital Stock


SEBI has alleged irregularities in sub-broker operations and directed to review the Company to review systems and procedures and confirm to SEBI that all the operations are within the framework of SEBI regulations, rules and guidelines.


The Company has responded to SEBI that it has carried out comprehensive review of all systems and procedures and has ensured that the same are in compliance with all the SEBI Act, Rules and Regulations as well as directives and guidelines of SEBI. SEBI has not responded to the Company in this regard and the matter is pending with SEBI.


SCN under SEBI Rules dated October 25, 2005


Investigations were conducted by SEBI in the matter of the dealings in the scrip of DSQ Biotech Limited (“DSQ”). SEBI has alleged that synchronised trades and fictitious trades were executed by the entities of the DSQ group through accommodating brokers. SEBI alleged that SMC Global has actively aided and abetted the clients in the creation of the false market in the scrip by executing the transactions without the intention to transfer the beneficial interest in the security. An enquiry was ordered against the Company and enquiry officer recommended a penalty of censure against the Company. SEBI has issued a SCN on November 7, 2006 to the Company as to why the appropriate penalty including penalty as recommended by the Enquiry Officer should not be imposed.


The Company has denied the allegations in its response to SEBI. The Company has submitted that due skill, care and diligence were exercised in the conduct of the business. However SEBI did not accept the contention of the Company and levied penalty as recommended by the Enquiry Officer through order dated January 1, 2008.


Aggrieved by the order, the Company had filed an appeal with the Securities Appellate Tribunal, Mumbai which has set aside the order passed by the SEBI in the aforesaid matter vide their order dated May 2, 2008.


SCN under SEBI Rules dated September 28, 2006


SEBI appointed an adjudicating officer to inquire into and adjudge under SEBI Act and Regulations. SEBI has alleged that SMC Global executed structured trades in the scrip of Jubilant Organosys Limited (“JOL”) in collusion with a group of brokers during the year 2003 and thereby violated Regulations.  SEBI has alleged that failure on the part of the Company to comply with the said provisions makes the Company liable to the penalty under SEBI Act. SEBI in its SCN has asked the Company to show cause as to why an inquiry should not be held against the Company.


The Company has filed a reply with SEBI in response to the SCN, denying having done any possible structured deals. The Company has submitted that the trades in JOL scrip were executed in the normal and usual course of business through the systems of exchange and no off market deals were done in the scrip. No response has been received from SEBI in this regard and the matter is pending with SEBI.  


The Company has filed an application for consent before the Securities and Exchange Board of India on February 13, 2008. The terms of consent proposes abatement of proceedings against the Company on payment of specified monetary amount.


SEBI order on June 18, 2007 in the matter of dealings in futures and options contracts on the NSE


SEBI has alleged in the order that certain entities and brokers have indulged in non genuine trade transactions and have created false and misleading appearance of trading on the derivatives market during January to March 2007. SMC Global has been named as one of brokers in the order. The order is an ad interim, ex-parte order and the Company has a right to file its objections. The Company submitted its response in July 2007, denying the allegations. In October 2007, SEBI issued a SCN as to why an inquiry should not be held against the Company.


The Company has filed an application for consent before the Securities and Exchange Board of India on November 12, 2007. The terms of consent proposes abatement of proceedings against the Company on payment of specified monetary amount.


SCN under SEBI Rules dated October 15, 2007


               SEBI has alleged certain irregularities pursuant to inspection  report for the period April 2002 to                         

               March 2004. SEBI in its SCN has asked the company to show cause as to why an inquiry should not be held against the Company.


The Company has filed an application for consent before the Securities and Exchange Board of India on November 23, 2007. In April 2008, the Company paid Rs. 500 under the terms of consent to SEBI. SEBI issued the consent order in April 2008, disposing the adjudication proceedings without admitting or denying guilt by the Company and subject to the clauses of the undertakings and the waivers.


SCN under SEBI Rules dated March 31, 2008


SEBI appointed an adjudicating officer to inquire into and adjudge under SEBI Act and Regulations. SEBI has alleged that during the period February 1, 2005 to March 31, 2005, SMC Global executed non genuine transactions in collusion with certain clients and brokers in the future and options segment of NSE. SEBI has alleged that failure on the part of the Company to comply with the said provisions makes the Company liable to the penalty under SEBI Act. SEBI in its SCN has asked the Company to show cause as to why an inquiry should not be held against the Company.


The Company has filed an application for consent before the SEBI on May 1, 2008. The terms of consent proposes abatement of proceedings against the Company on payment of specified monetary amount.


Another SCN dated May 15, 2008 was received by the Company, containing similar allegations as stated above for the period March 1, 2004 to March 31, 2004. The Company has filed an application before the SEBI on June 1, 2008 for providing transaction logs and for grant of additional time for filing of reply. SEBI has not responded to the Company in this regard and the matter is pending with SEBI.


29.

Subsequent Events


a) The Board of Directors of the Company passed a resolution on April 18, 2008 for the amalgamation of SAM Global Securities Limited (“SAM”) with SMC Global Securities Limited (“SMC”). The Board of Directors of SAM also approved the resolution of amalgamation.


Under the scheme of amalgamation prepared under sections 391 and 394 and other applicable provisions of the Companies Act in India, the shareholders of SAM will receive one equity share of the face value of Rs. 10 each of SMC for every six fully paid up shares of SAM. The scheme will require approval of shareholders/creditors of companies, stock exchanges where the shares of SMC and SAM are listed, Securities and Exchange Board of India and other regulatory authorities. Under the Companies Act in India, the scheme will require the consent of High Court of Delhi in order to be effective.


b) The Company has issued and allotted 188,646 common stock of face value of Rs.10 each at a premium of Rs. 3,329.9 to Bennett, Coleman & Co. Limited through private placement on preferential basis on May 5, 2008. Simultaneously, the Company entered into an advertising agreement with Bennett, Coleman & Co. under which it paid the amount received for shares as advance to be utilized against advertisements.





EX-99.2 3 samfs0207.htm GemCom, LLC

SAM Global Securities Limited




Index to Financial Statements



Pages


Report of Independent Auditor

2


Statements of Income for the years ended March 31, 2006, 2007 and 2008

3


Balance Sheets as of March 31, 2007 and 2008

4


Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended March 31, 2006, 2007 and 2008

6


Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity for the years ended March 31,

2006, 2007 and 2008

8


Notes to Financial Statements

9








REPORT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITOR



To the Board of Directors of

SAM Global Securities Limited:


In our opinion, the accompanying balance sheets and the related statements of income, of shareholders’ equity and of cash flows present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of SAM Global Securities Limited at March 31, 2007 and 2008 and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended March 31, 2008 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.  These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management.  Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits.  We conducted our audits of these statements in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States of America.  Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement.  An audit incl udes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, and evaluating the overall financial statement presentation.  We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.


Price Waterhouse


Gurgaon, India

July 2, 2008






SAM Global Securities Limited


 Statements of Income


For the year ended March 31,

(Rs. in thousands, except per share data)

2006

2007

2008

2008

Convenience translation into US$ (unaudited)

Revenues:

 

 

 

 

Commission income

 199,162

210,190 

327,882

8,193

Proprietary trading, net

 70,991

172,954 

487,316

12,177

Distribution income, net

 309

89 

-

-

Interest and dividends

 3,989

8,230 

24,032

600

Total revenues

 274,451

 391,463

 839,230

 20,970

Expenses:

 

 

 

 

Exchange, clearing and brokerage fees

 128,558

 105,576

 305,608

 7,636

Employee compensation and benefits

 17,394

 34,512

 62,421

1,560

Information and communication

 18,061

 25,005

 12,713

 318

Advertisement expenses

 13,929

 15,129

 16,458

 411

Depreciation and amortization

 4,804

 7,065

 10,405

 260

Interest expense

 2,142

 3,058

 9,045

226

General and administrative expenses

 12,330

 15,383

 40,652

 1,016

Total expenses

197,218

205,728

457,302

 11,427

Gain on sale of shares in exchange

-

-

26,265

656

Earnings before income taxes

 77,233

 185,735

 408,193

 10,199

Income taxes

 24,289

56,109

151,792

 3,792

Earnings after taxes

52,944

129,626 

256,401

 6,407

Share in profits of equity investee

-

-

614

15

Earnings before extraordinary gain

52,944

129,626

257,015

6,422

Share in extraordinary gain of equity investee

-

6,592

-

-

Net income

52,944

136,218

257,015

6,422

Earnings per share:

