As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on December 18, 2009.17, 2010
 
 
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, DC 20549
FORM 20-F
   
o REGISTRATION STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(B) OR 12(G) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
or
   
þ ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(D) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the fiscal year ended August 31, 20092010
or
   
o TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(D) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from                    or                    or
or
   
o SHELL COMPANY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(D) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
Date of event requiring this shell company report                    
Commission file number: 333-11012000-30354
City Telecom (H.K.) Limited
(Exact name of registrant as Specified in its Charter)
Hong Kong Special Administrative Region,
The People’s Republic of China

(Jurisdiction of Incorporation or Organization)
Level 39, Tower 1, Metroplaza
No. 223 Hing Fong Road
Kwai Chung, New Territories
Hong Kong

(Address of Principal Executive Offices)
Mr. Lai Ni Quiaque
12th Floor, Trans Asia Centre
No.18 Kin Hong Street
Kwai Chung, New Territories
Hong Kong
Telephone : (852) 3145 6068
Facsimile : (852) 2199 8445

(Name, Telephone, E-mail and/or Facsimile number and Address of Company Contact Person)
Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
   
Name Of Each
Exchange On Which
Title Of Each Class Name Of Each Exchange On Which Registered
American Depositary Shares, each representing 20 Ordinary Shares, par value HK$0.10 per share The Nasdaq Stock
Market LLC
Ordinary Shares, par value HK$0.10 per share* The Nasdaq Stock
Market LLC*
Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:
None
Securities for which there is a reporting obligation pursuant to Section 15(d) of the Act:
8.75% Senior Notes due 2015None
     Indicate the number of outstanding shares of each of the issuer’s classes of capital or common stock as at the close of the period covered by the annual report:664,179,970764,997,344 Ordinary Shares, par value HK$0.10 per share
     Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.
Yeso      Noþ
     If this report is an annual or transition report, indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.
Yeso      Noþ
     Indicate by check mark whether the registrant: (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.
Yesþ      Noo
     Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files.)files).
Yeso       Noo
     Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, or a non-accelerated filer. See definition of “accelerated filer or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “largeand large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):
     
Large accelerated fileroAccelerated filero Non-acceleratedAccelerated filerþ
(Do not check if a smaller reporting company)
 Smaller reporting companyNon-accelerated filero
     Indicate by check mark which basis of accounting the registrant has used to prepare the financial statements included in this filing:
     
US GAAPo International Financial Reporting Standards as issuedþOthero
by the International Accounting Standards Boardþ Othero
     If “Other” has been checked in response to the previous question, indicate by check mark which financial statement item the registrant has selected to follow.
Item 17o      Item 18o
     If this report is an annual report, indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).
Yeso       Noþ
**      Not for trading, but only in connection with the registration of the American Depositary Shares
 
 


 

Contents
     
  1 
  1 
  2 
  3 
     
    
  4 
  4 
  4-134-18 
  13-2718-33 
  27-3533-43 
  36-4343-52 
  44-4552-53 
  4553-54 
  45-4754-56 
  47-5456-64 
  54-5564 
  5564 
     
    
  5564 
  5564 
  5564-65
 
  5665 
  5665 
  5666 
  5666 
  5766 
  5766 
  5766-67 
     
    
  5868 
  5868 
  5868 
 EX-12.1
 EX-12.2
 EX-13

 


Use of defined and technical terms
Except as otherwise indicated by the context, references in this annual report to:
 “Hong Kong Companies Ordinance” are to Chapter 32 of the laws of Hong Kong;
 
 “City Telecom” or the “Company” are to City Telecom (H.K.) Limited;
 
 “fiscal year” or “fiscal” are to the Company’s fiscal year ended August 31 for the year referenced;
 
 “FTNS business” are to our business segment in which we provide fixed telecommunications network services, including dial up and broadband Internet access services, local VoIP services, IP-TV services and corporate data services;
 
 “FTNS Licenses” are to the licenses issued by the Hong Kong regulatory authorities for fixed telecommunications network services;
 
 “GPON” are to Gigabit Passive Optical Network;
 
 “Group” are to the Company and its subsidiaries;
 
 “HKBN” are to Hong Kong Broadband Network Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company;
 
 “HKFRSs” are to Hong Kong Financial Reporting Standards issued by the Hong Kong Institute of Certified Public Accountants;
 
 “IDD business” are to our business segment in which we provide international telecommunications services, including international long distance call services;
 
 “IFRSs” are to International Financial Reporting Standards, as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board;
 
 “IP-TV services” are to pay-television services through Internet Protocol;
 
 “PNETS Licenses” are to licenses issued by the Hong Kong regulatory authorities for the public non-exclusive telecommunications services;
 
 “UC License” are to the Unified Carrier License issued by the Hong Kong regulatory authorities for fixed and mobile telecommunication services; and
 
 “VoIP” are to Voice over Internet Protocol.
Currency translation
     We publish our consolidated financial statements in Hong Kong dollars. In this annual report, references to “Hong Kong dollars” or “HK$” are to the currency of Hong Kong, and references to “U.S. dollars” or “US$” are to the currency of the United States. This annual report contains translations of Hong Kong dollar amounts into U.S. dollar amounts, solely for your convenience. Unless otherwise indicated, the translations have been made at US$1.00 = HK$7.7505,7.7781, which was the exchange rate set forth in the H.10 statistical release of the Federal Reserve Board on August 31, 2009.2010. On December 14, 200910, 2010 the exchange rate was US$1.00 = HK$7.7515.7.7737. You should not construe these translations as representations that the Hong Kong dollar amounts actually represent such U.S. dollar amounts or could have been or could be converted into U.S. dollars at the rates indicated or at any other rates.

1


Note regarding forward-looking statements
     This annual report contains forward-looking statements that are, by their nature, subject to significant risks and uncertainties. These include statements with respect to City Telecom or the Company and our plans, strategies and beliefs and other statements that are not historical facts. These statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “may”, “will”, “expect”, “anticipate”, “intend”, “estimate”, “continue”, “plan”, “predict”, “project” or other similar words. The statements are based on management’s assumptions and beliefs in light of the information currently available to us.
     These assumptions involve risks and uncertainties which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward looking statements. Potential risks and uncertainties include, without limitation:
  technological changes;
 
  changes in our regulatory environment, including changes in rules and policies promulgated by regulatory agencies from time to time;
 
  increasing competition in the telecommunications, Internet access, local VoIP, pay-television and corporate data markets;
 
  the benefits we expect to derive from our Next Generation Network, which utilize Metro Ethernet and GPON technologies, in which we have been making significant capital investments;
 
  our ability to maintain growth and successfully introduce new services;
 
  the continued development and stability of our technological infrastructure, a platform through which our local and international telecommunications, Internet access, local VoIP, IP-TV and corporate data services are offered; and
 
  changes in the local and global economic environment.
     When considering such forward-looking statements, you should keep in mind the factors described in Item 3 “Key information — risk factors” and other cautionary statements appearing in Item 5 “Operating and financial review and prospects” of this annual report. Such risk factors and statements describe circumstances that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement.

2


Special note on our financial information presented in this annual report
     Our consolidated financial statements as of and for the years ended August 31, 2008, 2009 and 20092010 included in this annual report on Form 20-F have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards, or IFRSs as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board, or the IASB. Pursuant to the requirement under IFRS 1: First-Time Adoption of International Financial Reporting Standards, or IFRS 1, the date of our transition to IFRS was September 1, 2007, which is the beginning of the earliest period for which we presenthave presented full comparative information in our consolidated financial statements.statements in our annual report for the year ended August 31, 2009. With due regard to our accounting policies in previous periods and the requirements of IFRS 1, we have concluded that no adjustments were required to the amounts reported under HKFRSs as at September 1, 2007 or in respect of the year ended August 31, 2008.
     In accordance with rule amendments adopted by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, or the SEC, which became effective on March 4, 2008, we are not required to provide a reconciliation to generally accepted accounting principles in the United States, or U.S. GAAP. Furthermore, pursuant to the transitional relief granted by the SEC in respect of the first-time application of IFRS, no audited consolidated financial statements and financial information prepared under IFRSs for the year ended August 31, 2007 have been included in this annual report on Form 20-F.
     Our consolidated financial statements included in our annual reports on Form 20-F previously filed with the SEC in respect of the year ended August 31, 2007 were prepared in accordance with Hong Kong Financial Reporting Standards, or HKFRSs, which collective term includes all applicable individual Hong Kong Financial Reporting Standards, Hong Kong Accounting Standards and Interpretations issued by the Hong Kong Institute of Certified Public Accountants and accounting principles generally accepted in Hong Kong, or Hong Kong GAAP. For additional information, please refer to our annual reports on Form 20-F previously filed with the SEC.

3


PART I
ITEM 1 IDENTITY OF DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND ADVISERS
     Not applicable.
ITEM 2 OFFER STATISTICS AND EXPECTED TIMETABLE
     Not applicable.
ITEM 3 KEY INFORMATION
          A. Selected financial data
City Telecom’s historical financial information
     The following table presents the selected consolidated financial data and operating data of City Telecom as of and for the years ended August 31, 2008, 2009 and 2009.2010. The selected financial data should be read in conjunction with, and is qualified in its entirety by reference to, the consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this annual report, the accompanying notes thereto and Item 5 “Operating and financial review and prospects”. As disclosed above under “Special note on our financial information presented in this annual report”, our consolidated financial statements as of and for the years ended August 31, 2008, 2009 and 20092010 have been prepared and presented in accordance with IFRSs.
Selected consolidated statement of operations data:
                            
 As of and for the year ended August 31,  For the year ended August 31, 
 2008 2009 2009  2008 2009 2010 2010 
 HK$ HK$ US$  HK$ HK$ HK$ US$ 
 (Amounts in thousands except per share data)  (Amounts in thousands except per share data and number of ordinary shares) 
Revenue:  
- FTNS business 1,011,038 1,230,880 158,813  1,011,038 1,230,880 1,356,098 174,348 
- IDD business 291,943 247,359 31,915  291,943 247,359 218,589 28,103 
                
 
Total operating revenue 1,302,981 1,478,239 190,728  1,302,981 1,478,239 1,574,687 202,451 
                
  
Network costs:  
- FTNS business  (103,524)  (107,670)  (13,892)  (103,524)  (107,670)  (144,347)  (18,558)
- IDD business  (74,843)  (67,459)  (8,704)  (74,843)  (67,459)  (50,945)  (6,550)
                
 
Total network costs  (178,367)  (175,129)  (22,596)  (178,367)  (175,129)  (195,292)  (25,108)
                
  
Other operating expenses  (966,094)  (1,037,964)  (133,922)  (966,094)  (1,037,964)  (1,105,604)  (142,143)
  
Interest expense, net  (59,541)  (50,258)  (6,484)  (59,541)  (50,258)  (10,863)  (1,397)
Other income, net 9,393 36,671 4,731 
Other income/(expense), net 9,393 36,671  (3,383)  (434)
Income taxes benefit/(expense) 16,818  (38,730)  (4,997) 16,818  (38,730)  (42,679)  (5,487)
         
        
Net income 125,190 212,829 27,460  125,190 212,829 216,866 27,882 
                
  
Basic earnings per share (HK cents) 19.7 32.4 4.2 
Diluted earnings per share (HK cents) (note 1) 19.0 31.8 4.1 
Dividends per share attributable to the year (HK cents) 6.0 19.0 2.5 
Basic earnings per share (cents) 19.7 32.4 30.7 3.9 
Diluted earnings per share (cents) (note 1) 19.0 31.8 29.4 3.8 
Dividends per share attributable to the year (cents) 6.0 19.0 20.0 2.6 
Weighted average number of ordinary shares 634,015 657,201 657,201  634,015 657,201 706,605 706,605 
Diluted weighted average number of ordinary shares (note 2) 657,997 668,384 668,384  657,997 668,384 736,616 736,616 

4


Selected consolidated balance sheet data:
                            
 As of the year ended August 31,  As of August 31, 
 2008 2009 2009  2008 2009 2010 2010 
 HK$ HK$ US$  HK$ HK$ HK$ US$ 
 (Amounts in thousands) (Amounts in thousands) 
Total assets 2,080,416 1,785,044 230,313  2,093,410 1,790,408 2,251,549 289,473 
  
Long-term debt and other liabilities  (683,242)  (162,586)  (20,977)  (683,242)  (162,586)  (134,860)  (17,338)
Finance lease obligations  (376)  (732)  (94)  (376)  (732)  (605)  (78)
Other liabilities  (364,191)  (393,199)  (50,733)  (377,185)  (398,563)  (427,545)  (54,969)
                
 
Total liabilities  (1,047,809)  (556,517)  (71,804)  (1,060,803)  (561,881)  (563,010)  (72,385)
         
        
Net assets 1,032,607 1,228,527 158,509  1,032,607 1,228,527 1,688,539 217,088 
                
  
Share capital 65,062 66,418 8,570  65,062 66,418 76,500 9,835 
Share premium 670,717 681,208 87,892  670,717 681,208 1,074,997 138,208 
Reserves 296,828 480,901 62,047  296,828 480,901 537,042 69,045 
                
 
Total shareholders’ equity 1,032,607 1,228,527 158,509  1,032,607 1,228,527 1,688,539 217,088 
                
Other financial data:
                            
 For the year ended August 31,  For the year ended August 31, 
 2008 2009 2009  2008 2009 2010 2010 
 HK$ HK$ US$  HK$ HK$ HK$ US$ 
 (Amounts in thousands)  (Amounts in thousands) 
EBITDA (note 3) 377,964 508,058 65,551  377,964 508,058 469,437 60,354 
Net cash inflow from operating activities 378,563 535,886 69,142  381,991 536,771 485,340 62,398 
Net cash outflow from investing activities  (147,750)  (176,488)  (22,771)  (147,750)  (176,488)  (306,254)  (39,374)
Net cash outflow from financing activities  (342,550)  (560,407)  (72,306)  (345,978)  (561,292) 178,307 22,924 
Capital expenditures (note 4) 211,684 286,734 36,996  211,684 286,734 344,844 44,335 
     As a measure of our operating performance or liquidity, we believe that the most directly comparable measure to EBITDA is net cash provided by operating activities. The following table reconciles our net cash inflow from operating activities, the most directly comparable financial measure calculated and presented in accordance with IFRSs, to our definition of EBITDA on a consolidated basis for each of fiscalthe years ended 2008, 2009 and 2009.2010.
                            
 For the year ended August 31,  For the year ended August 31, 
 2008 2009 2009  2008 2009 2010 2010 
 HK$ HK$ US$  HK$ HK$ HK$ US$ 
 (Amounts in thousands)  (Amounts in thousands) 
EBITDA 377,964 508,058 65,551  377,964 508,058 469,437 60,354 
Depreciation and amortization  (210,051)  (206,241)  (26,610)  (210,051)  (206,241)  (199,029)  (25,588)
Interest expense, net  (59,541)  (50,258)  (6,484)  (59,541)  (50,258)  (10,863)  (1,397)
Income taxes benefit/(expense) 16,818  (38,730)  (4,997) 16,818  (38,730)  (42,679)  (5,487)
                
 
Net income 125,190 212,829 27,460  125,190 212,829 216,866 27,882 
Depreciation and amortization 210,051 206,241 26,610  210,051 206,241 199,029 25,588 
Amortization of deferred expenditure 33,777 53,160 6,859  33,777 53,160 48,621 6,251 
Income taxes (benefit)/expense  (16,818) 38,730 4,997   (16,818) 38,730 42,679 5,487 
Interest income  (15,596)  (4,869)  (628)  (15,596)  (4,869)  (11,372)  (1,462)
Interest element of finance lease 34 27 3  34 27 42 5 
Interest, amortization and exchange difference on senior notes 72,640 49,214 6,350  72,640 49,214 6,069 780 
Interest on other borrowings 3,428 885 3,260 419 
Amortization of upfront cost on bank loan   192 25 
Interest expense on bank loan   1,379 177 
Change in fair value of derivative financial instruments   11,293 1,452 
Realized gain on long term bank deposit  (1,185)     (1,185)    
Loss on disposal of fixed assets 1,431 1,016 131 
Equity settled share-based transaction 4,204 4,768 615 
Realized loss on derivatives financial instruments 1,039   
Realized and unrealized gain on other financial assets  (3,284)  (189)  (24)
Gain on extinguishment of senior notes  (2,582)  (31,371)  (4,048)
Taxation paid  (4,250)  (1,732)  (223)
Change in long term receivable and prepayments 1,346  (505)  (65)
Change in working capital, net  (27,434) 8,567 1,105 
       
Net cash inflow from operating activities 378,563 535,886 69,142 
       

5


                 
  For the year ended August 31, 
  2008  2009  2010  2010 
  HK$  HK$  HK$  US$ 
  (Amounts in thousands) 
Loss/(gain) on disposal of fixed assets  1,431   1,016   (1,375)  (177)
Equity settled share-based transaction  4,204   4,768   5,347   687 
Realized loss on derivatives financial instruments  1,039          
Realized and unrealized gain on other financial assets  (3,284)  (189)      
(Gain)/loss on extinguishment of senior notes  (2,582)  (31,371)  9,650   1,241 
Taxation paid  (4,250)  (1,732)  (3,013)  (387)
Change in long term receivable and prepayments  1,346   (505)  917   118 
Change in working capital, net  (27,434)  8,567   (44,244)  (5,688)
             
                 
Net cash inflow from operating activities  381,991   536,771   485,340   62,398 
             
Operating data:
                        
 As of and for the year ended August 31,  As of and for the year ended August 31, 
 2007 2008 2009  2008 2009 2010 
FTNS subscriptions:  
- Broadband Internet access 247,000 316,000 391,000  316,000 391,000 526,000 
- Local VoIP 308,000 329,000 382,000  329,000 382,000 431,000 
- IP-TV 128,000 156,000 170,000  156,000 170,000 153,000 
       
Total 683,000 801,000 943,000  801,000 943,000 1,110,000 
       
Registered international telecommunications accounts (note 5) 2,331,000 2,336,000 2,383,000  2,336,000 2,383,000 2,445,000 
       
IDD outgoing minutes (in thousands) 659,000 574,000 487,000  574,000 487,000 464,000 
       
 
Notes:
 
(1) Diluted earnings per share is computed by dividing the net income by the diluted weighted average number of ordinary shares during the year.
 
(2) For fiscalthe years ended August 31, 2008, 2009 and 2009,2010, the diluted weighted average number of ordinary shares was the weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding during the respective years, plus the weighted average number of additional ordinary shares which would have been outstanding assuming all the outstanding share options have been exercised at the beginning of the respective years or on the date of issue, whichever is earlier.
 
(3) EBITDA for any period means, without duplication, net income for such period, plus the following to the extent deducted in calculating such net income: interest expense, income taxes, depreciation and amortization expense (excluding any such non-cash charge to the extent it represents an accrual of or reserve for cash charges in any future period or amortization of a prepaid cash expense that was paid in a prior period not included in the calculation), less interest income. EBITDA is not a measure of performance under IFRSs. We believe that EBITDA is an additional measure utilized by investors in determining a borrower’s ability to meet debt service requirements. However, EBITDA does not represent, and should not be used as a substitute for, net earnings or cash flows from operations as determined in accordance with IFRSs, and EBITDA is not necessarily an indication of whether cash flow will be sufficient to fund our cash requirements. In addition, our definition of EBITDA may differ from that of other companies.
 
(4) Capital expenditures represent additions to fixed assets and include non-cash transactions.
 
(5) Registered accounts refer to international telecommunications customers that have a valid account. Account holders may or may not be active users of our services.

6


Selected Consolidated Statement of Operations Data:
         
  For the year ended August 31, 
  2006 (note 6)  2007 
  HK$  HK$ 
  (Amounts in thousands except per share data) 
HKFRS
        
         
Revenues:        
Fixed telecommunications network services  716,600   816,800 
International telecommunications services  418,276   324,470 
       
         
Total operating revenue  1,134,876   1,141,270 
       
         
Network Costs:        
Fixed telecommunications network services  (125,639)  (103,795)
International telecommunications services  (174,954)  (110,796)
       
         
Total network costs  (300,593)  (214,591)
Other operating expenses  (919,795)  (834,104)
       
         
(Loss)/income from operations  (85,512)  92,575 
Interest (expense)/income, net  (68,259)  (64,833)
Other income, net  4,465   3,149 
Income taxes credit/(expense)  7,244   (2,026)
       
         
Net (loss)/income  (142,062)  28,865 
Basic (loss)/earnings per share (cents)  (23.1)  4.7 
Diluted (loss)/earnings per share (cents) (note 1)  (23.1)  4.6 
Dividends declared per share (cents)     8.0 
Weighted average number of shares  614,134   614,840 
Diluted weighted average number of shares (note 2)  614,134   631,319 
         
  For the year ended August 31, 
  2006  2007 
  HK$  HK$ 
  (Amounts in thousands except per share data) 
U.S. GAAP
        
Total operating revenue  1,134,876   1,141,270 
Total operating expenses  (1,220,388)  (1,048,695)
Net (loss)/income  (142,062)  28,865 
Basic (loss)/earnings per share (cents)  (23.1)  4.7 
Diluted (loss)/earnings per share (cents) (note 1)  (23.1)  4.6 
Dividends declared per share (cents)     8.0 
Weighted average number of shares  614,134   614,840 
Diluted weighted average number of shares (note 2)  614,134   631,319 

7


Selected Consolidated Balance Sheet Data:
         
  As of August 31, 
  2006  2007 
  HK$  HK$ 
  (Amounts in thousands) 
HKFRS
        
Total assets  2,124,215   2,161,133 
Debt  (948,027)  (952,593)
Finance lease obligation  (2,373)  (1,210)
Other liabilities  (282,161)  (303,448)
       
         
Total liabilities  (1,232,561)  (1,257,251)
       
         
Net assets employed  891,654   903,882 
       
         
Share capital  61,417   61,650 
Share premium  620,298   622,433 
Reserves  209,939   219,799 
       
         
Total shareholders’ equity  891,654   903,882 
       
         
  As of August 31, 
  2006  2007 
  HK$  HK$ 
  (Amounts in thousands) 
U.S. GAAP
        
Total assets  2,154,305   2,189,086 
Total liabilities  (1,257,034)  (1,279,587)
Net shareholders’ equity  897,271   909,499 
Other Financial Data:
         
  For the year ended August 31, 
  2006 (note 6)  2007 
  HK$  HK$ 
  (Amounts in thousands) 
HKFRS
        
EBITDA (note 3)  195,417   353,827 
Net cash provided by operating activities  184,151   383,999 
Net cash (used in)/provided by investing activities  (492,742)  114,053 
Net cash used in financing activities  (86,432)  (109,504)
Capital expenditures (note 4)  322,935   132,250 

8


     As a measure of our operating performance or liquidity, we believe that the most directly comparable measure to EBITDA is net cash provided by operating activities. The following table reconciles our net cash provided by operating activities under HKFRS to our definition of EBITDA on a consolidated basis for each of fiscal 2006 and 2007.
         
  For the year ended August 31 
  2006  2007 
  HK$  HK$ 
  (Amounts in thousands) 
EBITDA (note 3)
  195,417   353,827 
Depreciation and amortization  (276,464)  (258,103)
Interest expense, net  (68,259)  (64,833)
Income taxes credit/(expense)  7,244   (2,026)
       
         
Net (loss)/income
  (142,062)  28,865 
Depreciation and amortization  276,464   258,103 
Impairment loss on investment property  1,131    
Amortization of deferred expenditure  13,973   15,580 
Income taxes (credit)/expense  (7,244)  2,026 
Interest income  (20,378)  (22,671)
Interest, amortization and exchange difference on senior notes  86,664   89,879 
Other borrowing costs  1,919   (739)
Loss on disposal of fixed assets  9,621   1,714 
Equity settled share-based transaction  6,823   5,727 
Realized and unrealized loss on derivatives financial instruments  125   806 
Unrealized gain on other investments  (668)  (1,887)
Taxation paid  (2,532)  (2,171)
Change in long term receivable  567   5,600 
Change in working capital, net  (40,252)  3,167 
       
         
Net cash flow provided by operating activities  184,151   383,999 
       
Operating Data:
         
  As of and for the year ended August 31, 
  2006  2007 
FTNS Subscriptions:        
Broadband Internet Access  220,000   247,000 
Local VoIP  281,000   308,000 
IP-TV  116,000   128,000 
       
         
Total  617,000   683,000 
       
         
Registered international telecommunications accounts (note 5)  2,201,963   2,331,000 
IDD outgoing minutes (in thousands)  788,000   659,000 

9


Notes:
(1)Diluted (loss)/earnings per share is computed by dividing the net (loss)/income by the diluted weighted average number of ordinary shares during the year.
(2)For fiscal 2007, the diluted weighted average number of shares was the weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding during the year, plus the weighted average number of additional ordinary shares which would have been outstanding assuming all the outstanding share options and share warrants (if any) have been exercised at the beginning of the respective years or on the date of issue, whichever is earlier. For fiscal 2006, the diluted weighted average number of shares was equal to the weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding during the respective years because the incremental effect of share options and share warrants was anti-dilutive in a loss-making year.
(3)EBITDA for any period means, without duplication, net income/(loss) for such period, plus the following to the extent deducted in calculating such net income/(loss): interest expense, income taxes, depreciation and amortization expense (excluding any such non cash charge to the extent it represents an accrual of or reserve for cash charges in any future period or amortization of a prepaid cash expense that was paid in a prior period not included in the calculation), less interest income. EBITDA is not a measure of performance under HKFRS or U.S. GAAP. We believe that EBITDA is an additional measure utilized by investors in determining a borrower’s ability to meet debt service requirements. However, EBITDA does not represent, and should not be used as a substitute for, net earnings or cash flows from operations as determined in accordance with HKFRS or U.S. GAAP, and EBITDA is not necessarily an indication of whether cash flow will be sufficient to fund our cash requirements. In addition, our definition of EBITDA may differ from that of other companies.
(4)Capital expenditures represent additions to fixed assets and include non-cash transactions.
(5)Registered accounts refer to international telecommunications customers that have a valid account. Account holders may or may not be active users of our services.
(6)Due to additional evidence and information received with respect to the collectability of the mobile interconnection charges on January 30, 2006, we were required to reassess the conditions on which the estimates on bad debt provision for mobile interconnection charges receivables were based. Such assessment were made after the publication of our Hong Kong statutory financial statements for fiscal 2005 but prior to the filing of our annual report on Form 20-F for fiscal 2005. The effect of the reassessment was reflected in our annual report on Form 20-F for fiscal 2005 and in our Hong Kong statutory financial statements for fiscal 2006.
Our reassessment had the following effects on our consolidated statement of operations for fiscal 2005 and 2006:
                 
          As previously    
          reported in    
  As previously      2006 Hong Kong    
  reported in 2005 Hong  As reported  statutory  As reported 
  Kong statutory  in 2005 Form  financial  in 2006 
  financial statements  20-F  statements  Form 20-F 
  HK$  HK$  HK$  HK$ 
  (Amounts in thousands except per share data) 
Total operating revenue  1,137,356   1,162,059   1,159,579   1,134,876 
Provision for doubtful debts  (60,563)  (35,445)  7,668   (17,450)
Net loss after tax  (206,352)  (156,531)  (92,241)  (142,062)
Loss per share — basic and diluted (33.6) cents (25.5) cents (15.0) cents (23.1) cents

10


Exchange rate information
     The Hong Kong dollar is freely convertible into other currencies (including the U.S. dollar). Since 1983, the Hong Kong dollar has been officially linked to the U.S. dollar and the current rate is US$1.00 to HK$7.80. Despite the efforts of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority, or HKMA, to keep the official exchange rate stable, the market exchange rate of the Hong Kong dollar against the U.S. dollar continues to be influenced by the forces of supply and demand in the foreign exchange markets. Furthermore, the official exchange rate is itself subject to fluctuations and can be reset in circumstances where the secondary foreign exchange markets move beyond the HKMA’s ability to back the official rate with foreign reserves.
     Exchange rates between the Hong Kong dollar and other currencies are influenced by the rate between the U.S. dollar and the Hong Kong dollar.
     The following table sets forth the average, high, low and period-end exchange rate between the Hong Kong dollar and the U.S. dollar (in Hong Kong dollars per U.S. dollar) for the fiscal periods indicated:
                 
  Average  High  Low  Period-end 
  (note)          
  HK$  HK$  HK$  HK$ 
Fiscal 2005  7.7869   7.8002   7.7684   7.7718 
Fiscal 2006  7.7601   7.7796   7.7506   7.7767 
Fiscal 2007  7.8029   7.8289   7.7665   7.7968 
Fiscal 2008  7.7915   7.8159   7.7497   7.8036 
Fiscal 2009  7.7550   7.8094   7.7495   7.7505 
July 2009  7.7500   7.7505   7.7495   7.7500 
August 2009  7.7506   7.7516   7.7500   7.7505 
September 2009  7.7503   7.7514   7.7498   7.7500 
October 2009  7.7497   7.7502   7.7495   7.7497 
November 2009  7.7497   7.7501   7.7495   7.7500 
December 2009
(through December 14, 2009)
  7.7501   7.7515   7.7495   7.7515 
                 
  Average  High  Low  Period-end 
  (note)          
  HK$  HK$  HK$  HK$ 
Fiscal 2006  7.7601   7.7796   7.7506   7.7767 
Fiscal 2007  7.8029   7.8289   7.7665   7.7968 
Fiscal 2008  7.7915   7.8159   7.7497   7.8036 
Fiscal 2009  7.7550   7.8094   7.7495   7.7505 
Fiscal 2010  7.7646   7.8040   7.7495   7.7781 
June 2010  7.7880   7.8040   7.7690   7.7865 
July 2010  7.7753   7.7962   7.7651   7.7672 
August 2010  7.7702   7.7788   7.7605   7.7781 
September 2010  7.7643   7.7738   7.7561   7.7599 
October 2010  7.7580   7.7642   7.7513   7.7513 
November 2010  7.7547   7.7656   7.7506   7.7649 
December 2010 (through December 10, 2010)  7.7666   7.7737   7.7612   7.7737 
 
Note: The average rates on the last business day of each month during the relevant fiscal year period or the average rates for each business day during the relevant monthly period.
 
Source: For all periods prior to January 1, 2009, the exchange rate refers to noon buying rate as reported by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York. For periods beginning on or after January 1, 2009, the exchange rate refers to the exchange rate as set forth in the H.10 statistical release of the Federal Reserve Board.
B. Capitalization and indebtedness
Not applicable.
C. Reasons for the offer and use of proceeds
Not applicable

11


D. Risk factors
     You should carefully consider the risks described below and other information contained in this annual report before making an investment decision. The risks and uncertainties described below are not the only ones we face. Additional risks and uncertainties not presently known to us, or that we currently deem immaterial, may also impair our business operations. We cannot assure you that any of the events discussed in the risk factors below will not occur. If they do, our business, financial condition or results of operations could be materially adversely affected.
Risks relating to our business and operations
     In light of the intense competition in our target markets, we cannot assure you that our revenues and net profit will continue to grow.
     We derive our total revenues from our FTNS business and our IDD business. Our FTNS business primarily consists of broadband Internet access, local VoIP, IP-TV and corporate data services, while our IDD business primarily consists of direct dial, international calling cards and mobile call forwarding services. Our total revenues increased by 13.4%6.5% to HK$1,574.7 million in fiscal 2010 from HK$1,478.2 million in fiscal 2009, from HK$1,303.0 million in fiscal 2008, and our net profit increased by 70.0%1.9% to HK$216.9 million in fiscal 2010 from HK$212.8 million in fiscal 2009 from HK$125.2 million in fiscal 2008.2009. The increase in net profit in fiscal 20092010 was mainlyprimarily due to increased contribution from our FTNS business which carries high incremental margins than our IDD business, and a gainfinance cost savings of HK$31.432.9 million on extinguishmentas a result of a portionrepurchase and redemption of our outstanding 10-year senior notes.
     Although revenue from our FTNS business increased by 21.8%10.2% in fiscal 2009,2010, we cannot assure you that we will be able to maintain such revenue and profit growth. The increase in revenue of our FTNS business was primarily due to an increase in our broadband subscription base of 17.7%34.5%, driven by growing demand for high bandwidth broadband Internet access service. Any further increase in such subscription base will highly depend on our abilitymarketing program between November 2009 to continue expandAugust 2010, which lowered by approximately 50.0% our network coverage and compete successfully in an intensely competitive market.

7


     On November 1, 2009, we launched our “Member-Get-Member” series of marketing programs. Under this series of programs, our existing customers may refer a new customersymmetric 100Mbps service to use our broadband Internet access services and both will enjoy access to our bb100 service for HK$99 per month, underincluding a 24-month contract. In addition, new customers are also entitledMember-Get-Member promotion at this price for both the referee and referrer. Effective from September 1, 2010, we terminated such marketing program and increased the price of our residential broadband service plan from HK$99 per month to this new discounted rate. As the results of such programs will highly depend on the response from the markets and our competitors, weHK$169 per month. We cannot assure you thatwhether our revenues and net profit will continue to grow as a result of such price increase due to more intense competition in our industry. The growth of our subscription base will depend on our ability to continue to expand our network coverage and uncertain price elasticity.operate in a highly competitive market.
     Further, revenue from our IDD business decreased by 15.3%11.6% in fiscal 2009.2010. The decrease was primarily due to a decrease in the total number of airtime minutes by 15.2%, which reflected4.7% and a reductiondecrease in the scale of operations.our tariff rate that we are able to charge our customers. On our IDD service, our strategy is to focus on cash flow and profitability rather than market share. Due to increasing competition, we expect our IDD business will continue to experience pressure on tariff rates and to contribute to a smaller portion of our revenue and net profit over time.
     Our ability to continue to grow our total revenues and net profit in the rapidly evolving telecommunications industry depends on many factors, including our ability to accurately identify and respond to demand for new services, success in developing new services on a timely basis, quality and cost competitiveness of our services, effectiveness of our sales and marketing efforts, and the number and nature of competitors in a given market segment. The global economic downturnuncertainty has resulted in decreased consumer confidence and overall slower economic activity, which may dampen the demand for broadband services or affect our customers’ ability to continue with existing services. We cannot assure you that we can maintain the current level of revenue growth and profitability.
     Given the pace of change in the telecommunications industry and the characteristics of our target markets, we cannot assure you that our FTNS business will continue to be profitable.
     The main target market for our FTNS business is Hong Kong. The Hong Kong telecommunications industry is intenselyhighly competitive. The intense competition could result in price reductions, reduced gross margins or loss of market share, any of which could adversely affect our future growth and profitability. We expect competition to continue to increase for the following reasons:
  Increasing liberalization of the telecommunications industry in Hong Kong may continue to attract new local and foreign entrants and broaden the variety of telecommunications services available in the market, thereby increasing the overall level of competition in our industry.
 
  The Hong Kong government may continue to issue new wireless and wire-line FTNS Licenses. For instance, 261291 PNETS Licenses had been issued in Hong Kong as of October 31, 20092010 for the provision of “external telecommunications services” (as defined in the Telecommunications Authority’s Determination as of December 30, 1998). Some of these licenses are held by subsidiaries of major foreign telecommunications providers, which have competitive advantages over us due to their global presence and size.
 
  Around December 31, 2007, Television Broadcasts Limited and Asia Television Limited, commonly known as TVB and ATV, respectively, the only two licensed domestic territorialfree television programme broadcasters in Hong Kong, launched their digital terrestrial television services and have since broadened such services to cover an increasingly large percentage of the viewing public in Hong Kong. As of December 15, 2009,14, 2010, their services offered a total of 11 free channels in both standard and high definition. This improvement in the quality of free television may result in a reduction in the number of subscribers for pay-television services.

12


     As some of our main competitors have longer operating histories and others are subsidiaries of large business conglomerates, they may have greater financial, technical, marketing and other resources; a more sophisticated infrastructure; better brand recognition; and a larger subscription base and may be able to devote more human and financial resources to research and development, network improvement and marketing than we can. Our competitive position varies significantly by service type because each service is characterized by a different market. If we cannot compete effectively in a major market, our business, operating results and financial condition could be adversely affected.
     Our services may become obsolete if we cannot address the changing needs of our customers.
     The telecommunications industry is characterized by rapidly changing technology and industry standards, evolving subscriber needs and the changing nature of services with increasingly short life cycles. We cannot assure you that we will be able to respond successfully to technological advances and stay ahead of the evolving industry standards, for the following reasons:
  To compete successfully, we must constantly increase the diversity and sophistication of the services we offeredoffer and upgrade our telecommunications technologies. We may be required to make substantial capital expenditures and may not be successful in modifying our network infrastructure in a timely and cost-effective manner in response to these changes.
 
  New technology, such as the possible development of 4G wireless data networks as a substitute for fiber-based services, or other trends in the telecommunications industry, could have an adverse effect on the services we currently offer. For example, traditional fixed line home telephones are being replaced by mobile telephones and/or VoIP services. Technology substitution from global VoIP providers, some of which offer free PC-to-PC based international calls, is also becoming more prevalent. BothIncreased adoption of such competing technology may lead to a decline in our revenues from international telecommunications services and local telephony services.revenues.
 
  Changing our services in response to market demand may require the adoption of new technologies that could render many of the technologies that we are currently implementing less competitive or obsolete. We may also need to gain access to related or enabling technologies in order to integrate the new technology with our existing technology. Our new services may contain design flaws or other defects when first introduced to the market.
     If we cannot offer the new services demanded by our customers in a timely manner, our business, operating results or financial condition could be adversely affected.
     The development of our Next Generation Network requires significant capital expenditures, which may not be available on terms satisfactory to us or may impose a burden on our other business activities.

8


     Our business is capital intensive. We need to continue to devote substantial resources in infrastructure construction and upgrade to provide consistent and high quality services. In particular, because we deliver our fixed telecommunications network services through our self-owned Next Generation Network, we have made, and will continue to make, capital investments in the expansion and upgrade of this network and the development of various telecommunications services. We incurred total capital expenditures of approximately HK$286.7344.8 million in fiscal 2009.2010.
     We expect to incur capital expenditures ofranging from approximately HK$300320 million to HK$350 million per year in fiscal 2010 and 2011, a large majority of which will be spent on the continued expansion and upgrade of our network. While we intend to fund such expenditures by using our currently available cash as well as cash flow from operations, we may not have adequate capital to fund our projected capital expenditures. Our ability to fund operating and capital expenditures depends significantly on our ability to generate cash from operations. In fiscal 2009,2010, we generated cash from operationsoperating activities of HK$535.9485.3 million. However, we cannot assure you that we will be able to sustain our operations in order to generate sufficient cash flows to meet our future requirements. Our ability to generate cash from operations is subject to general economic, financial, industry, legal and other factors and conditions, many of which are outside our control. In particular, our operations are subject to price and demand volatility in the telecommunications industry.
     If we cannot finance our operations and capital expenditure using cash generated from operations, we may be required to, among other things, incur additional debt, reduce capital expenditures, sell assets, or raise equity. The recent global economic crisisuncertainty has caused a general tightening in the credit markets, lower levels of liquidity, increases in the rates of default and bankruptcy, and volatility in the capital markets. Although we have sufficient cash to meet our anticipated cash needs for at least the next 12 months, the current market conditions may affect our ability to obtain further financing to support our network expansion in the future. Any failure to do so will negatively impact our business and slow down our network deployment, in that we may not be able to continue expanding our network infrastructure to cover substantial area of the Hong Kong territory. Additional debt or equity financing may not be available, and debt financing, if available, may involve restrictions on our investing, financing and operating activities.
     If any of our new services are not successful, our operating results could be adversely affected.
     New telecommunications services are introduced by our competitors from time to time. If we do not anticipate these changes and rapidly adopt new and innovative services in response, we may not be able to fully capture the opportunities in the market. Development of new services, however, exposes us to the following risks:
Developing new telecommunications services can be complex. We may not be able to adapt the new services effectively, promptly and economically to meet customer demand.

13


Developing new telecommunications services can be complex. We may not be able to adapt the new services effectively and economically to meet customer demand.
  In developing new services, we are required to continue to make significant investments in our network infrastructure in order to support these services. If we exceed our budgeted capital expenditure and cannot meet the additional capital requirements in time through operating cash flowflows and planned financings, we may have to delay the project.
 
  Any of our new services may not be commercially successful. The failure of any of our services to achieve commercial acceptance could result in additional capital expenditures or, to the extent that we are required under the applicable accounting standards to recognize a charge for the impairment of assets. Any impairment charges could materially and adversely affect our financial condition and the results of our operations.
     Specifically, we cannot assure you that any services enabled by upgrading and expanding our Next Generation Network will provide us with an acceptable rate of return. This would depend on our ability to accurately identify and respond to emerging consumer trends and demand. We cannot assure you that we can generate satisfactory investment returns on any new service.
     We may need to improve our internal controls over financial reporting and our independent auditors may not be able to attest to their effectiveness.
     The United States Securities and Exchange Commission, or the SEC, as required by Section 404404(a) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, or the “Sarbanes-Oxley Act, adopted rules requiring every public company to include a management report on such company’s internal controls over financial reporting in its annual report, which contains management’s assessment of the effectiveness of the company’s internal controls over financial reporting. In addition,Effective from September 21, 2010, the SEC adopted amendments to its rules and forms to conform them to Section 404(c) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, as added by Section 989G of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (the “Dodd-Frank Act”). Section 404(c) provides that Section 404(b) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act shall not apply with respect to any audit report prepared for an issuer that is neither an accelerated filer nor a large accelerated filer. During fiscal 2010, we became an accelerated filer. Therefore, we are required to have an independent registered public accounting firm mustto attest to and report on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal controls over financial reporting. As a non-accelerated filer, we are required to file management’s report on internal controls over financial reporting for fiscal 2009 and our first auditor’s report on the effectiveness of our internal controls over financial reporting forstarting from fiscal 2010.
     We have evaluated our internal controls surrounding the financial reporting process for the current fiscal period so that management can attest to the effectiveness of these controls, as required by Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. We have implemented appropriate steps to strengthen the internal controls. However, we may identify conditions that could result in significant deficiencies or material weaknesses in the future. As a result, we could experience a negative reaction in the financial markets and incur additional costs in improving the condition of our internal controls. For a detailed discussion of controls and procedures, see Item 15 “Controls and procedures.”
     Notwithstanding our efforts, our management may subsequently conclude that our internal controls over financial reporting are not effective. Further, for fiscal 2010, even if our management concludes that our internal controls over our financial reporting are effective, our independent registered public accounting firm may conclude that our internal control over financial reporting is not effective.
If we do not successfully design and implement changes to our internal controls and management systems, or if we fail to maintain the adequacy of these controls as such standards are modified or amended from time to time, we may not be able to comply with Section 404404(a) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.Act. This could subject us to regulatory scrutiny and penalties that may result in a loss of public confidence in our management, which could, among other things, adversely affect our customer and vendor confidence, stock price and our ability to raise additional capital and operate our business as projected.

9


     If we cannot manage the growth in our FTNS business, the quality of our services and our operating results could be adversely affected.
     We have been pursuing an aggressive strategy in growing our FTNS business. As part of this strategy, we intend to continue to expand and invest in our Next Generation Network infrastructure to support our range of broadband Internet access, local VoIP, IP-TV and corporate data services. The deployment of these projects has resulted and will result in significant demands on our systems and controls and may impact our administrative, operational and financial resources. These projects will also place significant demands on us to maintain the quality of our services to ensure that our brand does not suffer as a result of any deviations, whether actual or perceived, in the quality of our services.
     Our ability to manage the growth in our FTNS business will depend upon our ability to:
  improve our existing operational, administrative and technological systems and our financial and management controls;
 
  enhance our infrastructure to support the expansion;
 
  develop effective marketing plans;
 
  control operational costs and maintain effective quality controls; and
 
  offer competitive prices to customers for our services.

14


     Our failure to achieve any of the above in an efficient manner and at a pace consistent with the growth of our FTNS business could have an adverse effect on the quality of our services and increase our costs of operation.
     We depend on certain key personnel, and our business and growth prospects may be disrupted by the loss of their services.
     Our future success is dependent upon the continued service of our key executives and employees.Talents (All individuals employed by the Group, including directors of the Company are defined as “Talents” hereafter). While we have employment agreements with members of our senior management, staff, we cannot assure you that we will be able to retain these executives and employees.senior management. If one or more of our key personnel were unable or unwilling to continue in their present positions, or if they joined a competitor or formed a competing company, or if they shifted their focus away from Hong Kong operations, we may not be able to replace them easily, our business may be significantly disrupted and our financial condition and results of operations may be materially and adversely affected. Furthermore, as our industry is characterized by high demand and increased competition for talent,Talents, we may need to offer higher compensation and other benefits in order to attract and retain key personnel in the future. We cannot assure you that we will be able to attract and retain the key personnel that we will need to achieve our business objectives.
     Our ability to further expand the coverage of our Next Generation Network may be limited by the physical limitations or our ability to obtain access rights in certain buildings.
     Our Next Generation Network has the capability of providing value-added broadband services and content that combine voice, data and images with increased efficiency and flexibility. As part of our strategy to grow our FTNS business, we plan to increase the coverage of our Next Generation Network from the current number of 1.61.77 million residential homes pass as of August 31, 20092010 to our target of 2.0 million residential homes pass by the end of 2011. To connect our Next Generation Network to a new physical site, we need to install fiber-to-the-homefibre-to-the-home or fiber-to-the-buildingfibre-to-the-building with Category-5e copper wiring, which we refer to as “in-building wiring”. Our expansion plan may be hindered because the installation of in-building wiring is subject to the following constraints:
  Because at least one of our competitors has already installed in-building wiring in virtually all buildings and many buildings have limited physical space for additional in-building wiring, other FTNS providers, including us, may encounter a bottleneck when installing our own in-building wiring.wiring;
 
  Some single-owner commercial buildings may grant rights of access to our competitors while barring us from installing our own in-building wiring.wiring; and
 
  Certain developers may have affiliations with our competitors and may attempt to delay or inhibit our wiring installations.
     We may be unable to capitalize on any economy of scale benefits if we fail to expand our network coverage inat our projected rate. Our growth opportunities will also be limited as a result.
     Internet security concerns could adversely affect our Internet access services.
     To remain competitive, we must continue to upgrade our broadband Internet access, local VoIP, IP-TV and corporate data services. Computer viruses, break-ins and other inappropriate or unauthorized uses of our Next Generation Network could affect the provision of our full suite of Internet Protocol services and have the following effects on our FTNS business:
  interruption, delays or cessation in services to our customers;
 
  a threat to the security of confidential information stored in the computer system of our customers; and
 
  illegal viewing or download of our contents.
     To protect our business from computer viruses and other harmful attacks, we may need to incur significant costs to protect us against the threat of security breaches or to alleviate problems caused by such breaches. We intend to continue to strengthen our network security to alleviate these problems. Our efforts, however, may cause interruptions, delays or cessations of our services, and our customers may stop using our service or assert claims against us as a result.

1015


     We may be unable to further expand the scope of our Internet access services unless we obtain additional network capacity.
     Our ability to transition from time to time to more advanced technologies for faster Internet access is critical to our sustainedsustainable competitiveness. Because our Next Generation Network has limited capacity, our ability to expand the network bandwidth on a timely basis is subject to the following factors:
the expansion and development of our own international telecommunications facilities;
the availability of leased capacity from third party carriers at favorable rates; and
the possible termination or cancellation of our existing contracts.
the expansion and development of our own international telecommunications facilities;
the availability of leased capacity from third party carriers at favorable rates; and
the possible termination or cancellation of our existing contracts.
     If we fail to increase the capacity of our international bandwidth, our ability to increase our market share and revenue in the Internet access market segment will be limited.
     Natural disasters and other disruptive regional events could damage our network and adversely affect our business and operating results.
     Our network is vulnerable to damage or cessation of operations from fire, earthquakes, severe storms, heavy rainfall, power loss, telecommunications failures, network software flaws, vandalism, transmission cable cuts and other catastrophic events. We may experience failures or shut downs relating to individual points of presence or even catastrophic failure of our entire network. Any sustained failure of our network, our servers, or any link in the delivery chain, whether from operational disruption, natural disaster or otherwise, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
     The loss of key suppliers or their failure to deliver equipment on a timely basis could negatively impact our business.
     We rely on third parties for the supply of network equipment. Further, because an IP set-top-box must be installed in order to access our IP-TV services, we must have an adequate supply of such installation equipment on hand for delivery to our customers in a timely manner.
     We purchase all of our IP set-top boxes and other equipment from our suppliers on a purchase order basis and have no long-term contracts. If our suppliers are unable to supply us with these products in a timely manner or the costs of these products increase due to unforeseen causes, this could negatively impact our operating results, especially if we are unable to spread the costs over a larger subscription base or effectively pass the additional costs on to our subscribers.
     Because we rely on third parties in delivering services through our Next Generation Network, our operating results could be adversely affected if their services are not timely or do not meet our standards.
     We depend on third parties for the ongoing maintenance and repair of our Next Generation Network. Further, although our Next Generation Network is operated essentially as an independent network, a small portion of it is connected to the network of other providers under interconnection agreements. We are also dependent on certain Hong Kong rail transport providers to maintain and provide us with access to their infrastructure to support the proper functioning of our equipment and fiber-based backbone. If these third parties fail to respond or are untimely in their response to our maintenance and repair needs, our customers may experience interruptions or variations in the quality of our fixed telecommunications network services. Any service interruptions or variations could adversely affect our operating results and our ability to retain or add new customers.
Risks relating to the regulatory, political and economic environment
     Regulatory reforms and currently contemplated regulatory initiatives in the telecommunications industry may adversely affect us.
     The Hong Kong telecommunications industry is undergoing continuous regulatory reform. Our business and results of operations may be adversely affected by changes in the telecommunications regulations, especially in the following areas:
In July 2004, a new provision of the Telecommunications Ordinance came into force. This anti-competition provision specifically regulates the conduct of all carrier licensees (in particular merger and acquisition transactions) in the Hong Kong telecommunications industry by giving the Telecommunications Authority the power to review the conducts and transactions concerning carrier licensees and to take appropriate actions if it determines that the transaction would, or is likely to, prevent or substantially lessen competition in a telecommunications market. The Telecommunications Authority has the power under this provision to conduct an investigation into any questionable transaction. It might consent to the transaction (unconditionally or subject to any conditions it deems appropriate) or reject the transaction outright. The decision of the Telecommunications Authority will take into account of whether the transaction will adversely affect the public interest and benefit. This provision may have an adverse effect on our ability to grow our business through mergers and acquisitions.
We offer local VoIP services through our Next Generation Network under HKBN’s FTNS License. Following the conclusion of a public consultation on the regulation of Internet Protocol Telephony Services, the Telecommunications Authority issued a statement on June 20, 2005, setting out its views and decisions on the regulatory and licensing framework for the provision of VoIP services, including the creation of a licensing framework, conformance to the existing system of assigning telephone numbers, imposition of interconnection charges and establishing guidelines with respect to the quality of services.
In July 2004, a new provision of the Telecommunications Ordinance came into force. This anti-competition provision specifically regulates the conduct of all carrier licensees (in particular merger and acquisition transactions) in the Hong Kong telecommunications industry by giving the Telecommunications Authority the power to review the conducts and transactions concerning carrier licensees and to take appropriate actions if it determines that the transaction would, or is likely to, prevent or substantially lessen competition in a telecommunications market. The Telecommunications Authority has the power under this provision to conduct an investigation into any questionable transaction. It might consent to the transaction (unconditionally or subject to any conditions it deems appropriate) or reject the transaction outright. The decision of the Telecommunications Authority will take into account whether the transaction will adversely affect the public interest and benefit. This provision may have an adverse effect on our ability to grow our business through mergers and acquisitions.
We offer local VoIP services through our Next Generation Network under HKBN’s FTNS License. Following the conclusion of a public consultation on the regulation of Internet Protocol Telephony Services, the Telecommunications Authority issued a statement on June 20, 2005, setting out its views and decisions on the regulatory and licensing framework for the provision of VoIP services, including the creation of a licensing framework, conformance to the existing system of assigning telephone numbers, imposition of interconnection charges and establishing guidelines with respect to the quality of services.

