As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 16, 2009.
UNITED STATES


SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, DC 20549


FORM 20-F


¨
oREGISTRATION STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(B) OR 12(G) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

or

x
þANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(D) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

  For the fiscal year ended August 31, 2007

or

¨
For the fiscal year ended August 31, 2008
or
oTRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(D) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

  For the transition period fromor

or

¨
For the transition period fromor
or
oSHELL 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: 333-11012


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:

N/A

Title Of Each ClassName Of Each Exchange On Which Registered
American Depositary Shares, each representing 20 Ordinary Shares, par value HK$0.10 per shareThe 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:

American Depositary Shares, representing 20 Ordinary Shares, par value HK$0.10 per share


None

Securities for which there is a reporting obligation pursuant to Section 15(d) of the Act:

N/A


None

Indicate the number of outstanding shares of each of the issuer’s classes of capital

or common stock as at the close of August 31, 2007: 616,503,404


the period covered by the annual report:650,621,823 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.

Yes o          No¨þ    No  x

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.

Yes o          No¨þ    No  x

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).

    Yes  ¨    No  x

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.

Yes xþ          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 large accelerated filer” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act (Circle(Check one):

Large accelerated filer o¨                    Accelerated Filer o¨                    Non-accelerated filer xþ
     Indicate by check mark which basis of accounting the registrant has used to prepare the financial statements included in this filing:
US GAAP o

          International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board o          Other þ

Indicate by check mark which financial statement item the registrant has selected to follow.

Item 17 o¨          Item 18 xþ
     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).
Yes o          No þ
* Not for trading, but only in connection with the registration of the American Depositary Shares




CONTENTS

 1
 1
 1
 

2
 12

 12

 12

 1311

 2925

 4437

 5144

 5245

 5346

 5548

 6354

 6454
 6454

 6454

 6454

 6454

 6555

 6555

 6555

 6656

 6656
 6656

 6656

 6656

 6656
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 references to Chapter 32 of the laws of Hong Kong;
“City Telecom” or the “Company” are references to City Telecom (H.K.) Limited;
“fiscal year” or “fiscal” are references to the Company’s fiscal year ended August 31 for the year referenced;
“FTNS Licenses” are references to fixed telecommunications network services licenses;
“GPON” are references to our Gigabit Passive Optical Network;
“HKBN” are references to Hong Kong Broadband Network Limited;
“HKFRS” are references to Hong Kong Financial Reporting Standards;
“IP-TV services” are references to pay-television services through Internet Protocol;
“PNETS Licenses” are references to public non-exclusive telecommunications service licenses;
“VoIP” are references to Voice over Internet Protocol.
CURRENCY TRANSLATION

We publish our 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$7.7968,7.8036, which was the noon buying rate in The City of New York for cable transfers in Hong Kong dollars as certified for customs purposes by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York on August 31, 2007.2008. On January 23, 20089, 2009 the noon buying rate was US$1.00=HK$7.8075.7.7572. 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.

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 (H.K.) Limited (“City Telecom” or the “Company”)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:

technology changes;

technology changes;
changes in the regulatory environment in which we operate, including changes in rules and policies promulgated by regulatory agencies from time to time;
the increasing competition in the local or international telecommunications, Internet access, local VoIP or pay-television markets;
the benefits we expect to derive from our Next Generation Network, which consists of our Metro Ethernet Network and our newly-deployed GPON, in which we have been making significant capital investments;
our ability to maintain growth and successfully introduce new products and services;
the continued development and stability of our technological infrastructure platform through which our local and international telecommunications, Internet access, local VoIP and IP-TV services are offered; and
changes in local and global economic and financial environment.

changes in the regulatory environment in which we operate, or changes in the rules and policies that government regulators apply to our businesses;

increased competition in the local or international telecommunications, Internet access, local VOIP or pay-television (“pay-TV”) markets;

the benefits we expect to receive from our continuing capital expenditure on our Next Generation Network (refer to our Metro Ethernet Network and our newly deployed Gigabit Passive Optical Network (“GPON”));

our ability to maintain growth and successfully introduce new products and services; and

the continued development and stability of the technological infrastructure we use to provide our telecommunications, Internet access, local VOIP and pay-TV using Internet Protocol, which we refer to as IP-TV, services.

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.

1

***********


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
A.
Selected Financial Data

City Telecom’s Historical Financial Information

The following table presents the selected consolidated financial information and operating information of City Telecom as of and for the years ended August 31, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2007.2008. The selected financial information should be read in conjunction with, and is qualified in its entirety by reference to, the financial statements included elsewhere in this annual report, the accompanying notes thereto and Item 5 “Operating and Financial Review and Prospects”.
Selected Consolidated Statement of Operations Data:
                         
  As of and for the year ended August 31,
  2004 2005(6) 2006(6) 2007 2008 2008
  HK$ HK$ HK$ HK$ HK$ US$
  (Amounts in thousands except per share data)
HKFRS
                        
                         
Revenues:                        
Fixed telecommunications network services  541,902   629,464   716,600   816,800   1,011,038   129,561 
International telecommunications services  627,978   532,595   418,276   324,470   291,943   37,411 
                         
                         
Total operating revenue  1,169,880   1,162,059   1,134,876   1,141,270   1,302,981   166,972 
                         
                         
Network Costs:                        
Fixed telecommunications network services  (122,476)  (118,383)  (125,639)  (103,795)  (103,524)  (13,266)
International telecommunications services  (208,932)  (221,019)  (174,954)  (110,796)  (74,843)  (9,591)
                         
                         
Total network costs  (331,408)  (339,402)  (300,593)  (214,591)  (178,367)  (22,857)
Other operating expenses  (793,212)  (958,031)  (919,795)  (834,104)  (966,094)  (123,801)
                         
Income/(loss) from operations  45,260   (135,374)  (85,512)  92,575   158,520   20,314 
Interest income/(expense), net  3,578   (40,884)  (68,259)  (64,833)  (59,541)  (7,630)
Other income, net  2,668   6,037   4,465   3,149   9,393   1,204 
Income taxes (expense)/credit  (2,043)  6,725   7,244   (2,026)  16,818   2,155 
                         
Net income/(loss)  49,463   (163,496)  (142,062)  28,865   125,190   16,043 
Basic earnings/(loss) per share (cents)  8.1   (26.6)  (23.1)  4.7   19.7   2.5 
Diluted earnings/(loss) per share (cents)(1)
  8.1   (26.6)  (23.1)  4.6   19.0   2.4 
Dividends declared per share (cents)  9.0         8.0   6.0   0.8 
Weighted average number of shares  610,095   613,525   614,134   614,840   634,015   634,015 
Diluted weighted average number of shares(2)
  614,365   613,525   614,134   631,319   657,997   657,997 
                         
  As of and for the year ended August 31,
  2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2008
  HK$ HK$ HK$ HK$ HK$ US$
  (Amounts in thousands except per share data)
U.S. GAAP
                        
Total operating revenue  1,169,880   1,162,059   1,134,876   1,141,270   1,302,981   166,972 
Total operating expenses  (1,123,198)  (1,289,014)  (1,220,388)  (1,048,695)  (1,144,461)  (146,658)
Net income/(loss)  51,565   (149,148)  (142,062)  28,865   125,190   16,043 
Basic earnings/(loss) per share (cents)  8.5   (24.3)  (23.1)  4.7   19.7   2.5 
Diluted earnings/(loss) per share (cents) (1)
  8.4   (24.3)  (23.1)  4.6   19.0   2.4 
Dividends declared per share (cents)  9.0         8.0   6.0   0.8 
Weighted average number of shares  610,095   613,525   614,134   614,840   634,015   634,015 
Diluted weighted average number of shares(2)
  614,365   613,525   614,134   631,319   657,997   657,997 

2

   As of and for the year ended August 31, 
   2003  2004  2005(8)  2006(8)  2007  2007 
   HK$  HK$  HK$  HK$  HK$  US$ 
   (Amounts in thousands except per share data) 

Consolidated Statement of Operations Data:

       

Hong Kong Financial Reporting Standards (“HKFRSs”)

       

Revenues:

       

Fixed telecommunications network services

  423,107  541,902  629,464  716,600  816,800  104,761 

International telecommunications

  875,802  627,978  532,595  418,276  324,470  41,616 
                   

Total Operating Revenue

  1,298,909  1,169,880  1,162,059  1,134,876  1,141,270  146,377 
                   

Network Costs:

       

Fixed telecommunications network services

  (76,845) (122,476) (118,383) (125,639) (103,795) (13,313)

International telecommunications

  (245,908) (208,932) (221,019) (174,954) (110,796) (14,210)
                   

Total Network Costs

  (322,753) (331,408) (339,402) (300,593) (214,591) (27,523)

Other Operating Expenses

  (704,796) (793,212) (958,031) (919,795) (834,104) (106,981)

Income/(loss) from operations

  271,360  45,260  (135,374) (85,512) 92,575  11,873 

Interest income/(expense), net

  2,562  3,578  (40,884) (68,259) (64,833) (8,315)

Other income, net

  1,678  2,668  6,037  4,465  3,149  404 

Income taxes (expense)/credit

  (17,857) (2,043) 6,725  7,244  (2,026) (260)

Income/(loss) after taxation

  257,743  49,463  (163,496) (142,062) 28,865  3,702 

Minority interest

  —    —    —    —    —    —   

Net income/(loss)

  257,743  49,463  (163,496) (142,062) 28,865  3,702 

Net income/(loss) per share (cents)

  46.6  8.1  (26.6) (23.1) 4.7  0.6 

Diluted net income/(loss) per share (cents)(1)

  41.9  8.1  (26.6) (23.1) 4.6  0.6 

Dividends declared per share (cents)

  5.0  9.0  —    —    8.0  1.0 

Weighted average number of shares

  552,600  610,095  613,525  614,134  614,840  614,840 

Diluted weighted average number of shares(2)

  615,102  614,365  613,525  614,134  631,319  631,319 

    As of and for the year ended August 31, 
   2003  2004  2005  2006  2007  2007 
   HK$  HK$  HK$  HK$  HK$  US$ 
   (Amounts in thousands except per share data) 

U.S. GAAP

       

Total operating revenue

  1,291,119  1,169,880  1,162,059  1,134,876  1,141,270  146,377 

Total operating expenses

  (1,015,900) (1,123,198) (1,289,014) (1,220,388) (1,048,695) (134,504)

Net income/(loss) from continuing operations

  264,151  51,565  (149,148) (142,062) 28,865  3,702 

Net income/(loss) from continuing operations per share (cents)

  47.8  8.5  (24.3) (23.1) 4.7  0.6 

Net income from discontinued operations

  83  —    —    —    —    —   

Loss arising from disposal of discontinued operations

  (2,695) —    —    —    —    —   

Net loss from discontinued operations per share (cents)

  (0.5) —    —    —    —    —   

Diluted net income/(loss) from continuing operations per share (cents)(3)

  42.9  8.4  (24.3) (23.1) 4.6  0.6 

Diluted net loss from discontinued operations per share (cents)(4)

  (0.4) —    —    —    —    —   

Dividends declared per share (cents)

  5.0  9.0  —    —    8.0  1.0 

Weighted average number of shares

  552,600  610,095  613,525  614,134  614,840  614,840 

Diluted weighted average number of shares(2)

  615,102  614,365  613,525  614,134  631,319  631,319 

    As of and for the year ended August 31, 
   2003  2004  2005  2006  2007  2007 
   HK$  HK$  HK$  HK$  HK$  US$ 
   (Amounts in thousands) 

Consolidated Balance Sheet Data:

       

HKFRSs

       

Total assets

  1,548,534  1,683,408  2,347,428  2,124,215  2,161,133  277,182 

Debt

  (18,174) (119,170) (945,348) (948,027) (952,593) (122,177)

Finance lease obligation

  —    —    (3,135) (2,373) (1,210) (155)

Other liabilities

  (351,185) (388,540) (378,491) (282,161) (303,448) (38,920)
                   

Total liabilities

  (369,359) (507,710) (1,326,974) (1,232,561) (1,257,251) (161,252)
                   

Net assets

  1,179,175  1,175,698  1,020,454  891,654  903,882  115,930 

Minority interest

  —    —    —    —    —    —   
                   

Net assets employed

  1,179,175  1,175,698  1,020,454  891,654  903,882  115,930 
                   

Share capital

  60,496  61,057  61,412  61,417  61,650  7,907 

Share premium

  615,886  617,986  619,408  620,298  622,433  79,832 

Reserves

  502,793  496,655  339,634  209,939  219,799  28,191 
                   

Total shareholders’ equity

  1,179,175  1,175,698  1,020,454  891,654  903,882  115,930 
                   

    As of and for the year ended August 31, 
   2003  2004  2005  2006  2007  2007 
   HK$  HK$  HK$  HK$  HK$  US$ 
   (Amounts in thousands) 

U.S. GAAP

       

Total assets

  1,552,021  1,688,640  2,385,556  2,154,305  2,189,086  280,767 

Total liabilities

  (369,359) (507,710) (1,352,876) (1,257,034) (1,279,587) (164,117)

Total shareholders’ equity

  1,182,662  1,180,930  1,032,680  897,271  909,499  116,650 

   As of and for the year ended August 31, 
   2003  2004  2005(8)  2006(8)  2007  2007 
   HK$  HK$  HK$  HK$  HK$  US$ 
   (Amounts in thousands) 

Other Financial Data:

       

EBITDA(5)

  449,058  244,945  108,377  195,417  353,827  45,381 

Net cash provided by operating activities

  414,500  203,763  77,383  184,151  383,999  49,251 

Net cash (used in) / generated from investing activities

  (309,634) (406,244) (557,440) (492,742) 114,053  14,628 

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities

  (10,274) 47,221  792,216  (86,432) (109,504) (14,045)

Capital expenditures(6)

  250,209  410,046  419,126  322,935  132,250  16,962 

Selected Consolidated Balance Sheet Data:
                         
  As of and for the year ended August 31,
  2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2008
  HK$ HK$ HK$ HK$ HK$ US$
  (Amounts in thousands)
HKFRS
                        
Total assets  1,683,408   2,347,428   2,124,215   2,161,133   2,080,416   266,597 
Debt  (119,170)  (945,348)  (948,027)  (952,593)  (683,242)  (87,555)
Finance lease obligation     (3,135)  (2,373)  (1,210)  (376)  (48)
Other liabilities  (388,540)  (378,491)  (282,161)  (303,448)  (364,191)  (46,670)
                         
                         
Total liabilities  (507,710)  (1,326,974)  (1,232,561)  (1,257,251)  (1,047,809)  (134,273)
                         
                         
Net assets employed  1,175,698   1,020,454   891,654   903,882   1,032,607   132,324 
                         
                         
Share capital  61,057   61,412   61,417   61,650   65,062   8,337 
Share premium  617,986   619,408   620,298   622,433   670,717   85,950 
Reserves  496,655   339,634   209,939   219,799   296,828   38,037 
                         
                         
Total shareholders’ equity  1,175,698   1,020,454   891,654   903,882   1,032,607   132,324 
                         
                         
  As of and for the year ended August 31,
  2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2008
  HK$ HK$ HK$ HK$ HK$ US$
  (Amounts in thousands)
U.S. GAAP
                        
Total assets  1,688,640   2,385,556   2,154,305   2,189,086   2,100,638   269,188 
Total liabilities  (507,710)  (1,352,876)  (1,257,034)  (1,279,587)  (1,062,414)  (136,144)
Net shareholders’ equity  1,180,930   1,032,680   897,271   909,499   1,038,224   133,044 
Other Financial Data:
                         
  As of and for the year ended August 31,
  2004 2005(6) 2006(6) 2007 2008 2008
  HK$ HK$ HK$ HK$ HK$ US$
  (Amounts in thousands)
HKFRS
                        
EBITDA(3)
  244,945   108,377   195,417   353,827   377,964   48,435 
Net cash provided by operating activities  203,763   77,383   184,151   383,999   378,529   48,507 
Net cash (used in) / provided by investing activities  (406,244)  (557,440)  (492,742)  114,053   (147,750)  (18,934)
Net cash provided by /(used in) financing activities  47,221   792,216   (86,432)  (109,504)  (342,516)  (43,892)
Capital expenditures(4)
  410,046   419,126   322,935   132,250   211,684   27,126 
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 HKFRSsHKFRS to our definition of EBITDA on a consolidated basis for each of fiscal 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2007.2008.
                         
  As of and for the year ended August 31,
  2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2008
  HK$ HK$ HK$ HK$ HK$ US$
  (Amounts in thousands)
EBITDA(3)
  244,945   108,377   195,417   353,827   377,964   48,435 
Depreciation and amortization  (197,017)  (237,714)  (276,464)  (258,103)  (210,051)  (26,917)
Interest income/(expense), net  3,578   (40,884)  (68,259)  (64,833)  (59,541)  (7,630)
Income taxes (expense)/credit  (2,043)  6,725   7,244   (2,026)  16,818   2,155 
                         
                         
Net income/(loss)
  49,463   (163,496)  (142,062)  28,865   125,190   16,043 
Depreciation and amortization  197,017   237,714   276,464   258,103   210,051   26,917 
Impairment loss on investment property        1,131          
Amortization of deferred expenditure  1,828   12,927   13,973   15,580   33,777   4,329 
Income taxes expense/(credit)  2,043   (6,725)  (7,244)  2,026   (16,818)  (2,155)
Interest income  (3,753)  (13,578)  (20,378)  (22,671)  (15,596)  (1,999)
Interest, amortization and exchange difference on senior notes     54,065   86,664   89,879   72,640   9,309 
Other borrowing costs        1,919   (739)  (1,185)  (152)
(Gain) / loss on disposal of fixed assets  (34)  (134)  9,621   1,714   1,431   183 
Equity settled share-based transaction  87   6,965   6,823   5,727   4,204   539 
Realized and unrealized loss on derivatives financial instruments        125   806   1,039   133 
Unrealized losses/(gain) on other investments  1,696   (300)  (668)  (1,887)  (3,284)  (421)
Gain on extinguishment of senior notes              (2,582)  (331)
Taxation paid  (24,819)  (1,393)  (2,532)  (2,171)  (4,250)  (545)
Change in long term receivable  (6,206)  (6,893)  567   5,600   1,346   173 
Change in working capital, net  (13,559)  (41,769)  (40,252)  3,167   (27,434)  (3,516)
                         

3

    As of and for the year ended August 31, 
   2003  2004  2005  2006  2007  2007 
   HK$  HK$  HK$  HK$  HK$  US$ 
   (Amounts in thousands) 

EBITDA

  449,058  244,945  108,377  195,417  353,827  45,381 

Depreciation and amortization

  (176,020) (197,017) (237,714) (276,464) (258,103) (33,104)

Interest income/(expense), net

  2,562  3,578  (40,884) (68,259) (64,833) (8,315)

Income taxes (expense)/credit

  (17,857) (2,043) 6,725  7,244  (2,026) (260)
                   

Net income/(loss)

  257,743  49,463  (163,496) (142,062) 28,865  3,702 

Depreciation and amortization

  176,020  197,017  237,714  276,464  258,103  33,104 

Impairment loss on investment property

  —    —    —    1,131  —    —   

Amortization of deferred expenditure

  —    1,828  12,927  13,973  15,580  1,998 

Income taxes expense/(credit)

  17,857  2,043  (6,725) (7,244) 2,026  260 

Interest income

  (3,163) (3,753) (13,578) (20,378) (22,671) (2,908)

Interest, amortization and exchange difference on senior notes

  —    —    54,065  86,664  89,879  11,528 

Other borrowing costs

  —    —    —    1,919  (739) (95)

Minority interest

  —    —    —    —    —    —   

Gain / loss on disposal of fixed assets

  427  (34) (134) 9,621  1,714  220 

Equity settled share-based transaction

  —    87  6,965  6,823  5,727  735 

Realized and unrealized loss on derivatives financial instruments

  —    —    —    125  806  103 

Unrealized losses/(gain) on other investments

  —    1,696  (300) (668) (1,887) (242)

Loss on disposal of a subsidiary

  2,695  —    —    —    —    —   

Taxation paid

  (19,861) (24,819) (1,393) (2,532) (2,171) (278)

Change in long term receivable

  —    (6,206) (6,893) 567  5,600  718 

Change in working capital, net

  (17,218) (13,559) (41,769) (40,252) 3,167  406 
                   

Net cash flow provided by operating activities

  414,500  203,763  77,383  184,151  383,999  49,251 
                   


    As of and for the year ended August 31,
    2003  2004  2005  2006  2007

Operating Data:

          

Fixed Telecommunications Network Services Subscriptions:

          

Broadband Internet Access

  172,000  197,000  229,000  220,000  247,000

Local VOIP

  140,000  237,000  293,000  281,000  308,000

IP-TV

  —    31,000  109,000  116,000  128,000
               

Total

  312,000  465,000  631,000  617,000  683,000
               

Registered International Telecommunications Accounts(7)

  1,589,188  1,916,235  2,054,036  2,201,963  2,331,000

IDD Outgoing Minutes (in thousands)

  888,000  1,007,000  947,100  788,000  659,000


                         
  As of and for the year ended August 31,
  2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2008
  HK$ HK$ HK$ HK$ HK$ US$
  (Amounts in thousands)
Net cash flow provided by operating activities  203,763   77,383   184,151   383,999   378,529   48,507 
                         
Operating Data:
                     
  As of and for the year ended August 31,
  2004 2005 2006 2007 2008
Fixed Telecommunications Network Services Subscriptions:                    
Broadband Internet Access  197,000   229,000   220,000   247,000   316,000 
Local VoIP  237,000   293,000   281,000   308,000   329,000 
IP-TV  31,000   109,000   116,000   128,000   156,000 
                     
                     
Total  465,000   631,000   617,000   683,000   801,000 
                     
                     
Registered international telecommunications accounts (5)
  1,916,235   2,054,036   2,201,963   2,331,000   2,336,000 
IDD outgoing minutes (in thousands)  1,007,000   947,100   788,000   659,000   574,000 

(1)

(1)Diluted net income/earnings/(loss) per share is computed by dividing the net income/(loss) by the diluted weighted average number of ordinary shares during the year.

(2)

For fiscal 2003, 2004, 2007 and 2007,2008, the diluted weighted average number of 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 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 2005 and 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)

Diluted net income/(loss) from continuing operations per share is computed by dividing the net income/(loss) from continuing operations by the diluted weighted average number of ordinary shares during the year.

(4)

Diluted net loss from discontinued operations per share is computed by dividing the net loss from discontinued operations by the diluted weighted average number of ordinary shares during the year.

(5)

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 HKFRSsHKFRS 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 HKFRSsHKFRS 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.

(6)

(4)

Capital expenditures represent additions to fixed assets and include non-cash transactions.

(7)

(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.

(8)

(6)

Due to additional evidence and information received with respect to the collectibilitycollectability of the mobile interconnection charges prior to the filing of our annual report on Form 20-F for fiscal 2005 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. As a result,Such assessment were made after the publication of our Hong Kong statutory financial statements for fiscal 2005 but prior to the year ended August 31, 2005 differ from the amounts reported in the consolidated financial statements reported infiling of our annual report on Form 20-F for fiscal 2005. The effect of the reassessment was reflected in our consolidated financial statements as of and for the year ended August 31, 2005 included in our annual report on Form 20-F for fiscal 2005 and in our Hong Kong statutory financial statements asfor fiscal 2006.
Our reassessment had the following effects on our consolidated statement of operations for fiscal 2005 and for the year ended August 31, 2006.

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 

Our reassessment had the following effects on our consolidated statement of operations for the years ended August 31, 2005 and 2006:4


    As previously
reported in 2005 Hong
Kong statutory
financial statements
  As reported
in 2005 Form
20-F
  As previously
reported in
2006 Hong Kong
statutory
financial
statements
  As reported
in 2006
Form 20-F
 
   HK$  HK$  HK$  HK$ 
   (Amounts in thousands except per share data) 

Revenue from provision of telecommunications and other services, net

  1,137,356  1,162,059  1,159,579  1,134,876 

Provision for doubtful accounts

  (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 

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. However, even with this official exchange rate, and despite the efforts of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority’s (“HKMA”)Authority, or HKMA’s currency board to keep such 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 noon buying 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(1)  High  Low  Period-End
   HK$  HK$  HK$  HK$

2002

  7.7996  7.8095  7.7970  7.7988

2003

  7.7864  7.8001  7.7085  7.7640

2004

  7.7891  7.8010  7.7632  7.7723

2005

  7.7775  7.7999  7.7514  7.7718

2006

  7.7681  7.7928  7.7506  7.7767

2007

  7.8019  7.8289  7.7497  7.7975

July 2007

  7.8197  7.8264  7.8129  7.8264

August 2007

  7.8155  7.8289  7.7968  7.7968

September 2007

  7.7816  7.7947  7.7591  7.7689

October 2007

  7.7544  7.7694  7.7497  7.7502

November 2007

  7.7773  7.7890  7.7573  7.7874

December 2007

  7.7983  7.8073  7.7879  7.7984

January 2008 (through January 23, 2008)

  7.8043  7.8107  7.7989  7.8075


indicated:
                 
  Average(1) High Low Period-End
  HK$ HK$ HK$ HK$
 
Fiscal 2004  7.7821   7.8010   7.7085   7.8000 
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 
July 2008  7.8001   7.8039   7.7959   7.8017 
August 2008  7.8076   7.8142   7.8036   7.8036 
September 2008  7.7854   7.8094   7.7582   7.7659 
October 2008  7.7589   7.7736   7.7503   7.7503 
November 2008  7.7507   7.7560   7.7497   7.7501 
December 2008  7.7504   7.7522   7.7497   7.7499 
January 2009 (through January 9, 2009)  7.7533   7.7572   7.7504   7.7572 
(1)The average of the noon buying rates on the last business day of each month during the relevant annualfiscal year period or the average noon buying rates for each business day during the relevant monthly period.

Source: Federal Reserve Bank of New York.

B. Capitalization and indebtedness

Not applicable

C. Reasons for the offer and use of proceeds

Not applicable

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

We cannot assure you that we will be able to maintain an increase in total revenues and operating results

In fiscal 2007, our

     Our total revenues increased to HK$1,141.3 million from HK$1,134.91,303.0 million in fiscal 2006,2008 from HK$1,141.3 million in fiscal 2007, and we recorded a net profit of HK$28.9 million versus a net loss of HK$142.1125.2 million in fiscal 2006.2008 versus HK$28.9 million in fiscal 2007. The increased net profit in fiscal 20072008 was mainly due to the benefit of shifting our focus on increasingbusiness mix towards the average revenue per user from our fixed telecommunications networkmore sustainable FTNS business, and also from enhancing operating efficiency over the last 18 months. Moreover, the shifta change in the revenue compositionestimated useful lives for certain major telecommunications equipment effective from our international telecommunications services to our fixed telecommunications network business also represents a transition to a higher margin business model.June 1, 2007, interest savings from senior-notes buyback and tax benefit from recognition of deferred tax asset on tax loss in prior years. However, we cannot assure you that we will be able to maintain the profitsour revenue and profit growth.
     A larger portion of our revenue in fiscal 2008 was derived from our fixed telecommunications network business, growth.

which carries a higher margin than our international telecommunications business. Revenues from our international telecommunications business decreased by 22.4%10.0% in fiscal 2008, primarily due to a decrease in the total number of airtime minutes by 16.4% and12.9%, which reflected a reduction in the intentional drop outoperating scale of low profit margin subscribers. our international telecommunications business.With the drop in averageexpected competitive pressure on tariff rates and a reduced operating scale, we expect profit margins from our international telecommunications services will continuebusiness to be under pressurecontribute a smaller portion of our revenue and less revenue will be generated in future.net profit over time.

5


Revenues from our fixed telecommunications network business increased by 14.0%23.8% in fiscal 2007,2008, primarily due to an increase in our average revenue per user and an increase in our subscription base of 10.7%by 17.3%. This increase was mainly driven by the growing demand for high bandwidth broadband Internet access service. However, we cannot assure you that our fixed telecommunications network service business will continue to be profitable, as we will need to continue to expandexpend substantial resources in developing and marketing broadband Internet access, local VOIP,VoIP, IP-TV and corporate data services.

We have substantially less financial and human resources to apply tofor the development of our business than some of our main competitors.

The telecommunications and pay-TVpay-television markets in Hong Kong are highly competitive. Some of our main competitors for Internet access, local telephony, pay-TVpay-television and international telecommunications services have longer operating histories and others are subsidiaries of large business conglomerates. Consequently, our competitors may have resourcethe following advantages over us including as follows:

us:

greater financial, technical, marketing and other resources;

greater financial, technical, marketing and other resources;
greater existing infrastructure;
greater name recognition; and
larger customer bases.

greater existing infrastructure;

greater name recognition; and

larger customer bases.

In addition, certain areas of the fixed telecommunications network services business are very capital intensive. Our competitors may be able to devote more human and financial resources to research and development, network improvement and marketing than we can.

Our growth and profitability could be affected by an increasing number of local and foreign entrants in the international and local telecommunications, Internet access and television broadcasting markets.

The Hong Kong government continues to liberalize access into the telecommunications industry in Hong Kong, including issuing new wireless and wire-line fixed telecommunications network services licenses, which we refer to as FTNS Licenses. We expect the Hong Kong government to continue to open the telecommunications market in the next several years. SomeIn particular, the Company may be adversely affected as a result of these changes may impact our Company:

As of January 4, 2008, 253 public non-exclusive telecommunications service licenses, which we refer to as PNETS Licenses, for the provision of external telecommunications services had been issued in Hong Kong. Some of these licenses are held by subsidiaries of major foreign telecommunications providers, which have competitive advantage due to their global presence and size.

On December 31, 2007, TVB and ATV launched digital terrestrial television, which will expand the public’s access to 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. If the number of subscribers to our pay-television service declines, it could adversely affect our results of operations.

following:

As of January 6, 2009, 246 PNETS Licenses had been issued in Hong Kong 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 due to their global presence and size.
Around December 31, 2007, TVB and ATV, the only two licensed domestic territorial 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. The services offer a total of 13 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.
Increasing liberalization of the telecommunications market in Hong Kong may continue to attract new local and foreign entrants to the market, which may broaden the variety of telecommunications services supplied by existing service providers, thereby heightening the overall level of competition in our industry. Increased 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.

The development of our Next Generation Network requires significant capital expenditures. These capital expenditures may vary materially from those currently planned and may impose a burden on our financing and operating activities.

Our business is capital intensive, and our capital expenditures may not have the positive effect on our business and revenues that we expect. We have made, and will continue to make, capital investments in the expansion and upgrade of our self-owned Next Generation Network and the development of our telecommunications services. We incurred total capital expenditures of approximately HK$132.3211.7 million in fiscal 2007. For the three fiscal years ending August 31, 2010, we2008 and expect to incur a total capital expenditureexpenditures of approximately HK$850650 million thein total in fiscal 2009 and 2010, 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. Future, additional debt or equity financing may not be available, and debt financing, if available, may involve restrictions on our investing, financing and operating activities.

6


We may not realize the commercial benefits we expect from our investments, which may adversely impact our business.

We have made significant investments in our network infrastructure

     To compete effectively, we need to provide the services we offer. The launch offrom time to time new and commercially viable products and services is important to compete in our business. Commercial acceptance by consumersservices. Any of thethese new services we offer may not occur at the rate or level expected,be commercially successful, and we may not be able to successfully adapt the new services effectively and economically to meet consumers’ demand, which could limit the return fromdemand. Because we are required to continue to make significant investments in our investments.network infrastructure in order to support these services, we cannot assure you that we can generate satisfactory investment returns. Specifically, we cannot assure you that any services enabled by upgrading and expanding our Next Generation Network will be accepted by the public to the extent required to generate an acceptable rate of return. Furthermore, we cannot assure you that our estimate of the necessary capital expenditure to offer such services will not be exceeded. The failure of any of our services to achieve commercial acceptance could result in additional capital expenditures or, a reduction in profitability to the extent that we are required under the applicable accounting standards to recognize a charge for the impairment of assets.assets, a reduction in our profitability. Any such charge could materially and adversely affect our financial condition and the results of our operations.

Although we have expressedWe may need to improve our interest in Singapore’s Next Generation National Broadband Network project, we cannot assure you that we will be capable of participating in the projectinternal controls over financial reporting and if we will, that this project will be successful.

We are exploring the possibility of bidding for Singapore’s Next Generation National Broadband Network project. See “Business Overview—Developments in Fiscal Year 2007”. To participate in this project, weour independent auditors may be required to structure the transactions to comply with certain restrictive covenants under the 8.75% notes that we issued in January 2005. No assurance can be given that we willnot be able to successfully structure the transactions. We may also require financing, which might include the issuance of equity securities and issuance of debt instruments, among other alternatives. Raising additional funds by issuing common stock or other types of equity securities would dilute our existing stockholders.

If we electattest to submit a bid for the project, we cannot assure you that our bid will be accepted or, if accepted, that the awarded contract will generate sufficient revenues to result in profitability. Because the Infocomm Development Authority of Singapore (“IDA”) requires a bid on this project in advance of the completion of the relevant design, we are subject to the risks of unforeseen software development or other technological difficulties and/or cost overruns.

We are in the process of instituting changes to our internal controls and management systems in order to satisfy the requirements of Section 404 of the Sarbanes Oxley Act of 2002. Our failure to timely and successfully institute these changes and to maintain the adequacy of our internal controls could subject us to regulatory actions and may adversely affect our stock price and our ability to raise additional capital.their effectiveness.

The United States Securities and Exchange Commission, or the SEC, as required by Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, 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, an independent registered public accounting firm must 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 first report on internal controls over financial reporting for the fiscal year ending August 31, 2008 and our first auditor’s attestation report on the effectiveness of our internal controls over financial reporting for the fiscal year ending August 31, 2009.

2010.

We are in the process of instituting changes tohave 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 management systems to comply withincur additional costs in improving the requirements. Among others, we are designing procedures to document variouscondition of our internal controls. For a detailed discussion of controls and relevant testing procedures, under requirements stipulated by the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board in the United States. We have assigned an internal audit manager to oversee this compliance process, who reports to our Audit Committee, Chairmansee Item 15 “Controls and other senior management on a periodic basis. In addition, we hired external consultants to perform a high-level internal control gap analysis and we would hire external consultants for advisory services whenever necessary.

Procedures”.

Notwithstanding our efforts, our management may conclude that our internal controls over our financial reporting are not effective. Moreover,However, in 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 404 of the Sarbanes Oxley Act of 2002. 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 customercustomers and vendor confidence, stock price, our ability to raise additional capital and operate our business as projected.

Our growth and expansion may impact our ability to manage our operations, increase our costs of operation and adversely affect the quality of our services.

We have pursued and continue to pursuebeen pursuing a strategy of aggressive growth in our fixed telecommunications network services business. As part of this strategy, we intend to continue to expand and invest in theour Next Generation Network infrastructure we use to deliversupport our range of broadband Internet access, local VOIP,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. Our ability to manage our future growth will depend upon our ability to:

simultaneously manage implementation of our infrastructure development and marketing plans;

simultaneously manage implementation of our infrastructure development and marketing plans;
effectively monitor our operations so as to contain costs and maintain effective quality controls; and
continue to offer competitive prices to customers for our services.

effectively monitor our operations so as to contain costs and maintain effective quality controls; and

continue to offer competitive prices to customers for our services.

Our failure to achieve any of the above in an efficient manner and at a pace consistent with the growth of our fixed telecommunications network services 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. We rely extensively on the services of our executive officers, including Wong Wai Kay, Ricky, our Chairman, and Cheung Chi Kin, Paul, our Chief Executive Officer. 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. If one or more of our key personnel wereare unable or unwilling to continue in their present positions, or if they joinedjoin a competitor or formedform a competing company, or if they shiftedshift 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, 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.

7


Expansion of our Next Generation Network into certain buildings and residences may be limited by physical limitations or our ability to obtain access permits.rights.

Expanding

     We intend to continue to expand the coverage of our Next Generation Network. To expand coverage to a new physical site within a residential or commercial building, we are required to connect our Next Generation Network coverage requires us to installthe site by installing fiber-to-the-home or fiber-to-the-building as well as install Category 5eplus Category-5e copper wiring, within residential and commercial buildings to reach the subscriber’s premises, which we refer to as in-building-wiring. One of our competitors has already installed in-building-wiring in virtually all buildings, and we along with other fixed telecommunications network service providers may encounter a bottleneck when installing our own in-building-wiring because many buildings have limited physical space for additional in-building wiring. In addition, owners of certain single-owner commercial buildings may grant rights of accessOur target is to our competitors while barring us from installing our own in-building-wiring. Furthermore, certain developers may have affiliations with our competitors and may attempt to delay our wiring installations. These constraints may hinderincrease the expansioncoverage of our Next Generation Network from the current 1.4number of 1.5 million residential home passes coverage to our three-year target of 2.0 million residential home passes. Failurepasses by 2010. Such expansion, however, may be hindered by the following constraints:
Because at least one of our competitors has already installed in-building wiring in virtually all buildings, other fixed telecommunications network service providers, including us, may encounter a bottleneck when installing our own in-building wiring because many buildings have limited physical space for additional in-building wiring.
Some single-owner commercial buildings may grant rights of access to our competitors while barring us from installing our own in-building wiring.
Certain developers may have affiliations with our competitors and may attempt to delay our wiring installations.
     We may be unable to capitalize on any economy of scale benefits if we fail to expand our network coverage will limitat our projected rate. Our growth opportunities and reduce our ability to benefit from economics of scale.

will also be limited as a result.

Internet security concerns could limitadversely affect our ability to develop revenues from Internet access services.

We intend to continue developingto upgrade our broadband Internet access, local VOIP,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 or IP, services. Computer viruses, break-ins or other problems could have the following effects on our fixed telecommunications network services business:

result in
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.

     There is no assurance that computer viruses and other harmful attacks could not affect our customers;

jeopardize the security of confidential information stored in the computer system of our customers; and

allow for illegal viewing or download of our content.

business. We may incur significant costs to protect us against the threat of security breaches or to alleviate problems caused by such breaches. In addition, alleviatingWe intend to continue to strengthen our network security to alleviate these problemsproblems. Our efforts, however, may cause interruptions, delays or cessation in service toof our users, which could cause them toservices, and our customers may stop using our service or assert claims against us. Whileus as a result.

Although we continuehave expressed our interest in obtaining a Broadband Wireless Access (“BWA”) license, we cannot assure you that we will be the successful bidder, and, if we are granted the license, that the business in relation to strengthenBWA will be successful.
     Even though we have participated in the auction, we cannot assure you that our network security, therebid will be successful, if succeeded and the related license is no assurancegranted to HKBN eventually, that computer virusesour business and operation in relation to BWA will generate sufficient revenues to result in profitability. We are also subject to the risks of unforeseen technological development or other harmful attacks could not affect our business.

technological difficulties and/or cost overruns.

Risks Relating to Our Technological Infrastructure

We willmay be limited in our abilityunable to continue tofurther expand our internetInternet access business unless we obtain additional network capacity.

Our internetInternet access network has limited capacity. Our ability to continue to increase internetInternet service depends on our ability to expand the network bandwidth on a timely basis, which in turn is subject to:

�� 

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 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 internet access business market share and revenuesrevenue in the Internet access business will be limited.

We are vulnerable to natural disasters and other disruptive regional events, which could cause damage to our network and result in lost revenue and perhaps lost customers.

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 shutdownsshut downs relating to individual points of presence or even catastrophic failure of our entire network. Hong Kong’s weather patterns often result in heavy rainfall during certain periods of the year. Any sustained failure of our network, our servers, or any link in the delivery chain, whether from operational disruption, natural disaster or otherwise, resulting in an interruption in our operations, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

8


The loss of key suppliers or their failure to deliver equipment on a timely basis could negatively impact our business prospects.

We rely on our key suppliers Cisco Systems Inc., Nortel Networks Limited and other suppliers to provide equipment, underground cables and other necessary components in buildingfor our Next Generation Network infrastructure and for our VOIP equipment. Infollow-up maintenance. Further, because an IP set-top-box must be installed in order for new subscribers to access our IP-TV services, we must install an 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. In addition, if Cisco Systems, Inc. or Nortel is unable or is delayed in providing us with the hardware required for building our fiber-based backbone infrastructure or VOIP equipment, this could negatively impact our operating results.

Our reliance on third parties to provide maintenance and repairs for our Next Generation Network could adversely affect our operating results if their services are not timely or do not meet our standards.

We depend on Cisco Systems, Inc.our suppliers and other third parties for ongoing support and assistance with respect to maintenance and repairs.repairs of major network equipments. 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 provide us the equipment we require, or 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, whichservices. Any service interruptions or variations may adversely affect our operating results and our ability to retain or add new customers.

If we are unable to stay ahead of technology trends and evolving industry standards, our services may become obsolete.

     To compete successfully, we are required to continually improve our performance, services and network. Telecommunications businesses are characterized by rapidly changing technology and industry standards, evolving subscriber needs and the introduction of new services. The continuously changing nature of these services and theirwith increasingly shorter life cycles require uscycles. To respond successfully to continually improve our performance, servicestechnological advances and networkemerging industry standards, we may be required to make substantial capital expenditures and gain access to related or enabling technologies in order to compete successfullyintegrate the new technology with the services offered by our competitors.existing technology.
     Further, new technology or trends in the telecommunications industry could have an adverse effect on the services we currently offer. For example, the replacement of traditional fixed line home telephones with mobile telephones and/or VOIPVoIP services may lead to a decline in our revenue from international telecommunications services revenues.and local telephony services. Further, technology substitution from global VOIPVoIP providers, some of which offer free PC-to-PC based international calls, is also becoming more prevalent. 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. In addition,
     Finally, our new products and services may contain design flaws or other defects that could have a material adverse effect on our business, operating results or financial condition. To respond successfully to technological advances and emerging industry standards, we may require substantial capital expenditure and access to related or enabling technologies in order to integrate the new technology with our existing technology. We may not be successful in modifying our network infrastructure in a timely and cost-effective manner in response to these changes, which will affect our ability to continue to offer the products and services demanded by our 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 conduct 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.
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 Unified Carrier License (“UCL”). The implementation of the UCL regime started from August 1, 2008 and replaces the existing four classes of carrier licenses for the provision of fixed and mobile services. Going forward the UCL will be the only carrier licence 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 licences to UCLs before then or apply for a UCL upon expiry. This regulatory change, together with the

9


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 conduct 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 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.

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 authorised 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 exempt 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 local VOIP services through our Next Generation Network. 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.

We offer fixed telecommunications network services. The Telecommunications Authority is currently in the process of developing a new Fixed-Mobile Convergence, or FMC, licensing practice which may supersede the existing distinctions between fixed-line and mobile operator licensing. This effectively means that the existing four classes of carrier licenses are proposed to be replaced by a single Unified Carrier License, or UCL. 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 wireless license, 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 exempt 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 require licenses from the Telecommunications Authority to provide our services. If one of these licenses is revoked or not renewed, we would be unable to deliver the services authorized by that license.

We require licenses from the Telecommunications Authority to provide our international telecommunications and fixed telecommunications network services. Our PNETS License is subject to the Telecommunications Authority’s annual renewal andrenewal. HKBN’s FTNS License awardedwas initially granted in 2000 is initially granted for a term of 15 years whichand 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 for any reason would prohibit us from continuing to offer the services authorized by that license, 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 tariffs in China.

In China, the Ministry of Information Industry, or the MII, and the State Development Planning Commission jointly set tariffs for all domestic and international long distance services in China usingoffered through public switched telephone networks, leased lines and data services.services are jointly set by the Ministry of Information Industry 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 2007,2008, approximately 75%77% 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 MIIMinistry of Information Industry 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, it would have an adverse effect on ourthe profit margins for our international telecommunications services.

We haveAs approximately 47%49% of our staff are located in Guangzhou, China, and changes in Chinese labor or business laws may significantly affect our operations and our ability to service our Hong Kong based customers.

Our call center in Guangzhou employs over 1,2001,400 persons and is an important resource for us. We are therefore subject, to a significant degree, tosignificantly affected by the laws and regulations that govern 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 employees in China, which could impact our ability to provide service to our Hong Kong basedKong-based customers.

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

     Our revenues are predominantly denominated in Hong Kong dollars. A major portion of our operating costs isconsist of interconnection charges paid to overseas carriers for the delivery of our international calls. Substantially all of these interconnection charges are denominated in U.S. dollars or other currencies other than Hong Kong dollars.foreign currencies. In addition, the equipment and hardware we purchase for the expansion of our Next Generation Network constitutes a large portion of our capital expenditureexpenditures and is also denominated in U.S. dollars. Finally, payment of interest, principal and any other amounts due under theour 8.75% senior notes issued in January 2005due 2015 are made in U.S. dollars. However, our revenues are predominantly denominated in Hong Kong dollars. 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 addition, themaintained in future.

     The expenses that we incur in relation to our call center located in Guangzhou, China are denominated exclusively in Renminbi, the official currency of the People’s Republic of China. These include the salaries that we pay to our personnel as well as various operating expenses that we incur to maintain our operations. As a result, we are exposed to a certain amount of foreign exchange risk based on fluctuations between the Hong Kong dollar and the Renminbi. 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.

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.
Impact of credit crunch on local and global economy may negatively impact our business and our progress on NGN development.
     The current credit crunch will affect both the local economy and global economy. 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. Failure to do so will negatively impact our business and slow down our progress on NGN deployment. The economic downturn may also dampen the demand for broadband services or affect our customers’ ability to continue with existing services.

10


Risks Relating to our Securities

We cannot assure you that we will be able to generate sufficient cash from operations to fund our operations.

Our ability to fund operating and capital expenditures and to service debt will depend significantly on our ability to generate cash from operations. In fiscal 2007,2008, we were able to generate cash from operations of HK$384.0378.5 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 debt service 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. We may not be successful in taking these actions. Further, our ability to take many of these steps may be subject to approval by future creditors in addition to holders of theour 8.75% senior notes issued in January 2005.

due 2015.

TheOur 8.75% senior notes that we issued in January 2005due 2015 contain covenants that limit our financial and operating flexibility.

Covenants under theour 8.75% senior notes that we issued in January 2005due 2015 restrict our ability to, among other things:

pay dividends, make distributions, redeem capital stock and make certain other restricted payments or investments;

pay dividends, make distributions, redeem capital stock and make certain other restricted payments or investments;
incur additional indebtedness or issue certain equity interests;
merge, consolidate or sell all or substantially all of our assets;
issue or sell capital stock of some of our subsidiaries;
sell or exchange assets or enter into new businesses;
create any restrictions on the payment of dividends, the making of distributions, the making of loans and the transfer of assets;
create liens on assets;
enter into sale and lease back transactions; and
enter into certain transactions with affiliates or related persons.

incur additional indebtedness or issue certain equity interests;

merge, consolidate or sell all or substantially all of our assets;

issue or sell capital stock of some of our subsidiaries;

sell or exchange assets or enter into new businesses;

create any restrictions on the payment of dividends, the making of distributions, the making of loans and the transfer of assets;

create liens on assets;

enter into sale and lease back transactions; and

enter into certain transactions with affiliates or related persons.

All of these limitations are subject to exceptions and qualifications specified in the indenture governing the 8.75% senior notes. These restrictive covenants could limit our ability to pursue our growth plan, restrict our flexibility in planning for, or reacting to, changes in our business and industry and increase our vulnerability to general adverse economic and industry conditions.

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 in Hong Kong.

The Company was incorporatedKong on May 19, 1992 under the Hong Kong Companies Ordinance (Chapter 32 of the laws of Hong Kong) (the “Companies Ordinance”).as 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.

Important events in the development of our business are as follows:

We began offering international telecommunications services in September 1992. From that date, 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 January 1999, we became the first company in Hong Kong company to obtain a public non-exclusive telecommunications services license, which we referthe first PNETS License. The License gives us the right to in this annual report as a PNETS License, covering the provision ofoffer international telecommunications services using international simple resale whichand has had a significant positive impact on our international telecommunications revenues. We incorporated Hong Kong Broadband Network Limited (“HKBN”)HKBN in Hong Kong in August 1999 and launched our broadband Internet access services in March 2000. In addition, we began providing local VOIPVoIP services in April 2002, IP-TV services in August 2003, and corporate data services in July 2004 using our Next Generation Network.

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:

include the following:

In January 2008, HKBN launched “Dual Mode High Definition Terrestrial TV Receiver and IPTV Set-Top Box” to all customers in Hong Kong.

In September 2005, HKBN was conferred as the winner of the Global Entrepolis@Singapore Award 2005, which was presented by the Asian Wall Street Journal in association with the Economic Development Board of Singapore. This award recognizes innovation in the application of technology to a strong business model with commercial potential to be an industry or market leader.
In October 2005, HKBN became the first service provider in the world to achieve the Cisco Powered Network Metro Ethernet QoS Certified status.
In October 2005, HKBN launched our “2b” Broadband Phone Service, providing VoIP services to local and overseas users via a software-based broadband phone.
In November 2005, we announced cooperation with China Telecom Hong Kong Limited to provide Pan-China Internet Protocol Virtual Private Network services to corporate customers.

In September 2007, HKBN launched “Fiber-To-The-Home” residential broadband service, “FiberHome100”, “FiberHome200” and “FiberHome1000”. As the same time, we upgraded our entry level service broadband Internet access from 10 Mbps to 25 Mbps.

In July 2007, HKBN was awarded “Integrated Support Team” of the year at the Asia Pacific Customer Service Consortium Customer Relationship Excellence Awards

In June 2007, CTI Group was awarded “Best Retention Strategies” at the Hong Kong HR Awards 2007

In February 2007, HKBN launched bb50 and bb200 symmetric residential broadband service supported by “SDU” personalized customer care service.

In October 2006, Liu Xiang “Be Ahead of Yourself” marketing campaign won the “Certificate of Excellence” of HKMA/TVB Awards for Marketing Excellence 2006.

In July 2006, HKBN was conferred “Call Center of the Year” & “Customer Service Center of the Year” awards at the Customer Relationship Excellence Awards 2005.

In March 2006, HKBN launched our “bb25” Internet access service with symmetric 25 Mbps access for the residential mass market. This supplemented our existing bb10, bb100 and bb1000 service offerings.11


In November 2005, we announced cooperation with China Telecom Hong Kong Limited to provide Pan-China Internet Protocol Virtual Private Network services to corporate customers.

In March 2006, HKBN launched our “bb25” Internet access service with symmetric 25 Mbps access for the residential mass market. This supplemented our existing bb10, bb100 and bb1000 service offerings.
In July 2006, HKBN was conferred “Call Center of the Year” & “Customer Service Center of the Year” awards at the Customer Relationship Excellence Awards 2005.
In October 2006, Liu Xiang “Be Ahead of Yourself” marketing campaign won the “Certificate of Excellence” of HKMA/TVB Awards for Marketing Excellence 2006.
In February 2007, HKBN launched bb50 and bb200 symmetric residential broadband service supported by “SDU” personalized customer care service.
In June 2007, CTI Group was awarded “Best Retention Strategies” at the Hong Kong HR Awards 2007
In July 2007, HKBN was awarded “Integrated Support Team” of the year at the Asia Pacific Customer Service Consortium Customer Relationship Excellence Awards
In September 2007, HKBN launched “Fiber-To-The-Home” residential broadband service, “FiberHome100”, “FiberHome200” and “FiberHome1000”. As the same time, we upgraded our entry level service broadband Internet access from 10 Mbps to 25 Mbps.
In January 2008, HKBN launched “Dual Mode High Definition Terrestrial TV Receiver and IPTV Set-Top Box” to all customers in Hong Kong.
In February 2008, HKBN was awarded the contract for the provision of payphone service at the Hong Kong International Airport.
In September 2008, HKBN launched the National Geographic Channel’s first ever Interactive Channel.

In October 2005, HKBN became the first service provider in the world to achieve the Cisco Powered Network Metro Ethernet QoS Certified status.

In October 2005, HKBN launched our “2b” Broadband Phone Service, providing VOIP services to local and overseas users via a software-based broadband phone.

In September 2005, HKBN was conferred as the winner of the Global Entrepolis@Singapore Award 2005, which was presented by the Asian Wall Street Journal in association the Economic Development Board of Singapore. This award recognizes innovation in the application of technology to a strong business model with commercial potential to be an industry or market leader.

B. Business Overview

Principal Activities

We are a Hong Kong-based provider of residential and corporate fixed telecommunications network and international telecommunications services and specialize in Hong Kong. Using our self-owned Next Generation Network, we deliver fixed telecommunications network services to the residential mass market and small-to-medium corporate and enterprise market segments, at competitive prices while simultaneously offering a larger bandwidth over comparable offerings by our competitors. Our integrated suite of services includes the following:

high-speed broadband Internet access services that provide our customers with symmetric upstream and downstream access speeds with options for 25 Mbps, 50 Mbps, 100 Mbps, 200 Mbps and 1,000 Mbps;

fixed line local telephony through our voice-over-Internet-Protocol technology;

pay television, where we deliver more than 83 channels including self-produced news, children’s programming, international drama and movies and local interest programming using our IP platform; and

corporate data services, which includes provision of dedicated bandwidth to corporate customers.

As of August 31, 2007, we had a total of approximately 683,000 fixed telecommunications network services subscriptions, consisting of 247,000 broadband Internet access, 308,000 local VOIP and 128,000 IP-TV services subscriptions.

In addition to providing fixed telecommunications network services, we also offer international telecommunications services in Hong Kong and Canada. We offer a variety of international telecommunications services and products including direct dial services, international calling cards and mobile call forwarding services. Our total international telecommunications services customer database comprises approximately 2.3 million registered accounts. Our international telecommunications business contributed 28.4% to our total revenues in fiscal 2007 as compared to 36.9% in fiscal 2006.

Recent Developments

On February 9, 2007, we signed a Memorandum of Understanding with MobileOne Limited to work together to participate in Singapore’s Next Generation National Broadband Network project (“NGN”).segments. The Project relates to the provision of ultra-high speed national connectivity in Singapore at competitive prices by 2015.

Since then we have submitted our indication of interest in response to an invitation by the IDA to participate in the Pre-Qualification Exercise and Competitve Dialogue for the NGN project.

On December 11, 2007, the IDA released the terms of Request-For-Proposal (“RFP”) for the Network Company. Under this RFP, a company will be selected to design, build and operate the passive infrastructure layer of the project. The deployment of active electronics will be done by an operating company which will also be the entity that offers wholesale broadband access to downstream retail service providers.

Under the terms of the RFP, the Singapore Government is prepared to provide a grant of up to Singapore dollar 750 million for the project and will evaluate proposals based on four key criteria:

1.Attractiveness of business plan to industry
2.Quality of network infrastructure
3.Level of Government grant
4.Financial proposition and strength of bidder

It is expect that the IDA will award the winning bid in the third quarter of 2008.

We are now exploring the viability of this project and are in the process of assessing if we will submit the bid. For uncertainties relating to our participation in this project, see “Risks Relating to Our Business and Operations – “Although we have expressed our interest in Singapore’s Next Generation National Broadband Network project, we cannot assure you that we will be capable of participating in the project, and, if we will, that the project will be successful.””

Revenues

A significant majority of our revenues are derived from business conducted in Hong Kong. A breakdown of our revenues by category of activity is as follows:

   Year ended August 31,

Revenue

  2005  2006  2007
   HK$  HK$  HK$
   (Amounts in thousands)

Fixed telecommunications network services(1)

  629,464  716,600  816,800

International telecommunications services

  532,595  418,276  324,470
         

Total operating revenue

  1,162,059  1,134,876  1,141,270
         

             
  Year ended August 31,
Revenue 2006 2007 2008
  HK$ HK$ HK$
  (Amounts in thousands)
Fixed telecommunications network services(1)
  716,600   816,800   1,011,038 
International telecommunications services  418,276   324,470   291,943 
             
             
Total operating revenue  1,134,876   1,141,270   1,302,981 
             

(1)

Includes Internet access, local telephony services, pay-TV services and corporate data services.

We

     Our fixed telecommunications network services are delivered through our self-owned Next Generation Network and include the following:
high-speed broadband Internet access services at symmetric upstream and downstream access speeds of 25 Mbps to 1,000 Mbps;
fixed line local telephony services using VoIP technology;
pay television services consisting of more than 88 channels, including self-produced news, children’s programming, 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.
     As of August 31, 2008, we had a total of approximately 801,000 subscriptions for our fixed telecommunications network services, consisting of 316,000 broadband Internet access, 329,000 local VoIP and 156,000 IP-TV services subscriptions.
     Our international telecommunications services include direct dial services, international calling cards and mobile call forwarding services in Hong Kong and Canada. As of August 31, 2008, the customer database for our total international telecommunications services comprised approximately 2.3 million registered accounts.Our international telecommunications business contributed 22.4% of our total revenues in fiscal 2008 as compared to 28.4% in fiscal 2007.
     Our strategy is to market multiple fixed telecommunications network services using our Next Generation Network and will continuefocus on growing our business strategy to grow market share, increaseincreasing our network coverage and introduceintroducing new services through our IP platform. We believe that our success

12


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 an industry with high barriers to entry.

