FORM 6-K
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
Report of Foreign Issuer
Pursuant to Rule 13a - 16 or 15d - 16 of
the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
For the month of July 2006
28 July 2006
BRITISH SKY BROADCASTING GROUP PLC
(Name of Registrant)
Grant Way, Isleworth, Middlesex, TW7 5QD England
(Address of principal executive offices)
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant files or will file annual reports
under cover of Form 20-F or Form 40-F
Form 20-F X Form 40-F
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant by furnishing the information
contained in this Form is also thereby furnishing the information to the
Commission pursuant to Rule 12g3-2(b) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
Yes No X
If "Yes" is marked, indicate below the file number assigned to the registrant in
connection with Rule 12g3-2(b): Not Applicable
EXHIBIT INDEX
Exhibit
EXHIBIT NO.1 Press release of British Sky Broadcasting Group plc
announcing Final Results released on
28 July 2006
28 July 2006
BRITISH SKY BROADCASTING GROUP PLC
Results for the twelve months ended 30 June 2006
Strong operating and financial performance
Results highlights
- DTH subscribers increased to 8.176 million, growth of 77,000 in the
final quarter and 389,000 in the year
- Sky+ households increased by 75% to 1.553 million, 19% penetration of total
DTH subscribers
- Multiroom households increased by 62% to 1.047 million, 13% penetration
of total DTH subscribers
- Revenue increased by 8% to GBP4.1 billion
- Gross margin expanded by four percentage points to 61%
- Operating profit increased by 7% to GBP877 million, an operating margin
of 21%
- Adjusted earnings per share(1) increased by 9% to 30.7 pence
- A proposed 34% increase in the final dividend to 6.7 pence per share,
generating a full year dividend of 12.2 pence
Operating highlights
- Preparations made for the launch of Sky Broadband following the
acquisition of Easynet Group plc
- Sky HD launched nationwide
- New customer management systems implemented for all DTH customers
- Key rights to the FA Premier League secured for the 07/08 to 09/10
seasons
- Major contracts agreed with movie studio and third party channel
partners
- Announced the creation of over 2,000 new jobs for customer advisors and
home installation engineers
- Carbon neutral status achieved, a world first for a major media company
James Murdoch, Chief Executive said:
"Our industry is changing faster than ever before and for Sky, 2006 has been an
important and exciting year. The business and the team have performed well
delivering good levels of customer growth, in line with our plans, and strong
growth in both revenues and profitability.
We have a clear vision for the future growth and direction of our business and
we feel encouraged by the strong demand our customers show for new entertainment
and communications services. With a continued focus on providing more choice,
flexibility and control, we feel confident as we look ahead to the substantial
opportunity this market holds for us."
(1) Profit for the year and earnings per share ("EPS") have been adjusted to
remove mark-to-market movements in derivative financial instruments that do not
qualify for hedge accounting. Profit and EPS for the comparable period also
exclude the one-off effect of two exceptional items - the profit on disposal of
a joint venture and a payment from the ITV digital liquidators - and an increase
in the estimate of recoverable tax assets in respect of prior years. Please see
note 6 on page 23 for further disclosure.
Enquiries:
Analysts/Investors:
Andrew Griffith Tel: 020 7705 3118
Robert Kingston Tel: 020 7705 3726
E-mail: investor-relations@bskyb.com
Press:
Matthew Anderson Tel: 020 7705 3267
Robert Fraser Tel: 020 7705 3036
E-mail: corporate.communications@bskyb.com
Finsbury:
Katie Lang Tel: 020 7251 3801
Kirsty Flockhart Tel: 020 7251 3801
A conference call for UK and European analysts and investors will be held at 9:
00 a.m. (BST) today. To register for this, please contact Silvana Marsh at
Finsbury on +44 20 7251 3801. A live webcast of this call and replay facility
will be available on Sky's corporate website, http://www.sky.com/corporate.
There will be a separate conference call for US analysts and investors at 10.00
a.m. (EST) today. Details of this call have been sent to US institutions and can
be obtained from Rebecca Lohse at Taylor Rafferty on +1 212 889 4350.
OVERVIEW
Sky has delivered a strong performance in the twelve months to 30 June 2006
("the year"). Total DTH customers reached 8,176,000, an increase of 389,000 for
the year, in line with the rate required to achieve Sky's target of over 10
million DTH customers in 2010. Sky added 77,000 new customers in the three
months to 30 June 2006 ("the quarter"), slightly ahead of expectations. Product
mix improved with one in five customers now choosing an additional product. Sky
remains on track to achieve over 30% Multiroom penetration and over 25% Sky+
penetration by 2010.
Total revenue increased by 8% to GBP4,148 million, with operating costs at
GBP3,271 million. Operating profit increased by 7% to GBP877 million, including
the first time consolidation of the Easynet Group plc ("Easynet") and the first
phase of investment in the roll-out of residential broadband services.
Adjusted profit for the year increased by 4% to GBP561 million generating
adjusted earnings per share of 30.7 pence, representing an increase of 9% on the
year ended 30 June 2005 ("the comparable period").
At the same time, Sky delivered on a number of key operational initiatives which
position the Group well for the future:
- Preparations were made for the launch of Sky Broadband on 18 July 2006
following the acquisition of Easynet Group plc;
- Sky HD launched nationwide on 22 May 2006;
- New customer management systems were implemented and went "live" for
all DTH customers from 31 March 2006;
- Key rights to the FA Premier League were secured for the 07/08 to 09/10
seasons;
- Major contracts were agreed with movie studio and third party channel
partners;
- Announced the creation of over 1,500 new jobs for customer advisors and
600 new positions for home installation engineers; and
- Sky achieved carbon neutral status, a world first for a major media
company
OPERATING REVIEW
At 30 June 2006, the total number of direct-to-home ("DTH") digital satellite
subscribers in the UK and Ireland was 8,176,000. This follows a net increase of
77,000 for the three months to 30 June 2006 ("the quarter") and 117,000 for the
second half of the financial year, slightly ahead of the Group's expectations.
