2019123000574
2019123000574
2019123000574
寶積資本控股有限公司
(於開曼群島註冊成立之有限公司) (Incorporated in the Cayman Islands with limited liability)
年報 Annual Report
2019 2019
CHARACTERISTICS OF GEM OF THE STOCK EXCHANGE OF HONG KONG
LIMITED (THE “STOCK EXCHANGE”)
GEM has been positioned as a market designed to accommodate small and mid-sized
companies to which a higher investment risk may be attached than other companies listed
on the Stock Exchange. Prospective investors should be aware of the potential risks of
investing in such companies and should make the decision to invest only after due and careful
consideration.
Given that the companies listed on GEM are generally small and mid-sized companies, there
is a risk that securities traded on GEM may be more susceptible to high market volatility than
securities traded on the Main Board of the Stock Exchange and no assurance is given that there
will be a liquid market in the securities traded on GEM.
Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited and the Stock Exchange take no responsibility for
the contents of this annual report, make no representation as to its accuracy or completeness and
expressly disclaim any liability whatsoever for any loss howsoever arising from or in reliance upon the
whole or any part of the contents of this annual report.
This annual report, for which the directors (the “Directors ”) of Amasse Capital Holdings Limited
(the “Company ”) collectively and individually accept full responsibility, includes particulars given
in compliance with the Rules Governing the Listing of Securities on the GEM of the Stock Exchange
(the “GEM Listing Rules ”) for the purpose of giving information with regard to the Company and
its subsidiaries (together, the “Group ”). The Directors, having made all reasonable enquiries,
confirm that to the best of their knowledge and belief the information contained in this annual report
is accurate and complete in all material respects and not misleading or deceptive, and there are
no other matters the omission of which would make any statement herein or this annual report
misleading.
Page
Corporate Information 3
Directors’ Report 30
PRINCIPAL BANKERS
Industrial and Commercial Bank of
China (Asia) Limited
WEBSITE
www.amasse.com.hk
STOCK CODE
8168
The board (the “Board”) of directors (the “Directors”) of Amasse Capital Holdings Limited (the
“Company”) and its subsidiaries (collectively referred to as the “Group”) is pleased to present the
audited consolidated financial results of the Group for the year ended 30 September 2019 to the
shareholders (the “Shareholders”) of the Company.
REVIEW OF RESULTS
For the financial year ended 30 September 2019, the Group’s revenue was approximately HK$10.7
million (2018: approximately HK$22.2 million). A loss attributable to owners of the Company
amounted to approximately HK$4.7 million as compared with a profit of approximately HK$1.0 million
for the financial year ended 30 September 2018.
BUSINESS REVIEW
The Group is a corporate finance advisory service provider based in Hong Kong and licensed to
conduct Type 1 (dealing in securities) and Type 6 (advising on corporate finance) regulated activities
under the Securities and Futures Ordinance (Chapter 571 of the Laws of Hong Kong) (the “SFO”),
subject to the conditions that its operating subsidiary, Amasse Capital Limited (“Amasse Capital”),
shall not (i) hold client assets; (ii) for Type 1 regulated activity, engage in dealing activities other than
those relating to corporate finance; and (iii) for Type 6 regulated activity, act as sponsor in respect of
an application for listing on a recognised stock market of any securities.
The Group is principally engaged in providing corporate finance advisory services in Hong Kong
including (i) acting as financial adviser to Hong Kong public listed companies and investors seeking
to control or invest in public listed companies in Hong Kong regarding corporate transactions
which mainly involve the compliance with the Rules Governing the Listing of Securities on the Stock
Exchange (the “Listing Rules”), the Rules Governing the Listing of Securities on GEM (the “GEM
Listing Rules”) and/or the Codes on Takeovers and Mergers and Share Buy-backs (the “Takeovers
Codes”); (ii) acting as independent financial adviser to independent board committees and/or
independent shareholders of public listed companies in Hong Kong; and (iii) acting as underwriter
and/or placing agent not holding client assets in fund raising activities for its clients.
On 29 June 2018, the Stock Exchange published a consultation paper to seek comments on
proposals to tighten its review on the suitability of listing of new applicants, enhance the continuing
listing criteria for listed issuers and tighten the reverse takeovers rules to prevent backdoor listings
particularly those involving shell companies. Further, on 3 July 2018, the Stock Exchange effected
certain amendments to the Listing Rules and the GEM Listing Rules to tighten the requirements on
capital raising activities by listed issuers, including the restriction of highly dilutive capital raising
activities. As a combined effect from the aforesaid tightened regulatory measures, economic
uncertainties (such as tightened controls on capital outflow by the Government of The People’s
Republic of China (the “PRC”), and trade conflict between the PRC and the United States of America
(“US”)), the merger and acquisition (“M&A”) activities as well as the corporate fund raising activities
of Hong Kong listed companies have been adversely affected.
According to the website of the Stock Exchange, the number of circular (“Circular(s)”) in respect of
Takeovers Code related transactions and/or notifiable transactions under Chapter 14 of the Listing
Rules and/or under Chapter 19 of the GEM Listing Rules of Hong Kong listed companies (including
transactions with M&A) had decreased to about 470 transactions for the year ended 30 September
2019, representing a decrease of approximately 9.6% as compared to about 520 transactions for the
corresponding period of last year.
Further, according to the Securities and Derivatives Markets Quarterly Reports published by the
Stock Exchange, it was observed that the number of corporate fund raising transactions (including
placing, right issues and open offer) of Hong Kong listed companies had decreased to about 200
transactions for the year ended 30 September 2019, representing a decrease of approximately 35.5%
as compared to about 310 transactions for the corresponding period of last year, mainly driven by the
tightened regulatory measures.
The performance of the Group had been adversely affected by (i) the decrease in number of
corporate transactions and the lackluster performance of corporate finance market in Hong Kong as
a result of the tightened regulatory regime, Hong Kong protests and the persistent global economic
uncertainties; and (ii) the keen competition in pricing for corporate finance advisory services deals as
a result of the weak corporate finance advisory services sector. The total fees for corporate finance
advisory services provided by the Group had further declined as compared to the year ended 30
September 2018. The above-mentioned factors will continue to affect the volume and fee chargeable
of corporate finance advisory services transactions handled by the Group as well as the Group’s
future performance.
FINANCIAL REVIEW
Revenue
Revenue for the year ended 30 September 2019 amounted to approximately HK$10.7 million,
representing a decrease of approximately HK$11.5 million or 51.8% as compared with that of
approximately HK$22.2 million for the corresponding period of last year. The decrease in revenue
was driven mainly due to a decrease of corporate finance advisory transactions handled by the
Group from 47 transactions for the year ended 30 September 2018 to 36 transactions for the year
ended 30 September 2019, a decrease of approximately 23.4% as compared to the corresponding
period of last year.
Other Income
Other income was approximately HK$0.8 million for the year ended 30 September 2019 (2018:
approximately HK$0.3 million), representing bank interest income generated from short-term
deposits.
Dividend
No dividend for the year ended 30 September 2019 (2018: Nil) is recommended by the Board.
As at 30 September 2019 and 2018, the Group had no banking facilities or borrowings, hence no
gearing ratio of the Group was presented.
The Directors are of the view that at the date hereof, the Group’s financial resources are sufficient to
support its business and operations.
Treasury Policy
The Group adopts a prudent financial management approach towards its treasury policy and thus
maintained a healthy liquidity position throughout the reporting period. The management of the
Group regularly reviews the recoverable amount of trade receivables by performing ongoing credit
assessments and monitoring prompt recovery and if necessary to make adequate impairment losses
for irrecoverable amounts. In order to achieve better cost control and minimise the cost of funds,
the Group’s treasury activities are centralised and cash is generally deposited with leading licensed
banks in Hong Kong and denominated in Hong Kong dollars and United States dollars (“US$”).
Capital Structure
The Directors monitor the Group’s capital structure by reviewing cash flow requirements, taking
into account of its future financial obligations and commitments. The capital structure of the Group
comprises of issued share capital and reserves attributable to Shareholders. The Directors review the
Group’s capital structure regularly.
USE OF PROCEEDS
The net proceeds received by the Company from the IPO after deducting the relevant one-off and
non-recurring listing expenses amounted to approximately HK$29.0 million (based on the final public
offering price of HK$0.24 per share).
During the year under review, the Group had used approximately HK$0.6 million (2018: approximately
HK$2.2 million). The remaining net proceeds of approximately HK$26.2 million were deposited as
short-term time deposits with a licensed bank in Hong Kong. The following sets forth a summary of
the allocation of the net proceeds and its utilisation as at 30 September 2019, as compared to that
envisaged in the Prospectus.
Approximate
Approximate actual amount
actual amount utilised from Unused
Approximate utilised from 1 October 2018 amount of net
amount of net the Listing to to proceeds as at
proceeds from 30 September 30 September 30 September
the Listing 2018 2019 2019
HK$ million HK$ million HK$ million HK$ million
The business objectives and planned use of proceeds as stated in the Prospectus were based
on the best estimation of the future market conditions made by the Group at the time of preparing
the Prospectus. In pursuing the long-term goals, the Group planned to build up an IPO team in
year 2019 to provide IPO sponsorship services and to act as compliance adviser as set out in the
Prospectus. Looking back at the Hong Kong IPO market performance, IPO activities were very active
in the second half of year 2017 with a total of 102 new listings, which was around a 41.7% increase
in volume as compared to 72 new IPO listings from the first half of year 2017. The IPO activities
continued to be vibrant in the first half and second half of 2018 with a total of 108 and 110 new
listings respectively.
However, it is observed that for the period from January to September 2019, the IPO market
performance was quiet as the Stock Exchange tightened its approval for new listings. There was a
notable increase in the number of applicants that were rejected during the listing application process.
This was primarily a direct result of the heightened scrutiny of the suitability and commercial rationale
for listing applied by the Stock Exchange. Rejections were based on whether rationale for listing was
supported by the applicant ’s expected growth and therefore, need for funding. The Stock Exchange ’s
vetting process is qualitative and the review on the suitability of each applicant is holistic. A total
of 108 IPO applicants were successfully listed on the Stock Exchange for the period from January
to September 2019, which was around a 34.9% decrease in volume compared to the 166 new IPO
listings from the corresponding period of last year. The Directors took the view that an increasingly
stringent approval process will discourage applicant from raising capital from the IPO market.
Further, Hong Kong has been hit by volatility stemming from concerns over trade conflict between
the PRC and the US and social instability in Hong Kong. The uncertainty in the economic outlook and
volatile market would impact the timing and the number of companies that can go public hugely. In
view of the above, the Group weighed up the costs and the benefits and considered adoption of a
prudent approach to hold-up on establishment of an IPO team until the time when the regulatory and
economic environments become clearer.
As set out in the “Future Plans and Use of Proceeds” section in the Prospectus, one of the uses
of the net proceeds has been to expand the Group’s corporate finance advisory business by
recruiting additional employees. Another use of net proceeds of the Group is to develop its equity
capital market business. Owing to the challenging environments as noted in the sub-section headed
“Business Review” above and the economic uncertainties, both the above-mentioned expansion
plans were not actively pursued. However, the Group remains resolute to execute the Future Plans as
stated in the Prospectus.
During the year, the Group has rented a new office for expansion of office. Approximately HK$0.5
million out of net proceeds has been used to pay for the rental deposit (approximately HK$0.2 million)
and rental fee (approximately HK$0.3 million). Going forward, the Group will carry out its expansion
plans cautiously with reference to the then prevailing market condition, and regulatory changes and
atmosphere while keeping in mind the paramount objective to preserve shareholders’ value.
To cope with the challenging environments, the Group has decided to seek other financial related
services to diversify its business and broaden its revenue base so as to generate value for
Shareholders. During the year under review, the Group formed a wholly-owned subsidiary named as
Amasse Asset Management Limited (“Amasse AM”) which made an application (the “Application”)
to the SFC for the granting of Type 4 (Advising on securities) and Type 9 (Asset Management)
regulated activities under the SFO. The Application was still under review by the SFC. It is expected
that Amasse AM will participate in providing asset management services after granting the licenses
by the SFC. Meanwhile, the Group will continue to provide quality corporate finance advisory services
to customers so as to generate value for our customers and future revenue for our Shareholders.
Code provision A.2.1 of the CG Code stipulates that the roles of chairman and chief executive of a
listed issuer should be separate and should not be performed by the same individual. Currently, no
chairman has been elected for the Company. In accordance with article 132 of the memorandum
and articles of association (the “Articles”) of the Company, the Directors may elect a chairman of the
Board meetings and determine the period for which he/she is to hold office. If no such chairman is
elected, the Directors present may choose one of their members to be chairman of the meeting. The
Board considers this arrangement allows contributions from all Directors with different expertise and
experience to manage the Group’s overall business development, implementation and management.
The key corporate governance principles and practices of the Company are summarised as follows:
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
The Board cultivates good governance as the cornerstone of the Group’ s corporate culture.
The Board is responsible for the leadership and control of the Company and is accountable to
shareholders for the strategic development of the Group with a targeted goal in respect of maximising
long-term shareholder value, while balancing stakeholders ’ interests. The Board formulates the
overall strategic direction, while the management is delegated with the power to implement policies
and strategies as set out by the Board. The Board has also delegated the day-to-day responsibility to
the executive Directors who will meet regularly to review the financial results and performance of the
Group. The Group oversees the Group’s affairs in a responsible and effective manner. The Board has
a balanced composition of executive and non-executive Directors. Currently, the Board comprises
four executive Directors and three independent non-executive Directors. At all times during the
year, the independent non-executive Directors represent at least one-third of the Board. Each of the
independent non-executive Directors appointed on 26 February 2018 has entered into a service
agreement with the Company for an initial term of three years commencing from 22 March 2018 which
shall continue thereafter unless and until terminated by not less than three months’ notice in writing.
Their appointments are subject to retirement by rotation and re-election at the Company’s annual
general meeting (“AGM”) in accordance with the Articles of the Company.