 

 

 

 

Basic and diluted: Earnings before extraordinary gain

5.29

12.96

24.87

0.62

Basic and diluted: Extraordinary gain

-

0.66

-

-

Basic and diluted: Net income

5.29

13.62

24.87

0.62

Weighted average number of shares used to compute basic and diluted earnings per share

10,000,057

10,000,057

10,335,663

10,335,663


                                                                The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements




SAM Global Securities Limited


 Balance Sheets


 As of March 31,

(Rs. in thousands)

2007

2008

2008
Convenience translation into US$ (unaudited)

Assets

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents

18,074

42,226

 1,056

Receivables from exchange and clearing organizations (net of allowance for doubtful debts of Rs. Nil in 2007 and Rs. Nil in 2008)

15,751

56,004

 1,399

Receivables from customers (net of allowance for doubtful debts of Rs. Nil in 2007 and Rs. 2,500 in 2008)

259,777

327,163

 8,175

Due from related parties

67,087

612,827

15,313

Securities owned:

 

 

 

      Marketable, at market value

79

10,048

251

      Not readily marketable, at estimated fair value

1,000

25,000

625

Investments

10,631

11,245

281

Deposits with clearing organizations and others

153,100

188,780

4,717

Membership in exchanges owned, at cost (market value of Rs. 52,000 in 2007 and Rs. 4,560 in 2008)

23,210

2,036

51

Property and equipment (net of accumulated depreciation of Rs. 11,832 in 2007 and Rs.18,992 in 2008)

10,584

45,150

1,128

Intangible assets (net of accumulated amortization of Rs. 3,297 in 2007 and Rs. 6,309 in 2008)

 4,648

 6,180

154

Deferred taxes, net

-

1,803

45

Other assets

 14,027

 84,395

 2,109

Total Assets

 577,968

 1,412,857

 35,304

 

 

 

 

Liabilities and Shareholder’s Equity

 

 

 

Payable to broker-dealers and clearing organizations

 -

 9,753

 244

Payable to customers

209,232

453,440

 11,330

Due to related parties

341

17,237

431

Derivatives held for trading

275

9,370

234

Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities

3,551

29,788

744

Overdraft facilities balances

54,627

74,296

1,857

Deferred taxes, net

1,820

-

-

Total Liabilities

269,846

593,884

14,840

Commitments and contingencies (Note 28)

 

 

 


                                                                The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements




SAM Global Securities Limited


 Balance Sheets


As of March 31,

(Rs. in thousands)

2007

2008

2008
Convenience translation into US$ (unaudited)

Shareholders' Equity

 

 

 

Common Stock

 

 

 

(10,010,000 and 13,010,000 equity shares authorized as on  March 31, 2007 and 2008; 10,000,057 and 11,730,083 equity shares issued and outstanding as of March 31, 2007 and 2008; par value Rs. 10)

100,001 

117,301

 2,931

Additional paid in capital

-

236,535

5,911

Retained earnings

208,121 

465,137

 11,622

Total Shareholders' Equity

308,122 

818,973

20,464

Total Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity

577,968 

1,412,857

35,304


                                                                The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements






SAM Global Securities Limited


 Statements of Cash Flows


For the year ended March 31,

(Rs. in thousands)


2006

2007


2008

2008 Convenience translation into US$ (unaudited)

Cash flows from operating activities

 

 

 

 

Net Profit

52,944

136,218

257,015

6,422

Adjustments to reconcile net profit to net cash provided/ (used) in operating activities:

 

 

 

 

Depreciation and amortization

4,804

7,065

10,405

260

Gain on sale of shares in exchange

 

 

(26,265)

(656)

Deferred tax expense / (benefit)

6,056

(4,414)

(3,623)

(91)

Extraordinary gain

-

(6,592)

-

-

Share in Profit of equity investee

-

-

(614)

(15)

Fair value (gain) / loss on trading securities

(1,321)

611

1,934

 48

Provision for doubtful debts

-

-

2,500

62

Provision for gratuity

337

303

1,071

27

Gain on sale of property and equipments

-

-

(73)

(2)

Changes in assets and liabilities:

 

 

 

 

Receivables from exchange and clearing organizations

(102)

(14,738)

(40,253)

(1,006)

Receivables from customers

18,620

(162,473)

(69,886)

(1,746)

Due from related parties

(6,350)

(60,737)

(545,740)

(13,637)

Due to related parties

(11,564)

(4,121)

16,896

422

Securities owned

(10,926)

17,827

(35,903)

(897)

Derivatives held for trading

-

275

9,095

227

Deposits with clearing organizations and others

(97,649)

(19,900)

(35,680)

(891)

Membership in exchanges

(10)

-

-

-

Other assets

(1,942)

(7,573)

(70,368)

(1,758)

Payable to broker-dealers and clearing organizations

(327)

(264)

9,753

244

Payable to customers

(8,849)

121,306

244,207

6,102

Accrued expenses

(1,343)

1,792

25,166

629

Net cash provided/(used) by operating activities

(57,622)

4,585

(250,363)

(6,256)

 

 

 

 

 

Cash flows from investing activities

 

 

 

 

Purchase of property and equipment

(8,645)

(4,513)

(42,209)

(1,055)

Proceeds from sale of property and equipment

-

-

323

8

Purchase of investments

-

(216)

-

-

Proceed from sale of shares in exchange

-

-

47,440

1,186

Acquisition of intangible assets

(3,655)

(2,771)

(4,544)

(113)

Net cash used in investing activities

(12,300)

(7,500)

1,010

26


                                                                The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements






SAM Global Securities Limited


 Statements of Cash Flows


For the year ended March 31,

(Rs. in thousands)


2006

2007

2008

2007

Convenience translation into US$ (unaudited)

Cash flows from financing activities

 

 

 

 

Net movement in overdraft facilities balances

42,973

11,250

19,670

491

Proceeds from issue of share capital,  net of incremental  costs

-

-

253,835

6,343

Net cash provided by financing activities

42,973

11,250

273,505

6,834

 

 

 

 

 

Net (decrease) / increase in cash and cash equivalents during the year

(26,949)

8,335

                24,152     

 604

Add : Balance as of beginning of the year

36,688

9,739

18,074

452

Balance as of end of the year

9,739

18,074

42,226

1,056


                                                                Supplemental cash flow information:


Year ended March 31,

2006

2007

2008

2008

US $

Income taxes paid

19,575

51,130

313,097

7,824

Interest paid

2,142

3,058

9,045

226


                                                                The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements







SAM Global Securities Limited


 Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity


(Rs. in thousands)

Common Stock

Additional Paid in Capital

Retained earnings

Total

Shares

Par value

Balance as of April 1, 2005

10,000,057

100,001

-

18,958

118,959

Net income for the year

 

 

 

52,944

52,944

Balance as of March 31, 2006

10,000,057

100,001

-

71,902

171,903

Net income for the year

 

 

 

136,218

136,218

Balance as of March 31, 2007

10,000,057

100,001

-

208,122

308,123

Issuance of common shares

1,730,026

17,300

236,535

-

253,835

Net income for the year

-

-

-

257,015

257,015

Balance as of March 31, 2008

11,730,083

117,301

236,535

465,137

818,973

Balance as of March 31, 2008

Convenience translation into US$ (unaudited)

11,730,083

2,931

5,911

11,622

20,464


                                                                The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements







SAM Global Securities Limited


Notes to Financial Statements

(Rs. in thousands, except per share data)

 


1.

Description of Business


SAM Global Securities Limited (the “Company” or “SAM Global”) is a limited liability company incorporated and domiciled in India. The Company is a trading member of the Bombay Stock Exchange Limited (“BSE”) in the capital market and trading and clearing member in the futures and options market. The Company provides depository participant services through Central Depository Services (India) Limited. The Company’s shares are listed on the Guwahati Stock Exchange in India.


The Company engages in proprietary transactions and offers a wide range of services to meet clients needs including brokerage services, clearing member services and depository services.


2.