At 30 June 2006, the total number of Sky+ households was 1,553,000, 19%
penetration of total subscribers. The significant growth in Sky+ households,
which grew by a further 123,000 in the quarter, demonstrates the value that
customers place on easy to use technology which enables them to better manage
their time and control their viewing. The number of Multiroom households also
continued to grow strongly, increasing by 57,000 in the quarter to 1,047,000,
13% penetration of total DTH subscribers.
Sky launched high definition TV services on 22 May 2006 and there were 38,000
Sky HD subscribers at 30 June 2006. The total number of bookings to date is
around 90,000 and after some initial delays, the Group currently expects to
install all of these orders by September 2006. Sky Sports HD has covered nearly
50 days of live cricket including three England Test matches, five England
One-Day Internationals and 24 domestic matches. In addition to England's busy
summer of cricket, Sky Sports HD will be showing coverage of the 2006 Ryder Cup,
Guinness Premiership Rugby, and Coca Cola League, Carling Cup, UEFA Champions
League and Barclays Premiership football, all live and in high definition.
Annualised average revenue per DTH subscriber ("ARPU") for the quarter was
GBP388, a GBP4 decrease on the previous quarter. This reflects a slight seasonal
deterioration in the mix of subscription packages during the quarter and an
increase in the volume of new customers on short-term promotional subscription
offers. The Group expects the full benefit of the recently communicated changes
to UK and Ireland retail pricing, which become effective on 1 September 2006, to
be realised in the second quarter of the current financial year.
DTH churn for the quarter (annualised) was 10.6% taking churn for the year to
11.1%, in line with previous company guidance.
During the quarter the Group announced that it had been awarded four packages of
live FA Premier League rights (covering 92 games per season) for the 2007/08 to
2009/10 seasons in both the UK and Ireland. Sky has also been awarded 'near live
long form' rights to 242 games per season in both the UK and Ireland (jointly
with BT in the case of the UK) and mobile clip rights in both the UK and
Ireland.
The Group also concluded a number of other content agreements as part of its
commitment to invest on-screen. On 27 February 2006, Sky and Disney announced a
wide ranging series of agreements covering children's entertainment, sports and
movies. Under the agreements, Sky Movies customers will also be able to enjoy
these movies via the Sky by Broadband service and Sky HD. The Group also secured
live coverage of UEFA Champions League football until the end of the 08/09
season on 13 September 2005 and both National Geographic and Discovery launched
HD channels during the year which form part of the Sky HD offering. The launch
of The Crime and Investigation Network channel, coverage of the America's Cup
and A1 Grand Prix racing also demonstrate the Group's commitment to widen the
range and depth of programming within its wholly owned channels and with channel
partners.
On 31 March 2006, Sky completed the implementation of its new customer
management systems. These new systems will support the projected growth in Sky's
subscriber base and a greater number of products, as Sky continues to launch new
entertainment and communications services. These systems also integrate key
parts of the customer service chain, such as the contact centres and field
engineers, which will enable the Group to offer a more tailored, flexible and
immediate response when dealing with customer requests.
FINANCIAL REVIEW
Total revenue increased by 8% on the comparable period to GBP4,148 million.
Total operating costs increased by GBP251 million to GBP3,271 million generating
a Group operating profit of GBP877 million. This result includes an operating
loss from the first time consolidation of Easynet of GBP11 million and the first
phase of the Group's investment in the roll-out of its residential broadband
business of GBP12 million.
The Easynet operating loss of GBP11 million comprised GBP79 million of revenues
and GBP90 million of operating costs; GBP9 million of which are included within
subscriber management; GBP56 million in transmission; GBP2 million in marketing
and GBP23 million in administration. The net investment in the roll-out of
residential broadband of GBP12 million comprised GBP17 million of expenditure;
GBP3 million of which is within subscriber management, GBP7 million in
transmission, GBP1 million in marketing and GBP6 million in administration,
partially offset by GBP5 million of revenue, principally relating to UK Online.
Revenue
DTH revenues increased by 6% on the comparable period to GBP3,154 million, which
was principally driven by 5% growth in the average number of DTH subscribers.
Wholesale revenues continue to disappoint, growing by only 2% for the second
consecutive year to GBP224 million. This largely reflects the decline in the
absolute number of Pay-TV cable customers taking one or more premium channels
offset by changes to wholesale prices.
Advertising revenues were slightly lower, year on year in the quarter,
reflecting the effects of the World Cup and poor conditions in the wider TV
advertising market. Advertising revenue for the full year continued to
outperform, growing by 4% on the comparable period to GBP342 million against an
estimated 0.2% decline in the UK television advertising sector. This principally
reflects a further one percentage point increase in Sky's share of the UK
television advertising sector during the year to 13.0%.
As announced on 25 April 2006, betting payouts have been netted against gross
Sky Bet revenues in line with recent changes in industry practice. Accordingly,
Sky Bet revenue for the year was GBP37 million, an increase of 16% which
reflects the strong growth in both Sky Vegas and sports betting. Gross Sky Bet
revenue for the year was GBP341 million.
Sky Active revenues were GBP91 million for the year. Good rates of growth in
both interactive advertising and enhanced TV service revenues were offset by the
absence of SkyBuy revenue, following the closure of the business in the final
quarter of the last financial year.
