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TABLE OF CONTENTS
IFM INVESTMENTS LIMITED INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 20-F
(Mark One) | ||
o |
REGISTRATION STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(B) OR 12(G) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 |
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OR |
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ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(D) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 |
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For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2013. |
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OR |
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o |
TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(D) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 |
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For the transition period from to . |
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OR |
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SHELL COMPANY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(D) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 |
Date of event requiring this shell company report.
Commission file number: 001-34598
IFM Investments Limited
(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)
N/A
(Translation of Registrant's name into English)
Cayman Islands
(Jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)
26/A, East Wing
Hanwei Plaza No. 7, Guanghua Road, Chaoyang District
Beijing 100004, People's Republic of China
(Address of principal executive offices)
Donald Zhang
26/A, East Wing
Hanwei Plaza No. 7, Guanghua Road, Chaoyang District
Beijing 100004, People's Republic of China
Phone: (86 10) 6561-7788
Facsimile: (86 10) 6561-3321
(Name, Telephone, E-mail and/or Facsimile number and Address of Company Contact Person)
Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Title of Each Class | Name of each exchange on which registered | |
---|---|---|
American Depositary Shares, each representing forty-five Class A ordinary shares, par value US$0.001 per share. |
New York Stock Exchange |
Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:
None
(Title of Class)
Securities for which there is a reporting obligation pursuant to Section 15(d) of the Act:
None
(Title of Class)
Indicate the number of outstanding shares of each of the Issuer's classes of capital or common stock as of the close of the period covered by the annual report.
As of December 31, 2013, we had 668,758,876 ordinary shares, par value US$0.001 per share. As of April 18, 2014, the latest practicable date, we had 669,232,591 ordinary shares, par value US$0.001 per share.
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Yes o No ý
If this report is an annual or transition report, indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Yes o No ý
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant: (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports) and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes ý No o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Website, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yes ý No o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, or a non-accelerated filer. See definition of "accelerated filer and large accelerated filer" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):
Large accelerated filer o | Accelerated filer o | Non-accelerated filer ý |
Indicate by check mark which basis of accounting the registrant has used to prepare the financial statements included in this filing:
U.S. GAAP ý
International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board o
Other o
If "other" has been checked in response to the previous question, indicate by check mark which financial statement item the registrant has elected to follow.
Item 17 o Item18 o
If this is an annual report, indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes o No ý
(APPLICABLE ONLY TO ISSUERS INVOLVED IN BANKRUPTCY PROCEEDINGS DURING THE PAST FIVE YEARS)
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has filed all documents and reports required to be filed by Sections 12, 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 subsequent to the distribution of securities under a plan confirmed by a court. Yes o No o
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CONVENTIONS WHICH APPLY TO THIS FORM
Unless otherwise indicated, references in this annual report on Form 20-F to:
Unless otherwise indicated, references to our principal subsidiaries in this annual report on Form 20-F are specified as follows:
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This annual report contains translations of certain Renminbi amounts into U.S. dollars at specified rates. Unless otherwise stated, the translation of Renminbi into U.S. dollars has been made at the rate in effect on December 31, 2013, which was RMB6.0537 to US$1.00, the noon buying rate in New York City for cable transfers of Renminbi per U.S. dollar as set forth in the H.10 statistical release of the Federal Reserve Board of the United States. We make no representation that the Renminbi or U.S. dollar amounts referred to in this annual report could have been or could be converted into U.S. dollars or Renminbi, as the case may be, at any particular rate or at all.
This annual report contains references to compound annual growth rate, which represents the rate of return on an annualized basis over the relevant time period.
CENTURY 21® is a registered trademark owned by a subsidiary of Realogy Corporation, or Realogy.
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This annual report on Form 20-F contains forward-looking statements that relate to future events, including our future operating results and conditions, our prospects and our future financial performance and condition. These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, including those listed under "Item 3. Key InformationD. Risk Factors," which may cause our actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performances or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements.
Forward-looking statements typically are identified by words or phrases such as "may," "will," "expect," "anticipate," "aim," "estimate," "intend," "plan," "believe," "potential," "continue," "is/are likely to" or other similar expressions or the negative of these words or expressions. We have based these forward-looking statements largely on our current expectations and projections about future events and financial trends that we believe may affect our financial condition, results of operations, business strategy and financial needs. These forward-looking statements include, among other things, statements relating to:
The forward-looking statements made in this annual report on Form 20-F relate only to events or information as of the date on which the statements are made in this annual report. Except as required by law, we undertake no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, after the date on which the statements are made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. You should read thoroughly this annual report and the documents that we refer to in this annual report with the understanding that our actual future results may be materially different from and worse than what we expect. We qualify all of our forward-looking statements by these cautionary statements.
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Item 1. IDENTITY OF DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND ADVISORS
Not Applicable.
Item 2. OFFER STATISTICS AND EXPECTED TIMETABLE
Not Applicable.
A. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
The following selected consolidated financial information and operating data for the periods and as of the dates indicated should be read in conjunction with our audited consolidated financial statements and related notes and "Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects" included elsewhere in this annual report. Our selected consolidated statements of operations data for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2012 and 2013 and selected consolidated balance sheet data as of December 31, 2012 and 2013 have been derived from our audited consolidated financial statements, which are included elsewhere in this annual report. Our selected consolidated statements of operations data for the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2010 and selected consolidated balance sheet data as of December 31, 2009, 2010 and 2011 have been derived from our financial statements not included in this annual report. Our audited consolidated financial statements have been prepared and presented in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, or
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U.S. GAAP. The historical results are not necessarily indicative of results to be expected in any future period.
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For the Years Ended December 31, | ||||||||||||||||||
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2009 | 2010 | 2011 | 2012 | 2013 | ||||||||||||||
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RMB |
RMB |
RMB |
RMB |
RMB |
(US$)(1) |
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(in thousands, except per share and per ADS data) |
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Statements of Operations Data: |
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Revenue |
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Net revenues |
651,656 | 530,829 | 604,559 | 748,133 | 877,451 | 144,945 | |||||||||||||
Costs and Expenses |
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Commissions and other agent-related costs |
(289,146 | ) | (318,872 | ) | (428,920 | ) | (455,282 | ) | (562,436 | ) | (92,908 | ) | |||||||
Operating costs |
(119,605 | ) | (199,670 | ) | (296,652 | ) | (175,330 | ) | (184,393 | ) | (30,460 | ) | |||||||
Selling, general and administrative expenses |
(101,421 | ) | (176,271 | ) | (218,110 | ) | (177,475 | ) | (234,065 | ) | (38,665 | ) | |||||||
Goodwill impairment losses |
| | (30,614 | ) | (10,755 | ) | (20,384 | ) | (3,367 | ) | |||||||||
Net change in fair value |
| | 25,716 | 11,989 | 22,069 | 3,646 | |||||||||||||
Total costs and expenses |
(510,172 | ) | (694,813 | ) | (948,580 | ) | (806,853 | ) | (979,209 | ) | (161,754 | ) | |||||||
Income (loss) from operations |
141,484 | (163,984 | ) | (344,021 | ) | (58,720 | ) | (101,758 | ) | (16,809 | ) | ||||||||
Interest income |
2,244 | 6,685 | 5,845 | 2,324 | 4,162 | 688 | |||||||||||||
Other income |
| 9,350 | 2,086 | 6,497 | 7,360 | 1,216 | |||||||||||||
Foreign currency exchange loss |
(496 | ) | (12,161 | ) | (5,713 | ) | (19 | ) | (113 | ) | (19 | ) | |||||||
Income (loss) before income tax and share of associates' losses |
143,232 | (160,110 | ) | (341,803 | ) | (49,918 | ) | (90,349 | ) | (14,924 | ) | ||||||||
Income tax |
(8,275 | ) | (2,985 | ) | (1,103 | ) | (2,713 | ) | 2,332 | 385 | |||||||||
Share of associates' (losses)/income |
(162 | ) | (605 | ) | 2,496 | 2,547 | 2,074 | 343 | |||||||||||
Net income (loss) |
134,795 | (163,700 | ) | (340,410 | ) | (50,084 | ) | (85,943 | ) | (14,196 | ) | ||||||||
Net (income) loss attributable to non-controlling interests |
246 | 1,462 | 3,895 | (3,427 | ) | 2,923 | 483 | ||||||||||||
Net income (loss) attributable to IFM Investments Limited |
135,041 | (162,238 | ) | (336,515 | ) | (53,511 | ) | (83,020 | ) | (13,713 | ) | ||||||||
Net income (loss) per share: |
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Basic |
0.21 | (0.25 | ) | (0.50 | ) | (0.08 | ) | (0.12 | ) | (0.02 | ) | ||||||||
Diluted |
0.20 | (0.25 | ) | (0.50 | ) | (0.08 | ) | (0.12 | ) | (0.02 | ) | ||||||||
Net income (loss) per ADS:(2) |
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Basic |
9.34 | (11.24 | ) | (22.66 | ) | (3.61 | ) | (5.59 | ) | (0.92 | ) | ||||||||
Diluted |
9.19 | (11.24 | ) | (22.66 | ) | (3.61 | ) | (5.59 | ) | (0.92 | ) | ||||||||
Weighted average number of ordinary shares used in per share calculations: |
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Basic |
260,000 | 654,637 | 668,291 | 667,672 | 668,198 | 668,198 | |||||||||||||
Diluted |
264,396 | 654,637 | 668,291 | 667,672 | 668,198 | 668,198 |
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As of December 31, | ||||||||||||||||||
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2009 | 2010 | 2011 | 2012 | 2013 | ||||||||||||||
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RMB |
RMB |
RMB |
RMB |
RMB |
(US$)(1) |
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(In thousands) |
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Balance Sheet Data: |
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Cash and cash equivalents |
334,589 | 520,647 | 235,450 | 191,048 | 145,610 | 24,053 | |||||||||||||
Time deposits |
| 120,000 | | | | | |||||||||||||
Restricted cash |
28,784 | 32,498 | 10,997 | 18,036 | 13,235 | 2,186 | |||||||||||||
Accounts receivable, net |
61,938 | 50,599 | 97,090 | 176,287 | 168,872 | 27,896 | |||||||||||||
Loans receivable, net |
| 12,732 | 37,511 | 35,229 | 121,133 | 20,010 | |||||||||||||
Amount due from related parties |
386 | 1,710 | 71 | 110 | 142 | 23 | |||||||||||||
Property and equipment, net |
41,181 | 78,330 | 62,513 | 40,832 | 33,434 | 5,523 | |||||||||||||
Intangible assets, net |
27,825 | 34,888 | 95,827 | 90,253 | 84,747 | 13,999 | |||||||||||||
Total assets |
543,834 | 958,542 | 725,062 | 734,668 | 738,263 | 121,952 | |||||||||||||
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities |
130,668 | 163,036 | 150,502 | 217,694 | 328,034 | 54,186 | |||||||||||||
Total liabilities |
157,340 | 204,845 | 243,711 | 301,640 | 390,702 | 64,539 | |||||||||||||
Convertible redeemable preferred shares |
518,318 | | | | | | |||||||||||||
Class A ordinary shares (260,000, 608,793, 667,672, 667,672 and 668,759 shares issued and outstanding as of December 31, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012 and 2013, respectively) |
2,152 | 4,533 | 4,939 | 4,939 | 4,946 | 817 | |||||||||||||
Class B ordinary shares (80,503 shares issued and outstanding as of December 31, 2010; no shares outstanding as of December 31, 2009, 2011, 2012 and 2013, respectively) |
| 550 | | | | | |||||||||||||
Total shareholders' (deficit) equity |
(131,824 | ) | 753,697 | 415,170 | 363,598 | 280,400 | 46,319 |
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For the Years Ended or as of December 31, |
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2011 | 2012 | 2013 | |||||||
Other Financial and Operating Data: |
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Company-owned brokerage services |
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Net revenues (in thousands of RMB) |
513,375 | 623,927 | 691,343 | |||||||
Average number of operating sales offices(1) |
517 | 326 | 300 | |||||||
Average monthly net revenues per operating sales office (in thousands of RMB) |
82.7 | 159.5 | 192.0 | |||||||
Primary and Commercial Services(2) |
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Net revenues (in thousands of RMB) |
44,735 | 85,115 | 137,333 | |||||||
Aggregate gross floor area of properties sold (in thousand square meters) |
224 | 444 | 545 | |||||||
Mortgage management services |
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Net revenues (in thousands of RMB) |
22,903 | 25,686 | 36,788 | |||||||
Amount of referred home mortgage and home equity loans (in thousands of RMB) |
2,842,539 | 2,860,512 | 3,851,138 | |||||||
Average entrusted and mortgage credit loan balance outstanding (in thousands of RMB) |
39,950 | 41,490 | 72,131 | |||||||
Franchise services |
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Net revenues (in thousands of RMB) |
23,546 | 13,405 | 11,987 | |||||||
Number of regional sub-franchisors as of year-end |
28 | 25 | 23 |
EXCHANGE RATE INFORMATION
Our business is primarily conducted in China, and all of our revenues and expenses are denominated in Renminbi. Unless otherwise noted, all translations from Renminbi to U.S. dollars have been made at a rate of RMB6.0537 to US$1.00, the noon buying rate in New York City for cable transfers of Renminbi per U.S. dollar as set forth in the H.10 statistical release of the Federal Reserve Board of the United States on December 31, 2013. We do not represent that Renminbi or U.S. dollar amounts could be converted into U.S. dollars or Renminbi, as the case may be, at any particular rate, the rates below or at all.
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The following table sets forth information concerning exchange rates between the Renminbi and the U.S. dollar for the periods indicated. These rates are provided solely for your convenience and will not be used in the preparation of our periodic reports or any other information to be provided to you.
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Exchange Rate(1) | ||||||||||||
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Period
|
End | Average(2) | Low | High | |||||||||
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(RMB per US$1.00) |
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2009 |
6.8259 | 6.8295 | 6.8470 | 6.8176 | |||||||||
2010 |
6.6000 | 6.7603 | 6.8330 | 6.6000 | |||||||||
2011 |
6.2939 | 6.4475 | 6.6364 | 6.2939 | |||||||||
2012 |
6.2301 | 6.2990 | 6.3879 | 6.2221 | |||||||||
2013 |
6.0537 | 6.1412 | 6.2438 | 6.0537 | |||||||||
October |
6.0943 | 6.1032 | 6.1209 | 6.0815 | |||||||||
November |
6.0922 | 6.0929 | 6.0993 | 6.0903 | |||||||||
December |
6.0537 | 6.0738 | 6.0927 | 6.0537 | |||||||||
2014 |
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January |
6.0590 | 6.0509 | 6.0600 | 6.0402 | |||||||||
February |
6.1448 | 6.0816 | 6.1448 | 6.0591 | |||||||||
March |
6.2164 | 6.1729 | 6.2273 | 6.1183 | |||||||||
April (through April 18) |
6.2240 | 6.2121 | 6.2240 | 6.1966 |
B. CAPITALIZATION AND INDEBTEDNESS
Not applicable.
C. REASONS FOR THE OFFER AND USE OF PROCEEDS
Not applicable.
D. RISK FACTORS
Risks Relating to Our Business
Our business is susceptible to fluctuations in the real estate market in China, and the property market in China is volatile and at an early stage of development, which could have a material and adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
We conduct our real estate services business primarily in China, and our business depends substantially on the conditions of the real estate market in China. The real estate market in China remains at an early stage of development, and social, political, economic, legal and other factors may affect its development. For example, the lack of a mature and active secondary market for private properties and the limited amount of mortgage loans available to individuals in China may result in fluctuations in residential real estate markets. Although demand for private residential property in China has grown rapidly in recent years, this growth has often been coupled with volatile market conditions and fluctuations in property prices. For example, the rapid expansion of the property market in major provinces and cities, such as Beijing, Shanghai and Shenzhen, in the early 1990s, led to an oversupply in the mid-1990s and a corresponding fall in property values and rentals in the second half
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of the decade. We believe our business has been affected by fluctuations in the real estate market in China. For instance, our average monthly net revenues per operating sales office decreased from 2009 to 2011 before increasing from 2012 to 2013. In response to fluctuations in the market, we implemented cost reduction strategy since the second half year of 2011 by reducing our sales offices from 517 in 2011 to 326 in 2012 and 300 in 2013, respectively. We believe this fluctuation resulting from changes in real estate policies adopted by the central government, which were aimed at cooling down the overheating property market and to curb excessive lending in the real estate industry. In addition, the PRC government promulgated austerity measures regarding controlling the real estate market in February 2013. See "Our business, revenue growth, profitability and future prospects could be materially and adversely affected by any government policies and regulatory measures influencing China's real estate industry" for details. Such government policies have negatively affected the real estate market and caused a reduction in transactions in the real estate market. While these measures and policies remain in effect, they may continue to depress the real estate market, dissuade potential home buyers from making purchases, reduce transaction volume and cause a decline in average selling prices. See "Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and ProspectsA. Operating ResultsResults of Operations." In addition, the PRC property market may experience, and transaction volume may be impacted by, undersupply or oversupply and property price fluctuations caused by economic, social, political and other factors. Any future overdevelopment in the property sector or other adverse changes in the economic, political or social environment in China may result in an oversupply of properties and a decrease in property prices and overall transaction activities, which could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.
In addition, as all of our company-owned sales offices are strategically located in large metropolitan areas in Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen and Chengdu, any decrease in demand or any other adverse developments in these regions may materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Adverse developments in general business and economic conditions could have a material and adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Our business and operations are sensitive to general business and economic conditions globally and in China. These include short-term and long-term interest rates, inflation or deflation, fluctuations in debt and equity capital markets, consumer confidence and the general condition of the PRC and world economies. Certain recent adverse developments in the global financial markets could continue to impact the global economy. These developments include, among others, a general slowdown of economic growth in China, the U.S. and elsewhere globally, the current European sovereign debt crisis and concerns about the viability of the European Union and the Euro, and substantial volatility and tightening of liquidity in financial and real estate markets. Numerous general business and economic factors could contribute to a real estate market downturn and adversely affect our business, including: (1) any systemic weakness in the banking and financial sectors; (2) any substantial declines in the stock markets or continued stock market volatility; (3) any increase in levels of unemployment; (4) a lack of available credit and lack of confidence in the financial sector; and (5) any general economic downturn in China or the global economy. Adverse developments in these general business and economic conditions could have a material and adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
We experienced net losses for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2012 and 2013, and there is no assurance that we will be profitable in the future.
During the years ended December 31, 2011, 2012 and 2013 we had a net loss of RMB340.4 million, RMB50.1 million and RMB85.9 million (US$14.2 million), respectively. These net losses were primarily due to a series of restrictive government policies for the real estate industry in China
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implemented in 2011, 2012 and 2013, which negatively impacted our net revenues per sales office, and the expenses arising from the addition of a significant number of company-owned sales offices in 2010 and 2011. Consequently, our accumulated deficit was RMB638.4 million, RMB691.9 million and RMB774.9 million (US$128.0 million) as of December 31, 2011, 2012 and 2013, respectively. We expect to continue to reduce costs and streamline our operations as we implement initiatives to deal with the current regulatory environment relating to our business, particularly our company-owned brokerage services business. In addition, we expect that our primary and commercial services business and mortgage management services business will make larger contributions to our net revenues. However, if our net revenues do not sufficiently increase to offset the expected costs and operating expenses, we will not be profitable. You should not consider our revenue growth in recent periods as indicative of our future performance. Net revenues in future periods could decline or grow more slowly than we expect and we cannot assure you that we will be profitable in the coming year, or that we will be able to maintain profitability in the future.
We do not own the CENTURY 21® brand and our right to use the CENTURY 21® brand is subject to risks and limitations.
Realogy owns the CENTURY 21® brand and system. Through our wholly owned subsidiary IFM Company Limited, or IFM Co., we hold the exclusive right to franchise, manage and operate the CENTURY 21® franchise network in China. Our interests and business strategies could be different from those of Realogy. See "Item 4. Information on the CompanyB. Business OverviewOur Relationship with Realogy." Any adverse development in our relationship with Realogy could have a material and adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Our rights to use the CENTURY 21® brand are set forth in our master sub-franchise agreement with Realogy. The master sub-franchise agreement has a term of 25 years starting from March 2000, extendable at our election for additional terms of 25 years upon payment of renewal fees. As contractual rights, our rights to use the CENTURY 21® brand remain subject to the risks and limitations customarily associated with contractual relationships, including, but not limited to, a party's right to terminate the agreement in the event the other party materially breaches the agreement, a party's right to terminate in certain specified circumstances, and the risk that the contract may be voided if either party were to enter bankruptcy or a similar restructuring process. An agreement could be rejected in connection with a bankruptcy of another party thereto if, in the business judgment of a trustee of a party, as debtor-in-possession, rejection of the contract would benefit a party's estate. A bankruptcy by our licensor or any owner of the CENTURY 21® trademarks or system know-how could impede our right to use the CENTURY 21® brand and system. Any such adverse development could result in, among other things, an inability to use the CENTURY 21® brand and system, incurrence of material expenses in connection with building our brand or acquiring another brand to support our company-owned brokerage services business and franchise services business, payment of fees or compensation relating to settlements with the regional sub-franchisors or franchisees that terminate their franchise relationships with us, or diminished market recognition, any or all of which could have a material and adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
If the value of the CENTURY 21® brand or image diminishes, it could have a material and adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
We believe the CENTURY 21® brand is associated with leadership in integrated and high quality real estate services among real estate market participants in China. The CENTURY 21® brand is important to our operations. Our continued success in maintaining and enhancing the CENTURY 21® brand and our image depends on our ability to satisfy customer needs by further developing and maintaining the quality of our services across our operations, as well as our ability to respond to competitive pressures. If we were unable to satisfy customer needs or if our public image or reputation
9
were otherwise diminished, our business transactions with our customers or the commission or franchise fees that we charge could decline, and we could face difficulties in attracting and retaining regional sub-franchisors, franchisees or sales professionals. If the value of the CENTURY 21® brand diminishes globally or in China, our business, financial condition and results of operations may be materially and adversely affected.
Any failure to protect our brand, trademarks and other intellectual property rights could have a negative impact on our business.
We believe the CENTURY 21® brand owned by Realogy and the trade secrets, copyrights and other intellectual property rights owned by us are important to our success. Any unauthorized use of these intellectual properties could harm our competitive advantages and business. Historically, China has not protected intellectual property rights to the same extent as the United States and infringement of intellectual property rights continues to pose a serious risk of doing business in China. Monitoring and preventing unauthorized use is difficult. The measures we take to protect our intellectual property rights may not be adequate. Furthermore, the application and enforcement of laws governing intellectual property rights in China and abroad is uncertain and evolving, and could involve substantial risks. If we are unable to adequately protect the intellectual property rights that we own or use, we may lose these rights and our business, financial condition and results of operations may be materially and adversely affected.
Our continuing reliance on our information systems, which include our proprietary Sales Information System, or SIS, and our Human Resource and Commission Information System, or HCIS, each of which is copyright protected, depends in large part on retaining our proprietary rights to these information systems. We have also imposed contractual obligations on employees and consultants and taken other precautionary measures to maintain the confidentiality of our proprietary information, and have restricted the use of that proprietary information other than for our company's benefit. If the copyrights for our information system are infringed, or our sales professionals, staff and consultants otherwise do not honor their contractual obligations and misappropriate our information systems, databases or other proprietary information, our business, financial condition and results of operations may be materially and adversely affected.
Competition in the real estate brokerage services business in China is intense and may adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Competition in the real estate brokerage services business in China is intense, especially in the densely populated areas. We compete with Centaline (China) Property Consultants Limited, Homelink Real Estate Agency Co., Ltd., and 5i5j Real Estate Co. Ltd for secondary real estate brokerage services business, and to a lesser extent, with E-house (China) Holdings Limited, World Union Properties Consulting Co., Limited and Syswin Inc. for primary real estate brokerage services business. We also compete with regional competitors in each of the regions where we own and operate sales offices. Some of these companies may have greater financial resources than we do, including greater marketing budgets and technological advantages. In addition, the secondary real estate brokerage services industry has low capital commitment requirements for small operations, lowering the barriers to entry for new participants, especially participants pursuing alternative methods of marketing real estate, such as internet-based listing services. Real estate brokers compete for sales and marketing business primarily on the basis of the services offered, reputation, brand recognition, personal contacts, local expertise and brokerage commission rates. Any decrease in the market average brokerage commission rate may adversely affect our net revenues and profits. We also compete for the services of qualified sales professionals. Such competition could reduce commissions retained by our company after giving effect to the split with sales professionals and could increase the amounts that we spend on recruiting and retaining sales professionals.
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We face competition in the primary and commercial services business.
In the primary real estate agency services market, our main competitors include World Union Real Estate Consultancy (China) Ltd., Hopefluent Group Holdings Limited, Centaline Group, Syswin Inc., Shanghai T&D Real Estate Co. Ltd., B.A. Consulting Company, and E-house (China) Holdings Limited, all of which operate in multiple cities in China. Some of these competitors may have greater resources than we do, including better client relationships in certain local areas and financial and informational resources. The limited capital resources required to enter the primary real estate sales agency and consultancy services industry in any given region also means there are low entry barriers for our competitors to enter into our major markets. New and existing competitors may offer lower commission rates with a wider range of services which could attract our existing developer clients away from us. Increased competition among primary real estate sales agency and consultancy companies could result in decreases in commission rates within the industry, increased operating costs relating to the provision of a wider range of services in order to compete effectively and higher administrative costs to attract or retain talented employees. We may not be able to continue to compete effectively and to maintain our current commission or margin levels. If we fail to compete effectively, our revenues, profitability and growth prospects will be negatively affected.
We face competition in the mortgage management services business.
We face competition in the mortgage management services business from in-house mortgage management teams of our competitors in the brokerage services business, commercial banks and specialized mortgage management services providers. Since the second half of 2009, certain commercial banks in Shanghai and Beijing have reduced mortgage referral commissions in connection with secondary real estate transactions. This adversely affected our revenues derived from referral commissions in both Shanghai and Beijing. Any increase in the level of competition or any negative development such as described above could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.
We face competition in the franchise services business.
For our franchise services business, our products consist of our brand name and the support services we provide to our regional sub-franchisors and franchisees. We compete with regional and local real estate brokerage brand franchisors. In addition, other international real estate services brand franchisors, such as Coldwell Banker, have entered or plan to enter into the China market. Upon the expiration of a franchise agreement, a franchisee may choose to obtain a franchise from one of our competitors or operate as an independent broker. Competitors may offer our regional sub-franchisors and franchisees whose franchise agreements are expiring similar or better products and services at rates lower than what we or our regional sub-franchisors charge. To remain competitive in the sale of franchises and to retain our existing regional sub-franchisors and franchisees, we may have to reduce the fees we charge our regional sub-franchisors or franchisees.
If our company-owned or franchised sales offices fail to obtain or maintain licenses or permits necessary to engage in the real estate brokerage business, our business, financial condition and results of operations could be materially and adversely affected.
Our company-owned sales offices and franchised sales offices are required to obtain and maintain certain licenses and permits to engage in the real estate brokerage business. We and our regional sub-franchisors also need licenses and permits to operate our CENTURY 21® franchise network in China. These licenses and permits are typically required to be renewed every one or two years. We are also subject to numerous national, provincial and local laws and regulations specific to the services we provide. If we or our regional sub-franchisors or franchisees fail to obtain or maintain the licenses and permits for conducting our company-owned brokerage or franchise services businesses required by law,
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the relevant government authorities may order us to suspend relevant operations or impose fines or other penalties. There is no assurance that we, our company-owned sales offices or our franchised sales offices will be able to obtain or renew these licenses in a timely manner, or at all.
Regional sub-franchisors and franchisees could take actions that could harm our business.
We do not own or control the majority of our regional sub-franchisors and franchisees. These regional sub-franchisors and franchisees may not operate their business in a manner consistent with our standards, or may not hire and train qualified sales professionals and other employees. If these regional sub-franchisors or franchisees were to provide a diminished quality of service to their customers, our brand, reputation and goodwill may suffer. Additionally, our regional sub-franchisors and franchisees may engage in or be accused of engaging in unlawful or tortious conduct. Such conduct, or the accusation of such conduct, could harm our brand image, reputation or goodwill. Any of these incidents could in turn materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Our regional sub-franchisors and franchisees owned by independent business operators may from time to time disagree with our interpretation of our respective rights and obligations under the franchise agreements or fail to make timely service fees payments thereunder. This has led to disputes among the regional sub-franchisors, the franchisees and us in the past. We expect such disputes to occur from time to time in the future as we continue to offer franchise rights to third parties. To the extent we have such disputes, the attention of our management and our regional sub-franchisors or the franchisees will be diverted and our reputation may suffer as a result. Any of the aforementioned situations could have a material and adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
The loss of any members of our senior management or other key sales professionals and staff could adversely affect our financial performance.
Our success depends on the continued service of our key executive officers, particularly Mr. Donald Zhang and Mr. Harry Lu. We do not carry key man life insurance on any of our personnel. The loss of the services of one or more members of our senior management team could hinder our ability to effectively manage our business and implement our growth strategies. If we lose the services of any of our key executive officers, we cannot assure you that we will be able to appoint or integrate adequate replacement personnel into our operations in a timely manner. Our failure to do so could in turn disrupt our operations and the growth of our business.
Our success largely depends on the efforts and abilities of our senior management team and the management teams of regional sub-franchisors and sales offices owned and operated by us. Our ability to retain our management teams is generally subject to numerous factors, including the compensation packages we offer and our ability to maintain a cohesive company culture and other factors. Any prolonged downturn in the real estate market and any cost-cutting measures we implement could result in significant attrition among our current managers. If any member of our senior management team or other key sales professionals and staff joins a competitor or forms a competing company, we may lose customers, key sales professionals and staff, and we may not be able to promptly fill their positions with comparably qualified individuals without a significant increase in costs. Any of the foregoing adverse developments could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.
We are subject to risks related to litigation filed by or against us, and adverse litigation results may harm our business and financial condition.
We have been, and may in the future be, a party to litigation and other proceedings filed by or against us, including actions relating to intellectual property, franchise or sub-franchise arrangements
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with our regional franchisors or franchisees, or vicarious liability based upon the conduct of our individual sales professionals and staff or agents. For example, we have occasionally resorted to litigation against certain of our regional sub-franchisors with whom we have terminated our relevant sub-franchise relationship for the sub-franchisor's material breach of the regional sub-franchise agreement. In addition, we have litigated against third parties who have infringed the CENTURY 21® trademark. Although we have historically been successful in such litigation, we cannot predict the cost of such proceedings or their ultimate outcome, including any remedies or damages that may be awarded, and adverse results in such litigation and other proceedings may harm our business, financial condition and results of operations.
We are exposed to business and legal risks related to our provision of entrusted and mortgage credit loans or if our provision of entrusted and mortgage credit loans is found to violate the relevant regulations in the future, we will incur significant losses, which may materially and adversely affect our financial condition.
In July 2010, we began to offer entrusted and mortgage credit loans services as part of our mortgage management services. Under our entrusted loan arrangements with commercial banks, we provide consumer financing to borrowers with funds released by the commercial banks from our trust accounts at such banks. Commercial banks collect interest and principal payments from the borrowers on our behalf and receive service fees. In 2011, we acquired a company based in Beijing with a license to offer mortgage credit loans with property collateral through a series of contractual arrangements in order to arrange property financing, valuation services and title transfers. Since 2013, our entrusted and mortage credit loan services have been improved by property refinancing activities, through which certain individuals offer loans to consumers after receiving financing from our mortgage credit company and then transfer such loans, entirely or partially, to third-party investors. We act as guarantors for such loans and remain responsible for the repayment of loans by the consumers. In the event that a consumer defaults on the repayment of such loans, we will be liable for such loans. As of December 31, 2013, our total outstanding balance for entrusted and mortgage credit loans was RMB121.1 million (US$20.0 million). As the lender and guarantor, we bear the risks related to the entrusted and mortgage credit loans. Although we conduct background checks and internal reviews on potential borrowers and have collected back all loans with no default so far, we cannot assure you that our borrowers will repay part or all of the interest and principal amounts of the loans. Furthermore, because we are not a financial institution and lack experience in providing loans, our internal review and approval procedures may not function as well as we expect. If the borrowers default on their repayment obligations and the market values of the mortgaged properties decline below the amounts of our entrusted and mortgage credit loans, we will incur significant losses, which may materially and adversely affect our financial condition.
In addition, according to the Tentative Administrative Measures for Financing Security Companies, or the Security Measures, issued by seven governmental authorities including China Banking Regulatory Commission on March 8, 2010, if security companies carry out a financing security business, the security companies should obtain required licenses. As defined in the Security Measures, "financing security" means the activities whereby the guarantor and the creditor, such as a financial institution in the banking sector, agree that the guarantor shall bear the security obligations set out in the agreement in the event that the secured party fails to perform its obligations with respect to the financing debt owed to the creditor. There are ambiguities regarding the interpretation of "financing security" and it is unclear whether the security provided for a loan not involving a financial institution will be considered as a "financing security". If the security provided for a loan not involving a financial institution, such as the security provided by us in our mortgage management services, is considered as a "financing security" and we cannot obtain the licenses required by the laws and regulations, we will incur significant losses, which may materially and adversely affect our financial condition.
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The PRC Government may determine that the contractual arrangements with the variable interest entities ("VIEs") relating to our mortgage credit business are not in compliance with applicable PRC laws and regulations.
The mortgage credit business currently engaged by our company is regulated by, among others, the Measures for the Administration of Mortgage Credit (the " Mortgage Credit Measures"). According to Article 71 of the Mortgage Credit Measures, regulations governing the investment by foreign-invested companies in mortgage credit business in the PRC shall be separately promulgated by the PRC Ministry of Commerce (the "MOFCOM") and other relevant authorities. As of the date of this annual report, no relevant regulations have been promulgated by the MOFCOM.
There are risks involved with our mortgage credit business operated under the contractual arrangements with the VIEs. In case the contractual arrangements with the VIEs are considered to be in breach of any existing or future PRC laws or regulations or governmental policy, the relevant regulatory authorities would have broad discretion in taking actions to deal with such breach, including but not limited to:
Any of these actions could have a material adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
We rely on our information systems to operate our business and maintain our competitiveness, and any disruption to it could harm our business.
Our business depends upon the use of information systems, including systems providing real-time and in-depth management and sales information and support to our network of sales offices and marketing efforts. We rely significantly on our in-house information technology team with support from third-party outsourcing firms, to develop, maintain and regularly upgrade our information systems. In addition, some operations of these information systems depend upon third party technologies, systems and services. We cannot assure you that we will continue to have access to the products or services provided by our third party providers on commercially reasonable terms, or at all. We also cannot assure you that we will be able to continue to effectively operate and maintain our information systems, or to effectively retain our key personnel for the maintenance and management of our information systems.
In addition, we expect to refine and enhance our information systems on an ongoing basis, and we expect that advanced new technologies and systems will continue to be introduced. We may not be able to replace our existing information systems or introduce new information systems as quickly as our competitors or in a cost-effective manner.
In addition, our information systems are vulnerable to damage or interruption from various causes, including (i) natural disasters, war and acts of terrorism, (ii) power losses, computer system failures, internet and telecommunications or data network failures, operator error, losses and corruption of data, and similar events and (iii) computer viruses, penetration by individuals seeking to disrupt operations
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or misappropriate information and other physical or electronic breaches of security. While we maintain certain disaster recovery capabilities for critical functions in most of our businesses, these capabilities may not successfully prevent a disruption to, or have a material and adverse effect on, our businesses or operations in the event of a disaster or other business interruption. Any extended interruption in our information systems could significantly reduce our ability to conduct our business and generate revenues. Additionally, we do not carry business interruption insurance for any losses that may occur.
If we cannot manage our growth, our operating results or profitability could be materially and adversely affected.
We have experienced substantial growth since we began operations in 2000. Our net revenues amounted to RMB604.6 million in 2011, and then increased to RMB748.1 million in 2012 and RMB877.5 million (US$145.0 million) in 2013. We incurred significant losses in 2011 mainly due to overall real estate market decline in China. Therefore, we implemented cost reduction strategy since the second half year of 2011 by reducing our sales offices from 517 in 2011 to 326 in 2012 and 300 in 2013, respectively. Although we currently do not have a plan to significantly expand our company-owned brokerage services in 2014, our expansion, if any in the future years, could place significant demands on us to ensure that our brand does not suffer as a result of any decreases, whether actual or perceived, in the quality of our services. In order to manage and support our growth, we must continue to improve our existing operational, administrative and technological systems and our financial and management controls, and recruit, train and retain additional qualified sales professionals as well as other administrative and sales and marketing personnel, particularly as we expand into new markets. We may not be able to effectively and efficiently manage the growth of our operations, recruit and retain qualified personnel and integrate new expansion into our operations. During our expansion, we may also face other difficulties as a result of a number of factors, many of which are beyond our control, such as any general unfavorable conditions in the real estate market, labor cost increases due to higher sales staff headcount or delays or denials of required approvals by relevant governmental authorities. As a result, our operating results or profitability could be materially and adversely affected.
We may not be successful in our business expansions through future acquisitions.
We have established our company-owned brokerage services business in Shanghai, Shenzhen and Chengdu through acquisitions. In territories where we do not have company-owned sales offices, one of our expansion strategies is to establish our own brokerage services business by acquiring existing chains of sales stores or regional sub-franchisors when their operations become mature and profitable. However, our experience in Shanghai, Shenzhen and Chengdu may not be replicable in other areas of China. In order to expand our presence in the primary and commercial market segments, in June 2011, we acquired 55% of the equity interest of Shanggu, an established local primary real estate agency service provider based in Beijing focusing on consulting and sales for commercial real estate projects. We currently reserve the right to acquire an additional 5% equity interest in Shanggu. The success of our future acquisition strategies will depend upon our ability to negotiate with acquisition targets on favorable terms, and to finance and complete these transactions. We also need to effectively integrate newly acquired brokerage businesses into our existing operations, which may involve complex operational and personnel-related challenges, including rectifying possible inconsistencies in standards, controls, procedures and policies, maintaining important business relationships, overcoming local cultural differences, and controlling unanticipated expenses related to such integration. We may also incur material costs relating to such integration. A prolonged diversion of management's attention and any delays or difficulties we encounter in connection with the integration of any business that we have acquired or may acquire in the future could prevent us from realizing the anticipated cost savings and revenue growth from our acquisitions.
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We may be unable to obtain adequate financing to fund our capital requirements.
We expect that over the next several years, a substantial portion of our cash flow will be used to finance the expansion of our company-owned brokerage services business to increase our market share in existing markets and to expand our geographical presence. Although we anticipate that our available funds and expected cash flows from operations will be sufficient to meet our cash needs for at least the next twelve months, this assumption is based on management's ability to successfully execute its business plan, which includes increasing sales, generating positive operating cash flows and obtaining additional funding to support longer term capital requirements. We cannot assure you that we will obtain such financing at a reasonable cost or at all. Our inability to finance our planned capital expenditures or future acquisitions could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.
We may not be able to successfully execute our business development strategy, which could have a material and adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
We plan to continue to expand our business into new geographical areas in China and to enter into new businesses to diversify our portfolio of products and services. Because China is a large and diverse market, home buying trends and demands may vary significantly by region, and our experience in the markets in which we currently operate may not be applicable in other parts of China. As a result, we may not be able to leverage our experience to expand into other parts of China or to enter into businesses with respect to new products or services. In order to expand our presence in the primary and commercial market segments, in June 2011, we acquired 55% of the equity interest of Shanggu, an established local primary real estate agency service provider based in Beijing focusing on consulting and sales for commercial real estate projects. We currently reserve the right to acquire an additional 5% equity interest in Shanggu. When we enter new markets, we may face intense competition from companies with greater experience or an established presence in the targeted areas or from other companies with similar expansion targets. In addition, our business model may not be successful in new and untested markets. Therefore, we may not be able to successfully execute our business development strategy, which could have a material and adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
We may need to record a significant charge to earnings if our goodwill or intangible assets arising from acquisitions become impaired, which would materially adversely affect our net income.
In accordance with U.S. GAAP, we account for our acquisitions using the purchase method of accounting, and such acquisitions have resulted in significant goodwill and intangible assets being recognized in our consolidated financial statements. These assets may become impaired in the future, which could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations following such acquisitions. We are required under U.S. GAAP to review our amortizable intangible assets for impairment when events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying value may not be recoverable. Goodwill is required to be tested for impairment annually, or more frequently, if facts and circumstances warrant a review. Factors that may be considered a change in circumstances indicating that the carrying value of our amortizable intangible assets may not be recoverable include a decline in stock price and market capitalization and slower or declining growth rates in our industry. We may be required to record a significant charge to earnings in our financial statements during the period in which any impairment of our goodwill or amortizable intangible assets occurs, which could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations. For the year ended December 31, 2013, we incurred an impairment loss of RMB20.4 million (US$3.4 million), as a result of the shortfall in the results of operations of Shanggu.
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We may not maintain sufficient insurance coverage for the risks associated with our business operations.
Risks associated with our business operations include, but are not limited to, claims for wrongful acts committed by our sales professionals, disputes with our regional sub-franchisors or franchisees that we do not own, the loss of intellectual property rights or the failure of information technology systems crucial to our operations, the loss of key personnel and risks posed by natural disasters. Any of these risks may result in significant losses. We maintain insurance coverage we consider customary in China for the industry in which we operate and in compliance with the insurance requirements imposed on us by our master sub-franchise agreement with Realogy. However, we cannot assure you that our insurance coverage is sufficient to cover any losses that we may sustain, or that we will be able to successfully claim our losses under our existing insurance policy on a timely basis or at all.
If we incur any loss not covered by our insurance policies, or the compensated amount is significantly less than our actual loss or is not timely paid, our business, financial condition and results of operations could be materially and adversely affected.
If we fail to maintain effective internal control over financial reporting, our ability to accurately report our financial results may be impaired, which could adversely impact investor confidence and the market price of our ADSs.
We are subject to reporting obligations under the U.S. securities laws. The SEC, as required by Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, adopted rules requiring every public company to include a management report on the company's internal control over financial reporting in its annual report, which contains management's assessment of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting. In addition, under such rules, our independent registered public accounting firm may be required to attest to the effectiveness of our internal controls over financial reporting. As we were a non-accelerated filer for 2013, such attestation was not required in this annual report.
Our management has concluded that our internal control over financial reporting was effective as of December 31, 2013. See "Item 15. Controls and Procedures." However, if we fail to maintain effective internal control over financial reporting in the future, our management and our independent registered public accounting firm may not be able to conclude that we have effective internal control over financial reporting at a reasonable assurance level. This could in turn result in loss of investor confidence in the reliability of our financial statements and negatively impact the trading price of our ADSs. Furthermore, we have incurred and anticipate that we will continue to incur considerable costs, management time and other resources in an effort to comply with Section 404 and other requirements of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act.
Seasonality in the real estate market could adversely affect our business.
The real estate brokerage business is subject to seasonal fluctuations. Historically, real estate brokerage revenues and transaction volumes have generally been low during January and February as well as the late summer months in China. However, many of our expenses, such as those relating to leasing, administrative or sales and marketing efforts, are fixed and cannot be reduced during a seasonal slowdown. As a result, our operating results have fluctuated from quarter to quarter. These fluctuations are likely to continue and operating results for any period may not be indicative of our performance in any future period. If our operating results for any quarterly period fall below investor expectations or estimates by securities research analysts, the trading price of our ADSs may decline.
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Our corporate actions are substantially controlled by Mr. Donald Zhang and Mr. Harry Lu. The transactions between our shareholders may result in a change of control of our company.
As of April 18, 2014, the latest practicable date, Mr. Donald Zhang, our chairman and chief executive officer, and Mr. Harry Lu, our vice chairman and president, beneficially owned approximately 40.4% of our outstanding shares. Accordingly, Messrs. Zhang and Lu have significant influence in determining the outcome of any corporate transaction or other matters submitted to our shareholders for approval, including mergers, consolidations and the sale of all or substantially all of our assets, the election of directors and other significant corporate actions. This concentration of ownership may also discourage, delay or prevent a change in control, which could deprive our shareholders of an opportunity to receive a premium for their shares as part of a sale of our company and might reduce the price of our ADSs. These actions may be taken even if they are opposed by our other shareholders.
Pursuant to a secured exchangeable note issued by IFM Overseas Partners L.P. ("IFMOP"), a shareholder of our company and beneficially owned by Mr. Donald Zhang and Mr. Harry Lu, to GL Asia Mauritius II Cayman Ltd. ("GLA") on October 19, 2007 and amended and restated on January 27, 2010 (the "Original Note"), GLA could exchange the Original Note for the ordinary shares of our company held by IFMOP at any time at least 55 days after our initial public offering. GLA, IFMOP, IFM Overseas Limited, the general partner of IFMOP, Donald Zhang, Harry Lu and our company entered into a restructuring deed on April 27, 2012 and a supplemental deed to the restructuring deed on June 6, 2012 (collectively, the "Restructuring Deed"). See "Item 7. Major Shareholders and Related Party TransactionsB. Related Party TransactionsRestructuring Deed." Pursuant to the Restructuring Deed, the Original Note was amended and restated on the terms set out in a new secured note (the "New Note") dated as of April 27, 2012 and IFMOP mortgaged all ordinary shares of our company held by it to GLA to secure its obligations under the New Note. Under the New Note, GLA shall not be entitled to any right to exchange the New Note to our ordinary shares held by IFMOP. However, if any event of default set forth in the New Note occurs and GLA claims ownership to the mortgaged shares held by IFMOP, there might be a change of control of our company.
As a foreign private issuer, we are permitted to, and we will, rely on exemptions from certain NYSE corporate governance standards applicable to U.S. issuers. This may afford less protection to our holders of ordinary shares and ADSs.
Section 303A of the Corporate Governance Rules of the NYSE requires listed companies to have, among other things, a majority of its board members be independent, a nominating and corporate governance committee consisting solely of independent directors, and an audit committee with a minimum of three members. As a foreign private issuer, however, we are permitted to, and we will, follow home country practice in lieu of the above requirements. The corporate governance practice in our home country, the Cayman Islands, does not require a majority of our board to consist of independent directors, the implementation of a nominating and corporate governance committee or the implementation of an audit committee. Since a majority of our board of directors will not consist of independent directors as long as we rely on the foreign private issuer exemption, fewer board members will be exercising independent judgment and the level of board oversight on our management may decrease as a result.
An occurrence of a widespread health epidemic or other outbreaks could have a material and adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Our business could be adversely affected by the effects of Influenza A virus subtype H1N1, or A (H1N1), Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome, or SARS, avian influenza or other epidemics, or outbreaks on the economic and business climate. A prolonged outbreak of A (H1N1), any recurrence of SARS, avian influenza or other adverse public health developments in China or elsewhere in the
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world could have a material and adverse effect on our business operations. Our operations could be disrupted if any of our sales professionals, staff or customers were suspected of having A (H1N1), SARS or avian influenza, since this could require us to quarantine some or all of our sales professionals and staff or disinfect our facilities and this may deter our customers or potential customers from visiting our sales offices. Additionally, such outbreaks could significantly impact the real estate market and cause a temporary closure of our facilities. Such impact or closures would severely disrupt our operations and adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. In addition, our business, financial condition and results of operations could be adversely affected to the extent that A (H1N1), SARS, avian influenza or other outbreak harms the global or Chinese economy in general.
Risks Related to Doing Business in China
Adverse changes in economic and political policies of the PRC government could have a material adverse effect on overall economic growth in China, which could materially and adversely affect our business.
We conduct substantially all of our business operations in China. As the real estate sector is highly sensitive to business and personal discretionary spending levels, it tends to decline during general economic downturns. Accordingly, our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects depend to a significant degree on economic developments in China. China's economy differs from the economies of most other countries in many respects, including with respect to the amount of government involvement in the economy, the general level of economic development, growth rates and government control of foreign exchange and the allocation of resources. While the PRC economy has experienced significant growth in the past 30 years, this growth has remained uneven across different periods, regions and among various economic sectors. The PRC government has implemented various measures to encourage economic development and guide the allocation of resources. The PRC government also exercises significant control over China's economic growth through the allocation of resources, controlling the payment of foreign currency-denominated obligations, setting monetary policy and providing preferential treatment to particular industries or companies. Since late 2003, the PRC government has implemented a number of measures, such as increasing the People's Bank of China ("PBOC")'s statutory deposit reserve ratio and imposing commercial bank-lending guidelines, which had the effect of slowing the growth of credit availability. For example, in 2010 and early 2011, the PBOC suspended loans to home buyers whose family members already own two or more properties and to non-local residents who cannot provide evidence showing that they have paid taxes or social insurance for more than one year, and raised the reserve ratio to cool lending and stabilize rising inflation. In accordance with the regulations from the central government, the local government of many cities issued regulations in early 2011 to forbid (i) any local family owning more than two properties and non-local family owning more than one property and (ii) any non-local family that cannot provide evidence for tax payment or social welfare payment for more than one year to buy any property in the city, other than in Beijing where the requirement is five consecutive years. Any future actions and policies adopted by the PRC government could materially affect the Chinese economy and slow the growth of the real estate market in China, which could materially and adversely affect our business.
We rely principally on dividends and other distributions on equity paid by our subsidiaries in China to fund our cash and financing requirements, and any limitation on the ability of our subsidiaries to make payments to us could have a material and adverse effect on our ability to conduct our business.
We are an offshore holding company, and we rely principally on dividends from our subsidiaries in China for our cash requirements, including for the service of any debt we may incur. Current PRC regulations permit our subsidiaries to pay dividends to us only out of their accumulated profits, if any, determined in accordance with Chinese accounting standards and regulations. In addition, each of our subsidiaries in China is required to set aside a certain amount of its after-tax profits each year, if any,
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to fund certain statutory reserves. These reserves are not distributable as cash dividends. Furthermore, if our subsidiaries in China incur debt on their own behalf in the future, the instruments governing the debt may restrict their ability to pay dividends or make other payments to us. Any limitation on the ability of our subsidiaries to distribute dividends or other payments to us could materially and adversely limit our ability to grow, make investments or acquisitions that could be beneficial to our businesses, pay dividends or otherwise fund and conduct our business.
PRC regulation of loans to and direct investments in PRC entities by offshore holding companies may delay or prevent us from using the proceeds of our initial public offering to make loans or additional capital contributions to our PRC operating subsidiaries.
We may make loans to our PRC subsidiaries. Any loans to or investments in our PRC subsidiaries are subject to approval by or registration with relevant government authorities in China. We may also decide to finance our subsidiaries by means of capital contributions. According to the relevant PRC regulations on foreign-invested enterprises in China, depending on the total amount of investment, capital contributions to our PRC operating subsidiaries may be subject to the approval of the MOFCOM or its local branches. We may not obtain these government approvals on a timely basis, if at all, with respect to future capital contributions by us to our subsidiaries. If we fail to receive such approvals, our ability to use the proceeds of our initial public offering and to capitalize our PRC operations may be negatively affected, which could adversely affect our liquidity and our ability to fund and expand our business.
Fluctuations in the value of the RMB may have a material and adverse effect on your investment.
The value of the RMB against the U.S. dollar and other currencies may fluctuate and is affected by, among other things, changes in political and economic conditions and the foreign exchange policy adopted by the PRC government. On July 21, 2005, the PRC government changed its policy of pegging the value of the Renminbi to the U.S. dollar. Under the new policy, the Renminbi is permitted to fluctuate within a narrow and managed band against a basket of certain foreign currencies. This change in policy resulted in an appreciation of over 20% in the RMB against the U.S. dollar over the following three years. Provisions on Administration of Foreign Exchange, as amended in August 2008, further changed China's exchange regime to a managed floating exchange rate regime based on market supply and demand. While the international reaction to the RMB revaluation has generally been positive, there remains significant international pressure on the PRC government to adopt an even more flexible currency policy, which could result in a further and more significant appreciation of the RMB against the U.S. dollar. On June 19, 2010, the PBOC announced that it had decided to proceed further with the reform of the RMB exchange rate regime to enhance the flexibility of the RMB exchange rate and that emphasis would be placed on reflecting market supply and demand with reference to a basket of currencies. While so indicating its intention to make the RMB's exchange rate more flexible, the PBOC ruled out any sharp fluctuations in the currency or a one-off adjustment. Effective from April 16, 2012, the PBOC widened the daily trading band of the RMB and allowed RMB to fluctuate by as much as 1% on both sides of a central reference exchange rate against the U.S. dollar. Effective from March 17, 2014, the PBOC allowed RMB to fluctuate by as much as 2% on both sides of a central reference exchange rate against the U.S. dollar.
Our revenues and costs are mostly denominated in the Renminbi, and a significant portion of our financial assets are also denominated in the Renminbi. Any significant fluctuations in the exchange rate between the Renminbi and the U.S. dollar may materially and adversely affect our cash flows, revenues, earnings and financial position, and the amount of and any dividends we may pay on our ADSs in U.S. dollars. Any fluctuations in the exchange rate between the RMB and the U.S. dollar could also result in foreign currency exchange losses for financial reporting purposes.
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Governmental control of currency conversion may limit our ability to utilize our revenues effectively and affect the value of your investment.
The PRC government imposes controls on the convertibility of the RMB into foreign currencies and, in certain cases, the remittance of currency out of China. We receive substantially all of our revenues in RMB. Under our current corporate structure, our Cayman Islands holding company may rely on dividend payments from our PRC subsidiaries to fund any cash and financing requirements we may have. Under existing PRC foreign exchange regulations, payments of current account items, including profit distributions, interest payments and trade and service-related foreign exchange transactions, can be made in foreign currencies without prior approval from State Administration of Foreign Exchange of the PRC ("SAFE") by complying with certain procedural requirements. Therefore, our PRC subsidiaries are able to pay dividends in foreign currencies to us without prior approval from SAFE by complying with certain procedural requirements. But approval from or registration with appropriate governmental authorities is required where RMB is to be converted into foreign currency and remitted out of China to pay capital expenses such as the repayment of loans denominated in foreign currencies. This could affect the ability of our PRC subsidiaries to obtain foreign exchange through debt or equity financing, including by means of loans or capital contributions from us. The PRC government may also, at its discretion, restrict access in the future to foreign currencies for current account transactions. If the foreign exchange control system prevents us from obtaining sufficient foreign currencies to satisfy our foreign currency demands, we may not be able to pay dividends in foreign currencies to our shareholders, including holders of our ADSs.
