Schroder Real Estate Investment Trust Ltd - Interim Results
PR Newswire
London, November 12
For release on 13 November 2018
Schroder Real Estate Investment Trust Limited
("SREIT"/ the "Company" / "Group")
HALF YEAR RESULTS FOR THE SIX MONTHS ENDED 30 SEPTEMBER 2018
REFINANCINGS, ACQUISITIONS AND ASSET MANAGEMENT DRIVE DIVIDEND UPLIFT
Schroder Real Estate Investment Trust, the actively managed UK focussed REIT, today announces its unaudited half year results for the six months ended 30 September 2018.
Highlights
- Completed two debt refinancings that reduced interest from 4.4% to 4.0% and the average loan term to approximately nine years
- Acquired offices in Edinburgh and Nottingham at a net initial yield of 6.7%, supporting the Company's strategy to invest in assets with strong fundamentals
- 5% dividend increase with effect from 1 October 2018
Financial highlights for the six months ended 30 September 2018
- Net Asset Value ('NAV') of £357.7 million or 69.0 pps, reflecting an increase over the period of 1.2%
- NAV total return, including dividends paid, of 3.0% (30 September 2017: 4.5%)
- Profit for the six months of £10.6 million (30 September 2017: £14.5 million), including one-off refinancing costs of £3.1 million incurred during the period
- Adjusted EPRA earnings of £7.1 million (30 September 2017: £7.5 million)
- Dividend cover of 107% (30 September 2017: 117%)
- Loan to value ('LTV'), net of all cash, of 29.2% (31 March 2018: 25.3%)
Property portfolio highlights
- Sustained outperformance of real estate portfolio with a total return of 4.5% versus the MSCI/IPD Benchmark Index of 3.8%
- 95% of the portfolio now located in Winning Cities
- Significant asset management initiatives include the new ten-year lease without breaks with BUPA at a rent of £1.09 million per annum, reflecting an uplift of 14%
- Letting activity over the period has improved the portfolio void rate to 6.0% (31 March 2018: 7.2%)
- Reversionary income yield of 7%, compared with the MSCI Benchmark of 5.6%, supporting income growth over the next 12 to 24 months.
Commenting, Lorraine Baldry, Chairman of the Board, said:
"The UK real estate market has continued to deliver attractive levels of income and total returns despite growing political and economic risk. Looking forward, these risks combined with the late stage in the market cycle means we are more cautious about the outlook and may look to realise some of the capital gains across the portfolio. The Company is well positioned in this environment due to its high quality, diversified portfolio, a high income return, stable balance sheet and potential to enhance income and value from ongoing asset management initiatives."
Duncan Owen, Global Head of Schroder Real Estate, added:
"In the face of challenges to the UK real estate market presented by current political and economic uncertainty, we will continue to be active managers adopting a disciplined approach. Our broad pipeline of asset management initiatives provide opportunities to add value throughout the cycle. This activity is a mainstay of the Company's strategic objectives, the delivery of which is intended to sustainably increase net income. We will also sell assets where good performance can be realised and reinvest in opportunities which will generate higher net income."
-Ends-
For further information:
| Schroder Real Estate Investment Management Duncan Owen / Nick Montgomery / Frank Sanderson | 020 7658 6000 |
| Northern Trust James Machon / Sean Walsh | 01481 745212 |
| FTI Consulting Dido Laurimore / Methuselah Tanyanyiwa | 020 3727 1000 |
A presentation for analysts and investors will be held at 08.45am today at the offices of Schroders plc, 1 London Wall Place, London, EC2Y 5AU. If you would like to attend, please contact Methuselah Tanyanyiwa at FTI on +44 (0)20 3727 1000 or schroderrealestate@fticonsulting.com
Alternatively, the dial-in details are as follows: +44 (0)330 336 9105
| Participant passcode: | 7212112 |
Schroder Real Estate Investment Trust Limited
Interim Report and Consolidated Financial Statements
For the period 1 April 2018 to 30 September 2018
Contents | |
| Company Summary | 2 |
| Performance Summary | 3 |
| Chairman's Statement | 5 |
| Investment Manager's Report | 7 |
| Responsibility Statement of the Directors in respect of the Interim Report | 15 |
| Independent Auditor's Review Report | 16 |
| Condensed Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income | 17 |
| Condensed Consolidated Statement of Financial Position | 18 |
| Condensed Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity | 19 |
| Condensed Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows | 20 |
| Notes to the Interim Report | 21 |
| Corporate Information | 30 |
Schroder Real Estate Investment Trust Limited aims to provide shareholders with an attractive level of income together with the potential for income and capital growth through investing in UK commercial real estate.
Company Summary
Schroder Real Estate Investment Trust Limited (the 'Company' and together with its subsidiaries the 'Group') is a real estate investment company with a premium listing on the Official List of the UK Listing Authority and whose shares are traded on the Main Market of the London Stock Exchange (ticker: SREI).
On 1 May 2015 the Company converted to a real estate investment trust ('REIT') in order to benefit from the various tax advantages offered by the UK REIT regime as well as the potential for improved liquidity as a result of being able to access a wider shareholder base. The Company continues to be declared as an authorised closed-ended investment scheme by the Guernsey Financial Services Commission under section 8 of the Protection of Investors (Bailiwick of Guernsey) Law, 1987, as amended and the Authorised Closed-ended Collective Investment Schemes Rules 2008.
Objective
The Company aims to provide shareholders with an attractive level of income and the potential for income and capital growth as a result of its investments in, and active management of, a diversified portfolio of UK commercial real estate. Successful execution of the investment strategy will enable a progressive dividend policy to be adopted over time.
The portfolio is principally invested in the three main UK commercial real estate sectors of office, industrial and retail, and may also invest in other sectors including, but not limited to, residential, leisure, healthcare and student accommodation. Over the real estate market cycle the portfolio aims to generate an above average income return with a diverse spread of lease expiries.
A conservative level of gearing is used to enhance income and total returns for shareholders with the level dependent on the property cycle and the outlook for future returns.
Investment strategy
The current investment strategy is to grow income and enhance shareholder returns through a disciplined approach to acquisitions, pro-active asset management and selling smaller, lower yielding properties on completion of asset business plans. The issuance of new shares will also be considered if it is consistent with the strategy.
Our objective is to own a portfolio of larger properties in Winning Cities and Regions with high growth diversified local economies, sustainable occupational demand and favourable supply and demand characteristics. These properties should offer good long-term fundamentals in terms of location and specification and be let at affordable rents with the potential for income and capital growth from good stock selection and asset management.
Performance Summary
Financial summary
| 30 September 2018 | 30 September 2017 | 31 March 2018 | |
| NAV1 | £357.7m | £340.6m | £353.6m |
| NAV per Ordinary Share1 (pence) | 69.0 | 65.7 | 68.2 |
| EPRA NAV | £357.7m | £340.6m | £353.6m |
1 Net Asset Value is calculated using International Financial Reporting Standards.
Capital values
| Six months to 30 September 2018 | Six months to 30 September 2017 | Year to 31 March 2018 | |
| NAV total return | 3.0% | 4.5% | 10.5% |
| Profit for the period | £10.6m | £14.5m | £33.8m |
| EPRA earnings | £3.9m | £7.5m | £12.5m |
| Adjusted EPRA earnings1 | £7.1m | £7.5m | £14.1m |
1 Adjusted for one off refinancing costs.
Share price and index
| 30 September 2018 | 30 September 2017 | 31 March 2018 | |
| Share price (pence) | 59.9 | 61.5 | 58.8 |
| Share price discount to NAV | (13.2%) | (6.4%) | (13.8%) |
| FTSE All Share Index | 4,127.91 | 4,049.89 | 3,894.17 |
| FTSE EPRA/NAREIT UK Real Estate Index | 1,731.76 | 1,734.15 | 1,770.93 |
Earnings and dividends
| Six months to 30 September 2018 | Six months to 30 September 2017 | Year to 31 March 2018 | ||
| Earnings per share (pence) | 2.0 | 2.8 | 6.5 | |
| EPRA earnings per share (pence) | 0.8 | 1.4 | 2.4 | |
| Adjusted EPRA earnings per share (pence) 1 | 1.4 | 1.4 | 2.7 | |
| Dividends paid per share (pence) | 1.24 | 1.24 | 2.48 | |
| Annualised dividend yield on 30 September / 31 March share price2 | 4.1% | 4.0% | 4.2% | |