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies


Basis of preparation


The financial statements include the accounts of SAM Global Securities Limited and its equity affiliates. All significant intercompany transactions have been eliminated. The Company accounts for investments in entities that are not variable interest entities where the Company owns a voting or economic interest of 20% to 50% and/or for which it has significant influence over operating and financing decisions using the equity method of accounting. The Company’s equity in the profits/(losses) of affiliates is included in the statements of income unless the carrying amount of an investment is reduced to zero and the Company is under no guaranteed obligation or otherwise committed to provide further financial support.


The Company consolidates investments in which it holds, directly or indirectly, more than 50% of the voting rights or where it exercises control. There were no such investments during the periods presented.

Use of Estimates

In preparing these financial statements, management makes use of estimates concerning certain assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and certain revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Estimates, by their nature, are based on judgment and available information. Therefore, actual results could differ from those estimates and could have a material impact on the  financial statements, and it is possible that such changes could occur in the near term. Significant estimates and assumptions are used when accounting for certain items, such as but not limited to, valuation of securities, allowances for uncollectible accounts receivable, future obligations under employee benefit plans, useful lives of property and equipment, valuation allowances for deferred taxes and contingencies.

Foreign Currency and Convenience Translation


The accompanying financial statements are reported in Indian rupee (“INR” or “Rs.”). Indian rupee is the functional currency for the Company and its affiliates. Gains or losses resulting from foreign currency transactions are included in net income.

For the convenience of the reader, the financial statements as of and for the year ended March 31, 2008 have been translated into U.S. dollars (“US$”) at US$1.00 = Rs. 40.02 based on the noon buying rate on March 31, 2008 by the  Federal Reserve Bank of New York. Such translation should not be construed as representation that the rupee amounts have been or could be converted into U.S. dollars at that or any other rate, or at all. The convenience translation is unaudited.

Revenue Recognition

a) Proprietary Trading

Revenues from proprietary trading consist primarily of net trading income earned by the Company when trading as principal. Net trading income from proprietary trading represents trading gains net of trading losses. Proprietary revenue includes both realized and unrealized gains and losses. The profit and loss arising from all transactions entered into for the account and risk of the Company are recorded on a trade date basis. Proprietary trading revenue also includes market development fees which is earned for the efforts of the Company for development of securities market. Market development fee is recognized on an accrual basis when the right to receive is established.

Derivative financial instruments are used for trading purposes and carried at fair value. Market value for exchange-traded derivatives, principally futures and options is based on quoted market prices. The gains or losses on derivatives used for trading purposes are included in revenues from proprietary trading. Purchases and sales of derivative financial instruments are recorded on trade date. The transactions are recorded on a net basis when the legal right of offset exists.

b) Commission Income

Commission income is recognized on trade date basis as securities transactions occur. The Company reports commission income on transactions as revenue on gross basis and reports commissions paid to sub brokers as commission expense.

c) Distribution Income

The Company earns distribution income on distribution of initial public offerings, mutual funds and other securities on behalf of the lead managers of those offerings, mutual funds and other securities. The Company’s primary obligation is distribution and collection of the subscription forms through its sub-broker network for which it is compensated by the lead managers. It recognizes distribution income net of distribution revenues attributable to sub-brokers when significant obligations have been fulfilled and the right to recognize revenue has been established.

Securities Transactions

Securities owned consist of securities and derivative instruments used for trading purposes and for managing risk exposure in trading inventory. Proprietary security transactions are recorded on a trade date basis. Changes in fair value of securities (unrealized gains and losses) are recognized as proprietary transactions revenues in the current period.  

Marketable securities are valued at market value, based on quoted market prices and securities not readily marketable are valued at fair value as determined by management.


Investments


Equity securities held for purposes other than trading which do not have a readily determinable fair value, are accounted at cost or equity method of accounting subject to an impairment charge for any other than temporary decline in value.  The impairment is charged to income.  In order to determine whether a decline in value is other than temporary, the Company evaluates, among other factors, the duration and extent to which the value has been less than the carrying value, the financial condition of and business outlook for the investee, including key operational and cash flow indicators, current market conditions and future trends in the industry and the intent and ability of the Company to retain the investment for a period of time sufficient to allow for any anticipated recovery in value.  

Cash and Cash Equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents consist of cash and highly liquid investments with maturities of 90 days or less at the date of acquisition.

Property and Equipment

Property and equipment are carried at cost less accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is provided over estimated useful life using the straight line method. The estimated useful lives of assets are as follows:

Buildings

50 years

Equipment, vehicles and furniture

5 years

Computer hardware

3 years

Purchased Intangible Assets

Purchased intangible assets are amortized over their useful lives unless these lives are determined to be indefinite. Purchased intangible assets are carried at cost, less accumulated amortization. Amortization is computed over the estimated useful lives of three years using the straight-line method.

Impairment of Long-Lived Assets

Long-lived assets and certain identifiable intangible assets to be held and used are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of such assets may not be recoverable. Indefinite lived intangible assets are tested annually for impairment.  Determination of recoverability of long-lived assets and certain identifiable intangible assets is based on an estimate of undiscounted future cash flows resulting from the use of the asset and its eventual disposition. Measurement of an impairment loss for long-lived assets and certain identifiable intangible assets that management expects to hold and use is based on the fair value of the asset. Long-lived assets and certain identifiable intangible assets to be disposed of are reported at the lower of carrying amount or fair value less costs to sell.

Receivables and Payables

Customer Receivables and Payables


Customer securities transactions are recorded on a settlement date basis. Receivables from and payables to customers include amounts due on cash transactions, including derivative contracts transacted on behalf of the Company’s customers. Securities owned by customers, including those that collateralize margin or other similar transactions, are not reflected on the financial statements.


Brokers-Dealers, Exchange and Clearing Organisations Receivables and Payables


Amounts due from and due to other broker-dealers, exchange and clearing organizations include net receivables or payables arising from unsettled regular-way transactions, failed settlement transactions and commissions.  


Allowance for Doubtful Accounts

Management estimates an allowance for doubtful accounts to reserve for potential losses from unsecured and partially secured customer accounts deemed uncollectible. The facts and circumstances surrounding each receivable from customers and the number of shares, price and volatility of the underlying collateral are considered by management in determining the allowance. Management continually evaluates its receivables from customers for collectibility and possible write-off. The Company manages the credit risk associated with its receivables from customers through credit limits and continuous monitoring of collateral.

Membership in Exchanges

Exchange memberships owned by the Company are originally carried at cost. Adjustments to carrying value are made if the Company determines that an “other-than-temporary” decline in value has occurred. In determining whether the value of the exchange memberships the company owns are impaired (that is, fair market value is below cost) and whether such impairment is temporary or other-than-temporary, the Company consider many factors, including, but not limited to, information regarding recent sale and lease prices of exchange memberships, historical trends of sales prices of memberships, the current condition of the particular exchange’s market structure, legal and regulatory developments affecting the particular exchange’s market structure, trends in new listings on the particular exchange, general global and national economic factors and the Company’s knowledge and judgment of the securities market as a whole.

Advertising Costs

The Company expenses all advertising costs as incurred.

Employee Benefits

i) Provident Fund


In accordance with Indian law, employees are entitled to receive benefits under the Provident Fund, which is a defined contribution plan. Both the employee and the employer make monthly contributions to the plan at a predetermined rate (presently 12.0%) of the employees’ basic salary. These contributions are made to the fund administered and managed by the Government of India. The Company’s monthly contributions are charged to income in the period they are incurred.

The Company has no further obligations under the plan beyond its monthly contributions.


ii) Gratuity Plan


The Company has a defined benefit retirement plan (the “Gratuity Plan”) covering all its employees in India. The Gratuity Plan provides a lump sum payment to vested employees at retirement or termination of employment based on the respective employee's salary and years of employment with the Company.


The Company provides for the Gratuity Plan on the basis of actuarial valuation. All actuarial gains or losses are expensed off in the year in which they arise.


The funded status of the Company’s retirement related benefit plan is recognized in the balance sheet. The funded status is measured as the difference between the fair value of plan assets and the projected benefit obligation at March 31, the measurement date.

Income Taxes

In accordance with the provisions of SFAS 109, "Accounting for Income Taxes", income taxes are accounted for under the asset and liability method. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statements carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases and operating loss carry forwards. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in the statement of income in the period of enactment. Based on management’s judgment, the measurement of deferred tax assets is reduced, if necessary, by a valuation allowance for any tax benefits for which it is more likely than not that some portion or all of such benefits will not be realized.

