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PanJam Investments Reporting Second Quarter Losses Of JA$61M, Driven By Losses Generated By Associated Company Investments

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Highlights
• Net profit attributable to shareholders of $489 million for the quarter (2019: $3,055 million); and $494 million for the six months (2019: $3,947 million)
• Earnings per stock unit for the quarter of $0.46 (2019: $2.92); and $0.47 for the six months (2019: $3.76)
• Book value per stock unit of $40.32 at 30 June 2020 (31 December 2019: $40.36)
• Ordinary dividend paid during the quarter of $0.275 (2019: $0.265)

Stephen B. Facey, Chairman & Chief Executive Officer of PanJam Investment Limited, is reporting that while global financial markets experienced significant volatility in the June quarter, the group’s securities portfolio broadly retained its value during the second quarter. The Group however saw its financial performance resulting in a loss of JA$61 million, while the COVID-19 pandemic continues to have a significant impact on Jamaica.

The closure of the country’s borders during the second quarter of 2020, along with other government-imposed measures, resulted in reduced economic activity, particularly in tourism and travel-related businesses. The effect of this was seen in the losses generated by associated company investments, which include hotel operations and adventure tours he reported.

Commenting further in his report included in the unaudited consolidated financial statements for the six months ended 30 June 2020, he noted that the Groups real estate assets, again, demonstrated resilience, with their property segment performing admirably over the three-month period.

Associated companies, which operate in a number of industries, have seen varying levels of impact. Positive highlights of their performance include the strong results produced by New Castle Company (the owners of the Walkerswood brand) and Sagicor Group Jamaica (“Sagicor”)’s core insurance and employee benefits business lines.

The results of associated companies consist principally of their 30.2% investment in Sagicor, noting that they also hold minority positions in a number of diverse private entities.

PanJam’s share of results of associated companies for the first six months of 2020 decreased by $1billion, or 47 percent, driven principally by Sagicor’s results, but also negatively influenced by results from the Courtyard by Marriott Kingston and Chukka Caribbean Adventures, both of which saw little business activity during the second quarter due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Facey also noted in his report to shareholders that PanJam has spent decades creating a robust balance sheet, specifically for times such as these. As at the end of June, the group held cash and cash equivalents of $2.2 billion and maintained a conservative leverage ratio which, when combined, would enable them to raise financing in order to capitalize on attractively-priced investment opportunities that may arise.

Looking at the Groups Balance Sheet, he reported that total assets at June 30, 2020, amounted to $58.1 billion, compared to $54.4 billion at December 31, 2019, and $50.3 billion at June 30, 2019. Stockholders’ equity of $42.7 billion was relatively flat to the 31 December 2019 balance of $42.7 billion. This equates to a book value per stock unit of $40.32 (December 31, 2019: $40.36).

Notwithstanding the strength of their balance sheet, management has taken a number of steps to preserve cash, including rigid cost containment exercises and the suspension of quarterly dividends for both May and August 2020, as they navigate the uncertain timeline associated with this pandemic.

Six-month operating expenses of $824 million (2019: $847 million) decreased as a result of cost-saving measures. Finance costs for the same period of $378 million (2019: $378 million) were flat when compared to 2019 as a result of lower average interest rates on a larger debt portfolio.

In terms of the Groups Income Statement, he reported that net profit attributable to owners of $489 million for the three months ended 30 June 2020 was significantly below the $3,055 million recorded in the same period in 2019.

Last year’s results were heavily influenced by unrealized gains from a portfolio of Jamaican equities, which were largely erased in the first quarter of 2020. The decline in the second quarter’s profit compared to last year was also driven by a decline in the share of results of associated companies, as well as a non-recurring gain on the disposal of shares in associated companies of $941 million in 2019.

Earnings per stock unit for the quarter were $0.46 (2019: $2.92).

PanJam’s securities trading portfolio suffered a minor loss for the quarter, in line with movements in stock and bond prices both locally and globally. Portfolio composition, including exposure to Jamaican equities, reflects confidence in the nation’s eventual economic recovery and their well-defined approach to investment risk management he reported.

