UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 20-F
(Mark One)
| ¨ | REGISTRATION STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(b) OR (g) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 |
OR
| x | ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 |
For the fiscal year ended 31 March 2015
OR
| ¨ | TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 |
OR
| ¨ | SHELL COMPANY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 |
Date of event requiring this shell company report
For the transition period from to
Commission File Number: 1-08819
BT Group plc
(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)
| Not Applicable | England and Wales | |
| (Translation of Registrant’s name into English) |
(Jurisdiction of incorporation or organization) |
| BT Centre 81 Newgate Street, London, EC1A 7AJ England |
(address of principal executive offices)
Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
| Title of each class: | Name of each exchange on which registered: | |||
| American Depositary Shares | New York Stock Exchange | |||
| Ordinary shares of 5p each | New York Stock Exchange* |
| * | Not for trading, but only in connection with the registration of American Depositary Shares representing these shares, pursuant to the requirements of the Securities and Exchange Commission. |
Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None
Securities for which there is a reporting obligation pursuant to Section 15(d) of the Act: None
Indicate the number of outstanding shares of each of the issuer’s classes of capital or common stock as of the close of the period covered by the Annual Report:
8,373,227,252 Ordinary Shares, of 5p each
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.
Yes x No ¨
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 ¨ No x
Note — Checking the box above will not relieve any registrant required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 from their obligation under those Sections.
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 x No ¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).
Yes ¨ No ¨
Not Applicable
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 and large accelerated filer” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):
Large accelerated filer x Accelerated filer ¨ Non-accelerated filer ¨
Indicate by check mark which basis of accounting the registrant has used to prepare the financial statements included in this filing:
| U.S. GAAP ¨ |
International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board x |
Other ¨ |
If “Other” has been checked in response to the previous question indicate by check mark which financial statement item the registrant has elected to follow.
Item 17 ¨ Item 18 ¨
If this 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
(APPLICABLE ONLY TO ISSUERS INVOLVED IN BANKRUPTCY PROCEEDINGS DURING THE PAST FIVE YEARS)
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has filed all documents and reports required to be filed by Sections 12, 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 subsequent to the distribution of securities under a plan confirmed by a court.
Yes ¨ No ¨
Not Applicable
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All references in this Form 20-F to “us”, “we” or “the Company”, are to BT Group plc. None of the websites referred to in the Annual Report & Form 20-F for the year ended March 31, 2015 included as Exhibit 15.2 to this Form 20-F (“Annual Report 2015”), including where a link is provided, nor any of the information contained on such websites is incorporated by reference in this Form 20-F.
ITEM 1. IDENTITY OF DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND ADVISERS
Not applicable
ITEM 2. OFFER STATISTICS AND EXPECTED TIMETABLE
Not applicable
3.A Selected financial data
The information set forth under the headings:
| • | “Financial highlights” on page 7; |
| • | “Group performance — Group financial results” on page 79; |
| • | “Selected financial data” on page 205; |
| • | “Information for shareholders — Exchange rates” on page 214; |
of the Annual Report 2015 is incorporated herein by reference.
3.B Capitalization and indebtedness
Not applicable
3.C Reasons for the offer and use of proceeds
Not applicable
3.D Risk factors
In this section we explain some of the principal risks and uncertainties affecting us. These risks have the potential to impact our business, brand, people, assets, revenue, profits, liquidity or capital resources. The principal risks we described last year have evolved, and so too has our response to them.
Our Enterprise Risk Management framework provides reasonable (but cannot give absolute) assurance that significant risks are identified and addressed. There may be some risks which are unknown to us at present. And there may be some that we consider less significant now but become more important later.
External factors can present both risks and opportunities, to our business and to others. We focus our efforts on predicting and mitigating the risks, while at the same time seeking to capitalise on opportunities that may emerge.
We recognise the particular uncertainty that political and geo-political risks present, both in the UK (for example the Scottish independence referendum in 2014) and globally. We now monitor these through a separate sub-committee of our Group Risk Panel.