Comprehensive Earnings

Comprehensive earnings for each of the three years in the period ended March 31, 2008, was equal to the Company’s net earnings.

Earnings Per Share

In accordance with the provisions of SFAS 128, "Earnings Per Share", basic earnings per share is computed on the basis of the weighted average number of shares outstanding during the year.  The Company does not have any dilutive securities and hence the basic and diluted earnings per share are same.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

In July 2006, the FASB issued Interpretation 48, Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes—an interpretation of FASB Statement 109 (“FIN 48”). The interpretation clarifies the accounting for uncertainty in income taxes recognized in a company's financial statements and prescribes a recognition threshold and measurement attribute for the financial statement recognition and measurement of a tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return. The interpretation also provides guidance on derecognition, classification, interest and penalties, accounting in interim periods, disclosure and transition. FIN 48 became effective beginning April 1, 2007 for us. The adoption of FIN 48 did not result in a cumulative effect adjustment to retained earnings as of April 1, 2007.


In September 2006, the FASB issued SFAS 157, Fair Value Measurements, which establishes a framework for measuring fair value in generally accepted accounting principles, and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. This Statement applies under other accounting pronouncements that require or permit fair value measurements. SFAS 157 is effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007, which is fiscal year commencing April 1, 2008 for us. The Company is in the process of evaluating the impact SFAS 157 will have on the financial statements.


In February 2007, the FASB issued FASB Statement 159, The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities ("SFAS 159"). SFAS 159 allows the company to choose to measure certain financial assets and financial liabilities at fair value. Unrealized gains and losses on items for which the fair value option has been elected are reported in earnings. SFAS 159 is effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007, which is fiscal year commencing April 1, 2008 for us. The Company in the process of evaluating the impact SFAS 159 will have on the Company’s financial statements.


In April 2007, the FASB issued FSP No. FIN 39-1, Amendment of FASB Interpretation No. 39 (“FSP FIN 39-1”). FSP FIN 39-1 modifies FIN No. 39, Offsetting of Amounts Related to Certain Contracts, and permits companies to offset cash collateral receivables or payables with net derivative positions. FSP FIN 39-1 is effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007 which is fiscal year commencing April 1, 2008 for us with early adoption permitted. The Company in the process of evaluating the impact  FSP FIN 39-1 will have on the Company’s financial statements.


In June 2007, the Accounting Standards Executive Committee of the AICPA issued Statement of Position 07-1, Clarification of the Scope of the Audit and Accounting Guide Investment Companies and Accounting by Parent Companies and Equity Method Investors for Investments in Investment Companies (“SOP 07-1”). The intent of SOP 07-1 is to clarify which entities are within the scope of the AICPA Audit and Accounting Guide, Investment Companies (the “Guide”). Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) has agreed to propose an indefinite delay of the effective dates of SOP 07-1. The Company in the process of evaluating the impact SOP 07-1 will have on the Company’s financial statements.

In December 2007, FASB issued SFAS No. 160, Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements – An Amendment of ARB No. 51 (SFAS 160). SFAS 160 establishes new accounting and reporting standards for the noncontrolling interest in a subsidiary and for the deconsolidation of a subsidiary. This Statement requires the recognition of a non-controlling interest as equity in the consolidated financial statements and separate from the parent’s equity. Purchases or sales of equity interests that do not result in a change in control will be accounted for as equity transactions. The company will be required to adopt this new Statement prospectively to all non-controlling interest, including any that arose before the effective date, for fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2008 which is fiscal year commencing April 1, 2009 for us. Early adoption is prohibited. The Company in the process of evaluating the imp act SFAS 160 will have on the Company’s financial statements.

In December 2007, FASB issued SFAS No. 141 (Revised 2007), Business Combinations (SFAS 141R). This Statement replaces SFAS No. 141, Business Combinations. SFAS 141R requires an acquirer to recognize the assets acquired, the liabilities assumed including contingencies and non-controlling interest in the acquiree, at the acquisition date, measured at their fair value, with limited exceptions specified in the statement. In a business combination achieved in stages, this Statement requires the acquirer to recognize the identifiable assets and liabilities as well as the non-controlling interest in the acquiree at full amounts of their fair values. This Statement requires the acquirer to recognize contingent consideration at the acquisition date, measured at its fair value at that date. The company will be required to apply this new Statement prospectively to business combinations consummated in fiscal years beginning after Decem ber 15, 2008 which is fiscal year commencing April 1, 2009 for us. Early adoption is prohibited.

In March 2008, FASB issued SFAS No. 161, Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities – An Amendment of FASB Statement No. 133 (SFAS 161). SFAS 161 requires enhanced disclosures on derivative and hedging activities by requiring objectives to be disclosed for using derivative instruments in terms of underlying risk and accounting designation. This Statement requires disclosures on the need of using derivative instruments, accounting of derivative instruments and related hedged items, if any, under SFAS 133 and effect of such instruments and related hedge items, if any, on the financial position, financial performance and cash flows. The company will be required to adopt this new Statement prospectively, for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2008 which is fiscal year commencing April 1, 2009 for us. The Company in the process of evaluating the impact SFAS 161 will have on the Company’s fin ancial statements.

3.

Deposits with Clearing Organizations and Others


SAM Global is a member of clearing organization at which it maintains cash on deposits required for the conduct of its day-to-day clearance activities. The Company also maintains deposits with its bankers as margin for credit facilities availed.


4.

Receivables from Exchange and Clearing Organizations


As of March 31,

2007

2008

2008

 

 

 

US $

Receivable from clearing organizations and exchange

15,751

56,004

1,399

Total

15,751

56,004

1,399


5.

Securities Owned


Securities consist of trading securities at market values, as follows:


As of March 31,

2007

2008

2008

 

 

 

US $

Equity shares

79

10,048

   251

Total

79

10,048

251


Securities consist of trading securities at fair value, as follows:


As of March 31,

2007

2008

2008

 

 

 

US $

Equity shares

1,000

25,000

625

Total

1,000

25,000

625


6.

Derivatives Held for Trading


These consist of exchange traded futures and options at market values, as follows:


As of March 31,

2007

2008

2008

 

 

 

US $

Exchange traded derivatives held for trading

275

9,370

234

Total

275

9,370

234


7.

Other Assets


Other assets consist of:


As of March 31,

2007

2008

2008

US $

Security deposits paid

394

6,317

158

Advance tax, net

10,894

62,083

1,552

Prepaid expenses

1,517

3,251

81

Interest accrued but not due

1,102

1,633

41

Employee receivables

120

249

6

Advances to suppliers

-

10,862

271

Total

14,027

84,395

2,109








Advance tax primarily includes taxes paid to Indian taxation authorities for income tax, net off amount of provision for income tax.


Prepaid expenses primarily include the un-expired portion of annual rentals paid for use of leased telecommunication lines, satellite link charges, insurance premiums and bank guarantee charges.


Security deposits primarily include deposits for electricity connections and assets taken on operating lease.


Advances to suppliers primarily includes amount paid as advance against advertisement expenses.


8.

Property and Equipment


Property and equipment consist of:

As of March 31,

2007

2008

2008

US $

Building

1,620

1,620

40

Equipment

2,034

7,551

189

Furniture and fixtures

505

18,786

469

Computer hardware

15,668

33,202

830

Vehicle

2,589

2,983

75

Total property and equipment

22,416

64,142

1,603

Less: Accumulated depreciation

11,832

18,992

475

Total property and equipment, net

10,584

45,150

1,128






Depreciation expense amounted to Rs. 3,754, Rs. 5,022 and Rs. 7,393 for the years ended March 31, 2006, 2007 and 2008 respectively.   


The gross carrying amounts of fully depreciated assets included in the overall balance of property and equipment above, which are still in active use were Rs. 1,971 and Rs. 8,174 as of March 31, 2007 and 2008.


9.

Intangible Assets


As of March 31,

2007

2008

2008

US $

Intangible assets subject to amortization

 

 

 

Software

7,945

12,489

312

Total intangible assets

7,945

12,489

312

Less: Accumulated  amortization

3,297

6,309

158

Total intangible assets, net

4,648

6,180

154

Intangible assets consist of:




Amortization expense amounted to Rs. 1,050, Rs.2, 043 and Rs. 3,012 for the years ended March 31, 2006, 2007 and 2008 respectively.   