Net profit attributable to owners for the six months ended 30 June 2020 amounted to $494 million (2019: $3,947 million), equivalent to earnings per stock unit of $0.47 (2019: $3.76).

The performance was heavily influenced by investment losses of $1,145 million (2019: $1,278 million of income), a decrease of $1,001 million in share of results of associated companies, and the second quarter non-recurring gain on the disposal of shares in associated companies of $941 million in 2019, which more than offset increases of $162 million in property income and $294 million in other income.

Investment losses were driven by unrealized losses in their portfolio of local and overseas securities, despite higher interest, dividend income, and foreign exchange gains. Property income increased due to high occupancy, contractual rate increases, and devaluation effects on leases denominated in US dollars. Other income was boosted by gains from the sale of the Bamboo Avenue property in Kingston.

With stable occupancy levels, year-to-date property income grew 17 percent when compared to the same period in 2019. This as their relationships with tenants have grown stronger and, on that basis, believes that their properties will continue to hold significant value.

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Businessuite Markets

The Strategic Importance of Investor Communication and Recommendations for Caribbean Listed Companies

By embracing these practices, Caribbean listed companies can foster stronger relationships with investors, enhance market perceptions, and potentially realize higher valuations that reflect their true intrinsic value.

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Effective communication with investors is not merely a compliance exercise; it’s a strategic imperative that influences a company’s market valuation and access to capital.

Key benefits include:

Enhanced Market Valuation: Transparent and consistent communication reduces information asymmetry, leading to improved investor confidence and potentially higher stock valuations.

Improved Liquidity: Engaged investors are more likely to trade shares, increasing liquidity and reducing volatility.

Broader Investor Base: Proactive communication attracts a diverse range of investors, including retail investors who can provide stability and advocacy for the company.

Resilience During Crises: Companies that maintain open lines of communication are better positioned to navigate challenges and retain investor trust during turbulent times.

Global Trends in Investor Relations
Internationally, companies are adopting innovative strategies to engage with investors:

1. Digital Engagement Platforms
Companies are leveraging digital tools to provide real-time updates and interactive content:
Investor Portals: Secure platforms offering access to financial reports, updates, and company news.
Webinars and Virtual Events: Facilitating direct interaction between management and investors.
Social Media: Utilizing platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, and YouTube to disseminate information and engage with a broader audience.

2. Personalized Communication
Tailoring messages to specific investor segments enhances relevance and engagement:

Segmented Reporting: Providing information tailored to the interests of different investor groups.
Interactive Content: Using videos, infographics, and interactive reports to make complex information more accessible.

3. Emphasis on ESG Reporting
Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors are increasingly influencing investment decisions:

Transparent ESG Disclosures: Providing comprehensive reports on ESG initiatives and performance.

Integrated Reporting: Combining financial and non-financial information to present a holistic view of the company’s performance and strategy.

Recommendations for  Caribbean Listed Companies
To bridge the communication gap and unlock shareholder value, Caribbean listed companies should consider the following strategies:

Establish Robust Investor Relations Programs: Develop dedicated IR teams or functions responsible for managing investor communications and relationships.

Leverage Digital Channels: Utilize websites, social media, and email newsletters to provide timely and accessible information to investors.

Host Regular Investor Events: Organize webinars, virtual town halls, and Q&A sessions to engage directly with investors and address their concerns.

Enhance Transparency and Disclosure: Provide clear, comprehensive, and timely information on financial performance, strategic initiatives, and ESG efforts.

Solicit and Act on Investor Feedback: Implement mechanisms to gather investor input and demonstrate responsiveness to their concerns and suggestions.

Adopt Integrated Reporting Practices: Combine financial and non-financial reporting to present a cohesive narrative of the company’s value creation strategy.

By embracing these practices, Caribbean listed companies can foster stronger relationships with investors, enhance market perceptions, and potentially realize higher valuations that reflect their true intrinsic value.