1 Adjusted for one off refinancing costs.
2 Based on the dividends paid during the period.
Bank borrowings
| 30 September 2018 | 30 September 2017 | 31 March 2018 | |
| On-balance sheet borrowings 1 | £160.1m | £150.1m | £150.1m |
| Loan to value ratio, net of all cash 2 | 29.2% | 27.2% | 25.3% |
1 On-balance sheet borrowings reflects the loan facility with Canada Life and RBS, without deduction of finance costs.
2 Cash excludes rent deposits and floats held with managing agents.
Ongoing charges
| Six months to 30 September 2018 | Six months to 30 September 2017 | Year to 31 March 2018 | |
| Ongoing charges (including fund only expenses1) | 0.5% | 0.6% | 1.2% |
| Ongoing charges (including fund and property expenses2) | 1.0% | 1.1% | 2.2% |
1 Fund only expenses excludes all property operating expenses, valuers' and professional fees in relation to properties.
2 Ongoing charges calculated in accordance with AIC recommended methodology, as a percentage of average NAV during the year. The ongoing charges exclude all exceptional costs incurred during the period.
Chairman's Statement
Overview
The six month period to September 2018 saw a high level of activity for the Company including two debt refinancings, two acquisitions and the completion of a number of asset management initiatives. These actions enabled the Company to announce a stepped 5% dividend increase. The Company's net asset value ('NAV') over the period increased by 0.8 pence per share ('pps') or 1.2% which, combined with dividends paid, resulted in a NAV total return of 3.0%. This includes one-off costs of £3.1 million or 0.6 pence per share ('pps') associated with the refinancing activity that extended the Company's loan terms. The new facility capitalised on current low interest rates and provided additional capacity to facilitate the accretive acquisitions. Dividend cover over the period was 107%.
Asset management activity improved the portfolio's defensive qualities and contributed to an underlying income return over the period of 2.8% compared with the Benchmark of 2.3%. The Company's underlying total return, including acquisition costs, of 4.5% compares with the MSCI Benchmark at 3.8%. The portfolio has now consistently outperformed the Benchmark by an average of 1.4% per annum since inception in 2004.
Strategy
The Company has a disciplined strategy focused on growing net income, reducing risk and increasing exposure to Winning Cities, those that are expected to generate higher and more sustainable levels of economic growth.
Although average values continued to increase across the UK real estate market, the rate of growth is slowing with increasing polarisation between sectors. The greatest pressure is in the retail sector due to structural trends with consumer spend on-line and retailer failure. In contrast, the same structural trends are creating unprecedented levels of investor and occupier demand for industrial assets.
The refinancing and acquisitions, which completed part way through the period, generated additional net income to support the dividend increase. In addition, the Manager has made good progress delivering on key asset management initiatives across the portfolio. These included a 10 year lease extension to BUPA in Brighton alongside a more flexible leasing policy at multi-let industrial estates to capture additional rental growth. This has been particularly successful at the industrial estates in Milton Keynes and Leeds.
A reduction in the Company's retail weighting to 27% of value and a focus on assets offering convenience at affordable rents has also limited exposure to risk in the retail sector.
The strategy implemented over the past few years has resulted in 95% of the portfolio by value being located in cities or towns expected to benefit from above average GDP growth (Source: Oxford Economics). At a sector level, the Company should benefit from having higher weightings in the regional office and industrial markets and no exposure to shopping centres and offices in the City of London. Further planned disposals of low yielding assets may also help manage the late cycle risks and prepare the Company for investment into assets offering higher prospective returns.
Debt
The refinancing activity included extending a portion of the Canada Life debt and increasing the revolving credit facility ('RCF') with Royal Bank of Scotland ('RBS').
The extension with Canada Life followed a detailed review of how to capture current low interest rates through restructuring the fixed rate facility. This was achieved by extending 20% of the loan for five years to 2028. This is the same maturity as the remaining 80% of the loan. This loan tranche previously had an interest rate of 4.77% that was reduced to 3.1% resulting in an interest saving of approximately £435,000 p.a.
The RBS RCF, previously due to mature in July 2019, was extended to 2023 with additional capacity added of £12 million. This facility extension, together with existing cash, was used to acquire two office assets in Edinburgh and Nottingham for £21 million which reflected a net initial yield of 6.7%.
The Company's two loan facilities now total £160 million with an average duration of 8.6 years and an average interest cost of 4.0%, hedged against movement in interest rates. The loan to value ratio, net of cash, is 29%, which is within the long-term target range of 25% to 35%. The refinancing activity resulted in one-off costs totalling £3.1 million in the period.
Outlook
The UK real estate market has continued to deliver attractive levels of income and total returns despite growing political and economic risk. Looking forward, these risks combined with the late stage in the market cycle means we are more cautious about the outlook and may look to realise some of the capital gains across the portfolio.
The Company is well positioned in this environment due to its high-quality, diversified portfolio, a high income return, stable balance sheet and potential to enhance income and value from ongoing asset management initiatives.
Lorraine Baldry
Chairman
Schroder Real Estate Investment Trust Limited
12 November 2018
Investment Manager's Report
The Company's Net Asset Value ('NAV') as at 30 September 2018 was £357.7 million or 69.0 pence per share ('pps') compared with £353.6 million or 68.2 pps as at 31 March 2018. This reflected an increase of 0.8 pps or 1.2%, with the underlying movement in NAV set out in the table below:
| Pence per share ('pps') | |
| NAV as at 31 March 2018 | 68.2 |
| Unrealised change in valuation of direct investment property portfolio | 2.1 |
| Capital expenditure | (0.5) |
| Unrealised loss on joint ventures | (0.1) |
| Net revenue | 1.4 |
| Dividends paid | (1.3) |
| Others¹ | (0.8) |
| NAV as at 30 September 2018 | 69.0 |
¹ Includes one off refinancing costs of 0.6 pps.
The NAV increase was driven by a 1.6% increase in the value of the underlying portfolio which, adjusted for capital expenditure, contributed 1.5pps to the NAV. Excluding exceptional refinancing costs, net earnings for the interim period year totalled 1.4pps which reflects a dividend cover of 107%. The NAV total return for the interim period to September 2018 was 3.0%.
Market overview
UK commercial real estate capital values continued to increase over the interim period to September 2018 with the IPD/MSCI Benchmark producing an average 3.8% total return for commercial real estate. This included an income return of 2.3%. This performance continues to mask the divergence of the sectors with capital values in the main commercial markets performing very differently.
The retail market continues to be the most challenging. During 2018 a number of retailers and restaurants have fallen into administration, or entered into a company voluntary arrangement ('CVA'), and other profitable chains are closing stores. More than 4,000 units have been affected and 1 in 8 high street units are vacant.[1] The internet's share of total retail sales has jumped from 5% in 2008 to 17% and is expected to grow significantly.[2] Retail rents in most locations are likely to fall over the next couple of years. The impact is most acute on secondary retail assets, while prime and convenience retail assets are likely to be more resilient. The Company's portfolio is not immune from the difficulties being experienced by many occupiers in the retail sector and strategies to mitigate and reduce this risk are being implemented.
By contrast, rents for warehousing in the year to August rose by 6% in London and the South East and by 3% in the rest of the country.[3] In part, this reflects that manufacturing is still an important driver of warehouse demand in the Midlands and the North, despite the boost from online retail. It may also reflect the greater loss of industrial estates to housing in the South. We expect smaller warehousing/multi-let industrial estates, including our estates in Leeds and Milton Keynes to outperform, as rents remain relatively low and there is limited new supply with growing demand.
The regional office sector is well placed to weather a potential slowdown in the economy. In many UK cities, demand and supply dynamics are being positively impacted by only modest growth in development and ongoing conversions of secondary offices into residential. As a result, we expect office rents in regional cities to remain resilient. We delivered a number of favourable leasing events across the portfolio, including a 14% rental uplift on the regear with BUPA at Brighton and a 32% uplift on a rent review at Cheltenham. In contrast, in the City of London the total amount of office space is expected to increase by around 7% over the three years to end-2020.[4] While many schemes are pre-let, a lot of second-hand space will become vacant once occupiers move and we expect City office rents to decrease. This will have a knock on effect on the West End and Inner London, although rental levels should be more defensive given low supply and robust demand from a diverse occupier base.