Other revenue grew strongly, increasing by 49% to GBP300 million. This reflects
the first time consolidation of the Easynet corporate business (GBP76 million)
and underlying growth of 11%, relating to the full year effect of Sky credit
card revenues and the Sky News channel five contract.
Programming
Total programming costs continued to reduce in absolute terms, falling by GBP36
million on the comparable period to under GBP1.6 billion. This enabled the Group
to make significant progress in expanding gross margin, which increased by a
further four percentage points during the year to 61%.
Sports costs increased by GBP16 million to GBP766 million. The additional costs
associated with the new ECB cricket contract, which started to be amortised in
May 2006 and an additional cricket tour during the year were offset by the
absence of the Ryder Cup, which is a biennial event. The Group expects sports
costs for the 2007 financial year to increase by around GBP50 million behind an
outstanding line-up of sporting events over the next twelve months, including
live cricket from the new ECB contract and a number of non-annual events, such
as the Ryder Cup in September 2006 and the 2007 Cricket World Cup and qualifying
matches for UEFA Euro 2008.
Movie costs for the year were GBP310 million, a saving of GBP33 million on the
comparable period and the lowest absolute cost for six years. This saving
reflects contract renewals, the phasing of title delivery and a foreign exchange
benefit of GBP8 million from a more favourable average exchange rate at which US
dollars were purchased. The Group expects the recent contract renewals with
three of the 'Major' Hollywood studios to deliver further cost savings on a per
subscriber basis over the next two to three years.
News and Entertainment costs were GBP200 million, reflecting a combined
increased investment of GBP20 million in Sky One commissioned programming and
Sky News.
Third party channel costs fell by 11% on the comparable period to GBP323
million, a reduction of GBP39 million. A 5% increase in the average number of
DTH subscribers was more than offset by a 15% reduction in the cost per
subscriber to GBP3.37 per month.
Other operating costs
Total other operating costs increased by GBP287 million to GBP1,672 million,
including GBP107 million of operating expenses from Easynet and initial
broadband expenses. Excluding these items, other operating expenses increased by
GBP180 million on the comparable period.
Marketing costs for the year were GBP622 million, an increase of GBP95 million
on the comparable period. Marketing costs to new customers grew by GBP51 million
to GBP359 million. This reflects an absolute increase in the number of new
customers and a growing percentage of customers taking new products. During the
year, 18% of new customers chose to take Sky+ from day one, as opposed to 13%
last year. As a result of this activity, the total average subscriber
acquisition cost increased by GBP24 on the comparable period to GBP261. During
the year the rate at which existing customers upgraded to Sky+ and Multiroom
also accelerated, which led to an increased investment of GBP23 million. Above
the line marketing remained broadly flat at GBP75 million and retention and
other marketing costs increased by GBP18 million on the comparable period to
GBP110 million.
Subscriber management costs grew by GBP76 million to GBP468 million. This
reflects the first time consolidation of Easynet and broadband expenses (GBP12
million), depreciation of the new customer management systems of GBP26 million
and underlying growth of GBP38 million due to the expansion of the Group's
customer management operation to further improve customer service levels and
manage the increase in sales activity. During the year Sky expanded its existing
customer service operations in Scotland, adding 1,500 new customer advisor
positions and 600 new home installation engineers in preparation for the
roll-out of broadband and providing the Group with one of the largest customer
service and home installation workforces in the UK.
Transmission costs were GBP234 million, an increase of GBP63 million on the
comparable period, which entirely related to the first time consolidation of
Easynet and broadband costs of GBP63 million. Underlying transmission costs were
flat on the comparable period.
Administration costs grew by GBP53 million on the comparable period to GBP348
million. This mainly reflects the inclusion of Easynet and broadband
administration expenditure of GBP29 million and increased depreciation of GBP16
million as a result of the Group's infrastructure programme which commenced in
August 2004.
Total operating profit grew by 7% on the comparable period (which benefited from
a one-time GBP13 million receipt of ITV digital programming receivables) to
GBP877 million. Group operating profit margin for the year was 21%.
Joint Ventures
The Group's share of net profits from its joint ventures was GBP12 million, a
reduction of GBP2 million on the comparable period. This reflects the disposal
of the Group's holding in Granada Sky Broadcasting and Music Choice Europe and a
lower share of operating results from the History Channel which has been
partially offset by improved results from National Geographic and Attheraces.
Interest
The total net interest charge for the year was GBP91 million, an increase of
GBP33 million on the comparable period. The higher charge reflects an GBP18
million non-cash movement in the mark-to-market valuation of non-hedge accounted
derivatives, interest payable on the guaranteed notes issued on 20 October 2005,
which raised net proceeds of around GBP1,014 million and the net impact on
interest following the acquisition of Easynet.
Taxation
The total tax charge for the period of GBP247 million includes a current tax
charge of GBP141 million and a deferred tax charge of GBP106 million. The
mainstream corporation tax liability for the period was GBP147 million and in
accordance with the quarterly payment regime, GBP95 million was paid during the
year in respect of this liability.
As a result of the acquisition of Easynet, the Group recognised a deferred tax
asset of GBP83 million during the year, representing timing differences on fixed
assets. The current tax charge has benefited from a partial unwind of this asset
in the current year of GBP59 million, reducing the cash tax liability due in
respect of the current year profits accordingly. The balance is expected to
unwind in future periods.
Earnings
The Group's adjusted profit for the year was GBP561 million, generating adjusted
earnings per share of 30.7 pence, an increase of 9% on the comparable period.
Including a mark-to-market movement, net of tax, of GBP10 million, the Group's
profit for the year was GBP551 million generating basic earnings per share of
30.2 pence.