The expected future annual amortization expense of intangible asset is as follows:


For the year ended March 31,

 

2009

3,113

2010

2,120

2011

947





10.

Overdraft Facilities


The Company’s debt financing is generally obtained through the use of overdraft facilities from banks. The interest rates on such borrowings reflect market rates of interest at the time of the transactions. The balance of these facilities was Rs. 54,627 and Rs. 74,296 at average effective interest rates of 12.7% and 12.5%, as of March 31, 2007 and March 31, 2008, respectively. Deposits have been placed by the Company with bankers to secure these debts. These deposits are classified in the balance sheet under “Deposits with clearing organizations and others”. Refer note 21 for assets pledged as collateral.


11.

Net Capital Requirements


SAM Global is subject to regulations of Securities and Exchange Board of India (“SEBI”) and BSE, which specifies minimum net capital requirements. The company is required to maintain net capital of Rs. 30,000. As the Company is operating in India, the net capital for these purpose is computed on the basis of the information contained in Company’s statutory books and records kept under accounting principles generally accepted in India. The Company submits periodic reports to the regulators. As of March 31, 2007 and 2008, the net capital as calculated in the periodic reports is mentioned below, which was in excess of its net capital requirement.


As of March 31,

2007

2008

2008

US $

Margin trading

261,329

484,736

12,112

Futures and options

284,540

457,484

11,431

Capital market

293,826

784,906

19,612





12.

Exchange, Clearing and Brokerage fees


As per regulations in India, specified securities transactions are liable for securities transaction tax (“STT”). The securities transactions tax in respect of proprietary trading amounted to Rs. 14,295, Rs. 55,463 and Rs. 256,542 for the years ended March 31, 2006, 2007 and 2008 respectively. Under the Indian Income Tax Act, the Company can set-off the amount paid for STT towards its liability for taxes on income arising from taxable securities transactions. STT which cannot be set off against taxes on income is charged to expense. STT charged to expense amounted to Rs. Nil, Rs. 813 and Rs. 109,545 for the years ended March 31, 2006, 2007 and 2008 respectively.  With effect from April 1, 2008 the income tax provision related to STT has been amended. The STT will be treated as an expense and will be deducted from income to determine taxable income.


13.

Revenue


Market development fees of Rs. Nil, Rs. 89,597 and Rs. 460,900 for years 2006, 2007 and 2008 is included in the proprietary trading. This amount is earned for the efforts of the Company for development of securities market pursuant to an agreement.


14.

Sale of shares in exchange


The Company tendered for sale 10,000 shares of BSE on March 3, 2007. 9,123 shares were

accepted and the sale was concluded in tranches from May 8 to 15, 2007. The net consideration received for the sale is Rs. 47,440 which resulted in a gain of Rs. 26,265. The Company continues to have trading rights in the BSE.


15.

Income Taxes


The provisions for income taxes consist of:


Year ended March 31,

2006

2007

2008

2008

US $

Domestic taxes

 

 

 

 

Current

18,233

60,523

155,415

3,883

Deferred

6,056

(4,414)

(3,623)

(91)

Aggregate taxes

24,289

56,109

151,792

3,792


A reconciliation of the income tax expense to the amount computed by applying the statutory income tax rate to income before income tax expense is summarized below:


Year ended March 31,

2006

2007

2008

2008

US $

Net income before taxes

77,233

185,736

408,193

10,199

Enacted tax rates in India

33.7%

33.7%

34.0%

 

Computed tax expense

25,996

62,518

138,744

3,466

Permanent differences

(11)

(22)

37,578

938

Rebate allowed under Indian Income tax act

(1,618)

(6,387)

(19,584)

(489)

Impact of different tax rate applicable on long term capital gain

-

-

(4,974)

(124)

Others

(78)

-

28

1

Income taxes recognized in the statement of income

24,289

56,109

151,792

3,792


Significant components of activities that gave rise to deferred tax assets and liabilities included in the financial statements are as follows:


As of March 31,

2007

2008

2008

US $

Deferred tax assets:

 

 

 

Provision for gratuity

247

613

15

Provision for doubtful debt

-

850

21

Deferred AMC charges

-

2,932

74

Others

80

979

24

Total deferred tax assets

327

5,374

134

 

 

 

 

Deferred tax liabilities:

 

 

 

Property and equipment

2,077

3,571

89

Revenue not recognized for tax purposes

70

-

-

Total deferred tax liabilities

2,147

3,571

89

Net deferred tax( liabilities)/Assets

(1,820)

1,803

45


The Company’s major tax jurisdiction is India. In India, the assessment is not yet completed for the financial year 2005-06 and onwards. The Company continues to recognize interest and penalties related to income tax matters as part of the income tax provision.  

   

16.

Investments


Investments consist of:


As of March 31,

2007

2008

2008

US $

Investments accounted for by equity method

6,808

7,422

185

Investments carried at cost

3,823

3,823

96

Total

10,631

11,245

281


As part of its corporate strategy and in the normal course of its business, the Company makes investments in the equity of companies which are engaged in businesses similar to Company’s core business.


SAM Global holds 9,400 shares, representing 26.8% interest in Pullin Investment Private Limited ("Pullin"). The Company accounts for its share of equity in earnings/ (losses) of Pullin under equity method of accounting. The carrying amount of equity investments without readily determinable market value is Rs 3,712.


SAM Global holds 12,000 shares, representing 26.8% interest in Abhichaya Investment Private Limited ("Abhichaya"). The Company accounts for its share of equity in earnings/ (losses) of Abhichaya under equity method of accounting. The carrying amount of equity investments without readily determinable market value is Rs. 3,710.


SAM Global holds 460,000 shares, representing 5.2% interest in SMC Global Securities Limited (‘SMC Global”). The Company accounts for its investment in SMC Global under cost method of accounting. The equity shares of SMC Global are listed but not actively traded at stock exchanges therefore the market rate is not available. The carrying amount of investment is Rs. 3,823 as of March 31, 2007 and 2008.


17.

Derivatives and Risk Management


The Company enters into exchange traded derivative contracts for trading purposes.  The Company generally enters into offsetting contracts to achieve economic hedges at prices that result in a profit spread for the Company. As of March 31, 2007 and 2008, the Company had outstanding derivative contracts with notional amounts of Rs. 34,653 and Rs. 348,155, respectively. The notional amount of a derivative contract does not change hands; it is simply used as a reference to calculate payments. Accordingly, the notional amount of the Company’s derivative contracts outstanding at March 31, 2007 and 2008 significantly exceeds the possible losses that could arise from such transactions. The fair values of outstanding derivative positions are as below:


As of March 31,

2007

2008

2008

US $

Derivative liabilities

275

9,370

234

Total

275

9,370

234


The Company receives collateral in connection with customer trades. Under the agreements with customers, the Company is permitted to use the securities for meeting margin/other obligation in stock exchange in whatever manner which may include pledging of shares in favour of bank and / or taking loan against the same. At March 31, 2007, the fair value of securities received as collateral under the agreements with customers was Rs. 588,586 and the fair value of the collateral that had been repledged was Rs. 27,951. At March 31, 2008, the fair value of securities received as collateral under the agreements with customers was Rs. 971,139 and the fair value of the collateral that had been repledged was Rs. 250,147.

(a)

Market Risk Arising from Trading Activities

Market risk is the risk that price changes could affect the value of the securities positions that arise from normal trading activity. Market risk increases when markets move sharply and volatility increases.


The Company's exposure to market risk is determined by a number of factors; including size, composition and diversification of positions held, market volatility and changes in interest and foreign exchange rates. The overall level of market risk from financial instruments is often limited by other financial instruments recorded on the balance sheet. Management actively monitors its market risk by reviewing the effectiveness of hedging strategies and setting market risk limits. The Company manages market risk with central oversight, analysis and formation of risk policy, specific maximum risk levels to which the individual trader must adhere and continuous monitoring by the senior management.

(b) Credit Risk

Credit risk that could result from counterparties default is limited for the Company’s operations that operate on regulated exchanges, since the settlement risk is essentially transferred to recognized clearing organizations. The Company’s business also includes clearing and executing trades for the accounts of customers. As such, the Company guarantees to the respective clearinghouse its customers' performance under these contracts. The Company provides clearing services of futures and options to other brokers.