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Spur Tree Spices Projects Growth from Product Innovation, Domestic Sales, and E-Commerce Scaling

The Company expects continued growth in the traditional product segments, supported by the rollout of new products, increased domestic sales through expanded retail penetration and stronger trade execution, and the scaling of its Amazon and e-commerce presence through optimised listings, targeted advertising, and improved fulfilment efficiency.

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Albert Bailey Chief Executive Officer Has Released The Following Report On The Financial Performance Of Spur Tree Spices Jamaica Limited For The First Quarter Ended March 31, 2025, Including The Presentation Of Unaudited Financial Statements Prepared In Accordance With International Financial Reporting Standards

The Company’s overall results for the first quarter were shaped by several ongoing challenges in the agro-processing sector. These challenges disproportionately impacted the subsidiaries. However, amidst these challenges, there were many positive indicators, including continued double-digit revenue growth in the traditional seasonings and sauces segment of the business. While profit performance for the quarter declined compared to the corresponding period for 2024, the company remains on track for a successful year. In the coming months, all indicators point to the normalisation of key raw material supply, including ackee. These factors, combined with expected growth from new product segments and continued expansion of traditional product categories, put the company on a firm path to continued success.

Consolidated revenue for the first quarter totalled J$336.39 million, compared to J$394.49 million in the corresponding period 2024, representing a 17.3% decline. This was primarily due to continued constraints in the supply of ackee, a key raw material for the Company’s subsidiaries. Despite this challenge, the Company recorded notable growth in several categories, including seasonings, sauces, and dried products, supported by expanded distribution in local and export markets, strong consumer demand, and the successful launch of new product lines.

Cost of Sales for the period amounted to J$245.86 million, or 73.09% of revenue, compared to J$287.62 million (72.91%) in Q1 2024. The slight increase in the cost-to-revenue ratio reflects the shift in product mix, as the Company adjusted production output to include a higher proportion of lower-margin items in response to the limited availability of ackee. Though not ideal, these measures enabled the business to sustain production and meet customer demand amidst raw material constraints.

Gross Profit for the quarter was J$90.53 million, down from J$106.86 million in the corresponding period of the previous year, a 15.3% decline. This was driven by the revenue reduction and a greater contribution from lower-margin substitute products produced during the ackee shortfall.

Nonetheless, the Company remains optimistic about the recovery of gross margins in the coming quarters. Continued rollout of new and value-added products across core and subsidiary operations is expected to improve the overall margin profile. In addition, the gradual recovery of ackee supply, enabled by targeted investments in farming and expanded sourcing, is expected to restore availability and strengthen the Company’s higher-margin revenue base. Together with ongoing cost-efficiency measures, these strategic actions are anticipated to drive improved profitability as the year progresses.

Administrative Expenses for the quarter amounted to J$69.62 million, representing a 2.5% reduction compared to J$71.38 million in Q1 2024. This reflects the Company’s disciplined approach to cost management and operational efficiency while ensuring that critical support functions remain in place to advance strategic objectives.

Finance Costs rose to J$12.05 million, compared to J$9.54 million in the same period last year, an increase of 26.3%. This was primarily due to interest on an additional J$55 million loan secured to support Spur Tree’s farming operations. This investment is key to the Company’s broader strategy to stabilise raw material supply and ensure production continuity.

Net Profit attributable to the Company totalled J$12.00 million, down from J$28.18 million in Q1 2024, representing a 57.3% decline. The result was mainly impacted by the continued raw material shortages affecting subsidiary operations, which offset gains achieved through product expansion and cost containment elsewhere in the Company.

At the end of the reporting period, Cash and Cash Equivalents stood at $131.7 million, reflecting a 26% increase over the $104.4 million reported for the corresponding period in 2024. Total Assets increased to $1.68 billion, up from $1.56 billion, representing an 8% yearover-year improvement. Shareholders’ Equity also strengthened, rising by 9% to $1.03 billion compared to $948 million in the prior year.

Although the consolidated performance fell below expectations for the quarter, the Company remains confident in its long-term strategy. Investments in farming, supply chain resilience, and innovation are expected to yield increasing benefits in the quarters ahead, supporting recovery and future growth.