A challenge for the Company is to focus on fundamentals and ensure that the portfolio remains well placed with a diverse exposure. There are increasing concerns about the economic and market cycles. The late nature of the real estate cycle requires the manager to be vigilant.
Strategy
The strategy over the period focused on:
- Winning Cities experiencing higher levels of GDP, employment and population growth;
- Increasing net income through transactions and active management;
- Increasing exposure to assets and sectors with strong fundamentals;
- Managing portfolio risk in order to enhance the portfolio's defensive qualities;
- Reducing the cost of debt and extending the length of the facility; and
- Realising gains from sales which enables us to grow earnings.
Progress executing the strategy and activity over the interim period delivered the following:
- 95% of the portfolio being located in higher growth cities and towns;[5]
- Offices in Edinburgh and Nottingham acquired in August 2018;
- Investment into Rest of UK offices and UK warehousing which we expect to outperform;
- Asset management initiatives completed and ongoing across office, industrial and retail assets, including Bedford, Brighton, Manchester, Nottingham and Swindon;
- A portfolio level income return of 5.2% compared with 4.8% for the MSCI/IPD Benchmark, and a reversionary income yield of 7.0% compared with 5.6% for the MSCI/IPD Benchmark;
- Reducing portfolio void rate of 6.0% and maintaining the average unexpired lease term of 6.2 years, assuming all tenant breaks are exercised at the earliest opportunity; and
- Debt refinancings completed to reduce the Company's interest costs and extend the overall duration of its facilities.
The delivery of these initiatives enabled the Board to announce a dividend increase of 2.5% for the quarter to 30 September 2018, and 5% thereafter. Dividend cover, on the increased dividend for the period, equated to 107%.[6]
Our focus will continue to be on driving income and total returns from the existing portfolio, managing risks and continuing to seek new investments to accelerate income growth. The near term actions to continue to increase the net income of the Company include:
- Proactive asset management with disciplined approach to capital expenditure and expenses;
- Recycle capital to improve returns on capital employed;
- Review the potential to grow the Company in a way which will drive earnings once value enhancing opportunities are identified; and
- Increase the level of communication about the strategy to a wider potential shareholder universe.
Real estate portfolio
As at 30 September 2018 the real estate portfolio comprised 46 properties valued at £509.4 million. This includes the share of joint venture properties at City Tower in Manchester and Store Street in Bloomsbury, London.
The portfolio produces a rental income of £28.4 million per annum, reflecting a net initial income yield of 5.2%. The portfolio also benefits from fixed contractual annual rental uplifts of £3.6 million by September 2020, and other income from items such as lease surrenders. The independent valuers' estimate that the current rental value of the portfolio is £35.5 million per annum, reflecting a reversionary income yield of 7.0%, which compares favourably with the MSCI/IPD Benchmark at 5.6%.
The data below summarises the portfolio information as at 30 September 2018:
| Weighting (% of portfolio) | ||
| Regional weightings by value | SREIT | MSCI/IPD Benchmark |
| City | 0.0 | 3.3 |
| Mid-town and West End | 7.1 | 6.5 |
| Rest South East | 12.9 | 12.3 |
| Rest of UK | 19.0 | 6.8 |
| Offices sub-total | 39.0 | 28.9 |
| South Eastern | 10.4 | 17.5 |
| Rest of UK | 17.1 | 9.7 |
| Industrial sub-total | 27.5 | 27.2 |
| South East | 1.3 | 6.2 |
| Rest of UK | 11.0 | 5.8 |
| Shopping centres | 0.0 | 4.8 |
| Retail warehouse | 15.0 | 16.5 |
| Retail sub-total | 27.3 | 33.3 |
| Others | 6.2 | 10.6 |
| Other sub-total | 6.2 | 10.6 |
| Weighting (% of portfolio) | ||
| Regional weightings by value | SREIT | MSCI/IPD Benchmark |
| Central London[7] | 7.1 | 12.7 |
| South East ex Central London | 28.9 | 39.8 |
| Rest of South | 6.9 | 16.5 |
| Midlands and Wales | 27.6 | 13.7 |
| North and Scotland | 29.5 | 17.3 |
The top ten properties set out below comprise 57% of the portfolio value:
| Top ten properties | Value (£m) | (% of portfolio) | |
| 1 | Manchester, City Tower (25% share) | 41.6 | 8.2 |
| 2 | London, Store Street, Bloomsbury (50% share) | 36.4 | 7.1 |
| 3 | Milton Keynes, Stacey Bushes Industrial Estate | 34.9 | 6.9 |
| 4 | Brighton, Victory House | 34.0 | 6.7 |
| 5 | Bedford, St. John's Retail Park[8] | 33.7 | 6.6 |
| 6 | Leeds, Millshaw Industrial Estate | 31.2 | 6.1 |
| 7 | Leeds, Arndale Centre | 29.3 | 5.8 |
| 8 | Uxbridge, 106 Oxford Road | 18.4 | 3.6 |
| 9 | Norwich, Union Park Industrial Estate | 17.4 | 3.4 |
| 10 | London, Allied Way Acton | 15.4 | 3.0 |
| Total as at 30 September 2018 | 292.3 | 57.4 | |
The table below sets out the top ten tenants that generally comprise large businesses and represent 31% of the portfolio:
| Top ten tenants | Contracted rent p.a. (£000) | (% of portfolio) | |
| 1 | University of Law Ltd | 1,574 | 5.1 |
| 2 | BUPA Insurance Services Ltd | 1,093 | 3.6 |
| 3 | Wickes Building Supplies Ltd | 1,092 | 3.6 |
| 4 | Aviva Life & Pensions UK Ltd | 1,039 | 3.4 |
| 5 | Buckinghamshire New University | 1,018 | 3.3 |
| 6 | Mott MacDonald Ltd | 790 | 2.6 |
| 7 | Recticel Ltd | 731 | 2.4 |
| 8 | Sportsdirect.com Retail Ltd | 722 | 2.4 |
| 9 | The Secretary of State | 715 | 2.3 |
| 10 | Booker Limited | 700 | 2.3 |
| Total as at 30 September 2018 | 9,474 | 31.0 | |
Portfolio performance
A high level of asset management has led to continued outperformance of the underlying property portfolio compared with the MSCI/IPD Benchmark. The table below shows the performance to 30 September 2018 with the portfolio ranked on the 10th percentile of the Benchmark since inception:
| SREIT total return p.a. (%) | MSCI/IPD Benchmark total return p.a. (%) | Relative p.a. (%) | |||||||
| Period | Six months | Three years | Since inception[9] | Six months | Three years | Since inception9 | Six months | Three years | Since inception9 |
| Retail | -1.0 | 4.3 | 5.7 | 0.3 | 3.7 | 4.5 | -1.3 | 0.6 | 1.1 |
| Office | 3.8 | 8.7 | 8.3 | 3.4 | 6.1 | 7.0 | 0.4 | 2.5 | 1.3 |
| Industrial | 11.9 | 19.0 | 9.5 | 8.5 | 14.4 | 8.6 | 3.1 | 4.0 | 0.9 |
| Other | 3.5 | 11.5 | 3.6 | 4.2 | 9.4 | 7.5 | -0.7 | 1.9 | -3.6 |
| All sectors | 4.5 | 9.9 | 7.8 | 3.8 | 7.4 | 6.3 | 0.7 | 2.3 | 1.4 |
Asset management
Milton Keynes, Stacey Bushes Industrial Estate (Industrial)
Asset overview and performance
339,330 sq ft multi-let industrial estate comprising 61 units in a good location west of Milton Keynes. As at 30 September 2018 the asset was valued at £34.9 million reflecting a net initial income yield of 5.1% and a reversionary income yield of 5.5%.
Asset strategy
The strategy is to refurbish units as leases expire in order to capture higher rents in a high growth market.
Key activity
- Acquisition of the adjoining ownership at 19 Hollin Lane completed on 5 October 2018, after the period end, at £776,000 and once let at ERV of £67,500 pa will reflect a yield of 8.1% after costs.
- Only one vacant unit, now undergoing refurbishment with a total rental value of £14,500 per annum.