Seasonality

Our operations are not generally subject to significant seasonal fluctuations. Our international telecommunications business typically experience a slight decrease in revenue during the second fiscal quarter of each year (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.

Network infrastructure

Our self-owned network is one of the world’s largest Next Generation Networks and is cited as a global reference case by our two primary vendors, Cisco Systems, Inc. and Nortel Networks Limited. Our Next Generation Network conforms to the industry standards for 10/100/1000 Mbps Internet access speeds, and covers 1.4 million home passes, which represents coverage of approximately 60% of Hong Kong’s population. The coverage of our network is concentrated in Hong Kong’s most densely populated areas.

In most other markets, Metro Ethernet technology is primarily used in commercial buildings in metropolitan areas, as the technology is most cost effective in dense user populations where a provider can service a large number of users in a single building or cluster of buildings. We have deployed Metro Ethernet technology in densely populated residential areas in Hong Kong, where most of our customers live in high-rise apartment buildings with multiple apartments on each floor. Our strategy is to sell multiple fixed telecommunications network services using our Next Generation Network. All of our fixed telecommunications network services are offered through our single IP platform, unlike our competitors who use multiple platforms to provide comparable services. In addition, unlike most other new entrants, 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.

In November 2007, we have collaborated with one of the largest network solution providers for the deployment of the GPON in Hong Kong to deliver advanced triple play services to our subscribers and enlarge our FTTH network coverage in Hong Kong.

Our Competitive Strengths

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.
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, 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. 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 Next Generation Network gives us an inherent cost and performance advantage over our competitors. Our IP platform is highly scalable, enabling us 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 1,000 Mbps symmetric broadband Internet access.
First Mover Advantage and High Barriers to Entry. Our first mover advantage and the inherent characteristics of the Hong Kong telecommunications infrastructure, which present a natural barrier to entry, make it difficult for our competitors to replicate our business model. Metro Ethernet technology is not appropriate for our competitors who intend to offer a full coverage network that includes remote and difficult to reach areas of Hong Kong. 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 Developments
     On February 9, 2007, we signed a Memorandum of Understanding with MobileOne Limited, setting forth our interest to participate as a member of the bidding consortium in the Next Generation National Broadband Network project in Singapore. The project relates to the residential massprovision of ultra-high speed national connectivity in Singapore at competitive prices by 2015, and small-to-medium enterprise markets,the Singapore government is expected to provide a grant of up to S$750 million for the project. A company is expected to be selected to design, build and operate the passive infrastructure layer of the project. The deployment of active electronics is expected to be handled by another company, which we believe have significant growth potential. We price ouris expected to be the entity that offers wholesale broadband access to downstream retail service providers.
     After extensive evaluation and business planning, the Company ceased to be a member of the bidding consortium with effect from August 20, 2008.
     On January 2, 2009, the Telecommunications Authority unveiled five qualified bidders for the BWA spectrum auction in Hong Kong. BWA is a radio technology that can support a variety of wide area high-speed wireless data services attractivelyfor fixed and atmobile customers. Our wholly owned subsidiary, HKBN, is one of 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 ofqualified bidders. The other four qualified bidders are, namely, China Mobile Hong Kong whichCompany Limited, CSL Limited, Genius Brand Limited, and SmarTone Wireless Limited.
     All qualified bidders are eligible for participating in the BWA spectrum bidding stage. The bidding stage started on January 12, 2009 is still in progress as on January 16, 2009.
     For uncertainties relating to BWA, see “Risks Relating to Our Business and Operations — Although we believehave expressed our interest in obtaining a BWA license, we cannot assure you that we will be the successful bidder, and, if we are granted the license, that the business in relation to BWA will be largely under served. successful”.
Our focus on the residential mass and small-to-medium corporate and enterprise markets has enabled us to quickly growServices
Fixed Telecommunications Network Services
     We offer our subscription base and we believe this will help us to up-sell our services.

Leading-Edge Next Generation Network. Ourfixed telecommunications network deploys Ethernet technology provided by Cisco Systems, Inc. We believeservices over our Next Generation Network gives us an inherent cost and performance advantage over our competitors. Our IP platform is highly scalable, enabling us to offer broadband Internet access, local VOIP, IP-TV and corporate data services over a single network while still leaving us with capacity to offer more services in the future. It is also capable of providing up to 1,000 Mbps symmetric broadband Internet access. During fiscal 2007, we launched our “Fiber-To-The-Home” (“FTTH”) residential broadband service providing 100 Mbps, 200Mbps and 1000 Mbps service. Our promotions during fiscal 2006 and 2007 highlighted the bandwidth advantage of our Next Generation Network over xDSL or cable modem services. Ethernet technology is “off-the-shelf” and has long been deployed for large enterprises, but we believe we are one of the first to deploy this technology for the residential market on a mass scale.

First Mover Advantage and High Barriers to Entry. Our first mover advantage and the inherent characteristics of the Hong Kong telecommunications infrastructure, which present a natural barrier to entry, make it difficult for our competitors to replicate our business model. Metro Ethernet technology is not appropriate for our competitors who intend to offer a full coverage network that includes remote and difficult to reach areas of Hong Kong. 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 they would encounter significant in-building bottlenecks when attempting to complete an end-to-end network. This is because the 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.

Fixed Telecommunications Network Services

Next Generation Network Infrastructure

Our Next Generation Network is formed by using our own fiber-based backbone, wireless technology or leased wireline-based backbone to connect our in-building Ethernet infrastructures to our IP hub sites and switching centers in Hong Kong. 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.

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,VoIP, IP-TV and corporate data services. We incurred capital expendituresThe table below shows the profile of the subscriptions for our fixed telecommunications network infrastructureservices over the past three years:

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  As of August 31, 
  2006  2007  2008 
Broadband Internet Access  220,000   247,000   316,000 
Local VoIP  281,000   308,000   329,000 
IP-TV  116,000   128,000   156,000 
          
             
Total Subscriptions  617,000   683,000   801,000 
          
Broadband Internet Access
     We offer our broadband Internet access services in Hong Kong through HKBN. 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.
     We currently offer broadband Internet access to our residential and corporate customers at access speeds of up to 1,000 Mbps, but the majority of our customers currently have access speeds of between 25 Mbps and 100 Mbps. We currently offer broadband service for bb25, bb50, bb100, bb200 and bb1000 at monthly fees ranging from HK$208 to HK$1,680 for unlimited access. Moreover, we also offer FTTH broadband service for 200 Mbps and 1000 Mbps at monthly fees at HK$688 and HK$1,680 respectively for unlimited access. Instead of 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 offer a free e-mail service and at a charge, 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, “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”, a service in which subscribers can simply receive fax by their designated email address in Hong Kong and worldwide. An unique Hong Kong fax number is assigned to each subscriber. We frequently alter our promotions in response to changing market conditions or as a way of attracting additional subscribers.
     In addition to the residential packages described above, we have also developed broadband promotions that target corporate customers. We offer prepackaged plans that provide access at speeds of up to 1,000 Mbps. Corporate customers that subscribe to prepackaged plans pay fixed monthly subscription fees that range from HK$150 to HK$22,000. 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 (through its current subsidiary PCCW-IMS Limited), 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 typically at speeds up to 6 Mbps downstream and 640 Kbps upstream. In November 2007, PCCW-HKT announced the provision of 100 Mbps and 1,000 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 the number of homes passes.
     We had approximately 316,000 broadband Internet access subscriptions as of August 31, 2008, which represented a market share of approximately HK$309.1 million16% with respect to the total number of broadband Internet access subscribers in fiscal 2006 and HK$132.3 millionHong Kong.
Local VoIP
     We offer our on-network local VoIP services in fiscal 2007. In fiscal 2008 to fiscal 2010, we plan to further incur total capital expenditures of HK$850.0 million to continue increasing the capacity of our existing network coverage and extending the reach ofHong Kong by installing IP-based voice switching equipment in locations already covered by our Next Generation Network. Voice signals are transmitted by the VoIP switches into the Ethernet network installed in the subscriber’s building.
The quality of our local VoIP service areais indistinguishable from 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.
     We currently charge HK$88 to HK$118 per month for our 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.
     We also offer hardware-based off-network local VoIP services, which we refer to our “Broadband Phone” service. “Broadband Phone” allows subscribers to use our local VoIP services via the broadband network of other operators. In October 2005, we launched our global software-based VoIP service called “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$168 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.

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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 71% with respect to local telephony services as of June 30, 2008. 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. As of August 31, 2008, we had 329,000 local VoIP subscriptions. Our market share with respect to local residential telephony services amounts to approximately 17% as of August 31, 2008.
IP-TV
     In August 2003 we introduced our IP-TV service that provides DVD quality video delivered 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 service as “bbTV”. This monthly subscription-based pay television service offers 88 channels consisting of a self-produced 24-hour news channel and education and recreation channels (including children’s programming) and channels whose content is obtained from other content-providers.
     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. 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. As of August 31, 2008, we had 156,000 subscriptions representing approximately 8% of the total pay-television subscription base in Hong Kong.
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 English language content, such as English Premier League Football, HBO, Cinemax, ESPN and others. PCCW-HKT, in particular, has signed exclusive content contracts with English Premier League Football, HBO, ESPN, and Star among others. We target a different market than these competitors by offering predominantly Chinese language content, and pricing our IP-TV service attractively to the residential mass market.
     Television Broadcasts Limited and Asia Television Limited, commonly known as TVB and ATV, respectively, are indirect competitors to our pay-TV services in the Hong Kong television market. 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 are 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.
International Telecommunications Services
     We began providing international telecommunications services in 1992 and were among the first companies to be granted a PNETS License. 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 offer international telecommunications services to our FTNS customers via our 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, allowing us to generate a usage charge.
     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 includesoffer our customers are the following:
ServiceDescription
IDD 1666Provides subscribers with international direct dial using the access number 1666 in Hong Kong.
IDD 0030Provides subscribers with international direct dial using the access number 0030 in Hong Kong.
Mobile Call Forwarding ServicesAllows call forwarding of Hong Kong mobile numbers so that subscribers can receive calls while overseas.
     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.

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     We experienced a reduction in total traffic volume of 16.4% to 659 million minutes in fiscal 2007 and a further reduction of 12.9% to 574 million minutes in fiscal 2008. 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. Further, technology substitution from global VoIP providers such as Skype, which offers free PC-to-PC based international calls, is becoming more prevalent. We are proactively migrating our international telecommunications services to our “2b” services, which we believe carry higher margins and enjoy a wider addressable market.
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 2008. This competition drove down the average tariff rates per minute and we expect this price competition to continue in fiscal 2009. In our efforts to maintain our market share, we have significantly reduced some of our international telecommunications rates and introduce new marketing and promotional offers from time to time. We also employ two brand names, IDD 1666 and IDD 0030, to provide us with flexibility in our marketing strategies. To offset 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 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 services 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 1.41.5 million residential home passes, representing approximately 60%67% of Hong Kong’s population. We plan to extend the coverage of our Next Generation Network coverage, over the next three years, to 2.0 million residential home passes, coveringrepresenting approximately 90% of Hong Kong’s population.population, by 2010. 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 by 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 1,000Mbps to our end users.
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 staff and contractors to begin installation of our in-building Ethernet.Ethernet infrastructure. 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. All the buildings that we reach through our expansion efforts will be served by our self-owned infrastructure.

The following table shows the profile

     Unlike many of our competitors, which use multiple platforms to provide comparable services, all of our fixed telecommunications network subscriptions over the past three years:

   As of August 31,
   2005  2006  2007

Fixed Telecommunications Network Services Subscriptions:

      

Broadband Internet Access

  229,000  220,000  247,000

Local VOIP

  293,000  281,000  308,000

IP-TV

  109,000  116,000  128,000
         

Total

  631,000  617,000  683,000
         

Internet Access

HKBN offers our broadband Internet access services in Hong Kong over our Next Generation Network. We use our broadband subscription base to up-sell our other fixed telecommunications network services such as local VOIP and IP-TV.are offered through a single IP platform. In addition, to broadband Internet access services, we maintain on a limited scale for the 56k dial-up Internet access and corporate Internet access via resale of another carrier’s service. However, we are focusing exclusively on growing our subscription base for our high bandwidth broadband Internet access services and are making no further investments in dial-up or resale services.

We currently offer broadband Internet access to our residential and corporate customers at access speeds of up to 1,000 Mbps, but the majority of our customers currently have access speeds of between 25 Mbps and 100 Mbps. We currently offer broadband service for bb25, bb50, bb100, bb200 and bb1000 at monthly fees ranging from HK$208 to HK$1,688 for unlimited service. Moreover, we also offer FTTH broadband service for 100 Mbps, 200 Mbps and 1000 Mbps at monthly fees ranging from HK$378 to HK$1,688 for unlimited service. Currently, all of our broadband Internet access packages offer a free e-mail service and 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 on a personal computer. We frequently change our promotions in response to market conditions or as a way of attracting additional subscribers.

In addition to the residential packages described above, we have also developed broadband promotions that target corporate customers. We offer prepackaged plans that provide access at speeds up to 1,000 Mbps, which include on-site training, on-site maintenance support, high capacity data transfer and e-mail services. Corporate customers that subscribe to prepackaged plans pay fixed monthly subscription fees that range from HK$150 to HK$17,000.

Competition

There have beenunlike many new entrants to the Internet access business, butindustry, we operate an “end-to-end” network that extends from our main competitors are PCCW-HKT (through its current subsidiary PCCW-IMS Limited), i-CableIP network hub sites and HGC. PCCW-HKT has been offering broadband Internet access services since May 1998 and uses asymmetric digital subscriber line technology, or ADSL, over its telephone networkour switching centers in Hong Kong to provide asymmetric Internet access typically at speeds up to 6 Mbps downstream and 640 Kbps upstream.our subscribers’ premises.

     In November 2007, PCCW-HKT announcedwe collaborated with one of the provisionlargest network solution providers for the deployment of 100 Mbps and 1000 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 symmetric access speeds up to 10 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 homes passed.

We had approximately 247,000 broadband Internet access subscriptions as of August 31, 2007, which represented a market share of approximately 13% with respect to the total number of broadband Internet access subscribersGPON in Hong Kong.

Local VOIP

We offer As the reach of GPON is considerably more than 100 meters, it can be a more cost effective solution than our on-network local VOIP services in Hong Kong. To provide local telephony service, we install IP-based voice switching equipment in locations already covered by our Next Generation Network. Voice signals are transmitted by the VOIP switches into the Ethernet network installed in the subscriber’s building. The capital cost of installing VOIP switches is small

because the scalability ofsetup for lower density deployments.

     In summary, our Next Generation Network allows us to provide new services over existing infrastructure with only minimal additional equipment. In addition, we now install such voice switching equipment together with our new installations of broadband equipment in some buildings.

The quality of our local VOIP service is indistinguishable from traditional fixed line local telephony services and customers are able to use their existing telephone equipment. In addition, fixed line telephony subscribers switching to our local VOIP services are able to retain their existing local telephone number via fixed line number portability.

We currently charge from HK$58 to HK$99 per month for our local VOIP services depending on the service plan, and we offer a full range of value addeddeliver multiple services, including call waiting, caller displaythe triple play services of voice, broadband and conference call services.

IP-TV.

We also offer hardware-based off-network local VOIP services, which we refer to as “bb Phone” services. “bb Phone” allows subscribers to useincurred capital expenditures for our local VOIP services via the broadband network of other operators. In October 2005, we launched our global software-based VOIP services branded as “2b”, which provides a global Hong Kong-telephone number service. This service is primarily targeted at the overseas Chinese community, which we believe will enable us to access a wider addressable market compared to the Hong Kong market for international telecommunications services. For HK$168 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 within Hong Kong and to other “2b” users around the world. Moreover, we offer a full range of value added services, including call waiting, voice mail and conference call features.

Competition

PCCW-HKT, the incumbent and largest fixed telecommunications network operator in Hong Kong, announced that it had a market shareinfrastructure of approximately 67% with respectHK$132.3 million in fiscal 2007 and HK$211.7 million in fiscal 2008. In fiscal 2009 to local telephony services asfiscal 2010, we plan to further incur total capital expenditures of June 30, 2007. AsHK$650.0 million to continue increasing the incumbent operator, PCCW-HKT is required to allow interconnection to its fixed telecommunicationscapacity of our existing network to other licensed fixed telecommunications network operators. The remainder ofcoverage and extending 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. As of August 31, 2007, we had 308,000 local VOIP subscriptions. Our market share with respect to local residential telephony services amounts to approximately 14% as of August 31, 2007.

IP-TV

In August 2003 we introduced our IP-TV service that provides DVD quality video delivered 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 service as “bbTV”. This monthly subscription-based pay television service offers 83 channels consisting of a self-produced 24-hour news channel and education and recreation channels (including children’s programming), and channels whose content is obtained from other content-providers. Our news production team consists of a staff of 78 employees and produces an average of 70-80 news stories per day for our 24-hour news cycle.

Because of the scalabilityreach 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. 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. As of August 31, 2007, we had 128,000 subscriptions representing approximately 8% of the total Pay-TV subscription base in Hong Kong.

Competition

Our two main competitors in the pay-TV business are i-Cable and PCCW-HKT. The pay-TV services of i-Cable and PCCW-HKT include a significant amount of English language content such as English Premier League Football, HBO, Cinemax, ESPN and others. PCCW-HKT, in particular, has signed long-term exclusive content contracts with English Premier League Football, HBO, ESPN, and Star among others. We target a different market than these competitors by offering predominantly Chinese language content, and pricing our IP-TV service attractively to the residential mass market.

Television Broadcasts Limited and Asia Television Limited, commonly known as TVB and ATV, respectively, are indirect competitors to our pay-TV services in the Hong Kong television market. TVB and ATV account for a substantial proportion of Hong Kong’s television viewership and we market our services as supplemental to theirs. TVB and ATV are supported by advertising revenues and, therefore, must design their programming 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.

On December 31, 2007, TVB and ATV launched digital terrestrial television (“DTT”) to bring viewers a wide array of free programme choices, better reception and to open up new creativity platforms for television production. New free channels on standard definition television and high definition television were launched on December 31, 2007. TVB and ATV have pledged to speed up the construction of the six transmission stations to advance the target of providing coverage to 75% of the population of Hong Kong by August 2008. As DTT signals are broadcasted on new frequency channels, building management offices of each building may need to upgrade their communal aerial broadcast distribution systems for reception and distribution of DTT programmes. Viewers are also required to maintain a digital set-top-box, or buy an integrated digital television set with a built-in decoder for receiving DTT programmes. The launch of DTT by TVB and ATV may decrease the demand for pay television service.

International Telecommunications Services

We were among the first companies to be granted a PNETS License by the Telecommunications Authority to provide international calling card services in Hong Kong. Since we first began providing international telecommunications services in 1992, we have greatly expanded the range of services that we offer. We now offer a variety of international direct dial services to our customers at competitive rates and are one of the largest providers of international direct dial services in Hong Kong. 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.

The primary international telecommunications services that we currently offer our customers are the following:

Service

Description
IDD 1666Provides subscribers with international direct dial using the access
number 1666 in Hong Kong.
IDD 0030Provides subscribers with international direct dial using the access
number 0030 in Hong Kong.
Mobile Call Forwarding ServicesAllows call forwarding of Hong Kong mobile numbers so
that subscribers can receive calls while overseas.

We offer our international telecommunications service under the IDD 1666 and IDD 0030 brand names. These two brands provide us with flexibility in our marketing strategies. We charge our IDD 1666 and IDD 0030 users a per minute tariff rate that varies according to the destination of the call and calling prefixes, while users of services are also provided discounts depending on the time of day or day of the week when the call is placed.

In fiscal 2006, we experienced a reduction in total traffic volume of 16.8% to 788 million minutes and in fiscal 2007, a further reduction in total traffic volume of 16.4% to 659 million minutes. 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. Further, technology substitution from global VOIP providers such as Skype, which offers free PC-to-PC based international calls, is becoming more prevalent. We are proactively migrating our legacy international telecommunications services to our “2b” services, which we believe will enable us to achieve higher margins and access a wider addressable market.

Network.

International Telecommunications Network

Our international telecommunications network infrastructure is a system of switches, self-owned and leased backbone capacity, interconnection arrangements and undersea cables that connect thea subscriber’s telephone call to its destination.

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Undersea Cables
In March 2002, we received our license to provide undersea cable-based fixed telecommunications network services. 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. ThroughPursuant to the first contract, we invested incompleted the construction of a Japan-U.S. undersea cable which was completed 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 APCN 2 cable was completed in May 2002, and commercial operation began in May 2002.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 has enabled us to better control international transmission quality, reduced the costs associated with international transmission and reduced our reliance on third party infrastructure. Our international telecommunications network currently has a monthly handling capacity of approximately 150140 million minutes. We believe that the continuing improvement of our international telecommunications network is important in supporting the growth in 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. InWe take into account a number of factors in choosing the local fixed network operators and overseas carriers with whom we cooperate, we take into account a number of factors 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 15 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 mainly denominated in U.S. dollars.

International Telecommunications Switching Systems

We own three international telecommunications switching systems in Hong Kong and two in Canada, comprising one in each of Vancouver and the other in Toronto.

Our three international telecommunications switching systems in Hong Kong handle telephone calls originating or terminating in Hong Kong.Kong as well as transit traffic. Our telecommunications network mainly consists of switching equipment supplied by Nortel Networks Limited switching equipment and compression units supplied by Cisco Systems, Inc. and ECI Telecom Ltd. These systems are programmed 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.

Furthermore, since 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.

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 2007. This competition drove down the average tariff rates per minute and we expect this price competition to continue in fiscal 2008. In order to maintain our market share and high traffic volume, we have significantly reduced some of our international telecommunications rates and introduce new marketing and promotional offers from time to time. We also employ two brand names, IDD 1666 and IDD 0030, to provide us with flexibility in our marketing strategies. However, to offset 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.

Sales and Marketing

We advertise our products and services through our “on-the-street” marketing kiosks, telemarketing and direct mailing, as well as through Chinese language television, radio, print media and on the Internet.

We have developed 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 the sales representatives we use to promote City Telecom and HKBN. We provide commission basedcommission-based incentives to our residential sales force that sell our international and fixed telecommunications network services.

We have 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 staff 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 ensureenhance the reliability of our fixed telecommunications network, we continue to maintain our monitoring system, which involves:

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a year round, 24-hour, 7 days a week network operation center for real-time service monitoring and maintenance that is supported by about 120 operational and field staff;

a year round, 24-hour a day, 7 days a week, network operation center providing real-time service monitoring and maintenance services and supported by about 120 operational and field staff;
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.

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 remotely rectify the situationproblem remotely or dispatch field staff to that location should physical interaction be required. After the situationproblem 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

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, 2007,2008, our research and development department in Hong Kong consisted of approximately 3027 staff members 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, theour research and development department 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$11.09.6 million, HK$5.0 million and HK$9.6 million and HK$5.0 million for fiscal 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2007,2008, respectively.

Customer Service

We believe that providing excellent customer service and support is essential to building and retaining a large and loyal subscriber 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 our international and fixed telecommunications network services subscribers.services. 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.

In February 2007, to further enhance customer experiences, we established a “Special Duty Unit” (“SDU”) customer care system whereby residential broadband customers are assigned a designated personal customer care executive for service account matters.

Our centralized customer service call center is located in Guangzhou, which provides our customer service functions 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, 2007,2008, our Guangzhou customer service facility had 1,2641,489 employees.

Billing and Collection

Our credit and controlcollection team is responsible for securing prompt payment from subscribers. Invoices are issued on a monthly or quarterly basis with a specified payment due date. Variety of payment methods are used for payment collection, including cash, check, credit card, payment by telephone service, automatic transfer from subscribers’ bank accounts or through Internet banking. Our bad

debts expense represented approximately 3.1%,1.5%1.5%, 0.6% and 0.6%1.1% of our revenue for each of fiscal 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2007,2008, respectively. Bad debts expense for fiscal 2005 was higher compared to fiscal 2006 and 2007 due to the recognition of a provision of HK$19.5 million for mobile interconnection charges in 2005. The lower bad debt expenses in fiscal 2007 was due to the reversal of HK$9.4 million of a previously recognized provision for doubtful accounts as a result of the issuance by the Telecommunications Authority of the Final Determination for theits final determination on mobile interconnection charges. For more information regarding our provision for mobile interconnection charges, see “Our Revenues – Fixed Telecommunications Network Services” above“Factors Affecting our Results of Operations—Our Revenues” below in this annual report.

We maintain tight collection procedures, including periodic reminder notices, late paymentand impose a charge of HK$10 or a fee of 1.5% 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 the outstanding overduesuch amount from the subscriber’s application deposit. Moreover, we generally suspend an account if the outstandingamount overdue amount 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 generally subject to significant seasonal fluctuations. Our international telecommunications business typically experience a slight decrease in revenue during the second fiscal quarter of each year (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.

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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.

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.

C.     Regulatory Framework

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 issuing 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, internetInternet 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.

Currently, there are four Class Licenses within the telecommunications regulatory framework, one relating

     Prior to 1 August 2008 the operation of in-building telecommunications systems, the second relating to the provision of public wireless local area network services, the third relating to the operation of Citizen Band Radio by the public for recreational and other communications purposes and the fourth relating to the provision of telecommunications services to the general public without establishment, operation or maintenance of telecommunications equipment.

The Telecommunications Authority recognizes that fixed and mobile services will convergewas regulated separately under four types of carrier licence. Further, a number of other types of licences 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. As it will becomemove with the result that is becoming more difficult to classify a service as a “fixed” or “mobile”, the Telecommunications Authority is now proposingamendment legislation has been passed to abolish the distinction between fixed and mobile carrier licenses and establishingcreate a single Unified Carrier License, or UCL, which would encompassencompassing both fixed and mobile carrier services. The UCL regime came into operation on August 1, 2008. After that date the Telecommunications Authority has jointly withwill not issue any further fixed or mobile carrier licences (save for a Mobile Carrier Licence which the Commerce and Economic Department Bureau issued a consultation paper inviting public submissions on this issue. The Telecommunications Authority is currently expectedhad already committed to make its decision aftergrant to the consultations closesuccessful bidder of the spectrum in February 2008.the 850 MHz band to provide CDMA2000 service). Instead the UCL will be the only carrier licence to be issued for the provision of fixed, mobile and/or converged services. In the meantime, existing fixed and mobile licences will continue to be effective until their expiry date. License holders may convert existing fixed or mobile licenses into UCLs before their expiry on a voluntary basis or apply for UCLs upon the expiry of existing fixed or mobile licenses.

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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.

A PNETS 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.

We currently hold a PNETS ETS License, which was issued to us in November 1998. This PNETS ETS License has been subsequently amended twice and 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. WeOur subsidiary HKBN also holdholds 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 PNETS ETS and PNETS IVANS Licenses, we and IDD 1600 Company Limited, or IDD 1600, our wholly owned subsidiary, are required to comply with certain license conditions relating to technical and reporting matters.

Fixed Telecommunications Network Services 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 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.

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 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, our wholly-owned subsidiary, 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.

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 allowsallow 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 access network of the fixed carrier to obtain fixed telecommunications network services. 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. But, in
     On July 6, 2004 the Hong Kong Government decidedannounced 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 the telephone exchange levelleast two self-built customer access networks, such withdrawal to be fully implemented by a final sunset date of 30 June 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.

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     On July 3, 2008 the Telecommunications Authority issued a statement to confirm that the mandatory Type II Interconnection policy has been successfully withdrawn before June 30, 2008.

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.

Competition Provisions

Regulation of Anti-Competitive Conduct

Although Hong Kong has never had a general competition code, historically, holders of FTNS Licenses were 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 licencelicense 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 he 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 mergers 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, the Telecommunications Authority issued a “Code of Practice for the Service Contracts for the Provision of Public Telecommunications Services” which sets out guidelines on the preparation of service contracts. 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 code is applicable to all service providers (except mobile network operators which are subject to a separate code of practice) including holders of FTNS Licenses, such as HKBN, and holders of PNETS ETS Licenses and IVANS Licenses, such as ourselves and IDD 1600. Although the guidelines are voluntary in

nature, the Telecommunications Authority has indicated that the extent of a licensee’s compliance with the guidelines will be taken into account in assessing if a licensee has complied with the statutory provision mentioned above.

Apart from the Telecommunications Ordinance, like any companies 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 fixed telecommunications network services 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 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 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.

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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 fixed telecommunications network services 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, (“USC”).or USC Holders of FTNS Licenses and PNETS ETS Licenses, including ourselves, HKBN, and IDD1600 are required to pay USC.

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 December 28, 2007 issued by the Telecommunications Authority, the level for the period from January 1, 2005 to June 30, 2007 is confirmed to be zero cent per minute. In the circumstances, PCCW-HKT must refund to all USC contributing parties HK 0.3 cent per minute already paid before and there will not be any interest payment for the adjustment of those USC. The level of USC from July 1, 2007 onwards is to be determined by the Telecommunications Authority.

Additionally, providers of external telecommunications services, such as holders of PNETS ETS Licenses, including ourselves and IDD 1600, are required to pay a local access charge, (“LAC”),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 LAC.

Fixed Mobile Interconnection Charge

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 rate of FMIC is currently set byCurrently, except for the Telecommunications Authority. The current level of FMIC charged by the incumbent Fixed Network Operator, PCCW Limited, the terms and conditions for the provision of interconnection service by the Fixed Network Operator to Mobile Network Operators are not regulated by the Telecommunications Authority but are subject to commercial negotiation between Fixed Network Operator and Mobile Network Operators. In case that commercial agreement can not be reached on the terms and conditions, Telecommunication Authority may intervene by mediating and, if necessary determining the terms and conditions which are in dispute.
     The current level of FMIC charged by the PCCW Limited is HK$4.36HK4.36 cents per occupancy minute, as determined by the Telecommunications Authority in November 2004. In June 2007, the Telecommunications Authority determined the FMIC rates for Hong Kong Broadband Network Limited, or HKBN, our wholly owned subsidiary 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 HK$4.8HK4.8 cents per occupancy minute for interconnection from April 1, 2002 to August 31, 2002, HK$4.22HK4.22 cents per occupancy minute for interconnection from September 1, 2002 to August 31, 2003 and HK$2.89HK2.89 cents per occupancy minute for interconnection from September 1, 20042003 to August 31, 2004. However,In February 2008, HKBN requested Telecommunications 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. As of 9 January 2009, the new determination is still in process.

     The Telecommunications Authority has indicated in its statement published on April 27, 2007, the Telecommunications Authority has indicated 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.

Television Broadcasting Industry

At present, Hong Kong has two licensed domestic terrestrial broadcasters, TVB and ATV, providing free-to-air broadcasting services. In addition, there are also three licensed domestic pay-TV broadcasters, namely HKCTV,Hong Kong Cable Television Limited, PCCW Media Limited and TVB Pay Vision Limited (formerly known as Galaxy Satellite Broadcasting Limited.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 programmeprogram service” in Hong Kong without a license. “Television programmeprogram service” is broadly defined to mean the provision of television programs 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 point-to-point or a point-to-multipoint basis. The Broadcasting Ordinance exempts certain categories of television program services from the current licensing regime, including television program 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 has not obtained a pay-television broadcasting license and provides IP-TV services under its FTNS License.

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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 program 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 program 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 program service license. The restrictions do not prohibit the ownership of any voting shares in a domestic free television program 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 program 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 to the Chief Executive in Council.

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 May 4, 2007.

D.C. Organizational Structure
     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.

23


The following chart sets forth our principal subsidiaries as of January 21, 2008:

LOGO


9, 2009:
(CHART)

(1)

(1)The other immediate subsidiarysubsidiaries of City Telecom (H.K.) Limited isare SGBN Singapore Broadband Network Pte. Limited and Golden Trinity Holdings Limited. The immediate subsidiaries of Golden Trinity Holdings Limited which hasare Warwick Gold Enterprises Limited and Attitude Holdings Limited as its immediate subsidiaries.

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 other subsidiary of City Telecom (Canada) Inc. is 963673 Ontario Ltd.

(5)

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, and Hong Kong Broadband Phone Limited and Hong Kong Broadband Digital TV Limited.

The jurisdiction of incorporation and our ownership percentage of each these subsidiaries as of January 21, 20089, 2009 were as follows:

    Percentage of interest
held by City Telecom
(%)

Name

 (%)
NameJurisdiction of Incorporation Direct Indirect

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.

 The United States of America  100

City Telecom (Vancouver) Inc.

 Canada  100

City Telecom Inc.

 Canada  100

City Telecom International Limited

 British Virgin Islands 100 

24


Percentage of interest
held by City Telecom
(%)
NameJurisdiction of IncorporationDirectIndirect
Credibility Holdings Limited

 British Virgin Islands 100 

CTI Guangzhou Customer Services Co.Company Limited(1)

 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

(1)

The company has only registered its Chinese name. The English name is an unregistered translation.

E.D. Property, Plants and Equipment

For the provision of fixed telecommunications 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. HKBN, our wholly owned subsidiary, owns two offices withIn Hong Kong, we own an aggregate of 147,000136,900 square feet and two switching centers comprisedpredominately for self use as of six switching systems in Hong Kong.

August 31, 2008.

For the provision of international telecommunications services, we own three switching systems in Hong Kong and two in Canada (one each 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 lease property in Hong Kong for two retail shops and for a 3,500 square footfeet customer service center in Mongkok.

Mongkok, Kowloon, Hong Kong.

We rely on key supplier Cisco Systems Inc., Nortel Networks Limited and other suppliers to provide equipment, underground cables and other necessary components in building our Next Generation Network infrastructure, and for our VOIPVoIP equipment. In order for new subscribers to be able to access our IP-TV services, we must install an 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.

We depend on Cisco Systems, Inc. and other third parties for ongoing support and assistance with respect to maintenance and repairs. 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.

ITEM 5. OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS

You should read the following discussion together with the rest of this annual report, including the 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.

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,VoIP, IP-TV and corporate data services through our self-owned Next Generation Network. As of August 31, 20072008, we had a total of approximately 683,000801,000 subscriptions for our fixed telecommunications network services subscriptions.services. In addition, to providing fixed telecommunications network services, we are a provider of international telecommunications services in Hong Kong. We offer a variety of international telecommunications services, and products including direct dial services, international calling cards and mobile call forwarding services. Ourservices in Hong Kong. As of August 31, 2008, the customer database of our total international telecommunications services customer database comprisescomprised approximately 2.3 million registered accounts.

Our self-owned network is one of the world’s largest Next Generation Networks and is cited as a global reference case by our primary vendors, Cisco Systems, Inc. and Nortel Networks Limited.

     Our Next Generation Network has a current coverage of 1.4currently covers 1.5 million residential home passes, which representsrepresenting approximately 60%67% of the population in Hong Kong’s population.Kong. The coverage of our network is concentrated in Hong Kong’s most densely populated areas, which reduces our cost of network deployment per home pass.

Unlike other new entrant operators, we operate an “end-to-end” network that transmits data between our subscribers’ premises, our IP network hub sites and our switching centers in Hong Kong.

We also offer international telecommunications services to our FTNS customers 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, allowing us to generate a usage charge.

A. Factors Affecting Our Results of Operations
     The preparation of our consolidated financial statements in conformity with Hong Kong Financial Reporting Standards and accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires our management to make estimates and assumptions about future events. These estimates and underlying assumptions affects the amounts of assets and liabilities reported, disclosures about contingent assets and liabilities, and reported amounts of revenues and expenses.

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Such estimates include the valuation of accounts receivable, goodwill, long-lived assets, and assumptions used in the calculation of income taxes, among others. These estimates and assumptions are based on our management’s best estimates and judgment. We evaluate our estimates and assumptions on an ongoing basis using historical experience and other factors, including the current economic environment, which we believe to be reasonable under the circumstances. We adjust such estimates and assumptions when facts and circumstances dictate. Decreases in consumer spending or deterioration of the local economic conditions brought about by the global credit crisis have increased uncertainty inherent in such estimates and assumptions including our estimates of future operations. As future events and their effects cannot be determined with precision, actual results could differ significantly from these estimates. Change in those estimates resulting from continuing changes in economic environment will be reflected in the consolidated financial statements in future periods.
Our Revenues

Fixed Telecommunications Network Services. We charge our customers a monthly service charge for each of the fixed telecommunications network services that we provide, and the scalability of our network allows us to sell additional services to our existing customers, for example adding local VOIP or IP-TV services to our current broadband Internet subscribers, with minimal additional network and operating costs. As a result, each new service we add to our existing subscription base contributes significantly to our profitability. We have not generally soldservices.Revenues from our fixed telecommunications network services bundled together at discounted rates. Instead, we have focused on increasing our subscription base by offering a single service to new subscribers at an attractive entry price. After the customer has begun to use our service, we then try to up-sell additional services to the customer.

In addition to theprimarily consist of monthly service charges generatedpayable by our fixed telecommunications network business, we also receivesubscribers and interconnection charges frompayable by other telecommunications operators in Hong Kong that use our network to deliver their customers’ telecommunications traffic.

operators.

Monthly service charges.We charge our customers a monthly service charge for each type of fixed telecommunications network services that we provide. After a customer has begun to use one of our services, we then try to up-sell additional services to the customer to generate more revenues.
Interconnection charges.As a Fixed Telecommunications Network Services, or FTNS licensee, HKBN, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company, is obliged to provide interconnection services to enable delivery of telecommunications service to customers of different operators, including mobile network operators.
Since HKBN a wholly-owned subsidiary ofwas granted the Company, is obliged to provide interconnection services to enable delivery of telecommunications service to customers of different operators, including mobile network operators. Unless an agreement cannot be reached, the rate of such interconnection charges are subject to commercial agreement between interconnecting parties. Since the issuance of its FTNS license, HKBN haswe have been chargingbilling mobile network operators for its interconnection servicescharges using the availableinterconnection rates under the existing calculation model (fully distributed cost model) for interconnection services between fixed and mobile operators, whichoperators. The rates are computed based on a fully distributed cost model using the historical cost data of PCCW-HKT, the incumbent FTNS operator. We have recognized all such mobile interconnection charges as revenue. As of August 31, 2007, the majority of the mobile interconnection charges billed to mobile network operators had not been collected.

In May 2004, the Telecommunications Authority confirmed that mobile network operators are obliged to pay interconnection charges to HKBN in accordance with the charging principles promulgated by the Telecommunications Authority. Certain mobile network operators, however, disputed the basis of our calculation. In August 2004, to resolve our dispute with one mobile network operator, we asked the Telecommunications Authority to make a determination on the level of interconnection charges payable by such mobile network operator to HKBN and the effective date of the determinedafter which such interconnection charges.

charges shall be applicable.

In November 2005, HKBN entered into contractual agreements with two other mobile network operators, who agreed to pay to HKBN on 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.

In March 2006, the Telecommunications Authority or TA, made a confidential preliminary analysis (the “2006 PA”) on the Determination with respect to the rates of mobile interconnection charges payable by mobile operators under dispute and the timing of the Determination.determination. The final level of mobile interconnection charges was then subject to the Determinationdetermination to be issued by TA.the authority. As a result of the foregoing, in fiscal 2006, we recognized mobile interconnection charges of HK$46.722.0 million which included mobile interconnection charges for fiscal 2005 previously not recognized due to the uncertainties existing at that time and charges for fiscal 2006, both of which were measured based on the 2006 PA.

In March 2007, the TATelecommunications Authority issued a revised confidential preliminary analysis (the “2007 PA”) which superseded the 2006 PA. The 2007 PA set out the rates of mobile interconnection charges, which are different from those rates stated in the 2006 PA.
In June 2007, the TATelecommunications Authority issued a final determination (the “Final“2004 Determination”) which set out the rates of mobile interconnection charges payable by the mobile operator under dispute for interconnection services provided by HKBN for the period from April 1, 2002 to August 31, 2004, which approximatesuperseded the rates stated in both the 2006 PA and 2007 PA.

PA issued by the Telecommunications Authority previously.

Based on the Final2004 Determination, we recorded mobile interconnection charges of HK$40.9 million in fiscal 2007, which include charges for the current fiscal year2007 and additional charges for fiscal 2005 and 2006 previously measured based on the 2006 PA. We have also reversed a portion of thewritten back provision for doubtful accounts for mobile interconnection charges receivables of HK$9.4 million based on the amount we expected to collect for billings outstanding through August 31, 2007.
During fiscal 2008, HKBN entered into contractual agreements with additional 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 for the subsequent period at an interim rate stated in the agreements, which will be adjusted based on further determination to be issued by Telecommunications Authority.
In February 2008, HKBN requested the Telecommunications Authority to make a new determination with four mobile operators (the “2008 Determination”) on the rate of mobile interconnection charge and interest thereon. In September 2008, the authority indicated that it accepted HKBN’s request for a determination covering the mobile interconnection charges payable by the mobile operators for the period from April 1, 2002 to April 26, 2009 (for certain mobile operators who have reached the relevant contractual agreements with HKBN) or for the period from September 1, 2004 to April 26, 2009 (for certain other mobile operators who have reached the relevant contractual agreements with HKBN), and the interest rate thereon. As of January 9, 2009, the 2008 Determination is still in progress.

26


For fiscal 2008, we recognized revenue related to mobile interconnection charges of HK$29.6 million, representing the amount of mobile interconnection charges that our management expects to collect. As of August 31, 2008, certain amount of mobile interconnection charges billed to mobile network operators had not been collected.
International telecommunications.telecommunications services

Our total

     Substantially all of our international telecommunications revenues are generated by the per minute tariff rate that we charge our IDD customers. 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.
     The customer database of our international telecommunications services customer database comprisescomprised approximately 2.3 million registered accounts.accounts as of August 31, 2008. During fiscal 2007,2008, we experienced a reduction in total traffic volume of 16.4%12.9% to 659574 million minutes. Competition during the year was intense 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. Further, technology substitution from global VOIPVoIP providers such as Skype, which offer free PC-to-PC based international calls, is also becoming more prevalent. As a consequence of reduced minutes and lowermarginally offset by higher revenues per minute, our total international telecommunications revenues decreased by 22.4%10.0% to HK$324.5292.0 million in fiscal 2007.

Substantially all of our international telecommunications revenues are generated by the per minute tariff rate that we charge our IDD customers. For each of our 1666 and 0030 calling plans, these charges vary according to the destination of the call and we also provide certain discounts that depend on the time of day or day of the week at which the call is placed.

2008.

Our 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 theour IP-TV service and costs of inventories sold, local interconnection charges payable to other local fixed network operators and interconnection charges payable to international bandwidth providers and do not include depreciation charge which is included in general and administration expenses.

Other Operating Expenses.We have incurred significant operating costs related to our efforts to promote our broadband Internet access, local VOIP,VoIP, IP-TV and corporate data services. As a result, our sales and marketing costs in 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, particularly as we work towards enhancing our brand value.

Other operating expenses also include salaries and related costs, office, general and administrative costs and depreciation and amortization. Salaries and related costs include those employees working on our various service offerings and on maintaining and operating our Next Generation Network.

Critical Accounting Policies

Introduction

Our consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with HKFRSs.HKFRS. Accounting principles generally accepted in Hong Kong differ in certain significant respects from accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”),GAAP, details of which are set out in note 2931 to our consolidated financial statements. Our significant accounting policies are more fully described in note 2 to our consolidated financial statements. The preparation of our financial statements in conformity with HKFRSsHKFRS 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. 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.

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 HKFRSs,HKFRS, our accounting policies are necessarily compliant with all aspects of HKFRSs. HKFRSsHKFRS. HKFRS is 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 financial statements on that basis.

In developing accounting policies, in addition to HKFRSsHKFRS requirements, we also consider telecommunications industry practice in other countries. Where there is no conflict with HKFRSsHKFRS we also align our accounting policies with U.S. GAAP. In all material respects our accounting policies are applied consistently across City Telecom. The critical accounting policies discussed below generally apply to all segments of City Telecom.

The following are the most significant accounting estimates and judgments we apply in producing our consolidated financial statements.

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 lives are estimated at the time the asset is acquired based on historical experience, the expected usage, wear and tear of the assets, as well as technical

27


obsolescence arising from changes in the market demands or service output of the assets. Changes in technology or industry conditions may cause the estimated period of use or the value of these assets to change.

We started providing broadband Internet access service in 2000 and substantially completed the construction of the fibrefiber backbone network in fiscal 2005. With only a short history of operating the broadband business, we assessed the estimated useful lives of our network assets based on our knowledge and expected usage at that time. As we have gained more experience and knowledge of the broadband business, our expected usage of the assets and the impact of certain new telecommunication technologies indicated that we should re-evaluate the estimated useful lives of our network assets.

During the second half of fiscal 2007, we reviewed the estimated useful lives of fixed assets based on technology considerations, actual business experience, consultation with internal experts and external valuation firm and industry benchmarks. Based on such review, certain classes of network assets are expected to operate beyond their original estimated useful lives and as such the estimated useful lives of the fibrefiber network and related peripherals have been revised from 4-15 years to 6-20 years effective from June 1, 2007.

The change in the estimated useful lives is a change in accounting estimate that is accounted for prospectively from June 1, 2007. As a result of such change, the depreciation expense decreased by HK$15.9 million, and both income before taxation and net income after taxation increased by HK$15.9 million for fiscal 2007. The increase in net income resulted in a HK$2.6HK2.6 cents increase in both basic earnings per share and diluted earnings per share. This change also increased each of total assets, retained profits and total shareholders’ equity for fiscal 2007 by HK$15.9 million.

Impairment of fixed assets

Under HKFRSsHKFRS and U.S. GAAP, 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 the 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 the 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 HKFRSs,HKFRS, the recoverable amount is the present value of estimated net future cash flows which we expect to recover from the future use of the asset, plus the asset’s residual value on disposal, discounted at the financial asset’s original effective interest rate. 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 or discounted estimated cash flows.

Under U.S. GAAP, recoverability of assets is measured by a comparison of the carrying amount of an asset to estimated undiscounted future cash flows, an impairment charge is recognized by the amount by which the carrying amount of the asset exceeds the fair value of the asset which is the amount the asset can be bought and sold in a current transaction between willing parties.

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 customer 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 three fiscal years ended August 31, 2007,2008, except for investment property, no impairment loss was recognized based on the estimated recoverable amount of our long-lived assets. The Company has assessed the open market value of the investment property and based on such assessment, the carrying amount has been written down by HK$1.1 million for the year ended August 31, 2006. There was no difference between HKFRSsHKFRS and U.S. GAAP in the accounting for the impairment in our investment property because the investment property represents the lowest level at which cash flows can be identified that are largely independent of the cash flows of other asset groups and its carrying value before the recognition of an impairment loss was higher than its recoverable amount.

Accounts Receivable

Under HKFRSsHKFRS and U.S. GAAP, provision is made against accounts receivable to the extent they are considered to be doubtful. This provision requires judgment regarding the collectibilitycollectability of certain receivables both as they are incurred and as they age. We determineassess bad debt provisions 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 collectibilitycollectability of accounts receivable for which provisions are not made could affect our future results of operations.

Included in the accounts receivable balance (net of provisionallowance for doubtful accounts)debts) are receivables for mobile interconnection charges of HK$49.862.1 million, HK$62.1103.8 million and HK$103.871.9 million as of August 31, 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2007,2008 respectively. The balance represented mobile interconnection charges we billed to the local mobile network operators and the majoritysome of which, however, had not been collected.

28


Changes in the provisionallowance for doubtful accountsdebts consist of:

   Year ended August 31, 
   2005  2006  2007 
   (Thousands of HK$) 

Balance at beginning of the year

  22,959  48,316  55,745 

Additions charged to expense(1)(2)

  35,445  17,450  15,973 

Revesals

  —    —    (9,404)

Write-off(2)

  (10,088) (10,021) (39,922)
          

Balance at the end of the year

  48,316  55,745  22,392 
          

             
  Year ended August 31,
  2006 2007 2008
  (Thousands of HK$)
Balance at beginning of the year  48,316   55,745   22,392 
Additions charged to expense(1)(2)
  17,450   15,973   14,293 
Reversals     (9,404)   
Write-off(2)
  (10,021)  (39,922)  (24,741)
             
             
Balance at the end of the year  55,745   22,392   11,944 
             
(1)ProvisionAllowance for doubtful accountsdebts as at August 31, 2005 and 2006 includes provisionallowance for mobile interconnection charges receivables of HK$19.5 million and 20.8 million respectively (For more information regarding our provision for mobile interconnection charges, see “Our Revenues—Fixed Telecommunications Network Services” above in this annual report.).
(2)Following the TA’s Final2004 Determination issued in June 2007, in fiscal 2007 the Company has reversed HK$9.4 million of the provisionallowance for doubtful accountsdebts previously recognized for mobile interconnection charges to the consolidated statement of operations and has written off the remaining balance of the provisionallowance of HK$11.4 million against the accounts receivable relating to mobile interconnection charges.

Deferred Taxation

Under HKFRSs,HKFRS, 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, we consider 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.

     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 31 August 2008, taking into consideration of the current 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$159.6 million, which resulted in the recognition of deferred tax assets of HK$26.3 million. As at 31 August 2008, the Group had not recognized deferred tax assets in respect of unused tax losses of HK$9.5 million, because it was not probable that future taxable profits can be generated to utilize the tax losses. All tax losses are subject to agreement with local tax authorizes.
Under U.S. GAAP, a valuation allowance against deferred tax assets is recorded if we determine it is more likely than not that we will not be able to utilize such benefits in the future.

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. Any changes in the estimate of future operations could change the recognition of such assets, which could significantly affect the results of our operations.

A change in judgment regarding the likelihood of the generation of future taxable income necessary to realize deferred tax assets could result in a change in the valuation allowance on deferred tax assets which would impact our results under both HKFRSsHKFRS and U.S. GAAP.

USC charges

Our management makes their best estimates for charges of the USC payable to PCCW-HKT in order to fund the costs of network development incurred by PCCW-HKT in remote areas in Hong Kong (the “Development”).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 financial statements. The Telecommunications Authority periodically reviews the actual costs incurred by PCCW-HKT in the Developmentdevelopment and adjusts the amounts owed to PCCW-HKT, or to be refunded by it, to the respective USC contributing parties, including our company (the “Rate Revisions”).company. Accordingly, the estimate made by our management for a financial year is subject to changes based on the Rate Revisions identified during a financial year andrevisions published by the Telecommunications Authority up to the date prior to the release of our 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.

Revenue Recognition

Revenue for the provision of telecommunications services is recognized when an arrangement exists, service is rendered, fee is fixed or determinable and collectibilitycollectability 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. Network interconnection charges are recorded as revenue based on usage of the fixed telecommunications network of the Company by mobile and other fixed telecommunications network operators. The determination of the rates on

29


mobile interconnection charges at which revenue is recognized involved significant estimates by management. Significant changes in management estimates may result in material revenue adjustments.

Mobile network operators are obliged to pay interconnection charges to HKBN 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 HKBN, the majoritycertain amount of the mobile interconnection charges billed by HKBN had not been collected as of August 31, 2007.2008. 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. The amount recognized for the fiscal 2004 or before was determined using the available rates under the 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. The amount recognized in fiscal year 2005 reflects a discount from the amount billed which is determined based on our assessment of the range of likely outcomes from the determination process. The amount recognized in fiscal year 2006 is based on the preliminary rates from the Telecommunications Authority as we await a final ruling by the Telecommunications Authority on the level of charges payable by one of the operators. The amountamounts recognized in fiscal year 2007 isand 2008 are based on the final determination2004 Determination issued by the Telecommunications Authority in June 2007 which setsets out the rates payable by a mobile operator under dispute. For a discussion of our revenue recognition of mobile interconnection charges, please refer to “Our Revenues-Fixed Telecommunications Network Services”“Factors Affecting Our Results of Operations — Our Revenues” above in this Item 5 of this annual report and notes 25(c)note 26(c) to our consolidated financial statements. Actual amounts realized could be different from our estimate.

Fair value of share options

In assessing the value of the share options granted, Black-Scholes option pricing model (the “Black-Scholes Model”) has been used. The Black-Scholes Model is one of the most generally accepted methodologies used to calculate the value of options and the assumptions used in the Black-Scholes Model include expected life of the options, risk-free interest rate, expected volatility, expected dividend yield and the market value of the ordinary shares of the Company.

The Black-Scholes Model, applied for determination of the estimated fair value of the share options granted under the Company’s share option scheme was developed for use in estimating the fair value of traded options that are fully transferable and have no vesting restrictions. Such an option pricing model requires input of assumptions, including the expected stock volatility, and expected dividend yield. As the Company’s share options have characteristics significantly different from those of traded options, the determination of fair value of the options granted is sensitive to certain assumptions used in the valuation model, in particular the expected volatility.

Legal contingencies

We are currently involved in certain legal proceedings. The assessment of the ultimate outcome of those proceedings is derived from consultation with outside counsel, as well as an assessment of litigation and settlement strategies. A future event or change in the facts and circumstances may require us to make accruals which would be charged to our income statement in the future.

A. Operating Results

In addition to our operations in Hong Kong, we also provide international telecommunications and Internet access services in Canada. We own all of the share capital of two telecommunications companies in Canada, City Telecom Inc. and City Telecom (B.C.) Inc., through a wholly owned subsidiary. 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.

Our consolidated financial statements reflect the consolidated results of operations and financial position of these subsidiary companies from the date of their acquisition by us. However, as of August 31, 2007, none of these subsidiary companies located outside of Hong Kong has made a material contribution to our revenues or results of operations, and in fiscal 2007, they contributed approximately 1.8% to our revenues.

The following table sets forth, for the years indicated, a summary of our results of operations.