PRC regulations relating to the establishment of offshore special purpose companies by PRC residents may subject our PRC resident beneficial owners to personal liability, limit our ability to inject capital into our PRC subsidiaries, limit our PRC subsidiaries' ability to increase their registered capital or distribute profits to us, or may otherwise adversely affect us.
China has regulations that subject our PRC subsidiaries to additional restrictions if we have beneficial owners who are PRC residents that have not properly filed with authorities in China. See "Item 4. Information on the CompanyB. Business OverviewRegulationsRegulations on Foreign Exchange Registration of Offshore Investment by PRC Residents." However, we cannot provide any assurances that any PRC resident who becomes our beneficial owner in the future will be able to comply with relevant regulations promulgated by SAFE, or SAFE regulations in a timely manner, or at all. Any failure or inability of our PRC resident beneficial owners to comply with the registration procedures may subject such PRC resident beneficial owners to certain fines and legal sanctions, restrict our cross-border investment and financing activities, or limit our PRC subsidiaries' ability to distribute dividends or obtain foreign exchange-denominated loans.
As it remains uncertain how the SAFE regulations will be interpreted or implemented, we cannot predict how these regulations will affect our business operations or future strategy. For example, we may be subject to more stringent review and approval processes with respect to our foreign exchange activities, such as remittance of dividends and foreign-currency-denominated borrowings, which may adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. In addition, if we decide to acquire a PRC domestic company, we cannot assure you that we or the owners of such company, as the case may be, will be able to obtain the necessary approvals or complete the necessary filings and registrations required by the SAFE regulations. This may restrict our ability to implement our acquisition strategy and could adversely affect our business and prospects.
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Failure to comply with PRC regulations regarding the registration requirements for employee stock ownership plans or share option plans may subject our PRC stock incentive plan participants or us to fines and other legal or administrative sanctions.
In December 2006, the PBOC promulgated Administrative Measures for Individual Foreign Exchange, or the Individual Foreign Exchange Rules, setting forth the requirements for foreign exchange transactions by PRC individuals under either the current account or the capital account. In January 2007, SAFE issued Implementing Rules for the Individual Foreign Exchange Rules, which, among other things, specified approval requirements for certain capital account transactions such as a PRC citizen's participation in the employee stock ownership plans or stock option plans of an overseas publicly listed company. On February 15, 2012, the SAFE promulgated the Notice on Issues Related to Foreign Exchange Administration in Domestic Individuals' Participation in Share Incentive Plans of Overseas Listed Companies, or the Stock Option Rule. Under the Stock Option Rule, PRC citizens who are granted stock options by an overseas listed company are required, through a PRC agent or PRC subsidiary of such overseas listed company, to register with SAFE and complete certain other procedures. We and our PRC sales professionals and staff who have been granted stock options are subject to the Stock Option Rule. If we or our PRC optionees fail to comply with these regulations, we or our PRC optionees may be subject to fines and legal sanctions.
Any change in the preferential tax treatment we currently enjoy in the PRC may have an adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Our PRC subsidiaries are subject to corporate income tax ("CIT") with the tax rate of 25% except for Beijing Kudian Tongfang Technology Co., Ltd., or Kudian, which was entitled to an exemption from CIT in 2011 and 2012 and a 50% reduction in CIT for each of the three years from 2013 to 2015 pursuant to a Software Enterprise Certification. See "Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and ProspectsA. Operating ResultsFactors Affecting Our Results of OperationsTaxation."
Various local governments in China have provided discretionary preferential tax treatments to us. However, these local governments may decide to reduce or eliminate these preferential tax treatments at any time. Furthermore, these local implementations of tax laws may be found to violate national laws or regulations and we may be subject to retroactive imposition of higher taxes as a result. Starting from 2007, we have been required to accrue taxes for these contingencies and other uncertain tax positions taken by us. The change in accounting requirement for reporting tax contingencies, any reduction or elimination of these preferential tax treatments and any retroactive imposition of higher taxes could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Dividends distributed to our investors and gain on sale of our shares may be subject to PRC withholding taxes, and we may be subject to PRC taxation on our worldwide income under the CIT Law.
Under the Corporate Income Tax Law, or CIT Law and its implementation rules, all domestic and foreign-invested companies are subject to a uniform enterprise income tax at the rate of 25% and dividends from PRC companies that are considered to be PRC resident enterprises to their foreign shareholders that are "non-resident enterprises" and any gain realized on the transfer of ADSs or shares by such shareholders will be subject to a withholding tax at the rate of 10% unless a treaty otherwise provides.
It is unclear whether dividends we pay with respect to our ordinary shares or ADSs, or the gain you may realize from the transfer of our ordinary shares or ADSs, would be treated as income derived from sources within the PRC and be subject to PRC tax. If we are required under the CIT Law to withhold PRC income tax on dividends payable to our non-PRC investors that are "non-resident enterprises" or individuals, or if you are required to pay PRC income tax on the transfer of our ordinary shares or ADSs, the value of your investment in our ordinary shares or ADSs may be materially and adversely affected. With the 5% or 10% PRC dividend withholding tax imposed under
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the CIT Law, depending on the tax jurisdiction of the receiver, we will incur incremental PRC tax liabilities when PRC profits are distributed by our PRC subsidiaries to their shareholders that are non-resident enterprises.
In addition, under the CIT Law, enterprises organized under the laws of jurisdictions outside China with their "de facto management bodies" located within China may be considered PRC resident enterprises and therefore may be subject to PRC enterprise income tax at the rate of 25% on their worldwide income. See "Item 10. Additional InformationE. TaxationPeople's Republic of China Taxation." If we become a PRC resident enterprise under the PRC tax system and receive income other than dividends, our profitability and cash flow would be adversely impacted due to our worldwide income being taxed in China under the CIT Law.
Foreign ownership of real estate agency and brokerage businesses in China is restricted under PRC regulations. This may limit our ability to establish our new PRC operating entities or to increase the registered capital of existing entities in the future.
The amended Foreign Investment Industrial Guidance Catalogue, or the Catalogue, which was jointly promulgated by the National Development and Reform Commission of the PRC ("NDRC") and the MOFCOM and came into effect on December 1, 2007, provided that real estate agency business and real estate brokerage business fell into the restricted category of foreign investment industries. The further amended Catalogue which was promulgated on December 24, 2011 and became effective on January 30, 2012, continues to classify the real estate agency business and real estate brokerage business as restricted categories of foreign investment industries.
Our PRC legal counsel, Commerce & Finance Law Offices, is of the opinion that only new real estate agency and brokerage businesses established after December 1, 2007, or any existing real estate agency and brokerage businesses that require new approvals from the MOFCOM or its local branch in order to increase their registered capital or conduct an equity transfer, would be affected by the Catalogue. It may be difficult or take a long time for us to obtain any approvals from the MOFCOM or its local branch in order to establish our new PRC operating entities or to increase the registered capital of existing entities in the future. We cannot assure you that, if we are required to seek such approvals in the future, we will be able to obtain them from the MOFCOM or its local branch on a timely basis, or at all.
Uncertainties with respect to the Chinese legal system could have a material and adverse effect on us.
The PRC legal system is based on written statutes. Unlike under common law systems, decided legal cases have little value as precedents in subsequent legal proceedings. In 1979, the PRC government began to promulgate a comprehensive system of laws and regulations governing economic matters in general, and forms of foreign investment (including wholly foreign-owned enterprises and joint ventures) in particular. These laws, regulations and legal requirements are relatively new and are often changing, and their interpretation and enforcement involve significant uncertainties that could limit the reliability of the legal protections available to us. We cannot predict the effects of future developments in the PRC legal system. We may be required in the future to procure additional permits, authorizations and approvals for our existing and future operations, which may not be obtainable in a timely fashion, or at all. An inability to obtain such permits or authorizations may have a material and adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
The implementation of the PRC Labor Contract Law and the Implementation Regulation for the PRC Labor Contract Law may increase our operating expenses and may materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.
The PRC Labor Contract Law, or Labor Contract Law, and its Implementation Regulation for the PRC Labor Contract Law, or Implementation Regulation may have brought substantial uncertainty as
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to its potential impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations. See "Item 4. Information on the CompanyB. Business OverviewRegulationsRegulations of Labor Contracts." The implementation of the Labor Contract Law and the Implementation Regulation may increase our operating expenses, in particular our human resources costs and our administrative expenses. In the event that we decide to significantly modify our employment or labor policy or practice, or reduce the number of our sales professionals and staff, the Labor Contract Law may limit our ability to effectuate the modifications or changes in the manner that we believe to be most cost-efficient or otherwise desirable, which could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Our business, revenue growth, profitability and future prospects could be materially and adversely affected by any government policies and regulatory measures influencing China's real estate industry.
The real estate market in China is typically affected by changes in government policies and regulatory measures affecting the property market, financial markets and related areas. In the past, the PRC government adopted various policies and regulatory measures to curb what it perceived as unsustainable growth in the real estate market, particularly at times when the real estate market in China has experienced rapid and significant growth. In 2008, the global financial crisis caused a slowdown in the real estate market in China. In response to the global financial crisis, the PRC government adopted a two-year RMB 4 trillion economic stimulus plan in November 2008. As a result, property sales in China recovered in 2009 and experienced significant growth thereafter until early 2010. Since April 2010, various administrative bodies launched a series of anti-speculative measures, which resulted in a general slowdown in the performance of the real estate market in the PRC.
On April 17, 2010, the State Council issued the Notice on Firmly Preventing Overly Fast Growth of Real Property Prices in Certain Cities, or the April Notice, which stipulated that a property purchaser's down payment for such purchaser's first property purchase must not be less than 30% of the purchase price if gross floor area, or GFA, of the property is larger than 90 square meters; a purchaser's down payment for such purchaser's second property purchase must not be less than 50% of the purchase price and the mortgage loan interest rate must not be less than 1.1 times the base lending rate published by the PBOC; and a purchaser's down payment and mortgage loan interest rate must significantly increase for such purchaser's third and additional property purchases. On September 29, 2010, the PRC Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development ("MHURD"), the PBOC, the China Banking Regulatory Commission and the PRC Ministry of Finance promulgated a series of administrative rules, or the September Rules, to further implement the April Notice. The September Rules require that commercial banks suspend granting of mortgage loans on a nationwide basis (i) for any third or additional property purchases of any purchaser or (ii) to any non-resident purchaser unable to provide proof of tax or social security payments for more than one year.
On January 26, 2011, the State Council issued the Notice of the State Council on Issues Related to Further Enhancing the Regulation and Control of Real Estate Market, or the January Notice. According to the January Notice, for those households who purchase a second house using a mortgage loan, the down payment may not be lower than 60% of the purchase price regardless of the GFA of the property purchased. The mortgage loan interest may not be lower than 1.1 times the base lending rate published by the PBOC. The respective branches of the PBOC may raise the down payment ratio and mortgage interest rate on mortgage loans for a second home purchase based on the price control targets set by the local government, the policy requirements set by the State Council and the national unified credit policies. All municipalities directly under the central government, all provincial capitals and other cities where the local housing prices are deemed to be too high or to have risen too fast are required to temporarily suspend the sale of housing units to families with registered local permanent residences that already own two or more housing units, families without registered local permanent residences that already own one or more housing units, and families without registered local permanent residences that cannot provide evidence of their local payment of taxes or social insurance premiums
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for a required period. To implement this requirement, local governments of more than 30 cities, including Beijing, Shanghai, Chongqing, Shenzhen and other major cities, introduced local rules of house-buying restrictions in 2011.
On February 26, 2013, the General office of the State Council issued the Notice on Keeping on Enhancing the Regulation and Control of Real Estate Market, or the February Notice. According to the February Notice, the households who have purchased one house or who are non-residents and unable to provide proof of tax or social security payment for required years are prohibited from purchasing any house in the relevant administrative region. Home owners who sell their houses will be levied an income tax as high as 20% of the profit they make in the relevant transaction. Some major cities in China, including Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu have also promulgated local measures to restrict housing purchases.
As a real estate services provider, we are significantly affected by these government policies and regulatory measures as we primarily generate revenues based on the successful property transactions to which we provide real estate sales agency and consultancy services. Consequently, any of the following could cause a decline in property sales volumes and average selling prices as well as the related revenues we generate from our business:
Our auditor, like other independent registered public accounting firms operating in China, is not permitted to be subject to inspection by the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board, and as such, investors may be deprived of the benefits of such inspection.
Auditors of companies that are registered with the SEC and traded publicly in the United States, including our independent registered public accounting firm, must be registered with the United States Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (the "PCAOB") and are required by the laws of the United States to undergo regular inspections by the PCAOB to assess their compliance with the laws of the United States and professional standards. Because our auditors are located in the PRC, a jurisdiction where the PCAOB is currently unable to conduct inspections without the approval of the Chinese authorities, our auditor is not currently inspected by the PCAOB. In May 2013, the PCAOB announced that it had entered into a Memorandum of Understanding on Enforcement Cooperation with the China Securities and Regulatory Commission (the "CSRC") and the PRC Ministry of Finance, which establishes a cooperative framework between the parties for the production and exchange of audit documents relevant to investigations undertaken by the PCAOB, the CSRC or the PRC Ministry of Finance in the United States and the PRC, respectively. The PCAOB continues to be in discussions
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with the CSRC and the PRC Ministry of Finance to permit joint inspections in the PRC of audit firms that are registered with the PCAOB and audit Chinese companies that trade on U.S. exchanges.
This lack of PCAOB inspections in China prevents the PCAOB from regularly evaluating audits and quality control procedures of any auditors operating in China, including our auditor. The inability of the PCAOB to conduct inspections of auditors in China makes it more difficult to evaluate the effectiveness of our auditor's audit procedures or quality control procedures as compared to auditors outside of China that are subject to PCAOB inspections. As a result, investors may be deprived of the benefits of PCAOB inspections, and investors may lose confidence in our auditor's audit procedure, and reported financial information and the quality of our financial statements.
We may be adversely affected by the outcome of the administrative proceedings brought by the SEC against the Big four PRC-based accounting firms.
In December 2012, the SEC brought administrative proceedings against the Big four accounting firms in China, including our independent registered public accounting firm, alleging that these accounting firms had violated U.S. securities laws and the SEC's rules and regulations thereunder by failing to provide to the SEC the firms' audit papers and other documents related to certain PRC-based companies that are publicly traded in the United States.
On January 22, 2014, the Administrative Law Judge presiding over the matter reached an initial decision that the firms had each violated the SEC's rules of practice by failing to produce the audit work papers and related documents directly to the SEC. The initial decision further determined that each of the firms should be censured and barred from practicing before the SEC for a period of six months. The Big four PRC-based accounting firms recently appealed the initial administrative law decision to the SEC. The initial administrative law decision will not become effective until and unless it is endorsed by the full SEC. The accounting firms can then further appeal the final decision of the SEC through the federal appellate courts.
While we cannot predict the outcome of the SEC's review, nor that of any subsequent appeal process, if the Big four PRC-based accounting firms, including our independent registered public accounting firm, are ultimately temporarily barred from practicing before the SEC, we may not be able to meet the reporting requirements under the Exchange Act, which may ultimately result in our deregistration by the SEC and delisting from the NYSE, in which case our market capitalization may decline sharply and the value of your investment in our ADSs may be materially and adversely affected.
Risks Related to Our ADSs
We believe that we were and may continue to be classified as a passive foreign investment company, or PFIC, for United States federal income tax purposes, which could subject United States investors in the ADSs or ordinary shares to significant adverse tax consequences.
Based on the quarterly average value of our assets for the taxable year ended December 31, 2013, we believe that were classified as a PFIC for the year ended December 31, 2013, and we may continue to be a PFIC in the current taxable year or a future taxable year. Accordingly, a U.S. Holder (as defined in "TaxationUnited States Federal Income Taxation") generally will be subject to special rules generally intended to reduce or eliminate any benefits from the deferral of United States federal income tax that a U.S. Holder could derive from investing in a non-United States corporation that does not distribute all of its earnings on a current basis, unless such U.S. Holder makes a timely "mark-to-market" election that may mitigate these consequences. Further, because we believe we were a PFIC for the year ended December 31, 2013, we generally will continue to be treated as a PFIC for all succeeding years during which such U.S. Holder continues to hold our ADSs or ordinary shares unless a U.S. Holder makes a timely mark-to-market election. For more information see the section titled "Item 10. Additional InformationE. TaxationUnited States Federal Income TaxationPassive Foreign Investment Company Considerations."
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Our ADSs would be subject to delisting from the NYSE if we are unable to achieve and maintain compliance with the NYSE's continued listing standards.
Under the NYSE continued listing rules, we would be considered below the continued listing standards if our average global market capitalization is less than US$50 million over a 30-trading-day period and our shareholders' equity is not less than US$50 million. On March 12, 2014, we were notified by the NYSE that we had fallen below such continued listing standards. As of March 11, 2014, our 30-trading-day average market capitalization was approximately US$28 million and our stockholders' equity as of December 31, 2013 was approximately US$44.9 million. Under the NYSE rules, we are required to submit a business plan to the NYSE within 90 days of receipt of the NYSE notice to demonstrate our ability to achieve compliance with the listing standards within 18 months of receipt of the NYSE notice. We are in the process of preparing a business plan as required by the NYSE and will continue to communicate with the NYSE to keep them apprised of our plans to achieve compliance and our progress in that regard. In the event that the NYSE accepts the plan, we will be subject to quarterly monitoring for compliance with this plan and our ADSs will continue to be listed and traded on the NYSE during such 18-month cure period subject to our compliance with other NYSE continued listing standards. However, in the event that the NYSE does not accept the plan, we will be subject to suspension and delisting procedures.
Under the NYSE continued listing rules, we are required to maintain an average closing price of our ADSs of US$1.00 or higher over a 30-trading-day period. On October 20, 2011, we were notified by the NYSE that the price of our ADSs had fallen below the NYSE's continued listing standard relating to the minimum price requirement of the ADSs. Since the change of the ratio of our ADS to ordinary share from 1:15 to 1: 45 effective on April 16, 2012, we have been in compliance with such minimum share price requirement. However, we cannot assure you that we will not fall below the minimum share price requirement in the future due to the market volatility.
In addition, under the NYSE continued listing rules, we are required to have an average global market capitalization not less than US$15 million over a 30-trading-day period. The violation of such requirement will result in immediate initiation of suspension and delisting procedures. Although our market capitalization fluctuates and was below US$15 million for some time due to market volatility, we are currently in compliance with such NYSE criteria for continued listing. However, if we are unable to maintain compliance with such NYSE criteria for continued listing, our ADSs would be subject to suspension and delisting.
If we were unable to comply with the NYSE's continued listing standards, there may be a significant decline in the trading price, trading volume and liquidity of our ADSs. We expect that the suspension and delisting of our ADSs would lead to decreases in analyst coverage and market-making activity relating to our ADSs, as well as reduced information about trading prices and volume. As a result, it could become significantly difficult for our ADSs holders to sell their ADSs at prices comparable to those in effect prior to delisting or at all.
The market price and trading volume for our ADSs may be volatile.
In addition to the volatility in the price of our ADSs, which could be caused by the materialization of any of the risks described in this section, the securities markets in the United States, China and elsewhere have from time to time experienced significant price and volume fluctuations that are not related to the operating performance of particular companies. These market fluctuations may also materially and adversely affect the market price of our ADSs.
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We may need additional capital, and the sale of additional ADSs or other equity securities or incurrence of additional indebtedness could result in additional dilution to our shareholders or increase our debt service obligations.
Historically, we have relied principally on our operational sources of cash, as well as external sources of financing to fund our operations and capital expansion needs. We may require additional cash resources due to changed business conditions or other future developments, including any investments or acquisitions we may pursue. If our resources are insufficient to satisfy our cash requirements, we may seek to sell additional equity, equity-linked or debt securities or enter into a credit facility. The sale of additional equity securities could result in additional dilution to our shareholders. The incurrence of indebtedness would result in increased debt service obligations and could result in operating and financing covenants that would restrict our operations. It is uncertain whether financing will be available in amounts or on terms acceptable to us, if at all.
Substantial future sales of our ADSs in the public market, or the perception that these sales could occur, could cause the price of our ADSs to decline.
Additional sales of our ordinary shares in the public market or the perception that these sales could occur, could cause the market price of our ADSs to decline. As of April 18, 2014, the latest practicable date, we had 669,232,591 ordinary shares outstanding. The 3,786,451 ADSs representing 170,390,313 Class A Ordinary Shares are freely transferable without restriction or additional registration under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or the Securities Act.
In addition, certain holders of our ordinary shares will have the right to cause us to register the sale of those shares under the Securities Act. Registration of these shares under the Securities Act would result in these shares becoming freely tradable without restriction under the Securities Act immediately upon the effectiveness of the registration. Sales of these registered shares in the public market could cause the price of our ADSs to decline.
We have adopted a shareholders rights plan, which, together with the other anti-takeover provisions of our amended and restated articles of association, could discourage a third party from acquiring us and could limit our shareholders' opportunity to sell their shares, including ordinary shares represented by our ADSs, at a premium.
Our board of directors adopted a shareholders rights plan on November 17, 2010 and amended it on June 6, 2012 and November 15, 2013. Under this rights plan, one right was distributed with respect to each of our ordinary shares outstanding at the closing of business on November 29, 2010. These rights entitle the holders to purchase ordinary shares from us at half of the market price at the time of purchase in the event that a person or group obtains ownership of 15% or more (or an additional 1% in the case of certain shareholders holding more than 15% at the time of the plan adoption) of our ordinary shares (including by acquisition of the ADSs representing an ownership interest in the ordinary shares) or enters into an acquisition transaction without the approval of our board of directors. This rights plan and the other anti-takeover provisions of our amended and restated articles of association could deprive our shareholders of an opportunity to sell their shares at a premium over prevailing market prices by discouraging third parties from seeking to obtain control of our company in a tender offer or similar transaction.
Our articles of association contain anti-takeover provisions that could have a material and adverse effect on the rights of holders of our ordinary shares and ADSs.
Our amended and restated articles of association include provisions that could limit the ability of others to acquire control of our company or cause us to engage in change-of-control transactions. These provisions could deprive our shareholders of an opportunity to sell their shares at a premium
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over prevailing market prices by discouraging third parties from seeking to obtain control of our company in a tender offer or similar transaction. For example, our board of directors has the authority to, without further action by our shareholders, to the extent permitted by law, issue preferred shares in one or more series and to fix their designations, powers, preferences, privileges and relative participating, optional or special rights and their qualifications, limitations or restrictions, including dividend rights, conversion rights, voting rights, redemption privileges and liquidation preferences, any or all of which may be greater than the rights associated with our ordinary shares, in the form of ADSs or otherwise. Preferred shares could be issued quickly with terms which may delay or prevent a change in control of our company or make removal of management more difficult. If our board of directors decides to issue preferred shares, the price of our ADSs may fall and the voting and other rights of the holders of our ordinary shares and ADSs may be materially and adversely affected.
You may not have the same voting rights as the holders of our ordinary shares and may not receive voting materials in time to be able to exercise your right to vote.
Except as otherwise described, holders of our ADSs will not be able to exercise voting rights attaching to the shares represented by our ADSs on an individual basis. Holders of our ADSs will appoint the depositary or its nominee as their representative to exercise the voting rights attaching to the shares represented by the ADSs. You may not receive voting materials in time to instruct the depositary to vote, and it is possible that you, or persons who hold their ADSs through brokers, dealers or other third parties, will not have the opportunity to exercise a right to vote.
You may not be able to participate in rights offerings and may experience dilution of your holdings as a result.
We may from time to time distribute rights to our shareholders, including rights to acquire our securities. Under the deposit agreement for the ADSs, the depositary will not offer those rights to ADS holders unless both the rights and the underlying securities to be distributed to ADS holders are either registered under the Securities Act or exempt from registration under the Securities Act with respect to all holders of ADSs. We are under no obligation to file a registration statement with respect to any such rights or underlying securities or to endeavor to cause such a registration statement to be declared effective. In addition, we may not be able to take advantage of any exemptions from registration under the Securities Act. Accordingly, holders of our ADSs may be unable to participate in our rights offerings and may experience dilution in their holdings as a result.
You may be subject to limitations on transfer of your ADSs.
Your ADSs evidenced by the ADRs are transferable on the books of the depositary. However, the depositary may close its transfer books at any time or from time to time when it deems doing so expedient in connection with the performance of its duties. In addition, the depositary may refuse to deliver, transfer or register transfers of ADSs generally when our books or the books of the depositary are closed, or at any time if we or the depositary deem it advisable to do so because of any requirement of law or of any government or governmental body, or under any provision of the deposit agreement, or for any other reason.
You may face difficulties in protecting your interests, and your ability to protect your rights through the U.S. federal courts may be limited, because we are incorporated under Cayman Islands law, conduct substantially all of our operations in China and all of our officers reside outside the United States.
We are incorporated in the Cayman Islands. We conduct substantially all of our operations in China through the subsidiaries in China directly or indirectly owned by us. All of our officers reside outside the United States and some or all of the assets of those persons are located outside of the United States. As a result, it may be difficult or impossible for you to bring an original action against
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us or against these individuals in a Cayman Islands or PRC court if you believe that we or our officers have infringed your rights under the U.S. federal securities laws or otherwise. Even if you are successful in bringing an action of this kind, the laws of the Cayman Islands and of China may render you unable to enforce a judgment against our assets or the assets of our directors and officers. There is no statutory recognition in the Cayman Islands of judgments obtained in the United States. The courts of the Cayman Islands would recognize as a valid judgment, a final and conclusive judgment in personam obtained in the United States Court against our company under which a sum of money is payable (other than a sum of money payable in respect of multiple damages, taxes or other charges of a like nature or in respect of a fine or other penalty) or, in certain circumstances, an in personam judgment for non-monetary relief, and would give a judgment based thereon provided that (a) such courts had proper jurisdiction over the parties subject to such judgment (b) such courts did not contravene the rules of natural justice of the Cayman Islands, (c) such judgment was not obtained by fraud, (d) the enforcement of the judgment would not be contrary to the public policy of the Cayman Islands, (e) no new admissible evidence relevant to the action is submitted prior to the rendering of the judgment by the courts of the Cayman Islands, and (f) there is due compliance with the correct procedures under the laws of the Cayman Islands.
Our corporate affairs are governed by our amended and restated memorandum and articles of association, the Companies Law, Cap 22 (Law 3 of 1961, as consolidated and revised) (the "Companies Law") and the common law of the Cayman Islands. The rights of shareholders to take legal action against our directors and us, actions by minority shareholders and the fiduciary responsibilities of our directors to us under Cayman Islands law are to a large extent governed by the common law of the Cayman Islands. The common law of the Cayman Islands is derived in part from comparatively limited judicial precedent in the Cayman Islands as well as from English common law, which has persuasive, but not binding, authority on a court in the Cayman Islands. The rights of our shareholders and the fiduciary responsibilities of our directors under Cayman Islands law are not as clearly established as they would be under statutes or judicial precedents in the United States. In particular, the Cayman Islands have a less developed body of securities laws as compared to the United States, and provide significantly less protection to investors. In addition, Cayman Islands companies may not have standing to initiate a shareholder derivative action before the federal courts of the United States.
As a result of all of the above, our public shareholders may have more difficulty in protecting their interests through actions against our management, directors or major shareholders than would shareholders of a corporation incorporated in a jurisdiction in the United States.
Item 4. INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY
A. HISTORY AND DEVELOPMENT OF THE COMPANY
We became the exclusive franchisor of the CENTURY 21® brand in China on March 22, 2000 through IFM Company Limited, or IFM Co., a Cayman Islands company controlled by one of our founders, Mr. Donald Zhang. See "Item 4. Information on the CompanyB. Business OverviewOur Relationship with Realogy." Since then, we have worked to build the CENTURY 21® brand and our franchise network of CENTURY 21® sales offices in China.
We underwent a reorganization and introduced Goldman Sachs Strategic Investments, as an investor to develop our company-owned brokerage services business in 2006. In connection with the reorganization, we incorporated IFM Investments Limited, our company in the Cayman Islands, on November 30, 2005 to be the holding company of our various subsidiaries, including IFM Co. In consideration for the contribution of all issued and outstanding shares of IFM Co., our founders received all of the issued and outstanding shares of our company. On August 24, 2006, which is the effective date of our reorganization, after giving effect to our 10-for-1 share split which was effective on January 4, 2010, we issued 200,000,000 Series A preferred shares to Goldman Sachs Strategic
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Investments for US$22.0 million. After this investment, we began to develop our company-owned brokerage services business. In October 2006, we incorporated Beijing Anxin to develop our company-owned sales offices in Beijing. In the same month, we also acquired 14 sales offices from a third party in Shanghai through Shanghai Ruifeng to develop our company-owned brokerage services business in Shanghai. In 2008, we began managing our mortgage management services in Beijing and Shanghai as a separate segment.
On October 19, 2007, after giving effect to our 10-for-1 share split which was effective on January 4, 2010, we issued 105,253,600 Series B preferred shares to GLA, for US$40.0 million. On February 21, 2008, after giving effect to our 10-for-1 share split which was effective on January 4, 2010, we issued 6,113,670 Series B preferred shares to Realogy, for approximately US$2.3 million.
As part of our reorganization, Xinye, a PRC wholly foreign-owned enterprise controlled by our founders, Mr. Donald Zhang and Mr. Harry Lu, agreed to transfer its 51% equity interests in IFM SH, 11.15% equity interests in IFM Beijing, 10% equity interests in Xiamen, 15% equity invest in Shandong and 10% equity interests in Xian, to us. Xinye completed its transfer to us of the Shandong interests on December 4, 2006, the IFM SH interests on December 4, 2008, the IFM Beijing interests on August 12, 2008, the Xiamen interests on December 26, 2008 and the Xian interests on February 9, 2009.
On January 4, 2010, we effected a share split whereby all of our issued and outstanding 26,000,000 ordinary shares of par value US$0.01 per share, 20,000,000 Series A preferred shares of par value US$0.01 per share and 11,136,727 Series B preferred shares of par value US$0.01 per share were divided into 260,000,000 ordinary shares of US$0.001 par value per share, 200,000,000 Series A preferred shares of par value US$0.001 per share and 111,367,270 Series B preferred shares of par value US$0.001 per share, respectively, and the number of our authorized shares was increased from 101,374,676 to 1,013,746,760.
Trading in the ADSs offered in our initial public offering commenced on the NYSE on January 28, 2010. We changed the ratio of our ADS to ordinary share from 1:15 to 1:45, effective on April 16, 2012.
Our principal executive office is located at 26/A, East Wing, Hanwei Plaza, No.7 Guanghua Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100004, People's Republic of China. Our telephone number at this address is (86-10) 6561-7788 and our fax number is (86-10) 6561-3321. Our registered office in the Cayman Islands is located at the offices of Trident Trust Company (Cayman) Limited, Fourth Floor, One Capital Place, P.O. Box 847GT Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands. Our agent for service of process in the United States is CT Corporation System, located at 111 Eighth Avenue, New York, New York 10011.
B. BUSINESS OVERVIEW
Overview
We are a leading comprehensive real estate services provider with the largest network of real estate sales offices in China. We are the exclusive franchisor in China for the CENTURY 21® brand, one of the world's most recognized brands in the real estate industry. As of December 31, 2013, our CENTURY 21® China network covered 24 major cities with 935 sales offices, including 260 company directly owned sales offices, employed 13,065 sales professionals and staff and maintained more than 7.8 million property listings.
We operate under four different, but closely related, business lines: (i) company-owned brokerage services, (ii) primary and commercial services, (iii) mortgage management services, and (iv) franchise services. We have deployed a unique business model that has allowed us to rapidly scale our company-owned operations by leveraging the in-depth market knowledge and human capital developed from our franchise network.
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We started our franchise services business in 2000 and have rapidly expanded our franchise network and our brand. Our franchise services business grants regional franchise rights for the CENTURY 21® brand to regional sub-franchisors in China who, in turn, open their own sales offices or grant third parties the right to open sales offices within their region. We generate revenues from our franchise services by collecting initial franchise fees and ongoing service fees from these regional sub-franchisors. Our franchise network has provided us with valuable information to gauge market maturity and identify potential opportunities to establish and grow our company-owned brokerage services business. Until we launched our company-owned brokerage services business in 2006, we generated our net revenues solely from our franchise services business. In the fourth quarter of 2010, we reacquired the franchise rights for Chengdu region. This is part of our long-term strategy to grow our company-owned brokerage services in Chengdu and nearby cities, as well as our related mortgage management services and primary and commercial services.
We started our company-owned brokerage services business in Beijing and Shanghai in 2006, in Shenzhen in 2008 and in Chengdu in 2010, and have quickly expanded our company-owned sales office network in these cities through organic growth and acquisitions of sales offices owned by third parties. As of December 31, 2013, we had 260 company-owned sales offices including ten temporarily closed company-owned sales offices, representing approximately 27.8% of our CENTURY 21® China network. Our company-owned brokerage services business owns and operates regional sub-franchisors and sales offices in the CENTURY 21® China network. We generate revenues from our company-owned brokerage services primarily through commissions earned from home buyers, sellers, lessors and lessees. For the years ended December 31, 2011, 2012 and 2013, our company-owned sales offices contributed approximately 84.9%, 83.4% and 78.8% of our total net revenues, respectively.
In 2008, we launched our independent mortgage management services in Beijing and Shanghai, providing services to customers both inside and outside our CENTURY 21® China network. In January 2011, we acquired a company based in Beijing with a license to offer mortgage credit loans with property collateral through a series of contractual arrangements with the VIEs. The total consideration for the transaction was RMB5.0 million. Our mortgage management services business provides advisory services on mortgages, home equity loans and consumer credit loans to home buyers and home owners and loan services by offering consumer financing through commercial banks or our mortage credit company. We generate revenues from our mortgage management services primarily through commissions earned from commercial banks and borrowers in consideration of our advisory services and fees and interest earned on entrusted and mortgage credit loans of our loan services. Our mortgage management services business is well positioned to take advantage of referrals from our extensive network of company-owned sales offices. In 2013, a majority of the transactions handled by our company-owned brokerage services in which mortgages were utilized made use of our mortgage management services. We provided services for referred home mortgages and home equity loans with an aggregate loan amount of approximately RMB2.9 billion and RMB3.9 billion (US$0.6 billion) in 2012 and 2013, respectively. Average entrusted and mortgage credit loan balance outstanding was RMB41.5 million and RMB72.1 million (US$11.9 million) in 2012 and 2013, respectively. The revenues generated from advising consumers for home equity loans and providing entrusted loans and mortgage credit loans accounted for 64% of total mortgage management services revenues in 2013.
In 2009, we established dedicated teams for the primary and commercial real estate markets. In 2010, we launched our primary and commercial services business, which includes two business units. Our primary business unit provides agency services to both primary residential real estate developers and primary commercial property developers and generates revenues by earning commissions from them. Our commercial business unit provides planning, consulting and brokerage services to commercial property developers and generates revenues by collecting service fees from them. In order to expand our presence in the primary and commercial market segments, in June 2011, we acquired 55% of the equity interest of Shanggu, an established local primary real estate agency service provider
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based in Beijing focusing on consulting and sales for commercial real estate projects. We generated revenues from the sales of 544,952 square meters of primary properties in 2013 and have expanded our pipeline to a total GFA of 2.2 million square meters as of the end of 2013. In April 2014, we entered into a supplemental agreement in connection with the acquisition of Shanggu, pursuant to which we will no longer acquire the additional 35% equity interest in Shanggu, but will reserve the right to acquire an additional 5% equity interest in Shanggu.
In addition, we invested in our first real estate investment fund with an investment of RMB8.4 million as of December 31, 2013, as a limited partner. The fund provides low loan-to-value bridge loans to selected real estate developers. We also act as a general partner with a 75.0% equity interest in the partnership managing this real estate fund. This fund has collected back all its original investment as of January 27, 2014.
Our rapid growth is supported by our information systems and training programs. Our information systems provide real-time and in-depth management and sales information, support our network of sales offices, and drive our marketing efforts. We strongly believe in training members of our management team, who are generally required to complete quarterly training courses. Additionally, all of our new sales professionals are required to complete training courses that we conduct in-house, and are also required to complete monthly refresher or new skills courses.
We have experienced substantial growth since we began operations in 2000. Our net revenues amounted to RMB604.6 million in 2011, RMB748.1 million in 2012 and RMB877.5 million (US$145.0 million) in 2013. The average number of our company-owned sales offices was 517, 326 and 300 for 2011, 2012 and 2013, respectively. Based on profitability of each store, we have reduced our operating sales offices to 250 as of December 31, 2013. We currently do not have a plan to significantly expand our company-owned brokerage services in 2014. However, when the real estate service industry in China continues to mature and grow, we may expand our operations in the longer term, which will continue to place substantial demands on our managerial, operational, financial, technological and other resources. In order to manage and support our growth, we must continue to improve our existing operational, administrative and technological systems and our financial and management controls, and recruit, train and retain additional qualified sales professionals as well as other administrative and sales and marketing personnel, particularly as we expand into new markets.
Our Nationwide Network
We operate the largest network of real estate sales offices in China under the CENTURY 21® brand. As of December 31, 2013, our CENTURY 21® China network covered 24 major cities with 935 sales offices, employed 13,065 sales professionals and staff and maintained more than 7.8 million property listings.
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The map below shows the 24 cities covered by the CENTURY 21® franchise network as of the date of this annual report:
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The table below sets forth a summary of the number of sales offices, sales professionals and staff and property listings in our CENTURY 21® franchise network, as of December 31, 2013:
|
Sales Offices | Sales Professionals and Staff |
Property Listings |
|||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Shanghai |
164 | 2,890 | 2,111,322 | |||||||
Beijing |
128 | 2,573 | 1,907,388 | |||||||
Chengdu |
70 | 1,189 | 426,326 | |||||||
Jinan |
70 | 600 | 298,777 | |||||||
Xian |
59 | 574 | 260,129 | |||||||
Qingdao |
52 | 642 | 253,455 | |||||||
Shijiazhuang |
50 | 678 | 113,894 | |||||||
Others |
342 | 3,919 | 2,417,433 | |||||||
| | | | | | | | | | |
Total |
935 | 13,065 | 7,788,724 | |||||||
| | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Our Services
We operate under four different, but closely related, business lines: (i) company-owned brokerage services, (ii) primary and commercial services, (iii) mortgage management services, and (iv) franchise services. We have deployed a unique business model that has allowed us to rapidly scale our company-owned operations by leveraging the in-depth market knowledge and human capital developed from our franchise network. We invested in our first real estate investment fund with an investment of RMB8.4 million as of December 31, 2013, as a limited partner. The fund provides low loan-to-value bridge loans to selected real estate developers. We also act as a general partner with a 75.0% equity interest in the partnership managing this real estate fund.
Company-owned Brokerage Services
Through our company-owned brokerage services business, we participate in sales and leasing transactions primarily with respect to middle to high grade residential properties in the secondary real estate market. Our services include property listing, advisory services and transaction negotiation and documentation. When we assist the seller in a real estate transaction, our sales professionals assist the seller in pricing the property and preparing it for sale, advertising the property (including on websites), introducing and promoting the property to prospective buyers, and assisting the seller in sale negotiations.
When we assist the buyer in a real estate transaction, our sales professionals generally help the buyer locate specific properties that meet the buyer's personal and financial specifications, show properties to the buyer, assist the buyer in negotiating transaction terms and executing the transaction. We also promote our mortgage management services to our customers to provide the increased convenience of one-stop real estate brokerage services. We also participate in real estate sales and leasing transactions with respect to properties in the primary and commercial real estate markets. As of December 31, 2013, we directly owned 260 CENTURY 21® sales offices, including ten temporarily closed company-owned sales offices, strategically located in Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen and Chengdu, which are among the cities in China with the highest number of secondary market real estate transactions per year. We primarily focus on China's fast-growing and highly fragmented secondary real estate market, which we expect to outgrow the primary real estate development market, especially in more economically prosperous cities. As of December 31, 2013, we had 5,263 sales professionals and staff in our company-owned sales offices. In 2012 and 2013, such offices were involved in approximately 16,836 and 17,026 sale and purchase transactions, respectively, and net revenues from our company-owned brokerage services business represented approximately 83.4% and 78.8% of our total net revenues, respectively.
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The table below sets forth the number of our company-owned sales offices and sales professionals and staff in each city as of December 31, 2013:
|
Company-owned Sales Offices |
Sales Professionals and Staff |
|||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Beijing |
92 | * | 2,106 | ||||
Shanghai |
155 | * | 2,808 | ||||
Shenzhen |
10 | * | 184 | ||||
Chengdu |
3 | 165 | |||||
| | | | | | | |
Total |
260 | 5,263 | |||||
| | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | |
Historically, we have developed our company-owned brokerage services business through organic growth and acquisitions of sales offices owned by third parties. We established Beijing Anxin, the operator of our company-owned sales offices in Beijing in 2006. In Shanghai and Shenzhen, we acquired the sales offices operated by two pre-existing local players with sufficient local expertise in 2006 and 2008, respectively. After such acquisitions, we started to develop our company-owned brokerage services business locally with the assistance of the local management team.
We operate our company-owned brokerage services business under the CENTURY 21® franchise network. Each of our company-owned sales offices enters into a franchise agreement with one of our two wholly owned regional sub-franchisors. Under this arrangement, our company-owned sales offices are required to pay intra-group royalties to our regional sub-franchisors who, in turn, pay royalties to us. See "Item 4. Information on the CompanyB. Business OverviewOur ServicesFranchise Services" for more information on our CENTURY 21® franchise network and operations.
Primary and Commercial Services
We established dedicated teams to enter the primary and commercial real estate markets in 2009. In 2010, we launched our primary and commercial services business, which includes two business units. Our primary business unit provides agency services to both primary residential real estate developers and primary commercial developers and generates revenues by earning sales commissions from them. Our commercial business unit provides planning, consulting and brokerage services to commercial property developers and generates revenues by collecting service fees from them. In June 2011, we acquired 55% of the equity interest of Shanggu, an established local primary real estate agency service provider based in Beijing focusing on consulting and sales for commercial real estate projects. We generated revenues from the sales of 544,952 square meters of primary projects in 2013 and have expanded our pipeline to a total GFA of 2.2 million square meters as of the end of 2013. We currently reserve the right to acquire an additional 5% equity interest in Shanggu.
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Mortgage Management Services
We began operating our independent mortgage management services as a separate segment in 2008 in Beijing and Shanghai, under the independent brand of Kaisheng Jinglue. In 2011, we acquired a company based in Beijing with a license to offer mortgage credit loans with property collateral through a series of contractual arrangements in order to arrange property financing, valuation services and title transfers. Our mortgage management services include comprehensive advisory services in connection with the selection and procurement of home mortgage and home equity products offered by commercial banks and loan services in connection with our provision of entrusted and mortgage credit loans. For advisory services, our experienced mortgage consultants promote and introduce various mortgage products, and advise home buyers or home owners in the selection of the appropriate mortgage product based on each mortgagor's individual needs. For loan services, we provide consumer financing to borrowers with funds released by commercial banks from our trust accounts at such banks, or through our mortgage credit company. Since 2013, our entrusted and mortgaged credit loan services have been improved by property refinancing activities, through which certain individuals offer loans to consumers after receiving financing from our mortgage credit company and then transfer such loans, entirely or partially, to third-party investors. We act as guarantors for such loans and remain responsible for the repayment of loans by the consumers. The revenues generated from advising home equity loans and providing entrusted and mortgage credit loans accounted for 64% of our total mortgage management service revenues in 2013.
As an important aspect of the one-stop real estate brokerage services available within the CENTURY 21® franchise network, our mortgage management services can be accessed at our nearby centers, providing a convenient, one-stop option to home buyers and home owners as well as a prime platform for commercial banks to offer their products and services. In 2013, a majority of the transactions utilizing mortgage services that are handled by our company-owned sales offices made use of our mortgage management services. We also provide mortgage management services to customers outside of our CENTURY 21® China network. We also have a call center in Beijing and Shanghai to promote our mortgage management services business directly to our customers.
As of December 31, 2013, we had established advisory relationships with 16 commercial banks, such as Bank of China and Industrial and Commercial Bank of China. In some cases, we provide mortgage management services to property owners who need mortgages on their existing properties to obtain consumer loans for acquisition of additional properties and charge commissions based on our services. We provided services for referred home mortgages and home equity loans with an aggregate loan amount of approximately RMB2.9 billion and RMB3.9 billion (US$0.6 billion) in 2012 and 2013, respectively. The average outstanding balance for our entrusted and mortgage credit loans was RMB41.5 million and RMB72.1 million (US$11.9 million) in 2012 and 2013, respectively.
Franchise Services
Our franchise network consists of three levels of franchise rights. First, through IFM Co., our wholly owned subsidiary, we are the exclusive franchisor for the CENTURY 21® brand in China. IFM Co. in turn grants the right to franchise the CENTURY 21® brand within specific geographical regions to sub-franchisors whom we refer to as regional sub-franchisors. The geographical scope of a regional sub-franchisor is generally limited to a particular city, although a few sub-franchisors have rights in multiple cities. We own certain of the regional sub-franchisors.
The regional sub-franchisors then either open their own sales offices or grant to independent operators the right to open sales offices within the sub-franchisor's region. The sales offices owned by us are referred to as company-owned sales offices while those owned by third parties are referred to as franchised sales offices or franchisees. As part of our strategy of expanding our network and
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CENTURY 21® brand recognition, in addition to owning and operating our company-owned sales offices, we seek to increase the number of franchisees.
As of December 31, 2013, we had 23 regional sub-franchisors with established franchise networks in 24 cities in China with a total of 935 franchised and company owned sales offices employing 13,065 sales professionals and staff. The table below sets forth the number of the franchised sales offices in our CENTURY 21® franchise network, as of December 31, 2013:
|
Franchise Sales Offices |
Sales Professionals and Staff |
|||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Jinan |
70 | 1,000 | |||||
Chengdu |
67 | 1,024 | |||||
Xian |
59 | 574 | |||||
Qingdao |
52 | 642 | |||||
Shijiazhuang |
50 | 678 | |||||
Zhengzhou |
48 | 670 | |||||
Ningbo |
42 | 313 | |||||
Hangzhou |
41 | 408 | |||||
Nanjing |
40 | 238 | |||||
Beijing |
35 | 467 | |||||
Wenzhou |
28 | 516 | |||||
Others |
143 | 1,272 | |||||
| | | | | | | |
Total |
675 | 7,802 | |||||
| | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | |
We are the largest real estate brokerage franchisor in China in terms of the number of sales offices operating under the CENTURY 21® brand, and the only real estate franchisor with a national footprint.
Pursuant to the franchise agreements we entered into with the entities in our CENTURY 21® franchise network, we primarily generate revenues from our franchise services business in two ways. First, each regional sub-franchisor pays us an initial sub-franchising fee in consideration of entering into the regional sub-franchise agreement. Second, each regional sub-franchisor pays us ongoing service fees based on its revenues from the sales offices within its respective region, subject to minimum service fee requirements. The regional sub-franchisors generate revenues through an initial franchise fee and ongoing service fees from each sales office established in their regional network.
In addition to generating revenues from our regional sub-franchisors, we leverage the geographic breadth and local market expertise of our CENTURY 21® franchise network to increase our brand recognition and market share as well as to accumulate market information and local expertise in the geographic regions where we see the business potential for future expansion of our company-owned brokerage services.
Our franchising process involves conducting market surveys and identifying target regions or locations, identifying potential regional sub-franchisors, and negotiating and signing franchise agreements. Since 2000, we have become more efficient in developing our CENTURY 21® franchise network. Based on our research and analysis of the real estate market in China, we believe that approximately 100 cities in China meet our criteria to develop our CENTURY 21® franchise network.
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The selection of regional sub-franchisors in target regions is of critical importance to the development of the CENTURY 21® franchise network. We identify suitable partners in regions where we plan to develop a franchise network. An evaluation committee consisting of key members of our senior management team is in charge of reviewing and selecting regional sub-franchisors in new regions. Major criteria for the evaluation process include reputation, financial strength, commitment and industry vision, demonstrated industry and local expertise, as well as internal control capability.
After our regional sub-franchisor enters into our network, we start to provide our franchise services, which primarily include the license to use or sub-franchise CENTURY 21® brand and system, training services, and the right to participate in and benefit from the marketing campaigns using NAF as well as information technology and back office support.
As part of our ongoing monitoring and supervision of a regional sub-franchisor's performance, we generally require our regional sub-franchisor to (1) comply with a uniform franchise policy and procedure adopted for the region, (2) use our standardized franchise agreement with the franchisees within the region, (3) meet certain performance criteria, including the development of a certain number of franchised sales offices, (4) abstain from engaging in any other real estate brokerage business similar to ours or investing in any franchised sales offices, or other real estate brokerage, consulting or valuation businesses, unless otherwise agreed by us and (5) obtain our consent prior to any transfer of more than 5% of its equity interest. We also have the right to terminate the regional sub-franchise agreement in the event that the regional sub-franchisor materially breaches its obligations under the agreement.
Our Information Technology and Systems
We supervise and manage our operations and provide information technology and back-office support to our company-owned brokerage services and franchise network through our proprietary information technology and systems, principally our Sales Information System ("SIS"), Transaction Management System, and Human Resources and Commission Information System ("HCIS"). Since 2011, we have established an online listing platform to consolidate all Century 21 China real estate internet advertising portals. We maintain certain backup and disaster-recovery systems for the critical functions of our SIS and HCIS. Our in-house information technology team, with the support of third-party firms, develops, maintains and upgrades our information systems on a regular basis.
Sales Information System.
Embedded with comprehensive information collection, categorization, storage, processing and analysis modules, our SIS is our core platform providing day-to-day informational and operational support to our company-owned brokerage services and franchise network. The SIS provides listings and customer information management as well as sales office and network management support.
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transactions completed by our company-owned sales offices in Beijing and Shanghai involved more than one sales professional.
Transaction Management System.
Human Resources and Commission Information System.
Century 21 China Online Listing Platform
Marketing and Brand Promotion
Marketing and brand promotion is an important tool in building the CENTURY 21® franchise network in China. We primarily finance our marketing campaigns and activities for brand promotion activities through our National Advertising Fund (NAF) to which all regional sub-franchisors and
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franchisees within the CENTURY 21® franchise network in China make monthly contributions. The contributions made to our NAF, net of amounts retained for regional promotion as discussed below, amounted to RMB3.9 million, RMB4.2 million and RMB5.2 million (US$0.9 million) in 2011, 2012 and 2013, respectively. Our marketing committee, which consists of key management members in charge of marketing from each of our regional franchise networks, is responsible for directing and supervising the use of the fund. We receive a 15% management fee for our administration of the fund from each of our regional franchise networks. To promote the CENTURY 21® brand in regional markets, each regional sub-franchisor retains 30% of its annual contribution to maintain an advertising fund for brand promotion in their respective local market. As a matter of our company's policy, all financial contributions to our NAF must be used in marketing campaigns and brand promotion activities during the relevant year in which they are made. For major marketing campaigns we hire external marketing professionals to assist our in-house marketing team.
We have adopted an integrated approach to promote the CENTURY 21® brand:
In addition to our brand building efforts, each sales office may choose to allocate certain funds to online marketing of property listings through the internet. Through our cooperation arrangements with major online real estate portals such as SouFun.com and Anjuke.com, each sales office may promote property listings to advance potential customers' direct access to such listings and responsible sales professionals. Our sales offices have generated significant traffic through our online advertising efforts.
Competition
Company-owned Brokerage Services The real estate brokerage industry is highly competitive in China, particularly in the metropolitan areas in which our company-owned brokerage services businesses operate, such as Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen and Chengdu. In addition, the industry has low capital commitment requirements for small operations, lowering entry barriers for new participants, especially participants pursuing alternative methods of marketing real estate, such as internet-based listing services. However, significant capital commitments would be required to compete on a regional or national basis. Companies compete for brokerage business primarily on the basis of the services offered, reputation and brand recognition, personal contacts, local expertise and brokerage commission rates. We primarily compete with Centaline (China) Property Consultants Limited in the Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen and Chengdu markets for secondary market real estate brokerage business. We also compete with regional competitors in each of the regions where we own and operate sales offices.
Primary and Commercial Services The major players in the PRC primary services market include World Union Properties Consulting Co., Limited, Syswin Inc., and E-House (China) Holdings Limited, and the major players in the PRC commercial services market include CB Richard Ellis and Jones Lang Lasalle. These companies entered into the primary and commercial services market earlier than us. We intend to leverage on our existing service network to differentiate us from the other market players and build our primary and commercial services business by adopting different promotion and sales strategies.
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Mortgage Management Services Our mortgage management services business covers the Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen and Chengdu regions in contrast to our competitors who typically cover a single region. We compete with in-house mortgage management teams of our competitors in the brokerage businesses and, in some regions, specialized mortgage management competitors including Beijing Houze Investment and Guarantee Company Limited and Shanghai Haoyonghang Investment Management Company Limited.
Franchise Services We compete primarily with regional and local real estate brokerage brand franchisors. In addition, other international real estate brand franchisors, such as Coldwell Banker, have entered the China market. A real estate broker may choose to affiliate with a regional chain or choose not to affiliate with a franchisor but to remain independent. We believe that competition for the sale of franchises in the real estate brokerage industry is based principally upon the perceived value and quality of the brand, the types of services offered to franchisees, the availability of financing, and the fees the franchisees must pay.
The ability of our real estate brokerage franchisees to compete is important to our prospects for growth. The ability of an individual franchisee to compete may be affected by the quality of its sales professionals, the location of its office, the services provided to its sales professionals, the number of competing offices in the vicinity, its affiliation with a recognized brand name, community reputation, brokerage commission rate and other factors. A franchisee's success may also be affected by general, regional and local economic conditions.