The Company may require other brokers to deposit funds, thereby reducing risks associated with the clearing of futures and options. Additionally, to reduce its risk, the Company requires customers to meet, at a minimum, the margin requirements established by each of the exchanges at which the contract is traded. This margin is a deposit from the customer, which reduces the risk to the Company of failure on behalf of the customer to fulfill any obligation under the contract. To minimize its exposure to risk of loss due to market variation, the Company adjusts these margin requirements, as needed, due to daily fluctuations in the values of the underlying positions. If necessary, certain positions may be liquidated to satisfy resulting changes in margin requirements.

(c) Liquidity Risk

Liquidity risk relates to the Company’s capacity to finance security positions and liquidity requirements of exchanges and clearing organizations. The Company’s financial resources, relative to its capital employed, and the liquid nature of most of the instruments traded, limit this risk. In addition, the Company maintains credit facilities with commercial banks. At March 31, 2007 and 2008, the Company, with certain limitations, had access to Rs. 9,189 and Rs. 78,137 in unutilized bank borrowings and Rs. Nil and Rs. 270,000 in unutilized bank guarantees.

(d)

Compliance, Legal and Operational risks

The Company operates under significant regulatory and legal obligations imposed by local governments and securities regulators. The legal and regulatory obligations under which the Company operates relate, among other things, to their financial reporting, their trading activities, capital requirements and the supervision of their employees. Failure to fulfill legal or regulatory obligations can lead to fines, censure or disqualification of management and/or staff and other measures that could have negative consequences for the Company’s activities and financial performance. Certain violations could result in them losing their trading permissions. If that were to occur, the Company would lose its ability to carry out a portion of its existing activities, which could have a material effect on the Company’s financial statements.


See Note 28 (c) for an overview of pending regulatory and litigation matters.


18.

Employee Benefits


Gratuity Plan


The following table sets forth the status of the Gratuity Plan of SAM Global, and the amounts recognized in SAM Global’s balance sheets and statements of income.


As of March 31,

2006

2007

2008

2008

US $

Accumulated benefit obligation

353

618

807

20

Change in projected benefit obligation

 

 

 

 

Projected benefit obligation as of beginning of the year

330

667

970

24

Service cost

143

617

418

10

Interest cost

23

51

97

2

Actuarial loss/(gain)

171

(365)

1,227

31

Projected benefit obligation as of end of the year

667

970

2,712

67

Change in plan assets

 

 

 

 

Employer contribution

-

239

648

16

Fair value of plan assets as of end of the year

-

239

910

22

Funded status of plan

(667)

(731)

(1,802)

(45)

Accrued benefit cost

(667)

(731)

(1,802)

(45)


The components of net gratuity cost are reflected below:


Year ended March 31,

2006

2007

2008

2008

US $

Service cost

143

617

418

10

Interest cost

23

51

97

2

Amortization

171

(365)

1,227

31

Net gratuity costs

337

303

1,742

43


The assumptions used in accounting for the gratuity plans for the years ended March 31, 2006, 2007 and 2008 are set out below:


Weighted-average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations:


Year ended March 31,

2006

2007

2008

Discount rate

8.0%

10.0%

8.0%

Long term rate of compensation increase

8.0% for first 5 years and 6.0% thereafter

8.0% for first 5 years and 6.0% thereafter

7.0%


Weighted-average assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit obligations:


Year ended March 31,

2006

2007

2008

Discount rate

8.0%

10.0%

8.0%

Long term rate of compensation increase

8.0% for first 5 years and 6.0% thereafter

8.0% for first 5 years and 6.0% thereafter

7.0%

Expected rate of return on assets

-

7.5%

8.0%


SAM Global expects to contribute Rs. 900 to its Gratuity plan during the year ending March 31, 2009. The following benefit payments, which reflect expected future service, as appropriate, are expected to be paid:


For the year ended March 31,

 

2009

19

2010

25

2011

32

2012

92

2013

134

2014-2018

1,762




The group makes contributions to the gratuity plan operated by a large private life insurance company in India. At March 31, 2008, allocation of plan assets between equity and debt is 60:40. The management of the company evaluates the allocation percentage on a periodic basis and reallocates the percentage based on market conditions, risk factors etc. The discount rate is based on the Government securities yield.


Provident Fund

The Company’s contribution towards the provident fund amounted to Rs. 924, Rs. 1,085 and Rs. 1,834 for the years ended March 31, 2006, 2007 and 2008 respectively.


19.

Payable to Broker Dealers and clearing organization


As of March 31,

2007

2008

2008

US $

Payable to clearing organizations

-

1,762

44

Commission payable

-

7,991

200

Total

-

9,753

244


20.

Accounts Payable,  Accrued Expenses and Other Liabilities


As of March 31,

2007

2008

2008

US $

Accrued expenses

2,629

19,262

481

Deferred AMC charges

-

8,627

216

Provision for stamp duty

191

97

2

Provision for gratuity

731

1,802

45

Total

3,551

29,788

744





21.

Collateral and Significant Covenants


Amounts that the Company has pledged as collateral, which are not reclassified and reported separately, consist of the following:


As of March 31,

2007

2008

2008

US $

Fixed deposits

141,125

186,125

4,651

Total

141,125

186,125

4,651


These fixed deposits are classified in the balance sheet under “Deposits with clearing organizations and others”.


22.

Related Party Transactions


Significant related party transactions comprise of:


Year ended March 31,

2006

2007

2008

2008

US $

Services provided by SAM Global to:

 

 

 

 

Companies in which principal shareholders having not less than 10% shareholdings

6,396

8,511

2,103

53



Year ended March 31,

2006

2007

2008

2008

US $

Services received by SAM Global from:

 

 

 

 

Companies in which principal shareholders having not less than 10% shareholdings

-

-

1,204

30


       The balances receivable from and payable to related parties are as follows:


As of March 31,

2007

2008

2008

US $

Amounts due from related parties

 

 

 

Companies in which principal shareholders having not less than 10% shareholdings

67,087

612,827

15,313

Amounts due to related parties

 

 

 

Companies in which principal shareholders having not less than 10% shareholdings

341

17,237

431


The services between related parties pertain to commission income/expense on execution of trades. Amount due to/from related parties include funds transferred between the Company and related parties for offsetting customer balances pending cash settlement by the customer and balances for trades executed in the normal course of business. There is no change in the method of establishing the terms.


23.

Segment


The Company follows the provisions of SFAS 131 “Disclosures about Segments of an Enterprise and Related Information”. SFAS 131 establishes standards for reporting information regarding operating segments in annual financial statements and requires selected information for those segments to be presented in interim financial reports issued to stockholders. The Company operates in a single segment.


24.

Common Stock


The company has issued and allotted 1,730,026 common stock of face value Rs. 10 each at a premium of Rs. 139.7 to Millennium India Acquisition Company Inc., USA through private placement on preferential basis on January 21, 2008.


Incremental costs of Rs. 5,132 net of tax, directly attributable to the issue of new shares are deducted from additional paid in capital.


25.

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

Assets and liabilities for which fair value approximates carrying value: The fair values of certain financial assets and liabilities carried at cost, including cash and cash equivalents, receivables and payables from and to clearing organizations, broker-dealers and customers and accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities, approximate fair value due to their short-term nature.

Securities and trading liabilities: Fair values of trading assets and trading liabilities are the amounts recognized in the financial statements, which are based on market prices, where available. If quoted prices are not available, fair values are determined based on book value.

Borrowings: The carrying value of overdraft facilities approximates fair value due to the fact that interest rates are comparable with market rates.

26.

Concentration


The following table gives details in respect of percentage of commission income generated from top two, five and ten customers:


Year ended March 31,

(in %)

2006

2007

2008

Revenue from top two customers

4.5%

      5.2%

      2.5%

Revenue from top five customers

7.8%

      7.6%

      4.7%

Revenue from top ten customers

10.8%

   10.4%

   6.5%


27.

Dividend


Final dividend proposed by the Board of Directors is payable when formally declared by the shareholders, who have the right to decrease but not increase the amount of the dividend recommended by the Board of Directors. The Board of Directors can declare interim dividends without the need for shareholders’ approval.  