Cash Flow
Sky's cash flow generation continued to be very strong with operating cash
inflows exceeding GBP1 billion for the first time. Earnings before interest,
tax, depreciation and amortisation ("EBITDA") increased by 11% to GBP1,017
million. After a small net working capital outflow of GBP13 million, following
the payment in the quarter of the deposits for the recently secured FA Premier
League rights, the Group generated a cash inflow from operations of GBP1,004
million. After taxation of GBP172 million, net interest payable of GBP62
million, net proceeds from joint ventures of GBP5 million and capital
expenditure of GBP212 million, the Group generated GBP563 million of free cash
flow. A total of GBP599 million was returned to shareholders through a
combination of the ordinary dividend and share buyback programme and a net cash
outflow for acquisitions, primarily for the acquisition of Easynet, was GBP209
million. After the inclusion of share option purchases and proceeds and the
revaluation of long-term borrowings and borrowing-related financial derivatives,
the Group's net debt increased by GBP373 million during the year to GBP761
million.
During the year the Group made further progress on its capital expenditure and
infrastructure programme. The Group spent GBP38 million completing the final
stages of the project to upgrade and implement new customer management systems,
which went live for all DTH customers on 31 March 2006. A total of GBP37 million
was spent unbundling exchanges and readying the business for the launch of Sky
Broadband and GBP16 million was invested to progress the Group's property,
business continuity and infrastructure projects. The Group invested GBP10
million to upgrade its production and broadcast facilities ahead of the launch
of high definition services and capitalised GBP14 million of smartcard
development costs. The remaining GBP97 million was spent on a number of
projects, such as IS infrastructure, broadcast equipment and the development of
new products and services.
Distributions to shareholders
The Board of Directors are proposing a final dividend of 6.7 pence per ordinary
share, resulting in a total dividend for the year of 12.2 pence and consistent
with the Board's statement in February 2006 that it intended to reduce target
dividend cover from approximately 3.0 times to approximately 2.5 times
underlying earnings.
In light of the continued cash generative nature of the Group, it is the Board's
aim to maintain a progressive dividend policy throughout the investment phase of
the recently announced broadband strategy. It is therefore the Board's current
intention to reflect the underlying growth in earnings when setting future
dividends, resulting in continued real growth in dividend per share.
The ex-dividend date will be 25 October 2006 and, subject to shareholder
approval at the Company's Annual General Meeting, the dividend will be paid on
17 November 2006 to shareholders on record on 27 October 2006.
During the year the Group repurchased for cancellation 76.4 million shares for a
total consideration of GBP408 million, including stamp duty and commissions.
This comprised 22.7 million shares which completed the authority granted on 12
November 2004 and 53.7 million under the current authority granted on 4 November
2005.
CORPORATE
Having served on the Board of Directors for over 14 years, Lord St John of
Fawsley has decided not to seek re-election at this year's AGM and will retire
from the Board on 3 November 2006. The Group would like to thank Lord St John
for his contribution to the Board over many years. He will, however, still be
connected with Sky in his new role of Chairman of the Artsworld Channel,
building on his extensive experience as a patron of the arts.
On 18 July 2006, the Group launched Sky Broadband, a compelling and exclusive
broadband product for Sky customers, which offers great value and a range of
packages to suit different usage needs within the home. The packages range from
a free service, "Base", offering downloads speeds of up to 2Mb to a fast 16Mb
connection, "Max", for GBP10 per month. All packages come with a free wireless
router, free 12 months McAfee Security and the option of a professional home
installation. The launch of Sky Broadband and Sky Talk, a telephony product for
Sky customers, enable the Group to enter the highly valuable and growing markets
of broadband, telephony, and related services for the first time. Whilst these
markets offer attractive opportunities on a standalone basis, the Group believe
that these new products will have potentially significant benefits to the
Group's core pay television business.
On 20 October 2005, the Group made a recommended cash offer for the entire share
capital of Easynet Group plc. The offer became unconditional in all respects on
6 January 2006. Easynet was de-listed from the London Stock Exchange in February
2006 and the acquisition of Easynet was completed on 10 March 2006.
On 14 October 2005, the Group announced a private placement with institutional
investors which raised net proceeds of approximately GBP1,014 million from the
issuance of guaranteed notes by its wholly owned subsidiary, BSkyB Finance UK
plc.
CORPORATE RESPONSIBILITY
During the quarter the Group made continued progress in the areas of lowering
carbon emissions and investment in grassroots sport.
On 17 May 2006, the Group reached the milestone of becoming the world's first
carbon neutral media company and only the second FTSE100 company to make such a
commitment. This achievement, reached through the measurement, reduction and
offsetting of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, reflects efforts across the
business to increase energy efficiency, reduce energy use where possible and
find innovative ways to operate. The Group has reduced its site-based emissions
by 47% and has set targets for transport. It has given employees a range of
incentives and rewards for embracing lower carbon transport, such as incentives
for purchasing hybrid cars. Going forward, the Group will be developing
initiatives to help Sky customers with practical and inspiring ways to become
better informed and more progressive about energy use.
Building on its commitment to grassroots sport and education, the company's
Living for Sport initiative now operates in 400 secondary schools, engaging some
5,000 11-16 year olds in creating a positive outlet for their energy and talent.
Research by the Institute of Sport at Loughborough University showed that 68% of
young people participating in Living for Sport demonstrated improved behaviour
at school.
Use of measures not defined under IFRS
This press release contains certain information on the Group's financial
position, operating results and cash flows that have been derived from measures
calculated in accordance with IFRS. This information should not be read in
isolation of the related IFRS measures.