Executive Directors
Mr. Lam Ting Lok (Chief Executive Officer)
Mr. Lo Mun Lam Raymond
Ms. Tse Fung Sum Flora
Ms. Tsang Kwong Wan
During the year, there was no change in the composition of the Board. The biographical information
of the Directors, which is set out on pages 24 to 27, demonstrates a balance of skills, experience and
diversity perspectives of the Board. Except as disclosed in the biography of directors, the Directors
have no financial, business, family or other material/relevant relationships with the Group.
The Company has throughout the year met the requirements of the GEM Listing Rules relating to
the appointment of the independent non-executive Directors with at least one of them possessing
appropriate accounting professional qualifications as required under rule 5.05(2) of the GEM Listing
Rules. Mr. Tsang Jacob Chung is one of three independent non-executive Directors, possesses the
appropriate professional qualifications, or accounting or related financial management expertise
as required under rule 5.05(2) of the GEM Listing Rules. The Company has also received a written
annual confirmation from each of the independent non-executive Directors in respect of their
independence for the year. The Board considers that all independent non-executive Directors are
being considered to be independent by reference to the factors stated in the GEM Listing Rules
throughout the year.
The Board recognises and embraces the benefits of having a diverse Board to enhance the quality
of the Company’s performance as well as to achieve the business objectives and sustainable
development. The Board has established a board diversity policy setting out the approach to achieve
diversity on the Board including but not limited to gender, age, cultural and educational background,
or professional experience with aims of enhancing its capability of decision making and effectiveness
in dealing with organisational changes.
Any director appointed by the Board to fill a casual vacancy shall hold office until the first general
meeting of shareholders after their appointment and be subject to re-election at such meeting and
any director appointed by the Board as an addition to the existing Board shall hold office only until
the next following AGM of the Company and shall then be eligible for re-election. Other matters
reserved for the Board include consideration of dividend policy, approval of major investments and
review of the corporate governance practices of the Group. Daily operations and administration are
delegated to management teams.
The Company has arranged insurance cover in respect of legal action against its Directors. The
insurance coverage is reviewed at least annually to ensure that the Directors and officers are
adequately protected against potential liabilities.
Each Director is normally able to seek independent professional advice in appropriate circumstances
at the Company’s expense, upon reasonable request made to the Board.
DIVIDEND POLICY
The Company has adopted a dividend policy. As a summary, in recommending or declaring
dividends, the Company shall maintain adequate reserves for meeting its current and future
operations, liquidity position and capital requirements. There is no pre-determined dividend
distribution ratio. Dividends may be paid only out of the Company’s reserves as determined by the
Directors having regard to the above-mentioned factors and permitted under Companies Law of the
Cayman Islands and the Articles of the Company. Final dividend for any financial year will in addition
be subject to Shareholders’ approval.
NOMINATION COMMITTEE
The Company has established the nomination committee on 26 February 2018 with specific
written terms of reference in compliance with the CG Code as set out in Appendix 15 to the GEM
Listing Rules. The terms of reference setting out the nomination committee’s authority, duties and
responsibilities are available on both the GEM website and the Company’s website. The primary
duties of the nomination committee are to review the structure, size and composition of the Board on
a regular basis; identify qualified individuals to become Board members; assess the independence of
independent non-executive Directors; and make recommendations to the Board on relevant matters
relating to the appointment or re-appointment of Directors; and monitor the implementation of the
board diversity policy on an ongoing basis.
The Company believes that the board diversity policy is a key element for the Company to maintain
sound corporate governance, realise sustainable development, achieve strategic objectives
and enhances decision-making capability. The Company considers that the concept of diversity
incorporates a number of different aspects and measurable objectives, such as professional
experience, business perspectives, independence, skills and knowledge, gender, age, cultural and
educational background.
The Board has achieved most of the measurable objectives under board diversity policy during the
Year.
In accordance with the nomination policy which is applicable to both new appointments and re-
appointments, the secretary of the nomination committee shall call a meeting of the nomination
committee, and invite nominations of candidates from the Board members (if any), for consideration
by the nomination committee prior to its meeting. The nomination committee may also put forward
candidates who are not nominated by the Board members. The nomination committee shall make
recommendations of the candidates for the Board ’s consideration and approval. For proposing
candidates to stand for election/re-election at a general meeting, the nomination committee shall
make nominations to the Board for its consideration and recommendation. In identifying and selecting
suitable candidates for directorships, the nomination committee would consider the candidate’s
character, qualifications, experience, independence pursuant to Rule 5.09 of the GEM Listing Rules
and other relevant criteria necessary to complement the corporate strategy and achieve Board
diversity, where appropriate, before making recommendation to the Board.
The nomination committee has comprised a total of three members, being Ms. Tsang Kwong Wan,
the Company’s executive Director, Mr. Cheung Pak To, BBS and Dr. Yu Yuen Ping, the Company’s
independent non-executive Directors.
The majority of the nominee committee members are independent non-executive Directors. The
Chairman of the nominee committee is Mr. Cheung Pak To, BBS .
During the year ended 30 September 2019, the nomination committee held one meeting for, inter
alia, considering the retirement and re-election of the Directors at the annual general meeting and to
assess, review and make recommendations on the structure, size and composition of the Board.
Details of the attendance records of each committee member at the nomination committee meeting
are set out under the subheading “Practices and Conduct of Meetings” below.
REMUNERATION COMMITTEE
The Company has established the remuneration committee on 26 February 2018 with specific
written terms of reference in compliance with the CG Code as set out in Appendix 15 to the GEM
Listing Rules. The terms of reference setting out the remuneration committee’s authority, duties and
responsibilities are available on both the GEM website and the Company’s website. The primary
duties of the remuneration committee are to make recommendations to the Board on the overall
remuneration policy and structure relating to the Directors and senior management of the Group;
review performance-based remuneration; make recommendations to the Board on the remuneration
packages of the Directors and senior management of the Group; and ensure none of the Directors
determine their own remuneration. The remuneration committee has adopted the model as described
in the Code Provision B.1.2(c)(ii) to make recommendations to the Board on the remuneration
packages of individual executive Directors, including salaries, bonuses and benefits in kind.
The remuneration committee has comprised a total of three members, being Ms. Tsang Kwong
Wan, the Company’s executive Director, Mr. Cheung Pak To, BBS and Mr. Tsang Jacob Chung, the
Company’s independent non-executive Directors.
The majority of the remuneration committee members are independent non-executive Directors. The
Chairman of the remuneration committee is Mr. Cheung Pak To, BBS .
For the financial year ended 30 September 2019, the remuneration of Directors was determined by
their experience, responsibility, workload and the time devoted to the Group. Executive Directors and
employees also participate in bonus arrangements determined in accordance with the performance
of the Group and the individual’s performance.
During the year ended 30 September 2019, the remuneration committee held one meeting for, inter
alia, reviewing the remuneration policy of the Company, the Directors’ fee of the independent non-
executive Directors and remuneration packages of the Executive Directors and senior management.
Details of the attendance records of each committee member at the remuneration committee meeting
are set out under the subheading “Practices and Conduct of Meetings” below.
AUDIT COMMITTEE
The Company has established the audit committee on 26 February 2018 with specific written terms
of reference in compliance with Rule 5.28 to 5.29 of the GEM Listing Rules and the CG Code as set
out in Appendix 15 to the GEM Listing Rules. The terms of reference setting out the audit committee ’s
authority, duties and responsibilities are available on both the GEM website and the Company’s
website. The primary duties of the audit committee are mainly to make recommendation to the
Board on the appointment and removal of external auditor; review financial statements and material
advice in respect of financial reporting; and review risk management and internal control system
of the Company. The audit committee shall consider whether, in order to assure continuing auditor
independence, there should be a regular rotation of the independent registered public accounting
firm.
The audit committee has comprised a total of three members, being the three independent
non-executive Directors, namely Mr. Tsang Jacob Chung, Mr. Cheung Pak To, BBS and Dr. Yu Yuen
Ping. The Chairman of the audit committee is Mr. Tsang Jacob Chung who possesses the appropriate
accounting and financial management. None of the members of the audit committee is a former
partner of the Company and its subsidiary’s existing external auditor.
During the year ended 30 September 2019, the audit committee held 4 meetings for, inter alia,
(1) re-appointment of external auditor; (2) assessment of independence of external auditor;
(3) discussing with the external auditor to assess the impact on applying (i) new and amendments
of accounting standard and (ii) update of Listing Rules; (4) reviewing and commenting the audited
consolidated financial statements for the year ended 30 September 2018, the unaudited consolidated
financial statements for the three months ended 31 December 2018, six months ended 31 March
2019 and nine months ended 30 June 2019; (5) reviewing risk management and internal control
system in accordance with code provision C.2.1 of the CG Code and (6) improving current standard
of financial, operational and compliance control.
Details of the attendance records of each committee member at the audit committee meeting are set
out under the subheading “Practices and Conduct of Meetings” below.
All Directors are supplied in a timely manner with all relevant documentation and financial
information. The company secretary is responsible to keep minutes of all Board meetings. Draft
minutes are normally circulated to all Directors for comments within a reasonable time after each
meeting and the final version is open for their inspection.
The attendance records of each Director at the Board and the above committee meetings and the
general meeting of the Company held during the year ended 30 September 2019:
Attendance/Number of Meetings
Audit Remuneration Nomination
Board Committee Committee Committee General
Name of Director Meeting Meeting Meeting Meeting Meeting
Executive Directors:
Mr. Lam Ting Lok 6/6 N/A N/A N/A 1/1
Mr. Lo Mun Lam Raymond 6/6 N/A N/A N/A 1/1
Ms. Tse Fung Sum Flora 6/6 N/A N/A N/A 0/1
Ms. Tsang Kwong Wan 6/6 N/A 1/1 1/1 1/1
Independent non-executive
Directors:
Mr. Cheung Pak To, BBS 6/6 4/4 1/1 1/1 1/1
Mr. Tsang Jacob Chung 6/6 4/4 1/1 N/A 1/1
Dr. Yu Yuen Ping 6/6 4/4 N/A 1/1 1/1
The Board was satisfied with the attendance of the Directors as they have committed sufficient time
and attention to the affairs of the Company. Each Director shall disclose to the Company at the time of
the materiality of interest and be required to abstain from voting and not to be counted in the quorum
at meetings for approving transactions in which such Directors or any of their associates have a
material interest.
AUDITOR’S REMUNERATION
During the year ended 30 September 2019, the fees of the external auditor in respect of audit and
non-audit services provided to the Group were as follows:
Total 451
FINANCIAL REPORTING
The Board has acknowledged their responsibility for the preparation of the consolidated financial
statements for the year ended 30 September 2019 which give a true and fair view of the state of
affairs of the Group in accordance with the statutory requirements and accounting standards and
other financial disclosure requirement under the GEM Listing Rules. The management has provided
sufficient explanation and information to the Board as necessary to enable the Board to make an
informed assessment of the financial information and position of the Group for the Board’s approval.
The statement by auditor about their reporting responsibilities is set out in the independent auditor’s
report on the consolidated financial statements.
NON-COMPETITION UNDERTAKING
The controlling shareholders (as defined in the GEM Listing Rules) of the Company gave a non-
competition undertaking in favour of the Company and confirm that they and their associates have
not breached the terms of the undertaking contained in the deed of non-competition during the year.
Details of the non-competition undertaking are set out in section headed “Underwriting – Further
Undertaking by our Controlling Shareholders ” in the Prospectus. All independent non-executive
Directors have reviewed on an annual basis the compliance with the respective non-competition
undertakings by our controlling shareholders. In view of this conclusion, the controlling shareholders
have complied with all the undertakings under the deed of non-competition in favour of the Company
during the year.
2. ownership of risk identification, assessment, management within the business and corporate
functions;
4. implementation of risk strategies by avoiding, transferring, mitigating and accepting the risk.
The risk management system is designed to manage rather than eliminate the risk of failure to
achieve business objectives. The senior management provides leadership and guideline for the
balance of risk and opportunity. The Group’s executive Directors review and report to the Board
through the audit committee on the material risks affecting the Group as well as potential impact and
mitigating measures. The senior management ensures that a review of the effectiveness of the risk
management framework has been conducted at least annually and provide confirmation of this to the
Board through the audit committee.
In order to enhance the Group ’s system of handling and dissemination of inside information,
the Group maintains a framework for the handling and dissemination of inside information and
the disclosure policy of the framework sets out the procedures and internal controls to ensure
inside information remains confidential until such information is appropriately disclosed and the
announcement of such information is made in a timely manner in compliance with the SFO and the
GEM Listing Rules. In addition, the Group had, from time to time, reminded the management of the
requirements of the GEM Listing Rules and guidelines on the inside information issued by the Stock
Exchange and the SFC. The blackout notice period and Mode Code are sent to the Directors regularly
to arouse their awareness to preserve the confidentiality of inside information. Inside information (if
any) is only disseminated to specified persons on a need-to-know basis.
Based on the risk management and internal control reviews conducted in the year, no significant
control deficiency was identified.
Constitutional Documents
During the year, the amended and restated Articles of the Company were approved by the
Shareholders of the Company and amendments regarding to dividends and reserves were effective
from 28 January 2019. A copy of the amended and restated Articles of the Company is posted on the
website of the Stock Exchange and the Company. Other than this, there is no significant changes in
the Company’s constitutional documents during the year.
SHAREHOLDERS’ RIGHTS
Convening an Extraordinary General Meeting of the Company and putting forward
Proposals at General Meetings
In accordance with article 64 of the Articles of the Company, any one or more Shareholders holding
at the date of deposit of the requisition not less than one-tenth of the paid up capital of the Company
and carrying the right of voting at general meetings of the Company shall at all times have the right,
by written requisition to the Board or the secretary of the Company, to require an extraordinary
general meeting (“EGM”) to be called by the Board for the transaction of any business specified
in such requisition; and such meeting shall be held within two months after the deposit of such
requisition. If within 21 days of such deposit, the Board fails to proceed to convene such meeting,
the requisitionist(s) himself/herself/themselves may do so in the same manner, and all reasonable
expenses incurred by the requisitionist(s) as a result of the failure of the Board shall be reimbursed to
the requisitionist(s) by the Company.
For share registration related matters, such as share transfer and registration, change of name or
address, loss of share certificates or dividend warrants, the Company’s registered Shareholders can
contact the Company’s branch share registrar in Hong Kong, Computershare Hong Kong Investor
Services Limited.