Dividend payable to equity shareholders are based on the net income available for distribution as reported in the Company’s financial statements prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in India (Indian GAAP).  Dividends are declared and paid in Indian rupees.  Net income in accordance with US GAAP may, in certain years, either not be fully available or will be additionally available for distribution to equity shareholders. Under Indian GAAP the retained earnings available for distribution to equity shareholders, subject to certain restrictions was Rs. 63,645, Rs 203,508 and Rs. 459,930 as of March 31, 2006, 2007 and 2008 respectively.


Under the Indian Companies Act, dividends may be paid out of the profits of a company in the year in which the dividend is declared or out of the unconsolidated undistributed profits of previous fiscal years. Before declaring a dividend greater than 10.0% of the par value of its equity shares, a company is required to transfer to its reserves a minimum percentage of its profits for that year, ranging from 2.5% to 10.0%, depending on the dividend percentage to be declared in such year.


28.

Commitments and Contingent Liabilities


a) Operating Leases


SAM Global has certain operating leases for office premises. Rental expenses for operating leases are accounted for on a straight line method. Rental expense amounted to Rs. 1,813, Rs.1,588 and Rs. 7,702 on for the years ended March 31, 2006, 2007 and 2008 respectively. There are no non-cancelable lease arrangements.


b) Guarantees


As of March 31, 2007 and 2008, guarantees of Rs 200,000 and Rs. 410,000 are provided by various banks to exchange clearing houses on behalf of the Company, in the ordinary course of business, as a security for due performance and fulfillment by the Company of its commitments and obligations.


As of March 31, 2007 and 2008, the Company has provided corporate guarantees of Rs. 146,500 and Rs. 200,000 to banks for guarantees issued by banks for SMC Comtrade Limited to exchange clearing houses, in the ordinary course of business.


As of March 31, 2007 and 2008, the Company has provided corporate guarantees of Rs. 815,000 and Rs. 1,050,000 to banks for guarantees issued by banks for SMC Global Securities Limited to exchange clearing houses, in the ordinary course of business.


The initial term of these guarantees is generally for a period of 12 to 15 months. The bankers charge commission as consideration to issue the guarantees, the commission charged generally is in the range of 1.0% to 1.3% of the guarantee amount, The Company recognizes commission expense over the period of the guarantee. The unamortized commission expense is included in prepaid expenses and classified in the balance sheet under “other assets”. The potential requirement for the Company to make payments under these agreements is remote. Thus, no liability has been recognized for these transactions. The fair value of the guarantees is considered to be insignificant given the risk of loss on such guarantees at the date of its inception and, therefore, no amount was recognized towards fair value of guarantees given in the financial statements on the inception date.


c) Litigation


The Company is involved, from time to time, in investigations and proceedings by governmental and regulatory agencies, certain of which may result in adverse judgments, fines or penalties. Factors considered by management in estimating the Company’s reserves for these matters are the merits of the claims, the total cost of defending the litigation, the likelihood of a successful defense against the claims, and the potential for fines and penalties from regulatory agencies. The Company establishes reserves for potential losses to the extent that such matters are probable and can be estimated, in accordance with SFAS 5, “Accounting for Contingencies.” As litigation and the resolution of regulatory matters are inherently unpredictable, the Company cannot predict with certainty the ultimate loss or range of loss related to matters where there is only a reasonable possibility that a loss may be incurred. The Company believes, based on current k nowledge and after consultation with legal counsel, that the resolution of loss contingencies will not have a material adverse effect on the financial statements of the Company.



Show Cause Notice (“SCN”) dated November 23, 2004, December 6, 2004 and November 17, 2006 from SEBI


There was a sharp fall in the Indian stock market on May 17, 2004. SEBI alleged that sale transactions of SAM Global on this day had significant impact on lowering the price of significant number of the selected scrips and Nifty Futures on a large number of occasions and the sell orders placed by it appear to have added to the momentum of such fall and aggravated the market crisis.

In addition to the aforesaid allegations, SEBI has alleged certain other irregularities, pursuant to inspections conducted on SAM Global.


SEBI had asked the Company to show cause as to why appropriate action under SEBI Act and Regulations should not be taken against the Company.


The Company has submitted its response, denying the allegations. The Company has submitted that it has carried out bonafide transactions and followed rules and regulations in respect of dealings on May 17, 2004. There was no motive behind the Company’s transactions to artificially depress the prices of securities. The other irregularities alleged are not sustainable and even in cases when these exist; the lapses were nominal and administrative in nature. SEBI has not responded to the Company in this regard. The company filed an application for consent before SEBI in September 2007. The terms of consent proposes abatement of proceeding against the company on payment of specified monetary amount.


29.

Subsequent Events


a) The Board of Directors of the Company passed a resolution on April 18, 2008 for the amalgamation of SAM Global Securities Limited (“SAM”) with SMC Global Securities Limited (“SMC”). The Board of Directors of SMC also approved the resolution of amalgamation.


Under the scheme of amalgamation prepared under sections 391 and 394 and other applicable provisions of the Companies Act in India, the shareholders of SAM will receive one equity share of the face value of Rs. 10 each of SMC for every six fully paid up shares of SAM. The scheme will require approval of shareholders/creditors of companies, stock exchanges where the shares of the Company are listed, Securities and Exchange Board of India and other regulatory authorities. Under the Companies Act in India, the scheme will require the consent of High Court of Delhi in order to be effective.


b) The Company has issued and allotted 251,359 common stock of face value of Rs. 10 each at a premium of Rs. 467.1 to Bennett, Coleman & Co. Limited through private placement on preferential basis on May 5, 2008. Simultaneously, the Company entered into an advertising agreement with Bennett, Coleman & Co. under which it paid the amount received for shares as advance to be utilized against advertisements.




EX-99.3 4 pressrelease.htm GemCom, LLC



MILLENNIUM INDIA ACQUISITION COMPANY ANNOUNCES RESULTS   OF SMC GROUP FOR YEAR-ENDED MARCH 31, 2008


·

Revenues for SMC Group Increased 66.8% to $57.1 million

·

SMC Group’s Earnings Before Income Taxes Increased 30.7% to $22.4 million

·

Total number of SMC branches Increased 57% to 1260.

·

Total number of SMC Customers Increased 75% to 450,000

·

Awarded  “Fastest Growing Retail Network – 2008” in India, by Business Sphere


New York – July 3, 2008 – Millennium India Acquisition Company, Inc. (“MIAC”) (NASDAQ: SMCG) today announced US GAAP results for the year ended March 31, 2008 for SMC Group of Companies (“SMC Group”).


For the fiscal year ended March 31, 2008, SMC Group announced total revenues of approximately $57.1 million (Rs. 2,286 million), Earnings Before Income Taxes of $22.4 million (Rs. 898.3 million), and Net Income of approximately $15.5 million (Rs 620.6 million) on a combined basis. For the year ended March 31 2007, US GAAP revenues were approximately $34.2 million (Rs. 1,370.5 million), Earnings Before Income Taxes were $17.2 million (Rs. 687.4 million) and Net Income was approximately $12.6 million (Rs 504.8 million) on a combined basis. SMC Group recorded growth in revenues of 66.8% and growth in Earnings Before Income Taxes of 30.7%. SMC Comtrade was consolidated into SMC on April 26, 2007.


The combined financial information for SMC Group set forth in this release contains combined financial information for SMC Global, SAM Global and SMC Comtrade. This information is derived from financial information prepared under US GAAP for these companies. The amounts for fiscal year 2007 pertain to the full fiscal year for all three companies. The amounts for fiscal year 2008 include SMC Global and SAM Global for the full fiscal year and SMC Comtrade from the date of acquisition. The compilation is not a  measure prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) and is unaudited.


The SMC Group publishes its financial information in Indian Rupees.  All translations from Indian Rupees to U.S. dollars are made on the basis of an exchange rate of Rs. 40.2 = U.S.$1.00 and are made solely for the convenience of the reader.


As part of its rapid growth, SMC Group reported an increase in trading volume, recording an average of 254,000 trades per day for FY 2008 compared to an average of 130,000 trades per day for FY 2007. SMC Group also reported a 130% increase in trading turnover: $ 250 billion for FY 2008 compared with $ 109 billion, for FY 2007.