   Year Ended August 31, 
   2005  2006  2007  2007 
   HK$  HK$  HK$  US$ 
   (In thousands) 

HKFRSs

     

Revenues

     

Fixed telecommunications network services

  629,464  716,600  816,800  104,761 

International telecommunications

  532,595  418,276  324,470  41,616 
             
  1,162,059  1,134,876  1,141,270  146,377 
             

Operating Expenses:

     

Network costs

  (339,402) (300,593) (214,591) (27,523)

Other operating expenses

     

Salaries and related costs

  (259,392) (256,721) (221,102) (28,358)

Sales and marketing expenses

  (267,983) (204,952) (219,253) (28,121)

Office, general and administrative expenses

  (157,497) (164,208) (129,077) (16,555)

Depreciation and amortization

  (237,714) (276,464) (258,103) (33,104)

Provision for doubtful accounts

  (35,445) (17,450) (6,569) (843)
             

Total other operating expenses

  (958,031) (919,795) (834,104) (106,981)
             

Total Operating Expenses

  (1,297,433) (1,220,388) (1,048,695) (134,504)
             

Income/(loss) from operations

  (135,374) (85,512) 92,575  11,873 

Interest income

  13,578  20,378  22,671  2,908 

Interest expense

  (54,462) (88,637) (87,504) (11,223)

Other income, net

  6,037  4,465  3,149  404 
             

Income/(loss) before taxation

  (170,221) (149,306) 30,891  3,962 

Income taxes (expense)/credit

  6,725  7,244  (2,026) (260)
             

Net income/(loss)

  (163,496) (142,062) 28,865  3,702 
             

                 
  Year Ended August 31,
  2006 2007 2008 2008
  HK$ HK$ HK$ US$
  (In thousands)
HKFRS
                
Revenues                
Fixed telecommunications network services  716,600   816,800   1,011,038   129,561 
International telecommunications  418,276   324,470   291,943   37,411 
                 
   1,134,876   1,141,270   1,302,981   166,972 
                 
Operating Expenses:                
Network costs  (300,593)  (214,591)  (178,367)  (22,857)
                 
Other operating expenses                
Salaries and related costs  (256,721)  (221,102)  (247,460)  (31,711)
Sales and marketing expenses  (204,952)  (203,673)  (307,743)  (39,436)
Office, general and administrative expenses  (164,208)  (144,657)  (186,547)  (23,905)
Depreciation and amortization  (276,464)  (258,103)  (210,051)  (26,917)
Provision for doubtful accounts  (17,450)  (6,569)  (14,293)  (1,832)
                 
Total other operating expenses  (919,795)  (834,104)  (966,094)  (123,801)
                 
                 
Total Operating Expenses  (1,220,388)  (1,048,695)  (1,144,461)  (146,658)
                 
                 
(Loss)/income from operations  (85,512)  92,575   158,520   20,314 
Interest income  20,378   22,671   15,596   1,999 
Interest expense  (88,637)  (87,504)  (75,137)  (9,629)
Other income, net  4,465   3,149   9,393   1,204 
                 
(Loss)/income before taxation  (149,306)  30,891   108,372   13,888 
Income taxes (expense)/credit  7,244   (2,026)  16,818   2,155 
                 
Net (loss)/income  (142,062)  28,865   125,190   16,043 
                 
Year Ended August 31, 20072008 Compared to Year Ended August 31, 2006

2007

Revenues. Our total revenuesRevenues increased by 0.6%14.2% to HK$1,303.0 million in fiscal 2008 from HK$1,141.3 in fiscal 2007, reflecting an increase in revenue from fixed telecommunications network services, the effects of which were partially offset by a decrease in revenue from our international communications services. Revenue contribution from our fixed telecommunications network services increased to 77.6% in fiscal 2008 from 71.6% in fiscal 2007.
Fixed telecommunications network services.Revenues from fixed telecommunications network services increased by 23.8% to HK$1,011.0 million in fiscal 2008 from HK$816.8 million in fiscal 2007. The 22.4% declineincrease was primarily caused by an increase of 17.3% of our FTNS subscription base to 801,000 as of August 31,2008 from 683,000 as of August 31, 2007 and, to a lesser extent, an increase in the average revenue per user for our Internet access services. We believe that there is increasing market acceptance of premium pricing.
Broadband Internet access.Subscription base for our Internet access services rose by 27.9%, to 316,000 as of August 31, 2008 from 247,000 as of August 31, 2007. During fiscal 2008, our average revenue per user increased, mainly because we focused on differentiating our services by emphasizing our ultra high Internet access speed. Our strategy was to acquire and retain customers who

30


are willing to enter into subscription contracts with a longer service period and to pay higher prices in return for a more stable and higher speed broadband service and a reliable customer support. This strategy was proven successful as evidenced by the increase in revenues from our Internet access services.
Local VoIP.Subscription base for our local VoIP services rose by 6.8%, to 329,000 as of August 31, 2008 from 308,000 as of August 31, 2007, mainly due to improved branding and our greater success in cross selling our VoIP services to subscribers of our Internet access services.
IP-TV.Subscription base for our IP-TV services increased by 21.9% to 156,000 subscriptions, with the majority of the new subscriptions coming from existing subscribers of our Internet access and local VoIP services.
     Included in revenue from fixed telecommunications network services also was revenue related to mobile interconnection charges of HK$29.6 million in fiscal 2008. The mobile interconnection charges in fiscal 2008 decreased by 27.6% compared to fiscal 2007 because the amount recognized in fiscal 2007 included charges for fiscal 2007 and additional charges for fiscal 2005 and 2006 previously measured based on the 2006 PA. For more information regarding mobile interconnection charges, see “Factors Affecting Our Results of Operations — Our Revenues”.
International telecommunications services.Revenues from our international telecommunications services revenuesdecreased by 10.0% to HK$292.0 million in fiscal 2008 from HK$324.5 million in fiscal 2007 offset our 14.0% increase in FTNS revenues to HK$816.8 million in fiscal 2007.

Our fixed telecommunications network services continued to record significant revenue growth and increased their contribution to our total revenues, accounting for 71.6% of total revenues in fiscal 2007, compared to 63.1% and 54.2% in fiscal 2006 and fiscal 2005, respectively. During fiscal 2007, our FTNS subscription base increased 10.7% to 683,000. This return to growth is an indicator that the market has now accepted a premium pricing positioning.

With respect to voice services, our VOIP subscription base rose by 9.6%, to 308,000 subscriptions The decrease was primarily due to improved branding and crossing selling from our broadband customers.

With respect to broadband services, our subscription base rose by 12.3%, to 247,000 subscriptions. During fiscal 2007, we focused on differentiating our services by emphasizing our ultra high Internet access speeds, which allow us to increase our average revenue per user. By providing stable and high speed broadband services and reliable customer service, we aim to acquire and retain customers with longer subscription period at higher price. This has significantly increased our revenue from our fixed telecommunications network services.

With respect to IP-TV services, our subscription base increased by 10.3% to 128,000 subscriptions, withlower volumes, the majority of the new subscriptions coming from existing broadband and voice customers.

Our international telecommunications business revenues decreased by 22.4% to HK$324.5 million in fiscal 2007 due to the combined effects of lower volumes and lowerwhich were partially offset by higher revenue per minute. 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 share.shares. Further, technology from global VOIPVoIP providers such as Skype, which offer free PC-to-PC based international calls, iswas also becoming more prevalent.

Operating expenses.Operating expenses increased by 9.1% to HK$1,144.5 million in fiscal 2008 from HK$1,048.7 million in fiscal 2007, reflecting an increase in other operating expenses, the effects of which were partially offset by a decrease in network costs.
Network costs.Network costs decreased by 28.6%16.9% to HK$178.4 million in fiscal 2008 from HK$214.6 million in fiscal 2007 mainly due to a reduction in international tariff volume and less reliance on third parties backhaul for our FTNS business.

the recovery of HK$7.6 million Universal Services Contributions from PCCW-HK during fiscal 2008 pursuant to the TA Statement issued by the Telecommunications Authority. There was no recovery of Universal Services Contributions during fiscal 2007.

Other operating expenses.expenses. Our otherOther operating expenses excluding network costs, decreasedincreased by 9.3%15.8% to HK$966.1 million in fiscal 2008 from HK$834.1 million in fiscal 2007.

Salaries and related costs.Salaries and related costs increased by 11.9% to HK247.5 million in fiscal 2008. We increased our total work force by 13.3% to 3,051 employees as of August 31, 2008 from 2,692 employees as of August 31, 2007, primarily due to the increased operating scale in fixed telecommunications network services.
Sales and marketing expenses.Sales and marketing expenses increased by 51.1% to HK$307.7 million in fiscal 2008 from HK$203.7 million in fiscal 2007, as we increased our salaries and commissions for our sales and marketing employees of HK$59.9 million and the increased mass media advertising costs of HK$30.3 million. In fiscal 2008, we started a strategy of promoting the brand to a wider audience.
Office, general and administrative expenses.Office, general and administrative expenses increased by 28.9% to HK$186.5 million in fiscal 2008 from HK$144.7 million in fiscal 2007, mainly due to the expanded operating scale of our fixed telecommunications network services.
Depreciation and amortization.Depreciation and amortization expenses decreased by 18.6% to HK$210.1 million in fiscal 2008 from HK$258.1 million in fiscal 2007. Our management revised the estimated useful lives of our fiber network and related peripherals from 4-15 years to 6-20 years, and the revisions became effective from June 1, 2007. As a result, fiscal 2008 was the first full year in which the impact on depreciation charges resulting from such revision was realized. The effect of the decrease in depreciation expense for fiscal 2008 due to the changes in estimated useful lives which was estimated to be HK$63.6 million.
Provision for doubtful accounts.Provision for doubtful accounts increased to HK$14.3 million in fiscal 2008 from HK$6.6 million in fiscal 2007. Included in the provision for fiscal 2007 was the reversal of HK$9.4 million of the allowance for doubtful debts previously recognized for mobile interconnection charges. If such effect was excluded, the provision for doubtful accounts decreased by HK$1.7 million due to better collection efforts. For more information regarding our provisions for mobile interconnection charges, see “Factors Affecting Our Results of Operations—Our Revenues” above in this annual report.
Salaries and related costs.Income from operations. Salaries and related costs decreasedFor the foregoing reasons, income from operations increased by 16.1%71.2% to HK221.1HK$158.5 million in fiscal 2008 from HK$92.6 million in fiscal 2007. During fiscal 2007, weOperating margin increased our total work force by 4.9% to 2,692 employees due to the expansion of operations in fixed telecommunications network services. The reduction in salaries and related costs was mainly due to the flow over benefits from streamlining the work force12.2% in fiscal 2006.

Sales and marketing expenses.Our sales and marketing expenses increased by 6.9% to HK$219.2 million2008 from 8.1% in fiscal 2007 as we increased our sales and marketing efforts2007. The increase in brand building through mass media advertising. We started a strategy of promoting the brand to a wider audience. A series of 1 minute mini programs were shown to educate viewers on the merits of HKBN’s high bandwidth Next Generation Network.

Office, general and administrative expenses. Office, general and administrative expenses decreased by 21.4% to HK$129.1 million in fiscal 2007 mainly as a result of last year’s operational efficiency plan and cost savings due to the decentralization of authority to department heads.

Depreciation and amortization. Depreciation and amortization expenses decreased by 6.7% to HK$258.1 million in fiscal 2007 mainly due to changes in the estimated useful lives of certain assets amounting to HK$15.9 million.

During the second half of fiscal 2007, we reviewed the estimated useful lives of fixed assets based on technology considerations, actual business experience, consultation with external valuation firm and industry benchmark. Based on the review, the estimated useful lives of certain classes of network assets have been extended from 4-15 years to 6-20 years effective from June 1, 2007.

The change in the estimated useful lives is a change in accounting estimate that is accounted for prospectively from June 1, 2007. As a result of such change, depreciation expense decreased by HK$15.9 million for the year ended August 31, 2007. Earning per share is also increased by 2.6 cents. This change does not have any effect on the total depreciation charges of those assets during their remaining useful lives.

Provision for doubtful accounts. Overall, our provision for doubtful accounts decreased to HK$6.6 million in fiscal 2007 mainly due to the reversal of previously recognized provisions for mobile interconnection charges receivable. In fiscal 2006, we recorded a provision of HK$20.8 million for mobile interconnection charges receivable accumulated from previous years following our assessment of the collectibility of these charges. In fiscal 2007, we have reversed a portion of this provision by HK$9.4 million based on the rates set by the TA in the final determination issued in June 2007. Our provision for other trade receivables recorded in fiscal 2007operating margin was HK$16.0 million compared to the HK$17.5 million in fiscal 2006. For more information regarding our provisions for mobile interconnection charges, see “Our Revenues—Fixed Telecommunications Network Services” above in this annual report.

Income from operations. We recorded an income from operations of HK$92.6 million in fiscal 2007, compared to a loss from operations of HK$85.5 million in fiscal 2006. The income from operations isprimarily due to higher revenue contribution from fixed telecommunications network services and the increasebetter margin achieved in margin from our international businesstelecommunications services as a result of the drop offphasing out of lowlower margin customers.

Interest income and expense. Our interestInterest income wasdecreased by 31.3% to HK$15.6 million in fiscal 2008 from HK$22.7 million in fiscal 2007 compared2007. The decrease was primarily due to HK$20.4 milliona decrease in fiscal 2006. The increase inour average outstanding cash balance, as a significant portion of our interest income was due to a strong net cash inflow from our operations and a favorable interest rate environment. We derive interest incomederived from our deposit of surplus capital in interest-bearing accounts at commercial banks. Our interest expenseThe decrease in our average cash balance in fiscal 20072008 was HK$87.5

31


mainly due to the repurchase of our 8.75% senior notes with an aggregate principal amount of US$35.6 million which is comparable to HK$88.6from the market at a total consideration of US$35.3 million in fiscal 2006. Such2008. As a result of this, interest expense was predominantly duedecreased by 14.1% to the interest expense of our 8.75% notes issuedHK$75.1 million in January 2005.

fiscal 2008 from HK$87.5 million in fiscal 2007.

Other income, net. Our otherOther income, net consists of the roaming charges we receive from overseas carriers that deliver traffic over our network, exchange gains and losses, and management and other fees we received in the ordinary course of our business. Other income, net increased to HK$9.4 million in fiscal 2008 from HK$3.1 million in fiscal 2007. The increase mainly includes realized gain on early redemption of long term deposits of HK$1.2 million, realized and unrealized gain on other financial assets of HK$3.3 million, and gain on extinguishment of 8.75% senior notes of HK$2.6 million.
Income tax (expense)/credit.We recorded an income tax credit of HK$16.8 million in fiscal 2008, compared to an income tax expense of HK$2.0 million in fiscal 2007. The income tax credit in fiscal 2008 was primarily related to HK$26.3 million of deferred tax assets recognized in respect of the tax loss carryforwards of our major operating subsidiary as, based on the results of operations of our major operating subsidiary in recent years and our forecast for future years, we conclude it is probable that the subsidiary will generate sufficient taxable income to utilize the tax loss carryforwards. The HK$26.3 million was offset by the current income tax expenses of HK$4.9 million in respect of two of our subsidiaries and the reversal of HK$4.6 million of deferred tax assets upon utilization of tax loss carryforward by the Company.
Net income.For the foregoing reasons, net income increased to HK$125.2 million in fiscal 2008 from HK$28.9 million in fiscal 2007.
Year Ended August 31, 2007 Compared to Year Ended August 31, 2006
Revenues.Revenues increased by 0.6% to HK$1,141.3 million in fiscal 2007 from HK$1,134.9 million in fiscal 2006, reflecting an increase in revenue from fixed telecommunications network services, the effects of which were substantially offset by a decrease in revenue from our international telecommunications services. Revenue contribution from our fixed telecommunications network services increased to 71.6% in fiscal 2007 from 63.1% in fiscal 2006.
Fixed telecommunications network services.Revenues from fixed telecommunications network services increased by 14.0% to HK$816.8 million in fiscal 2007 from HK$716.6 million in fiscal 2006. The increase was primarily caused by an increase of 10.7% of our FTNS subscription base to 683,000 as of August 31, 2007 from 617,000 as of August 31, 2006 and an increase in the average revenue per user for our Internet access services. We believe that such increases suggested that there is increasing market acceptance of premium pricing.
Internet access.Subscription base for our Internet access services rose by 12.3%, to 247,000 as of August 31, 2007 from 220,000 as of August 31, 2006. During fiscal 2007, we focused on differentiating our services by emphasizing our ultra high Internet access speed. which allow us to increase our average revenue per user. By providing stable and high speed broadband services and reliable customer service, we aim to acquire and retain customers with longer subscription period to higher price. This has significantly increased our revenue from Internet access services.
Local VoIP.Subscription base for our local VoIP services rose by 9.6%, to 308,000 as of August 31, 2007 from 281,000 as of August 31, 2006, mainly due to improved branding and cross selling our VoIP services to subscribers of our Internet access services.
IP-TV.Subscription base for our IP-TV services increased by 10.3% to 128,000 subscriptions, with the majority of the new subscriptions coming from existing subscribers of our Internet access and local VoIP services.
International telecommunications services.Revenues from our international telecommunications services decreased by 22.4% to HK$324.5 million in fiscal 2007 from HK$418.3 million in fiscal 2006. The decrease was primarily due to the combined effects of lower volumes and lower revenue per minute. 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, is also becoming more prevalent.
Operating expenses.Operating expenses decreased by 14.1% to HK$1,048.7 million in fiscal 2007 from HK$1,220.4 million in fiscal 2006, reflecting decreases in network costs and other operating increases.
Network costs.Network costs decreased by 28.6% to HK$214.6 million in fiscal 2007 mainly due to a reduction in international tariff volume and less reliance on third parties backhaul for our FTNS business.
Other operating expenses.Other operating expenses decreased by 9.3% to HK$834.1 million in fiscal 2007.
Salaries and related costs.Salaries and related costs decreased by 13.9% to HK$221.1 million in fiscal 2007 from HK$256.7 million in fiscal 2006 mainly due to the benefits from streamlining the work force in fiscal 2006.
Sales and marketing expenses.Sales and marketing expenses in fiscal 2007 was comparable to that in fiscal 2006.

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Office, general and administrative expenses.Office, general and administrative expenses decreased by 13.6% to HK$144.6 million in fiscal 2007 from HK$164.2 million in fiscal 2006, mainly as a result of last year’s operational efficiency plan and cost savings due to the decentralization of authority to department heads.
Depreciation and amortization.Depreciation and amortization expenses decreased by 6.7% to HK$258.1 million in fiscal 2007 from HK$276.5 million in fiscal 2006, mainly due to changes in the estimated useful lives of certain assets amounting to HK$15.9 million. Our management revised the estimated useful lives of our fiber network and related peripherals from 4-15 years to 6-20 years, effective on June 1, 2007. The change in the estimated useful lives is a change in accounting estimate that is accounted for prospectively from June 1, 2007. This change does not have any effect on the total depreciation charges of those assets during their remaining useful lives.
Provision for doubtful accounts.Provision for doubtful accounts decreased by 62.3% to HK$6.6 million in fiscal 2007, mainly due to the reversal of previously recognized provisions for mobile interconnection charges receivable. In fiscal 2006, we recorded a provision of HK$20.8 million for mobile interconnection charges receivable accumulated from previous years following our assessment of the collectability of these charges. In fiscal 2007, we reversed a portion of this provision by HK$9.4 million based on the rates set by the Telecommunications Authority in the 2004 determination issued in June 2007. Our provision for other trade receivables recorded in fiscal 2007 was HK$16.0 million compared to the HK$17.5 million in fiscal 2006. For more information regarding our provisions for mobile interconnection charges, see “Factors Affecting our Results of Operations—Our Revenues” above in this annual report.
Income from operations.For the foregoing reasons, income from operations was HK$92.6 million in fiscal 2007, compared with a loss from operations of HK$85.5 million in fiscal 2006. Income from operations in fiscal 2007 was primarily due to higher revenue contribution from fixed telecommunications network services and the better margin achieved in our international telecommunications services as a result of our gradual phasing out of lower margin customers.
Interest income and expense.Interest income increased by 11.3% to HK$22.7 million in fiscal 2007 from HK$20.4 million in fiscal 2006. The increase in interest income was due to a strong net cash inflow from our operations and a favorable interest rate environment, as a significant portion of our interest income was derived from our deposit of surplus capital in interest-bearing accounts at commercial banks. Interest expense in fiscal 2007 was HK$87.5 million which is comparable to HK$88.6 million in fiscal 2006. Such interest expense was predominantly due to the interest expense of our 8.75% senior notes.
Other income, net.Other income, net consists of the roaming charges we receive from overseas carriers that deliver traffic over our network, exchange gains and losses, and management and other fees we received in the ordinary course of our business. Other income, net decreased by 31.1% to HK$3.1 million in fiscal 2007 compared tofrom HK$4.5 million in fiscal 2006. The other income, net in fiscal 2007 mainly includes and net realized and unrealized gains on investment securities and derivative financial instruments of HK$1.8 million.

Income tax (expense)/credit.We recognizedrecorded income tax expense of HK$2.0 million forin fiscal 2007, compared to anwith income tax credit of HK$7.2 million in fiscal 2006. OurThe income tax expense in fiscal 2007 was mainly due to the tax paid by one of our subsidiaries in Guangzhou. OurThe income tax creditscredit in fiscal 2006 werewas mainly related to the recognition of deferred tax assets in respect of the tax losses from our fixed telecommunications network services business, the effects of which were partially offset by the income tax expense associated with the profit generated from our international telecommunications services.

Net income.For the foregoing reasons, we had arecorded net income of HK$28.9 million in fiscal 2007, compared to awith net loss of HK$142.1 million in fiscal 2006.

Year Ended August 31, 2006 Compared to Year Ended August 31, 2005

Revenues. Our total revenues decreased by 2.3% to HK$1,134.9 million in fiscal 2006 due to a significant decrease in revenues from our international telecommunications services. The 21.5% decline in our international telecommunications services revenues to HK$418.3 million in fiscal 2006 offset our 13.8% increase in FTNS revenues to HK$716.6 million in fiscal 2006.

Our fixed telecommunications network services continued to record significant revenue growth and increased their contribution to our total revenues, accounting for 63.1% of total revenues in fiscal 2006, compared to 54.2% and 46.3% in fiscal 2005 and fiscal 2004, respectively. During fiscal 2006, our FTNS subscription base declined 2.2% to 617,000 as of August 31, 2006 as we placed a priority on revenue yields by increasing revenue per user over subscription growth.

With respect to voice services, our VOIP subscription base fell by 4.1% year-on-year, to 281,000 subscriptions due to intensive competition.

With respect to broadband services, our subscription base fell by 3.9% year-on-year, to 220,000 subscriptions. During fiscal 2006, we focused on differentiating our services by emphasizing our high internet access speeds, which allow us to increase our revenue per user. By providing stable and high speed broadband services and good quality of customer service, we are able to acquire and retain customers with longer subscription period at higher price. This has significantly increased our revenue in fixed telecommunications network services despite a decrease in our subscription base.

With respect to IP-TV services, we grew our subscription base by 6.4% to 116,000 subscriptions, with the majority of the new subscriptions being an upsell to existing broadband and voice customers.

Our international telecommunications business revenues decreased by 21.5% to HK$418.3 million in fiscal 2006 due to the combined effects of lower volumes and lower revenues per minute. Competition during the year was intense as some of our integrated competitors offered international direct dial minutes free or at very low cost as a marketing incentive to gain local fixed line and mobile market share. Further, technology substitution from global VOIP providers such as Skype, which offer free PC-to-PC based international calls, is also becoming more prevalent. As a result, we expect that our international telecommunications business continues to decline in future.

Network costs. Network costs decreased 11.4% to HK$300.6 million in fiscal 2006 mainly due to a reduction in international tariff volume.

Other operating expenses. Our other operating expenses, excluding network costs, decreased by 4.0% to HK$919.8 in fiscal 2006.

Salaries and related costs. Salaries and related costs decreased by 1.0% to HK256.7 million in fiscal 2006. During fiscal 2006, we reduced our total work force by 34.2% to 2,565 employees with the majority of the reductions occurring towards the end of the fiscal year. The reduction in our work force was a result of our efforts to eliminate duplication of operational procedures and to enhance efficiency and improve quality of our work flows. The aggregate amount of severance payments made was not significant, as most of the terminations of employment were voluntary.

Sales and marketing expenses.Our sales and marketing expenses decreased by 23.5% to HK$205.0 million in fiscal 2006 as we switched our sales and marketing efforts from costlier mass media advertising to word-of-mouth efforts. Word-of-mouth results from existing customers sharing their positive service experience with their associates, thereby enhancing our brand value without the need for direct advertising expenditure.

Office, general and administrative expenses. Office, general and administrative expenses increased by 4.3% to HK$164.2 million in fiscal 2006 mainly due to increase in rental expenses as a result of inflationary pressures.

Depreciation and amortization. Depreciation and amortization expenses increased by 16.3% to HK$276.5 million in fiscal 2006 mainly due to expansion of our Next Generation Network.

Provision for doubtful accounts. Overall, our provision for doubtful accounts decreased by 50.8% to HK$17.4 million in fiscal 2006 mainly due to the decrease in provision for mobile interconnection charges receivable. In fiscal 2005, we recorded a provision of HK$19.5 million for mobile interconnection charges receivable accumulated from previous years following our assessment of the collectibility of these charges. In fiscal 2006, we increased such provision by HK$1.3 million to HK$20.8 million based on the preliminary rates from the Telecommunications Authority. Provision for other trade receivables recorded in fiscal 2006 was HK$16.1 million which is comparable to the HK$15.9 million in fiscal 2005. For more information regarding our provision for mobile interconnection charges, see “Our Revenues—Fixed Telecommunications Network Services” above in this annual report.

Loss from operations. We suffered loss from operations of HK$85.5 million in fiscal 2006, compared to loss from operations of HK$135.4 million in fiscal 2005. The loss from operations is due to reduced profitability of our international telecommunications business as a result of intense competition from local telecommunications services companies and global VOIP providers and losses from our FTNS business.

Interest income and expense. Our interest income was HK$20.4 million in fiscal 2006 compared to HK$13.6 million in fiscal 2005. The increase in interest income was due to the full year impact of investment return on proceeds from our 8.75% notes issued in January 2005 and a higher overall interest rate environment. We derive interest income from our deposit of surplus capital in interest-bearing accounts at commercial banks. Our interest expense increased to HK$88.6 million in fiscal 2006 compared to HK$54.5 million in fiscal 2005, predominantly due to the full year impact of interest expense of our 8.75% notes issued in January 2005.

Other income, net. Our other income, net consists of the roaming charges we receive from overseas carriers that deliver traffic over our network, exchange gains and losses, small penalties we have received from time to time from contractors that we employ, and management and other fees we receive from other fixed line operators in the ordinary course of our business. Other income, net of expenses was HK$4.5 million in fiscal 2006 compared to HK$6.0 million in fiscal 2005. The other income, net in 2006 mainly includes net exchange gains of HK$1.1 million, net realized and unrealized gains on investment securities and derivative financial instruments of HK$0.6 million and penalty received from contractors of HK$0.3 million.

Income tax( expense)/credit. We recognized income tax credit of HK$7.2 million for fiscal 2006 compared to income tax credit of HK$6.7 million in fiscal 2005. Our income tax credits in fiscal 2006 and fiscal 2005 were mainly related to the recognition of deferred tax assets in respect of the tax losses from our fixed telecommunications network services business offset by the income tax expense associated with the profit generated from our international telecommunications services.

Net loss. For the foregoing reasons, we incurred a net loss of HK$142.1 million in fiscal 2006 compared to a net loss of HK$163.5 million in fiscal 2005.

Year Ended August 31, 2005 Compared to Year Ended August 31, 2004

Revenues. Our total revenues decreased by 0.7% from HK$1,169.9 million in fiscal 2004 to HK$1,162.1 million in fiscal 2005, due to a significant decrease in revenues from our international telecommunications services. The 15.2% decline in our international telecommunications services revenues from HK$628.0 million in fiscal 2004 to HK$532.6 million in fiscal 2005 offset our 16.2% increase in FTNS revenues from HK$541.9 million in fiscal 2004 to HK$629.5 million in fiscal 2005.

Our fixed telecommunications network services continued to record significant revenue growth and increased contribution to our total revenues. Revenue from FTNS accounted for 54.2% of our total revenues in fiscal 2005, compared to 46.3% and 32.6% in fiscal 2004 and fiscal 2003, respectively. Revenues increased from HK$541.9 million in fiscal 2004 to HK$629.5 million in fiscal 2005, representing 16.2% growth. During the year we grew our FTNS subscription base by 166,000, or 35.7% year-on-year, to 631,000 as of August 31, 2005.

With respect to voice services, we grew our VOIP subscription base by 56,000, or 23.6% year-on-year, to 293,000 subscriptions.

With respect to broadband services, we grew our subscription base by 32,000, or 16.2% year-on-year, to 229,000 subscriptions. During fiscal 2005, we focused on differentiating our services by emphasizing our high bandwidth with the commercial launch of our “bb100” and “bb1000” supported by the Liu Xiang advertising campaign. Furthermore, we introduced value-added services such as “bbDrive” (an on-line virtual hard drive with up to 10 Gbps storage), “bbGuard” (an anti-spam and anti-virus package) and “bbWatch” (a full screen IP-TV experience via the PC).

With respect to IP-TV services, we grew our subscription base by 78,000, or 251.6% year-on-year, to 109,000 subscriptions, although the majority of the new subscriptions were from our free trial promotions for periods of six to twelve months.

Our international telecommunications business revenues decreased by 15.2% from HK$628.0 million in fiscal 2004 to HK$532.6 million in fiscal 2005 due to the combined effects of lower volumes and lower revenues per minute. Competition during the year was intense as some of our integrated competitors offered international direct dial minutes free or at very low cost as a marketing incentive to gain local fixed line and mobile market share. Further, technology substitution from global VOIP providers such as Skype, which offer free PC-to-PC based international calls, is also becoming more prevalent.

Network costs. Network costs increased by 2.4% from HK$331.4 million in fiscal 2004 to HK$339.4 million in fiscal 2005. Our fixed telecommunications network costs declined by 3.3% from HK$122.5 million in fiscal 2004 to HK$118.4 million in fiscal 2005. The decline was mainly due to reduction in our backbone expenses as our network became more self-reliant as we continue to roll out self-owned fiber based backbone. International telecommunications network costs increased by 5.8% from HK$208.9 million in fiscal 2004 to HK$221.0 million in fiscal 2005, which was principally due to an increase in sales volume for products offered through CTImall and INCmall.

Other operating expenses. Our other operating expenses, excluding network costs, increased by 20.8% from HK$793.2 million during fiscal 2004 to HK$958.0 million during fiscal 2005.

Salaries and related costs. Salaries and related costs increased by 14.4% from HK$226.7 million during fiscal 2004 to HK$259.4 million during fiscal 2005. Our total number of permanent full time employees increased from 3,583 as of August 31, 2004 to 3,896 as of August 31 2005.

Sales and marketing expenses. Our sales and marketing expenses increased by 17.4% from HK$228.2 million during fiscal 2004 to HK$268.0 million during fiscal 2005. Sales and marketing increased due to several marketing programs that we utilized to grow our FTNS subscription base. We also increased the number of sales and marketing personnel in marketing and servicing our various service offerings and launched a large scale branding campaign for our broadband Internet access and IP-TV services. This investment in sales and marketing was important to the continued expansion of our customer base for fixed telecommunications network services, which we believe will increase our revenues in the future. Additionally, during fiscal 2005 we introduced our “Liu Xiang” series of television, radio and print branding promotions. Liu Xiang is the first Chinese man to win an Olympic gold medal in a track and field event, having secured this honor in the 110 meter hurdles at the 2004 Olympic Games.

Office, general and administrative expenses. Office, general and administrative expenses increased by 21.4% from HK$129.8 million in fiscal 2004 to HK$157.5 million in fiscal 2005 due mainly to our expanded office and warehouse space and higher equipment maintenance costs.

Depreciation and amortization. Depreciation and amortization expenses increased by 20.7% from HK$197.0 million in fiscal 2004 to HK$237.7 million in fiscal 2005 due to the increased capital expenditures that we incurred for the upgrade and expansion of our Next Generation Network.

Provision for doubtful accounts. Our provision for doubtful accounts increased by 208.2% from HK$11.5 million in fiscal 2004 to HK$35.4 million in fiscal 2005, which included a provision of HK$19.5 million for mobile interconnection charge receivables. We recorded a provision of HK$19.5 million for mobile interconnection charges receivable in fiscal 2005 given the uncertainty regarding the timing and amount of the ultimate collection of amounts due. For more information regarding our provision for mobile interconnection charges, see “Our Revenues—Fixed Telecommunications Network Services” above in this annual report. Provision for other trade receivables recorded in fiscal 2005 was HK$15.9 million compared to HK$11.5 million in fiscal 2004. The provision as a percentage of revenue was approximately 1% of our revenue for both years.

Loss from operations. We suffered loss from operations of HK$135.4 million in fiscal 2005, compared to profit from operations of HK$45.3 million in fiscal 2004. The loss from operations is due to reduced profitability of our international telecommunications business, provisions for mobile interconnection charges, increased acquisition and marketing costs for new fixed telecommunications network services subscriptions and early-stage operations of IP-TV services.

Interest income and expense. Our interest income was HK$13.6 million in fiscal 2005 compared to HK$3.8 million in fiscal 2004. We derive interest income from our deposit of surplus capital in interest-bearing accounts at commercial banks. The substantial increase in fiscal 2005 interest income is due to the temporary surplus cash from our US$125 million 8.75% senior notes issued in January 2005. Our interest expense increased to HK$54.5 million in fiscal 2005 compared to HK$0.2 million in fiscal 2004, predominantly due to the interest expense of our 8.75% notes issued in January 2005. We also capitalized our borrowing costs of HK$2.0 million of the funding for our network rollout.

Other income, net. Our other income, net consists of the roaming charges we receive from overseas carriers that deliver traffic over our network, exchange gains and losses, small penalties we have received from time to time from contractors that we employ, and management and other fees we receive from other fixed line operators in the ordinary course of our business. Other income, net of expenses was HK$6.0 million in fiscal 2005 compared to HK$2.7 million in fiscal 2004.

Income tax (expense)/credit. We recorded income tax credit of HK$6.7 million for fiscal 2005 compared to income tax expense of HK$2.0 million during fiscal 2004. Income tax is calculated based on our estimated assessable profit during each period, and our income tax credit in fiscal 2005 was mainly related to the recognition of deferred tax assets on current year’s unrecognized tax losses from our fixed telecommunications network services business that offset by the income tax expense associated with profit generated from our international telecommunications services in fiscal 2005.

Net loss. For the foregoing reasons, we incurred a net loss of HK$163.5 million in fiscal 2005 compared to a net income of HK$49.5 million in fiscal 2004.

U.S. GAAP Reconciliation

Our financial statements are prepared in accordance with HKFRSs,HKFRS, which differs in certain significant respects from U.S. GAAP.
     There were no differences in the net (loss) / income determined under HKFRS and U.S. GAAP for the years ended August 31, 2006, 2007 and 2008. The following tables provide a comparison of our net income/(loss) and shareholders’ equity in accordance with HKFRSsHKFRS and U.S. GAAP

   As of and for the Year Ended August 31,
   

2005

(restated)

  2006  2007  2007
   HK$  HK$  HK$  US$
   (in thousands)

Net income/(loss) in accordance with:

      

HKFRSs

  (163,496) (142,062) 28,865  3,702

Net income/(loss) under U.S. GAAP

  (149,148) (142,062) 28,865  3,702

Shareholders’ Equity

      

HKFRSs

  1,020,454  891,654  903,882  115,930

Total shareholders’ equity under U.S. GAAP

  1,032,680  897,271  909,499  116,650

GAAP.

                 
  As of and for the Year Ended August 31,
  2006 2007 2008 2008
  HK$ HK$ HK$ US$
  (in thousands)
                 
Shareholders’ Equity
                
HKFRS  891,654   903,882   1,032,607   132,324 
U.S. GAAP  897,271   909,499   1,038,224   133,044 
Differences between HKFRSsHKFRS and U.S. GAAP for the periods presented relate primarily to:to goodwill.

33


Share-based compensation cost;

Goodwill; and

Financial instruments

Disclosure relating to those differences can be found in note 3031 to our consolidated financial statements. In addition, our condensed consolidated statement of operations, changes in shareholders’ equity and comprehensive (loss)/ income have been included in note 2931 to our consolidated financial statements to reflect the impact of the significant differences between HKFRSsHKFRS and U.S. GAAP.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

Recently issued and adopted accounting pronouncements under HKFRSsHKFRS and U.S. GAAP have been included in note 2830 to our consolidated financial statements.

B. Liquidity and Capital Resources

As of August 31, 2007, we had a total cash position of HK$634.5 million and outstanding borrowings of HK$953.8 million. Our long term liability consists mainly of our 8.75% senior notes due 2015, which amounted to HK$952.6 million. Our total cash position of HK$634.5 million consisted of HK$532.9 million in cash and bank balances, HK$87.2 million in pledged bank deposits and HK$14.4 million in long term bank deposits.

We expect cash flows generated from operations will continue to be our principal source of liquidity.

As of August 31, 2008, we had cash and bank balance of HK$421.6 million and pledged bank deposit of HK$87.3 million. Our day-to-day operations are also supported by HK$87.3 million banking facilities, of which only HK$29.9 million was utilized.

     We believe that our current cash and cash equivalents and cash flow from operations will be sufficient to meet our anticipated cash needs, including for working capital, capital expenditure, repayment of our indebtedness when fall due and various contractual obligations, for at least the next 12 months. However, if our customer demand changes significantly due to rapid technological changes, if we are not able to successfully compete with local and foreign entrants into the market, or if we fail to maintain or obtain the necessary license renewals from the Telecommunications Authority, this could have a significant adverse impact on our cash flows from operations, which could effect our ability to make planned capital expenditures as well as meet scheduled payments on the 8.75% senior notes, our various operating and capital leases commitments and amounts due under banking facilities.
     We obtained the rating of B+ (stable) from Standard & Poor’s Rating Services and the rating of B1(positive) from Moody’s Investors Services for our 8.75% senior notes. Generally speaking, the credit ratings on our company are impacted by our revenue and earnings growth as well as our cash position. As of January 9, 2009, we are not aware of any significant factors that would change our credit ratings.
Cash Flow

The following table summarizes our cash flows for each of fiscal 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2007:

   Year Ended August 31, 
   2005  2006  2007  2007 
   HK$  HK$  HK$  US$ 
   (In thousands) 

Net cash flow from operating activities

  77,383  184,151  383,999  49,251 

Net cash (used in) / generated from investing activities

  (557,440) (492,742) 114,053  14,628 

Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities

  792,216  (86,432) (109,504) (14,045)
             

(Decrease)/increase in cash and bank balances

  312,159  (395,023) 388,548  49,834 

Cash and bank balances, at the beginning of year

  228,347  539,591  144,917  18,587 

Effect of foreign exchange rate changes

  (915) 349  (571) (73)
             

Cash and bank balances, at the end of the year

  539,591  144,917  532,894  68,348 
             

2008:

                 
  Year Ended August 31,
  2006 2007 2008 2008
  HK$ HK$ HK$ US$
  (In thousands)
Net cash flow from operating activities  184,151   383,999   378,529   48,507 
Net cash (used in)/provided by investing activities  (492,742)  114,053   (147,750)  (18,934)
Net cash used in financing activities  (86,432)  (109,504)  (342,516)  (43,892)
                 
                 
(Decrease)/increase in cash and bank balances  (395,023)  388,548   (111,737)  (14,319)
Cash and bank balances, at the beginning of year  539,591   144,917   532,894   68,289 
Effect of foreign exchange rate changes on cash  349   (571)  453   58 
                 
                 
Cash and bank balances, at the end of the year  144,917   532,894   421,610   54,028 
                 
Operating Activities

Our net cash flow from operating activities for fiscal 2007, 2006 and 2005 was an inflow of HK$384.0 million, HK$184.2 million and HK$77.4 million, respectively. The principal source ofwas cash flow from operating activities in each of these fiscal years was the cash flow we generategenerated from our fixed telecommunications network services and to a lesser extent, international telecommunications businesses.

Inservices.

     The net decrease in operating cash flows in fiscal 2007,2008 relates mainly to the increase of cash received from customer (exclude mobile operators) of HK$142.8 million and recoveries of mobile interconnection charges of HK$53.4 million offset by the increase in cash outflow for the salaries and commission expenses of HK$97.6 million, mass media advertising cost of HK$30.3 million and premium cost of HK$44.0 million, and operating expenses of HK$29.8 million due to the expansion of the operation scale of our fixed telecommunications network services. Apart from uncertainties about the effect of the current credit crisis, we generated aare not aware of any material trends or uncertainties which may have material effects on our sources and uses of cash.
     The net cash inflow from our operating activities that amounted to HK$384.0 million. The increase in operating cash flow in fiscal 2007 was mainly due to increased revenue from our fixed telecommunications network services and lower network costs as a result of the decrease in our international telecommunications services. Moreover, leveraging on last year’s operating efficiency plan and decentralizatingdecentralization of authority to individual department heads helped to increase our operating cash flow.

In fiscal 2006, we generated a

     The net cash inflow from our operating activities that amounted to HK$184.2 million. The increase in operating cash flow in fiscal 2006 was mainly due to lower network costs as a result of the completion of our fiber backbone network, which reduced our network costs paid to third party network operators. Moreover, by leveraging on the large scale sales and marketing activities in fiscal 2005 which has enhanced brand image and improved customer experience, less sales and marketing expenses were incurred in fiscal 2006, which also helped to increase the operating cash flow.

34

In fiscal 2005, we generated a net cash inflow in our operating activities that amounted to HK$77.4 million. The reduced operating cash flow when compared with fiscal 2004 was principally due to the significant cash we spent in sales and marketing expenses in offering incentives to acquire new subscriptions and retain our growing subscription base. Since such expenses were incurred before cash receipts from customers, it significantly reduced our operating cash flow. Moreover, increases in staff costs due to the expansion of our fixed telecommunications network services operations and increases in home equipment installation necessitated by the growth of our customer base also reduced our cash flow from operations. Cash from operating activities also decreased due to increased spending for early stage operations of our IP-TV service.


Investing Activities

     In fiscal 2008, net cash used in investing activities 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.
In fiscal 2007, net cash generated from investing activities was HK$114.1 million. The net cash generated was mainly due to our receipt of term deposits of HK$237.5 million. Further, our purchase of fixed assets of HK$149.3 million whereas inwas lower than fiscal 2006.
     In fiscal 2006, and 2005, net cash used in investing activities was HK$492.7 million and HK$557.4 million respectively. In 2006 and 2005, investing activitiesmillion. The net cash outflow consisted primarily of purchases of fixed assets of HK$382.2 million for the development of our Next Generation Network and upgrading of our international telecommunications facilities of HK$382.2 and HK$415.4 respectively.facilities. An increase in term deposits of HK$144.6 million and HK$92.9 million respectively further increased the cash outflow for investing activities in 2006 and 2005 respectively. In fiscal 2007, the net cash generated was mainly due to the receipt in term deposits of HK$237.5 million and lower level in purchase of fixed assets of HK$149.3 million.

2006.

Financing Activities

Net cash used in financing activities wasin fiscal 2008 consisting mainly of considerations paid in the repurchase of 8.75% senior notes of HK$109.5269.4 million, interest paid on 8.75% senior notes of HK$70.0 million and dividend of HK$17.3 million.
     Net cash used in financing activities in fiscal 2007 consisting mainly of interest paid on our 8.75% senior notes of HK$85.3 million and interim dividend of HK$24.6 million.

Net cash used in financing activities was HK$86.4 million in fiscal 2006 which mainly consisted of interest paid on our 8.75% senior notes of HK$85.2 million.

Net cash provided by financing activities was

Indebtedness
     As of August 31, 2008, we had outstanding borrowings of HK$792.2 million in fiscal 2005, which683.6 million. Our long term liability consists mainly consisted of our net proceeds of US$121.0 million from our 8.75% senior notes issued in the amount ofdue 2015, which amounted to HK$943.7 million and a bank loan of HK$100.0683.2 million. The cash inflow was offset by our repayment of a bank loan in the amount of HK$200.0 million and interest payments for the
8.75% notes in the aggregate amount of HK$52.4 million.

Net cash provided by financing activities was HK$47.2 million in fiscal 2004, which consisted of our draw down of HK$100.0 million on our loan facility with HSBC, offset by our payment of HK$54.9 million in dividends during fiscal 2004.

Indebtedness

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. 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. 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).

We may redeem all but not less than all of the 8.75% senior notes in the event we have to pay additional amounts as a result of certain changes in taxation. We may redeem the notes, in whole or in part, on or after February 1, 2010, at the redemption prices set forth in the indenture governing the notes. In addition, priorPrior to February 1, 2008, we may redeem up to a maximum of 35% of the original aggregate principal amount of the notes, with the proceeds from one or more specified public or private offerings of our common stock, at a redemption price equal to 108.75% of the principal amount of the notes. On or after February 1, 2010, we may redeem the notes, in whole or in part, at the redemption prices set forth in the indenture governing the notes. In all cases of optional redemption, we will pay principal at the redemption price specified plus accrued and unpaid interest, additional amounts, if any, thereon to, but not including, the date of redemption.

The indenture governing the 8.75% senior notes contains covenants that limit, among other things, our ability and the ability of certain of our existing and future subsidiaries to:

pay dividends, make distributions, redeem capital stock and make certain other restricted payments or investments;

pay dividends, make distributions, redeem capital stock and make certain other restricted payments or investments;
incur additional indebtedness or issue certain equity interests;
merge, consolidate or sell all or substantially all of our assets;
issue or sell capital stock of some of our subsidiaries;
sell or exchange assets or enter into new businesses;
create any restrictions on the payment of dividends, the making of distributions, the making of loans and the transfer of assets;
create liens on assets;
enter into certain transactions with affiliates or related persons; and
enter into sale and lease back transactions.

incur additional indebtedness or issue certain equity interests;

merge, consolidate or sell all or substantially all of our assets;

issue or sell capital stock of some of our subsidiaries;

sell or exchange assets or enter into new businesses;

create any restrictions on the payment of dividends, the making of distributions, the making of loans and the transfer of assets;

create liens on assets;

enter into certain transactions with affiliates or related persons; and

enter into sale and lease back transactions.

The net proceeds of the 8.75% senior notes were approximately US$121.0 million after deduction of expenses and commissions. We used the net proceeds, in part, to repay in full an existing bank loan in the outstanding amount of HK$196.7 million. The remaining net proceeds has been and will continue to be used for capital expenditures, including costs incurred in expanding and upgrading our Next Generation Network in Hong Kong, and for additional working capital and general corporate purposes.

     During December 2007, January 2008 and February 2008, we repurchased an aggregate principal amount of US$35.6 million of the 8.75% senior notes from the market for a total consideration (including accrued interest and/or broker’s commissions) of US$35.4 million. All of the

35


repurchased notes have been cancelled. As of January 9, 2009, an aggregate principal amount of US$89.4 million of the 8.75% senior notes remained outstanding.
As of August 31, 2007,2008, the 8.75% senior notes were stated at the amortized cost of US$122.187.5 million (HK$952.6683.2 million), compared with the amortized costs of US$121.9122.1 million (HK$948.0952.6 million) as of August 31, 2006.

2007.

     In August 2008, we launched a tender offer and consent solicitation for the cash purchase of up to US$125 million aggregate principal amount of the 8.75% senior notes. The terms and conditions of the offer were set forth in an Offer to Purchase and Consent Solicitation Statement dated July 9, 2008, as further extended. We terminated the tender offer and consent solicitation due to adverse market conditions and therefore we determined that the financing condition of the offer would not be satisfied. All notes previously tendered were promptly returned to holders.
Banking Facilities
As of August 31, 2007,2008, we had available banking facilities of HK$80.287.3 million of which HK$78.629.9 million was unutilized.

During December 2007 and January 2008, we have bought back cumulative principal value of 8.75% notes of US$21.9 million by way of market acquisition. The total consideration (including accrued interest) paid was US$22.1 million. The principal value of 8.75% notes remaining in issue after the buy-back is US$103.2 million. The 8.75% notes bought back have been cancelled subsequently in December 2007 and January 2008.

utilized.

Capital expenditures

Expenditures

In order to further develop our Next Generation Network and maintain the operations of our international telecommunications business, we plan to make total capital expenditures of approximately HK$850650 million over the next three yearsin fiscal 2009 and 2010 to increase the coverage of our Next Generation Network from 1.5 million residential home passpasses to 2.0 million residential home passes and from 1.4 million to 1.8 million and to increase our fiber-connected697 commercial buildings from 600 to 1,800. Our required1,800 commercial buildings. The budgeted capital expenditures will be financed by the company’s freeinternally generated cash flow in the respective year.

Contractual Obligations and Commercial Commitments

As of August 31, 2007, we had capital commitments contracted but not provided for relating to the purchase of telecommunications, computer and office equipment of HK$54.2 million. In addition, we had commitments under non-cancelable operating leases relating to land, buildings, telecommunications facilities and computer equipment of HK$83.6 million, of which HK$43.6 million is due in fiscal 2008. We also had commitments on program fees of HK$14.0 million, of which HK$10.3 million is due in fiscal 2008. As of August 31, 2007 we utilized HK$1.6 million of the HK$80 million available banking facilities.

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, 2007.

   Payments due by period

Contractual Obligations

  Total  

Within

1 year

  More than 1
year but
within 3
years
  

More than
3 years but

within 5
years

  

More

than

5 years

   (Thousands of HK$)

Capital expenditure items

  54,165  54,165  —    —    —  

Operating leases

  83,600  43,566  13,758  9,892  16,384

Short-term and long-term debt (principal and interest payments)

  1,615,464  86,146  170,839  170,685  1,187,794

Programming fees (IP-TV)

  13,981  10,345  3,636  —    —  
               

Total

  1,767,210  194,222  188,233  180,577  1,204,178
               

2008.

                     
  Payments due by period
          More than 1 More than  
          year but 3 years but More
      Within within 3 within 5 than
Contractual Obligations Total 1 year years years 5 years
  (Thousands of HK$)
Capital expenditure items  143,888   143,888          
Operating leases  87,000   55,095   21,077   3,444   7,384 
8.75% senior notes  1,093,852   61,012   122,024   122,024   788,792 
Obligation under finance leases  414   142   272         
Other current liabilities  248,805   248,805          
Programming fees (IP-TV)  6,862   6,583   219   60    
                     
                     
Total  1,580,821   515,525   143,592   125,528   796,176 
                     
During December 2007, and January 2008 and February 2008, we have bought back and cancelled cumulativerepurchased an aggregate principal valueamount of US$35.6 million of the 8.75% senior notes from the market for a total consideration (including accrued interest) of US$21.9 million (equivalent to HK$170.7 million) by way35.4 million. All of market acquisition.the repurchased notes have been cancelled. As a result of the buy-backmarket repurchase of the 8.75% notes, our contractual obligations in respect of the short-term and long-term debt (principal and interest payments) has decreased by US$36.355.9 million (equivalent to HK$283.0436.4 million).

Our working capital as of August 31, 2007 was HK$563.9 million, which we believe is sufficient for our current requirements. Further, we believe

     We expect that our current cash and cash equivalents and cash flow from operations will be sufficient to meet our anticipated cash needs, including for working capital, capital expenditure, repayment of our indebtedness and various contractual obligations, for at least the next 12 months. However, if our customer demand changes significantly due to rapid technological changes, if we are not able to successfully compete with local and foreign entrants into the market, or if we fail to maintain or obtain the necessary license renewals from the Telecommunications Authority, this could have a significant adverse impact on our cash flows from operations, which could effect our ability to make planned capital expenditures as well as meet scheduled payments on the 8.75% senior notes, our various operating and capital leases commitments and amounts due under banking facilities.

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, 2007,2008, our research and development team consisted of approximately 3027 staff members 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 internetInternet companies in the United States and elsewhere and works closely with our marketing department. Our research and development expenditures were approximately HK$11.09.6 million, HK$5.0 million and HK$9.6 million and HK$5.0 million for fiscal 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2007,2008, respectively.

D. Trend information

During fiscal 2007,2008, our international telecommunications business experienced a 16.4%12.9% decline in volume to 659.0574.0 million minutes, which combined with the lowermarginally offset by higher revenue per minute, resulted in a 22.4%10.0% reduction in our international telecommunications revenues to HK$324.5292.0 million in fiscal 2007.2008. The principal reason for this decline was the intense competition, as our key competitors introduced highly aggressive price cuts. We expect that such decline will continue in future. Rather than directly competing on price, our strategy is to proactively migrate our international telecommunications customers to our FTNS global “2b” VOIPVoIP service which we believe will enable us to obtain higher margins and provide us with access to a wider addressable market.

36


Our revenues from our fixed telecommunications network services grew by 14.0%23.8% to HK$816.81,011 million in fiscal 20072008 due to a rise in the subscription base of our fixed telecommunications network services of 10.7%17.3% to 683,000801,000 subscriptions as of August 31, 2007.2008. The revenue growth was also attributable to our success in raising revenue yields per subscription.

     The current global credit crunch has already had a dampening effect on consumer sentiment and business activities across the globe. Although we are not immune from this macro economic downturn, our underlying broadband and voice services as “semi-utility” services should be relatively less impacted. However, if the global economic conditions remain difficult for a long period of time, we may also face demand-size pressures.
E Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

Other than as described above in “— Critical Accounting Policies” and note 2728 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.

See “Liquidity and Capital Resources” above in this Item 5.

ITEM 6. DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND EMPLOYEES

A. Directors and Senior Management

Our board of directors consists of seveneight directors, three of whom, are independent non-executive directors and one of whom is a non-executive director. Three are executive directors, namely, Mr. Wong Wai Kay, Ricky, Mr. Cheung Chi Kin, Paul, and Mr. Lai Ni Quiaque. The non-executive director is Mr. Cheng Mo Chi, Moses. The three independent non-executive directors are Mr. Lee Hon Ying, John, Dr. Chan Kin Man and Mr. Peh Jefferson Tun Lu.

Lu are independent non-executive directors and one of whom, Mr. Cheng 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.

The following table sets forth certain information concerning our directors and senior management as of January 21, 2008.

Name

  Age  

Position

  Date
Joined City
Telecom

Board of Directors:

      

WONG Wai Kay, Ricky

  46  Chairman  1992

CHEUNG Chi Kin, Paul

  50  Chief Executive Officer  1992

LAI Ni Quiaque

  38  Chief Financial Officer & Company Secretary  2004

CHENG Mo Chi, Moses

  57  Non-Executive Director  1997

CHAN Kin Man

  48  Independent Non-Executive Director  1997

LEE Hon Ying, John

  61  Independent Non-Executive Director  1997

PEH Tun Lu, Jefferson

  48  Independent Non-Executive Director  2004

Senior Management:

      

CHANG Wing Fu, Stephen

  44  Chief Technology Officer  2006

CHONG Kin Chun, John

  45  Director, Corporate Division  1996

LO Sui Lun

  43  Director, Singapore NGNBN  1998

TO Wai Bing

  45  Managing Director, Business Development  2007

YEUNG Chu Kwong, William

  47  Chief Operating Officer  2005

9, 2009.

           
        Date
        Joined City
Name Age Position Telecom
Board of Directors :          
WONG Wai Kay, Ricky  47  Chairman  1992 
CHEUNG Chi Kin, Paul  51  Vice Chairman  1992 
YEUNG Chu Kwong, William  48  Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer  2005 
LAI Ni Quiaque  39  Executive Director, Chief Financial Officer, Company Secretary and Head of Staff Engagement  2004 
CHENG Mo Chi, Moses  58  Non-Executive Director  1997 
LEE Hon Ying, John  62  Independent Non-Executive Director  1997 
CHAN Kin Man  49  Independent Non-Executive Director  1997 
PEH Jefferson Tun Lu  49  Independent Non-Executive Director  2004 
           
Senior Management :          
CHONG Kin Chun, John  46  Director of Corporate Division  1996 
LO Sui Lun  44  Director of Infrastructure Development  1998 
TAM Ming Chit  42  Chief Technology Officer  2008 
TO Wai Bing  46  Managing Director of Business Development  2007 
Executive Directors

Mr. WONG Wai Kay, Ricky, aged 46,47, is the co-founder and Chairman of City Telecom.the Company. He is responsible for our overall strategic planning and management. Mr. Wong holds a bachelor’s degree in science from The Chinese University of Hong Kong and has over 20 years’ experience in the telecommunications and computer industries. Mr. WongHe 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 the import and distribution of computer systems in Canada prior to co-foundingco- founding of City Telecom.the Company. Mr. Wong holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Science and a Master of Business Administration Degree (Executive MBA Programme) from The Chinese University of Hong Kong. He is a first cousin of Mr. Cheung Chi Kin, Paul, our

Chief Executive Officer.the Vice Chairman of the Company. Currently, heMr. Wong is a member of Commission on Youth, a member of the Zhejiang Committee, Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference, an independent non-executive director of Bossini International Holdings Limited and a member of the Board of Trustees, United College, The Chinese University of Hong Kong.

On December 4, 2008, Mr. Wong was appointed as chief executive officer of ATV, a free-to-air broadcaster in Hong Kong. On December 18, 2008, Mr. Wong resigned from ATV as the chief executive officer due to inconsolable differences in ATV strategic turnaround plan.

Mr. CHEUNG Chi Kin, Paul, aged 50,51, is the co-founder and Vice Chairman of the Company. Mr. Cheung is responsible for overall strategic planning and management of the Company. Prior to that, Mr. Cheung was appointed as the Chief Executive Officer of City Telecom. He isand was responsible for our day-to-day operations and technological research, development and support activities. Mr. Cheung graduated with a diploma of advanced programming and system concepts design from Herzing Institute, Canada. He has more than 2627 years’ experience in the

37


telecommunications and computer industries. Mr. CheungHe had worked in companies engaged in application software development and computer consultancy prior to co-founding of City Telecom.the Company. 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 Company.
     Mr. YEUNG Chu Kwong, William, aged 48, was appointed as an Executive Director and the Chief Executive Officer of the Company on November 1, 2008 with the responsibilities for developing corporate strategies and overseeing the operations of the entire Group. Before that, Mr. Yeung joined the Company as Chief Operating Officer in October 2005. He was responsible to head our Chairman.

Customer Engagement Department to oversee customer relationship management. Mr. Yeung was also responsible to head Network Development Department. Mr. Yeung has more than 17 years’ experience in the telecommunications industry. Prior to joining the Company, 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. He holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree from Hong Kong Baptist University, a Master of Business Administration Degree from University of Strathclyde, UK and a Master of Science Degree in Electronic Commerce and Internet Computing from The University of Hong Kong.

Mr. LAI Ni Quiaque, aged 38,39, is ouran Executive Director of the Company. He is also the Chief Financial Officer, Company Secretary and Head of Staff Engagement. Mr. Lai joined City Telecomthe Company in May 2004. Mr. Lai has extensive experience in telecommunications industry, research and finance, being highly rated in this field. Prior to joining City Telecom,the Company, Mr. Lai was a Director and Head of Asia Telecom Research for Credit Suisse , having spent 8 years with the firm. During his tenure with Credit Suisse, he was involved in global fund raisings for a wide range of Asian Telecom carrierscarries 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, is a fellowFellow member of HKICPA and CPA Australia and is a memberMember of the Hong Kong Institute of Directors. Mr. Lai has been accepted intocurrently in the Kellogg-HKUST EMBA program commencingwith expected completion in January 2008.