COMPANY SECRETARY
During the year, Ms. Cheng Suk Kuen was the company secretary of the Company. She has complied
with Rule 5.15 of GEM Listing Rules by taking no less than 15 hours of relevant professional training
to update her skills and knowledge. On 1 December 2019, Ms. Cheng resigned and Ms. Ying Yuk Sim
was appointed as the company secretary. Her biographical detail is set out under the section headed
“Biography of Directors and Senior Management” of this annual report.
EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS
Mr. Lam Ting Lok, aged 46, is an executive Director and the chief executive officer of the Company.
He was appointed as a director on 14 February 2017 and was re-designated as an executive director
on 12 September 2017. Mr. Lam is also the sole director of the Company’s subsidiaries, including
Merit Group Investment Limited; Amasse Capital and Amasse Asset. Mr. Lam is responsible for
overseeing business development of the Group, cultivating long-term client relationship, introducing
new clients and projects and leading execution of corporate finance projects. Mr. Lam has been a
Responsible Officer for Type 1 (dealing in securities) and Type 6 (advising on corporate finance)
regulated activities under the SFO for Amasse Capital since November 2017 and September 2012
respectively. Mr. Lam received a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from The Chinese
University of Hong Kong in December 1995. Mr. Lam has been an Associate member of the Hong
Kong Institute of Certified Public Accountants since October 1998, and a CFA® charterholder since
December 1999. Mr. Lam has over 22 years of experience in the accounting and financial industry.
Prior to joining the Group, he held senior executive management roles and was responsible for
executing corporate finance transactions and overall supervision of the corporate finance advisory
and asset management services.
Mr. Lam was an independent non-executive director of Wonderful Sky Financial Group Holdings
Limited (Stock code: 1260), a company listed on the Main Board of the Stock Exchange of Hong
Kong Limited (the “Stock Exchange”), from March 2012 to January 2016, and an independent non-
executive director of China Metal International Holdings Inc. (Stock code: 319), a company listed on
the Main Board of the Stock Exchange (privatised and withdrawn from listing in October 2017), from
August 2013 to October 2017.
Mr. Lam is the spouse of Ms. Tse Fung Sum Flora, an executive Director and a controlling shareholder
of the Company.
Mr. Lo Mun Lam Raymond, aged 67, is an executive Director of the Company. He was appointed
as a director on 14 February 2017 and was re-designated as an executive director on 12 September
2017. Mr. Lo is mainly responsible for supervising our provision of corporate finance advisory service,
formulating business and corporate strategies and introducing new clients and projects. Mr. Lo has
been a Responsible Officer for Type 1 (dealing in securities) and Type 6 (advising on corporate
finance) regulated activities under the SFO for Amasse Capital since November 2017 and February
2016 respectively.
Mr. Lo obtained a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Wisconsin-
Madison in the United States in May 1975, a degree of Master of Laws in Arbitration and Dispute
Resolution from The University of Hong Kong in November 2010 and a Postgraduate Certificate in
Sustainable Business from the University of Cambridge in the United Kingdom in March 2014.
Mr. Lo held directorate level and strategist positions with multinational conglomerate companies. He
served as a non-executive director of Asian Capital Resources (Holdings) Limited (formerly known
as Asian Information Resources (Holdings) Limited) (stock code: 8025), a company listed on the
GEM of the Stock Exchange, from June 2001 to May 2014, an independent non-executive director
of Shanghai Zendai Property Limited (formerly known as Shanghai Century Holdings Limited) (stock
code: 755), a company listed on the Main Board of the Stock Exchange, from September 2002 to
June 2015, a non-executive director of FDG Electric Vehicles Limited (formerly known as Gorient
(Holdings) Limited) (stock code: 729), a company listed on the Main Board of the Stock Exchange
from December 2002 to March 2005, an independent non-executive director of Luk Fook Holdings
(International) Limited (stock code: 590), a company listed on the Main Board of the Stock Exchange,
from September 2004 to August 2013. He was also a former executive director from September 2005
to May 2008 and non-executive director from May 2008 to November 2008 of Lajin Entertainment
Network Group Limited (formerly known as Golife Concepts Holdings Limited) (Stock Code: 8172)
which is listed on the GEM of the Stock Exchange, and an independent non-executive director of
Guangshen Railway Co., Ltd. (stock code: 525), a company listed on the Main Board of the Stock
Exchange, from June 2011 to May 2014. Mr. Lo is currently an independent non-executive director of
China Datang Corporation Renewable Power Company Limited (Stock code: 1798) from August 2013,
a company listed on the Main Board of the Stock Exchange.
Ms. Tse Fung Sum Flora, aged 47, is an executive Director of the Company. She was appointed as a
director on 14 February 2017 and was re-designated as an executive director on 12 September 2017.
She was appointed as the chief operating officer of Amasse Capital on 1 September 2014 and she
is responsible for supervising and formulating business and corporate strategies and handling our
Group’s daily operations and back office support functions. Ms. Tse is a Licensed Representative for
Type 6 (advising on corporate finance) regulated activity under the SFO. She has been an Associate
member of The Hong Kong Institute of Company Secretaries (now known as The Hong Kong
Institute of Chartered Secretaries) since September 2001. Ms. Tse received a Master of Business
Administration (an on-line course) from The University of Newcastle in Australia in May 2006. She has
over 22 years of experience in the financial and secretarial industry. She served as a vice president
of Computershare Hong Kong Investor Services Limited from September 2000 to October 2013 and
mainly responsible for providing share registry services to listed companies in Hong Kong.
Ms. Tse is the spouse of Mr. Lam Ting Lok, an executive Director and chief executive officer of the
Group.
Ms. Tsang Kwong Wan, aged 46, is an executive Director, a member of both the remuneration and
nomination committee of the Company. She was appointed as a director on 14 February 2017 and
was re-designated as an executive director on 12 September 2017. She joined Amasse Capital on
13 July 2012 as Responsible Officer. She is responsible for supervising and leading execution of
corporate finance projects. She has been a Responsible Officer for Type 1 (dealing in securities)
and Type 6 (advising on corporate finance) regulated activities for Amasse Capital under the SFO
since November 2017 and July 2012 respectively. Ms. Tsang has over 17 years of experience in the
financial industry and held senior positions in the corporate finance department of local securities
firms.
On the social and community responsibilities front, Mr. Cheung was a devoted volunteer serving the
Civil Aid Service of Hong Kong for about 30 years until May 2009; during which he was appointed as
Honorary Aide-de-Camp to Governors Lord Wilson of Tillyorn and Mr. Christopher Patten, and Chief
Executive Mr. Tung Chee-Hwa, and achieved the rank of Assistant Commissioner. Mr. Cheung was
awarded the Bronze Bauhinia Star by the Hong Kong Government in July 2003.
Mr. Cheung served formerly as executive director of Hong Kong Resources Holdings Limited (Stock
Code: 2882) from November 2012 to June 2015, and consecutively as non-executive director from
July 2015 to November 2017. He was appointed independent non-executive director of National
Agricultural Holdings Limited (HK Stock Code: 1236) on 1 January 2017 where he resigned from the
company of his own accord on 8 November 2019. Mr. Cheung is also an independent non-executive
director of Minshang Creative Technology Holdings Limited (Stock Code: 1632) from July 2018 and
Greenheart Group Limited (Stock Code: 0094) from June 2019. All companies are listed on the Main
Board of the Stock Exchange.
Mr. Cheung has no relationship with any Directors, senior management or substantial shareholders
(as defined in the Listing Rules) or controlling shareholders (as defined in the Listing Rules) of the
Company.
Mr. Tsang Jacob Chung, aged 69, is an independent non-executive Director, the Chairman of
the audit committee and a member of the remuneration committee of the Company. He joined the
Company in February 2018. Mr. Tsang has over 21 years of experience in accounting and financial
work sector. Mr. Tsang had been working with The Hong Kong Jockey Club since 1995 and was
the director of the Group Treasury of that club from 2008 to 2016, before he retired from the club in
January 2017. He was admitted as a member of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants,
in the United Kingdom in February 1978 and has maintained fellowship status since February 1983.
He was a member of the Products Advisory Committee of the SFC from August 2010 to March 2016.
Mr. Tsang was also appointed by different organisations to serve on their respective boards and/
or committees in relation to aspects of investment advisory, financial and treasury services. He was
Honorary Treasurer of Heep Hong Society and a member of executive committee and sub-committee
on investment and finance on Heep Hong Society. He was the chairman of investment advisory
committee of Sir David Trench Fund for Recreation, Police Children’s Education Trust and Police
Education and Welfare Trust. He was also a member of ad hoc committee on fund management
of Hong Kong Housing Society and a member of global investor steering committee of Alternative
Investment Management Association.
Mr. Tsang has no relationship with any Directors, senior management or substantial shareholders
(as defined in the Listing Rules) or controlling shareholders (as defined in the Listing Rules) of the
Company.
Dr. Yu Yuen Ping, aged 52, is an independent non-executive Director, a member of both the audit
committee and nomination committee of the Company. He joined the Company in February 2018.
Dr. Yu obtained a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) degree in International Business Studies from the City
University of Hong Kong in November 1995 and a Master of Business Administration in International
Management from the Thunderbird, The American Graduate School of International Management
(now known as the Thunderbird School of Global Management) at the Arizona State University in
the United States in December 2001. In September 2003, he obtained a Professional Diploma in
Corporate Governance and Directorship, which was jointly organised by The Hong Kong Institute
of Directors and the Hong Kong Productivity Council and the course was undertaken on a part-
time basis. In February 2010, he obtained his Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Management Studies
from the University of Cambridge in the United Kingdom. After graduating from the City University
of Hong Kong in 1995, Dr. Yu later worked as a Marketing Analyst at 3M Hong Kong Limited from
August 1995 to June 1996 and was later transferred to Imation Hong Kong Limited where he worked
from July 1996 to April 2002 with his last position as business manager in the China new business
development. He then returned to the City University of Hong Kong, where he was employed as an
Instructor from July 2002 to August 2004 before pursuing his PhD programme at the University of
Cambridge in the United Kingdom in October 2004.
Dr. Yu has nearly 12 years of management experience, with a particular focus on energy, climate
policy, environmental management and development of education. He was the former head of the
climate programme of WWF-Hong Kong from November 2008 to August 2012. He is the founder
and the current chief executive officer of the World Green Organisation, which was established in
November 2012. He has been serving as Adjunct Professor at the City University of Hong Kong
from October 2012 to September 2016 and from January 2017 onwards, and as Honorary Assistant
Professor at The University of Hong Kong since May 2017. He has been appointed as a member
of the School of Continuing Education – College of International Education Advisory Committee of
the Hong Kong Baptist University from March 2014 to August 2017. He is a member of advisory
committee on environmental science of the Chinese University of Hong Kong. He is also appointed
by other different organisations to serve on their respective committees in relation to aspects such as
environment, energy and technological innovation. Dr. Yu was a member of environmental campaign
committee, energy advisory committee and energy & power generation sub-group of the air quality
objectives review working group of Environment Bureau of the Hong Kong Government. He was
a member of environmental and conservation fund waste recovery projects vetting subcommittee
of Environmental Protection Department Community Relations Unit of the Hong Kong Government.
He is a member of genetically modified organisms (control of release) ordinance expert group of
Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department of the Hong Kong Government.
Dr. Yu has no relationship with any Directors, senior management or substantial shareholders (as
defined in the Listing Rules) or controlling shareholders (as defined in the Listing Rules) of the
Company.
SENOR MANAGEMENT
Compliance Officer
Pursuant to rule 5.19 of the GEM Listing Rules, Mr. Lam Ting Lok, who is also an executive Director,
was appointed as the compliance officer of the Company upon listing. Please refer to his biography
above for details.
Responsible Officers
Mr. Lau Wing Lam, aged 34, joined Amasse Capital as a senior manager on 4 August 2014. He
has served as an associate director of Amasse Capital since July 2015. Mr. Lau supervises and
leads execution of corporate finance projects. Mr. Lau is a Responsible Officer of Amasse Capital
for Type 6 (advising on corporate finance) regulated activity and a Licensed Representative for
Type 1 (dealing in securities) regulated activity under the SFO since August 2016 and May 2018
respectively.
Mr. Lau received a bachelor’s degree in Economics from Hong Kong Shue Yan University in July
2009. Mr. Lau also received a Master of Science in Investment Management from Cass Business
School of the City University, London (now known as City, University of London) in September 2010.
Mr. Lau has over 8 years of experience in the financial industry. Before joining our Group, Mr. Lau
worked as analyst – Corporate Finance for VMS Securities Limited for about a year. Mr. Lau also
worked as a corporate finance associate for Wallbanck Brothers Securities (Hong Kong) Limited for
around two years.
Mr. Lau has not held any directorship in any other public companies, the securities of which are or
have been listed on any securities market in Hong Kong or overseas in the past three years
Mr. Loong Kwok Chueng, aged 52, joined Amasse Capital on 24 October 2017 and is a Responsible
Officer of Amasse Capital. He is responsible for supervising the operation of our Type 1 (dealing
in securities) regulated activity under the SFO and providing guidance on our expansion plan. He
has been a Responsible Officer for Type 1 (dealing in securities) regulated activity and a Licensed
Representative for Type 6 (advising on corporate finance) regulated activity under the SFO since
November 2017 and January 2018 respectively.
Mr. Loong received a Bachelor ’ s degree in Commerce (Accounting and Finance) from Curtin
University of Technology (now renamed as Curtin University) in Australia in February 2006. Mr. Loong
received a Postgraduate Diploma in Investment Management from the School of Professional and
Continuing Education of The University of Hong Kong in March 2010. Mr. Loong also obtained a
Diploma in Legal Studies from the School of Professional and Continuing Education of The University
of Hong Kong in March 2012. He became an Associate member of CPA Australia in February 2006.
Mr. Loong has more than 22 years of experience in the securities business sector and has extensive
knowledge in operating a securities firm. Before joining our Group, Mr. Loong has worked for Ever-
Long Securities Company Limited for over 20 years, with his last position as Chief Dealer.
