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GraceKennedy Reporting Profit Before Tax Of J$4.5B, For Six Months June 2020 Reflecting A 53.2% Improvement Over 2019.

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GraceKennedy Limited is pleased to present financial results for the six months ended June 30, 2020. The Group realized revenues of J$56.5 billion, representing an increase of J$5.0 billion or 9.8% over the corresponding period of the prior year. Profit before tax was J$4.5 billion, reflecting a 53.2% improvement over the same period in 2019.

Net Profit after tax of J$3.1 billion was recorded, a commendable 34.3% increase over the comparable period of 2019. Net profit attributable to stockholders also reflected a double-digit increase of 36.5% over the prior year.

Earnings per stock unit for the period was J$2.77 (2019: J$2.03).

The Group registered Profit before other income of J$3.1 billion, an increase of 85.6% over the preceding year’s reporting period, and Profit from Operations reflected an increase of 60.5% to J$4.56 billion over the prior year. In addition to increased revenue and improved margin management, this strong operating performance is attributed to an increased focus on operational efficiency and cost containment. These measures will continue for the remainder of the year given the magnitude of the spread of the COVID-19 virus and its continued impact on the economies in which we operate and our consumers.

Our results reflect strong performance for the half-year. The outlook for the remainder of 2020 is unclear, however, given the uncertainty created by the unprecedented COVID-19 virus, globally. Spikes in the number of confirmed cases in certain markets, particularly the USA, and the ongoing impact on the international supply chain , contribute to that uncertainty. Jamaica has been lauded internationally for the country’s management of the COVID-19 pandemic and we have seen the cautious re-opening of the island’s borders and gradual lifting of business restrictions.

GraceKennedy remains a premier provider of essential services through our financial institutions in the Caribbean region, our supermarkets in Jamaica and global food and beverage distribution. It is anticipated that the second half of the year could see reduced consumer spending as the effect of diminished disposable incomes becomes more acute

GraceKennedy prides itself on embodying our “We Care” tenet and as business activities cautiously resume, our priority remains the safety and well-being of our staff and customers. We remain proactive in our operations aswe continue to execute initiatives under our COVID-19 action plan and Business Continuity protocols, and inventory and liquidity management. Providing broader access to our customers through digital platforms locally and in our overseas markets remains a priority and we are seeing positive results from this effort.

Performance of Business Segments

The Food Trading segment recorded increased revenue and improved profitability for the reporting period when compared to the corresponding period of 2019. Both the local and international food businesses reported noteworthy results for the first half of 2020.

Our Jamaican food distribution company continues to realize positive results from a strong product mix and improved margins, evidenced by noted growth in both revenue and pre-tax profits. During the reporting period, our core products delivered significant growth over the prior-year period.

Our chain of retail supermarkets in Jamaica, Hi-Lo Foods Stores, recorded improved performance over the corresponding period of 2019 and continues to provide a premier shopping experience for its patrons, including its curbside and home delivery options.

Our factories continued to deliver results influenced by strong demand for key products. This performance was further supported by a bolstered supplier base for raw materials such as pepper and escallions, as the first crop from our Agro Park was harvested. We also made strides in operational efficiency as we commissioned our first onsite liquified natural gas plant at our meat processing factory in Westmoreland, which will reduce our heavy fuel dependency and produce environmental benefits.

GraceKennedy Foods (USA) LLC had a strong half-year performance with significant improvement over the same period in the prior year. Our Grace Brand continues to record encouraging growth when compared with the same period in 2019, buoyed by the sales of Grace Jamaican Patties, among other key products. Grace Foods Canada remains a reliable performer in the GraceKennedy Group with improved performance. GraceFoods UK achieved better margins from the successful implementation of strategic initiatives including improved revenue performance of Nurishment.