2009. Mr. Lai has also been appointed as a member of the remuneration committee of the Company.

Non-Executive Director

Mr. CHENG Mo Chi, Moses, aged 57,58, was re-designated as a non-executive directorNon-executive Director of City Telecomthe Company with effect from September 30, 2004. He was appointed as an independent non-executive directorIndependent Non-executive Director of the Company since June 17, 1997. HeMr. Cheng is the senior partner of P.C. Woo & Co., a firm of solicitors and notaries in Hong Kong, the Founder Chairman of the Hong Kong Institute of Directors of which he is now the Honorary President and Chairman Emeritus and the Chairman of the Betting and Lotteries Commission. Mr. Cheng was appointed as a member of the Legislative Council of Hong Kong from 1991 to 1995.

Mr. Cheng currently also serves as an independent non-executive director of another six companies listed on the Main Board, namely China COSCO Holdings Company Limited, China Mobile Limited, China Resources Enterprise, Limited, Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited, Liu Chong Hing Investment Limited and Towngas China Company Limited. He currently also serves as a non-executive director of another four companies listed on the Main Board, namely Galaxy Entertainment Group Limited, Guangdong Investment Limited, Kader Holdings Company Limited and Tian An China Investments Company Limited. Mr. Cheng has also been appointed as a member of the remuneration committee of the Company.

Independent Non-Executive Directors

Dr. CHAN Kin Man, aged 48, is an associate professor in the Department of Sociology of The Chinese University of Hong Kong, specializing in state-society relations in Mainland China and 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 City Telecom since June 1997.

Mr. LEE Hon Ying, John, aged 61,62, 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 & Wireless HKT and Hong Kong Telecom. He is a chartered engineer and a member of each of the 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 degreeMaster’s Degree in information systemsInformation System from Thethe Hong Kong Polytechnic University in 1992. In addition, he is the Territory Vice-PresidentVice-president of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul of Asia and Oceania, which is an international charity body. He is the Commission member of Catholic Diocese of Hong Kong Diocesan for Hospital Pastoral Care. Mr. Lee has been a director of City TelecomDirector since June 1997.

Mr. Lee is also the chairman of the audit committee and remuneration committee of the Company.

     Dr. CHAN Kin Man, aged 49, 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 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, Jefferson, aged 48,,aged 49, 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’s degreeMaster Degree in businessBusiness from the University of Technology, Sydney. He has over 2526 years of experience in finance, accounting and management from listed and private companies in Hong Kong and Australia. Mr. Peh has been a directorDirector of City Telecomthe Company since September 2004.

Senior Management

Mr. CHANG Wing Fu, Stephen, aged 44, is our Chief Technology Officer. Mr Chang joined the Company in July 2006 as Chief Information Officer andPeh has also been the Company’s Chief Technology Officer since December 2006. He provides advice and assistance to the Company, to ensure that information and communications technologies are acquired and managed inappointed as a manner that is aligned with business strategy, supporting the goals and objectivesmember of the Companyaudit committee and its various business units. Mr Chang graduated from Australia and holds a Masters in Information Systems degree and a Bachelorremuneration committee of Science degree from Monash University. Mr Chang has 19 years of experience in Systems Development, Projectthe Company.

38


Senior Management Consulting and Information Technology Management. Prior to joining the Company, Mr Chang was the Asia Pacific/Japan Vice-President of Worldwide Support for a U.S. software company. Before that he was the General Manager of Information Technology at SmarTone-Vodafone.

Mr. CHONG Kin Chun, John, aged 45,46, is the directorDirector of the corporate division.Corporate Division. He is responsible for sales, marketing and servicing development of the Company’s international telecommunications services and fixed telecommunications network services for business and corporate customers. Mr. Chong joined City Telecomthe Company in February 1996 and holds a bachelor’s degreeBachelor’s Degree in artsArts 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.

Mr. LO Sui Lun, aged 43,44, is a directorthe Director of Hong Kong Broadband Network Limited (HKBN).HKBN, the wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company. He is now in charge of the Company’s participationInfrastructure Development and is responsible for engaging in development of the Next Generation National Broadband Network (NGNBN) project in Singapore. That project is to develop a FTTH network for the whole country.Company’s infrastructure network. Before that, Mr. Lo was in charge of regulatory, carrier business, international business, network operation and network development for HKBN. HeMr. Lo joined City Telecomthe Company 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 degreeBachelor’s Degree in sciencesSciences in electronicsElectronics from The Chinese University of Hong Kong and a master’s degreeMaster’s Degree in business administrationBusiness Administration from the University of Strathclyde, UK.

U.K.

     Dr. TAM Ming Chit, aged 42, is the Chief Technology Officer of the Company. He is responsible for the Company’s network, information system development and operations including broadband networking, IPTV, wireless applications, as well as VoIP networks. Prior to joining the Company 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 15 years of operational experience in the information technologies and telecom industry. 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 45,46, is our managing directorthe Managing Director of business development.Business Development of the Company. Ms. To is a member of the management committee of the Company andalso in charge of the International Business Department and the Carrier Business Department. She is responsible for the control of cost of services, carrier relations, sales of carrier business, exploringexplore and securingsecure business partnerships to strengthen the Company’s business operations and development. Before joining the Company, Ms. To had worked forin the Hong Kong Telecom CompanyGroup 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 Company in May 2007 after her previous servicesservice with the Company from September 1998 to July 2006.

Mr. YEUNG Chu Kwong, William, aged 47, is our Chief Operating Officer. Mr. Yeung joined City Telecom in October 2005 and is responsible to head our Customer Engagement Department to oversee customer relationship management. Mr. Yeung is also responsible to head Network Development Department. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Hong Kong Baptist University, a Master of Business Administration degree from University of Strathclyde, UK and a Master of Science Degree in Electronic Commerce and Internet Computing from The University of Hong Kong. Mr. Yeung has more than 15 years’ experience in the telecom industry. Prior to joining City Telecom, Mr. Yeung was the Director of Customers Division in SmarTone-Vodafone, the General Manager of Personal Communications and Retail Division at Tricom Telecom Limited, and was also an Inspector of Police in the Hong Kong Police Force.

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.

The aggregate amount We also granted share options to various directors and members of salaries or other compensation, housing allowances, discretionary bonuses, share-based payment, other allowancesour senior management. For more information regarding share options granted to directors and benefitsmembers of our senior management, see Item 5 “Directors, Senior Management and Employees — Share Ownership” below in kind paid by us to our directors (not including our non-executive directors) during fiscal 2007 was approximately HK$19.4 million. We paid approximately HK$1.4 million as our contribution to the pension schemes of the directors during fiscal 2007. In addition we paid our fiscal non-executive directors fees in the aggregate amount of approximately HK$605,000 during fiscal 2007.

Each executive director is entitled to receive anthis annual discretionary bonus of such amount as shall be determined by the board of directors upon recommendation and approval by the Remuneration Committee (as defined below). Additionally, ourreport.

     Our senior management and employees are entitled to receive an annual discretionary bonus based on their individual performance and our financial performance during the year in question.

As of January 21, 2008, the Company granted share options to various directors and members of our senior management. For details, please refer to Item 6EShare Ownership herein.

Except as discussed herein, no other payments have been paid or are payable, in respect of fiscal 2007, by us or any of our subsidiaries to our directors and senior management.

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 during the fiscal 2007 was approximately HK$13.4 million.

For32.5 million for fiscal 2007, the2008, compared with HK$31.2 million for fiscal 2007. The aggregate amount accrued by usof contribution that we made to provide pensionthe retirement or similar benefits for our directors and members of our senior management was HK$2.4 million for fiscal 2008, compared with HK$2.2 million for fiscal 2007.

     Except as discussed herein, no other payments have been paid or are payable, in respect of fiscal 2008, by us or any of our subsidiaries to our directors and other employees was approximately HK$23.9 million. (please refer to the second paragraph of this section)

senior management.

C. Board Practices

Service Contracts

We entered into service agreements with our threefour executive directors, Messrs. 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.
“Controlled Company” Exemption
     We are a “controlled company” within the meaning of the NASDAQ Marketplace Rules, since Top Group International Limited holds more than 50% of our voting power. As such, we are exempt from the NASDAQ Marketplace Rules requirement that a majority of a company’s board of directors must qualify as independent directors within the meaning of the NASDAQ Marketplace Rules. We are also exempt from the NASDAQ Marketplace Rules requirement regarding nominations and remuneration. In accordance with Hong Kong law, the nomination and remuneration of our directors are governed by our Articles of Association, our directors are appointed by our shareholders in general meeting and

39


the directors’ fees which are recommended by the remuneration committee of our board of directors are determined by our shareholders at the annual general meeting.
Audit Committee

Our board of directors established an Audit Committeeaudit committee in March 1999 to ensure the impartial supervision of our accounting and business operations. The Audit Committeeaudit committee is comprised of three independent non-executive directors, namely, Mr. Lee Hon Ying, John (the Chairman of the Audit Committee)audit committee), Dr. Chan Kin Man and Mr. Peh Jefferson Tun Lu, Jefferson.Lu. Mr. Peh was appointed to the Audit Committeeaudit 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.

The Audit Committeeaudit committee is governed by ouran audit committee charter, which was adopted by our board of directors at a meeting held in August 2004. It is responsible for overseeing the accounting and financial reporting process of the Company and the audits of the Company’s financial statements on behalf of the Boardour board of Directors.

directors.

Additionally, the Audit Committeeaudit committee is directly responsible for the appointment, compensation, retention and oversight of the work of City Telecom’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 City Telecom.

As provided in our audit committee charter, the Audit Committee shallaudit committee is required to meet in person or telephonically at least twice a year and shall havehas 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 Committeeaudit committee deems necessary to carry out its duties.

The Audit Committeeaudit committee met threefour times in fiscal 2007.2008. The major works performed by the Committeecommittee from September 1, 20062007 to August 31, 2007 included:

2008 included the following:
 a.Reviewed the Company’s financial statements for the year ended August 31, 20062007 and for the six months ended February 28, 2007;29, 2008;

 b.Reviewed the internal audit progress, especially on the compliance of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act;

 c.Reviewed the external auditor’s report on the review of the Company’s interim financial report for the six months ended February 28, 200729, 2008 and the Company’s audited consolidated financial statements for the year ended August 31, 2006;2007; and

 d.Pre-approved the audit and non-audit services provided by KPMG, the Company’s external auditor of the Company.auditor.

Remuneration Committee

Our board of directors established a Remuneration Committeeremuneration committee in August 2001 to manage our offer of remuneration packages to executive directors. Among others, each executive director is entitled to receive an annual discretionary bonus of such amount as shall be determined by the board of directors upon recommendation and approval by the remuneration committee. The Remuneration Committeeremuneration committee is comprised of six members with three independent non-executive directors,

Mr. Lee Hon Ying, John, Mr. Peh Tun Lu, Jefferson and Dr. Chan Kin Man and Mr. Peh Jefferson Tun Lu, the non-executive director, Mr. Cheng Mo Chi, Moses, Mr. Lai Ni Quiaque, ourthe executive director, Chief Financial Officer, Company Secretary and Head of Staff Engagement and our director of Talent Management. The Remuneration Committee’s main dutiesremuneration committee’s objectives are set out as follows:-

 (a)to make recommendations to the Board on City Telecom’sEstablish formal, fair and transparent procedures for developing policy and structure forof all remuneration of directors and senior managementmanagement.
Review and onconsider the establishmentCompany’s policy for remuneration of a formaldirectors and transparent procedure for development policy on such remuneration;senior management.
Recommend the remuneration packages of non-executive directors (including independent non-executive directors).

The remuneration committee held two meetings during the fiscal 2008. The major works performed by the committee from September 1, 2007 to August 31, 2008 included the following:
 (b)to haveReviewed and approved the delegated responsibility to determineproposed discretionary performance bonus for the specificmanagement committee members.
Reviewed and approved the remuneration packages of all executive directorsfor management committee members.
Reviewed and senior management, including benefits in kind, pension rights, short and long term incentives and compensation payments, including any compensation payable for loss or termination of their office or appointment, and make recommendations to the Board ofapproved the remuneration of non-executive directors (whether independent or otherwise);for the Directors.

(c)to review and approve performance-based remuneration by reference to corporate goals and objectives resolved by the Board from time to time;

(d)to review and approve the compensation payable to executive directors and senior management in connection with any loss or termination of their office or appointment to ensure that such compensation is determined in accordance with relevant contractual terms and that such compensation is otherwise fair and not excessive for City Telecom;

(e)to review and approve compensation arrangements relating to dismissal or removal of directors for misconduct to ensure that such arrangements are determined in accordance with relevant contractual terms and that any compensation payment is otherwise reasonable and appropriate;

(f)to ensure that no director or any of his associates is involved in deciding his own remuneration

(g)to consider other issues as may be assigned from time to time by the Board; and

(h)to advise shareholders on how to vote with respect to any service contracts of directors that require shareholders’ approval under the Listing Rules.

D. Employees

The following chart sets forth the number of our employees by functional area as of August 31, 2007.2008.

40


  Employees

Information technology and engineering

 479380

Sales and marketing, customer service and “Special Duty Unit” (“SDU”)

, or SDU
 1,8972,367

General administration and others

 316304
  

Total

 2,692
Total3,051
  

The following chart sets forth the number of our employees by geographical region as of August 31, 2007.

2008.
  Employees

Hong Kong

 1,4011,538

Guangzhou

 1,2641,489

Canada

 2724
  

Total

 2,692
Total3,051
  

As of August 31, 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2007,2008, we had 3,896, 2,565, 2,692 and 2,6923,051 employees respectively. In connection with the transfer of our calling center operations to Guangzhou, China, we have hired over 1,200 customer service representatives and back office employees to staff that facility. The slight increase in our total number of employees in fiscal 20072008 was mainly due to the expansion in our fixed telecommunications network business.

E. Share Ownership

Share Ownership

The following chart sets forth the share ownership of our directors and senior management as of January 21, 2008.

Title of Class

  

Identity of Person or Group

  

Number of Shares

Beneficially

Owned(11)

  

Percentage of

Shares Beneficially

Owned (%)(3)

  

Outstanding

Share
Options

 

Ordinary Shares

  Wong Wai Kay, Ricky  318,771,261(1) 50.82  14,000,000(4)

Ordinary Shares

  Cheung Chi Kin, Paul  352,792,737(2) 56.25  14,000,000(5)

Ordinary Shares

  Lai Ni Quiaque  9,670,000  1.54  2,000,000(6)

Ordinary Shares

  Chang Wing Fu, Stephen  Nil  Nil  700,000(10)

Ordinary Shares

  Chong Kin Chun, John  1,124,000  Less than 1.0  3,000,000(7)

Ordinary Shares

  Lo Sui Lun  628,000  Less than 1.0  2,000,000(8)

Ordinary Shares

  Yeung Chu Kwong, William  2,000,000  Less than 1.0  2,000,000(9)

9, 2009.
               
    Number of Shares Percentage of Outstanding
    Beneficially Shares Beneficially Share
Title of Class Identity of Person or Group Owned (4) Owned (%) (3) Options
Ordinary Shares Wong Wai Kay, Ricky  332,688,495(1)  51.13   14,093,586 
Ordinary Shares Cheung Chi Kin, Paul  366,983,820(2)  56.40   14,093,586 
Ordinary Shares Yeung Chu Kwong, William  3,000,000   Less than 1.0   7,029,678 
Ordinary Shares Lai Ni Quiaque  10,142,446   1.56   8,029,678 
Ordinary Shares Chong Kin Chun, John  2,271,364   Less than 1.0   2,516,710 
Ordinary Shares Lo Sui Lun  700,000   Less than 1.0   2,013,369 
Ordinary Shares Tam Ming Chit  Nil   Nil   1,002,718 
Ordinary Shares To Wai Bing  Nil   Nil   1,002,718 

(1)

Of the 318,771,261332,688,495 shares, 318,516,999331,637,811 shares are beneficially owned through Mr. Wong’s 42.12 % interest in Top Group International Ltd.,Limited, or Top Group, and 254,2621,050,684 shares are owned directly by Mr. Wong.

(2)

Of the 352,792,737366,983,820 shares, 318,516,999331,637,811 shares are beneficially owned through Mr. Cheung’s 27.062%27.06% interest in Top Group,10,508,000Group,11,021,389 shares are owned directly by Mr. Cheung and 23,767,73824,324,620 shares are beneficially owned through Mr. Cheung’s 50% interest in Worship Limited.

(3)

Percentage ownership is based on 627,218,404650,722,409 shares issued as of January 21, 2008.

9, 2009.

(4)

Options to subscribe for 8,000,000 shares were granted to Mr. Wong for a purchase price of HK$1.00, at an exercise price of HK$1.54 per share and exercisable on or before October 20, 2014 in the following manner: (i) 4,000,000 on or after January 5, 2005, (ii) 2,000,000 on or after January 1, 2006 and (iii) 2,000,000 on or after January 1, 2007. The grant of options was proposed on October 21, 2004 and approved by shareholders at our annual general meeting held on December 29, 2004. Options to subscribe for 6,000,000 shares were granted to Mr. Wong on May 22, 2006 for a purchase price of HK$1.00, at an exercise price of HK$0.66 per share and exercisable on or before May 21, 2016 in the following manner: (i) 2,000,000 on or after May 22, 2007, (ii) 2,000,000 on or after May 22, 2008; and (iii) 2,000,000 on or after May 22, 2009.

(5)

Options to subscribe for 8,000,000 shares were granted to Mr. Cheung for a purchase price of HK$1.00, at an exercise price of HK$1.54 per share and exercisable on or before October 20, 2014 in the following manner: (i) 4,000,000 on or after January 5, 2005, (ii) 2,000,000 on or after January 1, 2006 and (iii) 2,000,000 on or after January 1, 2007. The grant of options was proposed on October 21, 2004 and approved by shareholders at our annual general meeting held on December 29, 2004. Options to subscribe for 6,000,000 shares were granted to Mr. Cheung on May 22, 2006 for a purchase price of HK$1.00, at an exercise price of HK$0.66 per share and exercisable on or before May 21, 2016 in the following manner: (i) 2,000,000 on or after May 22, 2007, (ii) 2,000,000 on or after May 22, 2008; and (iii) 2,000,000 on or after May 22, 2009.

(6)

Options to subscribe for 6,000,000 shares were granted to Mr. Lai on June 3, 2004 for a purchase price of HK$1.00, at an exercise price of HK$1.47 per share and exercisable on or before June 2, 2014 in the following manner: (i) 5,000,000 on or after May 1, 2005, and (ii) 1,000,000 on or after May 1, 2006. Options to subscribe for 3,000,000 shares were granted to Mr. Lai on May 22, 2006 for a purchase price of HK$1.00, at an exercise price of HK$0.66 per share and exercisable on or before May 21, 2016 in the following manner: (i) 1,000,000 on or after May 22, 2007, (ii) 1,000,000 on or after May 22, 2008; and (iii) 1,000,000 on or after May 22, 2009. On October 17, 2007, Mr. Lai exercised options to acquire 7,000,000 shares for a total amount of consideration of HK$9,480,000.

(7)

Options to subscribe for 2,000,000 shares were granted to Mr. Chong on October 21, 2004 for a purchase price of HK$1.00, at an exercise price of HK$1.54 per share and exercisable on or before October 20, 2014 in the following manner: (i) 1,000,000 on or after January 1, 2005, (ii) 500,000 on or after January 1, 2006, and (iii) 500,000 on or after January 1, 2007. Options to subscribe for 1,500,000 shares were granted to Mr. Chong on May 22, 2006 for a purchase price of HK$1.00, at an exercise price of HK$0.66 per share and exercisable on or before May 21, 2016 in the following manner: (i) 500,000 on or after May 22, 2007, (ii) 500,000 on or after May 22, 2008; and (iii) 500,000 on or after 22 May 2009. On December 13, 2007, Mr. Chong exercised options to acquire 500,000 shares for a total amount of consideration of HK$330,000.

(8)

Options to subscribe for 500,000 shares were granted to Mr. Lo on October 21, 2004 for a purchase price of HK$1.00, at an exercise price of HK$1.54 per share and exercisable on or before October 20, 2014 in the following manner: (i) 200,000 on or after January 1, 2005, (ii) 200,000 on or after January 1, 2006, and (iii) 100,000 on or after January 1, 2007. Options to subscribe for 1,500,000 shares were granted to Mr. Lo on May 22, 2006 for a purchase price of HK$1.00, at an exercise price of HK$0.66 per share and exercisable on or before May 21, 2016 in the following manner: (i) 500,000 on or after May 22, 2007, (ii) 500,000 on or after May 22, 2008; and (iii) 500,000 on or after May 22, 2009.

(9)

Options to subscribe for 1,000,000 shares were granted to Mr. Yeung on October 3, 2005 for a purchase price of HK$1.00, at an exercise price of HK$0.81 per share and exercisable from October 1, 2006 to September 30, 2015. Options to subscribe for 3,000,000 shares were granted to Mr. Yeung on May 22, 2006 for a purchase price of HK$1.00, at an exercise price of

 

HK$0.66 per share and exercisable on or before May 21, 2016 in the following manner: (i) 1,000,000 on or after May 22, 2007, (ii) 1,000,000 on or after May 22, 2008; and (iii) 1,000,000 on or after May 22, 2009. On November 22, 2007, Mr. Yeung exercised options to acquire 2,000,000 shares for a total amount of consideration of HK$1,470,000.

(10)(4)

Options to subscribe for 1,000,000 shares were granted to Mr. Chang on July 3, 2006 for a purchase price of HK$1.00, at an exercise price of HK$0.68 per share and exercisable on or before July 2, 2016 in the following manner: (i) 300,000 on or after July 3, 2007, (ii) 300,000 on or after July 3, 2008; and (iii) 400,000 on or after July 3, 2009. On July 9, 2007, Mr. Chang exercised options to acquire 300,000 shares for a total amount of consideration of HK$204,000.

(11)

Beneficial ownership is determined in accordance with the rules of the SEC.

41


     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 January 9, 2009:-
                                     
                  Adjustment  Adjustment       
            Options    to number  to number  Options  Options    
        Balance  granted    of options  of options  exercised  cancelled/  Balance 
        as at  during    for 2007  for 2008  during  lapsed  as at 
  Date of Exercise January  the  Exercise Final  Interim  the  during  January 
  grant price 21 ,2008  period  period Dividend  Dividend  period  the period  9, 2009 
    HK$           (note 1)  (note 2)             
Directors
                                    
                                     
Mr. Wong Wai Kay, Ricky January 5, 2005 1.5297
(note 5)
  8,000,000     January 5, 2005 to
October 20, 2014
  31,646   21,832         8,053,478 
                                     
  May 22, 2006 0.6554
(note 6)
  6,000,000     May 22, 2007 to
May 21, 2016
  23,734   16,374         6,040,108 
                                     
Mr. Cheung Chi Kin,Paul January 5, 2005 1.5297
(note 5)
  8,000,000     January 5, 2005 to
October 20, 2014
  31,646   21,832         8,053,478 
                                     
  May 22, 2006 0.6554
(note 6)
  6,000,000     May 22, 2007 to
May 21, 2016
  23,734   16,374         6,040,108 
                                     
Mr. Yeung Chu Kwong, William May 22, 2006 0.6554
(note 6)
  2,000,000     May 22, 2007 to
May 21, 2016
  7,911   5,458   1,000,000      1,013,369 
                                     
  February 6, 2008 1.7652
(note 7)
     6,000,000  (note 3)     16,309         6,016,309 
                                     
Mr. Lai Ni Quiaque June 3, 2004  1.4700   6,000,000     May 1, 2005 to
June 2,2014
        6,000,000      
                                     
  May 22, 2006 0.6554
(note 6)
  3,000,000     May 22, 2007 to
May 21, 2016
  7,911   5,458   1,000,000      2,013,369 
                                     
  February 11, 2008 1.8749
(note 8)
     6,000,000  (note 4)     16,309         6,016,309 
                                     
Senior Management                                    
                                     
Mr. Chong Kin Chun, John October 21, 2004 1.5297
(note 5)
  2,000,000     January 1, 2005 to
October 20, 2014
  7,911   5,457         2,013,368 
                                     
  May 22, 2006 0.6554
(note 6)
  1,000,000     May 22, 2007 to
May 21, 2016
  3,956   1,364   501,978      503,342 
                                     
Mr. Lo Sui Lun October 21, 2004 1.5297
(note 5)
  500,000     January 1, 2005 to
October 20, 2014
  1,978   1,365         503,343 
                                     
  May 22, 2006 0.6554
(note 6)
  1,500,000     May 22, 2007 to
May 21, 2016
  5,934   4,092         1,510,026 
                                     
Dr. Tam Ming Chit May 2, 2008 1.7951
(note 9)
     1,000,000  (note 3)     2,718         1,002,718 
                                     
Ms. To Wai Bing February 15, 2008 1.7652
(note 7)
     4,000,000  (note 3)     10,873      3,008,155   1,002,718 
Notes:
(1)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. The closing price per share immediately before the date of the grant of the Options was HK$1.70.

42


(2)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 65,235,809 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. The closing price per share immediately before the date of the grant of the Options was HK$1.79.
(3)The exercise of the Options is subject to certain conditions that must be achieved by the employee. The Options shall be exercised not later than December 23, 2012.
(4)The exercise of the Options is subject to the performance of the Company’s share. The Options shall be exercised not later than 23 December 2012.
(5)Exercise price of the share options was adjusted from HK$1.54 to HK$1.5339 per ordinary share as a result of our payment of the 2007 Final Dividend (see Note 1). Exercise price of the share options was adjusted from HK$1.5339 to HK$1.5297 per ordinary share as a result of our payment of the 2008 Interim Dividend (see Note 2).
(6)Exercise price of the share options was adjusted from HK$0.66 to HK$0.6573 per ordinary share as a result of our payment of the 2007 Final Dividend (see Note 1). Exercise price of the share options was adjusted from HK$0.6573 to HK$0.6554 per ordinary share as a result of our payment of the 2008 Interim Dividend (see Note 2).
(7)Exercise price of the share options was adjusted from HK$1.77 to HK$1.7652 per ordinary share as a result of our payment of the 2008 Interim Dividend (see Note 2).
(8)Exercise price of the share options was adjusted from HK$1.88 to HK$1.8749 per ordinary share as a result of our payment of the 2008 Interim Dividend (see Note 2).
(9)Exercise price of the share options was adjusted from HK$1.80 to HK$1.7951 per ordinary share as a result of our payment of the 2008 Interim Dividend (see Note 2).
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 Scheme, on December 23, 2002 and terminated the share option scheme adopted and in effect since July 12, 1997, which we refer to as the 1997 Scheme. Upon termination of the 1997 Scheme, no further options can be granted under the 1997 Scheme. Options granted under the 1997 Scheme that are not exercised have lapsed automatically on July 12, 2007. Under the terms of the 2002 Scheme, our board of directors or the Board, may, in its discretion from time to time, and subject to such conditions as the Boardboard may determine, within ten years beginning on December 23, 2002, grant any employee 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 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 which was December 23, 2002 for the 2002 Scheme. 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 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 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 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.

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

43


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 Scheme and any of our other share option scheme(s) (including options exercised, cancelled and outstanding) to such person in the 12 month12-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 the Board 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 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:

 (i)the expiry date relevant to that option;

 (ii)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 (vii) below;

 (iii)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 (vii) below;

 (iv)21 days following the date an effective resolution is passed for our voluntary winding-up;

 (v)subject to (iv) above, the date of commencement of such winding-up;

 (vi)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;

 (vii)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-employee 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;

 (viii)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

 (ix)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 favor of any third party over or in relation to any of his or her options or attempt to do so.

As of January 21, 2008,9, 2009, a total number of 72,280,00090,962,393 options were granted, 12,625,00026,677,268 options were exercised, 8,020,00013,418,911 options were lapsed and 51,635,00060,581,214 options remain outstanding and unexercised. In our annual general meeting held on December 24, 2007, our shareholders approved the refreshment of the 2002 Scheme limit, i.e. 62,704,840 shares representing 10% of the issued share capital of the Company as at December 24, 2007. A total number of 62,704,84047,413,203 options isare available for issue as of January 21, 2008.

9, 2009.

ITEM 7. MAJOR SHAREHOLDERS AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

A. Major Shareholders

The following table sets forth certain information regarding ownership of our ordinary shares as of January 21, 20089, 2009 by all persons who are known to us to own beneficially 5% or more of our ordinary shares.

Title of Class

  

Identity of Person or Group

  Beneficially
Owned(6)
  

Percentages of Shares

Beneficially Owned
(%)(1)

Ordinary Shares

  Wong Wai Kay, Ricky  318,771,261(2) 50.82

Ordinary Shares

  Cheung Chi Kin, Paul  352,792,737(3) 56.25

Ordinary Shares

  Top Group International Ltd.  318,516,999  50.78

Ordinary Shares

  Leung Ka Pak  318,516,999(4) 50.78

Ordinary Shares

  Yau Ming Yan, Andrew  318,516,999(4) 50.78

Ordinary Shares

  EK Investment Management Limited  55,542,000(5) 8.86

           
        Percentages of Shares
    Beneficially Beneficially Owned
Title of Class Identity of Person or Group Owned(5) (%)(1)
Ordinary Shares Wong Wai Kay, Ricky  332,688,495(2)  51.13 
Ordinary Shares Cheung Chi Kin, Paul  366,983,820(3)  56.40 
Ordinary Shares Top Group International Limited  331,637,811   50.96 
Ordinary Shares Leung Ka Pak  331,637,811(4)  50.96 
Ordinary Shares Yau Ming Yan, Andrew  331,637,811(4)  50.96 

(1)

(1)Percentage ownership is based on 627,218,404650,722,409 shares issued as of January 21, 2008.

9, 2009.

(2)

Of the 318,771,261332,688,495 shares, 318,516,999331,637,811 shares are beneficially owned through Mr. Wong’s 42.12 % interest in Top Group International Limited or Top Group, and 254,2621,050,684 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 Kay, Ricky and Mr. Cheung Chi Kin, Paul, who are our chairman and vice chairman respectively. They are two of shareholders of Top Group. Mr. Leung Ka Pak and Mr. Yau Ming Yan, Andrew are the two other shareholders of Top Group.

44


(3)

(3)Of the 352,792,737366,983,820 shares, 318,516,999331,637,811 shares are beneficially owned through Mr. Cheung’s 27.062%27.06% interest in Top Group, 10,508,00011,021,389 shares are owned directly by Mr. Cheung and 23,767,73824,324,620 shares are beneficially owned through Mr. Cheung’s 50% interest in Worship Limited.

(4)

The 318,516,999331,637,811 shares are beneficially owned through Mr. Leung’s 21%21.00% and Mr. Yau’s 9.8%9.82% interest in Top Group.

Mr. Leung Ka Pak was a director and the president of all of the Company’s subsidiaries in Canada (other than City Telecom (Canada) Inc.. He resigned as a director and president in October 2005. After Mr. Leung resigned, Mr. Yau Ming Yan, Andrew was a director and the president of all subsidiaries in Canada (other than City Telecom (Canada) Inc.). He resigned as a director and president in July 2006.

(5)

(5)

The 55,542,000 shares owned by EK Investment Management Limited is the number of shares as notified to us by EK Investment Management Limited as of December 18, 2007.

(6)

Beneficial ownership is determined in accordance with the rules of the SEC.

As of January 21, 2008,9, 2009, there were 1110 registered holders of 2,586,1271,838,117 American Depositary Shares in the United States, consisting of 8.25 %5.65% of our outstanding shares.

All shareholders own ordinary shares and enjoy the same voting rights with respect to each share.

Top Group International Ltd. is a holding company incorporated in British Virgin Islands with no active operations. Top Group has two directors, Mr. Wong Wai Kay, Ricky and Mr. Cheung Chi Kin, Paul, who are our chairman and chief executive officer respectively. They are two of shareholders of Top Group. Mr. Leung Ka Pak and Mr. Yau Ming Yan, Andrew are the two other shareholders of Top Group.

Mr. Leung Ka Pak was a director and the president of all subsidiaries in Canada other than City Telecom (Canada) Inc.. He resigned as a director and president in October 2005. After Mr. Leung resigned, Mr. Yau Ming Yan, Andrew was a director and the president of all our subsidiaries in Canada other than City Telecom (Canada) Inc.. He resigned as a director and president in July 2006.

EK Investment Management Limited is not affiliated with us or our officers or directors.

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.

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 bonuses.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” ofabove in this annual report for details concerning these arrangements.

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-90— F-92 following Item 19.

Legal and Regulatory Proceedings

We are currently involved in twoone material legal or regulatory proceedings. They areproceedings as described below:

People’s Telecom.FMIC.In March 2004, our wholly owned subsidiary, Hong Kong Broadband Network Limited (“HKBN”)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, (“FMIC”)or FMIC, to be paid by China Resources Peoples Telephone Company Limited, (“Peoples”)or Peoples, and the effective date of such charges. 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 May 2004, the Telecommunications Authority confirmed to Peoples and HKBN that mobile operators (in this case Peoples) should pay interconnection charges to fixed network operators (in this case HKBN) in accordance with the existing charging principles stated clearly in the relevant Statements issued by the Telecommunications Authority, particular in Statements No. 5 & 7. In August 2004, the Telecommunications Authority agreed to commence a determination regarding the level and effective date of FMIC payable to HKBN by Peoples. In March 2006, the Telecommunications Authority issued a preliminary analysis and requested comments from HKBN. HKBN submitted its response to the Telecommunications Authority in July 2006 and September 2006 respectively. Finally, in June 2007, the Telecommunications Authority made a determination on the level of FMIC payable by Peoples to HKBN for the period from April 2002 to August 2004.

PCCW caseOn December 24, 2007, PCCW IMS

     In February 2008, HKBN requested the Telecommunications Authority to make a new determination with four mobile network operators including Peoples, CSL Limited, filed a Writ together with an EndorsementHutchison Telephone Company Limited, SmarTone Mobile Communications Limited & SmarTone 3G Limited (collectively “MNOs”) on the rate of Claim withFMIC and the High Court of Hong Kong, alleging a claim againstinterest thereon. In September 2008, the CompanyTelecommunications Authority indicated that it accepted HKBN’s request for determination. The proceedings are still in respect of an advertisement published by the Company on December 19, 2007, seeking damages of no less than HK$1,000,000 and an injunction preventing further publication of the advertisement, based on defamation and malicious falsehood. The Company is now waiting for the detailed Statement of Claim to be filed by PCCW IMS Limited and shall contest this claim accordingly.

progress.

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

45


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 2007,2008, an interim dividend with a scrip alternative was declared and paid ofat HK4 cents per ordinary share totalingshare. On July 23, 2008, the Company issued and allotted 8,838,938 New Shares to Shareholders who elected to receive the 2008 Interim Dividend in New Shares and the total amounts of HK$24,635,000.11,370,899.92 was paid as cash dividend.
     A final dividend of HK4HK2 cents per ordinary share together with a scriptscrip alternative was proposed on November 22, 2007,17, 2008, which was subsequently approved by shareholders in the annual general meeting held on December 24, 2007.

19, 2008. The 2008 Final Dividend will be paid on or about February 25, 2009.

B. Significant Changes

None

None.
ITEM 9. THE OFFER AND LISTING

A. Offer and Listing Details

Our ordinary shares were listed under the number “1137” on theThe Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited, (the “SEHK”)or the HKSE, on August 4, 1997. Our American depositary shares, each representing 20 ordinary shares, were listed under the symbol “CTEL” on the Nasdaq on November 3, 1999. Our 8.75% senior notes were listed under the ISIN codes of US178677AA87 and USY16599AA30 on the Singapore Exchange Securities Trading Limited, (“SGX-ST”)or SGX-ST, on January 24, 2005. The 8.75% 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.

The price of our ordinary shares on the SEHKHKSE as of its close of trading on January 21, 20089, 2009 was HK$1.921.04 per share. The table below shows the high and low closing prices of the shares on the SEHKHKSE since listing.
         
  Price
  High Low
  (In HK$)
2003  3.375   1.320 
2004  2.975   1.310 
2005  1.530   0.550 
2006  0.830   0.570 
2007  3.670   0.830 
         
2006        
January to March  0.770   0.570 
April to June  0.820   0.600 
July to September  0.710   0.630 
October to December  0.830   0.600 
         
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 
         
2008        
January to March  2.170   1.620 
April to June  2.090   1.670 
July to September  1.950   1.340 
October to December  1.360   0.750 
2008        
August  1.910   1.650 
September  1.750   1.340 
October  1.360   0.750 
November  1.110   0.840 
December  1.160   0.950 

46


   Price
   High  Low
   (In HK$)

2003

  3.375  1.320

2004

  2.975  1.310

2005

  1.530  0.550

2006

  0.830  0.570

2007

  3.670  0.830

2006

    

January to March

  0.770  0.570

April to June

  0.820  0.600

July to September

  0.710  0.630

October to December

  0.830  0.600

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

2007

    

August

  2.000  1.780

September

  2.020  1.900

October

  3.670  1.960

November

  3.140  1.930

December

  2.450  2.060

2008

    

January (through January 21, 2008)

  2.170  2.100

         
  Price
  High Low
  (In HK$)
2009        
January (through January 9, 2009)  1.050   0.970 
The price of our American depositary shares on Nasdaq as of its close of trading on January 18, 20089, 2009 was US$4.702.66 per American depositary share. The table below shows the high and low closing prices of the American depositary shares on Nasdaq since listing.

   Price
   High  Low
   (In HK$)

2003

  9.550  3.100

2004

  7.720  3.320

2005

  3.980  1.370

2006

  2.009  1.380

2007

  10.750  2.010

2006

    

January to March

  1.900  1.440

April to June

  1.970  1.380

July to September

  1.760  1.540

October to December

  2.009  1.400

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

2007

    

August

  5.020  4.050

September

  5.140  4.750

October

  10.750  4.830

November

  7.530  4.950

December

  6.470  5.240

2008

    

January (through January 18, 2008)

  5.580  4.690

         
  Price
  High Low
  (In US$)
2003  9.550   3.100 
2004  7.720   3.320 
2005  3.980   1.370 
2006  2.009   1.380 
2007  10.750   2.010 
         
2006        
January to March  1.900   1.440 
April to June  1.970   1.380 
July to September  1.760   1.540 
October to December  2.009   1.400 
         
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 
         
2008        
January to March  5.580   4.250 
April to June  5.750   4.370 
July to September  4.910   2.950 
October to December  3.380   1.915 
2008        
August  4.910   4.410 
September  4.720   2.950 
October  3.380   1.930 
November  2.560   1.915 
December  2.850   2.220 
         
2009        
January (through January 9, 2009)  2.820   2.660 
B. Plan of distribution

Not applicable

applicable.

C. Markets

Our ordinary shares of common stock were listed under the number “1137” on the SEHKHKSE on August 4, 1997. Our American depositary shares, each representing 20 ordinary shares, were listed under the symbol “CTEL” on the Nasdaq on November 3, 1999. Our 8.75% senior notes were listed under the ISIN codes of US178677AA87 and USY16599AA30 on the SGX-ST on January 24, 2005. The 8.75% 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.

D. Selling shareholders

Not applicable

applicable.

E. Dilution

Not applicable

applicable.

F. Expenses of the issue
Not applicable.

47

Not applicable


ITEM 10. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

A. Share Capital

Not applicable

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 (Chapter 32 of the laws of Hong Kong) (the “Companies Ordinance”).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.

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.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 employees of the Company or its subsidiaries, including the adoption, modification or operation of any employees’ share scheme or any share incentive or share option scheme under which the director or his associate(s) may benefit;

 (f)any proposal or arrangement concerning the benefit of employees 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 employees 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

Unless the relevant provisions of the Companies Ordinance require otherwise,

     In accordance with our Articles, we may by ordinary resolution (being a resolution passed by a majority of ourthose votes cast by the shareholders who attend and vote at a meeting of shareholders)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 whereaccording to the amounts paid up on the shares are not or were not fullyin respect of which dividend is paid forunder pro rata basis during the period covered by the dividend.

Unless the relevant provisions of the Companies Ordinance require otherwise,

     In accordance with our Articles, our board of directors may pay such interim dividends as appears to themthat 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, ifin the opinion of our board of directors, feels that this payment is justified.

justifies the payment.

In respect of any dividend proposed to be paid or declared, by our board of directors or by us in a general meeting, 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:

48


 (a)such dividend be madesatisfied in whole or in part in the form of an allotment of shares to the shareholders, credited as being fully paid up. However,up, provided that all the shareholders entitled to receive these new sharesthe 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 that part of the cash dividend as theour 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.

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 ascreate any trustee relationship in respect of such sums.
Liquidation
     Subject to the requirements under the Hong Kong Companies Ordinance, in the event of a trustee for such sums.

Liquidation

If the Company commences liquidation,members’ winding up, the liquidator may, with the sanction of a special resolution of the Company and any other sanction required by the Companies Ordinance:

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 calendar year and not more than 15 months after our previous annual general meeting. The annual general meeting and any other general meeting of our shareholders held for the passing of a special resolution (being a resolution passed by a majority of not less than 75% of those votes cast by the shareholders who attend and vote at a meeting of shareholders)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 less than 21 clear 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, and balance sheet and the reportreports 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 yearly 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 thea general meeting. All extraordinary general meetings (other than those convened for the passing of a special resolution referred to above) should be convened by not less than 14 clear days’ notice in writing. Extraordinary general meetings may be called by less than 14 clear days’ notice by a 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. NoWhilst no business shall be transacted at any general meeting unless a quorum is present when the meeting proceeds to business, but 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 the Companyourselves 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 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.

49


Voting Rights

Any business to be transacteddecisions that are made by the shareholders in a general meeting requires the passing of either an ordinary or a special resolution at such meeting. Generally, resolutionsThe type of resolution required to be passed depends upon the provisions of the shareholders are passed by ordinary resolution. However, theHong Kong Companies Ordinance and our Articles provide thatas certain matters may only be passed asdecided by the passing of a special resolutions.

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 member 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.

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 Hong Kong 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 in a general meeting.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. IfWhere such shareholders’ approval is given, subject to the Listing Rules and any conditions attached to such approval, our unissued shares shallmay 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.

Unless specifically restricted by

     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 transferinstrument 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 signedexecuted 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 shall preventprevents 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 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;

 (d)in the case of a transfer of a share to be registered injointly held by two or more than one name (i.e. there are joint holders),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 not be closed in any year for more than 30 days (excluding Sundays and public holidays). unless extended by ordinary resolution.

50


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.

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 gainsprofits gained from the sale of our shares and American depositary shares, unless all the following three factors are present:

 (i)such gain isprofits are derived from or arisingarise in Hong Kong;

 (ii)such gain isprofits 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, wasare not a capital assetassets of that trade, profession or business.

Taxable gains will beprofits are subject to Hong Kong profits tax which is currently imposed on corporations at the rate of 17.5%16.5% and on unincorporated businesses or individuals at the rate of 16%15%.

Gains

     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. Liability to Hong KongSuch profits tax in respect of such gains would ariseare taxable if the shares wereare not held as capital assets and the gainsprofits are attributable to a business, trade or profession carried out in Hong Kong.

Gains

     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, and such gains will be subject to Hong Kong profits tax inKong. In the case ofevent 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.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 gainprofit 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

A

     The sale orand purchase of shares is subject to Hong Kong stamp duty which is payable by each ofboth the seller and thepurchaser. Both seller and purchaser in equal sharesmust pay stamp duty at thea rate of HK$1.00 per HK$1,000 or part thereof by reference to0.1% 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, whichever is greater.executed. If, in the case of a sale or purchase of the 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 of transfer in an amount equal to the unpaid duty. If the stamp dutyinstrument is not paid onstamped before or beforewithin the due date,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.

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, unlesstransactions. In the event the withdrawal or deposit does not result in a change in the beneficial ownership of the shares under Hong Kong law.law, only the nominal fixed duty of HK$5.00 will

51


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.

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, 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 United States Internal Revenue 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;

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.

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.

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. This is,The PFIC status of a foreign corporation for any taxable year, however, a factual determination made on an annual basis.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 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 principles, 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

52


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 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 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 after December 31, 2002 and before January 1, 2011 is subject to United States federal income tax rates lower than those applicable to ordinary income. The topmaximum federal income tax rate on such qualifying dividends received by an individual is 15%, or 5% for those individuals whose incomes fall in the 10-10% or 15- percent15% 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 income” or “financial services income” for taxable years beginning on or before December 31, 2006, and as “passive category income”, or in certain cases “general category income”, for taxable years beginning after December 31, 2006, which is treated separately from other types of income for purposes of computing the 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 foreign tax credit for federal 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 foreign tax credits by the holders of American depositary shares. Accordingly, 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. 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.

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 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.

53


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 at the rate of 28% 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, 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 payor, under penalties of perjury, on IRS Form W-8BEN.

F. Dividends and paying agents

Not applicable

applicable.

G. Statement by experts

Not applicable

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 Fifth Street, Room 1024, N.W., 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 Fifth Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20549, at prescribed rates. Information may be obtained regarding the Washington D.C. Public Reference Room by calling the Securities 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.
I. Subsidiary Information

Not applicable

applicable.

ITEM 11. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

Our functional currency is the Hong Kong dollar, the currency in which the majority of our revenue and related accounts receivable and expenses are denominated. Certain of the expenses of our telecommunications business are payable in other currencies, primarily the U.S. dollar. Since the exchange rate between the Hong Kong and the U.S. dollar is pegged, our operations have not been significantly affected by exchange rate fluctuations. Therefore, we do not use derivative financial instruments to manage our exchange rate exposures.

In the normal course of business, we also face other risks such as country risk, credit risk and legal risk and we do not use derivative financial instruments to hedge such risks.

We are exposed to market risk from changes in currency exchange rates and interest rates.

Foreign Currency Risk

The functional currency of our operations, and our financial statement reporting currency, is the Hong Kong dollar. Our monetary assets and liabilities are primarily denominated in Hong Kong dollars, substantially all our net sales are denominated and received in Hong Kong dollars, and our labor and administrative costs are incurred primarily in Hong Kong dollars. However, we have certain currentfinancial assets and long-term bank deposits, other investments and short-term bank loansliabilities which are primarily denominated in U.S. dollars.

As of August 31, 2007,2008, we had the following significant foreign currencies denominated account balances:

  As of August 31, 20072008
  (Thousands of HK$)

Cash and bank balances:

 

Denominated in U.S. dollars

 165,226174,397

Denominated in Chinese renminbi

9,136

Denominated in Canadian dollars

 5,9811,311

Long-term bank deposits:

Accounts payable and other payables:
 

Denominated in U.S. dollars

 14,415

Other investments:

46,001
 

Denominated in U.S. dollars

28,577

Further, our principal long-term debt obligations areconsist of the aggregate principal amount of US$125.0 million of 8.75% senior notes issued in January 2005, which are denominated in U.S. dollars.

As of January 9, 2009, an aggregate principal amount of US$89.4 million of the notes were outstanding.

As the exchange rate of the Hong Kong dollar to the U.S. dollar has remained close to the current pegged rate of HK$7.80=$US$1.00 since 1983, we have not experienced significant foreign exchange gains or losses associated with that currency. The Hong Kong government could, however, change the pegged rate or abandon the peg altogether. Depreciation of the Hong Kong dollar against the U.S. dollar would generally increase our U.S. dollar expenses, and increase the amount of Hong Kong dollar revenue that we would be required to earn to meet our payment obligations under the 8.75% senior notes.

We also incur expenses denominated in Renminbi, the official currency of the People’s Republic of China, in connection with our Guangzhou call centre. These include the salaries that we pay to our personnel as various operating expenses that we incur to maintain our operations. As a result, we are exposed to a certain amount of foreign exchange risk based on fluctuations between the Hong Kong dollar and the Renminbi. If the Renminbi appreciates against the Hong Kong dollar, the amount of Hong Kong dollars we would be required to spend to maintain our call center would increase. Therefore, in order to limit our foreign currency risk exposure on the Renminbi, we maintain Renminbi cash balance that approximates three months’ operating cash flow.

Interest Rate Risk

Prior to our repayment in full of our floating interest rate loan facility with HSBC, we were exposed to interest rate risks. In connection with this facility, we entered into an interest rate swap agreement to hedge the impact of fluctuations in interest rates, under which we make a monthly interest payment at a fixed rate of 2.675% per annum on a notional amount of HK$100.0 million (which is reduced by the principal repayment schedule during the loan period), and will receive monthly interest payments calculated at HIBOR during the period from March 2004 to December 2009 or until the facility is repaid and we terminate the swap agreement.

In prior years, no recognition of such instrument is required under HKFRS. However, with effect from September 1, 2005, such interest rate swap instrument must be recorded at fair value, which we determined to be approximately HK$1.8 million as of August 31, 2006 and HK$1.0 million as of August 31, 2007. Under U.S. GAAP reporting, such interest rate swap instrument is and has been recorded at fair value. As of August 31, 2007, the interest rate swap agreement remains outstanding following the full repayment of our loan facility with HSBC. On January 24, 2008, the interest rate swap agreement has been unwound.

ITEM 12. DESCRIPTION OF SECURITIES OTHER THAN EQUITY SECURITIES

None

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

We maintain a set of disclosure controls

Disclosure Controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by City Telecom in reports that we file or submit under the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. With the passing of the U.S. Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, we have adopted additional measures to strengthen the internal controls within City Telecom, including the following:

Education.We asked our legal advisor to prepare a comprehensive memorandum explaining the requirements of Sarbanes Oxley and the Nasdaq Corporate Governance requirements and a memorandum discussing disclosure controls and procedures in public companies. The memoranda were circulated to members of our management. Our legal advisor also gave the following presentations: (a) a presentation to our board of directors discussing Sarbanes Oxley and the requirements placed on City Telecom as a public company in the Sarbanes Oxley era; (b) a presentation to our Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer and other senior officers discussing the “Section 302” and “Section 906” certifications and other more technical aspects of Sarbanes Oxley compliance; and (c) a presentation to our Audit Committee to discuss the unique responsibilities placed on the Audit Committee by the Sarbanes Oxley Act.

Disclosure Controls and Procedures. We asked our legal advisor to enhance the system of disclosure controls and procedures within City Telecom. To accomplish this goal, our legal advisor worked with selected executives to educate them on the requirements of Form 6-K and Form 20-F and the obligations to disclose to investors and the SEC material developments that may have an impact on City Telecom or its share capital and engaged in similar discussions about these requirements with our directors and executive officers. As a result, a new process for information management has been established so that any information required to be disclosed will be recorded, processed, summarized and reported in a timely fashion and that the information will be accumulated and communicated to our management to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. Under the new process, the Legal Department will take responsibility for identifying these material developments and determining whether to involve our legal advisor.

Board Committees. We adopted amendments to our Audit Committee Charter and Terms of Reference of Remuneration Committee, to provide more detailed operational, financial and management control procedures and guidelines.

Procedures

Within the 90-day period prior to the filing of this report, 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. Based on that evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that our disclosure controls and

54


procedures are effective.effective. 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.

Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
     As the Company is listed on Nasdaq, it is bound by the provision of the U.S. Sarbanes - Oxley Act 2002 (the “SOX Act”), which is a legislation seeking to enhance the transparency and accountability of the companies in the areas of corporate governance and financial reporting. Under Section 404(a) of the SOX Act, management of the Group is required to include its assessment of the effectiveness of the Group’s internal control procedures over financial reporting in the annual report on Form 20-F to be filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission beginning in the fiscal year ended 31 August 2008, while no external auditors’ report on such assessment is required in this fiscal year according to Section 404(b) of the SOX Act.
     Management of the Company is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting for the Company, as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-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 financial statements for external purpose in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”). With the assistance of the Company’s internal audit department and external consultants, management of the Group organizes and conducts a comprehensive assessment of internal control over financial reporting based on the control criteria in COSO framework. As of the date of this annual report, management is not aware of any instances of material weaknesses on its internal control over financial reporting.
Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
     The Company has performed an annual review of the effectiveness of its disclosure controls and procedures in 2008. Based on the review, management considers that the Group’s disclosure controls and procedures are effective in providing reasonable assurance that all material information is promptly recorded, processed and disclosed.
     During 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.
ITEM 16A. AUDIT COMMITTEE FINANCIAL EXPERT

Our board of directors established an Audit Committeeaudit committee to ensure the impartial supervision of our accounting and business operations. The Audit Committeeaudit committee is comprised of three independent non-executive directors, namely, Mr. Lee Hon Ying, John, Dr. Chan Kin Man and Mr. Peh Tun Lu Jefferson. Mr. Peh was appointed to the Audit Committeeaudit 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, 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 employee of our company or any of our subsidiaries.

ITEM 16C. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES

With effect from May 13, 2005, PricewaterhouseCoopers, or PwC, tendered its resignation.

     The following table sets forth the remuneration that we paid to KPMG, was appointed as our independent auditor to fill the casual vacancy caused by the resignationin each of PwC until the conclusion of the annual general meeting held on December 29, 2005. A resolution was passed in the annual general meeting to reappoint KPMG as our auditor. The fees for the professional services rendered by KPMG inprevious two fiscal 2006 and in fiscal 2007, are set forth in the table below.

For KPMG

Nature of the service

  2006  2007
   (HK$ million)  (HK$ million)

Audit fees

  1.8  2.2

Audit-related fees

  0.3  0.4

All other fees

  0.7  —  
      

Total

  2.8  2.6
      

years.

         
Nature of the service 2007 2008
  (HK$ million) (HK$ million)
Audit fees  2.2   2.8 
Audit-related fees  0.4   0.4 
         
         
Total  2.6   3.2 
         
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 accounting and advisory services fees and generally include support for the interpretation and implementation of new accounting and reporting standards and acquisition accounting. It also includes the review of the Statement on Details of Contribution of the Occupational Retirement Scheme, and the auditour interim financial statements and review of reports for compliance with telecommunications regulations and debt obligations.

55

All Other Fees


All other fees are the aggregate fees for agreed upon procedures performed in respect of our internal control procedures over financial reporting.

Pre-approval Polices

The engagement of PwC and 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

None.

     Not applicable.
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. In fiscal 2007,2008, no shares were purchased under the mandate then in force.

PART III

ITEM 17. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

City Telecom has 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-88F-92 following Item 19.

ITEM 19. EXHIBITS

 (a)Exhibit 12.1 Section 302 Certifications of the Chairman.Chief Executive Officer.

 (b)Exhibit 12.2 Section 302 Certifications of the Chief Financial Officer.

 (c)Exhibit 13 Section 906 Certification of ChairmanChief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer.

56



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 sheets of City Telecom (H.K.) Limited and its subsidiaries (collectively referred to as the “Group”) as of August 31, 20062007 and 2007,2008, and the related consolidated statements of operations, changes in shareholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended August 31, 2007.2008. These consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of the Group’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. 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, 20062007 and 2007,2008, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended August 31, 2007,2008, in conformity with Hong Kong Financial Reporting Standards.

Hong Kong Financial Reporting Standards vary in certain significant respects from accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Information relating to the nature and effect of such differences is presented in note 2931 to the consolidated financial statements.