Company Secretary
Ms. Cheng Suk Kuen, aged 47, joined the Group in September 2017 and resigned on 1 December
2019. Ms. Cheng was company secretary of the Company and financial controller of Amasse Capital.
She was primarily responsible for overseeing company secretarial matters, as well as the financial
management of our Group. She obtained a Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting) degree from the
Curtin University of Technology (now know as the Curtin University) in Australia in February 2000. She
further obtained a Master degree in Corporate Finance from the Hong Kong Polytechnic University in
November 2003. She has been a Certified Practising Accountant under CPA Australia since March
2007 and has been a member of the Hong Kong Institute of Certified Public Accountants since July
2007. She has extensive experience in finance, accounting and corporate secretarial functions.
Ms. Ying Yuk Sim, aged 53, joined Amasse Capital on 12 November 2019 and is company
secretary of the Company and financial controller of Amasse Capital. She is primarily responsible
for overseeing company secretarial matters, as well as the financial management of our Group. She
obtained a Master Degree in Business Administration from Manchester Business School, University
of Manchester in June 2002. She is a fellow member of both the Association of Chartered Certified
Accountants and the Hong Kong Institute of Certified Public Accountants. She has over 20 years
of experience in accounting, financial control, corporate finance and personal financial planning.
She had previously served in a number of Hong Kong listed companies and private companies
with investment in China, in the fields of banking, construction, trading and manufacturing, property
management and insurance company.
The Directors are pleased to present Shareholders their report together with the audited consolidated
financial statements of the Group for the year ended 30 September 2019.
PRINCIPAL ACTIVITIES
The Company is an investment holding company. The Group’s principal activities during the year
are provision of corporate finance advisory services in Hong Kong. The principal activities of its
subsidiaries are set out in Note 27 to the consolidated financial statements.
BUSINESS REVIEW
The business review and outlook of the Group during the year are set out in the section headed
“Chief Executive’s Statement and Management Discussion and Analysis” on pages 5 to 12 of this
annual report. Principal risks and uncertainties that the Group may be facing are set out on page 9 of
this annual report and the Corporate Governance Report is set out on pages 13 to 23 of this annual
report.
The Board does not recommend the payment of any final dividend for the year as set out in Note 11
to the consolidated financial statements.
SEGMENT INFORMATION
An analysis of the Group’s revenue and contribution to profit or loss for the year by its principal
activities is set out in Note 7 to the consolidated financial statements.
FINANCIAL SUMMARY
A summary of the results, assets and liabilities of the Group for the last financial years is set out on
page 104 of this annual report.
SHARE CAPITAL
Details of movements in the share capital of the Company during the year are set out in Note 19 to
the consolidated financial statements.
RESERVES
Details of the movements in the reserves of the Group during the year are set out in the consolidated
statement of changes in equity on page 56 of this annual report.
DISTRIBUTABLE RESERVES
At 30 September 2019, the aggregate amount of reserves available for distribution to equity
shareholders of the Company, as calculated under the Companies Law of the Cayman Islands, was
approximately HK$33.5 million (2018: approximately HK$22.8 million).
USE OF PROCEEDS
The net proceeds from the issue of new shares of the Company, after deduction of the professional
fees, underwriting commissions and other fees payable by the Company in connection with the
listing, were estimated to be approximately HK$29.0 million. As at 30 September 2019, approximately
HK$26.2 million of the net proceeds remained unutilised. The net proceeds utilised up to 30
September 2019 was approximately HK$2.8 million. Details are set out in Management Discussion
and Analysis on pages 5 to 12 of this annual report.
PRE-EMPTIVE RIGHTS
There are no provisions for pre-emptive rights under the Company’s Articles or the laws of the
Cayman Islands which would oblige the Company to offer new shares on a pro rata basis to existing
shareholders.
DEBENTURES
The Company did not issue any debentures during the year ended 30 September 2019. (2018: Nil)
DONATIONS
Donations made by the Group during the year amounted to approximately HK$0.5 million (2018:
HK$1.1 million).
The Group had no major suppliers due to the nature of the principal activities of the Group.
None of the Directors or any of their close associates, or any shareholder (which to the best
knowledge of the Directors, owns 5% or more of the Company’s issued shares) had any beneficial
interest in the Group’s above-mentioned customers.
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
Details of the Company’s corporate governance practices are set out in the Corporate Governance
Report on pages 13 to 23 of this annual report.
DIRECTORS
The Directors of the Company during the year ended 30 September 2019 and up to the date of this
report are as follow:
Executive directors
Mr. Lam Ting Lok (Chief Executive Officer)
Mr. Lo Mun Lam Raymond
Ms. Tse Fung Sum Flora
Ms. Tsang Kwong Wan
Pursuant to the Articles of the Company, at each AGM, one-third of the Directors for the time being
(or, if their number is not a multiple of three, the number nearest to but not less than one-third)
shall retire from office by rotation. Accordingly, Mr. Lam Ting Lok, Mr. Lo Mun Lam Raymond, and
Mr. Cheung Pak To, BBS will retire and, being eligible, will offer themselves for re-election at the
Company’s forthcoming annual general meeting.
The biographic details of Directors are set out on pages 24 to 27 of this annual report.
Save as disclosed above, none of the Directors, including those to be re-elected at the forth coming
AGM has a service contract with the Company which is not determinable within one year without
payment of compensation, other than statutory compensation.
EMOLUMENT POLICY
The remuneration committee is responsible for reviewing emolument policy and structure for all
remuneration of the Directors and senior management of the Group, having regard to the Group’s
operating results, individual performance and corporate market practices. The Company has adopted
a share option scheme as incentive to Directors and eligible employees.
EQUITY-LINKED AGREEMENTS
For the year ended 30 September 2019, the Company has not entered into any equity-linked
agreement, and there did not subsist any equity-linked agreement entered into by the Company as at
30 September 2019.
MANAGEMENT CONTRACTS
No contract concerning the management and administration of the whole or any substantial part of
the business of the Company was entered into or existed during the year.
The Company has maintained appropriate directors ’ and officers ’ liability insurance and such
permitted indemnity provision for the benefit of the Directors currently in force.
Notes:
1. Ms. Tse Fung Sum Flora (“Ms. Tse”) is interested in the entire issued share capital of Access Cheer Limited (“Access
Cheer”) and she is therefore deemed to be interested in the shares held by Access Cheer by virtue of the SFO.
2. Mr. Lam Ting Lok (“Mr. Lam”) is the spouse of Ms. Tse and he is therefore deemed to be interested in the shares held by
Ms. Tse by virtue of SFO.
Save as disclosed above, as at 30 September 2019, none of the Directors and chief executives of
the Company had an interest or short position in the shares, underlying shares and debentures of
the Company or any of its associated corporations that was notified to the Company and the Stock
Exchange pursuant to Divisions 7 and 8 of Part XV of the SFO (including interests and short positions
which he/she will be taken or deemed to have under the SFO), or was required, pursuant to Section
352 of the SFO, to be entered in the register referred to therein or which was required, pursuant to
Rules 5.46 to 5.67 of the GEM Listing Rules, to be notified to the Company and the Stock Exchange.
Note:
1. The entire issued share capital of Access Cheer is legally and beneficially owned by Ms. Tse who is deemed to be
interested in the shares held by Access Cheer by virtue of the SFO.
Save as disclosed above, as at 30 September 2019, none of the substantial shareholders or other
persons, other than Directors and chief executives of the Company whose interests are set out in
the section headed “Directors’ and Chief Executives’ Interests and/or Short Positions in Shares,
Underlying Shares and Debentures of the Company or any Associated Corporation” above, had any
interest or a short position in the shares or underlying shares of the Company as recorded in the
register required to be kept by the Company under Section 336 of the SFO.
NON-COMPETITION UNDERTAKING
The Company confirmed that Ms. Tse and Access Cheer have been complied with all the
undertakings under the deed of non-competition in favour of the Company during the year and up to
the date of this annual report. Details of which are set out in Corporate Governance Report on page
20 of this annual report.
The register of members of the Company will be closed from Monday, 10 February 2020 to Thursday,
13 February 2020 (both days inclusive), during which period no transfer of shares will be registered,
for purpose of determining the right to attend and vote at the AGM. All transfer of the Company’s
shares together with the relevant share certificates must be lodged with the Company’s branch share
registrar and transfer office in Hong Kong no later than 4:30 p.m. on Friday, 7 February 2020 in order
for the holders of the shares to qualify to attend and vote at the AGM or any adjournment thereof.
AUDITOR
The consolidated financial statements for the year ended 30 September 2019 have been audited by
CHENG & CHENG LIMITED. A resolution will be proposed at the forthcoming AGM of the Company to
re-appoint CHENG & CHENG LIMITED as the auditor of the Company.
This ESG Report covers the Group’s progress on ESG aspects from 1 October 2018 to 30 September
2019 (the “Year”) and the preparation of this ESG Report follows the Environmental, Social and
Governance Report Guide (the “ESG Reporting Guide”), as set out in Appendix 20 to the Rules
Governing the Listing of Securities on the GEM of the Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited (“GEM
Listing Rules”).
The following table summarises the Group’s material ESG aspects as set out in this ESG Report:
The ESG Reporting Guide Material ESG aspects of the Group Page
A. Environment
A1. Emissions Air Emissions and Greenhouse Gas Emissions 41
A2. Use of Resources Energy Conservation 42
Water Conservation 43
Paper Conservation 43
A3. The Environment and Environmental Impact Management 44
Natural Resources
B. Society
B1. Employment Employee Benefits and Career Development 44
B2. Health and Safety Employees’ Health and Workplace Safety 45
B3. Development and Training Employee Development and Training 46
B4 Labor Standards Prevention of Child Labor or Forced Labor 47
B5. Supply Chain Management Supplier Practices 47
B6. Service Responsibility Services Quality and Satisfaction 47
Protection of Privacy 47
B7. Anti-Corruption Anti-corruption 48
B8. Community Involvement Contributions to Society 48
During the Year, the Group confirmed that appropriate and effective management policies and
internal control systems for ESG issues are in place and confirmed the information disclosed in this
ESG Report meets the ESG Reporting Guide.
OUR STAKEHOLDERS
The Group values our stakeholders and their views relating to its businesses and ESG issues. One of
the key approaches is through stakeholder engagement, which enables two-way communication to
receive valuable feedback and to act on improvement measures. The communication channels with
respective stakeholder groups are highlighted as below:
In formulating operational strategies and ESG measures, our employees were involved in helping us
better understand our sustainability performance in those environmental and social issues. The Group
have identified the following top three material issues for each aspect:
Based on the material issues, the Group shall strategise and plan resources accordingly to promote
environmental and social issues, and address related concerns. Additionally, the Group continues to
look for ways to engage in different stakeholders such as investors, customers or local communities,
so as to gain a wider understanding of ESG material issues.
ENVIRONMENT
We pay close attention to the environmental responsibilities. As a corporate finance advisory service
provider, we focus on the conservation of energy, reduction of paper usage and reduction of waste
by recycling and we have been devoted to protecting environment by seeking to reduce the impact
to the environment by incorporating environmental-friendly measures into our business operations.
In order to help our employees understand the potential impact on the environment brought by each
individuals, we have taken various actions to facilitate behavioral changes, setting up related policies
with an aim to reduce environmental footprint.
We monitor mainly Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas (“GHG”) emissions according to the international
standard of Greenhouse Gas Protocol, and also make reference to guidelines published by Hong
Kong’s Environmental Protection Department, Electrical and Mechanical Services Department and
Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited.
We are not aware of any significant impacts of activities on the environment and natural resources.
Emissions
In the Group’s business activities, fuel consumption of vehicle (Scope 1 direct emissions), electricity
consumption in office(s) (Scope 2 indirect emissions) and paper consumption (Scope 3 indirect
emissions) are the major sources of all pollutants and GHG emissions of the Group.
The Group believes that its operation does not have significant negative impact on the environment
and natural resources related to emission of other harmful gas, discharge of pollutants into water
or land, generation of hazardous or non-hazardous waste during the Year. We are not aware of
any material non-compliance with the relevant environmental protection legislations in relation to
Air Pollution Control Ordinance, Water Pollution Control Ordinance, Waste Disposal Ordinance,
Hazardous Chemicals Control Ordinance, Noise Control Ordinance, Ozone Layer Protection
Ordinance, Producer responsibility schemes, Promotion of Recycling and Proper Disposal (Electrical
Equipment and Electronic Equipment) (Amendment) Ordinance and Environmental Impact
Assessment Ordinance during the Year.
Scope 1
Direct emission Local business travel 8.2 11.6
Scope 2
Indirect emission Purchased electricity 7.1 8.1
Scope 3
Other indirect emission Paper consumption 0.9 0.6
16.2 20.3
Note:
Scope 2: Indirect GHG emissions from consumption of purchased electricity, heat or steam.
Scope 3: Other indirect emissions, such as the extraction and production of purchased materials and fuels, transport-related
activities in vehicles not owned or controlled by the reporting entity, electricity-related activities (e.g. transmission
and distribution losses) not covered in Scope 2, outsourced activities, waste disposal, etc.
Use of Resources
It has become increasingly clear that every employees has a part to play when it comes to the
environmental protection and sustainable development. The Group has been developing different
policies to reduce its environmental footprint and promote sustainable business best practices,
including energy and water conservation, paper and other resources reduction.
Energy conservation
Energy conservation should start from daily life. We raise our employees’ awareness in the energy
efficiency of electrical appliances. The electrical appliances with Grade 1 or 2 energy efficient labels
will be given priority in procurement. We also encourage our employees to turn off equipment when
not in use. Photocopiers, printers, computers and monitors should be altered to default sleep/rest
modes and set energy saving modes. The temperature of air conditioning is set at 25° C. Electrical
appliances will be purchased with Grade 1 or 2 energy efficient labels when necessary. In particular,
the Group strives to utilise telephone or video conference to minimise face-to-face meeting in order to
reduce fuel consumption in traveling and unnecessary business trips.
Despite an increase of approximately 43.9% in office area during the Year, the total electricity
consumption fell by 12.1% year-on-year. The encouraging improvement could be attributed to LED
lighting in new leased office and has maintained effective control over the energy consumption in
our daily operation. The Group will continue to monitor energy use in the future in order to protect
environment.