Intellectual Property
The CENTURY 21® brand name, including related intellectual property, which we are authorized to use under our master sub-franchise agreement with Realogy, contributes to our competitive advantage in the real estate services market. We also rely on our Sales Information System and Human Resource and Commission Information System, each of which is copyright protected, and our training system that combines our training programs and our E-learning system to manage our business operations. See "Item 4. Information on the CompanyB. Business OverviewOur Information Systems." Since commencement of our operations, our company-owned brokerage and franchise services businesses have significantly relied on the CENTURY 21® brand name, our proprietary information systems and our training system. To protect our intellectual property, we rely on a combination of trade secrets and copyright laws in China as well as imposing procedural and contractual confidentiality on our sales professionals and staff, contractors and others. The built-in security functions and access authorization mechanisms in our franchise systems also help protect our confidential information.
We offer our mortgage management services under the trade name of Kaisheng Jinglue in Beijing and Shanghai. We have registered the trademark of Kaisheng Jinglue in China with a term of ten years ending on March 6, 2023, in a range of classes, including insurance brokerage services, mortgage credit, trust, guarantee services, leasing guarantee services, insurance consulting and real estate agent services.
Compliance and Legal Proceedings
Our operations in China are regulated by the MOFCOM, the SAFE, the MHURD, the PRC Ministry of Land and Resources, the State Administration for Industry and Commerce of the PRC (the "SAIC"), the NDRC, the PBOC, China Banking Regulatory Commission and their respective local counterparts. See "Item 4. Information on the CompanyB. Business OverviewRegulations" for further details on the regulations promulgated by such bodies. Historically, we have not incurred any material costs in complying with these regulations.
GLA, an affiliate of Avenue Capital and one of our shareholders, filed a petition on December 30, 2011 in the Grand Court of the Cayman Islands to request an order to wind up our company and other
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remedies. We, having consulted with our legal counsel, firmly believed that there was no basis for any of GLA's claims, and that a winding up would not be the appropriate remedy for any of the claims made. We filed a summons to strike out GLA's petition on January 6, 2012, and were contesting GLA's petition. On April 27, 2012, we entered into the Restructuring Deed with GLA and certain other parties, pursuant to which, the parties of such restructuring deed released each other from all then outstanding claims under certain legal proceedings, including the petition filed by GLA on December 30, 2011. For more information about the Restructuring Deed, see "Item 7. Major Shareholders and Related Party TransactionsB. Related Party TransactionsRestructuring Deed."
We are subject to various legal proceedings, investigations and claims incidental to the conduct of our business from time to time. We have occasionally, and in each case, successfully, resorted to litigation against certain of our regional sub-franchisors with whom we have terminated our sub-franchise relationship for the sub-franchisor's material breach of the regional sub-franchise agreement. In addition, we have successfully litigated against third parties who have infringed upon the CENTURY 21® trademark. Except as mentioned in this section, we are not currently a party to, nor are we aware of, any legal proceeding, investigation or claim, which in the opinion of our management, is likely to have a material and adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations.
Our Relationship with Realogy
In March 2000, IFM Company Limited, or IFM Co. entered into an international master sub-franchise agreement with Cendant Global Services B.V., a subsidiary of Cendant Corporation, the entity from which Realogy was spun off in 2006. Cendant Global Services B.V. assigned its rights under the master sub-franchise agreement to a subsidiary of Realogy which, in turn, assigned such rights to Realogy. IFM Co. became the exclusive franchisor of the CENTURY 21® brand and system in China for a term of 25 years, extendable at IFM Co.'s election for additional terms of 25 years upon payment of renewal fees of US$4.5 million for each renewal, to be adjusted for inflation or deflation. Under the agreement, IFM Co. is authorized to establish, operate and promote the CENTURY 21® network in China by using and sublicensing the CENTURY 21® brand and system owned by Realogy, which includes: (i) the trade names, trademarks, service marks, slogans, logos or other indicia relating to the CENTURY 21® franchise network; and (ii) the standard franchise agreement, sales tools and brochures, real estate products, programs, services and franchise/sub-franchise plans. Pursuant to our restructuring in 2005, our company was incorporated in the Cayman Islands and IFM Co. became our wholly owned subsidiary.
Under the master sub-franchise agreement, we are required to comply with certain franchise policies adopted by Realogy, as amended from time to time. The master sub-franchise agreement sets out certain terms pursuant to which we are required to operate our franchise services business, including the form of regional sub-franchise agreements to be entered into with regional sub-franchisors and the service fees payable to Realogy. The master sub-franchise agreement also provides that Realogy must approve and has a right of first refusal with respect to any sale or transfer of more than 25% of our equity interest, or any series of transactions resulting in sales or transfer of more than 49% of our equity interest. Realogy approved our initial public offering and waived any right of first refusal it may have with respect to our initial public offering. In addition, Realogy agreed not to, during the term of the agreement, license any other parties to sublicense to any other parties the CENTURY 21® brand and system to operate real estate brokerages in China.
Upon entering into the master sub-franchise agreement, we paid Realogy an initial franchise fee. Apart from the initial franchise fee, we are required to pay certain ongoing service fees to Realogy, based on revenues generated from initial franchise fees and ongoing service fees collected from our regional sub-franchisors or direct franchisees. The master sub-franchise agreement also includes a minimum annual fee requirement, and to the extent that the service fees payable within a certain year
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are lower than such minimum amount, we are required to make additional payment to reach the minimum fee requirement. In the years ended December 31, 2011, 2012 and 2013, the service fees which were paid or to be paid to Realogy amounted to RMB4.4 million, RMB2.6 million and RMB2.6 million (US$0.4 million), respectively.
Either party has the right to terminate the master sub-franchise agreement if the other party materially breaches the master sub-franchise agreement. Additionally, Realogy has the right to terminate the master sub-franchise agreement in the event that (1) we assign our rights and obligations without Realogy's approval, (2) we fail to honor Realogy's right of first refusal in connection with the assignment, or (3) we become insolvent. Within two years after the master sub-franchise agreement terminates or expires, we may not engage in the real estate brokerage franchise business, subject to certain exceptions. See "Item 3. Key InformationD. Risk FactorsWe do not own the CENTURY 21® brand and our right to use the CENTURY 21® brand is subject to risks and limitations" for further discussion of the risks associated with this agreement and our reliance thereon.
On June 30, 2002, IFM Co. entered into a cooperation agreement with Beijing International Franchise Management Company Limited, or IFM Beijing, an entity controlled by our founders, Mr. Donald Zhang and Mr. Harry Lu. IFM Beijing then became the exclusive agent of IFM Co. to sub-franchise the CENTURY 21® brand and system in China on behalf of IFM Co. IFM Beijing is obliged to pay Realogy the service fees payable by IFM Co. under the master sub-franchise agreement. We became the controlling shareholder of IFM Beijing in October 2006.
On February 21, 2008, after giving effect to our 10-for-1 share split which was effective on January 4, 2010, we issued 6,113,670 Series B preferred shares to Realogy for approximately RMB16.2 million, which were then converted to 5,337,647 Class A ordinary shares upon our initial public offering.
Regulations
The real estate market and our operations in China are regulated by the MOFCOM, the SAFE, the MOHURD, the PRC Ministry of Land and Resources, the SAIC, the NDRC, the PBOC, China Banking Regulatory Commission and their respective local counterparts.
Regulations on the Real Estate Market
Under the laws of the PRC, land is owned either by the state or by rural collective organizations. Generally, the land use rights for real estate development purposes must be granted by the local counterparts of the PRC Ministry of Land and Resources. The government can therefore control the volume of land granted for real estate development each year. The construction of real estate shall also abide by the planning of the local counterparts of the MOHURD. The government policies regulating, among others, (i) the monetary supply and credit markets issued by the PBOC; (ii) the real estate developer qualification issued by the MOHURD; and (iii) taxes applicable to real estate transaction issued by the State Tax Bureau will have a material effect on the real estate market and our business.
Regulations on the Real Estate Service Industry
The principal regulations governing the real estate service industry in China include the Law on the Administration of the Urban Real Estate, as amended in August 2007, the Real Estate Brokerage Administration Measures issued by the MOHURD, the NDRC, and the PRC Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security on January 20, 2011, which became effective on April 1, 2011.
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Real Estate Service Companies
In accordance with the Law on the Administration of the Urban Real Estate and the Real Estate Brokerage Administration Measures, real estate services refer to services of real estate consultation, appraisal and brokerage. A real estate service company is required to meet certain financial and personnel requirements and register with the SAIC or its local counterpart. To be qualified to engage in real estate services, a company is required to file with the local real estate regulatory authority within thirty days following the issuance of its business license by the SAIC or its local counterparts. It must also keep proper records and comply with prescribed procedures in delivering its services.
Pursuant to the Real Estate Brokerage Administration Measures, a real estate brokerage company must have a certain number of real estate brokers and real estate broker assistants. Local authorities in Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen and Chengdu have specific requirements on employing such brokers.
On May 11, 2011, the MOHURD and NDRC jointly issued the Notice of Strengthening the Real Estate Brokerage Administration and Further Standardizing the Order of Real Estate Transactions. On June 13, 2013, MOHURD and SAIC jointly issued the Notice of Focusing on Special Administration on Market of Real Estate Agencies. According to such rules, a real estate brokerage company cannot display information on properties or customers until the execution of a brokerage contract with the relevant clients. Furthermore, a real estate brokerage company is forbidden to display any false or unverified information. The real estate brokerage company and its brokers shall not conceal transaction price and other transaction information from the transacting parties. Such entities are also prohibited from obtaining any gains by purchasing or renting a property at a lower price and then selling or leasing such property at a higher price. The real estate brokerage company is also required to establish a separate account for transaction settlement.
Real Estate Service Brokers
In accordance with the Real Estate Brokerage Administration Measures, the PRC government implemented the occupational qualification system for real estate broker personnel.
Pursuant to the Interim Regulations on Professional Qualification for Real Estate Brokerage Professionals and the Implementation Rules on the Examinations of Real Estate Brokerage Professional Qualification issued by the PRC Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security and the MOHURD on December 18, 2001 and relevant circulars, real estate brokerage professionals include real estate brokers and assistant real estate brokers. To practice as a qualified real estate broker, an individual must pass an exam and obtain a qualification certificate for real estate brokers, and register with the China National Institute of Real Estate Appraisers and Brokers to obtain the real estate broker license. After obtaining a real estate brokerage license, an individual can act as broker, but may only provide brokerage services in the name of the real estate brokerage company for which he works. Each broker can only serve one real estate service company at a time.
In accordance with the Brokers Administration Measures issued by the SAIC in August 2004, the local offices of the SAIC are the administrative bodies responsible for brokers, including their registration and supervision. Within twenty days after a brokerage company employs or dismisses an individual broker, it must file the individual broker's information and the related employment contracts with the local offices of SAIC. In addition, no brokerage or broker can engage in any activities beyond the permitted business scope or against a client's interests. In cases of non-compliance, the local offices of the SAIC can issue warnings or impose fines up to RMB30,000.
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Real Estate Service Charges
According to the Circular on Real Estate Service Charges promulgated by the NDRC and the MOHURD on July 7, 1995, a real estate service company must display its service charges, or commissions. Commissions for the sale of real properties should range between 0.5% and 2.5% of the transaction price. For exclusive brokerage services, commissions can be raised to up to 3% of the transaction price. However, the Circular on Real Estate Service Charges only sets a standard for reference with respect to real estate consulting services. Real estate consulting services providers may negotiate and determine their commission rates with clients.
In Beijing, governmental authorities issued guidance in August 2011 for maximum commission rates for consulting services that a real estate service company may charge. Particularly, the maximum commission rate for selling brokerage services has been lowered to 2% by Beijing Municipal Commission of Development and Reform and Beijing Municipal Commission of Housing and Urban-Rural Development. Although such maximum commission rate can float under the negotiation between the real estate service company and its clients for certain complex selling brokerage services, the floating range may not exceed 10%. For property leasing brokerage services, the commission rate may range from 50% to 100% of the underlying properties' contracted monthly rent.
In Shanghai, pursuant to the Circular on Brokerage Services Charges for Sales and Rental of Residential Properties jointly issued by the Shanghai Price Bureau and the Shanghai House and Land Resources Administration Bureau on August 28, 2003, our PRC real estate brokerage subsidiaries located in Shanghai shall charge clients in accordance with the guidance commission rate. The maximum guidance commission rate for real estate brokerage services is 2% of the purchase price recorded with the real estate trading center. The maximum commission rate for property leasing brokerage services is 70% of the underlying properties' contracted monthly rent. The guidance commission rate for investigation of property title and conditions, industry and market research, assisting the seller and the purchaser to conclude a property purchase contract and handling the registration of title assignment is 2% of the purchase price recorded with the real estate trading center. The maximum commission rate for rental services is 70% of the monthly rent.
In Shenzhen, the guidance commission rate for real estate brokerage services is 3% of the transaction price. A real estate brokerage company may not charge its client a commission rate exceeding 120% of this guidance commission rate.
Regulations on Franchise Businesses
To regulate the franchise industry, the MOFCOM issued the Administration Regulations on Commercial Franchise on February 6, 2007, the Administration Rules on Filing of Commercial Franchise on December 12, 2011 and the Notice Concerning Authorizing Provincial Commerce Authorities to Conduct Filings of Commercial Franchise in April 2009. Pursuant to these regulations, a franchisor must be an enterprise with at least two self-operated stores and have been in operation for at least one year. The franchisor should have a mature operating model and the ability to provide operating guidance, technology support and business training to franchisees. The franchisor is required to enter into a written franchise agreement with each of its franchisees, under which the franchisees have the right to terminate this agreement after a designated period. With the exception of renewed franchise agreements, the term of a franchise agreement must be no less than three years, unless otherwise agreed to by the franchisee.
A franchisor starting its franchise business after May 1, 2007 is required to file its business license, sample franchise agreement and other documents to the provincial commerce authority where it is registered for record within fifteen days following the execution of its first certificate of approval with business scope of conducting business through franchise agreement with a franchisee inside China. Moreover, the franchisor shall file information regarding the execution, withdrawal, renewal of and
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amendment to franchise agreements to the commerce authority for record before March 31 of each year.
Any changes in the recorded information of the franchisor should also be filed with the relevant commerce authority within thirty days following the occurrence of these changes. For a franchisor failing to file in accordance with these regulations, the relevant commerce authority may order it to comply within a designated time frame and impose a fine ranging from RMB10,000 to RMB50,000. If the franchisor fails to comply as ordered, the relevant commerce authority may impose another fine ranging from RMB50,000 to RMB100,000 and publicly announce the franchisor's violation.
The Administration Regulations on Information Disclosure for Commercial Franchise, issued by the MOFCOM on February 23, 2012, further requires a franchisor to disclose its basic information, ownership of business resources, franchise fees charged, products and services to be provided as well as other information to any franchisees at least thirty days prior to the execution of the franchise agreement.
Regulations on Mortgage Credit Companies
The Measures for the Administration of Mortgage Credit ("Mortgage Credit Measures") were jointly issued by the MOFCOM and the PRC Ministry of Public Security, on February 9, 2005 and came into effect on April 1, 2005. According to the Mortgage Credit Measures, competent commercial authorities shall implement supervision and administration over the mortgage credit industry, and public security bureau shall carry out security administration over the mortgage credit industry. Any mortgage credit company shall obtain mortgage credit operations business license and special industry license as well as other requisite licenses for its operations.
Approval from the competent government authority at the provincial level is generally required if a mortgage credit company intends to change its entity name or registered capital (except where the registered capital amounts to over RMB50 million after the intended change) or legal representative, or relocate its domicile to another place within the same city or transfer shares. The competent commercial department at the provincial level shall report to MOFCOM for record-filing within twenty days after issuing the approval. The MOFCOM shall collectively issue new license for mortgage credit business to mortgage credit companies that have undergone changes in June and December each year. Where a mortgage credit company intends to divide, merge or consolidate, move its domicile to another city, transfer accumulatively over 50% of its shares to any party other than the existing shareholders, or where the registered capital thereof amounts to over RMB50 million after the intended change, the mortgage credit company shall, with consent of the competent commercial department at the provincial level, obtain approval from the MOFCOM.
On December 5, 2012, the MOFCOM issued the Regulation for Monitoring of Mortgage Credit Industry, or the Monitoring Regulation. The Monitoring Regulation clarifies and details the different administrative monitoring powers of relevant authorities on mortgage credit companies and clarifies the management of mortgage credit companies, such as the management of admittance, daily operation management and annual inspection management.
Regulation on Entrusted Loan
The General Rules on Credit (the "General Rules") were promulgated by the PBOC on June 28, 1996 and came into effect on August 1, 1996. The General Rules define a "loan provider" as a PRC owned financial institution established in the PRC that engages in the provision of interest bearing loans. One type of loan defined in and regulated in accordance with the General Rules is the entrusted loan. Entrusted loans are arrangements whereby the capital for a loan is supplied by a government department, an enterprise or a natural person (the "capital provider") and entrusted to a financial institution as the loan provider. Entrusted loans are made by the loan provider to a specified borrower
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for a particular purpose and in an amount, for a term and at an interest rate determined by the capital provider. The term "specified borrower" describes the party specified by the capital provider as the person who will receive the amount of an entrusted loan (the "loan recipient"). The General Rules do not contain any restriction or prohibition on the provision of entrusted loans to specified borrowers who are related parties to the capital provider. While the loan provider exercises supervision over and receives repayment from the loan recipient, the loan provider does not assume any risk of default in repayment by the loan recipient. In accordance with the General Rules and the relevant judicial interpretation from the Supreme People's Court of the PRC, in an entrusted loan arrangement, the relationship between the loan provider and the capital provider is that of trustee and trustor; and the relationship between the loan provider and the loan recipient is that of lender and borrower. No creditor/debtor relationship exists between the capital provider and the loan recipient. The General Rules require that loan providers must be authorized by and have been granted a financial institution license or a financial institution operation license from the PBOC; and must have registered with the SAIC. The General Rules further stipulate that enterprises which are not authorized and registered as loan providers must not breach the laws of the PRC by engaging in intercompany loan transactions or the provision of loans through unauthorized means. An intercompany loan is a loan provided directly from one company to another where the loan provider is not authorized and registered as a loan provider.
Regulations on Trademarks
The PRC Trademark Law, enacted by the National Congress on August 23, 1982, as amended, and the Implementation Regulations of the PRC Trademark Law issued by the State Council on April 3, 2002, as amended, protect the title holders of registered trademarks and grant a renewable term of ten years to a trademark registered in the PRC. The Trademark Office under the SAIC handles trademark registrations and the filing of registered trademark licenses. Pursuant to the Regulations on Filing of Trademark License Contracts, promulgated on August 1, 1997, trademark license contracts are required to be filed with the Trademark Office within three months after executing such license contacts. However, unless otherwise provided in a trademark license contract, failure to complete the filing procedure will not affect the validity of this trademark license contract in accordance with the Interpretation Concerning Several Issues on Application of Laws in Handling Trademark Civil Dispute Cases issued by the Supreme People's Court on October 12, 2002.
Regulations on Foreign Currency Exchange and Dividend Distribution
Foreign Currency Exchange
The principal regulations governing foreign currency exchange in China are the Foreign Currency Administration Regulations, as amended in 2008. Under these regulations, the Renminbi may be converted for current account items, including the distribution of dividends, interest and royalties payments, trade and service-related foreign exchange transactions. Conversion of the Renminbi for capital account items, such as direct investment, loans, repatriation of investment and investment in securities outside China, however, is still subject to the SAFE's approval.
Dividend Distribution
Under the relevant regulations, a foreign investment enterprise, or an FIE, in China may pay dividends only out of its accumulated profits, if any, determined in accordance with Chinese accounting standards and regulations. In addition, it is required to allocate at least 10% of its accumulated profits each year, if any, to fund certain reserve funds unless these reserves have reached 50% of its registered capital. These reserves are not distributable as cash dividends. Our PRC subsidiaries which are FIEs are restricted from distributing any dividends to us until they have met the requirements set out in these regulations.
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Pursuant to the CIT Law of the PRC and its implementation rules, which became effective on January 1, 2008, dividends payable by an FIE to its foreign investors will be subject to a 10% withholding tax, unless the foreign investor's jurisdiction of incorporation has a tax treaty with China that provides for a different withholding arrangement. The Cayman Islands and the British Virgin Islands, where two of our offshore holding corporations are incorporated, do not have a tax treaty with China. In accordance with the Arrangement between the Mainland and Hong Kong Special Administrative Region on the Avoidance of Double Taxation and Prevention of Fiscal Evasion, or the Double Taxation Arrangement, which became effective on January 1, 2007, any dividends from one of our PRC subsidiaries, Shenzhen CIR, paid to City Integrated Residential Services (China) Limited, its direct shareholder established in Hong Kong, may be subject to a withholding tax of the enterprise income tax at the rate of 5%, provided that City Integrated Residential Services (China) Limited holds at least 25% of the equity interest of Shenzhen CIR.
According to Circular of State Administration of Taxation on Printing and Issuing the Administrative Measures for Non-resident Individuals and Enterprises to Enjoy the Treatment under Taxation Treaties which come into force on October 1, 2009, non-resident individuals and enterprises can enjoy the relevant tax treatments relating to dividends under taxation treaties after obtaining approvals from competent tax authorities.
Foreign Shareholder's Loan
In accordance with the Interim Provisions on the Management of Foreign Debts issued by the NDRC, the PRC Ministry of Finance and the SAFE, which became effective on March 1, 2003 and the Administrative Measures for Foreign Debt Registration issued by the SAFE, which became effective on May 13, 2013, the summation of the accumulated medium-term and long-term debts and the balance of short-term debts borrowed by an FIE shall not exceed the difference between the total investment and the registered capital of the FIE. The FIE shall register the loan agreement with SAFE for the loan extended by its foreign shareholder upon execution of the loan agreement. Such loan agreement will not become valid and effective without such registration.
Regulations on Foreign Exchange Registration of Offshore Investment by PRC Residents
On October 21, 2005, SAFE issued the "State Administration of Foreign Exchange's Notice on Relevant Issues Concerning Foreign Exchange Administration for PRC Residents to Engage in Financing and Round-trip Investment via Special Purpose Offshore Companies" (Hui Fa 2005 No. 75), or Notice No. 75, a public notice which became effective on November 1, 2005. Notice No. 75 requires PRC residents to register with the local SAFE branch before directly establishing or indirectly controlling any company referred to in the notice as a "special purpose offshore company" outside of the PRC for the purpose of capital financing with assets or equity interest in an onshore enterprise in the PRC, and to undergo registration procedures after completing an investment in or acquisition of any operating subsidiaries in the PRC via the special purpose offshore company, which we refer to herein as a "round-trip investment." In addition, any change of shareholding or any other material capital alteration in such special purpose offshore company not involving a round-trip investment, such as a change in share capital or merger and acquisition, must be filed or registered within 30 days from the date of change. The relevant SAFE regulations apply retrospectively to registration of direct or indirect investments made by PRC residents in special purpose offshore companies before Notice No. 75 came into effect.
In the event that a PRC resident with a direct or indirect stake in a special purpose offshore company fails to make the required SAFE registration, the PRC subsidiaries of such special purpose offshore company may be prohibited from distributing their profits to their offshore parent and from paying the offshore parent proceeds from any reduction in capital, share transfer or liquidation in respect of the PRC subsidiaries, and the offshore parent's ability to contribute additional capital or
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provide loans, whether using the proceeds from the securities offering or otherwise, would be impaired. In addition, failure to comply with SAFE registration requirements as described above may also result in liability under PRC laws for evasion of applicable foreign exchange restrictions.
Regulations on Employee Stock Options Plan
On February 15, 2012, the SAFE promulgated the Notice of the State Administration of Foreign Exchange on Issues Related to Foreign Exchange Administration in Domestic Individuals' Participation in Share Incentive Plans of Overseas Listed Companies, or the Stock Option Rule. According to the Stock Option Rule, a Chinese citizen who is granted shares or share options by an overseas listed company under its share incentive plan is required, through the PRC subsidiary of such overseas listed company or other qualified PRC agents (the "Domestic Agent"), to register with SAFE and complete certain other procedures relating to the share incentive plan. The Domestic Agent can open a domestic special foreign exchange account in the bank with a certificate of foreign exchange registration for the share incentive plan. Permissible proceeds to such account shall include the foreign currency funds transferred from individuals' personal foreign currency deposit accounts, the foreign currency purchased by the domestic agent for individuals, the principal and earnings repatriated after sale of shares or beneficial interests under the share incentive plan by individuals, repatriated dividends and other proceeds approved by the local office of the SAFE. Permissible expenditures from this account shall include the funds transferred abroad for participation in the share incentive plan, the repatriated foreign currency funds to be converted into RMB funds, the foreign currency funds to be transferred to the individuals' personal foreign currency deposit accounts, and other expenditures approved by the local office of the SAFE.
In addition, in the case of any significant change to the share incentive plan of a company listed abroad (such as amendment to any major terms of the original plan, addition of a new plan, or other changes to the original plan due to merger, acquisition or reorganization of the overseas listed company or the domestic company or other major events), the domestic agency or overseas trustee shall, within three months of the occurrence of such changes, go through procedures for change of foreign exchange registration with the local office of the SAFE.
We and our Chinese employees who have been granted stock options are subject to the Stock Option Rule. If we or our Chinese employees fail to comply with the Stock Option Rule, we and/or our Chinese employees may face sanctions imposed by foreign exchange authority or any other Chinese governmental authorities.
Regulations on Labor Contracts
On June 29, 2007, the PRC National People's Congress enacted the PRC Labor Contract Law, or the Labor Contract Law, which became effective on January 1, 2008 and was newly revised on December 28, 2012. The Implementation Regulation for the PRC Labor Contract Law, or the Implementation Regulation, was promulgated by the State Council and took effect on September 18, 2008. The Labor Contract Law formalizes, among others, workers' rights concerning overtime hours, pensions and layoffs, the execution, performance, modification and termination of labor contracts, the clauses of labor contracts and the role of trade unions. In particular, it provides for specific standards and procedures for entering into non-fixed-term labor contracts as some of our sales professionals and staff do. Either the employer or the applicable sales professional or staff is entitled to terminate the labor contract in circumstances as prescribed in the Labor Contract Law or if certain preconditions are fulfilled, and in certain cases, the employer is required to pay a statutory severance upon the termination of a labor contract pursuant to the standards provided by the Labor Contract Law.
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C ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE
The following diagram illustrates our corporate structure, including our principal subsidiaries, as of the date of this annual report:
Our Principal Subsidiaries
Company-owned Brokerage Services
We operate our company-owned brokerage services business through the following subsidiaries:
Primary and Commercial Services
We operate our primary and commercial service business through the following subsidiaries:
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Mortgage Management Services
We operate our mortgage management services business through the following subsidiaries:
Franchise Services
We operate our franchise services business through the following subsidiaries:
D. PROPERTY, PLANTS AND EQUIPMENT
Our headquarters are located in Beijing, China, where we lease approximately 1,700 square meters of corporate office space. As of December 31, 2013, our company-owned sales offices in Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen and Chengdu occupied an aggregate of approximately 28,000 square meters of leased space. We consider our corporate office space adequate for our current operations, and we expect that we are able to find new office spaces at reasonable rental rates if we open new company-owned sales offices.
Item 4A. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS
None.
Item 5. OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS
You should read the following discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations in conjunction with our consolidated financial statements and the related notes included elsewhere in this annual report on Form 20-F. This discussion may contain forward-looking statements based upon current expectations that involve risks and uncertainties. Our actual results may differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, including those set forth under "Item 3. Key InformationD. Risk Factors" or in other parts of this annual report on Form 20-F.
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A. OPERATING RESULTS
Overview
We are a leading comprehensive real estate services provider with the largest network of real estate sales offices in China. We are the exclusive franchisor in China for the CENTURY 21® brand, one of the world's most recognized brands in the real estate industry. As of December 31, 2013, our CENTURY 21® China network covered 24 major cities with 935 sales offices, employed 13,065 sales professionals and staff and maintained approximately 7.8 million property listings. We primarily focus on China's fast-growing and highly fragmented secondary real estate market, which we expect to outgrow the primary market, especially in more economically prosperous cities.
We have significant experience providing professional services in the real estate services industry, and have experienced substantial net revenues growth in recent years. We entered the real estate services market in 2000 as a pioneer of the franchise model in China and, from our base in Beijing, have grown our network of sales offices, including our company-owned sales offices and franchised sales offices. In late 2006, we launched our company-owned brokerage services business. We subsequently launched our mortgage management services which we began managing as a separate segment in 2008. We are now a market leader in Beijing and Shanghai in both of these business lines.
Our total consolidated net revenues for the year ended December 31, 2013 were RMB877.5 million (US$145.0 million), representing a 17.3% increase from the year ended December 31, 2012. Net loss attributable to IFM Investments Limited for the year ended December 31, 2013 was RMB83.0 million (US$13.7 million), an increase of 55.1% from the year ended December 31, 2012.
Our total assets as of December 31, 2013 were RMB738.3 million (US$122.0 million), of which cash and cash equivalents amounted to RMB145.6 million (US$24.1 million) and total net loans receivable amounted to RMB121.1 million (US$20.0 million). As of December 31, 2013, our total liabilities and accumulated deficit were RMB390.7 million (US$64.5 million) and RMB774.9 million (US$128.0 million), respectively.
Factors Affecting Our Results of Operations
Our operating results are subject to general conditions typically affecting the real estate services industry, including changes in PRC government policies and laws with respect to real estate and real estate financing, mortgage interest rates, economic growth, seasonality, demographic changes and demand for residential property in China, particularly in the secondary market. In addition, our operating results may be affected by competition from other real estate services companies and increases in operating costs and expenses due to inflation and other factors. Unfavorable changes in any of these conditions could negatively affect our transaction volume and the transaction value of the properties for which we facilitate sales and otherwise adversely affect our results of operations.
Our operating results are also affected by company-specific factors, including our revenue growth and ability to effectively manage our operating costs and expenses. We describe certain of these specific factors affecting our statements of operations below.
Net Revenues. We generate revenues by providing company-owned brokerage services, primary and commercial services, mortgage management services, and franchise services. Our net revenues are presented net of PRC business taxes, discounts and related surcharges. The following table sets forth
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the net revenues generated by each of our business lines, both as an amount and as a percentage of total net revenues for the years indicated:
|
For the Years Ended December 31, | |||||||||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
2011 | 2012 | 2013 | |||||||||||||||||||
|
RMB |
% |
RMB |
% |
RMB |
US$(1) |
% |
|||||||||||||||
|
(in thousands, except for percentages) |
|||||||||||||||||||||
Net revenues: |
||||||||||||||||||||||
Company-owned brokerage services |
513,375 | 84.9 | 623,927 | 83.4 | 691,343 | 114,202 | 78.8 | |||||||||||||||
Primary and commercial services |
44,735 | 7.4 | 85,115 | 11.4 | 137,333 | 22,686 | 15.6 | |||||||||||||||
Mortgage management services |
22,903 | 3.8 | 25,686 | 3.4 | 36,788 | 6,077 | 4.2 | |||||||||||||||
Franchise services |
23,546 | 3.9 | 13,405 | 1.8 | 11,987 | 1,980 | 1.4 | |||||||||||||||
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total net revenues |
604,559 | 100.0 | 748,133 | 100.0 | 877,451 | 144,945 | 100.0 | |||||||||||||||
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Company-Owned Brokerage Services. Our company-owned brokerage services accounted for 84.9% 83.4% and 78.8% of net revenues for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2012 and 2013, respectively. Net revenues from our company-owned brokerage services increased in 2012 and 2013, primarily due to the increase in our sales and purchase transaction volume as a result of the increase in the overall secondary home sales transaction volume in China. Most of our agency contracts specify a commission rate expressed as a percentage of sales or monthly rental price of a particular property.
We generate revenues from our company-owned brokerage services primarily through commissions earned from home buyers, sellers, lessors and lessees, principally with respect to the residential and commercial properties in the secondary real estate market, and from property developers for primary homes. Most of our agency contracts specify a commission rate expressed as a percentage of sales or monthly rental price of a particular property. Commissions from secondary brokerage services are generally payable upon the signing of a real estate sales and purchase agreement or rental agreement, at which time we recognize revenues.
Net revenues from our company-owned brokerage services are significantly affected by transaction volume, our commission rates and the average transaction value of the properties that we assist in selling, purchasing and leasing, as follows:
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volumes by increasing the productivity per existing sales office as measured by average monthly net revenues per operating sales office. We seek to drive our revenues in future years by maximizing the productivity per existing sales office.
Primary and Commercial Services. Our primary and commercial services accounted for 7.4%, 11.4% and 15.6% of net revenues for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2012 and 2013, respectively. We began to create teams dedicated to the primary and commercial real estate markets in 2009 and began managing our primary and commercial services as a separate segment in 2010, which includes two business units. In 2011, we acquired 55% equity ownership of Shanggu to further expand our primary and commercial services. We currently reserve the right to acquire an additional 5% equity interest in Shanggu.
Our primary business unit provides agency services to both primary residential real estate developers and primary commercial developers in connection with marketing and sales of new properties and generates revenues by earning sales commissions earned from them. We earn sales commissions based on terms negotiated with our developer clients, which vary from project to project. Each of our agency contracts with developer clients specifies commission rates that are expressed as percentages of transaction value. We define the transaction value of a project as the aggregate of the sales proceeds of all property units we have sold for the project. For certain projects, we are able to negotiate additional commissions payable upon our achieving specified sales targets in terms of GFA or average selling price of properties sold.
Revenues from our primary business unit are significantly affected by the following operating measures that are widely used in the primary services industry and appear throughout this annual report:
We generate revenues in our commercial business unit primarily through service fees for project consultancy services and commissions from selling or leasing these commercial properties. Revenues
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from our commercial business unit relate to the provision of planning, consulting and brokerage services to commercial property developers. We primarily provide project consultancy services to commercial property developers, such as project planning services and overall sales and marketing consultancy services, and earn service fees for these project consultancy services.
Mortgage Management Services. Our mortgage management services accounted for 3.8%, 3.4% and 4.2% of net revenues for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2012 and 2013, respectively.
We generate revenues in our mortgage management services primarily through our advisory services to home buyers and home owners and our loan services in connection with our provision of entrusted and mortgage credit loans. For advisory services, we introduce home mortgage and home equity products made available by various commercial banks to home buyers and owners and arrange property financing, valuation services and title transfers. We charge service fees from home buyers and owners in our advisory services. For loan services, we provide financing to consumers through commercial banks or our mortgage credit company. We collect interests and services fees related to the provision of entrusted and mortgage credit loans in our loan services. The revenues generated from advising home equity loans and providing entrusted and mortgage credit loans accounted for 64% of our total mortgage management service revenues in 2013.
Revenues from our mortgage management services are significantly affected by transaction volume, commission rates and the average loan amount of the home mortgage, home equity, entrusted and mortgage credit loans. The number of persons seeking home mortgages in connection with the purchase of a property significantly impacts the number of applications for home mortgages for which we can advise or offer services. In this regard, we cross-sell our mortgage management services to clients of our company-owned sales offices. In 2011, 2012 and 2013, a substantial majority of the transactions handled by our company-owned brokerage services in which mortgages were utilized made use of our mortgage management services.
Franchise Services. Our franchise services accounted for 3.9%, 1.8% and 1.4% of net revenues for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2012 and 2013, respectively.
We generate revenues in our franchise services primarily by granting regional franchise rights for the CENTURY 21® brand in China to regional sub-franchisors in various cities. The regional sub-franchisors, in turn, are authorized to grant individual sales office franchise rights to franchisees in their cities. In consideration for such rights, we collect from each regional sub-franchisor an initial franchise fee and ongoing service fees based on the higher of a percentage of the franchisees' gross income or a fixed monthly amount. Similarly, a regional sub-franchisor collects from its franchisees an initial franchise fee and ongoing service fees.
Revenues from our franchise services are significantly affected by the number of new regional sub-franchisors, the number of new franchisees and ongoing service fees.
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on these percentages or fixed amounts at the outset of the franchise relationship with a third party, but increases or decreases in the percentage amount or the fixed amount would significantly impact the amount of franchise fees that we are able to generate in any period.
Commissions and other agent-related costs. Our commissions and other agent-related costs primarily include salaries, benefits and commissions paid to our sales professionals, other staff and management for company-owned brokerage services and primary and commercial services and, to a lesser degree, for mortgage management services and franchise services. Compensation for our sales professionals and managers consists of a fixed salary and benefit package, together with a variable incentive-based component that is expected to comprise a majority of the sales professional or manager's compensation. We believe such a commission-based system aligns the interests of our sales professionals with our interests, and allows us to control expenses if transaction volumes or property values decline. Commissions and other agent-related costs amounted to 70.9%, 60.9% and 64.1% of net revenues for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2012 and 2013, respectively.
Operating costs. Our operating costs primarily include sales offices rental, equipment and utility costs, ongoing service fees and sales office closing related costs. These expenses primarily consist of leasing costs, for which we typically execute written leases with terms of up to five years, and costs associated with supporting each sales office, including computer, telephone, electricity, office supplies and related expenses. Ongoing service fees refer to the ongoing service, or royalty and fees, that we must pay in connection with our right to use the CENTURY 21® brand.
Operating costs amounted to 49.1%, 23.4% and 21.0% of net revenues for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2012 and 2013, in each case, respectively. The majority of these operating costs are incurred in relation to our company-owned brokerage services, which accounted for 91.5%, 89.2% and 86.5% of operating costs for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2012 and 2013 in each case, respectively.
Selling, general and administrative expenses. Our selling, general and administrative expenses primarily include back office and support staff expenses for all business segments, advertising and promotions expenses, bad debt expenses and share-based compensation. Expenses related to back office and support staff primarily consist of compensation and benefits expenses for administrative personnel, including accounting, human resources, transaction support, legal, information technology, employee training, customer service and other similar functions. Advertising and promotions expenses primarily consist of marketing and advertising costs, including contributions to our NAF.
Selling, general and administrative expenses amounted to 36.1%, 23.7% and 26.7% of net revenues for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2012 and 2013, respectively. Expenses relating to our company-owned brokerage services accounted for 49.4% and 48.4% and 53.0% of selling, general and administrative expenses for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2012 and 2013, respectively. Expenses relating to our primary and commercial services accounted for 7.8%, 6.8% and 8.1% of selling, general and administrative expenses for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2012 and 2013, respectively. Expenses relating to non-allocated costs accounted for 30.7%, 34.1% and 29.3% of selling, general and administrative expenses for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2012 and 2013, respectively. Non-allocated costs consist primarily of costs and expenses associated with our headquarters centralized back office departments, including our IT department and on-line marketing department.
Share-based compensation expenses were RMB3.2 million, RMB3.5 million and RMB0.2 million (US$0.03 million) for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2012 and 2013, respectively. As of December 31, 2013, we had RMB0.4 million (US$66,883) of total unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested share-based compensation granted under the plan. The cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 2.79 years.
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On July 9, 2012, we extended the expiration dates of all then outstanding and unexercised stock options to the fifth anniversary of the date of such adjustment and amended the exercise prices of such stock options to the then current market value of our shares. We recorded the incremental fair value of RMB 1.9 million as a result of the adjustment of options into the consolidated statements of operations for the year ended December 31, 2012.
Goodwill impairment losses. Goodwill impairment losses in 2013 were RMB20.4 million (US$3.4 million), as a result of the shortfall in the results of operations of our Shanggu business unit compared with the previous estimates made at the end of 2012.
Net change in fair value. Net change in fair value in 2013 was RMB22.1 million (US$3.7 million), primarily as a result of the change in fair value of the contingent consideration payable resulting from the disparity between estimated and actual revenue and earnings in 2013, which, combined with our company's payment of a RMB6.0 million installment of consideration payable to the seller of Shanggu in the fourth quarter of 2013, resulted in a decrease in the balance of contingent consideration payable of RMB28.2 million (US$4.7 million).
Taxation. We are incorporated in the Cayman Islands. Under the current law of the Cayman Islands, we are not subject to income or capital gains tax. In addition, dividend payments are not subject to withholding tax in the Cayman Islands. Dividends from our PRC subsidiaries are subject to a withholding tax at the rate of 10% except for Shenzhen CIR, whose dividends are subject to a withholding tax at the rate of 5%. Our current holding structure does not provide for any further treaty relief. Dividends from our Hong Kong subsidiary are exempt from withholding tax as long as after-tax profits are distributed.
Our subsidiaries in China are subject to business tax and related surcharges by various local tax authorities at rates ranging from 5.6% to 5.65% on gross revenues generated from providing real estate services.
The CIT Law, under which foreign-invested enterprises, or FIEs, and domestic companies are subject to enterprise income tax at a uniform rate of 25%, became effective on January 1, 2008. In accordance with the CIT Law, enterprises that previously received preferential tax treatments granted by relevant tax authorities underwent a transition period. Enterprises previously subject to an enterprise income tax rate lower than 25% continued to enjoy the lower rate and gradually transitioned to the new tax rate within five years after the effective date of the CIT Law.
As Shanghai Ruifeng and Anshijie are both registered in Shanghai PuDong New Area and Shenzhen CIR is registered in Shenzhen Special Economic Zone, they were subject to the preferential income tax rate of 15% according to the Foreign Investment and Foreign Enterprise Income Tax Law before 2008. From January 1, 2008 onwards, their respective income tax rate increased progressively from 18% to 25% from 2008 to 2012, according to preferential treatments granted by the PRC central and local governments. They have been subject to a standard income tax rate of 25% since 2013.
In August 2011, Kudian obtained a Software Enterprise Certification which entitled it to an exemption from corporate income tax in 2011 and 2012, in which it had taxable income and a 50% reduction in corporate income tax for each of the following three years from 2013 to 2015.
On November 16, 2011, the PRC Ministry of Finance and the State Administration of Taxation of the PRC jointly issued the Implementation Measures on the Pilot Progress of Replacing Business Tax with Value-Added Tax in Transport and Some Modern Service Industries. On July 31, 2012, the PRC Ministry of Finance and the State Administration of Taxation of the PRC jointly issued the Notice on Expanding the Pilot Progress of Replacing Business Tax with Value-Added Tax, or the VAT Pilot Rules, to Beijing and eight other provinces and cities. According to the VAT Pilot Rules, the sales tax was changed from business tax to VAT for certain service industries, including consulting service and
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advertising industries, in Shanghai, Beijing and Shenzhen. Some of our subsidiaries located in Beijing were recognized as VAT general taxpayers at the rate of 6% from September 1, 2012 according to the VAT Pilot Rules and discontinued paying business tax.
Under the CIT Law, dividends from our PRC subsidiaries out of earnings generated after January 1, 2008, are subject to a withholding tax which may be as high as 20%, although under the detailed implementation rules promulgated by the PRC tax authorities, the effective withholding tax is currently 10%. Distributions of earnings generated before January 1, 2008 are exempt from PRC withholding tax. Dividend payments are not subject to withholding tax in the British Virgin Islands or the Cayman Islands.
Under the CIT Law, enterprises established under the laws of foreign countries or regions and whose "de facto management bodies" are located within the PRC are considered PRC resident enterprises, and will be subject to PRC enterprise income tax at the rate of 25% on their worldwide income. Under the implementation rules of the CIT Law, "de facto management bodies" are defined as the bodies that have material and overall management and control over the manufacturing and business operations, personnel and human resources, finances and treasury, and acquisition and disposition of properties and other assets of an enterprise. We cannot assure you that we will not be deemed to be a PRC resident enterprise under the PRC CIT Law and be subject to PRC enterprise income tax at the rate of 25% on our worldwide income. See "Item 3. Key InformationD. Risk FactorsRisks Related to Doing Business in ChinaDividends distributed to our investors and gain on sale of our shares may be subject to PRC withholding taxes, and we may be subject to PRC taxation on our worldwide income under the CIT Law."
Results of Operations
The following table sets forth a summary of our consolidated results of operations for the years indicated. This information should be read together with our consolidated financial statements and
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related notes included elsewhere in this annual report. The operating results in any period are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for any future period.
|
For the Years Ended December 31, | ||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
2011 | 2012 | 2013 | 2013 | |||||||||
|
(RMB) |
(RMB) |
(RMB) |
(US$)(1) |
|||||||||
|
(in thousands) |
||||||||||||
Revenue |
|||||||||||||
Net revenues |
604,559 | 748,133 | 877,451 | 144,945 | |||||||||
Costs and Expenses |
|||||||||||||
Commissions and other agent-related costs |
(428,920 | ) | (455,282 | ) | (562,436 | ) | (92,908 | ) | |||||
Operating costs |
(296,652 | ) | (175,330 | ) | (184,393 | ) | (30,460 | ) | |||||
Selling, general and administrative expenses |
(218,110 | ) | (177,475 | ) | (234,065 | ) | (38,665 | ) | |||||
Goodwill impairment losses |
(30,614 | ) | (10,755 | ) | (20,384 | ) | (3,367 | ) | |||||
Net change in fair value |
25,716 | 11,989 | 22,069 | 3,646 | |||||||||
Total costs and expenses |
(948,580 | ) | (806,853 | ) | (979,209 | ) | (161,754 | ) | |||||
Loss from operations |
(344,021 | ) | (58,720 | ) | (101,758 | ) | (16,809 | ) | |||||
Interest income |
5,845 | 2,324 | 4,162 | 688 | |||||||||
Other income |
2,086 | 6,497 | 7,360 | 1,216 | |||||||||
Foreign currency exchange loss |
(5,713 | ) | (19 | ) | (113 | ) | (19 | ) | |||||
Loss before income tax and share of associates' losses |
(341,803 | ) | (49,918 | ) | (90,349 | ) | (14,924 | ) | |||||
Income tax |
(1,103 | ) | (2,713 | ) | 2,332 | 385 | |||||||
Share of associates' income |
2,496 | 2,547 | 2,074 | 343 | |||||||||
Net loss |
(340,410 | ) | (50,084 | ) | (85,943 | ) | (14,196 | ) | |||||
Non-controlling interest |
3,895 | (3,427 | ) | 2,923 | 483 | ||||||||
Net loss attributable to IFM Investments Limited |
(336,515 | ) | (53,511 | ) | (83,020 | ) | (13,713 | ) |
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Selected financial information and operational data relating to each of our business lines is set forth below for the years indicated:
|
2011 | 2012 | 2013 | 2013 | |||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
(RMB) |
(RMB) |
(RMB) |
(US$)(1) |
|||||||||
Company-owned brokerage services |
|||||||||||||
Net revenues (in thousands) |
513,375 | 623,927 | 691,343 | 114,202 | |||||||||
Average number of operating sales offices(2) |
517 | 326 | 300 | 300 | |||||||||
Average monthly net revenues per operating sales office (in thousands) |
82.7 | 159.5 | 192.0 | 31.7 | |||||||||
Primary and Commercial Services |
|||||||||||||
Net revenues (in thousands) |
44,735 | 85,115 | 137,333 | 22,686 | |||||||||
Aggregate gross floor area of properties sold (in thousand square meters) |
224 | 444 | 545 | 545 | |||||||||
Mortgage management services |
|||||||||||||
Net revenues (in thousands) |
22,903 | 25,686 | 36,788 | 6,077 | |||||||||
Amount of referred home mortgages and home equity loans (in thousands) |
2,842,539 | 2,860,512 | 3,851,138 | 636,163 | |||||||||
Average entrusted and mortgage credit loan balance outstanding (in thousands) |
39,950 | 41,490 | 72,131 | 11,915 | |||||||||
Franchise services |
|||||||||||||
Net revenues (in thousands) |
23,546 | 13,405 | 11,987 | 1,980 | |||||||||
Number of regional sub-franchisors as of year end |
28 | 25 | 23 | 23 |
Year Ended December 31, 2013 Compared to Year Ended December 31, 2012
Net revenues. Our net revenues increased by RMB129.4 million, or 17.3%, from RMB748.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2012 to RMB877.5 million (US$145.0 million) for the year ended December 31, 2013. This increase was primarily due to the significantly higher sales and purchase transaction volumes from both company-owned brokerage services and primary and commercial services in 2013, as well as developed and expanded mortgage management services.
Company-Owned Brokerage Services. Net revenues from our company-owned brokerage services increased by RMB67.4 million, or 10.8%, from RMB623.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2012 to RMB691.3 million (US$114.2 million) for the year ended December 31, 2013. The increase was mainly due to higher transaction volumes and improved per-sales office performance in 2013. The number of total sales and purchase transactions increased from approximately 16,800 in 2012 to approximately 17,000 in 2013, among which the number of sales and purchase transactions of secondary homes increased from approximately 12,750 in 2012 to approximately 14,600 in 2013. At the same time, the average selling price per square meter of secondary homes brokered by our company increased to approximately RMB 27,500 for the year ended December 31, 2013 from approximately RMB 23,500 for the year ended December 31, 2012. The average number of our company-owned sales offices in operation decreased to 300 for the year ended December 31, 2013, from 326 for the year ended December 31, 2012. As a result of the foregoing, our average monthly net revenues per operating sales office increased to approximately RMB192,040 (US$31,723) for the year ended December 31, 2013 from approximately RMB159,500 for the year ended December 31, 2012.
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Primary and Commercial Services. Net revenues from our primary and commercial services increased by RMB52.2 million, or 61.3%, from RMB85.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2012 to RMB137.3 million (US$22.7 million) for the year ended December 31, 2013. This increase was primarily due to commissions generated from the sale of a total GFA of approximately 544,950 square meters of new properties in 2013 as compared to a total GFA of approximately 444,350 square meters of new properties sold in 2012. In addition, we gained a higher average commission rate and a higher average selling price per square meter due to business development.
Mortgage Management Services. Net revenues from our mortgage management services increased by RMB11.1 million, or 43.2%, from RMB25.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2012 to RMB36.8 million (US$6.1 million) for the year ended December 31, 2013. This increase was primarily due to an increase in revenue and service fees earned from mortgage credit loans provided by our company and from traditional home mortgage loans and home equity loans brokered by our company. We provided services for referred home mortgage and home equity loans with an aggregate amount of RMB3.9 billion (US$0.6 billion) to our customers in 2013, as compared with RMB2.9 billion in 2012. The revenues generated from advising consumers for home equity loans and providing entrusted and mortgage credit loans accounted for 64% of total mortgage services revenues in 2013. As of December 31, 2013, our total outstanding balance for entrusted loans and mortgage loans receivable was RMB121.1 million (US$20.0 million), with an average loan-to-value ratio of approximately 50%.
Franchise Services. Net revenues from our franchise services decreased by RMB1.3 million, or 9.7%, from RMB13.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2012 to RMB12.1 million (US$2.0 million) for the year ended December 31, 2013. This decrease was primarily attributable to higher initial franchise fees received in 2012 as a result of the resale of franchise rights in Urumqi in December 2012.
Commissions and other agent-related costs. Our commissions and other agent-related costs accounted for 60.9% and 64.1% of net revenues for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2013, respectively. Our commissions and other agent-related costs increased by RMB107.1 million, or 23.5%, from RMB455.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2012 to RMB562.4 million (US$92.9 million) for the year ended December 31, 2013. This increase was primarily attributable to higher commission expenses in 2013 as a result of the significant increase in commission revenues from company-owned brokerage services and primary and commercial services, as well as an increase in salary and benefits for sales staff as a result of an increase in the number of sales staff employed during 2013. We had an average of approximately 6,000 company-owned brokerage services sales staff in 2013, as compared to approximately 5,360 in 2012. As to the variable costs, our consolidated commission expenses were RMB245.7 million and RMB309.6 million (US$51.1 million), or 32.8% and 35.3% as a percentage of total consolidated net revenues for 2012 and 2013, respectively.
Operating costs. Our operating costs represented 23.4% and 21.0% of our net revenues for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2013, respectively. Our operating costs increased by RMB9.1 million, or 5.2%, from RMB175.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2012 to RMB184.4 million (US$30.5 million) for the year ended December 31, 2013. This increase was primarily due to an increase in sales offices rental costs resulting from an increase in average rental rates and an increase in store closure-related costs, as well as an increase in service charges associated with revenue from the primary and commercial services. Total depreciation and amortization expenses for 2013 were RMB23.5 million (US$3.9 million).
Selling, general and administrative expenses. Our selling, general and administrative expenses accounted for 23.7% and 26.7% of our net revenues for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2013, respectively. Our selling, general and administrative expenses increased by RMB56.6 million, or 31.9%, from RMB177.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2012 to RMB234.1 million (US$38.7 million) for the year ended December 31, 2013. This increase was largely due to increases in marketing
62
expenses, other general and administrative expenses and salary and benefits for non-sales staff as a result of an increase in the number of non-sales staff in 2013.
Net change in fair value. Our net change in fair value in 2013, which was recognized as a gain, was RMB22.1 million (US$3.7 million), primarily as a result of the change in fair value of the contingent consideration payable resulting from the disparity between estimated and actual revenues and earnings in 2013, which combined with our company's payment of a RMB6.0 million installment of consideration payable to the seller of Shanggu in the fourth quarter of 2013, resulted in a decrease in the balance of contingent consideration payable of RMB28.2 million.
Goodwill impairment losses. Our goodwill impairment losses in 2013 were RMB20.4 million (US$3.4 million), primarily as a result of the shortfall in the results of operations of our Shanggu business unit as compared with estimates made at the end of 2012.
Interest income. Our interest income increased by RMB1.9 million, or 82.6%, from RMB2.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2012 to RMB4.2 million (US$0.7 million) for the year ended December 31, 2013, primarily due to our improved management of cash and cash equivalent to generate more interest income. Cash and cash equivalents decreased from RMB191.0 million as of December 31, 2012 to RMB145.6 million (US$24.1 million) as of December 31, 2013.
Foreign currency exchange loss. We did not incur significant foreign currency exchange loss for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2013, respectively. The fluctuation between 2012 and 2013 was primarily due to the appreciation of the RMB against the U.S. dollar in 2013.
Income tax. We had an income tax gain in 2013, including deferred income tax gains of RMB5.6 million (US$0.9 million) as a result of the increase of deferred tax assets, and current income tax expenses of RMB3.3 million (US$0.5 million) for the year ended December 31, 2013 resulting from the taxable profit for the primary and commercial segment.
Share of associates' income. Share of associates' income decreased from RMB2.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2012 to RMB2.1 million (US$0.3 million) for the year ended December 31, 2013.
Net loss. As a result of the foregoing, we had a net loss of RMB85.9 million (US$14.2 million) for the year ended December 31, 2013, as compared to a net loss of RMB50.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2012.