/s/ KPMG

Hong Kong, China
November 17, 2008

F-1

November 22, 2007, except as to note 30 which is as of January 22, 2008


City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year ended August 31, 20072008

City Telecom (H.K.) Limited and its subsidiaries


Consolidated statements of operations

(Amounts in thousands except per share data)

      Year ended August 31, 
   Note  2005  2006  2007 
      HK$  HK$  HK$ 

Revenue

    1,162,059  1,134,876  1,141,270 

Operating expenses

      

Network costs

  3  (339,402) (300,593) (214,591)

Salaries and related costs

    (259,392) (256,721) (221,102)

Sales and marketing expenses

    (267,983) (204,952) (203,673)

General and administrative expenses

    (395,211) (440,672) (402,760)

Provision for doubtful accounts

    (35,445) (17,450) (6,569)
            

(Loss)/income from operations

    (135,374) (85,512) 92,575 

Interest income

    13,578  20,378  22,671 

Interest expense

  4  (54,462) (88,637) (87,504)

Other income, net

  4  6,037  4,465  3,149 
            

(Loss)/income before taxation

  4  (170,221) (149,306) 30,891 

Income tax credit/(expense)

  5  6,725  7,244  (2,026)
            

Net (loss)/income

    (163,496) (142,062) 28,865 
            

(Loss)/Earnings per share

      

Basic

  6  (26.6) cents  (23.1) cents  4.7 cents 
            

Diluted

  6  (26.6)cents  (23.1)cents  4.6 cents 
            

               
    Year ended August 31,
  Note 2006 2007 2008
    HK$ HK$ HK$
Revenue
    1,134,876   1,141,270   1,302,981 
 
Operating expenses
              
 
Network costs, net 4  (300,593)  (214,591)  (178,367)
Salaries and related costs    (256,721)  (221,102)  (247,460)
Sales and marketing expenses    (204,952)  (203,673)  (307,743)
General and administrative expenses    (440,672)  (402,760)  (396,598)
Provision for doubtful accounts    (17,450)  (6,569)  (14,293)
               
 
(Loss)/income from operations
    (85,512)  92,575   158,520 
 
Interest income    20,378   22,671   15,596 
Interest expense 5  (88,637)  (87,504)  (75,137)
Other income, net 5  4,465   3,149   9,393 
               
 
(Loss)/income before taxation
 5  (149,306)  30,891   108,372 
Income tax credit/(expense) 6  7,244   (2,026)  16,818 
               
 
Net (loss)/income
    (142,062)  28,865   125,190 
               
 
(Loss)/Earnings per share
              
Basic 7  (23.1) cents   4.7 cents   19.7 cents 
               
 
Diluted 7  (23.1) cents   4.6 cents   19.0 cents 
               
The accompany notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

F-2


City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year ended August 31, 20072008

City Telecom (H.K.) Limited and its subsidiaries


Consolidated balance sheets

(Amounts in thousands except number of shares and per share amounts)
           
    August 31,
  Note 2007 2008
    HK$ HK$
ASSETS
          
           
Current assets
          
           
Cash and bank balances 20  532,894   421,610 
Pledged bank deposits 16  87,220   87,319 
Investment securities 17  3,779   27,997 
Trade receivables, net 8(a)  170,551   140,283 
Other receivables, deposits and prepayments 8(d)  59,372   82,726 
Inventories    477    
Deferred expenditure 13  13,584   40,704 
           
           
Total current assets
    867,877   800,639 
           
Goodwill 9  1,066   1,066 
Fixed assets, net 10  1,237,223   1,231,399 
Investment securities 17  39,213    
Derivative financial instrument 18  1,039    
Long term receivables and prepayment    6,932   5,586 
Deferred expenditure 13  7,783   15,391 
Deferred taxation 12     26,335 
           
           
Total assets
    2,161,133   2,080,416 
           
           
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
          
           
Current liabilities
          
           
Trade payables    76,019   52,324 
Deposits received    16,188   16,264 
Deferred services income    64,202   110,449 
Other payables and accrued charges 11  145,267   178,114 
Income tax payable    1,481   2,103 
Current portion of obligations under finance leases 14  835   121 
           
           
Total current liabilities
    303,992   359,375 
           
Long-term liabilities
          
           
Deferred taxation 12  291   4,937 
Long-term debt and obligations under finance leases, excluding current portion 14  952,968   683,497 
           
           
Total liabilities
    1,257,251   1,047,809 

F-3

     August 31,
   Note 2006  2007
     HK$  HK$

ASSETS

     

Current assets

     

Cash and bank balances

  19 144,917  532,894

Term bank deposits

  19 237,496  —  

Pledged bank deposits

  15 87,022  87,220

Investment securities

   —    3,779

Trade receivables, net

  7(a) 140,598  170,551

Other receivables, deposits and prepayments

  7(b) 77,583  59,372

Inventories

   856  477

Deferred expenditure

  12 10,808  13,584

Income tax receivable

   347  —  
       

Total current assets

   699,627  867,877

Goodwill

  8 1,066  1,066

Fixed assets, net

  9 1,367,234  1,237,223

Investment securities

  16 40,274  39,213

Derivative financial instrument

  17 1,845  1,039

Long term receivables and prepayment

   12,532  6,932

Deferred expenditure

  12 1,637  7,783
       

Total assets

   2,124,215  2,161,133
       

LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

     

Current liabilities

     

Trade payables

   86,385  76,019

Deposits received

   16,230  16,188

Current portion of deferred services income

   33,743  64,202

Other payables and accrued charges

  10 143,486  145,267

Income tax payable

   1,964  1,481

Current portion of obligations under finance leases

  13 1,297  835
       

Total current liabilities

   283,105  303,992

Long-term liabilities

     

Deferred taxation

  11 353  291

Long-term debt and other liabilities

  13 949,103  952,968
       

Total liabilities

   1,232,561  1,257,251

City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year ended August 31, 20072008

City Telecom (H.K.) Limited and its subsidiaries


Consolidated balance sheets (continued)

(Amounts in thousands except number of shares and per share amounts)

      August 31,
   Note  2006  2007
      HK$  HK$

Commitments and contingencies

  14    

Shareholders’ equity

      

Ordinary shares, par value HK$0.10 per share

      

- 2,000,000,000 shares authorised

      

- 614,175,404 and 616,503,404 shares issued and outstanding at August 31, 2006 and 2007, respectively

  18  61,417  61,650

Share premium

    620,298  622,433

Retained profits

    196,289  200,519

Capital reserve

    12,993  18,109

Translation reserve

    657  1,171
        

Total shareholders’ equity

    891,654  903,882
        

Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity

    2,124,215  2,161,133
        

           
    August 31,
  Note 2007 2008
    HK$ HK$
Commitments and contingencies
 15        
           
Shareholders’ equity
          
           
Ordinary shares, par value HK$0.10 per share          
— 2,000,000,000 shares authorized          
— 616,503,404 and 650,621,823 shares issued and outstanding at August 31, 2007 and 2008, respectively 19  61,650   65,062 
Share premium    622,433   670,717 
Retained profits    200,519   275,025 
Capital reserve    18,109   19,013 
Translation reserve    1,171   2,790 
           
 
Total shareholders’ equity
    903,882   1,032,607 
           
 
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity
    2,161,133   2,080,416 
           
The accompany notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

F-4


City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year ended August 31, 20072008

City Telecom (H.K.) Limited and its subsidiaries

Consolidated statements of changes in shareholders’ equity

(Amounts in thousands)

      Year ended August 31, 
   Note  2005  2006  2007 
      HK$  HK$  HK$ 

Total equity as at beginning of the year

      

As previously reported

    1,175,698  1,020,454  891,654 

Adjustment arising from adoption of HKAS 39

  18(a)  —    6,609  —   
            

After opening balance adjustment

    1,175,698  1,027,063  891,654 

Net (loss)/gain recognized directly in equity:

      

Foreign currency translation adjustment

    (143) (183) 514 

(Loss)/profit attributable to shareholders

    (163,496) (142,062) 28,865 

2007 interim dividends declared and paid

    —    —    (24,635)

Movements in equity arising fromcapital transactions:

      

Equity settled share-based compensation

    6,965  6,823  5,727 

Shares issued upon exercise of options and warrant

    1,430  13  1,757 
            

Total equity as at the end of the year

  18  1,020,454  891,654  903,882 
            

                 
      Year ended August 31,
  Note 2006 2007 2008
      HK$ HK$ HK$
Total equity as of beginning of the year
                
                 
As previously reported      1,020,454   891,654   903,882 
Adjustment arising from adoption of HKAS 39      6,609       
                 
                 
After opening balance adjustment      1,027,063   891,654   903,882 
                 
Net (loss)/gain recognized directly in equity:
                
                 
Foreign currency translation adjustment      (183)  514   1,619 
                 
(Loss)/profit attributable to shareholders
      (142,062)  28,865   125,190 
                 
Dividend paid in respect of the current year         (24,635)  (11,371)
                 
Dividend paid in respect of the previous year            (5,915)
                 
Movements in equity arising from capital transactions:
                
                 
Equity settled share-based compensation      6,823   5,727   4,204 
Shares issued upon exercise of options      13   1,757   14,998 
                 
                 
Total equity as of the end of the year
  19   891,654   903,882   1,032,607 
                 
The accompany notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

F-5


City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year ended August 31, 20072008

City Telecom (H.K.) Limited and its subsidiaries

Consolidated statements of cash flows

(Amounts in thousands)
                 
      Year ended August 31,
  Note 2006 2007 2008
      HK$ HK$ HK$
Cash flows from operating activities
                
                 
(Loss)/income before taxation      (149,306)  30,891   108,372 
                 
Adjustments to reconcile
                
                 
(Loss)/income before taxation to net cash inflow from operating activities:
                
                 
—Depreciation of purchased fixed assets      275,538   257,052   209,464 
—Depreciation of fixed assets held under finance leases      926   1,051   587 
—Impairment loss on investment property      1,131       
—Amortization of deferred expenditure      13,973   15,580   33,777 
—Interest income      (20,378)  (22,671)  (15,596)
—Interest element of finance leases      54   62   34 
—Loss on disposal of fixed assets      9,621   1,714   1,431 
—Realized and unrealized gain on investment securities      (668)  (1,887)  (3,284)
—Interest, amortization and exchange difference on senior notes      86,664   89,879   72,640 
—Other borrowing costs      1,919   (739)  (1,185)
—Equity settled share-based compensation      6,823   5,727   4,204 
—Realized and unrealized loss on derivative financial instruments      125   806   1,039 
—Gain on extinguishment of 10-year senior notes            (2,582)
—Decrease in long-term receivable and prepayment      567   5,600   1,346 

F-6

      Year ended August 31, 
   Note  2005  2006  2007 
      HK$  HK$  HK$ 

Cash flows from operating activities

      

(Loss)/income before taxation

    (170,221) (149,306) 30,891 

Adjustments to reconcile

      

(Loss)/income before taxation to net cash inflow from operating activities:

      

-Amortization of goodwill

    1,065  —    —   

-Depreciation of purchased fixed assets

    236,269  275,538  257,052 

-Depreciation of fixed assets held under finance leases

    380  926  1,051 

-Impairment loss on investment property

    —    1,131  —   

-Amortization of deferred expenditure

    12,927  13,973  15,580 

-Interest income

    (13,578) (20,378) (22,671)

-Interest expense

    374  —    —   

-Interest element of finance leases

    23  54  62 

-(Gain)/loss on disposal of fixed assets

    (134) 9,621  1,714 

-Unrealized loss on investment securities

    (300) (668) (1,887)

-Interest, amortisation and exchange difference on senior notes

    54,065  86,664  89,879 

-Other borrowing costs

    —    1,919  (739)

-Equity settled share-based compensation

    6,965  6,823  5,727 

-Realized and unrealized loss on derivative financial instruments

    —    125  806 

-(Increase)/decrease in long-term receivable and prepayment

    (6,893) 567  5,600 

City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year ended August 31, 20072008

City Telecom (H.K.) Limited and its subsidiaries


Consolidated statements of cash flows (continued)

(Amounts in thousands)
                 
      Year ended August 31,
  Note 2006 2007 2008
      HK$ HK$ HK$
Cash flows from operating activities (continued)
                
                 
Adjustments to reconcile (continued)
                
                 
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
                
                 
— (Increase)/decrease in trade receivables, other receivables, deposits and prepayments      (9,413)  (11,742)  6,914 
— Decrease in inventories      1,101   379   477 
— Increase in deferred expenditure      (5,287)  (24,502)  (68,505)
— (Decrease)/increase in trade payables, other payables, accrued charges, and deposits received      (23,652)  8,573   (12,567)
— (Decrease)/increase in deferred service income      (3,001)  30,459   46,247 
                 
                 
Net cash inflow generated from operations
      186,737   386,232   382,813 
                 
Interest element of finance leases      (54)  (62)  (34)
Hong Kong profits tax (paid)/recovered      (961)  (263)  42 
Overseas tax paid      (1,571)  (1,908)  (4,292)
                 
                 
Net cash inflow from operating activities
      184,151   383,999   378,529 
                 
                 
Investing activities
                
                 
Decrease/(Increase) in pledged bank deposits      3,425   (198)   
(Increase)/decrease in term bank deposits      (144,646)  237,496    
Purchases of fixed assets      (382,214)  (149,300)  (189,903)
Interest received      20,378   22,671   15,596 
Proceeds from disposal of fixed assets      5,676   3,384   7,057 
Net proceeds from maturity of derivative financial instruments      4,639      3,900 
Net proceeds from redemption of long-term bank deposit            15,600 
                 
                 
Net cash (outflow)/inflow from investing activities
      (492,742)  114,053   (147,750)
                 
                 
Net cash (outflow)/inflow before financing activities
      (308,591)  498,052   230,779 
                 

F-7

      Year ended August 31, 
   Note  2005  2006  2007 
      HK$  HK$  HK$ 

Cash flows from operating activities(continued)

      

Adjustments to reconcile (continued)

      

Changes in operating assets and liabilities:

      

- Increase in trade receivables, other receivables, deposits and prepayments

    (29,890) (9,413) (11,742)

- (Increase)/decrease in inventories

    (1,957) 1,101  379 

- Increase in deferred expenditure

    (12,495) (5,287) (24,502)

- Increase/(decrease) in trade payables, other payables, accrued charges, and deposits received

    5,258  (23,652) 8,573 

- (Decrease)/increase in deferred service income

    (2,685) (3,001) 30,459 
            

Net cash inflow generated from operations

    79,173  186,737  386,232 
            

Interest paid

    (374) —    —   

Interest element of finance leases

    (23) (54) (62)

Hong Kong profits tax paid

    (805) (961) (263)

Overseas tax paid

    (588) (1,571) (1,908)
            

Net cash inflow from operating activities

    77,383  184,151  383,999 
            

Investing activities

      

(Increase)/decrease in pledged bank deposits

    (63,642) 3,425  (198)

(Increase)/decrease in term bank deposits

    (92,850) (144,646) 237,496 

Purchases of fixed assets

    (415,494) (382,214) (149,300)

Interest received

    13,578  20,378  22,671 

Proceeds from disposal of fixed assets

    968  5,676  3,384 

Net proceeds from maturity of derivative financial instruments

    —    4,639  —   
            

Net cash (outflow)/inflow from investing activities

    (557,440) (492,742) 114,053 
            

Net cash (outflow)/inflow before financing activities

    (480,057) (308,591) 498,052 
            

City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year ended August 31, 20072008

City Telecom (H.K.) Limited and its subsidiaries


Consolidated statements of cash flows (continued)

(Amounts in thousands)

      Year ended August 31, 
   Note  2005  2006  2007 
      HK$  HK$  HK$ 

Financing activities

      

Proceeds from exercise of share options and warrants

    1,430  13  1,757 

Net proceeds from issuance of senior notes

    943,655  —    —   

Interest paid on senior notes

    (52,372) (85,235) (85,313)

Proceeds from bank loan

    100,000  —    —   

Repayment of bank loan

    (200,000) —    —   

Repayment of capital element of finance Leases

    (497) (1,210) (1,321)

Dividends paid

    —    —    (24,627)
            

Net cash inflow/(outflow) from financing Activities

    792,216  (86,432) (109,504)
            

Increase/(decrease) in cash and bankbalances

    312,159  (395,023) 388,548 

Cash and bank balances at thebeginning of year

    228,347  539,591  144,917 

Effect of foreign exchange rate changes on cash and bank balances

    (915) 349  (571)
            

Cash and bank balances at the endof year

  19  539,591  144,917  532,894 
            

                 
      Year ended August 31,
  Note 2006 2007 2008
      HK$ HK$ HK$
Financing activities
                
                 
Proceeds from exercise of share options      13   1,757   14,998 
Interest paid on senior notes      (85,235)  (85,313)  (70,010)
Repayment of capital element of finance leases      (1,210)  (1,321)  (834)
Repurchase of senior notes            (269,399)
Dividends paid         (24,627)  (17,271)
                 
                 
Net cash outflow from financing activities
      (86,432)  (109,504)  (342,516)
                 
                 
(Decrease)/increase in cash and bank balances
      (395,023)  388,548   (111,737)
                 
Cash and bank balances at the beginning of year
      539,591   144,917   532,894 
                 
Effect of foreign exchange rate changes on cash and bank balances
      349   (571)  453 
                 
                 
Cash and bank balances at the end of year
  19   144,917   532,894   421,610 
                 
The accompany notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

F-8


City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year ended August 31, 20072008

1
1Description of business and basis of presentation

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 following is a list of principal subsidiaries which principally affect the results, assets or liabilities of the Group as at August 31, 2007:

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 following is a list of principal subsidiaries which principally affect the results, assets or liabilities of the Group as of August 31, 2008:
      

Percentage

holding

  

Name

 

holding
Place and date of
Nature of
Nameestablishment/ operation

 

Issued capital

 Directly Indirectly 

Nature ofBusiness

business

963673 Ontario Limited 

Canada


November 12, 1991

 Common Canadian
dollar (“CAD”)
502,000
   100 Investment holding
in Canada
Attitude Holdings Limited British Virgin Islands
November 3, 1997
 Ordinary US$1   100 Inactive
Automedia Holdings Limited 

British Virgin Islands


January 23, 2001

 Ordinary US$1 100   Investment holding
in Hong Kong
City Telecom (B.C.) Inc. 

Canada


February 25, 1992

 Common
CAD501,000
   100 Provision of
international
telecommunications
and dial-up Internet
access services in
Canada
City Telecom (Canada) Inc. 

Canada


October 6, 1997

 Common
CAD100
   100 Leasing and
maintenance of
switching
equipment and
provision of
operational services
in Canada

F-9


City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year ended August 31, 20072008

1
1Description of business and basis of presentation (continued)

Place and

date of establishment/
operation

   

Percentage

holding

Nature of

business

Name

  
Place andPercentage
date of establishment/holdingNature of
NameoperationIssued capital Directly Indirectly business

City Telecom Inc.

 Canada
September 19, 1991
 Common

CAD1,000

   100 Provision of
international
telecommunications
and dial-up Internet
access services in
Canada

City Telecom International Limited

 

City Telecom
International
Limited
British Virgin Islands


May 8, 1997

 Ordinary

US$5,294

 100   Investment holding
in Hong Kong

City Telecom (U.S.A.) Inc.

 USA
May 5, 1997
 Common

US$1

   100 Inactive

Credibility Holdings Limited

 British Virgin Islands
December 18, 1998
 Ordinary

US$1

 100   Investment holding
in Hong Kong

CTI Guangzhou Customer Service Co. Ltd (translated from the registered name in Chinese)

 

The People’s Republic of

China (“the

PRC”)

April 29, 2002

 Paid in capital of
HK$8,000,000
 100 
 Provision of
administrative
support services in
the PRC

CTI International
Limited
Hong Kong
August 23, 1999
Ordinary
HK$10,000,000
100Inactive
CTI Marketing
Company Limited
Hong Kong
August 23, 1999
Ordinary
HK$10,000
100Provision of media marketing services in Hong Kong
Golden Trinity
Holdings Limited
British Virgin Islands June 11, 1997Ordinary
US$1
100Investment holding
in Hong Kong

F-10


City Telecom (H.K.) Limited
Consolidated financial statements for the year ended August 31, 2008
1Description of business and basis of presentation (continued)
Place andPercentage
date of establishment/holdingNature of
NameoperationIssued capitalDirectlyIndirectlybusiness
Hong Kong Broadband
Network Limited
 Hong Kong August 23, 1999 Ordinary

HK$10,000,000

383,049
—  100Inactive

CTI Marketing Company Limited

Hong Kong August 23, 1999Ordinary

HK$10,000

—  100Provision of media
marketing services
in Hong Kong

Golden Trinity Holdings Limited

British Virgin

Islands

June 11, 1997

Ordinary

US$1

100—  Investment holding
in Hong Kong

City Telecom (H.K.) Limited

Consolidated financial statements for the year ended August 31, 2007

1Description of business and basis of presentation (continued)

  

Place and

date of establishment/
operation

   

Percentage

holding

100
 

Nature of

business

Name

Issued capital

DirectlyIndirectly

Hong Kong Broadband Network Limited

Hong Kong August 23, 1999

Ordinary

HK$383,049

—  100 Provision of international telecommunications and fixed telecommunications network services in Hong Kong

IDD 1600 Company
Limited

 Hong Kong November 4, 1998 

Ordinary


HK$2

   100 Provision of international telecommunications services in Hong Kong

Global Courier Company Limited (formerly known as iStore.com Limited)

 Hong Kong
September 17, 1999
 Ordinary
HK$10,000
   100 Inactive

SGBN Singapore Broadband Network Pte. Limited

 

Singapore


March 29, 2007

 Ordinary
Singapore
dollar 1
 100   Inactive

2
2Basis of preparation and principal accounting policies

(a)Statement of compliance
The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with all applicable 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”), as well as accounting principles generally accepted in Hong Kong and the requirements of the Hong Kong Companies Ordinance. HKFRSs differ in certain significant respects from accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”), details of which are set out in note 31.

The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with all applicable 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”), as well as accounting principles generally accepted in Hong Kong and the requirements of the Hong Kong Companies Ordinance. HKFRSs differ in certain significant respects from accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”), details of which are set out in note 29.F-11


City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year ended August 31, 20072008

2
2Basis of preparation and principal accounting policies (continued)

(b)Basis of preparation
The consolidated financial statements consist of the balance sheets of the Company and all its subsidiaries as of August 31, 2007, and 2008 and the related statements of operations, cash flows and changes in shareholders’ equity for the years ended August 31, 2006, 2007 and 2008.
The measurement basis used in the preparation of the consolidated financial statements is the historical cost basis except that certain financial assets are stated at their fair value or amortized cost as explained in the accounting policies set out below (see notes 2(j), 2(k) and 2(s)).
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with HKFRSs 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.
All amounts are expressed in Hong Kong Dollars, the functional currency of City Telecom (H.K.) Limited. Unless indicated otherwise, amounts in Hong Kong Dollars have been rounded to the nearest thousand.

The consolidated financial statements consist of the balance sheets of the Company and all its subsidiaries as of August 31, 2006, and 2007 and the related statements of operations, cash flows and changes in shareholders’ equity for the years ended August 31, 2005, 2006 and 2007.

The measurement basis used in the preparation of the consolidated financial statements is the historical cost basis except that certain financial assets are stated at their fair value or amortized cost as explained in the accounting policies set out below (see notes 2(j) and 2(k)).

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with HKFRSs requires management to make judgements, 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 judgements 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.

All amounts are expressed in Hong Kong Dollars, the functional currency of City Telecom (H.K.) Limited. Unless indicated otherwise, amounts in Hong Kong Dollars have been rounded to the nearest thousand.

(c)Subsidiaries and controlled entities
Subsidiaries are entities controlled by the Company. Control exists when the Company 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 exercisable are taken into account.

Subsidiaries are entities controlled by the Company. Control exists when the Company 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 exercisable are taken into account.F-12


City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year ended August 31, 20072008

2
2Basis of preparation and principal accounting policies (continued)

(d)Group accounting

(i)Consolidation

A controlled subsidiary is consolidated into the consolidated financial statements from the date that control commences until the date that control ceases.

Intercompany balances and transactions and any unrealized profits arising from intercompany transactions are eliminated in full in preparing the consolidated financial statements. Unrealized losses resulting from intercompany transactions are eliminated in the same way as unrealized gains but only to the extent that there is no evidence of impairment.

A controlled subsidiary is consolidated into the consolidated financial statements from the date that control commences until the date that control ceases.
Intercompany balances and transactions and any unrealized profits arising from intercompany transactions are eliminated in full in preparing the consolidated financial statements. Unrealized losses resulting from intercompany 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 expressed in foreign currencies at the balance sheet date are translated at rates of exchange ruling at the balance sheet date. Exchange differences arising from these transactions are dealt with in the consolidated statement of operations.
For consolidation purposes, the balance sheets of subsidiaries with functional currencies other than Hong Kong Dollars are translated at the rate of exchange ruling at the balance sheet date. Revenues and expenses are translated at the average rate prevailing during the year. The resulting exchange differences are dealt with in the consolidated statement of shareholders’ equity as translation reserves.

Transactions in foreign currencies are translated at exchange rates ruling at the transaction dates. Monetary assets and liabilities expressed in foreign currencies at the balance sheet date are translated at rates of exchange ruling at the balance sheet date. Exchange differences arising from these transactions are dealt with in the consolidated statement of operations.

For consolidation purposes, the balance sheets of subsidiaries with functional currencies other than Hong Kong Dollars are translated at the rate of exchange ruling at the balance sheet date. Revenues and expenses are translated at the average rate prevailing during the year. The resulting exchange differences are dealt with in the consolidated statement of shareholders’ equity as translation reserves.

(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 at the acquisition date. 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 of a jointly controlled entity is recognized immediately in the consolidated statement of operations.
Goodwill is stated at cost less accumulated impairment losses, if any. Goodwill is allocated to cash-generating units and is tested annually for impairment (see note 2(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.
On disposal of a cash generating unit, an associate or a jointly controlled entity during the year, any attributable amount of purchased goodwill is included in the calculation of the profit or loss on disposal.

F-13

Goodwill is stated at cost less accumulated impairment losses, if any. Goodwill is allocated to cash-generating units and is tested annually for impairment (see note 2(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.


On disposal of a cash generating unit, an associate or a jointly controlled entity during the year, any attributable amount of purchased goodwill is included in the calculation of the profit or loss on disposal.

City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year ended August 31, 20072008

2
2Basis of preparation and principal accounting policies (continued)

(f)Investment property
Investment properties are land and/or buildings 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 2(g)) and impairment losses (see note 2(i)), if any. Any gain or loss arising from the retirement or disposal of an investment property is recognized in the consolidated statement of operations. Rental income from investment property is accounted for as described in note 2(u)(vi).

Investment properties are land and/or buildings 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 2(g)) and impairment losses (see note 2(i)), if any. Any gain or loss arising from the retirement or disposal of an investment property is recognized in the consolidated statement of operations. Rental income from investment property is accounted for as described in note 2(t)(vi).

(g)Fixed assets

Fixed assets are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and 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:

-        (g)

Fixed assets
Fixed assets are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and 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 and investment property situated on leasehold land

 over the shorter of the unexpired term of the leases and their estimated useful lives of 50 years

-        

Furniture, fixtures and fittings

 4 years

-        

Telecommunications, computer and office equipment

 4 - 20 years

-        

Motor vehicles

 4 years

-        

Leasehold improvements

 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.
Major costs incurred in restoring fixed assets to their normal working condition are charged to the consolidated statement of operations. Major improvements are capitalized and depreciated over the expected useful lives of the related asset.

F-14

Major costs incurred in restoring fixed assets to their normal working condition are charged to the consolidated statement of operations. Major improvements are capitalized and depreciated over the expected useful lives of the related asset.


City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year ended August 31, 20072008

2
2Basis of preparation and principal accounting policies (continued)

(g)Fixed assets (continued)
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 the consolidated statement of operations on the date of disposal.
During the year ended August 31, 2007, the Group changed the estimated useful lives of certain telecommunications equipment. The effect of such change is set out in note 10(d).
Under certain circumstances, the Group may have obligation to dismantle part of its network upon request by concerned parties. Owing to the absence of such history, no reliable estimate can be reasonably made in respect of such potential obligation.

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 the consolidated statement of operations on the date of disposal.

During the year ended August 31, 2007, the Group changed the estimated useful lives of certain telecommunications equipment. The effect of such change is set out in note 9(d).

Under certain circumstances, the Group may have obligation to dismantle part of its network upon request by concerned parties. Owing to the absence of such history, no reliable estimate can be reasonably made in respect of such potential obligation.

(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.

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 leased assets

Assets held 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 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 2(h)(iii)).

Assets held 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 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 2(h)(iii)).
(ii)Finance leases
Where the Group acquired the use of assets under finance leases, the amounts representing the lower of the fair value of the leased asset, or the present value of the minimum lease payments is recorded in fixed assets with the corresponding liability, net of finance charges, recorded as obligations under finance leases. Depreciation and impairment losses are accounted for in accordance with the accounting policy in note 2(g) and note 2(i). Finance charges implicit in the lease payments are charged to the consolidated statement of operations over the period of the leases so as to produce an approximate constant periodic rate of charge on the remaining balance of the obligations.

Where the Group acquired the use of assets under finance leases, the amounts representing the lower of the fair value of the leased asset, or the present value of the minimum lease payments is recorded in fixed assets with the corresponding liability, net of finance charges, recorded as obligations under finance leases. Depreciation and impairment losses are accounted for in accordance with the accounting policy in note 2(g) and note 2(i). Finance charges implicit in the lease payments are charged to the consolidated statement of operations over the period of the leases so as to produce an approximate constant periodic rate of charge on the remaining balance of the obligations.F-15


City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year ended August 31, 20072008

2Basis of preparation and principal accounting policies (continued)

(h)Assets held under leases (continued)

(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, are credited/ charged to the consolidated statement of operations on a straight-line basis over the lease periods.

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, are credited/ charged to the consolidated statement of operations on a straight-line basis over the lease periods.
(i)Impairment of assets

(i)Impairment of investment securities 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 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.
If any such evidence exists, any impairment loss is determined and recognized as follows:
For unquoted equity securities and 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. If any such evidence exists, any impairment loss is determined and recognized as follows:

-For investment securities carried at amortized cost, the impairment loss is measured as the difference between the asset’s carrying amount and the 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 the asset).

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 the consolidated statement of operations. A reversal of an impairment loss shall not result in the asset’s carrying amount exceeding that which would have been determined had no impairment loss been recognized in prior years.

-For receivables that are carried at cost, the impairment loss is measured as the difference between the asset’s 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.

(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 decrease:

 -fixed assets;

 -investment property;For 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-16

-goodwill.


City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year ended August 31, 20072008

2Basis of preparation and principal accounting policies (continued)

(i)Impairment of assets (continued)
(i)Impairment of investment securities 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 the consolidated statement of operations. A reversal of an impairment loss shall not result in the asset’s carrying amount exceeding that which 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 consolidated statement of operations. The amount of the cumulative loss that is recognized in consolidated statement of operations 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 consolidated statement of operations.
Impairment losses recognized in consolidated statement of operations in respect of available-for-sale equity securities are not reversed through consolidated statement of operations. 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 recognised. Reversals of impairment losses in such circumstances are recognised in profit or loss.
Impairment losses are written off against the corresponding assets directly, except for impairment losses recognised in respect of trade debtors, 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 trade debtors 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 recognised in profit or loss.
(ii)Impairment of other assets (continued)
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 decrease:

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 amountfixed assets;

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 lossesinvestment property; and

An impairment loss is recognized in consolidated statement of operations 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 lossesgoodwill.

Except in the case of goodwill, an impairment loss is reversed if there has been a favorable change in the estimate used to determine the recoverable amount. An impairment loss in respect of goodwill is not reversed.F-17

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 consolidated statement of operations in the year in which the reversals are recognized.


City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year ended August 31, 20072008

2Basis of preparation and principal accounting policies (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 consolidated statement of operations 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
Except in the case of goodwill, an impairment loss is reversed if there has been a favorable change in the estimate 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 consolidated statement of operations in the year in which the reversals are recognized.

F-18


City Telecom (H.K.) Limited
Consolidated financial statements for the year ended August 31, 2008
(j)Investment securities
The Group’s accounting policy for investments securities is as follows:
Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss comprise of financial assets held for trading and those designated as of fair value through profit or loss at inception. They 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 is remeasured, with any resultant gain or loss being recognized in the consolidated statement of operations. The net gain or loss recognized in the consolidated statement of operations does not include any interest earned on these investments as these are recognized in accordance with the policies set out in notes 2(u)(v).
Held-to-maturity securities are dated debt securities that the Group has the positive ability and intention to hold to maturity. They 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 2(i)(i)).
Investment securities 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 is remeasured, with any resultant gain or loss being recognized directly in equity, except for impairment losses (see note 2(i)(i)) and, in the case of monetary items such as debt securities, foreign exchange gains and losses that are recognized directly in the consolidated statement of operations. Where these investments are interest-bearing, interest calculated using the effective interest method is recognized in the consolidated statement of operations. When these investments are derecognized, the cumulative gain or loss previously recognized directly in equity is recognized in the consolidated statement of operations.
Investments are recognized on the date the Group commits to purchase the investments. Investments are derecognized when:

The Group’s accounting policy for investments securities is as follows:

Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss comprise of financial assets held for trading and those designated as at fair value through profit or loss at inception. They 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 is remeasured, with any resultant gain or loss being recognized in the consolidated statement of operations. The net gain or loss recognized in the consolidated statement of operations does not include any interest earned on these investments as these are recognized in accordance with the policies set out in notes 2(t)(v).

Held-to-maturity securities are dated debt securities that the Group has the positive ability and intention to hold to maturity. They 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 2(i)(i)).

Investment securities 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 is remeasured, with any resultant gain or loss being recognized directly in equity, except for impairment losses (see note 2(i)(i)) and, in the case of monetary items such as debt securities, foreign exchange gains and losses that are recognized directly in the consolidated statement of operations. Where these investments are interest-bearing, interest calculated using the effective interest method is recognized in the consolidated statement of operations. When these investments are derecognized, the cumulative gain or loss previously recognized directly in equity is recognized in the consolidated statement of operations.

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)Derivative financial instruments
Derivative financial instruments that are not designated as hedge are recognized initially at fair value. At each balance sheet date the fair value is remeasured. The gain or loss on remeasurement to fair value is charged immediately to the consolidated statement of operations.
(l)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.

Derivative financial instruments are recognized initially at fair value. At each balance sheet date the fair value is remeasured. The gain or loss on remeasurement to fair value is charged immediately to the consolidated statement of operations, except where the derivative qualify for cash flow hedge accounting or hedge the 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.F-19


City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year ended August 31, 20072008

2Basis of preparation and principal accounting policies (continued)
(l)(m)Deferred expenditureAccounts receivables
Trade and other receivables are initially recognized at fair value and thereafter stated at amortized cost less impairment losses for doubtful debts (see note 2(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 losses for bad and doubtful debts.
(n)Inventories
Inventories are carried at the lower of cost or net realizable value.
Cost is determined using the first in, first out method and comprises all costs of purchase.
Net realizable value is the estimated selling price in the ordinary course of business less the estimated costs of completion and the estimated costs necessary to make the sale.
When inventories are sold, the carrying amount of the inventory is recognized in the consolidated statement of operations as cost of inventories sold in the period in which the related revenue is recognized. The amount of any write-down of inventories to net realizable value is recognized as an expense in the period the write-down occurs. The amount of any reversal of any write-down of inventories, arising from an increase in net realizable value, is recognized as a reduction of network costs in the period in which the reversal occurs.
For the years ended August 31, 2006, 2007 and 2008, there was no write-down of inventories.
(o)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 consolidated 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 16).

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 agreement.F-20


City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year ended August 31, 20072008

2
2Basis of preparation and principal accounting policies (continued)

(m)(p)Accounts receivablesProvisions 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.

Trade and other receivables are initially recognized at fair value and thereafter stated at amortized cost less impairment losses for doubtful debts (see note 2(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 losses for bad and doubtful debts.

(n)(q)InventoriesEmployee benefits

Inventories are carried at the lower of cost or net realizable value.

Cost is determined using the first in, first out method and comprises all costs of purchase.

Net realizable value is the estimated selling price in the ordinary course of business less the estimated costs of completion and the estimated costs necessary to make the sale.

When inventories are sold, the carrying amount of the inventory is recognized as an expense in the period in which the related revenue is recognized. The amount of any write-down of inventories to net realizable value is recognized as an expense in the period the write-down occurs. The amount of any reversal of any write-down of inventories, arising from an increase in net realizable value, is recognized as a reduction in the amount of inventories recognized as an expense in the period in which the reversal occurs.

For the years ended August 31, 2005, 2006 and 2007, there was no write-down of inventories.

(o)(i)Cash, bank balancesEmployee leave entitlements
Employee entitlements to annual leave and pledged bank depositslong service leave are recognized when they accrue to employees. A provision is made for the estimated liability for annual leave and long-service leave as services are rendered by employees. Employee entitlements 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 employees and a reliable estimate of the obligation can be made.

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 consolidated 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 15).F-21


City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year ended August 31, 20072008

2
2Basis of preparation and principal accounting policies (continued)

(p)(q)ProvisionsEmployee benefits (continued)
(iii)Retirement benefit costs
The Group contributes to defined contribution retirement schemes which are available to certain employees. Contributions to the schemes by the Group are calculated as a percentage of employees’ basic salaries and contingent liabilitiescharged to the consolidated statement of operations. The Group’s contributions are reduced by contributions forfeited by those employees who leave the scheme prior to being fully vested in the Group’s 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 employees is recognized as an employee cost with a corresponding increase in a 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 employees 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 the consolidated statement of operations in the year of the review, unless the original employee cost qualified 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 relating to share options expense is recorded in the capital reserve until either the option is exercised or the option expires.
(r)Deferred taxation
Deferred tax assets and liabilities arise from deductible and taxable temporary differences respectively, being the differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and their tax bases. Deferred tax assets also arise from unused tax losses and unused tax credits.
Deferred tax assets are recognized to the extent that it is probable that future taxable profit will be available against which the temporary differences can be utilized.
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.

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.F-22

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.


City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year ended August 31, 20072008

2
2Basis of preparation and principal accounting policies (continued)

(q)Employee benefits

(i)Employee leave entitlements

Employee entitlements to annual leave and long service leave are recognized when they accrue to employees. A provision is made for the estimated liability for annual leave and long-service leave as services are rendered by employees. Employee entitlements 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 employees 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. Contributions to the schemes by the Group are calculated as a percentage of employees’ basic salaries and charged to the consolidated statement of operations. The Group’s contributions are reduced by contributions forfeited by those employees who leave the scheme prior to being fully vested in the Group’s 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 employees is recognized as an employee cost with a corresponding increase in a capital reserve within equity. The fair value is measured at grant date using the Black-Scholes option pricing model, taking into account the terms and conditions upon which the options were granted. Where the employees 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 the consolidated statement of operations in the year of the review, unless the original employee cost qualified 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 relating to share options expense is recorded in the capital reserve until either the option is exercised or the option expires.

City Telecom (H.K.) Limited

Consolidated financial statements for the year ended August 31, 2007

2Basis of preparation and principal accounting policies (continued)

(r)Deferred taxation

Deferred tax assets and liabilities arise from deductible and taxable temporary differences respectively, being the differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and their tax bases. Deferred tax assets also arise from unused tax losses and unused tax credits.

Deferred tax assets are recognized to the extent that it is probable that future taxable profit will be available against which the temporary differences can be utilized.

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.

(s)Senior notes
Senior notes are recognized initially at fair value less direct and incremental issuance costs. Subsequent to initial recognition, the senior notes are stated at amortized cost. The difference between the original issuance price and redemption price of the notes is recognized in the consolidated statement of operations over the period of the notes using the effective interest method.

Senior notes are recognized initially at fair value less direct and incremental issuance costs. Subsequent to initial recognition, the senior notes are stated at amortized cost. The difference between the original issuance price and redemption price of the notes is recognized in the consolidated statement of operations over the period of the notes using the effective interest method.

In the event that the senior notes are redeemed prior to the maturity date, the unamortized notes issuance costs are charged immediately to the consolidated statement of operations.

(t)Trade and other payables
Trade and other payables are initially recognized at fair value and are subsequently stated at amortized cost unless the effect of discounting would be immaterial, in which case they are stated at cost.
As at August 31, 2007 and 2008, the Group’s trade and other payables are stated at cost as the effect of discounting is immaterial.
(u)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 collectibilitycollectability is probable.

(ii)Tariff-free period granted to subscribers of fixed telecommunications network services are recognized in the consolidated statement of operations rateablyratably over the term of the service subscription agreement. Unbilled revenue represents revenue recognized in accordance with the requirements in 2(t)2(u)(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 services income, and subsequently recognized as revenue on a straight-line basis over the agreed period of time stipulated in the terms of the subscription agreement.related service period.

(iv)Revenue from the sales of products is recognized upon the transfer of risks and rewards of ownership to the customer, which generally coincides with the time when the goods are delivered to the customer and title has passed.

F-23


City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year ended August 31, 20072008

2
2Basis of preparation and principal accounting policies (continued)

(t)(u)Revenue recognition (continued)

(v)Interest income is recognized as it accrues using the effective interest method.

(vi)Rental income receivable under operating leases is recognized in the consolidated statement of operations in equal instalmentsinstallments over the periods covered by the lease term. Lease incentives granted are recognized in the consolidated statement of operations as an integral part of the aggregate net lease payments receivable.

(u)(v)Borrowing costs

Borrowing costs are expensed in the consolidated statement of operations in the period which they are incurred, except to the extent that they are capitalized as being directly attributable to the acquisition, construction or production of an asset.

The capitalization of borrowing costs as part of the cost of a qualifying asset commences when expenditure for the asset is being incurred, borrowing costs are being incurred and activities that are necessary to prepare the asset for its intended use or sale are in progress. Capitalization of borrowing costs is suspended or ceases when substantially all the activities necessary to prepare the qualifying asset for its intended use or sale are interrupted or complete.

Borrowing costs of $2,047,000, nil and nil was capitalized for the years ended August 31, 2005, 2006 and 2007, respectively.

Borrowing costs are expensed in the consolidated statement of operations in the period which they are incurred, except to the extent that they are capitalized as being directly attributable to the acquisition, construction or production of an asset.
The capitalization of borrowing costs as part of the cost of a qualifying asset commences when expenditure for the asset is being incurred, borrowing costs are being incurred and activities that are necessary to prepare the asset for its intended use or sale are in progress. Capitalization of borrowing costs is suspended or ceases when substantially all the activities necessary to prepare the qualifying asset for its intended use or sale are interrupted or complete.
No borrowing cost was capitalized for the years ended August 31, 2006, 2007 and 2008, respectively.
(v)(w)Segment reporting

In accordance with the Group’s internal financial reporting, the Group has determined that business segment is the primary reporting format and geographical is the secondary reporting format.
Segment assets consist primarily of goodwill, fixed assets, trade and other receivables and cash and bank deposits. Segment liabilities comprise operating liabilities and exclude items such as taxation and senior notes. Capital expenditure comprises purchases of 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-24

Segment assets consist primarily of goodwill, fixed assets, trade and other receivables and cash and bank deposits. Segment liabilities comprise operating liabilities and exclude items such as taxation and senior notes. Capital expenditure comprises purchases of 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.

City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year ended August 31, 20072008

2
2Basis of preparation and principal accounting policies (continued)

(w)(x)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 consideration received or receivable 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 provided, adjusted by the amount of any cash or cash equivalents transferred.

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 consideration received or receivable 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 provided, adjusted by the amount of any cash or cash equivalents transferred.

(x)(y)Related parties

For the purposes of these financial statements, a party is considered to be related to the Group if:

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 employees 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.

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-25


City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year ended August 31, 20072008

3
3Changes in accounting policies
The HKICPA has issued a number of new and revised HKFRSs and Interpretations that are effective or available for early adoption for the current accounting period of the Group.
There have been no significant changes to the accounting policies applied in these financial statements for the years presented as a result of adoption of these new standards. However, as a result of the adoption of HKFRS 7, Financial instruments: Disclosures and the amendment to HKAS 1, Presentation of financial statements: Capital disclosures, there have been some additional disclosures provided as follows:
As a result of the adoption of HKFRS 7 and as compared with the information previously required to be disclosed by HKAS 32, Financial instruments: Disclosure and presentation, the financial statements include expanded disclosure about the significance of the Group’s financial instruments and the nature and extent of risks arising from those instruments. These disclosures are provided throughout these financial statements, in particular in note 27.
The amendment to HKAS 1 introduces additional disclosure requirements to provide information about the level of capital and the Group’s objectives, policies and processes for managing capital. These new disclosures are set out in note 19.
Both HKFRS 7 and the amendment to HKAS 1 do not have any material impact on the classification, recognition and measurement of the amounts recognized in the financial instruments.
The Group has not applied any new standard or interpretation that is not yet effective for the current accounting period (see note 30).
4Network costs

Network costs mainly include interconnection charges paid to local and overseas carriers, leased line rentals, program fees, production costs for the pay-TV using Internet Protocol service and costs of inventories sold, and exclude depreciation charge which is included in general and administration expenses.
Hong Kong Broadband Network Limited (“HKBN”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Group, as a Fixed Telecommunications Network Services (“FTNS”) licensee, is obligated to contribute Universal Services Contributions (“USC”) as compensation to PCCW-HKT Telephone Limited (“PCCW-HKT”) for the cost of network development in remote areas in Hong Kong.
The Group estimates the USC payable to PCCW-HKT based on the provisional rates announced by the Telecommunications Authority (“TA”). The TA periodically reviews the actual costs incurred by PCCW-HKT in the network development and revises the amounts owed to, or be refunded by, PCCW-HKT to the respective USC contributing parties, including the HKBN (“the Rate Revisions”). Accordingly, the estimate made by the HKBN’s management is subject to change based on the Rate Revisions identified during a financial year and up to the date prior to the release of the financial statements of the Group. The Group adjusts such differences as an addition 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 the USC on a provisional basis, which is subject to the final confirmation and determination of TA, is recorded in other payables and accrued expenses in the Group’s consolidated balance sheet.
On November 13, 2006, TA issued a statement (the “2006 TA”) on the USC and confirmed the actual contribution level for calendar year 2004. In aggregate, an amount of HK$1,365,088 was recorded as a reduction against the network costs of the Group for the year ended August 31, 2006.
As of the date of issuance of the Group’s financial statements for the year ended August 31, 2007 for Hong Kong statutory purposes, the actual contribution level for calendar year 2005, 2006 and 2007 had not yet been confirmed by the TA. For the year ended August 31, 2007, the Group recorded USC charges based on the provisional rates set out in the 2006 TA. On December 28, 2007, TA issued a statement (the “2007 TA”) on the USC and confirmed that the actual contribution level for the period from January 1, 2005 to June 30, 2007. Based on the 2007 TA, an amount of HK$7,617,000 was recovered as a reduction against the network cost of the Group for the year ended August 31, 2008.
The actual contribution level for the period subsequent to June 30, 2007 has not yet been confirmed by the TA. Therefore, for the year ended August 31, 2008, the Group recorded USC charges based on the provisional rates set out in the 2007 TA.

F-26

Hong Kong Broadband Network Limited (“HKBN”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Group, as a Fixed Telecommunications Network Services (“FTNS”) licensee, is obligated to contribute Universal Services Contributions (“USC”) as compensation to PCCW-HKT Telephone Limited (“PCCW-HKT”) for the cost of network development in remote areas in Hong Kong.


The Group estimates the USC payable to PCCW-HKT based on the provisional rates announced by the TA. The TA periodically reviews the actual costs incurred by PCCW-HKT in the network development and revises the amounts owed to, or be refunded by, PCCW-HKT to the respective USC contributing parties, including the HKBN (“the Rate Revisions”). Accordingly, the estimate made by the HKBN’s management is subject to change based on the Rate Revisions identified during a financial year and up to the date prior to the release of the financial statements of the Group. The Group adjusts such differences as an addition 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 the USC on a provisional basis, which is subject to the final confirmation and determination of TA, is recorded in other payables and accrued expenses in the Group’s consolidated balance sheet.

On November 11, 2005, the TA issued a statement on the USC and confirmed the actual contribution level for calendar year 2003. In aggregate, an amount of $6,448,000 was recorded as a reduction against the network cost of the Group for the year ended August 31, 2005.

On November 13, 2006, TA issued a statement (the “2006 TA”) on the USC and confirmed the actual contribution level for calendar year 2004. In aggregate, an amount of $1,365,088 was recorded as a reduction against the network costs of the Group for the year ended August 31, 2006.

The actual contribution level for calendar year 2005, 2006 and 2007 had not yet been confirmed by the TA as of the date of issuance of the Group’s financial statements for the year ended August 31, 2007 for Hong Kong statutory purposes. For the year ended August 31, 2007, the Group recorded USC charges based on the provisional rates set out in the 2006 TA.

See note 30 for discussion of Rate Revisions issued by TA subsequent to the date of issuance of the Group’s financial statements for the year ended August 31, 2007 for Hong Kong statutory purposes.

City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year ended August 31, 20072008

4
5(Loss)/income before taxation
             
  Year ended August 31,
  2006 2007 2008
  HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000
(Loss)/income before taxation is arrived at after charging:
            
 
Amortization of deferred expenditure  13,973   15,580   33,777 
Depreciation of purchased fixed assets  275,538   257,052   209,464 
Depreciation of fixed assets held under finance leases  926   1,051   587 
Impairment loss — investment property  1,131       
Operating lease charges in respect of:            
— Land and buildings  17,556   13,879   13,296 
— Computer equipment  840   32   50 
Research and development costs  9,605   4,977   9,593 
Retirement benefit costs — defined contribution plans (note 24)  27,956   23,933   29,738 
             
Interest expense comprises:
            
 
Interest element of finance leases  54   62   34 
Interest on senior notes  85,235   85,313   70,010 
Amortization of debt issuance cost  1,429   2,129   1,665 
Other borrowing costs  1,919      3,428 
             
             
Total interest expense  88,637   87,504   75,137 
             
             
Other income net, comprises:
            
             
Net exchange gain/(loss)  1,044   (114)  1,923 
Gain on extinguishment of 10-year senior notes        2,582 
Others  3,421   3,263   4,888 
             
             
   4,465   3,149   9,393 
             

F-27

   Year ended August 31, 
   2005  2006  2007 
   HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000 

(Loss)/income before taxation isarrived at after charging:

     

Goodwill amortization

  1,065  —    —   

Amortization of deferred expenditure

  12,927  13,973  15,580 

Depreciation of purchased fixed assets

  236,269  275,538  257,052 

Depreciation of fixed assets held under finance leases

  380  926  1,051 

Impairment loss - investment property

  —    1,131  —   

Operating lease charges in respect of:

     

- Land and buildings

  13,081  17,556  13,879 

- Computer equipment

  914  840  32 

Research and development costs

  11,023  9,605  4,977 

Retirement benefit costs - defined contribution plans (note 23)

  27,437  27,956  23,933 

Interest expense comprises:

     

Interest element of finance leases

  23  54  62 

Interest on senior notes

  52,372  85,235  85,313 

Interest on bank overdrafts

  2,421  —    —   

Amortization of debt issuance cost

  1,693  1,429  2,129 

Other borrowing costs

  —    1,919  —   
          
  56,509  88,637  87,504 

Less: Amount capitalized as fixed assets - Interest capitalized

  (2,047) —    —   
          

Total interest expense

  54,462  88,637  87,504 
          

Other income net, comprises:

     

Net exchange gain/(loss)

  3,300  1,044  (114)

Others

  2,737  3,421  3,263 
          
  6,037  4,465  3,149 
          


City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year ended August 31, 20072008

56Income tax credit/(expense)
(Loss)/income before taxation by geographical location is as follows:

(Loss)/income before taxation by geographical location is as follows:

   Year ended August 31,
   2005  2006  2007
   HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000

Hong Kong (loss)/income

  (167,416) (150,624) 24,574

Overseas (loss)/income

  (2,805) 1,318  6,317
��        

(Loss)/income before taxation

  (170,221) (149,306) 30,891
         

Income tax credit/(expense) consist of the following:

   Year ended August 31, 
   2005  2006  2007 
   HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000 

Hong Kong income tax

    

- current (note (a))

  (147) (24) (121)

- under-provision of current tax in prior years

  (333) (552) —   

- deferred (note 11)

  8,325  10,046  47 

Overseas taxation

    

- current (note (b))

  (919) (2,367) (1,964)

- deferred (note 11)

  (201) 141  12 
          
  6,725  7,244  (2,026)
          

Notes:

             
  Year ended August 31,
  2006 2007 2008
  HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000
Hong Kong (loss)/income  (150,624)  24,574   100,514 
Overseas income  1,318   6,317   7,858 
             
 
(Loss)/income before taxation  (149,306)  30,891   108,372 
             
 Income tax credit/(expense) consist of the following:
             
  Year ended August 31,
  2006 2007 2008
  HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000
Hong Kong income tax            
— current (note (a))  (24)  (121)  (391)
— under-provision of current tax in prior years  (552)      
— deferred (note 12)  10,046   47   21,757 
Overseas taxation            
— current (note (b))  (2,367)  (1,964)  (1,929)
— under-provision of current tax in prior years        (2,552)
— deferred (note 12)  141   12   (67)
             
   7,244   (2,026)  16,818 
             
Notes:
(a)The Company and its subsidiaries operating in Hong Kong are subject to tax on an entity basis on income arising in or derived from Hong Kong. The rate of taxation of subsidiaries operating in Hong Kong for the years ended August 31, 2005, 2006 and 2007 was 17.5% and for the year ended August 31, 2008 was 16.5%.

 
(b)Taxation on overseas profits has been calculated on the estimated assessable profit for the year at the rate of taxation prevailing in the countries in which the foreign subsidiaries operate.

F-28


City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year ended August 31, 20072008

56Income tax credit/(expense) (continued)
The income tax credit/ (expense) for the years ended August 31, 2006, 2007 and 2008 differs from the amounts determined by applying the applicable statutory rate in Hong Kong of 17.5% (2008:16.5%) to income/ (loss) before taxation as a result of the following differences:
             
  Year ended August 31,
  2006 2007 2008
  HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000
Computed “expected” income tax credit/(expense)  26,129   (5,406)  (17,881)
Difference in statutory tax rates of foreign subsidiaries  (459)  (1,006)  (1,046)
Effect of expenses not deductible for income taxes  (883)  (772)  (6,243)
Recognition of prior year unrecognized tax losses        26,335 
Effect of bank interest income not subject to income taxes  2,944   3,533   2,370 
Effect of other income not subject to income taxes  548   686   1,508 
Under-provision for Hong Kong current income tax in prior years  (552)      
Under provision for overseas current income tax in prior years        (2,552)
Adjustment for changes in new tax laws on share based payment        2,324 
Effect of prior year tax losses utilized  2,416   6,678   12,013 
Effect of tax loss not recognized  (20,597)  (4,539)  (74)
Effect of share based payment not recognized  (2,305)  (1,125)  (110)
Others  3   (75)  174 
             
             
Income tax credit/(expense)  7,244   (2,026)  16,818 
             

The income tax credit/ (expense) for the years ended August 31, 2005, 2006 and 2007 differs from the amounts determined by applying the applicable statutory rate in Hong Kong of 17.5% to income/ (loss) before taxation as a result of the following differences:F-29

   Year ended August 31, 
   2005  2006  2007 
   HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000 

Computed “expected” income tax credit/(expense)

  29,789  26,129  (5,406)

Difference in statutory tax rates of foreign subsidiaries

  (137) (459) (1,006)

Effect of expenses not deductible for income taxes

  (1,788) (883) (772)

Effect of bank interest income not subject to income taxes

  2,262  2,944  3,533 

Effect of other income not subject to income taxes

  1,701  548  686 

Under-provision for Hong Kong current income tax in prior years

  (333) (552) —   

Effect of prior year tax losses utilized

  4,981  2,416  6,678 

Effect of tax loss not recognized

  (28,464) (20,597) (4,539)

Effect of share based payment not recognized

  (1,219) (2,305) (1,125)

Others

  (67) 3  (75)
          

Income tax credit/(expense)

  6,725  7,244  (2,026)
          

City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year ended August 31, 20072008

6
7(Loss)/earnings per share
             
  Year ended August 31,
  2006 2007 2008
  HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000
Net (loss)/income  (142,062)  28,865   125,190 
             
             
  Number of shares in thousands 
Weighted average number of shares in issue  614,134   614,840   634,015 
Incremental shares from assumed exercise of share options     16,479   23,982 
          
             
Diluted weighted average number of shares  614,134   631,319   657,997 
          
             
Basic (loss)/earnings per share HK(23.1) cents  HK4.7 cents  HK19.7 cents 
          
             
Diluted (loss)/earnings per share HK(23.1) cents  HK4.6 cents  HK19.0 cents 
          
Basic (loss)/earnings per share is calculated based on the weighted average number of issued ordinary shares and the related (loss)/income amount. Diluted (loss)/earnings per share is calculated based on the weighted average number of issued ordinary shares and the number of incremental shares from assumed exercise of share options has been determined using the treasury stock method and the related (loss)/income amount.
For the years ended August 31, 2006, the number of shares used in the calculation of diluted loss per share was equal to the number of shares used to calculate basic loss per share as the incremental effect of share options was anti-dilutive in a loss-making year.

F-30

   Year ended August 31,
   2005  2006  2007
   HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000

Net (loss)/income

  (163,496)  (142,062)  28,865
         
   Number of shares in thousands

Weighted average number of shares in issue

  613,525  614,134  614,840

Incremental shares from assumed exercise of share options

  —    —    16,479
         

Diluted weighted average number of shares

  613,525  614,134  631,319
         

Basic (loss)/earnings per share

  HK(26.6) cents  HK(23.1) cents  HK4.7 cents
         

Diluted (loss)/earnings per share

  HK(26.6) cents  HK(23.1) cents  HK4.6 cents
         

Basic earnings/(loss) per share is calculated based on the weighted average number of issued ordinary shares and the related income/(loss) amount. Diluted earning/(loss) per share is calculated based on the weighted average number of issued ordinary shares and the number of incremental shares from assumed exercise of share options and warrants has been determined using the treasury stock method and the related income/(loss) amount.