During the Year, the Group’s consumption in electricity and fuel were:
Note:
1. As at 30 September 2019, the Group had a total of 16 employees (2018: 16) all located in Hong Kong. The weighted
average number of employees during the Year was 16.2 (2018:16).
2. During the Year, the Group expanded its office area. The weighted average space of office area was 1,835.6 square feet
(2018: 1,276 square feet).
Water conservation
Water is one of the most basic necessities in life. We encourage consumption of refillable potable
water and reduce wasteful uses of water. For example, employees should finish drinking the water
in their mugs and potable water is not used for other purposes. The Group’s water usage payment
has been included in the management fee to the landlord, thus related consumption data cannot be
obtained.
Paper conservation
The integration of the computer into the business world is heralded as the beginning of the
“paperless” office. In order to save paper, the Group (1) provides two monitors to operational
employees to perform duties electronically; (2) advises employees to handle documents
electronically; and (3) encourages to communicate electronically. The Group also avoid paper
wastage by (1) setting default on printers, photocopiers and/or fax machines (if applicable) to print in
double-sided; (2) adjusting settings to maximise printed area, such as adjusted margins and reduce
scale; (3) re-using single-sided paper; and (4) recycled paper and wasted paper are shredded for
recycle.
The increase in consumption of paper are mainly due to (1) our financial advisory services is
getting more complex which requires more hard copy for drafting, proof reading and record keeping
purpose; (2) increasing statutory filing requirements; (3) in compliance with the newly implemented
Anti-Money Laundering/Counter-Financing of Terrorism rules, more reports and audit trails have been
generated and safekept.
Other conservation
Although there are many “greening” options, it is imperative that environmental and human impacts
are seriously taken into consideration. We understand that volatile organic compounds (“VOC”) in
cleaning products can affect indoor air quality and also contribute to smog formation in outdoor air.
Therefore, the Group will consider purchase of environmental-friendly cleaning products with lower
or no VOC and toxicity which has a lesser or reduced impact on the environment and human health.
Due to the nature of the Group’s business, the Group does not have physical products for sale and
therefore no use of packaging material is involved.
Undoubtedly, management will play an integral role in supporting and endorsing a change in
organisational behaviour and culture. Our Employees will play an integral role in supporting and
realising such a change. In view of this, the Group can play our part in protecting our environment.
SOCIETY
The Group is committed to endeavoring to enhance consideration towards the environment, social
contributions and corporate governance to improve the sustainability of society. We recognise that
this is an important social responsibility for a Hong Kong public listed company to assume.
Employment
Employees are the Group’s most valuable assets and the success of the business depends on
the Group’s workforce. The Group highly appreciates the contributions from employees and are
determined to reward and maintain our employees through provision of attractive remuneration
package and a safe working environment. The Group is also dedicated to implementing equal
opportunity employment practices by maintaining a diverse workforce that includes age, gender,
family status, sexual orientation, disability, ethnicity, religion. The following table sets forth the number
and breakdown of the Group’s employees as at 30 September 2019 and 2018:
Gender
Male 11 (69%) 12 (75%)
Female 5 (31%) 4 (25%)
Employment type
Front office 12 (75%) 11 (69%)
Back office 4 (25%) 5 (31%)
During the Year ended 30 September 2019, the employee turnover rate of the Group was 6.3% (2018:
Nil). The Group was not aware of any material non-compliance with laws and regulations relating to
employment and labour practices that had a significant impact on the Group relating to compensation
and dismissal, recruitment and promotion, working hours, rest periods, equal opportunity, diversity,
anti-discrimination, and other benefits and welfare for the Year.
As for insurance, in addition to employee compensation insurance, the Group also provides medical
insurance and other benefits such as purchasing air purifier to improve air quality and working
environment for our employees. All employees and visitors are requested not to smoke in the office in
order to achieve a healthier and pleasant work place, safeguard non-smokers from the risks to health
of passive smoke and protect the office sites from increased risk of fire. The building management
office also arranges rescue, fire and evacuation drills to improve staff safety awareness. In addition,
we have enough first-aid supplies to be available to all employees in office for handling injuries. This
first-aid kit is maintained in convenient and accessible locations. Supplies items are replenished as
they become depleted. Refills are also available for all supplies.
During the Year, the Group did not record any work-related injury or fatality of employees, nor any lost
days due to work injury. We are not aware of any material non-compliance with Occupational Safety
and Health Ordinance that have a significant impact on the Group relating to providing a safe working
environment and protecting employees from occupational hazards.
The Group supports employees to participate in personal and professional training and encourages
the culture of sharing of knowledge and experience. The Group also provides our employees
with training courses for upgrading skills and development as needed. For example, the Group
provides licensed employees and professional employees with seminars and trainings organised by
professional parties. The reasons of significant decreased training hours received by employees for
2019 is due to (i) in 2018, each newly appointed Director had received formal, comprehensive and
tailored induction on the first occasion of his/her appointment to ensure appropriate understanding
of the business and operations of the Company and full awareness of director’s responsibilities and
obligations under the GEM Listing Rules and relevant statutory requirements. There is no newly
appointed Director during 2019; (ii) the decreased number of training sessions arranged by the
Group, and one of the sessions was relevant to 2 regulated activities. During the Year, the Group
arranged 2 training sessions (2018: 4 training sessions), amounting to 6 training hours (2018: 13.5
training hours) for employees.
Statistics in respect of development and training for the Year is set out below:
2019 2018
By gender
Male 8 (92) 11 (92)
Female 8 (100) 15 (100)
Labour Standards
The Group strictly prohibits the use of child and forced labour. Through the well-established
recruitment policies, the Group ensures that our employees are all above the minimum legal working
age and no forced labour is hired. The Group has complied with all applicable laws and regulations
in relation to employment matters during the Year.
Service Responsibility
The Group aims at delivering a high quality of services to its clients at all times. The Group
believes that market reputation and clients’ confidence in the services are critical to its success.
As the Group with clients of Hong Kong public listed company, the Group is in a unique position to
leverage our expertise to promote sustainable business practices and help customers capitalise on
opportunities to a more sustainable economy. In achieving this aim, we are committed to providing
them with prompt, competent and unbiased professional services who seeks for corporate financing
strategies. This is guided by our services delivery process and services quality standards. This
covers everything from assessing the suitability of services to ensuring we fulfil our duties. During
the Year, no service related complaints has been received by the Group. Meanwhile, the Group is
regulated by the Securities and Futures Commission and is a licensed corporation under SFO. The
professional employees were properly licensed and registered with the SFC. All Responsible Officers
have extensive experience providing corporate finance advisory services to customers listed in Hong
Kong. The Group has been devoted to improving its management in every aspect of its operation to
create greater value for our customers and the shareholders of the Company.
During the Year, we are not aware of any incidents of non-compliance with regulations and/or
voluntary codes concerning the Group’s service information and labelling, as well as marketing
communications including advertising.
Protection of Privacy
The Group places the highest priority on protecting the privacy of our customers and employees in
the collection, processing and use of their personal data in compliance with Personal Data (Privacy)
Ordinance. The Group adheres to the applicable data protection regulations and ensures appropriate
technical measures are in place to protect personal data against unauthorised use or access. The
Group also ensures that customers’ personal data are kept confidential and securely to prevent
against loss, unauthorised access, use, modification or disclosure, and processed only for the
purpose for which it has been collected. No non-compliance or complaints from customers regarding
personal data privacy has been received during the Year.
Anti-corruption
The Group is committed to upholding the highest ethical standard. The Group has set forth in our
staff’s code for the required conducts of our employees as well as anti-fraud and whistleblowing
policies to prevent, detect and report each and every form of bribery, extortion, fraud and money
laundering. Any such kind of fraudulent acts is prohibited and the Group will not tolerate any
fraudulent business activities. In particular, all directors and employees should avoid conflict of
personal interest relating to their professional duties and are required to declare any conflict of
interest by disclosure form to ensure appropriate assurance for the Group in matters of conflict of
interest, professional and scientific integrity, and to protect the Group from avoiding regulatory and
reputational risk.
The Group operate a whistleblowing policy, which allows employees to report matters of concern
about privacy and confidentiality, conflicts of interest, bribery and anti-corruption to the financial
controller. If it is a possible criminal offence case, financial controller will bring the case to the Group,
who will refer to audit committee to decide further action with consultation from our legal advisers.
During the Year, no directors and employees obtained or provided benefits to customers, suppliers,
or people with business relationship with the Group, no whistleblowing disclosures were received and
no litigations relating to matters of bribery, extortion, fraud or money laundering were brought against
the Group or our employees.
Community Involvement
The Group is constantly aware of the needs of the community and keeps on our best to contribute
to the community to show our care by supporting charitable organisations. During the Year, to help
people in need, we donated approximately HK$0.47 million (2018: HK$1.1 million) to various charities
including Affectionate World Charitable Foundation Limited; Apple Daily Charitable Foundation;
Chin Kung Multicultural Education Foundation Limited; CUHK Alumni Charity Foundation Limited;
Evangelical Free Church of China – Evangel Children’ s Home; HandsOn Hong Kong Limited;
Hong Chi Association; Hong Kong Buddhist Education Foundation Limited; Hong Kong Christian
Council; Hong Kong Wheelchair Aid Service Limited; Oxfam Hong Kong; Redford Charitable
Foundation; Sunshine Action Limited; Tung Lin Kok Yuen; Tung Wah Group of Hospitals; World Green
Organisation; Yan Chai Hospital.
During the Year, Amasse Capital Limited had participated community involvement – “Sunshine action”
event on 31 August 2019 with nine employees and one child of two executive Directors as volunteers
to support and assist a charitable deed by packaging foods and products of basic needs to the
needy families/cases.
GOVERNANCE
Details on the Group’s corporate governance practices set out in the Corporate Governance Report
of this annual report.
FEEDBACK
We highly value any feedback regarding this ESG Report. Please feel free to direct your feedback
and comments to: co@amasse.com.hk.
OPINION
We have audited the consolidated financial statements of Amasse Capital Holdings Limited (the
“Company”) and its subsidiaries (collectively referred to as “the Group”) set out on pages 54 to 103,
which comprise the consolidated statement of financial position as at 30 September 2019, and the
consolidated statement of profit or loss and other comprehensive income, consolidated statement of
changes in equity and consolidated statement of cash flows for the year then ended, and notes to the
consolidated financial statements, including a summary of significant accounting policies.
In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements give a true and fair view of the consolidated
financial position of the Group as at 30 September 2019, and of its consolidated financial
performance and its consolidated cash flows for the year then ended in accordance with Hong
Kong Financial Reporting Standards (“HKFRSs”) issued by the Hong Kong Institute of Certified
Public Accountants (“HKICPA”) and have been properly prepared in compliance with the disclosure
requirements of the Hong Kong Companies Ordinance.
Key audit matter How our audit addressed the key audit matter
Re ve n u e re c o g n i t i o n o f f e e i n c o m e
from the provision of corporate finance
advisory services
Our opinion on the consolidated financial statements does not cover the other information and we do
not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon.
In connection with our audit of the consolidated financial statements, our responsibility is to read the
other information and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent
with the consolidated financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the audit or otherwise
appears to be materially misstated. If, based on the work we have performed, we conclude that
there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are required to report that fact. We have
nothing to report in this regard.
In preparing the consolidated financial statements, the directors of the Company are responsible
for assessing the Group’s ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters
related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless the directors of the
Company either intend to liquidate the Group or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative
but to do so.
Those charged with governance are responsible for overseeing the Group’s financial reporting
process.
• Identify and assess the risks of material misstatement of the consolidated financial statements,
whether due to fraud or error, design and perform audit procedures responsive to those
risks, and obtain audit evidence that is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our
opinion. The risk of not detecting a material misstatement resulting from fraud is higher than
for one resulting from error, as fraud may involve collusion, forgery, intentional omissions,
misrepresentations, or the override of internal control.
• Obtain an understanding of internal control relevant to the audit in order to design audit
procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an
opinion on the effectiveness of the Group’s internal control.
• Evaluate the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of accounting
estimates and related disclosures made by the directors.
• Conclude on the appropriateness of the directors’ use of the going concern basis of accounting
and, based on the audit evidence obtained, whether a material uncertainty exists related to
events or conditions that may cast significant doubt on the Group’s ability to continue as a going
concern. If we conclude that a material uncertainty exists, we are required to draw attention
in our auditor’s report to the related disclosures in the consolidated financial statements or, if
such disclosures are inadequate, to modify our opinion. Our conclusions are based on the audit
evidence obtained up to the date of our auditor’s report. However, future events or conditions
may cause the Group to cease to continue as a going concern.
• Evaluate the overall presentation, structure and content of the consolidated financial statements,
including the disclosures, and whether the consolidated financial statements represent the
underlying transactions and events in a manner that achieves fair presentation.
• Obtain sufficient appropriate audit evidence regarding the financial information of the entities
or business activities within the Group to express an opinion on the consolidated financial
statements. We are responsible for the direction, supervision and performance of the group
audit. We remain solely responsible for our audit opinion.
We communicate with those charged with governance regarding, among other matters, the planned
scope and timing of the audit and significant audit findings, including any significant deficiencies in
internal control that we identify during our audit.
We also provide those charged with governance with a statement that we have complied with
relevant ethical requirements regarding independence, and to communicate with them all
relationships and other matters that may reasonably be thought to bear on our independence, and
where applicable, related safeguards.
2019 2018
Note HK$’000 HK$’000
2019 2018
Note HK$’000 HK$’000
1,184 254
Current assets
Trade receivables 14 3,855 4,727
Prepayments, deposits and other receivables 15 447 502
Tax recoverable 965 –
Cash and cash equivalents 16 39,532 45,754
44,799 50,983
Current liabilities
Other payables and accruals 17 1,569 445
Contract liabilities 18 50 –
Deferred revenue – 50
Tax payable – 1,473
1,619 1,968
Non-current liabilities
Provision for long service payment 24 663 426
EQUITY
Share capital 19 10,000 10,000
Reserves 33,701 38,843
Retained
earnings/
Share Share Other (Accumulated
capital premium reserve losses) Total
HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000
2019 2018
Note HK$’000 HK$’000
1. GENERAL
Amasse Capital Holdings Limited (the “Company”) was incorporated in the Cayman Islands as
an exempted company with limited liability on 14 February 2017. The shares of the Company are
listed on the GEM of the Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited (the “Stock Exchange”). The
registered office and the principal place of business of the Company are P.O. Box 1350, Clifton
House, 75 Fort Street, Grand Cayman KY1-1108, Cayman Islands and Room 1201, Prosperous
Building, 48-52 Des Voeux Road Central, Hong Kong respectively.