Year Ended December 31, 2012 Compared to Year Ended December 31, 2011
Net revenues. Our net revenues increased by RMB143.5 million, or 23.7%, from RMB604.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2011 to RMB748.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2012. This increase was primarily due to the significantly higher sales and purchase transaction volumes from both company-owned brokerage services and primary and commercial services in 2012, as well as a continued recovery in the overall real estate market since the second quarter of 2012.
Company-Owned Brokerage Services. Net revenues from our company-owned brokerage services increased by RMB110.5 million, or 21.5%, from RMB513.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2011 to RMB623.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2012. The increase was mainly due to higher transaction volumes and improved per-sales office performance in 2012. The number of total sales and purchase transactions increased from approximately 13,400 in 2011 to approximately 16,800 in 2012, among which the number of sales and purchase transactions of new homes increased from approximately 3,100 in 2011 to approximately 4,080 in 2012. The average number of our company-owned sales offices in operation decreased to 326 for the year ended December 31, 2012, from 517 for the year ended December 31, 2011. As a result of the foregoing, our average monthly net revenues per
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operating sales office increased to approximately RMB159,500 for the year ended December 31, 2012 from approximately RMB82,700 for the year ended December 31, 2011.
Primary and Commercial Services. Net revenues from our primary and commercial services increased by RMB40.4 million, or 90.4%, from RMB44.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2011 to RMB85.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2012. This increase was primarily due to commissions generated from the sale of a total GFA of approximately 444,350 square meters of new properties in 2012 as compared to a total GFA of approximately 224,400 square meters of new properties sold in 2011. The increased sales volumes resulted mainly from our acquisition of Shanggu in 2011 to expand our primary and commercial services.
Mortgage Management Services. Net revenues from our mortgage management services increased by RMB2.8 million, or 12.2%, from RMB22.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2011 to RMB25.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2012. This increase was primarily due to an increase in revenue and service fees earned from mortgage credit loans provided by our company. We provided services for referred home mortgages and home equity loans with an aggregate amount of RMB2.9 billion to our customers in 2012, as compared with RMB2.8 billion in 2011. The revenues generated from advising consumers for home equity loans and providing entrusted and mortgage credit loans accounted for 59% of total mortgage services revenues in 2012. As of December 31, 2012, our total outstanding entrusted loans and mortgage loans receivable balance was RMB35.2 million, with an average loan-to-value ratio of approximately 50%.
Franchise Services. Net revenues from our franchise services decreased by RMB10.1 million, or 43.0%, from RMB23.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2011 to RMB13.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2012. This decrease was primarily attributable to higher initial franchise fees received in 2011 as we granted licenses to two new regional sub-franchisors in 2011, compared with the resale of franchise rights in one location, the city of Urumqi, a regional sub-franchise, in 2012, and a decrease in royalty revenues paid by some regional sub-franchisors in 2012 due to their performance.
Commissions and other agent-related costs. Our commissions and other agent-related costs accounted for 70.9% and 60.9% of net revenues for the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2012, respectively, and increased by RMB26.4 million, or 6.2%, from RMB428.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2011 to RMB455.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2012. This increase was primarily attributable to higher commission expenses in 2012 as a result of the significant increase in commission revenues from company-owned brokerage services and primary and commercial services, partially offset by a decrease in salary and benefits for sales staff as a result of a decrease in the number of sales staff employed during 2012. We had an average of approximately 5,360 company-owned brokerage services sales staff in 2012, as compared to approximately 8,150 in 2011. As to the variable costs, our consolidated commission expenses were RMB245.7 million and RMB166.6 million, or 32.8% and 27.6% as a percentage of total consolidated net revenues for 2012 and 2011 respectively.
Operating costs. Our operating costs represented 49.1% and 23.4% of our net revenues for the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2012, respectively, and decreased by RMB121.4 million, or 40.9%, from RMB296.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2011 to RMB175.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2012. Total depreciation and amortization expenses for 2012 were RMB28.2 million.
Selling, general and administrative expenses. Our selling, general and administrative expenses accounted for 36.1% and 23.7% of our net revenues for the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2012, respectively, and decreased by RMB40.6 million, or 18.6%, from RMB218.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2011 to RMB177.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2012. This decrease was largely due to a decrease in marketing expenses, the number of non-sales staff and other general and administrative expenses in 2012.
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Net change in fair value. Our net change in fair value in 2012, which was recognized as a gain, included RMB10.5 million as a result of the fair value change of the contingent consideration payable in respect of our acquisition of the Shanggu business unit in June 2011, and RMB1.5 million as a result of the decline in the fair value of a financial liability, which was related to the share options held by a former employee. The fair value change in the contingent consideration payable resulted primarily from the disparity between estimated and actual revenues and earnings in 2012, and the re-estimated revenues and earnings for 2013 for the Shanggu business unit.
Goodwill impairment losses. Our goodwill impairment losses in 2012 were RMB10.8 million, as a result of the shortfall in the results of operations of our Shanggu business unit as compared to those previously estimated.
Interest income. Our interest income decreased by RMB3.5 million, or 60.3%, from RMB5.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2011 to RMB2.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2012. Cash and cash equivalents decreased from RMB235.5 million as of December 31, 2011 to RMB191.0 million as of December 31, 2012.
Foreign currency exchange loss. We had foreign currency exchange loss of RMB5.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2011, while we did not incur significant foreign currency exchange loss for the year ended December 31, 2012, primarily due to the decrease of balances in U.S. dollars and the appreciation of the RMB against the U.S. dollar in 2012.
Income tax. Income tax increased from RMB1.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2011 to RMB2.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2012, mainly because of the profitable results for the primary and commercial segment.
Share of associates' (losses)/income. Share of associates' income was RMB2.5 million for both the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2012.
Net loss. As a result of the foregoing, we had a net loss of RMB50.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2012 as compared to a net loss of RMB340.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2011.
Inflation. Inflation in China has not materially impacted our results of operations in recent years. According to the National Bureau of Statistics of China, the change of consumer price index in China was negative 5.4%, 2.6% and 2.6% in 2011, 2012 and 2013, respectively.
Critical Accounting Policies
Our discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations are based upon our consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with US GAAP, appearing elsewhere in this annual report. The preparation of these financial statements requires us to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses, and related disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. On an ongoing basis, we evaluate our estimates based on historical experience and on various other assumptions that we believe to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions. An accounting policy is considered critical if it requires an accounting estimate to be made based on assumptions about matters that are highly uncertain at the time such estimate is made, and if different accounting estimates that reasonably could have been used, or changes in the accounting estimates that are reasonably likely to occur periodically, could materially impact the consolidated financial statements. We believe that our accounting policies with respect to revenue recognition, allowance for doubtful accounts, loans and allowance for impairment, property and equipment, goodwill and intangible assets,
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impairment of long-lived assets, share-based compensation, income taxes and the VIEs represent critical accounting policies that reflect the more significant judgments and estimates used in the preparation of our consolidated financial statements.
The following descriptions of critical accounting policies, judgments and estimates should be read in conjunction with our consolidated financial statements and other disclosures included in this annual report. When reviewing our financial statements, you should consider (i) our selection of critical accounting policies, (ii) judgment and other uncertainties affecting the application of such policies and (iii) the sensitivity of reported results to changes in conditions and assumptions.
Revenue Recognition
We recognize revenue where there is persuasive evidence of an arrangement, delivery has occurred, the sales price is fixed or determinable and collectability is reasonably assured. Revenues are recorded net of sales-related taxes and discounts.
Company-Owned Brokerage Services
Our company-owned brokerage services business earns most of its revenues from brokerage commissions from secondary real estate property sales and purchases transactions, and brokerage commissions from primary real estate property sales and purchase transactions, and to a lesser extent leasing transactions. This commission income is recorded as revenue upon meeting the revenue recognition criteria described above, including the signing of a real estate sales and purchase agreement or rental agreement, and the relevant purchase contract between the property developer and the property buyer becomes unconditional or irrevocable, and the services as stipulated in the relevant agency contract have been rendered by us. All revenue amounts are net of any sales discounts that management estimates based on current circumstances at the time of the sale and historical experience of anticipated subsequent discounts granted to customers. We may also be entitled to earn additional revenue on the agency services if certain sales and other performance targets are achieved, such as total volume over a pre-determined period. These additional agency service revenues are recognized when we have accomplished the required targets.
Deferred revenues are recognized when payments are received in advance of revenue recognition.
Primary and Commercial Services
We provide marketing and sales agency services to real estate developers. We recognize the commission revenue when the relevant purchase contract between the property developer and the property buyer becomes unconditional or irrevocable, and the services as stipulated in the agency contracts have been rendered by us. We may also be entitled to earn additional revenue on the agency services if certain sales and other performance targets are achieved, such as total volume over a pre-determined period. These additional agency service revenues are recognized when we have accomplished the required targets.
For new commercial properties, we recognize commission revenue when the relevant purchase contract between the property developer and the property buyer becomes unconditional or irrevocable, the services as stipulated in the relevant agency contracts have been rendered by us, and the purchase amount set forth in the relevant purchase contract has been received by the property developer. Therefore, we recognize commission revenue in installments in proportion to the purchased amount that has been received by the property developer under the relevant purchase contract, or in installments as agreed with the developers under the contractual terms.
We provide real estate consulting and agency services to commercial property developers. We recognize revenue on consulting services when we have completed our services.
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Mortgage Management Services
We provide mortgage management services, including advisory services and loan services, many of which are provided in connection with our company-owned brokerage services business.
The advisory services income related to home mortgage loan and home equity loan is recognized when the mortgage loan funds are disbursed by banks to the customers. Income for the entrusted and mortgage credit loans in loan services is recognized in the income statement over the lives of the loans, based on effective interest rates. We review the carrying amounts of entrusted and mortgage credit loans at each quarter end or more frequently if circumstances indicated impairment may have occurred. We did not incur any impairment losses on the entrusted and mortgage credit loans for the year 2013.
Franchise Services
We recognize our franchise services revenues as earned. Franchise revenues include initial franchise fees, which are generally non-refundable and recognized as revenues when all material services or conditions relating to the initial franchise fee have been substantially performed and we have fulfilled all of our commitments and obligations (generally when a franchisee commences its operation under the CENTURY 21® brand). Our commitments and obligations related to earning the initial franchise fee include providing training and assessing the franchisees' qualifications for commencement of operations. Franchise revenues also consist of ongoing service fees received from our franchisees. The ongoing service fees received are primarily based on a percentage of the franchisees' gross income or a fixed monthly amount. The ongoing service fees are accrued as the underlying franchisee revenues are earned. On an ongoing basis, the services we provide to our franchisees include the license to use or sub-franchise CENTURY 21® brand and system, training services, and the right to participate in and benefit from the marketing campaigns using our NAF as well as information technology and back office support.
We also collect marketing fees from our franchisees and utilize such fees to fund advertising campaigns on behalf of our franchisees through our NAF. Management fee income of NAF is recognized in proportion to the NAF that had been spent during the reporting period.
Contingent consideration payable
We determine the fair value of the contingent consideration payable based on a probability-weighted cash flow analysis. This fair value measurement is based on significant inputs not observable in the market. The fair value of the contingent consideration payable associated with those future earn-out payments is based on several factors, including:
The fair value of the contingent consideration payable was re-measured at the end of each reporting period and the changes in the fair value were recorded in our consolidated statements of operations. The fair value of contingent consideration was determined to be RMB11.6 million based on the actual profit performance of Shanggu for the two years ended June 30, 2013, and the change in fair value of RMB22.2 million was recorded in the income statements. Thereafter, the fair value of
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contingent consideration was subject to adjustment according to the collectability of account receivables of Shanggu.
As of December 31, 2013, we had contingent consideration payable in the amount of RMB5.6 million (US$0.9 million), resulting from the aforementioned change in fair value on account of the disparity between estimated and actual revenue and earnings in 2013, and our company's payment of a RMB6.0 million installment of consideration payable to the seller of Shanggu in the fourth quarter of 2013.
Determination of the fair value of contingent consideration payable requires significant management judgment, including the judgment in estimating future cash flows and receivable collectability, determining appropriate discount rates and making other assumptions. Changes in these estimates and assumptions could materially affect the determination of fair value for the contingent consideration payable.
Redeemable non-controlling interest
We determine the fair value of the redeemable non-controlling interest using a combination of a discounted cash flow model and market comparables of similar transactions and companies. Before June 30, 2014 when the non-controlling interest is not currently redeemable, but it is probable that it will become redeemable, we will recognize any subsequent changes in the redemption value immediately as they occur with the carrying amount adjusted to the redemption value at the end of each reporting period. Subsequent to June 30, 2014, when the non-controlling interest becomes currently redeemable, we will adjust its carrying amount to the maximum redemption value as of the balance sheet date for each period end. These adjustments to redemption value are calculated after allocating the net income or loss attributable to this non-controlling interest. These periodic adjustments are reflected only to the extent of any excess of the redemption value over fair value in the calculation of our net loss per share.
As of December 31, 2013, we had a balance of redeemable non-controlling interest of RMB67.2 million (US$11.1 million).
Allowance for doubtful accounts
We accrue for allowances for doubtful accounts for receivable balances that are unlikely to be collected based on management analysis and estimates. This analysis is based on an assessment of our historical experience with particular customers or franchisees and the age of certain receivable balances, which may indicate that such receivables are no longer fully collectible. If the financial condition of our customers and franchisees were to deteriorate, resulting in an impairment of their ability to make payments, or if such customers or franchisees decided not to pay us, additional allowances could be required that would materially impact our financial position and results of operations.
We have adopted a provisioning policy for doubtful debts for our receivable balances based on the historical experience of the recoverability of the receivables. For the years presented, our provision based on historical bad debts is approximately 2% of net revenues. The appropriateness of our provisioning is assessed on an ongoing basis based on our actual experience. In addition, we also make specific bad debt provisions for problem account receivable balances (e.g. for certain franchisees). Established reserves have historically been sufficient, and are based on aging, specific customer circumstances, historical experience and current knowledge of the related political and economic environments. It is possible, however, that the accuracy of the management's estimation process could be impacted by unforeseen circumstances.
Allowances for doubtful accounts charged to selling, general and administrative expenses were RMB14.3 million, RMB12.1 million and RMB14.7 million (US$2.4 million) for the years ended
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December 31, 2011, 2012 and 2013, respectively. The allowance for doubtful accounts ending balance of RMB15.5 million, RMB17.3 million and RMB22.2 million (US$3.7 million) as of December 31, 2011, 2012 and 2013, respectively, represents a net ending balance after actual write-offs during the year. Accounts receivable are stated net of such allowance balances at the end of year.
Loans and allowance for loan impairment
We report entrusted and mortgage credit loans provided to customers at their outstanding principal balances net of any unearned income and unamortized deferred fees and costs. We report loans transferred to investors at their outstanding principal balances net of interest prepaid as loans payable. Loan origination fees and certain direct origination costs are deferred and recognized as adjustments to income over the lives of the related loans. Based on management's initial intent and ability with regard to those loans, all the loans are held-for-investment and are classified as loans receivables, net of unearned income on the consolidated balance sheets, and the related cash flows are included within the cash flows from investing activities category in the consolidated statement of cash flows in the line items of loans issurance and receipt of loan principals. The cash flows from the transfer of the loans and the redemption of the loan principals are included within the cash flows from financing activities category in the consolidated statement of cash flows in the line items of transfer of loans and repurchase of loans.
Since 2013, our entrusted and mortage credit loan services have been improved by property refinancing activities, through which certain individuals offer loans to consumers after receiving financing from our mortgage credit company and then transfer such loans, entirely or partially, to third-party investors. We act as guarantors for such loans and remain responsible for the repayment of loans by the consumers. We treat the property refinancing activities as one continuing operating business of mortgage management services. Therefore, the cash flows related to these activities were included within the cash flows from operating activities category in the consolidated statement of cash flows on the lines Receipt of loan principals and Issuance/repurchase of loan.
As a general policy, interest accrual ceases when monthly interest payments are 90 days contractually past due.
Allowance for loan impairment represents management's best estimate of probable impairment inherent in the portfolio, as well as probable impairment related to large individually evaluated impaired loans. Attribution of the allowance is made for analytical purposes only, and the entire allowance is available to absorb probable loan impairment inherent in the overall portfolio. Additions to the allowance are made through the provision for loan impairment. Loan impairments are deducted from the allowance, and subsequent recoveries are added.
We did not recognize any impairment of loans receivable for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2012 and 2013.
Property and equipment
Property and equipment is stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and amortization. Depreciation and amortization are calculated on a straight-line basis over the following estimated useful lives:
Computers and software | 5 years | |
Furniture, fixtures and equipment | 5 years | |
Vehicles | 5 years | |
Leasehold improvements | shorter of lease term or useful lives of assets |
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Repairs and maintenance expenditures, which are not considered improvements and do not extend the useful life of the property and equipment, are expensed as incurred. Judgment is required to determine the estimated useful lives of assets and changes in these estimates and assumptions could materially impact our financial position and results of operations.
Gains and losses from the disposals of property and equipment are included in loss from operations.
Goodwill, indefinite-lived and other amortized intangible assets
Goodwill represents the excess of purchase price over the fair value of net tangible and intangible assets of acquired businesses. Other intangible assets represent the rights to use and sub-franchise the CENTURY 21® brand in the PRC for 14.5 to 25 years. In addition, intangible assets also represent the customer relationships, brand name, real estate listing databases, sub-franchisee base and mortgage credit license acquired through business combinations consummated in 2006, 2008, 2010 and 2011. We amortize long-lived intangible assets over their estimated useful lives on a straight-line basis. The value of indefinite-live intangible assets is not amortized, but tested for impairment annually on November 30 of each year, or whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying value of the assets may not be recoverable.
We test goodwill for impairment at the reporting unit level on an annual basis, or more frequently if an event occurs or circumstances change that could more likely than not reduce the fair value of the goodwill below its carrying amount.
We make judgments about goodwill whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that an impairment in the value of goodwill recorded on our balance sheets may exist. The timing of an impairment test may result in changes to our statements of operations in our current reporting year that could not have been reasonably foreseen in prior years. Application of an impairment test of goodwill requires judgment, including the identification of reporting units, assigning assets and liabilities to the reporting units, assigning goodwill to reporting units and estimating the fair value of each reporting unit. Changes in these estimates and assumptions could materially affect the determination of fair value of each reporting unit, which could trigger impairment. More conservative assumptions of the anticipated future benefits from these reporting units could result in impairment charges, which would decrease net income and result in lower asset values on our balance sheets. Conversely, less conservative assumptions could result in smaller or no impairment charges, higher net income and higher asset values. We recognized a RMB20.4 million (US$3.4 million) impairment loss from Shanggu in 2013, as a result of the shortfall in the results of operations of Shanggu business unit, as compared to those previously estimated. If different judgments or estimates had been utilized, material differences could have resulted in the amount and timing of the impairment charge. See Note 2(i) "Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets" in the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.
Impairment of long-lived assets
We review long-lived assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may no longer be recoverable. When these events occur, we assess the recoverability of the long-lived assets by comparing the carrying value of the long-lived assets to the estimated undiscounted future cash flows expected to result from the use of the assets and their eventual disposition where the fair value is lower than the carrying value, measurement of an impairment loss is recognized in the statements of operations for the difference between the fair value, using the expected future discounted cash flows, and the carrying value of the assets. Determination of recoverability is based on estimates and changes in these estimates and assumptions could materially impact our financial position and results of operations. No impairment of long lived assets was recognized for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2012 and 2013.
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Share-based compensation
We use a fair-value based method to account for share-based compensation. Accordingly, share-based compensation is measured at the grant date, based on the fair value of the award, and is recognized as expense over the employees' requisite service period. For options that were granted with performance conditions which vest subsequent to our initial public offering, share-based compensation expenses would be recognized upon the offering using the graded-vesting method. Share-based compensation for the remaining options granted with service conditions are recognized using straight-line method, net of a forfeiture rate, over the requisite service period of the award, which is the vesting term, based on the fair value of the award on the grant date. Share-based compensation expense is charged to additional paid-in capital in the consolidated balance sheets. In determining the fair value of share options granted, the Black-Scholes valuation model is applied. Determining the value of our share-based compensation expenses in future periods requires the input of highly subjective assumptions, including the expected life of the share-based payment awards, estimated forfeitures and the price volatility of the underlying shares. The assumptions used in calculating the fair value of share-based payment awards represent management's best estimates, but these estimates involve inherent uncertainties and the application of management judgment. As a result, if factors change and we use different assumptions, our share-based compensation expenses could be materially different in the future.
In determining the fair value of our ordinary shares on each grant date before our initial public offering, we relied in part on a valuation report prepared by an independent valuer based on data we provided. The valuation report provided us with guidelines in determining the fair value, but the final determination as to the fair value of our share awards was made by our management. To determine the fair value of our ordinary shares, the three generally accepted approaches were considered: the cost, market and income approaches. While useful for certain purposes, the cost approach is generally not considered applicable to the valuation of companies which are a going concern, as it does not capture the future earning potential of the business. Given that our current stage of development is different from those of other publicly listed companies in the same industry, comparability of peer companies' financial metrics and the relevance of the market approach were considered low. In view of the above, we considered the income approach to be the most appropriate method to derive the fair values of our ordinary shares. After our public listing on January 28, 2010, the quoted price in the open market for our ordinary shares became available and served as Level 1 input in determining the fair value of our options granted after this date.
For the income approach, we utilized a discounted cash flow, or DCF, analysis based on our management's best estimates of projected cash flows as of each of the valuation dates. The projected cash flows include among other things, an analysis of projected revenue growth, gross margins, effective tax rates, capital expenditures and working capital requirements. The income approach involves applying appropriate discount rates to estimated cash flows that are based on earnings forecasts. The assumptions used in deriving the fair value of our ordinary shares are consistent with our business plan. These assumptions include: no material changes in the existing political, legal, fiscal and economic conditions in China; our ability to recruit and retain competent management, key personnel and technical staff to support our ongoing operations; and no material deviation in industry trends and market conditions from economic forecasts. These assumptions are inherently uncertain and subjective. The discount rates reflect the risks management perceived as being associated with achieving the forecasts and were derived by using the Capital Asset Pricing Model, after taking into account systematic risks and company-specific risks.
Prior to our initial public offering, we also applied discounts for lack of marketability or, DLOM, to our equity value to reflect the fact that there was no ready public market for our shares as we were a closely held private company. When determining the DLOM, the Black-Scholes option model was used. Under this method, the cost of a put option that could be used to hedge the price change before
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a privately held share can be sold, was considered as a basis to determine the appropriate discount factor for lack of marketability.
Income taxes
We currently have deferred tax assets resulting from net operating loss carry forwards and deductible temporary differences, all of which are available to reduce future income taxes payable in our significant tax jurisdictions. The largest component of our deferred tax assets are operating loss carry forwards generated by our PRC subsidiaries due to their historical operating losses. In assessing whether such deferred tax assets can be realized in the future, we need to make judgments and estimates on the ability of each of our PRC subsidiaries to generate taxable income in future years. To the extent that we believe that it is more likely than not that some portion or the entire amount of deferred tax assets will not be realized, we established a valuation allowance to offset the deferred tax assets. As of December 31, 2011, 2012 and 2013, we recognized a total valuation allowance of RMB152.9 million, RMB168.1 million and RMB186.9 million (US$30.9 million), respectively. If we subsequently determine that all or a portion of the carry forwards are more likely than not to be realized, the valuation allowance will be released, which will result in a tax benefit in our consolidated statements of operations.
The guidance on accounting for uncertainties in income taxes prescribes a more likely than not threshold for financial statement recognition and measurement of a tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return. Guidance was also provided on derecognition of income tax assets and liabilities, classification of current and deferred income tax assets and liabilities, accounting for interest and penalties associated with tax positions, accounting for income taxes in interim periods, and income tax disclosures. We made significant judgment in evaluating our uncertain tax positions and determining its provision for income taxes. We did not recognize any significant interest and penalties associated with uncertain tax positions for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2012 and 2013. As of December 31, 2013, we did not have any significant unrecognized uncertain tax positions.
B. OUR LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
Through December 31, 2013, our principal sources of liquidity were cash generated from our operating activities and the proceeds from our initial public offering in 2010. Our net cash used in operating activities was RMB315.0 million, RMB31.7 million and RMB34.6 million (US$5.7 million) for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2012 and 2013, respectively. Consequently, our accumulated deficit was RMB638.4 million, RMB691.9 million and RMB774.9 million (US$128.0 million) as of December 31, 2011, 2012 and 2013, respectively. Our cash and cash equivalents consist of cash on hand and liquid investments placed with banks and other financial institutions that are unrestricted as to withdrawal or use and have maturities of three months or less.
We have no debt obligations. On February 2, 2010, we completed an initial public offering with gross proceeds of RMB557.5 million. Since then, we have utilized a significant amount of cash on hand and the proceeds from our initial public offering to open more sales offices in Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen and Chengdu as we expanded our network of company-owned brokerage services up to the first quarter of 2011, and expanded mortgage management services and primary and commercial services in 2011 and 2012. The number of our operating sales offices decreased significantly from 386 as of December 31, 2011 to 317 as of December 31, 2012 and further to 250 as of December 31, 2013. As a result, we expect to incur less fixed costs for company-owned brokerage services due to the decreases in the number of our sales offices and sales staff. We currently anticipate that we will be able to meet our needs to fund operations for at least the next twelve months with operating cash flows and existing cash and bank balances.
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We are a holding company with no material operations of our own. We conduct our operations primarily through our subsidiaries in China. As a result, our ability to pay dividends and to finance any debt we may incur depends upon dividends paid by our subsidiaries. If our subsidiaries or any newly formed subsidiaries incur debt on their own behalf in the future, the instruments governing their debt may restrict their ability to pay dividends to us. In addition, our subsidiaries are permitted to pay dividends to us only out of their retained earnings, if any, as determined in accordance with accounting standards and regulations applicable to such subsidiaries. Under PRC law, each of our PRC subsidiaries is required to set aside at least 10% of its after-tax profits each year, if any, to fund a statutory reserve until such reserve reaches 50% of its registered capital. Each of our PRC subsidiaries with foreign investments is also required to further set aside a portion of its after-tax profits to fund the employee welfare fund at the discretion of the board. Although the statutory reserves can be used, among other ways, to increase the registered capital and eliminate future losses in excess of retained earnings of the respective companies, the reserve funds are not distributable as cash dividends except in the event of liquidation of these subsidiaries. In addition, dividend payments from our PRC subsidiaries could be delayed as such dividends may only be distributed upon completion of an annual audit of such subsidiary. As we intend to reinvest earnings in further expanding our business, we currently do not plan to declare dividends in 2014.
The following table sets forth a summary of our cash flows for the years indicated:
|
For the Years Ended December 31, | ||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
2011 | 2012 | 2013 | 2013 | |||||||||
|
(RMB) |
(RMB) |
(RMB) |
(US$) |
|||||||||
|
(in thousands) |
||||||||||||
Net cash used in operating activities |
(314,966 | ) | (31,734 | ) | (34,556 | ) | (5,708 | ) | |||||
Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities |
29,574 | (5,165 | ) | (27,050 | ) | (4,469 | ) | ||||||
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities |
5,702 | (7,486 | ) | 16,309 | 2,694 | ||||||||
Effects of foreign exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents |
(5,507 | ) | (17 | ) | (141 | ) | (23 | ) | |||||
Net increase (decrease) in cash and equivalents |
(285,197 | ) | (44,402 | ) | (45,438 | ) | (7,506 | ) | |||||
Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the year |
520,647 | 235,450 | 191,048 | 31,559 | |||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the year |
235,450 | 191,048 | 145,610 | 24,053 |
Operating Activities
Our operating activities primarily consist of our company-owned brokerage services, primary and commercial services, mortgage management services and franchise services. The timing of when we collect our fees on all of the business lines may differ from when we recognize revenues, which may result in significant changes in certain of our related balance sheet items such as deferred revenues and accounts receivable.
For the year ended December 31, 2013, net cash used in operating activities amounted to RMB34.6 million (US$5.7 million), primarily due to RMB85.9 million (US$14.2 million) net loss during the year and an increase of RMB7.3 million (US$1.2 million) in accounts receivable, offset mainly by RMB24.1 million (US$4.0 million) in accrued expense and other current liabilities. The principal non-cash items accounting for the difference between the net loss and the cash used in operating activities in 2013 were RMB23.5 million (US$3.9 million) in depreciation and amortization expenses, RMB14.7 million (US$2.4 million) in the provision of doubtful accounts. The increase in net cash used in operating activities from 2012 to 2013 was primarily due to an increase in operating loss, particially offset by better cash receripts and recognition of deferred revenue.
For the year ended December 31, 2012, net cash used in operating activities amounted to RMB31.7 million, primarily due to the RMB50.1 million net loss during the period and an increase of
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RMB91.3 million in accounts receivable, offset mainly by RMB67.0 million in accrued expense and other current liabilities. The principal non-cash items accounting for the difference between the net loss and the cash used in operating activities in 2012 were RMB28.2 million in depreciation and amortization expenses, RMB3.5 million in share-based compensation expenses and RMB12.1 million in the provision of doubtful accounts.
For the year ended December 31, 2011, net cash used in operating activities amounted to RMB315.0 million, primarily due to the RMB340.4 million net loss during the period and, to a lesser degree, an increase of RMB14.3 million in the provision for doubtful accounts resulting from the increase in revenues in 2011.
Investing Activities
Our investing activities primarily relate to our purchases and disposals of equipment, placement of time deposits with banks with maturities between three months and one year, provision of loans through our mortgage credit company and business combinations activities.
Net cash used in investing activities amounted to RMB27.0 million (US$4.5 million) for the year ended December 31, 2013, primarily as a result of the net effect of mortgage credit loan repayments of RMB7.3 million (US$1.2 million) and purchase of property, plant and equipment of RMB17.6 million (US$2.9 million).
Net cash used in investing activities amounted to RMB5.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2012, primarily as a result of the net effect of mortgage credit loan repayments of RMB2.5 million and purchase of property, plant and equipment of RMB8.1 million.
Net cash provided by investing activities amounted to RMB29.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2011, which was mainly comprised of an initial payment of RMB25.0 million for the acquisition of Shanggu, consumer loans of RMB72.1 million provided cumulatively in 2011, and the purchase of property, plant and equipment of RMB37.8 million, and was offset by matured time deposits of RMB120.0 million and repayment of entrusted and mortgage credit loans totalling RMB47.0 million.
Financing Activities
Our financing activities primarily consist of receiving deposits from customers in our company-owned brokerage services and net proceeds from investors of mortgage credit loans.
Net cash provided by financing activities amounted to RMB16.3 million (US$ 2.7 million) for the year ended December 31, 2013, primarily as a result of the net effect of the expanded property refinancing activities of RMB12.8 million (US$2.1 million) and an increase in restricted cash of RMB3.9 million (US$0.6 million).
Net cash used in financing activities amounted to RMB7.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2012, as a result of an increase in restricted cash.
Net cash provided by financing activities amounted to RMB5.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2011, as a result of an increase of RMB19.2 million in restricted cash offset by share repurchases of RMB15.3 million.
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C. RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT, PATENTS AND LICENSES, ETC.
The CENTURY 21® brand name, including related intellectual property, which we are authorized to use under our master sub-franchise agreement with Realogy, contributes to our competitive advantage in the real estate services market. We also rely on our Sales Information System and Human Resource and Commission Information System, each of which is copyright protected, and our training system that combines our training programs and our E-learning system to manage our business operations. Since commencement of our operations, our company-owned brokerage and franchise services businesses have significantly relied on the CENTURY 21® brand name, our proprietary information systems and our training system. To protect our intellectual property, we rely on a combination of trade secrets and copyright laws in China as well as imposing procedural and contractual confidentiality and invention assignment obligations on our sales professionals and staff, contractors and others. The built-in security functions and access authorization mechanisms in our franchise systems also help protect our confidential information.
We offer our mortgage management services under the trade name of Kaisheng Jinglue in Beijing and Shanghai. We have registered the trademark of Kaisheng Jinglue in China with a term of ten years ending on March 6, 2023, in a range of classes, including insurance brokerage services, mortgage credit, trust, guarantee services, leasing guarantee services, insurance consulting and real estate agent services.
D. TREND INFORMATION
Other than as disclosed elsewhere in this annual report, we are not aware of any trends, uncertainties, demands, commitments or events, including those listed under "Key InformationRisk Factors," for the year ended December 31, 2013 that are reasonably likely to have a material adverse effect on our net revenues, income, profitability, liquidity or capital resources, or that caused the disclosed financial information to be not necessarily indicative of future operating results or financial conditions.
E. OFF-BALANCE SHEET COMMITMENTS AND ARRANGEMENTS
We have not entered into any financial guarantees or other commitments to guarantee the payment obligations of any third parties. We have not entered into any derivative contracts that are not reflected in our consolidated financial statements. Furthermore, we do not have any retained or contingent interest in assets transferred to an unconsolidated entity that serves as credit, liquidity or market risk support to such entity. We do not have any variable interest in any unconsolidated entity that provides financing, liquidity, market risk or credit support to us or engages in leasing, hedging or research and development services with us.
F. TABULAR DISCLOSURE OF CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS
The following table sets forth our contractual obligations as of December 31, 2013:
Contractual Obligations (in thousands of RMB) |
Total | Less than 1 year |
1 - 3 years | 3 - 5 years | More than 5 years |
|||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operating Lease Obligations |
226,540 | 97,926 | 94,185 | 32,079 | 2,350 | |||||||||||
Minimum Service Fees |
6,809 | 605 | 1,210 | 1,210 | 3,784 | |||||||||||
Contingent Consideration payable |
5,623 | 5,623 | | | | |||||||||||
Long-term Deposits Payable |
10,582 | 1,279 | 609 | 3,198 | 5,496 | |||||||||||
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total |
249,554 | 105,433 | 96,004 | 36,487 | 11,630 | |||||||||||
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
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Operating Leases
Our operating lease agreements are principally for our administrative offices and real estate brokerage sales offices. These leases have expiration dates, the latest of which is in 2019.
Minimum Service Fees
Pursuant to the master sub-franchise agreement entered into with Realogy, we are required to pay an annual minimum service fee to Realogy for the licensing of the CENTURY 21® brand. The minimum annual service fee is the greater of US$100,000 or an amount calculated by multiplying US$500 by the number of sales offices in our CENTURY 21® franchise network, to be adjusted for inflation or deflation.
Contingent Consideration Payable
The contingent consideration payable arose from our acquisition of Shanggu in the second quarter of 2011 and is measured at fair value. The contingent consideration payable as of December 31, 2013 was RMB5.6 million (US$ 0.9 million).
Long-term Deposits Payable
We receive security deposits from franchisees which are recorded as long-term deposits payable. These deposits are refundable at the end of the franchise agreement period if the franchisees do not breach the franchise agreements. The long-term deposits payable as of December 31, 2013 were RMB10.6 million (US$1.8 million).
G. SAFE HARBOR
This annual report on Form 20-F contains forward-looking statements. These statements are made under the "safe harbor" provisions of Section 21E of the Exchange Act. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as "will," "expects," "anticipates," "future," "intends," "plans," "believes," "estimates," "may," "intend," "is currently reviewing," "it is possible," "subject to" and similar statements. Among other things, the sections titled "Item.3 Key InformationD. Risk Factors," "Item.4 Information on the Company," and "Item.5 Operating and Financial Review and Prospects" in this annual report on Form 20-F, as well as our strategic and operational plans, contain forward-looking statements. We may also make written or oral forward-looking statements in our filings with the SEC, in our annual report to shareholders, in press releases and other written materials and in oral statements made by our officers, directors or employees to third parties. Statements that are not historical facts, including statements about our beliefs and expectations, are forward-looking statements and are subject to change, and such change may be material and may have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations for one or more prior periods. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. A number of important factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained, either expressly or impliedly, in any of the forward-looking statements in this annual report on Form 20-F. Potential risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, continued low real estate transaction volume in China, a further slowdown in the growth of China's economy, government measures that may adversely and materially affect our business, failure of the real estate services industry in China to develop or mature as quickly as expected, diminution of the value of our brand or image due to our failure to satisfy customer needs and/or other reasons, our inability to successfully execute our strategy, our failure to manage growth, our loss of competitive advantage and other risks outlined in our filings with the SEC. All information provided in this annual report on Form 20-F and in the exhibits is as of the date of this annual report on Form 20-F, and we do not undertake any obligation to update any such information, except as required under applicable law.
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H. RECENTLY ISSUED ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS
In March 2013, the FASB issued guidance on "Income TaxesPresentation of an Unrecognized Tax Benefit When a Net Operating Loss Carryforward, a Similar Tax Loss, or a Tax Credit Carryforward Exists." The amendments clarify that an unrecognized tax benefit, or a portion of an unrecognized tax benefit, should be presented in the financial statements as a reduction to a deferred tax asset for a net operating loss, similar tax loss, or tax credit carryforward, except as noted in the following sentence. To the extent a net operating loss, similar tax loss, or tax credit carryforward is not available at the reporting date under the tax law of the applicable jurisdiction to settle any additional income taxes that would result from the disallowance of a tax position or the tax law of the applicable jurisdiction does not require the entity to use, and the entity does not intend to use, the deferred tax asset for such a purpose, then under this exception the unrecognized tax benefit is to be presented in the financial statements as a liability and should not be combined with (netted with) the deferred tax asset(s). The assessment of whether a deferred tax asset is "available" is based on the unrecognized tax benefit and deferred tax asset amounts that exist at the reporting date and should be made presuming disallowance of the tax position at the reporting date. The amendments are effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2013. We are currently evaluating the impact on our consolidated financial statements of adopting this guidance.
Item 6. DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND EMPLOYEES
A. DIRECTORS AND SENIOR MANAGEMENT
The following table sets forth our current directors, and executive officers, their ages as of the date of this annual report and the positions held by them. The business address for each of our directors and executive officers, is 26/A, East Wing, Hanwei Plaza, No.7 Guanghua Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100004, People's Republic of China.
Name
|
Age | Position | |||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Donald Zhang |
60 | Chairman, Chief Executive Officer | |||
Harry Lu |
47 | Vice Chairman, President | |||
Kevin Cheng Wei |
46 | Director | |||
Steve Mao Ye |
38 | Chief Financial Officer | |||
Weiping Zhang |
60 | Director and Vice President | |||
Lei Wang |
42 | Vice President | |||
Jennifer Tang |
47 | Director | |||
Qiang Chai |
52 | Independent Director | |||
Liang Pei |
45 | Independent Director | |||
Conor Chiahung Yang |
51 | Independent Director | |||
Bo Ren Kwan |
52 | Independent Director | |||
Sheng Kang |
40 | General Manager of Mortgage Management Services Business Unit | |||
Hau Piu Ip |
39 | General Manager of Shanghai Ruifeng |
Mr. Donald Zhang is one of our co-founders. In addition to founding our company, Mr. Zhang has served as our director and chairman since 2000 and our chief executive officer since 2009. Prior to assuming his role with our company, Mr. Zhang founded Maxpro International Enterprises, Inc. and has served as its chairman and chief executive officer since it was founded in 1992. Maxpro is an import and export and real estate investments company. From 1982 to 1986, Mr. Zhang served as an assistant manager in the procurement department of China National Offshore Oil Corporation. Mr. Zhang received his bachelor's degree from the University of International Business and Economics in Beijing and a master's degree in International Trade from Webster University in Missouri. Mr. Zhang is a brother-in-law of Mr. Harry Lu.
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Mr. Harry Lu is one of our co-founders. In addition to founding our company, Mr. Lu has served as our director and vice chairman since 2000 and president since 2008. From 1995 to 1999, Mr. Lu served as the general manager of the PRC Region of Maxpro International Enterprises, Inc., managing the China aspects of Maxpro's import and export and real estate investments business. From 1992 to 1995, he served as the export manager of China National Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Product Import & Export Co., Ltd. Mr. Lu currently serves as the deputy general secretary of the China National Institute of Real Estate Appraisers and Brokers, the policy and standard setting institute of the real estate market in China. Mr. Lu received his bachelor's degree from Beijing Institute of Technology and his master's degree from Rutgers Business School, State University of New Jersey. Mr. Lu is a brother-in-law of Mr. Donald Zhang.
Mr. Steve Mao Ye joined Century 21 China Real Estate in November 2013 and has served as our chief financial officer. From March 2013 to November 2013, Mr. Ye served as chief financial officer of Tiger Media (NYSE MKT: IDI).From 2011 to 2013, he was finance director at Suntech (NYSE: STP). From 2009 to 2011, he served as chief financial officer of Solar Entertech. Before 2009, he took various management roles at Wells Fargo, General Electric and ABN AMRO Bank. Mr. Ye possesses an undergraduate degree from Shanghai International Studies University with a major in International Accounting and an MBA degree from the University of Rochester, Simon Business School. Mr. Ye is both a Certified Public Accountant in the United States and a Certified Financial Analyst.
Mr. Kevin Cheng Wei has served as our director since November 2008 and was our chief financial officer from December 2007 to September 2013. Mr. Wei is currently a managing partner of Fontainburg Associates Company Limited, a corporate finance advisory firm. Mr. Wei also currently serves as the chairman of the audit committee and independent non-executive director of Nexteer Automotive Group Ltd. (stock code: 1316), Wisdom Holdings Group (stock code: 1661) and Tibet 5100 Water Resources Holdings Ltd. (stock code: 1115), all listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. Prior to joining us, from 2006 to 2007, Mr. Wei served as the chief financial officer of Solarfun Power Holdings Co., Ltd. (subsequently renamed Hanwha SolarOne Co., Ltd.) (Nasdaq: HSOL), a Chinese solar company. Mr. Wei was the chief audit executive of LG Philips Displays International Ltd. from 2003 to 2005, where he was responsible for managing global internal audit coverage and risk management. From 1999 to 2003, he was Asia Pacific regional corporate audit manager with Altria Corporate Services Inc., including one year at Nabisco Inc. prior to its acquisition by Kraft Foods. Prior to Altria, from 1991 to 1999, Mr. Wei worked with KPMG LLP and Deloitte Touche LLP. Mr. Wei graduated from Central Washington University, where he received his bachelor's degree (cum laude) with a double major in accounting and management information systems.
Mr. Weiping Zhang has served as our director since 2006. Mr. Zhang has also served as our vice president since 2002 and vice general manager of our franchise business unit since 2013. From 2006 to 2013, he was the chairman of Shanghai Ruifeng. From 2004 to 2007, he was senior vice president of IFM Beijing. From 2002 to 2004, he was general manager for IFM BJ Broker. He was the representative of Maxpro International Enterprises, Inc. Beijing office from 1993 to 2002. Maxpro is an import and export and real estate investments company. From 1992 to 1993, Mr. Zhang was the Assistant General Manager of Hong Kong Donglong Company. Mr. Zhang received his bachelor's degree from Beijing Foreign Language Institute.
Mr. Lei Wang has served as our vice president in charge of internet business, information technology and business management since 2012. From 2010 to 2012, he was the general manager and consultant of our internet operations. He served as vice president of Beijing Dianji Information Technology Co., Ltd. from 2001 to 2009. He was product director with Sina.com (Nasdaq: SINA) from 1995 to 2001. Mr. Wang received his master's degree from Beijing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics.
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Ms. Jennifer Tang has served as our director since 2009. Ms. Tang joined Avenue Asia Singapore Pte Ltd in 2006 and serves as its senior managing director responsible for asset management and legal matters for the Avenue Asia Strategy. From 2000 to 2006, Ms. Tang held various positions with Hutchison Whampoa Limited, including serving as group senior legal counsel of Hutchison Telecommunications International Ltd, a public company listed on the NYSE and the Stock Exchange of Hong Kong. Ms. Tang received her bachelor's degree in commerce and a bachelor's degree in law from the University of New South Wales. She is currently admitted as a solicitor in New South Wales and Hong Kong. Ms. Tang was designated to serve as a member of our board of directors by GLA pursuant to its board representation right under the Restructuring Deed.
Mr. Qiang Chai has served as our independent director since January 2010. Mr. Chai has served as the independent director of Shanghai New Huangpu Real Estate Co. Ltd. and China Merchants Property Development Co. Ltd. since 2008. Mr. Chai also served as vice president and secretary general of China National Institute of Real Estate Appraisers and Brokers since 1999. From 1992 to 1999, he was the director of the Real Estate and Residence Research Institute and deputy chief economist of the Policy Research Center of the Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development of PRC. From 1985 to 1992, Mr. Chai was chief and deputy director of the Urban Economic Research Office of Urban-Rural Development Economic Institute. Mr. Chai received his bachelor's degree in engineering from Wuhan University of Technology, and his master's degree and doctorate degree in economics from the graduate school of China Academy of Social Sciences.
Mr. Liang Pei has served as our independent director since January 2010. Mr. Pei has also served as the independent director of Baiyuan Costume Co. Ltd. since 2011. Mr. Pei has served as the secretary general of China Chain Store & Franchise Association since 2002 and an independent director of Fujian New Hua Du Supercenter Co., Ltd. since 2007. From 1992 to 2002, he worked as an official with Ministry of Internal Trade. Mr. Pei received his bachelor's degree in commerce and economics and doctorate degree in business administration, both from Renmin University of China.
Mr. Conor Chiahung Yang has served as our independent director since January 2010. Mr. Yang has served as the chief financial officer of Tuniu.com since January 2013 and an independent director of AirMedia Group Inc. since March 2013. He was the chief financial officer of DangDang.com (Nasdaq: DANG) from March 2010 to July 2012. Prior to joining DangDang.com, he served as chief financial officer of AirMedia Group Inc. (Nasdaq: AMCN) from March 2007 to March 2010. He was the chief executive officer of Rock Mobile Corporation from 2004 to February 2007. From 1999 to 2004, Mr. Yang served as the chief financial officer of the Asia Pacific region for CellStar Asia Corporation. Mr. Yang was an executive director of Goldman Sachs (Asia) L.L.C. from 1997 to 1999. Mr. Yang was a vice president of Lehman Brothers Asia Limited from 1994 to 1996 and worked at Morgan Stanley Asia from 1992 to 1994. Mr. Yang received his MBA degree from University of California, Los Angeles in 1992 and his bachelor's degree from Fu Jen University in Taiwan in 1985.
Mr. Bo Ren Kwan has served as our director since 2012. Mr. Kwan joined ZY Real Estate Investment (China) Limited in 2008 and serves as its senior partner and managing director. Mr. Kwan worked for ING Group from 1994 to 2007. He was the chief financial officer of ING Real Estate Investment Asia from 2005 to 2007, and was a member of its Asia Executive Committee responsible for new fund development and held a con-current position as the chief executive officer of ING Asia Retail Fund during his final year. Previously, he was a managing director of ING Real Estate China from 2003 to 2005. From 1994 to 2002, he was a managing director of Baring Private Equity Partners responsible for private equity investment in the China market. Mr. Kwan is a UK Chartered Accountant and worked for KPMG in London from 1985 to 1992. He is licensed by the Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission on asset management and advisory activities. Mr. Kwan received his bachelor's degree in physics from the University of Nottingham. Mr. Kwan was designated to serve as a member of our board of directors by GLA pursuant to its board representation right under the Restructuring Deed.
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Mr. Sheng Kang has served as general manager of our mortgage management services business unit since 2008. From 2007 to 2009, he was the general manager of Beijing Kaisheng Jinglue Guarantee Co. Limited. From 2006 to 2007, he was the general manager of Beijing Weijia Anjie Investment Guarantee Co., Ltd. From 2002 to 2006, he was the finance service and trading management director of 5i5j Real Estate Co., Ltd. From 2000 to 2002, Mr. Kang was the deputy general manager of Dongfang Hengji Real Estate Consulting Co., Ltd. of Dongli Group. From 1999 to 2000, he was the project deputy manager of China Xin Xing Construction Development Co., Ltd. Mr. Kang received his bachelor's degree from Wuhan University of Hydraulic and Electrical Engineering and his master's degree from Tsinghua University.
Mr. Hau Piu Ip has served as the general manager of Shanghai Ruifeng since 2009. He was a director and general manager of Shanghai Hopefluent Real Properties Consulting Co. Limited since 2007. From 1997 to 2006, he was the senior director of Centaline Property Agency Limited. Mr. Ip received his bachelor's degree from Liverpool John Moores University and his master's degree from Tongji University and United Business Institutes of Belgium.
Employment Agreements
We have entered into employment agreements with each of our executive officers. We may terminate an executive officer's employment for cause, at any time, without remuneration, for certain acts of the officer, including, but not limited to, the continued failure to perform duties and obligations, fraud or material dishonesty and a conviction or plea of guilty for the commission of a felony or other crimes. An executive officer may terminate the employment at any time upon advance written notice. Furthermore, we may terminate an executive officer's employment at any time without cause, in which case, we will continue to make the base salary payment and certain benefits to the executive officer within a severance period in accordance with the employment agreement.
Except for the foregoing, our officers and directors are not entitled to any severance payments upon the termination of their employment, or in the case of directors, service to the board, for any reason.
Each executive officer has agreed to hold in strict confidence any trade secrets or confidential information of our company. Each officer also agrees to faithfully and diligently serve our company in accordance with the employment agreement and the guidelines, policies and procedures of our company approved from time to time by our board of directors.
B. COMPENSATION
For the year ended December 31, 2013, we paid an aggregate of approximately RMB12.0 million (US$1.99 million) in cash compensation to our executive officers, and we paid an aggregate of RMB786,981 (US$130,000) in cash compensation to our non-executive directors. The total amount set aside or accrued by us to provide pension, retirement or similar benefits for our executive officers and directors for the year ended December 31, 2013 was approximately RMB0.9 million (US$0.1 million). In addition, for the year ended December 31, 2013, we granted 2,577,120 options to our executive officers and directors to purchase 2,250,000 ordinary shares of our company at a weighted average exercise price at US$0.04 per share.
Stock Incentive Plan
Stock Incentive Plan. On August 18, 2006, we adopted a stock incentive plan, or the plan, which was amended on October 19, 2007 and February 1, 2008, to provide additional incentive to those officers, employees, directors, consultants and others who serve our company, in order to strengthen the commitment of such persons to our company, motivate such persons to faithfully and diligently perform their duties and to attract and attain competent and dedicated persons whose efforts will result
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in our long-term growth and profitability. The plan permits us to grant five types of awards: incentive stock options, nonqualified stock options, restricted shares, restricted share units and other awards. As of December 31, 2013, the ordinary shares reserved for issuance under our plan represented 5.7% of our equity interest on a fully-diluted basis. As of December 31, 2013, after giving effect to our 10-for-1 share split which was effective on January 4, 2010, we had outstanding 40.41 million options to purchase ordinary shares of our company exercisable at a weighted average exercise price at US$0.03 per share and the aggregate number of ordinary shares underlying these options is 35.28 million. These options generally expire five years after their dates of grant. On July 9, 2012, we extended the expiration dates of all then outstanding and unexercised stock options to the fifth anniversary of the date of such adjustment and amended the exercise prices of such stock options to US$1.18 per ADS, representing 100% of the 30-trading day volume weighted average price per ADS as of the date of such adjustment, except that the exercise price of the then outstanding and unexercised stock options held by Donald Zhang was amended to US$1.30 per ADS, representing 110% of 30-trading day volume weighted average price per ADS as of the date of such adjustment. See Note 20 "Share-Based Compensation" in the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.
Plan Administration. Our board of directors, or a committee designated by our board or directors, administers the plan. The committee or the full board of directors, as appropriate, determines the provisions and terms and conditions of granting awards under the plan.
Award Agreement. Options and other awards granted under our plan are evidenced by an award agreement that sets forth the terms, conditions and limitations for each grant. In addition, the award agreement may also provide that securities granted are subject to certain lock-up period following the effective date of a registration statement filed by us under the Securities Act, if so requested by us or any representative of the underwriters in connection with any registration of the offering of any of our securities.
Eligibility. We may grant awards to employees, directors and consultants of our company or any of our related entities, which include our subsidiaries or any entities in which we hold a substantial ownership interest.
Term of the Awards. The term of each award grant shall be stated in the relevant award agreement, provided that the term shall not exceed 10 years from the date of the grant.
Vesting Schedule. In general, the plan administrator determines, or the relevant award agreement specifies, the vesting schedule.
Transfer Restrictions. Awards granted under the plan may not be transferred in any manner by the grantee other than by will or the laws of succession and may be exercised during the lifetime of the grantee only by the grantee.
Termination of the Plan. Our board of directors has the authority to amend or terminate the plan subject to shareholder approval to the extent necessary to comply with applicable law. However, no such action may (i) impair the rights of any grantee unless agreed by the grantee and the plan administrator or (ii) affect the plan administrator's ability to exercise the powers granted to it under our plan.
C. BOARD PRACTICES
Board of Directors
Our board of directors currently consists of nine directors. A director is not required to hold any shares in our company by way of qualification unless prescribed by special resolutions. A director may, subject to any separate requirement for audit committee approval under applicable law or the listing
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rules of the NYSE, and unless disqualified by the chairman of the relevant board meeting, vote with respect to any contract or transaction in which he or she is interested provided the nature of the interest is disclosed in accordance with our amended and restated articles of association. The directors may exercise all the powers of our company which are not, by the Companies Law or our amended and restated articles of association, required to be exercised by shareholders, subject nevertheless to the provisions of the Companies Law and of our amended and restated articles of association and to such regulations being not inconsistent with such provisions, as may be prescribed by our company in general meeting. The board of directors may exercise all the powers of our company, to borrow money, mortgage its undertaking, property and uncalled capital, and issue debentures or other securities whenever outright or as security for any debt, liability or obligation of our company or of any third party.
Duties of Directors
Under Cayman Islands law, our directors have a fiduciary duty to act honestly, in good faith and with a view to our best interests. Our directors also have a duty to exercise the care, diligence and skills that a reasonably prudent person would exercise in comparable circumstances. In fulfilling their duty of care to us, our directors must ensure compliance with our amended and restated memorandum and articles of association. The Cayman Islands courts ordinarily would be expected to follow English case law precedents which permit a minority shareholder to commence a representative action against or derivative actions in the name of the company to challenge (a) an act which is ultra vires the company or illegal; (b) an act which constitutes a fraud against the minority and the wrongdoers are themselves in control of the company; and (c) an irregularity in the passing of a resolution which requires a qualified (or special) majority.