For the years ended August 31, 2005 and 2006, the number of shares used in the calculation of diluted loss per share was equal to the number of shares used to calculate basic loss per share as the incremental effect of share options and warrants was anti-dilutive in a loss-making year.


City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year ended August 31, 20072008

7
8Receivables

(a)Trade receivables, net

   August 31, 
   2006  2007 
   HK$’000  HK$’000 

Trade receivables (note (i))

  196,343  192,943 

Less: Provision for doubtful accounts (note (ii))

  (55,745) (22,392)
       
  140,598  170,551 
       

Notes:

         
  August 31,
  2007 2008
  HK$’000 HK$’000
Trade receivables  192,943   152,227 
Less: Allowance for doubtful debts  (22,392)  (11,944)
         
         
   170,551   140,283 
         
 (i)Trade receivables includeThe aging analysis of accounts receivable relating to mobile interconnection charges of $103,847,000 for the year ended August 31, 2007 (2006: $82,864,000). See note 25(c) for detailed discussion of mobile interconnection charges.is as follows:

         
  August 31,
  2007 2008
  HK$’000 HK$’000
Current - 30 days  50,282   45,462 
31 - 60 days  15,619   17,507 
61 - 90 days  8,876   7,249 
Over 90 days  118,166   82,009 
         
         
   192,943   152,227 
         
 (ii)ProvisionThe 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 trade receivables
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.
The movement in the allowance for doubtful accountsdebts during the year, including both specific and collective loss components is as atfollows:
             
  Year ended August 31,
  2006 2007 2008
  HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000
Balance at beginning of the year  48,316   55,745   22,392 
Additions  17,450   15,973   14,293 
Reversals     (9,404)   
Write-off  (10,021)  (39,922)  (24,741)
             
             
Balance at the end of the year  55,745   22,392   11,944 
             
Allowance for doubtful debts as of August 31, 2006 includes provisionallowance for mobile interconnection charges receivables of $20,809,000.HK$20,809,000. Following TA’s Final2004 Determination issued in June 2007 (note 25(c)26(c)), the Group has reversed $9,404,000HK$9,404,000 of the provisionallowance for mobile interconnection charges to the consolidated statement of operations (note 25(c)26(c)) and has written off the remaining balance of the provisionallowance of $11,405,000HK$11,405,000 against the related accounts receivable.

Changes in the provision for doubtful accounts consist of:F-31

   Year ended August 31, 
   2005  2006  2007 
   HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000 

Balance at beginning of the year

  22,959  48,316  55,745 

Additions charged to expense

  35,445  17,450  15,973 

Reversals

  —    —    (9,404)

Write-off

  (10,088) (10,021) (39,922)
          

Balance at the end of the year

  48,316  55,745  22,392 
          

City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year ended August 31, 20072008

78Receivables (continued)
(c)Trade receivables that are not impaired
The aging analysis of accounts receivable that are neither individually nor collectively considered to be impaired are as follows:

         
  August 31,
  2007 2008
  HK$’000 HK$’000
Neither past due nor impaired  50,282   45,462 
0-30 past due  15,619   17,507 
31-60 past due  8,876   7,249 
Over 60 past due  95,774   70,065 
         
         
   170,551   140,283 
         
Receivables that were neither past due nor impaired relate to a wide range of customers for whom there was no recent history of default.
Trade receivables over 60 days past due for the Group include receivable relating to mobile interconnection charges of HK$64,407,000 as of August 31, 2008 (August 31, 2007: HK$92,383,000) (See note 26(c)).
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. 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.
(b)(d)Other receivables, deposits and prepayments
         
  August 31,
  2007 2008
  HK$’000 HK$’000
Deposits for purchase of fixed assets  6,007   9,094 
Deposits for lease of land and building  7,256   10,528 
Interest receivable  1,344   757 
Prepayments  19,895   30,635 
Unbilled revenue  15,572   23,293 
Others  9,298   8,419 
         
         
   59,372   82,726 
         

F-32

   August 31,
   2006  2007
   HK$’000  HK$’000

Deposits for purchase of fixed assets

  8,636  6,007

Deposits for lease of land and building

  9,237  7,256

Interest receivable

  1,503  1,344

Prepayments

  17,207  19,895

USC refund receivable

  1,364  —  

Unbilled revenue

  35,700  15,572

Others

  3,936  9,298
      
  77,583  59,372
      


City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year ended August 31, 20072008

89Goodwill
         
  August 31,
  2007 2008
  HK$’000 HK$’000
Cost and carrying amount:
        
         
Beginning of the year/at the end of the year  1,066   1,066 
         
Goodwill has been allocated to the Group’s fixed telecommunications network services cash-generating unit (“CGU”) for purposes of the goodwill impairment test.
Based on management’s goodwill impairment test, the carrying amount of the fixed telecommunications network services CGU was lower than its recoverable amount. The recoverable amount was determined based on the value-in-use methodology. This methodology uses cash flow projections based on financial budgets approved by management covering a three-year period. Cash flows for the three-year period were estimated based on growth rates between 1% to 14% and a pre-tax discount rate of 14%. Cash flows beyond the three year period were assumed to remain constant. The estimated growth rates used were comparable to the growth rate for the industry. The key assumption used in the value-in-use methodology was the annual growth of the revenue of the fixed telecommunications network services CGU which is determined based on the past performance and management’s expectation for future performance. In assessing value in use, the estimated future cash flows are discounted to their present value using a pre-tax discount rate that reflects the current market assessment of the time value of money and the risks specific to the fixed telecommunications services CGU. Any adverse change in the key assumption could reduce the recoverable amount below carrying amount.

F-33

   August 31,
   2006  2007
   HK$’000  HK$’000

Cost:

   

Beginning of the year

  5,326  1,066

Opening balance adjustment to eliminate accumulated amortization

  (4,260) —  
      

At the end of the year

  1,066  1,066
      

Accumulated amortization:

   

Beginning of the year

  4,260  —  

Eliminated against cost at the beginning of the year

  (4,260) —  
      

At the end of the year

  —    —  
      

Net book value:

   

At the end of the year

  1,066  1,066
      

With effect from September 1, 2005, goodwill is no longer amortized in accordance with HKFRS 3 but tested for impairment on an annual basis. The amount of accumulated amortization as at September 1, 2005 has been offset against the cost of goodwill.

Goodwill has been allocated to the Group’s fixed telecommunications network services cash-generating unit (“CGU”) for purposes of the goodwill impairment test.


Based on management’s goodwill impairment test, the carrying amount of the fixed telecommunications network services CGU was lower than its recoverable amount. The recoverable amount was determined based on the value-in-use methodology. This methodology uses cash flow projections based on financial budgets approved by management covering a three-year period. Cash flows for the three-year period were estimated based on growth rates between 10% to 16% and a pre-tax discount rate of 14%. Cash flows beyond the three year period were assumed to remain constant. The estimated growth rates used were comparable to the growth rate for the industry. The key assumption used in the value-in-use methodology was the annual growth of the revenue of the fixed telecommunications network services CGU which is determined based on the past performance and management’s expectation for future performance. In assessing value in use, the estimated future cash flows are discounted to their present value using a pre-tax discount rate that reflects the current market assessment of the time value of money and the risks specific to the fixed telecommunications services CGU. Any adverse change in the key assumption could reduce the recoverable amount below carrying amount.

City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year ended August 31, 20072008

910Fixed assets
                             
              Furniture, Tele-    
      Leasehold     fixtures communications,    
  Investment land and Leasehold and computer and Motor  
  property buildings improvements fittings office equipment vehicles Total
  HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000
  (Note (a)) (Note (a))                    
Cost:
                            
                             
At September 1, 2006  5,197   79,598   78,241   17,770   2,352,253   6,956   2,540,015 
Exchange adjustments        773   253   2,560      3,586 
Additions        1,627   496   129,950   177   132,250 
Disposals        (3)  (1,100)  (8,988)  (315)  (10,406)
                             
                             
At August 31, 2007  5,197   79,598   80,638   17,419   2,475,775   6,818   2,665,445 
                             
                             
At September 1, 2007  5,197   79,598   80,638   17,419   2,475,775   6,818   2,665,445 
Exchange adjustments        1,470   445   2,840      4,755 
Additions     4,646   2,469   2,189   196,230   6,150   211,684 
Disposals           (478)  (30,564)  (344)  (31,386)
                             
                             
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, 2006  1,997   7,531   40,428   12,447   1,104,864   5,514   1,172,781 
Exchange adjustments        612   160   1,874      2,646 
Charge for the year  104   1,592   9,269   2,028   244,581   529   258,103 
Disposals           (683)  (4,465)  (160)  (5,308)
                             
                             
At August 31, 2007  2,101   9,123   50,309   13,952   1,346,854   5,883   1,428,222 
                             
                             
At September 1, 2007  2,101   9,123   50,309   13,952   1,346,854   5,883   1,428,222 
Exchange adjustments        1,334   313   2,077      3,724 
Charge for the year  104   1,604   9,626   1,617   196,198   902   210,051 
Disposals           (286)  (22,390)  (222)  (22,898)
                             
                             
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 
                             
                             
At August 31, 2007  3,096   70,475   30,329   3,467   1,128,921   935   1,237,223 
                             

F-34

   Investment
property
  Leasehold
land and
buildings
  Leasehold
improvements
  Furniture,
fixtures
and
fittings
  Tele-
communications,
computer and
office equipment
  Motor
vehicles
  Total 
   HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000 
   (Note (a))  (Note (a))                

Cost:

         

At September 1, 2005

  —    84,170  68,618  15,492  2,067,146  8,372  2,243,798 

Exchange adjustments

  —    —    281  126  2,180  —    2,587 

Additions

  —    625  9,342  2,880  309,744  344  322,935 

Disposals

  —    —    —    (728) (26,817) (1,760) (29,305)

Transfer to investment property

  5,197  (5,197) —    —    —    —    —   
                      

At August 31, 2006

  5,197  79,598  78,241  17,770  2,352,253  6,956  2,540,015 
                      

At September 1, 2006

  5,197  79,598  78,241  17,770  2,352,253  6,956  2,540,015 

Exchange adjustments

  —    —    773  253  2,560  —    3,586 

Additions

  —    —    1,627  496  129,950  177  132,250 

Disposals

  —    —    (3) (1,100) (8,988) (315) (10,406)
                      

At August 31, 2007

  5,197  79,598  80,638  17,419  2,475,775  6,818  2,665,445 
                      

Accumulated depreciation:

         

At September 1, 2005

  —    6,702  30,225  10,509  853,325  6,494  907,255 

Exchange adjustments

  —    —    223  74  1,642  —    1,939 

Charge for the year

  —    1,695  9,980  2,190  261,819  780  276,464 

Disposals

  —    —    —    (326) (11,922) (1,760) (14,008)

Transfer to investment property

  866  (866) —    —    —    —    —   

Impairment loss (note (a))

  1,131  —    —    —    —    —    1,131 
                      

At August 31, 2006

  1,997  7,531  40,428  12,447  1,104,864  5,514  1,172,781 
                      

At September 1, 2006

  1,997  7,531  40,428  12,447  1,104,864  5,514  1,172,781 

Exchange adjustments

  —    —    612  160  1,874  —    2,646 

Charge for the year

  104  1,592  9,269  2,028  244,581  529  258,103 

Disposals

  —    —    —    (683) (4,465) (160) (5,308)
                      

At August 31, 2007

  2,101  9,123  50,309  13,952  1,346,854  5,883  1,428,222 
                      

Net book value:

         

At August 31, 2007

  3,096  70,475  30,329  3,467  1,128,921  935  1,237,223 
                      

At August 31, 2006

  3,200  72,067  37,813  5,323  1,247,389  1,442  1,367,234 
                      


City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year ended August 31, 20072008

910Fixed assets (continued)

Notes:

Notes:
 
(a)The interests in leasehold land and buildings and investment property situated in Hong Kong at their net book values are analyzed as follows:

   August 31,
   2006  2007
   HK$’000  HK$’000

Leases of between 10 to 50 years

  75,267  73,571
      

Representing:

   August 31,
   2006  2007
   HK$’000  HK$’000

Leasehold land and building carried at cost

  72,067  70,475

Investment property at cost less accumulated depreciation and impairment loss

  3,200  3,096
      
  75,267  73,571
      

During the year ended August 31, 2006, a property which had been held for own use was leased to a third party to earn rental income. Upon adoption of HKAS 40, the Group assessed the open market value of the property and based on such assessment, wrote down the carrying amount of the property by $1,131,000 (included in “other operating expenses”). The estimate of open market value was made by reference to net rental income allowing for reversionary income potential.

The estimated fair value of the investment property held by the Group as of August 31, 2006 and 2007 amounted to HK$3,200,000 and HK$3,096,000, respectively.

         
  August 31,
  2007 2008
  HK$’000 HK$’000
Leases of between 10 to 50 years  73,571   76,509 
         
 Representing:
         
  August 31,
  2007 2008
  HK$’000 HK$’000
Leasehold land and building carried at cost  70,475   73,517 
Investment property at cost less accumulated depreciation and impairment loss  3,096   2,992 
         
         
   73,571   76,509 
         
During the year ended August 31, 2006, a property which had been held for own use was leased to a third party to earn rental income. Upon adoption of HKAS 40, the Group assessed the open market value of the property and based on such assessment, wrote down the carrying amount of the property by $1,131,000 (included in “other operating expenses”). The estimate of open market value was made by reference to net rental income allowing for reversionary income potential.
The estimated fair value of the investment property held by the Group as of August 31, 2007 and 2008 amounted to HK$3,096,000 and HK$2,992,000, respectively.
(b)The Group’s total future aggregate lease income receivable under non-cancellable operating lease of the investment property isare receivable as follows:
         
  August 31,
  2007 2008
  HK$’000 HK$’000
Lease in respect of investment property which are receivable:        
— within 1 year  228   258 
— after 1 year but within 5 years     258 
         
         
   228   516 
         
         
Leases in respect of telecommunications facilities and computer equipment which are receivable:        
— within 1 year  1,065   979 
— after 1 year but within 5 years  214   292 
         
         
   1,279   1,271 
         
         
   1,507   1,787 
         

F-35

   August 31,
   2006  2007
   HK$’000  HK$’000

Within 1 year

  228  228

In the second year

  228  —  
      
  456  228
      


City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year ended August 31, 20072008

910Fixed assets (continued)

Notes: (continued)

Notes: (continued)
 
(c)The Group leases telecommunications, computer and office equipment for terms ranging from one to five 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 and accordingly the lease arrangements have been classified as finance leases. None of the leases included contingent rental. The total cost of these assets and the related accumulated depreciation are as follows:

   August 31,
   2006  2007
   HK$’000  HK$’000

Cost

  4,079  4,236

Accumulated depreciation

  1,307  2,238
      
  2,772  1,998
      

         
  August 31,
  2007 2008
  HK$’000 HK$’000
Cost  4,236   4,236 
Accumulated depreciation  2,238   2,825 
         
         
   1,998   1,411 
         
(d)Management reviews the estimated useful lives of fixed assets annually and, if there has been a significant change in the expected pattern of consumption of the future economic benefits embodied in the asset, the estimate is changed to reflect the changed pattern. The depreciation expense for future period is adjusted if there are significant changes from previous estimates. Management determines the useful life of the Group’s fixed assets based on its historical experience with similar assets, expected usage of the assets and anticipated technological changes with respect to those assets. Estimates and assumptions used in setting depreciable lives require both judgementjudgment and estimation.
During the second half of fiscal 2007, taking into consideration of the current conditions and expected usage of existing telecommunications equipment, management engaged an external valuation firm to assist with its assessment of the estimated useful lives of such asset. As a result of this assessment, management revised the estimated useful lives of the fiber network and related peripherals from 4-15 years to 6-20 years.
The change in the estimated useful lives is a change in accounting estimate that is accounted for prospectively from June 1, 2007. As a result of such change, depreciation expense decreased by HK$15,930,000, and both income before taxation and net income after taxation decreased by HK$15,930,000 for the year ended August 31, 2007. The increase in net income resulted in a HK2.6 cents increase in both the basic earnings per share and diluted earnings per share. Such change also increased each of total assets, retained profits and total shareholders’ equity at August 31, 2007 by HK$15,930,000.

During the second half of fiscal 2007, taking into consideration of the current conditions and expected usage of existing telecommunications equipment, management engaged an external valuation firm to assist with its assessment of the estimated useful lives of such asset. As a result of this assessment, management revised the estimated useful lives of the fibre network and related peripherals from 4-15 years to 6-20 years.F-36

The change in the estimated useful lives is a change in accounting estimate that is accounted for prospectively from June 1, 2007. As a result of such change, depreciation expense decreased by HK$15,930,000, and both income before taxation and net income after taxation decreased by HK$15,930,000 for the year ended August 31, 2007. The increase in net income resulted in a HK2.6 cents increase in both the basic earnings per share and diluted earnings per share. Such change also increased each of total assets, retained profits and total shareholders’ equity at August 31, 2007 by HK$15,930,000.


City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year August 31, 20072008

10
11Other payables and accrued charges

   August 31,
   2006  2007
   HK$’000  HK$’000

Accrual for staff salaries and bonus

  27,747  33,833

Accrual for customer reward program

  2,636  6,567

Accrual for carrier fees and charges

  10,705  11,264

Accrual for international call forwarding service charges

  4,793  5,784

Payable for purchase of fixed assets

  51,862  34,749

Payable for advertising and promotional expenses

  11,966  15,972

Interest payable on senior notes

  7,109  7,164

Others accrual (note)

  26,668  29,934
      
  143,486  145,267
      

Note: Amount of other accruals consisted of primarily accruals for utilities, rent and other administrative charges.

         
  August 31,
  2007 2008
  HK$’000 HK$’000
Accrual for staff salaries and bonus  33,833   42,652 
Accrual for customer reward program  6,567   7,608 
Accrual for carrier fees and charges  11,264   7,495 
Accrual for international call forwarding service charges  5,784   6,305 
Payable for purchase of fixed assets  34,749   56,049 
Payable for advertising and promotional expenses  15,972   10,043 
Interest payable on senior notes  7,164   5,082 
Others accrual (note)  29,934   42,880 
         
         
   145,267   178,114 
         
11
Note:Amount of other accruals consisted of primarily accruals for utilities, rent and other administrative charges.
12Deferred taxation

The movement of deferred tax liabilities is

The components of deferred tax (liabilities)/assets recognized in the consolidated balance sheet and the movements of deferred tax assets/ (liabilities) are as follows:
         
  August 31,
  2007 2008
  HK$’000 HK$’000
At the beginning of the year  (353)  (291)
Exchange differences  3   (1)
Deferred taxation credited/ (charged) to consolidated statement of operations        
— relating to the origination and reversal of temporary differences  59   (4,645)
— relating to the recognition of unrecognized tax losses in prior years     26,335 
         
         
At the end of the year  (291)  21,398 
         
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 current 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-37

   August 31, 
   2006  2007 
   HK$’000  HK$’000 

At the beginning of the year

  10,539  353 

Exchange differences

  1  (3)

Deferred taxation credited to consolidated statement of operations

  (10,187) (59)
       

At the end of the year

  353  291 
       

City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year August 31, 20072008

11
12Deferred taxation (continued)

As of August 31, 2006 and 2007, the Group had accumulated tax losses amounting to HK$1,159,787,000 and HK$1,037,141,000, respectively that can be carried forward to reduce future taxable income derived in Hong Kong, Canada and the United States, as applicable. As of August 31, 2006 and 2007 and 2008, the Group had accumulated tax losses amounting to HK$1,037,141,000 and HK$905,341,000, respectively that can be carried forward to reduce future taxable income derived in Hong Kong, Canada and the United States, as applicable. As of August 31, 2007 and 2008, the tax effect of the accumulated tax losses amounted to HK$204,300,000 and HK$182,739,000 and HK$150,234,000, respectively. These tax losses expire in the following periods:
         
  August 31,
  2007 2008
  HK$’000 HK$’000
Within one year  737    
In the second year  395    
In the third year      
In the fourth year      
After five years  4,313   3,967 
No expiry date  1,031,696   901,374 
         
         
   1,037,141   905,341 
         
The tax losses of the Company and its Hong Kong subsidiaries can be carried forward indefinitely while tax loss carryforwards period of subsidiaries in Canada and the United States range between 10 to 20 years under the respective tax laws.
Deferred tax assets are recognized to the extent that realization of the related tax benefit is probable. The Group has unrecognized tax losses carried forward from prior years of HK$268,004,000 and HK$9,518,000 at August 31, 2007 and 2008 respectively which can offset against future taxable income. Accumulated tax losses for which deferred tax assets were not recognized expire in the following periods:
         
  August 31,
  2007 2008
  HK$’000 HK$’000
Within one year  737    
In the second year  395    
In the third year      
In the fourth year      
After five years  4,313   3,810 
No expiry date  262,559   5,708 
         
         
   268,004   9,518 
         

F-38

   August 31,
   2006  2007
   HK$’000  HK$’000

Within one year

  —    737

In the second year

  1,512  395

In the third year

  396  —  

In the fourth year

  —    —  

After five years

  4,344  4,313

No expiry date

  1,153,535  1,031,696
      
  1,159,787  1,037,141
      

The tax losses of the Company and its Hong Kong subsidiaries can be carried forward indefinitely while tax losses of subsidiaries in Canada and the United States expire within periods ranging from 2 to 20 years.


Deferred tax assets are recognized to the extent that realization of the related tax benefit is probable. The Group has unrecognized tax losses carried forward from prior years of HK$279,199,000 and HK$268,004,000 at August 31, 2006 and 2007 respectively which can offset against future taxable income. Accumulated tax losses for which deferred tax assets were not recognized expire in the following periods:

   August 31,
   2006  2007
   HK$’000  HK$’000

Within one year

  1,513  737

In the second year

  396  395

In the third year

  —    —  

In the fourth year

  —    —  

After five years

  4,130  4,313

No expiry date

  273,160  262,559
      
  279,199  268,004
      

City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year August 31, 20072008

11
12Deferred taxation (continued)

The movements in deferred tax assets and liabilities

The movements in deferred tax assets and (liabilities) (prior to offsetting of balances within the same taxation jurisdiction) during the years ended August 31, 2006 and 2007 and 2008, are as follows:
         
  Accelerated
  depreciation allowances
  2007 2008
  HK$’000 HK$’000
Deferred tax liabilities
        
At the beginning of the year  (154,678)  (134,910)
Credited to consolidated statement of operations  19,772   8,463 
Exchange differences  (4)   
         
         
At the end of the year  (134,910)  (126,447)
         
                         
  Share-based payment Tax losses Total
  2007 2008 2007 2008 2007 2008
  HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000
Deferred tax assets:
                        
At the beginning of the year  123      154,202   134,619   154,325   134,619 
(Charged)/ credited to consolidated statement of operations  (123)     (19,590)  13,227   (19,713)  13,227 
Exchange differences        7   (1)  7   (1)
                         
                         
At the end of the year        134,619   147,845   134,619   147,845 
                         
Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are offset when there is a legally enforceable right to set off current tax assets against current tax liabilities and when the deferred income tax assets and liabilities relate to the same fiscal authority. The following amounts, determined after appropriate offsetting, are reported in the consolidated balance sheet:
         
  August 31,
  2007 2008
  HK$’000 HK$’000
Deferred tax assets     26,335 
Deferred tax liabilities  (291)  (4,937)
         
         
   (291)  21,398 
         

F-39

   Accelerated
depreciation allowances
  Others  Total 
   2006  2007  2006  2007  2006  2007 
   HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000 

Deferred tax liabilities:

        

At the beginning of the year

  158,477  154,678  85  —    158,562  154,678 

Credited to consolidated statement of operations

  (3,805) (19,772) (86) —    (3,891) (19,772)

Exchange differences

  6  4  1  —    7  4 
                   

At the end of the year

  154,678  134,910  —    —    154,678  134,910 
                   

   Share-based payment  Tax losses  Total 
   2006  2007  2006  2007  2006  2007 
   HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000 

Deferred tax assets:

       

At the beginning of the year

  —    (123) (148,023) (154,202) (148,023) (154,325)

Charged/ (credited) to consolidated statement of operations

  (123) 123  (6,173) 19,590  (6,296) 19,713 

Exchange differences

  —    —    (6) (7) (6) (7)
                   

At the end of the year

  (123) —    (154,202) (134,619) (154,325) (134,619)
                   

Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are offset when there is a legally enforceable rights to set off current tax assets against current tax liabilities and when the deferred income tax assets and liabilities relate to the same fiscal authority. The following amounts, determined after appropriate offsetting, are reported in the consolidated balance sheet:


   August 31,
   2006  2007
   HK$’000  HK$’000

Deferred tax assets

  —    —  

Deferred tax liabilities

  353  291
      
  353  291
      

City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year August 31, 20072008

12
13Deferred expenditure

   August 31, 
   2006  2007 
   HK$’000  HK$’000 

Balance at the beginning of the year

  21,131  12,445 

Additions during the year

  5,287  24,502 

Less: Amortization charge for the year (note 4)

  (13,973) (15,580)
       

Balance at the end of the year

  12,445  21,367 

Current portion

  (10,808) (13,584)
       
  1,637  7,783 
       

         
  August 31,
  2007 2008
  HK$’000 HK$’000
Balance at the beginning of the year  12,445   21,367 
Additions during the year  24,502   68,505 
Less: Amortization charge for the year (note 5)  (15,580)  (33,777)
         
         
Balance at the end of the year  21,367   56,095 
Current portion  (13,584)  (40,704)
         
         
   7,783   15,391 
         
13
14Long-term debt and other liabilitiesobligations under finance leases, excluding current portion

The Group’s long-term debt and other liabilities were

The Group’s long-term debt and obligations under finance leases are repayable as follows:
         
  August 31,
  2007 2008
  HK$’000 HK$’000
8.75% senior notes due 2015  952,593   683,242 
         
         
Obligation under finance leases        
— Within one year  835   121 
— In the second year  121   129 
— In the third year  254   126 
         
         
   1,210   376 
Less: Current portion of obligation under finance leases  (835)  (121)
         
         
   375   255 
         
         
   952,968   683,497 
         

F-40

   August 31, 
   2006  2007 
   HK$’000  HK$’000 

8.75% senior notes due 2015

  948,027  952,593 
       

Obligation under finance leases

   

- Within one year

  1,297  835 

- In the second year

  806  121 

- In the third year

  270  254 
       
  2,373  1,210 

Less: Current portion of obligation under finance leases

  (1,297) (835)
       
  1,076  375 
       
  949,103  952,968 
       

City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year August 31, 20072008

13
14Long-term debt and other liabilities (continued)

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 par value. The 10-year senior notes mature on February 1, 2015 and bear interest at the fixed rate of 8.75% per annum and is payable semi-annually on February 1 and August 1 of each year, commencing August 1, 2005.

The 10-year senior notes 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 net proceeds of 10-year senior notes were approximately US$121 million after issuance costs and commission. The Group used the net proceeds, in part, to repay in full an existing bank loan in the outstanding amount of HK$196.7 million. The remaining net proceeds is to be used for capital expenditures, including expanding and upgrading the Group’s Metro Ethernet network in Hong Kong, and for additional working capital and general corporate purposes.

The Company may redeem the 10-year senior notes, in whole or in part, on or after February 1, 2010, at the redemption price set forth in the indenture governing the 10-year senior notes. In addition, prior to February 1, 2008, using the proceeds from one or more specified public or private offerings of the Company’s common stock, the Company may redeem up to a maximum of 35% of the original aggregate principal amount of the 10-year senior notes at a redemption price equal to 108.75% of the principal amount of the 10-year senior notes. In all cases of redemption, the Company will pay principal at the redemption price specified plus accrued and unpaid interest through the date of redemption.

The indenture governing the 10-year senior notes contains covenants that limit, among other things, the Group’s ability and the ability of certain of its existing and future subsidiaries to:

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 par value. The 10-year senior notes mature on February 1, 2015 and bear interest at the fixed rate of 8.75% per annum and is payable semi-annually on February 1 and August 1 of each year, commencing August 1, 2005.
The 10-year senior notes 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 net proceeds of 10-year senior notes were approximately US$121 million after issuance costs and commission. The Group used the net proceeds, in part, to repay in full an existing bank loan in the outstanding amount of HK$196.7 million. The remaining net proceeds is to be used for capital expenditures, including expanding and upgrading the Group’s Metro Ethernet network in Hong Kong, and for additional working capital and general corporate purposes.
The Company may redeem the 10-year senior notes, in whole or in part, on or after February 1, 2010, at the redemption price set forth in the indenture governing the 10-year senior notes. In addition, prior to February 1, 2008, using the proceeds from one or more specified public or private offerings of the Company’s common stock, the Company may redeem up to a maximum of 35% of the original aggregate principal amount of the 10-year senior notes at a redemption price equal to 108.75% of the principal amount of the 10-year senior notes. In all cases of redemption, the Company will pay principal at the redemption price specified plus accrued and unpaid interest through the date of redemption.
The indenture governing the 10-year senior notes contains covenants that limit, among other things, the Group’s ability and the ability of certain of its existing and future subsidiaries to:
 (i)pay dividends, make distributions, redeem capital stock and make certain other restricted payments or investments;

 (ii)incur additional indebtedness or issue certain equity interests;

 (iii)merge, consolidate or sell substantially all assets;

 (iv)issue or sell capital stock of certain subsidiaries;

 (v)sell or exchange assets or enter into new businesses;

 (vi)create any restrictions on the payment of dividends, the making of distributions, the making of loans and the transfer of assets;

 (vii)create liens on assets;

 (viii)enter into certain transactions with affiliates or relates persons; and

 (ix)enter into sale and lease back transactions.
During the year ended August 31, 2008, the Group repurchased a portion of the 10-year senior notes with a cumulative principal value of US$35,647,000 in the open market. The total consideration paid was approximately US$35,352,000. The gain on extinguishment of the 10-year senior notes was US$332,000 (equivalent to HK$2,582,000) which has been recorded as other income in the consolidated income statement.
As of August 31, 2008, the remaining principal amount of the 10-year senior notes remaining in issued after the repurchase was US$89,353,000 (equivalent to HK$697,857,000).
At August 31, 2007 and 2008, the 10-year senior notes were stated at the amortized cost of US$122,127,000 (equivalent to HK$952,593,000) and US$87,483,000 (equivalent to HK$683,242,000) respectively.

At August 31, 2006 and 2007, the 10-year senior notes were stated at the amortized cost of US$121,854,000 (equivalent to HK$948,027,000) and US$122,127,000 (equivalent to HK$952,593,000), respectively.F-41


City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year August 31, 20072008

14
15Commitments and contingencies

(a)Capital commitments

    August 31,
   2006  2007
   HK$’000  HK$’000

Purchases of telecommunications, computer and office equipment contracted but not provided for

  80,240  54,165
      

    ��    
  August 31,
  2007 2008
  HK$’000 HK$’000
Purchases of telecommunications, computer and office equipment contracted but not provided for  54,165   143,888 
         
(b)Commitments under operating leases

(i)As of August 31, 20062007 and 2007, the Group had future aggregate lease income receivable under non-cancellable operating leases as follows:

    August 31,
   2006  2007
   HK$’000  HK$’000

Leases in respect of telecommunications and computer equipment:

    

- within one year

  1,980  1,065

- in the second year

  798  214
      
  2,778  1,279
      

(ii)As of August 31, 2006 and 2007,2008, the Group had future aggregate minimum lease payments under non-cancellable operating leases as follows:
         
  August 31,
  2007 2008
  HK$’000 HK$’000
Leases in respect of land and buildings:        
— within one year  12,562   16,472 
— in the second year  2,484   11,493 
— in the third year     152 
         
         
   15,046   28,117 
         

F-42

    August 31,
   2006  2007
   HK$’000  HK$’000

Leases in respect of land and buildings:

    

- within one year

  15,212  12,562

- in the second year

  8,041  2,484

- in the third year

  760  —  

- in the fourth year

  431  —  

- in the fifth year

  138  —  
      
  24,582  15,046
      


City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year August 31, 20072008

14
15Commitments and contingencies (continued)

(b)Commitments under operating leases (continued)

(ii)
At August 31, 20062007 and 2007,2008, the Group had future aggregate minimum lease payments under non-cancellable operating leases as follows: (continued)

    August 31,
   2006  2007
   HK$’000  HK$’000

Leases in respect of telecommunications and computer equipment:

    

- within one year

  24,881  31,004

- in the second year

  3,100  6,258

- in the third year

  875  5,016

- in the fourth year

  800  4,946

- in the fifth year

  800  4,946

- within sixth year to twelve years

  6,400  16,384
      
  36,856  68,554
      
  61,438  83,600
      

         
  August 31,
  2007 2008
  HK$’000 HK$’000
Leases in respect of telecommunications and computer equipment:        
— within one year  31,004   38,623 
— in the second year  6,258   7,567 
— in the third year  5,016   1,865 
— in the fourth year  4,946   1,722 
— in the fifth year  4,946   1,722 
— within sixth year to twelve years  16,384   7,384 
         
         
   68,554   58,883 
         
         
   83,600   87,000 
         
(c)Program fee commitments

The Group entered into several agreements with program content providers with respect to the Group’s IP-TV services. The amount of program fees payable by the Group is as follows:
         
  August 31,
  2007 2008
  HK$’000 HK$’000
Program fee payable:        
— within one year  10,345   6,583 
— in the second year  3,633   219 
— in the third year  3   60 
         
         
   13,981   6,862 
         

F-43

    August 31,
   2006  2007
   HK$’000  HK$’000

Program fee payable:

    

- within one year

  7,638  10,345

- in the second year

  4,340  3,633

- in the third year

  548  3
      
  12,526  13,981
      

City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year August 31, 20072008

14
15Commitments and contingencies (continued)

(d)Contingent liabilities

    August 31,
   2006  2007
   HK$’000  HK$’000

Bank guarantees provided to suppliers (note 15(i) and (ii))

  6,303  5,903

Bank guarantee in lieu of payment of utility deposits (note 15(iii))

  5,272  5,272
      
  11,575  11,175
      

         
  August 31,
  2007 2008
  HK$’000 HK$’000
Bank guarantees provided to suppliers (note 16(i) and (ii))  5,903   24,671 
Bank guarantee in lieu of payment of utility deposits (note 16(iii))  5,272   5,272 
         
         
   11,175   29,943 
         
15
16Pledge of assets

As of August 31, 2007 and 2006, the Group had pledged bank deposits of US$9,900,000 (equivalent to HK$77,220,000 and HK$77,022,000, respectively) and HK$10,000,000 as security for the following banking facilities:

As of August 31, 2007 and 2008, the Group had pledged bank deposits of US$9,900,000 (equivalent to HK$77,220,000 and HK$77,319,000, respectively) and HK$10,000,000 as security for the following banking facilities:
 (i)bank facility of US$9,000,000 (equivalent to HK$70,200,000) and US$9,900,000 (equivalent to HK$77,319,000) respectively granted by the 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, 2007 and 2006,2008, bank guarantees of HK$1,603,000 and HK$2,003,000,20,371,000, respectively were issued against this bank facility;

 (ii)bank guarantees of HK$4,300,000 issued by a bank to third party suppliers of the Company and one of its subsidiaries as of August 31, 2007 and 20062008 for payment of certain products and services procured by the Company from these third party suppliers; and

 (iii)bank guarantees of HK$5,272,000 issued by a bank to certain utility vendors of the Company as of August 31, 2007 and 20062008 in lieu of payment of utility deposits.

F-44


City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year August 31, 20072008

16
17Investment securities

    August 31, 
   2006  2007 
   HK$’000  HK$’000 

Debt securities, at fair value and unlisted outside Hong Kong (note (a))

  26,633  28,577 

Long term bank deposit, at amortized cost (note (b))

  13,641  14,415 
       
  40,274  42,992 

Less: Current portion

  —    (3,779)
       
  40,274  39,213 
       

Notes:

         
  August 31,
  2007 2008
  HK$’000 HK$’000
Debt securities, at fair value and unlisted outside Hong Kong (note (a))  28,577   27,997 
Long term bank deposit, at amortized cost (note (b))  14,415    
         
         
   42,992   27,997 
         
Less: Current portion  (3,779)  (27,997)
         
         
   39,213    
         
Notes:
 
(a)The Group maintained an investment portfolio of HK$26,633,00028,577,000 and HK$28,577,00027,997,000 as of August 31, 2007 and 2006,2008, respectively, which primarily consisted of equity-linked mutual fund securities.

For the years ended August 31, 2005, 2006 and 2007 the net unrealized investment gains/(losses) were HK$300,000, HK$698,000 and HK$1,887,000 respectively. No realized investment gains or losses were recognized during the years ended August 31, 2005, 2006 and 2007.

 For the years ended August 31, 2006, 2007 and 2008 the net unrealized investment gains were HK$698,000, HK1,887,000 and HK$3,163,000 respectively. No realized investment gains or losses were recognized during the years ended August 31, 2006 and 2007. During the year ended August 31, 2008, a debt security with principal amount of US$500,000 (equivalent to HK$3,900,000) matured with a realized gain of HK$121,000.
(b)Represents a ten-year US$2 million (equivalent to HK$15,600,000 at August 31, 2007) deposit placed with a bank for which the Group receives a floating rate deposit interest. The deposit has a 10-year term maturing on August 22, 2013. An interest rate of 10% per annum has been guaranteed for the first year from the inception date on August 22, 2003. The deposit will terminate or mature once the cumulative interest reaches the predetermined accrued interest cap at 13% of the principal amount or an aggregate sum of US$260,000 (equivalent to HK$2,028,000 at August 31, 2007). During the year ended August 31, 2008, the Group early redeemed the deposit and recognized a gain of HK$1,185,000 in the consolidated statement of operations.

17
18Derivative financial instrument
August 31,
20072008
HK$’000HK$’000
Non-current assets
Interest rate swap, at fair value through profit or loss1,039     —
As of August 31, 2007, the Group has an outstanding interest rate swap contract with notional principal amount of HK$46,666,667. Under this arrangement, the Group pays a fixed rate interest of 2.675% per annum on the notional amount on a monthly basis, and receives a floating interest rate based on HIBOR rate. The maturity date of the contract is December 1, 2009.
During the year ended August 31, 2008, the Group early terminated the interest rate swap contract and recognized a loss of HK$1,039,000 in the consolidated statement of operations.

F-45

    August 31,
   2006  2007
   HK$’000  HK$’000

Non-current assets

    

Interest rate swap, at fair value through profit or loss (note 26(e))

  1,845  1,039
      

As of August 31, 2007 and 2006, the Group has an outstanding interest rate swap contract with notional principal amount of HK$46,666,667 and HK$66,666,667, respectively. Under this arrangement, the Group pays a fixed rate interest of 2.675% per annum on the notional amount on a monthly basis, and receives a floating interest rate based on HIBOR rate. The maturity date of the contract is December 1, 2009.


City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year August 31, 20072008

18
19Capital and reserves
(a)Capital and reserves
                                                 
  Issued and fully paid (ordinary shares of HK$0.10 each)              
  Number of                     Total
  shares Amount Share Capital Translation Retained shareholders’
  outstanding outstanding premium reserve reserve profits equity
      HK$ HK$ HK$ HK$ HK$ HK$
      (Amounts in thousands, except number of shares)
Balance at September 1, 2005  614,125,404   61,412   619,408   7,052   840   338,351   1,027,063 
Shares issued upon exercise of share options (note (i))  50,000   5   8            13 
Equity settled share-based compensation        882   5,941         6,823 
Net loss                 (142,062)  (142,062)
Foreign currency translation adjustment              (183)     (183)
                             
                             
Balance at August 31, 2006  614,175,404   61,417   620,298   12,993   657   196,289   891,654 
Dividend paid in respect of previous year                 (24,635)  (24,635)
Shares issued upon exercise of share options (note (i))  2,328,000   233   2,135   (611)        1,757 
Equity settled share-based compensation           5,727         5,727 
Net income                 28,865   28,865 
Foreign currency translation adjustment              514      514 
                             
                             
Balance at August 31, 2007  616,503,404   61,650   622,433   18,109   1,171   200,519   903,882 
Dividend paid in respect of previous year                 (5,915)  (5,915)
Shares issued in respect of scrip dividend of previous year (note (ii))  11,227,213   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 (note (iii))  8,838,938   884   13,347         (14,231)   
Shares issued upon exercise of share options (note (i))  14,052,268   1,405   16,893   (3,300)        14,998 
Equity settled share-based compensation           4,204         4,204 
Net income                 125,190   125,190 
Foreign currency translation adjustment              1,619      1,619 
                             
                             
Balance at August 31, 2008  650,621,823   65,062   670,717   19,013   2,790   275,025   1,032,607 
                             

F-46

      Ordinary shares                
   Number of
shares
outstanding
  Amount
outstanding
  Share
premium
  Capital
reserve
  Warrant
reserve
  Translation
reserve
  Retained
profits
  Total
shareholders’
equity
 
      HK$  HK$  HK$  HK$  HK$  HK$  HK$ 
      (Amounts in thousands, except number of shares) 

Balance at September 1, 2004

  610,573,361  61,057  617,986  87  365  983  495,220  1,175,698 

Release of warrant reserve upon warrant expiration

  —    —    —    —    (18) —    18  —   

Shares issued upon exercise of warrants

  3,500,043  350  1,397  —    (347) —    —    1,400 

Shares issued upon exercise of share options

  52,000  5  25  —    —    —    —    30 

Equity settled share-based compensation

  —    —    —    6,965  —    —    —    6,965 

Net loss

  —    —    —    —    —    —    (163,496) (163,496)

Foreign currency translation adjustment

  —    —    —    —    —    (143) —    (143)
                         

Balance at August 31, 2005

  614,125,404  61,412  619,408  7,052  —    840  331,742  1,020,454 

Changes in accounting policy - opening balance adjustment arising from adoption of HKAS 32 and HKAS 39 (note (a))

  —    —    —    —    —    —    6,609  6,609 
                         

Balance at September 1, 2005

  614,125,404  61,412  619,408  7,052  —    840  338,351  1,027,063 

Shares issued upon exercise of share options

  50,000  5  8  —    —    —    —    13 

Equity settled share-based compensation

  —    —    882  5,941  —    —    —    6,823 

Net loss

  —    —    —    —    —    —    (142,062) (142,062)

Foreign currency translation adjustment

  —    —    —    —    —    (183) —    (183)
                         

Balance at August 31, 2006

  614,175,404  61,417  620,298  12,993  —    657  196,289  891,654 

2007 interim dividends declared and paid

  —    —    —    —    —    —    (24,635) (24,635)

Shares issued upon exercise of share options

  2,328,000  233  2,135  (611) —    —    —    1,757 

Equity settled share-based compensation

  —    —    —    5,727  —    —    —    5,727 

Net income

  —    —    —    —    —    —    28,865  28,865 

Foreign currency translation adjustment

  —    —    —    —    —    514  —    514 
                         

Balance at August 31, 2007

  616,503,404  61,650  622,433  18,109  —    1,171  200,519  903,882 
                         


City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year August 31, 20072008

18
19Capital and reserves (continued)

   

Authorized ordinary shares

of HK$0.10 each

   

No. of

Shares

  Amount
      HK$’000

At August 31, 2006 and August 31, 2007

  2,000,000,000  200,000
      

   

Issued and fully paid (ordinary shares of HK$0.10 each)

   August 31, 2005  August 31, 2006  August 31, 2007
   

No. of

shares

  

Amount

  

No. of

shares

  Amount  

No. of

shares

  Amount
      HK$’000     HK$’000     HK$’000

At the beginning of the year

  610,573,361  61,057  614,125,404  61,412  614,175,404  61,417

Exercise of share options (note (b))

  52,000  5  50,000  5  2,328,000  233

Exercise of warrants (note (c))

  3,500,043  350  —    —    —    —  
                  

At the end of the year

  614,125,404  61,412  614,175,404  61,417  616,503,404  61,650
                  

Notes:

(a)Capital and reserves (continued)
         
  Authorized ordinary shares
  of HK$0.10 each
  No. of  
  Shares Amount
      HK$’000
At August 31, 2007 and August 31, 2008  2,000,000,000   200,000 
         
Notes:
 
(a)(i)With effect from September 1, 2005, the Group adopted HKAS 32 “Financial instruments: Disclosure and presentation” and HKAS 39 “Financial instruments: Recognition and measurement”. The adoption of the HKAS 32 and HKAS 39 resulted in recognition of derivative financial instruments as assets of HK$6,609,000 and a corresponding increase in opening balance of retained profits at September 1, 2005.

(b)During the years ended August 31, 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2007, 52,000,2008, 50,000, 2,328,000 and 2,328,00014,052,268 ordinary shares were issued at a weighted average price of HK$0.580.26 per share, HK$0.260.75 per share and HK$0.751.07 per share respectively, to share option holders who had exercised their subscription rights. These shares issued rank pari passu with the then existing ordinary shares in issue.

 
(c)(ii)TheOn 4 February 2008, the Company effected a warrant issue at a price of HK$0.11 per warrant to certain qualifying shareholders (shareholders domiciled in Hong Kong) for cash during the year ended August 31, 2002. One warrant was offered for every five existingissued and allotted 11,227,213 ordinary shares held onto shareholders who elected to receive, the date of record. The warrants entitled2007 final dividend in new shares pursuant to the holders to subscribe for ordinary shares ofscrip dividend scheme announced by the Company (on a oneon 4 January 2008 under which shareholders may elect to one basis) at a pricereceive the dividend in new shares in lieu of HK$0.40 per share (subject to adjustment), totalling HK$39,325,920 in cash at any time on or before November 1, 2004. If the warrants were fully exercised, the Company would be required to issue 98,314,800 additional ordinary shares. During the year ended August 31, 2005, 3,500,043 warrants were exercised for an equivalent number of ordinarycash. These new shares at a price of HK$0.40 per share. The shares issued rank pari passu with the then existing shares of the Company in all respects.
(iii)On 23 July 2008, the Company issued and allotted 8,838,938 ordinary shares to shareholder, who elected to receive the 2008 interim dividend in issue. The remaining outstanding warrantsnew shares pursuant to the scrip dividend scheme announced by the Company on 19 June 2008 under which shareholders may elect to receive the dividend in new shares in lieu of 135,396 expired on November 1, 2004.cash. These new shares rank pari passu with the existing shares of the Company in all respects.

 
(d)(iv)Details of the share option scheme of the Group, the share options granted by the Group during the relevant years and options outstanding at August 31, 2005, 2006, 2007 and 20072008 are set out in note 24.25.

19
(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 which comprises the fair value of the actual or estimated number of unexercised share options granted to employees of the Group was recognised in accordance with the accounting policy adopted for share based payment in note 2(q).
(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, 2007 and August 31, 2008, CTI Guangzhou Customer Services Company Limited (“CTIGZ”), a wholly owned subsidiary of the Group, made appropriation to the statutory reserve of RMB379,000 and RMB324,000, respectively. The accumulated balance of the statutory reserve maintained at the CTIGZ as of August 31, 2007 and August 31, 2008 were RMB581,000 and RMB905,000, respectively. 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 2(d)(ii).

F-47


City Telecom (H.K.) Limited
Consolidated financial statements for the year August 31, 2008
19Capital and reserves (continued)
(c)Capital management
The Group’s primary objectives when managing capital are to maintain a reasonable capital structure and safeguard the Group’s ability to continue as a going concern, in order 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 of August 31, 2007 and 2008 are as follows:
         
  August 31,
  2007 2008
  HK$’000 HK$’000
Unsecured        
8.75% senior notes due 2015  952,593   683,242 
Obligation under finance lease  1,210   376 
         
         
Total loans  953,803   683,618 
Less: Cash at bank and in hand  (532,894)  (421,610)
Less: Long-term bank loan  (14,415)   
         
         
Net debt  406,494   262,008 
Net asset  903,882   1,032,607 
         
         
Net debt to net asset gearing ratio  0.45   0.25 
         
20Cash and bank balances

   August 31,
   2006  2007
   HK$’000  HK$’000

Cash at bank and in hand

  44,717  50,164

Time deposits with banks and other financial institution (note (a))

  100,200  482,730
      
  144,917  532,894
      

Term deposits with banks and other financial institution (note (b))

  237,496  —  
      

Notes:

         
  August 31,
  2007 2008
  HK$’000 HK$’000
Cash at bank and in hand  50,164   156,667 
Time deposits with banks and other financial institution (note (a))  482,730   264,943 
         
         
   532,894   421,610 
         
Notes:
 
(a)Amounts represented time deposits with original maturities of less than three months.

F-48

(b)Amounts represented term deposits with original maturities of more than three months.


City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year August 31, 20072008

20Dividends

21Dividends
(a)Dividends payable to equity shareholders of the Company attributable to the year
             
  Year ended August 31,
  2006 2007 2008
  HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000
Interim dividend, declared and paid, of HK4 cents (2007: HK4 cents, 2006: HK$Nil) per ordinary share     24,635   25,602 
Final dividend proposed after the balance sheet date of HK2 cents (2007: HK4 cents, 2006: HK$Nil) per ordinary shares       —   24,660   13,012 
             
             
      49,295   38,614 
             
During the year ended August 31, 2008, a scrip dividend option was offered to all shareholders with registered addresses in Hong Kong that were entitled to the interim dividend in respect of the six-month period ended February 29, 2008. 8,838,938 shares were issued during the year ended August 31, 2008 to shareholders who had elected to receive all or part of their entitlement to dividends in form of scrip.
  Year ended August 31,
200520062007
HK$’000HK$’000HK$’000

Interim dividend, declared and paid, of HK4 cents (2006: HK$Nil, 2005: HK$Nil) per ordinary share

—  —  24,635

FinalThe final dividend proposed after the balance sheet date of HK4 cents (2006: HK$Nil, 2005: HK$Nil) per ordinary shares

has not been recognized as a liability at August 31, 2007 and August 31, 2008.
(b) Dividends attributable to the previous financial year, approved and paid during the year
    24,660
      
 Year ended August 31,
  —  2006 49,29520072008
HK$’000HK$’000HK$’000
Final dividend in respect of the financial year ended August 31, 2007 approved and paid, of HK4 cents per ordinary share (2007: HK$Nil, 2006: HK$Nil)     —     —25,082
      

21Banking facilitiesDuring the year ended August 31, 2008, a scrip dividend option was offered to all shareholders with registered addresses in Hong Kong that were entitled to the final dividend in respect of the financial year ended August 31, 2007. 11,227,213 shares were issued during the year ended August 31, 2008 to the shareholders who had elected to receive all or part of their entitlement to dividends in the form of scrip.

The Group’s banking facilities were denominated in Hong Kong dollars as follows:F-49

   

Amount available

August 31,

  

Amount utilized

August 31,

  Terms of facilities as
at August 31, 2007
Interest rate
   2006  2007  2006  2007   
   HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000   

Bank overdrafts/ bank loans

  80,020  80,200  2,003  1,603  HIBOR or cost of
Funds + 0.8% per
annum
              
          

The amounts utilized as of August 31, 2006 and 2007 represented bank guarantees and letter of credit issued against the banking facilities (see note 15) which the Group has not drawn upon. The utilized banking facilities as of August 31, 2006 and 2007 were denominated in Hong Kong dollar.


22Related 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 Group’s directors and certain of the highest paid employees, is as follows:

   Year ended August 31,
   2006  2007
   HK$’000  HK$’000

Short-term employee benefits

  21,443  26,791

Post-employment benefits

  1,916  2,197

Equity compensation benefits

  4,571  4,388
      
  27,930  33,376
      

City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year August 31, 20072008

23Retirement schemes
22Banking facilities
The Group’s banking facilities were denominated in Hong Kong dollars as follows:
                     
                  Terms of facilities as
  Amount available Amount utilized at August 31, 2008
  August 31, August 31, Interest rate
  2007 2008 2007 2008    
  HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000    
Bank overdrafts/ bank loans  80,200   87,319   1,603   29,943  HIBOR or cost
                  of Funds + 0.8% per annum
The amounts utilized as of August 31, 2007 and 2008 represented bank guarantees and letter of credit issued against the banking facilities (see note 16) which the Group has not drawn upon. The utilized banking facilities as of August 31, 2007 and 2008 were denominated in Hong Kong dollar and Singaporean dollar.
23Related 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 Group’s directors and certain of the highest paid employees, is as follows:
             
  Year ended August 31,
  2006 2007 2008
  HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000
Short-term employee benefits  21,443   26,791   28,850 
Post-employment benefits  1,916   2,197   2,425 
Equity compensation benefits  4,571   4,388   3,664 
             
             
   27,930   33,376   34,939 
             

The Group contributes to, the Occupational Retirement Scheme (“the ORSO Scheme”), a defined contribution retirement scheme, which is available to certain employees. 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 of service. Contributions to the ORSO Scheme are reduced by amounts forfeited by employees who leave the ORSO Scheme prior to vesting fully in the Group’s contributions.F-50

In December 2000, the Group established a defined contribution retirement scheme, Mandatory Provident Fund Scheme (“the MPF Scheme”), under the Hong Kong Mandatory Provident Fund Scheme Ordinance where the then existing employees of the Group in Hong Kong could elect to join the MPF Scheme. All new employees who join the Group in Hong Kong after December 2000 are required to join the MPF Scheme. Both the Group and the employees are required to contribute 5% of each individual’s relevant income subject to a maximum amount of contribution of HK$1,000 per month. The employee is fully vested in the Group’s mandatory contributions. Senior employees who are under MPF Scheme may also elect to join a Mutual Voluntary Plan (“the Mutual Plan”) whereby both the Group and the employees make additional voluntary contributions, so that the total amount of contributions made under the MPF Scheme and the Mutual Plan is similar to the contribution made under the ORSO Scheme.


The Group also contributes to defined contribution pension schemes for staff in overseas countries as required by the respective local statutory requirements.

The aggregate employer’s contributions, net of forfeited contributions, which have been dealt with in the consolidated statement of operations during the year are as follows:

   Year ended August 31, 
   2005  2006  2007 
   HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000 

Gross contributions

  27,789  28,912  24,545 

Less: Forfeited contributions utilized to offset the Group’s contributions during the year

  (352) (956) (612)
          

Net contributions charged to the consolidated statement of operations

  27,437  27,956  23,933 
          

At August 31, 2007, there is no forfeited contribution available to offset future contributions by the Group to the ORSO scheme and the Mutual Plan.

City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year August 31, 20072008

24Retirement schemes
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 the People’s Republic of China (the “PRC”), the Group contributes to the defined contribution retirement scheme organised by the local social security bureau for each employee of the subsidiary in the PRC at a 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 statement of operations during the year are as follows:
             
  Year ended August 31,
  2006 2007 2008
  HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000
Gross contributions  28,912   24,545   29,738 
Less: Forfeited contributions utilized to offset the Group’s contributions during the year  (956)  (612)   
             
             
Net contributions charged to the consolidated statement of operations  27,956   23,933   29,738 
             
At August 31, 2008, there is no forfeited contribution available to offset future contributions by the Group to the ORSO scheme and the Mutual Plan.
25Equity settled share-based transactions
2002 Share Option Scheme
The Company operates a share option scheme (the “2002 Share Option Scheme”) which was adopted by the shareholders of the Company on December 23, 2002 and where the directors may, at their discretion, invite eligible participants to take up 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. During the year ended August 31, 2008, options were granted under the 2002 Share Option Scheme to eligible participants for the subscription of 18,300,000 shares (2007: 300,000 shares) of the Company at a weighted average exercise price of HK$1.84 (2007: HK$1.16) each.

2002 Share Option SchemeF-51

The Company operates a share option scheme (the “2002 Share Option Scheme”) which was adopted by the shareholders of the Company on December 23, 2002 and where the directors may, at their discretion, invite eligible participants to take up 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. During the year ended August 31, 2007, options were granted under the 2002 Share Option Scheme to eligible participants for the subscription of 300,000 shares (2006: 34,310,000 shares) of the Company at a weighted average exercise price of HK$1.16 (2006: HK$0.67) each.

1997 Share Option Scheme

The Company also had a previous share option scheme (the “1997 Share Option Scheme”) adopted by shareholders on July 12, 1997 which was terminated on December 23, 2002 upon the adoption of the 2002 Share Option Scheme. Unexercised options granted under the 1997 Share Option Scheme lapsed automatically on 12 July 2007.