Security and resilience
The resilience of our IT systems, networks and associated infrastructure, including our core data centres and exchanges, is essential to our short and long-term commercial success.
We face a variety of hazards that could cause significant interruptions to the delivery of our services. These include component failure, physical attack, theft of copper cable and equipment, fire, explosion, flood, power failure, overheating or extreme cold, problems encountered during upgrades and major changes, and the failure of key suppliers. A cyber-security incident or logical attack could also trigger service interruption.
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We also have a responsibility to many millions of customers, both business and consumer, to ensure their electronic information remains confidential, accurate, secure and available. The same holds true for our own data, information and intellectual property.
Impact
A breach of our security, or compromise of data or resilience affecting our operations, or those of our customers, could lead to an extended interruption to our services or even affect national infrastructure. The impact of such a failure could include: immediate financial losses due to fraud and theft; termination of contracts; immediate loss of revenue where orders and invoices cannot be processed; contractual penalties; lost productivity and unplanned costs of restoration and improvement; prosecution; and fines.
Additionally, reputational damage may arise, undermining market confidence and jeopardising future revenues. Ultimately the welfare of individuals might be put at risk where services cannot be provided or personal data is misappropriated.
Changes over the last year
In the past year we have had to deal with an unprecedented increase in the volume and intensity of cyber-attacks. We recorded more top priority incidents in the last three months of 2014 than were experienced in the previous two years. The attacks were aimed not just at BT, but also at our customers, with the potential to disrupt others and cause collateral damage to BT services.
Following a comprehensive review of the resilience and disaster recovery capability of our critical systems, databases and exchanges, we have invested in enhancing site resilience based on our target levels of acceptable risk. We have also invested significantly in geo-resilience (i.e. cross-site recovery) for our critical systems where this did not previously exist.
Major contracts
We have a number of complex and high-value national and multinational customer contracts.
The revenue arising from, and the profitability of, these contracts are subject to a number of factors including: variation in cost; achievement of cost reductions anticipated in the contract pricing, both in terms of scale and time; delays in the delivery or achievement of agreed milestones owing to factors either within or outside of our control; changes in customers’ requirements, their budgets, strategies or businesses; and the performance of our suppliers. Any of these factors could make a contract less profitable or even loss-making.
The degree of risk generally varies with the scope and life of the contract and is typically higher in the early stages of the contract. Some customer contracts require investment in the early stages which is expected to be recovered over the life of the contract.
Major contracts often involve the implementation of new systems and communications networks, transformation of legacy networks and the development of new technologies.
The recoverability of these upfront costs may be impacted by delays or failure to meet milestones. Substantial performance risk exists in some of these highly complex contracts.
Impact
Failure to manage and meet our commitments under these contracts, as well as changes in customers’ requirements, their budgets, strategies or businesses, may lead to a reduction in our expected future revenue, profitability and cash generation. Unexpectedly high costs associated with the delivery of particular transformational contracts could also negatively impact profitability.
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Earnings may be reduced or contracts may even become loss-making through loss of revenue, changes to customers’ businesses, business failure to contract termination. Failure to replace the revenue and earnings lost from these customers could lead to an overall reduction in group revenue, profitability and cash flow.
Changes over the last year
Tough market conditions and competitive pressures continue in many global regions while in some we are experiencing higher growth in volume of business due to previous investments we have made. The risk landscape changes accordingly, as does our focus of risk support and review.
Of particular note this year has been the number of broadband contracts with local authorities through the BDUK programme now entering the delivery phase of the contract lifecycle. While these contracts carry a different risk profile, we apply our established risk governance and reporting processes to ensure that risks and mitigation activities are identified and reported to management.
Pensions
We have a significant funding obligation in relation to our defined benefit pension scheme in the UK, the BT Pension Scheme (BTPS or Scheme).