The GraceKennedy Financial Group realized growth in revenues and profit compared to the corresponding period in 2019. This performance was achieved in spite of being impacted by additional impairment provisions in relation to loans receivable under IFRS 9, due to credit risk associated with COVID-19. The decline in the value of the local stock market has also perpetuated depressed market prices of equity instruments classified at fair value, reflected through the income statement.

In line with our digital expansion strategy, we launched our first GKONE e-store on Harbour Street in Downtown Kingston, Jamaica in July 2020. The new GKONE location provides cashless financial services including Banking, Remittances, Bill Payments, and F/X trading.

The Money Services segment registered an increase in both revenue and pre-tax profit when compared to the corresponding half-year of 2019. We continue to leverage opportunities to drive the adoption of digital channels and are seeing significant growth in transaction volumes. The business is currently focused on the relaunch of WU.com to further drive digitalization and provide our customers with other convenient offerings. Across the region, the GKMS Group participated in national COVID-19 response efforts. Over 110,000 transactions relating to the collection of government stimulus packages, were paid out across the GKMS network, representing a majority of beneficiaries under the Government’s CARE program. This program was designed to help cushion the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on individuals, and businesses.

The Banking and Investments segment reported growth in revenue in the first half of 2020 over the comparative period. First Global Bank sustained growth in its loan and deposit portfolios and, in collaboration with GKMS, successfully established several thousand accounts for beneficiaries of the CARE program. The Bank also continues to partner with its retail and commercial clients to provide support during the pandemic.

The Insurance segment saw an increase in revenue for the 6-month period under review and continues to achieve favourable operating performance. Canopy Insurance continues to record increased business since commencing operations in late 2019, attributed to the market’s positive reaction to a modernized and seamless interface. Key Insurance Company Limited appointed a new Board of Directors on 31 March 2020 which has, since 1 April 2020 been guiding the business by supporting the development and implementation of strategic initiatives designed to increase shareholder value.

GraceKennedy Limited remains both pro-active and responsive in dealing with the challenges of the COVID-19 virus and its impact on our lines of business, the countries in which we operate, and our employers and consumers. Our efforts continue to be directed towards achieving our strategic objectives by focusing on digital channels and ease of doing business.

Donald G. Wehby, CD Group Chief Executive Officer Interim Report To Stockholders for the six months ended June 30, 2020.

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ANSA McAL Group Announces Formation Of Joint Venture Company, Globus ANSA Private Limited, With Globus Spirits Limited In India.

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A. Norman Sabga Executive Chairman of the ANSA McAL Group of Companies has announced the formation of the joint venture company, Globus ANSA Private Limited, with Globus Spirits Limited in India.

In a release posted on the Trinidad and Tobago Stock Exchange ANSA McAL confirmed that with effect from 4th April 2024, ANSA McAL Limited (“ANSA McAL”) entered into a joint venture agreement with Globus Spirits Limited (“GSL”) to establish Globus ANSA Private Limited (“GAPL”).

Each party will hold fifty percent (50%) of the issued and allotted ordinary share capital of GAPL.

“This collaboration signifies a new era in the Indian alcoholic beverages industry, driving innovation and growth, ‘

“Globus ANSA Private Limited will specialise in manufacturing and distributing alcoholic beverages across the Indian subcontinent, leveraging the strength of both ANSA McAL and Globus Spirits Limited,” said Mr. Shekhar Swarup, Managing Director for Globus Spirits Limited. “This collaboration signifies a new era in the Indian alcoholic beverages industry, driving innovation and growth, ‘he stated

 

 

 

Globus Spirits Ltd is one of the leading players in the Alcohol industry in North India distributing brands in the Consumer Segment including:
• GR8 Times.
• Rajputana.
• Globus Spirits Dry Gin.
• White. Lace.
• Governors’ Reserve Red.
• Governors’ Reserve Blue.
• Oakton.
• Laffaire. Napoleon.

Trinidad and Tobago conglomerate ANSA McAL Group has over 142 years of rich history representing many world-renowned brands, including some of their own home-grown successes. The partnership marks a significant milestone in ANSA McAL Group’s journey, merging cultures and expertise to revolutionise the beer industry in India, with their icon Carib brand and leading the charge.