Forward-looking statements
This document contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of
the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 with respect
to the Group's financial condition, results of operations and business, and
management's strategy, plans and objectives for the Group. These statements
include, without limitation, those that express forecasts, expectations and
projections with regard to the potential for growth of free-to-air and pay-TV,
fixed line telephony, broadband and bandwidth requirements, advertising growth,
DTH subscriber growth, Multiroom, Sky+ and other services penetration, churn,
DTH and other revenue, profitability and margin growth, cash flow generation,
programming and other costs, subscriber acquisition costs and marketing
expenditure, capital expenditure programmes and proposals for returning capital
to shareholders.
These statements (and all other forward-looking statements contained in this
document) are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to risks,
uncertainties and other factors, some of which are beyond the Group's control,
are difficult to predict and could cause actual results to differ materially
from those expressed or implied or forecast in the forward-looking
statements. These factors include, but are not limited to, the fact that the
Group operates in a highly competitive environment, the effects of government
regulation upon the Group's activities, its reliance on technology, which is
subject to risk, change and development, failure of key suppliers, its ability
to continue to obtain exclusive rights to movies, sports events and other
programming content, risks inherent in the implementation of large-scale capital
expenditure projects, the Group's ability to continue to communicate and market
its services effectively, and the risks associated with the Group's operation of
digital television transmission in the UK and Ireland.
Information on some risks and uncertainties are described in the "Risk Factors"
section of Sky's Interim Report on form 6-K for the period ended 31 December
2005. Copies of the Interim Report on form 6-K are available on request
from British Sky Broadcasting Group plc, Grant Way, Isleworth TW7 5QD or from
the British Sky Broadcasting web page at www.sky.com/corporate. All
forward-looking statements in this document are based on information known to
the Group on the date hereof. The Group undertakes no obligation publicly to
update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new
information, future events or otherwise.
Appendix 1 - Results highlights
All financial results have been prepared in accordance with International
Financial Reporting Standards ("IFRS"), including comparatives.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Key subscriber information 2006 2005 Change % Change
Net DTH subscriber additions(1) 77,000 83,000 -6,000 -7%
Total DTH subscribers(2)(3)(4)(5) 8,176,000 7,787,000 389,000 5%
Net Sky+ household additions(1) 123,000 118,000 5,000 4%
Total Sky+ households(2) 1,553,000 888,000 665,000 75%
Net Multiroom household additions
(1)(6) 57,000 82,000 -25,000 -30%
Total Multiroom households(2) 1,047,000 645,000 402,000 62%
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income statement (GBPm) Year ended 30 June
2006 2005 Change % Change
Revenue 4,148 3,842 306 8%
Operating profit 877 822 55 7%
Operating profit margin 21.1% 21.4% -0.3% 1%
Profit before taxation 798 787 11 1%
Profit for the year 551 578 -27 -5%
Adjusted profit for the year 561 540 21 4%
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cash flow information (GBPm) Year ended 30 June
2006 2005 Change % Change
Cash generated from operations 1,004 989 15 2%
Net debt(2)(7) 761 388 373 96%
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Per share information (pence) Year ended 30 June
2006 2005 Change % Change
Basic earnings per share 30.2 30.2 0.0 0%
Adjusted earnings per share 30.7 28.2 2.5 9%
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(1) In the three months to 30 June
(2) As at 30 June
(3) Includes DTH subscribers in Republic of Ireland. (427,000 as at 30
June 2006, 363,000 as at 30 June 2005.)
(4) DTH subscribers include only primary subscriptions to Sky (no additional
units are counted for Sky+ or Multiroom subscriptions). This does not
include customers taking Sky's freesat offering or churned customers
viewing free-to-air channels.
(5) DTH subscribers include subscribers taking Sky packages via DSL through
Kingston Interactive Television and Homechoice.
(6) Multiroom includes households subscribing to more than one digibox. (No
additional units are counted for the second or any subsequent Multiroom
subscriptions.)
(7) Cash, cash-equivalents, short-term deposits, borrowings and borrowings
related financial instruments
Appendix 2 - Subscribers to Sky Channels
Year ended 30 June
2006 2005
DTH homes(1),(2) (3) 8,176,000 7,787,000
Total TV homes in the UK and Ireland(4) 26,684,000 26,321,000
DTH homes as a percentage of
total UK and Ireland TV
homes 31% 30%
Cable - UK 3,294,000 3,287,000
Cable - Ireland 604,000 585,000
Total Sky pay homes 12,074,000 11,659,000
Total Sky pay homes as a percentage of total UK and
Ireland TV homes 45% 44%
Sky+ homes(5) 1,553,000 888,000
Multiroom homes(6) 1,047,000 645,000
DTT - UK(7) 7,326,000 4,940,000
(1) Includes DTH subscribers in Republic of Ireland. (427,000, as at 30
June 2006, 363,000 as at 30 June 2005.)
(2) DTH subscribers includes only primary subscriptions to Sky (no additional
units are counted for Sky+, Multiroom or Sky HD subscriptions). This does
not include customers taking Sky's freesat offering or churned customers
viewing free-to-air channels.
(3) DTH homes include subscribers taking Sky packages via DSL through
Kingston Interactive Television and Homechoice.
(4) Total UK homes estimated by BARB and taken from the beginning of the month
following the period end (latest figures as at 1 July 2006). Total Ireland
homes estimated by Nielsen Media Research, conducted on an annual basis in
July with results available in September (latest figures as at July 2005).
(5) Sky+ includes Sky HD subscriptions (No additional units are counted for
second or any subsequent Sky+ subscriptions.)
(6) Multiroom includes households subscribing to more than one digibox. (No
additional units are counted for the second or any subsequent Multiroom
subscriptions.)