The BTPS faces similar risks to other defined benefit schemes. Future low investment returns, lower interest rates, high inflation, longer life expectancy and regulatory changes may all result in the cost of funding the BTPS becoming a more significant burden on our financial resources.
Impact
The next valuation of the BTPS is scheduled to take place as at 30 June 2017 and an increase in the pension deficit may have an impact on the level of deficit payments we are required to make into the Scheme. Indirectly it may also have an adverse impact on our share price and credit rating.
Any deterioration in our credit rating would increase our cost of borrowing and may limit the availability or flexibility of future funding for the group, thereby affecting our ability to invest, pay dividends or repay debt as it matures.
Changes over the last year
The actuarial valuation of the Scheme as at 30 June 2014 was announced on 30 January 2015. This has provided certainty over the level of cash contributions required until the next triennial valuation is concluded.
When a valuation is calculated, the funding position is affected by the financial market conditions at the valuation date. When determining expected future returns on the Scheme assets, different factors are taken into account, including yields (or returns) on government bonds, which have fallen significantly since 30 June 2014. If a lower investment return assumption is adopted at the 30 June 2017 valuation, the liabilities would likely increase, potentially leading to a higher level of deficit payments.
The BTPS entered into longevity insurance and reinsurance arrangements on 4 July 2014 to help protect the Scheme against costs associated with potential increases in life expectancy. These arrangements covered approximately 25% of the Scheme’s total exposure to increases in longevity.
On 16 July 2014 the Court of Appeal handed down its judgment on the scope and extent of the Crown Guarantee, which was granted by the Government on BT’s privatisation. This judgment has provided welcome clarity although the Crown Guarantee is not taken into account for the purposes of the actuarial valuation of the Scheme and is an entirely separate matter, only being relevant in the highly unlikely event that BT became insolvent.
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Growth in a competitive market
We operate in markets which are characterised by: high levels of change; strong and new competition; declining prices and, in some markets, declining revenues; technology substitution; market and product convergence; customer churn; and regulatory intervention to promote competition and reduce wholesale prices.
Impact
Failure to achieve sustainable, profitable revenue growth could erode our competitive position and reduce our profitability, cash flow and ability to invest for the future.
Changes over the last year
The UK economy grew by 3% in 2014; however, customers are cautious with their spending. Price and value for money remain the main decision drivers for many consumers and small businesses. At a global level, continuing economic uncertainty remains a factor causing corporate customers to delay or downscale infrastructure upgrades and significant investment decisions.
Competition in our markets is strong. In the UK, new providers of fibre to the premises are entering the fibre access market, by offering alternatives to the Virgin Media and Openreach networks. In the TV and content markets, TV viewing habits are changing with the increasing use of on-demand viewing via over-the-top content services providers.
Fixed-mobile convergence is a trend visible in many Continental European countries and increasingly in UK markets. A number of providers are competing in this space. BT’s proposed acquisition of EE may stimulate other operators to react to fixed-mobile convergence provided the UK market develops in this way.
Communications industry regulation
Regulation impacts our activities across all jurisdictions.
In the UK, Ofcom can require us to provide specific wholesale services on specified terms following market reviews. The scope and form of that regulation is reviewed every three years and can include controls on the level of prices we can charge for regulated inputs. It has powers to investigate and enforce the regulatory rules in place and can impose fines on us for non-compliance. Ofcom also has powers to regulate the terms on which we are supplied with certain services – for instance, mobile call termination and wholesale access to certain pay-TV channels – and this impacts our costs and the scope of services we are able to provide to our customers. Ofcom can also resolve disputes between BT and other communications providers about the terms on which services are supplied.
Outside the UK, general licensing requirements can restrict the extent to which we can enter markets and compete. Regulation will also define the terms on which we can purchase key wholesale services from others.
Impact
Regulatory requirements and constraints can directly impact our ability to compete effectively and earn revenues.