Norman Sabga Executive Chairman of the ANSA McAL Group of Companies, highlighted the immense opportunities in India and their commitment to delivering unparalleled value through this partnership.

“We are confident that our collaboration will allow us to seize the growing demand for high quality beverages by captivating palates with our distinctive products” he said

ANSA McAL is now poised to be an equal Shareholder of GAPL, an Indian company which
would produce, market, sell, distribute and retail beer and other beverages.

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Jamaica Broilers Group Reporting Strong Top and Bottom Line Performance for January 2024 Quarter

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Christopher E. Levy Group President & CEO of Jamaica Broilers Group Limited now release the following unaudited financial results for the quarter ended January 27, 2024, which have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS).

The Group produced a net profit attributable to shareholders of $1.3 billion, for the quarter ended January 27, 2024. The operations of the Group continue to be strong, and our gross margins are consistent with expectations.

Quarterly Group revenues amounted to $23.6 billion, a 4% increase above the $22.7 billion achieved in the corresponding quarter.

Our gross profit for the quarter was $5.9 billion, a 7% increase above the $5.5 billion achieved in the corresponding quarter in the prior year.

Jamaica Operations reported a segment result of $5.9 billion which was $448 million or 8% above last year’s segment result. Total revenue for our Jamaica Operations showed an increase of 2% over the prior year nine-month period. This increase was primarily driven by the growth in the sale and export of poultry and implementation of cost containment efforts.

Our US Operations reported a segment result of $3 billion which was $226 million or 8% above last year’s segment result. This increase was driven by increased volumes of poultry meat and eggs, as well as the implementation of cost management initiatives.
Total revenue for the US Operations increased by 3% over the prior year nine-month period.

We have begun to realise additional volumes through the US operations, which has resulted in increased financing requirements primarily around working capital.

For More Information CLICK HERE

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Main Event Reporting Net Profit Of JA$100M For Quarter Ended January 2024

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Solomon Sharpe Chief Executive Officer of Main Event Entertainment Group Limited has released the following unaudited financial statements for the quarter ended January 31, 2024 (Q1).

The company continues to have solid results in an increasingly competitive and largely difficult environment. The company’s performance was anchored by diversifying our client base through strategic targeting and efficient management of our operations.

The company reported net profit of $100.254M for the quarter ended January 31, 2024, representing a decline of 15% or $17.695M relative to the corresponding period of 2023. Consequently, earnings per share decreased by 15% to $0.33 per share.

Total revenues for the quarter ended January 31, 2024 declined by $59.235M to $567.752M, reflecting a decrease of 9% over the corresponding period. This was mainly due to a one-off event for one of our major clients which is not likely to reoccur in subsequent periods.

The company was strategic in its efforts to protect the margins and the gross profit for the quarter was $315.822M compared to the $312.611M earned in 2023. This demonstrates the company’s ability to be alert and responsive to market conditions. Gross margins improved to 56%, up from 50% in the corresponding period.

The company continues to generate revenues from activities requiring reduced external support.

For more information CLICK HERE

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The LAB Reporting Higher Net Profits Based On Strong Focus On Agency Segment

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Kimala Bennett Chief Executive Officer for Limners and Bards Limited (The LAB) has released the following unaudited financial statements for the three months ended January 31, 2024, which have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS). The consolidated results include the subsidiary Scope Caribbean Limited (Scope) whose principal business is the scouting, placement and management of talent while expanding and maintaining a database of quality talent.

The LAB achieved higher net profits when compared to the corresponding period last year. This was based on the strong focus on the Agency Segment of the business for this quarter, as the company continued to build brands. The Agency Segment provides the highest profit margin and as such bolstered the results for the period. The company also implemented cost containment measures, which resulted in a 19.2% reduction in administrative expenses when compared to prior period. We continue to maintain a strong balance sheet and our cash position grew stronger over the period. Our asset base increased, as we reinvested in the business through further upgrading film studio facilities.