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We offer fixed but not mobile telecommunications network services. The Telecommunications Authority has implemented a new fixed-mobile convergence licensing practice by way of the UC License. The UC License regime, which began on August 1, 2008, seeks to replace the existing four classes of carrier licenses for the provision of fixed and mobile services with a simple license. Going forward the UC License will be the only carrier license to be issued for the provision of fixed, mobile and/or converged services. Existing carrier licenses will remain effective until their expiry date. Licensees can choose to apply to convert their existing licenses to UC Licenses before then or apply for a UC License upon expiry. This regulatory change, together with the development of new technologies, may further accelerate the convergence of fixed and mobile telecommunications services, resulting in more structural competition between fixed-line and mobile telecommunications operators. As we do not have a mobile license, and are not currently authorized to provide mobile services, our ability to compete may be hindered by our inability to offer such services independently.
We provide our IP-TV services over our Next Generation Network under HKBN’s FTNS License. The Hong Kong government has indicated that because our IP-TV services are carried over the Internet, we are exempted under the Broadcasting Ordinance from the requirement to obtain a domestic pay-television program service license. However, the government’s Communications and Technology Branch has informed us that the government is considering a review of the broadcasting regulatory regime and may introduce changes to the existing regulatory framework, including the existing exemption in the Broadcasting Ordinance. However, we cannot predict whether the government may require us to obtain a pay-television program service license in the future.
We offer fixed but not mobile telecommunications network services. The Telecommunications Authority has implemented a new fixed-mobile convergence licensing practice by way of the UC License. The UC License regime, which began on August 1, 2008, seeks to replace the existing four classes of carrier licenses for the provision of fixed and mobile services with a simple license. Going forward the UC License will be the only carrier license to be issued for the provision of fixed, mobile and/or converged services. Existing carrier licenses will remain effective until their expiry date. Licensees can choose to apply to convert their existing licenses to UC Licenses before then or apply for a UC License upon expiry. This regulatory change, together with the development of new technologies, may further accelerate the convergence of fixed and mobile telecommunications services, resulting in more structural competition between fixed-line and mobile telecommunications operators. As we do not have a mobile license, and are not currently authorized to provide mobile services, our ability to compete may be hindered by our inability to offer such services independently.
We provide our IP-TV services over our Next Generation Network under HKBN’s FTNS License. The Hong Kong government has indicated that because our IP-TV services are carried over the Internet, we are exempted under the Broadcasting Ordinance from the requirement to obtain a domestic pay-television programme service license. However, the government’s Communications and Technology Branch has informed us that the government is considering a review of the broadcasting regulatory regime and may introduce changes to the existing regulatory framework, including the existing exemption in the Broadcasting Ordinance. However, we cannot predict whether the government may require us to obtain a pay-television programme service license in the future.
     We require licenses from the Telecommunications Authority to provide our services. If one of these licenses is revoked or not renewed or there are substantial changes in its terms and conditions, we may be unable to deliver the services authorized by that license.
     We require licenses from the Telecommunications Authority to provide our fixed telecommunications network and international telecommunications services. Our business operations therefore are susceptible to the following changes in the regulatory environment in particular:
Our ability to adjust the tariffs for different services are governed by the terms and conditions of the relevant licenses. The licenses, however, are issued under different regulatory frameworks. The differences in regulatory structure for these licenses may constrain our flexibility to respond to market conditions, competition or cost structure.
We have been granted a waiver by the Telecommunications Authority to comply with the tariff restrictions contained in HKBN’s FTNS License. If the waiver is revoked, our ability to adjust the tariffs for our fixed telecommunication network services, including our offer of discounts to subscribers from time to time, will be restricted.
Our PNETS License is subject to the Telecommunications Authority’s annual renewal. On October 19, 2009, the Telecommunications Authority announced the replacement of the PNETS License by a new class of Services-Based Operator License, Class 3 Modified Services-Based Operator License. On December 1, 2009, the PNETS License of City Telecom was replaced by a Class 3 Modified Services-Based Operator License. It is expected that the PNETS License of HKBN would also be replaced by a Class 3 Modified Services-Based Operator License on January 1, 2010 through the renewal procedure. HKBN’s FTNS License was initially granted in 2000 for a term of 15 years and may be renewed for such further period not exceeding 15 years at the discretion of the Telecommunications Authority.
The Telecommunications Authority’s failure to renew or its revocation of any of these licenses or its amendment of any of the terms and conditions contained in such licenses for any reason would prohibit us from continuing to offer the services authorized by those licenses, which would have a significant adverse impact on our revenues and profitability. In addition, there may be future changes in Hong Kong’s telecommunications regulations or policies that would require us to obtain additional licenses, which could have an adverse impact on our operations.
Our ability to adjust the tariffs for different services are governed by the terms and conditions of the relevant licenses. The licenses, however, are issued under different regulatory frameworks. The differences in regulatory structure for these licenses may constrain our flexibility to respond to market conditions, competition or cost structure.
We have been granted a waiver by the Telecommunications Authority to comply with the tariff restrictions contained in HKBN’s FTNS License. If the waiver is revoked, our ability to adjust the tariffs for our fixed telecommunication network services, including our offer of discounts to subscribers from time to time, will be restricted.
Our PNETS License is subject to the Telecommunications Authority’s annual renewal. On October 19, 2009, the Telecommunications Authority announced the replacement of the PNETS License by a new class of Services-Based Operator License, Class 3 Modified Services-Based Operator License. On November 10, 2009, the PNETS License of City Telecom was replaced by a Class 3 Modified Services-Based Operator License. It is noted that the PNETS License of HKBN would also be replaced by a Class 3 Modified Services-Based Operator License on December 7, 2009 through the renewal procedure. HKBN’s FTNS License was initially granted in 2000 for a term of 15 years and may be renewed for such further period not exceeding 15 years at the discretion of the Telecommunications Authority.
The Telecommunications Authority’s failure to renew or its revocation of any of these licenses or its amendment of any of the terms and conditions contained in such licenses for any reason would prohibit us from continuing to offer the services authorized by those licenses, which would have a significant adverse impact on our revenues and profitability. In addition, there may be future changes in Hong Kong’s telecommunications regulations or policies that would require us to obtain additional licenses, which could have an adverse impact on our operations.
Our international telecommunications revenues may be adversely affected by increases in carrier charges in China.
     In China, tariffs for all domestic and international long distance services offered through public switched telephone networks, leased lines and data services are jointly set by the Ministry of Information Industry of the PRC and the State Development Planning Commission. Certain tariffs payable by us to our carrier partners are based, among other things, on the tariffs set by these agencies with respect to the calls our subscribers make to persons in China. In fiscal 2009,2010, approximately 78%79% of our international call traffic volume was to China. We cannot predict the timing, likelihood or magnitude of any tariff adjustments that may be imposed by the Ministry of Information Industry of the PRC and the State Development Planning Commission, nor can we predict the extent or potential impact upon our business of any future tariff increases. Such increases may lead to a decrease in traffic, reduce our revenues and adversely affect our business and results of operations. In addition, if we are unable to effectively manage the increased network costs, the profit margins of our IDD business could be adversely affected.
     As approximately 48%50% of our staffTalents are located in Guangzhou, China, changes in Chinese labor or business laws may significantly affect our operations and our ability to serve our Hong Kong based customers.
     Our call center in Guangzhou employs over 1,500 employees1,600 Talents and is an important resource to us. We are therefore significantly affected by the laws and regulations governing foreign companies with operations in China. As the Chinese legal system develops, changes in such laws and regulations, their interpretation or their enforcement may lead to restrictions on our ability to hire and retain our employeesTalents in China, which could impact our ability to provide services to our Hong Kong-based customers.

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     Currency fluctuations of the Hong Kong dollar, our functional currency, may increase our operating costs and long term liability.

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     We are exposed to a certain amount of foreign exchange risk because our revenues are predominantly denominated in Hong Kong dollars, while a major portion of our operating costs are denominated in U.S. dollars, Renminbi or other foreign currencies. Our foreign currency-denominated expenses primarily consist of the following:
  A major portion of our operating costs of interconnection charges payable to overseas carriers for the delivery of our international calls. Substantially all of these interconnection charges are denominated in U.S. dollars or other foreign currencies.
 
  The equipment and hardware we purchase for the expansion of our Next Generation Network constitutes a large portion of our capital expenditures and is also denominated in U.S. dollars.
 
  Payment of interest, principal and any other amounts due under the 10-year senior notes due 2015 are made in U.S. dollars.
Expenses incurred for the operation of our call center located in Guangzhou, China are denominated exclusively in Renminbi, the official currency of the People’s Republic of China. These include salaries paid to our personnel as well as various operating expenses that we incur to maintain our operations.
     Since October 17, 1983, the Hong Kong dollar has been linked to the U.S. dollar at the rate of HK$7.80 per US$1.00. We, however, cannot assure you the link will be maintained in the future. Any depreciation of the Hong Kong dollar against the U.S. dollar, Renminbi or other currencies would increase our operating costs, including our debt servicing costs, make our capital expenditure plans more expensive, and adversely affect our profitability.
     The Renminbi is presently pegged to a basket of currencies, and there remains significant international pressure on the PRC government to further liberalize its currency policy. This could result in a further and more significant appreciation in the value of the Renminbi against the Hong Kong dollar, which would increase the cost of operating our call center.
Our Chairman and Vice Chairman have significant ownership interest in the company. We cannot assure you that our Chairman and Vice Chairman will not engage in any transactions that lead to conflicts of interest resulting from their ownership interests.
     Our Chairman and Vice Chairman each have an indirect ownership interest in the Company through Top Group International Limited (“Top Group”), which, as of December 14, 2010, held approximately 44.22% of the Company’s shares, of which 42.12% and 27.06% was owned by our Chairman and Vice Chairman, respectively. Top Group International Limited is a special purpose vehicle incorporated in the British Virgin Islands. Its board of directors consists of Mr. Wong and Mr. Cheung. Mr. Wong and Mr. Cheung have entered into a voting agreement pursuant to which they agreed to vote the 339,814,284 shares held by Top Group International Limited, the 7,145,289 shares held by Mr. Wong individually, and the 42,286,159 shares held by Mr. Cheung individually, collectively as a group. We cannot make assurances that our Chairman or Vice Chairman will not take actions that may not be in the best interests of our other shareholders.
Item 4 Information on the Company
A. History and development of the Company
     The legal and commercial name of the Company is City Telecom (H.K.) Limited. The Company was incorporated on May 19, 1992 under the Hong Kong Companies Ordinance and is a limited liability company. Our registered office is located at Level 39, Tower 1, Metroplaza, No. 223 Hing Fong Road, Kwai Chung, New Territories, Hong Kong, telephone (852) 3145-6888. Our agent for U.S. federal securities laws purposes is CT Corporation System, 111 Eighth Avenue, New York, NY 10011.
     We began offering international telecommunications services in September 1992. In our early stage of development, we focused on increasing our subscription base and amount of international traffic, and on building the CTI brand name as a low cost provider of international telecommunications services. In addition to our operations in Hong Kong, we also provide international telecommunications and Internet access services in Canada through two telecommunications companies in Canada, City Telecom Inc. and City Telecom (B.C.) Inc. We acquired our interests in these companies in December 1998 as part of our efforts to increase our market share of the telecommunications traffic between Canada and Hong Kong.
     In January 1999, we became the first company in Hong Kong to obtain the first PNETS License. The license gives us the right to offer international telecommunications services using international simple resale and has had a significant positive impact on our international telecommunications revenues. We incorporated HKBN in Hong Kong in August 1999 and launched our broadband Internet access services in March 2000. In addition, we began providing local VoIP services in April 2002, IP-TV services in August 2003, and corporate data services in July 2004 using our Next Generation Network. The network has the capability of providing value-added broadband services and content that combine voice, data and images with increased efficiency and flexibility.
     We believe that one of the cornerstones of our success has been our ability to quickly expand our service offerings when changes in regulation or technology have provided us with an opportunity to do so. Some of the key events in our history and development include the following:
  In October 2006, our Liu Xiang “Be Ahead of Yourself” marketing campaign won the “Certificate of Excellence” of HKMA/TVB Awards for Marketing Excellence 2006.
 
  In February 2007, we launched our “bb50 and bb200” symmetric residential broadband service supported by “SDU” personalized customer care service.

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  In June 2007, we were awarded “Best Retention Strategies” at the Hong Kong HR Awards 2007.
 
  In July 2007, we were awarded “Integrated Support Team” of the year at the Asia Pacific Customer Service Consortium Customer Relationship Excellence Awards.
 
  In September 2007, we launched “Fiber-To-The-Home”“Fibre-To-The-Home” residential broadband service, “FiberHome100”“FibreHome100”, “FiberHome200”“FibreHome200” and “FiberHome1000”“FibreHome1000”. As the same time, we upgraded our entry level service broadband Internet access from 10 Mbps to 25 Mbps.
 
  In January 2008, we began to offer our “Dual Mode High Definition Terrestrial TV Receiver and IPTV Set-Top Box” to all of our customers in Hong Kong.
 
  In February 2008, we were awarded contract for the provision of payphone service at the Hong Kong International Airport.

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  In September 2008, we launched the National Geographic Channel’s first ever Interactive Channel.
 
  In June 2009, we launched the first Online Broadband Service Registration Platform in Hong Kong.
 
  In July 2009, we were awarded the 2009 Hong Kong Management Association Quality Award — Bronze.
In November 2009, we accepted the Innovation in Recruitment award and Champion of HR award at the Hong Kong HRM Awards 2009.
In December 2009, we shattered the one-million mark for Fixed Telecommunications Network Services subscriptions.
In March 2010, we launched our “bb100” symmetric broadband and WiFi services at Hong Kong International Airport.
In April 2010, we launched our 1Gbps symmetric residential broadband service at HK$199 per month.
B. Business overview
Principal Activities
     We are a Hong Kong-based provider of residential and corporate fixed telecommunications network and international telecommunications services. We specialize in the residential mass market and small-to-medium corporate and enterprise market segments. The majority of our revenues are derived from business conducted in Hong Kong.
     We derive our revenues from two business segments: FTNS and IDD. A breakdown of our revenues is as follows:
                    
 For the year ended August 31,  For the year ended August 31, 
 2008 2009  2008 2009 2010 
 HK$ HK$  HK$ HK$ HK$ 
 (Amounts in thousands)  (Amounts in thousands) 
Revenue
  
FTNS business 1,011,038 1,230,880  1,011,038 1,230,880 1,356,098 
IDD business 291,943 247,359  291,943 247,359 218,589 
            
 
Total operating revenue 1,302,981 1,478,239  1,302,981 1,478,239 1,574,687 
            
FTNS business.Our FTNS business involves the provision of fixed telecommunications network services through our self-owned Next Generation Network. Such services include the following:
 - high-speed broadband Internet access services at symmetric upstream and downstream access speeds of 25 Mbps to 1,0001000 Mbps;
 
 - fixed line local telephony services using VoIP technology;
 
 - pay television services consisting of more than 80110 channels, including self-produced news, children’s programming,program, international drama, movies and documentary and local interest programming, using our IP platform; and
 
 - corporate data services, including the provision of dedicated bandwidth to corporate customers.

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As of August 31, 2009, we had a total of approximately 943,000 subscriptions for our fixed telecommunications network services, consisting of 391,000 broadband Internet access, 382,000 local VoIP and 170,000 IP-TV services subscriptions.
IDD business.Our IDD business involves the provision of international telecommunications services. Such services include direct dial services, international calling cards and mobile call forwarding services in Hong Kong and Canada. As of August 31, 2009, the customer base for our total international telecommunications services consisted of approximately 2.4 million registered accounts.
As of August 31, 2010, we had a total of approximately 1,110,000 subscriptions for our fixed telecommunications network services, consisting of 526,000 broadband Internet access, 431,000 local VoIP and 153,000 IP-TV services subscriptions.
IDD business.Our IDD business involves the provision of international telecommunications services. Such services include direct dial services, international calling cards and mobile call forwarding services in Hong Kong and Canada. As of August 31, 2010, the customer base for our total international telecommunications services consisted of approximately 2.4 million registered accounts.
Strategy and Competitive Strengths
     Our strategy is to market multiple fixed telecommunications network services by capitalizing on the new in-building blockwiring we have done on a mass scale for our Next Generation Network and will focus on growing our market share, increasing our network coverage and introducing new services through our IP platform. We believe that our success will continue to depend on our ability to capitalize on our focus on the residential mass and small-to-medium corporate and enterprise market segments, our leading-edge Next Generation Network, and our first mover advantage in the fixed line telecommunications market, which havehas a high entry barrier.
     We believe that our demonstrated success is primarily due to our ability to capitalize on the following key strengths:
  Focus on the Residential Mass and Small-To-Medium Corporate and Enterprise Market Segments.We focus on offering high-bandwidth services to the residential mass and small-to-medium enterprise markets in Hong Kong, which we believe have significant growth potential. We price our services attractively on a value-for-bandwidth basis and at the same time offer bandwidth advantages over comparable service offerings by our competitors. Our IP-TV services focus on the residential mass market by providing Chinese-language content that targets the Chinese-speaking population of Hong Kong. We have also strengthened our English language contents over the past year to increase our competitiveness by adding Disney Channels, Discovery Channels, National Geographic, AXN, Bloomberg and other channels. Our focus on the residential mass and small-to-medium corporate and enterprise markets has enabled us to quickly grow our subscription base, and we believe this will help us to up-sell our services.
 
  Leading-Edge Next Generation Network.We believe our self-owned Next Generation Network, a fiber-based backbone, gives us an inherent cost and performance advantage over our competitors. The high capacity of this network has enabled us to offer a suite of services on a single IP network platform. This IP platform is highly scalable, enabling us

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to offer broadband Internet access, local VoIP, IP-TV and corporate data services over a single network. It is also capable of providing up to 1,0001000 Mbps symmetric broadband Internet access. Whereas our competitors are on a linear improvement path, we can upgrade our fiber based services logarithmically from 100Mbps to 1,000Mbps1000Mbps on our existing passive fiber infrastructure which existing technology cannot accomplish using legacy telephone lines.
First Mover Advantage and High Barriers to Entry.Despite the intense competition in the Hong Kong telecommunications industry, the inherent characteristics of the fixed line telecommunications market create a high entry barrier. Accordingly, we believe that our Next Generation Network’s current coverage of 1.77 million residential homes pass, substantially all in densely populated areas, gives us a first mover advantage over our competitors. Competitors who want to replicate our business model to provide a full coverage network that includes remote and difficult-to-reach areas of Hong Kong may encounter technological difficulties. Attempting to deploy Metro Ethernet technology in such locations would significantly increase costs and completion time of such a network. While other telecommunications operators may lay their own fiber-to-the-building, we believe some would encounter significant in-building bottlenecks when attempting to complete an end-to-end network. This is because a majority of Hong Kong’s residential properties have limited space for in-building wiring leading to subscribers’ residences, making it difficult for new entrants to replicate our end-to-end network build.
First Mover Advantage and High Barriers to Entry.Despite the intense competition in the Hong Kong telecommunications industry, the inherent characteristics of the fixed line telecommunications market create a high entry barrier. Accordingly, we believe that our Next Generation Network’s current coverage of 1.6 million residential homes pass, substantially all in densely populated areas, gives us a first mover advantage over our competitors. Competitors who want to replicate our business model to provide a full coverage network that includes remote and difficult-to-reach areas of Hong Kong may encounter technological difficulties. Attempting to deploy Metro Ethernet technology in such locations would significantly increase costs and completion time of such a network. While other telecommunications operators may lay their own fiber-to-the-building, we believe some would encounter significant in-building bottlenecks when attempting to complete an end-to-end network. This is because a majority of Hong Kong’s residential properties have limited space for in-building wiring leading to subscribers’ residences, making it difficult for new entrants to replicate our end-to-end network build.
Recent Development
     Update on Fixed Mobile Interconnection Charge
On November 25,December 31, 2009, we submitted an application for the TA issued a Preliminary Analysis (the “2009 PA”)domestic free television programme service license in relationHong Kong to the 2008 Determination (see note 2(c)Broadcasting Authority. If granted, such license would allow us to provide free television programme services in Hong Kong. We expect the cumulative investment amount to be approximately HK$210 million before we are able to generate positive cash flow from such services. We completed a public offering of our consolidated financial statements) for mobile interconnection charges. TA invited HKBNAmerican depositary shares, or ADSs, in April 2010 and the mobile operators covered by the 2008 Determinationexpect to make representations in relation to the 2009 PA on or before December 25, 2009. As of December 15, 2009, the final level of mobile interconnection charges for the period from April 1, 2002 to April 26, 2009 was still subject to representations that could be made by HKBN and the mobile operators, and accordingly, the related financial effectuse a portion of the 2008 Determinationnet proceeds of this offering to the consolidated financial statements cannot be reasonably estimated.
Buyback of 10-year Senior Notes
     Between September 1, 2009 and December 15, 2009, the Group repurchased the 10-year senior notes with a cumulative principal value of US$1.5 million (equivalent to HK$11.6 million) in the open market. The total consideration paid including accrued interest was approximately US$1.6 million (equivalent to HK$12.1 million). The loss on extinguishment was approximately US$41,000 (equivalent to HK$318,000) which is expected to be recorded in the consolidated income statement for the year ending August 31, 2010. The principal value of the 10-year senior notes remaining in issue after the repurchases is US$19,863,000 (equivalent to HK$153,948,000).fund such services.
Our Services
Fixed telecommunications network services
     We offer our fixed telecommunications network services through our Next Generation Network. The high capacity of our fiber-based backbone has enabled us to offer a suite of services on a single IP network platform. These services include our broadband Internet access, local VoIP, IP-TV and corporate data services. Our strategy is to leverage our broadband subscription base to up-sell our other fixed telecommunications network services such as local VoIP and IP-TV.

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     The table below shows the profile the subscriptions of our fixed telecommunications network services over the past three years:
                        
 As of August 31,  As of August 31, 
 2007 2008 2009  2008 2009 2010 
Broadband Internet access 247,000 316,000 391,000  316,000 391,000 526,000 
Local VoIP 308,000 329,000 382,000  329,000 382,000 431,000 
IP-TV 128,000 156,000 170,000  156,000 170,000 153,000 
              
  
Total FTNS subscriptions 683,000 801,000 943,000  801,000 943,000 1,110,000 
              
Broadband Internet Access
  Scope of service.Our broadband Internet access services in Hong Kong are offered through HKBN. We currently offer our residential and corporate customers broadband Internet access speeds of up to 1,0001000 Mbps, but the majority of our customers currently have access speeds between 25 Mbps andof 100 Mbps. We also offer Fiber-to-the-Home, or FTTH, broadband service for 100 Mbps, 200 Mbps and 1,0001000 Mbps. Rather than using Category-5e copper wiring for the last mile, optical fiber is used in FTTH broadband service. Currently, all of our broadband Internet access packages include free e-mail and for additional charges, offer customers for a variety of value added services, such as “bbDrive,” an on-line virtual hard drive with up to 10Gb of storage; “bbGuard,” an anti-spam and anti-virus package; and “bbWatch,” a full-screen IP-TV service that is viewed with a desktop or laptop computer; “bbWi-Fi”, a service in which subscribers can have wireless Internet access through more than 2,000 hotspots; and “getFAXEASY”“Game.hkbn.net”, a service in which subscribers can simply receive fax by their email address in Hong Konggame point portal that sells various game providers’ cards and worldwide. A unique fax number is assigned to each subscriber.merchandises. We frequently alter our promotions in response to changing market conditions or as a way of attracting additional subscribers.

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  Pricing.We currently offer broadband service for bb25, bb50, bb100 FiberHome200 and FiberHome1000FibreHome1000 at monthly fees ranging from HK$99169 to HK$1,688199 for unlimited service access. On NovemberAugust 19, 2010, we announced to the public that effective from September 1, 2009,2010, we launched our “Member-Get-Member” series of marketing programs. Under this series, our existing customers may refer a new customer to use our broadband Internet Access services and both will enjoy access to our bb100 services forended the promotional rate at HK$99 per month. By paying HK$199 per month, customers can choose 100 Mbps triple play service or HK$199 per month for 1000Mbps broadband Internet access service. Our strategy is to reduce the market pricechange from subscriber growth to revenue growth with a more affordable level such that customers can focus on quality. Whenreasonable and acceptable pricing to our broadband service becomes more affordable, we believe that our customers will not change their provider merely for a lower price.customers.
 
   In addition to the residential packages described above, we have also developed broadband promotionsand Metronet private network service plans that target corporate customers. We offer prepackaged plans that provide access at speeds of up to 1,0001000 Mbps. Corporate customers that subscribe to prepackaged plans pay fixed monthly subscription fees ranging from HK$128 to HK$24,000.200,000 depending on bandwidth or solution selected. Our prepackaged plans include on-site training, on-site maintenance support, high capacity data transfer and e-mail services.
 
  Competition.There have been many new entrants to the Internet access business, but our main competitors are PCCW-HKT, i-Cable and HGC. PCCW-HKT has been offering broadband Internet access services since May 1998 and mainly uses asymmetric digital subscriber line technology, or ADSL, over its telephone network to provide asymmetric Internet access at speeds up to 6 Mbps/8 Mbps downstream and 640 Kbps/800 Kbps upstream. In November 2007, PCCW-HKT announced the provision of 100 Mbps and 1,0001000 Mbps fiber direct broadband Internet access service to two-thirds of Hong Kong’s households. i-Cable began providing broadband Internet access services in March 2000 using its hybrid fiber coaxial network that provides symmetric typical access speeds up to 8 Mbps shared by a cluster of buildings. HGC predominantly uses VDSL technology and typically provides access speeds up to 100 Mbps.
 
   Our main competitors have been in operation longer and may have greater market presence, brand recognition and more financial, technical and personnel resources. In addition, they may have greater network coverage in terms of number of homes pass.
 
  Market share.We had approximately 391,000526,000 broadband Internet access subscriptions as at August 31, 2009,2010, which represented a market share of approximately 20%25% with respect to the total number of broadband Internet access subscribers in Hong Kong.
Local VoIP
  Scope of service.We offer our on-network local VoIP services in Hong Kong by installing IP-based voice switching equipment in locations covered by our Next Generation Network. Voice signals are transmitted through our Ethernet network by the VoIP switches installed in the subscriber’s building. The quality of our local VoIP service is comparable to traditional fixed line local telephony services, and customers are able to use their existing telephone equipment. In addition, with portability of fixed line numbers, fixed line telephony subscribers switching to our local VoIP services are able to retain their existing local telephone number.

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   We also offer hardware-based off-network local VoIP services, or “Broadband Phone” services, via the broadband network of other operators. In October 2005, we launched our global software-based VoIP services under the brand “2b”. This service is primarily targeted at the overseas Chinese community, which we believe will enable us to access a wider addressable market with higher tariff compared to the Hong Kong market. For HK$98 per month, “2b” provides broadband users around the world with a standard Hong Kong 8-digit fixed line number to make and receive unlimited calls to/from Hong Kong. Moreover, we offer a full range of value added services, including call waiting, voice mail and conference call features.
 
  Pricing.We currently charge from HK$68 to HK$118 per month, on standalone basis, for our on-network local VoIP services depending on the service plan, and we offer a full range of value added services, including call waiting, caller display and conference call services. The majority of our new local VoIP is included in our triple play service offered at HK$199 per month for voice, IP-TV and broadband.
 
  Competition.PCCW-HKT is the incumbent and largest fixed telecommunications network operator in Hong Kong. Based on public information, PCCW-HKT had a market share of approximately 70% with respect to local telephony services as of June 30, 2009.2010. The remainder of the market is shared among ourselves and three other alternative carriers: HGC, New World and Wharf T&T. The principal basis of competition for local telephony is price and brand name recognition. PCCW-HKT has the highest brand name recognition, but we and the other operators are contending by offering competitively priced local telephony services that provide comparable quality to PCCW-HKT.
 
  Market share.As of August 31, 2009,2010, we had 382,000431,000 local VoIP subscriptions. Our market share with respect to local residential and business telephony services was approximately 20%10% as of August 31, 2009.2010.
IP-TV
  Scope of service.Our IP-TV services began in August 2003 and include the provision of standard definition and high definition video via our Next Generation Network to an IP set-top-box connected to the subscriber’s television set. In May 2007, we renamed our IP-TV services as “bbTV”. “bbTV” currently consists of 80more than 110 channels, including a self-produced 24-hour news channel and kids education and recreationdevelopment channels (including children’s programming) and turnaround channels whosefrom various international content is obtained from other content-providers.providers. Since the launch of our IP-TV services in August 2003, we have progressively adjusted our content offerings and valued added components of the services. We consider our IP-TV to be an incremental component of our broadband and VoIP service offerings, rather than a large standalone business.
 
  Pricing.We currently charge our IP-TV service together with our broadband and VoIP services at HK$168199 per month for this subscription-based pay television service. Because of the scalability of our Next Generation Network infrastructure, the current cost of adding IP-TV services to an existing broadband Internet access or local VoIP subscriber is small.

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  Competition.Our two main competitors in the pay-television business are i-Cable and PCCW-HKT. The pay-television services of i-Cable and PCCW-HKT include a significant amount of exclusive contents, such as EnglishBarclays Premier League Football until June 2010,2013, HBO, Cinemax, ESPN and others. We target a different market than these competitors by offering predominantly Chinese language contentsa wide spectrum of content line-up and attractive pricing, both of which we consider critical for successful penetration in the residential mass market. We have also strengthened our English language contents over the past year to increase our competitiveness by adding Disney Channels, Discovery Channels, National Geographic, AXN, Bloomberg and other channels.
 
   TVB and ATV are indirect competitors of our pay-TV services. TVB and ATV account for a substantial proportion of Hong Kong’s television viewership and we market our services as supplemental to theirs. Because TVB and ATV offer primarily subscription-free television services supported by advertising revenues, we expect that their programming is designed to attract the widest possible audience. In contrast, we and the other pay-TV operators rely on monthly subscription fees for most of our revenues. Other competitors include satellite TV operators, such as Star TV, as well as potential competition from direct-to-home broadcasters and broadcasters using digital terrestrial delivery methods.
 
  Market share. As of August 31, 2009,2010, we had 170,000153,000 IP-TV subscriptions, representing approximately 7% of the total pay-television subscription base in Hong KongKong.
International telecommunications services
  Scope of services.We began providing international telecommunications services in 1992 and were among the first companies to be granted a PNETS License. Our international telecommunications services are offered to our FTNS business customers via our Next Generation Network and to other carriers’ customers via indirect access. Indirect access allows any pre-registered telecom user in Hong Kong to access our services via our two primary access codes “1666” and “0030”. By dialing our access code, our registered customers can access any destination in the world through our network, by paying us a usage charge.

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   We have greatly expanded our range of services over the years to include a variety of international direct dial services at competitive rates. We believe that our ability to deliver a range of calling plans with varying features that cater to different customer needs has been one of the key factors of our success. We market our international telecommunications services under the IDD 1666 and IDD 0030 brand names. These two brands provide us with flexibility in our marketing strategies. The primary international telecommunications services that we currently offer our customers are the following:
   
Service Description
IDD 1666 Provides subscribers with international direct dial using the access code 1666 in Hong Kong.
   
IDD 0030 Provides subscribers with international direct dial using the access code 0030 in Hong Kong.
   
Mobile call forwarding services Allows call forwarding of Hong Kong mobile numbers to any overseas telephone number so that subscribers can receive calls while in overseas.
  Pricing.We charge our IDD 1666 and IDD 0030 users a per minute tariff rate that varies according to the destination of the call and the calling prefix, with discounts depending on the time of day or day of the week when the call is placed as well as monthly plans. To maintain our market share in a market segment with increasingly intense competition, we have significantly reduced some of our international telecommunications rates and introduce new marketing and promotional offers from time to time. To offset the effects of these price reductions, we have taken steps to reduce our cost base, such as using our relatively large traffic volume to negotiate lower prices from our international partners, establishing a call center in Guangzhou to provide customer service and back office support services, and developing our own international telecommunications infrastructure. Our employment of two separate brand names, IDD 1666 and IDD 0030, also provide us with flexibility in our marketing strategies.
 
  Competition.PCCW-HKT, HGC, New World, and Wharf T&T are our main competitors in the international telecommunications business. As in previous years, we experienced fierce price competition in Hong Kong during fiscal 2009.2010. This competition drove down the average tariff rates per minute and we expect this price competition to continue in fiscal 2010.2011.
 
   Further, technology substitution from global VoIP providers such as Skype, which offers free PC-to-PC based international calls, is becoming more prevalent.
 
  Market share.We experienced a reduction in total traffic volume of 12.9% to 574 million minutes in fiscal 2008 and a further reduction of 15.2% to 487 million minutes in fiscal 2009.2009 and a further reduction of 4.7% to 464 million minutes in fiscal 2010. The continuing reduction in traffic volume was mainly due to intense competition as some of our integrated competitors offered free or very low cost international direct dial minutes as a customer incentive to gain local fixed line and mobile market share.
Our network infrastructure
     Fixed telecommunications network
     Our fixed telecommunications network services are delivered over our self-owned Next Generation Network, which allows us to deliver multiple services, including the triple play service of voice, broadband and IP-TV. The coverage of our Next Generation Network is concentrated in Hong Kong’s most densely populated areas, characterized by high-rise apartment buildings with multiple apartments on each floor. The network currently covers approximately 1.61.77 million residential homes pass, representing

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approximately 70%80% of Hong Kong’s populationtotal households and also 1,2301,430 commercial buildings. We plan to extend the coverage of our Next Generation Network to 2.0 million residential homes pass, representing approximately 90% of Hong Kong’s population, and to 1,800 commercial buildings by the end of 2011. As we expand the reach and coverage of our Next Generation Network, we plan to continue introducing new services.
     Our Next Generation Network is deployed using Metro Ethernet technology. Metro Ethernet technology is highly cost-effective when access is to be provided to a large number of users in a single building or cluster of buildings and is typically used in commercial buildings in metropolitan areas in other geographical markets. Our Ethernet infrastructure is a system of Category-5e copper wiring that connects our subscribers’ premises to our local area network, or LAN, switches within a residential or commercial building. By keeping our Category-5e copper distance to less than 100 meters we are able to deliver bandwidth of up to 1,000Mbps1000Mbps to our subscribers.
     The first step in expanding the reach of our fixed telecommunications network infrastructure is to select buildings that we believe will provide sufficient economic returns to justify our investment based on several factors, including population density, proximity of the building to our existing fiber loop and our projected ability to sell services. We then perform a site visit to analyze the feasibility of installing our Ethernet technology. Once we are satisfied with the prospects of a particular building, we must obtain access rights from the building’s management, which may take several weeks or months. After receiving the required access rights, we employ a combination of our full-time staffTalents and contractors to begin installation of our in-building Ethernet. The length of time required for the installation process depends on the size and structural features of the building and can be completed in as little as three weeks or take several months. As we install our in-building Ethernet infrastructure we simultaneously connect the building to our fiber-based backbone.

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     Unlike many of our competitors, which use multiple platforms to provide comparable services, all of our fixed telecommunications network services are offered through a single IP platform. In addition, unlike many new entrants to the industry, we operate an “end-to-end” network that extends from our IP network hub sites and our switching centers in Hong Kong to our subscribers’ premises. All the buildings covered by us are served by our self-owned infrastructure.
     In November 2007, we have been collaborating with one of the largest network solution providers for the deployment of our Next Generation Network using GPON technology. As the reach of GPON is considerably more than 100 meters, it can be a more cost effective solution to expand our Next Generation Network than our Ethernet setup for lower density deployments.
     We incurred capital expenditures of approximately HK$211.7 million in fiscal 2008 and HK$286.7 million in fiscal 2009 and HK$344.8 million in fiscal 2010, substantially all of which were made in connection with the construction and upgrade of our infrastructure for the provision of fixed telecommunications network services. In fiscal 2010 and fiscal 2011, we plan to further incur total capital expenditures about HK$300320 million to HK$350 million per year to continue increasing the capacity of our existing network coverage and extending the coverage of our Next Generation Network to 2.0 million residential homes pass and 1,800 commercial buildings.year.
     International telecommunications network
     Our international telecommunications network consists of a system of switches, self-owned and leased backbone capacity, interconnection arrangements and undersea cables for the transmission of long distance calls.
  Undersea cables. In March 2002, we received our license to provide undersea cable-based FTNS. This license allows us to purchase and operate our own undersea cables. In 2000, we entered into contracts with two large consortia of international telecommunications companies to acquire undersea cable capacity. Pursuant to the first contract, we completed the construction of a Japan-U.S. undersea cable in August 2001. Pursuant to the second contract, we agreed to jointly construct and maintain the Asia-Pacific Cable Network 2 undersea cable as an international transmission facility. Construction of the cable was completed in May 2002, and commercial operation began immediately thereafter. We spent a total of HK$120 million on these two projects. We believe the utilization of these undersea cables provides capacity for significant future growth of our international and fixed-network telecommunications services.
 
   Having our own undersea cables and our fiber-based backbone have enabled us to better control international transmission quality, reduce the costs associated with international transmission and reduce our reliance on third party infrastructure. Our international telecommunications network currently has a monthly handling capacity of approximately 140130 million minutes. We believe that the continuing improvement of our international telecommunications network is important in supporting the growth of our subscription base and the expansion of our range of services.
  Interconnection arrangements.We have entered into interconnection arrangements with other local fixed network operators in Hong Kong and overseas carriers to transmit calls between Hong Kong and overseas destinations for our customers. We take into account a number of factors in choosing the local fixed network operators and overseas carriers with whom we cooperate, including the level of termination charges and transmission efficiency and quality. We evaluate the performance of parties with whom we have interconnection arrangements periodically. We believe that we will not have difficulty in finding alternative overseas carriers if performance standards are not being met or a change is otherwise necessary. We have not experienced any disruption in the provision of our services as a result of a change of arrangements with overseas carriers or local fixed network operators.
 
   We pay a fixed monthly fee to local fixed network operators for connection between our switches and their networks and a variable access fee payable on a per-minute basis when accessing their network. For customers using our own network, no interconnection fee is charged. We negotiate the termination charges we pay with the overseas carriers, and the termination charges vary from one overseas carrier to another. All of the interconnection and termination charges we pay to local fixed network operators and overseas carriers, respectively, are made on an open account basis with credit terms ranging from 10 to 30 days. The interconnection charges we pay to local fixed network operators are denominated in Hong Kong dollars and substantially all the interconnection charges we pay to overseas carriers are denominated in U.S. dollars.

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  International telecommunications switching systems.We own five international telecommunications switching systems: three in Hong Kong and two in Canada, one in Vancouver and one in Toronto.
 
   Our three international telecommunications switching systems in Hong Kong handle telephone calls originating or terminating in Hong Kong as well as transit traffic. Our telecommunications network mainly consists of switching equipment by Nortel Networks Limited and compression units supplied by Cisco Systems, Inc. and ECI Telecom Ltd. These systems are programmedprogramed to automatically choose the optimal routing for each transmission. Optimal routing is a function of a variety of factors, such as country or territory of origination and destination, communication quality, efficiency and costs, and the capacity of the various communication methods available.
 
   Because our three international telecommunications switching systems in Hong Kong operate independently of each other, if one system breaks down, all transmissions are immediately diverted to another switching system. We have never experienced a period where all systems experienced a failure at the same time since we commenced operations in 1992.

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Sales and marketing
     We advertise our products and services through our “Fibre Shops”, “on-the-street” marketing kiosks, telemarketing and direct mailing, as well as through Chinese language television, radio, print media and on the Internet.
     In fiscal 2009,As of August 31, 2010, we grew our retail presence to 14had 20 “Fibre Shops” and a customer service center. We have planned to open more shops in the future. We believe these shops can offer our customers convenient access to our wide range of services.
     We have an extensive sales network in Hong Kong. Our senior marketing personnel closely oversee our sales network to ensure that a consistent image is presented by all of our sales representatives in promoting City Telecom and HKBN. We provide commission based incentives to our residential sales force for our fixed telecommunications network services and international telecommunications services.
     We have a sales division responsible for coordinating our corporate marketing and sales efforts. We believe our dedicated corporate and small-to-medium enterprise sales force is one of the largest sales forces targeted at corporate users of telecommunications and Internet services in Hong Kong. In addition, our dedicated corporate staffTalents designs marketing and sales promotions specifically tailored to address the concerns of business users. This division also organizes seminars for current and prospective customers to promote new products and services and to raise the public awareness of our various corporate offerings.
Maintenance and monitoring
     To ensure reliability of our fixed telecommunications network, we continue to maintain our monitoring system, which involves:
  two separate network operation centers in two different locations that operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, network operation center providing real-time service monitoring and maintenance services and supported by about 130133 operational and field staff;Talents;
 
  individual self-reporting mechanisms and centralized performance monitoring systems for our switches and equipment;
 
  an emergency self-reporting system that automatically contacts designated personnel; and
 
  back-up systems for our switches, critical software and hardware components.
     Once a network fault is detected by our control room, we will either rectify the problem remotely or dispatch field staffTalents to that location should physical interaction be required. After the problem has been resolved, we will continue to monitor network performance as well as track customer service feedback until we are assured of the fault being fully rectified.
Research and development activities
     As of August 31, 2009,2010, our research and development department in Hong Kong consisted of approximately 21 staff membersTalents experienced in systems design, engineering, telecommunications and computer programming. Our research and development department is primarily responsible for assessing and adapting the technology that we employ in upgrading and expanding our Next Generation Network. To identify and develop new market opportunities, our research and development department evaluates new services offered by telecommunications and Internet companies in the United States and elsewhere and works closely with our marketing department for product development. Our research and development expenditures were approximately HK$9.6 million, HK$10.8 million and HK$10.811.2 million for fiscal 2008, 2009 and 2009,2010, respectively.
Customer service
     We believe that excellent customer service and support is essential to our building and retaining of a large and loyal subscription base. We therefore have committed considerable personnel and financial resources to establishing a reliable and accessible customer service system.
     Our customer service department provides integrated support to subscribers of FTNS business and IDD business. We provide a hotline to handle complaints, subscription applications and queries relating to account balances, pricing, billing, service and technical information. Complaints and in-depth queries from subscribers that cannot be immediately remedied or answered are forwarded to a customer care team, which is responsible for answering such complaints and queries. We also have a dedicated customer service team to provide service to our corporate subscribers, which includes access to a highly skilled technical team that may go to the customer site for trouble shooting and repairs.

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     Our centralized customer service call center is located in Guangzhou, which provides our customer service and back office support services at that location. This enables us to lower our operating costs while continuing to increase our customer service capabilities. As of August 31, 2009,2010, our Guangzhou customer service facility had 1,520 employees.1,620 Talents.
Billing and collection
     Our credit and collection team is responsible for securing prompt payment from subscribers. Invoices are issued on a monthly or quarterly basis with a specified payment due date. A variety of payment methods are made available to our subscribers, including cash, check, credit card,

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payment by telephone service, automatic transfer from subscribers’ bank accounts or through Internet banking. Our bad debts expense represented approximately 1.1%, 0.8% and 0.8%0.9% of our revenue for each of fiscal 2008, 2009 and 2009,2010, respectively.
     We maintain tight collection procedures, including periodic reminder notices, and impose a charge of HK$10 or a fee of 1.5% to 2.5% per month on outstanding overdue amount for late payment. We have the right to charge the outstanding overdue amount to the subscriber’s pre-registered credit card account for any amount overdue or if applicable, deduct such amount from the subscriber’s application deposit. Moreover, we generally suspend an account when amount overdue is not settled within our prescribed period. If payment is still not settled after we suspend the account, further recovery actions including court proceedings and/or the use of collection agencies will be taken.
Seasonality
     Our operations are not subject to significant seasonal fluctuations generally. Our IDD business typically experiences a slight decrease in revenue during the second quarter of each fiscal year (i.e. December through February) in connection with the Christmas holiday and Chinese New Year holiday. We do not believe that seasonality has had a material effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations.
Environmental matters
     Since our date of incorporation, we have not violated any environmental laws, ordinances or regulations, and believe that all of our operations comply fully with applicable environmental laws.
Intellectual property rights
     We have registered our trademarks with the Trademarks Registry of the Intellectual Property Department in Hong Kong. We have no other material intellectual property.
C. Regulatory framework
     The following is a brief summary of the Hong Kong laws and regulations that currently materially affect our business. This section does not purport to be a comprehensive summary of all present and proposed regulations and legislation relating to the industries in which we operate.
     As a provider of broadband Internet access, local VoIP, IP-TV and international telecommunications services in Hong Kong, our operations are subject to the Telecommunications Ordinance and the Broadcasting Ordinance and their respective subsidiary legislation, regulations and codes of practice. The Telecommunications Ordinance provides the legislative and regulatory framework for the provision of telecommunications services and facilities in Hong Kong. The Broadcasting Ordinance governs the content and scope of television programming and the licensing of television broadcasters.
     Our primary regulator is the Telecommunications Authority, whose responsibility and functions include regulating and licensing telecommunications network services and regulating the telecommunications markets in Hong Kong, including the issuance of non-exclusive licenses; the determination of terms of interconnection; promotion of fair competition in the telecommunications sector; management of the frequency spectrum; development of technical standards and customer equipment testing; protection of consumer interests; and the control and administration of the Hong Kong numbering plans (including allocation of numbers or codes). The Telecommunications Authority is also responsible for the administration of the Telecommunications Ordinance. We are also regulated by the Broadcasting Authority, which administers the Broadcasting Ordinance and makes recommendations to the Chief Executive-in-Council on applications for broadcasting licenses, as well as on the renewal, suspension and revocation of licenses.
Telecommunications industry
     Licensing
     It is unlawful to establish or maintain any means of telecommunications, or possess, use or deal with telecommunications apparatus in Hong Kong without a license. The Telecommunications Authority has the authority to grant licenses for all means of telecommunications services and facilities in Hong Kong, including the provision of fixed wireline, public mobile telephone, Internet and satellite services. Furthermore, the Telecommunications Authority has the authority to require a licensee to comply with the terms of its license and any applicable legislation or regulations or codes of practice, and to suspend or revoke licenses to enforce the Telecommunications Ordinance or other rules or regulations or codes of practice to protect the public interest.
     Prior to August 1, 2008 the operation of fixed and mobile services were regulated separately under four types of carrier license. Further, a number of other types of licenses permitted a licensee to establish facilities or services of a similar kind.
     However, in recognition of the convergence of fixed and mobile services enabling voice, data and multimedia applications to be provided over common core networks, delivered through a range of wireline and wireless customer access networks and which will be accessible from common end-user devices irrespective of whether the users are at fixed locations or on the move with the result that is becoming more difficult to classify a service as a “fixed” or “mobile”, amendment legislation has been passed to create a single UC License encompassing both fixed and mobile carrier services. The UC License regime came into operation on August 1, 2008. After that date the Telecommunications Authority

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will not issue any further fixed or mobile carrier licenses (save for a Mobile

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Carrier License which the Telecommunications Authority had already committed to grant to the successful bidder of the spectrum in the 850 MHz band to provide CDMA2000 service). Instead the UC License is the only carrier license to be issued for the provision of fixed, mobile and/or converged services. In the meantime, existing fixed and mobile licenses continue to be effective until their expiry date. License holders may convert existing fixed or mobile licenses into UC Licenses before their expiry on a voluntary basis or apply for UC Licenses upon the expiry of existing fixed or mobile licenses.
     General Licensing Requirements
     Generally, a licensee is required to be a company incorporated in Hong Kong (which can be wholly owned by a foreign company) or a foreign company registered in Hong Kong. Currently, there is no foreign ownership restriction on the holder of a telecommunications license under the current regulatory regime.
     Non-compliance with the Telecommunications Ordinance, any subsidiary legislation made pursuant to it, any of the license conditions or any direction issued by the Telecommunications Authority by a telecommunications licensee, could result in the revocation or suspension of the relevant license. The Telecommunications Ordinance contains a set of provisions setting forth the procedural steps which the Telecommunications Authority must adhere to prior to revoking or suspending any telecommunications licenses. In addition, the Chief Executive in Council has the authority, at the recommendation of the Telecommunications Authority, to revoke a telecommunications license at any time if it is in the public interest to do so.
     Public Non-Exclusive Telecommunications Services License
     A PNETS License is used by the Telecommunications Authority to cover the provision of a number of different telecommunications services where the service provider provides the service to the public using the network of a licensed carrier or by establishing or maintaining transmission facilities within the boundary of a building or property. In practice, the PNETS License is also used as a “sweep-up” license category, where a license is required by virtue of the Telecommunications Ordinance but none of the existing categories are applicable to the means of telecommunications or telecommunications service for which the license is required. With effect from November 30, 2009, the Telecommunications Authority no longer issue PNETS License to service-based providers using the network of a licensed carrier. As a replacement, all PNETS License will be gradually replaced by the modified Services-Based Operator License, i.e. Class 3 Services-Based Operator License. Holder of Class 1 & 2 Services-Based Operator License is allowed to provide Internet Protocol based telephony services making use of Hong Kong telephone numbers, while Class 3 Services-Based Operator is not allowed. Existing PNETS License will remain in force until their next anniversary date when they would be replaced by the Class 3 Services-Based Operator License.
     A Class 3 Services-Based Operator License has a validity period of 12 months and is renewable at the discretion of the Telecommunications Authority on an annual basis upon the payment of a prescribed annual fee, which is currently set at HK$750. Where radio communications apparatus is used, there is an additional variable component calculated by reference to the number of base stations and mobile stations involved.
     Since the expiry of PNETS License in December 2009, the Telecommunications Authority granted us a Class 3 Services-Based operator License. The Class 3 Services-Based Operator License presently gives us the right to provide calling card services, international simple resale services for facsimile and data services, virtual private network services and external telecommunications services over the external telecommunications facilities of other licensed external facilities providers, the scope of service under the Class 3 Services-Based operator License is similar to the PNETS License previously granted to us by the Telecommunications Authority. HKBN also holds a PNETS IVANS License, which was issued to us in December 1993. This PNETS IVANS License allows us to act as an Internet Service Provider.
     Under the terms of the Class 3 Services-Based Operator License, PNETS ETS and PNETS IVANS Licenses, we and IDD1600 Company Limited, or IDD1600, our wholly owned subsidiary, are required to comply with certain license conditions relating to technical and reporting matters.
     FTNS License
     A FTNS License authorizes the licensee, among other things:
- to provide a public fixed telecommunications network service, covering internal services or external services, or both; and
 
- to establish and maintain a fixed telecommunications network, which may be wireline-based or wireless-based (Wi-Fi spectrum included), or a combination of both.
     A FTNS License is valid for a period of 15 years and is renewable for a further period of not exceeding 15 years at the Telecommunications Authority’s discretion. The amount of license fee payable by a holder of a FTNS License comprises (i) a fixed annual amount of HK$1.0 million; (ii) a variable amount calculated on the basis of the number of customer connections (which is currently set at HK$700 for each 100 customer connections); and (iii) a variable fee calculated by reference to the radio spectrum assigned and used by the license holder.
     HKBN currently holds a FTNS License, which was issued to it in February 2000 initially for the operation of a local fixed wireless network. This FTNS License has been subsequently amended three times and presently, HKBN is authorized to operate both local fixed telecommunications networks (wireline and wireless based) and external telecommunications facilities.