Regulatory impacts are highest in the UK where BT is subject to direct regulation in a number of areas following periodic market reviews. Based on the latest Regulatory Financial Statements for 2013/14, around £5.2bn of our revenue (of which £2.8bn is to downstream parts of BT) is from wholesale markets where we have been found to have Significant Market Power following market reviews. Most of these revenues are subject to charge controls which require us to reduce our prices annually by a defined percentage in real terms. Controls are usually set for three years and will constrain revenues during that period.
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When other CPs ask Ofcom to resolve disputes with us, there is a risk that Ofcom may set the prices at which services must be supplied and/or require us to provide specific services. In certain circumstances, Ofcom can adjust historic prices and require us to make repayments to CPs.
Regulation outside the UK can impact (i) our revenue, by limiting our ability to compete through overly-restrictive licensing requirements or ineffective regulation of access to other networks and (ii) our costs, by defining and controlling the terms of access to necessary regulated inputs.
Changes over the last year
Over the last year, we have seen regulatory activity in a number of areas. This information is described under the heading “Regulation—Impact of regulation” on page 39 of the Annual Report 2015 and is incorporated herein by reference.
Business integrity and ethics
We are committed to maintaining high standards of ethical behaviour, and have a zero tolerance approach to bribery and corruption.
We have to comply with a wide range of local and international anti-corruption and bribery laws. In particular the UK Bribery Act and US Foreign and Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) provide comprehensive anti-bribery legislation. Both have extraterritorial reach and so cover our global operations. As we expand globally, we are increasingly operating in countries identified as having a higher risk of bribery and corruption. We also have to ensure compliance with trade sanctions, and import and export controls.
Impact
Failure by our employees, or associated persons such as suppliers or agents to comply with anti-corruption and bribery and sanctions legislation could result in substantial penalties, criminal prosecution and significant damage to our reputation. This could in turn impact our future revenue and cash flow, the extent of which would depend on the nature of the breach, the legislation concerned and any associated penalties. Allegations of corruption or bribery or violation of sanctions regulations could also lead to reputation and brand damage with investors, regulators and customers.
Changes over the last year
The importance of conducting business ethically is becoming increasingly recognised across the globe as more countries pass anti-corruption and bribery legislation. In the UK, deferred prosecution agreements are available to the UK Serious Fraud Office for fraud, bribery and other economic crime. In terms of enforcement, there are yet to be any significant cases resulting from the UK Bribery Act, but there continue to be many significant enforcement actions brought under the FCPA.
Supply chain
We operate in a global supply market. This enables us to procure third-party products and services that help us deliver to our customers wherever they are. There are often several links in the ‘chain’ of supply of a product or service to us. The integrity and continuity of this supply chain is critical to our operations and therefore a significant risk to our business.
We are committed to ensuring that all dealings with suppliers, from selection and consultation through to contracting and payment, are conducted in accordance with our trading and ethical policies.
We have a number of suppliers that we have identified as critical. The failure of one of these suppliers to meet its obligations could cause significant harm to our business.
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We are committed to evaluating and responding to any associated risks where geo-political and market forces could impact our suppliers’ ability to support BT.
Impact
While the size of the impact from a supplier failure can vary, all supplier failures typically result in an increased cost to our business and have the potential to adversely impact customer service, our investments and our brand. In many cases, the costs associated with the failure of a critical supplier could be significant, particularly if this means we have to change technology. If we are unable to contract with an alternative supplier, our customer commitments could also be compromised, possibly leading to contractual breach, loss of revenue or penalties.
We are continually testing the global market for new sources of supply; but this brings its own challenge of suppliers becoming more geographically and culturally diverse from our customers.
A failure in our supply chain to meet legal obligations or ethical expectations could adversely impact our reputation or possibly lead to censure, legal action and financial loss.
Customer data processing
As a major data controller and processor of customer information around the world we recognise the importance of adhering to data privacy laws. Every day we process the personal data of millions of consumer and business customers and we want individuals to feel confident that when they give their personal data to us they can trust us to do the right thing with it.