Each option issued under the 2002 Share Option Scheme or the 1997 Share Option Scheme entitles the holder to subscribe for one ordinary share in the Company at a predetermined exercise price.

Prior to September 1, 2005, under Hong Kong GAAP, no compensation cost was required to be recognized in respect of the grant of share options. At the time of exercise of the options, proceeds from issue of shares were credited to share capital and share premium account.

City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year August 31, 20072008

2425Equity settled share-based transactions (continued)

1997 Share Option Scheme (continued)

Effective from September 1, 2005, upon the adoption of HKFRS 2 “Share-based payment”, the Group recognizes the fair value of share options granted over the vesting period, or as an asset, if the cost qualifies for recognition as an asset. The fair value of share option is measured at the date of grant. The Group has taken advantage of the transitional provisions set out in paragraph 53 of HKFRS 2 under which the new recognition and measurement policies have not been applied to the following options:

1997 Share Option Scheme
The Company also had a previous share option scheme (the “1997 Share Option Scheme”) adopted by shareholders on July 12, 1997 which was terminated on December 23, 2002 upon the adoption of the 2002 Share Option Scheme. Unexercised options granted under the 1997 Share Option Scheme lapsed automatically on 12 July 2007.
Each option issued under the 2002 Share Option Scheme or the 1997 Share Option Scheme entitles the holder to subscribe for one ordinary share in the Company at a predetermined exercise price.
Prior to September 1, 2005, under Hong Kong GAAP, no compensation cost was required to be recognized in respect of the grant of share options. At the time of exercise of the options, proceeds from issue of shares were credited to share capital and share premium account.
Effective from September 1, 2005, upon the adoption of HKFRS 2 “Share-based payment”, the Group recognizes the fair value of share options granted over the vesting period, or as an asset, if the cost qualifies for recognition as an asset. The fair value of share option is measured at the date of grant. The Group has taken advantage of the transitional provisions set out in paragraph 53 of HKFRS 2 under which the new recognition and measurement policies have not been applied to the following options:
 (i)share options granted under the 1997 Share Option Scheme since all options were granted to employees before November 7, 2002; and

 (ii)share options granted under the 2002 Share Option Scheme and vested before September 1, 2005.

Details of share options granted pursuant to the 2002 Share Option Scheme and 1997 Share Option Scheme that were outstanding at August 31, 2005, 2006, and 2007 and 2008, are as follows:
1997 Share Option Scheme
             
  September 3, September 10, October 20,
Date of grant 1998 1999 2000
Exercise price per share (HK$) at date of grant  0.26   2.10   0.58 
             
             
Market price per share (HK$) at date of grant  0.26   2.10   0.58 
             
             
Outstanding at August 31, 2005  190,000   60,000   298,000 
Exercised  (50,000)      
Lapsed upon resignation of employees     (20,000)  (20,000)
             
             
Outstanding at August 31, 2006  140,000   40,000   278,000 
Exercised  (140,000)     (278,000)
Lapsed upon expiry of the options     (40,000)   
             
             
Outstanding at August 31, 2007 and August 31, 2008         
             

F-52

1997 Share Option Scheme


Date of grant

  September 3,
1998
  September 10,
1999
  October 20,
2000
 

Exercise price per share (HK$)

  0.26  2.10  0.58 
          

Market price per share (HK$) at date of grant

  0.26  2.10  0.58 
          

Outstanding at September 1, 2004

  190,000  60,000  350,000 

Exercised

  —    —    (52,000)
          

Outstanding at August 31, 2005

  190,000  60,000  298,000 

Exercised

  (50,000) —    —   

Lapsed upon resignation of employees

  —    (20,000) (20,000)
          

Outstanding at August 31, 2006

  140,000  40,000  278,000 

Exercised

  (140,000) —    (278,000)

Lapsed upon expiry of the options

  —    (40,000) —   
          

Outstanding at August 31, 2007

  —    —    —   
          

City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year August 31, 20072008

2425Equity settled share-based transactions (continued)
2002 Share Option Scheme
                                                             
                            November              
  June 3, October 21, January 5, October 3, May 22, July 3, August 3, 22, May 23, December February 6, February February 15, March May 2,
Date of grant 2004 2004 2005 2005 2006 2006 2006 2006 2007 12, 2007 2008 11, 2008 2008 11, 2008 2008
  (note (a)) (note (b)) (note (c)) (note (d)) (note (e)) (note (f)) (note(g)) (note(h)) (note(i)) (note (j)) (note (k)) (note(l)) (note (m)) (note (n)) (note(o))
Exercise price per share (HK$) at date of grant  1.47   1.54   1.54   0.81   0.66   0.68   0.71   0.73   2.03   2.45   1.77   1.88   1.77   1.83   1.80 
                                                             
                                                             
Market price per share (HK$) at date of grant  1.47   1.49   1.48   0.81   0.64   0.68   0.71   0.73   2.10   2.40   1.86   1.76   1.80   1.70   1.75 
                                                             
                                                             
Outstanding at August 31, 2005  6,000,000   14,670,000   16,000,000                                     
Granted           1,000,000   32,210,000   1,000,000   100,000                         
Lapsed upon resignation of employees     (5,220,000)                                       
                                                             
                                                             
Outstanding at August 31, 2006  6,000,000   9,450,000   16,000,000   1,000,000   32,210,000   1,000,000   100,000                         
Granted                       200,000   100,000                   
Exercised     (330,000)        (1,250,000)  (300,000)  (30,000)                        
Lapsed upon resignation of employees     (780,000)        (2,020,000)                              
                                                             
                                                             
Outstanding at August 31, 2007  6,000,000   8,340,000   16,000,000   1,000,000   28,940,000   700,000   70,000   200,000   100,000                   
Adjustment to the number of options for 2007 Final Dividend (note p)     32,397   63,292      101,301   2,769   277   534   396   3,956                
Adjustment to the number of options for 2008 Interim Dividend (note q)     21,002   43,664      65,221      191   368         16,309   16,309   10,873   816   2,718 
Granted                             1,000,000   6,000,000   6,000,000   4,000,000   300,000   1,000,000 
Exercised  (6,000,000)  (821,344)     (1,000,000)  (6,135,805)     (30,119)  (65,000)                     
Lapsed upon resignation of employees     (473)        (583,162)  (702,769)        (100,396)  (1,003,956)        (3,008,155)      
                                                             
                                                             
Outstanding at August 31, 2008     7,571,582   16,106,956      22,387,555      40,349   135,902         6,016,309   6,016,309   1,002,718   300,816   1,002,718 
                                                             

2002 Share Option SchemeF-53

Date of grant

 June 3,
2004
 October 21,
2004
  January 5,
2005
 

October 3,
2005

 

May 22,

2006

  July 3,
2006
  August 3,
2006
  November 22,
2006
 May 23,
2007
  (note (a)) (note (b))  (note (c)) (note (d)) (note (e))  (note (f))  (note(g))  (note(h)) (note(i))

Exercise price per share (HK$)

 1.47 1.54  1.54 0.81 0.66  0.68  0.71  0.73 2.03
                      

Market price per share (HK$) at date of grant

 1.47 1.49  1.48 0.81 0.64  0.68  0.71  0.73 2.10
                      

Outstanding at September 1, 2004

 6,000,000 —    —   —   —    —    —    —   —  

Granted

 —   14,670,000  16,000,000 —   —    —    —    —   —  

Exercised

 —   —    —   —   —    —    —    —   —  
                      

Outstanding at August 31, 2005

 6,000,000 14,670,000  16,000,000 —   —    —    —    —   —  

Granted

 —   —    —   1,000,000 32,210,000  1,000,000  100,000  —   —  

Lapsed upon resignation of employees

 —   (5,220,000) —   —   —    —    —    —   —  
                      

Outstanding at August 31, 2006

 6,000,000 9,450,000  16,000,000 1,000,000 32,210,000  1,000,000  100,000  —   —  

Granted

 —   —    —   —   —    —    —    200,000 100,000

Exercised

 —   (330,000) —   —   (1,250,000) (300,000) (30,000) —   —  

Lapsed upon resignation of employees

 —   (780,000) —   —   (2,020,000) —    —    —   —  
                      

Outstanding at August 31, 2007

 6,000,000 8,340,000  16,000,000 1,000,000 28,940,000  700,000  70,000  200,000 100,000
                      

Notes:


City Telecom (H.K.) Limited
Consolidated financial statements for the year August 31, 2008
25Equity settled share-based transactions (continued)
2002 Share Option Scheme
Notes:
 
(a)On June 3, 2004, an employee was granted options to subscribe for 6,000,000 shares at a price of HK$1.47 per share. The vesting period for the options is June 3, 2004 to April 30, 2006.

 
(b)On October 21, 2004, employees, including executive directors, were granted options to subscribe for 14,670,000 shares at a price of HK$1.54 per share. The vesting period for the options is October 21, 2004 to December 31, 2006.

 
(c)On January 5, 2005, executive directors were granted options to subscribe for 16,000,000 shares at a price of HK$1.54 per share. The vesting period for the options is January 5, 2005 to December 31, 2006.

 
(d)On October 3, 2005, an employee was granted options to subscribe for 1,000,000 shares at a price of HK$0.81 per share. The vesting period for the options is October 3, 2005 to September 30, 2006.

 
(e)On May 22, 2006, employees, including executive directors, were granted options to subscribe for 32,210,000 shares at a price of HK$0.66 per share. The vesting period for the options is May 22, 2006 to May 21, 2009.

 
(f)On July 3, 2006, an employee was granted options to subscribe for 1,000,000 shares at a price of HK$0.68 per share. The vesting period for the options is July 3, 2006 to July 2, 2009.

City Telecom (H.K.) Limited

Consolidated financial statements for the year August 31, 2007

24Equity settled share-based transactions (continued)

2002 Share Option Scheme (continued)

Notes: (continued)

 
(g)On August 3, 2006, an employee was granted options to subscribe for 100,000 shares at a price of HK$0.71 per share. The vesting period of the option is August 3, 2006 to August 2, 2009.

 
(h)On November 22, 2006, an employee was granted options to subscribe for 200,000 shares at a price of HK$0.73 per share. The vesting period of the option is November 22, 2006 to November 14, 2009.

 
(i)On May 23, 2007, an employee was granted options to subscribe for 100,000 shares at a price of HK$2.03 per share. The vesting period of the option is May 23, 2007 to June 11, 2010.

 
(j)On December 12, 2007, an employee was granted options to subscribe for 1,000,000 shares at a price of HK$2.45 per share. The vesting period for the options is December 12, 2007 to December 11, 2010.
(k)On February 6, 2008, an employee was granted options to subscribe for 6,000,000 shares at a price of HK$1.77 per share. Vesting of the options is conditional upon the performance of the participants. Options granted will be vested over a period of three to four years from the date of fulfillment of the performance condition.
(l)On February 11, 2008, an executive director was granted options to subscribe for 6,000,000 shares at a price of HK$1.88 per share. Vesting of the options is conditional upon the performance of the Company’s shares over the period from the close of trading in Hong Kong on November 22, 2007 to November 21, 2010. Options granted will be evenly vested immediately and over a period of three years from the date of fulfillment of the performance condition.
(m)On February 15, 2008, an employee was granted options to subscribe for 4,000,000 shares at a price of HK$1.77 per share. Vesting of the options is conditional upon the performance of the participants. Options granted will be vested over a period of three years from the date of fulfillment of the performance condition.
(n)On March 11, 2008, an employee was granted options to subscribe for 300,000 shares at a price of HK$1.83 per share. The vesting period for the options is March 11, 2008 to March 10, 2011.
(o)On May 2, 2008, an employee was granted options to subscribe for 1,000,000 shares at a price of HK$1.80 per share. Vesting of the options is conditional upon the performance of the participants. Options granted will be vested over a period of three years from the date of fulfillment of the performance condition.
(p)As a result of allotment of 11,227,213 new shares to shareholders of the Company 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 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. The closing price per ordinary share immediately before the date of the grant of the options was HK$1.70.

F-54


City Telecom (H.K.) Limited
Consolidated financial statements for the year August 31, 2008
25Equity settled share-based transactions (continued)
2002 Share Option Scheme (continued)
Notes: (continued)
(q)As a result of allotment of 8,838,938 new shares to shareholders of the Company who elected to receive the 2008 Interim Dividend in shares on 23 July 2008, the exercise price of and the number of share subject to the 65,296,047 options outstanding on 6 June 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 23 July 2008. The closing price per ordinary share immediately before the date of the grant of the options was HK$1.79.
(r)The share options outstanding in respect of the 1997 Share Option Scheme and 2002 Share Options Scheme as of August 31, 2005, 2006, 2007 and 20072008 is summarized as follows:
             
      Weighted Weighted
  Number of average average
  share exercise market price
  options prices per at the date
  outstanding share of grant
  (thousands) HK$’000 HK$’000
Balance at August 31, 2005  37,218   1.51   1.46 
Granted during the year  34,310   0.67   0.74 
Exercised during the year  (50)  0.26   N/A 
Lapsed during the year  (5,260)  1.54   N/A 
             
             
Balance at August 31, 2006  66,218   1.08   1.04 
Granted during the year  300   1.16   1.19 
Exercised during the year  (2,328)  0.76   0.74 
Lapsed during the year  (2,840)  0.93   0.89 
             
             
Balance at August 31, 2007  61,350   1.09   1.06 
Adjustment to the number of options for 2007 Final Dividend  205   1.10   1.07 
Adjustment to the number of options for 2008 Interim Dividend  177   1.28   1.26 
Granted during the year  18,300   1.84   1.83 
Exercised during the year  (14,052)  1.07   1.06 
Lapsed during the year  (5,399)  1.63   1.64 
             
             
Balance at August 31, 2008  60,581   1.27   1.25 
             

F-55

   Number of
share
options
outstanding
  Weighted
average
exercise
prices per
share
  Weighted
average
market price
at the date
of grant
   (thousands)  HK$’000  HK$’000

Balance at September 1, 2004

  6,600  1.39  1.36

Granted during the year

  30,670  1.54  1.48

Exercised during the year

  (52) 0.58  N/A
       

Balance at August 31, 2005

  37,218  1.51  1.46

Granted during the year

  34,310  0.67  0.74

Exercised during the year

  (50) 0.26  N/A

Lapsed during the year

  (5,260) 1.54  N/A
       

Balance at August 31, 2006

  66,218  1.08  1.04

Granted during the year

  300  1.16  1.19

Exercised during the year

  (2,328) 0.76  0.74

Lapsed during the year

  (2,840) 0.93  0.89
        

Balance at August 31, 2007

  61,350  1.09  1.06
        


City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year August 31, 20072008

24
25Equity settled share-based transactions (continued)

2002 Share Option Scheme (continued)

Notes: (continued)

 (k)2002 Share Option Scheme (continued)
Notes: (continued)
(s)The following table summarizes the information about share options outstanding at August 31, 2007:2008:

Date of grant

  Exercise
price at
August 31,
2007
  Number of
outstanding
at August 31,
2007
  Remaining
life
  Exercisable
options at
August 31,
2007
      (thousands)  (months)  (thousands)

June 3, 2004

  1.47  6,000  81  6,000

October 21, 2004

  1.54  8,340  86  8,340

January 5, 2005

  1.54  16,000  86  16,000

October 3, 2005

  0.81  1,000  97  1,000

May 22, 2006

  0.66  28,940  105  9,120

July 3, 2006

  0.68  700  106  —  

August 3, 2006

  0.71  70  107  —  

November 22, 2006

  0.73  200  110  —  

May 23, 2007

  2.03  100  117  —  
          
    61,350    40,460
          

                 
  Exercise Number of     Exercisable
  price at outstanding     options at
  August 31, at August 31, Remaining August 31,
Date of grant 2008 2008 life 2008
      (thousands) (months) (thousands)
October 21, 2004  1.5297   7,572   74   7,572 
January 5, 2005  1.5297   16,107   74   16,107 
May 22, 2006  0.6554   22,387   93   12,784 
August 3, 2006  0.7052   40   95    
November 22, 2006  0.7251   136   98    
February 6, 2008  1.7652   6,016   52    
February 11, 2008  1.8749   6,016   52    
February 15, 2008  1.7652   1,003   52    
March 11, 2008  1.8250   301   52    
May 2, 2008  1.7951   1,003   52    
                 
                 
       60,581       36,463 
                 
(l)
(t)Fair value of share options and assumptions:
In determining the value of the share options granted during the year ended August 31, 2008, the Black-Scholes option pricing model (the “Black-Scholes Model”) has been used except for the share options granted on February 11, 2008 which adopts the Monte Carlo model. Both models are the most generally accepted methodologies used to calculate the value of options. The variables of the models include expected life of the options, risk-free interest rate, expected volatility and expected dividend yield of the shares of the Company.

In determining the fair value of the share options granted, the Black-Scholes option pricing model (the “Black-Scholes Model”) has been used. The Black-Scholes Model is one of the most generally accepted methodologies used to calculate the value of options and is one of the recommended option pricing models as set out in Chapter 17 of the Rules Governing the Listing of Securities on the Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited. The variables of the Black-Scholes Model include expected life of the options, risk-free interest rate, expected volatility and expected dividend yield of the shares of the Company.F-56


City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year August 31, 20072008

24
25Equity settled share-based transactions (continued)

2002 Share Option Scheme (continued)

Notes: (continued)

 (l)2002 Share Option Scheme (continued)
Notes: (continued)
(t)Fair value of share options and assumptions: (continued)

In determining the fair value of the share options granted during the year, the following variables have been applied to the Black-Scholes Model:

Measurement date

  June 3,
2004
  October 21,
2004
  January 5,
2005
  October 3,
2005
  May 22,
2006
  July 3,
2006
  August 3,
2006
  November 22,
2006
  May 23,
2007
 

Variables

          

- Expected life (i)

  5 years  5 years  5 years  5 years  5 years  5 years  5 years  5 years  5 years 

- Risk-free rate (ii)

  3.78% 2.65% 2.75% 4.41% 4.63% 4.45% 4.06% 3.76% 4.45%

- Expected volatility (iii)

  59.04% 72.06% 69.37% 58.29% 55.04% 53.56% 52.71% 51.02% 56.01%

- Expected dividend yield (iv)

  1% 1% 1% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0%

The above variables were determined as follows:

 In determining the value of the share options granted during the year, the following variables have been applied to the models:
                                                             
  June 3, October 21, January 5, October 3, May 22, July 3, August 3, November 22, May 23, December 12, February 6, February 11, February 15, March 11, May 2,
Measurement date 2004 2004 2005 2005 2006 2006 2006 2006 2007 2007 2008 2008 2008 2008 2008
Variables                                                            
— Expected life (i) 5 years  5 years  5 years  5 years  5 years  5 years  5 years  5 years  5 years  5 years  5 years  Average
4 years
  3 years  5 years  5 years 
— Risk-free rate (ii)  3.78%  2.65%  2.75%  4.41%  4.63%  4.45%  4.06%  3.76%  4.45%  3.10%  2.16%  2.16%  2.16%  2.04%  2.88%
— Expected volatility (iii)  59.04%  72.06%  69.37%  58.29%  55.04%  53.56%  52.71%  51.02%  56.01%  61.86%  63.22%  63.32%  63.22%  63.35%  63.56%
— Expected dividend yield (iv)  1%  1%  1%  0%  0%  0%  0%  0%  0%  2%  2%  2%  2%  2%  2%
The above variables were determined as follows:
(i)The expected life is estimated to be 3 to 5 years from the date of grant (the “Measurement Date”).

 
(ii)The risk-free rate represents the yield of the Hong Kong Exchange Fund Notes corresponding to the expected life of the options as atof the Measurement Date.

 
(iii)The expected volatility represents the annualized standard deviation of the continuously compounded rates of return on the sharesdaily share price of the most recentCompany over the period from the Measurement Date that is generally commensurate withto the expected termlife of optionthe 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 five years.

F-57


City Telecom (H.K.) Limited
Consolidated financial statements for the year August 31, 2008
25Equity settled share-based transactions (continued)
 (iv)Dividend yield has been assumed as 1% for2002 Share Option Scheme (continued)
Notes: (continued)
(t)Fair value of share options and assumptions: (continued)
The fair value of the options granted in fiscal years 2004 and 2005 and 0% for fiscal years 2006 and 2007.during the year is estimated as below:

Using

                                                             
  June 3, October 21, January 5, October 3, May 22, July 3, August 3 November 22, May 23, December 12, February 6, February 11, February 15, March 11, May 2,
Date of grant 2004 2004 2005 2005 2006 2006 2006 2006 2007 2007 2008 2008 2008 2008 2008
  HK$ HK$ HK$ HK$ HK$ HK$ HK$ HK$ HK$ HK$ HK$ HK$ HK$ HK$ HK$
Fair value per share option  0.70   0.84   0.80   0.44   0.33   0.35   0.36   0.35   1.13   1.13   0.90   0.41   0.72   0.87   0.83 
Both the Black-Scholes Model and Monte Carlo Model, applied for the determination of the estimated fair value per share option is as follows:

Date of grant

  June 3,
2004
  October 21,
2004
  January 5,
2005
  October 3,
2005
  May 22,
2006
  July 3,
2006
  August 3
2006
  November 22,
2006
  May 23,
2007
   HK$  HK$  HK$  HK$  HK$  HK$  HK$  HK$  HK$

Fair value per share option

  0.70  0.84  0.80  0.44  0.33  0.35  0.36  0.35  1.13

The Black-Scholes Model, was developed for use in estimating the fair value of tradedthe options that are fully transferable and have no vesting restrictions. Such an option pricing model requiresgranted under 2002 Share Option Scheme require input of highly subjective assumptions, including the expected stock volatility. As 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-58


City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year August 31, 20072008

25
26Revenues and segmental information

Revenue recognized during the year is as follows:

   Year ended August 31,
   2005  2006  2007
   HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000

Revenue

      

International telecommunications services

  532,595  418,276  324,470

Fixed telecommunications network services (note (c))

  629,464  716,600  816,800
         
  1,162,059  1,134,876  1,141,270
         

Other income

      

Interest income

  13,578  20,378  22,671

Other income

  6,037  4,465  3,149
         
  19,615  24,843  25,820
         

Revenue recognized during the year is as follows:
             
  Year ended August 31,
  2006 2007 2008
  HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000
Revenue
            
International telecommunications services  418,276   324,470   291,943 
Fixed telecommunications network services (note (c))  716,600   816,800   1,011,038 
             
             
   1,134,876   1,141,270   1,302,981 
             
             
Other income
            
Interest income  20,378   22,671   15,596 
Other income  4,465   3,149   9,393 
             
             
   24,843   25,820   24,989 
             
(a)Primary reporting format - business segments

The Group is organized on a worldwide basis into two 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 and IP-TV services.

The Group’s reportable segments are strategic business units that offer different type of telecommunications services. Each of these business units are operated and managed separately.
The Group’s inter-segment transactions mainly consist of provision of leased lines services.

F-59

The Group’s inter-segment transactions mainly consist of provision of leased lines services.


City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year August 31, 20072008

2526Revenues and segmental information (continued)

(a)Primary reporting format - business segments (continued)
Segment results are income/(loss) from operations excluding interest expense and interest income, but includes other income, net. All segment measures are based on accounting policies that are consistent with those used in the preparation of the consolidated financial statements.
                 
  Year ended August 31, 2006
  International Fixed tele-    
  tele- communications    
  communications network    
  services services Elimination Group
  HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000
Revenue (note (c))                
— External sales  418,276   716,600      1,134,876 
— Inter-segment sales  5,670   31,275   (36,945)   
                 
                 
   423,946   747,875   (36,945)  1,134,876 
                 
                 
Segment results  22,095   (107,607)      (85,512)
                 
                 
Interest income  17,728   2,650      20,378 
Interest expense              (88,637)
Other income              4,465 
                 
                 
Loss before taxation              (149,306)
                 
                 
Segment assets  626,480   1,497,388      2,123,868 
Unallocated assets           347 
                 
                 
Total assets              2,124,215 
                 
                 
Segment liabilities  114,847   167,370      282,217 
Unallocated liabilities              950,344 
                 
                 
Total liabilities              1,232,561 
                 
                 
Capital expenditure  13,838   309,097      322,935 
Depreciation  23,598   252,866      276,464 

Segment results are income/(loss) from operations excluding interest expense and interest income, but includes other income, net. All segment measures are based on accounting policies that are consistent with those used in the preparation of the consolidated financial statements.F-60

   Year ended August 31, 2005 
   International
tele-
communications
services
  

Fixed tele-
communications
network

services

  Elimination  Group 
   HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000 

Revenue (note (c))

      

- External sales

  532,595  629,464  —    1,162,059 

- Inter-segment sales

  4,108  33,188  (37,296) —   
             
  536,703  662,652  (37,296) 1,162,059 
             

Segment results

  89,835  (219,172)  (129,337)
         

Interest income

  13,240  338  —    13,578 

Interest expense

      (54,462)
        

Loss before taxation

      (170,221)
        

Segment assets

  942,304  1,404,589  —    2,346,893 

Unallocated assets

      535 
        

Total assets

      2,347,428 
        

Segment liabilities

  130,011  721,748  —    851,759 

Unallocated liabilities

      475,215 
        

Total liabilities

      1,326,974 
        

Capital expenditure

  11,582  407,544  —    419,126 

Depreciation

  24,928  211,721  —    236,649 

Goodwill amortization

  —    1,065  —    1,065 

City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year August 31, 20072008

2526Revenues and segmental information (continued)

(a)Primary reporting format - business segments (continued)
                 
  Year ended August 31, 2007
  International Fixed tele-    
  tele- communications    
  communications network    
  services services Elimination Group
  HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000
Revenue (note (c))                
— External sales  324,470   816,800      1,141,270 
— Inter-segment sales  5,699   27,633   (33,332)   
                 
                 
   330,169   844,433   (33,332)  1,141,270 
                 
                 
Segment results  49,702   42,873       92,575 
                 
                 
Interest income  15,032   7,639      22,671 
Interest expense              (87,504)
Other income              3,149 
                 
                 
Profit before taxation              30,891 
                 
                 
Segment assets  541,502   1,619,631      2,161,133 
Unallocated assets               
                 
                 
Total assets              2,161,133 
                 
                 
Segment liabilities  101,148   201,738      302,886 
Unallocated liabilities              954,365 
                 
                 
Total liabilities              1,257,251 
                 
                 
Capital expenditure  4,060   128,190      132,250 
Depreciation  21,707   236,396      258,103 

F-61

   Year ended August 31, 2006 
   International
tele-
communications
services
  

Fixed tele-
communications
network

services

  Elimination  Group 
   HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000 

Revenue (note (c))

      

- External sales

  418,276  716,600  —    1,134,876 

- Inter-segment sales

  5,670  31,275  (36,945) —   
             
  423,946  747,875  (36,945) 1,134,876 
             

Segment results

  25,677  (106,724)  (81,047)
         

Interest income

  17,728  2,650  —    20,378 

Interest expense

      (88,637)
        

Loss before taxation

      (149,306)
        

Segment assets

  626,480  1,497,388  —    2,123,868 

Unallocated assets

  —    —    —    347 
        

Total assets

      2,124,215 
        

Segment liabilities

  114,847  921,230  —    1,036,077 

Unallocated liabilities

      196,484 
        

Total liabilities

      1,232,561 
        

Capital expenditure

  13,838  309,097  —    322,935 

Depreciation

  23,598  252,866  —    276,464 


City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year August 31, 20072008

2526Revenues and segmental information (continued)

(a)Primary reporting format - business segments (continued)
                 
  Year ended August 31, 2008
  International Fixed tele-    
  tele- communications    
  communications network    
  services services Elimination Group
  HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000
Revenue (note (c))                
— 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 
                 
                 
Interest income  8,590   7,006      15,596 
Interest expense              (75,137)
Other income              9,393 
                 
                 
Profit before taxation              108,372 
                 
                 
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  4,293   207,391      211,684 
Depreciation  19,587   190,464      210,051 

F-62

   Year ended August 31, 2007 
   

International

tele-

communications

services

  

Fixed tele-

communications

network

services

  Elimination  Group 
   HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000 

Revenue (note (c))

       

- External sales

  324,470  816,800  —    1,141,270 

- Inter-segment sales

  5,699  27,633  (33,332) —   
             
  330,169  844,433  (33,332) 1,141,270 
             

Segment results

  53,673  42,051   95,724 
         

Interest income

  15,032  7,639  —    22,671 

Interest expense

       (87,504)
         

Profit before taxation

       30,891 
         

Segment assets

  541,502  1,619,631  —    2,161,133 

Unallocated assets

       —   
         

Total assets

       2,161,133 
         

Segment liabilities

  101,148  955,598  —    1,056,746 

Unallocated liabilities

       200,505 
         

Total liabilities

       1,257,251 
         

Capital expenditure

  4,060  128,190  —    132,250 

Depreciation

  21,707  236,396  —    258,103 


City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year August 31, 20072008

2526Revenues and segmental information (continued)

(b)Geographical segments
Although the Group’s two business segments are managed on a worldwide basis, they operate in two main geographical areas:

Although the Group’s two business segments are managed on a worldwide basis, they operate in two main geographical areas:

 -Hong Kong
Canada

 -CanadaIn 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.
                 
  August 31, 2006
      Total Capital Fixed
  Revenue assets expenditure assets, net
  HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000
Hong Kong  1,114,452   2,114,018   321,708   1,362,359 
Canada  20,424   9,850   1,227   4,875 
                 
                 
   1,134,876   2,123,868   322,935   1,367,234 
                 
                 
Unallocated assets      347         
                 
                 
       2,124,215         
                 
                 
  August 31, 2007
      Total Capital Fixed
  Revenue assets expenditure assets, net
  HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000
Hong Kong  1,120,538   2,149,728   132,031   1,233,100 
Canada  20,732   11,405   219   4,123 
                 
                 
   1,141,270   2,161,133   132,250   1,237,223 
      ��          
                 
Unallocated assets               
                 
                 
       2,161,133         
                 

In presenting information on the basis of geographical segments, revenue and segment results are based on the geographical location of customers. Total assets and capital expenditure are based on the geographical location of the assets.F-63

There were no sales between the geographical segments.


   August 31, 2005
   Revenue  

Total

assets

  

Capital

expenditure

  

Fixed

assets, net

   HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000

Hong Kong

  1,138,821  2,337,793  418,981  1,332,172

Canada

  23,238  9,100  145  4,371
            
  1,162,059  2,346,893  419,126  1,336,543
           

Unallocated assets

    535    
         
    2,347,428    
         
   August 31, 2006
   Revenue  

Total

assets

  

Capital

expenditure

  

Fixed

assets, net

   HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000

Hong Kong

  1,114,452  2,114,018  321,708  1,362,359

Canada

  20,424  9,850  1,227  4,875
            
  1,134,876  2,123,868  322,935  1,367,234
           

Unallocated assets

    347    
         
    2,124,215    
         

City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year August 31, 20072008

2526Revenues and segmental information (continued)

(b)Geographical segments (continued)

   August 31, 2007
   Revenue  

Total

assets

  

Capital

expenditure

  

Fixed

assets, net

   HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000

Hong Kong

  1,120,538  2,149,728  132,031  1,233,100

Canada

  20,732  11,405  219  4,123
            
  1,141,270  2,161,133  132,250  1,237,223
           

Unallocated assets

    —      
         
    2,161,133    
         

                 
  August 31, 2008
      Total Capital Fixed
  Revenue assets expenditure assets, net
  HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000
Hong Kong  1,281,069   2,040,496   211,482   1,227,907 
Canada  21,912   13,585   202   3,492 
                 
                 
   1,302,981   2,054,081   211,684   1,231,399 
                 
                 
Unallocated assets      26,335         
                 
                 
       2,080,416         
                 
(c)Hong Kong Broadband Network Limited (“HKBN”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Group, as a FTNS licensee, provides interconnection services to enable delivery of telecommunications service to customers of different operators. Since the FTNS license was granted by the TA and interconnection services have been provided, in accordance with the FTNS license granted by the Telecommunications Authority (the “TA”), 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 it expected to collect. AIn prior years, majority of the mobile operators, however, rejected HKBN’s demand for payment. As a result of non-payment by certain mobile operators, in 2004, the Group asked the TA to make a determination (the “Determination”“2004 Determination”) on the level of mobile and fixed interconnection charges payable by one of the mobile operators to HKBN; and the effective date of the determined mobile interconnection charges.
In March 2006, TA issued a preliminary analysis (the “2006 PA”) on the 2004 Determination with respect to the rates of mobile interconnection charges payable by the mobile operator under dispute. However, as of August 31, 2006, the final level of mobile interconnection charges was still subject to the 2004 Determination to be issued by TA.
For the year ended August 31, 2006, the Group recognized mobile interconnection charges of HK$22,037,000 based on the 2006 PA.

In November 2005, HKBN entered into a contractual agreement with one of the mobile operators, which agreed to pay mobile interconnection charges at an interim rate. The final rate to be paid by this mobile operator was subject to adjustment based on the Determination to be issued by the TA.F-64

In March 2006, the TA issued a preliminary analysis (the “2006 PA”) on the Determination with respect to the rates of mobile interconnection charges payable by the mobile operator under dispute and the timing of the Determination. The final level of mobile interconnection charges was still subject to the Determination by the TA as of August 31, 2006.


For the year ended August 31, 2005, the Group recognized revenue for mobile interconnection charges of HK$24,703,000, based on the Group’s best estimate of the amount it expected to collect. For the year ended August 31, 2006, the Group recognized mobile interconnection charges of HK$22,037,000 based on the 2006 PA.

City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year August 31, 20072008

2526Revenues and segmental information (continued)

(c)(continued)

In March 2007, TA issued a revised preliminary analysis (the “2007 PA”) which superseded the 2006 PA. The 2007 PA set out the rates of mobile interconnection charges, which are different from those rates stated in the 2006 PA.

In June 2007, TA issued a final determination (the “Final Determination”) which set out the rates of mobile interconnection charges payable by the mobile operator under dispute, which approximate the rates stated in the 2007 PA.

For the year ended August 31, 2007, the Group recognized revenue for mobile interconnection charges of HK$40,877,000 based on the rates set forth in the Final Determination. The amount recognized includes charges for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2007 and additional charges for the years ended August 31, 2005 and 2006 in excess of amounts previously recognized based on the 2006 PA. As a result of the Final Determination, the Group has also reversed a portion of a previously recognized bad debt provision for mobile interconnection charges receivables of HK$9,404,000 to the consolidated statement of operations (note 7(a)(ii)) based on the amount it expected to collect for billings outstanding through that date.

26
Financial instrumentsIn March 2007, TA issued a revised preliminary analysis (the “2007 PA”) which superseded the 2006 PA. The 2007 PA set out the rates of mobile interconnection charges, which are different from those rates stated in the 2006 PA.
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, which superseded the rates stated in both the 2006 PA and 2007 PA issued by TA previously.
For the year ended August 31, 2007, the Group recognized revenue related to mobile interconnection charges of HK$40,877,000 based on the 2004 Determination which included charges for the year ended August 31, 2007 and additional charges for the years ended August 31, 2005 and 2006 previously measured based on the 2006 PA. The Group has also written back bad debt provision for mobile interconnection charges receivables of HK$9,404,000 to the consolidated statement of operations based on the amount it expected to collect for billings outstanding through that date.
During the year ended August 31, 2008, HKBN entered into contractual agreements with additional mobile operators which agreed to pay mobile interconnection charges based on the 2004 determination for period from April 1, 2002 to August 31, 2004 and for the subsequent period at an interim rate stated in the agreements which will be adjusted based on further determination to be issued by TA.
In February 2008, HKBN requested TA to make a new determination with four mobile operators (the “2008 Determination”) on the rate of mobile interconnection charge and interest thereon. In September 2008, TA indicated that it accepted HKBN’s request for determination, which covers the mobile interconnection charges payable by the mobile operators under the determination, for the period from April 1, 2002 to April 26, 2009 (for those mobile operators who have not reached the relevant contractual agreements with HKBN) or for the period from September 1, 2004 to April 26, 2009 (for those mobile operators who have reached the relevant contractual agreements with HKBN), and the interest rate thereon.
For the year ended August 31, 2008, the Group recognized revenue related to mobile interconnection charges of HK$29,568,000 representing the amount of mobile interconnection charges management expects to collect.

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.F-65

(a)Credit risk

The Group’s credit risk is primarily attributable to trade and other receivables, investments securities, derivative financial instruments and term bank deposits. Management has a credit policy in place and the exposure to credit risk is monitored on an ongoing basis. The maximum exposure to credit risk is represented by the carrying amount of financial asset, including derivative financial instruments. Except for the financial guarantee issued by the Group as disclosed in note 14(d), the Group does not provide any other guarantees which expose the Group to credit risk.


In respect of trade receivables, credit evaluations are performed on all customers requiring credit over a certain amount. Trade receivables are generally 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.

Cash deposits and transactions involving derivative financial instruments with counterparties are placed or limited to high credit-quality financial institutions. The Group has policies that limit the amount of credit exposure to any financial institution. Given the high credit ratings of these financial institutions, management does not expect any of the financial institutions not to meet their obligations.

City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year August 31, 20072008

2627Financial instruments (continued)
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.

(b)(a)LiquidityCredit risk
The Group’s credit risk is primarily attributable to trade and other receivables, and debt investments. Management has a credit policy in place and the exposure to the credit risk is monitored on an ongoing basis.
In respect of trade 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 8.
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 15(d), 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 15 (d).
Further quantitative disclosures in respect of the Group’s exposure to credit risk arising from accounts receivable are set out in note 8.

Management is responsible for the cash management of the Group, including the short term investment of cash surplus and the raising of funds to cover expected cash demands. Management regularly monitors current and expected liquidity requirements and compliance with lending covenants to ensure the Group maintains sufficient cash, readily realizable marketable securities and has adequate amount of committed credit facilities to meet the Group’s liquidity requirements in the short and long term.F-66

(c)Interest rate risk

The Group’s interest-rate risk arises mainly from its 10-year senior notes which bear interest at the fixed rate of 8.75% per annum. Details of the 10-year senior notes are disclosed in note 13.


(d)Foreign currency risk

All of the Group’s monetary assets and liabilities are primarily denominated in either Hong Kong dollars or United States dollars. Given the exchange rate of Hong Kong dollar to the U.S. dollar has been pegged at the rate of HK$7.8 = US$1.00 since 1983, management does not expect significant foreign exchange gains or losses between the Hong Kong dollar and the United States dollar.

The Group is exposed to a certain amount of foreign exchange risk in relation to 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 maintains Renminbi cash balance that approximates three months’ operating cash flows.

(e)Fair values

The carrying amount of trade receivables less impairment loss for doubtful debts and account payables approximate their fair values. The carrying value and the fair value of the Group’s investment securities, derivative financial instruments and the senior notes as at August 31, 2006 and 2007 are as follows:

   Note  2006  2007 
     

Carrying

amount

  Fair value  

Carrying

amount

  Fair value 
      HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000 

Long-term bank deposit

  (a)  13,641  13,459  14,415  14,277 

Debt securities

  (b)  26,633  26,633  28,577  28,577 

Interest rate swap

  (c)  1,845  1,845  1,039  1,039 

8.75% senior notes

  (b)  (948,027) (722,081) (952,593) (970,125)
               

City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year August 31, 20072008

2627Financial 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.

F-67


City Telecom (H.K.) Limited
Consolidated financial statements for the year August 31, 2008
27Financial instruments (continued)
(b)Liquidity risk (continued)
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.
                                                 
  2007  2008 
      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    
  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 
  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
                                                
                                                 
Accounts payable  76,019   76,019   76,019            52,324   52,324   52,324          
Other payables and accrued charges  145,267   145,267   145,267            178,114   178,114   178,114          
Deposits received  16,188   16,188   16,188            16,264   16,264   16,264          
Obligations under finance leases  835   869   869            121   142   142          
Tax payable  1,481   1,481   1,481            2,103   2,103   2,103          
Non current liabilities
                                                
                                                 
8.75% senior notes  952,593   1,614,184   85,278   85,278   255,834   1,187,794   683,242   1,093,852   61,012   61,012   183,036   788,792 
Obligation under finance leases  375   414      142   272      255   272      142   130    
                                                 
                                                 
   1,192,758   1,854,422   325,102   85,420   256,106   1,187,794   932,423   1,343,071   309,959   61,154   183,166   788,792 
                                                 

F-68


City Telecom (H.K.) Limited
Consolidated financial statements for the year August 31, 2008
27Financial instruments (continued)
(c)Interest rate risk
The Group’s interest-rate risk arises mainly from its 10-year 8.75% senior notes which bear interest at the fixed rate of 8.75% per annum. Borrowings issued at fixed rate expose the Group to fair value interest-rate risk.
(i)Interest rate profile
The following table details the interest rate profile of the Group’s net borrowings at the balance sheet date.
                 
  August 31,
  2008 2007
  Effective     Effective    
  interest rate   interest rate     
  %  HK$’000  %  HK$’000 
Fixed rate borrowings:                
8.75% senior notes  9.2   952,593   9.2   683,242 
Obligation under finance lease  6.8   1,210   6.8   376 
                 
                 
       953,803       683,618 
                 
(ii)Sensitivity analysis
Management determines that the Group’s exposure of interest rate risk was not significant and hence no sensitivity analysis is prepared.
(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
(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.
                         
  August 31, 
  2007  2008 
  United          United       
  States  Japanese  Canadian  States  Japanese  Canadian 
  Dollars  Yen  Dollars  Dollars  Yen  Dollars 
  ’000  ’000  ’000  ’000  ’000  ’000 
Cash at bank and in hand and pledged bank deposits  21,172   2,218   111   22,330   1,099   176 
Accounts payable  (4,781)        (2,500)      
Other payables and accrued charges  (1,563)        (3,390)      
8.75% senior notes  (122,127)        (87,483)      
                         
                         
Overall net exposure  (107,299)  2,218   111   (71,043)  1,099   176 
                         

F-69


City Telecom (H.K.) Limited
Consolidated financial statements for the year August 31, 2008
27Financial instruments (continued)
(d)Foreign currency risk (continued)
(ii)Sensitivity analysis
Management determines that the Group’s exposure of foreign currency risk was not significant and hence no sensitivity analysis is prepared.
(e)Fair values
Except for the following instruments, all financial instruments are carried at amounts not materially different from their fair values as of August 31, 2007 and 2008:
                 
  August 31,
  2007 2008
  Carrying     Carrying  
  amount Fair value amount Fair value
  HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000
Long-term bank deposit  14,415   14,277       
8.75% senior notes  (952,593)  (970,125)  (683,242)  (672,236)
                 

F-70


City Telecom (H.K.) Limited
Consolidated financial statements for the year August 31, 2008
27Financial instruments (continued)
(e)Fair values (continued)
Fair value of financial instruments is estimated as follows:

Notes:

 (a)(i)The fair value of the long term bank deposit is based on issuer’s quoted market price.

(b)The fair value of debt securities and the 8.75% senior notesfinancial instruments traded in active markets is based on quoted market prices at the balance sheet date. The fair value of the 8.75% senior notes is determined based on quoted market price. The fair value of the long term bank deposits are determined based on the issuer’s quoted price.

 (c)(ii)The fair value of the interest rate swapfinancial instruments that are not traded in an active market (for example, over-the-counter derivatives) is the estimated amountdetermined by using valuation techniques. The Group uses a variety of methods and makes assumptions that the Group would receive or pay to terminate the swapare based on market conditions existing at theeach balance sheet taking intodate.
(iii)Trade receivables less impairment provision and account current interest rates and the current creditworthiness of the counterparties.payables are assumed to approximate their fair values.

27
28Barter transaction

(a)During the year ended August 31, 2004, Hong Kong Broadband Network (“HKBN”), a subsidiary of the Company entered into two agreements with a third party (the “Contract Party 1”). Pursuant to first agreement (“First Agreement”), the Contract Party 1 agreed to sell to HKBN an telecommunications facility (the “Facility”) for cash consideration of approximately HK$42.4 million (the “Facility Consideration”), which was paid by HKBN during the year ended August 31, 2004. In conjunction with the First Agreement, HKBN also entered into an operations and maintenance agreement with the Contract Party 1 for the provision of ongoing operations and maintenance services for the Facility at a fee of approximately HK$1 million per annum, commencing September 1, 2007 onwards.
A second agreement (“Second Agreement”) was entered into on the same date by both parties whereby HKBN agree to provide certain telecommunications services to the Contract Party 1 (the “Services”) for an amount equal to the unit service charges specified in the Second Agreement. The Contract Party 1 is required to pay to HKBN a guarantee minimum service fee of approximately HK$42.4 million over a period of three years, commencing September 1, 2004. A prepayment of the service charges of HK$36.5 million (the “Prepaid Charges”) was paid by the Contract Party 1 to HKBN during the year ended August 31, 2004.
The directors of the Group made an assessment of the fair values of the goods and services exchanged and concluded that no fair values could be assigned to them. Accordingly, the Facility was not recognized as an asset and no revenue or deferred revenue was recognized in the consolidated financial statements as of and for any of the periods presented. The difference between the Facility Consideration and the Prepaid Charges, amounting to approximately HK$5.9 million, was included in long-term receivable balance, and other receivables, deposits and prepayments as of August 31, 2006 and 2007 respectively. In accordance with the terms of agreement, the unpaid portion of the HK$42.2 million guarantee minimum service fee, amounting to approximately HK$5.9 million has been billed to the Contract Party 1 upon the end of service period on September 1, 2007 and subsequently settled.

A second agreement (“Second Agreement”) was entered into on the same date by both parties whereby HKBN agree to provide certain telecommunications services to the Contract Party 1 (the “Services”) for an amount equal to the unit service charges specified in the Second Agreement. The Contract Party 1 is required to pay to HKBN a guarantee minimum service fee of approximately HK$42.4 million over a period of three years, commencing September 1, 2004. A prepayment of the service charges of HK$36.5 million (the “Prepaid Charges”) was paid by the Contract Party 1 to HKBN during the year ended August 31, 2004.F-71

The directors of the Group made an assessment of the fair values of the goods and services exchanged and concluded that no fair values could be assigned to them. Accordingly, the Facility was not recognized as an asset and no revenue or deferred revenue was recognized in the consolidated financial statements as at and for any of the periods presented. The difference between the Facility Consideration and the Prepaid Charges, amounting to approximately HK$5.9 million, was included in long-term receivable balance, and other receivables, deposits and prepayments as at August 31, 2006 and 2007 respectively. In accordance with the terms of agreement, the unpaid portion of the HK$42.2 million guarantee minimum service fee, amounting to approximately HK$5.9 million has been billed to the Contract Party 1 upon the end of service period on September 1, 2007.


City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year August 31, 2007

27Barter transaction (continued)
29Comparative figures

Certain comparative figures have been reclassified to conform with the current year presentation.
30Recent accounting pronouncements
(b)(a)HKFRSsDuring
Up to the date of issuance of the accompanying consolidated financial statements, the HKICPA has issued a number of amendments, new standards and interpretations which are not yet effective for the year ended August 31, 2005, HKBN entered into2008 and which have not been adopted in the accompanying consolidated financial statements.
The Group is in the process of making an agreement with a third party (“assessment of what the Contract Party 2”). Pursuantimpact of these amendments, new standards and new interpretations is expected to be in the agreement: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:

 (i)HKBN and the Contract Party 2 agreed to make available certain telecommunications services (the “Services Component”) to each other on a barter basis for no consideration for a period of ten years, commencing January 1, 2005.

 (ii)HKBN agreed to provide network capacity to the Contract Party 2 for a service term of fifteen years from the respective activation of the relevant network capacity, and, in exchange, the Contract Party 2 agreed to provide HKBN the right to use telecommunications facilities (the “Capacity Component”) for a term of fifteen years from the respective activation of the relevant facilities. The transaction was entered into on a barter basis with no consideration being exchanged.

The Directors of the Group made an assessment and concluded that since the Services Component and Capacity Component involve an exchange of services of a similar nature and value, the exchange is not regarded as a transaction which generates revenue. Accordingly, both components have not been recognized as an asset or expense and no revenue or deferred revenue was recognized in the financial statements of the Group since inception of the agreement.

28New effective standards/recent accounting pronouncements

(a)HKFRSs

Up to the date of issuance of the accompanying consolidated financial statements, the HKICPA has issued a number of amendments, new standards and interpretations which are not yet effective for the year ended August 31, 2007 and which have not been adopted in the accompanying consolidated 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 may result in new or amended disclosure in its consolidated financial statements:

    Effective for
accounting periods
beginning on or after
Amendments to HKAS 1 

HK(IFRIC) Interpretation 13Customer loyalty programmesJuly 1, 2008
HKAS 1 (Revised)Presentation of financial statements:
capital disclosures

statements
 January 1, 20072009
HKFRS 7 Financial instruments: disclosures
HKAS 23 (Revised)Borrowing costs January 1, 20072009
HKFRS 8 Operating segments
 January 1, 2009

In respect of other amendments, new standards and new interpretations, 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-72


City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year August 31, 20072008

28New effective standards/recent
30Recent accounting pronouncements (continued)

(b)U.S. GAAP
Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 157 (“SFAS 157”)
In September 2006, the FASB issued SFAS 157, Fair Value Measurements, which defines fair value, provides a framework for measuring fair value, and expands the disclosure required for fair value measurement. SFAS 157 applies to other accounting pronouncements that require fair value measurements and does not require any new fair value measurements. SFAS 157 is effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007 and is effective for the Group on September 1, 2008. However, FASB Staff Position FAS 157-2 delayed the adoption date until January 1, 2009 for non-financial assets and liabilities, except for items that are recognized or disclosed at fair value in the financial statements on a recurring basis. Management does not expect the initial adoption of SFAS 157 to have a material impact on the Group’s results of operations and financial position.
Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 159 (“SFAS 159”)
In February 2007, the FASB issued SFAS 159, Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities. SFAS 159 permits companies to measure certain financial instruments and certain other items at fair value. The standard requires that unrealized gains or losses on items for which the fair value option has been elected be reported in earnings. Early adoption of SFAS 159 is permitted provided that the entity also adopts SFAS No. 157. Effective from September 1, 2008, management has elected not to adopt the fair value option for all the financial assets and financial liabilities held at September 1, 2008.

FASB Interpretation No. 48 (“FIN 48”)F-73

In June 2006, the FASB issued FIN 48, Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes—an Interpretation of FASB Statements No. 109, which clarifies the accounting for uncertainty in tax positions. This interpretation requires that the Group recognizes in the consolidated financial statements the impact of a tax position, if that position is more likely than not of being sustained upon examination, based on the technical merits of the position. FIN 48 will be effective for the accounting period from September 1, 2007. Management does not expect the adoption of this interpretation to have a material effect on the Group’s consolidated financial statements.


Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 157 (“SFAS 157”)

In September 2006, the FASB issued SFAS 157, “Fair Value Measurements”, which defines fair value, provides a framework for measuring the fair value, and expands the disclosures required for fair value measurements. SFAS 157 does not require any new fair value measurement. SFAS 157 is effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007. The Group is in the process of evaluating the impact of this standard.

Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 159 (“FAS 159”)

In February 2007, the FASB issued SFAS 159, “Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities”. SFAS 159 permits companies to measure certain financial instruments and certain other items at fair value. The standard requires that unrealized gains or losses on items for which the fair value option has been elected be reported in earnings. SFAS 159 is effective for the Company on 1 September 2008. The Group is in the process of evaluating the impact of this standard.