- 9 lettings and lease renewals totalling £319,404 per annum.
- Acquired unit from owner occupier at £330,000 on a sale and leaseback at a rent of £35,000 per annum, reflecting a yield of 8.6%.
- Planning in place for new development of 14,500 sq ft in six units. Estimated cost £2.4 million with a rental value of £150,000 per annum.
Brighton, Victory House (Office)
Asset overview and performance
85,000 sq ft office in a high quality location adjoining the station and let to Mott Macdonald Ltd and BUPA Insurance Services Ltd ('BUPA'). As at 30 September 2018, the asset was valued at £34.0 million reflecting a net initial income yield of 2.2%, increasing to 5.2% on expiry of BUPA's rent free period, and a reversionary income yield of 5.5%. The asset was acquired at a price of £16.5 million in 2005.
Asset strategy
Having completed the BUPA lease extension, the strategy is to regear the lease to Mott MacDonald to improve the income level and length of the lease.
Key activity
- In June 2018, BUPA agreed a new ten year lease without breaks at a rent of £1.09 million per annum, reflecting an uplift of 14%. BUPA occupy 45,545 sq ft or 54% of Victory House and previously paid £960,000 per annum on a lease with a tenant only break option in 2020. The new lease has a favourable rent review in 2023 to the higher of £1.2 million per annum (i.e. 2% per annum compound) or open market value, subject to a cap of £1.3 million per annum (i.e. 4% per annum compound). As part of the transaction BUPA receives a rent free period of 15 months.
- Discussions with the other tenant, Mott MacDonald, are ongoing.
Acquisitions Update: Edinburgh, The Tun and Nottingham, The Arc (Office)
Asset overview and performance
The Tun is a 42,050 sq ft office heritable interest (Scottish equivalent of a freehold) located in the Holyrood district of Edinburgh. As at 30 September 2018, the asset was valued at £10.8 million.
The Arc is a 44,602 sq ft freehold office located on a business park in Nottingham that is adjacent to a tram stop that provides a regular, six-minute service to the city centre. As at 30 September 2018, the asset was valued at £10.3 million.
Asset strategy
Following the acquisition in August 2018, the strategy has been to capture near term rental growth and to extend the average weighted lease length.
Key activity
- Edinburgh, The Tun: Terms agreed with Vattenfall Wind to renew their occupation beyond their expiry in 2019 for a further 10 years with five year break at a new headline rent for the building of £26 per sq ft vs an acquisition ERV of £24 per sq ft. This along with other initiatives should increase the weighted lease term from 5.4 to 6.1 years.
- Nottingham, The Arc: Completed regear with Geldards LLP, a solicitor occupying over 50% of the property, resulting in a rental increase from 2020 of 9.5%. The extension of the previous expiry from 2020 to 2023 resulted in increasing the property's overall average weighted lease term from five to 6.5 years.
Responsible Investment
Our approach to responsible investment has been continually upgraded over the last few years and we are increasingly seeking to assess and improve the positive impact of our investments. This involves incorporation of environmental, social and governance issues as well as importantly the impact of our investments on the built environment and climate change risks and opportunities. The Company's work in this area was recognised with an EPRA Gold Level award for compliance in their Sustainability Best Practice reporting recommendations in the accounts for the year ending 31 March 2018. Additionally, the Company demonstrated continued strong performance within GRESB (formerly the Global Real Estate Sustainability Benchmark) this year, securing Green Star status and an overall score of 63 (up 7%, from 59 last year). As manager, we are aware of the importance of the impact its activities have in local environments and the performance of this area is being continually measured. It was a founding member of the UK Green Building Council in 2007 and in 2017 became a member of the Better Buildings Partnership and a Fund Manager Member of GRESB.
Finance
The Company refinanced both Canada Life and RBS loans in July 2018. These transactions capitalised on current low interest rates and repositioned the balance sheet for a lower cost and longer term. This active management of the balance sheet resulted in:
- Competitive financing terms that lengthened both near-term debt maturity dates by five years, and extend the average weighted debt term from 7.7 years to approximately nine years;
- The overall cost of debt reduced from 4.4% to 4.0% assuming the RCF is fully drawn;
- Over 80% of the Company's debt is fixed with the remainder capped; and
- Enlarged RCF provided additional liquidity for acquisitions and capital expenditure, with the ability to efficiently de-gear following asset sales or equity issuance.
In addition to the secured properties, the joint venture properties City Tower in Manchester and Store Street in London are uncharged with a combined value of £77.8 million.
Overall, the Company has a net loan to value of 29%, and has significant headroom to its loan covenants. Details of the two loans and compliance with principal covenants set out below:
| Lender | Loan (£m) | Maturity | Interest rate (%) | Loan to Value ('LTV')[10] | Interest Cover Ratio ('ICR')[11] | Forward looking ICR[12] | |||||||||||
| Ratio (%) | Covenant (%) | Ratio (%) | Covenant (%) | Ratio (%) | Covenant (%) | ||||||||||||
| Canada Life | 129.6 | 15/04/2028 | 4.43[13] | 35.1 | 65 | 326 | 185 | 334 | 185 | ||||||||
| RBS | 30.5[14] | 20/05/2023 | 2.40[15] | 46.5 | 65 | n/a | n/a | 488 | 250 | ||||||||
Outlook
There are a number of challenges facing the UK real estate market presented by current political and economic uncertainty. Furthermore, the continued structural change driving the polarisation of performance remains a key theme. In this environment, we have sought to develop a strategy based on investing in strong fundamentals and focused on active management. We have also refinanced at current low interest rates and made investments that have grown earnings.
We will continue to be active asset managers. Our broad pipeline of asset management initiatives provide opportunities to add value throughout the cycle. This activity is a mainstay of the Company's strategic objectives, the delivery of which is intended to sustainably increase net income. We will also sell assets where good performance can be realised and reinvest in opportunities which will generate higher net income.
Duncan Owen
Schroder Real Estate Investment Management Limited
12 November 2018
Responsibility Statement of the Directors in respect of the Interim Report
We confirm that to the best of our knowledge:
• the condensed set of financial statements has been prepared in accordance with IAS 34 Interim Financial Reporting; and
• the interim management report (comprising the Chairman's and the Investment Manager's report) includes a fair review of the information required by:
(a) DTR 4.2.7R of the Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rules, being an indication of important events that have occurred during the first six months of the financial year and their impact on the condensed set of financial statements; and a description of the principal risks and uncertainties for the remaining six months of the year; and
(b) DTR 4.2.8R of the Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rules, being related party transactions that have taken place in the first six months of the current financial year and that have materially affected the financial position or performance of the entity during that period; and any changes in the related party transactions described in the last annual report that could do so.
We are responsible for the maintenance and integrity of the corporate and financial information included on the Company's website, and for the preparation and dissemination of financial statements. Legislation in Guernsey governing the preparation and dissemination of financial statements may differ from legislation in other jurisdictions.
By order of the Board
Lorraine Baldry
Chairman
12 November 2018
Independent Review Report to Schroder Real Estate Investment Trust Limited
Conclusion
We have been engaged by Schroder Real Estate Investment Trust Limited (the "Company") to review the condensed set of financial statements in the Interim Report for the six months ended 30 September 2018 of the Company, its subsidiaries and its interests in joint ventures (together the "Group") which comprises the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income, Condensed Consolidated Statement of Financial Position, Condensed Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity, Condensed Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows and the related explanatory notes.
Based on our review, nothing has come to our attention that causes us to believe that the condensed set of financial statements in the Interim Report for the six months ended 30 September 2018 is not prepared, in all material respects, in accordance with IAS 34 Interim Financial Reporting and the Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rules ("the DTR") of the UK's Financial Conduct Authority ("the UK FCA").
Scope of review
We conducted our review in accordance with International Standard on Review Engagements (UK and Ireland) 2410 Review of Interim Financial Information Performed by the Independent Auditor of the Entity issued by the Auditing Practices Board for use in the UK. A review of interim financial information consists of making enquiries, primarily of persons responsible for financial and accounting matters, and applying analytical and other review procedures. We read the other information contained in the Interim Report and consider whether it contains any apparent misstatements or material inconsistencies with the information in the condensed set of financial statements.