Outlook

The outlook for 2025 remains positive despite the temporary headwinds experienced in the first quarter. The Company continues to demonstrate resilience and growth in its core operations, with strong performance across established and new product categories, supported by increased market penetration locally and internationally.

The Company expects continued growth in the traditional product segments, supported by the rollout of new products, increased domestic sales through expanded retail penetration and stronger trade execution, and the scaling of its Amazon and e-commerce presence through optimised listings, targeted advertising, and improved fulfilment efficiency.

The Company’s subsidiaries are actively pursuing product diversification strategies to safeguard the ackee supply, which we expect to normalise in the coming months. The Company is also broadening its portfolio to include other complementary items. This will lead to a return to an overall profit position by the end of the year.

Investment in direct farming continues to be a cornerstone of the Company’s strategy. It enhances the availability of raw materials and strengthens supply chain resilience. These efforts are expected to increase value throughout the year, supporting operational stability and margin recovery.

With these initiatives firmly in motion, the Company is well-positioned to build momentum over the coming quarters. Management remains focused on delivering sustainable growth and creating long-term value for all stakeholders.

For More Information CLICK HERE

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Mailpac Group Doubles Q1 Revenue to $716.4M, Driven by My Cart Express Integration

The Company delivered a strong performance for the first quarter of the financial year, with total revenues of $716.4 million, representing a 94% increase over the J$368.5 million reported for the corresponding period in 2024. This growth was primarily driven by the integration of My Cart Express in reporting.

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Khary Robinson Executive Chairman, Mailpac Group Limited has released the following Unaudited Financial Statements for the First Quarter Ended March 31, 2025

Throughout the quarter, Mailpac focused on improving service delivery, and increasing customer conversions.

Despite an increasingly competitive marketplace and external factors threatening efficiencies, our financial performance reflected the impact of our continued focus on long-term growth and sustainability, delivering superb results for the period.

Financial Performance: The Company delivered a strong performance for the first quarter of the financial year, with total revenues of $716.4 million, representing a 94% increase over the J$368.5 million reported for the corresponding period in 2024. This growth was primarily driven by the integration of My Cart Express in reporting. Gross profit for the quarter amounted to $388.7 million, compared to $197.9 million for the same period last year, reflecting improved margins and operational efficiencies. This improvement is attributed to increased operational efficiencies and negotiated cost reductions achieved through economies of scale. The Company recorded net profit of $69.7 million of Q1 2025, an increase from $50.1 million in Q1 2024, representing a 39% year-over-year increase. Strategic Developments and

Financial Position: During the quarter, Mailpac continued to make significant capital investment in technology infrastructure and logistics to support long-term scalability and development of service offerings, Additionally, we continue to benefit from the tax remission under the Jamaica Stock Exchange Junior Market rules, now at 50%, following the completion of the initial 5-year full remission period in December 2024.

As at March 31, 2025, Mailpac Group Limited reported total assets of $2.3 billion, up from $626.3 million as at March 31, 2024. The increase is largely attributed to the rise in intangible assets following the acquisition and increased right-of-use assets.

Shareholders’ equity grew to $806.2 million, compared to $537.9 million in the prior year. Outlook: The Company remains focused on growth through innovation, strategic partnerships, and enhanced customer experiences. With an increasingly digital consumer landscape and our expanding footprint, we are confident in delivering continued value to shareholders and stakeholders alike. The Board of Directors and management team would like to express our appreciation to our shareholders, customers, employees and partners for their continued support. We remain committed to delivering value for all out stakeholders and thank you for your unwavering trust in Mailpac.

