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Will The Jamaica Stock Exchange Step-up And Lead The Charge For A Single Regional Stock Exchange by 2020? – Part 2/3

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The Unique Peculiarities of Each Exchange Market

Barbados

Edwin Thirlwell Executive Chairman of BICO Limited, which is listed on the Barbados Stock Exchange (BSE) in an article published in Barbados Today, is reported to be lamenting the lack of inactivity on the BSE which he says is depressing the share price of his ice cream and Cold Storage Company.

Expressing dissatisfaction at the level of BICO’s share price in trading on the Barbados Stock Exchange, Thirlwell said, “Due to the fact that shares were not changing hands, along with high levels of compliance and the risk-averse nature of shareholders, the BICO share price was lower than it ought to be.”

The Barbados Stock Exchange according to Thirlwell is not buoyant by any means. “You only need to listen to the news every night, it tells you what is happening in Jamaica and it tells you what is happening in Trinidad and when it tells you what is happening in Barbados [little or] no trading. It is a difficult situation. There are a diminishing number of listed companies,” said Thirlwell.

Trinidad and Tobago

John G. Cozier writing in an article entitled “The Evolution of Stock Markets in the Caribbean: From 1969 and Beyond” dated February 2010, made a number of observations about stock/share ownership in Trinidad and Tobago, which are still relevant today.

Cozier contends that stock ownership in Trinidad and Tobago tends to be highly concentrated thereby resulting in a stock market of limited size. This he says is attributed to a number of demand and supply factors such as:

1) Low personal incomes;

2) Relative financial naïveté among the general population;

3) Strong preference towards commercial bank credit which can be sourced relatively cheaply. In addition, many established enterprises are usually guaranteed a ready supply of bank credit because of credit criteria and partly because of interlocking directorates;

4) Great reluctance to dilute family ownership, thereby relinquishing control of their firms. It is believed that the strong preference towards commercial bank credit among firms and the reluctance to dilute family ownership are inextricably linked. However, there have not been studies on this topic;

5) The desire to minimize public availability of information about company operations, finance and profitability; and

6) The small size and limited investment horizons of many local businesses in less developed countries.

7) Several weaknesses prevailing within Trinidad and Tobago’s capital markets. It is determined to be narrow and thin based on the criteria of volume of transactions, the number of market participants and the degree of price volatility. Furthermore, the market is deemed to be inefficient with respect to offering equal prospect of gain to all market participants.

Jamaica

In relation to Jamaica John Cozier cited the following observations still very much at play today pointing to a number of structural changes that have occurred in the Jamaican market from 1983 – 1984. These conditions he said are necessary conditions for the development of an efficient market. These conditions include:

1) A large number of new investors;

2) A large increase in trading, both in volume and in value;

3) A more effective use of information by market agents; and

4) A tendency for stock prices to more readily reflect important market information.

A Regional Population Not Inclined To Take Risk?

Edwin Thirlwell pointed to another very important factor and element in the considerations for a regional stock exchange – a regional population not inclined to take risk.

In the Barbados Today article Thirlwell is quoted as saying “So in fact, what we have is a shorter list of quoted companies and a population not inclined to take risk at the moment. In fact, I think the profile of the entire nation is risk-averse at the best of times and even more so at the moment. So in fact, there is very little trading. And I think if you look at all the listed companies including people like Goddard [Enterprises Limited] who trade right around the region, they are well below their net asset value.”

John Jackson noted Jamaican financial analyst and publisher of ICInsider.com is of the view that the evidence is clear, “It is not so much that our people are that risk averse, they have not been educated in the area of investments. What we don’t learn early we tend to pass over. As far as I am aware Jamaica is the only country in the WI that has had a continuous public educational program going based on the interest of a number of individuals plus institutions.”

Speaking with Businessuite Magazine Jackson indicated that from his observation most investors buy into the IPOs and are not active in the secondary market. They leave the after IPO trading to “professionals.” Trinidad companies he said have not been geared to individual investors hence the very high stock prices and limited trading. They need stocks splits like a desert needs water, in order to get more players in the action. The one stocks market is not going to change that.

Jackson finds the subject of a single market “Interesting” but as he has said repeatedly elsewhere “We are barking up the wrong tree.” What is first needed he says is “a Caribbean capital market where capital is free to move from country to country at least for investment purposes. Such a market will see companies being free to offer securities across the region rather than in just their own territory. Also holding back the markets are the economic factors that stifles a dynamic private sector and encourage nationals to look outside the region for investments when they would do far better regionally. The most telling of it is the performance of our market that telegraphs the opportunities available to make money. Most other markets in the region are based on relatively small population with profits of the companies growing slowly. That does not excite.” He told Businessuite

In Part 3 SMEs Can Transform Their Financial Performance by Listing on the Stock Exchange

 

Editorial Note:
The quotes above expressed by Marlene J. Street-Forrest General Manager Jamaica Stock Exchange (JSE) are her personal views on the matter and do not necessarily reflect the views of the JSE board.

Sources:
http://jamaica-gleaner.com/article/focus/20160626/marcia-forbes-caribbean-stock-exchange
https://www.barbadostoday.bb/2017/03/11/bicos-shares-trading-way-below-value-thirlwell/
http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/A-look-at-stock-exchanges-across-the-Caribbean_7901820
http://sta.uwi.edu/conferences/09/salises/documents/J%20Cozier.pdf

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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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