The Company is principally engaged in investment holding. The Group’ s only operating
subsidiary is mainly engaged in the provision of corporate finance advisory services. Particulars
of the subsidiaries are set out in Note 27.
In the opinion of the directors of the Company, the ultimate holding company of the Group is
Access Cheer Limited (“Access Cheer”), a company incorporated in the British Virgin Islands.
The consolidated financial statements are presented in Hong Kong dollars (“HK$”) which is
same as the functional currency of the Group and all values are rounded to the nearest thousand
except when otherwise indicated.
The consolidated statement of profit or loss and other comprehensive income, the
consolidated statement of changes in equity and the consolidated statement of cash
flows for the Group for the year ended 30 September 2018 were prepared to present the
results and cash flows of the companies now comprising the Group as if the current group
structure had been in existence since 1 October 2017.
The consolidated financial statements of the Group have been prepared under the historical
cost convention.
(c) Application of new and revised Hong Kong Financial Reporting Standards
(“HKFRSs”)
The HKICPA has issued a number of new HKFRSs and amendments to HKFRSs that
are first effective for the current accounting period of the Group. Of these, the following
developments are relevant to the Group’s financial statements:
The Group has not applied any new standard or interpretation that is not yet effective for the
current accounting period, except for the amendments to HKFRS 9, Prepayment features
with negative compensation which have been adopted at the same time as HKFRS 9.
There is no material impact on the financial statements of the Group as the new HKFRSs
and amendments to HKFRSs were consistent with policies already adopted by the Group
except for adoption of the following developments:–
The Group has applied HKFRS 9 retrospectively to items that existed at 1 October 2018
in accordance with the transition requirements. The Group has recognised the cumulative
effect of initial application as an adjustment to the opening equity at 1 October 2018.
Therefore, comparative information continues to be reported under HKAS 39.
With respect to the financial assets classified as loans and receivables (which were
measured at amortised cost) under HKAS 39, the Group has assessed the business
model under which the financial assets are managed and its contractual cash
flow characteristics, and these financial assets will continue with their respective
classification and measurements upon the adoption of HKFRS 9, and the carrying
amounts of these financial assets as at 1 October 2018 have not been impacted by the
initial application of HKFRS 9.
The measurement categories for all financial liabilities remain the same. The carrying
amounts for all financial liabilities at 1 October 2018 have not been impacted by the
initial application.
For an explanation of how the Group classifies and measures financial assets and
recognises related gains and losses under HKFRS 9, see respective accounting policy
in note 3(d).
The Group did not designate or de-designate any financial asset or financial liability at
FVPL at 1 October 2018.
The Group applies the new ECL model to financial assets measured at amortised cost
(including cash and cash equivalents, trade and other receivables).
For further details on the Group’s accounting policy for accounting for credit losses,
see note 3(d).
As a result of this change in accounting policy on accounting for credit loss, there is no
significant impact to the Group’s financial statements and accordingly no adjustment
to the opening balance of retained earnings and reserves at 1 October 2018 and no
restatement to the comparative information are required.
The Group has applied HKFRS 15 retrospectively with the cumulative effect of initially
applying this HKFRS 15 recognised at the date of initial application, 1 October 2018. Any
difference at the date of initial application is recognised in the opening retained earnings
(or other components of equity, as appropriate) and comparative information has not been
restated. Furthermore, in accordance with the transition provisions in HKFRS 15, the Group
has elected to apply the HKFRS 15 retrospectively only to contracts that are not completed
at 1 October 2018. Accordingly, certain comparative information may not be comparable as
comparative information was prepared under HKAS 18 Revenue and HKAS 11 Construction
Contracts and the related interpretations.
The Group recognises revenue from the corporate finance advisory services fee income
which is finally arised from contracts with customers.
Information about the Group ’ s performance obligations and the accounting policies
resulting from application of HKFRS 15 are disclosed in notes 5 and 3(j) respectively.
HK$’000
Retained earnings
Revenue recognised at point in time (475)
The following adjustments were made to the amounts recognised in the consolidated
statement of financial position at 1 October 2018. Line items that were not affected by the
changes have not been included.
Current assets
Trade receivables (i) 4,727 – (300) 4,427
Equity
Reserves (i) 38,843 – (475) 38,368
Current liabilities
Contract liabilities (i),(ii) – 50 175 225
Deferred revenue (ii) 50 (50) – –
(i) The Group’s certain contracts with customers for providing corporate finance advisory services do not meet
the criteria of recognising the revenue over time under HKFRS 15 as described in note 3(j) and hence should
be recognised at point in time upon application of HKFRS 15. HK$475,000 has been adjusted from opening
retained earnings with corresponding adjustment of HK$300,000 and HK175,000 to trade receivables and
contract liabilities respectively.
(ii) At the date of initial application, the deferred revenue of HK$50,000 related to the consideration received in
advance from a customer for corporate financial advisory service. This balance was reclassified to contract
liabilities upon application of HKFRS 15.
Amounts
without
application
As reported Adjustments of HKFRS 15
HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000
Current assets
Trade receivables 3,855 550 4,405
Equity
Reserves 33,701 550 34,251
Current liabilities
Contract liabilities 50 (50) –
Deferred revenue – 50 50
Impact on the consolidated statement of profit and loss and other comprehensive income
Amounts
without
application
As reported Adjustments of HKFRS 15
HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000
Amounts
without
application
As reported Adjustments of HKFRS 15
HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000
OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Loss before income tax (4,667) 75 (4,592)
Decrease in trade receivables 572 (250) 322
Decrease in contract liabilities (175) 175 –
Under HKAS 18, the Group recognises the fee income from financial advisory services
based on the stage of completion of the relevant services rendered. Upon application
of HKFRS 15, the relevant services in certain contracts are considered as a single
performance obligation. Since the Group does not satisfy the performance obligation over
time, revenue from corporate financial advisory services for those contracts should be
recognised at point in time. This change in accounting policies resulted in a reduction in
revenue by HK$75,000 for the year ended 30 September 2019.
The Interpretation clarifies that “the date of the transaction” is the date on initial recognition
of the non-monetary asset or liability arising from the payment or receipt of advance
consideration. If there are multiple payments or receipts in advance of recognising the
related item, the date of the transaction for each payment or receipt should be determined
in this way.
The adoption of HK(IFRIC)-Int 22 does not have any material impact on the financial
position and the financial result of the Group.
HKFRS 16 Leases1
HKFRS 17 Insurance Contracts3
HK(IFRIC) – Int 23 Uncertainty over Income Tax Treatments1
Amendments to HKFRS 3 Definition of a Business5
Amendments to HKFRS 10 Sale or Contribution of Assets between an
and HKAS 28 Investor and its Associate or Joint Venture4
Amendments to HKAS 1 Definition of Material2
and HKAS 8
Amendments to HKAS 19 Plan Amendment, Curtailment or Settlement1
Amendments to HKAS 28 Long-term Interests in Associates
and Joint Ventures1
Amendments to HKFRSs Annual Improvements to HKFRSs 2015-2017 Cycle1
1
Effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1 January 2019.
2
Effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1 January 2020.
3
Effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1 January 2021.
4
Effective for annual periods beginning on or after a date to be determined.
5
Effective for business combinations and asset acquisitions for which the acquisition date is on or after the
beginning of the first annual period on or after 1 January 2020.
Except for the New and Revised HKFRSs mentioned below, the directors of the Company
anticipate that the application of all other New and Revised HKFRSs will have no material
impact on the consolidated financial statement in the foreseeable future.
HKFRS 16 Leases
HKFRS 16 introduces a comprehensive model for the identification of lease arrangements
and accounting treatments for both lessors and lessees. HKFRS 16 will supersede HKAS 17
Leases and the related interpretations when it becomes effective.
HKFRS 16 distinguishes lease and service contracts on the basis of whether an identified
asset is controlled by a customer.
Distinctions of operating leases and finance leases are removed for lessee accounting, and
is replaced by a model where a right-of-use asset and a corresponding liability have to be
recognised for all leases by lessees, except for short-term leases and leases of low value
assets.
Under HKAS 17, the Group has already recognised an asset and a related finance lease
liability for finance lease arrangement and prepaid lease payments for leasehold lands
where the Group is a lessee. The application of HKFRS 16 may result in potential changes
in classification of these assets depending on whether the Group presents right-of-use
assets separately or within the same line item at which the corresponding underlying assets
would be presented if they were owned.
In addition, the Group currently considers refundable rental deposits paid of approximately
HK$0.4 million as rights under leases to which HKAS 17 applies. Based on the definition
of lease payments under HKFRS 16, such deposits are not payments relating to the right
to use the underlying assets, accordingly, the carrying amounts of such deposits may
be adjusted to amortised cost. Adjustments to refundable rental deposits paid would be
considered as additional lease payments and included in the carrying amount of right-of-
use assets.
A subsidiary is an investee over which the Company is able to exercise control. The
Company controls an investee if all of the following elements are present: power over the
investee; exposure, or rights, to variable returns from the investee; and the ability to use its
power to affect those variable returns. Generally, control is achieved with a shareholding
of more than one half of the voting rights over the relevant activities of the investee.
The existence and effect of potential voting rights that are exercisable or convertible
are considered when assessing whether the Company controls another entity. Control is
reassessed whenever facts and circumstances indicate that there may be a change in any
of these elements of control.
Consolidation of a subsidiary begins when the Group obtains control over the subsidiary
and ceases when the Group loses control of the subsidiary. Specifically, income and
expenses of a subsidiary acquired or disposed of during the period are included in the
consolidated statements of profit or loss and other comprehensive income from the date the
Group gains control until the date when the Group ceases to control the subsidiary.
All intra-group assets and liabilities, equity, income, expenses and cash flows relating to
transactions between members of the Group are eliminated in full on consolidation. Where
necessary, adjustments are made to the financial statements of subsidiaries to bring their
accounting policies in line with the Group’s accounting policies.
The cost of an item of plant and equipment comprises its purchase price and any directly
attributable cost of bringing the asset to its working condition and location for its intended
use. Expenditure incurred after the item has been put into operation, such as repairs and
maintenance and overhaul costs, is normally charged to profit or loss in the period in which
it is incurred. In situations where it can be clearly demonstrated that the expenditure has
resulted in an increase in future economic benefits expected to be obtained from the use of
the item, the expenditure is capitalised as an additional cost of the item. When an item of
plant and equipment is sold, its cost and accumulated depreciation are derecognised and
any gain or loss resulting from the disposal, being the difference between the net disposal
proceeds and the carrying amount of the asset, is included in profit or loss.
Depreciation is provided on the straight-line method to allocate their cost over their
estimated economic useful lives of the individual assets, as follows:
The assets’ useful lives and depreciation method are reviewed, and adjusted if appropriate,
at the end of each reporting period.
Financial assets and financial liabilities are initially measured at fair value except for
trade receivables arising from contracts with customers which are initially measured in
accordances with HKFRS 15 since 1 October 2018. Transaction costs that are directly
attributable to the acquisition or issue of financial assets and financial liabilities (other than
financial assets or financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss (“FVTPL”)) are
added to or deducted from the fair value of the financial assets or financial liabilities, as
appropriate, on initial recognition. Transaction cost directly attributable to the acquisition of
financial assets or financial liabilities at FVTPL are recognised immediately in profit or loss.
The effective interest method is a method of calculating the amortised cost of a financial
asset or financial liability and of allocating interest income and interest expense over the
relevant period. The effective interest rate is the rate that exactly discounts estimated
future cash receipts and payments (including all fees and points paid or received that
form an integral part of the effective interest rate, transaction costs and other premiums
or discounts) through the expected life of the financial asset or financial liability, or, where
appropriate, a shorter period, to the net carrying amount on initial recognition.
• the financial asset is held within a business model whose objective is to collect
contractual cash flows; and
• the contractual terms give rise on specified dates to cash flows that are solely
payments of principal and interest on the principal amount outstanding.
Financial assets that meet the following conditions are subsequently measured at fair
value through other comprehensive income (“FVTOCI”):
• the financial asset is held within a business model whose objective is achieved by
both collecting contractual cash flows and selling financial asset; and
• the contractual terms give rise on specified dates to cash flows that are solely
payments of principal and interest on the principal amount outstanding.
All other financial assets are subsequently measured at FVTPL, except that at
the date of initial application/initial recognition of a financial asset the Group may
irrevocably elect to present subsequent changes in fair value of an equity investment
in other comprehensive income if that equity investment is neither held for trading
nor contingent consideration recognised by an acquirer in a business combination to
which HKFRS 3 Business Combinations applies.
• it has been acquired principally for the purpose of selling in the near term; or
In addition, the Group may irrevocably designate a financial asset that are required
to be measured at the amortised cost or FVTOCI as measured at FVTPL if doing so
eliminates or significantly reduces an accounting mismatch.
Lifetime ECL represents the ECL that will result from all possible default events over
the expected life of the relevant instrument. In contrast, 12-month ECL (“12-m ECL”)
represents the portion of lifetime ECL that is expected to result from default events that
are possible within 12 months after the reporting date. Assessment are done based
on the Group’s historical credit loss experience, adjusted for factors that are specific
to the debtors, general economic conditions and an assessment of both the current
conditions at the reporting date as well as the forecast of future conditions.
The Group always recognises lifetime ECL for trade receivables. The ECL on trade
receivables are assessed individually for debtors with significant balances and/or
collectively using a provision matrix with appropriate groupings.