A review is substantially less in scope than an audit conducted in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK) and consequently does not enable us to obtain assurance that we would become aware of all significant matters that might be identified in an audit. Accordingly, we do not express an audit opinion.
Directors' responsibilities
The Interim Report is the responsibility of, and has been approved by, the directors. The directors are responsible for preparing the Interim Report in accordance with the DTR of the UK FCA.
As disclosed in note 1, the annual financial statements of the Group are prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards. The directors are responsible for preparing the condensed set of financial statements included in the Interim Report in accordance with IAS 34.
Our responsibility
Our responsibility is to express to the Company a conclusion on the condensed set of financial statements in the Interim Report based on our review.
The purpose of our review work and to whom we owe our responsibilities
This report is made solely to the Company in accordance with the terms of our engagement to assist the Company in meeting the requirements of the DTR of the UK FCA. Our review has been undertaken so that we might state to the Company those matters we are required to state in this report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the Company for our review work, for this report, or for the conclusions we have reached.
Lee Clark
For and on behalf of KPMG Channel Islands Limited
Chartered Accountants, Guernsey
12 November 2018
Condensed Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income
| Six months to | Six months to | Year to | ||
| 30/09/2018 | 30/09/2017 | 31/03/2018 | ||
| Notes | £000 | £000 | £000 | |
| (unaudited) | (unaudited) | (audited) | ||
| Rental income | 12,528 | 12,390 | 24,041 | |
| Other income | 39 | 985 | 1,545 | |
| Property operating expenses | (1,040) | (1,017) | (1,754) | |
| Net rental and related income, excluding joint ventures | 11,527 | 12,358 | 23,852 | |
| Share of net rental income in joint ventures | 1,512 | 1,409 | 2,754 | |
| Net rental and related income, including joint ventures | 13,039 | 13,767 | 26,606 | |
| Profit on disposal of investment property | 6 | 2 | - | 594 |
| Net valuation gain on investment property | 6 | 7,286 | 6,573 | 20,195 |
| Expenses | ||||
| Investment management fee | 2 | (1,551) | (1,772) | (3,531) |
| Valuers' and other professional fees | (726) | (678) | (1,549) | |
| Administrators fee | 2 | (60) | (60) | (120) |
| Auditor's remuneration | (66) | (64) | (128) | |
| Directors' fees | (75) | (90) | (180) | |
| Abortive transaction costs | 3 | - | - | (1,507) |
| Other expenses | 3 | (140) | (169) | (223) |
| Total expenses | (2,618) | (2,833) | (7,238) | |
| Net operating profit before net finance costs | 16,197 | 16,098 | 37,403 | |
| Refinancing costs | 10 | (3,128) | - | - |
| Finance costs payable | (3,369) | (3,410) | (6,819) | |
| Net finance costs | (6,497) | (3,410) | (6,819) | |
| Share of net rental income in joint ventures | 7 | 1,512 | 1,409 | 2,754 |
| Share of net valuation (loss)/gain in joint ventures | 7 | (617) | 367 | 498 |
| Profit and total comprehensive income for the period attributable to the equity holders of the parent | 10,595 | 14,464 | 33,836 | |
| Basic and diluted earnings per share | 4 | 2.0p | 2.8p | 6.5p |
All items in the above statement are derived from continuing operations. The accompanying notes 1 to 16 form an integral part of the Interim Report.
Condensed Consolidated Statement of Financial Position
| 30/09/2018 | 30/09/2017 | 31/03/2018 | ||
| Notes | £000 | £000 | £000 | |
| (unaudited) | (unaudited) | (audited) | ||
| Investment property | 6 | 417,783 | 372,323 | 388,976 |
| Investment in joint ventures | 7 | 78,381 | 77,617 | 77,748 |
| Non-current assets | 496,164 | 449,940 | 466,724 | |
| Trade and other receivables | 8 | 18,067 | 17,112 | 14,415 |
| Cash and cash equivalents | 9 | 8,881 | 24,887 | 29,218 |
| Investment property held for sale | 6 | 2,000 | 5,777 | - |
| Current assets | 28,948 | 47,776 | 43,633 | |
| Total assets | 525,112 | 497,716 | 510,357 | |
| Issued capital and reserves | 384,187 | 367,076 | 380,022 | |
| Treasury shares | (26,452) | (26,452) | (26,452) | |
| Equity | 357,735 | 340,624 | 353,570 | |
| Interest-bearing loans and borrowings | 10 | 157,973 | 148,386 | 148,505 |
| Non-current liabilities | 157,973 | 148,386 | 148,505 | |
| Trade and other payables | 11 | 8,966 | 8,483 | 8,282 |
| Taxation payable | 438 | 223 | - | |
| Current liabilities | 9,404 | 8,706 | 8,282 | |
| Total liabilities | 167,377 | 157,092 | 156,787 | |
| Total equity and liabilities | 525,112 | 497,716 | 510,357 | |
| Net Asset Value per ordinary share | 12 | 69.0p | 65.7p | 68.2p |
The financial statements on pages 17-30 were approved at a meeting of the Board of Directors held on 12 November 2018 and signed on its behalf by:
Lorraine Baldry
Chairman
The accompanying notes 1 to 16 form an integral part of the Interim Report.
Condensed Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity
For the period from 1 April 2017 to 30 September 2017 (unaudited)
| Notes | Share premium | Treasury share reserve | Revenue reserve | Total | |||||
| £000 | £000 | £000 | £000 | ||||||
| Balance as at 31 March 2017 | 219,090 | (26,452) | 139,952 | 332,590 | |||||
| Profit and total comprehensive income for the period | - | - | 14,464 | 14,464 | |||||
| Dividends paid | 5 | - | - | (6,430) | (6,430) | ||||
| Balance as at 30 September 2017 | 219,090 | (26,452) | 147,986 | 340,624 | |||||
For the year ended 31 March 2018 (audited) and for the period from 1 April 2018 to 30 September 2018 (unaudited) | |||||||||
| Notes | Share premium | Treasury share reserve | Revenue reserve | Total | |||||
| £000 | £000 | £000 | £000 | ||||||
| Balance as at 31 March 2017 | 219,090 | (26,452) | 139,952 | 332,590 | |||||
| Profit and total comprehensive income for the year | - | - | 33,836 | 33,836 | |||||
| Dividends paid | 5 | - | - | (12,856) | (12,856) | ||||
| Balance as at 31 March 2018 | 219,090 | (26,452) | 160,932 | 353,570 | |||||
| Profit and total comprehensive income for the period | - | - | 10,595 | 10,595 | |||||
| Dividends paid | 5 | - | - | (6,430) | (6,430) | ||||
| Balance as at 30 September 2018 | 219,090 | (26,452) | 165,097 | 357,735 | |||||
The accompanying notes 1 to 16 form an integral part of the Interim Report.
Condensed Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows
| Six months to | Six months to | Year to | ||
| 30/09/2018 | 30/09/2017 | 31/03/2018 | ||
| £000 | £000 | £000 | ||
| (unaudited) | (unaudited) | (audited) | ||
| Operating activities | ||||
Profit for the period/year | 10,595 | 14,464 | 33,836 | |
| Adjustments for: | ||||
| Profit on disposal of investment property | (2) | - | (594) | |
| Net valuation gain on investment property | (7,286) | (6,573) | (20,195) | |
| Share of profit of joint ventures | (895) | (1,776) | (3,252) | |
| Net finance cost | 3,369 | 3,410 | 6,819 | |
| Operating cash generated before changes in working capital | 5,781 | 9,525 | 16,614 | |
| (Increase)/decrease in trade and other receivables | (3,664) | (3,209) | 12,087 | |
| Increase/(decrease) in trade and other payables | 648 | (195) | (613) | |
| Cash generated from operations | 2,765 | 6,121 | 28,088 | |
| Finance costs paid | (3,298) | (3,290) | (6,585) | |
| Tax | - | - | - | |
| Net cash from operating activities | (533) | 2,831 | 21,503 | |
| Investing Activities | ||||
| Proceeds from sale of investment property | - | 12,600 | 6,544 | |
| Additions to investment property | (1,142) | (5,300) | (8,504) | |
| Acquisition of investment property | (22,377) | - | - | |
| Investment in joint ventures | (1,250) | (350) | (350) | |
| Net income distributed from joint ventures | 1,512 | 1,409 | 2,754 | |
| Net cash (used in)/from investing activities | (23,257) | 8,359 | 444 | |
| Financing Activities | ||||
| Additions to debt | 9,883 | - | - | |
| Dividends paid | (6,430) | (6,430) | (12,856) | |
| Net cash from/(used in) financing activities | 3,453 | (6,430) | (12,856) | |
| Net (decrease)/increase in cash and cash equivalents for the period/year | (20,337) | 4,760 | 9,091 | |
| Opening cash and cash equivalents | 29,218 | 20,127 | 20,127 | |
| Closing cash and cash equivalents | 8,881 | 24,887 | 29,218 | |
The accompanying notes 1 to 16 form an integral part of the Interim Report.