(7) DTT homes estimated by BARB and taken from the beginning of the following
month (latest figures as at 1 July 2006). These include Sky or Cable
homes that already take multi-channel TV.
Appendix 3 - Glossary
Glossary
Useful definitions Description
Adjusted profit for the year Profit for the year adjusted to remove
mark-to-market movements in derivative financial
instruments that do not qualify for hedge
accounting, exceptional items and any changes in
the estimate of recoverable tax assets in respect
of prior years.
Adjusted earnings per share Adjusted profit divided by the weighted average
number of ordinary shares in issue during the
year.
ARPU Average Revenue Per User: the amount spent by the
Group's residential subscribers in the quarter,
divided by the average number of residential
subscribers in the quarter, annualised.
Churn The number of DTH subscribers over a given period
that terminate their subscription in its entirety,
net of former subscribers who reinstate their
subscription in that period (where such
reinstatement is within a twelve month period of
the termination of their original subscription),
expressed as a percentage of total subscribers.
Digibox Digital satellite reception equipment.
EBITDA Earnings before interest, taxation, depreciation
and amortisation is calculated as operating profit
before depreciation and amortisation or impairment
of goodwill and intangible assets.
Free cash flow Cash generated from operations less net interest
paid, taxation paid, purchase of property, plant &
equipment and intangible assets plus net proceeds
from joint ventures and associates.
Gross margin Revenue less programming expenses as a proportion
of revenue.
Gross Sky Bet revenue Gross stakes placed by customers on events taking
place in the period and net customer losses in
respect of casino, online roulette and similar
interactive casino style games.
HD High Definition.
Mainstream corporation tax Current corporation tax charge for the year.
liability
Multichannel viewing share Share of viewers of non-analogue terrestrial
television.
Multiroom Installation of an additional Digibox in the
household of an existing DTH subscriber.
Net debt Cash, cash-equivalents, short-term deposits,
borrowings and borrowings related derivative
financial instruments.
Sky + Sky's fully-integrated Personal Video Recorder
(PVR) and satellite decoder.
Viewing share Number of people viewing a channel as a percentage
of total viewing audience.
Consolidated Income Statement for the year ended 30 June 2006
Notes 2006 2005
GBPm GBPm
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Revenue 1 4,148 3,842
Operating expense 2 (3,271) (3,020)
Operating profit 877 822
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Share of results of joint ventures and
associates 11 12 14
Investment income 3 52 29
Finance costs 3 (143) (87)
Profit on disposal of joint venture 4 - 9
Profit before tax 798 787
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Taxation 5 (247) (209)
Profit for the year 551 578
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Earnings per share (in pence) from profit for
the year
Basic 6 30.2p 30.2p
Diluted 6 30.1p 30.2p
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Adjusted earnings per share (in pence) from
profit for the year
Basic 6 30.7p 28.2p
Diluted 6 30.6p 28.2p
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Consolidated Income Statement for the quarter ended 30 June 2006
Three months Three months
ended ended
30 June 30 June
2006 2005
GBPm GBPm
(unaudited) (unaudited)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Revenue 1,069 1,029
Operating expense (852) (780)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
EBITDA 261 271
Depreciation and amortisation (44) (22)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Operating profit 217 249
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Share of results from joint ventures and associates 3 3
Investment income 15 7
Finance costs (46) (18)
Profit before tax 189 241
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Taxation (63) (48)
Profit for the quarter 126 193
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Earnings per share (in pence) from profit for the quarter
Basic and diluted 7.0p 10.3p
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Consolidated Statement of Recognised Income and Expense for the
year ended 30 June 2006
2006 2005
GBPm GBPm
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Profit for the year 551 578
Net movements in hedging reserve
Cash flow hedges (54) (18)
Tax on cash flow hedges 16 5
(38) (13)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total recognised income and expense for the year 513 565
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Consolidated Balance Sheet as at 30 June 2006
Notes 2006 2005
GBPm GBPm
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Non-current assets
Goodwill 8 623 417
Intangible assets 9 218 202
Property, plant and equipment 10 519 335
Investments in joint ventures and associates 11 28 23
Available for sale investments 2 2
Deferred tax assets 12 100 105
Derivative financial assets - 9
1,490 1,093
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Current assets
Inventories 13 324 321
Trade and other receivables 14 489 331
Short-term deposits 647 194
Cash and cash equivalents 816 503
Derivative financial assets 7 14
2,283 1,363
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total assets 3,773 2,456
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Current liabilities
Borrowings 17 163 -
Trade and other payables 15 1,247 1,031
Current tax liabilities 68 100
Provisions 16 6 13
Derivative financial liabilities 49 6
1,533 1,150
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Non-current liabilities
Borrowings 17 1,825 982
Other payables 17 66 25
Provisions 16 19 -
Derivative financial liabilities 209 112
2,119 1,119
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total liabilities 3,652 2,269
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Shareholders' equity 19 121 187
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity 3,773 2,456
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Consolidated Cash Flow Statement for the year ended 30 June 2006
2006 2005
GBPm GBPm
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cash flows from operating activities
Cash generated from operations 1,004 989
Interest received 43 28
Taxation paid (172) (103)
Net cash from operating activities 875 914
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cash flows from investing activities
Dividends received from joint ventures and associates 7 12
Funding to joint ventures and associates (3) (4)
Repayments of funding from joint ventures and associates 1 8
Proceeds from the sale of a joint venture - 14
Purchase of property, plant and equipment (169) (149)
Purchase of intangible assets (43) (92)
Proceeds from the sale of equity investments - 1
Increase in short-term deposits (453) (60)
Purchase of subsidiaries (net of cash and cash
equivalents purchased) (209) -
Net cash used in investing activities (869) (270)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cash flows from financing activities
Proceeds from issue of Guaranteed Notes 1,014 -
Proceeds from disposal of shares in Employee Share
Ownership Plan ("ESOP") 13 4
Purchase of own shares for ESOP (17) (14)
Purchase of own shares for cancellation (408) (416)
Interest paid (105) (91)
Dividends paid to shareholders (191) (138)
Net cash from (used in) financing activities 306 (655)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Effect of foreign exchange rate movements 1 1
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents 313 (10)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the year 503 513
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the year 816 503
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
The financial information set out in this preliminary announcement does not
constitute statutory financial statements for the years ended 30 June 2006 or
2005, for the purpose of the Companies Act 1985, but it is derived from those
financial statements. Statutory financial statements for 2005 have been filed
with the Registrar of Companies and those for 2006 will be filed prior to the
Group's next annual general meeting. The Group's auditors have reported on those
accounts; their reports were unqualified and did not contain statements under s.