Being trusted with customer data goes further than making sure it is secure. It is about ensuring the integrity of the personal data we process, only retaining the information that we need to provide customers with the services for which they have signed up. It is also about being transparent around how we use that data, making sure the personal data is processed legally, fairly and in line with customers’ rights and wishes. Through embedding a robust data governance framework we have reinforced our expectations around personal data with our employees, partners and third parties.
As a telecoms and internet service provider we operate under a stringent 24-hour reporting regime to notify the UK Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) should we become aware of a personal data security breach and to notify those individuals who may have been impacted without undue delay.
Impact
Failure to comply with relevant data protection and privacy laws could result in varying degrees of negative impact for BT. These include the possibility of regulatory enforcement action, fines, class actions, custodial sentences and a regulatory instruction to cease processing data.
We could also face reputational damage and financial loss from the failure to meet our legal requirements, as well as incurring costs resulting from termination of customer contracts and subsequent customer churn. Companies, such as Sony which has suffered high profile data incidents, have seen a significant negative impact on their share price combined with additional costs associated with non-compliance.
Changes over the last year
National regulatory authorities have demonstrated an increasingly aggressive stance over the last 12 months with the application of financial penalties to both private and public organisations in breach of their data privacy obligations.
For the first time in the UK, the ICO imposed more fines than Ofcom. Outside the UK, global organisations felt the force of their domestic regulators with notably the French Information Commissioner (CNIL) and the US Federal Communications Commission’s Enforcement Bureau imposing significant penalties on organisations for poor compliance practices.
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The sensitivity of this risk is expected to increase as new, more robust data privacy laws are introduced throughout the scope of our operations. The continuing debate around the future EU General Data Protection Regulation is already influencing how multinational businesses address this risk.
EE acquisition: risks
Our proposed acquisition of EE creates additional risks for BT beyond those captured in our principal risks and uncertainties. In the section below we highlight those risks relating to the acquisition, and new risks that would be relevant to the enlarged group.
Risks related to the acquisition
In the period through to completion of the acquisition there are risks relating to the deal itself, as well as business risks during this transitional phase.
Approval of the acquisition
Completion of the acquisition is conditional upon satisfaction or, where capable of being waived, waiver of various conditions. In the event that these conditions are not satisfied or, where they can be waived, waived by the ‘long stop date’ (or a later date which we agree with the sellers), the Share Purchase Agreement will automatically terminate. There can be no assurance that the conditions will be fulfilled or waived, or that the acquisition will be completed.
The acquisition is subject to merger control approval from the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) in the UK. Approval from the CMA may take longer than expected to obtain, may not be granted, or may be granted subject to conditions or remedies, including BT’s or EE’s divestment of assets or businesses and/or restrictions on the conduct of the enlarged group. Any of these could delay or jeopardise completion, impose sustained additional costs for the enlarged group and/or materially reduce the anticipated benefits (including synergy benefits) of the acquisition, or result in a material adverse effect on the enlarged group’s business, financial condition and results of operations.
EE’s performance prior to completion of the acquisition
The anticipated benefits and synergies of the acquisition have been developed based on assumptions regarding (among other things), EE’s financial and operational performance, including in the period before completion when EE’s performance is outside our control. During this time, EE’s performance – and that of BT – could be negatively impacted by one or more of the following:
| • | an adverse event, or events, affecting EE which would not give rise to a right of BT to terminate the acquisition; |
| • | as a result of the planned acquisition, some of BT’s or EE’s customers or strategic partners may terminate or reduce their business relationships with the enlarged group, for example to avoid sourcing too great a proportion of services from a single company; |
| • | potential customers of BT or EE may delay entering into, or decide not to enter into, a business relationship with BT or EE until completion because of perceived uncertainty over the acquisition; |
| • | EE may fail to retain key personnel and other employees; and |
| • | third parties may terminate or alter existing contracts with EE as a result of the acquisition, in particular where ‘change of control’ or similar clauses apply. |
If any of these happen, the value of EE may be less than the consideration paid by BT and, accordingly, the net assets of the enlarged group could be reduced. This could have a material adverse effect on the enlarged group’s financial position.