Notes to the Interim Report
1. Significant accounting policies
Schroder Real Estate Investment Trust Limited ("the Company") is a closed-ended investment company incorporated in Guernsey. The condensed interim financial statements of the Company for the period ended 30 September 2018 comprise the Company, its subsidiaries and its interests in joint ventures (together referred to as the "Group").
Statement of compliance
The condensed interim financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rules of the United Kingdom Financial Conduct Authority and IAS 34 Interim Financial Reporting. They do not include all the information required for the full annual financial statements, and should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements of the Group as at and for the year ended 31 March 2018. The condensed interim financial statements have been prepared on the basis of the accounting policies set out in the Group's annual financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2018. The financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2018 have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards ("IFRS") as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board. The Group's annual financial statements refer to new Standards and Interpretations none of which had a material impact on the condensed interim financial statements. IFRS 15 became effective during the period. The Directors have assessed the impact of this new standard and have concluded that its application has no material impact on the Company.
Going concern
The Directors have examined significant areas of possible financial risk including cash and cash requirements and the debt covenants, in particular the loan to value covenants and interest cover ratios on the loans with Canada Life and Royal Bank of Scotland. In July 2018, the Group completed a refinancing activity which included extending a portion of the Canada Life debt and increasing the revolving credit facility ('RCF') with Royal Bank of Scotland ('RBS'). 100% of the Canada Life loan now matures on 15 April 2028 and The Royal Bank of Scotland loan matures in July 2023. The Directors have not identified any material uncertainties which would cast significant doubt on the Group's ability to continue as a going concern for a period of not less than twelve months from the date of the approval of the condensed interim financial statements. The Directors have satisfied themselves that the Group has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future.
After due consideration, the Board believes it is appropriate to adopt the going concern basis in preparing the condensed interim financial statements.
Use of estimates and judgments
The preparation of financial statements requires management to make judgements, estimates and assumptions that affect the application of policies and the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, income and expenses. Actual results may differ from these estimates. The estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognised in the period in which the estimates are revised and in any future periods affected. There have been no changes in the judgements and estimates used by management as disclosed in the last annual report and financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2018.
Segmental reporting
The Directors are of the opinion that the Group is engaged in a single segment of business, being property investment and in one geographical area, the United Kingdom. There is no one tenant that represents more than 10% of group revenues. The chief operating decision maker is considered to be the Board of Directors who are provided with consolidated IFRS information on a quarterly basis.
2. Material agreements
Schroder Real Estate Investment Management Limited is the Investment Manager to the Company.
The Investment Manager is entitled to a fee together with reasonable expenses incurred in the performance of its duties. The fee is payable monthly in arrears and shall be an amount equal to one twelfth of the aggregate of 1.1% of the NAV of the Company. The Investment Management Agreement can be terminated by either party on not less than twelve months written notice or on immediate notice in the event of certain breaches of its terms or the insolvency of either party. The total charge to profit during the period was £1,551,000 (year to 31 March 2018: £3,531,000) (6 months to 30 September 2017: £1,772,000), which included a £283,000 VAT refund. At the period end £581,000 (31 March 2018: £556,000) (30 September 2017: £230,000) was outstanding.
The Board appointed Northern Trust International Fund Administration Services (Guernsey) Limited as the Administrator to the Company with effect from 25 July 2007. The Administrator is entitled to an annual fee equal to £120,000 of which £30,000 (31 March 2018: £30,000) (30 September 2017: £30,000) was outstanding at the period end.
3. Expenses
| Six months to 30/09/2018 | Six months to 30/09/2017 | Year to 31/03/2018 | ||
| £000 | £000 | £000 | ||
| Regulatory costs | 10 | 11 | 21 | |
| Professional fees | 132 | 88 | 109 | |
| Other expenses | (2) | 70 | 93 | |
| 140 | 169 | 223 |
4. Basic and Diluted Earnings per share
The basic and diluted earnings per share for the Group is based on the profit for the period of £10,595,000 (31 March 2018: £33,836,000), (30 September 2017: £14,464,000) and the weighted average number of ordinary shares in issue during the period of 518,513,409 (31 March 2018: 518,513,409 and 30 September 2017: 518,513,409).
4. Basic and Diluted Earnings per share (continued)
EPRA earnings reconciliation
| Six months to 30/09/2018 | Six months to 30/09/2017 | Year to 31/03/2018 | |||
| £000 | £000 | £000 | |||
| Profit after tax | 10,595 | 14,464 | 33,836 | ||
| Adjustments to calculate EPRA Earnings exclude: | |||||
| Profit on disposal of investment property | (2) | - | (594) | ||
| Net valuation gain on investment property | (7,286) | (6,573) | (20,195) | ||
| Share of valuation loss/(gain) in joint ventures | 617 | (367) | (498) | ||
| EPRA earnings | 3,924 | 7,524 | 12,549 | ||
| Company adjustments[16] | 3,128 | - | 1,507 | ||
| Adjusted EPRA earnings | 7,052 | 7,524 | 14,056 | ||
| Weighted average number of ordinary shares | 518,513,409 | 518,513,409 | 518,513,409 | ||
| EPRA earnings per share (pence) | 0.8 | 1.4 | 2.4 | ||
| Adjusted EPRA earnings per share (pence) | 1.4 | 1.4 | 2.7 | ||
European Public Real Estate Association ('EPRA') earnings per share reflect the underlying performance of the Group calculated in accordance with the EPRA guidelines.
5. Dividends paid
| Number of | 01/04/2018 to | ||
| In respect of | ordinary | Rate | 30/09/2018 |
| shares | (pence) | £000 | |
| Quarter 31 March 2018 dividend paid 31 May 2018 | 518.51 million | 0.62 | 3,215 |
| Quarter 30 June 2018 dividend paid 31 August 2018 | 518.51 million | 0.62 | 3,215 |
| 1.24 | 6,430 |
| Number of | 01/04/2017 to | ||
| In respect of | ordinary | Rate | 30/09/2017 |
| shares | (pence) | £000 | |
| Quarter 31 March 2017 dividend paid 31 May 2017 | 518.51 million | 0.62 | 3,215 |
| Quarter 30 June 2017 dividend paid 31 August 2017 | 518.51 million | 0.62 | 3,215 |
| 1.24 | 6,430 |
Number of | 01/04/2017 to | ||
| In respect of | ordinary | Rate | 31/03/2018 |
| shares | (pence) | £000 | |
| Quarter 31 March 2017 dividend paid 31 May 2017 | 518.51 million | 0.62 | 3,214 |
| Quarter 30 June 2017 dividend paid 31 August 2017 | 518.51 million | 0.62 | 3,214 |
| Quarter 30 September 2017 dividend paid 06 December 2017 | 518.51 million | 0.62 | 3,214 |
| Quarter 31 December 2017 dividend paid 07 March 2018 | 518.51 million | 0.62 | 3,214 |
| 2.48 | 12,856 |
A dividend for the quarter ended 30 September 2018 of 0.64p (£3.3 million) was declared on 12 November 2018 and will be paid on 30 November 2018.