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     Interconnection
     The Telecommunications Authority divides interconnection into two main types. The first type is “Type I Interconnection”, which is interconnection between network gateways, such as tandem exchanges, local exchanges or dedicated interconnection gateways, which allow end users on different networks to “communicate” with each other. The second type is “Type II Interconnection”, which is a connection to a fixed carrier’s network at points of the customer access network level (more often referred to as local access or local loop unbundling) allowing the end customer requesting the interconnection to use the customer

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access network of the fixed carrier to obtain FTNS. The Telecommunications Authority introduced the Type II interconnection policy in 1995 that the fixed carriers have obligation to provide Type II interconnection at regulated terms and conditions.
     On July 6, 2004 the Hong Kong Government announced that the mandatory Type II Interconnection policy applicable to telephone exchanges for individual buildings covered by such exchanges, would be gradually withdrawn on a building-by-building basis, applying to buildings already connected to at least two self-built customer access networks, such withdrawal to be fully implemented by a final sunset date of June 30, 2008. After that time, mandatory Type II Interconnection will be maintained only in buildings for which it is technically not feasible or economically not viable for an operator to roll out its customer access network.
     On July 3, 2008, the Telecommunications Authority issued a statement to confirm that the mandatory Type II Interconnection policy has been successfully withdrawn as from July 1, 2008 as well as to set out the issues to be followed up after its withdrawal. After this date, interconnection terms including charges will be determined by commercial negotiation between carriers.
     On April 27, 2009, the Telecommunications Authority issued a statement on “Carrier-to-Carrier Charging Principles (For Fixed Carrier Interconnections) providing guidance on carrier-to-carrier charging principles for fixed carrier interconnections that the Telecommunication Authority will rely on when making determination for interconnection between fixed telecommunications networks in Hong Kong.
     Competition provisions
     Regulation of anti-competitive conduct
     Although Hong Kong has never had a general competition code, historically, holders of FTNS Licenses are prohibited from engaging in anti-competitive conduct, abusing its dominant position in a telecommunications market, or engaging in any discriminatory conduct by certain competition-related license conditions contained in the FTNS Licenses issued by the Telecommunications Authority. In June 2000, the competition provisions of the Telecommunications Ordinance became operational and, as from that time, anti-competitive conduct was prohibited by legislation as well as under the relevant license conditions.
     The Telecommunications Ordinance provides an appeal mechanism by the establishment of a Telecommunications (Competition Provisions) Appeal Board. A person or a licensee aggrieved by a decision made by the Telecommunications Authority relating to the competition provisions may appeal to the Board. Additionally, a third party suffering loss or damage from breach of such competition provisions may bring an action for damages or seek other appropriate remedies against the offending licensee.
     Control on mergers and acquisitions
     If the Telecommunications Authority determines that the relevant merger and acquisition activity has, or is likely to have, the effect of preventing or substantially lessening competition in a telecommunications market, the Telecommunications Authority is empowered to direct a carrier licensee to take such actions, such as the complete or partial divestiture of the relevant parties’ interests in the merged entity, as the Telecommunications Authority considers necessary, to eliminate or avoid any anti-competitive effect. However, the Telecommunications Authority may not issue such a direction if it takes the view that the public benefit of the merger and acquisition outweighs any detriment caused by a reduction in competition. Any decision made or direction issued by the Telecommunications Authority under the merger and acquisition provision is subject to appeal to the Telecommunications (Competition Provisions) Appeal Board.
     The regulatory regime on mergers and acquisitions only applies to carrier licensees, which includes HKBN as a holder of a FTNS License, which is regarded as a carrier license for the purpose of the Telecommunications Ordinance.
     Consumer protection
     The Telecommunications Ordinance also contains a statutory provision that is primarily aimed at protecting consumers. This provision prohibits a licensee from engaging in any misleading or deceptive conduct.
     The Telecommunications Authority has taken an active role in enforcing this prohibition and has developed voluntary codes to assist in this respect. For instance, in November 2004,February 2010, the Telecommunications Authority issued a “Code of Practice for Communications Service Contracts” (the “Code”) which supersedes the “Code of Practice for the Service Contracts for the Provision of Public Telecommunications Services” whichissued in November 2004. The Code is a voluntary scheme intended to heighten customer satisfaction levels by improving the provisions used in communications customer contracts The Code sets out guidelines on, among other things, the preparationstyle, format and structure of service contracts.written contracts, the expiry of term contract, termination of contract etc. Besides, the Code requires that the contracts to provide a cooling-off period of not less than seven days during which the customers my cancel the contract without incurring any payment liability or any other obligation whatsoever. The code states that important terms of a service contract (e.g. a compensation clause for early termination by the customer) should be presented in a prominent place and should be highlighted in the contract. The codeCode is applicable to all providers of communications service which include the supply of telecommunications and ancillary services and customer equipment, as well as the supply of content services delivered through telecommunications. Service providers (except for mobile network operators which are subjectpledging compliance with the Code shall publish on their respective website their pledges to a separate code of practice) including holders of FTNS Licenses, suchthe Code and report about their compliance status

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on annual or bi-annual basis as HKBN, and holders of Class 3 Services-Based Operator License, PNETS ETS Licenses and IVANS Licenses, such as ourselves and IDD1600. Althoughthey may decide. In the guidelines are voluntary in nature,meantime, the Telecommunications Authority has indicated thatand providers of communications service are reviewing the extentCode, and the majority of a licensee’sproviders, including HKBN, is not pledging compliance with the guidelines will be taken into account in assessing if a licensee has complied with the statutory provision mentioned above.Code.
     Apart from the Telecommunications Ordinance, like any company carrying on business in Hong Kong, telecommunications operators are required to comply with applicable Hong Kong consumer protection laws, for example, the Sale of Goods Ordinance (Cap 26), Control of Exemption Ordinance (Cap 71), Supply of Services (Implied Terms) Ordinance (Cap 457), the Unconscionable Contracts Ordinance (Cap 458) , Personal Data (Privacy) Ordinance (Cap 486), and the Unsolicited Electronic Messages Ordinance (Cap 593).
     Regulation of pricing
     Currently, the pricing of both FTNS and public non-exclusive external telecommunications services in Hong Kong is regulated by license conditions. However, the regulatory frameworks of each type of services are different.
     All Services-Based Operator License and PNETS Licenses contain license conditions requiring the licensees to publish their tariffs and to charge no more than the published tariffs.
     Similarly, holders of FTNS Licenses are prohibited by license conditions from charging more than their published tariffs for their services. The FTNS License conditions prohibit licensees from offering discounts to their published tariffs and require the licensees to seek approval from the Telecommunications Authority in connection with (i) any revision of published tariffs, (ii) tariffs for any new services or products or (iii) tariffs for any trial services. However, the Telecommunications Authority may grant a

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waiver of the application of any or all of these restrictions in relation to a relevant telecommunications market if, in the opinion of the Telecommunications Authority, the licensee is not “dominant” in such market. This is known as an ex ante regime.
     HKBN has been granted a waiver from all the tariff revision prohibitions contained in its FTNS License and is able to provide discounts and revise its tariffs in all the FTNS markets.
     Universal service contribution and local access charge
     Under the current regulatory regime, PCCW-HKT has a universal service obligation to provide good, efficient and continuous basic telecommunications services at reasonable cost on a non-discriminatory basis to all persons in Hong Kong. To compensate PCCW-HKT for the expenses of this obligation, certain licensees are required to contribute to such cost, which is referred to as the universal service contribution.
     On June 8, 2007, the Telecommunications Authority issued a Statement entitled “Review of the Regulatory Framework for Universal Service Arrangement”, which announced the new universal service contribution arrangement for funding the cost of Universal Service Obligation. Commencing from May 1, 2009, the USC sharing arrangement based on external traffic volume has been migrated to that based on the number of all telephone numbers allocated which may be assigned to customer for voice services, non-voice services or both voice and non-voice services. Under the new arrangement, local fixed carrier license, local fixed telecommunications network service licensee, mobile carrier licensee, unified carrier licensee authorized to provide local fixed or mobile services, mobile virtual network operator licensee and services-based operator licensee authorized to provide Class 1 or 2 services are the USC contributing parties. In respect of the above, HKBN as a local fixed telecommunications network service licensee is classified as a USC contributing party and is required to pay USC under the new regime.
     The level of USC is determined by the Telecommunications Authority and is reviewed periodically based on actual cost and revenue and on a customer-by-customer basis. The average rate has declined over the past several years. In accordance with a statement dated April 8, 200927, 2010 issued by the Telecommunications Authority, the level for the period from July 1, 20072008 to JuneApril 30, 20082009 is confirmed to be zero cent per minute. The level ofminute and the Telecommunications Authority decided that USC contributing parties are not required to pay provisional USC from JulyMay 1, 2008 onwards to be determined by2009 onward until a further review of the Telecommunications Authority.USC.
     Additionally, providers of external telecommunications services, such as holders of Class 3 Services-Based Operator License and PNETS ETS Licenses, including ourselves and IDD1600, are required to pay a local access charge, or LAC, to the local network operators whose network facilities holders of PNETS ETS Licenses use to transmit calls to and from their customers’ sites. The level of the LAC is calculated on a per-minute basis and its arrangement is based on the statement dated November 25, 1998 issued by the Telecommunications Authority. Recently, based on the conclusion from the statement dated April 27, 2007 issued by the Telecommunications Authority, the Telecommunications Authority will not, for the time being, proceed with the complete deregulation of the LAC.
     Fixed mobile interconnection charge

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     In June 2007, the Telecommunications Authority determined the FMIC rates for HKBN, which is a Fixed Network Operator, with one of its Mobile Network Operators, China Resources Peoples Telephone Company Limited, or Peoples, at a rate of HK4.8 cents per occupancy minute for interconnection from April 1, 2002 to August 31, 2002, HK4.22 cents per occupancy minute for interconnection from September 1, 2002 to August 31, 2003 and HK2.89 cents per occupancy minute for interconnection from September 1, 2004 to August 31, 2004. In February 2008, HKBN requested Telecommunication Authority to make a new determination with four Mobile Network Operators on the rate of FMIC payable by these Mobile Network Operators for mobile interconnection service. In September 2008 the Telecommunications Authority indicated that it accepted HKBN’s request for determination. On May 28, 2010, the Telecommunications Authority issued its decision on the determination which set out the rates of mobile interconnection charges payable by the mobile operators under dispute. Based on this determination, the Group adjusted its revenue related to mobile interconnection charges and interest income during the year ended August 31, 2010. For details, please refer to note 2 (b) of our consolidated financial statements.
     Fixed Mobile Interconnection Charge, or FMIC, is an interconnection charge for circuit-switched traffic between a Fixed Network Operator and a Mobile Network Operator. The Telecommunications Authority has indicated in its statement published on April 27, 2007, that it will de-regulate the existing FMIC arrangement with effect from April 27, 2009. When this occurs the Fixed and Mobile Network Operators would have to adopt a more market driven approach in that parties are expected bilaterally to negotiate a commercially agreed FMIC without the Telecommunications Authority’s intervention.
     Since the deregulation of FMIC arrangement on April 27, 2009, HKBN reached agreements with some of the mobile operators on the settlement arrangements of FMIC. As of December 15, 2009,14, 2010, the discussion with remaining mobile operators on FMIC is still in progress.
          In June 2007, the Telecommunications Authority determined the FMIC rates for HKBN, which is a Fixed Network Operator, with one of its Mobile Network Operators, China Resources Peoples Telephone Company Limited, or Peoples, at a rate of HK4.8 cents per occupancy minute for interconnection from April 1, 2002 to August 31, 2002, HK4.22 cents per occupancy minute for interconnection from September 1, 2002 to August 31, 2003 and HK2.89 cents per occupancy minute for interconnection from September 1, 2004 to August 31, 2004. In February 2008, HKBN requested Telecommunication Authority to make a new determination with four Mobile Network Operators on the rate of FMIC payable by these Mobile Network Operators for mobile interconnection service In September 2008 the Telecommunications Authority indicated that it accepted HKBN’s request for determination. On November 25, 2009, the Telecommunications Authority sent its Preliminary Analysis to parties for response. As of December 15, 2009, the new determination is still in process.
     Television broadcasting industry
     At present, Hong Kong has two licensed domestic terrestrialfree television programme broadcasters, TVB and ATV, providing free-to-air broadcasting services. In addition, there are also three licensed domestic pay-TV broadcasters, namely Hong Kong Cable Television Limited, PCCW Media Limited and TVB Pay Vision Limited (formerly known as Galaxy Satellite Broadcasting Limited). HKBN provides TV services over the Internet under its FTNS License, while Star TV continues to provide its services through satellite means under its satellite television uplink and downlink license.
     Licensing
     It is unlawful to offer any “television programprogramme service” in Hong Kong without a license. “Television programprogramme service” is broadly defined to mean the provision of television programsprogrammes for transmission by telecommunications that are readily accessible to the general public in or outside Hong Kong or to persons in 2 or more specified premises simultaneously or on demand, whether on a

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point-to-point or a point-to-multipoint basis. The Broadcasting Ordinance exempts certain categories of television programprogramme services from the current licensing regime, including television programprogramme services provided on the service commonly known as the “Internet”. The Broadcasting Ordinance itself, however, does not contain a definition of “Internet”.
     The Secretary for Commerce, Industry and Technology has indicated that on the condition that HKBN continues to provide its service on the platform currently deployed by HKBN, the Government does not dispute that HKBN’s service is provided on the “Internet” and is thus exempt. On this basis, HKBN hasdoes not obtainedrequire to obtain a pay-television broadcasting license and provides IP-TV services under its FTNS License.
     Cross media ownership restrictions
     As with other television regulatory regimes, there are detailed cross-media ownership restrictions in the Broadcasting Ordinance. The restrictions are only applicable to domestic free and domestic pay television programprogramme service licenses.
     The Broadcasting Ordinance essentially provides that a company which is either a “disqualified person” or has a “disqualified person” exercising control over it will not be eligible to be granted a broadcasting license unless it discloses the disqualification in its license application. “Disqualified person” includes, for example, a company which is an existing domestic free or domestic pay television programprogramme licensee; an advertising agent; a sound broadcasting licensee; or a proprietor of newspaper printed or produced in Hong Kong.
     Generally, a disqualified person who has complied with the disclosure requirement may apply for a broadcasting license. The Broadcasting Ordinance provides that the Chief Executive in Council may grant a broadcasting license to a company, including a disqualified person or to a company which has a disqualified person exercising control, over it or to a disqualified person in which another disqualified person exercises control subject to such conditions as the Chief Executive in Council sees fit.
     Foreign ownership restrictions
     In addition to the cross-media ownership restrictions outlined above, the Broadcasting Ordinance also imposes restrictions on foreign ownership of a holder of a domestic free television programprogramme service license. The restrictions do not prohibit the ownership of any voting shares in a domestic free television programprogramme service licensee but rather take the form of prohibiting the exercise of any voting rights attached to such voting shares.
     Competition provisions
     The Broadcasting Ordinance also contains competition provisions, which are aimed at prohibiting a licensee from engaging in “anti-competitive conduct” and a licensee who is in a dominant position from abusing its position. “Anti-competitive conduct” is defined as conduct that has the purpose or effect of preventing, distorting or substantially restricting competition in a television programprogramme service market.
     The Broadcasting Ordinance provides that a breach of any of the competition statutory provisions may lead to the relevant contractual provisions in an agreement being regarded as void.
     Unlike the regulatory regime for the telecommunications industry, there is no equivalent of a specialized competition appeal board for the television broadcasting industry. A licensee aggrieved by a decision made by the Broadcasting Authority, however may lodge an appeal by way of petition to the Chief Executive in Council.

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     Program standards and advertising standards
     A broadcasting licensee is required to comply with the program standards and the advertising standards published by the Broadcasting Authority. The latest program standards and the advertising standards were both issued on December 12, 2008.

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D. Organizational structure
     The following chart sets forth our principal subsidiaries as of December 15, 2009:14, 2010:
(FLOW CHART)(ORGNIZATION CHART)
City Telecom (H.K.) Limited(1) (Hong Kong) CTI Guangzhou Customer Services Company Limited(2) (People’s Republic of China) Automedia Holdings Limited(3) (British Virgin Islands) City Telecom International Limited (British Virgin Islands) Hong Kong Broadband Network Limited(4) (Hong Kong) Credibility Holdings Limited (British Virgin Islands) IDD1600 Company Limited (Hong Kong) CTI Marketing Company Limited (Hong Kong) City Telecom (Canada) Inc. (Canada) 963673 Ontario Limited (Canada) City Telecom Inc. (Canada) City Telecom (B.C.) Inc. (Canada)
 
Notes:
 
(1) The other immediate subsidiaries of City Telecom (H.K.) Limited are SGBN Singapore Broadband Network Pte. Limited and Golden Trinity Holdings Limited. The immediate subsidiaries of Golden Trinity Holdings Limited are Warwick Gold Enterprises Limited and Attitude Holdings Limited.
 
(2) The Company has only registered its Chinese name. The English name is an unregistered translation.
 
(3) The other immediate subsidiaries of Automedia Holdings Limited are Global Courier Company Limited, CTI International Limited, BBTV Company Limited, City Telecom (U.S.A.) Inc., City Telecom (Vancouver) Inc. and City Telecom (Toronto) Inc.
 
(4) The immediate subsidiaries of Hong Kong Broadband Network Limited are Excel Billion Profits Limited, Hong Kong Television Network Limited, Hong Kong Broadband Television Company Limited, Hong Kong Broadband Phone Limited and Hong Kong Broadband Digital TV Limited.

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The jurisdiction of incorporation and our ownership percentage of each these subsidiaries as of December 15, 200914, 2010 were as follows:
           
    Percentage of interest 
    held by City Telecom 
  Jurisdiction of Direct  Indirect 
Name incorporation %  % 
963673 Ontario Limited Canada     100 
Attitude Holdings Limited British Virgin Islands     100 
Automedia Holdings Limited British Virgin Islands  100   
BBTV Company Limited Hong Kong     100 
City Telecom (B.C.) Inc. Canada     100 
City Telecom (Canada) Inc. Canada     100 
City Telecom (Toronto) Inc. Canada     100 
City Telecom (U.S.A.) Inc. United States of America     100 
City Telecom (Vancouver) Inc. Canada     100 
City Telecom Inc. Canada     100 
City Telecom International Limited British Virgin Islands  100   
Credibility Holdings Limited British Virgin Islands  100   
CTI Guangzhou Customer
Services Company LimitedCo. Ltd. (note)
 People’s Republic of China  100   
CTI International Limited Hong Kong     100 
CTI Marketing Company Limited Hong Kong     100 
Excel Billion Profits Limited Hong Kong     100 
Global Courier Company Limited Hong Kong     100 
Golden Trinity Holdings Limited British Virgin Islands  100   
Hong Kong Broadband Digital TV Limited Hong Kong     100 
Hong Kong Broadband Network Limited Hong Kong     100 
Hong Kong Broadband Phone Limited Hong Kong     100 
Hong Kong Broadband Television Company Limited Hong Kong     100 
Hong Kong Television Network Limited Hong Kong     100 
IDD1600 Company Limited Hong Kong     100 
SGBN Singapore Broadband Network Pte. Limited Singapore  100   
Warwick Gold Enterprises Limited Hong Kong     100 
 
Note: The Company has only registered its Chinese name. The English name is an unregistered translation.
Note: The Company has only registered its Chinese name. The English name is an unregistered translation.

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E. Property, plant and equipment
     For the provision of fixed telecommunication network services, we own, or control through long-term leases, equipment consisting of switching, transmission and power equipment and connecting lines comprised of in-building wiring, fiber-based backbone, wireless and leased wire-line backbone and other support structures, conduits and similar items that comprise our Next Generation Network. The majority of the fiber-based backbone connecting our services are under public road, highways and streets. In Hong Kong, we owned an aggregate of 160,300161,000 square feet predominately for self use as of August 31, 2009.2010.
     For the provision of international telecommunications services, we own three switching systems in Hong Kong and two in Canada (one in Vancouver and the other in Toronto). We have invested and have rights to dedicated capacity in two undersea cables, the Japan-U.S. cable and the APCN 2 cable, for use as international transmission facilities, both of which were completed and have been operational since May 2002.
     In addition, we have leased properties in Hong Kong for 1420 retail shops and for a 3,500 square feet customer service center in Mongkok, Kowloon, Hong Kong.
     We rely on suppliers to provide equipment, underground cables and other necessary components for the construction and upgrade of our Next Generation Network, and for our VoIP equipment. In order for new subscribers to be able to access our IP-TV services, we must install an

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IP set-top-box in their homes. We must have an adequate supply of such installation equipment on hand to respond to new customer subscriptions in a timely manner. We purchase all of our IP set-top boxes and other equipment from our suppliers on a purchase order basis and have no long-term contracts. If our suppliers are unable to supply us with these products in a timely manner or the costs of these products increase due to unforeseen causes, this could negatively impact our operating results, especially if we are unable to acquire new subscribers or effectively appropriate our costs on to our customers.
Item 5 Operating and financial review and prospects
     You should read the following discussion together with the rest of this annual report, including the consolidated financial statements and related notes included elsewhere in this annual report. The results discussed below are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected in any future periods. Since these are our first consolidated financial statements prepared in accordance with IFRSs, pursuant to the transitional relief granted by the SEC in respect of the first-time application of IFRSs, the following is limited to a discussion of our financial condition and results of operations for the years ended August 31, 2009 and 2008, and no comparative information for the year ended August 31, 2007 have been included. For further details, please see “Special Note on Our Financial Information Presented in This Annual Report” above.
Overview
     We are a provider of residential and corporate fixed telecommunications network services in Hong Kong. We offer our customers an integrated suite of broadband Internet access, local VoIP, IP-TV and corporate data services through our self-owned Next Generation Network. Our network covered 1.61.77 million residential homes pass as of August 31, 2009,2010, representing approximately 70%80% of the populationtotal households in Hong Kong, and is concentrated in Hong Kong’s most densely populated areas, which reduces our cost of network deployment per home pass. As of August 31, 2009,2010, our FTNS business had a subscription base of approximately 943,0001,110,000 subscriptions. In addition, we offer a variety of international telecommunications services, including direct dial services, international calling cards and mobile call forwarding services, in Hong Kong. As of August 31, 2009,2010, our IDD business had a subscription base of approximately 2.4 million registered accounts.
A. Factors affecting our results of operations
Our revenues
     Our revenues are derived from two business segments: our FTNS business and our IDD business. Our FTNS business primarily consists of broadband Internet access, local VoIP, IP-TV and corporate data services, while our IDD business primarily consists of direct dial services, international calling cards and mobile call forwarding services.
FTNS business.Revenues from our FTNS business primarily consist of monthly service charges payable by our subscribers and interconnection charges payable by other telecommunications operators.
 - Monthly service charges.We charge our subscribers a monthly service charge, which generally varies by the number and nature of the fixed telecommunications network services subscribed. Our strategy is to market additional services to our subscribers by leveraging our broadband Internet access subscription base of 391,000526,000 as of August 31, 20092010 and the scalability of our Next Generation Network.
 
 - Interconnection charges.We offer fixed telecommunications network services through our self-owned Next Generation Network. Under the terms of HKBN’s fixed telecommunications network services license, we are required to provide interconnection services to other network operators, including mobile network operators. Because certain local mobile network operators disagreed with the level of interconnection charges computed by us, certain amount of these charges had not been collected as of August 31, 2009.
IDD business.Substantially all of revenues from our IDD business consists of tariffs, which generally varies by the destination of the call and the calling prefix, with discounts depending on the time of the day or day of the week when the call is placed.

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Our operating expenses
     Our operating expenses consist of network costs and other operating expenses.
  Network costs.Network costs vary according to either our network capacity or our traffic volume. Such costs mainly include leased line rentals, program fees and production costs for our IP-TV services and interconnection charges payable to other local fixed network operators and international bandwidth providers. Network costs do not include depreciation charge, which is included in other operating expenses.
 
  Other operating expenses.Other operating expenses mainly consist of staffTalent costs, advertising and marketing expenses, depreciation of owned fixed assets.
 - StaffTalent costs. Salaries and related costs incurred for services rendered by employees. Talents.
 
 - Advertising and marketing expenses.Due to our efforts in promoting our FTNS services, our advertising and marketing expenses incurred in connection with subscription acquisition activities have been relatively high. We expect that we will be required to continue to invest significant financial and human resources in our sales and marketing efforts as we strive to build our subscription base and to enhance our brand value.

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 - Depreciation.Depreciation is calculated to write off the cost of fixed assets less their estimated residual value, if any, using straight line method over their estimated useful lives. We expect that we will continue to invest in our Next Generation Network to expand our network coverage. In addition, any technological advancement or obsolescence might affect the estimated useful lives of our fixed assets.
Critical accounting policies
     The following discussion and analysis is based on our consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with IFRSs for the fiscal years ended August 31, 2008, 2009 and 2009.2010. Our significant accounting policies are more fully described in note 1 to our consolidated financial statements.
     The preparation of our consolidated financial statements in conformity with IFRSs requires management to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. We continually evaluate our estimates and judgments including those related to fixed assets, provision for doubtful accounts, deferred taxes, USC charges and certain revenue items. We base our estimates and judgments on historical experience and on various other factors we believe to be reasonable under the circumstances. This forms the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from these estimates as facts, circumstances and conditions change. The estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Changes to accounting estimates are recognized in the period in which the estimate is changed if the change affects only that period or in the period of the change and future periods if the change affects both current and future periods.
     Our accounting policies have been developed over many years as the telecommunications industry and generally accepted accounting principles have evolved. As our financial statements are prepared under IFRSs, our accounting policies are necessarily compliant with all aspects of IFRSs. IFRSs are based on a “substance over form” conceptual framework that requires us to look through the legal interpretation of an arrangement or transaction to its underlying purpose and to reflect it in our consolidated financial statements on that basis.
     The following are the most significant accounting estimates and judgments we apply in producing our consolidated financial statements.
Revenue recognition
     Revenue for the provision of telecommunications services is recognized when an arrangement exists, service is rendered, fee is fixed or determinable and collectability is probable. Revenue received in advance is deferred and recognized as revenue on a straight-line basis over the stated period of time in the subscriber agreement.
     A portion of revenue from our FTNS business is derived from network interconnection charges. Network interconnection charges are recorded as revenue based on usage of our fixed telecommunications network by mobile and other fixed telecommunications network operators. The determination of the rates on mobile interconnection charges at which revenue is recognized involved significant estimates by management. Significant changes in management estimates may result in material revenue adjustments.
     Prior to April 27, 2009, mobile network operators were obliged to pay interconnection charges to us in accordance with the charging principles promulgated by the Telecommunications Authority. Because certain local mobile network operators disagreed with the level of charges computed by us, certain amount of the mobile interconnection charges billed by us had not been collected as of August 31, 2009.December 14, 2010. We recognize revenue related to mobile interconnection charges at amounts we believe to be realizable after consideration of the uncertainty regarding the timing and amount of the ultimate collection of amounts due. Specifically:

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  The amount recognized for fiscal 2004 and before was determined using the available rates under the then-existing calculation model (fully distributed cost model) for interconnection service between fixed and mobile operators, which are based on historical cost data of PCCW-HKT Telephone Limited. In May 2004, the Telecommunications Authority confirmed that mobile network operators are obliged to pay interconnection charges to us in accordance with the charging principles promulgated by the Telecommunications Authority. A number of mobile network operators, however, disputed the basis of our calculation. In August 2004, we requested the Telecommunications Authority to make a determination (the “2004 Determination”) on the level of mobile interconnection charges payable by one of the mobile network operators to us and the effective date of the determined mobile interconnection charges.
 
  The amount recognized in fiscal 2005 reflected a discount from the amounts billed which was determined based on our assessment of the range of likely outcomes of the 2004 Determination. In November 2005, we entered into contractual agreements with one of the mobile network operators who agreed to pay interim mobile interconnection charges at a rate based on PCCW-HKT’s published fully distributed cost model of HK$0.0436 per occupancy minute until the Telecommunications Authority issued its final ruling.
 
  The amount recognized in fiscal 2006 was based on the preliminary rates published by the Telecommunications Authority in March 2006 as we awaited a final ruling by the Telecommunications Authority on the 2004 Determination.

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  The amount recognized in fiscal 2007 was based on the 2004 Determination issued by the Telecommunications Authority in June 2007, which set out the rates of mobile interconnection charge payable by the mobile operator under dispute for interconnection services provided by us for the period from April 1, 2002 to August 31, 2004.
 
  The amount recognized in fiscal 2008 was based also on the 2004 Determination issued by the Telecommunications Authority in June 2007. In February 2008, we requested the Telecommunications Authority to make a new determination with four mobile operators on the rates of mobile interconnection charge and interest thereon. We subsequently entered into contractual agreements with some of these mobile operators, which agreed to pay mobile interconnection charges based on the 2004 Determination for the period from April 1, 2002 to August 31, 2004 and with respect to the period after August 31, 2004 at the interim rates stated in the agreements, which will be adjusted based on further determination to be issued by the Telecommunications Authority.
 
  The amount recognized in fiscal 2009 and before was based also on the 2004 Determination issued by the Telecommunications Authority in June 2007.2007 which set out the rates of mobile interconnection charge payable by the mobile operators under dispute for interconnection services provided by us for the period from April 1, 2002 to August 31, 2004. In September 2008, the Telecommunications Authority indicated that it accepted our request for determination on the rate of mobile interconnection charge for the period from April 1, 2002 to April 26, 2009 payable by the mobile operators that have not reached contractual agreements with us, and the rate for period from September 1, 2004 to April 26, 2009 payable by those mobile operators that have reached contractual agreements with us and the interest thereon (the “2008 Determination”). On November 25, 2009, the Telecommunications Authority issued a Preliminary Analysis in relation to the 2008 Determination. As of December 15, 2009,Determination for the parties’ comments.
In May 2010, the Telecommunications Authority issued its decision on the 2008 Determination, is stillwhich set out the rates of mobile interconnection charges payable by the mobile operators involved in process.the dispute. Based on such decision on the 2008 Determination, we reversed approximately HK$19.7 million revenue related to mobile interconnection charges and recognized approximately HK$10.1 million interest income in fiscal 2010.
     For a discussion of our revenue recognition of mobile interconnection charges, please refer to note 2(c)2(b) to our consolidated financial statements. Actual amounts realized could be different from our estimate.
Useful lives of fixed assets
     We estimate the useful lives of fixed assets in order to determine the amount of depreciation expense to be recorded. The useful life of an asset is estimated at the time the asset is acquired based on historical experience, the expected usage, wear and tear of the asset, as well as technical obsolescence arising from changes in the market demands or service output of the asset. Changes in technology or industry conditions may cause the estimated period of use or the value of these assets to change. We perform periodic reviews to confirm the appropriateness of estimated economic useful lives for each class of fixed assets. For the twothree years ended August 31, 2009,2010, there were no changes in assetsthe useful lives have been recorded.of our fixed assets.

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Impairment of fixed assets
     Under IFRSs, if a triggering event occurs indicating that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable, a new assessment of the carrying amount of that asset is required. Triggering events include significant adverse changes in the market value of an asset, changes in the business or regulatory environment, or certain legal events. The interpretation of such events requires judgment from the management with respect to whether such an event has occurred and whether management feels that reassessment of the carrying value of the asset is required. If an event occurs that could affect the carrying value of the asset and management does not identify it as a triggering event and identify the asset as impaired, future operations could be adversely affected if this asset is subsequently written off or sold for less than its carrying value due to sudden downturns in the business environment.
     Upon the occurrence of triggering events, the carrying amounts of fixed assets are reviewed to assess whether their recoverable amounts have declined below their carrying amounts. Under IFRSs, the recoverable amount is the presentgreater of its net selling price and value ofin use. In assessing value in use, the estimated net future cash flows which we expectare discounted to recover fromtheir present value using a pre-tax discount rate that reflects current market assessments of time value of money and the future use ofrisks specific to the assets. Where the asset plusdoes not generate cash inflows largely independent of those from other assets, the asset’s residual value on disposal, discounted atrecoverable amount is determined for the financial asset’s original effective interest rate.smallest group of assets that generates cash inflows independently (i.e. cash-generating-unit). Where the recoverable amount of fixed and other long-lived assets is less than their carrying value, an impairment loss is recognized to write down the assets to their recoverable amount, which is based on the fair value less costs to sell or discounted estimated cash flows.value in use.

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     Estimation of cash flows arising from future use of the asset requires careful analysis regarding what we expect to recover from its future use. This includes consideration of our target market share and subscription base, market competition, future changes to our cost structure and technological change. In addition, the residual value of the asset on disposal requires judgment, as the estimated fair value of the asset at the time of disposal could change in response to market conditions and changes in expected use of the asset prior to disposal. Changes in the estimate of cash flows arising from expected future use of the asset or its residual value on disposal — based on changes in market conditions, changes in the use of assets, management plan, foreseeable technological changes or otherwise — could significantly change the calculation of the fair value or recoverable amount of the asset and the resulting impairment loss. This in turn could significantly affect the results of our operations.
     For the twothree years ended August 31, 2009,2010, no impairment fixed assets have been recognized.
Accounts receivable
     Under IFRSs, provision is made against accounts receivable to the extent they are considered to be doubtful. This provision requires judgment regarding the collectability of certain receivables both as they are incurred and as they age. We assess bad debt provision by type of customers, namely residential, corporate and carrier, based on past experience of recovery of old receivables, the aging of the accounts receivable balance and historical write-off experience. Certain receivables may be initially identified as collectible, yet subsequently become uncollectible and result in a subsequent write-off of the related receivable to the consolidated statement of operations. Changes in the collectability of accounts receivable for which provisions are not made could affect our future results of operations.
     Included in the accounts receivable balance (net of allowance for doubtful debts) were receivables for mobile interconnection charges of HK$71.964.4 million, HK$68.8 million and HK$68.839.8 million as of August 31, 2008, 2009 and 20092010, respectively. The balance represented mobile interconnection charges we billed to the local mobile network operators, and some of these charges had not been collected.
     Changes in the allowance for doubtful debts consist of:
                    
 For the year ended August 31,  For the year ended August 31, 
 2008 2009  2008 2009 2010 
 HK$ HK$  HK$ HK$ HK$ 
 (Amounts in thousands)  (Amounts in thousands) 
Balance at beginning of the year 22,392 11,944  22,392 11,944 3,160 
Additions charged to expense 14,293 12,103  14,293 12,103 14,742 
Write-off  (24,741)  (20,887)  (24,741)  (20,887)  (12,079)
            
  
Balance at the end of the year 11,944 3,160  11,944 3,160 5,823 
            
Deferred taxation
     We recognized deferred tax assets for all deductible temporary differences and operating loss carry forwards to the extent it is probable that future taxable profits will be available against which the asset can be utilized. In assessing whether a deferred tax asset is expected to be utilized in the foreseeable future, our management considers all available evidence, including projected future taxable profit by taking into consideration of the effect of our capital expenditures and other plans, such as the existing network capacity, technological changes, future market trends and projected fixed network coverage.

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     The recognition of deferred tax assets requires judgment regarding the results of future operations, including the assumption that there will be sufficient future operations to allow us to utilize the related deferred tax asset. Our management projects future taxable income by considering all available information, including tax planning strategies, historical taxable incomes, and the expiration period of the unused tax losses carry forwards of each of the Company and its subsidiaries. During the year ended August 31, 2008, taking into consideration of the current results of operations, our management assessed that it was probable that sufficient future taxable profits would be generated to utilize the unused tax losses of HK$159.6 million, which resulted in the recognition of deferred tax assets of HK$26.3 million. As at August 31, 2008, 2009 and 2009,2010, we had not recognized deferred tax assets in respect of unused tax losses of HK$9.5 million, HK$8.2 million and HK$9.58.2 million respectively, because it was not probable that future taxable profits could be generated to utilize the tax losses. All tax losses are subject to agreement with local tax authorities. Any changes in the estimate of future operations could change the recognition of our deferred tax assets, which could significantly affect our results of operations.
USC charges
     Our management makes their best estimates for the universal service contribution charges, or USC, payable to PCCW-HKT in order to fund the network development costs incurred by PCCW-HKT in remote areas in Hong Kong. Such estimated costs are included as part of our costs of rendering services. The estimate is made based on the provisional rates announced by the Telecommunications Authority and is effective up to the date of the release of our consolidated financial statements. The Telecommunications Authority periodically reviews the actual costs incurred by PCCW-HKT in the development and adjusts the amounts owed to PCCW-HKT, or to be refunded by it, to the respective USC contributing parties, including us. Accordingly, the estimate made by our management for a financial year is subject to changes based on the

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revisions published by the Telecommunications Authority up to the date prior to the release of our consolidated financial statements. We adjust such differences as an addition to, or reduction of, the corresponding costs of services in that particular reporting period.
     Any sum received in advance from PCCW-HKT as an estimated refund of USC on a provisional basis, which is subject to the final confirmation and determination of the Telecommunications Authority, is recorded in other payables and accrued charges in our balance sheet.
Operating Results
     The following table sets forth, for the years indicated, a summary of our results of operations.
                            
 For the year ended August 31,  For the year ended August 31, 
 2008 2009 2009  2008 2009 2010 2010 
 HK$ HK$ US$  HK$ HK$ HK$ US$ 
 (Amounts in thousands)  (Amounts in thousands) 
Revenue  
FTNS business 1,011,038 1,230,880 158,813  1,011,038 1,230,880 1,356,098 174,348 
IDD business 291,943 247,359 31,915  291,943 247,359 218,589 28,103 
                
  
 1,302,981 1,478,239 190,728  1,302,981 1,478,239 1,574,687 202,451 
                
  
Network costs  (178,367)  (175,129)  (22,596)  (178,367)  (175,129)  (195,292)  (25,108)
  
Other operating expenses  (966,094)  (1,037,964)  (133,922)  (966,094)  (1,037,964)  (1,105,604)  (142,143)
  
Other revenues 24,989 41,540 5,359 
Other income, net 24,989 41,540 7,989 1,028 
  
Finance costs  (75,137)  (55,127)  (7,112)  (75,137)  (55,127)  (22,235)  (2,859)
 
                
  
Profit before taxation 108,372 251,559 32,457  108,372 251,559 259,545 33,369 
Income taxes benefit/(expense) 16,818  (38,730)  (4,997) 16,818  (38,730)  (42,679)  (5,487)
                
  
Net income 125,190 212,829 27,460  125,190 212,829 216,866 27,882 
                
Fiscal 2010 Compared to Fiscal 2009
Revenues.Revenues increased by 6.5% to HK$1,574.7 million in fiscal 2010 from HK$1,478.2 million in fiscal 2009, reflecting an increase in revenue from our FTNS business, the effects of which were partially offset by a decrease in revenue from our IDD business and the change in the regulatory regime of mobile interconnection charges summarized below. Revenue contribution from our FTNS business increased to 86.1% in fiscal 2010 from 83.3% in fiscal 2009.
FTNS business.Revenues from our FTNS business increased by 10.2% to HK$1,356.1 million in fiscal 2010 from HK$1,230.9 million in fiscal 2009. The increase was primarily caused by an increase of 17.7% of our FTNS subscription base to 1,110,000 as of August 31, 2010 from 943,000 as of August 31, 2009.
Broadband Internet access.The subscription base for our Internet access services increased by 34.5%, to 526,000 as of August 31, 2010 from 391,000 as of August 31, 2009. During fiscal 2010, we are able to have a record growth of 135,000 net additions through our “Member-Get-Member” marketing campaigns which reduced the price of our symmetric 100Mbps broadband services by half to HK$99 per month if a customer introduces a new customer at HK$99 per month. Such marketing campaigns essentially allowed us to increase our revenues by converting one subscriber at HK$182 per month to two subscribers at a minimum rate of HK$99 per month.
Local VoIP.The subscription base for our local VoIP services increased by 12.8%, to 431,000 as of August 31, 2010 from 382,000 as of August 31, 2009, mainly due to improved branding that allowed us to increase sales of our VoIP services to subscribers of our Internet access services.
IP-TV.The subscription base for our IP-TV services decreased by 10.0% to 153,000 subscriptions as of August 31, 2010 from 170,000 as of August 31, 2009 because we proactively churned off free or low paying IP-TV subscribers and redeployed the set-top-boxes to higher yielding customers. We continued to enhance our channel variety so as to increase the content value to our customers. We currently offer more than 110 channels to our customers.

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As a result of the Telecommunications Authority’s decision on the 2008 Determination in May 2010 as stated above, revenue of HK$19.7 million related to mobile interconnection charges was reversed in fiscal 2010. In addition, prior to April 26, 2009, the mobile network operators were required to pay interconnection charges for all calls originating to and from the mobile users. After April 26, 2009, the chargeability of interconnection charges is subject to commercial negotiation. With the withdrawal of regulatory guidance on FMIC in favor of mobile network operators on April 27, 2009, only an insignificant amount of revenue related to mobile interconnection charges was recognized.
IDD business.Revenues from our IDD business decreased by 11.6% to HK$218.6 million in fiscal 2010 from HK$247.4 million in fiscal 2009. The decrease was primarily due to the reduction in IDD traffic volume and the decrease in the tariff rate we charged to our customers. Competition during fiscal 2010 intensified as some of our competitors offered international direct dial minutes for free or at significantly lower rates as a marketing incentive to gain local fixed line and mobile market shares. Further, technology from global VoIP providers such as Skype, which offer free PC-to-PC based international calls, was becoming more prevalent.
Network costs.Network costs increased by 11.5% to HK$195.3 million in fiscal 2010 from HK$175.1 million in fiscal 2009 mainly due to the increase in the cost of purchasing international bandwidth as a result of the combined effect of the record growth in broadband subscription and the increasing demand of bandwidth from customers as well as the increase in program fees for IP-TV services to enhance the value of content to customers.
Other operating expenses.Other operating expenses increased by 6.5% to HK$1,105.6 million in fiscal 2010 from HK$1,038.0 million in fiscal 2009 mainly due to the following:
     Set forth below is a table summarizing the details of our other operating expenses in fiscal 2009 and 2010:
             
  For the year ended August 31, 
  2009  2010  2010 
  HK$  HK$  US$ 
  (Amounts in thousands) 
Talent costs  (302,279)  (301,760)  (38,796)
Advertising and marketing expenses  (299,794)  (372,727)  (47,920)
Depreciation  (206,241)  (199,029)  (25,588)
Others  (229,650)  (232,088)  (29,839)
          
             
Other operating expenses  (1,037,964)  (1,105,604)  (142,143)
          
             
Talent costs.Talent costs decreased by 0.2% to HK$301.8 million in fiscal 2010 from HK$302.3 million in fiscal 2009.
Advertising and marketing expenses.Advertising and marketing expenses increased by 24.3% to HK$372.7 million in fiscal 2010 from HK$299.8 million in fiscal 2009. Our salaries and commissions for our sales and marketing Talents increased by HK$28.5 million due to our growth in broadband subscription base. Moreover, our marketing campaigns resulted in an increase in mass media advertising costs of HK$21.6 million and other advertising costs of HK$14.9 million. In addition, the expansion of our sales channels through opening new shops resulted in an increase of advertising and marketing related expenses of HK$7.9 million.
Depreciation.Depreciation decreased by 3.5% to HK$199.0 million in fiscal 2010 from HK$206.2 million in fiscal 2009. Notwithstanding our purchase of additional fixed assets for our network infrastructure as we increased the scale of operations in our FTNS business, a portion of our owned fixed assets were fully depreciated. As a result, we incurred lower depreciation expenses.
Other income, net.Other income, net decreased to HK$8.0 million in fiscal 2010 from HK$41.5 million in fiscal 2009. The decrease was mainly contributed by the loss on extinguishment of our 10-year senior notes of HK$9.7 million in fiscal 2010 compared to the gain on extinguishment of our 10-year senior notes of HK$31.4 million in fiscal 2009. The effect of which was partially offset by an increase in interest income of HK$10.1 million recognized in relation to mobile interconnection charges in fiscal 2010.
Finance costs.Finance costs decreased by 59.7% to HK$22.2 million in fiscal 2010 from HK$55.1 million in fiscal 2009. The decrease was mainly due to finance cost savings through repurchase and redemption of our 10-year senior notes and interest bearing bank borrowings at

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a lower interest rate. The effect of which was partially offset by the change in fair value of derivative financial instrument that we did not have in fiscal 2009.
Income tax benefit/(expense).We recorded an income tax expense of HK$42.7 million, which included a non-cash deferred tax expenses of HK$40.1 million in fiscal 2010, compared to an income tax expense of HK$38.7 million in fiscal 2009, which included a non-cash deferred tax expenses of HK$37.1 million.
Net income.For the foregoing reasons, net income increased to HK$216.9 million in fiscal 2010 from HK$212.8 million in fiscal 2009. Net margin decreased to 13.8% in fiscal 2010 from 14.4% in fiscal 2009. The slight decrease in net margin was primarily due to a higher cost in acquiring new customers.
Fiscal 2009 Compared to Fiscal 2008
     Revenues.Revenues increased by 13.4% to HK$1,478.2 million in fiscal 2009 from HK$1,303.0 million in fiscal 2008, reflecting an increase in revenue from our FTNS business, the effects of which were partially offset by a decrease in revenue from our IDD business. Revenue contribution from our FTNS business increased to 83.3% in fiscal 2009 from 77.6% in fiscal 2008.
  FTNS business.Revenues from our FTNS business increased by 21.8% to HK$1,230.9 million in fiscal 2009 from HK$1,011.0 million in fiscal 2008. The increase was primarily caused by an increase of 17.7% of our FTNS subscription base to 943,000 as of August 31, 2009 from 801,000 as of August 31, 2008 and, to a lesser extent, an increase in the average revenue per user for our Internet access services. We believe that there was growing market acceptance of premium pricing in fiscal 2009.
 o Broadband Internet access.The subscription base for our Internet access services increased by 23.7%, to 391,000 as of August 31, 2009 from 316,000 as of August 31, 2008. During fiscal 2009, partly as a result of our success in differentiating our services by emphasizing our ultra high Internet access speed, we were able to acquire and retain customers who are willing to enter into subscription contracts with a long service period. Revenues from our Internet access services increased as a result.
 
 o Local VoIP.The subscription base for our local VoIP services rose by 16.1%, to 382,000 as of August 31, 2009 from 329,000 as of August 31, 2008, mainly due to improved branding and our greater success in cross selling our VoIP services to subscribers of our Internet access services.
 
 o IP-TV.The subscription base for our IP-TV services increased by 9.0% to 170,000 subscriptions, with the majority of the new subscriptions coming from existing subscribers of our Internet access and local VoIP services.
   Also as included in revenue from our FTNS business were mobile interconnection charges of HK$20.6 million in fiscal 2009. The mobile interconnection charges in fiscal 2009 decreased by 30.5% compared to fiscal 2008 due to the withdrawal of regulatory guidance on FMIC in favor of Mobile Party’s Network Pay on April 26, 2009. Prior to April 26, 2009, the mobile network operators were required to pay interconnection charges for all calls originating to and from the mobile users. After April 26, 2009, the chargeability of interconnection charges is subject to commercial negotiation.
  IDD business.Revenues from our IDD business decreased by 15.3% to HK$247.4 million in fiscal 2009 from HK$292.0 million in fiscal 2008. The decrease was primarily due to the reduction in IDD traffic volume. Competition during the fiscal year was intense as some of our integrated competitors offered international direct dial minutes for free or at very low cost as a marketing incentive to gain local fixed line and mobile market shares. Further, technology from global VoIP providers such as Skype, which offer free PC-to-PC based international calls, was also becoming more prevalent.
     Network costs.Network costs decreased by 1.8% to HK$175.1 million in fiscal 2009 from HK$178.4 million in fiscal 2008 mainly due to a reduction in carrier costs as IDD traffic decreased. The effects of the foregoing, however, were partially offset by the recovery of HK$7.6 million universal services contribution charges from PCCW-HK in fiscal 2008 pursuant to the TA Statement issued by the Telecommunications Authority on December 28, 2007. No similar recovery was recorded in fiscal 2009.
     Other operating expenses.Other operating expenses increased by 7.4% to HK$1,038.0 million in fiscal 2009 from HK$966.1 million in fiscal 2008 mainly due to the following:

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     Set forth below is a table summarizing the details of our other operating expenses in fiscal 2008 and 2009:
                        
 For the year ended August 31,  For the year ended August 31, 
 2008 2009 2009  2008 2009 2009 
 HK$ HK$ US$  HK$ HK$ US$ 
 (Amounts in thousands)  (Amounts in thousands) 
Staff costs  (247,460)  (302,279)  (39,001)
Talent costs  (247,460)  (302,279)  (39,001)
Advertising and marketing expenses  (307,743)  (299,794)  (38,681)  (307,743)  (299,794)  (38,681)
Depreciation  (210,051)  (206,241)  (26,610)  (210,051)  (206,241)  (26,610)
Others  (200,840)  (229,650)  (29,630)  (200,840)  (229,650)  (29,630)
              
  
Other operating expenses  (966,094)  (1,037,964)  (133,922)  (966,094)  (1,037,964)  (133,922)
              
  StaffTalent costs.StaffTalent costs increased by 22.1% to HK$302.3 million in fiscal 2009 from HK$247.5 million in fiscal 2008. We increased our total work force by 4.0% to 3,173 employeesTalents as of August 31, 2009 from 3,051 employeesTalents as of August 31, 2008, primarily due to the increased scale of operations in our FTNS business and the increasing scope in investing and developing our talentsTalents through staffTalents education partnership and talentTalent infinity program.
 
  Advertising and marketing expenses.Advertising and marketing expenses decreased by 2.6% to HK$299.8 million in fiscal 2009 from HK$307.7 million in fiscal 2008. Our salaries and commissions for our sales and marketing

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employees Talents were increased by HK$19.5 million due to increasesan increase in total contract sum fromdue to substantial growth in subscription base. Moreover, our opening of moreadditional new shops caused shop related operating costs increasedto increase by HK$11.4 million. The effects of the foregoing, however, were partially offset by a decrease in mass media advertising costs of HK$34.4 million.
 
  Depreciation.Depreciation decreased by 1.9% to HK$206.2 million in fiscal 2009. Notwithstanding our purchase of additional fixed assets for our network infrastructure as we increased the scale of operations in our FTNS business, a portion of our owned fixed assets were fully depreciated and a lower depreciation expenses was incurred as a result.
     Other revenues.income, net.Other revenuesincome, net increased to HK$41.5 million in fiscal 2009 from HK$25.0 million in fiscal 2008. The increase was mainly contributed by the gain on extinguishment of our 10-year senior notes of HK$31.4 million, the effects of which were partially offset by a decrease in interest income from HK$15.6 million in fiscal 2008 to HK$4.8 million in fiscal 2009 as a result of the decrease in our average cash balance in fiscal 2009 mainly due to senior notes buyback actions.
     Finance costs.Finance costs decreased by 26.6% to HK$55.1 million in fiscal 2009 from HK$75.1 million in fiscal 2008 as a result of the redemption and cancellation of an aggregate principal amount of US$68.0 million of our 10-year senior notes from the market in fiscal 2009.
     Income tax benefit/(expense).We recorded an income tax expense of HK$38.8 million in fiscal 2009, compared to an income tax benefit of HK$16.8 million in fiscal 2008. Included in the income tax benefit in fiscal 2008 was a tax credit of HK$26.3 million related to the deferred tax assets recognized in respect of the tax loss carryforwards of our major operating subsidiary as at August 31, 2008. Based on the results of operations of our major operating subsidiary in recent years and our forecast for future years, we concluded it was probable that the subsidiary would generate sufficient taxable income to utilize the tax loss carryforwards. If such effect was excluded, the income tax expenses increase by HK$29.3 million, which was primarily caused by the increase of our income before taxation.
     Net income.For the foregoing reasons, net income increased to HK$212.8 million in fiscal 2009 from HK$125.2 million in fiscal 2008. Net margin increased to 14.4% in fiscal 2009 from 9.6% in fiscal 2008. The increase in net margin was primarily due to higher revenue contribution from our FTNS business and the better margin achieved in our IDD business as a result of the phasing out of lower margin customers.
Recent accounting pronouncements
     Recent issued and adopted accounting pronouncements under IFRSs have been included in note 3132 to our consolidated financial statements.
B. Liquidity and capital resources
     We expect cash flow from operating activities to continue to be our principal source of liquidity. As of August 31, 2009,2010, we had cash and bank balance of HK$221.1 million and pledged bank deposits of HK$15.0588.7 million. Our day-to-day operations are also supported by HK$205.0353.8 million banking facilities and revolving loan facility, of which only HK$7.8133.3 million was utilized as at August 31, 2009.2010.
     We believe that our current cash and cash equivalents and cash flow from operations will be sufficient to meet our anticipated cash needs, including working capital requirements, capital expenditures, repayment of our indebtedness when fall due and various contractual obligations, for at least the next 12 months. Our cash flows from operations, however, may decrease due to lower customer demand resulting from rapid

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technological changes, increasing competition resulting from new local and foreign entrants into the market, or our failure to obtain or renew the necessary telecommunication licenses. A decrease in our operating cash flow could adversely affect our ability to make planned capital expenditures, to comply with our obligations under various operating and capital leases and to repay amounts due under banking facilities.
Cash flow
The following table summarizes our cash flows for each of fiscal 2008, 2009 and 2009:2010:
             
  For the year ended August 31, 
  2008  2009  2009 
  HK$  HK$  US$ 
  (Amounts in thousands) 
Net cash inflow from operating activities  378,563   535,886   69,142 
Net cash outflow from investing activities  (147,750)  (176,488)  (22,771)
Net cash outflow from financing activities  (342,550)  (560,407)  (72,306)
          
             
Decrease in cash and bank balances  (111,737)  (201,009)  (25,935)
Cash at bank and in hand, at the beginning of year  532,894   421,610   54,398 
Effect of foreign exchange rate changes on cash  453   451   58 
          
             
Cash at bank and in hand, at the end of the year  421,610   221,052   28,521 
          
                 
  For the year ended August 31, 
  2008  2009  2010  2010 
  HK$  HK$  HK$  US$ 
      (Amounts in thousands)     
Net cash inflow from operating activities  381,991   536,771   485,340   62,398 
Net cash outflow from investing activities  (147,750)  (176,488)  (306,254)  (39,374)
Net cash (outflow)/inflow from financing activities  (345,978)  (561,292)  178,307   22,924 
             
                 
(Decrease)/increase in cash and cash equivalents  (111,737)  (201,009)  357,393   45,948 
Cash and cash equivalents, at the beginning of year  532,894   421,610   221,052   28,420 
Effect of foreign exchange rate changes on cash  453   451   (270)  (35)
             
                 
Cash and cash equivalents, at the end of the year  421,610   221,052   578,175   74,333 
             
                 
Analysis of the balances of cash and cash equivalents                
Cash at bank and in hand  434,604   226,416   588,665   75,682 
Bank overdrafts — unsecured  (12,994)  (5,364)  (10,490)  (1,349)
             
                 
   421,610   221,052   578,175   74,333 
             

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Operating activities
     Our principal source of cash was cash generated from our FTNS business. Net cash inflow from operating activities increased 40.5% from HK$382.0 million in fiscal 2008 to HK$535.9536.8 million in fiscal 2009, primarily reflecting the increase in our profit before taxation resulting from the continued expansion of our subscription base. Net cash inflow from operating activities decreased by 9.6% from HK$378.6536.8 million in fiscal 2008. The net2009 to HK$485.3 million in fiscal 2010, which was a reflection of a slight increase in operating cash flow was primarily due to the increased revenue from our FTNS business because of the increaseprofit before taxation offsetting by our rather higher customer acquisition in the subscription base.fiscal 2010.
Investing activities
     Net cash outflow from investing activities in fiscal 2010 was HK$306.3 million. The net cash outflow was mainly due to our purchase of fixed assets in the amount of HK$349.1 million.
     Net cash outflow from investing activities in fiscal 2009 was HK$176.5 million. The net cash outflow was mainly due to our purchase of fixed assets of HK$289.9 million, the effect of which were partially offset by an decrease in pledged bank deposits of HK$72.3 million and net proceeds from maturity of investment in debt securities of HK$28.1 million.
     Net cash outflow from investing activities in fiscal 2008 was HK$147.8 million. The net cash outflow was mainly due to the purchase of fixed assets of HK$189.9 million for the development of our Next Generation Network.
Financing activities
     Net cash inflow from financing activities in fiscal 2010 was HK$178.3 million. The net cash inflow was mainly due to the proceeds from the offering of new ordinary shares in the amount of HK$396.4 million and the proceeds from new bank loans of HK$163.4 million, which were partially offset by the repurchase and redemption of our 10-year senior notes of HK$172.4 million and dividend paid of HK$158.4 million.
     Net cash outflow from financing activities in fiscal 2009 was HK$560.4561.3 million. The net cash outflow was mainly due to our repurchase of 10-year senior notes for an aggregate consideration of HK$485.8 million (including transaction cost), payment of interest on the 10-year senior notes of HK$52.7 million and payment of cash dividends of HK$23.0 million.