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Realising synergies following integration
BT is targeting significant synergies from the acquisition. The financial planning for the enlarged group is based partly on realising these synergies, which include expected operating cost savings and capital expenditure savings of £360m per year, to be realised in the fourth full year following completion. Combining the respective businesses is also expected to give rise to further benefits. These include (among other things), fixed-mobile convergence, the ability to serve customers through a single, seamless platform supported by a single IP network, and being able to offer BT products to EE customers and EE products to BT customers.
The success of the enlarged group will depend, in part, on the effectiveness of the integration process and the ability to realise the anticipated benefits and synergies from combining the businesses.
Some of the potential challenges in combining the businesses may not be known until after completion. If these challenges cannot be overcome, for example because of unforeseen difficulties in implementing fixed-mobile convergence or a lack of customer demand for the offerings, the anticipated benefits of the acquisition will not be fully achieved.
Realisation of synergies will depend partly on the rapid and efficient management and co-ordination of the activities of the enlarged group’s businesses. We may experience difficulties in integrating EE with our existing businesses and may not realise, or it might take longer than expected to realise, certain or all of the perceived benefits of the acquisition. There is also a risk that synergy benefits and growth opportunities from the acquisition may fail to materialise, or may be materially lower than have been estimated. In addition, the costs of generating these synergies, which are expected to be around £600m, may exceed expectations.
Failure to deliver the anticipated synergies and business opportunities could have a material adverse effect on the enlarged group’s businesses, financial conditions and results of operations, including its ability to support its pension deficit.
Increased cost of debt
The enlarged group may face increased costs when it seeks to refinance or repay its debt as a result of its increased level of debt following the acquisition.
The acquisition will be funded in part by a £3.6bn debt bridge facility, which may be extended for an additional 12 months following its one year maturity.
The costs and other terms on which the enlarged group is able to refinance the debt bridge facility and other longer-term indebtedness will depend partly on market conditions; unfavourable economic conditions could impact the cost and terms on which the enlarged group is able to access capital markets to refinance its indebtedness which may increase its cost of capital.
Risks to the enlarged business
Although a number of the risks EE faces are similar in nature to those potentially impacting BT today, there are also a number of distinct risks that the enlarged group will face that we do not currently perceive to be significant threats to BT.
This section outlines some of those new risks and uncertainties, but it is not exhaustive. These risks have the potential to impact the enlarged group’s business, brand, people, assets, revenue, profits, liquidity or capital resources.
Our Enterprise Risk Management framework will continue to operate in the enlarged group and provides reasonable (but cannot give absolute) assurance that significant risks are identified and addressed. There may be some risks which are unknown to us at present. And there may be some that we consider less significant now but become more important later.
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Handset and network development
The enlarged group’s operations will depend partly on the successful deployment of continuously evolving telecommunications technologies.
Delays in the development of handsets and network compatibility and components may hinder the deployment of new technologies for the enlarged group.
EE uses technologies from a number of vendors and incurs significant capital expenditure deploying these technologies. There can be no assurance that common standards and specifications will be achieved, that there will be interoperability across BT’s, EE’s and other networks, that technologies will be developed according to anticipated schedules, that they will perform according to expectations or that they will achieve commercial acceptance. The introduction of software and other network components may also be delayed. The failure of vendor performance or technology performance to meet our expectations or the failure of a technology to achieve commercial acceptance could result in additional capital expenditure by, or a reduction in profitability of, the enlarged group.
Technological change and market acceptance
The enlarged group may not succeed in making customers sufficiently aware of existing and future services or in creating customer acceptance of these services at the prices we would want to charge. Also, the enlarged group may not identify trends correctly, or may not be able to bring new services to market as quickly or price-competitively as its competitors.