For all other instruments, the Group measures the loss allowance equal to 12-m ECL,
unless when there has been a significant increase in credit risk since initial recognition,
the Group recognises lifetime ECL. The assessment of whether lifetime ECL should
be recognised is based on significant increases in the likelihood or risk of a default
occurring since initial recognition.
Irrespective of the outcome of the above assessment, the Group presumes that
the credit risk has increased significantly since initial recognition when contractual
payments are more than 30 days past due, unless the Group has reasonable and
supportable information that demonstrates otherwise.
Despite the aforegoing, the Group assumes that the credit risk on a debt
instrument has not increased significantly since initial recognition if the debt
instrument is determined to have low credit risk at the reporting date. A debt
instrument is determined to have low credit risk if i) it has a low risk of default, ii)
the borrower has a strong capacity to meet its contractual cash flow obligations in
the near term and iii) adverse changes in economic and business conditions in the
longer term may, but will not necessarily, reduce the ability of the borrower to fulfil
its contractual cash flow obligations. The Group considers a debt instrument to
have low credit risk when it has an internal or external credit rating of ‘investment
grade’ as per globally understood definitions.
The Group regularly monitors the effectiveness of the criteria used to identify
whether there has been a significant increase in credit risk and revises them
as appropriate to ensure that the criteria are capable of identifying significant
increase in credit risk before the amount becomes past due.
2. Definition of default
For internal credit risk management, the Group considers an event of default
occurs when information developed internally or obtained from external sources
indicates that the debtor is unlikely to pay its creditors, including the Group, in full
(without taking into account any collaterals held by the Group).
Irrespective of the above, the Group considers that default has occurred when a
financial asset is more than 90 days past due unless the Group has reasonable
and supportable information to demonstrate that a more lagging default criterion is
more appropriate.
(c) the lender(s) of the borrower, for economic or contractual reasons relating
to the borrower ’ s financial difficulty, having granted to the borrower a
concession(s) that the lender(s) would not otherwise consider;
(d) it is becoming probable that the borrower will enter bankruptcy or other
financial reorganisation; or
(e) the disappearance of an active market for that financial asset because of
financial difficulties.
4. Write-off policy
The Group writes off a financial asset when there is information indicating that the
counterparty is in severe financial difficulty and there is no realistic prospect of
recovery, for example, when the counterparty has been placed under liquidation
or has entered into bankruptcy proceedings. Financial assets written off may
still be subject to enforcement activities under the Group’s recovery procedures,
taking into account legal advice where appropriate. A write-off constitutes a
derecognition event. Any subsequent recoveries are recognised in profit or loss.
Generally, the ECL is the difference between all contractual cash flows that are
due to the Group in accordance with the contract and the cash flows that the
Group expects to receive, discounted at the effective interest rate determined at
initial recognition.
Where ECL is measured on a collective basis or cater for cases where evidence at
the individual instrument level may not yet be available, the financial instruments
are grouped on the following basis:
• Nature of financial instruments (i.e. the Group’s trade and other receivables
are each assessed as a separate group.);
• Past-due status;
Interest income is calculated based on the gross carrying amount of the financial
asset unless the financial asset is credit impaired, in which case interest income is
calculated based on amortised cost of the financial asset.
The Group recognises an impairment gain or loss in profit or loss for all financial
instruments by adjusting their carrying amount, with the exception of trade
receivables where the corresponding adjustment is recognised through a loss
allowance account.
For financial assets carried at amortised cost, the Group first assesses whether
impairment exists individually for financial assets that are individually significant,
or collectively for financial assets that are not individually significant. If the Group
determines that no objective evidence of impairment exists for an individually
assessed financial asset, whether significant or not, it includes the asset in a group of
financial assets with similar credit risk characteristics and collectively assesses them
for impairment. Assets that are individually assessed for impairment and for which
an impairment loss is, or continues to be, recognised are not included in a collective
assessment of impairment.
The amount of any impairment loss identified is measured as the difference between
the asset’s carrying amount and the present value of estimated future cash flows
(excluding future credit losses that have not yet been incurred). The present value of
the estimated future cash flows is discounted at the financial asset’s original effective
interest rate (i.e. the effective interest rate computed at initial recognition).
The carrying amount of the asset is reduced through the use of an allowance account
and the loss is recognised in profit or loss. Receivables together with any associated
allowance are written off when there is no realistic prospect of future recovery.
If, in a subsequent period, the amount of the estimated impairment loss decreases
and the decrease can be related objectively to an event occurring after the impairment
was recognised, the previously recognised impairment loss is reversed to the extent
that it does not result in a carrying amount of the financial asset exceeding what the
amortised cost would have been had the impairment not been recognised at the date
the impairment is reversed. The amount of the reversal is recognised in profit or loss of
the period in which the reversal occurs.
1. Equity instruments
An equity instrument is any contract that evidences a residual interest in the
assets of an entity after deducting all of its liabilities. Equity instruments issued by
the Company are recognised at the proceeds received, net of direct issue costs.
2. Financial liabilities
Financial liabilities including other payables are subsequently measured at
amortised cost using the effective interest method.
(iii) Derecognition
The Group derecognises a financial asset only when the contractual rights to the cash
flows from the asset expire, or when it transfers the financial asset and substantially all
the risks and rewards of ownership of the asset to another entity.
The Group derecognises financial liabilities when, and only when, the Group ’ s
obligations are discharged, cancelled or have expired. The difference between the
carrying amount of the financial liability derecognised and the consideration paid and
payable is recognised in profit or loss.
The recoverable amount of tangible and intangible assets is estimated individually, when
it is not possible to estimate the recoverable amount individually, the Group estimates
the recoverable amount of the cash-generating unit to which the asset belongs. When a
reasonable and consistent basis of allocation can be identified, corporate assets are also
allocated to individual cash-generating units, or otherwise they are allocated to the smallest
group of cash-generating units for which a reasonable and consistent allocation basis can
be identified.
Recoverable amount is the higher of fair value less costs of disposal and value in use. In
assessing value in use, the estimated future cash flows are discounted to their present
value using a pre-tax discount rate that reflects current market assessments of the time
value of money and the risks specific to the asset for which the estimates of future cash
flows have not been adjusted.
Where an impairment loss subsequently reverses, the carrying amount of the asset is
increased to the revised estimate of its recoverable amount, but so that the increased
carrying amount does not exceed the carrying amount that would have been determined
had no impairment loss been recognised for the asset in prior years. A reversal of an
impairment loss is recognised immediately in profit or loss.
For the purpose of the consolidated statement of financial position, cash and cash
equivalents comprise cash on hand and at banks, including term deposits and assets
similar in nature to cash, which are not restricted as to use.
The current income tax is based on taxable profit for the year. Taxable profit differs from
“profit before income tax” as reported in the consolidated statement of profit or loss and
other comprehensive income because of items of income or expense that are taxable or
deductible in other years and items that are never taxable or deductible. The Group’s
liability for current tax is calculated using tax rates that have been enacted or substantively
enacted by the end of the reporting period.
The carrying amount of deferred tax assets is reviewed at the end of each reporting period
and reduced to the extent that it is no longer probable that sufficient taxable profit will be
available to allow all or part of the deferred tax asset to be utilised. Unrecognised deferred
tax assets are reassessed at the end of each reporting period and are recognised to the
extent that it has become probable that sufficient taxable profit will be available to allow all
or part of the deferred tax asset to be recovered.
Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured at the tax rates that are expected to apply
to the period when the asset is realised or the liability is settled, based on tax rates (and tax
laws) that have been enacted or substantively enacted by the end of the reporting period.
The measurement of deferred tax liabilities and assets reflects the tax consequences that
would follow from the manner in which the Group expects, at the end of the reporting
period, to recover or settle the carrying amount of its assets and liabilities.
Current and deferred tax are recognised in profit or loss, except when they relate to items
that are recognised in other comprehensive income or directly in equity, in which case, the
current and deferred tax are also recognised in other comprehensive income or directly in
equity respectively.
(h) Leases
Leases are classified as finance leases whenever the terms of the lease transfer
substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership to lessee. All other leases are classified
as operating leases.
Operating leases payments are recognised as an expense on a straight-line basis over the
lease term.
iii. is a member of the key management personnel of the Group or the Group’s
parent.
i. The entity and the Group are members of the same group (which means that each
parent, subsidiary and fellow subsidiary is related to the others).
ii. One entity is an associate or joint venture of the other entity (or an associate or
joint venture of a member of a group of which the other entity is a member).
iii. Both entities are joint ventures of the same third party.
iv. One entity is a joint venture of a third entity and the other entity is an associate of
the third entity.
v. The entity is a post-employment benefit plan for the benefit of employees of either
the Group or an entity related to the Group.
vi. The entity is controlled or jointly controlled by a person identified in note 3(i)(1).
vii. A person identified in note 3(i)(1)(i) has significant influence over the entity or is
a member of the key management personnel of the entity (or of a parent of the
entity).
viii. The entity, or any member of a group of which it is a part, provides key
management personnel services to the Group or to the Group’s parent.
Close members of the family of a person are those family members who may be
expected to influence, or be influenced by, that person in their dealings with the entity.
Control is transferred over time and revenue is recognised over time by reference to the
progress towards complete satisfaction of the relevant performance obligation if one of the
following criteria is met:
• the customer simultaneously receives and consumes the benefits provided by the
Group’s performance as the Group performs;
• the Group’s performance creates and enhances an asset that the customer controls as
the Group performs; or
• the Group’s performance does not create an asset with an alternative use to the Group
and the Group has an enforceable right to payment for performance completed to
date.
Otherwise, revenue is recognised at a point in time when the customer obtains control of the
distinct good or service.
A contract asset represents the Group’s right to consideration in exchange for goods or
services that the Group has transferred to a customer that is not yet unconditional. It is
assessed for impairment in accordance with HKFRS 9. In contrast, a receivable represents
the Group’s unconditional right to consideration, i.e. only the passage of time is required
before payment of that consideration is due.
Output method
The progress towards complete satisfaction of a performance obligation is measured based
on output method, which is to recognise revenue on the basis of direct measurements of the
value of the goods or services transferred to the customer to date relative to the remaining
goods or services promised under the contract, that best depict the Group ’s performance in
transferring control of goods or services.
Corporate financial advisory income from providing specified financial advisory services
in relation to type 6 (advising on corporate finance) regulated activities within the scope of
financial services related activities, are recognised at a point in time when the reports are
issued under the terms of each engagement and the revenue can be measured reliably, as
only that time the Group has a present right to payment from the customers for the service
performed. Invoices for the financial services are issued upon signing service contracts and
when stated milestones in the contract are reached.
(i) the costs relate directly to a contract or to an anticipated contract that the Group can
specifically identify;
(ii) the costs generate or enhance resources of the Group that will be used in satisfying (or
in continuing to satisfy) performance obligations in the future; and
Corporate finance advisory service income is recognised when the services are rendered
to the clients by reference to the percentage of completion of the advisory services when
the outcome of the corporate finance transaction can be estimated reliably, including when
it is probable that the economic benefits associated with the advisory service transaction
will flow to the Group. Use of the percentage-of-completion method requires the Group
to estimate the services performed to date as a proportion of the total services to be
performed.
Payments to the mandatory provident fund scheme are recognised as an expense when
employees have rendered service entitling them to the contributions.
Under the Hong Kong Employment Ordinance, the Group’s net obligation in respect of lump
sum long service amounts payable on cessation of employment in certain circumstances
is the amount of future benefit that employees have earned in return for their service in the
current and prior periods.
The Group’s obligations to make such long service payments are recognised in the financial
statements as long service payment liabilities at the present value (where the effect of
discounting is material) of the long service payment obligations, which are estimated after
deducting the entitlements accrued under the Group ’s defined contribution retirement
scheme that are attributable to contributions made by the Group. Changes in carrying
amount of the relevant net obligation are recognised in profit or loss.
(m) Provision
A provision is recognised when a present obligation (legal or constructive) has arisen as a
result of a past event and it is probable that a future outflow of resources will be required
to settle the obligation, provided that a reliable estimate can be made of the amount of the
obligation.
The amount recognised as a provision is the best estimate of the consideration required to
settle the present obligation at the end of the reporting period, taking into account the risks
and uncertainties surrounding the obligation. When a provision is measured using the cash
flows estimated to settle the present obligation, its carrying amount is the present value of
those cash flows (where the effect of the time value of money is material).
• the customer simultaneously receives and consumes the benefits provided by the
Group’s performance as the Group performs;
• the Group’s performance creates and enhances an asset that the customer controls as
the Group performs; or
• the Group’s performance does not create an asset with an alternative use to the Group
and the Group has an enforceable right to payment for performance completed to
date.
Otherwise, revenue is recognised at a point in time when the customer obtains control of the
distinct good or service.
The directors of the Company have considered the detailed criteria for recognition of
revenue set out in HKFRS 15 and in particular, whether the Group has satisfied all the
performance obligations over time or at a point in time with reference to the details terms
of transaction as stipulated in the contracts entered into with its customers. Accounting
policies for revenue recognition are disclosed in note 3(j).
The provision of ECL is sensitive to changes in estimates. The information about the ECL
and the Group’s trade receivables are disclosed in notes 14 and 22(a) respectively.
5. REVENUE
Revenue represents income received and receivables from the provision of corporate finance
advisory services, is analysed as follows:
2019 2018
HK$’000 HK$’000
Revenue
Fee income from acting as:
Financial adviser 9,038 18,737
Independent financial adviser 1,660 3,465
10,698 22,202
2019
HK$’000
10,698
6. OTHER INCOME
2019 2018
HK$’000 HK$’000
Other income
Bank interest income 768 250
7. SEGMENT INFORMATION
Information reported to the board of directors (the “Board”) of the Company, being the chief
operating decision maker (the “CODM”) for the purposes of resource allocation and assessment
of segment performance focuses on advisory services provided. The CODM considers the
Group’s operation, assets and revenue are located and derived in Hong Kong. The principal
activity of the reportable and operating segment is the provision of corporate finance advisory
services only. Accordingly, no segment and geographical information are presented.
2019 2018
HK$’000 HK$’000
N/A: The corresponding revenue did not contribute over 10% of total revenue of the Group.