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     Net cash outflow from financing activities in fiscal 2008 was HK$342.6346.0 million. The net cash outflow was mainly due to our repurchase of 10-year senior notes for an aggregate consideration of HK$269.4 million, payment of interest on the 10-year senior notes of HK$70.0 million and payment of cash dividends of HK$17.3 million.
Indebtedness
     As of August 31, 2009,2010, we had an outstanding debt of HK$163.3134.7 million, most of which consistingconsisted of our 10-year senior notes due 2015, which amounted tobank loans in the amount of HK$162.6123.6 million stated at amortized cost and were classified as non-current debt.
10-year senior notes
     On January 20, 2005 we issued unsecured 10-year senior fixed rate notes in the aggregate principle amount of US$125 million at par value and received net proceeds in the amount of US$121.0 million after deduction of expenses and commissions. The 10-year senior notes were rated BB- (stable) by Standard & Poor’s Rating Services and Ba3 (stable) by Moody’s Investors Services. A significant portion of the net proceeds were used to repay in full an existing bank loan in the outstanding amount of HK$196.7 million and to finance capital expenditures, including costs incurred in expanding and upgrading our Next Generation Network. As of August 31, 2009, the 10-year senior notes were stated at the amortized cost of US$21.0 million (HK$162.6 million), compared with the amortized costs of US$87.5 million (HK$683.2 million) as of August 31, 2008.
     The notes mature on February 1, 2015 and bear interest at the fixed rate of 8.75% per annum. Interest on the notes are payable semi-annually in arrears on February 1 and August 1 of each year. The notes are irrevocably and unconditionally guaranteed, jointly and severally, on a senior unsecured basis by all of our existing and future subsidiaries (other than, as of the issue date of the notes, CTI Guangzhou and, subsequently, any other subsidiary prohibited by applicable law, regulation or order from issuing a guarantee of the notes).
     On June 17, 2009, as a result of our tender offer and consent for amendments to the indenture, substantially all of the restrictive covenants in the indenture have been eliminated. Consequently, certain events that would have constituted a violation of such covenants in the past will no longer constitute event of default. We also repurchased an aggregate principal amount of US$68.0 million of the 10-year senior notes from the market for an aggregate consideration (including transaction cost and accrued interest) of US$65.1 million. As of
     On December 15,4, 2009, an aggregate principal amount of US$21.4 millionwe repurchased a portion of the 10-year senior notes remained outstanding.
with a cumulative principal amount of HK$11.6 million (US$1.5 million) from the open market. We paid a total consideration, including accrued interest, of approximately HK$12.1 million (US$1.6 million). On or after February 1, 2010, we may redeemredeemed the then outstanding 10-year senior notes in whole or in part, at the redemption prices set forth in the indenture governing the notes. In all caseswith a cumulative principal amount of optional redemption, we will pay principalHK$153.9 million (US$19.9 million) at the redemption price specified plusequal to 104.375% of the principal amount. We paid a total consideration, including accrued interest, of approximately HK$167.6 million (US$21.6 million). As of August 31, 2010, all the 10-year senior notes has been repurchased and unpaid interest, additional amounts, if any, thereon to, but not including, the date of redemption.redeemed.
Banking facilities
     As of August 31, 2009,2010, we had available banking facilities and revolving loan facility of HK$205.0353.8 million, of which HK$7.8133.3 million was utilized.
Capital expenditures
     In order to further develop our Next Generation Network and continue to increase the scale of operations of our FTNS business, we plan to make a total capital expenditures ofexpenditure ranging from approximately HK$300320 million to HK$350 million per year in fiscal 2010 and 2011 to increase the coverage of our Next Generation Network from 1.6 million residential homes passNetwork. Our plan is to reach 2.0 million residential homes pass and from 1,2301,800 commercial buildings by the end of 2011. We expect to 1,800 commercial buildings. Thefinance our budgeted capital expenditures will be financed by our internally generatedwith cash flow in the respective years.from operating activities, bank loans and capital market transactions.

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C. Research and development, patents and licenses
     We commit considerable resources to our research and development department in order to continuously improve our services and improve our market position. As of August 31, 2009,2010, our research and development team consisted of approximately 21 staff membersTalents experienced in systems design, engineering, telecommunications and computer programming. Our research and development department is primarily responsible for assessing and adapting the technology that we employ in upgrading and expanding our Next Generation Network. To identify and develop new market opportunities, the research and development team assesses new services offered by telecommunications and Internet companies in the United States and elsewhere and works closely with our marketing department. Our research and development expenditures were approximately HK$9.6 million, HK$10.8 million and HK$10.811.2 million for fiscal 2008, 2009 and 2009,2010, respectively.
D. Trend information
     Revenue from our IDD business decreased by 15.3%11.6% to HK$218.6 million in fiscal 2010 from HK$247.4 million in fiscal 2009 from HK$292.0 million in fiscal 2008.2009. The principal reason for this decrease was the intense competition, as our key competitors introduced highly aggressive price cuts. Partly as a result,

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the traffic volume of our IDD business decreased by 15.2%4.7% to 464.0 million minutes in fiscal 2010 from 487.0 million minutes in fiscal 2009 from 574.0 million minutes in fiscal 2008.2009. We expect competition will continue to increase in the future, creating further pressure on our volume and also pricing.
     Revenue from our FTNS business grew by 21.8%10.2% to HK$1,356.1 million in fiscal 2010 from HK$1,230.9 million in fiscal 2009 from HK$1,011.0 million in fiscal 2008.2009. The principal reason for this increase was due to the broadband subscription growth of 17.7%34.5% to 943,000526,000 subscription accounts as of August 31, 2010 from 391,000 subscription accounts as of August 31, 2009, from 801,000 subscription accounts as of August 31, 2008 and, towhich was partially offset by a lesser extent, an increasedecrease in the average revenue per subscription account.account as part of our marketing campaigns to increase our subscriber base.
     The global economic downturn has had a dampening effect on consumer sentiment and business activities across the globe. We believe thatglobe in late 2008 and 2009 and the global economy continues to experience continued market volatility. The impact of the downturn on our operations has been limited because our FTNS and IDD services are regarded as “semi-utility” services. However, if the global economic downturn continues for a long period of time,to experience significant volatility, demand for our services may decrease.be adversely affected.
E. Off-balance sheet arrangements
     WeOther than as described in note 28 to our Consolidated Financial Statements, we have not entered into any off-balance-sheet arrangements with any entities or individuals.
F. Tabular disclosure of contractual obligations
     The following table sets forth information regarding our aggregate payment obligations in future years of the contractual obligations and commercial commitments that we had as of August 31, 2009.2010.
                                        
 Payments due by period  Payments due by period 
 More than More than    More than More than   
 1 year 3 years    1 year 3 years   
 Within but within but within More than  Within but within but within More than 
 Total 1 year 3 years 5 years 5 years  Total 1 year 3 years 5 years 5 years 
Contractual obligations HK$ HK$ HK$ HK$ HK$  HK$ HK$ HK$ HK$ HK$ 
 (Amounts in thousands)  (Amounts in thousands) 
Capital expenditure items 150,099 150,099     132,340 132,340    
Operating leases 96,381 66,708 19,284 4,118 6,271  124,287 88,821 26,555 4,062 4,849 
10-year senior notes 244,117 14,489 28,978 28,978 171,672 
Long-term bank loan 133,996 1,829 4,326 127,841  
Obligation under finance leases 820 237 320 192 71  677 242 243 192  
Other current liabilities 262,420 262,420     264,904 264,904    
Programming fees (IP-TV) 15,332 9,094 6,238    73,626 25,539 41,506 6,581  
                      
  
Total 769,169 503,047 54,820 33,288 178,014  729,830 513,675 72,630 138,676 4,849 
                      
Note:The other current liabilities of HK$264.9 million is comprised of bank overdrafts — unsecured of HK$10.5 million, accounts payable of HK$35.1 million, other payables and accrued charges of HK$195.9 million, deposits received of HK$21.8 million and tax payable of HK$1.5 million. A detailed explanation of the nature of accounts payable and other payables and accrued charges is contained in Note 17 to the Company’s audited consolidated financial statements included in this Form 20-F.
G. Safe Harbor
     See “Note regarding forward-looking statements”.

35


Item 6 Directors, senior management and employees
A. Directors and senior management
     Our board of directors consists of eight directors, three of whom, Mr. Lee Hon Ying, John, Dr. Chan Kin Man and Mr. Peh Jefferson Tun Lu, are independent non-executive directors and one of whom, Dr. CheungCheng Mo Chi, Moses, is a non-executive director. The remaining four, Mr. Wong Wai Kay, Ricky, Mr. Cheung Chi Kin, Paul, Mr. Yeung Chu Kwong, William and Mr. Lai Ni Quiaque, are executive directors.

43


     The following table sets forth certain information concerning our directors and senior management as of December 15, 2009.14, 2010.
       
       Date
 Date joined
 joined City City
Name Age Position Telecom Age Position Telecom
Board of directors:
                   
                   
WONG Wai Kay, Ricky  48  Chairman  1992   49  Executive Director and Chairman  1992
                   
CHEUNG Chi Kin, Paul  52  Vice Chairman  1992   53  Executive Director and Vice Chairman  1992
                   
YEUNG Chu Kwong, William  49  Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer  2005   50  Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer  2005
                   
LAI Ni Quiaque  40  Executive Director, Chief Financial Officer,
Company Secretary and Head of Talent Engagement
  2004   41  Executive Director, Chief Financial Officer, Company Secretary and Head of Talent Engagement  2004
                   
CHENG Mo Chi, Moses  59  Non-Executive Director  1997   60  Non-Executive Director  1997
                   
LEE Hon Ying, John  63  Independent Non-Executive Director  1997   64  Independent Non-Executive Director  1997
                   
CHAN Kin Man  50  Independent Non-Executive Director  1997   51  Independent Non-Executive Director  1997
                   
PEH Jefferson Tun Lu  50  Independent Non-Executive Director  2004   51  Independent Non-Executive Director  2004
                   
Senior management:
                   
          ��        
CHONG Kin Chun, John  47  Managing Director of Corporate Division  1996   48  Managing Director of Corporate Division  1996
                   
LO Sui Lun  45  Director of Corporate Affairs Department  1998   46  Director of Corporate Affairs Department  1998
                   
TAM Ming Chit  44  Chief Technology Officer  2008   45  Chief Technology Officer  2008
                   
TO Wai Bing  47  Managing Director of Business Development  2007   48  Managing Director of Business Development  2007
Executive directors
     Mr. WONG Wai Kay, Ricky, aged 48,49, is the co-founder and Chairman of the Group. He is responsible for our overall strategic planning and management. Mr. Wong has over 2025 years’ experience in the telecommunications and computer industries. He had worked at a major US-listed computer company as a marketing representative and was responsible for marketing and distribution of computer products in Hong Kong from 1985 to 1989. He was also a co-founder and director of a company principally engaged in import and distribution of computer systems in Canada prior to co-founding of the Group. Mr. Wong holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Science and a Master of Business Administration Degree (Executive MBA Program) from The Chinese University of Hong Kong. He is a first cousin of Mr. Cheung Chi Kin, Paul, the Vice Chairman of the Group. Currently, Mr. Wong is a member of Zhejiang Committee, Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference, a member of the Board of Trustees, United College, The Chinese University of Hong Kong and a member of the executive committee of the Digital Solidarity Fund of Hong Kong Council of Social Service.
     Mr. CHEUNG Chi Kin, Paul, aged 52,53, is the co-founder and Vice Chairman of the Group. Mr. Cheung is responsible for overall strategic planning and management of the Group. Prior to that, Mr. Cheung was appointed as the Chief Executive Officer and was responsible for our day-to-day operations and technological research, development and support activities. Mr. Cheung has more than 2829 years’ experience in the telecommunications and computer industries. He had worked in several companies engaged in application software development and computer consultancy prior to co-founding of the Group. Mr. Cheung graduated with a Diploma of Advanced Programming and System Concepts Design from Herzing Institute, Canada. Mr. Cheung is a first cousin of Mr. Wong Wai Kay, Ricky, the Chairman of the Group.

36


     Mr. YEUNG Chu Kwong, William, aged 49,50, was appointed as theour Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Group in November 2008 with the responsibilities for developing corporate strategies and overseeing the operations of the entire Group. Before that, Mr. Yeung joined the Group as Chief Operating Officer in October 2005. He was in charge of ourthe Customer Engagement Department overseeing customer relationship management and was also in charge of ourthe Network Development Department. Mr. Yeung has more than 1819 years’ experience in the telecommunications industry. Prior to joining the Group, Mr. Yeung was the Director of Customers Division in Smartone-Vodafone, the General Manager of Personal Communications and Retail Division in Tricom Telecom Limited, and was also an Inspector of Police in the Hong Kong Police Force. Mr. Yeung holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree from Hong Kong Baptist University, a Master of Business Administration Degree from University of Strathclyde, UKU.K. and a Master of Science Degree in Electronic Commerce and Internet Computing

44


from The University of Hong Kong. HeMr. Yeung is also a graduate of the Senior Executive Program of the Columbia University Graduate School of Business in New York.
     Mr. LAI Ni Quiaque, aged 40,41, is the Chief Financial Officer, Company Secretary and Head of Talent Engagement.Engagement of the Group. Mr. Lai joined the Group in May 2004. Mr. Lai has extensive experience in telecommunications industry, research and finance, being highly rated in this field. Prior to joining the Group, Mr. Lai was a Director and Head of Asia Telecom Research for Credit Suisse and was involved in global fund raisings for a wide range of Asian Telecom carriers such as China Mobile, China Telecom, China Unicom, China Netcom, SK Telecom, PCCW, Telekom Malaysia, etc. Before that, Mr. Lai held positions with Hongkong Telecom and Kleinwort Benson Securities (Asia). Mr. Lai holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of Western Australia and an Executive Master of Business Administration Degree from Kellogg-HKUST. Mr. Lai is a Fellow member of HKICPA and CPA Australia and is a Member of the Hong Kong Institute of Directors. Mr. Lai has also been appointed as a member of the Remuneration Committee of the Company.
Non-executive director
          Dr. ChengCHENG Mo Chi, Moses, aged 59,60, was appointed as anthe Independent Non-executive Director of the Group since 17 June 17, 1997 and has been re-designated as a Non-executive Director of the Group with effect from 30 September 30, 2004. Dr. Cheng has also been appointed as a member of the Remuneration Committee of the Company. Dr. Cheng is a practicing solicitor and the senior partner of Messrs. P.C. Woo & Co.. Dr. ChengCo. and was a member of the Legislative Council of Hong Kong. He is the Founder Chairman of the Hong Kong Institute of Directors of which he is now the Honorary President and Chairman Emeritus.Emeritus and the President of International Association of Practicing Lawyers. Dr. Cheng currently holds directorships in K. Wah International Holdings Limited, China COSCO Holdings Company Limited, China Mobile Limited, China Resources Enterprise, Limited, Towngas China Company Limited, Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited, Kader Holdings Company Limited, Liu Chong Hing Investment Limited, Guangdong Investment Limited and Tian An China Investments Company Limited, all being public listed companies in Hong Kong. Dr. Cheng is also an independent non-executive director of ARA Asset Management Limited, a company whose shares are listed on Singapore Exchange Limited. His other directorships in public listed companies in the last 3 years include Beijing Capital International Airport Company Limited, Galaxy Entertainment Group Limited and Shui On Construction and Materials Limited, all being public listed companies in Hong Kong. He is also an independent non-executive director ofKong, and ARA AssetsAsset Management (Fortune) Limited a company whose shares are listed on Singapore Exchange Limited, and an independent director of(formerly known as ARA AssetsAsset Management (Singapore) Limited, which managesLimited), as the manager of Fortune Real Estate Investment Trust, a real estate investment trust listed on Singapore Exchange Limited.
Independent non-executive directors
          Mr. LEE Hon Ying, John, aged 63,64, is the managing director of Cyber Networks Consultants Company in Hong Kong. He was the Regional Director, Asia Pacific of Northrop Grumman-Canada, Ltd. He was previously the director of network services of Digital Equipment (HK) Limited and prior to that, worked for Cable and Wireless (HK) Limited and Hong Kong Telecom. He is a chartered engineer and a member of each of Institution of Engineering and Technology, the United Kingdom, and the Hong Kong Institution of Engineers and the Hong Kong Computer Society. He received a Master’s Degree in Information System from The Hong Kong Polytechnic University in 1992. In addition, he is the Territory Vice-presidentVice President and Board Member of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, of Asia and Oceania,Council General, which is an international charity body.body with its head office in Paris, France. He is the Commission member of Catholic Diocese of Hong Kong Diocesan for Hospital Pastoral Care. Mr. Lee has been a Director of the Group since June 1997. Mr. Lee is also the chairman of the Audit Committee and Remuneration Committee of the Company.
          Dr. CHAN Kin Man, aged 50,51, is Director of Centre for Civil Society Studies and Associate Professor of the Department of Sociology of The Chinese University of Hong Kong. He received a Bachelor of Social Science Degree from The Chinese University of Hong Kong in 1983 and a Doctor of Philosophy Degree from Yale University in the U.S. in 1995. Dr. Chan has been a Director of the Group since June 1997. Dr. Chan has also been appointed as a member of the Audit Committee and Remuneration Committee of the Company.
          Mr. PEH Jefferson Tun Lu, aged 50,51, is a Certified Public Accountant of the Hong Kong Institute of Certified Public Accountants and a Certified Practicing Accountant of CPA Australia. Mr. Peh holds a Master Degree in Business from the University of Technology, Sydney. He has over 2728 years of experience in finance, accounting and management from listed and private companies in Hong Kong and Australia. Mr. Peh has been a Director of the Group since September 2004. Mr. Peh has also been appointed as a member of the Audit Committee and Remuneration Committee of the Company.

45


Senior management
          Mr. CHONG Kin Chun, John, aged 47,48, is the Managing Director of the Corporate Division of the Group. He is responsible for sales, servicing and network expansion development of the Group’s international telecommunications services and fixed telecommunications network services for business and corporate customers. Mr. Chong joined the Group in February 1996 and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Arts from The University of Hong Kong. Mr. Chong worked as a general manager overseeing product management and the sales force of a listed telecommunications products company in Hong Kong from 1987 to 1996.

37


          Mr. LO Sui Lun, aged 45,46, is the Director of Corporate Affairs Department of the Group. He is primarily responsible for regulatory and carrier relations matters of the Group. In addition, Mr. Lo is also responsible for overseeing the legal and company secretarial functions of the Group. Before taking up his current position, Mr. Lo was in charge of regulatory, carrier business, international business, network operation and network development for Hong Kong Broadband Network Limited, the wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company. Mr. Lo joined the Group in September 1998. Prior to that, Mr. Lo worked for PCCW (formerly known as “Hong Kong Telecom”) for 9 years, gaining experience in network planning and undersea cable investment. Mr. Lo holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Sciences in Electronics from The Chinese University of Hong Kong and a Master’s Degree in Business Administration from the University of Strathclyde, U.K.
          Dr. TAM Ming Chit, aged 44,45, is the Chief Technology Officer of the Group. He is responsible for the Group’s network, information system development and operations including broadband networking, IPTV, wireless applications, as well as VoIP networks. Prior to joining the Group in 2008, Dr. Tam held various technical positions in various institutions in Hong Kong and overseas, such as Alcatel-Lucent, Citibank and SRA. He has over 1617 years of operational experience in the information technologies and telecom industry.telecommunications industries. Dr. Tam holds a Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Computer Science from Imperial College, University of London, U.K. and a Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science from the University of Pennsylvania, U.S.A.
          Ms. TO Wai Bing, aged 47,48, is the Managing Director of Business Development of the Group. Ms. To is also in charge of International Business Department, Carrier Business Department and Pay TV Department. She is responsible for the control of cost of services, sales of carrier business, development of Pay TV business, explore and secure business partnerships to strengthen the Group’s business operations and development. Before joining the Group, Ms. To had worked in the Hong Kong Telecom Group for 16 years after graduating from The Hong Kong Polytechnic University with a Diploma in Electronic Engineering and subsequently a Higher Certificate in Electronic Engineering. Ms. To rejoined the Group in May 2007 after her previous service with the Group from September 1998 to July 2006.
B. Compensation
Directors’ and senior management’s compensation
     Our directors and senior management receive compensation in the form of salaries, housing allowances, discretionary bonuses, other allowances and benefits in kind, including our contribution to the pension schemes for such individuals. We also granted share options to various directors and members of our senior management. For more information regarding share options granted to directors and members of our senior management, see Item 6 “Directors, senior management and employees — Share ownership” below in this annual report.
     Our senior management and employeesTalents are entitled to receive an annual discretionary bonus based on their individual performance and our financial performance during the year in question.
     The aggregate amount of salaries or other compensation, housing allowances, other allowances and benefits in kind paid by us to our directors and senior management was approximately HK$46.1 million for fiscal 2010, compared with HK$38.8 million for fiscal 2009, compared with HK$32.5 million for fiscal 2008.2009. The aggregate amount of contribution that we made to the retirement or similar benefits for our directors and members of our senior management was HK$2.7 million for fiscal 2010, compared with HK$2.6 million for fiscal 2009, compared with HK$2.4 million for fiscal 2008.2009.
     Except as discussed herein, no other payments have been paid or are payable, in respect of fiscal 2009,2010, by us or any of our subsidiaries to our directors and senior management.
C. Board practices
Service contracts
     We entered into service agreements with our four executive directors, MessrsMessrs. Wong Wai Kay, Ricky, Cheung Chi Kin, Paul, Yeung Chu Kwong, William and Lai Ni Quiaque, respectively. These service agreements include non-competition clauses under which our executive directors agree not to compete with us in accordance with the terms and conditions therein and shall continue to be effective unless and until terminated by either party of the respective service agreements. None of the agreements provide for any benefits or compensation upon termination of employment.

46


“Controlled company” exemption
     We are a “controlled company” within the meaning of Nasdaq Listing Rule 5615(c) and IM-5615-5. More than 50.0% of the NASDAQ Marketplace Rules, sincevoting power for the election of our directors is held by a group consisting of Top Group International Limited, holds more than 50%Mr. Wong Wai Kay, Ricky and Mr. Cheung Chi Kin, Paul. Mr. Wong and Mr. Cheung are the controlling shareholders of ourTop Group International Limited and have entered into a voting power. As such, we are exemptagreement pursuant to which they agreed to vote all of the shares held by Top Group International Limited, representing 44.22% of the voting power, all of the shares held by Mr. Wong individually, representing 0.93% of the voting power, and all of the shares held by Mr. Cheung individually, representing 5.50% of the voting power, collectively as a group.
     We have elected to rely on the exemption from the NASDAQ Marketplace Rulesmajority independent board requirement, that a majorityas set forth in Nasdaq Listing Rule 5615(b), except for the requirements of a company’s boardsubsection (b)(2), which pertain to executive sessions of directors must qualify as independent directors, within the meaning of the NASDAQ Marketplace Rules. We are also exemptand from the NASDAQ Marketplacerequirement for independent director oversight of executive officer compensation and director nominations, as set forth in Nasdaq Listing Rules requirement regarding nominations5605(d) and remuneration.5605(e).
     In accordance with the laws of Hong Kong, the nomination and remuneration of our directors are governed by our Articles of Association. Pursuant to our Articles of Association, our directors are appointed by our shareholders in the annual general meeting, and our directors’ fees are recommended by the remuneration committee of our board of directors and determined by our shareholders at the annual general meetingmeeting.
Audit committee
     Our board of directors established an audit committee in March 1999 to ensure the impartial supervision of our accounting and business operations. The audit committee is comprised of three independent non-executive directors, namely, Mr. Lee Hon Ying, John (the Chairman of the audit committee), Dr. Chan Kin Man and Mr. Peh Jefferson Tun Lu. Mr. Peh was appointed to the audit committee on September 1, 2004 and is a “financial expert” within the meaning of, and as required by the U.S. Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

38


     The audit committee is governed by an audit committee charter, which was adopted by our board of directors at a meeting held in August 2004. It is responsible for the following:
  overseeing the accounting and financial reporting process of the Company and the audits of the Company’s consolidated financial statements on behalf of the board of directors; and
 
  the appointment, compensation, retention and oversight of the work of the Company’s independent auditors (including resolution of disagreements between management and the auditors regarding financial reporting) for the purpose of preparing or issuing an audit report or performing other audit, review or attest services for the Company.
     As provided in our audit committee charter, the audit committee is required to meet in person or telephonically at least twice a year and has the resources and authority appropriate to discharge its responsibilities as required by law, including the authority to engage independent counsel and other advisors as the audit committee deems necessary to carry out its duties.
     The audit committee met four times in fiscal 2009.2010. The major works performed by the committee from September 1, 20082009 to August 31, 20092010 included the following:
- Reviewed the Company’sour consolidated financial statements for the year ended August 31, 20082009 and for the six months ended February 28, 2009;2010;
-
 Reviewed the internal audit progress, including the procedures required for the compliance with the Sarbanes-Oxley Act;
-
 Reviewed the external auditor’s report on the review of the Company’sour interim financial report for the six months ended February 28, 20092010 and the Company’sour audited consolidated financial statements for the year ended August 31, 2008;2009; and
-
 Pre-approved the audit and non-audit services provided by KPMG, the Company’sour external auditor.
Remuneration committee
     Our board of directors established a remuneration committee in August 2001 to oversee the Company’s remuneration packages for executive directors. Among others, each of our executive directors is entitled to receive an annual discretionary bonus of such amount as determined by the board of directors upon recommendation and approval by the remuneration committee. The remuneration committee is comprised of six members with three independent non-executive directors, Mr. Lee Hon Ying, John, Dr. Chan Kin Man and Mr. Peh Jefferson Tun Lu, the non-executive director, Dr. Cheng Mo Chi, Moses, Mr. Lai Ni Quiaque, the executive director, Chief Financial Officer, Company Secretary and Head of Talent Engagement and our director of Talent Management. The remuneration committee’s objectives are set out as follows:
-
Establish formal, fair and transparent procedures for developing policy and structure of all remuneration of directors and senior management.

47


- Review and consider the Company’s policy for remuneration of directors and senior management.
 
- Recommend the remuneration packages of non-executive directors (including independent non-executive directors).
     The remuneration committee held one meeting during fiscal 2009.2010. The major works performed by the committee from September 1, 20082009 to August 31, 20092010 included the following:
- Reviewed and approved the proposed discretionary performance bonus for the management committee members;
 
- Reviewed and approved the remuneration packages for management committee members; and
 
- Reviewed and approved the remuneration packages for the directors.
D. Employees
     The following table sets forth the number of our employeesTalents by functional area as of August 31, 2009.2010.
     
  EmployeesTalents 
Information technology and engineering  437363 
Sales and marketing, customer service and “Special Duty Unit”, or SDU  2,4332,499 
General administration and others  303370 
    
     
Total  3,1733,232 
    
     The following table sets forth the number of our employeesTalents by geographical region as of August 31, 2009.2010.
     
  EmployeesTalents 
Hong Kong  1,6331,593 
Guangzhou  1,5201,620 
Canada  2019 
    
     
Total  3,1733,232 
    

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     As of August 31, 2008, 2009 and 2009,2010, we had 3,051, 3,173 and 3,173 employees,3,232 Talents, respectively. The increase in our total number of employeesTalents in fiscal 20092010 was mainly due to the expansion in our FTNS business.
E. Share ownership
Share ownership
     The following table sets forth the share ownership of our directors and senior management as of December 15, 2009.14, 2010.
                
               Number Percentage   
 Number Percentage    of shares of shares   
 of shares of shares Outstanding  beneficially beneficially Outstanding 
 Identity of person beneficially beneficially share  Identity of person owned owned(note 3) share 
Title of class or Group owned owned options  or Group (note 4) % options 
   (note 4) (note 3)   
     %   
Ordinary shares Wong Wai Kay, Ricky 346,959,573
(note 1)
  51.05   8,091,604  Wong Wai Kay, Ricky 389,245,732
(note 1)
 50.66 8,091,604 
  
Ordinary shares Cheung Chi Kin, Paul 382,100,443
(note 2)
  56.22   8,091,604  Cheung Chi Kin, Paul 389,245,732
(note 1)
 50.66 8,091,604 
  
Ordinary shares Yeung Chu Kwong, William  3,000,000  Less than 1.0  7,062,956  Yeung Chu Kwong, William 2,306,000 Less than 1.0 11,542,956 
  
Ordinary shares Lai Ni Quiaque  10,392,506   1.53   8,067,690  Lai Ni Quiaque 12,415,405 1.62 6,044,791 
 
Ordinary shares Chong Kin Chun, John  2,777,089  Less than 1.0  2,022,900 
 
Ordinary shares Lo Sui Lun Nil Nil  2,022,901 
 
Ordinary shares Tam Ming Chit Nil Nil  1,007,465 
 
Ordinary shares To Wai Bing Nil Nil  1,007,465 

48


                 
      Number  Percentage    
      of shares  of shares    
      beneficially  beneficially  Outstanding 
  Identity of person  owned  owned(note 3)  share 
Title of class or Group  (note 4)  %  options 
Ordinary shares Chong Kin Chun, John   2,777,089  Less than 1.0   2,022,900 
                 
Ordinary shares Lo Sui Lun  Nil  Nil   1,638,901 
                 
Ordinary shares Tam Ming Chit  Nil  Nil   629,665 
                 
Ordinary shares To Wai Bing  Nil  Nil   302,239 
 
Notes:
 
(1) Of the 346,959,573 shares, 339,814,284The 389,245,732 shares are beneficially owned through Mr Wong’s 42.12 % interest inheld by a group consisting of Top Group International Limited, orMr. Wong Wai Kay, Ricky, our chairman, and Mr. Cheung Chi Kin, Paul, our vice chairman, Top Group International Limited is a special purpose vehicle incorporated in the British Virgin Islands. Its board of directors consists of Mr. Wong and Mr. Cheung. Mr. Wong and Mr. Cheung have entered into a voting agreement pursuant to which they agreed to vote the 339,814,284 shares held by Top Group International Limited, the 7,145,289 shares held by Mr. Wong individually, and the 42,286,159 shares held by Mr. Cheung individually, collectively as a group. The registered address of Top Group International Limited is Akara Bldg, 24 De Castro Street, Wickhams Cay I, Road Town, Tortola, British Virgin Islands. Top Group International Limited has four shareholders: Mr. Wong, Mr. Cheung, Mr. Leung Ka Pak, and Mr. Yau Ming Yan, Andrew, and their equity interests are owned directly by Mr Wong.42.12%, 27.06%, 21.00% and 9.82%, respectively.
 
(2) Of the 382,100,443Percentage ownership is based on 768,410,429 shares 339,814,284 shares are beneficially owned through Mr Cheung’s 27.06% interest in Top Group, 17,361,820 shares are owned directly by Mr. Cheung and 24,924,339 shares are beneficially owned through Mr. Cheung’s 50% interest in Worship Limited.issued as of December 14, 2010.
 
(3)Percentage ownership is based on 679,594,047 shares issued as of December 15, 2009.
(4) Beneficial ownership is determined in accordance with the rules of the SEC.

4049


Item 6 Directors, senior management and employees (continued)
Share ownership (continued)
     The following table sets forth the share options for the details of the share options held by the directors and senior management of the Company as at December 15, 2009:14, 2010:
                           
              Adjustment         
          Options   to number  Options  Options   
      Balance  granted   of options  exercised  cancelled/ Balance 
      as at  during   for 2008  during  lapsed as at 
  Date of Exercise January 9,  the Exercise Final  the  during December 15, 
  grant price 2009  period period dividend  period  the period 2009 
              (note 1)           
    HK$                      
Directors                          
Mr. Wong Wai Kay, Ricky January 5, 2005 1.5224
(note 4)
  8,053,478   January 5, 2005 to October 20, 2014  38,126       8,091,604 
     
  May 22, 2006 0.6523
(note 5)
  6,040,108   May 22, 2007 to May 21, 2016  28,593   6,068,701   
     
Mr. Cheung Chi Kin, Paul January 5, 2005 1.5224
(note 4)
  8,053,478   January 5, 2005 to October 20, 2014  38,126       8,091,604 
     
  May 22, 2006 0.6523
(note 5)
  6,040,108   May 22, 2007 to May 21, 2016  28,593   6,068,701   
     
Mr. Yeung Chu Kwong, William May 22, 2006 0.6523
(note 5)
  1,013,369   May 22, 2007 to May 21, 2016  4,796       1,018,165 
     
  February 6, 2008 1.7568
(note 6)
  6,016,309   (note 2)  28,482       6,044,791 
     
Mr. Lai Ni Quiaque May 22, 2006 0.6523
(note 5)
  2,013,369   May 22, 2007 to May 21, 2016  9,530       2,022,899 
     
  February 11, 2008 1.8660
(note 7)
  6,016,309   (note 3)  28,482       6,044,791 
     
Senior management
                          
     
Mr. Chong Kin Chun, John October 21, 2004 1.5224
(note 4)
  2,013,368   January 1, 2005 to October 20, 2014  9,532       2,022,900 
     
  May 22, 2006 0.6523
(note 5)
  503,342   May 22, 2007 to May 21, 2016  2,383   505,725   
     
Mr. Lo Sui Lun October 21, 2004 1.5224
(note 4)
  503,343   January 1, 2005 to October 20, 2014  2,383       505,726 
     
  May 22, 2006 0.6523
(note 5)
  1,510,026   May 22, 2007 to May 21, 2016  7,149       1,517,175 
     
Dr. Tam Ming Chit May 2, 2008 1.7866
(note 8)
  1,002,718   (note 2)  4,747       1,007,465 
     
Ms. To Wai Bing February 15, 2008 1.7568
(note 6)
  1,002,718   (note 2)  4,747       1,007,465 
     

41


Item 6 Directors, senior management and employees (continued)
Share ownership (continued)
                                 
              Options      Options  Options    
          Balance  granted      exercised  cancelled/  Balance 
      Exercise  as at  during      during  lapsed  as at 
  Date of  price  December 15,  the  Exercise the  during  December 14, 
Directors grant  HK$  2009  period  period period  the period  2010 
Mr. Wong Wai Kay, Ricky January 5, 2005  1.5224   8,091,604     January 5, 2005 to October 20, 2014        8,091,604 
Mr. Cheung Chi Kin, Paul January 5, 2005  1.5224   8,091,604     January 5, 2005 to October 20, 2014        8,091,604 
Mr. Yeung Chu Kwong, William May 22, 2006  0.6523   1,018,165     May 22, 2007 to May 21, 2016  1,018,000      165 
  February 6, 2008  1.7568   6,044,791     (note 1)  502,000      5,542,791 
  February 5, 2010  4.2400      6,000,000  (note 2)        6,000,000 
Mr. Lai Ni Quiaque May 22, 2006  0.6523   2,022,899     May 22, 2007 to May 21, 2016  2,022,899       
  February 11, 2008  1.8660   6,044,791     (note 3)        6,044,791 
Senior management
                                
Mr. Chong Kin Chun, John October 21, 2004  1.5224   2,022,900     January 1, 2005 to October 20, 2014        2,022,900 
Mr. Lo Sui Lun October 21, 2004  1.5224   505,726     January 1, 2005 to October 20, 2014        505,726 
  May 22, 2006  0.6523   1,517,175     May 22, 2007 to May 21, 2016  384,000      1,133,175 
Dr. Tam Ming Chit May 2, 2008  1.7866   1,007,465     (note 4)  377,800      629,665 
Ms. To Wai Bing February 15, 2008  1.7568   1,007,465     (note 4)  705,226      302,239 
 
Notes:
 
(1) As a result of allotment of 12,212,142 new shares to shareholders of the Company who elected to receive the 2008 Final Dividend in shares on February 25, 2009, theThe exercise price of and the number of share subject to the 60,299,426 share options outstanding on December 19, 2008 (being the Record Date for determining the entitlement of 2008 Final Dividend) were adjusted pursuant to the 2002 Share Option Scheme with effect from February 25, 2009. The closing price per share immediately before the date of the grant of the Options was HK$0.88.is subject to certain conditions that must be achieved by the grantee. During the year ended August 31, 2010, one of the clauses in the option agreement has been modified. The Options shall be exercised not later than December 23, 2012.
 
(2) The exercise of the Options is subject to certain conditions that must be achieved by the grantees.grantee. The Options shall be exercised not later than December 23, 2012.February 4, 2020.
 
(3) The exercise of the Options is subject to the performance of the Company’s share.share and certain conditions that must be achieved by the grantee. During the year ended August 31, 2010, one of the clauses in the option agreement has been modified. The Options shall be exercised not later than December 23, 2012.

50


(4) Exercise priceThe exercise of the share options was adjusted from HK$1.5297Options is subject to HK$1.5224 per ordinary share as a result of our payment ofcertain conditions that must be advanced by the 2008 Final Dividend (see note 1).
(5)Exercise price of the share options was adjusted from HK$0.6554 to HK$0.6523 per ordinary share as a result of our payment of the 2008 Final Dividend (see note 1).
(6)Exercise price of the share options was adjusted from HK$1.7652 to HK$1.7568 per ordinary share as a result of our payment of the 2008 Final Dividend (see note 1).
(7)Exercise price of the share options was adjusted from HK$1.8749 to HK$1.8660 per ordinary share as a result of our payment of the 2008 Final Dividend (see note 1).
(8)Exercise price of the share options was adjusted from HK$1.7951 to HK$1.7866 per ordinary share as a result of our payment of the 2008 Final Dividend (see note 1).grantees. The Options shall be exercised not later than December 23, 2012.
     All shareholders own ordinary shares and enjoy the same voting rights with respect to each share.
Share Option Schemes
     We adopted a second share option scheme, which we refer to as the 2002 Share Option Scheme, on December 23, 2002 and terminated the share option scheme adopted on July 12, 1997, which we refer to as the 1997 Share Option Scheme. Upon termination of the 1997 Share Option Scheme, no further options can be granted under the 1997 Share Option Scheme. Options granted under the 1997 Share Option Scheme that are not exercised lapsed automatically on July 12, 2007. Under the terms of the 2002 Share Option Scheme, our board of directors may, in its discretion from time to time, and subject to such conditions as the board may determine, within ten years beginning on December 23, 2002, grant any employeeTalent or executive or officer of the Company or any of its subsidiaries (including executive, non-executive and independent non-executive directors of each of the abovementioned companies) and any suppliers or professional advisers who will or have provided services to the Company and/or its subsidiaries to subscribe for our ordinary shares.
     The maximum number of ordinary shares which may be issued upon exercise of all options to be granted under our 2002 Share Option Scheme and any of our other share option scheme(s) must not exceed 10% of the ordinary shares in issue as of the date of approval or adoption of the scheme by the shareholders on December 23, 2002. Ordinary shares which would have been issuable pursuant to options which have lapsed in accordance with the terms of such share option schemes will not be counted for the purpose of the 10% limit. Such limit may be refreshed upon approval by shareholders and compliance with all requirements under the Rules Governing the Listing of Securities on The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited, which we refer to as the Listing Rules. Pursuant thereto, such limit was refreshed with the approval of our shareholders in our annual general meeting held on December 24, 2007 up to a maximum limit equal to 10% of our total number of issued shares as at December 24, 2007. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the number of ordinary shares which may be issued upon exercise of all outstanding options granted and yet to be exercised under our 2002 Share Option Scheme and any of our other share option scheme(s) at any time shall not exceed 30% of the total number of ordinary shares in issue from time to time.
     The total number of ordinary shares issued and which may be issued upon exercise in full of the options granted under our 2002 Share Option Scheme and any of our other share option scheme(s) (including exercised, cancelled and outstanding options) to each eligible participant in any 12-month period up to and including the date of grant shall not exceed 1% of the outstanding ordinary shares as at the date of grant. Any further grant of options in excess of this 1% limit must be approved by shareholders.
     The subscription price for an ordinary share payable by a participant upon the exercise of any option granted under the 2002 Share Option Scheme will be determined by the Board in its absolute discretion, except that such price will not be less than the highest of (a) the closing price of the ordinary shares as stated in The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited’s daily quotations sheet on the date of grant, which must be a business day; (b) the average of the closing prices of the ordinary shares as stated in The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited’s daily quotations sheets for the 5 business days immediately preceding the date of grant; and (c) the nominal value of an ordinary share.

42


     Any grant of options to any of our directors, chief executives or substantial shareholders or any of their respective associates (as defined in the Listing Rules) is required to be approved by our non-grantee independent non-executive directors. If we propose to grant options to a substantial shareholder or any of its independent non-executive directors, or their respective associates, which will result in the number of ordinary shares issued and to be issued upon exercise of options granted and to be granted under our 2002 Share Option Scheme and any of our other share option scheme(s) (including options exercised, cancelled and outstanding) to such person in the 12-month period up to and including the date of such grant (a) representing in aggregate over 0.1% of the outstanding ordinary shares; and (b) having an aggregate value in excess of HK$5 million, based on the closing price of the ordinary shares at the date of each grant, such further grant of options will be subject to approval by shareholders and all requirements under the Listing Rules.
     A grant of options may not be made after a price sensitive event has occurred or a price sensitive matter has been the subject of a decision until such price sensitive information, including annual and interim results, has been made public.
     The period during which an option may be exercised will be determined by our board of directors in its absolute discretion, except that no option may be exercised later than ten years from the date of grant. No option may be granted more than ten years after December 23, 2002. Subject to our earlier termination, the 2002 Share Option Scheme shall be valid and effective for a period of ten years after the date of adoption, that is, until December 23, 2012. In addition and to the extent not already exercised, an option will automatically lapse and not be exercisable upon the occurrence of any of the following events:
(a) the expiry date relevant to that option;
 
(b) one month following the date a grantee ceases to be an eligible participant for any reason other than death or termination of his relationship with us (or the relevant subsidiary, as the case may be) on any of the grounds specified in (g) below;

51


(c) 12 months, or such longer period as the Board may determine, following the death of a grantee whose relationship with us (or the relevant subsidiary, as the case may be) would not have been terminated on any of the grounds specified in (g) below;
 
(d) 21 days following the date an effective resolution is passed for our voluntary winding-up;
 
(e) subject to (d) above, the date of commencement of such winding-up;
 
(f) the date on which any compromise or arrangement between us and our members or creditors in connection with a scheme for our reconstruction or our amalgamation with any other company or companies becomes effective;
 
(g) the date on which the grantee ceases to be an eligible participant by reason of the termination of his or her relationship with us or the relevant subsidiary on any one or more of the grounds of serious misconduct or breach, bankruptcy, insolvency, composition with his or her creditors or conviction of any criminal offence involving his or her integrity or honesty or, in the case of a grantee-employeegrantee-Talent and if so determined by the Board, on any other common law, statutory or contractual ground on which an employer would be entitled to terminate such grantee’s employment;
 
(h) 14 days following the date a general offer (which has been made to shareholders by way of take-over offer, share repurchase offer or scheme of arrangement or otherwise in like manner) becomes, or is declared unconstitutional; and
 
(i) the date on which we cancel the options by reason that the grantee in any way sells, transfers, charges, mortgages, encumbers or creates any interest in favourfavor of any third party over or in relation to any of his or her options or attempt to do so.
     As of December 15, 2009,14, 2010, a total number of 90,247,85796,247,857 options were granted, 32,792,35041,108,732 options were exercised, 13,902,353 options were lapsed and 43,553,15441,236,772 options remain outstanding and unexercised. Total number of 50,619,33644,619,336 options are available for issue as of December 15, 2009.14, 2010.

43


Item 7 Major shareholders and related party transactionstransaction
A. Major shareholders
     The following table sets forth certain information regarding ownership of our ordinary shares as of December 15, 200914, 2010 by all persons who are known to us to own beneficially 5% or more of our ordinary shares.
             
          Percentages 
          of shares 
  Identity of person  Beneficially  beneficially 
Title of class or Group  owned  owned 
      (note 5)  (note 1) 
          % 
Ordinary shares Wong Wai Kay, Ricky  346,959,573
(note 2)
   51.05 
     
Ordinary shares Cheung Chi Kin, Paul  382,100,443
(note 3)
   56.22 
     
Ordinary shares Top Group International Limited  339,814,284   50.00 
     
Ordinary shares Leung Ka Pak  339,814,284
(note 4)
   50.00 
     
Ordinary shares Yau Ming Yan, Andrew  339,814,284
(note 4)
   50.00 
Percentages
of shares
Beneficially
beneficiallyowned
Identity of personowned(note 1)
Title of classor Group(note 4)%
Ordinary sharesWong Wai Kay, Ricky389,245,732 (note 2)50.66
Ordinary sharesCheung Chi Kin, Paul389,245,732 (note 2)50.66
Ordinary sharesTop Group International Limited389,245,732 (note 2)50.66
Ordinary sharesLeung Ka Pak339,814,284 (note 3)44.22
Ordinary sharesYau Ming Yan, Andrew339,814,284 (note 3)44.22
 
Notes:
 
(1) Percentage ownership is based on 679,594,047768,410,429 shares issued as of December 15, 2009.14, 2010.
 
(2) Of the 346,959,573 shares, 339,814,284The 389,245,732 shares are beneficially owned through Mr. Wong’s 42.12 % interest inheld by a group consisting of Top Group International Limited, or Top Group, and 7,145,289 shares are owned directly by him. Top Group International Limited, Top Group is a holding company incorporated in British Virgin Islands with no active operations. Top Group has two directors, Mr. Wong Wai

52


Kay, Ricky, our chairman, and Mr. Cheung Chi Kin, Paul, who are our chairman and vice chairman, respectively. They are twoTop Group is a special purpose vehicle incorporated in the British Virgin Islands, and its board of shareholdersdirectors consists of Mr. Wong and Mr. Cheung. Mr. Wong and Mr. Cheung have entered into a voting agreement pursuant to which they agreed to vote the 339,814,284 shares held by Top Group International Limited, the 7,145,289 shares held by Mr. Wong individually, and the 42,286,159 shares held by Mr. Cheung individually, collectively as a group. The registered address of Top Group.Group International Limited is Akara Bldg, 24 De Castro Street, Wickhams Cay I, Road Town, Tortola, British Virgin Islands. Top Group International Limited has four shareholders: Mr. Wong, Mr. Cheung, Mr. Leung Ka Pak, and Mr. Yau Ming Yan, Andrew (See Note (3) below), and their equity interests are the two other shareholders of Top Group.42.12%, 27.06%, 21.00% and 9.82%, respectively.
 
(3) Of the 382,100,443 shares, 339,814,284 shares are beneficially owned through Mr. Cheung’s 27.06% interest in Top Group, 17,361,820 shares are owned directly by Mr. Cheung and 24,924,339 shares are beneficially owned through Mr. Cheung’s 50% interest in Worship Limited.
(4)The 339,814,284 shares are beneficially owned through Mr. Leung’s 21.00% and Mr. Yau’s 9.82% interest in Top Group. Mr. Leung Ka Pak and Mr. Yau Ming Yan, Andrew may be deemed to have beneficial ownership in the 339,814,284 shares held by Top Group International Limited. Each of them expressly disclaims any beneficial ownership in such shares except to the extent of their respective pecuniary interest therein. Mr. Leung was a director and the president of all of the Company’sour subsidiaries in Canada (other than City Telecom (Canada) Inc.). He and resigned as a director and president in October 2005. After Mr. Leung resigned,Leung’s resignation, Mr. Yau Ying Yan, Andrew wasbecame a director and the president of all of our subsidiaries in Canada (other than City Telecom (Canada) Inc.). He resigned as a director and president in July 2006.
 
(5)(4) Beneficial ownership is determined in accordance with the rules of the SEC.
     As of December 15, 2009,14, 2010, there were 1314 registered holders of 3,295,70011,046,440 American Depositary Shares in the United States, consisting of 9.70%28.75% of our outstanding shares.
     All shareholders own ordinary shares and enjoy the same voting rights with respect to each share.
     Except as disclosed above, we are not directly or indirectly owned or controlled by any other person, corporation or foreign government.
     We are not aware of any arrangement the operation of which may at a subsequent date result in a change of control of City Telecom.
B. Related party transactions
     For the period since the beginning of our preceding three financial years up to the date of this document, we were a party to the following related party transactions.
Contracts with our directors and senior management
     All of our directors and senior management have employment service agreements with us. Certain of our directors and senior management receive housing allowances, pensions, bonuses and commissions. In addition, some of our directors are also senior management of City Telecom and these persons may also have the ability to make significant business decisions effecting our operations. See Item 6 “Directors and senior management” above of this annual report for details concerning these arrangements.

44


C. Interests of experts and counsel
Not applicable.
Item 8 Financial information
A. Consolidated statements and other financial information
Financial statements
See pages F-1 – F-51— F-64 following Item 19.
Legal and regulatory proceedings
     We are currently involved in a material legal or regulatory proceeding relating to Fixed Mobile Interconnection Charges, or FMIC, as described below:
     In February 2008, our wholly owned subsidiary, HKBN, requested the Telecommunications Authority to make a determination, pursuant to section 36A of the Telecommunications Ordinance (Cap 106), in respect of the level of fixed-mobile interconnection charge, or FMIC, to be paid by four mobile operators including China Mobile Hong Kong Company Limited, CSL Limited, Hutchison Telephone Company Limited, and SmarTone Mobile Communications Limited on the rate of FMIC and the interest thereon. This FMIC is paid by a mobile network operator to the interconnecting fixed network operator for telephony traffic both from a fixed line to a mobile phone and from a mobile phone to a fixed line. In September 2008, the Telecommunications Authority indicated that it accepted HKBN’s request for determination and on November 25, 2009 issued its Preliminary Analysis for the parties’ comments. The determination proceedings will progress intoIn May 2010, the Telecommunications Authority issued its decision on the 2008 Determination which set out the rates of mobile interconnection charges payable by the mobile operators under dispute. Based on the

53


2008 Determination, we reversed approximately HK$19.7 million revenue related to mobile interconnection charges and recognized approximately HK$10.1 million interest income during the year ended August 31, 2010.
Dividends
     Unless the relevant provisions of the Hong Kong Companies Ordinance require otherwise, we may by ordinary resolution (being a resolution passed by a majority of our shareholders who attend and vote at a meeting of shareholders) from time to time declare dividends, but no dividend shall exceed the amount recommended by our board of directors. Our Articles contain provisions on apportioning dividends where shares are not or were not fully paid for during the period covered by the dividend.
     Unless the relevant provisions of the Hong Kong Companies Ordinance require otherwise, our board of directors may pay such interim dividends as appears to them to be justified by our financial position and pay any dividend payable at a fixed rate at intervals decided upon by our board of directors, whatever our financial position, if the board of directors feels that this payment is justified.
     Any dividend not claimed by a shareholder after a period of six years from the date when it was first due to be paid shall be forfeited and shall revert to us. The payment by our board of directors of any unclaimed dividend, interest or other sum payable on or in respect of a share into a separate account shall not make us responsible as a trustee for such sums.
     For fiscal 2009,2010, an interim dividend was declared at HK3HK6.5 cents per ordinary share. The total amount of HK$19,904,437.9849,724,827.45 was paid as cash dividend on June 26, 2009.July 25, 2010.
     A final dividend of HK16HK13.5 cents per ordinary share was proposed on November 5, 2009,9, 2010, which was subsequentlywill be approved by shareholders in the annual general meeting to be held on December 18, 2009.21, 2010. The 2009 Final Dividend2010 final dividend will be paid on or about December 30, 2009.January 5, 2011.
B. Significant changes
None.
Item 9 The offer and listing
A. Offer and listing details
     Our ordinary shares have been listed under the number “1137” on The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited, or the HKSE, since August 4, 1997. Our American depositary shares, each representing 20 ordinary shares, have been listed under the symbol “CTEL” on Nasdaq since November 3, 1999. Our 10-year senior notes were listed under the ISIN codes of US178677AA87 and USY16599AA30 on the Singapore Exchange Securities Trading Limited, or SGX-ST, on January 24, 2005. The 10-year senior notes were subsequently exchanged for registered notes with ISIN code US178677AB60 pursuant to a registration statement under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933 on June 24, 2005.
     On December 4, 2009, we repurchased a portion of the 10-year senior notes with a cumulative principal amount of HK$11.6 million (US$1.5 million) from the open market. We paid a total consideration, including accrued interest, of approximately HK$12.1 million (US$1.6 million). On February 1, 2010, we redeemed the then outstanding 10-year senior notes with a cumulative principal amount of HK$153.9 million (US$19.9 million) at the redemption price equal to 104.375% of the principal amount. We paid a total consideration, including accrued interest, of approximately HK$167.6 million (US$21.6 million). As of August 31, 2010, all the 10-year senior notes has been repurchased and redeemed.
     In April 2010, we offered an aggregate of 4,025,000 ADSs representing 80,500,000 ordinary shares at the offer price of US$13.00 per ADS. The proceeds we received, after deduction of underwriters’ discount but before deduction of offering expenses, amounted to US$49.8 million.
The price of our ordinary shares on the HKSE as of its close of trading on December 15, 200914, 2010 was HK$3.5905.78 per share. The table below shows the high and low closing prices of the shares on the HKSE since listing.
                