237(2) or (3) Companies Act 1985.
Whilst the financial information included in this preliminary announcement has
been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards
("IFRS"), this announcement does not itself contain sufficient information to
comply with IFRS. The accounting policies applied in preparing this financial
information are consistent with the Group's press release "Restated financial
information for the year ended 30 June 2005 under International Financial
Reporting Standards ("IFRS") published on 14 September 2005, except that betting
and gaming transactions have been treated as financial instruments, as detailed
in the Group's press release "BSkyB follows industry practice in accounting for
betting" published on 25 April 2006.
1. Revenue
2006 2005
GBPm GBPm
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Direct-to-home ("DTH") subscribers 3,154 2,968
Cable subscribers 224 219
Advertising 342 329
Sky Bet 37 32
Sky Active 91 92
Other 300 202
4,148 3,842
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2. Operating expense
2006 2005
GBPm GBPm
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Programming 1,599 1,635
Transmission and related functions 234 171
Marketing 622 527
Subscriber management 468 392
Administration 348 295
3,271 3,020
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3. Investment income and finance costs
2006 2005
GBPm GBPm
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Investment income
Investment income from cash, cash equivalents and short-term
deposits 52 29
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2006 2005
GBPm GBPm
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Finance costs
- Interest payable and similar charges
GBP600 million RCF - (4)
GBP1 billion revolving credit facility ("RCF") (2) (2)
Guaranteed Notes (123) (84)
Finance lease interest (4) (1)
(129) (91)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- Other finance (expense) income
Remeasurement of borrowings-related derivative financial
instruments (not qualifying for hedge accounting) (10) 5
Remeasurement of programming-related derivative financial
instruments (not qualifying for hedge accounting) (4) (1)
(14) 4
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(143) (87)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
4. Profit on disposal of joint venture
In November 2004, the Group sold its 49.5% investment in Granada Sky
Broadcasting for GBP14 million in cash, realising a profit on disposal of GBP9
million. The Group realised no profit or loss on disposal during the year ended
30 June 2006.
5. Taxation
Taxation recognised in the income statement
2006 2005
GBPm GBPm
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Current tax expense
Current year 147 163
Adjustment in respect of prior years (6) (8)
Total current tax charge 141 155
Deferred tax expense
Origination and reversal of temporary differences 106 71
Adjustment in respect of recoverable deferred tax asset - (17)
Total deferred tax charge 106 54
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Taxation 247 209
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
6. Earnings per share
The weighted average number of shares for the year was:
2006 2005
Millions of Millions of
shares shares
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ordinary shares 1,830 1,917
ESOP trust ordinary shares (3) (4)
Basic shares 1,827 1,913
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dilutive ordinary shares from share options 5 4
Diluted shares 1,832 1,917
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Basic and diluted earning per share is calculated by dividing profit for the
year into the weighted average number of shares for the year. In order to
provide a measure of underlying performance, management have chosen to present
an adjusted profit for the year which excludes items that may distort
comparability. Such items arise from events or transactions that fall within the
ordinary activities of the Group but which management believes should be
separately identified to help explain underlying performance.