6. Investment property (continued)
For the period 1 April 2017 to 30 September 2017 (unaudited)
| Leasehold | Freehold | Total | |
| £000 | £000 | £000 | |
| Fair value as at 1 April 2017 | 37,403 | 328,824 | 366,227 |
| Additions | 32 | 5,268 | 5,300 |
| Net valuation (loss)/gain on investment property | (1,286) | 7,859 | 6,573 |
| Fair value as at 30 September 2017 | 36,149 | 341,951 | 378,100 |
For the year 1 April 2017 to 31 March 2018 (audited)
| Leasehold | Freehold | Total | |
| £000 | £000 | £000 | |
| Fair value as at 1 April 2017 | 37,403 | 328,824 | 366,227 |
| Additions | 721 | 7,783 | 8,504 |
| Gross proceeds on disposals | (35) | (6,509) | (6,544) |
| Realised gain on disposals | 35 | 559 | 594 |
| Net valuation (loss)/gain on investment property | (944) | 21,139 | 20,195 |
| Fair value as at 31 March 2018 | 37,180 | 351,796 | 388,976 |
For the period 1 April 2018 to 30 September 2018 (unaudited)
| Leasehold | Freehold | Total | |
| £000 | £000 | £000 | |
| Fair value as at 1 April 2018 | 37,180 | 351,796 | 388,976 |
| Acquisitions of investment property | - | 22,377 | 22,377 |
| Additions | 52 | 1,090 | 1,142 |
| Realised gain on disposals | - | 2 | 2 |
| Net valuation (loss)/gain on investment property | (81) | 7,367 | 7,286 |
| Fair value as at 30 September 2018 | 37,151 | 382,632 | 419,783 |
The balance above includes:
| Leasehold £000 | Freehold £000 | Total £000 | |
| Investment property | 37,151 | 380,632 | 417,783 |
| Investment property held for sale | - | 2,000 | 2,000 |
| Fair Value as at 30 September 2018 | 37,151 | 382,632 | 419,783 |
One of the investment properties has been determined to meet the criteria of a held for sale asset at the period end at a value of £2,000,000 (31 March 2018: £nil, 30 September 2017: £5,777,000).
Fair value of investment property as determined by the valuer totals £431,475,000 (31 March 2018: £399,725,000) (30 September 2017: £388,550,000). As at 30 September 2018, £11,692,000 (31 March 2018: £10,749,000) (30 September 2017: £10,450,000) in connection with lease incentives is included within trade and other receivables.
6. Investment property (continued)
The fair value of investment property has been determined by Knight Frank LLP, a firm of independent chartered surveyors, who are registered independent appraisers. The valuation has been undertaken in accordance with the RICS Valuation - Global Standards 2017, incorporating the International Valuation Standards, and RICS Professional Standards UK January 2014 (revised April 2015), issued by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (the "Red Book").
The properties have been valued on the basis of "Fair Value" in accordance with the RICS Valuation - Professional Standards VPS4(7.1) Fair Value and VPGA1 Valuations for Inclusion in Financial Statements which adopt the definition of Fair Value used by the International Accounting Standards Board.
The valuation has been undertaken using appropriate valuation methodologies and the valuer's professional judgement. The valuer's opinion of Fair Value was primarily derived using recent comparable market transactions on arm's length terms, where available, and appropriate valuation techniques (The Investment Method).
The properties have been valued individually and not as part of a portfolio.
All investment properties are categorised as Level 3 fair values as they use significant unobservable inputs. There have not been any transfers between Levels during the period. Investment properties have been classed according to their real estate sector. Information on these significant unobservable inputs per class of investment property is disclosed below:
Quantitative information about fair value measurement using unobservable inputs (Level 3) as at 30 September 2018 (unaudited)
| Industrial | Retail (incl retail warehouse) | Office | Other | Total | ||
| Fair value (£000) | 140,550 | 133,575 | 136,500 | 20,850 | 431,475 | |
| Area ('000 sq ft) | 1,732 | 599 | 634 | 177 | 3,142 | |
| Net passing rent psf per annum | Range Weighted average | £0 - £10.83 £4.20 | £0 - £38.50 £13.36 | £0 - £25.81 £13.17 | £0 - £13.00 £6.87 | £0 - £38.50 £7.90 |
| Gross ERV psf per annum | Range Weighted average | £3.75 - £12.00 £5.42 | £7.40 - £38.50 £15.11 | £9.50 - £27.50 £16.40 | £8.18 -£13.00 £9.07 | £3.75 - £38.50 £9.69 |
| Net initial yield (1) | Range Weighted average | 0% - 6.34% 4.84% | 0% - 7.42% 5.61% | 0%-18.39% 5.72% | 4.86% -5.85% 5.47% | 0% - 18.39% 5.39% |
| Equivalent yield | Range Weighted average | 4.66% - 7.58% 6.02% | 5.01%-9.39% 6.13% | 5.38%-10.66% 6.85% | 4.75% -7.90% 6.61% | 4.66%-10.66% 6.35% |
Notes:(1) Yields based on rents receivable after deduction of head rents, but gross of non-recoverables.
6. Investment property (continued)
Quantitative information about fair value measurement using unobservable inputs (Level 3) as at 31 March 2018 (audited)
| Industrial | Retail (incl retail warehouse) | Office | Leisure | Total | |||
| Fair value (£000) | 128,450 | 138,825 | 111,700 | 20,750 | 399,725 | ||
| Area ('000 sq ft) | 1,716 | 599 | 547 | 177 | 3,039 | ||
| Net passing rent per sq ft per annum | Range Weighted average | £0 - £10.83 £4.13 | £0 - £38.50 £13.89 | £0 - £25.81 £13.56 | £0 - £6.15 £4.52 | £0 - £38.50 £7.77 | |
| Gross ERV per sq ft per annum | Range Weighted average | £3.75 - £11.50 £5.36 | £7.40 - £38.50 £15.23 | £9.50 - £27.50 £15.70 | £8.23 - £13.00 £9.11 | £3.75-£38.50 £9.38 | |
| Net initial yield (1) | Range Weighted average | 0% - 6.81% 5.17% | 0% - 8.25% 5.61% | 0% - 17.41% 6.22% | 0% - 5.80% 3.62% | 0% - 17.41% 5.53% | |
| Equivalent yield | Range Weighted average | 4.84% - 8.91% 6.40% | 4.75%-8.68% 6.00% | 5.60%-10.41% 7.01% | 4.75% - 7.83% 6.61% | 4.75%-10.41% 6.44% | |
Notes: (1) Yields based on rents receivable after deduction of head rents, but gross of non-recoverables.
Sensitivity of measurement to variations in the significant unobservable inputs
The significant unobservable inputs used in the fair value measurement categorised within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy of the Group's property portfolio, together with the impact of significant movements in these inputs on the fair value measurement, are shown below:
| Unobservable input | Impact on fair value measurement of significant increase in input | Impact on fair value measurement of significant decrease in input |
| Passing rent | Increase | Decrease |
| Gross ERV | Increase | Decrease |
| Net initial yield | Decrease | Increase |
| Equivalent yield | Decrease | Increase |
There are interrelationships between the yields and rental values as they are partially determined by market rate conditions.
6. Investment property (continued)
The sensitivity of the valuation to changes in the most significant inputs per class of investment property are shown below:
| Estimated movement in fair value of investment properties at 30 September 2018 (unaudited) | Industrial £'000 | Retail £'000 | Office £'000 | Other £'000 | Total £'000 |
| Increase in ERV by 5% | 6,755 | 5,906 | 5,973 | 578 | 19,032 |
| Decrease in ERV by 5% | (6,531) | (5,163) | (5,621) | (561) | (17,876) |
| Increase in net initial yield by 0.25% | (6,897) | (5,697) | (5,713) | (911) | (19,124) |
| Decrease in net initial yield by 0.25% | 7,647 | 6,229 | 6,235 | 998 | 20,984 |
| Estimated movement in fair value of investment properties at 31 March 2018 (audited) | Industrial £000 | Retail £000 | Office £000 | Other £000 | Total £000 |
| Increase in ERV by 5% | 6,559 | 6,057 | 4,837 | 731 | 18,184 |
| Decrease in ERV by 5% | (5,460) | (5,405) | (4,792) | (737) | (16,394) |
| Increase in net initial yield by 0.25% | (5,929) | (5,920) | (4,318) | (1,341) | (17,277) |
| Decrease in net initial yield by 0.25% | 6,532 | 6,473 | 4,680 | 1,540 | 18,911 |
7. Investment in joint ventures
For the period 1 April 2017 to 30 September 2017 (unaudited)
| £000 | ||
| Opening balance as at 1 April 2017 | 76,900 | |
| Purchase of units in City Tower Unit Trust to fund capital expenditure | 350 | |
| Share of profit for the period | 1,776 | |
| Distributions received | (1,409) | |
| Amounts recognised as joint ventures at 30 September 2017 | 77,617 |
For the year 1 April 2017 to 31 March 2018 (audited)
| £000 | |
| Opening balance as at 1 April 2017 | 76,900 |
| Purchase of units in City Tower Unit Trust to fund capital expenditure | 350 |
| Share of profit for the period | 3,252 |
| Distribution received | (2,754) |
| Amounts recognised as joint ventures at 31 March 2018 | 77,748 |
For the period 1 April 2018 to 30 September 2018 (unaudited)
| £000 | ||
| Opening balance as at 1 April 2018 | 77,748 | |
| Purchase of units in City Tower Unit Trust to fund capital expenditure | 1,250 | |
| Share of profit for the period | 895 | |
| Distributions received | (1,512) | |
| Amounts recognised as joint ventures at 30 September 2018 | 78,381 |
8. Trade and other receivables
| Six months to 30/09/2018 | Six months to 30/09/2017 | Year to 31/03/2018 | ||
| £000 | £000 | £000 | ||
| Rent receivable | 1,873 | 1,830 | 974 | |
| Sundry debtors and prepayments | 16,194 | 15,282 | 13,441 | |
| 18,067 | 17,112 | 14,415 |
Other debtors and receivables includes £11,692,000 (31 March 2018: £10,749,000, 30 September 2017: £10,450,000) in respect of lease incentives.