 Price  Price 
 High Low  High Low 
 (In HK$)  (In HK$) 
2004 2.975 1.310 
Annual Date
 
2005 1.530 0.550  1.530 0.550 
2006 0.830 0.570  0.830 0.570 
2007 3.670 0.830  3.670 0.830 
2008 2.170 0.750 
2009 3.950 2.500 

4554


                
 Price  Price 
 High Low  High Low 
 (In HK$)  (In HK$) 
2008 2.170 0.750 
 
2007
 
 
January to March 1.560 0.830 
April to June 2.200 1.250 
July to September 2.120 1.780 
October to December 3.670 1.930 
 
Quarterly Data
 
2008
  
  
January to March 2.170 1.620  2.170 1.620 
April to June 2.090 1.670  2.090 1.670 
July to September 1.950 1.340  1.950 1.340 
October to December 1.360 0.750  1.360 0.750 
  
2009
  
  
January to March 1.140 0.840  1.140 0.840 
April to June 1.780 1.100  1.780 1.100 
July to September 2.630 1.630  2.630 1.630 
October to December (through December 15, 2009) 3.950 2.500 
October to December 3.950 2.500 
  
2009
 
2010
 
 
January to March 6.210 3.800 
April to June 6.770 4.420 
July to September 5.200 3.690 
October to December (through December 14, 2010) 6.200 4.800 
 
Monthly Data
 
2010
 
  
June 1.780 1.610  5.280 4.420 
July 1.860 1.630  4.560 3.690 
August 2.070 1.850  4.570 4.010 
September 2.630 2.030  5.200 4.720 
October 2.880 2.550  5.270 4.800 
November 3.920 2.500  6.200 5.000 
December (through December 15, 2009) 3.950 3.440 
December (through December 14, 2010) 5.960 5.740 
     The price of our American depositary shares on Nasdaq as of its close of trading on December 15, 200914, 2010 was US$9.24914.480 per American depositary share. The table below shows the high and low closing prices of the American depositary shares on Nasdaq since listing.
                
 Price  Price 
 High Low  High Low 
 (In US$)  (In US$) 
2004 7.720 3.320 
Annual Date
 
2005 3.980 1.370  3.980 1.370 
2006 2.009 1.380  2.009 1.380 
2007 10.750 2.010  10.750 2.010 
2008 5.750 1.915  5.750 1.915 
2009 10.300 2.000 
  
2007
 
 
January to March 4.350 2.010 
April to June 5.830 3.100 
July to September 5.600 4,050 
October to December 10.750 4.830 
 
Quarterly Data
 
2008
  
  
January to March 5.580 4.250  5.580 4.250 
April to June 5.750 4.370  5.750 4.370 
July to September 4.910 2.950  4.910 2.950 
October to December 3.380 1.915  3.380 1.915 
 
2009
 
 
January to March 2.870 2.000 
April to June 4.650 2.870 
July to September 7.023 4.050 
October to December (through December 15, 2009) 10.300 6.610 
 
2009
 
 
June 4.650 4.010 
July 4.830 4.050 

4655


                
 Price  Price 
 High Low  High Low 
 (In US$)  (In US$) 
2009
 
January to March 2.870 2.000 
April to June 4.650 2.870 
July to September 7.023 4.050 
October to December 10.300 6.610 
 
2010
 
 
January to March 16.180 10.150 
April to June 17.330 11.340 
July to September 13.500 9.670 
October to December(through December 14, 2010) 15.980 12.500 
 
Monthly Data
 
2010
 
 
June 13.460 11.340 
July 11.850 9.6700 
August 5.240 4.560  11.980 10.200 
September 7.023 5.290  13.500 12.450 
October 7.750 6.750  13.620 12.500 
November 10.000 6.610  15.980 12.770 
December (through December 15, 2009) 10.300 8.800 
December (through December 14, 2010) 15.650 14.480 
B. Plan of distribution
Not applicable.
C. Markets
See Item 9A above.
D. Selling shareholders
Not applicable.
E. Dilution
Not applicable.
F. Expenses of the issue
Not applicable.
Item 10 Additional information
A. Share capital
Not applicable.
B. Memorandum and Articles of Association
     Described below is a summary of certain provisions of our existing Memorandum and Articles of Association (the “Articles”) and, where relevant, the Hong Kong Companies Ordinance. As this is a summary, it does not contain all the information that may be important to you. You should therefore read our complete Articles if you would like additional information, which were filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission as an exhibit 1 to the annual report on Form 20-F for fiscal 2005 and is incorporated by reference herein.

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General
     City Telecom was incorporated in Hong Kong on May 19, 1992 under the Hong Kong Companies Ordinance. Clause 3 of the Memorandum of Association states that the Company’s objects are to carry on the business of telecommunications services in addition to various other related and unrelated business activities.
Directors’ interests
     A director shall not vote on, or be counted in the quorum in relation to, any resolution of our board of directors in respect of any contract in which the director or any of his associate(s) (within the meaning of the Listing Rules) has a material interest. This prohibition shall not apply to the following:
(a) the giving of any security or indemnity to him or his associates(s) in respect of money lent or obligations incurred or undertaken by him or any of them at the request of or for the benefit of the Company or any of its subsidiaries;
(b) the giving of any security or indemnity to a third party in respect of a debt or obligation of the Company or any of its subsidiaries for which he or his associate(s) has himself/themselves assumed responsibility in whole or in part and whether alone or jointly under a guarantee or indemnity or by the giving of security;
(c) any proposal concerning an offer of shares, debentures or other securities of or by the Company or any other company which the Company may promote or be interested in for subscription or purchase in which offer he or his associate(s) is/are or is/are to be interested as a participant in the underwriting or sub-underwriting thereof;
(d) any proposal concerning any other company in which he or his associate(s) is/are interested only, whether directly or indirectly, as an officer, executive or shareholder or in which he or his associate(s) is/are beneficially interested in shares of that Company, provided that he and any of his associate(s) are not in aggregate beneficially interested in five per cent or more of the issued shares of any class of such Company (or of any third company through which his interest or that of his associate(s) is derived) or of the voting rights;
(e) any proposal or arrangement concerning the benefit of employeesTalents of the Company or its subsidiaries, including the adoption, modification or operation of any employees’Talents’ share scheme or any share incentive or share option scheme under which the director or his associate(s) may benefit;

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(f) any proposal or arrangement concerning the benefit of employeesTalents of the Company or its subsidiaries, including the adoption, modification or operation of a pension fund or retirement, death or disability benefits scheme which relates both to directors (or his associate(s)) and employeesTalents of the Company or any of its subsidiaries and does not provide in respect of any director or his associate(s), as such any privilege or advantage not generally accorded to the class of persons to which such scheme or fund relates; and
(g) any contract or arrangement in which he or his associate(s) is/are interested in the same manner as other holders of shares or debentures or other securities of the Company by virtue only of his/their interest in shares or debentures or other securities of the Company.
     Additionally, there is no shareholding qualification required to be a director.
Dividends
     In accordance with our Articles, we may by ordinary resolution (being a resolution passed by a majority of those votes cast by the shareholders who attend and vote at a general meeting) from time to time declare dividends, but no dividend shall exceed the amount recommended by our board of directors. Our Articles contain provisions on apportioning dividends according to the amounts paid up on the shares in respect of which dividend is paid under pro rata basis during the period covered by the dividend.
     In accordance with our Articles, our board of directors may pay such interim dividends that appear to be justified by our financial position and may also pay any dividend payable at a fixed rate at intervals decided upon by our board of directors, whenever our financial position, in the opinion of our board of directors, justifies the payment.
     In respect of any dividend proposed to be paid or declared, our board of directors may further propose and announce prior to or at the same time as the payment or declaration of such dividend either that:
(a) such dividend be satisfied in whole or in part in the form of an allotment of shares to the shareholders, credited as being fully paid up, provided that all the shareholders entitled to receive the dividend will also be entitled to choose to receive the dividend (or a part of it) in cash; or
(b) the shareholders entitled to such dividend are entitled to elect to receive an allotment of shares credited as fully paid up instead of the whole or part of the cash dividend our board of directors may decide upon.
     Any general meeting declaring a dividend may, upon the recommendation of our board of directors, by ordinary resolution, direct that the dividend shall be met, wholly or partly, by the distribution of our assets.

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     Any dividend not claimed by a shareholder after a period of six years from the date when it was first due to be paid shall be forfeited and shall revert to us. The payment by our board of directors of any unclaimed dividend, interest or other sum payable on or in respect of a share into a separate account shall not create any trustee relationship in respect of such sums.
Liquidation
     Subject to the requirements under the Hong Kong Companies Ordinance, in the event of a members’ winding up, the liquidator may, with the sanction of a special resolution of the Company:
(a) divide among the shareholders the whole or any part of the assets of the Company and set such value as the liquidator deems fair upon any property to be divided and determine how the division shall be carried out between the shareholders; or
(b) vest the whole or any part of such assets in trustees upon such trusts for the benefit of the contributories as the liquidator shall think fit,
but no shareholder shall be compelled to accept any shares or other assets upon which there is any liability.
Annual and extraordinary general meeting of shareholders
     The Hong Kong Companies Ordinance requires our board of directors to hold an annual general meeting of our shareholders once every year and not more than 15 months after our previous annual general meeting. The annual general meeting and any other general meeting of our shareholder held for the passing of a special resolution (being a resolution passed by not less than 75% of those votes cast by the shareholders who attend and vote at a general meeting) should be convened by not less than 21 clear days’ notice in writing. The notice shall specify the place, date and time of meeting and the general nature of the business to be transacted. An annual general meeting may be called by not less than 20 clear business days’ notice if it is agreed by all shareholders entitled to attend and vote at the meeting. The business of the annual general meeting will include:
(a) the declaration and sanctioning of dividends;
 
(b) the consideration and adoption of the accounts, balance sheet and reports of the directors and auditors and other documents required to be attached to the financial statements;
 
(c) the appointment of directors in place of those retiring (by rotation or otherwise);
 
(d) the appointment of auditors; and
 
(e) the fixing of, or the determining of the method of fixing, the remuneration of the directors and of the auditors.
     Our board of directors may convene an extraordinary general meeting (which is any general meeting of the shareholders other than the annual general meeting) whenever it thinks fit and must do so upon the request in writing of shareholders holding not less than one-twentieth of our paid-up capital carrying the right to vote at a general meeting. All extraordinary general meetings (other than those convened for the passing of a special resolution referred to above) should be convened by at not less than 10 clear business days’ notice in writing. Extraordinary general meetings may be called by less than 10 clear business days’ notice by a

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majority in number of the shareholders having the right to attend and vote at the meeting, being a majority together holding not less than 95% in nominal value of the shares giving that right.
     Except as otherwise provided by our Articles, two shareholders present in person or by proxy and entitled to vote shall be a quorum for all purposes. Whilst no business shall be transacted at any general meeting unless a quorum is present when the meeting proceeds to business, the absence of a quorum shall not preclude the choice or appointment of a chairman which shall not be treated as part of the business of the meeting.
     The Nasdaq marketplace rules also provide that a foreign private issuer such as ourselves may be granted an exemption from such requirements if it follows the practice of its home country.
Restrictions on ownership of shares
     There are no restrictions, either pursuant to our Articles or to the laws of Hong Kong, on the rights of non-residents of Hong Kong or foreign persons to hold or exercise voting rights with respect to our ordinary shares.
Voting rights
     Any decisions that are made by the shareholders in a general meeting require the passing of either an ordinary or a special resolution at such meeting. The type of resolution required to be passed depends upon the provisions of the Hong Kong Companies Ordinance and our Articles as certain matters may only be decided by the passing of a special resolutions.

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     Unless any shares have special terms as to voting, on a show of hands every shareholder who is present in person at a general meeting, shall have one vote irrespective of the number of shares he holds and on a poll every shareholder who is present in person or by proxy shall have one vote for every share of which he is the holder. Our Articles set out the circumstances in which a poll can be demanded.
     Pursuant to Rule 13.39(4) of the Listing Rules which became effective on January 1, 2009, any votes of the Shareholders at a general meeting must be taken by poll.
     Any shareholder that is a recognized clearing house within the meaning of the Securities and Futures Ordinance of Hong Kong may authorize such person or persons as it thinks fit to act as its representative (or representatives) at any general meeting or at any separate meeting of any class of shareholders (if relevant). However, if more than one person is authorized, the authorization must specify the number and class of shares in respect of which each person is in fact authorized. The authorized person will be entitled to exercise the same power on behalf of the recognized clearing house as that clearing house (or its nominees) could exercise if it were an individual shareholder of the Company.
Issue of shares
     Under the Companies Ordinance, our board of directors may, without the prior approval of the shareholders, offer to issue new shares to existing shareholders in proportion to their current shareholdings. Our board of directors may not issue new shares in any other way without the prior approval of the shareholders. Any such approval given in a general meeting shall continue in force until the earlier of: (1) the conclusion of the next annual general meeting; or (2) the expiration of the period within which the next annual general meeting is required by law to be held; or (3) when revoked or varied by an ordinary resolution of the shareholders in a general meeting. Where such shareholders’ approval is given, subject to the Listing Rules and any conditions attached to such approval, our unissued shares may be at the disposal of our board of directors, which may offer, allot, grant options over or otherwise dispose of them to such persons, at such times and for such consideration and upon such terms and conditions as the directors may decide.
     Subject to the provisions of our Articles, any shareholder may transfer all or any of his shares by an instrument of transfer in the usual or common form or in such other form as our board of directors may accept and may approve. Such instrument may be signed by hand or, if the buyer or seller is a clearing house or its nominee(s), signed by hand or by a machine imprinted signature or by such other manner as our board of directors may approve from time to time.
     The instrument of transfer of a share shall be executed by or on behalf of both the buyer and the seller of that share provided that our board of directors may dispense with the signing of the instrument of transfer by the buyer in any case which it thinks fit in its discretion to do so. Except as provided in the paragraph above, our board of directors may also decide, either generally or in any particular case, upon request by either the buyer or seller of shares to accept mechanically signed transfers. The seller shall be deemed to remain the holder of the share until the name of the buyer is entered into our register in respect of that share. All instruments of transfer, when registered, may be retained by us. Nothing in our Articles prevents our board of directors from recognizing a renunciation of the allotment or provisional allotment of any share by the person to whom the shares were to be allotted in favor of some other person.
     Our board of directors may in its absolute discretion and without giving any reason, decline to register any transfer of any share which is not a fully paid share.
     Our board of directors may also decline to register any transfer unless:
(a) the instrument of transfer, duly stamped, is lodged with us accompanied by the certificate for the shares to which it relates and such other evidence as our board of directors may reasonably require to show the right of the seller to make the transfer;
(b) such fee, not more than the maximum amount allowed by The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited from time to time, as our board of directors may from time to time require is paid to us in respect of it;
(c) the instrument of transfer is in respect of only one class of share;

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(d) in the case of a transfer of a share jointly held by two or more holders, the number of joint holders to whom the share is to be transferred does not exceed four; and
(e) the shares concerned are free of any lien in favor of us.
     If our board of directors declines to register a transfer of any share, it shall, within two months after the date on which the instrument of transfer was lodged, send to the buyer notice of the refusal.
Shareholders
     In accordance with our Articles, only persons who are registered in our register of members are recognized by us as shareholders and absolute owners of the shares. The register of members may be closed by our board of directors at such times and for such periods as it may from time to time decide by giving notice by advertisement in a newspaper circulating generally in Hong Kong, but the register shall be closed in any year for more than 30 days (excluding Sundays and public holidays) unless extended by ordinary resolution.

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C. Material contracts
     Other than such contracts as are described in our disclosure in Item 7 “Major shareholders and related party transactions — related party transactions”, we have not entered into any material contracts outside the ordinary course of our business within the two years preceding the date of this annual report.

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D. Exchange controls
     The Basic Law of Hong Kong provides that the Hong Kong dollar will remain the legal tender in Hong Kong after July 1, 1997. The Basic Law also provides that no foreign exchange control policies will be applied in Hong Kong and that the Hong Kong dollar will be freely convertible. During the Asia regional economic crisis in 1998, however, the Hong Kong Government intervened on several occasions in the foreign exchange market by purchasing the Hong Kong dollar and selling the U.S. dollar to support the value of the Hong Kong dollar.
     There are no restrictions, either pursuant to our Articles, or pursuant to the laws of Hong Kong, on the rights of non-residents of Hong Kong or foreign persons to hold or exercise voting rights with respect to our ordinary shares, or export or import capital.
E. Taxation
     The following provides a general outline of the material tax considerations that may be relevant to a decision to own or dispose of our American depositary shares or shares but does not purport to deal with the tax consequences applicable to all categories of investors. Prospective investors should consult their own professional advisers on the Hong Kong, United States and overall tax implications of investing, holding or disposing the American depositary shares or shares under the laws of the countries in which they are liable to taxation. The discussion below is applicable to both U.S. and non-U.S. citizens as an investor.
Hong Kong Taxation
Tax on dividends
     No tax is payable in Hong Kong by withholding or otherwise in respect of dividends paid by City Telecom.
Profits tax
     No tax is imposed in Hong Kong in respect of gains from the sale of our shares and American depositary shares, unless all the following factors are present:
(i) such profits are derived from or arise in Hong Kong;
 
(ii) such profits are attributable to a trade, profession or business carried on in Hong Kong; and
 
(iii) the property in question, such as shares and American depositary shares, are not capital assets of that trade, profession or business.
     Taxable profits are subject to Hong Kong profits tax on corporations at the rate of 16.5% and on unincorporated businesses or individuals at the rate of 15%.
     Profits from the sales of our shares, which are effected on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, will be considered to be derived from or arising in Hong Kong. Such profits are taxable if the shares are not held as capital assets and the profits are attributable to a business, trade or profession carried out in Hong Kong.
     Profits from the sales of our American depositary shares will be considered to be derived from or arising in Hong Kong if the relevant purchase or sales contracts are effected in Hong Kong. In the event that those persons dealing or trading in the American depositary shares are doing so as part of their trade, profession or business that is being carried out in Hong Kong and the shares are not capital assets of such trade of business, then such profits will be subject to Hong Kong profits tax. In any case of an exchange of any American depositary receipts evidencing American depositary shares for certificates representing shares, any profit gained on subsequent disposition of such shares will be the difference between the initial price of American depositary shares and the market value of such shares at the date of disposition.
Stamp duty
     The sale and purchase of shares is subject to Hong Kong stamp duty which is payable by both the seller and purchase. Both seller and purchaser must pay stamp duty at a rate of 0.1% each, totaling 0.2%, of the total value of the greater of (i) the consideration paid or (ii) the market value of the shares on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, or otherwise, on the date the contract note for the sale or purchase is executed. If, in the case of a sale or purchase of shares effected by a person who is not resident in Hong Kong, the stamp duty on either or both of the contract notes is not paid, the transferee will be liable to stamp the instrument of transfer and pay stamp duty on the instrument in an amount equal to the unpaid duty. If the instrument is not stamped before or within the time for stamping such instrument, a penalty of up to ten times the duty payable may be imposed. In addition, a fixed duty of HK$5.00 is currently payable on any instrument of transfer of shares.

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     In addition to the depositary’s charges, if any, the withdrawal of the shares upon the surrender of American depositary receipts evidencing American depositary shares, and the issuance of American depositary receipts evidencing American depositary shares upon the deposit of the shares, will be subject to Hong Kong stamp duty at the rate described above for sale and purchase transactions. In the event the withdrawal or deposit does not result in a change in the beneficial ownership of the shares under Hong Kong law, only the nominal fixed duty of HK$5.00 will be payable. Investors are not liable for stamp duty on the issuance of the American depositary shares upon the initial deposit of shares issued directly to the depositary or for the account of the depositary. No Hong Kong stamp duty is payable upon the transfer of American depositary receipts evidencing our American depositary shares if such American depositary receipts are not maintained on a register in Hong Kong.
Tax treaty
     There is currently no reciprocal tax treaty between Hong Kong and the U.S. regarding withholding.

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United States Taxation
Certain U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations
     The following is a summary of certain United States federal income tax considerations that are anticipated to be material to the purchase, ownership, and disposition of our shares or American depositary shares by U.S. Holders, as defined below. This summary is based on the U.S. Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”), its legislative history, existing and proposed U.S. Treasury regulations, published rulings and court decisions, all as in effect on the date hereof. These laws are all subject to change or different interpretation, possibly on a retroactive basis. This summary does not discuss all aspects of United States federal income taxation which may be important to particular investors in light of their individual investment circumstances, such as investors subject to special tax rules including: partnerships, financial institutions, insurance companies, regulated investment companies, real estate investment trusts, broker-dealers, tax-exempt organizations, and, except as described below, non-U.S. Holders, or to persons that will hold our shares or American depositary shares as part of a straddle, hedge, conversion, or constructive sale transaction for United States federal income tax purposes or that have a functional currency other than the United States dollar, all of whom may be subject to tax rules that differ significantly from those summarized below. In addition, this summary does not discuss any foreign, state, or local tax considerations. This summary assumes that investors will hold our shares or American depositary shares as “capital assets” (generally, property held for investment) under the Code.
     Each prospective investor is urged to consult its own tax advisor regarding the United States federal, state, local, and foreign income and other tax considerations of the purchase, ownership, and disposition of our shares or American depositary shares.
     For purposes of this summary, a U.S. Holder is a beneficial owner of shares or American depositary shares that is for United States federal income tax purposes:
- an individual who is a citizen or resident of the United States;
 
- a corporation, or other entity that is taxable as a corporation, created in or organized under the laws of the United States or any State or political subdivision thereof;
 
- an estate the income of which is includible in gross income for United States federal income tax purposes regardless of its source;
 
- a trust the administration of which is subject to the primary supervision of a United States court and which has one or more United States persons who have the authority to control all substantial decisions of the trust; or
 
- a trust that was in existence on August 20, 1996, was treated as a United States person, for United States federal income tax purposes, on the previous day, and elected to continue to be so treated.
     If a partnership or other entity or arrangement treated as a partnership for United States federal income tax purposes holds our shares or American depositary receipts, the tax treatment of a partner will generally depend upon the status of the partner and the activities of the partnership. A U.S. Holder that is a partner in a partnership holding our shares or American depositary receipts is urged to consult its own tax advisor concerning the United States federal income tax consequences of purchasing, owning and disposing of our shares or American depositary receipts by the partnership.
     A beneficial owner of our shares or American depositary shares that is not a U.S. Holder is referred to herein as a “Non-U.S. Holder.”
     A foreign corporation will be treated as a “passive foreign investment company” or “PFIC”, for United States federal income tax purposes, if 75% or more of its gross income consists of certain types of “passive” income or 50% or more of the fair market value of its assets are “passive” for any taxable year. Based on our current and projected income, assets, and activities, we presently believe that we are not a PFIC in the current taxable year and do not anticipate becoming a PFIC in the future. The PFIC status of a foreign corporation for any taxable year, however, will not be determinable until after the end of that taxable year. Because the classification of certain of our assets for United States federal income tax purposes is uncertain, the PFIC rules are subject to administrative interpretation, and the relevant facts may change in the

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future, however, no assurance can be given that we are not or will not be treated as a PFIC. The discussion below under “U.S. Holders-Dividends” and “U.S. Holders-Sale or Other Disposition of Shares or American depositary shares,” assumes that we will not be subject to treatment as a PFIC for United States federal income tax purposes. If we were currently or were to become a PFIC, U.S. Holders would be subject to special rules and a variety of potentially adverse tax consequences under the Code. See “PFIC Considerations” below.
U.S. Holders
     For United States federal income tax purposes, a U.S. Holder of an American depositary share will be treated as the owner of the proportionate interest of the shares held by the depositary that is represented by an American depositary share and evidenced by such American depositary share. Accordingly, no gain or loss will be recognized upon the exchange of an American depositary share for the holders’ proportionate interest in the shares. A U.S. Holder’s tax basis in the withdrawn shares will be the same as the tax basis in the American depositary share surrendered therefore, and the holding period in the withdrawn shares will include the period during which the holder held the surrendered American depositary share.
     Dividends.Any cash distributions paid by us out of our earnings and profits, as determined under United States federal income tax rules, will be subject to tax as ordinary dividend income and will be includible in the gross income of a U.S. Holder upon actual or constructive receipt. Cash distributions paid by us in excess of our earnings and profits will be treated first as a tax-free return of capital to the extent of the U.S. Holder’s adjusted tax basis in our shares or American depositary shares, and thereafter as gain from the sale or exchange of a capital asset. Dividends paid in Hong Kong dollars will be includible in income in a United States dollar amount based on the United States dollar to Hong Kong dollar “spot” exchange rate prevailing at the time of receipt of such dividends by the depositary, in the case of American depositary shares, or by the U.S. Holder, in the case of shares held directly by

52


such U.S. Holder. U.S. Holders should consult their own tax advisors regarding the United States federal income tax treatment of any foreign currency gain or loss recognized on the subsequent conversion of Hong Kong dollars received as dividends to United States dollars. Dividends received on shares or American depositary shares will not be eligible for the dividends received deduction allowed to corporations.
     Under current law, “qualified dividend income” received by an individual prior to January 1, 2011 is subject to United States federal income tax rates lower than those applicable to ordinary income. The maximum federal income tax rate on such qualifying dividends received by an individual is 15%, or 5% for those individuals whose incomes fall in the 10% or 15% tax brackets. Based upon our existing and anticipated future operations and current assets, and the anticipation that our American depository shares are and will be listed on the NASDAQ, we believe that we are a “qualified foreign corporation” and that our dividends paid to U.S. Holders who are individuals will be eligible to be treated as “qualified dividend income”, provided that such Holders satisfy applicable holding period requirements with respect to the American depositary shares and other application requirements. Dividends paid by foreign corporations that are classified as PFICs are not “qualified dividend income”. See “PFIC Considerations” below.
     Dividends received on shares or American depositary shares generally will be treated, for United States federal income tax purposes, as income from non-U.S. sources. Such non-U.S. source income generally will be “passive category income”, or in certain cases “general category income”, which is treated separately from other types of income for purposes of computing the U.S. foreign tax credit. A U.S. Holder may be eligible, subject to a number of complex limitations, to claim a foreign tax credit in respect of any foreign withholding taxes imposed on dividends received on shares or American depositary shares. U.S. Holders who do not elect to claim a U.S. foreign tax credit for foreign income tax withheld may instead claim a deduction, for United States federal income tax purposes, in respect of such withholdings, but only for a year in which the U.S. Holder elects to do so for all creditable foreign income taxes.
     In addition, the United States Treasury has expressed concerns that parties to whom depositary shares are pre-released may be taking actions that are inconsistent with the claiming of U.S. foreign tax credits by the holders of American depositary shares. The analysis of the creditability of foreign withholding taxes could be affected by future actions that may be taken by the United States Treasury.
     Sale or Other Disposition of Shares or American depositary shares. A U.S. Holder will recognize capital gain or loss upon the sale or other disposition of shares or American depositary shares in an amount equal to the difference between the amount realized upon the disposition and the U.S. Holder’s adjusted tax basis in such shares or American depositary shares, as each is determined in U.S. dollars. Any such capital gain or loss will be long-term if the shares or American depositary shares have been held for more than one year and will generally be United States source gain or loss. Certain non-corporate U.S. Holders (including individuals) may qualify for preferential rates of United States federal income taxation in respect of long-term capital gains for taxable years beginning before January 1, 2011. The claim of a deduction in respect of a capital loss, for United States federal income tax purposes, may be subject to limitations. If a U.S. Holder receives Hong Kong dollars for any such disposition, such U.S. Holder should consult its own tax advisor regarding the United States federal income tax treatment of any foreign currency gain or loss recognized on the subsequent conversion of the Hong Kong dollars to United States dollars.
Medicare Tax
     For taxable years beginning after December 31, 2012, a United States person that is an individual or estate, or a trust that does not fall into a special class of trusts that is exempt from such tax, is subject to a 3.8% tax on the lesser of (1) the United States person’s “net investment income” for the relevant taxable year and (2) the excess of the United States person’s modified adjusted gross income for the taxable year over a certain threshold (which in the case of individuals will be between US$125,000 and US$250,000, depending on the individual’s circumstances). A holder’s net investment income will generally include its gross dividend income and its net gains from the disposition of ADSs, unless such dividends or net gains are derived in the ordinary course of the conduct of a trade or business (other than a trade or business that consists of certain passive or trading activities). If you are a United States person that is an individual, estate or trust, you are urged to consult your tax advisors regarding the applicability of the Medicare tax to your income and gains in respect of your investment in the ADSs.
PFIC considerations
     If we were to be classified as a PFIC for any taxable year, a U.S. Holder would be subject to special rules generally intended to reduce or eliminate any benefits from the deferral of United States federal income tax that a U.S. Holder could derive from investing in a foreign company that does not distribute all of its earnings on a current basis. In such event, a U.S. Holder of the shares or American depositary shares may be subject to tax at ordinary income tax rates on (i) any gain recognized on the sales of the shares or American depositary shares and (ii) any “excess distribution” paid on the shares or American depositary shares (generally, a distribution in excess of 125% of the average

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annual distributions paid by us in the three preceding taxable years). In addition, a U.S. Holder may be subject to an interest charge on such gain or excess distribution. Prospective investors are urged to consult their own tax advisors regarding the potential tax consequences to them if we are or do become a PFIC, as well as certain elections that may be available to them to mitigate such consequences.
Non-U.S. Holders
     An investment in shares or American depositary shares by a Non-U.S. Holder will not give rise to any United States federal income tax consequences unless:
- the dividends received or gain recognized on the sale of the shares or American depositary shares by such person is treated as effectively connected with the conduct of a trade or business by such person in the United States as determined under United States federal income tax law, and the dividends are attributable to a permanent establishment (or in the case of an individual, a fixed place of business) that you maintain in the United States if that is required by an applicable income tax treaty as a condition for subjecting you to U.S. taxation on a net income basis. In such cases you generally will be taxed in the same manner as a U.S. holder. If you are a corporate non-U.S. Holder, “effectively connected” dividends may, under certain circumstances, be subject to an additional “branch profits tax” at a 30% rate or a lower rate if you are eligible for the benefits of an income tax treaty that provides for a lower rate, or
-
 in the case of gains recognized on a sale of shares or American depositary shares by an individual, such individual is present in the United States for 183 days or more and certain other conditions are met. The non-U.S. Holder will be subject to United States federal income tax at a rate of 30% on the amount by which the U.S. — source capital gains exceed non-U.S. — source capital losses.
Backup withholding and information reporting
     In general, information reporting requirements will apply to dividends on or the proceeds received on the sale, exchange or redemption of shares or American depositary shares paid within the United States (and, in certain cases, outside the United States) to U.S. Holders other than certain exempt recipients, such as corporations, and backup withholding tax may apply to such amounts if the U.S. Holder fails to provide an accurate taxpayer identification number (or otherwise establishes, in the manner provided by law,

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an exemption from backup withholding) or to report dividends required to be shown on the U.S. Holder’s United States federal income tax returns.
     Backup withholding is not an additional income tax, and the amount of any backup withholding from a payment to a U.S. Holder will be allowed as credit against the U.S. Holder’s United States federal income tax liability provided that the appropriate returns are filed.
     A non-U.S. Holder generally may eliminate the requirement for information reporting and backup withholding by providing certification of its foreign status to the payer, under penalties of perjury, on IRS Form W-8BEN.
Information with Respect to Foreign Financial Assets
     Under recently enacted legislation, individuals that own “specified foreign financial assets” with an aggregate value in excess of US$50,000 in taxable years beginning after March 18, 2010 will generally be required to file an information report with respect to such assets with their tax returns. “Specified foreign financial assets” include any financial accounts maintained by foreign financial institutions, as well as any of the following, but only if they are not held in accounts maintained by financial institutions: (i) stocks and securities issued by non-U.S. persons, (ii) financial instruments and contracts held for investment that have non-U.S. issuers or counterparties and (iii) interests in foreign entities. U.S. holders that are individuals are urged to consult their tax advisors regarding the application of this legislation to their ownership of ADSs.
     THE ABOVE DISCUSSION OF CERTAIN UNITED STATES FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSIDERATIONS IS FOR GENERAL INFORMATION ONLY, DOES NOT PURPORT TO BE A COMPLETE DESCRIPTION OF THE POTENTIAL TAX CONSIDERATIONS RELATING TO OUR SHARES OR AMERICAN DEPOSITARY RECEIPTS AND IS NOT INTENDED TO BE CONSTRUED AS TAX ADVICE. ACCORDINGLY, PROSPECTIVE INVESTORS SHOULD CONSULT THEIR OWN TAX ADVISORS AS TO THE PARTICULAR TAX CONSEQUENCES TO THEM OF PURCHASING, OWNING AND DISPOSING OF OUR SHARES OR AMERICAN DEPOSITARY RECEIPTS, INCLUDING THE APPLICABILITY AND EFFECT OF ANY UNITED STATES FEDERAL, STATE, LOCAL OR NON-UNITED STATES TAX LAWS, AND OF ANY PROPOSED CHANGES IN APPLICABLE LAW.
F. Dividends and paying agents
Not applicable.
G. Statement by experts
Not applicable.
H. Documents on display
     We filed with Securities and Exchange Commission in Washington, D.C. a registration statement on Form F-1 (Registration No. 333-11012) under the Securities Act in connection with our global offering of American depositary shares in November 1999. The registration statement contains exhibits and schedules. For further information with respect to City Telecom and the American depositary shares, please refer to the registration statement and to the exhibits and schedules filed with the registration statement. In addition, whenever a reference is made in this annual report to a contract or other document of City Telecom, you should be aware that such reference is not necessarily complete and that you should refer to the exhibits and schedules that are a part of the registration statement for a copy of the contract or other document.
     The Company’s registration statements may be inspected and copied, including exhibits and schedules, and the reports and other information as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission in accordance with the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 at the public reference facilities maintained by the Securities and Exchange Commission at Judiciary Plaza, 450 Fifth100F Street Room 1024, N.W.,NE, Washington, D.C. 20549. Copies of such material may also be obtained from the Public Reference Section of the Securities and Exchange Commission at 450 Fifth100F Street N.W.,NE, Washington, D.C. 20549, at prescribed rates. Information may be obtained regarding the Washington D.C. Public Reference Room by calling the Securities

63


and Exchange Commission at 1-800-SEC-0330 or by contacting the Securities and Exchange Commission over the Internet at its website at http://www.sec.gov.www.sec.gov/.
I. Subsidiary information
Not applicable.
Item 11 Quantitative and qualitative disclosures about market risk
     Quantitative and qualitative disclosures about market risk have been included in note 24 to our consolidated financial statements.

54


Item 12 Description of securities other than equity securities
Not applicable.
PART II
Item 13 Defaults, dividend arrearages and delinquencies
None.
Item 14 Material modifications to the rights of security holders and use of proceeds
None.
Item 15 Controls and procedures
A. Disclosure controls and procedures
     An evaluation was carried out under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. As of the end of the period covered by this annual report, based on that evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective to provide reasonable assurance that information the Company is required to disclose in reports that the Company files or submits under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in SEC rules and forms, and that such information is accumulated and communicated to the Company’s management, including the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. In designing and evaluating the disclosure controls and procedures, management recognizes that any controls and procedures, no matter how well designed and operated, can provide only reasonable assurance of achieving the desired control objectives. In addition, the design of disclosure controls and procedures must reflect the fact that there are resource constraints and that management is required to apply its judgment in evaluating the benefits of possible controls and procedures relative to their costs. Subsequent to the date of their evaluation, there have been no significant changes in our internal controls or in other factors that could significantly affect these controls.
B. Management’s report on internal control over financial reporting
     Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting for the Company, as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. The Company’s internal control over financial reporting is designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of consolidated financial statements for external purpose in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. Under Section 404(a) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, our management is required to include its assessment of the effectiveness of our internal control procedures over financial reporting in our annual report on Form 20-F beginning in the fiscal year ended August 31, 2009. With the assistance of Company’s internal audit department and external consultants, our management organized and conducted a comprehensive assessment of internal control over financial reporting based on the control criteria in COSO framework. As ofBased on this assessment, the date of this annual report, our management is not aware of any instances of material weaknesses on ourDirectors believe that, as at August 31, 2010, the internal control over financial reporting and our internal control over financing reporting is effective.
C. Changes in internal control over financial reporting
     During fiscal 2009,2010, the period covered by this annual report, no change has occurred in our internal controls over financial reporting that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal controls over financial reporting.
D. Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
     The Board of Directors and Shareholders of City Telecom (H.K.) Limited:

5564


     We have audited City Telecom (H.K.) Limited and its subsidiaries’ internal control over financial reporting as of August 31, 2010, based on criteria established in Internal Control – Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO)”). The management of City Telecom (H.K.) Limited and its subsidiaries is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the City Telecom (H.K.) Limited and its subsidiaries’ internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.
     We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audit also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.
     A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.
     Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
     In our opinion, City Telecom (H.K.) Limited and its subsidiaries maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of August 31, 2010, based on criteria established in Internal Control – Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.
     We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated balance sheets of City Telecom (H.K.) Limited and its subsidiaries as of August 31, 2009 and 2010, and the related consolidated income statements, consolidated statements of comprehensive income, consolidated statements of changes in equity, and consolidated cash flow statements for each of the years in the three-year period ended August 31, 2010, and our report dated November 9, 2010 expressed an unqualified opinion on those consolidated financial statements.
/s/ KPMG  
Hong Kong, China 
November 9, 2010 
Item 16A Audit committee financial expert
     Our board of directors established an audit committee to ensure the impartial supervision of our accounting and business operations. The audit committee is comprised of three independent non-executive directors, namely, Mr. Lee Hon Ying, John, Dr. Chan Kin Man and Mr. Peh Jefferson Tun Lu. Mr. Peh was appointed to the audit committee on September 1, 2004 and is a “financial expert” within the meaning of, and as required by, the U.S. Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
Item 16B Code of ethics
     All of our employees,Talents, officers and directors are bound by our code of business ethics and conduct. We adopted our code of ethics and modified it following the passage of, and to comply with, the U.S. Sarbanes Oxley Act of 2002. Copies of our code of ethics are available for viewing on our website at http://www.ctigroup.com.hk and free of charge upon request made to our company secretary. We have not made any amendment to our code of ethics since our most recently completed fiscal year. We have never granted a waiver for non-compliance with the policies and procedures set forth in the code of ethics for any employeeTalent of our Company or any of our subsidiaries.

65


Item 16C Principal accountant fees and services
     The following table sets forth the remuneration that we paid to KPMG, our independent auditor in each of our previous two fiscal years.
                
 2008 2009  2010 2009 
Nature of the service HK$ million HK$ million  HK$
million
 HK$
million
 
Audit fees 2.8 2.6  2.3 2.6 
Audit-related fees 0.4 0.4  0.2 0.4 
Non-audit services fees 0.3  
          
  
Total 3.2 3.0  2.8 3.0 
          
Audit fees
     Audit fees are the aggregate fees billed by our independent auditors for the annual financial statement audit, subsidiary audits and other procedures required to be performed for the auditors to form an opinion on our consolidated financial statements.
Audit-related fees
     Audit-related fees are the aggregate fees billed by our independent auditors for the review of our interim financial statements and review of reports for compliance with telecommunications regulations and debt obligations.
Non-audit services fees
     Non-audit services fees are the aggregate fees billed by our independent auditors for the services provided for the ADS offering in April 2010.
Pre-approval polices
     The engagement of KPMG and the services provided pursuant to such engagement were approved by our audit committee in accordance with paragraph (c)(7)(i) of Rule 2-01 of Regulation S-X. The fees for all such services have been pre-approved by our audit committee. Our audit committee has satisfied itself that the provision of the above-stated non-audit services has not impaired the independence of KPMG.
Item 16D Exemptions from the listing standards for audit committees
Not applicable.

56


Item 16E Purchase of equity securities by the issuer and affiliated purchasers
     By way of a general mandate granted to our directors, the maximum aggregate nominal amount of shares that may be purchased pursuant to a mandate corresponds to 10% of the aggregate nominal amount of our issued share capital at the date the mandate was granted. During the year ended August 31, 2009,2010, we had not repurchased 70,000any of the ordinary shares on the HKSE, details of which are as follows:-
                 
      Highest price  Lowest price  Total 
  Number of  paid per  paid per  consideration 
Date of repurchase Ordinary Shares  Ordinary Share  Ordinary Share  paid 
     HK$  HK$  HK$ 
August 11, 2009  70,000   1.92   1.91   134,197 
HKSE.
Item 16F Change in Registrant’s Certifying Accountant
Not applicable.
Item 16G Corporate Governance
     As our ordinary shares are listed on the HKSE and American depositary shares representing our ordinary shares are listed on the Nasdaq Global Market, we are subject to applicable Hong Kong laws and regulations, including the HKSE Listing Rules, and the Hong Kong Companies Ordinance, as well as applicable U.S. federal securities laws, including the Exchange Act and the Sarbanes-Oxley Act. In addition, we are subject to the corporate governance requirements imposed by Nasdaq to the extent they apply to foreign private issuers. Under Nasdaq Stock Market Rule 5615(a)(3), a foreign private issuer such as us may follow its home country corporate governance practices in lieu of certain of the Nasdaq Stock Market Rules corporate governance requirements. Our current corporate governance practices differ from Nasdaq corporate governance requirements for U.S. companies in certain respects, as summarized below:
Nasdaq Stock Market Rule 5605(b)(1) requires a Nasdaq listed company to have a board of directors consisting of a majority of independent members, In this regard we have elected to adopt the practices of our home country, As a listed company in Hong Kong, we are subject to the requirement under the HKSE Listing Rules that at least three members of our board of directors be independent as determined under the HKSE Listing Rules. In compliance with our home country practices, we currently have three independent

66


  Nasdaq Stock Market Rule 5605(b)(1) requires a Nasdaq listed company to have a board of directors consisting of a majority of independent members, In this regard we have elected to adopt the practices of our home country, As a listed company in Hong Kong, we are subject to the requirement under the HKSE Listing Rules that at least three members of our board of directors be independent as determined under the HKSE Listing Rules. In compliance with our home country practices, we currently have three independent directors out of a total of eight directors. The standards for establishing independence under the HKSE Listing Rules also differ from those set forth in the Nasdaq Stock Market Rules.
 
  Nasdaq Stock Market Rule 5605(b)(2) requires a Nasdaq listed company to schedule regular executive sessions in which non-management directors meet without management participation. In this regard we have elected to adopt the practices of our home country. Under the applicable Hong Kong law, our board of directors is required to meet regularly and at least four times a year and we are required to ensure that there is active participation by a majority of the directors and afford all directors an opportunity to include matters on the agenda. In addition, when a board meeting considers a matter in which a substantial shareholder or a director has a conflict of interest, the independent directors with no material interest in such matter must be present. In compliance with our home country practices, we do not organize exclusive meetings for our independent non-executive directors on a regular basis.
 
  Nasdaq Stock Market Rule 5605(d)(1) requires a Nasdaq listed company to have the compensation of the chief executive officer and the other executive officers be determined, or recommended to the Board for determination, by a compensation committee comprised solely of independent directors. In this regard we have elected to adopt the practices of our home country. Under the HKSE Listing Rules, listed companies are required to establish a remuneration committee with a majority of independent non-executive directors. The compensation of our executive officers is determined by a remuneration committee consisting of six directors, three of whom are independent non-executive directors.
 
  Nasdaq Stock Market Rule 5605(e)(1) requires a Nasdaq listed company to have a nominations committee consisting solely of independent directors to select or recommend for selection director nominees. In this regard we have elected to adopt the practices of our home country and do not have a nominations committee consisting solely of independent directors. Under the HKSE Listing Rules, listed companies are recommended but not required to establish a nomination committee consisting of the independent non-executive directors with majority vote. Our director nominees are selected by or recommended for selection by the Board. Our current practice is not inconsistent with our home country practices.
     Other than the above, we have followed and intend to continue to follow the applicable Nasdaq corporate governance standards.

5767


PART III
Item 17 Financial statements
We have selected to provide the financial statements and related information specified in Item 18 in lieu of Item 17.
Item 18 Financial statements
See pages F-1 to F-51F-64 following Item 19.
Item 19 Exhibits
(a) Exhibit 12.1 — Section 302 Certifications of the Chief Executive Officer.
 
(b) Exhibit 12.2 — Section 302 Certifications of the Chief Financial Officer.
 
(c) Exhibit 13 — Section 906 Certification of Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer.

5868


Index to Consolidated Financial Statements
   
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements Pages
 F-1
 F-2
F-2 F-3
 F-3F-4
 F-4F-5
 F-5F-7
 F-6F-8

 


Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
The Board of Directors and Shareholders
City Telecom (H.K.) Limited
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheetsstatements of financial position of City Telecom (H.K.) Limited and its subsidiaries (the “Group”) as of August 31, 20082009 and 2009,2010, and the related consolidated income statements, theconsolidated statements of comprehensive income, consolidated statements of changes in equity and the consolidated cash flow statements for the each of the years in the three-year period ended August 31, 2008 and 2009.2010. These consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’sGroup’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements based on our audits.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements,statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of City Telecom (H.K.) Limited and its subsidiaries as of August 31, 20082009 and 2009,2010, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended August 31, 2008 and 2009,2010, in conformity with the International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board.
We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the City Telecom (H.K.) Limited and its subsidiaries’ internal control over financial reporting as of August 31, 2010, based on criteria established in Internal Control – Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO), and our report dated November 9, 2010 expressed an unqualified opinion on the effectiveness of the internal control over financial reporting of City Telecom (H.K.) Limited and its subsidiaries.
/s/ KPMG
Hong Kong, China
November 5, 2009
9, 2010

F-1


City Telecom (H.K.) Limited and its subsidiaries
Consolidated income statements

(Expressed in Hong Kong dollars)
                            
 For the year ended August 31,  For the year ended August 31, 
 Note 2009 2008  2010 2009 2008 
 HK$’000 HK $’000  Note HK$’000 HK$’000 HK $’000 
Revenue
 2 1,478,239 1,302,981  2 1,574,687 1,478,239 1,302,981 
Network costs 3  (175,129)  (178,367) 3  (195,292)  (175,129)  (178,367)
Other operating expenses  4(a)  (1,037,964)  (966,094)  4(a)  (1,105,604)  (1,037,964)  (966,094)
Other revenues  4(b) 41,540 24,989 
Other income, net  4(b) 7,989 41,540 24,989 
Finance costs  4(c)  (55,127)  (75,137)  4(c)  (22,235)  (55,127)  (75,137)
            
 
Profit before taxation
 4 251,559 108,372  4 259,545 251,559 108,372 
Income tax (expense)/ benefit 5  (38,730) 16,818 
Income tax (expense)/benefit 5  (42,679)  (38,730) 16,818 
       
      
Profit attributable to shareholders
 212,829 125,190  216,866 212,829 125,190 
            
Dividends
 6 126,173 38,614 
      
Basic earnings per share
 7 HK32.4 cents HK19.7 cents  7 HK30.7 cents HK32.4 cents HK19.7 cents
            
 
Diluted earnings per share
 7 HK31.8 cents HK19.0 cents  7 HK29.4 cents HK31.8 cents HK19.0 cents 
            
The accompany notes are integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

F-2


City Telecom (H.K.) Limited and its subsidiaries
Consolidated statement of comprehensive income
(Expressed in Hong Kong dollars)
             
  For the year ended August 31, 
  2010  2009  2008 
  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000 
Profit for the year
  216,866   212,829   125,190 
             
Other comprehensive income
            
Exchange differences on translation of financial statements of overseas subsidiaries  (97)  70   1,619 
          
             
Total comprehensive income for the year
  216,769   212,899   126,809 
          
The accompany notes are integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

F-3


City Telecom (H.K.) Limited and its subsidiaries
Consolidated balance sheets
(Expressed in Hong Kong dollars)
                        
 As at August 31,  As at August 31, 
 Note 2009 2008  2010 2009 
 HK$’000 HK$’000  Note HK$’000 HK$’000 
Non-current assets
  
 
Goodwill 11 1,066 1,066  11 1,066 1,066 
Fixed assets 12 1,302,380 1,231,399  12 1,431,813 1,302,380 
Long term receivable and prepayment 6,091 5,586  5,174 6,091 
Deferred expenditure 15 12,786 15,391  14 6,626 12,786 
Deferred tax assets 21  26,335 
     
 
      1,444,679 1,322,323 
 1,322,323 1,279,777      
      
Current assets
  
  
Accounts receivable 16 120,192 140,283  15 99,729 120,192 
Other receivables, deposits and prepayments 16 69,765 82,726  15 89,490 69,765 
Deferred expenditure 15 36,674 40,704  14 28,986 36,674 
Other financial assets 14  27,997 
Pledged bank deposits 27 15,038 87,319  27  15,038 
Cash at bank and in hand 17 221,052 421,610  16 588,665 226,416 
          
 462,721 800,639  
      806,870 468,085 
     
 
Current liabilities
  
  
Bank overdrafts — unsecured 10,490 5,364 
Accounts payable 18 37,555 52,324  17 35,128 37,555 
Other payables and accrued charges 18 206,487 178,114  17 195,931 206,487 
Deposits received 16,385 16,264  21,822 16,385 
Deferred service revenue 19 115,070 110,449  18 106,798 115,070 
Tax payable 1,993 2,103  1,533 1,993 
Current portion — obligations under finance leases 22 202 121  22 212 202 
     
      
 377,692 359,375  371,914 383,056 
          
  
Net current assets
 85,029 441,264  434,956 85,029 
          
  
Total assets less current liabilities
 1,407,352 1,721,041  1,879,635 1,407,352 
          
  
Non-current liabilities
  
  
Deferred tax liabilities 21 15,709 4,937  20 55,843 15,709 
Derivative financial instrument 21 11,293  
Long-term debt and other liabilities 22 163,116 683,497  22 123,960 163,116 
          
 178,825 688,434  
      191,096 178,825 
      
 
Net assets
 1,228,527 1,032,607  1,688,539 1,228,527 
     
      
Capital and reserves
  
  
Share capital 20 66,418 65,062  19 76,500 66,418 
Reserves 20 1,162,109 967,545  19 1,612,039 1,162,109 
          
  
Total equity attributable to equity shareholders of the Company
 1,228,527 1,032,607  1,688,539 1,228,527 
          
The accompany notes are integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

F-3F-4


City Telecom (H.K.) Limited and its subsidiaries
Consolidated statements of changes in equity

(Expressed in Hong Kong dollars)
             
      For the year ended August 31, 
  Note  2009  2008 
      HK$’000  HK$’000 
Total equity as at beginning of the year
      1,032,607   903,882 
           
Net profit recognized directly in equity:
            
             
Exchange adjustments on translation of the financial statements of subsidiaries      70   1,619 
             
Net profit for the year
      212,829   125,190 
           
             
Total recognized profit for the year
      212,899   126,809 
           
             
Dividends declared and paid in respect of the current year
      (19,904)  (11,371)
Dividends declared and paid in respect of the previous year
      (3,108)  (5,915)
           
             
       (23,012)  (17,286)
           
Movements in equity arising from capital transactions:
            
             
Repurchase and cancellation of ordinary shares      (134)   
Equity settled share-based transactions  10   4,768   4,204 
Shares issued upon exercise of options      1,399   14,998 
           
             
       6,033   19,202 
           
             
Total equity as at the end of the year
      1,228,527   1,032,607 
           
                             
              Capital          
  Share  Share  Capital  redemption  Retained  Exchange    
  capital  premium  reserve  reserve  profits  reserve  Total 
  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000 
At September 1, 2009  66,418   681,208   23,232   7   454,802   2,860   1,228,527 
Total comprehensive income for the year              216,866   (97)  216,769 
Dividend paid in respect of previous year              (108,735)     (108,735)
Dividend paid in respect of current year              (49,725)     (49,725)
Shares issued upon exercise of share option  2,032   22,227   (7,515)           16,744 
Equity settled share-based transactions        5,347            5,347 
Shares issued upon placement  8,050   371,562               379,612 
                      
                             
At August 31, 2010  76,500   1,074,997   21,064   7   513,208   2,763   1,688,539 
                      
                             
              Capital          
  Share  Share  Capital  redemption  Retained  Exchange    
  capital  premium  reserve  reserve  profits  reserve  Total 
  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000 
At September 1, 2008  65,062   670,717   19,013      275,025   2,790   1,032,607 
Total comprehensive income for the year              212,829   70   212,899 
Dividend paid in respect of previous year              (3,108)     (3,108)
Shares issued in respect of scrip dividend of previous year  1,221   8,685         (9,906)      
Dividend paid in respect of current year              (19,904)     (19,904)
Shares issued upon exercise of share option  142   1,806   (549)           1,399 
Equity settled share-based transactions        4,768            4,768 
Repurchase and cancellation of ordinary shares  (7)        7   (134)     (134)
                      
                             
At August 31, 2009  66,418   681,208   23,232   7   454,802   2,860   1,228,527 
                      

F-5


City Telecom (H.K.) Limited and its subsidiaries
Consolidated statements of changes in equity (continued)
(Expressed in Hong Kong dollars)
                         
  Share  Share  Capital  Retained  Exchange    
  capital  premium  reserve  profits  reserve  Total 
  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000 
At September 1, 2007  61,650   622,433   18,109   200,519   1,171   903,882 
Total comprehensive income for the year           125,190   1,619   126,809 
Dividend paid in respect of previous year           (5,915)     (5,915)
Shares issued in respect of scrip dividend of previous year  1,123   18,044      (19,167)      
Dividend paid in respect of current year           (11,371)     (11,371)
Shares issued in respect of scrip dividend of current year  884   13,347      (14,231)      
Shares issued upon exercise of share option  1,405   16,893   (3,300)        14,998 
Equity settled share-based transactions        4,204         4,204 
                   
                         
At August 31, 2008  65,062   670,717   19,013   275,025   2,790   1,032,607 
                   
The accompany notes are integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

F-4F-6


City Telecom (H.K.) Limited and its subsidiaries
Consolidated cash flow statements

(Expressed in Hong Kong dollars)
                            
 For the year ended August 31,  For the year ended August 31, 
 Note 2009 2008  2010 2009 2008 
 HK$’000 HK$’000  Note HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 
Net cash inflow from operations
  23(a) 537,618 382,813   23(a) 488,353 538,503 386,241 
  
Hong Kong profits tax recovered  42 
Hong Kong profits tax (paid)/recovered  (456)  42 
Overseas tax paid  (1,732)  (4,292)  (2,557)  (1,732)  (4,292)
            
  
Net cash inflow from operating activities
 535,886 378,563  485,340 536,771 381,991 
       
      
Investing activities
  
  
Increase in pledged bank deposits 72,281   15,038 72,281  
Interest received 4,869 15,596  11,372 4,869 15,596 
Purchases of fixed assets  (289,938)  (189,903)  (349,076)  (289,938)  (189,903)
Net proceeds from maturity of investment in debt securities 28,051 3,900   28,051 3,900 
Net proceeds from redemption of long-term bank deposit  15,600    15,600 
Proceeds from disposal of fixed assets 8,249 7,057  16,412 8,249 7,057 
            
  
Net cash outflow from investing activities
  (176,488)  (147,750)  (306,254)  (176,488)  (147,750)
            
  
Net cash inflow before financing activities
 359,398 230,813  179,086 360,283 234,241 
            
 
Financing activities
  
  
Repurchase of ordinary shares  (134)     (134)  
Proceeds from issuance of new shares  23(b) 1,399 14,998   23(b) 396,356 1,399 14,998 
Proceeds from new bank loans 163,375   
Repayment of bank loan  (40,000)   
Repayment of capital element of finance leases  23(b)  (138)  (834)  23(b)  (217)  (138)  (834)
Interest element of finance leases  (27)  (34)  (42)  (27)  (34)
Interest paid on bank loans  (1,166)   
Other borrowing costs paid  (3,260)  (885)  (3,428)
Interest paid on 10-year senior notes  (52,670)  (70,010)  (5,881)  (52,670)  (70,010)
Repurchase of 10-year senior notes  23(b)  (485,829)  (269,399)  23(b)  (172,423)  (485,829)  (269,399)
Dividends paid  (23,008)  (17,271)  (158,435)  (23,008)  (17,271)
            
  
Net cash outflow from financing activities
  (560,407)  (342,550)
Net cash inflow/(outflow) from financing activities
 178,307  (561,292)  (345,978)
            
  
Decrease in cash at bank and in hand
  (201,009)  (111,737)
Increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalent
 357,393  (201,009)  (111,737)
  
Cash at bank and in hand at September 1
 421,610 532,894 
Cash and cash equivalent at September 1
 221,052 421,610 532,894 
  
Effect of foreign exchange rate changes
 451 453   (270) 451 453 
            
  
Cash at bank and in hand at August 31
 221,052 421,610 
Cash and cash equivalent at August 31
 578,175 221,052 421,610 
            
 
Analysis of the balances of cash and cash equivalents
 
Cash at bank and in hand 588,665 226,416 434,604 
Bank overdrafts — unsecured  (10,490)  (5,364)  (12,994)
       
 
 578,175 221,052 421,610 
       
The accompany notes are integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

F-5F-7


1 Significant accounting policies
 
(a) Statement of compliance
 
  City Telecom (H.K.) Limited (the “Company”) was incorporated in Hong Kong on May 19, 1992 under the Hong Kong Companies Ordinance. City Telecom (H.K.) Limited and its subsidiaries (collectively referred to as the “Group”) are engaged in the provision of international telecommunications services and fixed telecommunications network services to customers in Hong Kong and Canada.
 