The functions and powers of our board of directors include, among others:
Terms of Directors and Executive Officers
Our board of directors is divided into three classes. At each annual general meeting one-third of the directors for the time being (or, if their number is not multiple of three (3), the number nearest to but not greater than one-third) shall retire from office by rotation in accordance with the provisions of our amended and restated articles of association, provided that the chairman of the board of directors and/or the managing director shall not, whilst holding such office, be subject to retirement by rotation or be taken into account in determining the number of directors to retire in each year. Subject to the provisions of our amended and restated articles of association, upon expiration of the term of a class of directors, directors in that class are eligible for re-election at the annual meeting of the shareholders in the year in which their respective terms expire. Our directors are divided into three classes as follows:
(i) Harry Lu, Kevin Cheng Wei and Qiang Chai as Class III directors, and their terms will expire at the upcoming annual meeting of shareholders to be held in 2014;
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(ii) Weiping Zhang, Jennifer Tang and Conor Chiahung Yang as Class I directors, and their terms will expire at the annual meeting of shareholders to be held in 2015; and
(iii) Donald Zhang, Bo Ren Kwan and Liang Pei as Class II directors and their terms will expire at the annual meeting of shareholders to be held in 2016.
Directors added to the board of directors between annual meetings of members by reason of an increase in the authorized number of directors shall belong to the class designated by the board provided that the number of board seats designated to belong to Class I, Class II and Class III must be as nearly equal in number as possible. There is no shareholding qualification for directors unless prescribed by special resolution.
The classification of our board of directors may have the effect of delaying or preventing changes in control of our company.
Subject to the Companies Law and our amended and restated articles of association, shareholders may by ordinary resolution elect any person to be a director either to fill a casual vacancy or as an addition to the existing board. The directors have the power from time to time and at any time to appoint any person as a director to fill a casual vacancy on the board or as an addition to the existing board. Subject to our amended and restated articles of association, any director so appointed by the board shall hold office only until our next annual general meeting and shall then be eligible for re-election.
Board Committees
Our board of directors has established an audit committee.
Audit Committee
Our audit committee consists of Conor Chiahung Yang and Liang Pei. Conor Chiahung Yang and Liang Pei satisfy the "independence" requirements of Section 303A of the Corporate Governance Rules of the NYSE. In addition, Conor Chiahung Yang and Liang Pei meet the "independence" standards under Rule 10A-3 under the Exchange Act. Conor Chiahung Yang is the chairman of our audit committee. Our audit committee consists solely of independent directors that satisfy NYSE and SEC requirements. We currently have only two independent directors on our audit committee and we no longer comply with Section 303A of the Corporate Governance Rules of the NYSE, which requires a listed company to have three independent directors on its audit committee within one year of listing. While we expect to appoint another independent director to our audit committee and regain compliance with these corporate governance rules in the near future, as a foreign private issuer, we are permitted to follow home country practice in lieu of the above requirements as to the minimum number of audit committee members. The corporate governance practice in our home country, the Cayman Islands, does not require a minimum number of members on any committees.
The purpose of the audit committee is to assist our board of directors with its oversight responsibilities regarding: (i) the integrity of our financial statements, (ii) our compliance with legal and regulatory requirements, (iii) the independent auditor's qualifications and independence, and (iv) the performance of our internal audit function and independent auditor. The audit committee is responsible for, among other things:
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D. Employees
We recruit sales professionals for our company-owned sales offices based on their education, qualification, experience and personality. We recruit on an as-needed basis. Most new recruits undergo a probation period before they are formally hired. We had 7,562, 7,394 and 6,087 employees as of December 31, 2011, 2012 and 2013, respectively. The following table sets forth the number of our full-time employees by area of responsibility as of the dates indicated
|
As of December 31, | |||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
2011 | 2012 | 2013 | |||||||
Company management |
62 | 69 | 59 | |||||||
Sales professionals |
6,718 | 6,614 | 5,263 | |||||||
Other employees |
782 | 711 | 765 | |||||||
| | | | | | | | | | |
Total |
7,562 | 7,394 | 6,087 | |||||||
| | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
We review the performance of our sales professionals on a periodic basis. We also have our own accreditation system for experienced sales professionals, including those sales professionals at our franchisees. We pay our sales professionals and managers a combination of salaries and sales commissions and pay salaries to all other employees. All our sales professionals and staff are entitled to welfare and benefits as required under PRC laws.
We consider our relations with our employees to be good.
E. SHARE OWNERSHIP
Please see Item 7.A.
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Item 7. MAJOR SHAREHOLDERS AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
A. MAJOR SHAREHOLDERS
Beneficial Share Ownership
The following table sets forth information with respect to beneficial ownership of our ordinary shares as of April 18, 2014, the latest practicable date, by:
|
Ordinary Shares Beneficially Owned |
||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Name
|
Number(1) | Percent(1) | |||||
Directors and Executive Officers: |
|||||||
Donald Zhang(2) |
273,969,082 | 40.1 | % | ||||
Harry Lu(3) |
55,492,271 | 8.2 | % | ||||
Kevin Cheng Wei |
* | * | |||||
Steve Mao Ye |
| | |||||
Weiping Zhang |
* | * | |||||
Jennifer Tang |
| | |||||
Qiang Chai |
| | |||||
Liang Pei |
| | |||||
Bo Ren Kwan |
| | |||||
Conor Chiahung Yang |
| | |||||
Sheng Kang |
* | * | |||||
Hau Piu Ip |
* | * | |||||
Lei Wang |
* | * | |||||
| | | | | | | |
All Directors and Executive Officers as a group(4) |
287,550,489 | 41.4 | % | ||||
| | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | |
5% and above Shareholders: |
|||||||
IFM Overseas Partners L.P.(5) |
260,000,000 | 38.9 | % | ||||
Goldman Sachs Strategic Investments (Asia) L.L.C.(6) |
141,611,117 | 21.2 | % | ||||
GL Asia Mauritius II Cayman Limited(7) |
91,893,513 | 13.7 | % | ||||
Columbia Wanger Asset Management, LLC(8) |
69,254,685 | 10.3 | % |
Notes:
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Changes in Share Ownership
In May 2011, Goldman Sachs Strategic Investments (Asia) L.L.C converted all of its 80,502,938 Class B ordinary shares into 80,502,938 Class A ordinary shares.
Voting Rights
After the conversion of all of our Class B ordinary shares into Class A ordinary shares in May 2011, none of our existing shareholders have different voting rights from other shareholders. Our Class B ordinary shares did not carry any voting rights.
Record Holders in the United States
As of April 18, 2014, the latest practicable date, approximately 25.5% of our total outstanding Class A ordinary shares, were held by a single holder of record in the United States, JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., the depositary for our ADS program.
B. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
Related Party Loans and other Payments
We have entered into certain loan arrangements in the past with certain of our related parties, including our associate companies, Xinye, a PRC wholly foreign-owned enterprise controlled by Mr. Donald Zhang, our chairman and CEO, and Mr. Harry Lu, our vice chairman and president, and Maxpro International Enterprises Inc., or Maxpro, a New York corporation owned by Mr. Donald Zhang through D&M Capital Corporation, and the Fund Management Partnership, the partner of which is a former employee and director of our company, owning 10% equity interests in TianRe Co. Ltd. In January 2011, MMC BJ, a wholly-owned subsidiary of our company, entered into an entrusted loan agreement to offer RMB 30.0 million loan to Tianjin Shiji TianRe Equity Fund Limited Partnership ("TianRe Fund I"), a limited partnership established by the Fund Management Partnership. The loan is repayable at an annual interest rate of 14%. This loan was repaid in December 2011.
Purchase of Equity Interests from a Former Employee
On November 15, 2011, Beijing IFM Investment Managements Limited, Everising Investment Management Company Ltd. and a former employee entered into a share purchase agreement which resulted in a transfer of 10% stake in Tianjin Shiji TianRe Investment Management Company Ltd. and 9.9% stake in Fund Management Partnership from this former employee to Beijing IFM Investment Managements Limited at total consideration of RMB1.9 million (US$0.3 million), which was determined based upon the then present value of the estimated future earnings generated by the companies.
On November 21, 2011, we agreed with this former employee that, subject to his compliance of certain non-competition undertakings, his option agreement will remain effective as if he were an
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employee of our company, including the terms regarding any option re-pricing or any extension of the exercise period from time to time. Since the termination of this former employee's employment with the company and the modification to his options occurred concurrently, his options continue to be subject to ASC 718 until further modifications are made.
On July 9, 2012, we extended the expiration dates of all then outstanding and unexercised stock options to the fifth anniversary of the date of such adjustment and amended the exercise prices of such stock options according to the then market value of our ordinary shares. The exercise price and expiration date of the options held by this former employee were adjusted accordingly and his options were classified as liability and measured at fair value.
Restructuring Deed
We entered into a restructuring deed with GLA, IFM Overseas Partners L.P. ("IFMOP"), Donald Zhang, Harry Lu and IFM Overseas Limited, the general partner of IFMOP, on April 27, 2012 and a supplemental deed to the restructuring deed on June 6, 2012 (collectively, the "Restructuring Deed"). Pursuant to the Restructuring Deed, (i) the parties of the Restructuring Deed released each other from all then outstanding claims under certain legal proceedings, including the petition to request an order to wind up our company and other remedies filed by GLA on December 30, 2011, (ii) the then existing secured note between GLA and IFMOP was amended and restated by the New Note, see "Item 3. Key InformationD. Risk FactorsOur corporate actions are substantially controlled by Mr. Donald Zhang and Mr. Harry Lu. The transactions between our shareholders may result in a change of control of our company.", (iii) GLA was granted an option within a period of six months commencing on the earlier of the date of repayment or maturity of the New Note, to require IFMOP and us to buy or procure the purchase of all or any portion of our ordinary shares held by GLA, at a purchase price to be calculated based on the then current weighted average trading price of our ADSs or, if our ADSs or ordinary shares cease to be listed and traded on any stock exchange, the fair market value to be determined by a financial advisor, and (iv) GLA was granted certain other rights, including, among others, information rights and a right of prior approval over certain corporate matters relating to us and our business, including, among others, change in capital structure, disposal and acquisition of material assets, and incurrence of any material indebtedness.
Registration Rights
Pursuant to the registration rights agreement dated December 30, 2009, we granted to each of Goldman Sachs Strategic Investments, GLA, Realogy and IFM Overseas Partners L.P. certain registration rights in relation to their shares of our company. The registration rights set forth in this registration rights agreement shall terminate on (i) the fifth anniversary following the completion of our initial public offering in February 2010, or, (ii) if, in the opinion of our counsel, all such shares entitled to registration rights proposed to be sold by the relevant holders may then be sold without registration in any 90-day period pursuant to Rule 144 promulgated under the Securities Act.
A. CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS AND OTHER FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Consolidated Financial Statements
Please see "Item 18. Financial Statements" for our audited consolidated financial statements filed as a part of this annual report.
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Legal Proceedings
GLA, an affiliate of Avenue Capital and one of our shareholders, filed a petition on December 30, 2011 in the Grand Court of the Cayman Islands, our company's jurisdiction of organization, to request an order to wind up our company and other remedies. We, having consulted with our legal counsel, firmly believed that there was no basis for any of GLA's claims, and that a winding up would not be the appropriate remedy for any of the claims made. We filed a summons to strike out GLA's petition on January 6, 2012, and were contesting GLA's petition. On April 27, 2012, we entered into the Restructuring Deed with GLA and certain other parties, pursuant to which, the parties of such restructuring deed released each other from all then outstanding claims under certain legal proceedings, including the petition filed by GLA on December 30, 2011. For more information about the Restructuring Deed, see "Item 7. Major Shareholders and Related Party TransactionsB. Related Party TransactionsRestructuring Deed."
Other than the legal proceeding noted above, we are not involved in any legal matters that management believes will have a material adverse effect on our business.
Dividend Policy
We have never declared or paid any dividends on our ordinary shares. We do not anticipate paying any cash dividends in the foreseeable future. We currently intend to retain future earnings, if any, to finance operations and expand our business.
As we are a holding company, we rely, in part, on dividends paid to us by our subsidiaries in China for our cash requirements, including funds to pay dividends and other cash distributions to our shareholders, service any debt we may incur and pay our operating expenses. In China, the payment of dividends is subject to limitations. PRC regulations currently permit payment of dividends only out of accumulated profits as determined in accordance with PRC accounting standards and regulations. Under current PRC laws and regulations, our subsidiaries in China are required to set aside a certain amount of their accumulated after-tax profits each year, if any, to fund certain statutory reserves. These reserves may not be distributed as cash dividends. Further, if our subsidiaries in China incur debt on their own behalf in the future, the instruments governing the debt may restrict their ability to pay dividends or make other payments to us.
Our board of directors has sole discretion on whether to pay dividends, subject to the approval of our shareholders. Even if our board of directors decides to pay dividends, the form, frequency and amount will depend upon our future operations and earnings, capital requirements and surplus, general financial condition, contractual restrictions and other factors that they may deem relevant. If we pay any dividends, we will pay our ADS holders to the same extent as holders of our ordinary shares, subject to the terms of the deposit agreement, including the fees and expenses payable thereunder. Cash dividends on our ADSs, if any, will be paid in U.S. dollars.
B. SIGNIFICANT CHANGES
Except as disclosed elsewhere in this annual report, we have not experienced any significant changes since the date of our audited consolidated financial statements included in this annual report.
A. OFFER AND LISTING DETAILS
Price Range of American Depositary Shares
Not applicable, except for Item 9A (4) and Item 9C.
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Our ADSs have been listed on the NYSE since January 28, 2010. Our ADSs trade under the symbol "CTC." The following table provides the high and low closing prices for our ADSs on the NYSE for the periods indicated. Closing prices for all periods presented were adjusted to reflect the change of ratio of our ADSs from one ADS for fifteen (15) Class A ordinary shares to one ADS for forty-five (45) Class A ordinary share effective on April 16, 2012.
Calendar Period
|
High | Low | |||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
(US$ per ADS) |
||||||
2010 (Janaury 28 to December 31) |
24.45 | 11.13 | |||||
2011 |
14.97 | 0.87 | |||||
2012 |
2.58 | 0.99 | |||||
January to March |
2.58 | 0.99 | |||||
April to June |
2.10 | 1.00 | |||||
July to September |
1.98 | 1.08 | |||||
October to December |
1.95 | 1.34 | |||||
2013 |
4.14 | 1.67 | |||||
January to March |
4.14 | 2.00 | |||||
April to June |
3.23 | 2.28 | |||||
July to September |
2.89 | 1.80 | |||||
October to December |
2.40 | 1.67 | |||||
October |
2.40 | 1.95 | |||||
November |
2.09 | 1.67 | |||||
December |
2.11 | 1.77 | |||||
2014 |
|||||||
January |
2.15 | 1.97 | |||||
February |
1.95 | 1.75 | |||||
March |
1.89 | 1.60 | |||||
January to March |
2.15 | 1.60 | |||||
April (through April 24) |
1.70 | 1.18 |
C. MARKETS
Our ADSs have been listed on NYSE since January 28, 2010 under the symbol "CTC." We changed the ratio of our ADS to ordinary share from 1:15 to 1:45, effective on April 16, 2012.
F. EXPENSES OF THE ISSUE
Not applicable
Item 10. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
A. SHARE CAPITAL
Not applicable
B. MEMORANDUM AND ARTICLES OF ASSOCIATION
We incorporate by reference into this annual report the description of our amended and restated memorandum and articles of association contained in our registration statement on Form F-1 (File No. 333-164216) filed with the SEC on January 27, 2010.
An amended and restated articles of association were adopted by the shareholders of our company on May 31, 2012. A brief summary of some of the amendments are as set out below. The summary is
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not intended to be exhaustive and the amended and restated articles of association should be read in its entirety.
C. MATERIAL CONTRACTS
We have not entered into any material contracts other than in the ordinary course of business or other than those described in "Item 4. Information on the Company" and elsewhere in this annual report on Form 20-F.
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D. EXCHANGE CONTROLS
See "Item 4. Information on the CompanyB. Business OverviewRegulationRegulations on Foreign Currency Exchange and Dividend Distribution."
E. TAXATION
The following summary of material Cayman Islands, PRC and United States federal income tax consequences of an investment in our ADSs or ordinary shares is based upon laws and relevant interpretations thereof in effect as of the date of this annual report, all of which are subject to change.
Cayman Islands Taxation
The Cayman Islands currently levies no taxes on individuals or corporations based upon profits, income, gains or appreciation and there is no taxation in the nature of inheritance tax or estate duty. There are no other taxes likely to be material to us levied by the Government of the Cayman Islands except for stamp duties that may be applicable on instruments executed in, or brought into, the Cayman Islands. The Cayman Islands is not party to any double tax treaties. There are no exchange control regulations or currency restrictions in the Cayman Islands.
People's Republic of China Taxation
Under the PRC tax laws effective prior to January 1, 2008, dividends paid to foreign investors by foreign-invested enterprises, such as dividends paid to us by our PRC subsidiaries, were exempt from PRC withholding tax. Under the CIT Law and its implementation rules effective on January 1, 2008, all domestic and foreign-invested companies in China are subject to a uniform corporate income tax at the rate of 25% and dividends from a PRC subsidiary to its foreign parent company are subject to a withholding tax at the rate of 10%, unless such foreign parent company's jurisdiction of incorporation has a tax treaty with China that provides for a reduced rate of withholding tax, or the tax is otherwise exempted or reduced pursuant to the PRC tax laws.
Under the CIT Law, enterprises organized under the laws of jurisdictions outside China with their "de facto management bodies" located within China are considered PRC resident enterprises and therefore are subject to PRC corporate income tax at the rate of 25% on their worldwide income. Under the implementation rules of the CIT Law, "de facto management bodies" is defined as the bodies that have material and overall management and control over the business operations, personnel and human resources, finances and treasury, and acquisition and disposition of properties and other assets of an enterprise. In addition, the Circular Related to Relevant Issues on the Identification of a Chinese Holding Company Incorporated Overseas as a Residential Enterprise under the Criterion of De Facto Management Bodies Recognizing issued by the State Administration of Taxation on April 22, 2009 provides that a foreign enterprise controlled by a PRC company or a PRC company group will be classified as a "resident enterprise" with its "de facto management bodies" located within China if the following requirements are satisfied: (i) the senior management and core management departments in charge of its daily operations function mainly in the PRC; (ii) its financial and human resources decisions are subject to determination or approval by persons or bodies in the PRC; (iii) its major assets, accounting books, company seals, and minutes and files of its board and shareholders' meetings are located or kept in the PRC; and (iv) more than half of the enterprise's directors or senior management with voting rights reside in the PRC.
Ambiguities exist with respect to the interpretation of the provisions of the CIT Law, its implementation rules and other regulations relating to resident enterprise issues. Although our offshore holding companies are not controlled by any PRC company or company group, we cannot assure you that we will not be deemed to be a PRC resident enterprise under the CIT Law. If we are deemed to be a PRC resident enterprise, we will be subject to PRC corporate income tax at the rate of 25% on
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our worldwide income. In that case, however, dividend income we receive from our PRC subsidiaries may be exempt from PRC corporate income tax because the CIT Law and its implementation rules generally provide that dividends received by a PRC resident enterprise from its directly invested entity that is also a PRC resident enterprise is exempt from corporate income tax. However, as there is still uncertainty as to how the CIT Law and its implementation rules will be interpreted and implemented, we cannot assure you that we are eligible for such PRC corporate income tax exemptions or reductions.
In addition, ambiguities exist with respect to the interpretation of the provisions of the CIT Law and its implementation rules relating to identification of PRC-sourced income. If we are deemed to be a PRC resident enterprise, dividends distributed to our non-PRC entity investors by us, or the gain our non-PRC entity investors may realize from the transfer of our ordinary shares or ADSs, may be treated as PRC-sourced income and therefore be subject to a 10% PRC withholding tax pursuant to the CIT Law. If we became a PRC resident enterprise under the PRC tax system and received income other than dividends, our profitability and cash flows would be adversely impacted due to our worldwide income being taxed in China under the CIT Law.
United States Federal Income Taxation
The following is a summary of the material United States federal income tax considerations relating to the acquisition, ownership, and disposition of our ADSs or ordinary shares by a U.S. Holder (as defined below) that will hold ADSs or ordinary shares as "capital assets" (generally, property held for investment) under the United States Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. This summary is based upon existing United States federal tax law, which is subject to differing interpretations or change, possibly with retroactive effect. This summary does not discuss all aspects of United States federal income taxation that may be important to particular investors in light of their individual investment circumstances, including investors subject to special tax rules (for example, financial institutions, insurance companies, broker-dealers, partnerships and their partners, and tax-exempt organizations (including private foundations)), holders who are not U.S. Holders, holders who own (directly, indirectly, or constructively) 10% or more of our voting stock, investors that hold their ADSs or ordinary shares as part of a straddle, hedge, conversion, constructive sale, or other integrated transaction for United States federal income tax purposes, or investors that have a functional currency other than the United States dollar, all of whom may be subject to tax rules that differ significantly from those summarized below. In addition, this summary does not discuss any non-United States, state, or local tax considerations. Each U.S. Holder is urged to consult its tax advisor regarding the United States federal, state, local, and non-United States income and other tax considerations of an investment in ADSs or ordinary shares.
General
For purposes of this summary, a "U.S. Holder" is a beneficial owner of our ADSs or ordinary shares that is, for United States federal income tax purposes, (i) an individual who is a citizen or resident of the United States, (ii) a corporation (or other entity treated as a corporation for United States federal income tax purposes) created in, or organized under the law of, the United States or any state thereof or the District of Columbia, (iii) an estate the income of which is includible in gross income for United States federal income tax purposes regardless of its source, or (iv) a trust (A) the administration of which is subject to the primary supervision of a United States court and which has one or more United States persons who have the authority to control all substantial decisions of the trust or (B) that has otherwise elected to be treated as a United States person under the United States Internal Revenue Code.
If a partnership is a beneficial owner of our ADSs or ordinary shares, the tax treatment of a partner in the partnership will generally depend upon the status of the partner and the activities of the
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partnership. If a U.S. Holder is a partner of a partnership holding our ADSs or ordinary shares, the U.S. Holder is urged to consult its tax advisor regarding an investment in our ADSs or ordinary shares.
For United States federal income tax purposes, a U.S. Holder of ADSs will be treated as the owner of the underlying shares represented by the ADSs.
Passive Foreign Investment Company Considerations
A non-U.S. corporation, such as our company, will be classified as a "passive foreign investment company" or a PFIC, for United States federal income tax purposes, if, in the case of any particular taxable year, either (i) 75% or more of its gross income for such year consists of certain types of "passive" income or (ii) 50% or more of its average quarterly assets (as determined on the basis of fair market value) during such year produce or are held for the production of passive income. For this purpose, cash is categorized as a passive asset and the company's unbooked intangibles are taken into account. A non-U.S. corporation will be treated as owning a proportionate share of the assets and income of any other corporation in which it owns, directly or indirectly, more than 25% (by value) of the stock.
Based on the quarterly average value of our assets for the taxable year ended December 31, 2013, we believe that we were classified as a PFIC for the year ended December 31, 2013 and we may continue to be classified as a PFIC in the current taxable year or a future taxable year. Based on the composition of our income and assets as reasonably approximated for purposes of applying the PFIC rules, we may continue to be a PFIC for the current taxable year if the price of our ADSs and ordinary shares is relatively low and we continue to hold a substantial amount of cash and other liquid assets. The composition of our income and our assets will be affected by how, and how quickly, we use our liquid assets and cash holdings.
In estimating the value of our goodwill and other unbooked intangibles, we have taken into account our market capitalization. Among other matters, if our market capitalization is relatively low, we may continue to be a PFIC for the current or one or more future taxable years. Further, while we believe our classification methodology and valuation approach is reasonable, it is possible that the Internal Revenue Service may challenge our classification or valuation of our goodwill and other unbooked intangibles, which may result in our company continuing to be classified as a PFIC for the current or one or more future taxable years. If we are classified as a PFIC for any year during which a U.S. Holder holds our ADSs or ordinary shares, we generally will continue to be treated as a PFIC for all succeeding years during which such U.S. Holder holds our ADSs or ordinary shares.
Because PFIC status is a fact-intensive determination made on an annual basis, no assurance can be given that we will not continue to be classified as a PFIC, and our PFIC status will depend on whether (i) we follow our capital expenditure plans and (ii) our market capitalization expands or contracts from its current level. The United States federal income tax rules that apply to U.S. Holders for taxable years in which we are classified as a PFIC are generally discussed below under "Passive Foreign Investment Company Rules."
Dividends
Subject to the discussion under "Passive Foreign Investment Company Rules" below, any cash distributions (including the amount of any PRC tax withheld) paid on our ADSs or ordinary shares out of our earnings and profits, as determined under United States federal income tax principles, will generally be includible in the gross income of a U.S. Holder as dividend income. Because we do not intend to determine our earnings and profits on the basis of United States federal income tax principles, any distribution paid will generally be treated as a "dividend" for United States federal income tax purposes. A non-corporate recipient of dividend income generally will be subject to tax on dividend income from a "qualified foreign corporation" at a reduced rate provided that certain holding
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period requirements are met. A non-United States corporation (other than a corporation that is classified as a PFIC for the taxable year in which the dividend is paid or the preceding taxable year) generally will be considered to be a qualified foreign corporation (i) if it is eligible for the benefits of a comprehensive tax treaty with the United States which the Secretary of Treasury of the United States determines is satisfactory for purposes of this provision and which includes an exchange of information program, or (ii) with respect to any dividend it pays on stock (or ADSs in respect of such stock) which is readily tradable on an established securities market in the United States. However, as discussed above, we believe that we were classified as a PFIC for the taxable year ended December 31, 2013. Our ADSs are listed on the NYSE, which is an established securities market in the United States, and we presently believe our ADSs should qualify as being readily tradable. In the event that we are deemed to be a PRC resident enterprise under the CIT Law, we may be eligible for the benefits of the United States-PRC income tax treaty. See "Item 10. Additional InformationE. TaxationPeoples' Republic of China Taxation." If we are eligible for such benefits, dividends we pay on our ordinary shares, regardless of whether such shares are represented by the ADSs, would be eligible for the reduced rates of taxation. In the event that we are deemed to be a PRC resident enterprise under the CIT Law, a U.S. Holder may be subject to PRC withholding taxes on dividends paid on our ADSs. Dividends received on our ADSs or ordinary shares will not be eligible for the dividends received deduction allowed to corporations.
Dividends generally will be treated as income from foreign sources for United States foreign tax credit purposes. A U.S. Holder may be eligible, subject to a number of complex limitations, to claim a foreign tax credit in respect of any foreign withholding taxes imposed on dividends received on ADSs. A U.S. Holder who does not elect to claim a foreign tax credit for foreign tax withheld, may instead claim a deduction, for United States federal income tax purposes, in respect of such withholdings, but only for a year in which such holder elects to do so for all creditable foreign income taxes.
Sale or Other Disposition of ADSs or Ordinary Shares
Subject to the discussion under "Passive Foreign Investment Company Rules" below, a U.S. Holder will generally recognize capital gain or loss upon the sale or other disposition of ADSs or ordinary shares in an amount equal to the difference between the amount realized upon the disposition and the holder's adjusted tax basis in such ADSs or ordinary shares, each determined in US dollars. Any capital gain or loss will be long-term if the ADSs or ordinary shares have been held for more than one year. Net long-term capital gains of non-corporate U.S. Holders, including individuals, are currently eligible for reduced rates of taxation. Any gain or loss will generally be United States source gain or loss for United States foreign tax credit purposes. In the event that gain from the disposition of the ADSs or ordinary shares is subject to tax in the PRC, a U.S. Holder that is eligible for the benefits of the income tax treaty between the United States and the PRC may elect to treat the gain as PRC source income. See "Item 10. Additional InformationE. TaxationPeoples' Republic of China Taxation." The deductibility of a capital loss may be subject to limitations.
Passive Foreign Investment Company Rules
If we are classified as a PFIC for any taxable year during which a U.S. Holder holds our ADSs or ordinary shares, and unless the U.S. Holder makes a mark-to-market election (as described below), the U.S. Holder will generally be subject to special tax rules that have a penalizing effect, regardless of whether we remain a PFIC, on (i) any excess distribution that we make to the U.S. Holder (which generally means any distribution paid during a taxable year to a U.S. Holder that is greater than 125% of the average annual distributions paid in the three preceding taxable years or, if shorter, the U.S. Holder's holding period for the ADSs or ordinary shares), and (ii) any gain realized on the sale or
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other disposition, including a pledge, of ADSs or ordinary shares. Under the PFIC rules, if a U.S. Holder receives any such excess distribution or realizes any such gain:
If we are a PFIC for any taxable year during which a U.S. Holder holds our ADSs or ordinary shares and any of our non-United States subsidiaries is also a PFIC, the U.S. Holder would be treated as owning a proportionate amount (by value) of the shares of the lower-tier PFIC for purposes of the application of these rules.
If we are a PFIC for any taxable year during which a U.S. Holder holds our ADSs or ordinary shares, and unless the U.S. Holder makes a mark-to-market election (as described below), we will continue to be treated as a PFIC with respect to such holder for all subsequent years during which such holder holds the ADSs or ordinary shares, unless we cease to be a PFIC and such holder makes a "deemed sale" election or, in certain circumstances, a "deemed dividend" election with respect to the ADSs or ordinary shares, as applicable. If a deemed sale election is made, the U.S. Holder will be deemed to have sold the ADSs or ordinary shares held by such holder at their fair market value and any gain from such deemed sale would be subject to the PFIC rules described above. If a deemed dividend election is made, the U.S. Holder must include in income as a dividend its pro rata share of certain earnings and profits of our company, and such deemed dividend would be treated as an excess distribution for purposes of the PFIC rules described above. After the deemed sale election or deemed dividend election, so long as we do not become a PFIC in a subsequent taxable year, the U.S. Holder's ADSs or ordinary shares with respect to which such election was made will not be treated as shares in a PFIC.
As an alternative to the foregoing rules, a U.S. Holder may be able to make a mark-to-market election, to mitigate the adverse United States federal income tax consequences of holding an equity interest in a PFIC. The mark-to-market election is available only for stock or ADSs that are regularly traded in other than de minimis quantities on at least 15 days during each calendar quarter on a qualified exchange, including NYSE, or other market, as defined in applicable United States Treasury regulations. No assurances can be given that our ADSs or ordinary shares will be eligible for the mark-to-market election in any particular year. We believe that our ADSs should qualify as being regularly traded, but no assurances may be given in this regard. If a U.S. Holder makes a timely election, the holder will generally (i) include as income as ordinary income for each taxable year the excess, if any, of the fair market value of ADSs held at the end of the taxable year over the adjusted tax basis of such ADSs and (ii) deduct as an ordinary loss the excess, if any, of the adjusted tax basis of the ADSs over the fair market value of such ADSs held at the end of the taxable year, but such loss is allowed only to the extent of the amount previously included in income as a result of the mark-to-market election. The U.S. Holder's adjusted tax basis in the ADSs would be adjusted to reflect any ordinary income or loss resulting from the mark-to-market election. If a U.S. Holder makes a mark-to-market election in respect of a corporation classified as a PFIC and such corporation ceases to be classified as a PFIC, the holder will not be required to take into account the gain or loss described
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above during any period that such corporation is not classified as a PFIC. A mark-to-market election generally must be made for the first taxable year in which a U.S. Holder holds stock of a PFIC, and is made by filing Internal Revenue Service Form 8621 with such U.S. Holder's original or amended United States federal income tax return on or before the due date (including extensions) of the return. Each U.S. Holder should consult its own tax advisor regarding the procedure for, and advisability of making, a mark-to-market election.
Because a mark-to-market election cannot be made for any lower-tier PFICs that we may own, a U.S. Holder may continue to be subject to the PFIC rules with respect to its indirect interest in any investments held by us that are treated as an equity interest in a PFIC for United States federal income tax purposes.
Subject to certain limitations, a United States person may make a "qualified electing fund" election, or QEF election, with respect to its investment in a PFIC in which the United States person owns shares (directly or indirectly) of the PFIC. This alternative will not, however, be available to U.S. Holders as we do not currently intend to compute and report the information necessary to make a QEF election.
If a U.S. Holder owns our ADSs or ordinary shares during any taxable year that we are a PFIC, the holder generally must file an annual Internal Revenue Service Form 8621 (or any other form that may be required by the United States. Treasury in future guidance) with respect to the ADSs or ordinary shares as described in the instructions for Form 8621, subject to certain exceptions based on the value of PFIC stock held. In the case of a U.S. Holder who has held ADSs or ordinary shares during any taxable year in respect of which we were classified as a PFIC and continues to hold such ADSs or ordinary shares (or any portion thereof) and has not previously determined to make a mark-to-market election, and who is now considering making a mark-to-market election, special tax rules may apply relating to purging the PFIC taint of such ADSs or ordinary shares.
Information Reporting
Information reporting requirements and backup withholding may apply to certain payments to U.S. Holders of dividends and to the proceeds of a sale or other disposition of ADSs or ordinary shares. Backup withholding may be required if the U.S. Holder fails (i) to furnish the U.S. Holder's taxpayer identification number, (ii) to certify that such U.S. Holder is not subject to backup withholding or (iii) to otherwise comply with the applicable requirements of the backup withholding rules. Certain U.S. Holders are not subject to the information reporting and backup withholding requirements. Backup withholding is not an additional tax. A U.S. Holder generally may be entitled to a refund or a credit with respect to any amounts withheld under the backup withholding rules, provided that the required information is furnished to the IRS in a timely manner.
In addition, certain U.S. Holders who are individuals and who hold certain foreign financial assets (which may include ADSs or ordinary shares) may be required to report information relating to such assets, subject to certain exceptions. Each U.S. Holder should consult its own tax advisor regarding the effect, if any, of this reporting requirement on its ownership and disposition of ADSs or ordinary shares.
F. DIVIDENDS AND PAYING AGENTS
Not applicable.
G. STATEMENTS BY EXPERTS
Not applicable.
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H. DOCUMENTS ON DISPLAY
We previously filed with the SEC two registration statements on Form F-1, a registration statement on Form F-6, a registration statement on Form F-3 and a registration statement on Form 8-A, including relevant exhibits and schedules under the Securities Act, covering the ordinary shares represented by the ADSs, as well as the ADSs. You should refer to our registration statements and their exhibits and schedules if you would like to find out more about us and about the ADSs and the ordinary shares represented by the ADSs. This annual report summarizes material provisions of contracts and other documents to which we refer you. Since the annual report may not contain all the information that you may find important, you should review the full text of these documents.
The SEC also maintains a website that contains reports, proxy statements and other information about issuers, such as us, who file electronically with the SEC. The address of that site is http://www.sec.gov. The information on that website is not a part of this annual report.
We will furnish to JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as depositary of our ADSs, copies of our annual report. When the depositary receives these reports, it will upon our request promptly provide them to all holders of record of ADSs. We will also furnish the depositary with all notices of shareholders' meetings and other reports and communications in English that we make available to our shareholders. The depositary will make these notices, reports and communications available to holders of ADSs and will upon our request mail to all holders of record of ADSs the information contained in any notice of a shareholders' meeting it receives.
We are subject to the periodic reporting and other informational requirements of the Exchange Act. Under the Exchange Act, we are required to file reports and other information with the SEC. Specifically, we are required to file annually a Form 20-F no later than four months after the close of each fiscal year, which is December 31.
Copies of reports and other information, when so filed, may be inspected without charge and may be obtained at prescribed rates at the public reference facilities maintained by the SEC at 100 F Street, N.E., Room 1580, Washington, D.C. 20549. The public may obtain information regarding the Washington, D.C. Public Reference Room by calling the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330. The SEC also maintains a web site at www.sec.gov that contains reports, proxy and information statements, and other information regarding registrants that make electronic filings with the SEC using its EDGAR system. As a foreign private issuer, we are exempt from the rules under the Exchange Act prescribing the furnishing and content of quarterly reports and proxy statements, and officers, directors and principal shareholders are exempt from the reporting and short-swing profit recovery provisions contained in Section 16 of the Exchange Act.
I. SUBSIDIARY INFORMATION
For a listing of our principal subsidiaries, see "Item 4. Information on the CompanyC. Organizational Structure."
Item 11. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
Interest Rate Risk
Our exposure to interest rate risk primarily relates to the interest income generated by excess cash invested in liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less. We have not used any derivative financial instruments to manage our interest risk exposure. Interest-earning instruments carry a degree of interest rate risk. We have not been exposed to material risks due to changes in interest rates. An increase in interest rates, however, may raise the cost of any debt we incur in the future. In addition, our future interest income may be lower than expected due to changes in market interest
98
rates. With respect to cash and cash equivalents as of December 31, 2013, a 10% decrease in interest rates would have decreased our interest income by RMB0.1 million for the year then ended.
Foreign Exchange Risk
Substantially all of our revenues and most of our expenses are denominated in RMB. Our exposure to foreign exchange risk primarily relates to cash and cash equivalents denominated in U.S. dollars as a result of our past issuances of preferred shares through a private placement and proceeds from our initial public offering. We do not believe that we currently have any significant direct foreign exchange risk and have not hedged exposures denominated in foreign currencies or any other derivative financial instruments. Although in general, our exposure to foreign exchange risks should be limited, the value of your investment in our ADSs will be affected by the foreign exchange rate between U.S. dollars and RMB because the value of our business is effectively denominated in RMB, while the ADSs will be traded in U.S. dollars.
The value of the RMB against the U.S. dollar and other currencies may fluctuate and is affected by, among other things, changes in China's political and economic conditions. The conversion of RMB into foreign currencies, including U.S. dollars, has been based on rates set by the PBOC. On July 21, 2005, the PRC government changed its decade-old policy of pegging the value of the RMB to the U.S. dollar. Under the new policy, the RMB is permitted to fluctuate within a narrow and managed band against a basket of certain foreign currencies. This change in policy resulted in an appreciation of over 20.0% of the RMB against the U.S. dollar over the following three years. There remains significant international pressure on the PRC government to adopt an even more flexible currency policy, which could result in a further and more significant appreciation of the RMB against the U.S. dollar. See "Item 3. Key InformationD. Risk FactorsFluctuations in the value of the RMB may have a material and adverse effect on your investment." Our cash and cash equivalents included aggregate amounts US$0.6 million as of December 31, 2013. A 1.0% increase in the value of the RMB against the U.S. dollar would decrease the amount of the RMB by RMB0.04 million as of December 31, 2013. We had U.S. dollar payables of US$0.2 million as of December 31, 2013. A 1.0% increase in the value of the RMB against the U.S. dollar would increase the payable amount by RMB0.01 million as of December 31, 2013. We have not used any forward contracts or currency borrowings to hedge our exposure to foreign currency exchange risk.
Item 12. DESCRIPTION OF SECURITIES OTHER THAN EQUITY SECURITIES
American Depositary Shares
JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. is the depositary for our ADSs. The depositary's office is located at 4 New York Plaza, New York, NY 10004. Each of our ADRs represents 45 of our Class A ordinary shares, par value US$0.001 per share.
Fees Payable by ADS Holders
The depositary may charge each person to whom ADSs are issued, including, without limitation, issuances against deposits of shares, issuances in respect of share distributions, rights and other distributions, issuances pursuant to a stock dividend or stock split declared by us or issuances pursuant to a merger, exchange of securities or any other transaction or event affecting the ADSs or deposited securities, and each person surrendering ADSs for withdrawal of deposited securities or whose ADRs are cancelled or reduced for any other reason, US$5.00 for each 100 ADSs (or any portion thereof) issued, delivered, reduced, cancelled or surrendered, as the case may be. The depositary may sell (by public or private sale) sufficient securities and property received in respect of a share distribution, rights and/or other distribution prior to such deposit to pay such charge.
99
The following additional charges shall be incurred by the ADR holders, by any party depositing or withdrawing shares or by any party surrendering ADSs or to whom ADSs are issued (including, without limitation, issuance pursuant to a stock dividend or stock split declared by us or an exchange of stock regarding the ADRs or the deposited securities or a distribution of ADSs), whichever is applicable:
We will pay all other charges and expenses of the depositary and any agent of the depositary (except the custodian) pursuant to agreements from time to time between us and the depositary.
Item 13. DEFAULTS, DIVIDEND ARREARAGES AND DELINQUENCIES
None.
100
Item 14. MATERIAL MODIFICATIONS TO THE RIGHTS OF SECURITY HOLDERS AND USE OF PROCEEDS
Material Modifications to the Rights of Security Holders
Our board of directors adopted a shareholders rights plan on November 17, 2010 and amended it on June 6, 2012 and November 15, 2013. Under this rights plan, one right was distributed with respect to each of our ordinary shares outstanding at the closing of business on November 29, 2010. Subject to limited exceptions, these rights will be exercisable if a person or group becomes an "acquiring person" by acquiring beneficial ownership of 15% or more of our company's ordinary shares or commencing a tender or exchange offer which, if consummated, could result in a person owning 15% or more of our company's ordinary shares. In addition, if a person or group acquires beneficial ownership of 15% or more of the Company's ordinary shares, each right will generally entitle the holder, other than the acquiring person or group, to acquire ordinary shares of our company (or, in certain circumstances, other securities) having a market value equal to twice the right's then current exercise price.
Item 15. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
Disclosure Controls and Procedures
Our management, with the participation of our chief executive officer and chief financial officer, has performed an evaluation of the effectiveness of our "disclosure controls and procedures" (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) as of the end of the period covered by this report). Based on that evaluation, our chief executive officer and chief financial officer have concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of December 31, 2013.
Management's Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting, as such term is defined under Rule 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f). Internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of consolidated financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles and includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of a company's assets, (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of consolidated financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that a company's receipts and expenditures are being made only in accordance with authorizations of a company's management and directors, and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of a company's assets that could have a material effect on the consolidated financial statements.
Because of its inherent limitations, a system of internal control over financial reporting can provide only reasonable assurance with respect to the preparation and presentation of consolidated financial statement and may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
As required by Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act and related rules as promulgated by the SEC, our company's management assessed the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2013 using criteria established in Internal ControlIntegrated Framework (1992) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. Based on this assessment, our company's management concluded that our internal control over financial reporting was effective as of December 31, 2013.
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Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting
There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the year ended December 31, 2013 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
Item 16A. AUDIT COMMITTEE FINANCIAL EXPERT
Our board of directors has determined that Mr. Conor Chiahung Yang qualifies as an Audit Committee Financial Expert as defined by the applicable rules of the SEC.
Our board of directors has determined that Mr. Conor Chiahung Yang is independent as such term is defined under Section 303A of the Corporate Governance Rules of the NYSE and Rule 10A-3 under the Exchange Act.
Our board of directors adopted a code of ethics and conduct that is applicable to all of our directors, officers and employees. A copy of our code of ethics and conduct was filed as an exhibit to our Registration Statement on Form F-1 (File No. 333-164216) originally filed with the SEC on January 5, 2010, and is also posted on our website at www.century21cn.com.
Item 16C. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES
The following table sets forth the aggregate fees by categories specified below in connection with certain professional services rendered by our principal external auditors for the years indicated. We did not pay any other fees to our principal external auditors during the years indicated below.
|
For the year ended December 31, |
|||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
2012 | 2013 | 2013 | |||||||
|
RMB |
RMB |
US$ |
|||||||
|
(in thousands) |
|||||||||
Audit fees(1) |
4,800 | 4,400 | 727 | |||||||
| | | | | | | | | | |
Total |
4,800 | 4,400 | 727 | |||||||
| | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Item 16D. EXEMPTIONS FROM THE LISTING STANDARDS FOR AUDIT COMMITTEES
Not applicable.
Item 16E. PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES BY THE ISSUER AND AFFILIATED PURCHASERS
In August 2010, our board of directors authorized an ADS repurchase program, under which we may repurchase up to US$20.0 million of our ADSs on the open market from time to time, at prevailing market prices, in negotiated transactions off the market, in block trades, pursuant to a
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10b5-1 plan (which allows us to repurchase the ADSs during periods in which we may be in possession of material non-public information) or otherwise. The timing and extent of any purchases depend upon market conditions, the trading price of ADSs and other factors, and subject to the restrictions relating to volume, price and timing under applicable law. In 2011, we repurchased 8,002,140 shares of our Class A ordinary shares for a total purchase price of approximately US$2.5 million (RMB15.7 million). The repurchases were made on the open market at prevailing market prices or in block trades and subject to restrictions relating to volume, price and timing. The following table sets forth certain information related to purchases made by us of our ADSs under the program, which has been adjusted to reflect the change of the ratio of our ADS to ordinary share from 1:15 to 1:45, effective on April 16, 2012:
Period
|
Total number of ADSs purchased |
Average price paid per ADS(1) |
Total number of ADSs purchased as part of publicly announced program |
Approximate dollar value of ADSs that may yet be purchased under the program |
|||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
|
US$ |
RMB(2) |
|
US$ |
RMB(2) |
|||||||||||||
January 2011 |
82,003 | 14.75 | 92.86 | 403,707 | 14,983,528 | 94,304,825 | |||||||||||||
February 2011 |
53,617 | 13.49 | 84.88 | 457,325 | 14,260,451 | 89,753,852 | |||||||||||||
March 2011 |
30,735 | 13.15 | 82.74 | 488,059 | 13,856,430 | 87,210,983 | |||||||||||||
April 2011 |
11,471 | 8.72 | 54.87 | 499,530 | 13,756,432 | 86,581,605 |
Item 16F. CHANGE IN REGISTRANT'S CERTIFYING ACCOUNTANT
Not applicable.
Item 16G. CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
The following sets forth a summary of the significant ways our corporate governance practices differ from those followed by domestic companies under the NYSE listing standards set forth in the NYSE Listed Company Manual ("LCM").
Majority of Independent Directors
Under NYSE LCM Section 303A.01, a listed company is required to have a majority of independent directors on the board of directors. We are not required under the Companies Law to have a majority of independent directors on our board of directors. Pursuant to the exception granted to foreign private issuers in NYSE LCM Section 303A.00, we have elected to follow our home country practice.
Executive Sessions with Only Non-management Directors and Independent Directors
Under NYSE LCM Section 303A.03, non-management directors of each listed company must meet at regularly scheduled executive sessions without management. In addition, if the non-management directors include directors that are not "independent" within the definition set forth in NYSE LCM Section 303A, the listed company should at least once a year schedule an executive session including only independent directors. There is no requirement under the Companies Law that our non-management directors and independent directors meet in executive sessions and pursuant to the
103
exemption granted to foreign private issuers in NYSE LCM Section 303A.00, we have elected to follow our home country practice.
Under NYSE LCM Section 303A.03, a listed company is required to disclose a method for interested parties to communicate directly with the presiding directors of the executive session or with the non-management directors as a group. We are not required under the Companies Law to adopt such method and pursuant to the exemption granted to foreign private issuers in NYSE LCM Section 303A.00, we have elected to follow our home country practice.
Composition of Audit Committee
Under NYSE LCM Section 303A.07, the audit committee must have a minimum of three members. We are not required under the Companies Law to have a minimum number of members on any committees. Pursuant to the exception granted to foreign private issuers in NYSE LCM Section 303A.00, we have elected to follow our home country practice.
Compensation Committee
Under NYSE LCM Section 303A.05, a listed company is required to have a compensation committee composed entirely of independent directors. We are not required under the Companies Law to have a compensation committee and we do not have a compensation committee. Pursuant to the exception granted to foreign private issuers in NYSE LCM Section 303A.00, we have elected to follow our home country practice.
Corporate Governance and Nominating Committee
Under NYSE LCM Section 303A.04, a listed company is required to have a corporate governance and nominating committee composed entirely of independent directors. We are not required under the Companies Law to have a corporate governance and nominating committee and we do not have a corporate governance and nominating committee. Pursuant to the exception granted to foreign private issuers in NYSE LCM Section 303A.00, we have elected to follow our home country practice.
Corporate Governance Guidelines
Under NYSE LCM Section 303A.09, a listed company is required to have corporate governance guidelines addressing the director qualifications and responsibilities, responsibilities of key board committees, and director compensation. We are not required under the Companies Law to adopt such method and pursuant to the exemption granted to foreign private issuers in NYSE LCM Section 303A.00, we have elected to follow our home country practice.
Item 16H. Mine Safety Disclosure
Not applicable.
Not applicable.
Our consolidated financial statements are included at the end of this annual report.
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Exhibit Number |
Description of Documents | ||
---|---|---|---|
1.1 | Amended and Restated Memorandum and Articles of Association of the Registrant (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.2 of the Report of Foreign Private Issuer on Form 6-K (file no. 001-34598) filed with the SEC on June 1, 2012). | ||
2.1 | Registrant's Specimen American Depositary Receipt (included in Exhibit 2.4) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit (a)(2) to our Registration Statement on Form F-6 (file no. 333-164239) filed with the SEC on April 5, 2012, as amended). | ||
2.2 | Registrant's Specimen Certificate for Class A ordinary shares (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to our Registration Statement on Form F-1 (file no. 333-164216) filed with the SEC on January 5, 2010, as amended). | ||
2.3 | Form of Deposit Agreement among the Registrant, the depositary and holders of the American Depositary Receipts (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.3 to our Registration Statement on Form F-1 (file no. 333-164216) filed with the SEC on January 5, 2010, as amended). | ||
2.4 | Form of Amendment to Deposit Agreement among the Registrant, the depositary and holders of the American Depositary Receipts (incorporated by reference to Exhibit (a)(2) to our Registration Statement on Form F-6 (file no. 333-164239) filed with the SEC on April 5, 2012, as amended). | ||
2.5 | Registration Rights Agreement, dated as of December 30, 2009, granting registration rights to certain shareholders of the Registrant (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.4 to our Registration Statement on Form F-1 (file no. 333-164216) filed with the SEC on January 5, 2010, as amended). | ||
2.6 | Rights Agreement, dated as of November 17, 2010, between IFM Investments Limited and American Stock Transfer & Trust Company, L.L.C. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 of the Report of Foreign Private Issuer on Form 6-K (file no. 001-34598) filed with the SEC on November 17, 2010). | ||
2.7 | First Amendment dated as of June 6, 2012, to the Rights Agreement dated as of November 17, 2010, between IFM Investments Limited and American Stock Transfer & Trust Company, L.L.C. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 of the Report of Foreign Private Issuer on Form 6-K (file no. 001-34598) filed with the SEC on June 11, 2012). | ||
2.8 | Second Amendment dated as of November 15, 2013, to the Rights Agreement dated as of November 17, 2010, between IFM Investments Limited and American Stock Transfer & Trust Company, L.L.C. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 of the Report of Foreign Private Issuer on Form 6-K (file no. 001-34598) filed with the SEC on November 15, 2013). | ||
4.1 | Amended and Restated 2006 Stock Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to our Registration Statement on Form F-1 (file no. 333-164216) filed with the SEC on January 5, 2010, as amended). | ||
4.2 | Form of Indemnification Agreement with the Registrant's directors (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to our Registration Statement on Form F-1 (file no. 333-164216) filed with the SEC on January 5, 2010, as amended). | ||
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Exhibit Number |
Description of Documents | ||
---|---|---|---|
4.3 | Form of Employment Agreement with Donald Zhang, Harry Lu and Weiping Zhang (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to our Registration Statement on Form F-1 (file no. 333-164216) filed with the SEC on January 5, 2010, as amended). | ||
4.4 | English translation of Form of Labor Contract with Sheng Kang, Steve Mao Ye and Lei Wang (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to our Registration Statement on Form F-1 (file no. 333-164216) filed with the SEC on January 5, 2010, as amended). | ||
4.5 | English translation of Labor Contract with Hau Piu Ip (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.6 to our Registration Statement on Form F-1 (file no. 333-164216) filed with the SEC on January 5, 2010, as amended). | ||
4.6 | Restated CENTURY 21 International Sub-franchise Agreement for the People's Republic of China, dated as of March 22, 2000 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.7 to our Registration Statement on Form F-1 (file no. 333-164216) filed with the SEC on January 5, 2010, as amended). | ||
4.7 | Restructuring Deed, dated as of April 27, 2012, between IFM Overseas Partners L.P., the Registrant, Donald Zhang, Harry Lu and GL Asia Mauritius II Cayman Ltd. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 of the Report of Foreign Private Issuer on Form 6-K (file no. 001-34598) filed with the SEC on June 11, 2012). | ||
4.8 | Supplemental Deed to the Restructuring Deed, dated as of June 6, 2012, between IFM Overseas Partners L.P., the Registrant, Donald Zhang, Harry Lu and GL Asia Mauritius II Cayman Ltd. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 of the Report of Foreign Private Issuer on Form 6-K (file no. 001-34598) filed with the SEC on June 11, 2012). | ||
8.1 | * | Subsidiaries of the Registrant. | |
11.1 | Code of Business Conduct and Ethics of the Registrant (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.1 to our Registration Statement on Form F-1 (file no. 333-164216) filed with the SEC on January 5, 2010, as amended). | ||
12.1 | * | CEO Certification Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 | |
12.2 | * | CFO Certification Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 | |
13.1 | ** | CEO Certification Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 | |
13.2 | ** | CFO Certification Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 | |
15.1 | * | Consent of Commerce & Finance Law Offices | |
15.2 | * | Consent of PricewaterhouseCoopers Zhong Tian LLP, Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm | |
101.INS | *** | XBRL Instance Document | |
101.SCH | *** | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document | |
101.CAL | *** | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document | |
101.DEF | *** | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document | |
101.LAB | *** | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document | |
106
Exhibit Number |
Description of Documents | ||
---|---|---|---|
101.PRE | *** | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document |
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The registrant hereby certifies that it meets all of the requirements for filing its annual report on Form 20-F and that it has duly caused and authorized the undersigned to sign this annual report on its behalf.
IFM INVESTMENTS LIMITED | ||||||
By: |
/s/ DONALD ZHANG |
|||||
Name: | Donald Zhang | |||||
Title: | Chairman and Chief Executive Officer |
Date: April 25, 2014
108
IFM INVESTMENTS LIMITED
INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
F-1
Report of Independent Registered Public
Accounting Firm
To the Board of Directors and Shareholders of IFM Investments Limited:
In our opinion, the accompanying consolidated balance sheets and the related consolidated statements of operations, of shareholders' (deficit) equity and of cash flows present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of IFM Investments Limited and its subsidiaries (collectively, the "Company" ) at December 31, 2013 and 2012, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2013 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 the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). 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.