2006 2005
GBPm GBPm
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Reconciliation from profit for the year to adjusted profit for
the year
Profit for the year 551 578
Payment from ITV Digital liquidators - (13)
Profit on disposal of joint venture - (9)
Remeasurement of all derivative financial instruments (not
qualifying for hedge accounting) 14 (4)
Tax effect of above items (4) 5
Increase in estimate of recoverable tax assets in respect of
prior years - (17)
Adjusted profit for the year 561 540
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2006 2005
pence pence
Earnings per share from profit for the year
Basic 30.2p 30.2p
Diluted 30.1p 30.2p
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Adjusted earnings per share from profit for the year
Basic 30.7p 28.2p
Diluted 30.6p 28.2p
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
7. Dividends
2006 2005
GBPm GBPm
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dividends declared and paid during the year
2004 Final dividend paid: 3.25p per ordinary share - 63
2005 Interim dividend paid: 4.00p per ordinary share - 77
2005 Final dividend paid: 5.00p per ordinary share 92 -
2006 Interim dividend paid: 5.50p per ordinary share 99 -
191 140
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dividends proposed after the balance sheet date and not
recognised as a liability
2006 Final dividend proposed: 6.70p per ordinary share 120 -
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
8. Goodwill
Total
GBPm
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Carrying value
At 1 July 2004 and 30 June 2005 417
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Purchase of the Easynet Group plc ("Easynet") 202
Other purchases 4
At 30 June 2006 623
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
9. Intangible assets
Internally Internally Other
Other generated intangible
generated intangible intangible assets not yet Total
intangible assets assets not yet available for
assets available for use
use
GBPm GBPm GBPm GBPm GBPm
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cost
At 30 June 2005 23 181 6 136 346
Business
combinations - 29 - - 29
Other additions 5 24 - 9 38
Disposals - (22) - - (22)
Transfers 6 115 (6) (115) -
At 30 June 2006 34 327 - 30 391
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Amortisation
At 30 June 2005 14 130 - - 144
Amortisation
for the year 2 49 - - 51
Disposals - (22) - - (22)
At 30 June 2006 16 157 - - 173
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Carrying amounts
At 30 June 2005 9 51 6 136 202
At 30 June 2006 18 170 - 30 218
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
10. Property, plant and equipment
Assets
Land and Equipment, not yet
freehold Leasehold furniture available
buildings improvements and fittings for use Total
GBPm GBPm GBPm GBPm GBPm
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cost
At 30 June 2005 70 42 431 123 666
Business combinations - 12 67 - 79
Other additions - 1 163 30 194
Disposals (3) (2) (125) - (130)
Transfers 48 - 55 (103) -
At 30 June 2006 115 53 591 50 809
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Depreciation
At 30 June 2005 13 31 287 - 331
Depreciation 3 5 81 - 89
Disposals (3) (2) (125) - (130)
Transfers - - - - -
At 30 June 2006 13 34 243 - 290
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Carrying amounts
At 30 June 2005 57 11 144 123 335
At 30 June 2006 102 19 348 50 519
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
11. Investments in joint ventures and associates
The movement in joint ventures and associates during the year was as follows:
2006 2005
GBPm GBPm
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Beginning of year
- Share of net assets 23 33
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Movement in net assets
- Net repayment of loans 2 (4)
- Dividends received (7) (12)
- Disposals - (4)
- Share of results 12 14
Transfers to subsidiaries (1) (1)
Movement in creditors (1) (3)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
End of year
- Share of net assets 28 23
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
12. Deferred tax
Recognised deferred tax assets
Fixed asset Short-term
timing timing
differences Tax losses differences Other Total
GBPm GBPm GBPm GBPm GBPm
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
At 1 July 2005 14 68 12 11 105
(Charge) credit to income (71) (35) - - (106)
Credit to equity - - - 18 18
Business combinations 83 - - - 83
At 30 June 2006 26 33 12 29 100
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
13. Inventories
2006 2005
GBPm GBPm
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Television programme rights 277 291
Digiboxes and related equipment 41 28
Other inventories 6 2
324 321
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
14. Trade and other receivables
2006 2005
GBPm GBPm
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Trade receivables 207 134
Amounts receivable from joint ventures and associates 7 6
Amounts receivable from other related parties 1 1
Prepayments 156 114
Accrued income 107 72
Other receivables 11 4
489 331
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Included within the amounts shown above are the following
receivables which are due in more than one year:
2006 2005
GBPm GBPm
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Prepayments 73 32
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
15. Trade and other payables
2006 2005
GBPm GBPm
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Trade payables 352 346
Amounts owed to joint ventures and associates 5 3
Amounts owed to other related parties 31 34
VAT 140 101
Accruals 428 308
Deferred income 246 186
Other payables 45 53
1,247 1,031
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
16. Provisions
Provided Utilised
At 1 July during during At 30 June
2005 the year the year 2006
GBPm GBPm GBPm GBPm
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Current liabilities
Provision for
termination benefits 11 - (11) -
Other provisions 2 6 (2) 6
13 6 (13) 6
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Non-current liabilities
Provisions - 19 - 19
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
17. Borrowings and non-current other payables
2006 2005
GBPm GBPm
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Current borrowings
Guaranteed Notes 162 -
Bank loan 1 -
163 -
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Non-current borrowings
Guaranteed Notes 1,757 975
Bank loan 1 -
Obligations under finance lease liabilities 67 7
1,825 982
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Non-current other payables
Accruals 15 25
Deferred income 51 -
66 25
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
18. Share capital
2006 2005
GBPm GBPm
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Authorised
3,000,000,000 (2005: 3,000,000,000)
ordinary shares of 50p 1,500 1,500
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Allotted, called-up and fully paid
1,791,077,599 (2005: 1,867,523,599)
ordinary shares of 50p 896 934
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2006 2005
Number of Number of
ordinary shares ordinary shares
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Allotted and fully paid during the year
Beginning of year 1,867,523,599 1,941,712,786
Options exercised under the Sharesave
Scheme at between GBP3.720 and GBP6.112 - 129,813
Shares repurchased and subsequently
cancelled (76,446,000) (74,319,000)
End of year 1,791,077,599 1,867,523,599
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
19. Reconciliation of shareholders' equity
Share Share Capital Special ESOP Merger Hedging Retained Total
capital premium redemption reserve reserve reserve reserve earnings shareholders'
reserve equity
GBPm GBPm GBPm GBPm GBPm GBPm GBPm GBPm GBPm
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
At 30 June 2005 934 1,437 37 14 (32) 222 (14) (2,411) 187
Purchase of
own shares for
cancellation (38) - 38 - - - - (408) (408)
Recognition
and transfer
of cash flow
hedges - - - - - - (54) - (54)
Tax on items
taken directly
to equity - - - - - - 16 2 18
Share-based
payment - - - - 7 - - 11 18
Profit for the
year - - - - - - - 551 551
Dividends - - - - - - - (191) (191)
At 30 June 2006 896 1,437 75 14 (25) 222 (52) (2,446) 121
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the
registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
BRITISH SKY BROADCASTING GROUP PLC
Date: 28 July 2006 By: /s/ Dave Gormley
Dave Gormley
Company Secretary