  The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with all applicable International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRSs”) issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (“IASB”), which collective term includes all applicable individual International Financial Reporting Standards, International Accounting Standards (“IASs”) and Interpretations issued by the IASB.
 
  In prior periods, the Company prepared its consolidated financial statements in accordance with Hong Kong Financial Reporting Standards (“HKFRSs”), which collective term includes all applicable individual Hong Kong Financial Reporting Standards, Hong Kong Accounting Standards (“HKASs”) and Interpretations issued by the Hong Kong Institute of Certified Public Accountants (“HKICPA”) and accounting principles generally accepted in Hong Kong. Although HKFRSs have been fully converged with IFRSs in all material respects since January 1, 2005, the accompanying consolidated financial statements are the first published financial statements in which the Company makes an explicit and unreserved statement of compliance with IFRSs. Therefore, in preparing these financial statements management has given due consideration to the requirements of IFRS 1, First-time Adoption of International Financial Reporting Standards. The date of the Company’s transition to IFRSs was determined to be September 1, 2007, being the beginning of the earliest period for which the Company presents full comparative information in these financial statements.
With due regard to the Company’s accounting policies in previous periods and the requirements of IFRS 1, management has concluded that no adjustments to the amounts reported under HKFRSs as at the date of transition to IFRSs, or in respect of the year ended August 31, 2008, were required in order to enable the Company to make an explicit and unreserved statement of compliance with IFRSs in the first IFRS financial statements which included these amounts as comparatives.
The IASB has issued a number ofa new or revised IFRSs that are first effective or available for early adoption for the current accounting period of the Group and the Company. However, noneThe equivalent new or revised HKFRSs consequently issued by HKICPA as a result of these developments have the same effective date as those issued by the IASB and are in all material respects identical to the pronouncements issued by the IASB. Of these, the following developments are relevant to the Company’s operations.Group’s financial statements:
IFRS/HKFRS 8,Operating segments
IAS/HKAS1 (revised 2007),Presentation of financial statements
Amendments to IFRS/HKFRS 7,Financial instruments: disclosure — improving disclosures about financial instruments
The impact of these developments is as follows:
IFRS/HKFRS 8 requires segment disclosure to be based on the way that the Group’s chief operating decision-maker regards and manages the Group, with the amounts reported for each reportable segment being the measures reported to the Group’s chief operating decision-marker for the purposes of assessing segment performance and making decisions about operating matters. The new requirement under IFRS/HKFRS 8 is consistent with the Group’s segment information presented in prior years. The adoption of HKFRS 8 had no material impact on the reportable segments being identified and disclosed.
As a results of the adoption of IAS/HKAS 1 (revised 2007), details of changes in equity during the period arising from transactions with equity shareholders in their capacity as such have been presented separately from all other income and expenses in a revised consolidated statement of changes in equity. All other items of income an expense are presented in the consolidated income statement, if they are recognized as part of profit or loss for the period, or otherwise in a new primary statement, the consolidated statement of comprehensive income. Corresponding amounts have been restated to conform to the new presentation. The change in presentation has no effect on reported profit or loss, total income and expense or net assets for any period presented.
As a result of the adoption of the amendments to IFRS/HKFRS 7, the financial statements include expanded disclosure in note 24(e)(i) about the fair value measurement of the Group’s financial instruments, categorizing these fair value measurements into a three-level fair value hierarchy accordingly to the extent to which they are based on observable market data.
The Group has taken advantage of the transitional provisions set out in the amendments to IFRS/HKFRS 7, under which comparative information for the newly required disclosures about the fair value measurements of financial instruments has not been provided.

F-8


1Significant accounting policies (continued)
(a)Statement of compliance (continued)
 
  The Group has not applied any new standard or interpretation that is not yet effective for the current accounting period (see note 31)32).
 
  The consolidated financial statements were authorized for issue by the Board of Directors on November 5, 2009.9, 2010.
 
(b) Basis of preparation of the financial statements
 
  The measurement basis used in the preparation of the financial statements is the historical cost basis except that certain financial assets are stated at their fair values or amortized costs as explained in the accounting policies set out below (see notes 1(j), 1(k)1(l) and 1(r)).
 
  The preparation of financial statements in conformity with IFRSs requires management to make judgments, estimates and assumptions that affect the application of policies and reported amounts of assets, liabilities, income and expenses. The estimates and associated assumptions are based on historical experience and various other factors that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis of making the judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from these estimates.
 
  The estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognized in the period in which the estimate is revised if the revision affects only that period, or in the period of the revision and future periods if the revision affects both current and future periods.
 
  Judgments made by management in the application of IFRSs that have significant effect on the financial statements and estimates with a significant risk of material adjustment in the next year are discussed in note 30.31.
 
(c) Subsidiaries and controlled entities
 
  Subsidiaries are entities controlled by the Group. Control exists when the Group has the power to govern the financial and operating policies of an entity so as to obtain benefits from its activities. In assessing control, potential voting rights that presently are exercisable are taken into account.

F-6


1Significant accounting policies (continued)
 
(d) Group accounting
 
(i) Consolidation
 
  An investment in a subsidiary is consolidated into the consolidated financial statements from the date that control commences until the date that control ceases.
 
  Intra-group balances and transactions and any unrealized profits arising from intra-group transactions are eliminated in full in preparing the consolidated financial statements. Unrealized losses resulting from intra-group transactions are eliminated in the same way as unrealized gains but only to the extent that there is no evidence of impairment.
 
(ii) Translation of foreign currencies
 
  Transactions in foreign currencies are translated at exchange rates ruling at the transaction dates. Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated at exchange rates ruling at the balance sheet date. Exchange differences arising in these cases are dealt with in profit or loss.
 
  For consolidation purposes, the balance sheets of foreign subsidiaries denominated in foreign currencies are translated at the rates of exchange ruling at the balance sheet date whilst the income statement is translated at an average rate for the year. Exchange differences are dealt with as a movement in reserves.
 
  The accompanying consolidated financial statements are presented in Hong Kong Dollars, which is the Company’sGroup’s functional currency. All financial information have been rounded to the nearest thousand.

F-9


1Significant accounting policies (continued)
 
(e) Goodwill
 
  Goodwill represents the excess of the cost of a business combination or an investment in an associate or a jointly controlled entity over the Group’s interest in the net fair value of the acquiree’s identifiable assets, liabilities and contingent liabilities.
 
  Goodwill is stated at cost less accumulated impairment losses. Goodwill is allocated to cash-generating units and is tested annually for impairment (see note 1(i)). In respect of associates or jointly controlled entities, the carrying amount of goodwill is included in the carrying amount of the interest in the associate or jointly controlled entity.
 
  Any excess of the Group’s interest in the net fair value of the acquiree’s identifiable assets, liabilities and contingent liabilities over the cost of a business combination or an investment in an associate or a jointly controlled entity is recognized immediately in profit or loss.
 
  On disposal of a cash generating unit, an associate or a jointly controlled entity during the year, any attributable amount of goodwill is included in the calculation of the profit or loss on disposal.
 
(f) Investment property
 
  Investment properties are land and/or buildings which are owned and held to earn rental income and/or for capital appreciation.
 
  Investment properties are stated in the balance sheet at cost less accumulated depreciation (see note 1(g)) and impairment losses (see note 1(i)) if any. Any gain or loss arising from the retirement or disposal of an investment property is recognized in the income statement. Rental income from investment property is accounted for in accordance with the accounting policy as set out in note 1(t)1(s)(v).
 
(g) Fixed assets
 
  Fixed assets are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and accumulated impairment losses.
 
  Depreciation is calculated to write off the cost of items of property, plant and equipment, less their estimated residual value, if any, using the straight-line method over their estimated useful lives as follows:
-Buildings situated on leasehold land are depreciated over the shorter of the unexpired term of lease and their estimated useful lives of 50 years
Buildings situated on leasehold land are depreciated over the shorter of the unexpired term of lease and their estimated useful lives of 50 years
   
-        Furniture, fixtures and fittings 4 years
   
-        Telecommunications, computer and office equipment 4 years 20 years
   
-        Motor vehicles 4 years
-Leasehold improvements are depreciated over the shorter of the unexpired term of the leases and their estimated useful lives.
Leasehold improvements are depreciated over the shorter of the unexpired term of the leases and their estimated useful lives.
  Where the parts of an item of property, plant and equipment have different useful lives, the cost of the item is allocated on a reasonable basis between the parts and each part is depreciated separately. Both the useful life of an asset and its residual value, if any, are reviewed annually.

F-7


1Significant accounting policies (continued)
(g)Fixed assets (continued)
 
  Major costs incurred in restoring fixed assets to their normal working condition are charged to profit or loss. Major improvements are capitalized and depreciated over their expected useful lives to the Group.
 
  The gain or loss on disposal of a fixed asset is the difference between the net sales proceeds and the carrying amount of the relevant asset, and is recognized in profit or loss on the date of disposal.

F-10


1Significant accounting policies (continued)
 
(h) Assets held under leases
 
  An arrangement, comprising a transaction or a series of transactions, is or contains a lease if the Group determines that the arrangement conveys a right to use a specific asset or assets for an agreed period of time in return for a payment or a series of payments. Such a determination is made based on an evaluation of the substance of the arrangement and is regardless of whether the arrangement takes the legal form of a lease.
 
(i) Classification of assets leased to the Group
 
  Assets that are held by Group under leases which transfer to the Group substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership are classified as being held under finance leases. Leases which do not transfer substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership to the Group are classified as operating leases.
 
  Land held for own use under an operating lease for which its fair value cannot be measured separately from the fair value of a building situated thereon at the inception of the lease, is accounted for as being held under a finance lease, unless the building is also clearly held under an operating lease (see note 1(h)(iii)).
 
(ii) Finance leases
 
  Where the Group acquired the use of assets under finance leases, the amounts representing the fair value of the leased asset or, if lower, the present value of the minimum lease payments of such assets, are included in fixed assets with the corresponding liabilities, net of finance charges, recorded as obligations under finance leases. Depreciation and impairment losses are accounted for in accordance with the accounting policy as set out in note 1(g) and note 1(i). Finance charges implicit in the lease payments are charged to profit or loss over the period of the leases so as to produce an approximately constant periodic rate of charge on the remaining balance of the obligations for each accounting period.
 
(iii) Operating leases
 
  Leases where substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership of assets remain with the lessor are accounted for as operating leases. Receipts and payments made under operating leases net of any incentives received by/from the lessor are credited/charged to profit or loss on a straight-line basis over the lease periods.
 
(i) Impairment of assets
 
(i) Impairment of investments in debt and equity securities and accounts receivable and other receivables
 
  Investments in debt and equity securities and other current and non-current receivables that are stated at cost or amortized cost or are classified as available-for-sale securities and other current and non-current receivables that are stated at cost or amortized cost are reviewed at each balance sheet date to determine whether there is objective evidence of impairment. Objective evidence of impairment includes observable data that comes to the attention of the Group about one or more of the following loss events:
 - significant financial difficulty of the debtor;
 
 - a breach of contract, such as a default or delinquency in interest or principal payments;
 
 - it becoming probable that a debtor will enter bankruptcy or other financial reorganization; and
 
 - a significant or prolonged decline in the fair value of an investment in an equity instrument below its cost.

F-11


1Significant accounting policies (continued)
(i)Impairment of assets (continued)
(i)Impairment of investments in debt and equity securities and accounts and other receivables (continued)
  If any such evidence exists, any impairment loss is determined and recognized as follows:
 - For unquoted equity securitiestrade and other current receivables and non-current receivables that are carried at cost, the impairment loss is measured as the difference between the carrying amount of the financial asset and the estimated future cash flows, discounted at the current market rate of return for a similar financial asset where the effect of discounting is material. Impairment losses for current and non-current receivables that are carried at cost are reversed if in a subsequent period the amount of the impairment loss decreases. Impairment losses for equity securities are not reversed.
-Forother financial assets carried at amortized cost, the impairment loss is measured as the difference between the asset’s carrying amount and the present value of estimated future cash flows, discounted at the financial asset’s original effective interest rate (i.e. the effective interest rate computed at initial recognition of these assets). This assessment is made collectively where financial assets carried at amortized cost share similar risk characteristics, such as similar past due status, and have not been individually assessed as impaired. Future cash flows for financial assets which are assessed for impairment collectively are based on historical loss experience for assets with credit risk characteristics similar to the collective group.

F-8


1Significant accounting policies (continued)
 
(i)Impairment of assets (continued)
(i)Impairment of investments in debt and equity securities and accounts receivable and other receivables (continued)
   If in a subsequent period the amount of an impairment loss decreases and the decrease can be linked objectively to an event occurring after the impairment loss was recognized, the impairment loss is reversed through profit or loss. A reversal of an impairment loss shall not result in the asset’s carrying amount exceeding that would have been determined had no impairment loss been recognized in prior years.
 
 - For available-for-sale securities, the cumulative loss that has been recognized directly in equity is removed from equity and is recognized in profit or loss. The amount of the cumulative loss that is recognized in profit or loss is the difference between the acquisition cost (net of any principal repayment and amortization) and current fair value, less any impairment loss on that asset previously recognized in profit or loss.
 
   Impairment losses recognized in profit or loss in respect of available-for-sale equity securities are not reversed through profit or loss. Any subsequent increase in the fair value of such assets is recognized directly in equity.
 
   Impairment losses in respect of available-for-sale debt securities are reversed if the subsequent increase in fair value can be objectively related to an event occurring after the impairment loss was recognized. Reversals of impairment losses in such circumstances are recognized in profit and loss.
  Impairment losses are written off against the corresponding assets directly, except for impairment losses recognized in respect of accounts receivable, whose recovery is considered doubtful but not remote. In this case, the impairment losses for doubtful debts are recorded using an allowance account. When the Group is satisfied that recovery is remote, the amount considered irrecoverable is written off against accounts receivable and any amounts held in the allowance account relating to that debt are reversed. Subsequent recoveries of amounts previously charged to the allowance account are reversed against the allowance account. Other changes in the allowance account and subsequent recoveries of amounts previously written off directly are recognized in profit or loss.
 
(ii) Impairment of other assets
 
  Internal and external sources of information are reviewed at each balance sheet date to identify indications that the following assets may be impaired or, except in the case of goodwill, an impairment loss previously recognized no longer exists or may have decreased:
 - fixed assets;
 
 - investment property; and
 
 - goodwill.

F-12


1Significant accounting policies (continued)
(i)Impairment of assets (continued)
(ii)Impairment of other assets (continued)
  If any such indication exists, the asset’s recoverable amount is estimated. In addition, for goodwill, the recoverable amount is estimated annually whether or not there is any indication of impairment.
 - Calculation of recoverable amount
 
   The recoverable amount of an asset is the greater of its net selling price 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 time value of money and the risks specific to the asset. Where an asset does not generate cash inflows largely independent of those from other assets, the recoverable amount is determined for the smallest group of assets that generates cash inflows independently (i.e. a cash-generating unit).
 
 - Recognition of impairment losses
 
   An impairment loss is recognized in profit or loss whenever the carrying amount of an asset, or the cash-generating unit to which it belongs, exceeds its recoverable amount. Impairment losses recognized in respect of cash-generating units are allocated first to reduce the carrying amount of any goodwill allocated to the cash-generating unit (or group of units) and then, to reduce the carrying amount of the other assets in the unit (or group of units) on a pro rata basis, except that the carrying value of an asset will not be reduced below its individual fair value less costs to sell, or value in use, if determinable.
 
 - Reversals of impairment losses
 
   In respect of assets other than goodwill, an impairment loss is reversed if there has been a favorable change in the estimates used to determine the recoverable amount. An impairment loss in respect of goodwill is not reversed.
 
   A reversal of an impairment loss is limited to the asset’s carrying amount that would have been determined had no impairment loss been recognized in prior years. Reversals of impairment losses are credited to profit or loss in the year in which the reversals are recognized.

F-9


1Significant accounting policies (continued)
(j)Other financial assets
The Group accounts for investments in debt and equity securities are as follows:
Financial assets held for trading and those designated as at fair value through profit or loss at inception are accounted for at fair value. Such financial assets are initially stated at fair value and are classified as current assets, if they are expected to be realized within 12 months. At each balance sheet date the fair value of the financial assets is remeasured, with any resultant gain or loss being recognized in profit or loss. The net gain or loss recognized in profit or loss does not include any interest earned on these investments. Interest income is recognized in accordance with the policies set out in note 1(t)(iv).
Held-to-maturity securities are dated debt securities that the Group has the positive ability and intent to hold to maturity. Such securities are initially recognized in the balance sheet at fair value plus transaction costs. Subsequently, they are stated in the balance sheet at amortized cost less impairment losses (see note 1(i)(i)).
Financial assets that are not classified as held for trading, financial assets at fair value through profit or loss or, held-to-maturity securities, are classified as available-for-sale securities. Available-for-sale securities are initially recognized at fair value plus transaction costs. At each balance sheet date the fair value of the assets is remeasured, with any resultant gain or loss recognized directly in equity, except for impairment losses (see note 1(i)(i)) and foreign exchange gains and losses, which are recognized directly in profit or loss. Where these investments are interest-bearing, interest calculated using the effective interest method is recognized in profit or loss. When these investments are derecognized, the cumulative gain or loss previously recognized directly in equity is recognized in profit or loss.
Investments are recognized on the date the Group commits to purchase the investments. Investments are derecognized when:
(i)the contractual rights to the cash flows from the investment securities expire; or
(ii)the Group transfers the contractual rights to receive the cash flows of the investment securities.
(k)(j) Derivative financial instruments
 
  Derivative financial instruments that are not designated or do not qualify as hedges are recognized initially at fair value. At each balance sheet date, the fair value of the derivative financial instruments is remeasured. The gain or loss on remeasurement to fair value is chargedrecognized immediately toin profit or loss.loss, except where the derivatives qualify for cash flow hedge accounting or hedge of a net investment in a foreign operation, in which case recognition of any resultant gain or loss depends on the nature of the item being hedged. For the years presented in the consolidated financial statements, none of the Group’s derivative financial instruments qualify as hedges or hedge accounting.
 
(l)(k) Deferred expenditure
 
  Deferred expenditure represents customer acquisition costs incurred for successful acquisition or origination of a service subscription agreement with a customer. Such costs are deferred and amortized on a straight-line basis over the period of the underlying service subscription agreements.

F-13


1Significant accounting policies (continued)
 
(m)(l) Accounts receivable
 
  Accounts receivableTrade and other receivables are initially recognized at fair value and thereafter stated at amortized cost less allowance for impairment of doubtful debts (see note 1(i)(i)), except where the receivables are interest-free loans made to related parties without any fixed repayment terms or the effect of discounting would be immaterial. In such cases, the receivables are stated at cost less impairment of doubtful debts (see note 1(i)(i)).
 
(n)(m) Cash, bank balances and pledged bank deposits
 
  Cash and bank balances consist of cash on hand, cash in bank accounts and interest-bearing savings accounts. Cash that is restricted for use or pledged as security is disclosed separately on the face of the balance sheet, and is not included in the cash and bank balances total in the consolidated statements of cash flows. The pledged bank deposits represent cash maintained at a bank as security for bank facility and bank guarantees issued by the bank to third party suppliers and utility vendors (see note 27).
 
(o)(n) Financial guarantees issued, provisions and contingent liabilities
 
(i) Financial guarantees issued
 
  Financial guarantees are contracts that require the issuer (i.e. the guarantor) to make specified payments to reimburse the beneficiary of the guarantee (the “holder”) for a loss the holder incurs because a specified debtor fails to make payment when due in accordance with the terms of a debt instrument.
 
  Where the Group issues a financial guarantee, the fair value of the guarantee (being the transaction price, unless the fair value can otherwise be reliably estimated) is initially recognized as deferred income within trade and other payables. Where consideration is received or receivable for the issuance of the guarantee, the consideration is recognized in accordance with the Group’s policies applicable to that category of asset. Where no such consideration is received or receivable, an immediate expense is recognized in profit or loss on initial recognition of any deferred income.

F-10


1Significant accounting policies (continued)
(o)Financial guarantees issued, provisions and contingent liabilities (continued)
(i)Financial guarantees issued (continued)
 
  The amount of the guarantee initially recognized as deferred income is amortized in profit or loss over the term of the guarantee as income from financial guarantees issued. In addition, provisions are recognized in accordance with note 1(o)1(n)(ii) if and when (i) it becomes probable that the holder of the guarantee will call upon the Group under the guarantee, and (ii) the amount of that claim on the Group is expected to exceed the amount currently carried in trade and other payables in respect of that guarantee i.e. the amount initially recognized, less accumulated amortization.
 
(ii) Other provisions and contingent liabilities
 
  Provisions are recognized for other liabilities of uncertain timing or amount when the Group has a legal or constructive obligation arising as a result of a past event, it is probable that an outflow of economic benefits will be required to settle the obligation and a reliable estimate can be made. Where the time value of money is material, provisions are stated at the present value of the expenditure expected to settle the obligation.
 
  Where it is not probable that an outflow of economic benefits will be required, or the amount cannot be estimated reliably, the obligation is disclosed as a contingent liability, unless the probability of outflow of economic benefits is remote. Possible obligations, whose existence will only be confirmed by the occurrence or non-occurrence of one or more future events are also disclosed as contingent liabilities unless the probability of outflow of economic benefits is remote.

F-14


1Significant accounting policies (continued)
 
(p)(o) EmployeeTalent benefits
 
(i) Employee leaveLeave entitlements
 
  Employee entitlementsEntitlements to annual leave and long service leave are recognized when they accrue to employees.individuals employed by the Group hereinafter (referred to as “Talents”), including directors of the Company. A provision is made for the estimated liability for annual leave and long-service leave as a result of services rendered by employeesTalents up to the balance sheet date.
 
  Employee entitlementsEntitlements to sick leave and maternity or paternity leave are not recognized until the time of leave.
 
(ii) Profit sharing and bonus plans
 
  Provisions for profit sharing and bonus plans are recognized when the Group has a present legal or constructive obligation as a result of services rendered by employeesTalents and a reliable estimate of the obligation can be made.
 
(iii) Retirement benefit costs
 
  The Group contributes to defined contribution retirement schemes which are available to certain employees.Talents. Contributions to the schemes by the Group are calculated as a percentage of employees’Talents’ basic salaries and charged to profit or loss. The Group’s contributions are reduced by contributions forfeited by those employeesTalents who leave the scheme prior to vesting fully in the contributions.
 
  The assets of the scheme are held in an independently administered fund that is separated from the Group’s assets.
 
(iv) Share-based payments
 
  The fair value of share options granted to employeesTalents is recognized as an employeeTalent cost with a corresponding increase in capital reserve within equity. The fair value is measured at grant date using the Black-Scholes option pricing model or Monte Carlo model, taking into account the terms and conditions upon which the options were granted. Where the employeesTalents have to meet vesting conditions before becoming unconditionally entitled to the share options, the total estimated fair value of the share options is spread over the vesting period, taking into account the probability that the options will vest.
 
  During the vesting period, the number of share options that is expected to vest is reviewed. Any adjustment to the cumulative fair value recognized in prior years is charged/credited to profit or loss, unless the original employeeTalent expenses qualify for recognition as an asset, with a corresponding adjustment to the capital reserve. On vesting date, the amount recognized as an expense is adjusted to reflect the actual number of share options that vest (with a corresponding adjustment to the capital reserve) except where forfeiture is only due to not achieving vesting conditions that relate to the market price of the Company’s shares. The amount related to share options expense is recorded in the capital reserve until either the option is exercised or the option expires.

F-11


1Significant accounting policies (continued)
 
(q)(p) Deferred taxation
 
  Deferred taxation is provided, in full, using the balance sheet liability method, on temporary differences arising between the tax bases of assets and liabilities and their carrying amounts in the financial statements. Deferred tax assets also arise from unused tax losses. Taxation rates enacted or substantively enacted at the balance sheet date are used to measure deferred tax assets and liabilities.
 
  Deferred tax assets are recognized to the extent that it is probable that future taxable profitprofits will be available against which the temporary differences can be utilized.

F-15


1 Deferred taxation is provided on temporary differences arising on investments in subsidiaries except where the timing of the reversal of the temporary difference can be controlled and it is probable that the temporary difference will not be reversed in the foreseeable future.Significant accounting policies (continued)
 
(r)(p) Senior notesDeferred taxation (continued)
 
  Long-term debt, representing senior notes,The following temporary differences, of which deferred taxes are not provided for: initial recognition of goodwill, the initial recognition of assets or liabilities that affect neither accounting nor taxable profit (provided they are not part of a business combination), and temporary differences relating to investments in subsidiaries to the extent that, in the case of taxable differences, the Group controls the timing of the reversal and it is probable that the temporary differences will not be reversed in the foreseeable future, or in the case of deductible differences, unless it is probable that they will reverse in the future.
Deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities are offset when there is a legally enforceable right to set off current tax assets against current tax liabilities and when the deferred tax assets and the deferred tax liabilities relate to income taxes levied by the same taxation authority on the same taxable entity.
(q)Interest-bearing borrowings
Interest-bearing borrowings are recognized initially at fair value less incidental costs of issuance.attributable transaction costs. Subsequent to initial recognition, the senior notesinterest-bearing borrowings are stated at amortized cost with the difference between amortized cost and redemption value recognized in profit or loss over the period of borrowings using the effective interest method.
 
(s)(r) Trade and other payables
 
  Trade and other payables are initially recognized at fair value. Except for financial guarantee liabilities measured in accordance with note 1(o)1(n), trade and other payables are subsequently stated at amortized cost unless the effect of discounting would be immaterial, in which case they are stated at cost.
 
(t)(s) Revenue recognition
 
(i) Revenue for the provision of international telecommunications and fixed telecommunications network services is recognized, when an arrangement exists, service is rendered, the fee is fixed or determinable, and collectibility is probable.
 
(ii) Tariff-free period granted to subscribers of fixed telecommunications network services are recognized in profit or loss rateably over the term of the service subscription agreement. Unbilled revenue represents revenue recognized in accordance with the requirement in note 1(t)1(s)(i) that has not been billed to the subscriber.
 
(iii) Amount received in advance for the provision of fixed telecommunications network services is deferred and included under deferred service revenue, and subsequently recognized as revenue on a straight-line basis over the related service period.
 
(iv) Interest income is recognized as it accrues using the effective interest method.
 
(v) Rental income receivable under operating leases is recognized in profit or loss in equal installments over the periods covered by the lease term. Lease incentives granted are recognized in profit or loss as an integral part of the aggregate net lease payments receivable.
 
(u)(t) Borrowing costs
 
  Borrowing costs that are directly attributable to the acquisition, construction or production of an asset that necessarily takes a substantial period of time to get ready for its intended use or sale are capitalized as part of the cost of that asset.
 
  All other borrowing costs are charged to profit or loss in the year in which they are incurred.
(v)Segment reporting
In accordance with the Group’s internal financial reporting, the Group has determined that the primary reporting format is business segment and secondary reporting format is geographical segment.
Segment assets consist primarily of goodwill, fixed assets, receivables and cash. Segment liabilities comprise operating liabilities and exclude items such as taxation and certain corporate borrowings. Capital expenditure comprises additions to fixed assets.
In respect of geographical segment reporting, sales are reported based on the country in which the customer is located. Total assets and capital expenditure are reported based on where the assets are located.

F-12F-16


1 Significant accounting policies (continued)
 
(w)(u)Segment reporting
Operating segments, and the amounts of each segment item reported in the financial statements, are identified from the financial information provided regularly to the Group’s most senior executive management for the purposes of allocating resources to, and assessing the performance of, the group’s two lines of business.
Geographical information is not presented as the majority of the Group’s revenue is attributed to customers in Hong Kong and the majority of the assets are located in Hong Kong.
(v) Accounting for barter transactions
 
  When goods or services are exchanged for goods or services which are of a similar nature and value, the exchange is not regarded as a revenue generating transaction.
 
  When goods are sold or services are rendered in exchange for dissimilar goods or services, the exchange is regarded as a transaction which generates revenue. The revenue is measured at the fair value of the goods or services received, adjusted by the amount of any cash or cash equivalents transferred. When the fair value of the goods or services received cannot be measured reliably, the revenue is measured at the fair value of the goods or services rendered, adjusted by the amount of any cash or cash equivalents transferred.
 
(x)(w) Related parties
 
  For the purposes of these financial statements, a party is considered to be related to the Group if:
 (i) the party has the ability, directly or indirectly through one or more intermediaries, to control the Group or exercise significant influence over the Group in making financial and operating policy decisions, or has joint control over the Group;
 
 (ii) the Group and the party are subject to common control;
 
 (iii) the party is an associate of the Group or a joint venture in which the Group is a venturer;
 
 (iv) the party is a member of key management personnel of the Group or the Group’s parent, or a close family member of such an individual, or is an entity under the control, joint control or significant influence of such individuals;
 
 (v) the party is a close family member of a party referred to in (i) or is an entity under the control, joint control or significant influence of such individuals; or
 
 (vi) the party is a post-employment benefit plan which is for the benefit of employeesTalents of the Group or of any entity that is a related party of the Group.
  Close family members of an individual are those family members who may be expected to influence, or be influenced by, that individual in their dealings with the entity.

F-17


2 RevenueTurnover and segment information
  The Group is principally engaged in the provision of international telecommunications services and fixed telecommunications network services to customers in Hong Kong and Canada. Revenues recognized during the year are as follows:
         
  2009  2008 
  HK$’000  HK$’000 
Revenue
        
         
International telecommunications services  247,359   291,943 
Fixed telecommunications network services (note 2(c))  1,230,880   1,011,038 
       
         
   1,478,239   1,302,981 
       
             
  2010  2009  2008 
  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000 
Turnover
            
             
International telecommunications services  218,589   247,359   291,943 
Fixed telecommunications network services (note 2(b))  1,356,098   1,230,880   1,011,038 
          
             
   1,574,687   1,478,239   1,302,981 
          
(a)Primary reporting format — business segments
 
 The Group is organized on a worldwide basis into two business segments:
     
- International telecommunications : provision of international long distance calls services
 
- Fixed telecommunications network : provision of dial up and broadband Internet access services , local voice-over-IP services, IP-TV services and corporate data services

F-13


2Revenue and segment information (continued)
(a)Primary reporting format — business segments (continued)
  The Group’s inter-segment transactions mainly consist of provision of leased lines services. These transactions were entered into on similar terms as those contracted with third parties.
                 
  2009 
  International  Fixed       
  tele-  tele-       
  communications  communications       
  services  network services  Elimination  Group 
  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000 
Revenue                
- External sales  247,359   1,230,880      1,478,239 
- Inter-segment sales  5,669   19,784   (25,453)   
             
                 
   253,028   1,250,664   (25,453)  1,478,239 
             
                 
Segment results  61,631   203,515       265,146 
               
Other revenues              41,540 
Finance costs              (55,127)
                
                 
Profit before taxation              251,559 
Income tax expense              (38,730)
                
                 
Net profit              212,829 
                
                                
 2008  2010 
 International Fixed      International Fixed     
 tele- tele-      tele- tele-     
 communications communications      communications communications     
 services network services Elimination Group  services network services Elimination Group 
 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000  HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 
Revenue 
Turnover 
- External sales 291,943 1,011,038  1,302,981  218,589 1,356,098  1,574,687 
- Inter-segment sales 5,692 22,680  (28,372)   5,673 16,673  (22,346)  
                  
  
 297,635 1,033,718  (28,372) 1,302,981  224,262 1,372,771  (22,346) 1,574,687 
                  
  
Segment results 63,225 95,295 158,520  54,173 219,618 273,791 
          
Other revenues 24,989 
 
Other income, net 7,989 
Finance costs  (75,137)  (22,235)
      
  
Profit before taxation 108,372  259,545 
Income tax benefit 16,818 
Income tax expense  (42,679)
      
  
Net profit 125,190  216,866 
      

F-14F-18


2 Revenue and segment information (continued)
(a) Primary reporting format — business segments (continued)
             
  2009 
  International  Fixed    
  tele-  tele-    
  communications  communications    
  services  network services  Group 
  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000 
Segment assets  297,516   1,487,528   1,785,044 
            
             
Segment liabilities  81,194   295,035   376,229 
Unallocated liabilities          180,288 
            
             
Total liabilities          556,517 
            
             
Capital expenditure incurred during the year  1,820   284,914   286,734 
Depreciation for the year  15,154   191,087   206,241 
                 
  2009 
  International  Fixed       
  tele-  tele-       
  communications  communications       
  services  network services  Elimination  Group 
  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000 
Turnover                
- External sales  247,359   1,230,880      1,478,239 
- Inter-segment sales  5,669   19,784   (25,453)   
             
                 
   253,028   1,250,664   (25,453)  1,478,239 
             
                 
Segment results  61,631   203,515       265,146 
               
                 
Other income, net              41,540 
Finance costs              (55,127)
                
                 
Profit before taxation              251,559 
Income tax expense              (38,730)
                
                 
Net profit              212,829 
                
             
  2008 
  International  Fixed    
  tele-  tele-    
  communications  communications    
  services  network services  Group 
  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000 
Segment assets  426,781   1,627,300   2,054,081 
Unallocated assets          26,335 
            
             
Total assets          2,080,416 
            
             
Segment liabilities  80,756   276,771   357,527 
Unallocated liabilities          690,282 
            
             
Total liabilities          1,047,809 
            
             
Capital expenditure incurred during the year  4,293   207,391   211,684 
Depreciation for the year  19,587   190,464   210,051 
                 
  2008 
  International  Fixed       
  tele-  tele-       
  communications  communications       
  services  network services  Elimination  Group 
  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000 
Turnover                
- External sales  291,943   1,011,038      1,302,981 
- Inter-segment sales  5,692   22,680   (28,372)   
             
                 
   297,635   1,033,718   (28,372)  1,302,981 
             
                 
Segment results  63,225   95,295       158,520 
               
                 
Other income, net              24,989 
Finance costs              (75,137)
                
                 
Profit before taxation              108,372 
Income tax benefit              16,818 
                
                 
Net profit              125,190 
                

F-15F-19


2Revenue and segment information (continued)
(a)Primary reporting format — business segments (continued)
             
  2010 
  International  Fixed    
  tele-  tele-    
  communications  communications    
  services  network services  Group 
  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000 
Segment assets  590,888   1,660,661   2,551,549 
            
             
Segment liabilities  92,982   289,085   382,067 
Unallocated liabilities          180,943 
            
             
Total liabilities          563,010 
            
             
Capital expenditure incurred during the year  5,223   339,621   344,844 
Depreciation for the year  12,637   186,392   199,029 
             
  2009 
  International  Fixed    
  tele-  tele-    
  communications  communications    
  services  network services  Group 
  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000 
Segment assets  298,412   1,491,996   1,790,408 
            
             
Segment liabilities  82,090   299,503   381,593 
Unallocated liabilities          180,288 
            
             
Total liabilities          561,881 
            
             
Capital expenditure incurred during the year  1,820   284,914   286,734 
Depreciation for the year  15,154   191,087   206,241 

F-20


2 Revenue and segment information (continued)
(b)Secondary reporting format — geographical segments
The Group’s two business segments are managed in two main geographical areas:
- Hong Kong

- Canada
In disclosing information on the basis of geographical segments, revenue and segment results are disclosed based on the geographical location of customers. Total assets and capital expenditure are disclosed based on the geographical location of the assets.
There were no sales between the geographical segments.
                 
  2009 
      Segment  Total  Capital 
  Revenue  results  assets  expenditure 
  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000 
Hong Kong  1,461,715   264,859   1,768,643   286,193 
Canada  16,524   287   16,401   541 
             
                 
   1,478,239   265,146   1,785,044   286,734 
             
                 
  2008 
      Segment  Total  Capital 
  Revenue  results  assets  expenditure 
  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000 
Hong Kong  1,281,069   157,485   2,040,496   211,482 
Canada  21,912   1,035   13,585   202 
             
                 
   1,302,981   158,520   2,054,081   211,684 
              
Unallocated assets          26,335     
                
                 
Total assets          2,080,416     
                

F-16


2Revenue and segment information (continued)
(c) Hong Kong Broadband Network Limited (“HKBN”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company, is a Fixed Telecommunications Network Services (“FTNS”) licensee and provides interconnection services to enable delivery of telecommunications service to customers of different operators. Since the FTNS license was granted by the Telecommunication Authority (“TA”) and interconnection services have been provided, HKBN has been billing mobile operators for the interconnection services provided to them and recognizing revenue (“mobile interconnection charges”) based on management’s best estimate of the amounts to be collected. In prior years, majority of the mobile operators rejected HKBN’s demand for payment of the mobile interconnection charges. As a result of non-payment by certain mobile operators, in 2004, the Group requested the TA to make a determination (the “2004 Determination”) on the level of mobile interconnection charges payable by one of the mobile operators (“mobile operator under dispute”) to HKBN; and the effective date of the determined mobile interconnection charges.
 
  In June 2007, TA issued the 2004 Determination which set out the rates of mobile interconnection charge payable by the mobile operator under dispute for interconnection services provided by HKBN for the period from April 1, 2002 to August 31, 2004 and the mobile operator under dispute paid mobile interconnection charge for the relevant period accordingly.
 
  Subsequent to June 2007, HKBN entered into contractual agreements with several mobile operators which agreed to pay mobile interconnection charges based on the 2004 Determination for the period from April 1, 2002 to August 31, 2004 and with respect to the period after August 31, 2004 at the interim rate stated in the contractual agreements. The interim rate is subject to adjustment based on further determination to be issued by the TA.
 
  In February 2008, since certain mobile operators had still not yet settled their mobile interconnection charges for interconnection services provided by HKBN, HKBN requested TA to make a new determination on the rate of mobile interconnection charge and interest thereon with thosethe four mobile operators.
 
  In September 2008, TA indicated that it accepted HKBN’s request for determination on the rate of mobile interconnection charges for the period from April 1, 2002 to April 26, 2009 payable by the mobile operators that have not reached contractual agreements with HKBN, and the rate for the period from September 1, 2004 to April 26, 2009 payable by those mobile operators that have reached contractual agreements with HKBN, and the interest rate thereon (the “2008 Determination”). As at August 31, 2009, the 2008 Determination was still in progress.
 
  ForIn May 2010, TA issued its decision on the year ended August 31, 2009,2008 Determination which set out the rates of mobile interconnection charges payable by the mobile operators under dispute.
Based on the 2008 determination, the Group recognizedreversed approximately HK$19,706,000 revenue related to mobile interconnection charges and recognized approximately HK$10,053,000 interest income during the year ended August 31, 2010.
Included in the accounts receivable balance as at August 31, 2010 were receivable relating to mobile interconnection charges of HK$20,558,000 (2008:39,763,000 (August 31, 2009: HK$29,568,000)68,802,000) representing the amount of mobile interconnection charges management expects to collect.

F-21


3 Network costs
  Network costs mainly include interconnection charges paid to local and overseas carriers, leased line rentals, program fees, and production costs for the IP-TV service, and do not include depreciation charge which is included in other operating expenses.
 
  The Group estimates the Universal Services Contributions (“USC”) payable to PCCW-HKT to fund the costs of network development in remote areas in Hong Kong and includes such estimated costs as part of the network costs. TA periodically reviews thatthe actual costs of such developments and revises the amounts owed to PCCW-HKT or to be refunded by PCCW-HKT to the USC contributing parties.
 
  On December 28, 2007, TA issued a statement (the “2007 TA Statement”) on the USC and confirmed the actual contribution level for the period from January 1, 2005 to June 30, 2007. Based on the 2007 TA Statement, HK$7,617,000 was recorded as a reduction against the network costs of the Group for the year ended August 31, 2008.
 
  On April 8, 2009, TA issued a statement (the “2009 TA Statement”) on the USC and confirmed the actual contribution level for the period from July 1, 2007 to June 30, 2008. Based on the 2009 TA Statement, no additional payment or refund of USC from PCCW-HKT was required.
 
  TheOn April 27, 2010, TA issued a statement (the “2010 TA Statement”) on the USC and confirmed the actual contribution level for the period subsequentfrom July 1, 2008 to JuneApril 30, 2008 has2009. Based on the 2010 TA Statement, no additional payment or refund of USC from PCCW-HKKT was required
Based on the 2010 TA Statement, TA decided that USC contributing parties are not yet been confirmed by TA.required to pay provisional USC from May 1, 2009 onwards until a further review of the USC.

F-17F-22


4 Profit before taxation
 
  Profit before taxation is arrived at after charging/(crediting) the following:
 (a) Other operating expenses
                    
 2009 2008  2010 2009 2008 
 HK$’000 HK$’000  HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 
Advertising and marketing expenses 299,794 307,743  372,727 299,794 307,743 
Amortization of deferred expenditure (note 15) 53,160 33,777 
Amortization of deferred expenditure (note 14) 48,621 53,160 33,777 
Auditors’ remuneration 3,455 3,687  2,910 3,455 3,687 
Depreciation of owned fixed assets 205,624 209,464  198,323 205,624 209,464 
Depreciation of fixed assets held under finance lease 617 587  706 617 587 
Operating lease charges in respect of land and buildings 17,010 13,296  22,669 17,010 13,296 
Operating lease charges in respect of equipment 42 50  39 42 50 
Provision for doubtful debts (note 16(b)) 12,103 14,293 
Loss on disposal of fixed assets 1,016 1,431 
Staff costs (note 4(d)) 302,279 247,460 
Provision for doubtful debts (note 15(b)) 14,742 12,103 14,293 
(Gain)/loss on disposal of fixed assets  (1,375) 1,016 1,431 
Talent costs (note 4(d)) 301,760 302,279 247,460 
Others 142,864 134,306  144,482 142,864 134,306 
            
  
 1,037,964 966,094  1,105,604 1,037,964 966,094 
            
 (b) Other revenuesincome, net
         
  2009  2008 
  HK$’000  HK$’000 
Interest income  (4,869)  (15,596)
Other income (note)  (36,671)  (9,393)
       
         
   (41,540)  (24,989)
       
Note:Included in other income was the gain on extinguishment of the 10-year senior notes of HK$31,371,000 (2008: HK$2,582,000) for the year ended August 31, 2009.
             
  2010  2009  2008 
  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000 
Interest income  (11,372)  (4,869)  (15,596)
Loss/(gain) on extinguishment of 10-year senior notes (note 22(a))  9,650   (31,371)  (2,582)
Net exchange gain  (324)  (3,038)  (1,923)
Others  (5,943)  (2,262)  (4,888)
          
             
   (7,989)  (41,540)  (24,989)
          
 (c) Finance costs
                    
 2009 2008  2010 2009 2008 
 HK$’000 HK$’000  HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 
Interest element of finance leases 27 34  42 27 34 
Interest on 10-year senior notes 52,670 70,010  5,881 52,670 70,010 
Amortization of incidental issuance costs 1,545 1,665  188 1,545 1,665 
Other borrowing cost 885 3,428 
Interest on bank borrowings 1,379   
Amortization of upfront costs on bank borrowings 192   
Change in fair value of derivative financial instrument 11,293   
Other borrowing costs 3,260 885 3,428 
            
  
 55,127 75,137  22,235 55,127 75,137 
            

F-23


4 Profit before taxation (continued)
 (d) StaffTalent costs
                    
 2009 2008  2010 2009 2008 
 HK$’000 HK$’000  HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 
Wages and salaries 278,905 226,097  277,883 278,905 226,097 
Provision for annual leave 613 2,642  561 613 2,642 
Equity settled share-based transaction 4,768 4,114  5,347 4,768 4,114 
Retirement benefit costs — defined contribution plans (note 8) 34,614 29,738  38,820 34,614 29,738 
Less: staff costs capitalized as fixed assets  (16,621)  (15,131)
Less: Talent costs capitalized as fixed assets  (20,851)  (16,621)  (15,131)
            
  
 302,279 247,460  301,760 302,279 247,460 
            
Staff costs include directors’ emoluments and research and development cost of HK$10,824,000 (2008: HK$9,593,000) but exclude staff costs of HK$13,461,000 (2008: HK$14,482,000) recorded in network costs and HK$214,272,000 (2008: Talent costs include directors’ emoluments and research and development cost of HK$11,169,000 (2009: HK$10,824,000, 2008: HK$9,593,000) but exclude Talent costs of HK$11,098,000 (2009: HK$13,461,000, 2008: HK$14,482,000) recorded in network costs and HK$229,399,000 (2009: HK$214,272,000, 2008:HK$194,724,000) recorded in advertising and marketing expenses.

F-18


4Profit before taxation (continued)
Talent costs include all compensation and benefits paid to and accrued for all individuals employed by the Group, including directors.
 (e) Other items
                    
 2009 2008  2010 2009 2008 
 HK$’000 HK$’000  HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 
Gain on extinguishment of 10-year senior notes (note 22(a))  (31,371)  (2,582)
Net exchange gain  (3,038)  (1,923)
Realized and unrealized gain on other financial assets  (189)  (3,284)
Realized loss on derivative financial instruments  1,039    1,039 
Realized gain on long-term bank deposit   (1,185)    (1,185)
Realized and unrealized gain on other financial assets   (189)  (3,284)
            
5Income tax (expense)/ benefit
Hong Kong profits tax has been provided at the rate of 16.5% (2008: 16.5%) on the estimated assessable profit for the year. Taxation on overseas profits has been calculated on the estimated assessable profit for the year at the income tax rates prevailing in the overseas countries in which the Group operates.
The amount of income tax (expense)/ benefit in the consolidated income statement represents:
5 Income tax (expense)/benefit
         
  2009  2008 
  HK$’000  HK$’000 
Current taxation:        
- Hong Kong profits tax     (391)
- Overseas taxation  (1,622)  (1,929)
- Under-provision of overseas taxation in prior years     (2,552)
Deferred taxation:        
- Origination and reversal of temporary differences (note 21)  (37,108)  (4,645)
- Recognition of previously unrecognized tax losses (note 21)     26,335 
       
         
Income tax (expense)/ benefit  (38,730)  16,818 
       
Hong Kong profits tax has been provided at the rate of 16.5% (2009 and 2008: 16.5%) on the estimated assessable profit for the year. Taxation on other jurisdictions has been calculated on the estimated assessable profit for the year at the income tax rates prevailing in the other jurisdictions in which the Group operates.
The amount of income tax (expense)/benefit in the consolidated income statement represents:
             
  2010  2009  2008 
  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000 
Current taxation:            
             
Hong Kong            
- Provision for the year        (391)
- Over-provision in prior years  40       
Non-Hong Kong            
- Provision for the year  (2,585)  (1,622)  (1,929)
- Under-provision in prior years        (2,552)
             
Deferred taxation:            
             
- Origination and reversal of temporary differences (note 20)  (40,134)  (37,108)  (4,645)
- Recognition of previously unrecognized tax losses (note 20)        26,335 
          
             
Income tax (expense)/benefit  (42,679)  (38,730)  16,818 
          

F-24


5 Income tax (expense)/benefit (continued)
The Group’s income tax (expense)/benefit differs from the theoretical amount that would arise using profits before taxation at applicable tax rates as follows:
             
  2010  2009  2008 
  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000 
Profit before taxation  259,545   251,559   108,372 
          
             
Notional tax on profit before taxation, calculated at the prevailing tax rates applicable to profit in the jurisdictions concerned  (43,781)  (42,240)  (18,927)
Effect of non-taxable income  4,692   1,466   3,452 
Effect of (loss)/gain on extinguishment of 10-year senior notes not subject to taxation  (1,592)  5,176   426 
Effect of non-deductible expenses  (2,367)  (3,648)  (6,353)
Effect of recognition of prior year unrecognized tax losses (note)        26,335 
Over/(under)-provision in prior years  40      (2,552)
Effect of utilization of prior year unrecognized tax losses        12,013 
Effect of share based payment        2,324 
Effect of tax losses not recognized        (74)
Others  329   516   174 
          
             
Income tax (expense)/benefit  (42,679)  (38,730)  16,818 
          
  The Group’s income tax (expense)/ benefit differs from the theoretical amount that would arise using profits before taxation at applicable tax rates as follows:
         
  2009  2008 
  HK$’000  HK$’000 
Profit before taxation  251,559   108,372 
       
         
Notional tax on profit before taxation, calculated at the prevailing tax rates applicable to profit in the countries concerned  (42,240)  (18,927)
Effect of gain on extinguishment of 10-year senior notes not subject to taxation  5,176   426 
Effect of non-taxable income  1,466   3,452 
Effect of non-deductible expenses  (3,648)  (6,353)
Effect of recognition of prior year unrecognized tax losses (note)     26,335 
Effect of utilization of prior year unrecognized tax losses  518   12,013 
Under-provision in prior years     (2,552)
Effect of share based payment     2,324 
Effect of tax losses not recognized     (74)
Others  (2)  174 
       
         
Income tax (expense)/ benefit  (38,730)  16,818 
       
Note: Management projects future taxable income by considering all available information, including tax planning strategies, historical taxable income, and the expiration period of the unused tax losses carry forwards of each of the Company and its subsidiaries. During the year ended August 31, 2008, taking into consideration of the results of operations, management assessed that it is probable that sufficient future taxable profits will be generated to utilize the unused tax losses of HK$159,606,000 which resulted in the recognition of deferred tax assets of HK$26,335,000.