/s/
PricewaterhouseCoopers Zhong Tian LLP
Beijing, the People's Republic of China
April 25, 2014
F-2
IFM INVESTMENTS LIMITED
Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2012 and 2013
(in thousands, except par value)
|
December 31, | |||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
2012 RMB |
2013 RMB |
2013 US$ |
|||||||
|
|
|
(Note 2(c)) |
|||||||
ASSETS |
||||||||||
Current assets: |
||||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents |
191,048 | 145,610 | 24,053 | |||||||
Restricted cash |
18,036 | 13,235 | 2,186 | |||||||
Accounts receivable, net |
176,287 | 168,872 | 27,896 | |||||||
Loans receivable, net |
35,229 | 121,133 | 20,010 | |||||||
Amounts due from related parties |
110 | 142 | 23 | |||||||
Prepaid expenses and other current assets |
41,265 | 44,479 | 7,347 | |||||||
Deferred tax assets |
4,880 | 9,630 | 1,591 | |||||||
| | | | | | | | | | |
Total current assets |
466,855 | 503,101 | 83,106 | |||||||
| | | | | | | | | | |
Non-current assets: |
||||||||||
Equity investments |
13,141 | 15,215 | 2,513 | |||||||
Property and equipment, net |
40,832 | 33,434 | 5,523 | |||||||
Intangible assets, net |
90,253 | 84,747 | 13,999 | |||||||
Goodwill |
103,943 | 83,559 | 13,803 | |||||||
Other non-current assets |
19,644 | 18,207 | 3,008 | |||||||
| | | | | | | | | | |
Total assets |
734,668 | 738,263 | 121,952 | |||||||
| | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
LIABILITIES, REDEEMABLE NON-CONTROLLING INTEREST AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY |
||||||||||
Current liabilities (including amounts of the consolidated VIEs without recourse to the Company of RMB41,243 and RMB155,521 (US$25,690) as of December 31, 2012 and 2013, respectively. Note 24): |
||||||||||
Accounts payable |
14,168 | 10,491 | 1,733 | |||||||
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities |
217,694 | 328,034 | 54,186 | |||||||
Amounts due to related parties |
272 | 282 | 47 | |||||||
Deferred revenue |
8,539 | 19,909 | 3,289 | |||||||
Contingent consideration payable |
| 5,623 | 929 | |||||||
| | | | | | | | | | |
Total current liabilities |
240,673 | 364,339 | 60,184 | |||||||
| | | | | | | | | | |
Long-term deposits payable |
10,541 | 10,582 | 1,748 | |||||||
Contingent consideration payable |
33,774 | | | |||||||
Deferred tax liabilities (including amounts of the consolidated VIEs without recourse to the Company of RMB1,667 and RMB1,399 (US$231) as of December 31, 2012 and 2013, respectively. Note 24) |
16,652 | 15,781 | 2,607 | |||||||
| | | | | | | | | | |
Total liabilities |
301,640 | 390,702 | 64,539 | |||||||
| | | | | | | | | | |
Redeemable non-controlling interest |
69,430 | 67,161 | 11,094 | |||||||
Commitments and contingencies (Note 22) |
||||||||||
Shareholders' equity: |
||||||||||
Class A ordinary shares (US$0.001 par value, 3,133,000 and 3,133,000 shares authorized, 667,672 and 668,759 shares issued and outstanding as of December 31, 2012 and 2013, respectively) |
4,939 | 4,946 | 817 | |||||||
Additional paid-in capital |
1,035,651 | 1,036,120 | 171,155 | |||||||
Statutory reserves |
5,595 | 5,595 | 924 | |||||||
Accumulated deficit |
(691,891 | ) | (774,911 | ) | (128,006 | ) | ||||
| | | | | | | | | | |
Total IFM Investments Limited shareholders' equity |
354,294 | 271,750 | 44,890 | |||||||
| | | | | | | | | | |
Non-controlling interests |
9,304 | 8,650 | 1,429 | |||||||
| | | | | | | | | | |
Total shareholders' equity |
363,598 | 280,400 | 46,319 | |||||||
| | | | | | | | | | |
TOTAL LIABILITIES, REDEEMABLE NON-CONTROLLING INTEREST AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY |
734,668 | 738,263 | 121,952 | |||||||
| | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
F-3
IFM INVESTMENTS LIMITED
Consolidated Statements of Operations for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2012 and 2013
(in thousands, except per share
and per ADS data)
|
Years Ended December 31, | ||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
2011 RMB |
2012 RMB |
2013 RMB |
2013 US$ |
|||||||||
|
|
|
|
(Note 2(c)) |
|||||||||
Net revenue |
604,559 | 748,133 | 877,451 | 144,945 | |||||||||
Costs and expenses: |
|||||||||||||
Commissions and other agent-related costs |
(428,920 | ) | (455,282 | ) | (562,436 | ) | (92,908 | ) | |||||
Operating costs |
(296,652 | ) | (175,330 | ) | (184,393 | ) | (30,460 | ) | |||||
Selling, general and administrative expenses |
(218,110 | ) | (177,475 | ) | (234,065 | ) | (38,665 | ) | |||||
Goodwill impairment losses |
(30,614 | ) | (10,755 | ) | (20,384 | ) | (3,367 | ) | |||||
Net change in fair value (Note 2(q) and Note 20) |
25,716 | 11,989 | 22,069 | 3,646 | |||||||||
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total costs and expenses |
(948,580 | ) | (806,853 | ) | (979,209 | ) | (161,754 | ) | |||||
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Loss from operations |
(344,021 | ) | (58,720 | ) | (101,758 | ) | (16,809 | ) | |||||
Interest income |
5,845 | 2,324 | 4,162 | 688 | |||||||||
Other income |
2,086 | 6,497 | 7,360 | 1,216 | |||||||||
Foreign currency exchange loss |
(5,713 | ) | (19 | ) | (113 | ) | (19 | ) | |||||
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Loss before income tax and share of associates' income (loss |
(341,803 | ) | (49,918 | ) | (90,349 | ) | (14,924 | ) | |||||
Income tax |
(1,103 | ) | (2,713 | ) | 2,332 | 385 | |||||||
Share of associates' income |
2,496 | 2,547 | 2,074 | 343 | |||||||||
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net Loss |
(340,410 | ) | (50,084 | ) | (85,943 | ) | (14,196 | ) | |||||
Net loss (income) attributable to non-controlling interest |
3,895 | (3,427 | ) | 2,923 | 483 | ||||||||
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net loss attributable to IFM Investments Limited |
(336,515 | ) | (53,511 | ) | (83,020 | ) | (13,713 | ) | |||||
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net loss attributable to ordinary shareholders |
(336,515 | ) | (53,511 | ) | (83,020 | ) | (13,713 | ) | |||||
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net loss per share, basic |
(0.50 | ) | (0.08 | ) | (0.12 | ) | (0.02 | ) | |||||
Net loss per share, diluted |
(0.50 | ) | (0.08 | ) | (0.12 | ) | (0.02 | ) | |||||
Net loss per ADS, basic |
(22.66 | ) | (3.61 | ) | (5.59 | ) | (0.92 | ) | |||||
Net loss per ADS, diluted |
(22.66 | ) | (3.61 | ) | (5.59 | ) | (0.92 | ) | |||||
Number of shares used in calculating net loss per share, basic |
668,291 | 667,672 | 668,198 | 668,198 | |||||||||
Number of shares used in calculating net loss per share, diluted |
668,291 | 667,672 | 668,198 | 668,198 | |||||||||
Number of ADSs used in calculating net loss per ADS, basic |
14,851 | 14,837 | 14,849 | 14,849 | |||||||||
Number of ADSs used in calculating net loss per ADS, diluted |
14,851 | 14,837 | 14,849 | 14,849 |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
F-4
IFM INVESTMENTS LIMITED
Consolidated Statements of Shareholders' (Deficit) Equity
for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2012 and 2013
(in
thousands)
|
IFM Investments Limited Shareholders' (Deficit) Equity | |
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Ordinary Shares | Treasury stock | |
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||||||||||||
|
Additional Paid-in Capital RMB |
|
|
Non- controlling Interests RMB |
Total Shareholders' (Deficit) Equity RMB |
|||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Shares | Amount RMB |
Shares | Amount RMB | Statutory Reserves RMB |
Accumulated Deficit RMB |
||||||||||||||||||||||
Balance as of January 1, 2011 |
689,296 | 5,083 | (14,477 | ) | (25,824 | ) | 1,072,079 | 5,595 | (301,865 | ) | (1,371 | ) | 753,697 | |||||||||||||||
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net loss |
| | | | | | (336,515 | ) | (2,891 | ) | (339,406 | ) | ||||||||||||||||
Issuance of ordinary shares upon exercise of share options |
855 | 5 | | | 578 | | | | 583 | |||||||||||||||||||
Share-based compensation |
| | | | 3,234 | | | | 3,234 | |||||||||||||||||||
Establishment of subsidiaries |
| | | | | | | 13,386 | 13,386 | |||||||||||||||||||
Share repurchases |
| | (8,002 | ) | (16,324 | ) | | | | | (16,324 | ) | ||||||||||||||||
Cancellation of Treasury stock |
(22,479 | ) | (149 | ) | 22,479 | 42,148 | (41,999 | ) | | | | | ||||||||||||||||
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Balance as of December 31, 2011 |
667,672 | 4,939 | | | 1,033,892 | 5,595 | (638,380 | ) | 9,124 | 415,170 | ||||||||||||||||||
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net loss |
| | | | | | (53,511 | ) | 180 | (53,331 | ) | |||||||||||||||||
Share-based compensation |
| | | | 1,759 | | | | 1,759 | |||||||||||||||||||
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Balance as of December 31, 2012 |
667,672 | 4,939 | | | 1,035,651 | 5,595 | (691,891 | ) | 9,304 | 363,598 | ||||||||||||||||||
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net loss |
| | | | | | (83,020 | ) | (654 | ) | (83,674 | ) | ||||||||||||||||
Issuance of ordinary shares upon exercise of share options |
1,087 | 7 | | | 178 | | | | 185 | |||||||||||||||||||
Share-based compensation (Note 20) |
| | | | 291 | | | | 291 | |||||||||||||||||||
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Balance as of December 31, 2013 |
668,759 | 4,946 | | | 1,036,120 | 5,595 | (774,911 | ) | 8,650 | 280,400 | ||||||||||||||||||
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
F-5
IFM INVESTMENTS LIMITED
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2012 and 2013
(in thousands)
|
Years Ended December 31, | ||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
2011 | 2012 | 2013 | 2013 | |||||||||
|
RMB |
RMB |
RMB |
US$ (Note 2(c)) |
|||||||||
Cash flows from operating activities: |
|||||||||||||
Net Loss |
(340,410 | ) | (50,084 | ) | (85,943 | ) | (14,196 | ) | |||||
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash used in operating activities: |
|||||||||||||
Goodwill impairment |
30,614 | 10,755 | 20,384 | 3,367 | |||||||||
Net change in fair value |
(25,716 | ) | (11,989 | ) | (22,069 | ) | (3,646 | ) | |||||
Depreciation and amortization |
34,629 | 28,246 | 23,498 | 3,882 | |||||||||
Allowance for doubtful accounts |
14,343 | 12,129 | 14,681 | 2,425 | |||||||||
Effects of foreign currency exchange loss |
5,713 | 19 | 113 | 19 | |||||||||
Share-based compensation |
3,234 | 3,465 | 242 | 40 | |||||||||
Deferred tax assets and liabilities |
(395 | ) | (5,771 | ) | (5,621 | ) | (929 | ) | |||||
Share of associates' income |
(2,496 | ) | (2,547 | ) | (2,074 | ) | (343 | ) | |||||
Loss on disposal of equipment and leasehold improvement |
16,098 | 5,598 | 5,056 | 835 | |||||||||
Changes in operating assets and liabilities: |
|||||||||||||
Accounts receivable |
(60,834 | ) | (91,326 | ) | (7,266 | ) | (1,200 | ) | |||||
Amount due from related parties |
1,639 | (39 | ) | (32 | ) | (5 | ) | ||||||
Interests receivable |
341 | (225 | ) | 521 | 86 | ||||||||
Receipt of loan principals |
| | 99,605 | 16,454 | |||||||||
Issuance/repurchase of loan |
| | (107,625 | ) | (17,778 | ) | |||||||
Prepaid expenses and other current assets |
13,727 | (3,896 | ) | (3,214 | ) | (531 | ) | ||||||
Other non-current assets |
6,284 | 3,297 | 1,437 | 237 | |||||||||
Accounts payable |
1,433 | 4,478 | (1,774 | ) | (293 | ) | |||||||
Amount due to related parties |
5 | 6 | 10 | 2 | |||||||||
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities |
(10,780 | ) | 67,023 | 24,104 | 3,981 | ||||||||
Deferred revenue |
(1,259 | ) | 766 | 11,370 | 1,878 | ||||||||
Long-term deposits payable |
(1,136 | ) | (1,639 | ) | 41 | 7 | |||||||
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net cash used in operating activities |
(314,966 | ) | (31,734 | ) | (34,556 | ) | (5,708 | ) | |||||
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Cash flows from investing activities: |
|||||||||||||
Decrease in Restricted cash |
949 | 447 | 904 | 149 | |||||||||
Placement/rollover of matured time deposits |
(139,415 | ) | | | | ||||||||
Proceeds from maturity of time deposit |
259,415 | | | | |||||||||
Purchases of equipment and leasehold improvement |
(37,768 | ) | (8,119 | ) | (17,553 | ) | (2,900 | ) | |||||
Loan issuance |
(72,070 | ) | (98,053 | ) | (120,420 | ) | (19,892 | ) | |||||
Receipt of loan principals |
46,950 | 100,560 | 115,998 | 19,162 | |||||||||
Business combinations, net of cash acquired |
(26,587 | ) | | (5,979 | ) | (988 | ) | ||||||
Purchase of equity investment |
(1,900 | ) | | | | ||||||||
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities |
29,574 | (5,165 | ) | (27,050 | ) | (4,469 | ) | ||||||
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Cash flows from financing activities: |
|||||||||||||
Share repurchases |
(15,332 | ) | | | | ||||||||
Restricted cashcustomers deposits |
19,216 | (7,486 | ) | 3,897 | 644 | ||||||||
Payment of initial public offering costs |
(1,315 | ) | | | | ||||||||
Proceeds from issuance of ordinary shares upon exercise of share options |
583 | | 185 | 31 | |||||||||
Capital contributions from non-controlling interests |
2,550 | | | | |||||||||
Transfer of loans |
| | 74,370 | 12,285 | |||||||||
Repurchase of loans |
| | (62,143 | ) | (10,266 | ) | |||||||
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities |
5,702 | (7,486 | ) | 16,309 | 2,694 | ||||||||
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Effects of foreign exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents |
(5,507 | ) | (17 | ) | (141 | ) | (23 | ) | |||||
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents |
(285,197 | ) | (44,402 | ) | (45,438 | ) | (7,506 | ) | |||||
Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the year |
520,647 | 235,450 | 191,048 | 31,559 | |||||||||
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the year |
235,450 | 191,048 | 145,610 | 24,053 | |||||||||
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Supplemental schedule of non-cash activities |
|||||||||||||
Conversion of convertible redeemable preferred shares into ordinary shares |
| | | | |||||||||
Consideration payable for business combination |
44,227 | 33,774 | 5,623 | 929 | |||||||||
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information |
|||||||||||||
Income tax paid |
2,496 | 594 | 378 | 62 | |||||||||
Interest paid |
| | | |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
F-6
IFM INVESTMENTS LIMITED
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Amounts expressed in Renminbi ("RMB"), unless otherwise stated)
1. ORGANIZATION AND PRINCIPAL ACTIVITIES
IFM Investments Limited (the "Company") was incorporated in the Cayman Islands on November 30, 2005, by IFM Holding Company Ltd. ("IFM Holding"), a Cayman Islands exempt company. In incorporating the Company, IFM Holding contributed all of its equity interests in IFM Company Ltd. ("IFM Co."), a Cayman Islands exempt company, to the Company. IFM Holding was a wholly-owned subsidiary of Maxpro International Enterprise, Inc. ("Maxpro"), a New York corporation. Maxpro was 100% owned by Mr. Donald Zhang through D&M Capital Corporation.
On December 15, 2005, IFM Overseas Partners L.P., a Cayman Islands limited partnership (the "Partnership") was established and IFM Holding and IFM Overseas Limited became the limited and general partner of the Partnership, respectively. IFM Overseas Limited was 100% owned by Mr. Donald Zhang through Maxpro.
On August 24, 2006, IFM Holding contributed all of its equity interests in the Company to the Partnership in exchange for 80% ownership therein. On the same date, Mr. Harry Lu was admitted to the Partnership as a limited partner with a 20% ownership.
Following the contribution of the Company to the Partnership, on August 24, 2006, Goldman Sachs Strategic Investments (Asia) L.L.C. ("Goldman") committed to invest US$22.0 million (approximately RMB175.3 million) in the Company in exchange for 200.0 million Series A Preferred Shares.
On August 18, 2006, the Company adopted an Employee Stock Option Plan (the "ESOP"). 40.0 million ordinary shares were reserved and authorized for issuance under the ESOP.
On October 19, 2007, the Company issued 105.3 million Series B Preferred Shares to GL Asia Mauritius II Cayman Limited for US$40.0 million (approximately RMB300.6 million).
On October 19, 2007, the shareholders of the Company approved to amend the ordinary shares reserved under the ESOP to 85.3 million and the ordinary shares authorized under the ESOP to 52.5 million.
On February 21, 2008, the Company issued 6.1 million Series B Preferred Shares to Realogy Corporation ("Realogy") for US$2.3 million (approximately RMB16.7 million).
On December 30, 2009, in preparation for the intended Qualified IPO and potential IPO as amended, the shareholders and Board of the Company approved resolutions effecting certain amendments to the authorised and issued share capital to effect a 10-for-one split of the Company's share capital pursuant to which each ordinary share, Series A and Series B convertible preferred share of the Company was subdivided into 10 shares at a par value of US$0.001 per share. All share and per share amounts presented in the consolidated financial statements have been restated on a retroactive basis to reflect the effect of the share split.
On January 28, 2010, the Company offered 12,487,500 (equivalent to 4,162,500 after the ratio change as described in Note 1(a) under item 18) American Depositary Shares ("ADS"), representing 187,312,500 ordinary shares at US$ 7.00 each to public (equivalent of US$21.00 each to after ratio change as described in Note 1(a) under item 18), raising gross proceeds of RMB 557.5 million. The Company's ADS are quoted on New York Stock Exchange ("NYSE").
F-7
IFM INVESTMENTS LIMITED
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(Amounts expressed in Renminbi ("RMB"), unless otherwise stated)
1. ORGANIZATION AND PRINCIPAL ACTIVITIES (Continued)
On February 2, 2010, upon the closing of the public offering, certain amendments to the authorised and issued share capital became effective as follows:
On May 9, 2011, Goldman Sachs Strategic Investments (Asia) L.L.C converted all of its 80,502,938 Class B ordinary shares into 80,502,938 Class A ordinary shares.
The Company changed the ratio of its American depositary shares ("ADSs") to Class A ordinary shares from 1:15 to 1:45 (the "Ratio Change") effective April 16, 2012. Pursuant to the Ratio Change, the record holders of the Company's ADS as of the effective date were entitled to receive one (1) new ADS, each representing forty-five (45) shares, in exchange for every three (3) ADSs held by them. No new shares were issued in connection with the Ratio Change. All ADSs and per ADS amounts presented in the consolidated financial statements have been restated on a retroactive basis to reflect the effect of the Ratio Change.
The Company's subsidiaries are principally engaged in franchising the CENTURY 21® brand name and operation systems to regional sub-franchisees and outlet stores (collectively "franchisees") that are independently-owned and operated. The Company provides operational and administrative services, tools and systems to franchisees, which are designed to assist franchisees in achieving increased revenue and profitability. Specifically, the Company and its subsidiaries operate in the following businesses:
F-8
IFM INVESTMENTS LIMITED
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(Amounts expressed in Renminbi ("RMB"), unless otherwise stated)
1. ORGANIZATION AND PRINCIPAL ACTIVITIES (Continued)
The Company and its subsidiaries are collectively referred to as the "Group".
The Company was established in the Cayman Islands in 2005 and subsequently reorganized on August 24, 2006 to be the holding company of its subsidiaries to facilitate investments by private equity investors (the "Reorganization"). To complete the Reorganization, entities that were held by Beijing Xinye Jia Yuan Real Estate Consulting Co., Ltd. ("Xinye"), a wholly-owned foreign enterprise, which
F-9
IFM INVESTMENTS LIMITED
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(Amounts expressed in Renminbi ("RMB"), unless otherwise stated)
1. ORGANIZATION AND PRINCIPAL ACTIVITIES (Continued)
were under the common control of Mr. Donald Zhang and Mr. Harry Lu, were transferred to the Company. These entities held by Xinye were:
Name
|
Place of registration / operation |
% of Ownership held by Xinye |
Effective date of transfer to the Company |
Principal activity | |||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 |
Shanghai Yaye Real Estate Brokerage Co., Ltd. ("IFM SH") |
PRC | 51 | % | Dec 4, 2008 | Real estate franchising | |||||
2 |
Beijing Aifeite International Franchise Consulting Company Ltd. ("IFM Beijing") |
PRC | 11 | % | Aug 12, 2008 | Real estate franchising | |||||
3 |
Xiamen Shijitonghe Real Estate Consultant Co., Ltd. ("Xiamen") |
PRC | 10 | % | Dec 26, 2008 | Real estate franchising | |||||
4 |
Shandong Jinan Sanlian Real Estate Brokerage Co., Ltd. ("Shandong") |
PRC | 15 | % | Dec 4,2006 | Real estate franchising | |||||
5 |
Shaanxi Lide Industry Investments Co., Ltd. ("Xian") |
PRC | 10 | % | Feb 9, 2009 | Real estate franchising |
The above entities were owned by Xinye and were transferred to the Company upon the completion of the Reorganization on February 9, 2009.
Since Xinye and the Company were under common control of Mr. Donald Zhang and Mr. Harry Lu, the accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared as if the current corporate structure had been in existence throughout the years presented.
F-10
IFM INVESTMENTS LIMITED
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(Amounts expressed in Renminbi ("RMB"), unless otherwise stated)
1. ORGANIZATION AND PRINCIPAL ACTIVITIES (Continued)
As of December 31, 2013, the Company's major subsidiaries, VIEs and equity investments are listed below.
Name
|
Date of Incorporation |
Place of Incorporation |
% of Ownership held by the Company |
Relationship with the Company |
Principal activity | ||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Subsidiaries |
|||||||||||||
1 |
IFM Company Ltd. ("IFM Co.") |
Oct 4, 1999 | Cayman Islands | 100 | % | Subsidiary | Holding franchise right | ||||||
2 |
Beijing Aifeite International Franchise Consulting Company Ltd. ("IFM Beijing") |
Mar 1, 2000 | PRC | 100 | % | Subsidiary | Real estate franchising | ||||||
3 |
Genius Nation Investments Ltd. ("Genius") |
May 18, 2006 | British Virgin Islands | 100 | % | Subsidiary | Investment holding | ||||||
4 |
Shanghai Ruifeng Real Estate Investments Consultant Co., Ltd. ("Shanghai Ruifeng") |
Sep 28, 2006 | PRC | 100 | % | Subsidiary | Real estate brokerage service | ||||||
5 |
Beijing Anxin Ruide Real Estate Brokerage Co., Ltd.("Beijing Anxin") |
Oct 19, 2006 | PRC | 100 | % | Subsidiary | Real estate brokerage service | ||||||
6 |
Shanghai Anshijie Real Estate Consultant Co., Ltd. ("Anshijie") |
Nov 28, 2006 | PRC | 100 | % | Subsidiary | Investment holding | ||||||
7 |
Beijing Kaisheng Jinglue Guarantee Co., Ltd., ("MMC BJ") |
Aug 13, 2007 | PRC | 100 | % | Subsidiary | Real estate mortgage brokerage service | ||||||
8 |
Kaisheng Jinglue (Shanghai) Investment Management Co., Ltd. ("MMC SH") |
Apr 8, 2008 | PRC | 100 | % | Subsidiary | Real estate mortgage brokerage service | ||||||
9 |
Beijing IFM International Real Estate Brokerage Co., Ltd. ("IFM BJ Broker") |
May 27, 2008 | PRC | 100 | % | Subsidiary | Real estate franchising | ||||||
10 |
Beijing IFM Investment Managements Limited ("IFM BJ Inv") |
Sep 27, 2008 | PRC | 100 | % | Subsidiary | Investment holding | ||||||
11 |
Shanghai Ruifeng Investment Managements Limited ("Ruifeng Inv") |
Nov 20, 2008 | PRC | 100 | % | Subsidiary | Real estate brokerage service | ||||||
12 |
Beijing Huachuang Xunjie Technology Co., Ltd. ("Huachuang") |
July 16, 2009 | PRC | 100 | % | Subsidiary | Software development and licensing | ||||||
13 |
Business Vision Management Consultants Limited ("BVMC") |
Sep 18, 2009 | HK | 85 | % | Subsidiary | Investment holding | ||||||
14 |
Beijing Kaicheng Huaxin Investment Consultants Limited ("PRI") |
Oct 20, 2009 | PRC | 70 | % | Subsidiary | Primary residential properties market advisory service |
F-11
IFM INVESTMENTS LIMITED
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(Amounts expressed in Renminbi ("RMB"), unless otherwise stated)
1. ORGANIZATION AND PRINCIPAL ACTIVITIES (Continued)
Name
|
Date of Incorporation |
Place of Incorporation |
% of Ownership held by the Company |
Relationship with the Company |
Principal activity | ||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
15 |
Beijing Xinrui Shijiao Business Managements Consultant Co., Ltd. ("COM") |
Jan 4, 2010 | PRC | 85 | % | Subsidiary | Commercial properties market advisory service | ||||||
16 |
Shenzhen Kaian Investments Guarantee Co., Ltd ("Kaian") |
Mar 10, 2010 | PRC | 100 | % | Subsidiary | Real estate mortgage brokerage service | ||||||
17 |
Tianjin Shiji TianRe Investment Management Company Ltd. ("TianRe Co., Ltd.") |
Jul 21, 2010 | PRC | 75 | % | Subsidiary | Fund management | ||||||
18 |
Beijing Kudiantongfang Technology Co., Ltd. ("Kudian") |
Apr 6,2011 | PRC | 100 | % | Subsidiary | Software development and licensing | ||||||
19 |
GuangZhou Anshijie Real Estate Brokerage Co., Ltd. ("GZASJ") |
Jun 10,2011 | PRC | 100 | % | Subsidiary | Real estate brokerage service | ||||||
20 |
Sichuan Ruichangyuan Investment management Co., Ltd. ("CD Ruichuangyuan") |
Jun 20,2011 | PRC | 100 | % | Subsidiary | Investment and management consulting | ||||||
21 |
Beijing SG Xinrui Real Estate Brokerage Co., Ltd. |
Aug 4,2011 | PRC | 55 | % | Subsidiary | Primary real estate agency service | ||||||
22 |
City Integrated Residential Services (China) Limited ("CIR")* |
Oct 25, 2000 | HK | 100 | % | Subsidiary | Investment holding | ||||||
23 |
CIR Real Estate Consultant (Shenzhen) Co., Ltd. ("Shenzhen CIR")* |
Sep 15, 2005 | PRC | 100 | % | Subsidiary | Real estate brokerage service | ||||||
24 |
Shanghai Yaye Real Estate Brokerage Co., Ltd. ("IFM SH")* |
Sep 29, 2002 | PRC | 100 | % | Subsidiary | Real estate franchising | ||||||
25 |
Chengdu Yize Real Estate Brokerage Co., Ltd. ("IFM CD")* |
Sept 4,2003 | PRC | 100 | % | Subsidiary | Real estate franchising | ||||||
26 |
Chengdu Yichuan Real Estate Brokerage Co., Ltd. ("Chengdu Yichuan")* |
Jun 28, 2006 | PRC | 100 | % | Subsidiary | Real estate brokerage service | ||||||
27 |
Sichuan Yidao Real Estate Brokerage Co., Ltd.("MMC CD")* |
Mar 4, 2004 | PRC | 100 | % | Subsidiary | Real estate mortgage brokerage service | ||||||
28 |
SG International Investments Limited ("Shanggu")* |
Jan 25,2011 | Cayman Islands | 55 | % | Subsidiary | Investment holding | ||||||
29 |
SG Strategic Investments (Hong Kong) Limited ("SG HK")* |
Feb 23,2011 | HK | 55 | % | Subsidiary | Investment holding | ||||||
30 |
Beijing SG New Century Consulting Service Company* |
May 19,2011 | PRC | 55 | % | Subsidiary | Primary real estate agency service |
F-12
IFM INVESTMENTS LIMITED
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(Amounts expressed in Renminbi ("RMB"), unless otherwise stated)
1. ORGANIZATION AND PRINCIPAL ACTIVITIES (Continued)
Name
|
Date of Incorporation |
Place of Incorporation |
% of Ownership held by the Company |
Relationship with the Company |
Principal activity | ||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
31 |
Shenzhen Quancheng Management Services Co.Ltd |
Oct 30,2012 | PRC | 100 | % | Subsidiary | Real estate brokerage service | ||||||
32 |
Sichuan Ruichuan Real Estate Brokerage Co., Ltd. ("Sichuan Ruichuan")* |
Nov 23,2011 | PRC | 100 | % | Subsidiary | Real estate brokerage service | ||||||
33 |
Shanghai Xinjie Real Estate Agency Ltd. |
Jan 6,2013 | PRC | 100 | % | Subsidiary | Real estate brokerage service | ||||||
34 |
Beijing Anxin Chuangfu Property management Co. Ltd. |
Sep 28,2013 | PRC | 100 | % | Subsidiary | Real estate brokerage service | ||||||
VIEs and VIEs' Subsidiaries |
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
1 |
Beijing Huaxing Tianye Investment Management Co., Ltd ("Huaxing") |
Sept 6, 2010 | PRC | 100 | % | VIE | Investment management | ||||||
2 |
Beijing Kaisheng Chuangfu Investment Co., Ltd ("Chuangfu") |
Sept 6, 2010 | PRC | 100 | % | VIE | Investment management | ||||||
3 |
Beijing Longhe Weiye Real Estate Brokerage Co., Ltd. ("Anxin Inv") |
Nov 24,2010 | PRC | 100 | % | VIE | Real estate brokerage service | ||||||
4 |
Beijing Hui Jin Mortgage Limited Company ("Hui Jin") |
Sep 10,2009 | PRC | 100 | % | Subsidiary | Real estate mortgage brokerage service | ||||||
Equity Investments |
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
1 |
Shaanxi Lide Industry Investments Co., Ltd. ("Xian") |
Dec 12, 2006 | PRC | 10 | % | Investment under the equity method |
Real estate franchising | ||||||
2 |
Tianjin Shiji TianRe Equity Investment Fund Management Limited Partnership ("Fund Management Partnership") |
July 21, 2010 | PRC | 75 | % | Investment under the equity method |
Fund management | ||||||
3 |
Tianjin Shiji TianRe Equity Fund Limited Partnership ("TianRe Fund I") |
Aug 19, 2010 | PRC | 4.14 | % | Investment under the equity method |
Fund investment |
*The subsidiaries marked with * were acquired by the Group through business combination.
F-13
IFM INVESTMENTS LIMITED
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(Amounts expressed in Renminbi ("RMB"), unless otherwise stated)
1. ORGANIZATION AND PRINCIPAL ACTIVITIES (Continued)
The Group's consolidated financial statements have been prepared on a going concern basis, which contemplates the realization of assets and liquidation of liabilities during the normal course of operations. The Group incurred a net loss of approximately RMB340.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2011, net loss of approximately RMB50.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2012, and net loss of approximately RMB85.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2013.The net cash used in operating activities was approximately RMB315.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2011, the net cash used in operating activities was approximately RMB31.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2012, and the net cash used in operating activities was approximately RMB34.6 million for the year ended December 31,2013. Accumulated deficit was RMB691.9 million and RMB774.9 million as of December 31, 2012 and 2013, respectively. The Group assesses its liquidity by considering its ability to generate cash to fund its operations, its ability to attract investors and its ability to borrow funds on favorable economic terms. Historically, the Group has relied principally on both operational sources of cash, as well as non-operational sources of financing, from related parties and outside investors, to fund its operations and capital expansion needs. Furthermore, the Company received gross proceeds of RMB557.5 million from its initial public offering on the New York Stock Exchange on January 28, 2010. Since then, the Group has utilized a significant amount of cash on hand and the proceeds from initial public offering to open more sales offices in Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen and Chengdu as the Group expanded its network of company-owned brokerage services throughout the first quarter of 2011, and to expand its mortgage management services and primary and commercial services throughout 2012 and 2013. The Group has reduced the number of sales offices from 386 as of December 31, 2011 to 321 as of December 31, 2012, and continues to reduce the number of sales office to 260 as of December 31, 2013. As a result, the Group expects to incur less fixed costs for company-owned brokerage services with less sales offices and less sales staff. The Group's consolidated financial statements have been prepared on a going concern basis.
2. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
The Group's consolidated financial statements include the financial statements of the Company, its subsidiaries and its VIEs for which the Company is the primary beneficiary. All transactions and balances among the Company, its subsidiaries and its VIEs have been eliminated upon consolidation. The consolidated financial statements have been prepared on a historical cost basis to reflect the financial position and results of operations of the Group in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America ("US GAAP").
The Reorganization as described in Note 1(b) above has been accounted for as a reorganization of businesses under common control in a manner similar to a pooling of interests. Accordingly, the accompanying consolidated financial statements of the Group include the assets and liabilities of the subsidiaries at their historical carrying amounts. In addition, the accompanying consolidated statements of operations, consolidated balance sheets and consolidated statements of cash flows include the results of operations and cash flows of the Group, as if the current group structure had been in existence throughout the years presented.
F-14
IFM INVESTMENTS LIMITED
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(Amounts expressed in Renminbi ("RMB"), unless otherwise stated)
2. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)
A subsidiary is an entity in which the Company, directly or indirectly, controls more than one half of the voting powers, or has the power to govern the financial and operating policies, to appoint or remove the majority of the members of the board of directors, or to cast a majority of votes at the meeting of directors.
A VIE is an entity in which the Company, or its subsidiary, through contractual agreements, has controlling financial interest of the entity. The Company or its subsidiary is considered to be the primary beneficiary if the Company or its subsidiary has the power to direct the activities that most significantly impact the VIE's economic performance and an obligation to absorb losses or the right to receive benefits that could potentially be significant to the VIE.
Investments in business entities, including a limited partnership (see Note 7), in which the Group does not have control but has the ability to exercise significant influence over operating and financial policies or is the general partner, are accounted for using the equity method.
The preparation of the consolidated financial statements in conformity with US GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenue and expenses and the related disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Significant accounting estimates reflected in the Group's consolidated financial statements mainly include the useful lives of property and equipment and intangible assets, allowance for doubtful accounts, allowance for loan impairment, provision for losses associated with the interim financial guarantees, valuation allowance of deferred tax assets, and purchase price allocation relating to business combinations as well as property and equipment and goodwill and intangible assets impairment assessment. In addition, the Group uses assumptions in the valuation model to estimate the fair value of share options granted. The Group bases its estimates of the carrying value of certain assets and liabilities on historical experience and on other various factors that they believe to be reasonable under the circumstances, when the carrying values are not readily available from other sources.
Translations of balances in the consolidated statements of operations, consolidated balance sheets and consolidated statements of cash flows from RMB into United States dollars ("US$") as of and for the year ended December 31, 2013 are solely for the convenience of the reader and were calculated at the rate of US$1.00 = RMB6.0537, representing the rate as certified by the H.10 weekly statistical release of the Federal Reserve Board on December 31, 2013. No representation is made that the RMB amounts could have been, or could be, converted, realized or settled into US$ at that rate on December 31, 2013, or at any other rate.
Cash and cash equivalents consist of cash on hand, time deposit and structured deposits which are unrestricted as to withdrawal or use, and which have maturities of three months or less.
Cash in bank-time deposits consist of time deposits with banks with maturities of more than three months and less than one year.
F-15
IFM INVESTMENTS LIMITED
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(Amounts expressed in Renminbi ("RMB"), unless otherwise stated)
2. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)
The restricted cash relates to (i) initial sales deposits received from the property buyers on behalf of the property sellers during the purchase process, which are deposited into designated bank accounts, and (ii) cash proceeds related to National Advertising Fund (as defined in Note 2(k)) for marketing purposes on behalf of its franchisees. The total amount of restricted cash was approximately RMB18.0 million and RMB13.2 million as of December 31, 2012 and 2013, respectively.
Accounts receivable represent amounts recognized as revenue which have yet to be received from customers and franchisees. The Group accrues an allowance for doubtful accounts for those receivable balances which are unlikely to be collected based on management's analysis and estimates. Accounts receivable are stated net of the allowance for doubtful accounts.
Property and equipment is stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and amortization. Depreciation and amortization are calculated on a straight-line basis over the following estimated useful lives:
Computers and software |
5 years | |
Furniture, fixtures and equipment |
5 years | |
Vehicles |
5 years | |
Leasehold improvements |
Shorter of lease term or estimated useful lives of assets |
Repairs and maintenance expenditures, which are not considered improvements and do not extend the useful life of the property and equipment, are expensed as incurred. Gains and losses from the disposal of property and equipment are included in income (loss) from operations.
Intangible assets as of December 31, 2012 and 2013 consisted of:
F-16
IFM INVESTMENTS LIMITED
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(Amounts expressed in Renminbi ("RMB"), unless otherwise stated)
2. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)
whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying value of the assets may not be recoverable.
The useful lifes of intangible assets are summarized as below:
Century 21 franchise rights from Realogy | 25 years | |
Reacquired Century 21 franchise rights | Remaining contractual life at acquisition date | |
Customer relationship | 7/10 years | |
Real estate listing database | 10 years | |
Trademark | 10 years | |
Sub-franchisee Base | 2.9 years | |
Brand name | Indefinite-live | |
Mortgage credit license | 18.7 years |
Goodwill represents the excess of costs over fair value of assets of businesses acquired. Any shortfall represents the amount of goodwill impairment. Commencing in September 2011, the Company adopted the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") revised guidance on "Testing of Goodwill for Impairment." Under this guidance, the Company has the option to choose whether it will apply the qualitative assessment first and then the quantitative assessment, if necessary, or to apply the quantitative assessment directly. The Group chooses to apply the quantitative assessment directly. The Group completes a two-step goodwill impairment test annually or more frequently if circumstances indicate impairment may have occurred. The first step compares the fair value of each reporting unit to its carrying amount. If the fair value of each reporting unit exceeds its carrying amount, goodwill is not considered to be impaired and the second step will not be required. If the carrying amount of a reporting unit exceeds its fair value, the second step compares the implied fair value of goodwill to the carrying value of a reporting unit's goodwill. The implied fair value of goodwill is determined in a manner similar to accounting for a business combination with the allocation of the assessed fair value determined in the first step to the assets and liabilities of the reporting unit. The excess of the fair value of the reporting unit over the amounts assigned to the assets and liabilities is the implied fair value of goodwill. This allocation process is only performed for purposes of evaluating goodwill impairment and does not result in an entry to adjust the value of any assets or liabilities. An impairment loss is recognized for any excess in the carrying value of goodwill over the implied fair value of goodwill.
Intangible assets with an indefinite life are tested for impairment annually or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that the assets might be impaired. The impairment test consists of a comparison of the fair value of the intangible assets to its carrying amount. If the carrying amount exceeds the fair value, an impairment loss is recognized equal in amount to that excess.
The Group reviews the carrying amounts of goodwill and other indefinite-lived intangible assets at November 30 each year to determine if such assets may be impaired. Goodwill impairment losses for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2012 and 2013 were RMB30.6 million, RMB10.8 million and
F-17
IFM INVESTMENTS LIMITED
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(Amounts expressed in Renminbi ("RMB"), unless otherwise stated)
2. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)
RMB 20.4 million respectively. For indefinite-lived intangible assets, there is no impairment losses incurred for all the years presented.
Application of a goodwill impairment test requires significant management judgment, including the identification of reporting units, assigning assets and liabilities to reporting units, assigning goodwill to reporting units, and determining the fair value of each reporting unit. The judgment in estimating the fair value of reporting units includes estimating future cash flows, determining appropriate discount rates and making other assumptions. Changes in these estimates and assumptions could materially affect the determination of fair value for each reporting unit and the goodwill impairment losses.
The Group reviews its long-lived assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may no longer be recoverable. When these events occur, the Group assesses the recoverability of the long-lived assets by comparing the carrying value of the long-lived assets to the estimated undiscounted future cash flows expected to result from the use of the assets and their eventual disposition where the fair value is lower than the carrying value, measurement of an impairment loss is recognized in the statements of operations for the difference between the fair value, using the expected future discounted cash flows, and the carrying value of the assets. No impairment of long-lived assets was recognized for the years presented.
The Group recognizes revenue where there is persuasive evidence of an arrangement, delivery has occurred, the sales price is fixed or determinable and collectability is reasonably assured. Revenues are recorded net of sales related taxes and discounts.
Company-Owned Brokerage Services
As an owner-operator of real estate brokerages, the Group assists customers in listing, marketing, selling, leasing and finding secondary properties and earns brokerage commissions. Brokerage commissions earned are recorded as revenue upon the signing of a real estate sales and purchase agreement between the buyer and the seller or rental agreement between the tenant and the landlord. The signing of such agreements is the evidence of recognition of the provision of the Group's services by the customers.
Under primary property projects, the Group recognizes the commission revenue when the relevant purchase contract between property developers and property buyers become unconditional or irrevocable, and the services as stipulated in the agency contracts have been rendered by the Group. The Group may also be entitled to earn additional revenue on the agency services if certain sales and other performance targets are achieved, such as total volume over a pre-determined period. These additional agency service revenues are recognized when the Group has accomplished the required targets.
The staff commissions are recognized concurrently with the associated brokerage commission revenues, which are upon executing the sales and purchase agreement or rental agreement, and are
F-18
IFM INVESTMENTS LIMITED
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(Amounts expressed in Renminbi ("RMB"), unless otherwise stated)
2. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)
presented as part of commissions and other agent-related costs in the consolidated statements of operations.
Primary and Commercial Services
The Group provides marketing and sales agency services to real estate developers. The Group recognizes the commission revenue for residential properties when the relevant purchase contract between property developers and property buyers becomes unconditional or irrevocable, and the services as stipulated in the agency contracts have been rendered by the Group. The Group may also be entitled to earn additional revenue on the agency services if certain sales and other performance targets are achieved, such as total volume over a pre-determined period. These additional agency service revenues are recognized when the Group has accomplished the required targets.
For the commercial properties, the Group recognizes commission revenue when the relevant purchase contract between the property developer and the property buyer becomes unconditional or irrevocable, the services as stipulated in the relevant agency contracts have been rendered by the Group, and the purchase amount set forth in the relevant purchase contract has been received by the property developer. Therefore, the Group recognizes commission revenue in installments in proportion to the purchased amount that has been received by the property developer under the relevant purchase contract, or in installments as agreed with the developers under the contractual terms.
The Group provides real estate consulting and agency services to commercial property developers. The Group recognizes revenue on consulting services when it has completed its services.
Mortgage Management Services
The Group provides mortgage management services, many of which are provided in connection with the company-owned brokerage services business. The mortgage management services income related to home mortgage loans and home equity loans is recognized when the mortgage loan funds are disbursed by banks to the customers. Commencing from the third quarter of 2010, the Group began to offer entrusted and mortgage credit loans to consumers. Income for the entrusted and mortgage credit loans is recognized in the income statement over the lives of the loans, based on effective interest rates. The Group reviews the carrying amounts of entrusted and mortgage credit loans at each quarter end or more frequently if circumstances indicate impairment may have occurred. The Group did not incur any impairment losses on the entrusted and mortgage credit loans for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2012 and 2013.
Since 2013 the Group's entrusted and mortgage credit loan services have been improved by performing property refinancing activities, through which certain individuals offer loans to consumers after receiving financing from the Group and then transfer such loans, entirely or partially to third party investors. The Group act as guarantors for such loans and remain responsible for the repayment of loans by the consumers. The interest to investors to whom the loans are transferred is recognized as an operating cost over the lives of the loans, based on the effective interest rates.
F-19
IFM INVESTMENTS LIMITED
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(Amounts expressed in Renminbi ("RMB"), unless otherwise stated)
2. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)
Franchise Services
The Group recognizes franchise fee revenue as earned. Franchise revenue includes initial franchise fees, which are generally non-refundable and recognized by the Group as revenue when all services or conditions relating to the initial franchise fee have been performed and the Group has fulfilled all its commitments and obligations (generally when a franchisee commences its operations under the CENTURY 21® brand). Franchise revenue also consists of recurring franchise fees received from the Group's franchisees. The recurring franchise fees received are primarily based on the higher of a percentage of the franchisees' monthly gross income or a fixed minimum monthly amount. The recurring franchise fees are accrued as the underlying franchisee revenue is earned. For the years ended December 31, 2011, 2012 and 2013, the Group's initial franchise fees were RMB10.3 million, RMB5.4 million and RMB2.5 million, respectively. As of December 31, 2013, we had 675 franchised sales offices and 250 company-owned sales offices in operation, compared to 603 franchised sales offices and 317 company-owned sales offices in operation at the end of year 2012.
The Group also collects marketing fees from its franchisees and utilizes such fees to fund advertising campaigns on behalf of its franchisees (known as National Advertising Fund, or NAF). The NAF collected from the franchisees are restricted cash and correspond to the policy on restricted cash (see Note 2(e)). Management fee income of NAF, which is 15% of marketing fees collected from franchisees, is recognized in proportion to the NAF spent during the reporting periods.
Entrusted and mortgage credit loans provided to customers are reported at their outstanding principal balances net of any unearned income and unamortized deferred fees and costs. Loans transferred to investors are reported as loans payable at the outstanding principal net of any interest costs prepaid. Loan origination fees and certain direct origination costs are deferred and recognized as adjustments to income over the lives of the related loans. Based on management's initial intent and ability with regard to those loans, all the loans are held-for-investment and are classified as Loans receivables, net of unearned income on the Consolidated Balance Sheets, and the related cash flows are included within the cash flows from investing activities category in the Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows on the lines Loan issuance and Receipt of loan principals. Cash flows from the transfer of the loans and the redemption of the loan principals are included within the cash flows from financing activities category in the Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows on the lines Transfer of loan receivable and Repurchase of loan.
Since 2013 the Group's entrusted and mortgage credit loan services have been improved by property refinancing activities, through which certain individuals offer loans to consumers after receiving financing from the Group and then transfer such loans, entirely or partially to third party investors. The Group act as guarantors for such loans and remain responsible for the repayment of loans by the consumers. The Group treats the property refinancing activities as one continuing operating business of mortgage management services. Therefore, the cash flows related to these activities were included within the cash flows from operating activities category in the Consolidated
F-20
IFM INVESTMENTS LIMITED
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(Amounts expressed in Renminbi ("RMB"), unless otherwise stated)
2. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)
Statement of Cash Flows on the lines Receipt of loan principals and Issuance/repurchase of loan. The cash flows associated with the property refinancing activities are presented as below:
|
For the year ended December 31, 2013 |
|||
---|---|---|---|---|
Cash flow from operating activities |
||||
Loan issuance through property refinancing activities |
(85,135 | ) | ||
Receipt of loan principals through property refinancing activities |
20,705 | |||
Transfer of loans through property refinancing activities |
78,900 | |||
Repurchase of loans through property refinancing activities |
(22,490 | ) | ||
Interests received from borrowers |
11,912 | |||
Interests paid to investors |
(3,109 | ) | ||
Cash flow from investing activities |
||||
Loan issuance through original property refinancing activities |
(56,100 | ) | ||
Receipt of loan principals through original property refinancing activities |
49,099 | |||
Cash flow from financing activities |
||||
Transfer of loans through original property refinancing activities |
74,370 | |||
Repurchase of loans through original property refinancing activities |
(62,143 | ) |
As a general policy, interest accrual ceases when monthly interest payments are 90 days contractually past due.
Allowance for loan impairment represents management's best estimate of probable impairment inherent in the portfolio, as well as probable impairment related to large individually evaluated impaired attribution of the allowance is made for analytical purposes only, and the entire allowance is available to absorb probable loan impairment inherent in the overall portfolio. Additions to the allowance are made through the provision for loan impairment. Loan impairments are deducted from the allowance, and subsequent recoveries are added.
We did not recognize any impairment of loans receivable for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2012 and 2013 as we have collected back all loans with no default so far.
Deferred revenue generally consists of advances of brokerage commissions from customers for company-owned brokerage services and advances received from customers for mortgage management services fees paid, and they are recognized and transferred to revenue when the mortgage loan funds are disbursed by banks to the customers.
Advertising costs are expensed as incurred. Advertising-related expenses, including promotional expenses and production costs of marketing materials, amounted to RMB51.9 million, RMB25.2 million and RMB45.9 million during the years ended December 31, 2011, 2012 and 2013, respectively.
F-21
IFM INVESTMENTS LIMITED
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(Amounts expressed in Renminbi ("RMB"), unless otherwise stated)
2. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)
The Group is subject to business tax and related surcharges on the services provided in the PRC. Such tax is levied based on revenue at an applicable rate between 5.6% and 5.65% and is recorded as a reduction of revenues.
On November 16, 2011, the PRC Ministry of Finance and the State Administration of Taxation jointly issued the Implementation Measures on the Pilot Progress of Replacing the Business Tax with a Value-Added Tax in Transport and some Modern Service Industries. On July 31, 2012, the PRC Ministry of Finance and the State Administration of Taxation jointly issued the Notice on expanding the Pilot Progress of Replacing the Business Tax with a Value-Added Tax to Beijing and other 8 provinces and cities. According to the VAT pilot progress rules, The VAT pilot rules change the charge of sales tax from business tax to VAT for certain service industries, including consulting service and advertising industries, in Shanghai, Beijing and Shenzhen. Some of our subsidiaries located in Beijing, fall within the pilot arrangements and are recognized as VAT general taxpayers at the rate of 6% and stop paying business tax from September 1, 2012 onward.
The functional currency of the Company and its subsidiaries is RMB. Transactions denominated in currencies other than RMB are translated into RMB at the exchange rates prevailing at the dates of the transactions. Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated into RMB using the applicable exchange rates at the balance sheet dates. The resulting exchange differences are included in the consolidated statements of operations.
The Group's financial instruments include cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash, accounts receivable, amounts due from/to related parties, loans receivable, prepaid and other current assets, equity investments, non-current assets, accounts payable, financial guarantees, accrued expenses, other liabilities and long-term deposits payable. The carrying amounts of these financial instruments approximate their fair values. A three-tier hierarchy is established which prioritizes the inputs used in the valuation methodologies in measuring fair value:
Level 1observable inputs that reflect quoted prices (unadjusted) for identical assets or liabilities in active markets. |
Level 2include other inputs that are directly or indirectly observable in the marketplace. |
Level 3unobservable inputs which are supported by little or no market activity. |
The fair value hierarchy also requires an entity to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs when measuring fair value.
F-22
IFM INVESTMENTS LIMITED
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(Amounts expressed in Renminbi ("RMB"), unless otherwise stated)
2. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)
The following table sets forth the financial instruments, measured at fair value, by level within the fair value hierarchy as of December 31, 2012 and 2013.
|
|
Fair value measurement at reporting date using |
|||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Items
|
As of December 31, 2012 |
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) |
Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) |
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) |
|||||||||
Cash equivalents |
106,000,000 | | 106,000,000 | | |||||||||
Contingent consideration payable |
33,773,915 | | | 33,773,915 | |||||||||
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total |
139,773,915 | | 106,000,000 | 33,773,915 | |||||||||
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
|
|
Fair value measurement at reporting date using |
|||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Items
|
As of December 31, 2013 |
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) |
Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) |
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) |
|||||||||
Cash equivalents |
78,508,682 | | 78,508,682 | | |||||||||
Contingent consideration payable |
5,622,887 | | | 5,622,887 | |||||||||
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total |
84,131,569 | | 78,508,682 | 5,622,887 | |||||||||
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Cash Equivalents
The Company's cash equivalents mainly consist of time deposits and structured deposits placed with banks which are unrestricted as to withdraw or use and which have maturities of three months or less. The fair values of time deposits and structured deposits are determined based on the pervasive interest rates in the market, which are also the interest rates as stated in the contracts with the banks. The Company classifies the valuation techniques that use the pervasive interest rates input as Level 2 of fair value measurements. This is because there generally are no quoted prices in active markets for identical time deposits at the reporting date. Hence, in order to determine the fair value, the Company must use observable inputs other than quoted prices in active markets for identical assets and liabilities, quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in inactive markets, or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data for substantially the full term of the assets or liabilities.
F-23
IFM INVESTMENTS LIMITED
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(Amounts expressed in Renminbi ("RMB"), unless otherwise stated)
2. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)
Contingent consideration payable
The following summarizes the Group's contingent consideration payable as of December 31, 2013 (in RMB thousands).
Balance as of December 31, 2012 |
33,774 | |||
Settlements |
(5,979 | ) | ||
Total gains or losses for the period |
(22,172 | ) | ||
| | | | |
Balance as of December 31, 2013 |
5,623 | |||
| | | | |
| | | | |
Contingent consideration payable arose from the acquisition of SG International Investments Limited ("Shanggu") (note 2(u) and 9) and was valued based on estimated outcomes of the contingency and their probabilities. The Group classifies the valuation techniques that use these inputs as Level 3.