Subhash Chand Aggarwal, Chairman of SMC Group, said “SMC Group grew significantly during the last year, despite a challenging financial business environment in India. With revenues and the number of customers we serve both growing over 70%, we expanded our market share in businesses we are market leaders in today such as equities and commodities broking, while also strengthening our foundation for new businesses we are getting into which have potential for solid growth in India. Furthermore, we have a strong balance sheet, healthy cash position, and no exposure to the mortgage and credit-related issues affecting many financial institutions around the world. With solid growth this year and the investment capital received from MIAC in January 2008, we are well positioned to further expand our business. We remain enthusiastic about our growth prospects for the remainder of the year and beyond, especially as the Indi an government has committed to opening up the financial sector and making it the next growth engine for the Indian economy.”  


F. Jacob Cherian, Chairman and CEO of MIAC added, “SMC Group continues to demonstrate impressive growth and is already one of the largest players in the financial sector in India. With the Indian government projecting GDP growth exceeding 8.5% for the coming year, and the rapidly expanding financial sector, SMC Group will continue to grow its business by capitalizing on its comprehensive infrastructure and technology, adding new products and services, and expanding its retail distribution and customer network. Through our innovative structure and our listing on NASDAQ, we offer US investors a convenient way to participate in this high growth.”


In addition to strong revenue and income growth, SMC Group also reported an increase in the number of branches, cities covered and customers served. As of March 31, 2008, SMC:

·

Increased retail distribution network to 1,260 branches compared with 803 branches as of March 31, 2007

·

Increased nationwide presence to 325 cities compared with 208 cities as of March 31, 2007

·

Increased customers: serves the financial needs of 450,000 investors compared with 256,000 investors as of March 31, 2007

·

Ranked 5th largest retail distribution in India, Prime Data rankings (2008)


Augmenting its market leading position, SMC also experienced rapid growth in fiscal 2008 in some new focus areas including:

·

Distribution of financial products and services: Revenues close to doubled compared to fiscal 2007, as SMC leveraged its branch network to cross-sell products including mutual funds, IPOs, and insurance to existing clients. The size of SMC’s highly trained nationwide financial adviser network grew from 6,000 to 7,500

·

Online trading: Began offering online trading thorough its state-of-the-art online trading portal, adding 15,000 clients during fiscal 2008, compared with a total of 1,000 customers in fiscal 2007. With India having the worlds youngest population, online trading is one of the fastest growing segments, and SMC is focused on leveraging its state-of-the-art technology to grow exponentially in this area

·

Institutional business: Added 15 new institutional customers in fiscal 2008, including major banks and financial institutions. With managed assets growing rapidly in India (projected to grow from $170 billion to $1 trillion by 2015, BCG research), SMC is focused on increasing penetration in institutional business


To maintain this high pace of growth and also to lay the foundation for new business opportunities, SMC Group invested significantly in infrastructure in fiscal 2008, compared to previous years, attracting quality staff, expanding locations, improving technology, and adding new products and services. In particular, due to the fast growth in the retail network yielding customer growth of 75%, SMC was privileged to be awarded “Fastest Growing Retail Network – 2008” in India by Business Sphere.


Mahesh Chand Gupta, Co-Founder and Vice-Chairman of SMC Group, said “Our vision is to remain amongst the top retail diversified financial services companies based in India. During fiscal 2008, our expenses grew as we invested in expanding our infrastructure. This impacted our net income in the short-term but allowed us to strengthen our abilities to sustain our high rate of growth, yielding profits for the future. SMC Group now has leading edge trading platforms capable of handling trading turnover in excess of $350 billion a year, supporting customers in over 325 cities. We are also laying the foundation for developing a platform to support a new Wealth Management Business, and providing services such as margin funding, and are considering acquisition of a Non-Bank Finance Company (NBFC) to serve as a platform for entering into this high growth area.”


Suhel Kanuga, President & CFO of MIAC added, “Despite challenging conditions, the strong growth of SMC Group during this past year is a testimony to the solid business model, experienced management team, and its leading position in the under penetrated financial sector of India. Additionally, Bennett Coleman’s purchase of a 2.098% equity stake in SMC Group, which closed successfully after meeting all required approvals, at an enterprise value of approximately $875 million  (Rs 3,500 crore), further validates our view on the value of the SMC franchise and its experienced management team.”  


About MIAC

As of March 31, 2008 MIAC’s principal asset is its ownership of a 14.75% equity interest in each of SMC Global Securities Limited ("SMC") and SAM Global Securities Limited ("SAM").  SMC and SAM are referred to herein as the SMC Group. Following the Bennett Coleman transaction, which closed in March 2008 with Bennett Coleman acquiring a 2.098% equity stake in SMC Group, MIAC’s stake is now 14.44%.


About SMC Group

Based in New Delhi, SMC Group is a full service financial services firm. Its products and services include institutional and retail brokerage, equity and commodity research, equity, commodity and derivative trading, on-line trading services, merchant banking, investment banking, custodial services, clearing services, and distribution of mutual funds, IPOs and insurance products. For the year ended March 31, 2008, it was one of the most active trading firms in India, averaging over 250,000 trades per day and handled over $250 billion in customer transactions. SMC Group continues to grow, and has one of the largest retail investor network in India today, serving the needs of a total of 450,000 investors presently, having added 200,000 customers in FY08. The retail distribution footprint in India has expanded as well, adding 457 locations, taking the total to 1,260 locations in FY08. Currently, SMC Group has approximatel y 1,800 employees and a rapidly expanding retail distribution network of more than 7,500 independent financial advisors, in over 325 cities across the India. More information regarding the SMC Group can be found at www.smcindiaonline.com.

About Bennnett Coleman

Bennett Coleman & Co. is a leading media, finance and investment company in India, and owns some of the leading publications in India, including The Times of India and The Economic Times. Bennett Coleman is also an investor in leading Indian companies, and has an investment portfolio of over 650 investments currently.

_______________________

The non-GAAP measures contained in this press release have not been prepared  in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, should not be used as an alternate for GAAP measures, and may be different from non-GAAP measures used by other companies. In addition, these non-GAAP measures are not based on any comprehensive set of accounting rules or principles. MIAC believes that non-GAAP measures have limitations in that they do not reflect all of the amounts associated with SMC Group’s results of operations as determined in accordance with GAAP and that these measures should only be used to evaluate SMC Group’s results of operations in conjunction with the corresponding GAAP measures.MIAC believes that combining the financial information of SMC Global and SAM Global provides useful information to investors as MIAC has an equal equity stake in both companies.


Reconciliation:


Fiscal year ended March 31, 2008 (in thousands of U.S. dollars)

 

 

 

 

 

 

SMC Global

SAM Global

 

 

Total

Revenue

          36,152

       20,970

 

 

       57,122

EBIT

          12,245

       10,200

 

 

       22,445

Net Income

            9,086

         6,422

 

 

       15,508


 

 

 

 

 

Fiscal year ended March 31, 2007 (in thousands of U.S. dollars)

 

SMC Global

SAM Global

SMC Comtrade

 

Total

Revenue

          16,277

         9,782

              8,186

 

       34,245

EBIT

            6,573

         4,641

              5,963

 

       17,177

Net Income*

            6,326

         3,404

              4,804

             (1,922)

       12,612

 

 

 

 

 

*Adjusted to reflect 40% of income from SMC Comtrade aleady included in the income for SMC Global, reflecting SMC Global’s 40% equity stake in SMC Comtrade as of March 31, 2007.


Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information


This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 about MIAC and SMC Group.Statements in this press release that are not statements of historical or current fact constitute forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other unknown factors that could cause the actual results of MIAC to be materially different from the historical results or from any future results expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. In addition to statements which explicitly describe such risks and uncertainties, readers are urged to consider statements labeled with the terms "believes", "belief," "expects," 'intends," "anticipates," "plans," or similar terms to be uncertain and forward-looking. The forward-looking statements contain ed herein are also subject generally to other risks and uncertainties that are described from time to time in MIAC's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The information set forth herein should be read in light of such risks. Additionally, any information of SMC Group and Bennett Coleman is provided by SMC Group and any financial information of SMC Group is prepared by SMC Group and derived from financial statements prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. Such financial information does not conform to the requirements of Regulation S-X under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.  Statements included in this press release are based upon information known to MIAC as of the date of this press release, and MIAC assumes no obligation to update or alter our forward-looking statements made in this press release, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as otherwise required by applicable federal securities laws.



*  *  *  *  * *


Investor Relations Contact:

Alan Sheinwald

Alliance Advisors, LLC.

Tel:   914-669-0222

Email: asheinwald@allianceadvisors.net





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