Revenue for the three months ended January 31, 2023, was $219.4 million, down 11.4% relative to the prior period. This decline was primarily attributable to a reduction in production during the period due to its cyclical nature. Notwithstanding this, the Agency segment outperformed the comparable period. The revenue achieved was derived from the company’s core business lines: Media totalling $118.3 million, followed by Production with $29.3 million and Agency with $71.6 million.

The company remains fully focused on executing its strategy of diversifying its income, through engaging new clients and the introduction of new service lines. These strategic endeavours are aligned with our company’s expansion strategy into emerging markets, all aimed at fostering sustainable growth, increased revenues, enhanced profitability; while proactively anticipating the evolving needs of our valued clients and enhancing shareholders’ value.

Gross Profit for the three months was $88.9 million, down 3.3% when compared to the corresponding period. Net Profit achieved was $26.2 million, up 295.7% relative to the comparable period. due to higher gross profits from the agency segment and lower administrative expenses. Administrative expenses decreased by $16.3 million or 19.2% in comparison to the corresponding period last year. These decreases are primarily due to reduction in contractor and staff cost.

The consolidated Balance Sheet saw total assets increasing by $119 million or 15.1% to $909.3 million compared to $790.2 million in the corresponding period. This increase in assets is driven by building and film studio facilities improvement and purchases of new production equipment to facilitate future growth.

Current Assets amounted to $731.7 million, increasing by $107.6 million over the prior year, primarily due to a 43.6% increase in cash and cash equivalent. Management continues to maintain tight monitoring and control over receivables. Cash and cash equivalent increased by $142.4 million over the corresponding period last year. Shareholders’ equity grew to $624 million, up from $548.1 million or 13.9% over the corresponding period last year.

The LAB is pleased to report significant progress in our strategic initiatives. We have successfully completed the pilots for two TV/web series, “SEEN” and “Jenna In Law,” as outlined at our last Annual General Meeting (AGM). Additionally, Pre-production for our first feature film, “Love Offside,” is currently underway, with production scheduled to commence in June 2024.

In line with our strategic objectives, we are actively engaging with international networks and digital streaming platforms to secure distribution opportunities for our content upon production completion. This proactive approach ensures that our creative endeavours have a suitable platform to reach global audiences.

For More Information CLICK HERE

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Maximum Participating Voting Share Capital Of Companies Listed On The Junior Stock Exchange Moving From JA$500 Million To JA$750 Million

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“Utilizing equity capital is an effective avenue to stimulate innovation and reduce operating costs thereby allowing companies to drive growth, improve productivity and increase their chances of sustainability. We commend the Government for this decision and encourage small and medium sized companies to take advantage of this opportunity.”

The Government of Jamaica through the Ministry of Finance and the Public Service has announced that they have increased the participating share capital limit from $500 million to $750 million for companies on the Junior Market of the Jamaica Stock Exchange.

“This is very exciting news for the Exchange,” commented Dr. Marlene Street Forrest, Managing Director of the Jamaica Stock Exchange. “This is an exceptionally good move by the Government as this will allow small and medium sized companies to come to market to raise additional capital for business expansion and assist new companies to raise capital and to consider this capital raising option as viable. She stated that “Utilizing equity capital is an effective avenue to stimulate innovation and reduce operating costs thereby allowing companies to drive growth, improve productivity and increase their chances of sustainability. We commend the Government for this decision and encourage small and medium sized companies to take advantage of this opportunity.”

The Junior Market was established in 2009 to allow small and medium sized companies (SMEs) to raise a maximum of $500 million dollars during an initial public offering (IPO). The Government’s new initiative towards companies listed on the Junior Market now allows them to raise up to $750 million dollars, an increase of $250 million dollars.

Source Jamaica Stock Exchange

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