The Group determined the fair value of the contingent consideration liability based on a probability-weighted cash flow analysis. This fair value measurement is based on significant inputs not observable in the market and thus represents a Level 3 measurement within the fair value hierarchy. The fair value of the contingent consideration liability associated with those future earn-out payments was based on several factors including:
The fair value of contingent consideration was determined to be RMB 11.6 million based on the actual profit performance of Shanggu for the two years ended June 30, 2013. Thereafter, the fair value of contingent consideration was subject to adjustment according to the collectability of account receivables of Shanggu. The installment paid for the contingent consideration was RMB 6.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2013.
F-24
IFM INVESTMENTS LIMITED
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(Amounts expressed in Renminbi ("RMB"), unless otherwise stated)
2. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)
The following summarizes the net change in fair value recorded for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2013:
|
Years ended December 31, |
||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
2012 | 2013 | |||||
Net change in fair value in contingent consideration |
10,453 | 22,172 | |||||
Net change in fair value in post-employees' options |
1,536 | (103 | ) | ||||
| | | | | | | |
Total net change in fair value |
11,989 | 22,069 | |||||
| | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | |
Determination of the fair value of contingent consideration payable requires significant management judgment, including the judgment in estimating future cash flows and receivable collectability, determining appropriate discount rates and making other assumptions. Changes in these estimates and assumptions could materially affect the determination of fair value for the contingent consideration payable.
The following are other financial instruments not measured at fair value in the balance sheets but for which the fair value is estimated for disclosure purposes.
Short-Term Receivables, Loan receivables and Payables
Accounts receivable, loan receivables and prepaid and other current assets are financial assets with carrying values that approximate fair value due to their short term nature. Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other current liabilities are financial liabilities with carrying values that approximate fair value due to their short term nature. The Company estimated fair values of short-term receivables and payables using the discounted cash flow method. The Company classifies the valuation technique as Level 3 of fair value measurement, as it uses estimated cash flow input which is unobservable in the market.
Other non-current assets and Long-term deposits payable
Other non-current assets are financial assets with carrying values that approximate fair value due to the change in fair value after considering the discount rate, being immaterial. Long-term deposits payable are financial liabilities with carrying values that approximate fair value due to the change in fair value after considering the discount rate, being immaterial. The Company estimated fair values of prepaid non-current assets and long-term accounts payable using the discounted cash flow method. The Company classifies the valuation technique as Level 3 of fair value measurement, as it uses estimated cash flow input which is unobservable in the market.
F-25
IFM INVESTMENTS LIMITED
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(Amounts expressed in Renminbi ("RMB"), unless otherwise stated)
2. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)
Assets Measured at Fair Value on a Nonrecurring Basis
The following table sets forth assets measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis by level within the fair value hierarchy as of December 31, 2013:
|
|
Fair value measurement at reporting date using |
|||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Items
|
As of December 31, 2013 |
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) |
Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) |
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) |
|||||||||
Goodwill |
83,558,503 | | | 83,558,503 | |||||||||
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total |
83,558,503 | | | 83,558,503 | |||||||||
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Goodwill
Goodwill represents the excess of the purchase price over the fair value of identifiable assets and liabilities acquired as a result of the Company's acquisition of interests in its subsidiaries. In 2013, the goodwill impairment loss was RMB20.4 million (US$3.4 million). See Note 10Goodwill.
The Company issues share options granted under a share incentive plan. We use a fair-value based method to account for share-based compensation. Accordingly, share-based compensation is measured at the grant date, based on the fair value of the award, and is recognized as expense over the employees' requisite service period. For options that were granted with performance conditions which vest subsequent to our initial public offering, share-based compensation expenses would be recognized upon the offering using the graded-vesting method. Share-based compensation for the remaining options granted with service conditions are recognized using straight-line method, net of a forfeiture rate, over the requisite service period of the award, which is the vesting term, based on the fair value of the award on the grant date. Share-based compensation expense is charged to additional paid-in capital section in the consolidated balance sheets. In determining the fair value of share options granted, the Black-Scholes valuation model is applied.
The Company accounts for business combinations using the acquisition method and accordingly, the identifiable assets acquired, the liabilities assumed, and any non controlling interest in the acquiree are recorded at their acquisition date fair values. Goodwill represents the excess of the purchase price over the fair value of net assets, including the amount assigned to identifiable intangible assets. The primary drivers that generate goodwill are the value of synergies between the acquired entities and the Company and the acquired assembled workforce, neither of which qualifies as an identifiable intangible asset. Identifiable intangible assets with finite lives are amortized over their useful lives. Acquisition-related costs, including advisory, legal, accounting, valuation and other costs, are expensed in the
F-26
IFM INVESTMENTS LIMITED
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(Amounts expressed in Renminbi ("RMB"), unless otherwise stated)
2. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)
periods in which the costs are incurred. The results of operations of acquired businesses are included in the Consolidated Financial Statements from the acquisition date.
For the investments in business entities accounted for using the equity method, the Group's share of the post-acquisition profits or losses is recognized in the consolidated statements of operations and its share of post-acquisition movements in reserves is recognized in reserves. When the Group's share of losses in a business entity equals or exceeds its interest in this entity, the Group does not recognize further losses, unless the Group has incurred obligations or made payments on behalf of the business entity.
The Group reviews such for impairment whenever events or changes in business circumstances indicate that the carrying value of the investment may not be fully recoverable. Investments identified as having an indication of impairment are subject to further analysis to determine if the impairment is other-than-temporary and this analysis requires estimating the fair value of the investments. The fair value determination, particularly for investments in privately-held companies, requires significant judgment to determine appropriate estimates and assumptions. Changes in these estimates and assumptions could affect the calculation of the fair value of the investments and the determination of whether any identified impairment is other-than-temporary. The three equity method investments as of December 31, 2011, 2012 and 2013 were Xian, Fund Management Partnership and TianRe Fund I (see Note 7). No impairment losses were recorded for the year ended December 31, 2011, 2012 and 2013.
In September 2009, the Group established a majority-owned subsidiary, namely BVMC, in which the Group owned an 85% equity interest. In October 2009, the Group established a majority-owned subsidiary, namely PRI, in which the Group owned a 70% equity interest.
On June 14, 2011, the Company initially acquired 55% of the equity interest of Shanggu and will acquire another 35% between 2014 and 2019 at the seller's option which the Company does not control, which is considered a put right. The portion of the non-controlling interest that can be put to the Company is accounted for as a mandatorily redeemable security because redemption is outside of the Company's control and is reported in the mezzanine equity section as redeemable non-controlling interest. The exercise price of this put right is calculated using a formula based on the future net profits of Shanggu. The fair value of the non-controlling interest was calculated using a combination of a discounted cash flow model and market comparables of similar transactions and companies. Before June 30, 2014 when the non-controlling interest is not currently redeemable and it is probable that it will become redeemable, any subsequent changes in the redemption value will be recognized immediately as they occur with the carrying amount adjusted to the redemption value at the end of each reporting period. Subsequent to June 30, 2014, when the non-controlling interest is currently redeemable, its carrying amount will be adjusted to the maximum redemption value as of the balance sheet date for each period end. In the calculation of the Group's net income (loss) per share (notes 2(z) and 9(b)). These adjustments to redemption value are calculated after allocating the net income or loss attributable to this non-controlling interest. These periodic adjustments are reflected only to the extent of any excess of the redemption value over fair value.
F-27
IFM INVESTMENTS LIMITED
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(Amounts expressed in Renminbi ("RMB"), unless otherwise stated)
2. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)
On July 21, 2010, TianRe Co., Ltd. was established with 65% of its equity interests owned by the Company. On November 15, 2011, Mr. Kevin Yung, Beijing IFM Investment Managements Limited and Everising Investment Management Company Ltd. entered into a share purchase agreement whereby Mr. Kevin Yung transferred his 10% stake in TianRe Co., Ltd to the Company through IFM BJ Inv for total consideration of RMB1.9 million. The remaining 25% is owned by Everising Investment Management Company Ltd. ("Everising"), a third party investment advisory firm.
As of December 31, 2013, non-controlling interests are comprised of 15% of the net assets of BVMC held by Mr. Cai Yuxiang, 30% of the net assets of PRI held by Ms. Fang Na, 25% of the net assets of TianRe Co., Ltd. held by Everising and 45% of the net assets of Shanggu held by Mr. Wu Jiang, of which 35% is redeemable.
Income taxes are accounted for using an asset and liability approach which requires the recognition of income taxes payable or refundable for the current year and deferred tax liabilities and assets for the future tax consequences of events that have been recognized in the Company's financial statements or tax returns. Deferred income taxes are determined based on the differences between the accounting basis and the tax basis of assets and liabilities and are measured using the currently enacted tax rates and laws. Deferred tax assets are reduced by a valuation allowance, if based on available evidence, it is considered that it is more likely than not that some portion of or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. In making such determination, the Company considers factors including future reversals of existing taxable temporary differences, future profitability, and tax planning strategies. If events were to occur in the future that would allow the Company to realize more of its deferred tax assets than the presently recorded net amount, an adjustment would be made to the deferred tax assets that would increase income for the period when those events occurred. If events were to occur in the future that would require the Company to realize less of its deferred tax assets than the presently recorded net amount, an adjustment would be made to the valuation allowance against deferred tax assets that would decrease income for the period when those events occurred. Significant management judgment is required in determining income tax expense and deferred tax assets and liabilities.
The Company's deferred tax assets relate to net operating losses and temporary differences between accounting basis and tax basis for the Company China-based subsidiaries and VIEs, which are subject to corporate income tax in the PRC under the PRC Corporate Income Tax Law (the "CIT Law").
PRC Withholding Tax on Dividends
The CIT Law imposes a 10% withholding income tax for dividends distributed by foreign invested enterprises to their immediate holding companies outside mainland China. A lower withholding tax rate will be applied if there is a tax treaty between mainland China and the jurisdiction of the foreign holding company. A holding company in Hong Kong, for example, will be subject to a 5% withholding tax rate under the Arrangement Between the PRC and the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region on the Avoidance of Double Taxation and Prevention of Fiscal Evasion with Respect to Taxes on Income and Capital (the "China-HK Tax Arrangement") if such holding company is considered a non-PRC resident enterprise and holds at least 25% of the equity interests in the PRC foreign invested
F-28
IFM INVESTMENTS LIMITED
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(Amounts expressed in Renminbi ("RMB"), unless otherwise stated)
2. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)
enterprise distributing the dividends, subject to approval of the PRC local tax authority. However, if the Hong Kong holding company is not considered to be the beneficial owner of such dividends under applicable PRC tax regulations, such dividend may remain subject to a withholding tax rate of 10%.
Uncertain Tax Positions
The guidance on accounting for uncertainties in income taxes prescribes a more likely than not threshold for financial statement recognition and measurement of a tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return. Guidance was also provided on derecognition of income tax assets and liabilities, classification of current and deferred income tax assets and liabilities, accounting for interest and penalties associated with tax positions, accounting for income taxes in interim periods, and income tax disclosures. Significant judgment is required in evaluating the Group's uncertain tax positions and determining its provision for income taxes. The Group did not recognize any significant interest and penalties associated with uncertain tax positions for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2012 and 2013. As of December 31, 2013, the Group did not have any significant unrecognized uncertain tax positions.
For certain guarantees a guarantor is required to recognize a liability for the fair value of the obligation undertaken in issuing the guarantee. For the periods covered by these financial statements, the Group provided interim guarantee services to banking institutions for the mortgage services it refers to banks as part of its mortgage management services in Beijing. An interim guarantee covers the period beginning when the bank disburses the mortgage loan to the property buyer and ending when the mortgage registration certificate is issued to the bank by the applicable property registry, which generally takes one to six months. Since the second quarter of 2010, the Group no longer offers interim guarantee services in Beijing due to regulatory changes.
The Company's subsidiaries in the PRC are required to make appropriations to certain non-distributable reserve funds. In accordance with the laws applicable to China's Foreign Investment
Enterprises, the subsidiaries registered as wholly-owned foreign enterprises or sino-jointly invested companies under PRC law are required to make appropriations from its after-tax profits as determined under the Accounting Standards for Business Enterprises and the "Accounting System for Business Enterprises" as promulgated by the State of the People's Republic of China ("PRC GAAP") to non-distributable reserve fund, including a general reserve, an enterprise expansion fund and a staff welfare and bonus fund. The appropriation to the general reserve fund must be at least 10% of their after tax profits as determined under PRC GAAP. Appropriation is not required if the reserve fund has reached 50% of the registered capital of the respective company. Appropriations to the enterprise expansion fund and staff welfare and bonus fund are at the discretion of the boards of directors of the related subsidiaries. In addition, in accordance with the China Company Laws, the subsidiaries of the Company registered as China domestic companies must make appropriations from its after-tax profits as determined under the PRC GAAP to non-distributable reserve funds including a statutory surplus fund, a statutory public welfare fund and a discretionary surplus fund. The appropriation to the
F-29
IFM INVESTMENTS LIMITED
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(Amounts expressed in Renminbi ("RMB"), unless otherwise stated)
2. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)
statutory surplus fund must be at least 10% of the after-tax profits as determined under PRC GAAP. Appropriation is not required if the surplus fund has reached 50% of the registered capital of the respective company. Appropriation to the statutory public welfare fund and discretionary surplus fund is made at the discretion of the respective company.
The use of the general reserve fund, statutory surplus fund and discretionary surplus fund are restricted to the offsetting of losses or increase in registered capital of the respective company. The enterprise expansion fund can be used to expand production or to increase registered capital. The staff bonus and welfare fund is available to fund payments of special bonus to staff and for collective welfare benefits. The statutory public welfare fund is restricted to capital expenditures for the welfare of employees.
Other statutory reserves are not transferable to the Company in the form of cash dividends, loans or advances and are therefore not available for distribution except in liquidation.
For the year ended December 31, 2010, appropriations of RMB4,422,426 to the general reserve funds and statutory surplus funds ("statutory reserve funds") were made. No statutory reserve fund appropriations were made for the year ended December 31, 2012 and 2013, as the surplus fund has reached 50% of the registered capital of the respective companies which had an accumulated after tax profits. No other reserve funds were made for all the years presented.
Leases where substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership of assets remain with the lessor are accounted for as operating leases. Payments made under operating leases net of any incentives received from the lessor are expensed on a straight-line basis over the terms of the underlying lease.
Basic net income (loss) per share is computed by dividing net income (loss) attributable to ordinary shareholders by the weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding during the period using the two-class method. Under the two-class method, net income is allocated between ordinary shares and other participating securities based on their participating rights to the extent that each class may share income for the period, whereas net loss is allocated to ordinary shares because other participating securities are not contractually obligated to share the loss of the Group. The Group's convertible redeemable preferred shares are participating securities. These preferred shares were converted on February 2, 2010 and were no longer outstanding as of December 31, 2012 and 2013. Diluted net income (loss) per share is calculated by dividing net income (loss) attributable to ordinary shareholders as adjusted for the effect of dilutive ordinary equivalent shares, if any, by the weighted average number of ordinary and dilutive ordinary equivalent shares outstanding during the period. Ordinary share equivalents consist of the ordinary shares issuable upon the exercise of share options (using the treasury stock method) and the conversion of the convertible redeemable preferred shares (using the if-converted method). Ordinary shares equivalents are not included in the denominator of the diluted net income (loss) per share calculation when inclusion of such shares would be anti-dilutive. Basic and diluted net income (loss) per ADS has been computed by multiplying the net income (loss) per share by 45, which is the number of shares represented by each ADS.
F-30
IFM INVESTMENTS LIMITED
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(Amounts expressed in Renminbi ("RMB"), unless otherwise stated)
2. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)
The change in the carrying value of the redeemable NCI is reflected in the Group's net income (loss) per share and per ADS using the two-class method at the consolidated level. Periodic adjustments to recognize changes in redemption value are reflected in the Group's net income (loss) per share and per ADS only to the extent of any excess of the redemption value over initial fair value.
Comprehensive income is defined as the change in equity of a company during a period from transactions and other events and circumstances excluding transactions resulting from investments from owners and distributions to owners.
For the years ended December 31, 2011, 2012 and 2013, there was no comprehensive income for the Group.
In March of 2013, the FASB issued guidance on "Income TaxesPresentation of an Unrecognized Tax Benefit When a Net Operating Loss Carryforward, a Similar Tax Loss, or a Tax Credit Carryforward Exists." The amendments clarify that an unrecognized tax benefit, or a portion of an unrecognized tax benefit, should be presented in the financial statements as a reduction to a deferred tax asset for a net operating loss, similar tax loss, or tax credit carryforward, except as noted in the following sentence. To the extent a net operating loss, similar tax loss, or tax credit carryforward is not available at the reporting date under the tax law of the applicable jurisdiction to settle any additional income taxes that would result from the disallowance of a tax position or the tax law of the applicable jurisdiction does not require the entity to use, and the entity does not intend to use, the deferred tax asset for such a purpose, then under this exception the unrecognized tax benefit is to be presented in the financial statements as a liability and should not be combined with (netted with) the deferred tax asset(s). The assessment of whether a deferred tax asset is "available" is based on the unrecognized tax benefit and deferred tax asset amounts that exist at the reporting date and should be made presuming disallowance of the tax position at the reporting date. The amendments are effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2013. The Group is currently evaluating the impact on its consolidated financial statements of adopting this guidance.
3. CERTAIN RISKS
The Group operates in a dynamic and high risk real estate industry and is susceptible to fluctuations in the real estate market in the PRC, and the property market in the PRC is at an early stage of development and is volatile, which could have a material adverse effect on the Group's business, financial condition and results of operations.
F-31
IFM INVESTMENTS LIMITED
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(Amounts expressed in Renminbi ("RMB"), unless otherwise stated)
3. CERTAIN RISKS (Continued)
The Chinese market in which the Group operates poses certain macro-economic and regulatory risk and uncertainties. These uncertainties extend to the ability of the Group to conduct business in the real estate sector in the PRC. Though the PRC has, since 1978, implemented a wide range of market-oriented economic reforms, continued reforms and progress towards a full market-oriented economy are uncertain. In addition, the real estate industry remains highly regulated. Restrictions are currently in place and are unclear with respect to which segments of this industry foreign owned entities, like the Group may operate. The Chinese government may issue from time to time new laws or new interpretations on existing laws to regulate areas such as real estate. Regulatory risk also encompasses the interpretation by the tax authorities of current tax laws and the Group's legal structure and scope of operations in the PRC, which could be subjected to further restrictions which could result in severe limits to the Group's ability to conduct business in the PRC.
The real estate market in the PRC is typically affected by changes in government policies regarding the real estate industry, the financial market and other related areas. The PRC government has in the past adopted various administrative measures to restrain what it perceived as unsustainable growth in the real estate market, particularly when the real estate market in China has experienced rapid and significant growth. The PRC real estate market could experience a prolonged downturn in the future, which could have a material adverse impact on the Group's business, financial condition and results of operations.
Financial instruments that potentially expose the Group to concentrations of credit risk consist primarily of cash and cash equivalents, cash in bank-time deposits, restricted cash and accounts receivable.
The Group's cash and cash equivalents, cash in bank-time deposits and restricted cash are deposited with several major financial institutions in the PRC. The Group has not experienced significant losses on its deposits of cash and cash equivalent, cash in bank-time deposits, and its restricted cash.
The Group is exposed to counterparty credit risk in the event of non-performance by counterparties to various agreements and sales transactions. The Group manages such risk by evaluating the financial position and creditworthiness of such counterparties. As of December 31, 2012 and 2013, there were no significant concentrations of credit risk with any individual counterparty or group of counterparties. Concentrations of credit risk associated with receivables are considered minimal due to the Group's diverse customer base.
The RMB is not freely convertible into foreign currencies. The State Administration for Foreign Exchange, under the authority of the People's Bank of China, controls the conversion of RMB into other currencies. Cash and cash equivalents of the Group denominated in US$ included aggregate amounts of US$0.7 million and US$ 0.5 million, as of December 31, 2012 and 2013, respectively.
F-32
IFM INVESTMENTS LIMITED
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(Amounts expressed in Renminbi ("RMB"), unless otherwise stated)
4. ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE
The following summarizes the Group's accounts receivable as of December 31, 2012 and 2013 (in RMB thousands):
|
December 31, | ||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
2012 | 2013 | |||||
Accounts receivable |
193,620 | 191,043 | |||||
Less: Allowance for doubtful accounts |
(17,333 | ) | (22,171 | ) | |||
| | | | | | | |
|
176,287 | 168,872 | |||||
| | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | |
The following table sets out the movements of the allowance for doubtful accounts for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2012 and 2013 (in RMB thousands):
|
Years ended December 31, | |||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
2011 | 2012 | 2013 | |||||||
Balance at beginning of the year |
(10,367 | ) | (15,536 | ) | (17,333 | ) | ||||
Charged to costs and expenses |
(14,343 | ) | (12,129 | ) | (14,681 | ) | ||||
Write-off of receivable balances and corresponding provisions |
9,174 | 10,332 | 9,843 | |||||||
| | | | | | | | | | |
Balance at end of the year |
(15,536 | ) | (17,333 | ) | (22,171 | ) | ||||
| | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
The Group believed that the accounts receivable with aging more than one year net of allowance for doubtful accounts could be collected within one year.
5. LOANS RECEIVABLE
The Group adopted the accounting guidance on disclosures about the credit quality of loan receivables and the allowance for credit losses which requires information to be disclosed at disaggregated levels, defined as portfolio segments and classes.
Based upon the analysis of credit losses and risk factors, since the Group offers entrusted and mortgage credit loans to qualified consumers with the terms ranging from two to twelve months, which are secured by mortgage properties, at an average loan-to-value ratio of approximately 50% as of December 31, 2013, these are considered as the portfolio segmentsentrusted and mortgage loans. Since 2013 the Group's entrusted and mortgage credit loan services have been improved by property refinancing activities, through which certain individuals offer loans to consumers after receiving financing from the Group and then transfer such loans, entirely or partially to third party investors. The Group act as guarantors for such loans and remain responsible for the repayment of loans by the consumers.
The Group further evaluated the portfolio by the class of the loan receivables, which is defined as a level of information (below a portfolio segment). Considering the initial measurement attribute and a similar method for assessing and monitoring credit risk, the Group determined that the portfolio segment is the proper and lowest level of disaggregation to determine the allowance for credit losses for such.
F-33
IFM INVESTMENTS LIMITED
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(Amounts expressed in Renminbi ("RMB"), unless otherwise stated)
5. LOANS RECEIVABLE (Continued)
These pools of loans are evaluated for loss exposure based upon historical loss rates for each of these classes of loans, adjusted for qualitative factors. These qualitative risk factors include:
The Group performs regular assessments on any potential losses associated with its entrusted and mortgage credit loans. Factors considered by management in determining impairment include payment status, collateral value and the probability of collecting scheduled principal and interest payments when due. Loans that experience insignificant payment delays and payment shortfalls generally are not classified as impaired. Management determines the significance of payment delays and payment shortfalls on a case-by-case basis, taking into consideration all of the circumstances surrounding the loan and the borrower, including the length of the delay, the reasons for the delay, the borrower's prior payment record and the amount of the shortfall in relation to the principal and interest owed. No impairment of loans receivable was recognized for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2013 as we have collected back all loans with no default so far.
The following summarizes the Group's loans receivable as of December 31, 2012 and December 31, 2013 (in RMB thousands):
|
December 31, | ||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
2012 | 2013 | |||||
Entrusted and mortgage credit loans |
25,405 | 22,404 | |||||
Loans through property refinancing activities |
9,824 | 98,729 | |||||
| | | | | | | |
Less: Impairment |
| | |||||
| | | | | | | |
Loans receivable |
35,229 | 121,133 | |||||
| | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | |
F-34
IFM INVESTMENTS LIMITED
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(Amounts expressed in Renminbi ("RMB"), unless otherwise stated)
6. PREPAID EXPENSES AND OTHER CURRENT ASSETS
Prepaid expenses and other current assets consisted of the following (in RMB thousands):
|
December 31, | ||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
2012 | 2013 | |||||
Prepaid rental |
20,542 | 19,368 | |||||
Staff advances and deposits |
7,701 | 9,398 | |||||
Prepayments to suppliers |
2,615 | 5,384 | |||||
Others |
10,407 | 10,329 | |||||
| | | | | | | |
Total |
41,265 | 44,479 | |||||
| | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | |
7. EQUITY INVESTMENTS
The following sets forth the changes in the Group's equity investments:
|
Xian | Fund Management Partnership |
Total | |||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Balance as of December 31, 2011 |
194 | 10,401 | 10,595 | |||||||
Investments |
| | | |||||||
Share of associates' income (losses) |
(39 | ) | 2,585 | 2,546 | ||||||
| | | | | | | | | | |
Balance as of December 31, 2012 |
155 | 12,986 | 13,141 | |||||||
| | | | | | | | | | |
Investments |
| | | |||||||
Share of associates' (losses) income |
(3 | ) | 2,077 | 2,074 | ||||||
| | | | | | | | | | |
Balance as of December 31, 2013 |
152 | 15,063 | 15,215 | |||||||
| | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
On July 21, 2010, TianRe Co. Ltd. was established with 65% of its equity interests owned by the Company. The remaining 25% and 10% equity interests were owned by Everising and Mr. Kevin Yung respectively. TianRe Co. Ltd. is the general partner of Fund Management Partnership, a limited partnership established on August 11, 2010. The Company, through its subsidiary, is also a 64.35% limited partner in the Fund Management Partnership, while Everising and Mr. Kevin Yung were 24.75% and 9.9% limited partners, respectively. The partners in the Fund Management Partnership have invested a total of RMB10.0 million in the partnership; of this RMB10.0 million, the Company's investment amounted to RMB6.5 million.
On August 19, 2010, TianRe Fund I was established with the Fund Management Partnership as the general partner holding 5.52% in TianRe Fund I and certain third party limited partners holding the remaining 94.48% interest. On October 22, 2010, the Fund Management Partnership invested RMB10.0 million in TianRe Fund I. TianRe Fund I has also raised RMB171.1 million from third party individual investors as limited partners through collaboration with a state-owned bank. TianRe Fund I has a term of two and half years with a one year additional extension.
On November 15, 2011, Mr. Kevin Yung, TianRe Co. Ltd. and Everising Investment Management Company Ltd. entered into a share purchase agreement whereby Mr. Kevin Yung transferred his 10% stake in TianRe Co. Ltd. and 9.9% stake in Fund Management Partnership to IFM BJ Inv for total
F-35
IFM INVESTMENTS LIMITED
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(Amounts expressed in Renminbi ("RMB"), unless otherwise stated)
7. EQUITY INVESTMENTS (Continued)
consideration of RMB1.9 million, which is considered fair value as it is determined based upon the present value of the estimated future earnings generated by the companies. This was accounted for as equity investment and recorded at its fair value.
As of December 31, 2012 and 2013, the company owned 75% of the equity interests of TianRe Co., Ltd. and the remaining 25% equity interests were owned by Everising. The Company's wholly-owned subsidiary, IFM BJ Inv is a 75% limited partner in the Fund Management Partnership, with Everising as the other limited partner holding the remaining 25% equity interest.
Fund Management Partnership does not have to be consolidated by the Company under either the VIE modelbecause Fund Management Partnership does not possess all the characteristics to be a VIE, or the voting interest modelbecause the limited partners have substantive participating rights. The Company uses the equity method to account for its investment in Fund Management Partnership. Since Fund Management Partnership controls TianRe Fund-I as the general partner, thus the Company uses the equity method to account for its investment in TianRe Fund-I.
8. PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, NET
Property and equipment, net, consisted of the following (in RMB thousands):
|
December 31, | ||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
2012 | 2013 | |||||
Computers and software |
41,250 | 42,226 | |||||
Furniture, fixtures and equipment |
26,653 | 21,055 | |||||
Vehicles |
6,124 | 6,077 | |||||
Leasehold improvements |
45,331 | 45,061 | |||||
|
119,358 | 114,419 | |||||
Less: accumulated depreciation and amortization |
(78,526 | ) | (80,985 | ) | |||
| | | | | | | |
Property and equipment, net |
40,832 | 33,434 | |||||
| | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | |
For the years ended December 31, 2011, 2012 and 2013, depreciation and amortization expenses for property and equipment amounted to RMB29.9 million, RMB22.7 million and RMB18.0 million, respectively.
The Group assessed the recoverability of the property and equipment by comparing the carrying value of the property and equipment to the estimated undiscounted future cash flows expected to result from the use of the assets and their eventual disposition. Where the fair value is lower than the carrying value, an impairment loss is recognized in the statements of operations for the difference between the fair value, using the expected future discounted cash flows, and the carrying value of the assets. No impairment of long-lived assets was recognized for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2012 and 2013.
F-36
IFM INVESTMENTS LIMITED
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(Amounts expressed in Renminbi ("RMB"), unless otherwise stated)
9. BUSINESS COMBINATIONS
For Primary and Commercial Services
On June 14, 2011, the Company completed its acquisition of SG International Investments Limited ("Shanggu") which is a business engaged in primary real estate agency services and will allow the Company to enlarge its market share. The Company initially acquired 55% of the equity interest of Shanggu and will acquire another 35% between 2014 and 2019 at the seller's option which the Company does not control, which is considered a put right (note 2(u)). The exercise price of this put right is calculated using a formula based on the future net profits of Shanggu. Pursuant to the acquisition agreement, the total initial purchase consideration is estimated to be approximately RMB94.9 million which is based on projected future net income between Jun 30, 2012 and June 30, 2013. The Company made an initial acquisition payment of approximately RMB25.0 million in July 2011 with the remaining purchase consideration of the first 55% of equity stake payable between 2012 and 2015. The contingent payment was recognized as a liability on the acquisition date based on its fair value, which was estimated to be approximately RMB69.9 million based on the projected future net income of Shanggu between July 2011 and June 2013. The contingent consideration payable will be marked to its fair value each reporting period through earnings. The Company re-measured the fair value of the contingent consideration and reduced the corresponding liability which resulted in a gain of RMB10.5 million and RMB22.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2012 and 2013 into its consolidated statements of operations.
|
Amount | Estimated Useful life |
|||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Net tangible assets acquired |
| ||||
Intangible assets acquired: |
|||||
Brand name |
45,214 | Indefinite | |||
Customer relationships |
13,811 | 7 years | |||
Goodwill |
128,705 | ||||
Redeemable non-controlling interest |
(67,185 | ) | |||
Non-controlling interest |
(10,846 | ) | |||
Deferred tax liabilities |
(14,756 | ) | |||
| | | | | |
Total purchase consideration |
94,943 | ||||
| | | | | |
| | | | | |
Including: Initial acquisition payment in cash |
25,000 | ||||
Contingent consideration |
69,943 |
There were no tangible assets and liabilities acquired in the Shanggu acquisition as Shanggu had no assets or liabilities other than its brand name, customer relationships, management team and its operational processes.
The Group has determined that the brand name acquired in Shanggu acquisition has the continued ability to generate cash flows indefinitely. There are no legal, regulatory, contractual, economic or other factors limiting the useful life of the brand name. Consequently, the carrying amount of the brand name is not amortized but is tested for impairment annually on November 30, or whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value of the brand name may not be recoverable. Such impairment test consists of a comparison of the fair value of the brand name with its carrying amount, and an impairment loss is recognized if and when the carrying amount of the
F-37
IFM INVESTMENTS LIMITED
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(Amounts expressed in Renminbi ("RMB"), unless otherwise stated)
9. BUSINESS COMBINATIONS (Continued)
brand name exceeds its fair value. The indefinite-live intangible asset is reassessed each reporting period to determine whether events or circumstance continue to support an indefinite useful life.
The amortizable intangible assets have estimated useful lives of 7 years. Goodwill represents unidentifiable intangible assets, which is calculated as the excess of the purchase price over the estimated fair value of the net tangible and intangible assets acquired and is not deductible for tax purposes. The goodwill is attributable to the significant synergies expected to arise after the Company's acquisition of Shanggu. The Group has recorded an impairment loss on Shanggu business of RMB 26.2 million, RMB10.8 million and RMB 20.4 million (US$ 3.4 million) for the year ended December 31, 2011, 2012 and 2013.
The following summarizes the Group's redeemable non-controlling interest as of December 31, 2012 and 2013 (in RMB thousands):
Balance as of December 31, 2011 |
66,181 | |||
Purchases, sales, issuances, and settlements (net) |
| |||
Total gain for the period |
3,249 | |||
| | | | |
Balance as of December 31, 2012 |
69,430 | |||
Total losses for the period |
(2,269 | ) | ||
Balance as of December 31, 2013 |
67,161 | |||
| | | | |
| | | | |
By December 31, 2011, the Company and the non-controlling interest shareholder, Mr. Wu Jiang, had made an additional capital contribution of RMB2.8 million and RMB2.4 million respectively to Shanggu in accordance with their voting interests at the time.
Subsequent to the acquisition, as of December 31, 2012 and 2013, Shanggu had generated RMB64.7 million and RMB112.7 million in revenue from its primary agent service business. The net income generated was RMB9.3 million for the year 2012, and the net loss incurred was RMB6.5 million for the year 2013.
In April 2014, the Company entered into a supplemental acquisition agreement relating to Shanggu with Mr. Wu Jiang, the non-controlling shareholder of Shanggu. Pursuant to the supplemental agreement, (i) the put right of the seller (Note 2 (u)) to enforce the Company to acquire another 35% of the equity of Shanggu between 2014 and 2019 will be waived, (ii) Shanggu will pay dividends every half year according to the audited net profit after retaining operation cash of RMB10 million, and (iii) the Company reserves the right to acquire an additional 5% equity interest in Shanggu. The Group is currently in the process of evaluating the accounting implications of the above transactions.
F-38
IFM INVESTMENTS LIMITED
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(Amounts expressed in Renminbi ("RMB"), unless otherwise stated)
10. GOODWILL
The following summarizes the changes in goodwill allocated to the Group's reportable segments (Note 25) as of December 31, 2012 and 2013 (in RMB thousands):
|
Company-Owned Brokerage Services |
Franchise Services |
Primary and Commercial Services |
Total | |||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Balance as of January 1, 2012 |
3,537 | 8,696 | 102,465 | 114,698 | |||||||||
Acquisitions |
| | | | |||||||||
Impairments |
| | (10,755 | ) | (10,755 | ) | |||||||
Balance as of December 31, 2012 |
3,537 | 8,696 | 91,710 | 103,943 | |||||||||
Acquisitions |
| | | | |||||||||
Impairments |
| | (20,384 | ) | (20,384 | ) | |||||||
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Balance as of December 31, 2013 |
3,537 | 8,696 | 71,326 | 83,559 | |||||||||
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Goodwill impairment losses for the year ended December 31, 2013 were RMB20.4 million (US$3.4 million) from SG International Investments Limited (Note 9(b)), as a result of the shortfall in the results of operations of our Shanggu business unit.
The goodwill impairment loss was determined using the two-step method described in note 2(q) and the fair values of the respective reporting units were determined using the discounted cash flow approach. The discounted cash flows were based on assumptions consistent with the strategic plan used to manage the underlying business. The Company made adjustments to the cash flows and discount rate to reflect the significantly lower fair value of the reporting units implied by the Company's share price after allowing for share price volatility. The valuation, incorporating these adjustments, was based on a nine year cash flow model with a long term growth rate of 3%, a discount rate of 19% and a terminal value based primarily on the discount and growth rates.
F-39
IFM INVESTMENTS LIMITED
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(Amounts expressed in Renminbi ("RMB"), unless otherwise stated)
11. INTANGIBLE ASSETS, NET
The following summarizes the Group's intangible assets as of December 31, 2012 and 2013 (in RMB thousands):
|
CENTURY 21® franchise rights |
Customer relationships |
Real estate listing databases |
Trademark | Sub-franchisee base |
Brand name |
Mortgage credit license |
Total | |||||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Cost |
48,747 | 14,760 | 541 | 403 | 2,044 | 45,214 | 6,666 | 118,375 | |||||||||||||||||
Accumulated amortization |
(19,468 | ) | (1,605 | ) | (273 | ) | (140 | ) | (704 | ) | | (358 | ) | (22,548 | ) | ||||||||||
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Balance as of January 1, 2012 |
29,279 | 13,155 | 268 | 263 | 1,340 | 45,214 | 6,308 | 95,827 | |||||||||||||||||
Additions |
| | | | | | | | |||||||||||||||||
Amortization |
(2,348 | ) | (2,070 | ) | (54 | ) | (40 | ) | (704 | ) | | (358 | ) | (5,574 | ) | ||||||||||
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Balance as of December 31, 2012 |
26,931 | 11,085 | 214 | 223 | 636 | 45,214 | 5,950 | 90,253 | |||||||||||||||||
Additions |
| | | | | | | | |||||||||||||||||
Amortization |
(2,348 | ) | (2,070 | ) | (54 | ) | (40 | ) | (636 | ) | | (358 | ) | (5,506 | ) | ||||||||||
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Balance as of December 31, 2013 |
24,583 | 9,015 | 160 | 183 | | 45,214 | 5,592 | 84,747 | |||||||||||||||||
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
The franchise rights acquired from Realogy entitled the Group to use and sub-franchise the CENTURY 21® brand in China. The franchise rights for China acquired from Realogy have a contractual period of 25 years with a specific renewal clause for another 25 years upon payment by the Company of US$4.5 million. The Group considered its historical experience in renewing or extending similar franchise agreements when determining the estimated useful life of the franchise rights acquired from Realogy. Given the lack of historical experience of the Group in renewing or extending similar arrangements with Realogy as the franchise relationship was first entered into with Realogy in 2000 for 25 years, the Group considered assumptions that market participants would use about the renewal or extension provisions. Since it is uncertain whether market participants would pay this US$4.5 million for the renewal of franchise rights in the future, the Group considered this entity-specific factor and determined that the estimated useful life of the franchise rights acquired from Realogy is the contractual period of 25 years, over which the recognized intangible assets are being amortized. The Group has determined that the customer relationship acquired from Shanggu acquisition has a useful life of 7 years and is amortized on a straight-line basis. The brand name arose from the acquisition of Shanggu and is an indefinite-lived intangible asset and is not amortized but is tested for impairment annually or whenever events or circumstances indicate that impairment may have occurred.
The Group has recorded approximately RMB4.8 million, RMB5.6 million and RMB5.5 million of amortization for intangible assets for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2012 and 2013, respectively.
F-40
IFM INVESTMENTS LIMITED
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(Amounts expressed in Renminbi ("RMB"), unless otherwise stated)
11. INTANGIBLE ASSETS, NET (Continued)
Based on the Group's intangible assets subject to amortization, the annual estimated amortization expense related to the above intangible assets is as follows (in RMB thousands):
2014 |
4,869 | |||
2015 |
4,869 | |||
2016 |
4,869 | |||
2017 |
4,869 | |||
2018 |
3,813 | |||
Thereafter |
16,244 | |||
| | | | |
Total |
39,533 | |||
| | | | |
| | | | |
Management has assessed the intangible assets for the year ended December 31, 2013 for any impairment and no impairment was recognized.
12. ACCRUED EXPENSES AND OTHER CURRENT LIABILITIES
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities consisted of the following (in RMB thousands):
|
December 31, | ||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
2012 | 2013 | |||||
Salaries, commissions and welfare payable |
129,855 | 146,307 | |||||
Taxes payable |
40,877 | 46,045 | |||||
Royalty fees payable |
1,435 | 718 | |||||
Third party deposits |
16,491 | 13,047 | |||||
Professional fees payable |
4,065 | 6,584 | |||||
Property refinancing loan payable |
| 86,210 | |||||
Other current liabilities |
24,971 | 29,123 | |||||
| | | | | | | |
Total |
217,694 | 328,034 | |||||
| | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | |
Royalty fees payable relate to the Master Franchise Agreement entered into with Realogy. The royalty fees are determined based on the Group's franchise revenue for the periods.
13. DEFERRED REVENUE
Cash received in advance on contracts is deferred and recognized when the services are rendered. The deferred revenue is primarily related to advances received from customers relating to brokerage commissions and initial franchise fees received from franchisees. The deferred revenue as of December 31, 2012 and 2013 were RMB8.5 million and RMB19.9 million, respectively.
14. LONG-TERM DEPOSITS PAYABLE
The Group receives security deposits from franchisees which are recorded as long-term deposits payable. These deposits are refundable at the end of the franchise agreement period if the franchisees do not breach the franchise agreements. The long-term deposits payable as of December 31, 2012 and 2013 were RMB10.5 million, and RMB10.6 million respectively.
F-41
IFM INVESTMENTS LIMITED
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(Amounts expressed in Renminbi ("RMB"), unless otherwise stated)
15. INCOME TAXES
Taxation in the Cayman Islands and the British Virgin Islands
Neither the Cayman Islands nor the British Virgin Islands currently levies taxes on individuals or corporations based upon profits, income, gains or appreciation. Additionally, upon payments of dividends by the Company to its shareholders, no Cayman Islands or BVI withholding tax will be imposed.
The Company and IFM Co. are tax-exempted companies incorporated in the Cayman Islands. Genius is a tax-exempted company incorporated in the British Virgin Islands.
Taxation in Hong Kong
CIR is subject to income tax rate 16.5% in 2011, 2012 and 2013.
BVMC is subject to income tax rate of 16.5% in 2011, 2012 and 2013.
PRC Corporate Income Tax
On March 16, 2007, the National People's Congress of PRC enacted the Corporate Income Tax Law, under which Foreign Investment Enterprises and domestic companies would be subject to CIT at a uniform rate of 25%. This became effective on January 1, 2008. In accordance with the CIT Law, there will be a transition period for enterprises which currently receive preferential tax treatments granted by relevant tax authorities. Enterprises that are subject to a corporate income tax rate lower than 25% may continue to enjoy the lower rate and gradually transition to the new tax rate within five years after the effective date of the CIT Law.
As Shanghai Ruifeng and Anshijie are both registered in Shanghai Pu Dong New Area, and Shenzhen CIR is registered in Shenzhen special economic zone, they are subject to the preferential income tax rate of 15% according to the Foreign Investment and Foreign Enterprise Income Tax Law before 2008. From January 1, 2008 onwards, the income tax rate is to be increased progressively from 18% to 25% from 2008 to 2012, respectively. Accordingly, they are subject to income tax rate of 24%, 25% and 25% in 2011, 2012 and 2013, respectively.
In October 2009, Beijing Huachuangxunjie Technology Co., Ltd., or Huachuang, obtained a Software Enterprise Certification which entitled it to exemption from corporate income tax in 2009 and 2010.
In September 2011, Kudian obtained a Software Enterprise Certification which entitles it to exemption from CIT for the first two years in which it has taxable income and a 50% reduction in CIT for each of the following three years. 2011 is the first year with taxable income. For the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2012, Kudian is exempted for the income tax provision, and for the years ended December 31, 2013, Kudian is 50% reduction for the income tax provision.
F-42
IFM INVESTMENTS LIMITED
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(Amounts expressed in Renminbi ("RMB"), unless otherwise stated)
15. INCOME TAXES (Continued)
The provision for income tax is as follows (in RMB thousands):
|
Years ended December 31, | |||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
2011 | 2012 | 2013 | |||||||
Income tax provision: |
||||||||||
Current |
1,498 | 8,484 | 3,289 | |||||||
Deferred |
(395 | ) | (5,771 | ) | (5,621 | ) | ||||
| | | | | | | | | | |
Total |
1,103 | 2,713 | (2,332 | ) | ||||||
| | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
The following table presents the tax impact of significant temporary differences between the tax and financial statement bases of assets and liabilities that gave rise to deferred tax assets and liabilities as of December 31, 2012 and 2013 (in RMB thousands):
|
December 31, | ||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
2012 | 2013 | |||||
Current |
|||||||
Deferred tax assets: |
|||||||
Allowance for doubtful accounts |
4,333 | 5,543 | |||||
Deferred revenue |
838 | 1,898 | |||||
Accrued expense and payroll |
35,050 | 39,266 | |||||
Advertising expense |
861 | 479 | |||||
Net operating loss carry forwards |
| | |||||
| | | | | | | |
Total deferred tax assets |
41,082 | 47,186 | |||||
Less: valuation allowance |
(36,202 | ) | (37,556 | ) | |||
| | | | | | | |
Net deferred tax assetscurrent |
4,880 | 9,630 | |||||
| | | | | | | |
Non-current |
|||||||
Deferred tax assets: |
|||||||
Net operating loss carry forwards |
126,341 | 144,678 | |||||
Intangible assets and property and equipment |
5,599 | 4,695 | |||||
| | | | | | | |
Total deferred tax assets |
131,940 | 149,373 | |||||
Less: valuation allowance |
(131,940 | ) | (149,373 | ) | |||
| | | | | | | |
|
| | |||||
| | | | | | | |
Deferred tax liabilities: |
|||||||
Intangible assets and property and equipment |
(16,652 | ) | (15,781 | ) | |||
| | | | | | | |
Net deferred tax liabilitiesnon-current |
(16,652 | ) | (15,781 | ) | |||
| | | | | | | |
The Group made full valuation allowance against net deferred tax assets of other entities except for Shanggu as of December 31, 2013. The Group evaluates a variety of factors in determining the amount of valuation allowance, including the Group's limited operating history, accumulated deficit, existence of taxable temporary differences and expected reversal periods. For Shanggu, the deferred tax assets resulted from commission payable. We have assessed Shanggu has entered sufficient sales framework contracts with real estate developer to guarantee a sufficient taxable income in 2013.
F-43
IFM INVESTMENTS LIMITED
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(Amounts expressed in Renminbi ("RMB"), unless otherwise stated)
15. INCOME TAXES (Continued)
Considering the positive evidence, and the absence of significant negative evidence, we concluded that the deferred tax assets are more likely than not to be realized in 2014 and the valuation allowance is hence not needed.
The following table sets forth the movements of the valuation allowance for net deferred tax assets for the years presented (in RMB thousands):
|
Years ended December 31, | |||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
2011 | 2012 | 2013 | |||||||
Balance at beginning of the year |
(62,628 | ) | (152,872 | ) | (168,142 | ) | ||||
Write-back/(provision) for the year |
(90,244 | ) | (15,270 | ) | (18,787 | ) | ||||
| | | | | | | | | | |
Balance at end of the year |
(152,872 | ) | (168,142 | ) | (186,929 | ) | ||||
| | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
The Group had total net operating losses carried forward as of December 31, 2011, 2012 and 2013 amounting to RMB481.7 million, RMB518.4 million and RMB578.7 million respectively, which will expire between 2014 and 2018.
The combined effects of the CIT exemption and tax rate reductions for the year ended December 31, 2011, were to decrease net loss by RMB4.5 million and basic and diluted net loss per share by RMB0.01. The combined effects of the CIT exemption and tax rate reductions for the year ended December 31, 2012, were to decrease net loss by RMB5.1 million and basic and diluted net loss per share by RMB0.01. The combined effects of the CIT exemption and tax rate reductions for the year ended December 31, 2013, were to decrease net loss by RMB0.03million and basic and diluted net loss per share by RMB0.00.
A reconciliation of income tax at the statutory income tax rate to the Group's effective tax rate is as follows:
|
Years ended December 31, | |||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
2011 | 2012 | 2013 | |||||||
Statutory income tax rates |
(25.0 | )% | (25.0 | )% | (25.0 | )% | ||||
Effect of preferential tax rate |
(1.0 | )% | 0.2 | % | 0.0 | % | ||||
Effect of income tax rate changes |
(0.6 | )% | 0.0 | % | (2.3 | )% | ||||
Changes in valuation allowance |
26.6 | % | 31.2 | % | 24.9 | % | ||||
Effect of goodwill impairment loss |
2.3 | % | 5.7 | % | 5.8 | % | ||||
Effect of fair value changes |
(1.9 | )% | (6.3 | )% | (6.2 | )% | ||||
Others |
0.0 | % | (0.1 | )% | 0.2 | % | ||||
| | | | | | | | | | |
Effective tax rate |
0.4 | % | 5.7 | % | (2.6 | )% | ||||
| | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
On December 6, 2007, the State Council issued the detailed implementation regulations of the new PRC Corporate tax law. Pursuant to the regulations, a 10% withholding income tax will be levied on dividends declared on or after January 1, 2008 by foreign investment enterprises to their foreign enterprise shareholders unless the enterprise investor is deemed as a PRC Tax Resident Enterprise ("TRE").
F-44
IFM INVESTMENTS LIMITED
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(Amounts expressed in Renminbi ("RMB"), unless otherwise stated)
15. INCOME TAXES (Continued)
The Company's subsidiaries, except Shanggu have determined that they have no present plan to declare and pay any dividend on their shares in the foreseeable future. The Group plans to continue to reinvest its subsidiaries' undistributed earnings in their operations in China in the foreseeable future. As of December 31, 2012 and 2013, the Company's subsidiaries were in a position of consolidated cumulative loss.
According to Shanggu's acquisition agreement in 2011, Shanggu will declare and pay dividends based on the audited profit of Shanggu after retaining operation cash of RMB 10.0 million. As of December 31, 2013, management intended to distribute earnings of Shanggu. Therefore, the undistributed earnings of Shanggu were subject to a 10% withholding tax and a deferred tax liability for associated withholding tax should be recorded as of December 31, 2013. As the undistributed earnings of Shanggu were nil as of December 31, 2013, deferred tax liabilities was nil as of December 31, 2013..
16. OTHER INCOME
Other income for the year ended December 31, 2013 was RMB7.4 million, mainly representing a tax refund from the local government of the Group's operating entities located in Shanghai.
17. NET INCOME (LOSS) PER SHARE AND PER ADS
The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted net income (loss) per ordinary share and ADS for the years ended December 31, 2011 ,2012 and 2013 (in RMB thousands, except per share and per ADS data):
|
2011 | 2012 | 2013 | |||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Numerator: |
||||||||||
Net income (loss) attributable to IFM Investments Limited |
(336,515 | ) | (53,511 | ) | (83,020 | ) | ||||
Numerator for basic and diluted net income (loss) per share |
(336,515 | ) | (53,511 | ) | (83,020 | ) | ||||
| | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Denominator: |
||||||||||
Weighted-average sharesbasic |
668,291 | 667,672 | 668,198 | |||||||
Potentially dilutive shares: |
||||||||||
Preferred shares* |
| | | |||||||
Options* |
| | | |||||||
Weighted averages sharesdiluted |
668,291 | 667,672 | 668,198 | |||||||
| | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Net income (loss) per sharebasic |
(0.50 | ) | (0.08 | ) | (0.12 | ) | ||||
| | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Net income (loss) per sharediluted |
(0.50 | ) | (0.08 | ) | (0.12 | ) | ||||
| | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Net income (loss) per ADSbasic |
(22.66 | ) | (3.61 | ) | (5.59 | ) | ||||
| | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Net income (loss) per ADSdiluted |
(22.66 | ) | (3.61 | ) | (5.59 | ) | ||||
| | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
F-45
IFM INVESTMENTS LIMITED
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(Amounts expressed in Renminbi ("RMB"), unless otherwise stated)
17. NET INCOME (LOSS) PER SHARE AND PER ADS (Continued)
For the years ended December 31, 2011, 2012 and 2013, 40.5 million, 39.1 million and 40.4 million shares of stock options were not included in diluted EPS under the if-converted method, respectively, because to do so would have been anti-dilutive.
18. TREASURY STOCK
In August 2010, the Group's Board of Directors authorized an ADS repurchase program to repurchase up to US$20 million of the Company's ADSs (each ADS represents 45 ordinary shares). The Company completed the repurchase of 22,478,850 shares of its Class A ordinary shares for approximately US$6.3 million (approximately RMB39.7million) as of December 31, 2011.
The Company cancelled all shares repurchased as of December 31, 2011.
19. SHAREHOLDER RIGHTS PLAN
The Company adopted a shareholder rights plan (the "Rights Plan") on November 17, 2010 and amended it on June 6, 2012 and November 15, 2013, which was designed to protect the best interests of the Company and its shareholders. Subject to limited exceptions, these rights will be exercisable if a person or group becomes an "acquiring person" by acquiring beneficial ownership of 15% or more of the Company's ordinary shares or commencing a tender or exchange offer which, if consummated, could result in a person owning 15% or more of the Company's ordinary shares (the "Triggering Event"). In addition, if a person or group acquires beneficial ownership of 15% or more of the Company's ordinary shares, each right will generally entitle the holder, other than the acquiring person or group, to acquire ordinary shares of the Company (or, in certain circumstances, other securities) having a market value equal to twice the right's then current exercise price.
The Company measures the rights based on their fair values. Considering the occurrence of the Triggering Event is remote, the grant date fair value of the rights is immaterial. There would be no impact on either basic or diluted EPS until the occurrence of the event triggering the ability to exercise the rights.
20. SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION
On August 18, 2006, and as amended and restated on October 19, 2007 and February 1, 2008, the Company adopted the 2006 Stock Incentive Plan and the Amended and Restated 2006 Stock Incentive Plan (the "Plan") under which 52.5 million shares have been authorized for issuance and 85.3 million shares have been reserved for issuance. In accordance with the Plan, if there is an adjustment to the then-in effect Series A Preferred Share conversion price, the number of shares reserved for issuance under the Plan shall be increased or decreased to such number of shares representing 8.41% of the equity interest of the Company, on a fully-diluted basis.
In 2007, two batches of share options were granted under the Plan. For share-based award granted with performance conditions (Batch A), one-third (1/3) of the option shall become vested and exercisable on the 181st day following the date of an IPO and the remaining two-thirds (2/3) of the share options shall become vested and exercisable on the first anniversary of an IPO. For share-based award granted with service conditions (Batch B), one-fourth (1/4) of the option shall vest and become
F-46
IFM INVESTMENTS LIMITED
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(Amounts expressed in Renminbi ("RMB"), unless otherwise stated)
20. SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION (Continued)
exercisable on the first anniversary of the effective date of the employment and the remaining three-fourths (3/4) shall vest quarterly over the following eight quarters.
In 2008, two batches of share options were granted under the Plan based on service conditions. For Batch C, one-third (1/3) of the share options shall vest and become exercisable on each of the first, second and third anniversary dates of the Effective Date of the Option Agreement. Under Batch D, one-third (1/3) of the share options shall vest and become exercisable on each of the first, second and third anniversary dates of the date of Employment of Optionee.
On February 2, 2009, the Company granted share options for 200,000 shares to a certain employee. One-third (1/3) of the share options should vest and become exercisable on each of the first, second and third anniversary dates of the date of employment of the option holder.