F-19F-25


6 Dividends
(a) Dividends payable to equity shareholders of the Company attributable to the year
         
  2009  2008 
  HK$’000  HK$’000 
Interim dividend declared and paid of HK3 cents per ordinary share (2008: HK4 cents per ordinary share)  19,904   25,602 
Final dividend proposed after the balance sheet date, of 16 cents per ordinary share (2008: HK2 cents per ordinary share)  106,269   13,012 
       
         
   126,173   38,614 
       
             
  2010  2009  2008 
  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000 
Interim dividend declared and paid of HK6.5 cents per ordinary share (2009: HK3 cents per ordinary share, 2008: HK4 cents per ordinary share)  49,725   19,904   25,602 
Final dividend proposed after the balance sheet date, of HK13.5 cents per ordinary share (2009: HK16 cents per ordinary share, 2008: HK2 cents per ordinary share)  103,275   106,269   13,012 
          
             
   153,000   126,173   38,614 
          
The final dividend proposed after the balance sheet date has not been recognized as a liability at the balance sheet date.
The final dividend proposed after the balance sheet date has not been recognized as a liability at the balance sheet date.
(b) Dividends attributable to the previous financial year, approved and paid during the year:
         
  2009  2008 
  HK$’000  HK$’000 
Final dividend in respect of the financial year ended August 31, 2008, approved and paid of HK2 cents per ordinary share (2008: HK4 cents per ordinary share in respect of financial year ended August 31, 2007)  13,014   25,082 
       
             
  2010  2009  2008 
  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000 
Final dividend in respect of the financial year ended August 31, 2009, approved and paid of HK16 cents per ordinary share (2009: HK2 cents per ordinary share in respect of financial year ended August 31, 2008, 2008:            
HK4 cents per ordinary share in respect of financial year ended August 31, 2007)  108,735   13,014   25,082 
          
During the year ended August 31, 2009, a scrip dividend option was offered to all shareholders of the Company, excluding shareholders with registered addresses outside Hong Kong, who were entitled to the final dividend in respect of the financial year ended August 31, 2008. 12,212,142 shares were issued during the year ended August 31, 2009 to the shareholders of the Company who had elected to receive all or part of their entitlement to dividends in the form of scrip.
7Earnings per share
         
  2009  2008 
  HK$’000  HK$’000 
Profit attributable to shareholders  212,829   125,190 
       
Weighted average number of ordinary shares
         
  2009  2008 
  Number  Number 
  of shares  of shares 
  ’000  ’000 
Issued ordinary shares at the beginning of the year  650,622   616,503 
Effect of scrip dividend issued  6,256   7,353 
Effect of share options exercised  329   10,159 
Effect of shares repurchased and cancelled  (6)   
       
         
Weighted average number of ordinary shares at the end of the year (basic)  657,201   634,015 
Incremental shares from assumed exercise of share options  11,183   23,982 
       
         
Weighted average number of ordinary shares at the end of the year (diluted)  668,384   657,997 
       
         
Basic earnings per share HK32.4 cents HK19.7 cents
       
         
Diluted earnings per share HK31.8 cents HK19.0 cents
       

F-20F-26


8Retirement benefit costs
The Group contributes to an Occupational Retirement Scheme (the “ORSO Scheme”), a defined contribution retirement scheme, which is available to some of its employees in Hong Kong. Under the ORSO Scheme, the employees are required to contribute 5% of their monthly salaries, while the Group’s contributions are calculated at 10% and 5% of the monthly salaries of senior management staff and all other staff respectively. The employees are entitled to 100% of the employer’s contributions after 10 years of completed service, or at a reduced scale after completion of 3 to 9 years’ service. Contributions to the ORSO Scheme are reduced by contributions forfeited by those employees who leave the ORSO Scheme prior to vesting fully in the Group’s contributions.
A mandatory provident fund scheme (the “MPF Scheme”) has been established under the Hong Kong Mandatory Provident Fund Scheme Ordinance in December 2000. The then existing employees of the Group in Hong Kong could elect to join the MPF Scheme, while all new employees joining the Group in Hong Kong from then onwards are required to join the MPF Scheme. Both the Group and the employees are required to contribute 5% of each individual’s relevant income with a maximum amount of HK$1,000 per month as a mandatory contribution. Employer’s mandatory contributions are 100% vested in the employees as soon as they are paid to the MPF Scheme. Senior employees may also elect to join a Mutual Voluntary Plan (the “Mutual Plan”) in which both the Group and the employee, on top of the MPF Scheme mandatory contributions, make a voluntary contribution to the extent of contributions that would have been made under the ORSO Scheme.
Pursuant to the relevant regulations in People’s Republic of China (the “PRC”), the Group contributes to a defined contribution retirement scheme organized by the local social security bureau for each employee of the subsidiary in PRC at the rate of 20% of a standard salary base as determined by the local social security bureau. The Group has no other obligation to make payments in respect of retirement benefits of these employees.
The retirement schemes for staff of the Group in other countries follow the local statutory requirements of the respective countries.
The aggregate employer’s contributions, net of forfeited contributions, which have been dealt with in the consolidated income statement during the year are as follows:
7 Earnings per share
         
  2009  2008 
  HK$’000  HK$’000 
Gross contributions  34,614   29,738 
       
             
  2010  2009  2008 
  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000 
Profit attributable to shareholders  216,866   212,829   125,190 
          
 
     Weighted average number of ordinary shares 
             
  2010  2009  2008 
  Number  Number  Number 
  of shares  of shares  of shares 
  ’000  ’000  ’000 
Issued ordinary shares at the beginning of the year  664,180   650,622   616,503 
Effect of scrip dividend issued     6,256   7,353 
Effect of share options exercised  14,856   329   10,159 
Effect of placement  27,569       
Effect of shares repurchased and cancelled     (6)   
          
             
Weighted average number of ordinary shares at the end of the year (basic)  706,605   657,201   634,015 
Incremental shares from assumed exercise of share options  30,011   11,183   23,982 
             
Weighted average number of ordinary shares at the end of the year (diluted)  736,616   668,384   657,997 
          
             
Basic earnings per share HK30.7 cents HK32.4 cents HK19.7 cents
          
             
Diluted earnings per share HK29.4 cents HK31.8 cents HK19.0 cents
          

F-27


8 Retirement benefit costs
The Group contributes to an Occupational Retirement Scheme (the “ORSO Scheme”), a defined contribution retirement scheme, which is available to some of its Talents in Hong Kong. Under the ORSO Scheme, the Talents are required to contribute 5% of their monthly salaries, while the Group’s contributions are calculated at 10% and 5% of the monthly salaries of senior management Talents and all other Talents respectively. The Talents are entitled to 100% of the employer’s contributions after 10 years of completed service, or at a reduced scale after completion of 3 to 9 years’ service. Contributions to the ORSO Scheme are reduced by contributions forfeited by those Talents who leave the ORSO Scheme prior to vesting fully in the Group’s contributions.
A mandatory provident fund scheme (the “MPF Scheme”) has been established under the Hong Kong Mandatory Provident Fund Scheme Ordinance in December 2000. The then existing Talents of the Group in Hong Kong could elect to join the MPF Scheme, while all new Talents joining the Group in Hong Kong from then onwards are required to join the MPF Scheme. Both the Group and the Talents are required to contribute 5% of each individual’s relevant income with a maximum amount of HK$1,000 per month as a mandatory contribution. Employer’s mandatory contributions are 100% vested in the Talents as soon as they are paid to the MPF Scheme. Senior Talents may also elect to join a Mutual Voluntary Plan (the “Mutual Plan”) in which both the Group and the Talent, on top of the MPF Scheme mandatory contributions, make a voluntary contribution to the extent of contributions that would have been made under the ORSO Scheme.
Pursuant to the relevant regulations in People’s Republic of China (the “PRC”), the Group contributes to a defined contribution retirement scheme organized by the local social security bureau for each Talent of the subsidiary in PRC at the rate of 20% of a standard salary base as determined by the local social security bureau. The Group has no other obligation to make payments in respect of retirement benefits of these Talents.
The retirement schemes for Talents of the Group in other countries follow the local statutory requirements of the respective countries.
The aggregate employer’s contributions, net of forfeited contributions, which have been dealt with in the consolidated income statement during the year are as follows:
             
  2010  2009  2008 
  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000 
Gross contributions  38,820   34,614   29,738 
          
At August 31, 2010, there was no forfeited contribution available to offset future contributions by the Group to the ORSO Scheme (2009 and 2008: Nil).
9 Directors’ and senior management’s emoluments
At August 31, 2009, there was no forfeited contribution available to offset future contributions by the Group to the ORSO Scheme (2008: Nil).
9Directors’ and senior management’s emoluments
(a) Directors’ remuneration
The remuneration of each director for the year ended August 31, 2009 is set out below:
                         
                  Employer’s    
                  contribution    
                  to defined    
      Discretionary  Share-based  contribution    
Name of director Fee  Salary  bonuses  payment  scheme  Total 
  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000 
Wong Wai Kay, Ricky     6,712   1,500   193   670   9,075 
Cheung Chi Kin, Paul     6,714   1,500   193   670   9,077 
Yeung Chu Kwong, William     7,049   1,000   1,764   456   10,269 
Lai Ni Quiaque     2,403   550   1,141   240   4,334 
Cheng Mo Chi, Moses  160               160 
Lee Hon Ying, John  176               176 
Chan Kin Man  165               165 
Peh Jefferson Tun Lu  165               165 
                   
                         
Total  666   22,878   4,550   3,291   2,036   33,421 
                   
The remuneration of each director for the year ended August 31, 2010 is set out below:
                         
                  Employer's    
                  contribution    
                  to defined    
      Discretionary  Share-based  contribution    
  Fee  Salary  bonuses  payment  scheme  Total 
Name of director HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000 
Wong Wai Kay, Ricky     6,707   1,800      670   9,177 
Cheung Chi Kin, Paul     6,709   1,800      670   9,179 
Yeung Chu Kwong, William     8,264   2,400   2,526   456   13,646 
Lai Ni Quiaque     2,642   750   2,455   264   6,111 
Cheng Mo Chi, Moses  168               168 
Lee Hon Ying, John  185               185 
Chan Kin Man  174               174 
Peh Jefferson Tun Lu  174               174 
                   
                         
Total  701   24,322   6,750   4,981   2,060   38,814 
                   

F-21F-28


9 Directors’ and senior management’s emoluments (continued)
9Directors’ and senior management’s emoluments (continued)
(a) Directors’ remuneration (continued)
The remuneration of each director for the year ended August 31, 2008 is set out below:
                         
                  Employer’s    
                  contribution    
                  to defined    
      Discretionary  Share-based  contribution    
Name of director Fee  Salary  bonuses  payment  scheme  Total 
  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000 
Wong Wai Kay, Ricky     6,482   1,054   558   648   8,742 
Cheung Chi Kin, Paul     6,482   1,054   558   648   8,742 
Lai Ni Quiaque     2,250   225   809   225   3,509 
Cheng Mo Chi, Moses  152               152 
Lee Hon Ying, John  168               168 
Chan Kin Man  158               158 
Peh Jefferson Tun Lu  158               158 
                   
                         
Total  636   15,214   2,333   1,925   1,521   21,629 
                   
The remuneration of each director for the year ended August 31, 2009 is set out below:
                         
                  Employer’s    
                  contribution    
                  to defined    
      Discretionary  Share-based  contribution    
  Fee  Salary  bonuses  payment  scheme  Total 
Name of director HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000 
Wong Wai Kay, Ricky     6,712   1,500   193   670   9,075 
Cheung Chi Kin, Paul     6,714   1,500   193   670   9,077 
Yeung Chu Kwong, William     7,049   1,000   1,764   456   10,269 
Lai Ni Quiaque     2,403   550   1,141   240   4,334 
Cheng Mo Chi, Moses  160               160 
Lee Hon Ying, John  176               176 
Chan Kin Man  165               165 
Peh Jefferson Tun Lu  165               165 
                   
 
Total  666   22,878   4,550   3,291   2,036   33,421 
                   
No director waived any emoluments in respect of the years ended August 31, 2009 and 2010.
The share-based payment represents the expenses determined based on the fair value of share options granted to certain directors under the Company’s share option scheme. Fair value of share options is estimated in accordance with the Group’s significant accounting policies in note 1. The details of the share-based payment are disclosed in note 10.
No director waived any emoluments in respect of the years ended August 31, 2008 and 2009.
The share-based payment represents the expenses determined based on the fair value of share options granted to certain directors under the Company’s share option scheme. Fair value of share options is estimated in accordance with the Group’s significant accounting policies in note 1. The details of the benefits in kind are disclosed in note 10.
(b) Five highest paid individuals
The five individuals whose emoluments were the highest in the Group for the year include four (2008: three) directors whose emoluments are reflected in the analysis presented above. The emoluments payable to the remaining one (2008: two) individual during the year are as follows:
         
  2009  2008 
  HK$’000  HK$’000 
Basic salaries, other allowances and benefits in kind  2,515   8,512 
Discretionary bonuses  150   1,137 
Share-based payments  332   1,316 
Retirement benefit costs – defined contribution plans  106   589 
       
         
   3,103   11,554 
       
The five individuals whose emoluments were the highest in the Group for the year include four (2009: four) directors whose emoluments are reflected in the analysis presented above. The emoluments payable to the remaining one (2009: one) individual during the year are as follows:
         
  2010  2009 
  HK$’000  HK$’000 
Basic salaries, other allowances and benefits in kind  2,492   2,515 
Discretionary bonuses  300   150 
Share-based payments     332 
Retirement benefit costs — defined contribution plans  181   106 
       
         
   2,973   3,103 
       
The emoluments fell within the following band:
         
  Number of individual 
  20092010  20082009 
HK$2,500,001 HK$3,000,0001
HK$3,000,001 – HK$4,000,000  1    
HK$9,000,001 –3,000,001 — HK$10,000,0003,500,000     1 

F-22F-29


10 Equity settled share-based transactions
The Company operates a share option scheme (the “2002 Share Option Scheme”) which was adopted by shareholders of the Company on December 23, 2002 whereby the directors may, at their discretion, invite eligible participants to receive options to subscribe for shares subject to the terms and conditions stipulated therein.
Under the 2002 Share Option Scheme, the Company may grant options to Talents (including executive, non-executive and independent non-executive directors), suppliers and professional advisers to subscribe for shares of the Company. The maximum number of options authorized under the 2002 Share Option Scheme may not, when aggregated with any shares subject to any other executive and Talent share option scheme, exceed 10% of the Company’s issued share capital on the date of adoption. The exercise price of the option is determined by the Company’s board of directors at a price not less than the highest of (a) the par value of a share; (b) the average closing price of the Company’s shares for five trading days preceding the grant date; and (c) the closing price of the Company’s shares on the date of grant. The 2002 Share Option Scheme is valid and effective for a ten year period up to December 22, 2012 subject to earlier termination by the Company by resolution in general meeting or by the board of directors. The period during which the option may be exercised will be determined by the board of directors at its discretion, save that no option may be exercised after more than ten years from the date of grant.
10Equity settled share-based transactions
The Company operates a share option scheme (the “2002 Share Option Scheme”) which was adopted by shareholders of the Company on December 23, 2002 whereby the directors may, at their discretion, invite eligible participants to receive options to subscribe for shares subject to the terms and conditions stipulated therein.
Under the 2002 Share Option Scheme, the Company may grant options to employees (including executive, non-executive and independent non-executive directors), suppliers and professional advisers to subscribe for shares of the Company. The maximum number of options authorized under the 2002 Share Option Scheme may not, when aggregated with any shares subject to any other executive and employee share option scheme, exceed 10% of the Company’s issued share capital on the date of adoption. The exercise price of the option is determined by the Company’s board of directors at a price not less than the highest of (a) the par value of a share; (b) the average closing price of the Company’s shares for five trading days preceding the grant date; and (c) the closing price of the Company’s shares on the date of grant. The 2002 Share Option Scheme is valid and effective for a ten year period up to December 22, 2012 subject to earlier termination by the Company by resolution in general meeting or by the board of directors. The period during which the option may be exercised will be determined by the board of directors at its discretion, save that no option may be exercised after more than ten years from the date of grant.
(a) The terms and conditions of the options
Options that existed during the year ended August 31, 2010 are as follows, whereby all options are settled by physical delivery of shares:
NumberVestingExercisable
of optionconditionsperiod
2002 Share Option Scheme
Options granted to directors:
-January 5, 200516,183,208Condition 1On or prior to October 20, 2014
-May 22, 200615,178,466Condition 1On or prior to May 21, 2016
-February 6, 20086,044,791Condition 3On or prior to December 23, 2012
-February 11, 20086,044,791Condition 2On or prior to December 23, 2012
-February 5, 20106,000,000Condition 4On or prior to February 4, 2020
Options granted to Talents:
-October 21, 20046,909,527Condition 1On or prior to October 20, 2014
-May 22, 20066,414,433Condition 1On or prior to May 21, 2016
-August 3, 200640,540Condition 1On or prior to August 2, 2016
-November 22, 2006136,545Condition 1On or prior to November 14, 2016
-February 15, 20081,007,465Condition 5On or prior to December 23, 2012
-May 2, 20081,007,465Condition 5On or prior to December 23, 2012
Total share options
64,967,231

F-30


10Equity settled share-based transactions (continued)
(a)The terms and conditions of the options (continued)
 
  Options that existed during the year ended August 31, 2009 are as follows, whereby all options are settled by physical delivery of shares:
             
  Number  Vesting Exercisable
  of option  conditions period
2002 Share Option Scheme
            
             
Options granted to directors:
            
             
-January 5, 2005  16,183,208  Condition 1 On or prior to October 20, 2014
-May 22, 2006  15,178,466  Condition 1 On or prior to May 21, 2016
-February 6, 2008  6,044,791  Condition 3 On or prior to December 23, 2012
-February 11, 2008  6,044,791  Condition 2 On or prior to December 23, 2012
             
Options granted to employees:Talents:
            
             
-October 21, 2004  7,606,712  Condition 1 On or prior to October 20, 2014
-May 22, 2006  7,314,455  Condition 1 On or prior to May 21, 2016
-August 3, 2006  40,540  Condition 1 On or prior to August 2, 2016
-November 22, 2006  136,545  Condition 1 On or prior to November 14, 2016
-February 15, 2008  1,007,465  Condition 35 On or prior to December 23, 2012
-March 11, 2008  302,240  Condition 1 On or prior to December 23, 2012
-May 2, 2008  1,007,465  Condition 35 On or prior to December 23, 2012
            
             
Total share options
  60,866,678

F-23


10Equity settled share-based transactions (continued)
(a)The terms and conditions of the options (continued)
Options that existed during the year ended August 31, 2008 are as follows, whereby all options are settled by physical delivery of shares:
NumberVestingExercisable
of optionconditionsperiod
2002 Share Option Scheme
Options granted to directors:
-June 3, 20046,000,000Condition 1On or prior to June 2, 2014
-January 5, 200516,106,956Condition 1On or prior to October 20, 2014
-May 22, 200615,093,585Condition 1On or prior to May 21, 2016
-February 11, 20086,016,309Condition 2On or prior to December 23, 2012
Options granted to employees:
-October 21, 20048,393,399Condition 1On or prior to October 20, 2014
-October 3, 20051,000,000Condition 1On or prior to September 30, 2015
-May 22, 200614,012,937Condition 1On or prior to May 21, 2016
-July 3, 2006702,769Condition 1On or prior to July 2, 2016
-August 3, 200670,468Condition 1On or prior to August 2, 2016
-November 22, 2006200,902Condition 1On or prior to November 14, 2016
-May 23, 2007100,396Condition 1On or prior to June 11, 2017
-December 12, 20071,003,956Condition 1On or prior to December 23, 2012
-February 6, 20086,016,309Condition 3On or prior to December 23, 2012
-February 15, 20084,010,873Condition 3On or prior to December 23, 2012
-March 11, 2008300,816Condition 1On or prior to December 23, 2012
-May 2, 20081,002,718Condition 3On or prior to December 23, 2012
Total share options
80,032,393         
            
  The vesting conditions of the respective share option grant are as follows:
 
  Condition 1
 
  Options granted will be vested in one year or evenly vested over a period of two to three years. Options are awarded without performance conditions and are exercisable provided the participants have remained employed by the end of respective vesting periods.
 
  Condition 2
 
  Vesting of the options is conditional upon the market priceperformance of the Company’s shares reaching a target level over the period from the close of trading in Hong Kong on November 22, 2007 to November 21, 2010. Options
Upon fulfillment of the market conditions, certain options granted are vestedvest immediately, orwhile other options affected by the same market conditions vest evenly over a period of three years fromyears.
During the year ended August 31, 2010, one of the clauses in the option agreement has been modified. As a result of this modification, vesting of certain options is now conditional upon the Company reaching a non-market performance condition. Upon fulfillment of this non-market performance condition, a portion of the options affected by this condition vest immediately, while other options affected by this condition vest evenly over a period of three years.
The Group has accounted for the modification in accordance with IFRS/HKFRS 2 “Share-based payment” by measuring the incremental fair value which is the difference between the fair value of the modified share options and that of the original share options, both estimated as at the date of fulfillmentthe modification, and recognizing the incremental fair value over the period from the modification date until the date when the modified share options vest. The balance of the market condition.original grant-date fair value as at the date of modification continues to be recognized over remaining original vesting period. For the year ended August 31, 2010, the amount of incremental fair value recognized in respect of the modification was HK$1,977,000.

F-31


10Equity settled share-based transactions (continued)
(a)The terms and conditions of the options (continued)
The vesting conditions of the respective share option grant are as follows: (continued)
 
  Condition 3
 
  Vesting of the options is conditional upon the performance of the participants. Options granted are vested over a period of three to four years from the date of fulfillment of thecertain key performance condition.

F-24


10Equity settled share-based transactions (continued)indicators.
 
During the year ended August 31, 2010, one of the performance conditions has been modified. Such modification does not result in any incremental fair value, and therefore, there is no financial impact in the financial statements.
Condition 4
Vesting of the options is conditional upon the performance of the participants. Options granted are vested immediately from the date of fulfillment of the certain key performance indicators.
Condition 5
Vesting of the options is conditional upon the performance of the participants. Options granted are vested over a period of three to four years from the date of fulfillment of certain key performance indicators.
(b) The number and weighted average exercise prices of share options are as follows:
                                
 2009 2008  2010 2009 
 Weighted Weighted    Weighted Weighted   
 average average    average average   
 exercise Number of exercise Number of  exercise exercise   
 price options price options  price Number of price Number of 
 HK$ HK$  HK$ options HK$ options 
2002 Share Option Scheme
  
  
Outstanding at the beginning of the year 1.27 60,581,214 1.09 61,350,000  1.27 58,967,231 1.27 60,581,214 
Adjustment to number of options for 2007 Final Dividend (note (i))   1.10 204,922 
Adjustment to number of options for 2008 Interim Dividend (note (ii))   1.28 177,471 
Adjustment to number of options for 2008 Final Dividend (note (iii)) 1.27 285,464   
Adjustment to number of options for 2008 Final Dividend (note)   1.27 285,464 
Granted during the year   1.84 18,300,000  4.24 6,000,000   
Exercised during the year 0.99  (1,416,005) 1.07  (14,052,268) 0.82  (20,317,374) 0.99  (1,416,005)
Lapsed during the year 1.65  (483,442) 1.63  (5,398,911)   1.65  (483,442)
              
  
Outstanding at the end of the year 1.27 58,967,231 1.27 60,581,214  1.87 44,649,857 1.27 58,967,231 
              
  
Exercisable at the end of the year 1.12 45,849,756 1.22 36,463,198  1.35 25,603,183 1.12 45,849,756 
              
  The weighted average share price at the date of exercise for the share options exercised during the year was HK$0.99 (2008:3.85 (2009: HK$1.07)1.82).
 
  The options outstanding at August 31, 20092010 had a weighted exercise price of HK$1.27 (2008:1.87 (2009: HK$1.27) and a weighted average remaining contractual life of 54 years (2008: 7(2009: 5 years).
Note:
Notes:
(i)As a result of allotment of 11,227,213 new shares to shareholders who elected to receive the 2007 Final Dividend in shares on February 4, 2008, the exercise price of and the number of share subject to the 51,805,000 share options outstanding on December 21, 2007 (being the Record Date for determining the entitlement of 2007 Final Dividend) were adjusted pursuant to the 2002 Share Option Scheme with effect from February 4, 2008.
(ii)As a result of allotment of 8,838,938 new shares to shareholders who elected to receive the 2008 Interim Dividend in shares on July 23, 2008, the exercise price of and the number of share subject to the 65,296,047 share options outstanding on June 6, 2008 (being the Record Date for determining the entitlement of 2008 Interim Dividend) were adjusted pursuant to the 2002 Share Option Scheme with effect from July 23, 2008.
(iii) As a result of allotment of 12,212,142 new shares to shareholders who elected to receive the 2008 Final Dividend in shares on February 25, 2009, the exercise price of and the number of share subject to the 60,299,426 share options outstanding on December 19, 2008 (being the Record Date for determining the entitlement of 2008 Final Dividend) were adjusted pursuant to the 2002 Share Option Scheme with effect from February 25, 2009. The closing price per ordinary share immediately before the date of the grant of the options was HK$0.88.

F-32


10Equity settled share-based transactions (continued)
(c) Fair value of share options and assumptions
 
  In determining the value of the share options granted during the year ended August 31, 2010, the Black-Scholes Modeloption pricing model (the “Black-Scholes Model”) has been used except for the option granted on February 11, 2008 which has adopted the Monte Carlo Model. Both models areused. The Black-Scholes Model is one of the most generally accepted methodologies used to calculate the value of options. The variables of the models includeBlack-Scholes Model includes expected life of the options, risk-free interest rate, expected volatility and expected dividend yield of the shares of the Company.
 
  Both modelsIn determining the value of the share options granted during the year, the following variables have been applied to the Black-Scholes Model:
Measurement dateFebruary 5, 2010
Variables
-Expected life8 years
-Risk-free rate2.33%
-Expected volatility61.49%
-Expected dividend yield2.99%
The above variables were determined as follows:
(i)The expected life is estimated to be 8 years from the date of grant (the “Measurement date”).
(ii)The risk-fee rate represents the yield of the Hong Kong Exchange Fund Notes corresponding to the expected life of the options as at the Measurement date.
(iii)The expected volatility represents the annualized standard deviation of the return on the daily share price of the Company over the period commensurate to the expected life of the options (taking into account the remaining contractual life of the option and the effect of the expected early exercise of the option).
(iv)The expected dividend yield is based on the historical dividend yield over the last eight years.
The fair value of the options granted during the year is estimated as below:
Date of grantFebruary 5, 2010
Fair value per share optionHK$1.94
The Group recognizes the fair value of share options as an expense in the income statement over the vesting period, or as an asset, if the cost qualifies for recognition as an asset. The fair value of the share options is measured at the date of grant.
The Black-Scholes Model applied for the determination of the estimated value of the options granted under 2002 Share Option Scheme require input of highly subjective assumptions, including the expected stock volatility. SinceAs the Company’s share options have characteristics significantly different from those of traded options, changes in subjective inputs may materially affect the estimated fair value of the options granted.

F-25F-33


11 Goodwill
     
  HK$’000 
Cost and carrying amount:
    
At August 31, 2009/20082010/2009  1,066 
    
  Impairment tests for cash-generating units containing goodwill
 
  Goodwill is allocated to the Group’s cash-generating units (“CGU”) identified according to country of operation and business segment as follows:
         
  2009  2008 
  HK$’000  HK$’000 
Fixed telecommunications network service segment  1,066   1,066 
       
         
  2010  2009 
  HK$’000  HK$’000 
Fixed telecommunications network service segment  1,066   1,066 
       
  The recoverable amount of the CGU exceeds its carrying amount. The recoverable amount of the CGU is determined based on value-in-use calculations. These calculations use cash flow projections based on financial budgets approved by management covering a five-year period. Cash flows for the five-year period are estimated based on average growth rates of 15% and a pre-tax discount rate of 18%16%. Cash flows beyond the five year period are assumed to remain constant. The estimated growth rates used are comparable to the growth rate for the industry.
 
  The key assumption used in the value-in-use calculation is the annual growth of the turnover of the fixed telecommunications network services, which is determined based on the past performance and management’s expectation for market development. The discount rate used is pre-tax and reflects specific risks relating to the fixed telecommunicationtelecommunications services segment.
 
  Any adverse change in the key assumption could reduce the recoverable amount below carrying amount.

F-26F-34


12 Fixed assets
                                                        
 Telecom-      Telecom-     
 munications,      munications,     
 Leasehold Furniture, computer      Leasehold Furniture, computer     
 Investment land and Leasehold fixtures and office Motor    Investment land and Leasehold fixtures and office Motor   
 property buildings improvements and fittings equipment vehicles Total 
 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 
Cost:
 
 
At September 1, 2009 5,197 90,911 100,447 19,885 2,850,444 12,773 3,079,657 
Additions   12,885 1,343 330,441 175 344,844 
Disposals    (212)  (109)  (51,906)   (52,227)
Exchange adjustments   166 72 1,230  1,468 
               
 
At August 31, 2010 5,197 90,911 113,286 21,191 3,130,209 12,948 3,373,742 
               
 
Accumulated depreciation:
 
 
At September 1, 2009 2,309 12,466 69,102 17,017 1,668,160 8,223 1,777,277 
Charge for the year 104 1,818 11,270 1,166 183,052 1,619 199,029 
Disposals    (212)  (109)  (35,344)   (35,665)
Exchange adjustments   156 58 1,074  1,288 
��               
 
At August 31, 2010 2,413 14,284 80,316 18,132 1,816,942 9,842 1,941,929 
               
 
Net book value:
 
 
At August 31, 2010 2,784 76,627 32,970 3,059 1,313,267 3,106 1,431,813 
 property buildings improvements and fittings equipment vehicles Total                
 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000  
Cost:
  
  
At September 1, 2008 5,197 84,244 84,577 19,575 2,644,281 12,624 2,850,498  5,197 84,244 84,577 19,575 2,644,281 12,624 2,850,498 
Additions  6,667 16,663 416 262,796 192 286,734   6,667 16,663 416 262,796 192 286,734 
Disposals    (630)  (30)  (55,118)  (43)  (55,821)    (630)  (30)  (55,118)  (43)  (55,821)
Exchange adjustments    (163)  (76)  (1,515)   (1,754)    (163)  (76)  (1,515)   (1,754)
                              
  
At August 31, 2009 5,197 90,911 100,447 19,885 2,850,444 12,773 3,079,657  5,197 90,911 100,447 19,885 2,850,444 12,773 3,079,657 
                              
  
Accumulated depreciation:
  
  
At September 1, 2008 2,205 10,727 61,269 15,596 1,522,739 6,563 1,619,099  2,205 10,727 61,269 15,596 1,522,739 6,563 1,619,099 
Charge for the year 104 1,739 8,286 1,508 192,925 1,679 206,241  104 1,739 8,286 1,508 192,925 1,679 206,241 
Disposals    (294)  (29)  (46,214)  (19)  (46,556)    (294)  (29)  (46,214)  (19)  (46,556)
Exchange adjustments    (159)  (58)  (1,290)   (1,507)    (159)  (58)  (1,290)   (1,507)
                              
  
At August 31, 2009 2,309 12,466 69,102 17,017 1,668,160 8,223 1,777,277  2,309 12,466 69,102 17,017 1,668,160 8,223 1,777,277 
                              
  
Net book value:
  
  
At August 31, 2009 2,888 78,445 31,345 2,868 1,182,284 4,550 1,302,380  2,888 78,445 31,345 2,868 1,182,284 4,550 1,302,380 
                              
 
Cost:
 
 
At September 1, 2007 5,197 79,598 80,638 17,419 2,475,775 6,818 2,665,445 
Additions  4,646 2,469 2,189 196,230 6,150 211,684 
Disposals     (478)  (30,564)  (344)  (31,386)
Exchange adjustments   1,470 445 2,840  4,755 
               
 
At August 31, 2008 5,197 84,244 84,577 19,575 2,644,281 12,624 2,850,498 
               
 
Accumulated depreciation:
 
 
At September 1, 2007 2,101 9,123 50,309 13,952 1,346,854 5,883 1,428,222 
Charge for the year 104 1,604 9,626 1,617 196,198 902 210,051 
Disposals     (286)  (22,390)  (222)  (22,898)
Exchange adjustments   1,334 313 2,077  3,724 
               
 
At August 31, 2008 2,205 10,727 61,269 15,596 1,522,739 6,563 1,619,099 
               
 
Net book value:
 
 
At August 31, 2008 2,992 73,517 23,308 3,979 1,121,542 6,061 1,231,399 
               

F-27F-35


12 Fixed assets (continued)
(a) The Group’s total future aggregate lease income receivable under non-cancellable operating lease are as follows:
                
 2009 2008  2010 2009 
 HK$’000 HK$’000  HK$’000 HK$’000 
Leases in respect of investment property which are receivable:  
- Within 1 year 258 258  108 258 
- After 1 year but within 5 years  258    
     
      
  108 258 
 258 516      
      
Leases in respect of telecommunications facilities and computer equipment which are receivable:  
- Within 1 year 1,566 979  2,335 1,566 
- After 1 year but within 5 years 1,071 292  607 1,071 
          
  
 2,637 1,271  2,942 2,637 
          
  
 2,895 1,787  3,050 2,895 
          
(b) At August 31, 2009,2010, the fair value of the investment property approximates its carrying value.is HK$5,300,000. Management estimated the fair value of the investment property based on its open market value.
 
(c) The net book value of interests in leasehold land and buildings and investment property situated in Hong Kong are analyzed as follows:
         
  2009  2008 
  HK$’000  HK$’000 
Leases of between 10 to 50 years  81,333   76,509 
       
Representing:
                
 2009 2008  2010 2009 
 HK$’000 HK$’000 
Leases of between 10 to 50 years 79,411 81,333 
     
 
Representing: 
 HK$’000 HK$’000  
Leasehold land and building carried at cost 78,445 73,517  76,627 78,445 
Investment property carried at cost less impairment loss 2,888 2,992  2,784 2,888 
          
 81,333 76,509  
      79,411 81,333 
     
(d) In addition to the leasehold land and buildings classified as being held under a finance lease, the Group leases telecommunications, computer and office equipment under finance leases expiring from one to sixfive years. At the end of the lease term the Group has the option to purchase the equipment at a price deemed to be a bargain purchase option. None of the leases included contingent rental.
 
  At August 31, 2009,2010, the net book value of telecommunications, computer and office equipment under finance lease held by the Group amounted to HK$1,289,000 (2008:674,000 (2009: HK$1,411,000)1,289,000).

F-28F-36


13 Principal subsidiaries
 
  The following is a list of the principal subsidiaries which principally affected the results, assets or liabilities of the Group at August 31, 2009:2010:
           
    Principal    
    activities Particulars  
  Place of and place of of issued Percentage of
Name incorporation operations share capital interest held
Attitude Holdings Limited British Virgin
Islands
 Inactive Ordinary
US$1
  100 
           
Automedia Holdings Limited British Virgin
Islands
 Investment holding in Hong Kong Ordinary
US$1
  * 100 
           
City Telecom (B.C.) Inc.Inc.# Canada Provision of international telecommunications and dial-up internet access services in Canada Common
Canadian
dollar
(“CAD”)
501,000
  100 
           
City Telecom (Canada) Inc.Inc.# Canada Leasing and maintenance of switching equipment and provision of operational services in Canada Common
CAD100
  100 
           
City Telecom Inc.Inc.# Canada Provision of international telecommunications and dial-up internet access services in Canada Common
CAD1,000
  100 
           
City Telecom International Limited British Virgin
Islands
 Investment holding in Hong Kong Ordinary
US$5,294
  * 100 
           
Credibility Holdings Limited British Virgin
Islands
 Investment holding in Hong Kong Ordinary
US$1
  * 100 

F-29F-37


13 Principal subsidiaries (continued)
 
  The following is a list of the principal subsidiaries which principally affected the results, assets or liabilities of the Group at August 31, 2009:2010: (continued)
           
    Principal    
    activities Particulars  
  Place of and place of of issued Percentage of
Name incorporation operations share capital interest held
CTI Guangzhou Customer Services Co. Ltd. (translated from the registered name in Chinese)# PRC Provision of administrative support services in the PRC Paid in capital of
HK$8,000,000
  * 100 
           
CTI Marketing
Company Limited
 Hong Kong Inactive Ordinary
HK$10,000
  100 
           
Golden Trinity
Holdings Limited
 British Virgin
Islands
 Investment holding in
Hong Kong
 Ordinary
US$1
  * 100 
           
Hong Kong
Broadband
Network Limited
 Hong Kong Provision of international telecommunications and fixed telecommunications network services in Hong Kong Ordinary
HK$383,049
  100 
           
IDD 1600IDD1600 Company
Limited
 Hong Kong Provision of international telecommunications services in Hong Kong Ordinary
HK$2
  100 
           
SGBN Singapore Broadband Network Pte. Limited Singapore Inactive Ordinary
Singapore
dollar
(“SG$”) 1
  * 100 
 
* Shares held directly by the Company.

F-30


14Other financial assets
20092008
HK$’000HK$’000
Debt securities, at fair value and unlisted outside Hong Kong27,997
Note:
 
# The balance as at August 31, 2008 was an investment in debt security with principal amount of US$3,000,000. During the year ended August 31, 2009, the debt security matured.
15Deferred expenditureSubsidiaries not audited by KPMG
14 Deferred expenditure
                
 2009 2008  2010 2009 
 HK$’000 HK$’000  HK$’000 HK$’000 
Balance as at the beginning of the year 56,095 21,367  49,460 56,095 
Additions during the year 46,525 68,505  34,773 46,525 
Less: amortization charge for the year (note 4(a))  (53,160)  (33,777)  (48,621)  (53,160)
          
  
 49,460 56,095  35,612 49,460 
Current portion  (36,674)  (40,704)  (28,986)  (36,674)
          
  
Balance as at the end of the year 12,786 15,391  6,626 12,786 
          
  Deferred expenditure represents costs incurred to acquire subscribers of the services offered by the Group, which is treated as customer acquisition costs and are amortized over the period of the underlying service subscription agreements.
16Accounts receivable, other receivables, deposits and prepayments
         
  2009  2008 
  HK$’000  HK$’000 
Accounts receivable  123,352   152,227 
Less: Allowance for doubtful debts  (3,160)  (11,944)
       
         
   120,192   140,283 
Other receivables, deposits and prepayments  69,765   82,726 
       
         
   189,957   223,009 
       

F-31F-38


16Accounts receivable, other receivables, deposits and prepayments (continued)
15 Accounts receivable, other receivables, deposits and prepayments
         
  2010  2009 
  HK$’000  HK$’000 
Accounts receivable  105,552   123,352 
Less: Allowance for doubtful debts  (5,823)  (3,160)
       
         
   99,729   120,192 
Other receivables, deposits and prepayments  89,490   69,765 
       
         
   189,219   189,957 
       
(a) Aging analysis
 
  The aging analysis of accounts receivable is as follows:
         
  2009  2008 
  HK$’000  HK$’000 
Current - 30 days  32,427   45,462 
31 - 60 days  13,663   17,507 
61 - 90 days  3,953   7,249 
Over 90 days  73,309   82,009 
       
         
   123,352   152,227 
       
         
  2010  2009 
  HK$’000  HK$’000 
Current — 30 days  41,244   32,427 
31 — 60 days  9,024   13,663 
61 — 90 days  5,245   3,953 
Over 90 days  50,039   73,309 
       
         
   105,552   123,352 
       
  The majority of the Group’s accounts receivable are due within 30 days from the date of billings. Subscribers with receivable that are more than 3 months overdue are requested to settle all outstanding balance before further credit is granted.
 
(b) Impairment of accounts receivable
 
  Impairment losses in respect of accounts receivable are recorded using an allowance account unless the Group is satisfied that recovery of the amount is remote, in which case the impairment loss is written off against accounts receivable directly (see note 1(i)(i)).
 
  The movement in the allowance for doubtful debts during the year including both specific and collective loss components is as follows:
                    
 2009 2008  2010 2009 2008 
 HK$’000 HK$’000  HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 
Balance as at the beginning of the year 11,944 22,392  3,160 11,944 22,392 
Impairment loss recognized 12,103 14,293  14,742 12,103 14,293 
Uncollectible amounts written off  (20,887)  (24,741)  (12,079)  (20,887)  (24,741)
            
  
Balance as at the end of the year 3,160 11,944  5,823 3,160 11,944 
            

F-39


15Accounts receivable, other receivables, deposits and prepayments (continued)
(c) Accounts receivable that are not impaired
 
  The aging analysis of accounts receivable that are neither individually nor collectively considered to be impaired are as follows:
                
 2009 2008  2010 2009 
 HK$’000 HK$’000  HK$’000 HK$’000 
Neither past due nor impaired 32,427 45,462  41,244 32,427 
0 - 30 past due 13,663 17,507 
31 - 60 past due 3,953 7,249 
0 — 30 past due 9,024 13,663 
31 — 60 past due 5,245 3,953 
Over 60 past due 70,149 70,065  44,216 70,149 
          
  
 120,192 140,283  99,729 120,192 
          
  Receivables that were neither past duenor impaired relate to a wide range of customers for whom there was no recent history of default.
 
  The amounts over 60 days past due for the Group included receivable relating to mobile interconnection charges of HK$68,802,00039,763,000 as at August 31, 20092010 (August 31, 2008:2009: HK$64,407,000)68,802,000) (see note 2(c)2(b)).

F-32


16Accounts receivable, other receivables, deposits and prepayments (continued)
(c)Accounts receivable that are not impaired (continued)
 
  Other accounts receivable that were past due but not impaired relate to a number of independent customers that have a good track record with the Group.of payment. Based on past experience, management believes that no impairment allowance is necessary in respect of these balances as there has not been a significant change in credit quality and the balances are still considered fully recoverable. The Group does not hold collateral over these balances.
 
(d) Other receivables, deposits and prepayments
 
  Other receivables, deposits and prepayments consist of deposits for purchase of fixed assets, rental deposit, interest receivable, unbilled revenue, prepayment and other receivables.
17Cash at bank and in hand All of the other receivables, except rental deposits are expected to be recovered within one year.

F-40


         
  2009  2008 
  HK$’000  HK$’000 
Time deposits with banks and other financial institutions  77,500   264,943 
Cash at bank and in hand  143,552   156,667 
       
         
Cash at bank and in hand in the balance sheet  221,052   421,610 
       
18Accounts payable, other payables and accrued charges
         
  2009  2008 
  HK$’000  HK$’000 
Accounts payable  37,555   52,324 
Other payables and accrued charges  206,487   178,114 
       
         
   244,042   230,438 
       
16 Cash at bank and in hand
         
  2010  2009 
  HK$’000  HK$’000 
Time deposits with banks and other financial institutions  262,280   77,500 
Cash at bank and in hand  326,385   148,916 
       
         
Cash at bank and in hand in the balance sheet  588,665   226,416 
       
17 Accounts payable, other payables and accrued charges
         
  2010  2009 
  HK$’000  HK$’000 
Accounts payable  35,128   37,555 
Other payables and accrued charges  195,931   206,487 
       
         
   231,059   244,042 
       
(a) The aging analysis of the accounts payable was as follows:
         
  2009  2008 
  HK$’000  HK$’000 
Current - 30 days  12,621   18,802 
31 - 60 days  1,778   4,025 
61 - 90 days  189   8,334 
Over 90 days  22,967   21,163 
       
         
   37,555   52,324 
       
         
  2010  2009 
  HK$’000  HK$’000 
Current — 30 days  6,838   12,621 
31 — 60 days  1,982   1,778 
61 — 90 days  1,647   189 
Over 90 days  24,661   22,967 
       
         
   35,128   37,555 
       
(b) Other payables and accrued charges
 
  Other payables and accrued charges primarily consist of accrual for staffTalents salaries and bonus, carrier fees and charges, payable for purchase of fixed assets, advertising and promotional expenses as well as interest payable in respect of the 10-year senior notes.payable.
1918 Deferred service revenue
  Deferred service revenue primarily includes service fees received from customers in advance for the Group’s fixed telecommunications network services. Service fees received in advance is deferred and recognized as revenue on a straight-line basis over the related contract period.

F-33F-41


2019 Capital and reserves
                             
              Capital          
  Share  Share  Capital  redemption  Retained  Exchange    
  capital  premium  reserve  reserve  profits  reserve  Total 
  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000 
At September 1, 2008  65,062   670,717   19,013      275,025   2,790   1,032,607 
Profit attributable to shareholders              212,829      212,829 
Dividend paid in respect of previous year              (3,108)     (3,108)
Shares issued in respect of scrip dividend of previous year  1,221   8,685         (9,906)      
Dividend paid in respect of current year              (19,904)     (19,904)
Shares issued upon exercise of share option  142   1,806   (549)           1,399 
Equity settled share-based transactions        4,768            4,768 
Exchange adjustments on translation of the financial statements of subsidiaries                 70   70 
Repurchase and cancellation of ordinary shares  (7)        7   (134)     (134)
                      
                             
At August 31, 2009  66,418   681,208   23,232   7   454,802   2,860   1,228,527 
                      
(a)Share capital
                         
  Share  Share  Capital  Retained  Exchange    
  capital  premium  reserve  profits  reserve  Total 
  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000 
At September 1, 2007  61,650   622,433   18,109   200,519   1,171   903,882 
Profit attributable to shareholders           125,190      125,190 
Dividend paid in respect of previous year           (5,915)     (5,915)
Shares issued in respect of scrip dividend of previous year  1,123   18,044      (19,167)      
Dividend paid in respect of current year           (11,371)     (11,371)
Shares issued in respect of scrip dividend of current year  884   13,347      (14,231)      
Shares issued upon exercise of share option  1,405   16,893   (3,300)        14,998 
Equity settled share-based transactions        4,204         4,204 
Exchange adjustments on translation of the financial statements of subsidiaries              1,619   1,619 
                   
                         
At August 31, 2008  65,062   670,717   19,013   275,025   2,790   1,032,607 
                   
                 
  2010      2009    
  No. of  Amount  No. of  Amount 
  Shares  HK$’000  shares  HK$’000 
Authorized:
                
Ordinary shares of HK$0.10 each  2,000,000,000   200,000   2,000,000,000   200,000 
             
                 
Issued and fully paid:
                
Ordinary shares of HK$0.10 each                
At the beginning of the year  664,179,970   66,418   650,621,823   65,062 
Shares issued in respect of scrip dividend of the previous year (note (i))        12,212,142   1,221 
Shares issued upon exercise of share options (note (ii))  20,317,374   2,032   1,416,005   142 
Shares issued upon placement (note (iii))  80,500,000   8,050       
Repurchase and cancellation of ordinary shares        (70,000)  (7)
             
                 
At the end of the year  764,997,344   76,500   664,179,970   66,418 
             
The holders of ordinary shares are entitled to receive dividends as declared from time to time and are entitled to one vote per ordinary share at meetings of the Company. All ordinary shares rank equally with regard to the Company’s residual assets.
Notes:
(i)On February 25, 2009, the Company issued and allotted 12,212,142 ordinary shares to shareholders who elected to receive the 2008 final dividend in shares pursuant to the scrip dividend scheme announced by the Company on January 9, 2009. These shares rank pari passu with the existing shares of the Company in all respects.
(ii)During the year ended August 31, 2010, 20,317,374 ordinary shares (2009: 1,416,005 ordinary shares) were issued at a weighted average exercise price of HK$0.82 per ordinary share (2009: HK$0.99 per ordinary share) to share option holders who had exercised their options. These shares so issued rank pari passu with the then existing ordinary shares in issue.
(iii)On April 28, 2010, the Company completed its public offering of 4,025,000 American Depositary Shares (ADSs). An aggregate of 80,500,000 ordinary shares (4,025,000 ADSs) were issued at a price of HK$5.0455 per ordinary share (US$13.00 per ADS) to independent professional, institutional and private investors. The Company raised net proceeds of approximately HK$379,612,000 from the ADS offering.

F-34F-42


2019 Capital and reserves (continued)
(a) Share capital (continued)
      Notes: (continued)
(iv)The movement of outstanding share options during the year was as follows:
                         
      Number of              Number of 
      share options              share options 
  Exercise  outstanding at              outstanding 
  price  September 1,              at August 31, 
Date of grant per share  2009  Granted  Exercised  Lapsed  2010 
October 21, 2004 HK$1.5224   6,909,527      2,750,847      4,158,680 
January 5, 2005 HK$1.5224   16,183,208            16,183,208 
May 22, 2006 HK$0.6523   21,592,899      16,409,456      5,183,443 
August 3, 2006 HK$0.7018   40,540      40,540       
November 22, 2006 HK$0.7216   136,545      136,545       
February 6, 2008 HK$1.7568   6,044,791      502,000      5,542,791 
February 11, 2008 HK$1.8660   6,044,791            6,044,791 
February 15, 2008 HK$1.7568   1,007,465      402,986      604,479 
May 2, 2008 HK$1.7866   1,007,465      75,000      932,465 
February 5, 2010 HK$4.2400      6,000,000         6,000,000 
                   
                         
       58,967,231   6,000,000   20,317,374      44,649,857 
                   
During the year ended August 31, 2010, options were granted under the 2002 Share Option Scheme to eligible participant for the subscription of 6,000,000 shares of the Company at an exercise price of HK$4.24 each.
 
  Each option entitles the holder to subscribe for one share of HK$0.10 each in the Company at a predetermined exercise price.
(b)Nature and purpose of reserves
 
(i) Share premium
 
  The application of the share premium account is governed by Sections 48B of the Hong Kong Companies Ordinance.
 
(ii) Capital reserve
 
  The capital reserve comprises the fair value of the actual or estimated number of unexercised share options granted to employeesTalents of the Group that was recognized in accordance with the accounting policy adopted for share based payment in note 1(p)1(o).
 
(iii) PRC statutory reserve
 
  In accordance with Accounting Regulations for Business Enterprises, foreign investment enterprises in the PRC are required to transfer at least 10% of their profit after taxation, as determined under accounting principles generally accepted in the PRC (“PRC GAAP”) to the general reserve until the balance of the general reserve is equal to 50% of their registered capital.
 
  For the year ended August 31, 2009,2010, CTI Guangzhou Customer Services Co Ltd (“CTIGZ”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Group, made appropriation to the statutory reserve of RMB510,000 (2008: RMB324,000)RMB597,000 (2009: RMB510,000). The accumulated balance of the statutory reserve maintained at the CTIGZ as at August 31, 20092010 was RMB1,415,000 (2008: RMB905,000)RMB2,012,000 (2009: RMB1,415,000). The statutory reserve can be used to reduce previous years’ losses and to increase the capital of the subsidiary.
 
(iv) Exchange reserve
 
  The exchange reserve comprises all foreign exchange differences arising from the translation of the financial statements of foreign operations. The reserve is dealt with in accordance with the accounting policies set out in note 1(d)(ii).
(a)Share capital
                 
  2009  2008 
  No. of  Amount  No. of  Amount 
  Shares  HK$’000  shares  HK$’000 
Authorized:
                
Ordinary shares of HK$0.10 each  2,000,000,000   200,000   2,000,000,000   200,000 
             
                 
Issued and fully paid:
                
Ordinary shares of HK$0.10 each                
At the beginning of the year  650,621,823   65,062   616,503,404   61,650 
Shares issued in respect of scrip dividend of the previous year (note (i))  12,212,142   1,221   11,227,213   1,123 
Shares issued in respect of scrip dividend of the current year (note (ii))        8,838,938   884 
Shares issued upon exercise of share options (note (iii))  1,416,005   142   14,052,268   1,405 
Repurchase and cancellation of ordinary shares  (70,000)  (7)      
             
                 
At the end of the year  664,179,970   66,418   650,621,823   65,062 
             
The holders of ordinary shares are entitled to receive dividends as declared from time to time and are entitled to one vote per ordinary share at meetings of the Company. All ordinary shares rank equally with regard to the Company’s residual assets.
Notes:
(i)On February 25, 2009, the Company issued and allotted 12,212,142 ordinary shares to shareholders who elected to receive the 2008 final dividend in shares pursuant to the scrip dividend scheme announced by the Company on January 9, 2009. These shares rank pari passu with the existing shares of the Company in all respects.
On February 4, 2008, the Company issued and allotted 11,227,213 ordinary shares to shareholders who elected to receive, the 2007 final dividend in shares pursuant to the scrip dividend scheme announced by the Company on January 4, 2008. These shares rank pari passu with the existing shares of the Company in all respects.

F-35F-43


2019 Capital and reserves (continued)
 
(a)Share capital (continued)
Notes: (continued)
(ii)On July 23, 2008, the Company issued and allotted 8,838,938 ordinary shares to shareholder, who elected to receive the 2008 interim dividend in shares pursuant to the scrip dividend scheme announced by the Company on June 19, 2008. These shares rank pari passu with the existing shares of the Company in all respects.
(iii)During the year ended August 31, 2009, 1,416,005 ordinary shares (2008: 14,052,268 ordinary shares) were issued at a weighted average price of HK$0.99 per ordinary share (2008: HK$1.07 per ordinary share) to share option holders who had exercised their options. These shares so issued rank pari passu with the then existing ordinary shares in issue.
(iv)The movement of outstanding share options during the year was as follows:
                             
              Adjustment            
      Number      to number          Number 
      of share      of options          of share 
      options      for 2008          options 
  Exercise  outstanding at      final          outstanding 
  price  September 1,      dividend          at August 31, 
Date of grant per share  2008  Granted  (note (i))  Exercised  Lapsed  2009 
October 21, 2004 HK$1.5224  7,571,582      35,130   546,184   151,001   6,909,527 
January 5, 2005 HK$1.5224  16,106,956      76,252         16,183,208 
May 22, 2006 HK$0.6523  22,387,555      105,366   869,821   30,201   21,592,899 
August 3, 2006 HK$0.7018  40,349      191         40,540 
November 22, 2006 HK$0.7216  135,902      643         136,545 
February 6, 2008 HK$1.7568  6,016,309      28,482         6,044,791 
February 11, 2008 HK$1.8660  6,016,309      28,482         6,044,791 
February 15, 2008 HK$1.7568  1,002,718      4,747         1,007,465 
March 11, 2008 HK$1.8164  300,816      1,424      302,240    
May 2, 2008 HK$1.7866  1,002,718      4,747         1,007,465 
                       
                             
       60,581,214      285,464   1,416,005   483,442   58,967,231 
                       
During the year ended August 31, 2009, no options were granted under the 2002 Share Option Scheme.
Each option entitles the holder to subscribe for one share of HK$0.10 each in the Company at a predetermined exercise price.