9. Cash and cash equivalents
As at 30 September 2018 the group had £8.9 million in cash (31 March 2018: £29.2 million, 30 September 2017: £24.9 million) of which £nil is held within the Canada Life security pool. (31 March 2018: £nil, 30 September 2017: £2.5 million)
10. Interest-bearing loans and borrowings
The Group entered into a £129.6 million loan facility with Canada Life on 16 April 2013 that had 20% of the loan maturing on 15 April 2023 and with the balance of 80% maturing on 15 April 2028, with a fixed interest rate of 4.77%. On the 2 July 2018, the 20% of the Canada Life loan maturing on 15 April 2023 was refinanced extending the maturity date, increasing the length of the loan to that of the 80%, maturing on the 15 April 2028 making it coterminous with the 80% balance. The interest rate for this element of the loan was amended to 3.00% from 4.77%.
On 2 July 2018, the Company refinanced its existing £20.5 million revolving credit facility with Royal Bank of Scotland. The RCF with RBS was increased from £20.5 million to £32.5 million. The existing RCF had been due to expire in July 2019, and the new five year loan has a maturity in July 2023. The interest rate is based on the loan to value ratio as below:
- LIBOR + 1.60% if loan to value is less than or equal to 60%
- LIBOR + 1.85% if loan to value is greater than 60%
During the period the loan to value has remained less than 60%. Since this loan has variable interest, an interest rate cap for 100% of the loan was entered into, which comes into effect if GBP 3 month LIBOR reaches 1.5%.
As at 30 September 2018 the group has a loan balance of £160.1 million and £2.1 million of unamortised arrangement fees (31 March 2018: £150.1 million and £1.6 million of unamortised arrangement fees, September 2017: £150.1 million and £1.7 million of unamortised arrangement fees).
Fair values are based on the present value of future cash flows discounted at a market rate of interest. Issue costs are amortised over the period of the borrowings. As at 30 September 2018 the fair value of the Group's £129.6 million loan with Canada Life was £145.3 million (31 March 2018: £143.0 million, 30 September 2017: £143.6 million).
Refinancing of both the external loans led to a one-off refinancing expense of £3.1 million during the period.
11. Trade and other payables
| Six months to 30/09/2018 | Six months to 30/09/2017 | Year to 31/03/2018 | ||
| £000 | £000 | £000 | ||
| Rent received in advance | 4,938 | 4,804 | 4,782 | |
| Rental deposits | 1,105 | 1,037 | 963 | |
| Interest payable | 1,391 | 1,391 | 1,391 | |
| Other payables and accruals | 1,532 | 1,251 | 1,146 | |
| 8,966 | 8,483 | 8,282 |
12. NAV per ordinary share
The NAV per ordinary share is based on the net assets of £357,735,000 (31 March 2018: £353,570,000, 30 September 2017: £340,624,000) and 518,513,409 ordinary shares in issue at the Statement of Financial Position reporting date (31 March 2018: 518,513,409 and 30 September 2017: 518,513,409).
13. Financial risk factors
The Directors are of the opinion that there have been no significant changes to the financial risk profile of the Group since the end of the last annual financial reporting period ended 31 March 2018 of which it is aware.
The main risks arising from the Group's financial instruments and properties are market price risk, credit risk, liquidity risk and interest rate risk. The Group is only directly exposed to sterling and hence is not exposed to currency risks. The Board regularly reviews and agrees policies for managing each of these risks.
14. Related party transactions
Material agreements are disclosed in note 2. The Directors' remuneration for the period for services to the Group was £75,000 (31 March 2018: £180,000, 30 September 2017: £90,000). Transactions with joint ventures are disclosed in note 7.
15. Capital Commitments
At 30 September 2018 the Group had capital commitments of £2 million (31 March 2018: £1.2 million, 30 September 2017: £3.2 million).
16. Post balance sheet events
Post year end, the Company acquired 19 Hollin Lane, Milton Keynes for £0.8m on the 5 October 2018.
Corporate information
Registered Address PO Box 255 Trafalgar Court Les Banques St. Peter Port Guernsey GY1 3QL Directors Lorraine Baldry (Chairman) Stephen Bligh Graham Basham Alastair Hughes (All Non-Executive Directors) Investment Manager and Accounting Agent Schroder Real Estate Investment Management Limited 1 London Wall Place London EC2Y 5AU Secretary and Administrator Northern Trust International Fund Administration Services (Guernsey) Limited PO Box 255 Trafalgar Court Les Banques St Peter Port Guernsey GY1 3QL Depositary Northern Trust (Guernsey) Limited PO Box 255 Trafalgar Court Les Banques St Peter Port Guernsey GY1 3QL | Independent Auditor KPMG Channel Islands Limited Glategny Court Glategny Esplanade St. Peter Port Guernsey GY1 1WR Property Valuers Knight Frank LLP 55 Baker Street London W1U 8AN Joint Sponsor and Brokers J.P. Morgan Securities plc 25 Bank Street Canary Wharf London E14 5JP Numis Securities Limited 10 Paternoster Square London EC4M 7LT Tax Advisers Deloitte LLP 2 New Street Square London EC4A 3BZ Receiving Agent and UK Transfer/Paying Agent Computershare Investor Services (Guernsey) Limited Queensway House Hilgrove Street St Helier Jersey JE1 1ES | |
| Solicitors to the Company as to English Law: Stephenson Harwood LLP 1 Finsbury Circus London EC2M 7SH | as to Guernsey Law: Mourant Ozannes Royal Chambers St Julian's Avenue St. Peter Port Guernsey GY1 4HP | |
| ISA The Company's shares are eligible for Individual Savings Accounts (ISAs). FATCA GIIN 5BM7YG.99999.SL.831 | ||
[1] Source: PMA, Schroders.
[2] Source: ONS, PMA.
[3] Source: CBRE.
[4] Source: PMA
[5] Source: Oxford Economics growth forecasts 2018 - 2023, Schroders, October 2018.
[6] Note excluding the one off costs of the refinancings.
[7]Note: Central London is defined by MSCI as City, Mid-Town, West End and Inner London.
[8] Includes the adjoining Howard House.
[9] The Company listed on the London Stock Exchange in July 2004.
[10] Loan balance divided by property value as at 30 September 2018.
[11] For the quarter preceding the Interest Payment Date ('IPD'), ((rental income received - void rates, void service charge and void insurance)/interest paid).
[12] For the quarter following the IPD, ((rental income received - void rates, void service charge and void insurance)/interest paid).
[13] Fixed total interest rate for the loan term. This is a blended interest between two portions of the loan.
[14] £2 million of the RCF remains undrawn.
[15] Total interest rate as at 30 September 2018 comprising 3 months LIBOR of 0.80% and the margin of 1.6% at an LTV below 60% and a margin of 1.85% above 60% LTV.
[16] The Company adjustments relate to one off costs.