For More Information CLICK HERE

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Kingston Properties Reports Robust Q1 Growth in Core Revenues and Net Income

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Kevin G. Richards Chief Executive Officer Of Kingston Properties Limited (KPREIT) Has Released The Following Unaudited Financial Statements For The First Quarter Ended March 31, 2025

The Group delivered a robust performance for the first quarter of the year with solid growth in core operating revenues and net income. This positive performance reflects the strategic expansion of our investment property portfolio and effective property management, which have both contributed to higher rental rates and increased property values. We expanded our footprint in the United Kingdom (UK) market while constantly evaluating the existing portfolio for optimization opportunities. We have deployed cash resources into high yielding investment assets which is now driving improved operating results and we have officially commenced construction of our first greenfield warehouse project at Rosseau Road. Additionally, the Group’s successful efforts to re-let vacant spaces resulted in a 92% occupancy rate during the reporting period, being an 11% improvement on occupancy at the start of the year. We continue to benefit from a resilient tenant base which operates across a variety of industries including financial, warehousing and logistics, manufacturing, and government services.

INCOME STATEMENT

Group rental income was $1.38 million for the three months ending March 31, 2025, which represents a 24% increase over the same prior year period. The addition of 2530 Aztec West Business Park in the UK and Duke Street buildings in Jamaica, along with improved rental rates on some properties across the portfolio, are the primary factors impacting the year over year growth in rental income. Group operating expenses for 1Q2025, which includes administrative and property management expenses, increased to $583,539 compared to $389,089 in 2024. This increase is attributable to higher staff costs, increased professional fees associated with the expansion of the UK portfolio, as well as broker fees and the legal cost of letting vacant spaces in Jamaica and Cayman Islands.

Results of operating activities before other income of $799,769 for 1Q2025, reflects an 11% improvement over the $722,901 during the same prior year quarter. Additionally, having reclassified an asset for disposal, we recognised a fair value gain of $371,908 during the period, resulting in Group operating profits of $1.3 million for 1Q2025, which is slightly ahead of the same prior year period.

Net Finance Cost (NFC) amounted to $392,597 compared to $332,551 in 1Q2024 due to the growth in our debt portfolio, which funded the increase in assets under management. The Group continues to secure financing on favourable terms to take advantage of prime investment opportunities which improves our operating performance.

After adjusting for a reduction in deferred taxes liabilities, Profit after tax in 1Q2025 amounted to $1,001,437 million versus $946,357 for the first quarter of 2024, representing an increase of 6% YoY.

Funds from operations (FFO) for the first three months of the year moved to $519,851 compared to $336,081 for the same period in 2024, yielding growth in a key liquidity performance indicator, of approximately 55% YOY.

GROUP BALANCE SHEET

Following the 2H2024 acquisitions of the Duke Street properties and 2530 Aztec West along with improvements in the fair value of our assets at the end of FY2024, the Group acquired a second office building in Dorking Business Park, UK on March 31, 2025. Consequently, the value of investment assets grew by 26% YoY to $85.63 million versus the $67.99 million as of the corresponding date in 2024. Additionally, total assets under management grew by 24% to $88.38 million compared to $71.55 million last year. Cash holdings declined from $2.45 million in prior year to $1.35 million resulting from the deployment of cash into; the acquisition of income generating properties; upgrading existing assets and; mobilizing a greenfield development. During the first quarter of 2025, the Group commenced construction of the Rousseau Road warehouse complex, while we reclassified another property to asset held for sale, as the Group continues to optimise the portfolio for maximum returns and to access growth opportunities.

Total loans payable at the end of the reporting period amounted to $34.24 million, in comparison to $21.90 million in 2024. The increased loan balance, which is primarily collateralized bank financing, was deployed for the expansion of our operating asset base and property improvements. Our current loan portfolio is denominated both in United States and Jamaica dollars from our financial partners in Jamaica and the Cayman Islands. Despite the increase in total loans payable, the Group is relatively underleveraged, with total loans payable being 39% of total assets and debt to equity of 65%. We continue to maintain conservative debt ratios as part of our risk management strategy with options to refinance our debts when the market becomes more favourable.

Total Equity increased by 8% year on year, moving from $$48.82 million in 2024 to $52.81 million in 2025. The increase in equity was driven by improvements in our property values at the end of financial year 2024 and higher net profits generated in first quarter of 2025, resulting in a book value per share of US$0.0597 (J$9.46) compared to US$0.0552 (J$8.54) in 2024.