On July 20, 2009, the Company granted 700,000 share options to certain employees. One-third (1/3) of the share options should vest and become exercisable on each of the first, second and third anniversary dates of the date of employment of option holders.
On August 20, 2009, the Company granted 2,500,000 share options to certain employees. Of the total 2,500,000 share options granted, 1,500,000 share options should vest one-half (1/2) of the option on the first anniversary of the effective date of the employment agreement between the option holders and the Company, with the remaining share options vesting on each of the following four calendar quarters. The remaining 1,000,000 share options should vest one-third (1/3) of the share options on each of the first, second and third anniversary dates of the date of employment of the option holders.
On October 22, 2009, a special resolution of the Board was made to amend the Third Amended and Restated Articles of Association of the Company with respect to the performance-based adjustments to the Series A Preferred Shares, which resulted in a modification to the Company's share options. This modification made each share option exercisable into 0.87 ordinary shares upon the completion of an IPO (modified as "Proposed IPO" on January 27, 2010) prior to March 31, 2010. This modification does not result in any incremental fair value because the terms of the share options included such anti-dilution provisions.
On July 12, 2010, the Company granted 2,500,000 share options to certain employees. One-third (1/3) of the share options shall vest and become exercisable on each of the first, second and third anniversary dates of the Effective Date of this Option Agreement.
On December 16, 2010, the Company granted 2,750,000 share options to certain employees. One-half (1/2) of the share options shall vest and become exercisable on the first anniversary date of the Effective Date of this Option Agreement, with the remaining share options vesting on each of the following four quarters.
The exercise price for the purchase of share options upon the exercise of all or any portion of the share options shall be the Fair Market Value per share on the date of grant as determined by the Administrator in its sole discretion. Before the IPO, the Fair Market Value was provided by an independent third-party valuer at each of the share options' grant date. After the IPO, the Fair Market Value was determined based on the company's share price on the grant date. The term of the share options is five years from the grant date.
F-47
IFM INVESTMENTS LIMITED
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(Amounts expressed in Renminbi ("RMB"), unless otherwise stated)
20. SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION (Continued)
On September 1, 2012 and October 23, 2012, the Company separately granted 500,000 and 400,000 share options to certain employees. One-third (1/3) of the share options shall vest and become exercisable on each of the first, second and third anniversary dates of the Effective Date of this Option Agreement.
On November 11, 2013, the Company separately granted 2,577,120 share options to certain employees. One-third (1/3) of the share options shall vest and become exercisable on each of the first, second and third anniversary dates of the Effective Date of this Option Agreement.
The Board approved that the expiration dates of all outstanding and unexercised stock options granted under respective stock option agreements pursuant to the Company's amended and restated 2006 stock incentive plan are hereby extended to the fifth anniversary as of July 9, 2012. The Board also resolved that the exercise prices of all outstanding and unexercised stock options granted under respective stock option agreements pursuant to the Company's amended and restated 2006 stock incentive plan are hereby amended to US$1.18 per ADS, representing 100% of the 30-trading day volume weighted average price per ADS as of the date hereof, except that the exercise price of the outstanding and unexercised stock options granted to Donald Zhang is hereby amended to US$1.30 per ADS, representing 110% of 30-trading day volume weighted average price per ADS as of July 9, 2012. Accordingly, the incremental fair value of RMB 1,930,000 was recorded in the consolidated statements of operation for the year ended December 31, 2012.
Valuation Assumptions: The Company estimated the fair value of share options using the Black-Scholes Option Pricing valuation model. The fair value of each option grant is estimated on the date of grant with the following assumptions:
|
Years ended December 31, | ||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
2011 | 2012 | 2013 | ||||||
Expected volatility |
| 58.8% - 60.3% | 103.5 | % | |||||
Risk-free interest rate |
| 1.17% - 1.27% | 0.86 | % | |||||
Dividend yield |
| 0.00% | 0.00 | % | |||||
Expected term (in years) |
| 3.5 | 3.5 | ||||||
Weighted average fair value of the underlying shares on the date of option grants (US$) |
| 0.03 | 0.04 |
Expected Term: Due to insufficient historical information, giving consideration to the contractual terms of the share-based awards, the Company adopted the simplified method for estimating the expected term to represent the period that the Company's share-based awards are expected to be outstanding.
Expected Volatility: The fair value of share-based payments made through the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2013 was valued using the Black-Scholes Option Pricing valuation method with a volatility factor based on the historical stock prices of comparable companies in 2012 and on the historical prices of ADSs of the Company in 2013.
Expected Dividend: The Black-Scholes Option Pricing valuation model calls for a single expected dividend yield as an input. The Company has never declared or paid any cash dividends on its capital
F-48
IFM INVESTMENTS LIMITED
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(Amounts expressed in Renminbi ("RMB"), unless otherwise stated)
20. SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION (Continued)
stock, and the Company does not anticipate any dividend payments on its ordinary shares in the foreseeable future.
Risk-Free Interest Rate: The Company bases the risk-free interest rate used in the Black-Scholes Option Pricing valuation method on the implied yield currently available on China Treasury Bonds constant maturities with an approximate equivalent remaining term.
Estimated Pre-vesting Forfeitures: When estimating forfeitures, the Company considers both voluntary and company termination behavior.
The following table summarizes the Group's share options activities for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2012 and 2013:
|
|
Share options Outstanding | ||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Share options available |
Number of Share options |
Weighted Average Exercise Price (US$) |
|||||||
Balance as of December 31, 2008 |
10,576,880 | 41,900,000 | 0.12 | |||||||
| | | | | | | | | | |
Share options granted |
(3,400,000 | ) | 3,400,000 | 0.32 | ||||||
Share options cancelled/forfeited |
1,500,000 | (1,500,000 | ) | 0.11 | ||||||
| | | | | | | | | | |
Balance as of December 31, 2009 |
8,676,880 | 43,800,000 | 0.13 | |||||||
| | | | | | | | | | |
Share options granted |
(5,250,000 | ) | 5,250,000 | 0.27 | ||||||
Share options cancelled/forfeited |
2,150,000 | (2,150,000 | ) | 0.14 | ||||||
Share options exercised |
| (3,599,143 | ) | 0.11 | ||||||
| | | | | | | | | | |
Balance as of December 31, 2010 |
5,576,880 | 43,300,857 | 0.15 | |||||||
| | | | | | | | | | |
Share options granted |
| | | |||||||
Share options cancelled/forfeited |
1,840,536 | (1,840,536 | ) | 0.18 | ||||||
Share options exercised |
| (977,582 | ) | 0.09 | ||||||
| | | | | | | | | | |
Balance as of December 31, 2011 |
7,417,416 | 40,482,739 | 0.15 | |||||||
Share options granted |
(900,000 | ) | 900,000 | 0.03 | ||||||
Share options cancelled/forfeited |
2,300,000 | (2,300,000 | ) | 0.14 | ||||||
Balance as of December 31, 2012 |
8,817,416 | 39,082,739 | 0.02 | |||||||
| | | | | | | | | | |
Share options granted |
(2,577,120 | ) | 2,577,120 | 0.04 | ||||||
Share options exercised |
| (1,245,334 | ) | 0.02 | ||||||
Balance as of December 31, 2013 |
6,240,296 | 40,414,525 | 0.02 | |||||||
| | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
The weighted-average grant date fair value of options granted for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2012 and 2013 was US$0.13, US$0.01 and US$0.03 per option, respectively and no options were
F-49
IFM INVESTMENTS LIMITED
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(Amounts expressed in Renminbi ("RMB"), unless otherwise stated)
20. SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION (Continued)
granted in year 2011.The following table summarizes the weighted average remaining contractual life and exercise price for the share options outstanding and exercisable as of December 31, 2013:
|
Share options Outstanding | Share options Exercisable | |||||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Range of Exercise Prices (US$)
|
Number of options outstanding |
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life (In years) |
Weighted Average Exercise Price (US$) |
Number of options outstanding |
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life (In years) |
Weighted Average Exercise Price US($) |
|||||||||||||
$0.023 |
21,337,405 | 3.52 | 0.02 | 21,337,405 | 3.52 | 0.02 | |||||||||||||
$0.025 |
16,000,000 | 3.52 | 0.03 | 16,000,000 | 3.52 | 0.03 | |||||||||||||
$0.034 |
500,000 | 3.67 | 0.03 | 166,667 | 3.67 | 0.03 | |||||||||||||
$0.038 |
2,577,120 | 4.86 | 0.04 | | | | |||||||||||||
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
|
40,414,525 | 3.61 | 0.02 | 37,504,072 | 3.52 | 0.02 | |||||||||||||
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
There were 37,741,073, 37,766,073 and 37,504,072 share options exercisable as of December 31, 2011, 2012 and 2013 respectively. The total fair value of options vested are US$2,302,923, US$302,691 and US$300,296 (approximately RMB14,494,367, RMB1,885,795 and RMB1,817,902 ) as of December 31, 2011, 2012 and 2013, respectively. As of December 31, 2013, the intrinsic value of outstanding and exercisable share options were US$601,914 and $594,538, respectively, which is calculated as the difference between the company's closing stock price as of December 31, 2013 and the exercise price of the share option.
Share-based compensation expense for share-based awards granted with performance conditions is recognized using the graded-vesting method. The Company recognized compensation expense of US$1.4 million (approximately RMB9.5 million) from the IPO date, January 28, 2010, over the remaining vesting period of one year as the performance condition in the options was considered met.Share-based compensation expenses for share-based awards which are based on service conditions are recognized using the straight-line attribution approach.
On November 21, 2011, the Company agreed with an ex-emplyee ("Mr. Yung") that, subject to compliance of certain non-competition undertakings, his option agreement will remain effective as if he were an employee of the Company, including the terms regarding any option re-pricing or any extension of the exercise period from time to time. The Company accounted for this modification of the options on November 21, 2011 in accordance with the relevant stock compensation guidance. On July 9, 2012, the Group approved additional modification to the employees' outstanding options as of July 9, 2012 by decreasing the exercise prices to the current market value and extending the expiration date to fifth anniversary of the modification date. As a result, Mr. Yung's option was modified concurrently. Mr. Yung's options have been classified as liability and measured at fair value. Accordingly a liability of RMB 1,705,239 was reclassified from additional paid in capital as other current liabilities in the consolidated balance sheet, and a decrease in fair value of RMB1,535,865 has been recorded, the liability is RMB169,374 as of December 31, 2012. In October 2013, Mr. Yung exercised 23% of his options, and the liability was decreased by approximately RMB50,000. The liability is RMB163,604 as of December 31, 2013.
F-50
IFM INVESTMENTS LIMITED
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(Amounts expressed in Renminbi ("RMB"), unless otherwise stated)
20. SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION (Continued)
For the years ended December 31, 2011, 2012 and 2013, the Company recognized share-based compensation of approximately RMB3,234,000, RMB3,465,000 and RMB242,000, respectively. The amount of share based compensation was included in "Selling, general and administrative expenses in the Company's consolidated statements of operations.
As of December 31, 2013, there was US$66,883(approximately RMB404,890) of total unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested share-based compensation granted under the plan. The cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 2.79 years.
21. EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS
The Group participates in a government-mandated multi-employer defined contribution plan pursuant to which certain retirement, medical and other welfare benefits are provided to employees. PRC labor regulations require the companies to pay to the local labor bureau a monthly contribution at a stated contribution rate based on the monthly basic compensation of qualified employees. The relevant labor bureau is responsible for meeting all retirement benefit obligations; the Group has no further commitments beyond its monthly contribution. Employees of the Company located in the PRC are covered by the retirement schemes defined by local practice and regulations, which are essentially defined contribution schemes. The PRC government is directly responsible for the payments of the benefits to these employees.
The total contributions for such employee benefits were approximately RMB56.5 million, RMB45.1million and RMB55.5million for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2012 and 2013, respectively. Amounts accrued and included in salaries, commissions and welfare payable in the accompanying balance sheets were approximately RMB7.9 million, RMB8.0 million and RMB10.4 million as of December 31, 2011, 2012 and 2013, respectively.
22. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
The Group establishes franchise arrangements with franchisees in the PRC to grant trademark of "CENTURY 21®" for a contractual period and receives recurring franchise fees throughout the period. The Group is obligated to provide ongoing support to franchisees for the operation of "CENTURY 21®" system and provide operational guidance and training to franchisees.
The Group has operating lease agreements principally for its administrative offices and real estate brokerage stores. These leases expire by 2015 and are renewable upon negotiation. Rental expenses under operating leases for the years ended December 31, 2011 ,2012 and 2013 were RMB180.8 million , RMB114.0 million and RMB125.4 million , respectively.
F-51
IFM INVESTMENTS LIMITED
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(Amounts expressed in Renminbi ("RMB"), unless otherwise stated)
22. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (Continued)
Future minimum lease payments under these non-cancellable operating lease agreements as of December 31, 2013 are as follows (in RMB thousands):
For the year ending December 31,
|
|
|||
---|---|---|---|---|
2014 |
97,926 | |||
2015 |
63,641 | |||
2016 |
30,544 | |||
2017 |
19,805 | |||
2018 |
12,274 | |||
2019 |
2,350 | |||
| | | | |
Total |
226,540 | |||
| | | | |
| | | | |
The Group is required to pay annual minimum service fees to Realogy for the licensing of the CENTURY 21® brand to 2025. The minimum service fees is the greater of the minimum of US$100,000 (approximately RMB605,370) or an amount calculated by multiplying US$500 (approximately RMB3,027) by the number of sales offices in the Group's CENTURY 21® franchise network. The minimum service fees for future years are as follows (in RMB thousands):
2014 |
605 | |||
2015 |
605 | |||
2016 |
605 | |||
2017 |
605 | |||
2018 |
605 | |||
Thereafter |
3,784 | |||
| | | | |
Total |
6,809 | |||
| | | | |
| | | | |
From time to time, the Group is involved in claims and legal proceedings that arise in the ordinary course of business. Based on currently available information, management does not believe that the ultimate outcome of these unresolved matters, individually and in the aggregate, is likely to have a material adverse effect on the Group's financial position or results of operations. However, litigation is subject to inherent uncertainties and the Group's view of these matters may change in the future. When an unfavorable outcome to occur, there exists the possibility of a material adverse impact on the Group's financial position and results of operations for the periods in which the unfavorable outcome occurs, and potentially in future periods.
The contingent consideration payable arose from the Company's business acquisition of SG International Investments Limited in the second quarter of 2011 and is measured at fair value. The contingent consideration payable as of December 31, 2013 was RMB5.6 million (US$0.9 million).
F-52
IFM INVESTMENTS LIMITED
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(Amounts expressed in Renminbi ("RMB"), unless otherwise stated)
22. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (Continued)
The Group receives security deposits from franchisees which are recorded as long-term deposits payable. These deposits are refundable at the end of the franchise agreement period if the franchisees do not breach the franchise agreements. The long-term deposits payable as of December 31, 2013 were RMB10.6 million (US$1.8 million).
23. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
The table below sets forth the related parties and their relationships with the Group:
Related parties
|
Relationships with the Group | |
---|---|---|
Xian | Investment under the equity method | |
Fund Management Partnership | Investment under the equity method | |
TianRe Fund I | Investment under the equity method | |
GL Asia Mauritius II Cayman Ltd | Shareholder of the Company |
As of December 31, 2013, the company owned 75% of the equity interests of TianRe Co., Ltd. and the remaining 25% equity interests were owned by Everising. The Company's wholly-owned subsidiary, IFM BJ Inv is a 75% limited partner in the Fund Management Partnership, with Everising as the other limited partner holding the remaining 25% equity interest.
Refer to Note 7 for the related party transactions of the equity interests in TianRe Co., Ltd. and Fund Management Partnership. As of December 31, 2012 and 2013, the amounts due from/to related parties consisted of the following (in RMB thousands):
|
December 31, | ||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
2012 | 2013 | |||||
Amounts due from related parties |
|||||||
Fund Management Partnership |
109 | 141 | |||||
Xian |
| | |||||
Other |
1 | 1 | |||||
| | | | | | | |
Total amounts due from related parties |
110 | 142 | |||||
| | | | | | | |
Amounts due to related parties |
|||||||
Fund Management Partnership |
22 | 32 | |||||
Xian |
250 | 250 | |||||
| | | | | | | |
Total amounts due to related parties |
272 | 282 | |||||
| | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | |
Restructuring Deed
We entered into a restructuring deed with GLA, IFM Overseas Partners L.P. ("IFMOP"), Donald Zhang, Harry Lu and IFM Overseas Limited, the general partner of IFMOP, on April 27, 2012 and a supplemental deed to the restructuring deed on June 6, 2012 (collectively, the "Restructuring Deed"). Pursuant to the Restructuring Deed, (i) the parties of the Restructuring Deed released each other from
F-53
IFM INVESTMENTS LIMITED
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(Amounts expressed in Renminbi ("RMB"), unless otherwise stated)
23. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS (Continued)
all then outstanding claims under certain legal proceedings, including the petition to request an order to wind up our company and other remedies filed by GLA on December 30, 2011, (ii) the then existing secured note between GLA and IFMOP was amended and restated by the New Note, (iii) GLA was granted an option within a period of six months commencing on the earlier of the date of repayment or maturity of the New Note, to require IFMOP and us to buy or procure the purchase of all or any portion of our ordinary shares held by GLA, at a purchase price to be calculated based on the then current weighted average trading price of our ADSs or, if our ADSs or ordinary shares cease to be listed and traded on any stock exchange, the fair market value to be determined by a financial advisor, and (iv) GLA was granted certain other rights, including, among others, information rights and a right of prior approval over certain corporate matters relating to us and our business, including, among others, change in capital structure, disposal and acquisition of material assets, and incurrence of any material indebtedness.
The only accounting implication of the Deed is the put option granted to GLA, which was recorded as a liability and measured at fair value. The liability was RMB0.4 million and RMB0.5 million (US$ 0.1 million) as of December 31, 2012 and 2013, respectively.
24. VARIABLE INTEREST ENTITIES
To comply with PRC laws and regulations, the Company conducts certain business in the PRC through its VIEs. On September 6, 2010, the Company established two entities in Beijing, China, Beijing Kaisheng Chuangfu Investment Management Company Ltd. ("Chuangfu"), and Beijing Huaxing Tianye Investment Management Company Ltd.( Huaxing) which are VIEs consolidated by the Company ("VIEs"). On January 25, 2011, the Company, through its VIEs, acquired a company based in Beijing with a license to offer mortgage credit loans with properties as collateral.
The Group adopted the US GAAP guidance on consolidating VIEs which require certain VIEs to be consolidated by the primary beneficiary of the entity. Management evaluated the relationships among MMC BJ, the VIEs, and their shareholders and concluded that MMC BJ is the primary beneficiary of the VIEs as MMC BJ is entitled to substantially all the economic risks and rewards of the VIEs, and has the power to direct the activities that most significantly impact the VIEs. As a result, these VIEs' results of operations, assets and liabilities have been included in the Group's consolidated financial statements.
On November 24, 2010, the Company established Beijing Longhe Weiye Real Estate Brokerage Co., Ltd. to expand the Group's real estate brokerage service in Beijing.
F-54
IFM INVESTMENTS LIMITED
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(Amounts expressed in Renminbi ("RMB"), unless otherwise stated)
24. VARIABLE INTEREST ENTITIES (Continued)
The following tables set forth the assets, liabilities, results of operations and cash flows of the consolidated VIEs:
|
2012 RMB |
2013 RMB |
2013 US$ |
|||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Amounts due from related parties |
54,299 | 98,591 | 16,286 | |||||||
Other current assets |
59,217 | 132,350 | 21,863 | |||||||
| | | | | | | | | | |
Total current assets |
113,516 | 230,941 | 38,149 | |||||||
| | | | | | | | | | |
Intangible assets, net |
5,950 | 5,592 | 924 | |||||||
| | | | | | | | | | |
Total assets |
119,466 | 236,533 | 39,073 | |||||||
| | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Accounts payable |
5 | 7 | 1 | |||||||
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities |
1,558 | 90,985 | 15,030 | |||||||
Amounts due to related parties |
39,680 | 64,529 | 10,659 | |||||||
| | | | | | | | | | |
Total current liabilities |
41,243 | 155,521 | 25,690 | |||||||
| | | | | | | | | | |
Deferred tax liabilities |
1,667 | 1,399 | 231 | |||||||
| | | | | | | | | | |
Total liabilities |
42,910 | 156,920 | 25,921 | |||||||
| | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
|
2011 RMB |
2012 RMB |
2013 RMB |
2013 US$ |
|||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Net revenue |
698 | 4,293 | 11,586 | 1,914 | |||||||||
Net income/(loss) |
(1,863 | ) | 487 | 927 | 153 |
|
2011 RMB |
2012 RMB |
2013 RMB |
2013 US$ |
|||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities |
44,149 | (24,636 | ) | (20,480 | ) | (3,383 | ) | ||||||
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities |
(12,258 | ) | 3,657 | (38,901 | ) | (6,426 | ) | ||||||
Net cash provided by financing activities: |
500 | 38,000 | 18,450 | 3,048 | |||||||||
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net ( increase ) decrease in cash and cash equivalents |
32,391 | 17,021 | (40,931 | ) | (6,761 | ) | |||||||
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
For all these VIE entities, as of December 31, 2013, the total assets of the consolidated VIEs mainly comprising loan receivable, prepaid expenses, other current assets and intangible assets, which was a mortgage credit license, there was no pledge or collateralization of these assets. As of December 31, 2013, the total liabilities of the consolidated VIEs mainly comprising accrued expenses and other current liabilities. There are no VIEs where the Company has a variable interest but is not the primary beneficiary. The balances and transactions of the consolidated VIEs were reflected in the Company's consolidated financial statements with intercompany transactions eliminated.
The net cash used in operating activities in 2012 and the cash used in operating activities in 2013 were mainly resulted from the transactions with other subsidiaries within the Group and cash flows associated with property refinancing activities.. Cash used in investing activities in 2013 was mainly the result of the net effect of providing and receiving repayment on mortgage credit loans. Cash provided
F-55
IFM INVESTMENTS LIMITED
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(Amounts expressed in Renminbi ("RMB"), unless otherwise stated)
24. VARIABLE INTEREST ENTITIES (Continued)
by financing activities in 2013 was mainly the result of the net cash flow from the property refinancing activities.
Unrecognized revenue-producing assets held by the VIE primarily include the customer relationships. Recognized revenue-producing assets held by the VIE include mortgage credit license, which was acquired upon the acquisition of the aforementioned company providing mortgage credit loan.
Under contractual agreements with the Group, those employees of the Group who are shareholders of the VIEs are required to transfer their ownership in these entities to the Group, if permitted by PRC laws and regulations, or, if not so permitted, to designees of the Group at any time to repay the loans outstanding. The VIEs conferred an exclusive and irrevocable right to the Company that the Company can purchase all or part of the shares of the acquired company at a price of RMB1.0 at its own discretion under the Chinese law. Those employees of the Group who are shareholders of the VIEs have pledged their shares in the VIEs as collateral for the loans. As of December 31, 2013, the aggregate amount of these loans was RMB80.5 million (US$13.3 million).
In accordance with the VIE agreements, the Company has power to direct activities of the VIEs, and can have assets transferred out of the VIEs and their subsidiaries without any restrictions. Therefore, the Company considers that there is no asset in the consolidated VIEs that can be used only to settle obligations of the consolidated VIEs except for registered capitals and PRC statutory reserves of the VIEs and the VIEs' subsidiaries amounting to RMB 80.5 million (US$12.9 million) and RMB 80.5 million (US$13.3 million) as of December 31, 2012 and 2013, respectively. As all the consolidated VIEs are incorporated as limited liability companies under the PRC Company Law, creditors of the VIEs do not have recourse to the general credit of the Company for any of the liabilities of the consolidated VIEs. Accordingly, the creditors of all the liabilities of Company's consolidated VIEs do not have recourse to the Company's general credit. Currently there is no contractual arrangement that could require the Company to provide additional financial support to the consolidated VIEs. As the Company will conduct certain business in the PRC through the VIEs, the Company may provide such support on a discretionary basis in the future, which could expose the Company to a loss.
Agreements between consolidated VIEs and Nominee Shareholders
Loan agreements between MMC BJ and the respective shareholders of Huaxing and Chuangfu: These loan agreements provide for loans to the shareholders of Huaxing and Chuangfu (hereinafter "shareholders") to acquire the equity interests in Beijing Huijin Co., Ltd. (hereinafter "Huijin") through Huaxing and Chuangfu. The loans are interest free. MMC BJ and any third party(s) designated by it have the right, exercisable on their own will and at any time when it becomes legal to do so under PRC law, to purchase from Huaxing and Chuangfu all or any part of their equity interests in Huijin (hereinafter "Exclusive Purchase Right") and the purchase price will be used to repay the loans. The shareholders cannot repay the loans by other means except acquiring the written consent of MMC BJ in advance. The shareholders guarantee, where MMC BJ or any third party(s) designated by it exercise Exclusive Purchase Right, they will make shareholder decisions to ensure that Huaxing and Chuangfu waive their first refusal on the equity of Huijin. The shareholders also guarantee that all their equity interests in Huaxing and Chuangfu and all equity interests of Huijin held by Huaxing and Chuangfu
F-56
IFM INVESTMENTS LIMITED
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(Amounts expressed in Renminbi ("RMB"), unless otherwise stated)
24. VARIABLE INTEREST ENTITIES (Continued)
will be pledged to MMC BJ as security to the relevant debts and without MMC BJ prior written consent, shareholders shall not (1) sell, transfer, pledge or dispose by any other means their equity or any interests in Huijin; (2) take any actions/negative act which may have major influences on the assets, business or responsibility of Huijin.
Exclusive consulting and service agreement between Huaxing and Chuangfu on one side and MMC BJ on the other side: Under this agreement, MMC BJ provides exclusive technical consultation and relevant service to Huaxing and Chuangfu in exchange for consulting service fees based on the net profit of Huaxing and Chuangfu. The term of this agreement is 20 years and may be extended for 20 years automatically, unless MMC BJ gives disagreement of such extension in writing three months prior to the expiration of this agreement. Under this agreement, Huaxing and Chuangfu need to consult MMC BJ's advice before making any important decisions on business and operation which may influence the exclusive cooperation of Huaxing and Chuangfu and MMC BJ under this agreement. Huaxing and Chuangfu promise to follow the reasonable instructions given by MMC BJ.
Equity pledge agreement among MMC BJ, Huaxing and Chuangfu, and the respective shareholders of Huaxing and Chuangfu(the "Guarantor"): Under this agreement the shareholders pledge to MMC BJ their equity interests in Huaxing and Chuangfu and Huaxing and Chuangfu pledge to MMC BJ their equity interests in Huijin to secure the performance of their obligations under Loan Agreements and Exclusive consulting and service agreement. The Guarantor confirms that they will waive their respective right of first refusal of the pledged equity interests under this agreement when MMC BJ exercising the Pledge and they will not transfer all or any part of the equity interests of Huaxing, Chuangfu and Huijin to any third party, place the existence of any pledge, guarantee or other security interest on such equity interests during the term of pledge, except for the consent adopted by MMC BJ and Guarantor. The Guarantor hereby irrevocably grants MMC BJ an irrevocable and exclusive right to purchase, or designate one or more persons (the "Designee") to purchase the equity interests in Huijin then held by Huaxing and/or Chuangfu in part or in whole at MMC BJ and Designee 's sole and absolute discretion to the extent permitted by Chinese laws and at the price of 1 RMB Yuan. Unless MMC BJ waives Exclusive Purchase Right in writing , such right will exist permanently. The Guarantor further guarantee that without MMC BJ's prior written consent, other than normal business operation, the Guarantor shall not make any shareholders' decisions on disposal of the assets, business income or its beneficial interest of Huaxing, Chuangfu and Huijin; Without MMC BJ's prior written consent, the Guarantor shall not make any shareholders' decisions to permit Huaxing, Chuangfu and Huijin to bear any indebtedness, especially the loan. The Guarantor irrevocably grants MMC BJ exercising the whole shareholders' rights of Huaxing, Chuangfu and Huijin, appoint or impel MMC BJ to appoint the nominees of MMC BJ as the directors, senior manager and financial officer of Huaxing, Chuangfu and Huijin. The term of this agreement will not end until the obligations secured by the pledge are all fully fulfilled.
Risks associated with VIEs
It is possible that the Company's operation of certain of its operations and businesses through VIEs could be found by PRC authorities to be in violation of PRC laws and regulations prohibiting or restricting foreign ownership of companies that engage in such operations and businesses. If such a finding were made, regulatory authorities with jurisdiction over the licensing and operation of such
F-57
IFM INVESTMENTS LIMITED
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(Amounts expressed in Renminbi ("RMB"), unless otherwise stated)
24. VARIABLE INTEREST ENTITIES (Continued)
operations businesses would have broad discretion in dealing with such a violation, including levying fines, confiscating the Company's income, revoking the business or operating licenses of the affected businesses, requiring the Company to restructure its ownership structure or operations, or requiring the Company to discontinue all or any portion of its operations.Any of these actions could cause significant disruption to the Company's business operations, and have a materially adverse impact on the Company's cash flows, financial position and operating performance. The Company's management considers the possibility of such a finding by PRC regulatory authorities to be remote.
In addition, it is possible that the contracts with the Company, the Company's VIEs and shareholders of its VIEs would not be enforceable in China if PRC government authorities or courts were to find that such contracts contravene PRC laws and regulations or are otherwise not enforceable for public policy reasons. In the event that the Company was unable to enforce these contractual arrangements, the Company would not be able to exert effective control over the affected VIEs. Consequently, such VIE's results of operations, assets and liabilities would not be included in the Company's consolidated financial statements. If such were the case, the Company's cash flows, financial position and operating performance would be materially adversely affected. The Company's contractual arrangements with respect to its consolidated VIEs are approved and in place. The Company's management believes that such contracts are enforceable, and considers the possibility remote that PRC regulatory authorities with jurisdiction over the Company's operations and contractual relationships would find the contracts to be unenforceable.
25. SEGMENT INFORMATION
The reportable segments represent the Group's operating segments for which separate financial information is available and which is utilized on a regular basis by its chief operating decision maker ("CODM") to assess performance and to allocate resources. In identifying its reportable segments, the Group also considers the nature of services provided by its operating segments. The Group's CODM has been identified as the Chairman and Vice Chairman, who review the consolidated and segment results when making decisions about allocation of resources and assessing performance of the Group.
Management has determined that the Group operates in four reportable segments: Company-owned Brokerage Services, Franchise Services, Mortgage Management Services and Primary and Commercial Services.
The Mortgage Management Services business grew substantially in 2008 and accordingly had its revenue, costs and expenses reviewed separately by the CODM starting from 2008.
Primary and Commercial Services grew substantially in 2010 and accordingly had its revenue, costs and expenses reviewed separately by the CODM starting from 2010. All segment data for all prior years presented have been restated to reflect the Primary and Commercial Services segment as a separate segment.
Management evaluates the operating results of each of its reportable segments based upon (1) revenue from external customers, (2) commissions and other agent-related costs, (3) operating costs, (4) selling, general and administrative expense, (5) income (loss) from operations and (6) net income (loss), each of which is presented in the Group's Consolidated Statements of Operations.
F-58
IFM INVESTMENTS LIMITED
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(Amounts expressed in Renminbi ("RMB"), unless otherwise stated)
25. SEGMENT INFORMATION (Continued)
As the asset information is not included in the reporting package reviewed by the CODM nor in any other public reports, the disclosure of the asset information by segment is not necessary.
The following tables summarize the selected revenue and expenses information for each reportable segment for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2012 and 2013:
|
Year ended December 31, 2011 (in RMB thousands) | ||||||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Company-Owned Brokerage Services |
Franchise Services |
Mortgage Management Services |
Primary and Commercial Services |
Non-allocated | Total | |||||||||||||
Revenue from external customers |
513,375 | 23,546 | 22,903 | 44,735 | | 604,559 | |||||||||||||
Commissions and other agent-related costs |
(394,865 | ) | (1,490 | ) | (6,786 | ) | (25,779 | ) | | (428,920 | ) | ||||||||
Operating costs |
(271,562 | ) | (8,873 | ) | (1,672 | ) | (14,352 | ) | (193 | ) | (296,652 | ) | |||||||
Selling, general and administrative expenses |
(107,843 | ) | (15,492 | ) | (10,696 | ) | (17,052 | ) | (67,027 | ) | (218,110 | ) | |||||||
Goodwill impairment |
(4,374 | ) | | | (26,240 | ) | (30,614 | ) | |||||||||||
Net fair value change in contingent consideration |
| | | 25,716 | | 25,716 | |||||||||||||
(Loss) income from operations |
(265,269 | ) | (2,309 | ) | 3,749 | (12,972 | ) | (67,220 | ) | (344,021 | ) | ||||||||
Net (loss) income |
(264,722 | ) | (2,311 | ) | 3,620 | (12,972 | ) | (64,025 | ) | (340,410 | ) |
|
Year ended December 31, 2012 (in RMB thousands) | ||||||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Company-Owned Brokerage Services |
Franchise Services |
Mortgage Management Services |
Primary and Commercial Services |
Non-allocated | Total | |||||||||||||
Revenue from external customers |
623,927 | 13,405 | 25,686 | 85,115 | | 748,133 | |||||||||||||
Commissions and other agent-related costs |
(394,089 | ) | (1,221 | ) | (6,981 | ) | (52,991 | ) | | (455,282 | ) | ||||||||
Operating costs |
(156,460 | ) | (6,125 | ) | (1,432 | ) | (11,313 | ) | | (175,330 | ) | ||||||||
Selling, general and administrative expenses |
(85,970 | ) | (7,993 | ) | (10,873 | ) | (12,049 | ) | (60,590 | ) | (177,475 | ) | |||||||
Goodwill impairment |
| | | (10,755 | ) | (10,755 | ) | ||||||||||||
Net fair value change in contingent consideration |
| | | 10,453 | 1,536 | 11,989 | |||||||||||||
(Loss) income from operations |
(12,592 | ) | (1,934 | ) | 6,400 | 8,460 | (59,054 | ) | (58,720 | ) | |||||||||
Net (loss) income |
(6,405 | ) | (1,930 | ) | 6,128 | 5,435 | (53,312 | ) | (50,084 | ) |
F-59
IFM INVESTMENTS LIMITED
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(Amounts expressed in Renminbi ("RMB"), unless otherwise stated)
25. SEGMENT INFORMATION (Continued)
|
Year ended December 31, 2013 (in RMB thousands) | ||||||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Company-Owned Brokerage Services |
Franchise Services |
Mortgage Management Services |
Primary and Commercial Services |
Non-allocated | Total | |||||||||||||
Revenue from external customers |
691,343 | 11,987 | 36,788 | 137,333 | | 877,451 | |||||||||||||
Commissions and other agent-related costs |
(468,385 | ) | (1,977 | ) | (7,844 | ) | (84,230 | ) | | (562,436 | ) | ||||||||
Operating costs |
(159,541 | ) | (5,939 | ) | (5,430 | ) | (13,481 | ) | (2 | ) | (184,393 | ) | |||||||
Selling, general and administrative expenses |
(124,079 | ) | (9,014 | ) | (13,237 | ) | (19,076 | ) | (68,659 | ) | (234,065 | ) | |||||||
Goodwill impairment |
| | | (20,384 | ) | | (20,384 | ) | |||||||||||
Net fair value change in contingent consideration |
| | | 22,172 | (103 | ) | 22,069 | ||||||||||||
Loss from operations |
(60,662 | ) | (4,943 | ) | 10,277 | 22,334 | (68,764 | ) | (101,758 | ) | |||||||||
Net (loss) income |
(53,914 | ) | (4,924 | ) | 10,003 | 24,402 | (61,510 | ) | (85,943 | ) |
26. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
In April 2014, the Company entered into a supplemental acquisition agreement relating to Shanggu with Mr. Wu Jiang, the non-controlling shareholder of Shanggu. Pursuant to the supplemental agreement, (i) the put right of the seller (Note 2 (u)) to enforce the Company to acquire another 35% of the equity of Shanggu between 2014 and 2019 will be waived, (ii) Shanggu will pay dividends every half year according to the audited net profit after retaining operation cash of RMB10 million, and (iii) the Company reserves the right to acquire an additional 5% equity interest in Shanggu. The Group is currently in the process of evaluating the accounting implications of the above transactions.
27. RESTRICTED NET ASSETS
Relevant PRC laws and regulations permit payments of dividends by the Company's PRC subsidiaries only out of their retained earnings, if any, as determined in accordance with PRC accounting standards and regulations. In addition, the PRC subsidiaries are required to annually appropriate 10% of net after-tax income to the general reserve fund or statutory surplus fund (see Note 2(x)) prior to payment of any dividends, unless such reserve funds have reached 50% of its respective registered capital. As a result of these and other restrictions under PRC laws and regulations, the PRC subsidiaries are restricted in their ability, which restricted portion amounted to approximately RMB764.3 million and RMB769.6 million as of December 31, 2012 and 2013, respectively. Even though the Company currently does not require any such dividends, loans or advances from the PRC subsidiaries for working capital and other funding purposes, the Company may in the future require additional cash resources from the PRC subsidiaries due to changes in business conditions, to fund future acquisitions and development, or merely to declare and pay dividends to make distributions to shareholders.
F-60
IFM INVESTMENTS LIMITED
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(Amounts expressed in Renminbi ("RMB"), unless otherwise stated)
28. ADDITIONAL INFORMATIONCONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The Company performed a test on the restricted net assets of consolidated subsidiaries and VIE in accordance with Securities and Exchange Commission Regulation S-X Rule 4-08 (e) (3), "General Notes to Financial Statements" and concluded the restricted net assets exceed 25% of the consolidated net assets of the Company as of December 31, 2013. Therefore the separate condensed financial statements of the Company should be presented with the Company's investments in its subsidiary under the equity method of accounting.
The Company was incorporated in the Cayman Islands on November 30, 2005, by IFM Holding Company Ltd., a Cayman Islands exempt company. IFM Holding was a wholly-owned subsidiary of Maxpro International Enterprise, Inc. ("Maxpro"), a New York corporation. Maxpro was 100% owned by Mr. Donald Zhang through D&M Capital Corporation.
The subsidiaries did not pay any dividend to the Company for the years presented. Certain information and footnote disclosures generally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with US GAAP have been condensed and omitted. The footnote disclosures contain supplemental information relating to the operations of the Company, as such, these statements should be read in conjunction with the notes to the consolidated financial statements of the Company.
The Company did not have significant capital and other commitments, long-term obligations, or guarantees as of December 31, 2013.
Operating expenses for the Company for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2012 and 2013 included share-based compensation as a result of the options granted to employees of the Company in 2011, 2012 and 2013. Total share-based compensation for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2012 and 2013 were approximately RMB3,234,000, RMB3,465,000 and RMB 242,000 respectively.
F-61
IFM INVESTMENTS LIMITED
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(Amounts expressed in Renminbi ("RMB"), unless otherwise stated)
28. ADDITIONAL INFORMATIONCONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
Financial information of parent company
Condensed Balance Sheets
(in thousands, except par value)
|
December 31, | |||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
2012 RMB |
2013 RMB |
2013 US$ |
|||||||
|
|
|
(Note 2(c)) |
|||||||
ASSETS |
||||||||||
Current assets: |
||||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents |
21,453 | 6,752 | 1,115 | |||||||
Restricted cash |
| | | |||||||
Amounts due from subsidiaries, associates and related parties |
118,009 | 125,847 | 20,788 | |||||||
Prepaid expenses and other current assets |
1,057 | 868 | 144 | |||||||
| | | | | | | | | | |
Total current assets |
140,519 | 133,467 | 22,047 | |||||||
| | | | | | | | | | |
Non-current assets: |
||||||||||
Long-term investments |
225,859 | 154,135 | 25,461 | |||||||
| | | | | | | | | | |
Total assets |
366,378 | 287,602 | 47,508 | |||||||
| | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY |
||||||||||
Current liabilities: |
||||||||||
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities |
2,376 | 3,962 | 654 | |||||||
Amounts due to subsidiaries, associates and related parties |
9,708 | 11,890 | 1,964 | |||||||
| | | | | | | | | | |
Total liabilities |
12,084 | 15,852 | 2,618 | |||||||
| | | | | | | | | | |
Shareholders' equity: |
||||||||||
Class A ordinary shares (US$0.001 par value, 3,133,000 and 3,133,000 shares authorized, 667,672 and 668,759 shares issued and outstanding as of December 31, 2012 and 2013, respectively) |
4,939 | 4,946 | 817 | |||||||
Additional paid-in capital |
1,035,651 | 1,036,120 | 171,155 | |||||||
Statutory reserves |
5,595 | 5,595 | 924 | |||||||
Accumulated deficit |
(691,891 | ) | (774,911 | ) | (128,006 | ) | ||||
| | | | | | | | | | |
Total shareholders' equity |
354,294 | 271,750 | 44,890 | |||||||
| | | | | | | | | | |
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity |
366,378 | 287,602 | 47,508 | |||||||
| | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
F-62
IFM INVESTMENTS LIMITED
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(Amounts expressed in Renminbi ("RMB"), unless otherwise stated)
28. ADDITIONAL INFORMATIONCONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
Financial information of parent company
Condensed Statements of Operations
(in thousands)
|
Years Ended December 31, | ||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
2011 RMB |
2012 RMB |
2013 RMB |
2013 US$ |
|||||||||
|
|
|
|
(Note 2(c)) |
|||||||||
Costs and expenses: |
|||||||||||||
Selling, general and administrative expenses |
(5,611 | ) | (15,263 | ) | (11,127 | ) | (1,838 | ) | |||||
Net change in fair value |
| 1,536 | (103 | ) | (17 | ) | |||||||
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total costs and expenses |
(5,611 | ) | (13,727 | ) | (11,230 | ) | (1,855 | ) | |||||
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Loss from operations |
(5,611 | ) | (13,727 | ) | (11,230 | ) | (1,855 | ) | |||||
Interest income |
212 | 61 | 21 | 3 | |||||||||
Foreign currency exchange gain loss |
(1,981 | ) | (48 | ) | (87 | ) | (14 | ) | |||||
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Loss before share of subsidiaries' and associates' loss |
(7,380 | ) | (13,714 | ) | (11,296 | ) | (1,866 | ) | |||||
Share of subsidiaries' and associates' loss |
(329,135 | ) | (39,797 | ) | (71,724 | ) | (11,848 | ) | |||||
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net loss |
(336,515 | ) | (53,511 | ) | (83,020 | ) | (13,714 | ) | |||||
Accretion of convertible redeemable preferred shares |
| | | | |||||||||
Income allocated to participating preferred shareholders |
| | | | |||||||||
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net loss attributable to ordinary shareholders |
(336,515 | ) | (53,511 | ) | (83,020 | ) | (13,714 | ) | |||||
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
F-63
IFM INVESTMENTS LIMITED
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(Amounts expressed in Renminbi ("RMB"), unless otherwise stated)
28. ADDITIONAL INFORMATIONCONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
Condensed Statements of Cash Flows
(in thousands)
|
Years Ended December 31, | ||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
2011 RMB | 2012 RMB | 2013 RMB | 2013 US$ | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
(Note 2(c)) |
|||||||||
Net cash used in operating activities |
(31,020 | ) | (12,525 | ) | (14,777 | ) | (2,441 | ) | |||||
Net cash used in investing activities |
| | | | |||||||||
Cash flow from financing activities: |
|||||||||||||
Share repurchase |
(15,332 | ) | | | | ||||||||
Payment of initial public offering costs |
(1,315 | ) | | | | ||||||||
Proceeds from issuance of ordinary shares upon initial public offering |
| | | | |||||||||
Proceeds from issuance of ordinary shares upon exercise of share options |
583 | | 185 | 31 | |||||||||
Repayments of short-term borrowing to subsidiaries |
| | | | |||||||||
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities |
(16,064 | ) | | 185 | 31 | ||||||||
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents |
(1,942 | ) | (102 | ) | (109 | ) | (18 | ) | |||||
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents |
(49,026 | ) | (12,627 | ) | (14,701 | ) | (2,428 | ) | |||||
Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of year |
83,106 | 34,080 | 21,453 | 3,543 | |||||||||
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of year |
34,080 | 21,453 | 6,752 | 1,115 | |||||||||
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
F-64
EXHIBIT 8.1
SUBSIDIARIES OF THE REGISTRANT
Wholly owned subsidiaries:
· IFM Company Ltd., incorporated in the Cayman Islands
· Beijing Aifeite International Franchise Consultant Co., Ltd., incorporated in the Peoples Republic of China
(Chinese name: 北京埃菲特国际特许经营咨询服务有限公司)
· City Integrated Residential Services (China) Limited, incorporated in Hong Kong, S.A.R.
(Chinese name: 泛城(中国)综合住宅服务有限公司)
· Shanghai Yaye Real Estate Brokerage Co., Ltd., incorporated in the Peoples Republic of China
(Chinese name: 上海亚业房地产经纪有限公司)
· CIR Real Estate Consultant (Shenzhen) Co., Ltd., incorporated in the Peoples Republic of China
(Chinese name: 泛城房地产顾问(深圳)有限公司)
· Genius Nation Investments Ltd., incorporated in the British Virgin Islands
· Shanghai Ruifeng Real Estate Investments Consultant Co., Ltd., incorporated in the Peoples Republic of China
(Chinese name: 上海锐丰房地产投资顾问有限公司)
· Beijing Anxinruide Real Estate Brokerage Co., Ltd., incorporated in the Peoples Republic of China
(Chinese name: 北京安信瑞德房地产经纪有限公司)
· Shanghai Anshijie Real Estate Consultant Co., Ltd., incorporated in the Peoples Republic of China
(Chinese name: 上海安仕捷房地产投资顾问有限公司)
· Beijing Kaisheng Jinglue Guarantee Co., Ltd., incorporated in the Peoples Republic of China
(Chinese name: 北京凯盛经略担保有限公司)
· Kaisheng Jinglue (Shanghai) Investment Management Co., Ltd., incorporated in the Peoples Republic of China
(Chinese name: 凯盛经略(上海)投资管理有限公司)
· Beijing IFM International Real Estate Brokerage Co., Ltd., incorporated in the Peoples Republic of China
(Chinese name: 北京埃菲特国际房地产经纪有限公司)
· Beijing IFM Investment Managements Limited, incorporated in the Peoples Republic of China
(Chinese name: 北京埃菲特投资管理有限公司)
· Shanghai Ruifeng Investment Managements Limited, incorporated in the Peoples Republic of China
(Chinese name: 上海锐丰投资管理有限公司)
· Beijing Huachuang Xunjie Technology Co., Ltd., incorporated in the Peoples Republic of China
(Chinese name: 北京华创迅捷科技有限公司)
· Shenzhen Kaian Investments Guarantee Co., Ltd., incorporated in the Peoples Republic of China
(Chinese name: 深圳市凯安投资担保有限公司)
· Chengdu Yize Real Estate Brokerage Co., Ltd., incorporated in the Peoples Republic of China
(Chinese name: 成都亿泽房地产经纪有限公司)
· Chengdu Yichuan Real Estate Brokerage Co., Ltd., incorporated in the Peoples Republic of China
(Chinese name: 成都亿川房地产经纪有限公司)
· Sichuan Yidao Real Estate Brokerage Co., Ltd., incorporated in the Peoples Republic of China
(Chinese name: 四川亿道房地产经纪有限公司)
· Beijing Hui Jin Mortgage Co., Ltd., incorporated in the Peoples Republic of China
(Chinese name: 北京汇金典当有限公司)
· Beijing Kudiantongfang Technology Co., Ltd., incorporated in the Peoples Republic of China
(Chinese name: 北京酷点通房科技有限公司)
· Guangzhou Anshijie Real Estate Brokerage Co., Ltd., incorporated in the Peoples Republic of China
(Chinese name: 广州安仕捷房地产经纪有限公司)
· Sichuan Ruichangyuan Investment management Co., Ltd., incorporated in the Peoples Republic of China
(Chinese name: 四川锐创源投资管理有限公司)
· Beijing Longhe Weiye Real Estate Brokerage Co., Ltd., incorporated in the Peoples Republic of China
(Chinese name: 北京龙和伟业房地产经纪有限公司)
· Sichuan Ruichuan Real Estate Brokerage Co., Ltd., incorporated in the Peoples Republic of China
(Chinese name: 四川锐川房地产经纪有限公司)
· Shenzhen Quancheng Management Services Co.Ltd., incorporated in the Peoples Republic of China
(Chinese name: 深圳市全城管家物业管理有限公司)
· Shanghai Xinjie Real Estate Agency Ltd.
(Chinese name: 上海信捷房地产经纪有限公司)
· Beijing Anxin Chuangfu Property management Co. Ltd.
(Chinese name: 北京安信创富资产管理有限公司)
Consolidated entities:
· Business Vision Management Consultants Limited, incorporated in Hong Kong, S.A.R.
(Chinese name: 商业视角管理顾问有限公司)
· Beijing Kaicheng Huaxin Investment Consultants Limited, incorporated in the Peoples Republic of China
(Chinese name: 北京凯诚华信投资顾问有限公司)
· Beijing Xinrui Shijiao Business Managements Consultant Co., Ltd., incorporated in the Peoples Republic of China
(Chinese name: 北京新锐视角商业管理顾问有限公司)
· Tianjin Shiji TianRe Investment Management Company Ltd., incorporated in the Peoples Republic of China
(Chinese name: 天津世纪天锐投资管理有限公司)
· Beijing Huaxing Tianye Investment Management Co., Ltd., incorporated in the Peoples Republic of China
(Chinese name: 北京华兴天业投资管理有限公司)
· Beijing Kaisheng Chuangfu Investment Co., Ltd , incorporated in the Peoples Republic of China
(Chinese name: 北京凯盛创富投资管理有限公司)
· SG International Investments Limited, incorporated in the Cayman Islands
· SG Strategic Investments (Hong Kong) Limited, incorporated in Hong Kong, S.A.R.
(Chinese name: 上古战略投资有限公司)
· Beijing SG New Century Consulting Service Company, incorporated in the Peoples Republic of China
(Chinese name: 北京上古新世纪咨询服务有限公司)
· Beijing SG Xinrui Real Estate Brokerage Co., Ltd., incorporated in the Peoples Republic of China
(Chinese name: 北京上古新锐房地产经纪有限公司)
Equity Investments:
· Shaanxi Lide Industry Investments Co., Ltd., incorporated in the Peoples Republic of China
(Chinese name: 陕西立得实业投资有限责任公司)
· Tianjin Shiji TianRe Equity Investment Fund Management Limited Partnership, incorporated in the Peoples Republic of China
(Chinese name: 天津世纪天锐股权投资基金管理合伙企业(有限合伙))
· Tianjin Shiji TianRe Equity Fund Limited Partnership, incorporated in the Peoples Republic of China
(Chinese name: 天津世纪天锐股权基金合伙企业(有限合伙))
EXHIBIT 12.1
Certification by the Chief Executive Officer
Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
I, Donald Zhang, certify that:
1. I have reviewed this annual report on Form 20-F of IFM Investments Limited (the Company);
2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;
3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the Company as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;
4. The Companys other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the Company and have:
(a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the Company, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;
(b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;
(c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the Companys disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and
(d) Disclosed in this report any change in the Companys internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the period covered by the annual report that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the Companys internal control over financial reporting; and
5. The Companys other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the Companys auditors and the audit committee of the Companys board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):
(a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the Companys ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and
(b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the Companys internal control over financial reporting.
Date: April 25, 2014
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By: |
/s/ DONALD ZHANG |
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Name: |
Donald Zhang |
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Title: |
Chief Executive Officer |
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EXHIBIT 12.2
Certification by the Chief Financial Officer
Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
I, Steve Mao Ye, certify that:
1. I have reviewed this annual report on Form 20-F of IFM Investments Limited (the Company);
2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;
3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the Company as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;
4. The Companys other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the Company and have:
(a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the Company, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;
(b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;
(c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the Companys disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and
(d) Disclosed in this report any change in the Companys internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the period covered by the annual report that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the Companys internal control over financial reporting; and
5. The Companys other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the Companys auditors and the audit committee of the Companys board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):
(a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the Companys ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and
(b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the Companys internal control over financial reporting.
Date: April 25, 2014
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By: |
/s/ STEVE MAO YE |
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Name: |
Steve Mao Ye |
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Title: |
Chief Financial Officer |
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EXHIBIT 13.1
Certification by the Chief Executive Officer
Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
In connection with the Annual Report of IFM Investments Limited (the Company) on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2013 as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the Report), I, Donald Zhang, Chief Executive Officer of the Company, certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that to my knowledge:
(1) The Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and
(2) The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company.
Date: April 25, 2014
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By: |
/s/ DONALD ZHANG |
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Name: |
Donald Zhang |
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Title: |
Chief Executive Officer |
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EXHIBIT 13.2
Certification by the Chief Financial Officer
Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
In connection with the Annual Report of IFM Investments Limited (the Company) on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2013 as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the Report), I, Steve Mao Ye, Chief Financial Officer of the Company, certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that to my knowledge:
(1) The Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and
(2) The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company.
Date: April 25, 2014
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By: |
/s/ STEVE MAO YE |
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Name: |
Steve Mao Ye |
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Title: |
Chief Financial Officer |
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EXHIBIT 15.1
Consent of Commerce & Finance Law offices, PRC Counsel
IFM Investments Limited
26/A, East Wing, Hanwei Plaza
No.7 Guanghua Road, Chaoyang District
Beijing
Peoples Republic of China
Dear Sir or Madam:
We hereby consent to the references to us by IFM Investments Limited (the Company) under the heading Risks Related to Doing Business in China in the Annual Report on Form 20-F of the Company for the year ended December 31, 2013.
Yours faithfully,
For and on behalf of
/s/ Commerce & Finance Law Offices
Commerce & Finance Law Offices
April 25, 2014
EXHIBIT 15.2
Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
We hereby consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statements on Form S-8 (No. 333-169542) and Form F-3 (No. 333-169541) of IFM Investments Limited of our report dated April 25, 2014 relating to the consolidated financial statements, which appears in the consolidated financial statements, which is incorporated in this Annual Report on Form 20-F.
/s/ PricewaterhouseCoopers Zhong Tian LLP
Beijing, the Peoples Republic of China
April 25, 2014
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