City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year August 31, 20072008

29
31Summary of significant differences between HKFRSs and U.S. GAAP

The Group’s consolidated financial statements are prepared in accordance with HKFRSs, which differ in certain significant respects from U.S. GAAP. The following are significant differences between HKFRSs and U.S. GAAP which pertain to the Group:

City Telecom (H.K.) Limited

Consolidated financial statements for the year August 31, 2007

29Summary of significant differences between HKFRSs and U.S. GAAP (continued)which pertain to the Group:

Net income/(loss)

      Year ended 31 August,
   Note  2005  2006  2007
      HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000

As reported under HKFRSs

    (163,496) (142,062) 28,865

U.S. GAAP adjustments:

      

- Share-based compensation under intrinsic Value method

  (a)  389  —    —  

- Reversal of retrospective HK GAAP adjustment in respect of share-based compensation

  (a)  6,965  —    —  

- Reversal of amortization of goodwill (acquired after June 30, 2001)

  (b)  1,065  —    —  

- Fair value of interest rate swap

  (c)  1,890  —    —  

- Fair value of foreign forward exchange contracts

  (c)  4,039  —    —  

- Tax effect of U.S. GAAP adjustments

  (d)  —    —    —  
           

Net income/(loss) under U.S. GAAP

    (149,148) (142,062) 28,865
           

Basic weighted average common shares issued and outstanding (in 000’s)

    613,525  614,134  614,840

Incremental shares from assumed exercise of share options (in 000’s)

    —    —    16,479
           

Diluted weighted average common and potential shares issued and outstanding (in 000’s)

  ‘’  613,525  614,134  631,319
           

Earnings/(loss) per share under U.S. GAAP (note)

      

- Basic

    (24.3) cents  (23.1) cents  4.7 cents
           

- Diluted

    (24.3) cents  (23.1) cents  4.6 cents
           

 Net income/(loss)
               
    Year ended 31 August,
  Note 2006 2007 2008
    HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000
As reported under HKFRSs and U.S. GAAP    (142,062)  28,865   125,190 
               
               
Basic weighted average common shares issued and outstanding (in 000’s)    614,134   614,840   634,015 
Incremental shares from assumed exercise of share options (in 000’s)       16,479   23,982 
               
               
Diluted weighted average common and potential shares issued and outstanding (in 000’s)    614,134   631,319   657,997 
               
               
Earnings/(loss) per share under U.S. GAAP (note)              
— Basic    (23.1) cents   4.7 cents   19.7 cents 
               
               
— Diluted    (23.1) cents   4.6 cents   19.0 cents 
               
Note: The number of incremental shares from assumed exercise of stock options and warrants is determined using the treasury stock method. At August 31, 2005 and 2006, the number of shares used in the calculation of diluted loss per share is equal to the basic weighted average common shares issued and outstanding as the incremental effect of outstanding share options would be anti-dilutive in a loss making year.
Total shareholders’ equity
               
    Year ended August 31,
  Note 2006 2007 2008
    HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000
Total shareholders’ equity
              
               
As reported under HKFRSs    891,654   903,882   1,032,607 
               
U.S. GAAP adjustments:              
— Goodwill (a)  5,092   5,092   5,092 
— Accumulated amortization of goodwill (a)  (3,735)  (3,735)  (3,735)
— Reversal of amortization of goodwill (a)  4,260   4,260   4,260 
               
               
Total shareholders’ equity under U.S. GAAP    897,271   909,499   1,038,224 
               

F-74


City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year August 31, 20072008

29
31Summary of significant differences between HKFRSs and U.S. GAAP (continued)
Condensed consolidated statements of operations under US GAAP
Under HKFRS, depreciation charges of network assets are included in general and administrative expenses.
Under US GAAP, however, depreciation charges of networks assets which are directly related to the generation of revenue are included in network costs. As a result, under US GAAP, the consolidated statements of operations would be reported as follows:
             
  Year ended August 31,
  2006 2007 2008
  HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000
Revenue, net  1,134,876   1,141,270   1,302,981 
             
             
Operating expenses:            
— Network costs, net  (554,136)  (451,080)  (368,278)
— Salaries and related costs  (256,721)  (221,102)  (247,460)
— Sales and marketing expenses  (204,952)  (203,673)  (307,743)
— General and administrative expenses  (187,129)  (166,271)  (206,687)
— Provision for doubtful accounts  (17,450)  (6,569)  (14,293)
             
             
(Loss)/ income from operations  (85,512)  92,575   158,520 
Interest income  20,378   22,671   15,596 
Interest expense  (88,637)  (87,504)  (75,137)
Other income, net  4,465   3,149   9,393 
             
             
(Loss)/ income before income taxes  (149,306)  30,891   108,372 
Income tax credit/ (expense)  7,244   (2,026)  16,818 
             
             
Net (loss)/ income  (142,062)  28,865   125,190 
             

Total shareholders’ equityF-75

       Year ended August 31, 
   Note  2005  2006  2007 
      HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000 

Total shareholders’ equity

      

As reported under HKFRSs

    1,020,454  891,654  903,882 

U.S. GAAP adjustments:

      

- Goodwill

  (b)  5,092  5,092  5,092 

- Accumulated amortization of goodwill

  (b)  (3,735) (3,735) (3,735)

- Reversal of amortization of goodwill

  (b)  4,260  4,260  4,260 

- Fair value of interest rate swap

  (c)  2,570  —    —   

- Fair value of forward foreign exchange contracts

  (c)  4,039   

- Tax effect of U.S. GAAP adjustments

  (d)  —    —    —   
            

Total shareholders’ equity under U.S. GAAP

    1,032,680  897,271  909,499 
            

Condensed consolidated statements of operations


    Year ended August 31, 
   2005  2006  2007 
   HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000 

Revenue, net

  1,162,059  1,134,876  1,141,270 
          

Operating expenses:

    

- Network costs

  (550,029) (554,136) (451,080)

- Sales and marketing expenses

  (267,423) (204,952) (203,673)

- General and administrative expenses

  (436,117) (443,850) (387,373)

- Provision for doubtful accounts

  (35,445) (17,450) (6,569)
          

Income/(loss) from operations

  (126,955) (85,512) 92,575 

Interest income

  13,578  20,378  22,671 

Interest expense

  (54,462) (88,637) (87,504)

Other income, net

  11,966  4,465  3,149 
          

Income/(loss) before income taxes

  (155,873) (149,306) 30,891 

Income tax (expense)/credit

  6,725  7,244  (2,026)
          

Net income/(loss)

  (149,148) (142,062) 28,865 
          

City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year August 31, 20072008

29
31Summary of significant differences between HKFRSs and U.S. GAAP (continued)
Statement of changes in shareholders’ equity under US GAAP
                             
  Ordinary shares                
              Accumulated          
  Number of     Additional other         Total
  shares Amount paid-in comprehensive Capital Retained shareholders’
  outstanding outstanding capital income reserve profits equity
      HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000
Balance at August 31, 2005  614,125,404   61,412   619,408   840   27,815   323,205   1,032,680 
Shares issued upon exercise of share options  50,000   5   8            13 
Compensation cost for share options        251      6,572      6,823 
Net loss                 (142,062)  (142,062)
Foreign currency translation adjustment           (183)        (183)
                             
                             
Balance at August 31, 2006  614,175,404   61,417   619,667   657   34,387   181,143   897,271 
Shares issued upon exercise of share options  2,328,000   233   2,135      (611)     1,757 
Compensation cost for share options              5,727      5,727 
Net income                 28,865   28,865 
Dividend paid in respect of previous year                 (24,635)  (24,635)
Foreign currency translation adjustment  ��        514         514 
                             
                             
Balance at August 31, 2007  616,503,404   61,650   621,802   1,171   39,503   185,373   909,499 
Shares issued upon exercise of share options  14,052,268   1,405   16,893      (3,300)     14,998 
Compensation cost for share options              4,204      4,204 
Net income                 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  11,227,213   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  8,838,938   884   13,347         (14,231)   
Foreign currency translation adjustment           1,619         1,619 
                             
                             
   650,621,823   65,062   670,086   2,790   40,407   259,879   1,038,224 
                             

Statement of changes in shareholders’ equityF-76

    Ordinary shares  Additional paid-in capital             
    Number of
shares
outstanding
  Amount
outstanding
  

Share

premium

  Warrant
reserve
  

Cumulative

foreign
currency
translation
reserve

  Capital
reserve
  

Retained

profits

  Total
shareholders’
equity
 
      HK$  HK$  HK$  HK$  HK$  HK$  HK$ 
      (Amounts in thousands, except number of shares) 

Balance at August 31, 2004

  610,573,361  61,057  617,986  365  983  28,204  472,335  1,180,930 

Shares issued upon exercise of share options

  52,000  5  25  —    —    —    —    30 

Compensation cost for share options

  —    —    —    —    —    (389) —    (389)

Release of warrant reserve upon warrant expiration

  —    —    —    (18) —    —    18  —   

Shares issued upon exercise of warrants

  3,500,043  350  1,397  (347) —    —    —    1,400 

Net loss

  —    —    —    —    —    —    (149,148) (149,148)

Foreign currency translation adjustment

  —    —    —    —    (143) —    —    (143)
                         

Balance at August 31, 2005

  614,125,404  61,412  619,408  —    840  27,815  323,205  1,032,680 

Shares issued upon exercise of share options

  5,000  5  8  —    —    —    —    13 

Compensation cost for share options

  —    —    251  —    —    6,572  —    6,823 

Net loss

  —    —    —    —    —    —    (142,062) (142,062)

Foreign currency translation adjustment

  —    —    —    —    (183) —    —    (183)
                         

Balance at August 31, 2006

  614,175,404  61,417  619,667  —    657  34,387  181,143  897,271 

Shares issued upon exercise of share options

  2,328,000  233  2,135  —    —    (611) —    1,757 

Compensation cost for share options

  —    —    —    —    —    5,727  —    5,727 

Net income

  —    —    —    —    —    —    28,865  28,865 

2007 interim dividend declared and paid

  —    —    —    —    —    —    (24,635) (24,635)

Foreign currency translation adjustment

  —    —    —    —    514  —    —    514 
                         

Balance at August 31, 2007

  616,503,404  61,650  621,802  —    1,171  39,503  185,373  909,499 
                         

City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year August 31, 20072008

29
31Summary of significant differences between HKFRSs and U.S. GAAP (continued)
Comprehensive (loss)/income under US GAAP
The comprehensive (loss)/income of the Group, determined in accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (“SFAS”) No. 130 “Reporting Comprehensive Income”, is set out as follows:
             
  Year ended August 31,
  2006 2007 2008
  HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000
(Loss)/Net income under U.S. GAAP  (142,062)  28,865   125,190 
Foreign currency translation adjustment (net of nil tax)  (183)  514   1,619 
             
             
Comprehensive (loss)/income  (142,245)  29,379   126,809 
             
Condensed consolidated statement of cash flows
Under HKFRSs, in adopting HKAS 7, three categories of activities are reported: operating activities; investing activities and financing activities, which is similar to U.S. GAAP. However, under HKFRSs, the difference is that cash flows from interest income would be included in investing activities whereas under U.S. GAAP it would be included in operating activities.
Summary cash flow information under U.S. GAAP is as follows:
             
  Year ended August 31,
  2006 2007 2008
  HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000
Net cash provided by operating activities  204,583   406,732   394,159 
Net cash (used in)/provided by investing activities  (513,120)  91,382   (163,346)
Net cash used in financing activities  (86,486)  (109,566)  (342,550)
             
             
Increase/(decrease) in cash and bank balances  (395,023)  388,548   (111,737)
Cash and bank balances at the beginning of year  539,591   144,917   532,894 
Effect of foreign currency exchange rate changes on cash  349   (571)  453 
             
             
Cash and bank balances at the end of year  144,917   532,894   421,610 
             

Comprehensive (loss)/incomeF-77

The comprehensive (loss)/income of the Group, determined in accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (“SFAS”) No. 130 “Reporting Comprehensive Income”, is set out as follows:


   Year ended August 31,
   2005  2006  2007
   HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000

(Loss)/Net income under U.S. GAAP

  (149,148) (142,062) 28,865

Foreign currency translation adjustment

  (143) (183) 514
         

Comprehensive (loss)/income

  (149,291) (142,245) 29,379
         

Condensed consolidated statement of cash flows

Under HKFRSs, in adopting HKAS 7, three categories of activities are reported: operating activities; investing activities and financing activities, which is similar to U.S. GAAP. However, under HKFRSs, the difference is that cash flows from interest income would be included in investing activities whereas under U.S. GAAP it would be included in operating activities.

Summary cash flow information under U.S. GAAP is as follows:

   Year ended August 31, 
   2005  2006  2007 
   HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000 

Net cash provided by operating activities

  90,984  204,583  406,732 

Net cash (used in)/provided by investing activities

  (571,018) (513,120) 91,382 

Net cash provided by/(used in) financing activities

  773,023  (86,486) (109,566)
          

Increase/(decrease) in cash and bank balances

  292,989  (395,023) 388,548 

Cash and bank balances at the beginning of year

  247,517  539,591  144,917 

Effect of foreign exchange rate changes

  (915) 349  (571)
          

Cash and bank balances at the end of year

  539,591  144,917  532,894 
          

City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year August 31, 20072008

29Summary of significant differences between HKFRSs and U.S. GAAP (continued)

(a)31Share-based compensation

Prior to HKFRS 2 “Share-based payment” becoming effective for the fiscal year beginning on September 1, 2005, no staff compensation cost was recognized in respect of the grant of share options. Proceeds from the issuance of shares upon the exercise of share options were credited to share capital and share premium accounts. With effect from September 1, 2005, in order to comply with HKFRS 2, the Group recognizes the fair value of share options as compensation expense, or an asset, if the cost qualifies for recognition as an asset with the corresponding increase to capital reserve. The new accounting policy has been applied retrospectively with comparatives restated in accordance with HKFRS 2. The impact of the restatement for the year ended August 31, 2005 was HK$6,965,000 which was reversed under U.S. GAAP.

Under U.S. GAAP, for periods ended on or prior to August 31, 2005, the Group applied the provisions of Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 25, “Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees” (“APB 25”) and related interpretations to account for share options. Under APB 25, share-based compensation was recorded on the date of grant only if the then market price of the underlying stock exceeded the exercise price of the share options.

For the year ended August 31, 2005, under U.S. GAAP, the Group recognized share-based compensation expenses of HK$389,000 because options were granted when the then market price of the underlying ordinary share exceeded the exercise price of the share options as described in the following. On October 21, 2004, the Company issued 14,670,000 share options to employees at an exercise price of HK$1.54 each when the market value of the ordinary shares on that date was HK$1.49. The difference of HK$0.05 between the exercise price and the market value of the ordinary shares was recognized in the consolidated statement of operations over the vesting period. On January 4, 2005, the Company issued 16,000,000 share options to certain directors of the Group at an exercise price of HK$1.54 each when the market value of the ordinary shares of the Company was HK$1.48. The difference of HK$0.06 between the exercise price and the market value of the ordinary shares was recognized in the consolidated statement of operations over the vesting period.

City Telecom (H.K.) Limited

Consolidated financial statements for the year August 31, 2007

29Summary of differences between HKFRSs and U.S. GAAP (continued)

(a)Share-based compensation (continued)

On September 1, 2005, the Group adopted SFAS No. 123 (revised 2004) (“SFAS No. 123(R)”). SFAS No. 123(R) replaces SFAS No.123 “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation” and supersedes APB 25. Under SFAS No. 123(R), the Group is required to measure the cost of employee services received in exchange for an award of equity instruments based on the grant-date fair value of the award and to recognize the cost over the period during which an employee is required to provide service in exchange for the award. In applying the transition provisions of SFAS No.123(R), the Group used the modified prospective method in which the grant-date fair values of unvested awards that are outstanding on the date of adoption are charged to expense over their remaining vesting periods.

As a result of the adoption of HKFRS 2 and SFAS No. 123(R) on September 1, 2005, there was no difference arising from the recognition of share-based compensation because there was no difference in the results of applying the transitional provisions under HKFRSs and U.S. GAAP and the methods used to determined the share-based compensation were the same under HKFRSs and U.S. GAAP.

The following table illustrates the pro forma effect on net income as if the fair-value-based method under SFAS No. 123 had been applied to all outstanding and unvested share options for the year ended August 31, 2005.

 Year ended
August 31, 2005Goodwill
 
  HK$’000Prior to September 1, 2001, goodwill arising from a business combination was charged against available reserves. In January 2001, HKICPA issued Statement of Standard Accounting Practice (“SSAP”) No. 30 “Business Combinations” which applied to business combinations for which the agreement date is on or after September 1, 2001. As a result of the adoption of this SSAP in the fiscal year ended August 31, 2002 and up to September 1, 2005, goodwill on acquisitions occurring on or after September 1, 2001 was shown separately on the consolidated balance sheet and amortized using the straight-line method over its estimated useful life.
 

Net loss

As reported

(149,148)

Less: Total share-based compensation expense determined under intrinsic value method for all awards

(389)

Less: Total share-based compensation expense determined under fair value method for all awards, net of tax

(20,547)
  On September 1, 2005, the Group adopted HKFRS 3 “Business Combinations”. Under HKFRS 3, goodwill is recorded at cost less any accumulated impairment losses and is no longer amortized. Goodwill is subject to an annual impairment test and when there is an indication of impairment. An impairment loss is recognized when the carrying amount of the cash generating unit to which the goodwill has been allocated exceeds its recoverable amounts. In accordance with the transitional arrangements under HKFRS 3, goodwill which had previously been taken directly to reserves (i.e. goodwill which arose before September 1, 2001) is not recognized in the consolidated statement of operations on disposal or impairment of the acquired business, or under any other circumstances. The adoption of HKFRS 3 did not result in any restatement in the consolidated financial statements of prior years and therefore had no impact on U.S. GAAP adjustments of prior years.
(170,084)
  Under U.S. GAAP, goodwill arising from a business combination is not amortized and is required to be tested annually for impairment in accordance with SFAS No. 142 “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets”.

Basic loss per share

As reported

HK(24.3) cents 

Pro forma

 HK(27.7) cents

Diluted loss per share

As reported

HK(24.3) cents

Pro forma

HK(27.7) centsa result of the adoption of HKFRS 3, there were no U.S. GAAP adjustments to the net loss/ income pertaining to goodwill for the years ended August 31, 2006 ,2007 and 2008.

F-78


City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year August 31, 20072008

29
31Summary of differences between HKFRSs and U.S. GAAP (continued)

(a)(b)Share-based compensation (continued)

The weighted average fair value of share options at the date of grant was HK$0.82 per option for the year ended August 31, 2005. The value was estimated using the Black-Scholes option pricing model with the following weighted average assumptions:

 Year ended
August 31, 2005Deferred taxes
 
  HK$’000Under HKFRSs, deferred taxes are provided in full, using the liability method, on temporary differences arising between the tax bases of assets and liabilities and their carrying amounts in the financial statements.
 

Weighted average

 Deferred tax assets are recognized to the extent that it is probable that future taxable profit will be available against which the temporary differences can be utilized.

Risk-free interest rates

 2.7%Under U.S. GAAP, the Group is required to recognize deferred tax assets and liabilities for the expected future tax consequences of all events that have been included in the financial statements or tax returns. Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined based on the temporary differences between the financial reporting basis and tax basis of assets and liabilities using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which the differences are expected to reverse. Future tax benefits in respect of tax loss carry forwards are also required to be recognized in full. A valuation allowance is required to be established for such assets if it is more likely than not that the Group will not be able to realize such benefits in the future.

Dividend yield

 1%Under HKFRS, deferred tax assets and liabilities shall be classified as noncurrent assets or noncurrent liabilities. Under U.S. GAAP, deferred tax liabilities and assets shall be classified as current or noncurrent based on the classification of the related asset or liability for financial reporting. A deferred tax asset related to tax loss carryforwards, are classified according to the expected reversal date of the temporary difference. The valuation allowance for a particular tax jurisdiction shall be allocated between current and non-current deferred tax assets for that tax jurisdiction on a pro rata basis.

Volatility factor of the expected market price of the Company’s shares

 70.66%Except for the presentation differences, there were no differences in the amount of deferred tax assets recognized under HKFRSs and U.S. GAAP. For the years ended August 31, 2006, 2007 and 2008, no adjustment was made for tax effects of U.S. GAAP adjustments because the U.S. GAAP adjustments in those years had no tax consequences under Hong Kong tax laws.

Expected life of the options

 5 yearsThe following additional financial statements disclosures are required under U.S. GAAP and are presented on a U.S. GAAP basis.
         
  August 31,
  2007 2008
  HK$’000 HK$’000
Deferred tax assets:
        
         
Tax loss carryforwards  182,739   150,234 
         
         
Total gross deferred tax assets  182,739   150,234 
Valuation allowance  (48,120)  (2,389)
         
         
Net deferred tax assets  134,619   147,845 
         
         
Deferred tax liabilities:
        
         
Accelerated depreciation allowance  (134,910)  (126,447)
         
         
Total gross deferred tax liabilities  (134,910)  (126,447)
         
         
Net deferred tax asset /(liability)  (291)  21,398 
         
         
Net current deferred tax assets     11,399 
Net non-current deferred tax assets     16,630 
Net non-current deferred tax liabilities  (291)  (6,631)
         
         
Net deferred tax asset /(liability)  (291)  21,398 
         

F-79

(b)Goodwill

Prior to September 1, 2001, goodwill arising from a business combination was charged against available reserves. In January 2001, HKICPA issued Statement of Standard Accounting Practice (“SSAP”) No. 30 “Business Combinations” which applied to business combinations for which the agreement date is on or after September 1, 2001. As a result of the adoption of this SSAP in the fiscal year ended August 31, 2002 and up to September 1, 2005, goodwill on acquisitions occurring on or after September 1, 2001 was shown separately on the consolidated balance sheet and amortized using the straight-line method over its estimated useful life.

On September 1, 2005, the Group adopted HKFRS 3 “Business Combinations”. Under HKFRS 3, goodwill is recorded at cost less any accumulated impairment losses and is no longer amortized. Goodwill is subject to an annual impairment test and when there is an indication of impairment. An impairment loss is recognized when the carrying amount of the cash generating unit to which the goodwill has been allocated exceeds its recoverable amounts. In accordance with the transitional arrangements under HKFRS 3, goodwill which had previously been taken directly to reserves (i.e. goodwill which arose before September 1, 2001) is not recognized in the consolidated statement of operations on disposal or impairment of the acquired business, or under any other circumstances. The adoption of HKFRS 3 did not result in any restatement in the consolidated financial statements of prior years and therefore had no impact on U.S. GAAP adjustments of prior years.


City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year August 31, 20072008

29
31Summary of differences between HKFRSs and U.S. GAAP (continued)

(b)GoodwillDeferred taxes (continued)
The valuation allowance for deferred tax assets as August 31, 2006, 2007 and 2008 was HK$52,404,000, HK$48,120,000 and HK$2,389,000 respectively. The valuation allowance as at August 31, 2006, 2007 and 2008 was primarily related to tax loss carryforwards that, in the judgement of management, are not more likely than not to be realized.
In assessing the realizability of deferred tax assets, management considers whether it is more likely than not that some or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. The ultimate realization of deferred tax assets depends on the generation of future taxable income during the periods in which those temporary difference are deductible. Management considers the scheduled reversal of deferred tax liabilities (including the impact of available carryforward periods) and projected taxable income in making this assessment. In order to fully realize the deferred tax asset, the Company will need to generate future taxable income before the expiration of the deferred tax assets governed by the tax rules. Based on the level of historical taxable income and projections for future taxable income over the periods for which the deferred tax assets are deductible, management believes that it is more likely than not that the Company will realize the benefits of these deductible differences, net of existing valuation allowance at August 31, 2008. The amount of the deferred tax asset considered realizable; however, could be reduced in the near term if estimates of future taxable income during the carryforward period are reduced.
Changes in the valuation allowance consist of:

Under U.S. GAAP, goodwill arising from a business combination is not amortized and is required to be tested annually for impairment in accordance with SFAS No. 142 “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets”.

As a result of the adoption of HKFRS 3, there were no U.S. GAAP adjustments pertaining to goodwill for the years ended August 31, 2006 and 2007.

             
  Year ended August 31,
  2006 2007 2008
  HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000
Balance at beginning of the year  29,804   52,404   48,120 
Addition/(reduction) to income tax expense  22,600   (1,979)  (37,834)
Valuation allowance written off     (2,305)  (7,897)
             
             
Balance at end of the year  52,404   48,120   2,389 
             
(c)Derivative instrumentsThe net change in the total valuation allowance for the year ended August 31, 2008 was a decrease of HK$45,731,000 which primarily relates to the release of the valuation allowance of HK$12,013,000 due to the utilization of tax loss carryforwards during the year ended August 31, 2008 and the release of valuation allowance of HK$26,335,000 due to the changes in estimate of future taxable income of the Company’s major operating subsidiary. As at August 31, 2008, considering the operating results of this major operating subsidiary during the year ended August 31, 2008 and the previous years as well as the Company’s forecast for future years, management reassessed that it is more likely than not that this subsidiary will be able to generate sufficient future taxable income to realize the tax benefit of its tax loss carryforwards, which resulted in the release of the valuation allowance of HK$26,335,000. In addition, the write-off of the valuation allowance in the amount of HK$7,897,000 during the fiscal year ended August 31, 2008 was offset by a corresponding reduction in the gross deferred tax asset relating to tax loss carryforwards since management assessed that certain tax positions are not more likely than not sustainable upon examination by the relevant tax authority.

Prior to September 1, 2005, derivative financial instruments entered into by the Group to hedge the interest rate risk of a recognized asset or liability or the foreign currency risk of a committed future transaction were recognized on an accrual basis with reference to the timing of the recognition of the hedged transaction.F-80

With effect from September 1, 2005, and in accordance with HKAS 39, all derivative financial instruments entered into by the Group are stated at fair value. Changes in the fair value of derivatives that are designated and qualified as a cash flow hedge are recognized in equity to the extent that the hedge is effective and until the hedged transaction occurs. Any changes in fair value of derivative financial instruments which do not qualify as cash flow hedges are recognized in the consolidated statement of operations. The adoption of HKAS 39 did not result in any restatement in the consolidated financial statements of prior years and therefore had no impact on U.S. GAAP adjustments of prior years.


Under U.S. GAAP, the Group follows SFAS No. 133 “Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedge Activities”, as amended by SFAS No. 138 “Accounting for Certain Derivative Instruments and Certain Hedging Activities”, which requires all derivative instruments be recognized on the balance sheet at fair value. The accounting for changes in fair value depends on whether the derivative instrument qualifies as a hedge. Gains or loss on a derivative instrument designated and qualifying as a fair value hedge as well as the offsetting loss or gain on the hedged item attributable to the hedged risk shall be recognized currently in the consolidated statement of operations. The effective portion of the gain or loss on a derivative instrument designated and qualifying as a cash flow hedging instrument shall be reported as a component of other comprehensive income and reclassified into earnings in the same period or periods during which the hedged forecasted transaction impacts earnings. The ineffective portion of gain or loss on the derivative instrument, if any, shall be recognized currently in earnings. For derivative that does not qualify as a hedge, the gain or loss reflecting changes in fair value is recognized in earnings. As of the periods presented, none of the financial derivatives of the Group qualified as hedges.

As a result of the adoption of HKAS 39, there were no reconciling differences pertaining to derivative instruments for the years ended August 31, 2006 and 2007.

City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year August 31, 20072008

2931Summary of differences between HKFRSs and U.S. GAAP (continued)

(d)(b)Deferred taxes (continued)
Effective September 1, 2007, the Group adopted FASB Interpretation No. 48, Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes (FIN 48), which clarifies the accounting for uncertainty in income taxes recognized in an enterprise’s financial statements in accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 109, “Accounting for Income Taxes”. The Interpretation prescribes a threshold for the financial statement recognition and measurement of a tax position taken or expected to be taken within an income tax return. For each tax position, the enterprise must determine whether it is more likely than not that the position will be sustained upon examination based on the technical merits of the position, including resolution of any related appeals or litigation. A tax position that meets the more likely than not recognition threshold is then measured to determine the amount of benefit to recognize within the financial statements. No benefits may be recognized for tax positions that do not meet the more likely than not threshold. The benefit to be recognized is the largest amount that is more likely than not to be realized upon settlement.
The adoption of FIN 48 did not result in a change to the Group’s retained earnings. The aggregate changes in the balance of the Company’s gross unrecognized tax benefits were as follows:
HK$’000
Balance at September 1, 20077,897
Additions based on tax positions related to the current year1,797
Balance at August 31, 20089,694
All of these unrecognized tax benefits, if recognized, would affect the Group’s effective tax rate. As of August 31, 2008, the Group did not have any accrued interest and penalties related to the unrecognized tax benefits. The Company will recognize interest and penalties, if any, related to unrecognized tax benefits in financial expense and other operating expense, respectively.
The Group files income tax returns in Hong Kong, PRC, Canada and USA. The open tax years for the Company and its subsidiaries range between fiscal 2002 and fiscal 2008. The provisions made as a result of these open tax years are subject to the final agreement with the tax authorities. However, management does not believe there will be any material changes in the unrecognized tax benefits within the next 12 months.

Under HKFRSs, deferred taxes are provided in full, using the liability method, on temporary differences arising between the tax bases of assets and liabilities and their carrying amounts in the financial statements.F-81

Deferred tax assets are recognized to the extent that it is probable that future taxable profit will be available against which the temporary differences can be utilised.


Under U.S. GAAP, the Group is required to recognize deferred tax assets and liabilities for the expected future tax consequences of all events that have been included in the account or tax returns. Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined based on the temporary differences between the financial reporting basis and tax basis of assets and liabilities using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which the differences are expected to reverse. Future tax benefits in respect of tax losses carry forward are also required to be recognized in full. A valuation allowance is required to be established for such assets if it is more likely than not that the Group will not be able to utilize such benefits in the future.

There were no differences in the amount of deferred tax assets recognised under HKFRSs and U.S. GAAP. For the years ended August 31, 2005, 2006 and 2007, no adjustment was made for tax effects of U.S. GAAP adjustments because the U.S. GAAP adjustments in those years had no tax consequences under Hong Kong tax laws.

The following additional financial statements disclosures are required under U.S. GAAP and are presented on a U.S. GAAP basis.

   August 31, 
   2006  2007 
   HK$’000  HK$’000 

Deferred tax assets:

   

Tax losses

  204,300  182,739 

Share-based payment

  2,429  —   
       

Total gross deferred tax assets

  206,729  182,739 

Valuation allowance

  (52,404) (48,120)
       

Net deferred tax assets

  154,325  134,619 
       

Deferred tax liabilities:

   

Accelerated depreciation allowance

  (154,678) (134,910)
       

Total gross deferred tax liabilities

  (154,678) (134,910)
       

Net deferred tax liabilities

  (353) (291)
       

City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year August 31, 20072008

2931Summary of differences between HKFRSs and U.S. GAAP (continued)

(d)(c)Deferred taxes (continued)

The tax effect on accumulated tax losses amounted to HK$182,739,000 (2006: HK$204,300,000). Realization of deferred tax assets associated with tax loss carrying forwards is dependent upon generating sufficient taxable income. As of August 31, 2007, a valuation allowance of HK$48,120,000 (2006: HK$52,404,000) has been provided against deferred tax assets since management believes it is more likely than not the Group will not be able to utilise such benefits in the foreseeable future.

Changes in the valuation allowance consist of:

   Year ended August 31, 
   2005  2006  2007 
   HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000 

Balance at beginning of the year

  7,633  29,804  52,404 

Addition/(reduction) to income tax expense

  22,171  22,600  (1,979)

Valuation allowance written off

  —    —    (2,305)
          

Balance at end of the year

  29,804  52,404  48,120 
          

(e)Investment securities

The Group’s investment securities consist of equity-indexed mutual fund securities and long-term bank deposits.

Under HKFRSs, the equity-linked mutual fund securities have been designated as financial asset at fair value through profit or loss as permitted under HKAS 39 “Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement”.

Under U.S. GAAP, the Group follows SFAS No. 133 “Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities” which requires the embedded derivative in the equity-linked mutual fund securities to be separated and accounted for as a derivative instrument, and the host contract to be accounted for based on generally accepted accounting principles applicable to the instruments of that type that do not contain derivative instruments. Accordingly, the host contracts of the equity-linked mutual fund securities are classified as held-to-maturity securities under SFAS No. 115 “Accounting for Certain Investments in Debt and Equity Securities” and measured at amortized cost while the embedded derivatives are accounted for in accordance with SFAS No. 133 and measured at fair value.

The Group’s investment securities consist of equity-indexed mutual fund securities and long-term bank deposits.
Under HKFRSs, the equity-linked mutual fund securities have been designated as financial asset at fair value through profit or loss as permitted under HKAS 39 “Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement”.
Under U.S. GAAP, the Group follows SFAS No. 133 “Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities” which requires the embedded derivative in the equity-linked mutual fund securities to be separated and accounted for as a derivative instrument, and the host contract to be accounted for based on generally accepted accounting principles applicable to the instruments of that type that do not contain derivative instruments. Accordingly, the host contracts of the equity-linked mutual fund securities are classified as held-to-maturity securities under SFAS No. 115 “Accounting for Certain Investments in Debt and Equity Securities” and measured at amortized cost while the embedded derivatives are accounted for in accordance with SFAS No. 133 and measured at fair value.
For the periods presented, there were no differences between i) the fair value of the equity-indexed debt securities; and ii) the aggregate of the amortized cost of the host contracts and the fair value of the embedded derivative instruments.

City Telecom (H.K.) Limited

Consolidated financial statements for the year August 31, 2007

29Summary of differences between HKFRSsi) the fair value of the equity-indexed debt securities; and U.S. GAAP (continued)ii) the aggregate of the amortized cost of the host contracts and the fair value of the embedded derivative instruments.

(f)(d)Deposits for purchase of fixed assets and lease of land and building
Under HKFRSs, deposits for purchase of fixed assets and lease of land and buildings are classified as current assets if the amounts are expected to be realized within twelve months after the balance sheet date. Under U.S. GAAP, such deposits are classified as non-current assets. As of August 31, 2007 and 2008, deposits for purchase of fixed assets and lease of land and building were HK$13,263,000 and HK$19,622,000, respectively.

Under HKFRSs, deposits for purchase of fixed assets and lease of land and buildings are classified as current assets if the amounts are expected to be realized within twelve months after the balance sheet date. Under U.S. GAAP, such deposits are classified as non-current assets. As at August 31, 2006 and 2007, deposits for purchase of fixed assets and lease of land and building were HK$17,873,000 and HK$13,263,000, respectively.

(g)(e)Debt issue costs
Under HKFRSs, debt issue costs are reported as a reduction against the related debt proceeds and amortized over the life of the related debt using effective interest method. Under U.S. GAAP, such costs are disclosed separately as non-current asset and are similarly amortized. As of August 31, 2007 and 2008, the unamortized debt issue costs were HK$22,336,000 and HK$14,605,000, respectively.

Under HKFRSs, debt issue costs are reported as a reduction against the related debt proceeds and amortized over the life of the related debt using effective interest method. Under U.S. GAAP, such costs are disclosed separately as non-current asset and are similarly amortized. As at August 31, 2006 and 2007, the unamortized debt issue costs were HK$24,473,000 and HK$22,336,000, respectively.F-82

30Subsequent events

(a)Network cost

On December 28, 2007, subsequent to the issuance of the Group’s consolidated financial statements for the year ended August 31, 2007 for Hong Kong statutory purposes, the TA issued a statement (“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 TA statement, management estimated that there will be a refund of previously contributed USC of HK$7,617,000, which is expected to be recorded as a reduction against the Group’s network costs for the fiscal year ending August 31, 2008.


(b)Senior notes

Between September 1, 2007 and January 22, 2008, the Group repurchased the 8.75% senior notes with a cumulative principal value of US$21,850,000 (equivalent to HK$170,430,000) in the open market. The total consideration paid including accrued interest was approximately US$22,057,000 (equivalent to HK$172,044,600). The gain on extinguishment was approximately US$46,000 (equivalent to HK$359,000) which is expected to be recorded in the consolidated statement of operations for the year ending August 31, 2008. The principal value of the 8.75% notes remaining in issue after the repurchases is US$103,150,000 (equivalent to HK$804,570,000).

City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year August 31, 20072008

3132Supplemental guarantors consolidated financial information
The senior notes described in note 13 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 HKFRSs. 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. Reconciliations to U.S. GAAP are not presented because the majority of the reconciling items relate to City Telecom (H.K.) Limited and Guarantor Subsidiaries are already disclosed and explained in Note 29.
The following condensed consolidated financial information presents the condensed consolidated balance sheets as of August 31, 2007 and 2008 and the related condensed consolidated statements of operations and statements of cash flows for the years ended August 31, 2006, 2007 and 2008 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.

The senior notes mentioned above in note 13 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”).F-83

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 HKFRSs. 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. Reconciliations to U.S. GAAP are not presented because the majority of the reconciling items relate to City Telecom (H.K.) Limited and Guarantor Subsidiaries are already disclosed and explained in Note 29.


The following condensed consolidated financial information presents the condensed consolidated balance sheets as of August 31, 2006 and 2007 and the related condensed consolidated statements of operations and statements of cash flows for the years ended August 31, 2005, 2006 and 2007 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.

City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year August 31, 20072008

3132Supplemental guarantors consolidated financial information (continued)
Condensed 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
Current assets
                    
                     
Cash and bank balances  90,386   263,386   67,838      421,610 
Pledged bank deposits  87,319             87,319 
Trade receivables, net  11,418   128,865          140,283 
Other receivables, deposits and prepayments  3,378   80,293   2,759   (3,704)  82,726 
Investment securities  27,997             27,997 
Deferred expenditure     40,704          40,704 
                     
                     
Total current assets  220,498   513,248   70,597       800,639 
Fixed assets, net  87,483   1,135,394   8,522       1,231,399 
Investments in subsidiaries (note)  1,499,437   260,399      (1,759,836)   
Other long-term assets     61,499      (13,121)  48,378 
                     
                     
Total assets  1,807,418   1,970,540   79,119       2,080,416 
                     
                     
Current liabilities
                    
                     
Amounts due to subsidiaries/ fellow subsidiaries  10,830   1,316,410   51,059   (1,378,299)   
Trade payables  26,440   25,884          52,324 
Deposits received  7,943   8,321          16,264 
Current portion of deferred service income  11,172   102,678      (3,401)  110,449 
Other payables and accrued charges  17,831   149,548   10,735       178,114 
Income tax payable  356   496   1,251       2,103 
Current portion of obligation under finance leases  112   9          121 
                     
                     
Total current liabilities  74,684   1,603,346   63,045       359,375 
Long-term liabilities  702,917   17      (14,500)  688,434 
                     
                     
Total liabilities  777,601   1,603,363   63,045       1,047,809 
                     

Condensed consolidated balance sheet as of August 31, 2007F-84

   

City

Telecom

(H.K.)

Limited

  

Guarantor

subsidiaries

  

Non-

guarantor

subsidiary

  

Eliminating

entries

  

Consolidated

total

   HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000

Current assets

        

Cash and bank balances

  220,531  303,227  9,136   532,894

Pledged bank deposits

  87,220  —    —     87,220

Trade receivables, net

  12,105  158,446  —     170,551

Other receivables, deposits and prepayments

  4,579  56,290  2,207  (3,704) 59,372

Inventories

  477  —    —     477

Investment securities

  —    3,779  —     3,779

Deferred expenditure

  —    13,584  —     13,584
             

Total current assets

  324,912  535,326  11,343   867,877

Fixed assets, net

  100,201  1,126,870  10,152   1,237,223

Investments in subsidiaries (note)

  1,495,935  274,449  —    (1,770,384) —  

Investment securities

  39,213  —    —     39,213

Other long-term assets

  —    33,645  —    (16,825) 16,820
             

Total assets

  1,960,261  1,970,290  21,495   2,161,133
             

Current liabilities

        

Amounts due to subsidiaries/ fellow subsidiaries

  10,830  1,490,567  (4,771) (1,496,626) —  

Trade payables

  37,477  38,542  —     76,019

Deposits received

  7,876  8,312  —     16,188

Current portion of deferred service income

  11,380  56,532  —    (3,710) 64,202

Other payables and accrued charges

  18,694  119,642  6,931   145,267

Income tax payable

  356  62  1,063   1,481

Current portion of obligation under finance leases

  104  731  —     835
             

Total current liabilities

  86,717  1,714,388  3,223   303,992

Long-term liabilities

  970,833  386  (70) (17,890) 953,259
             

Total liabilities

  1,057,550  1,714,774  3,153   1,257,251
             

City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year August 31, 20072008

3132Supplemental guarantors consolidated financial information (continued)

Condensed consolidated balance sheet as of August 31, 2007 (continued)

   

City

Telecom

(H.K.)

Limited

  

Guarantor

subsidiaries

  

Non-

guarantor

subsidiary

  

Eliminating

entries

  

Consolidated

total

   HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000

Commitments andcontingencies

        

Shareholders’ equity

        

- Ordinary shares, par value

        

HK$0.1 per share

        

- 2,000,000,000 shares authorized

        

- 616,503,404 shares issued and outstanding at August 31, 2007

  61,650  15,485  8,131  (23,616) 61,650

Share premium

  622,433  470,836  —    (470,836) 622,433

Retained profits/(accumulated losses)

  200,519  (230,666) 9,033  221,633  200,519

Other reserves

  18,109  (139) 1,178  132  19,280
             

Total shareholders’ equity

  902,711  255,516  18,342   903,882
             

Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity

  1,960,261  1,970,290  21,495   2,161,133
             

 Condensed consolidated balance sheet as of August 31, 2008(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
Commitments and contingencies
                    
                     
Shareholders’ equity                    
— Ordinary shares, par value                    
HK$0.1 per share                    
— 2,000,000,000 shares authorized                    
— 650,621,823 shares issued and outstanding at August 31, 2008  65,062   15,485   8,131   (23,616)  65,062 
Share premium  670,717   470,836      (470,836)  670,717 
Retained profits/(accumulated losses)  275,025   (118,907)  5,006   113,901   275,025 
Other reserves  19,013   (237)  2,937   90   21,803 
                     
                     
Total shareholders’ equity  1,029,817   367,177   16,074       1,032,607 
                     
                     
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity  1,807,418   1,970,540   79,119       2,080,416 
                     
Note:The amounts of investment in subsidiaries at City Telecom (H.K.) Limited level have included the share of net assets of its subsidiaries using the equity method of accounting.

F-85


City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year August 31, 20072008

31
32Supplemental guarantors consolidated financial information (continued)
Condensed consolidated balance sheet as of August 31, 2007
                     
  City          
  Telecom     Non-    
  (H.K.) Guarantor guarantor Eliminating Consolidated
  Limited subsidiaries subsidiary entries total
  HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000
Current assets
                    
                     
Cash and bank balances  220,531   303,227   9,136       532,894 
Pledged bank deposits  87,220             87,220 
Trade receivables, net  12,105   158,446          170,551 
Other receivables, deposits and prepayments  4,579   56,290   2,207   (3,704)  59,372 
Inventories  477             477 
Investment securities     3,779          3,779 
Deferred expenditure     13,584          13,584 
                     
                     
Total current assets  324,912   535,326   11,343       867,877 
Fixed assets, net  100,201   1,126,870   10,152       1,237,223 
Investments in subsidiaries (note)  1,495,935   274,449      (1,770,384)   
Investment securities  39,213             39,213 
Other long-term assets     33,645      (16,825)  16,820 
                     
                     
Total assets  1,960,261   1,970,290   21,495       2,161,133 
                     
                     
Current liabilities
                    
                     
Amounts due to subsidiaries/ fellow subsidiaries  10,830   1,490,567   (4,771)  (1,496,626)   
Trade payables  37,477   38,542          76,019 
Deposits received  7,876   8,312          16,188 
Current portion of deferred service income  11,380   56,532      (3,710)  64,202 
Other payables and accrued charges  18,694   119,642   6,931       145,267 
Income tax payable  356   62   1,063       1,481 
Current portion of obligation under finance leases  104   731          835 
         ��           
                     
Total current liabilities  86,717   1,714,388   3,223       303,992 
Long-term liabilities  970,833   386   (70)  (17,890)  953,259 
                     
                     
Total liabilities  1,057,550   1,714,774   3,153       1,257,251 
                     

Condensed consolidated balance sheet as of August 31, 2006F-86

   

City

Telecom

(H.K.)

Limited

  

Guarantor

subsidiaries

  

Non-

guarantor

subsidiary

  

Eliminating

entries

  

Consolidated

total

   HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000

Current assets

        

Cash and bank balances

  86,670  31,349  26,898   144,917

Term deposit

  121,037  65,000  51,459   237,496

Pledged bank deposits

  87,022  —    —     87,022

Trade receivables, net

  12,506  128,092  —     140,598

Other receivables, deposits and prepayments

  5,210  73,785  2,292  (3,704) 77,583

Inventories

  812  44  —     856

Deferred expenditure

  —    10,808  —     10,808

Tax recoverable

  —    347  —     347
             

Total current assets

  313,257  309,425  80,649   699,627

Fixed assets, net

  115,014  1,236,269  15,951   1,367,234

Investments in subsidiaries (note)

  1,502,480  245,819  —    (1,748,299) —  

Investment securities

  36,645  3,629  —     40,274

Other long-term assets

  —    37,609  —    (20,529) 17,080
             

Total assets

  1,967,396  1,832,751  96,600   2,124,215
             

Current liabilities

        

Amounts due to subsidiaries/ fellow subsidiaries

  10,830  1,428,297  75,315  (1,514,442) —  

Trade payables

  59,143  27,242  —     86,385

Deposits received

  8,283  7,947  —     16,230

Current portion of deferred service income

  8,157  29,282  —    (3,696) 33,743

Other payables and accrued charges

  19,116  117,734  6,636   143,486

Income tax payable

  908  18  1,038   1,964

Current portion of obligation under finance leases

  71  1,226  —     1,297
             

Total current liabilities

  106,508  1,611,746  82,989   283,105

Long-term liabilities

  969,891  1,166  (56) (21,545) 949,456
             

Total liabilities

  1,076,399  1,612,912  82,933   1,232,561
             

City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year August 31, 20072008

31
32Supplemental guarantors consolidated financial information (continued)

Condensed consolidated balance sheet as of August 31, 2006 (continued)

   

City

Telecom

(H.K.)

Limited

  

Guarantor

subsidiaries

  

Non-

guarantor

subsidiary

  

Eliminating

entries

  

Consolidated

total

   HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000

Commitments andcontingencies

        

Shareholders’ equity

        

- Ordinary shares, par value

        

HK$0.1 per share

        

- 2,000,000,000 shares authorised

        

- 614,175,404 shares issued and outstanding at August 31, 2006

  61,417  15,485  8,131  (23,616) 61,417

Share premium

  620,298  470,836  —    (470,836) 620,298

Retained profits/(accumulated losses)

  196,289  (266,477) 5,217  261,260  196,289

Other reserves

  12,993  (5) 319  343  13,650
             

Total shareholders’ equity

  890,997  219,839  13,667   891,654
             

Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity

  1,967,396  1,832,751  96,600   2,124,215
             

 Condensed consolidated balance sheet as of August 31, 2007(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
Commitments and contingencies
                    
                     
Shareholders’ equity                    
— Ordinary shares, par value                    
HK$0.1 per share                    
— 2,000,000,000 shares authorized                    
— 616,503,404 shares issued and outstanding at August 31, 2007  61,650   15,485   8,131   (23,616)  61,650 
Share premium  622,433   470,836      (470,836)  622,433 
Retained profits/(accumulated losses)  200,519   (230,666)  9,033   221,633   200,519 
Other reserves  18,109   (139)  1,178   132   19,280 
                     
                     
Total shareholders’ equity  902,711   255,516   18,342       903,882 
                     
                     
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity  1,960,261   1,970,290   21,495       2,161,133 
                     
Note:The amounts of investment in subsidiaries at City Telecom (H.K.) Limited level have included the share of net assets of its subsidiaries using the equity method of accounting.

F-87


City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year August 31, 20072008

31
32Supplemental guarantors consolidated financial information (continued)

Condensed consolidated statement of operations for the year ended August 31, 2007

    

City

Telecom
(H.K.)

Limited

  Guarantor
subsidiaries
  Non-
guarantor
subsidiary
  Eliminating
entries
  Consolidated
Total
 
   HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000 

Revenue

  124,017  1,186,356  108,692  (277,795) 1,141,270 

Network costs

  (50,522) (203,506) —    39,437  (214,591)

Operating expenses:

      

- Salaries and related costs

  (30,475) (209,065) (77,594) 96,032  (221,102)

- Sales and marketing expenses

  (12,601) (362,975) —    171,903  (203,673)

- General and administrative expenses

  (43,149) (344,162) (26,050) 10,601  (402,760)

- Provision for doubtful accounts

  (796) (5,773) —     (6,569)
              

Income/(loss) from operations

  (13,526) 60,875  5,048   92,575 

Interest income

  13,390  8,606  675   22,671 

Interest expense

  (87,474) (68,161) —    68,131  (87,504)

Other income, net

  50,031  59,200  43  (106,125) 3,149 

Share of net losses from subsidiaries (note)

  66,444  —    —    (66,444) —   
              

Income before taxation

  28,865  60,520  5,766   30,891 

Income tax credit

  —    (75) (1,951)  (2,026)
              

Net income

  28,865  60,445  3,815   28,865 
              

 Condensed consolidated statement of operations for the year ended 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
Revenue  116,130   1,283,296   135,374   (231,819)  1,302,981 
Network costs  (28,398)  (184,851)     34,882   (178,367)
Operating expenses:                    
— Salaries and related costs  (35,057)  (231,196)  (102,067)  120,860   (247,460)
— Sales and marketing expenses  (5,743)  (403,425)     101,425   (307,743)
— General and administrative expenses  (45,797)  (331,030)  (28,414)  8,643   (396,598)
— Provision for doubtful accounts  (954)  (13,339)         (14,293)
                     
                     
Income from operations  181   119,455   4,893       158,520 
Interest income  6,817   7,518   1,261       15,596 
Interest expense  (71,702)  (71,753)     68,318   (75,137)
Other income, net  86,677   30,234   75   (107,593)  9,393 
Share of net income from subsidiaries (note)  108,154         (108,154)   
                     
                     
Income before taxation  130,127   85,454   6,229       108,372 
Income tax (expense)/credit  (4,937)  26,306   (4,551)      16,818 
                     
                     
Net income  125,190   111,760   1,678       125,190 
                     
Note:The net (loss)/income amounts at City Telecom (H.K.) Limited level have included the share of net income/(losses)/income of its subsidiaries using the equity method of accounting.

F-88


City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year August 31, 20072008

31
32Supplemental guarantors consolidated financial information (continued)

Condensed consolidated statement of operations for the year ended August 31, 2006

    

City

Telecom

(H.K.)

Limited

  Guarantor
subsidiaries
  Non-
guarantor
subsidiary
  Eliminating
entries
  Consolidated
total
 
   HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000 

Revenue

  174,113  1,110,256  116,355  (265,848) 1,134,876 

Network costs

  (87,849) (254,740) —    41,996  (300,593)

Operating expenses:

      

- Salaries and related costs

  (44,254) (233,105) (81,887) 102,525  (256,721)

- Sales and marketing expenses

  (20,567) (336,985) —    152,600  (204,952)

- General and administrative expenses

  (56,366) (366,635) (30,353) 12,682  (440,672)

- Provision for doubtful accounts

  (1,090) (16,360) —     (17,450)
              

(Loss)/income from operations

  (36,013) (97,569) 4,115   (85,512)

Interest income

  16,594  2,946  838   20,378 

Interest expense

  (88,584) (60,454) —    60,401  (88,637)

Other income, net

  67,672  39,201  2,245  (104,653) 4,465 

Share of net losses from subsidiaries (note)

  (111,171) —    —    111,171  —   
              

(Loss)/income before taxation

  (151,502) (115,876) 7,198   (149,306)

Income tax expense/(credit)

  9,440  11  (2,207)  7,244 
              

Net (loss)/income

  (142,062) (115,865) 4,991   (142,062)
              

 Condensed consolidated statement of operations for the year ended August 31, 2007
                     
  City          
  Telecom     Non-    
  (H.K.) Guarantor guarantor Eliminating Consolidated
  Limited subsidiaries subsidiary entries Total
  HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000
Revenue  124,017   1,186,356   108,692   (277,795)  1,141,270 
Network costs  (50,522)  (203,506)     39,437   (214,591)
Operating expenses:                    
— Salaries and related costs  (30,475)  (209,065)  (77,594)  96,032   (221,102)
— Sales and marketing expenses  (12,601)  (362,975)     171,903   (203,673)
— General and administrative expenses  (43,149)  (344,162)  (26,050)  10,601   (402,760)
— Provision for doubtful accounts  (796)  (5,773)         (6,569)
                     
                     
Income/(loss) from operations  (13,526)  60,875   5,048       92,575 
Interest income  13,390   8,606   675       22,671 
Interest expense  (87,474)  (68,161)     68,131   (87,504)
Other income, net  50,031   59,200   43   (106,125)  3,149 
Share of net losses from subsidiaries (note)  66,444         (66,444)   
                     
                     
Income before taxation  28,865   60,520   5,766       30,891 
Income tax credit     (75)  (1,951)      (2,026)
                     
                     
Net income  28,865   60,445   3,815       28,865 
                     
Note:The net (loss)/income amounts at City Telecom (H.K.) Limited level have included the share of net income/(losses)/income of its subsidiaries using the equity method of accounting.

F-89


City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year August 31, 20072008

31
32Supplemental guarantors consolidated financial information (continued)

Condensed consolidated statement of operations for the year ended August 31, 2005

    City
Telecom
(H.K.)
Limited
  Guarantor
subsidiaries
  Non-
guarantor
subsidiary
  Eliminating
entries
  Consolidated
total
 
   HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000 

Revenue

  227,045  1,104,389  122,054  (291,429) 1,162,059 

Network costs

  (111,836) (271,203) —    43,637  (339,402)

Operating expenses:

      

- Salaries and related costs

  (50,705) (224,799) (94,120) 110,232  (259,392)

- Sales and marketing expenses

  (25,506) (416,728) —    174,251  (267,983)

- General and administrative expenses

  (65,552) (316,284) (26,132) 12,757  (395,211)

- Provision for doubtful accounts

  (1,814) (33,631) —     (35,445)
              

(Loss)/income from operations

  (28,368) (158,256) 1,802   (135,374)

Interest income

  13,061  403  114   13,578 

Interest expense

  (54,167) (17,354) —    17,059  (54,462)

Other income, net

  25,617  43,515  99  (63,194) 6,037 

Share of net losses from subsidiaries (note)

  (128,156) —    —    128,156  —   
              

(Loss)/income before taxation

  (172,013) (131,692) 2,015   (170,221)

Income tax expense/(credit)

  8,517  (854) (938)  6,725 
              

Net (loss)/income

  (163,496) (130,546) 1,077   (163,496)
              

 Condensed consolidated statement of operations for the year ended August 31, 2006
                     
  City          
  Telecom     Non-    
  (H.K.) Guarantor guarantor Eliminating Consolidated
  Limited subsidiaries subsidiary entries total
  HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000
Revenue  174,113   1,110,256   116,355   (265,848)  1,134,876 
Network costs  (87,849)  (254,740)     41,996   (300,593)
Operating expenses:                    
— Salaries and related costs  (44,254)  (233,105)  (81,887)  102,525   (256,721)
— Sales and marketing expenses  (20,567)  (336,985)     152,600   (204,952)
— General and administrative expenses  (56,366)  (366,635)  (30,353)  12,682   (440,672)
— Provision for doubtful accounts  (1,090)  (16,360)         (17,450)
                     
                     
(Loss)/income from operations  (36,013)  (97,569)  4,115       (85,512)
Interest income  16,594   2,946   838       20,378 
Interest expense  (88,584)  (60,454)     60,401   (88,637)
Other income, net  67,672   39,201   2,245   (104,653)  4,465 
Share of net losses from subsidiaries (note)  (111,171)        111,171    
                     
                     
(Loss)/income before taxation  (151,502)  (115,876)  7,198       (149,306)
Income tax expense/(credit)  9,440   11   (2,207)      7,244 
                     
                     
Net (loss)/income  (142,062)  (115,865)  4,991       (142,062)
                     
Note:The net loss amounts at City Telecom (H.K.) Limited level have included the share of net income/(losses) of its subsidiaries using the equity method of accounting.

F-90


City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year August 31, 20072008

31
32Supplemental guarantors consolidated financial information (continued)
Condensed consolidated statement of cash flows for the year ended 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
Net cash provided by operating activities  193,001   125,504   59,866   158   378,529 
Net cash generated from/ (used in) investing activities  18,775   (164,222)  (2,303)      (147,750)
Net cash used in financing activities  (341,786)  (730)         (342,516)
                     
                     
Net (decrease)/increase in cash and bank balances  (130,010)  (39,448)  57,563       (111,737)
Cash and bank balances at beginning of year  220,531   303,227   9,136       532,894 
Effects of foreign exchange rates changes  (135)  (393)  1,139   (158)  453 
                     
                     
Cash and bank balances at end of year  90,386   263,386   67,838       421,610 
                     
Condensed consolidated statement of cash flows for the year ended August 31, 2007
                     
  City          
  Telecom     Non-    
  (H.K.) Guarantor guarantor Eliminating Consolidated
  Limited subsidiaries subsidiary entries total
  HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000
Net cash provided/(used in) by operating activities  110,190   342,627   (69,035)  217   383,999 
Net cash generated from/ (used in) investing activities  132,039   (69,197)  51,211       114,053 
Net cash used in financing activities  (108,277)  (1,227)         (109,504)
                     
                     
Net increase/(decrease) in cash and bank balances  133,952   272,203   (17,824)      388,548 
Cash and bank balances at beginning of year  86,670   31,349   26,898       144,917 
Effects of foreign exchange rates changes  (91)  (325)  62   (217)  (571)
                     
                     
Cash and bank balances at end of year  220,531   303,227   9,136       532,894 
                     

Condensed consolidated statement of cash flows for the year ended August 31, 2007F-91

    

City

Telecom

(H.K.)

Limited

  Guarantor
subsidiaries
  Non-
guarantor
subsidiary
  Eliminating
entries
  Consolidated
total
 
   HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000 

Net cash provided/(used in) by operating activities

  110,190  342,627  (69,035) 217  383,999 

Net cash generated from/ (used in) investing activities

  132,039  (69,197) 51,211   114,053 

Net cash (used in)/provided by financing activities

  (108,277) (1,227) —     (109,504)
              

Net increase/(decrease) in cash and bank balances

  133,952  272,203  (17,824)  388,548 

Cash and bank balances at beginning of year

  86,670  31,349  26,898   144,917 

Effects of foreign exchange rates changes

  (91) (325) 62  (217) (571)
              

Cash and bank balances at end of year

  220,531  303,227  9,136   532,894 
              

Condensed consolidated statement of cash flows for the year ended August 31, 2006


    City
Telecom
(H.K.)
Limited
  Guarantor
subsidiaries
  Non-
guarantor
subsidiary
  Eliminating
entries
  Consolidated
total
 
   HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000 

Net cash (used in)/provided by operating activities

  (278,174) 403,086  58,994  245  184,151 

Net cash used in investing activities

  (12,087) (425,348) (55,307)  (492,742)

Net cash provided by financing activities

  (85,238) (1,248) —    54  (86,432)
              

Net (decrease)/increase in cash and bank balances

  (375,499) (23,510) 3,687   (395,023)

Cash and bank balances at beginning of year

  461,001  55,309  23,281   539,591 

Effects of foreign exchange rates changes

  1,168  (450) (70) (299) 349 
              

Cash and bank balances at end of year

  86,670  31,349  26,898   144,917 
              

City Telecom (H.K.) Limited


Consolidated financial statements for the year August 31, 20072008

31
32Supplemental guarantors consolidated financial information (continued)
Condensed consolidated statement of cash flows for the year ended August 31, 2006
                     
  City          
  Telecom     Non-    
  (H.K.) Guarantor guarantor Eliminating Consolidated
  Limited subsidiaries subsidiary entries total
  HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000
Net cash (used in)/provided by operating activities  (278,174)  403,086   58,994   245   184,151 
Net cash used in investing activities  (12,087)  (425,348)  (55,307)      (492,742)
Net cash provided by financing activities  (85,238)  (1,248)     54   (86,432)
                     
Net (decrease)/increase in cash and bank balances  (375,499)  (23,510)  3,687       (395,023)
Cash and bank balances at beginning of year  461,001   55,309   23,281       539,591 
Effects of foreign exchange rates changes  1,168   (450)  (70)  (299)  349 
                     
Cash and bank balances at end of year  86,670   31,349   26,898       144,917 
                     

Condensed consolidated statement of cash flows for the year ended August 31, 2005F-92

    City
Telecom
(H.K.)
Limited
  Guarantor
subsidiaries
  Non-
guarantor
subsidiary
  Eliminating
entries
  Consolidated
total
 
   HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000  HK$’000 
            (Note (a))    

Net cash (used in)/provided by operating activities

  (75,334) 129,263  23,094  360  77,383 

Net cash used in investing activities

  (536,911) (497,143) (5,786) 482,400  (557,440)

Net cash provided by financing activities

  892,713  381,903  —    (482,400) 792,216 
              

Net increase in cash and bank balances

  280,468  14,023  17,308   312,159 

Cash and bank balances at beginning of year

  180,473  41,691  6,183   228,347 

Effects of foreign exchange rates changes

  60  (405) (210) (360) (915)
              

Cash and bank balances at end of year

  461,001  55,309  23,281   539,591 
              

SIGNATURE

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/ Lai Ni Quiaque

Name: Lai Ni Quiaque
Title: Chief Financial Officer

Date: January 28, 200816, 2009