2019 2018
HK$’000 HK$’000
2019 2018
HK$’000 HK$’000
– 1,467
No provision for Hong Kong Profits Tax has been made as the Group has no assessable profits
(2018:16.5% on the estimated assessable profits).
No provision for deferred taxation has been made in view of immaterial effect (2018: Nil).
At the end of the reporting period, the Company has unused tax losses of approximately
HK$3,383,000 (2018: Nil) available for offset against future profits. However, no deferred tax
asset in respect of them had been recognized due to the unpredictability of future profit streams
even though those tax losses may be carried forward indefinitely (2018: Nil).
The income tax expense for the years can be reconciled to the results per the consolidated
statement of profit or loss and other comprehensive income as follow:
2019 2018
HK$’000 HK$’000
Tax at Hong Kong Profits Tax rate of 16.5% (2018: 16.5%) (770) 411
Income tax at concessionary rate (Note) 277 (165)
Tax effect of expenses not deductible for tax purpose 399 1,243
Tax effect of income not taxable for tax purpose (165) (41)
Tax effect of unused tax losses not recognised 279 –
Tax effect of temporary difference not recognised (20) 19
Note: On 21 March 2018, the Hong Kong Legislative Council passed The Inland Revenue (Amendment) (No. 7) Bill
2017 (the “Bill”) which introduces the two-tiered profits tax rates regime. The Bill was signed into law on 28
March 2018 and was gazetted on the following day. Under the two-tiered profits tax rates regime, the first HK$2
million of profits of qualifying corporations will be taxed at 8.25%, and profits above HK$2 million will be taxed at
16.5%. The two-tiered profits tax rates regime is applied from the year of assessment 2018/19.
Salaries,
allowances Retirement
and Performance benefit
Directors’ benefits related scheme
fees in kind bonus contributions Total
HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000
720 – – – 720
Salaries,
allowances Retirement
and Performance benefit
Directors’ benefits related scheme
fees in kind bonus contributions Total
HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000
378 – – – 378
(i) Mr. Cheung Pak To, BBS , Mr. Tsang Jacob Chung and Dr. Yu Yuen Ping was appointed as independent non-
executive directors of the Company on 26 February 2018.
(ii) There was no arrangement under which the directors of the Company waived or agreed to waive any
remuneration during the year and the prior year.
(iii) Discretionary bonus was determined with reference to the operating results of the subsidiary and individual
performance of the executive directors of the Company.
(iv) During the year, no payments or benefits in respect of termination of directors’ services were paid or made,
directly or indirectly, to the directors of the Company; nor are any payable (2018: Nil). No consideration
was provided to or receivable by third parties for making available directors’ services (2018: Nil). There are
no loans, quasi-loans or other dealings in favour of the directors of the Company, their controlled bodies
corporate and connected entities (2018: Nil).
(v) No director of the Company had a material interest, directly or indirectly, in any significant transactions,
arrangements and contracts in relation to the Company’s business to which the Company was or is a party
that subsisted at the end of the year or at any time during the year (2018: None).
(vi) No emoluments have been paid to the directors of the Company or the five highest individuals as an
inducement to join or upon joining the Group, or as compensation of loss of office in any of the years ended
30 September 2019 and 2018.
2019 2018
HK$’000 HK$’000
2,714 1,795
The emoluments of the three (2018: two) individuals with the highest emoluments are within
the following bands:
2019 2018
Nil to HK$1,000,000 2 2
HK$1,000,001 to HK$1,500,000 1 –
11. DIVIDEND
No interim and final dividend was paid or proposed during the year ended 30 September 2019
(2018: Nil).
2019 2018
For each year ended 30 September 2018 and 30 September 2019, there were no potential
ordinary shares in issue, thus no adjustment has been made to the basic (loss)/earnings per
share amount presented in respect of dilution.
Furniture
Leasehold and Motor
improvements equipment vehicles Total
HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000
COST
As at 1 October 2017, 30 September 2018
and 1 October 2018 – 81 677 758
Additions 164 39 536 739
ACCUMULATED DEPRECIATION
As at 1 October 2017 – 59 304 363
Charged for the year – 5 136 141
2019 2018
HK$’000 HK$’000
3,855 4,727
Income arising from the corporate finance advisory services is payable upon presentation
of invoices. During the year ended 30 September 2014, the Group has entered into a legal
proceeding with a client, who was in default in payment of HK$1,000,000 for the corporate
financial advisory services rendered, and the provision for impairment losses was made for
such accordingly. On 7 October 2014, the court has made a consent order for the settlement
arrangement mutually agreed by the Group and the client that of which the client should pay the
Group a sum of HK$2,000,000 (inclusive of interest) in full for mediation, of which HK$700,000
should be made within 3 months after the settlement arrangement made and HK$1,300,000
should be paid one and a half months after the date of resumption of trading in the shares of
the client. During the year ended 30 September 2015, the provision for impairment losses was
reversed by HK$700,000 upon the receipt from the client.
As at 30 September 2019, the trading in the shares of the client was still suspended, in the
opinion of the directors of the Company, the recovery of the remaining receivable amount
of HK$300,000 is still subject to uncertainty so that it is not recognised in the consolidated
financial statements. The contingent asset arising from the compensation under the settlement
arrangement of HK$1,000,000 is not recognised in the consolidated financial statements since
the resumption of trading in the shares of the client is uncertain, the compensation income may
never be realised.
The following is an aged analysis of trade receivables net of loss allowance presented based
on the invoice date at the end of each reporting year. It also represented the ageing analysis of
trade receivables which are past due but not impaired, at the end of each reporting period.
2019 2018
HK$’000 HK$’000
3,855 4,727
There is no credit period granted for corporate finance advisory services income. The trade
receivables of HK$3,855,000 (2018: HK$4,727,000) were past due but not impaired as at 30
September 2019.
Based on the historical experience of the Group, trade receivables that are past due but not
impaired are generally recoverable.
2019 2018
HK$’000 HK$’000
830 502
Deduct: Non-current portion (383) –
2019 2018
HK$’000 HK$’000
39,532 45,754
Cash and cash equivalents include cash on hand and short-term bank deposits. Short-term bank
deposits are made for varying periods of between one day and three months depending on the
cash requirements of the Group, and earn interest rate at the respective short-term time deposit
rates. The bank balances are deposited with creditworthy banks with no recent history of default.
2019 2018
HK$’000 HK$’000
1,569 445
All the other payables and accruals are expected to be settled within one year or are repayable
on demand.
30 September 1 October
2019 2018 *
HK$’000 HK$’000
Corporate finance advisory service income is generally paid in advance prior to the beginning of
each transaction and is initially recorded as contract liabilities in the consolidated statement of
financial position. The portion of income received from the clients but not yet earned is recorded
as contract liabilities in the consolidated statement of financial position and will be reflected as
a current liability if such amount represents revenue, that the Group expects to recognise within
one year from reporting date.
During the year ended 30 September 2019, corporate finance advisory service fee of
HK$225,000 that was included in the contract liabilities balance at the beginning of the year was
recognised as revenue.
* The amount in this column is after the adjustments from the application of HKFRS 15.
Number of
ordinary
shares of
HK$0.01 each Share Capital
Note HK$’000
Authorised:
At 1 October 2017 39,000,000 390
Increase in number of authorised shares a 9,961,000,000 99,610
a) Pursuant to the written resolutions of the sole shareholder of the Company passed on 26 February 2018, the
authorised share capital of the Company was increased from HK$390,000 divided into 39,000,000 shares to
HK$100,000,000 divided into 10,000,000,000 shares by the creation of an additional 9,961,000,000 shares.
b) On 26 February 2018, the Company allotted and issued 99,999,999 shares to Access Cheer, all credited as fully
paid, as consideration for the acquisition of the entire issued share capital of Amasse Capital by Merit Group
Investment Limited (“MGIL”, a directly wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company). The aforesaid transactions
contemplated under the share purchase agreement were completed on 26 February 2018, and as a result, Amasse
Capital is wholly owned by MGIL, which in turn is wholly owned by the Company.
c) On 22 March 2018, the Company issued 200,000,000 shares at HK$0.24 per share pursuant to the IPO of the
Company’s shares for total gross proceeds of HK$48,000,000. Conditional upon the crediting of the Company’s
share premium account as a result of the issue of the shares pursuant to the IPO, a sum of HK$7,000,000 standing
to the credit of the share premium account of the Company was capitalised by paying up in full at par a total of
700,000,000 new shares and for allotment and issue to Access Cheer.
At the end of the reporting period, the Group had total future minimum lease payments under
non-cancellable operating leases falling due as follows:
2019 2018
HK$’000 HK$’000
3,397 392
The primary objectives of the Group’s capital management are to safeguard the Group’s ability
to continue as a going concern in order to provide returns for shareholders and benefits for other
stakeholders and to maintain an optimal capital structure to reduce the cost of capital.
The directors of the Company regularly review and manage the Group’s capital structure to
maintain a sufficient cash level to meet its liquidity requirements. Neither the Company nor its
subsidiaries, except for Amasse Capital, are subject to externally imposed capital requirements.
Amasse Capital is regulated by the Securities and Futures Commission (“SFC”) and is required
to comply with certain minimum capital requirements according to the Securities and Futures
Ordinance (Chapter 571 of the Laws of Hong Kong). The management monitors Amasse
Capital’s liquid capital daily to ensure it meets the minimum liquid capital requirement in
accordance with the Securities and Futures (Financial Resources) Rules ( “FRR”) adopted by the
SFC. Under the FRR, Amasse Capital must maintain its liquid capital in excess of HK$3,000,000.
The required information is filed with SFC on a monthly basis. Amasse Capital was in compliance
with the capital requirements imposed by FRR during the year ended 30 September 2019.
In respect of trade and other receivables, the Group’s exposure to credit risk is influenced
mainly by the individual characteristics of each customer rather than the industry or
country in which the customers operate and therefore significant concentrations of credit
risk primarily arise when the Group has significant exposure to individual customers.
Consequently, individual credit evaluations are performed on all customers and
counterparties. These evaluations focus on the counterparty ’s financial position, past
history of making payments. The responsible officers of the Group are responsible for
overall monitoring of the credit risk of their customers. Monitoring procedures have been
implemented to ensure that follow-up action is taken to recover overdue debts. In addition,
the Group reviews the recoverable amount of each individual trade and other receivable
balance at the end of each reporting period to ensure adequate impairment losses are
made for irrecoverable amounts.
The Group performs impairment assessment under ECL model upon application of HKFRS
9 (2018: incurred loss model) on trade balances individually or based on provision matrix.
In this regard, the directors of the Company consider that the Group’s credit risk did not
significantly changed.
The Group assessed and concluded that there has no significant increase in credit risk
since initial recognition, ECL for the financial assets at amortised cost including trade
receivables, deposits and bank balances is immaterial.
During the year ended 30 September 2019, the Group did not recognise nor reverse any
loss allowance for trade receivable based on the provision matrix. Loss allowance of
HK$300,000 was made on a credit-impaired debtor.
Movement in the loss allowance account in respect of trade receivables during the year is
as follows:
2019 2018
Total and
lifetime ECL
(credit-impaired) Total
HK$’000 HK$’000
The Directors of the Company monitors and maintains levels of cash and cash equivalents
deemed adequate by the management to finance the Group’s operations and mitigate the
effects of fluctuations in cash flows. All financial liabilities are non-interest bearing and their
maturity dates are either within one year or repayable on demand. All carrying amounts of
financial liabilities are equal to the undiscounted cash flows.
The Company’s objective is to manage its interest rate risk, working within an agreed
framework, to ensure that there are no unduly exposures to significant interest rate
movements.
The Group is mainly exposed to the foreign exchange risk of US Dollar. Management
considers that the Group’s exposure to foreign currency risk is minimal. As HK dollar is
pegged to US dollar, the directors of the Company consider that the currency risk of US
dollar is insignificant.
Amount due
to a director
HK$’000
Details of the provision for long service payments of the Group are as follows:
2019 2018
HK$’000 HK$’000
2019 2018
HK$’000 HK$’000
5,020 4,920
The related party transactions did not constitute connected transactions (including continuing
connected transactions) as defined in Chapter 20 of the GEM Listing Rules.
(1) Purpose
The purpose of the Share Option Scheme is to provide incentive or reward to the eligible
participants for their contribution to, and continuing efforts to promote the interests of the
Group.
The exercise of any option shall be subject to the shareholders in general meeting
approving any necessary increase in the authorised share capital of the Company. Subject
thereto, the Board shall make available sufficient authorised but unissued share capital of
our Company to allot the shares on the exercise of any option.
(6) Minimum Period for which an Option must be Held before it can be Exercised
No minimum period for which an option must be held before it can be exercised unless
otherwise determined by the Board at the time of grant.
Particulars of
issued and Percentage of equity
Place of Place of paid-up attributable to the Company Principal
Name of subsidiary incorporation operation share capital as at 30 September activities
2019 2018
Merit Group Investment British Virgin Hong Kong US$1 100% 100% Investment
Limited Islands holding
Amasse Capital Limited Hong Kong Hong Kong HK$10,000,000 100% 100% Provision of
(2018: corporate
HK$5,000,000) finance advisory
services
None of the subsidiaries has issued any debt securities at the end of each reporting period.
2019 2018
Note HK$’000 HK$’000
Non-current assets
Investment in a subsidiary –* –*
Current assets
Prepayments, deposits and other receivables 179 161
Amount due from a subsidiary a 10,489 5,039
Cash and cash equivalents 35,927 40,885
46,595 46,085
Current liabilities
Other payables and accruals 174 150
Amounts due to subsidiaries a 2,947 13,162
3,121 13,312
EQUITY
Share capital 10,000 10,000
Reserves b 33,474 22,773
a) The amounts due were non-trade in nature, unsecured, non-interest bearing and had no fixed repayment terms.
b) Movement in reserves
c) Other reserve
It represents the difference between the nominal value of the shares of the subsidiaries acquired and the nominal
value of the shares issued by the Company as consideration thereof pursuant to the exchange of shares on group
reorganisation.
RESULTS
As at 30 September
2019 2018 2017 2016 2015
HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000
Note:
The financial information for the years ended 30 September 2016 and 2015 was extracted from the Prospectus.