F-36


20Capital and reserves (continued)
(b)(c) Capital management
 
  The Group’s primary objectives when managing capital are to maintain a reasonable capital structure, safeguard the Group’s ability to continue as a going concern, and to provide returns for shareholders.
 
  The Group manages the amount of capital in proportion to risk, and makes adjustments to its capital structure through the amount of dividend payment to shareholders, issuance of scrip and new shares, and managing its debt portfolio in conjunction with cash flow requirements, taking into account its future financial obligations and commitments.
 
  The Group monitors its capital structure by reviewing its net debt to net asset gearing ratio. For this purpose, the Group defines net debt as total loans less cash at bank and in hand and long-term bank deposits.
 
  The net debt to net asset gearing ratio as at August 31, 20092010 and 20082009 are as follows:
                
 2009 2008  2010 2009 
 HK$’000 HK$’000  HK$’000 HK$’000 
Unsecured  
- 10-year senior notes due 2015 162,586 683,242 
- Obligation under finance lease 732 376 
- 10-year senior notes  162,586 
- Long-term bank loan 123,567  
- Obligations under finance leases 605 732 
          
  
Total loans 163,318 683,618  124,172 163,318 
Less: Cash and bank balances  (221,052)  (421,610)
Less: Cash at bank and in hand  (588,665)  (226,416)
Add: Bank overdrafts — unsecured 10,490 5,364 
          
  
Net (cash)/debt  (57,734) 262,008 
Net cash  (454,003)  (57,734)
Net asset 1,228,527 1,032,607  1,688,539 1,228,527 
          
  
Net debt to net asset gearing ratio  0.25    
          
The decrease in net debt to net asset gearing ratio is mainly due to the repurchase of the 10-year senior notes (see note 22(a)).
  Neither the Company nor any of its subsidiaries are currently subject to externally imposed capital requirements.
2120 Deferred taxation
Deferred tax assets are recognized to the extent it is probable that future taxable profits will be generated against which the temporary differences can be utilized.
  The componentsmovements of net deferred tax assets/(liabilities)/assets recognized in the balance sheet and the movements are as follows:
                    
 2009 2008  2010 2009 2008 
 HK$’000 HK$’000  HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 
Balance as at the beginning of the year 21,398  (291)  (15,709) 21,398  (291)
Exchange differences 1  (1)  1  (1)
Deferred taxation (charged)/credited to income statement  
- relating to the origination and reversal of temporary differences (note 5)  (37,108)  (4,645)
- relating to the recognition of unrecognized tax losses in prior years (note 5)  26,335 
- relating to the origination and reversal of temporary differences  (40,134)  (37,108)  (4,645)
- relating to the recognition of unrecognized tax losses in prior years   26,335 
            
  
Balance as at the end of the year  (15,709) 21,398   (55,843)  (15,709) 21,398 
            

F-37F-44


2120 Deferred taxation (continued)
 
  As at August 31, 2009,2010, the Group has not recognized deferred tax assets in respect of unused tax losses of HK$8,154,000 (2008:8,242,000 (2009: HK$9,518,000)8,154,000) because it is not probable that future taxable profits can be generated to utilize the tax losses. All tax losses are subject to agreement with local tax authorities.
                
 2009 2008  2010 2009 
 HK$’000 HK$’000  HK$’000 HK$’000 
After 5 years 2,455 3,810  2,553 2,455 
No expiry date 5,699 5,708  5,689 5,699 
          
 8,154 9,518  
      8,242 8,154 
     
  According to the Corporate Income Tax (“CIT”) law and its relevant regulations, PRC-resident enterprises are levied withholding tax at 10% on dividends to their non-PRC-resident corporate investors for earnings accumulated beginning on January 1, 2008, and undistributed earnings generated prior to January 1, 2008 are exempt from such withholding tax. In addition, under theArrangement between the Mainland of China and Hong Kong Special Administration Region for the Avoidance of Double Taxation and the Prevention of Fiscal Evasionand its related regulations, a qualified Hong Kong Company will be liable for withholding tax at the rate of 5% for the dividend income derived from the PRC, if the Hong Kong company is the “beneficial owner” and holds 25% of equity interest or more of the PRC company directly. At August 31, 2010, the Group has not recognized deferred tax liabilities in respect of temporary differences relating to the undistributed earnings of its PRC subsidiary approximately amounting HK$12,283,000 (2009: HK$5,393,000) as the Group controls the dividend policy of the subsidiary and it does not consider that it is probable that profits will not be distributed in the foreseeable future.
The movementcomponents in deferred tax assets and liabilities (prior to offsetting of balances withinrecognized in the same taxation jurisdiction)balance sheet and the related movements during the year isare as follows:
                    
 Accelerated depreciation allowance  Accelerated depreciation allowance 
 2009 2008  2010 2009 2008 
 HK$’000 HK$’000  HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 
Deferred tax liabilities
  
 
At the beginning of the year  (126,447)  (134,910)  (131,766)  (126,447)  (134,910)
(Charged)/credited to consolidated income statement  (5,326) 8,463 
Charged to consolidated income statement  (15,027)  (5,326) 8,463 
Exchange differences 7    (6) 7  
            
 
At the end of the year  (131,766)  (126,447)  (146,799)  (131,766)  (126,447)
            
                    
 Tax losses    Tax losses   
 2009 2008  2010 2009 2008 
 HK$’000 HK$’000  HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 
Deferred tax assets
  
 
At the beginning of the year 147,845 134,619  116,057 147,845 134,619 
(Charged)/credited to consolidated income statement  (31,782) 13,227 
Charged to consolidated income statement  (25,107)  (31,782) 13,227 
Exchange differences  (6)  (1) 6  (6)  (1)
            
At the end of the year 116,057 147,845  90,956 116,057 147,845 
            
  Deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities are offset when there is a legally enforceable right to set off current tax assets against current tax liabilities and when the deferred tax assets and the deferred tax liabilities relate to income taxes levied by the same taxation authority on the same taxable entity. The following amounts, determined after appropriate offsetting, are shown in the balance sheet:
                
 2009 2008  2010 2009 
 HK$’000 HK$’000  HK$’000 HK$’000 
Deferred tax assets  26,335    
Deferred tax liabilities  (15,709)  (4,937)  (55,843)  (15,709)
          
   (55,843)  (15,709)
  (15,709) 21,398      
     

F-38F-45


21Derivative financial instrument
20102009
HK$’000HK$’000
Non-current liability
Interest rate swap, at fair value through profit or loss11,293
During the year ended August 31, 2010, the Group entered into a 5-year interest rate swap contract with a HK$175,000,000 notional amount to hedge against interest rate risk. Under this arrangement, the Group will pay a fixed rate interest on the notional amount on a quarterly basis, and receive a floating interest rate at HIBOR rate. The contract is recognized initially at fair value and is remeasured at each balance sheet date.
The Interest rate swap does not quality for hedge accounting under IAS/HKAS 39,Financial instruments: Recognition and measurement, and therefore changes in its fair value is recognized immediately in profit or loss.
22Long-term debt and other liabilities
         
  2010  2009 
  HK$’000  HK$’000 
10-year senior notes (note (a))     162,586 
Long-term bank loan — unsecured (note (b))  123,567    
Obligations under finance leases (note (c))  605   732 
       
         
   124,172   163,318 
         
Current portion of — obligations under finance leases  (212)  (202)
       
         
   123,960   163,116 
       
At August 31, 2010, the Group’s long-term debt and other liabilities were repayable as follows:
         
  2010  2009 
  HK$’000  HK$’000 
Long-term debt        
- after 2 years but within 5 years  123,567    
- after 5 years     162,586 
       
         
Obligations under finance leases        
- Within 1 year  212   202 
- After 1 year but within 2 years  105   197 
- After 2 years but within 5 years  288   263 
- After 5 years     70 
       
         
   605   732 
         
Less: Current portion of obligations under finance leases  (212)  (202)
       
         
   393   530 
       
         
   123,960   163,116 
       

F-46


22 Long-term debt and other liabilities (continued)
         
  2009  2008 
  HK$’000  HK$’000 
10-year senior notes due 2015 (note (a))  162,586   683,242 
Obligation under finance lease (note (b))  732   376 
       
         
   163,318   683,618 
         
Current portion of - - obligation under finance lease  (202)  (121)
       
         
   163,116   683,497 
       
At August 31, 2009, the Group’s long-term debt and other liabilities were repayable as follows:
         
  2009  2008 
  HK$’000  HK$’000 
Long-term debt and other liabilities, repayable:        
- 10-year senior notes due 2015        
- after the fifth year  162,586   683,242 
       
         
Obligations under finance lease        
- Within 1 year  202   121 
- After 1 year but within 2 years  197   129 
- After 2 years but within 5 years  263   126 
- After 5 years  70    
       
         
   732   376 
         
Less: Current portion of obligations under finance lease  (202)  (121)
       
         
   530   255 
       
         
   163,116   683,497 
       
Notes:
(a) On January 20, 2005, the Company issued unsecured 10-year senior fixed rates notes (the “10-year senior notes”) with a principle amount of US$125 million at an issue price equal to 100 per cent of the principal amount. The 10-year senior notes maturehave a maturity date on February 1, 2015 and bear interest at the fixed rate of 8.75% per annum payable semi-annually on February 1 and August 1 of each year, commencing August 1, 2005.
 
  The 10-year senior notes are unconditionally and irrevocably guaranteed on a joint and several basis by the Company’s subsidiaries (other than CTI Guangzhou Customer Services Company Limited)Co. Ltd.) as subsidiary guarantors.
 
  During the year ended August 31,On December 4, 2009, the Group repurchased a portion of the 10-year senior notes with a cumulative principal value of US$67,990,000 through tender offers1,500,000 (equivalent to HK$11,625,000) in April 2009 and July 2009.the open market. The total consideration paid including transaction cost and accrued interest was approximately US$65,139,000.1,562,000 (equivalent to HK$12,103,000). The gainloss on extinguishment of the senior notes was US$41,000 (equivalent to HK$318,000) which has been recorded in other income, net.
On February 1, 2010, the Company redeemed the then outstanding 10-year senior notes with principal value of US$19,863,000 (equivalent to HK$153,948,000) with the redemption price equal to 104.375% of the principal amount. The total consideration paid including accrued interest was approximately US$21,601,000 (equivalent to HK$167,624,000). The loss on extinguishment of the 10-year senior notes was US$4,048,0001,203,000 (equivalent to HK$31,371,000)9,332,000) which has been recorded in other revenues of the consolidated income, statement.net.
 
(b) As at August 31, 2009,2010, HK$125,000,000 was drawn which bears floating interest rate and is repayable on December 23, 2014. The borrowing is subject to the principal amountfulfillment of covenants relating to certain of the 10-year senior notes remainingGroup’s balance sheet ratios, as are commonly found in issue afterlending arrangements with financial institutions. If the repurchase was US$21,363,000 (equivalentGroup were to HK$165,563,000).breach the covenants the drawn down facilities would become payable on demand. The amortized cost of the 10-year senior notes was US$20,979,000 (equivalent to HK$162,586,000) asGroup regularly monitors its compliance with these covenants. As at August 31, 2009.2010, none of the covenants relating to drawn down facilities had been breached.
 
The effective interest rate of the 10-year senior notes for the year ended August 31, 2009 is 9.2% (2008: 9.2%) per annum.

F-39


22Long-term debt and other liabilities (continued)
Notes: (continued)
(b)(c) At August 31, 2009,2010, the Group had obligations under finance leases repayable as follows:
                                                
 2009 2008  2010 2009 
 Present Present      Present Present     
 value Interest value Interest    value Interest value Interest   
 of the expense Total of the expense Total  of the expense Total of the expense Total 
 minimum relating to minimum minimum relating to minimum  minimum relating to minimum minimum relating to minimum 
 lease future lease lease future lease  lease future lease lease future lease 
 payments periods payments payments periods payments  payments periods payments payments periods payments 
 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000  HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 
Within 1 year 202 35 237 121 21 142  212 30 242 202 35 237 
                          
  
After 1 year but within 2 years 197 22 219 129 13 142  105 20 125 197 22 219 
After 2 years but within 5 years 263 30 293 126 4 130  288 22 310 263 30 293 
After 5 years 70 1 71        70 1 71 
                          
  
 530 53 583 255 17 272  393 42 435 530 53 583 
                          
  
 732 88 820 376 38 414  605 72 677 732 88 820 
                          

F-47


23 Notes to the consolidated cash flow statement
(a) Reconciliation of profit before taxation to net cash inflow from operations
                    
 2009 2008  2010 2009 2008 
 HK$’000 HK$’000  HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 
Profit before taxation 251,559 108,372  259,545 251,559 108,372 
Depreciation of owned fixed assets 205,624 209,464  198,323 205,624 209,464 
Depreciation of fixed assets held under finance lease 617 587  706 617 587 
Amortization of deferred expenditure 53,160 33,777  48,621 53,160 33,777 
Interest income  (4,869)  (15,596)  (11,372)  (4,869)  (15,596)
Interest element of finance lease 27 34  42 27 34 
Loss on disposal of fixed assets 1,016 1,431 
(Gain)/loss on disposal of fixed assets  (1,375) 1,016 1,431 
Realized and unrealized gain on other financial assets  (189)  (3,284)   (189)  (3,284)
Realized gain on long term bank deposit   (1,185)    (1,185)
Realized loss on derivative financial instrument  1,039    1,039 
Equity settled share-based transactions 4,768 4,204  5,347 4,768 4,204 
Gain on extinguishment of 10-year senior notes  (31,371)  (2,582)
Loss/(gain) on extinguishment of 10-year senior notes 9,650  (31,371)  (2,582)
Change in fair value of derivative financial instruments 11,293   
Interest, amortization and exchange difference on 10-year senior notes 49,214 72,640  6,069 49,214 72,640 
Interest on other borrowings 3,260 885 3,428 
Amortization of upfront cost on bank loans 192   
Interest expenses on bank loans 1,379   
            
  
Net cash inflow before working capital changes 529,556 408,901  531,680 530,441 412,329 
(Increase)/ decrease in long-term receivable and prepayment  (505) 1,346 
Decrease/(increase) in long-term receivable and prepayment 917  (505) 1,346 
Decrease in accounts receivable, other receivables, deposits and prepayments 33,052 6,914  738 33,052 6,914 
Decrease in inventories  477    477 
Increase in deferred expenditure  (46,525)  (68,505)  (34,773)  (46,525)  (68,505)
Increase/ (decrease) in accounts payable, other payables, accrued charges and deposits received 17,419  (12,567)
Increase in deferred service revenue 4,621 46,247 
(Decrease)/increase in accounts payable, other payables, accrued charges and deposits received  (1,937) 17,419  (12,567)
(Decrease)/increase in deferred service revenue  (8,272) 4,621 46,247 
            
  
Net cash inflow from operations 537,618 382,813 
Net cash inflow generated from operations 488,353 538,503 386,241 
            

F-40F-48


23 Notes to the consolidated cash flow statement (continued)
(b) Analysis of changes in financing during the year
                        
 Share capital      Share capital     
 (including share Obligations    (including share Obligations   
 premium and Under finance 10-year  premium and under finance 10-year 
 capital reserve) lease senior notes  capital reserve) leases senior notes 
 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000  HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 
Balance at September 1, 2007 702,192 1,210 952,593  702,192 1,210 952,593 
Issue of new shares 14,998   
Share issued upon exercise of share options 14,998   
Share issued in respect of scrip dividend 33,398    33,398   
Repayment of capital element of finance lease   (834)     (834)  
Repurchase of 10-year senior notes    (269,399)    (269,399)
Gain on extinguishment of 10-year senior notes    (2,582)    (2,582)
Amortization of incidental issuance costs   1,665    1,665 
Equity settled share-based transactions 4,204    4,204   
Effect of foreign exchange rate changes   965    965 
              
 
Balance at August 31, 2008 754,792 376 683,242  754,792 376 683,242 
              
 
Balance at September 1, 2008 754,792 376 683,242  754,792 376 683,242 
Issue of new shares 1,399   
Share issued upon exercise of share options 1,399   
Repurchase and cancellation of ordinary shares  (7)     (7)   
Share issued in respect of scrip dividend 9,906    9,906   
Purchase of fixed assets under finance lease  494    494  
Repayment of capital element of finance lease   (138)     (138)  
Repurchase of 10-year senior notes    (485,829)    (485,829)
Gain on extinguishment of 10-year senior notes    (31,371)    (31,371)
Amortization of incidental issuance costs   1,545    1,545 
Equity settled share-based transactions 4,768    4,768   
Effect of foreign exchange rate changes    (5,001)    (5,001)
              
 
Balance at August 31, 2009 770,858 732 162,586  770,858 732 162,586 
              
 
Balance at September 1, 2009 770,858 732 162,586 
Share issued upon exercise of share options 16,744   
Shares issued upon placement 379,612   
Purchase of fixed assets under finance lease  90  
Repayment of capital element of finance lease   (217)  
Repurchase and redemption of 10-year senior notes    (172,423)
Loss on extinguishment of 10-year senior notes   9,650 
Amortization of incidental issuance costs   188 
Equity settled share-based transactions 5,347   
Effect of foreign exchange rate changes    (1)
       
 
Balance at August 31, 2010 1,172,561 605  
       

F-49


24 Financial instruments
  Exposure to credit, liquidity, interest rate and currency risks arises in the normal course of the Group’s business. These risks are limited by the Group’s financial management policies and practices described below.
 
(a) Credit risk
 
  The Group’s credit risk is primarily attributable to accounts receivable and other receivables, and debt investments.receivables. Management has a credit policy in place and the exposure to the credit risk is monitored on an ongoing basis.
 
  In respect of accounts receivable and other receivables, credit evaluations are performed on all customers requiring credit over a certain amount. These evaluations focus on the customer’s past history of making payments when due and current ability to pay, and take into account information specific to the customer as well as pertaining to the economic environment in which the customer locates. These receivables are due within 30 days from the date of billing. Subscribers with receivables that are more than 3 months overdue are requested to settle all outstanding balances before any further credit is granted. The Group generally does not obtain collateral from customers.
 
  The Group’s exposure to credit risk is influenced mainly by individual characteristics of each customer. The default risk of the country in which customer locates also has an influence on credit risk but to a lesser extent. Concentrations of credit risk with respect to accounts receivable are limited due to the Group’s customer base being large and unrelated. As such, management does not expect any significant losses of accounts receivable that have not been provided for by way of allowances as disclosed in note 16.15.
 
  The maximum exposure to credit risk is represented by the carrying amount of each financial asset after deducting any impairment allowance, in the balance sheet. Except for the financial guarantee given by the Group as disclosed in note 25, the Group does not provide any other guarantees which expose the Group to credit risk. The maximum exposure to credit risk in respect of these financial guarantees at the balance sheet date is disclosed in note 25.
 
  Further quantitative disclosures in respect of the Group’s exposure to credit risk arising from accounts receivable are set out in note 16.15.

F-41F-50


24 Financial instruments (continued)
(b) Liquidity risk
 
  The Group has a cash management policy, which includes the short term investment of cash surpluses and the raising of loans and other borrowings to cover expected cash demands. The Group’s policy is to regularly monitor current and expected liquidity requirements and its compliance with lending covenants, to ensure that it maintains sufficient cash and readily realizable marketable securities and adequate amount of committed credit facilities from major financial institutions to meet its liquidity requirements in the short and long term. Due to the dynamic nature of the underlying business, the Group aims to maintain flexibility in funding by maintaining committed credit lines available.
 
  The following table details the remaining contractual maturities at the balance sheet date of the Group’s financial liabilities, which are based on undiscounted cash flows (including interest) and the earliest date the Group are required to pay.
                                                                                                
 2009 2008  2010 2009 
 Total More than More than Total More than More than    Total More than More than Total More than More than   
 contractual Within 1 year but 2 years but contractual Within 1 year but 2 years but    contractual Within 1 year but 2 years but contractual Within 1 year but 2 years but   
 Carrying undiscounted 1 year or less than less than More than Carrying undiscounted 1 year or less than Less than More than  Carrying undiscounted 1 year or less than less than More than Carrying undiscounted 1 year or less than Less than More than 
 amount cash flow on demand 2 years 5 years 5 years amount cash flow on demand 2 years 5 years 5 years  amount cash flow on demand 2 years 5 years 5 years amount cash flow on demand 2 years 5 years 5 years 
 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000  HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 
Current liabilities
  
  
Bank overdrafts - unsecured 10,490 10,490 10,490    5,364 5,364 5,364    
Accounts payable 37,555 37,555 37,555    52,324 52,324 52,324     35,128 35,128 35,128    37,555 37,555 37,555    
Other payables and accrued charges 206,487 206,487 206,487    178,114 178,114 178,114     195,931 195,931 195,931    206,487 206,487 206,487    
Deposits received 16,385 16,385 16,385    16,264 16,264 16,264     21,822 21,822 21,822    16,385 16,385 16,385    
Obligations under finance leases 202 237 237    121 142 142     212 242 242    202 237 237    
Tax payable 1,993 1,993 1,993    2,103 2,103 2,103     1,533 1,533 1,533    1,993 1,993 1,993    
  
Non current liabilities
 
Non-current liabilities
 
  
Long-term bank loan 123,567 133,996 1,829 2,166 130,001        
Derivative financial instrument 11,293 11,435 4,580 3,441 3,414        
10-year senior notes 162,586 244,117 14,489 14,489 43,467 171,672 683,242 1,093,852 61,012 61,012 183,036 788,792        162,586 244,117 14,489 14,489 43,467 171,672 
Obligation under finance leases 530 583  219 293 71 255 272  142 130  
Obligations under finance leases 393 435  125 310  530 583  219 293 71 
                                                  
  
 425,738 507,357 277,146 14,708 43,760 171,743 932,423 1,343,071 309,959 61,154 183,166 788,792  400,369 411,012 271,555 5,732 133,725  431,102 512,721 282,510 14,708 43,760 171,743 
                                                  

F-42F-51


24 Financial instruments (continued)
 
(c) Interest rate risk
 
  The Group’s interest-rate risk arises mainly from its 10-year senior notesthe HK$125,000,000 bank loan which bearbears floating interest rate. Bank loans at the fixed rate of 8.75% per annum. Borrowings issued at fixed ratevariable rates expose the Group to fair value interest-ratecash flow interest rate risk.
 
(i) Interest rate profile
 
  The following table details the interest rate profile of the Group’s borrowings at the balance sheet date.
                                
 2009 2008  2010 2009 
 Effective Effective    Effective Effective   
 interest interest    interest interest   
 rate rate    rate rate   
 % HK$’000 % HK$’000  % HK$’000 % HK$’000 
Fixed rate borrowings:
  
  
10-year senior notes 9.2 162,586 9.2 683,242    9.2 162,586 
Obligations under finance lease 5.6 732 6.8 376 
Obligations under finance leases 5.6 605 5.6 732 
          
  
 163,318 683,618  605 163,318 
          
 
Floating rate borrowings:
 
 
Bank overdrafts — unsecured 5.3 10,490 5.3 5,364 
Long-term bank loan 1.7 123,567   
     
(ii) Sensitivity analysis
 
  Management determines that theThe Group’s exposure ofprofit attributable to shareholders would decrease by approximately HK$1,250,000 in response to a 100 basis-points increase in market interest rate risk was not significant and hence no sensitivity analysis is prepared.rates applicable as at August 31, 2010, with all other variables held constant.

F-52


24Financial instruments (continued)
 
(d) Foreign currency risk
 
  All the Group’s monetary assets and liabilities are primarily denominated in either Hong Kong dollars or United States dollars. Given the exchange rate of the Hong Kong dollar to the U.S. dollar has remained close to the current pegged rate of HKD7.80 = USD1.00 since 1983, management does not expect significant foreign exchange gains or losses between the two currencies.
 
  The Group is also exposed to a certain amount of foreign exchange risk based on fluctuations between the Hong Kong dollars and the Renminbi arising from its operations in the PRC. In order to limit this foreign currency risk exposure, the Group maintained Renminbi cash balance that approximate two to three months’ of operating cash flows.
 
(i) Exposure to currency risk
 
  The following table details the Group’s exposure at the balance sheet date to currency risk arising from recognized assets or liabilities denominated in a currency other than the functional currency of the entity to which they relate.
                                                
 2009 2008  2010 2009 
 United United      United United     
 States Japanese Canadian States Japanese Canadian  States Japanese Canadian States Japanese Canadian 
 Dollars Yen Dollars Dollars Yen Dollars  Dollars Yen Dollars Dollars Yen Dollars 
 ‘000 ‘000 ‘000 ‘000 ‘000 ‘000  ‘000 ‘000 ‘000 ‘000 ‘000 ‘000 
Cash at bank and in hand and pledged bank deposits 11,599 696 282 22,330 1,099 176  30,443 591 435 11,599 696 282 
Bank overdrafts — unsecured  (294)    (161)   
Accounts payable  (3,183)    (2,500)     (1,350)    (3,183)   
Other payables and accrued charges  (390)    (3,390)     (1,075)    (390)   
10-year senior notes  (20,979)    (87,483)        (20,979)   
                          
  
Overall net exposure  (12,953) 696 282  (71,043) 1,099 176  27,724 591 435  (13,114) 696 282 
                          
(ii) Sensitivity analysis
 
  Management determines that the Group’s exposure of foreign currency risk was not significant and hence no sensitivity analysis is prepared.

F-43F-53


24 Financial instruments (continued)
(e) Fair values
 
(i) ExceptFinancial instrument carried at fair value
The following table presents the carrying value of financial instrument measured at fair value at the balance sheet date across the three levels of the fair value hierarchy defined in IFRS/HKFRS 7,Financial Instruments: Disclosures, with the fair value of each financial instrument categorized in its entirety based on the lowest level of input that is significant to that fair value measurement. The levels are defined as follows:
Level 1 (highest level): fair values measured using quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for the followingidentical financial instruments all
Level 2: fair values measured using quoted prices in active markets for similar financial instruments, or using valuation techniques in which all significant inputs are directly or indirectly based on observable market data
Level 3 (lowest level): fair values measured using valuation techniques in which any significant input is not based on observable market data
2010
                 
  Level 1  Level 2  Level 3  Total 
  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000 
Liability
                
                 
Derivative financial instrument:                
- Interest rate swap     11,293      11,293 
             
The carrying amounts of the Group’s financial instruments carried at amountscost or amortized cost are not materially different from their fair values as at August 31, 2010 and 2009 and 2008:except as follows:
                 
  2009  2008 
  Carrying      Carrying    
  amount  Fair value  amount  Fair value 
  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000 
10-year senior notes  162,586   157,285   683,242   672,236 
             
                 
  2010  2009 
  Carrying      Carrying    
  amount  Fair value  amount  Fair value 
  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000 
The Group                
                 
10-year senior notes        162,586   157,285 
             
(f) Estimation of fair values
 
  Fair value of financial instruments is estimated as follows:
 (i) The fair value of the 10-year senior notes iswas determined based on quoted market price.
 
 (ii) Accounts receivable, otherTrade receivables depositsless impairment provision and prepayments, pledged bank deposit, cash at bank and in hand, accounts payable, and otheraccount payables and accrued charges are assumed to approximate their fair valuesvalues.
(iii)The fair value of the long-term bank loan is estimated as they can be realizedthe present value of future cash flows, discounted at current market interest rate for similar financial instruments.
(iv)The fair value of the interest rate swap is determined based on the discounted cash flow technique which takes into account estimated amount that the Group would receive or settled within twelve months afterpay to terminate the swap at the balance sheet date, taking into account current interest rates and the current creditworthiness of the swap counterparties. Where discounted cash flow techniques are used, estimated future cash flows are based on management’s best estimates and the discount rate is a market related rate for a similar instrument at the balance sheet date.

F-54


25 Contingent liabilities
                
 2009 2008  2010 2009 
 HK$’000 HK$’000  HK$’000 HK$’000 
Bank guarantees provided to suppliers (notes 27(i) and (ii)) 2,490 24,671  2,770 2,490 
Bank guarantee in lieu of payment of utility deposits (note 27(iii)) 5,272 5,272  5,572 5,272 
          
 7,762 29,943  
      8,342 7,762 
     
At August 31, 2010, HK$133,342,000 (2009: HK$7,762,000) of the HK$353,840,000 (2009: HK$205,038,000) total banking facility and revolving loan facility was utilized by the Company and its subsidiary.
26 Commitments
(a) Capital commitments
         
  2009  2008 
  HK$’000  HK$’000 
Purchase of telecommunications, computer and office equipment        
- contracted but not provided for  150,099   143,888 
       
         
  2010  2009 
  HK$’000  HK$’000 
Purchase of telecommunications, computer and office equipment - - contracted but not provided for  132,340   150,099 
       
(b) Commitments under operating leases
 
  At August 31, 20092010 and 2008,2009, the Group has future aggregate minimum lease payments under non-cancellable operating leases as follows:
                
 2009 2008  2010 2009 
 HK$’000 HK$’000  HK$’000 HK$’000 
Leases in respect of land and buildings which are payable:  
- Within 1 year 21,387 16,472  24,873 21,387 
- After 1 year but within 5 years 13,802 11,645  16,417 13,802 
     
      
 35,189 28,117  41,290 35,189 
          
  
Leases in respect of telecommunications facilities and computer equipment which are payable  
- Within 1 year 45,321 38,623  63,948 45,321 
- After 1 year but within 5 years 9,600 12,876  14,200 9,600 
- After 5 years 6,271 7,384  4,849 6,271 
          
 61,192 58,883  
      82,997 61,192 
 96,381 87,000      
      
 124,287 96,381 
     

F-44


26Commitments (continued)
(c) Program fee commitments
 
  The Group entered into several long-term agreements with program content providers for the rights to use certain program contents in the Group’s IP-TV services. Minimum amounts of program fees to be paid by the Group are as follows:
                
 2009 2008  2010 2009 
 HK$’000 HK$’000  HK$’000 HK$’000 
Program fee in respect of program rights which are payable:  
- Within 1 year 9,094 6,583  25,539 9,094 
- After 1 year but within 5 years 6,238 279  48,087 6,238 
          
  
 15,332 6,862  73,626 15,332 
          

F-55


27 Pledge of assets
As at August 31, 2010, the Group has no pledged bank deposits.
 
  As at August 31, 2009, the Group has pledged bank deposits of US$650,000 (equivalent to HK$5,038,000) and HK$10,000,000 as security for the following significant banking facilities:
 (i) bank facility of US$650,000 (equivalent to HK$5,038,000) granted by a bank for issuance of bank guarantees to third party suppliers, letters of credit, short-term loan, overdraft, foreign exchange and interest rate hedging arrangements. As of August 31, 2009, bank guarantees of HK$500,000 were issued against this bank facility (2008: HK$20,371,000);facility;
 
 (ii) bank guarantees of HK$1,990,000 (2008: HK$4,300,000) issued by the bank to third party suppliers of the Company and one of its subsidiaries for payment of certain products and services procured by the Group from these third party suppliers; and
 
 (iii) bank guarantees of HK$5,272,000 (2008: HK$5,272,000) issued by the bank to certain utility vendors of the Group in lieu of payment of utility deposits.
28 As atBarter transaction
During the year ended August 31, 2008,2010, HKBN entered into an agreement with a third party (the “Contract Party”). Pursuant to the Group had pledged bank depositsagreement, HKBN would provide network capacity to the Contract Party for a service term of US$9,900,000 (equivalent of HK$77,319,000) and HK$10,000,000 as security10 years commencing on May 1, 2010 or after the respective activation of the above significant banking facilities.relevant network capacity, and in exchange, the Contract Party would provide HKBN the right to use telecommunications facilities for a term of 10 years commencing on May 1, 2010 or after the respective activation of the relevant network capacity. The transaction has been entered into on a barter basis at no consideration being exchange. The agreement expires on April 30, 2020.
 
28The Directors of the Company made an assessment and determined that since the arrangement above involves exchange of services of a similar nature and value, the exchange is not regarded as a transaction which generates revenue. Accordingly, the network capacity of the Contract Party under the arrangement have not been recognized as an asset and no revenue or deferred revenue have been recognized in the financial statements of the Group since inception of the arrangement.
29 Material related party transactions
  In addition to the transactions and balances disclosed elsewhere in these financial statements, the Group entered into the following material related party transactions.
 
  Key management personnel remuneration
 
  Remuneration for key management personnel, including amounts paid to the Company’s directors as disclosed in note 9(a) and certain of the highest paid employeesTalents as disclosed in note 9(b), is as follows:
                
 2009 2008  2010 2009 
 HK$’000 HK$’000  HK$’000 HK$’000 
Short-term employee benefits 34,687 28,850 
Short-term Talent benefits 40,716 34,687 
Post-employment benefits 2,614 2,425  2,725 2,614 
Equity compensation benefits 4,071 3,664  5,347 4,071 
          
  
 41,372 34,939  48,788 41,372 
          
2930 Comparative figure
  Certain comparative figuresDuring the year, management performed a review of the presentation of the Group’s cash at bank and in hand balance. As a result of the review, the Group’s “bank overdrafts — unsecured” balances amounted to HK$5,364,000 and HK$12,994,000 which previously included in the cash at bank and in hand balance at August 31, 2009 and August 31, 2008 respectively have been reclassified as a current liability to conform withto the current year’s presentation. This change in presentation had no effect on the reported results of the prior year.

F-45F-56


3031 Accounting estimates and judgments
(a) Key sources of estimation uncertainty
 
  Notes 10 and 24 contain information about the assumptions and risk factors relating to fair value of share options and financial instruments. Other key sources of estimation uncertainty are as follows:
 
(b) Impairment loss for doubtful accounts
 
  The Group maintains impairment loss for doubtful accounts based upon evaluation of the recoverability of the accounts receivable and other receivables which takes into account the historical write-off experience and recovery rates. If the financial condition of the customers were to deteriorate, additional impairment may be required.
 
(c) Depreciation
 
  Depreciation is calculated to write off the cost of items of property, plant and equipment, less their estimated residual value, if any, using the straight-line method over their estimated useful lives. The Group reviews the estimated useful lives of the assets annually in order to determine the amount of depreciation expense to be recorded during any reporting period. The useful lives are based on the Group’s historical experience with similar assets and takes into account anticipated technological changes. The depreciation expense for future periods is adjusted if there are significant changes from previous estimates.
 
(d) Deferred taxIncome taxes
 
  At August 31, 2009,Determining income tax provisions involves judgment on the future tax treatment of certain transactions and interpretation of tax rules. The Group hascarefully evaluates tax implications of transactions and tax provisions are set up accordingly. The tax treatment of such transactions is reconsidered periodically to take into account all changes in tax legislation and practices.
Deferred tax assets are recognized a deferred tax asset in relation tofor certain unused tax losses carry forward as set out in note 21. The realisability of the deferred tax asset depends on whether it is probable that future taxable profits will be available against which the asset can be utilized.20. In assessing the need to recognize arecognition of deferred tax asset,assets, management considerconsiders all available evidence, including available taxable temporary differences, projected future taxable income, tax planning strategies, historical taxable income, and the expiration periods of the tax losses. In cases whereFor certain subsidiaries, deferred tax assets can only be recognized to the actualextent that it is probable that future taxable profits are less than expected, a reversalwill be available against which they can be utilized. Management’s judgment is thus required to assess the probability of future taxable profits and this assessment is constantly reviewed and additional deferred tax asset may arise, whichassets are recognized if it becomes probable that future taxable profits will allow the deferred tax assets to be recognized in the income statement for the period in which such a reversal takes place.recovered.

F-57


3132 Possible impact of amendments, new standards and interpretations issued but not yet effective for the year ended August 31, 20092010
  Up to the date of issue of these financial statements, the IASBIASB/HKICPA has issued a number of amendments, new standards and interpretations which are not yet effective for the year ended August 31, 20092010 and which have not been adopted in these financial statements.
The Group is in the process of making an assessment of what the impact of these amendments, new standards and new interpretations is expected to be in the period of initial application. So far it has concluded that the adoption of the following developments is unlikely to have significant impact on the Group’s results of operations and financial position.
     
    Effective for
    accounting periods
    beginning on or after
IAS 1 (Revised)Amendment to IFRS/HKFRS 2 Presentation of financial statementsShare-based payment — Group cash-settled January 1, 20092010
  share-based payment transactions
     
IAS 23 (Revised)IFRSs/HKFRSs (Amendments) Borrowing costsImprovements to IFRSs (2009) January 1, 20092010
     
IFRS 8Amendment to IAS/HKAS 32 Operating segmentsFinancial instruments: Presentation —February 1, 2010
  Classification of rights issues
IFRIC/HK (IFRIC) — Int 19Extinguishing financial liabilities with equityJuly 1, 2010
  instruments
IFRSs/HKFRSs (Amendments)Improvement to IFRSs/HKFRSs (2010)July 1, 2010 or
 January 1, 20092011
Amendments toIAS/HKAS 19 — The limitation on a definedJanuary 1, 2011
  IFRIC/HK (IFRIC) — Int 14  benefit asset, minimum funding requirements and
  their interaction — Prepayments of a minimum
  funding requirement
IAS/HKAS 24 (Revised)Related party disclosuresJanuary 1, 2011
Amendments to IFRS/HKFRS 7Financial instruments: Disclosures — Transfer ofJuly 1, 2011
  financial assets
IFRS/HKFRS 9Financial instrumentsJanuary 1, 2013
The Group is in the process of making an assessment of what the impact of these amendments, new standards and new interpretations is expected to be in the period of initial application. So far the Group is not yet in a position to state whether they would have a significant impact on the Group’s results of operations and financial position.

F-46F-58


3233 Supplemental guarantors consolidated financial information
  The 10-year senior notes mentioned above in note 22 are fully, irrevocably and unconditionally guaranteed, jointly and severally, on a senior unsecured basis by all of the subsidiaries of City Telecom (H.K.) Limited (collectively defined as “Guarantor Subsidiaries”), except CTI Guangzhou Customer Services Co. Ltd. in the PRC (“Non-guarantor Subsidiary”).
 
  The condensed consolidated financial information is presented below and should be read in connection with the consolidated financial statements of City Telecom (H.K.) Limited prepared under IFRSs. Separate financial statements of the Guarantor Subsidiaries are not presented because the Guarantor Subsidiaries are wholly-owned and have fully and unconditionally guaranteed the Notes on a joint and several basis.
 
  On February 1, 2010, we redeemed all the outstanding 10-year senior notes with a cumulative principal amount of HK$153.9 million (US$19.9 million) at the redemption price equal to 104.375% of the principal amount.
Since as of August 31, 2010, all the outstanding 10-year senior notes has been fully redeemed, the following condensed consolidated financial information is limited to the years ended August 31, 2009 and 2008.
The following condensed consolidated financial information presents the consolidated balance sheets as of August 31, 2008 and 2009 and the related consolidated income statements and cash flow statements for the years ended August 31, 2008 and 2009 of (a) City Telecom (H.K.) Limited, the parent; (b) the Guarantor Subsidiaries on a combined basis; (c) the Non-guarantor Subsidiary; (d) eliminating entries; and (e) the total consolidated amounts.

F-47F-59


33 Supplemental guarantors consolidated financial information (continued)
32Supplemental guarantors consolidated financial information (continued)
  Consolidated balance sheet as of August 31, 2009
                                        
 City       City       
 Telecom Non-     Telecom Non-     
 (H.K.) Guarantor guarantor Eliminating Consolidated (H.K.) Guarantor guarantor Eliminating Consolidated 
 Limited subsidiaries subsidiary entries total Limited subsidiaries subsidiary entries total 
 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 
Non-current assets
  
  
Investments in subsidiaries (note) 1,258,726 228,875   (1,487,601)   1,258,726 228,875   (1,487,601)  
Goodwill    1,066 1,066     1,066 1,066 
Fixed assets 74,688 1,221,172 6,520 1,302,380  74,688 1,221,172 6,520 1,302,380 
Long term receivable and prepayment  16,573   (10,482) 6,091   16,573   (10,482) 6,091 
Deferred expenditure  12,786  12,786   12,786  12,786 
                  
  
 1,333,414 1,479,406 6,520 1,322,323  1,333,414 1,479,406 6,520 1,322,323 
                  
  
Current assets
  
  
Accounts receivable 9,220 110,972  120,192  9,220 110,972  120,192 
Other receivables, deposits and prepayments 3,393 67,584 2,492  (3,704) 69,765  3,393 67,584 2,492  (3,704) 69,765 
Deferred expenditure  36,674  36,674   36,674  36,674 
Pledged bank deposits 15,038   15,038  15,038   15,038 
Cash at bank and in hand 119,419 74,197 27,436 221,052  120,315 78,665 27,436 226,416 
                  
  
 147,070 289,427 29,928 462,721  147,966 293,895 29,928 468,085 
                  
  
Current liabilities
  
  
Bank overdrafts — unsecured 896 4,468  5,364 
Amounts due to subsidiaries/ fellow subsidiaries 10,830 905,460 4,427  (920,717)   10,830 905,460 4,427  (920,717)  
Accounts payable 20,484 17,071  37,555  20,484 17,071  37,555 
Other payables and accrued charges 23,530 172,676 10,281 206,487  23,530 172,676 10,281 206,487 
Deposits received 7,886 8,499  16,385  7,886 8,499  16,385 
Deferred service revenue 10,848 107,904   (3,682) 115,070  10,848 107,904   (3,682) 115,070 
Tax payable 356 496 1,141 1,993  356 496 1,141 1,993 
Current portion — obligation under finance leases 193 9  202  193 9  202 
                  
  
 74,127 1,212,115 15,849 377,692  75,023 1,216,583 15,849 383,056 
                  
  
Net current assets/ (liabilities)
 72,943  (922,688) 14,079 85,029 
Net current assets/(liabilities)
 72,943  (922,688) 14,079 85,029 
                  
 
Total assets less current liabilities
 1,406,357 556,718 20,599 1,407,352 
         
 
Non-current liabilities
 
Deferred tax liabilities 7,047 8,662  15,709 
Long-term deferred service revenue 10,535    (10,535)  
Long-term debt and other liabilities 163,108 8  163,116 
         
 
 180,690 8,670  178,825 
         
 
Net assets
 1,225,667 548,048 20,599 1,228,527 
         
 
Capital and reserves
 
 
Share capital 66,418 15,485 8,131  (23,616) 66,418 
Reserves 1,159,249 532,563 12,468  (542,171) 1,162,109 
         
 
Total equity attributable to equity shareholders of the Company 1,225,667 548,048 20,599 1,228,527 
         

F-60


33 Supplemental guarantors consolidated financial information (continued)
Consolidated balance sheet as of August 31, 2009 (continued)
                     
  City              
  Telecom      Non-       
  (H.K.)  Guarantor  guarantor  Eliminating  Consolidated 
  Limited  subsidiaries  subsidiary  entries  total 
  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000 
Total assets less current liabilities
  1,406,357   556,718   20,599       1,407,352 
                 
                     
Non-current liabilities
                    
Deferred tax liabilities  7,047   8,662          15,709 
Long-term deferred service revenue  10,535         (10,535)   
Long-term debt and other liabilities  163,108   8          163,116 
                 
                     
   180,690   8,670          178,825 
                 
                     
Net assets
  1,225,667   548,048   20,599       1,228,527 
                 
                     
Capital and reserves
                    
                     
Share capital  66,418   15,485   8,131   (23,616)  66,418 
Reserves  1,159,249   532,563   12,468   (542,171)  1,162,109 
                 
                     
Total equity attributable to equity shareholders of the Company  1,225,667   548,048   20,599       1,228,527 
                 
 
Note: The amounts of investment in subsidiaries and retained profits at City Telecom (H.K.) Limited level have included the share of net assets of its subsidiaries using the equity method of accounting.

F-48F-61


32Supplemental guarantors consolidated financial information (continued)
Consolidated balance sheet as of August 31, 2008
                     
  City          
  Telecom     Non-    
  (H.K.) Guarantor guarantor Eliminating Consolidated
  Limited subsidiaries subsidiary entries total
  HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000
Non-current assets
                    
                     
Investments in subsidiaries (note)  1,499,437   260,399      (1,759,836)   
Goodwill           1,066   1,066 
Fixed assets  87,483   1,135,394   8,522       1,231,399 
Long term receivable and prepayment     19,773      (14,187)  5,586 
Deferred expenditure     15,391          15,391 
Deferred tax assets     26,335          26,335 
                     
                     
   1,586,920   1,457,292   8,522       1,279,777 
                     
                     
Current assets
                    
                     
Accounts receivable  11,418   128,865          140,283 
Other receivables, deposits and prepayments  3,378   80,293   2,759   (3,704)  82,726 
Deferred expenditure     40,704          40,704 
Other financial assets  27,997             27,997 
Pledged bank deposits  87,319             87,319 
Cash at bank and in hand  90,386   263,386   67,838       421,610 
                     
                     
   220,498   513,248   70,597       800,639 
                     
                     
Current liabilities
                    
                     
Amounts due to subsidiaries/ fellow subsidiaries  10,830   1,316,410   51,059   (1,378,299)   
Accounts payable  26,440   25,884          52,324 
Other payables and accrued charges  17,831   149,548   10,735       178,114 
Deposits received  7,943   8,321          16,264 
Deferred service revenue  11,172   102,678      (3,401)  110,449 
Tax payable  356   496   1,251       2,103 
Current portion — obligation under finance leases  112   9          121 
                     
                     
   74,684   1,603,346   63,045       359,375 
                     
                     
Net current assets/ (liabilities)
  145,814   (1,090,098)  7,552       441,264 
                     
                     
Total assets less current liabilities
  1,732,734   367,194   16,074       1,721,041 
                     
                     
Non-current liabilities
                    
Deferred tax liabilities  4,937           �� 4,937 
Long-term deferred service revenue  14,500         (14,500)   
Long-term debt and other liabilities  683,480   17          683,497 
                     
   702,917   17          688,434 
                     
                     
Net assets
  1,029,817   367,177   16,074       1,032,607 
                     
                     
Capital and reserves
                    
                     
Share capital  65,062   15,485   8,131   (23,616)  65,062 
Reserves  964,755   351,692   7,943   (356,845)  967,545 
                     
                     
Total equity attributable to equity shareholders of the Company  1,029,817   367,177   16,074       1,032,607 
                     
Note:The amounts of investment in subsidiaries and retained profits at City Telecom (H.K.) Limited level have included the share of net assets of its subsidiaries using the equity method of accounting.

F-49


32Supplemental guarantors consolidated financial information (continued)
  Consolidated income statement for the year ended August 31, 2009
                                        
 City       City       
 Telecom Non-     Telecom Non-     
 (H.K.) Guarantor guarantor Eliminating Consolidated (H.K.) Guarantor guarantor Eliminating Consolidated 
 Limited subsidiaries subsidiary entries Total Limited subsidiaries subsidiary entries Total 
 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 
Revenue 95,386 1,390,697 142,603  (150,447) 1,478,239  95,386 1,390,697 142,603  (150,447) 1,478,239 
Network costs  (29,973)  (177,655)  32,499  (175,129)  (29,973)  (177,655)  32,499  (175,129)
Other operating expenses  (90,557)  (959,960)  (136,750) 149,303  (1,037,964)  (90,557)  (959,960)  (136,750) 149,303  (1,037,964)
Other revenues 108,933 31,684 576  (99,653) 41,540 
Other income, net 108,933 31,684 576  (99,653) 41,540 
Finance costs  (54,241)  (69,017)  68,131  (55,127)  (54,241)  (69,017)  68,131  (55,127)
Share of net profit from subsidiaries (note) 185,391    (185,391)   185,391    (185,391)  
                  
  
Profit before taxation 214,939 215,749 6,429 251,559  214,939 215,749 6,429 251,559 
Income tax expense  (2,110)  (34,998)  (1,622)  (38,730)  (2,110)  (34,998)  (1,622)  (38,730)
                  
  
Net profit 212,829 180,751 4,807 212,829  212,829 180,751 4,807 212,829 
                  
 
Note: The net profit amounts at City Telecom (H.K.) Limited level have included the share of net profit of its subsidiaries using the equity method of accounting.
  Consolidated income statement for the year ended August 31, 2008
                                        
 City       City       
 Telecom Non-     Telecom Non-     
 (H.K.) Guarantor guarantor Eliminating Consolidated (H.K.) Guarantor guarantor Eliminating Consolidated 
 Limited subsidiaries subsidiary entries Total Limited subsidiaries subsidiary entries Total 
 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 
Revenue 116,130 1,283,296 135,374  (231,819) 1,302,981  116,130 1,283,296 135,374  (231,819) 1,302,981 
Network costs  (28,398)  (184,851)  34,882  (178,367)  (28,398)  (184,851)  34,882  (178,367)
Other operating expenses  (87,551)  (978,990)  (130,481) 230,928  (966,094)  (87,551)  (978,990)  (130,481) 230,928  (966,094)
Other revenues 93,494 37,752 1,336  (107,593) 24,989 
Other income, net 93,494 37,752 1,336  (107,593) 24,989 
Finance costs  (71,702)  (71,753)  68,318  (75,137)  (71,702)  (71,753)  68,318  (75,137)
Share of net profit from subsidiaries (note) 108,154    (108,154)   108,154    (108,154)  
                  
  
Profit before taxation 130,127 85,454 6,229 108,372  130,127 85,454 6,229 108,372 
Income tax (expense)/benefit  (4,937) 26,306  (4,551) 16,818   (4,937) 26,306  (4,551) 16,818 
                  
  
Net profit 125,190 111,760 1,678 125,190  125,190 111,760 1,678 125,190 
                  
 
Note: The net profit amounts at City Telecom (H.K.) Limited level have included the share of net profit of its subsidiaries using the equity method of accounting.

F-50F-62


33 Supplemental guarantors consolidated financial information (continued)
32Supplemental guarantors consolidated financial information (continued)
  Condensed consolidated cash flow statement for the year ended August 31, 2009
                                        
 City       City       
 Telecom Non-     Telecom Non-     
 (H.K.) Guarantor guarantor Eliminating Consolidated (H.K.) Guarantor guarantor Eliminating Consolidated 
 Limited subsidiaries subsidiary entries total Limited subsidiaries subsidiary entries total 
 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 
Net cash inflow/(outflow) from operating activities 487,691 87,358  (38,930)  (233) 535,886  487,691 88,243  (38,930)  (233) 536,771 
Net cash inflow/(outflow) from investing activities 101,605  (276,843)  (1,250)  (176,488) 101,605  (276,843)  (1,250)  (176,488)
Net cash outflow from financing activities  (560,397)  (10)   (560,407)  (560,397)  (895)   (561,292)
                  
  
Increase/(decrease) in cash at bank and in hand 28,899  (189,495)  (40,180)  (201,009) 28,899  (189,495)  (40,180)  (201,009)
Cash at bank in hand at September 1, 2008 90,386 263,386 67,838 421,610  90,386 263,386 67,838 421,610 
Effects of foreign exchange rates changes 134 306  (222) 233 451  134 306  (222) 233 451 
                  
  
Cash at bank and in hand at August 31, 2009 119,419 74,197 27,436 221,052  119,419 74,197 27,436 221,052 
                  
 
Analysis of the balances of cash and cash equivalent: 
 
Cash at bank and in hand 120,315 78,665 27,436 226,416 
Bank overdrafts — unsecured  (896)  (4,468)   (5,364)
         
 
 119,419 74,197 27,436 221,052 
         

F-63


33 Supplemental guarantors consolidated financial information (continued)
  Condensed consolidated cash flow statement for the year ended August 31, 2008
                                        
 City       City       
 Telecom Non-     Telecom Non-     
 (H.K.) Guarantor guarantor Eliminating Consolidated (H.K.) Guarantor guarantor Eliminating Consolidated 
 Limited subsidiaries subsidiary entries total Limited subsidiaries subsidiary entries total 
 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 
Net cash inflow from operating activities 193,028 125,511 59,866 158 378,563  193,028 128,939 59,866 158 381,991 
Net cash inflow/(outflow) from investing activities 18,775  (164,222)  (2,303)  (147,750) 18,775  (164,222)  (2,303)  (147,750)
Net cash outflow from financing activities  (341,813)  (737)   (342,550)  (341,813)  (4,165)   (345,978)
                  
  
(Decrease)/increase in cash at bank and in hand  (130,010)  (39,448) 57,563  (111,737)  (130,010)  (39,448) 57,563  (111,737)
Cash at bank and in hand at September 1, 2007 220,531 303,227 9,136 532,894  220,531 303,227 9,136 532,894 
Effects of foreign exchange rates changes  (135)  (393) 1,139  (158) 453   (135)  (393) 1,139  (158) 453 
                  
  
Cash at bank and in hand at August 31, 2008 90,386 263,386 67,838 421,610  90,386 263,386 67,838 421,610 
                  
 
Analysis of the balances of cash and cash equivalent: 
 
Cash at bank and in hand 91,764 275,002 67,838 434,604 
Bank overdrafts — unsecured  (1,378)  (11,616)   (12,994)
         
 
 90,386 263,386 67,838 421,610 
         

F-51F-64


SIGNATURE
     The registrant hereby certifies that it meets all of the requirements for filing on Form 20-F and that it has duly caused and authorized the undersigned to sign this annual report on its behalf.
     
 CITY TELECOM (H.K.) LIMITED
By:  /s/ Yeung Chu Kwong, William   
  Name:  Yeung Chu Kwong, William  
  By:Title:  Chief Executive Officer 
By:  /s/ Yeung Chu Kwong, William
Lai Ni Quiaque   
  Name:Yeung Chu Kwong, WilliamLai Ni Quiaque  
  Title:  Chief ExecutiveFinancial Officer  
 
By:/s/ Lai Ni Quiaque
Name:Lai Ni Quiaque
Title:Chief Financial Officer
Date: December 18, 200917, 2010