SUMMARY AND OUTLOOK

Our strategy to seek out risk-adjusted, value-add assets continues to bear fruit as demonstrated by our compounded annual growth rate of net profits and book value per share over the last six years of 6.1% and 7.3%, respectively. Our acquisition of Building 4, Dorking Business Park at the end of the quarter will continue to boost the Group’s performance this year with increased rental revenue and the potential benefit of currency diversification. Geographic flexibility will remain a core focus of our strategy, and we will actively explore commercial property opportunities in locations that satisfy our core strategic imperatives of stable democracies, strong property law rules, freely convertible currencies and competitive yields. Although the US Fed, at its last meeting, held interest rates steady, the Bank of England reduced interest rates, and we believe this is a positive sign for UK real estate.

Our first solo greenfield project in Jamaica located on Rousseau Road in Kingston, continues in earnest and we expect the 14 mini-warehouse units to be ready for leasing in January 2026. We will also continue our strategy of monetizing mature assets in our portfolio and deploying the proceeds from those transactions into acquiring larger, higher-yielding assets with diverse tenant bases to strengthen the Group’s resilience and grow core earnings.

In tandem with our operational initiatives, we remain deeply committed to community engagement and sustainability. More of our properties are being equipped with energy-efficient and waste-reduction systems as we work toward achieving fully green operations across our portfolio.

For More Information CLICK HERE

 

 

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Seprod’s Strong 31.9% Revenue Growth Tempered by Higher Finance Costs from Regional Expansion

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Q1 Performance (January-March 2025)

This report presents the consolidated financial statements for Seprod Limited for the three (3) months ended 31 March 2025 (Q1), it provides a comprehensive overview of the company’s financial position, performance, and cash flows. The data is presented in Jamaica dollars and is unaudited. The analysis covers Q1 performance with a comparison to the same period in 2024.
Richard Pandohie  Group Chief Executive Officer Seprod Group of Companies

Revenue and Profitability Analysis:

 Total revenue for Q1 2025 was $37.7 billion, representing a 31.9% increase from $28.6 billion in Q1 2024.

 Direct expenses increased proportionately from $21.1 billion to $27.6 billion in 2025, resulting in a gross profit of $10.1 billion (2024: $75 billion).

 The gross profit margin improved to 26.7% in Q1 2025 from 26.2% in Q1 2024, indicative of management striving for effective cost control despite rising expenses.

 Operating profit remained consistent with the prior year, ending the quarter at $2.4 billion.

 Finance costs increased significantly to $1.15 billion due to higher debt level used to finance strategic acquisitions.

 Profit before taxation stood at $1.36 billion, a decrease of 22% from the 2024 comparative period.

 After accounting for taxation, the net profit from continuing operations was $867 million, a decline from $1.23 billion in Q1 2024, attributed mainly to increased finance costs.

Asset and Equity Analysis:

 Total assets increased from $103.1 billion as of March 2024, to $133.4 billion as of March 2025, an increase of 29.4%.

 Total liabilities increased from $62.8 billion to $85.7 billion, reflecting higher current and long-term liabilities.

 Total equity attributable to shareholders increased to $30.2 billion.

 No dividends were declared in Q1, but this was a timing issue, as the Board approved a dividend of $0.605 per share at a meeting held on April 2025, which is the same as the amount paid in Q1 2024 ($440 million). The company is expected to maintain its strong dividend payout ratio in 2025.

 Cash used in investing activities was $618 million, up from $440 million in prior year. This was mainly for capital expenditure. The revenue growth was strong at 31.9% but this did not flow all the way to the bottom-line due to cost pressure, particularly in finance costs used to realize the Group’s substantial acquisition activities as we build out a regional distribution platform.

The significant increase in assets reflects our increased scale and positions us for continued future growth. Management is very focused on strategies to increase productivity, enhance operating efficiency and reduce finance costs. Our base is strong and the growth trajectory will continue to be positive. We are confident that the bottom-line will begin to reflect the strong top-line in short order. We thank you for your support.

For More Information CLICK HERE

 

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