These risks exist in the mobile telecommunications area (such as mobile data services or other advanced technologies which are supported by advanced smartphone products). They also exist in the non-mobile telecommunications areas (such as mobile payment services based on contactless technology) where there is a risk that differences in the regulatory treatment of different operators based on their choice of technology could put the enlarged group at a competitive disadvantage.
Further, as a result of rapid technological progress and the trend towards technological convergence, new and established information and telecommunications technologies or products may not only fail to complement one another but in some cases, may even become a substitute for one another. An example of this is the risk that ‘over-the-top’ services (being those which are provided by a third party to the end user device) develop substitutes for BT’s and EE’s own products and services. Another example is VoIP, a technology that is already established in the business customer market and which has now reached the consumer market. The introduction of mobile handsets with VoIP functionality may adversely affect the enlarged group’s pricing structures and market share in its mobile voice telephony business. If we do not appropriately anticipate the demand for new technologies, and adapt our strategies, service offering and cost structures accordingly, the enlarged group may be unable to compete effectively, which may have an adverse effect on our business and operations.
Supplier failure
EE has a number of suppliers identified as critical. EE is also party to a complex and critical network-sharing arrangement with Hutchison Whampoa Limited. The failure of this joint operation to fully support the enlarged group’s interests and goals, or any material disruption to the operation of EE’s network sharing arrangement, could cause significant harm to the enlarged group’s business.
As demand for smartphone and tablet products increases around the world, there could be shortages in the volume of devices produced as a result of insufficient manufacturing capacity, the lack of availability of internal components such as processors or major supply chain disruptions. This may result in delays in the supply chain which in turn may have an adverse effect on the enlarged group’s business and operations.
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Spectrum pricing and regulation
Regulators, including Ofcom, set annual licence fees for spectrum bands used by EE for voice calls, 3G and 4G services and EE is a party to an ongoing consultation with Ofcom in relation to this. Any significant increases in spectrum pricing applicable to the enlarged group could have a material adverse effect on its business and results of operations.
Ofcom may, after consultation, vary conditions in relation to spectrum licences. EE will monitor any developments from regulators relating to the allocation of mobile spectrum in the UK.
The scope and form of the regulation of wholesale services is reviewed every three years and can include controls on the level of prices charged for regulated inputs.
As technology and market dynamics develop and as the mobile business of EE is integrated into BT then a wider range of existing regulations will apply to the enlarged group and a broader range of new and/or modified regulations may be directed at us.
Network and licence investment
EE (as well as BT to a lesser extent), has made substantial investments in the acquisition of licences and EE has invested in its mobile networks, including modernising its 2G network, the upgrade of its 3G network and the continued expansion of its 4G network which was launched in October 2012. EE expects to continue to make significant investments in its mobile networks due to increased usage and the need to offer new services and greater functionality. It may acquire new spectrum licences with licence conditions which may include network coverage obligations or increased licence fees. Accordingly, the rate of the enlarged group’s capital expenditure and costs in future years could increase and exceed those expected or experienced to date.
There can be no assurance that new services will be introduced according to anticipated schedules or that the level of demand for new services will justify the cost of setting up and providing new services (in particular, the cost of new spectrum licences and network infrastructure, eg for 4G services and subsequent evolutions). Failure or a delay in completing networks and launching new services, or increases in the associated costs, could have an adverse effect on the enlarged group’s business and operations and could result in significant write downs of the value of network spectrum or other licences or other network-related investments.
If the current economic climate worsens, the enlarged group may decide, or be required, to scale back capital expenditure. A lasting reduction in capital expenditure levels below certain thresholds could affect our ability to invest in our mobile telecommunications network (including additional spectrum), new technology and our other businesses and therefore could have an adverse effect on our future growth and the value of radio spectrum.
Transmission of radio waves
Media reports have suggested that radio frequency emissions from wireless mobile devices and mobile telecommunications sites may cause health issues, including cancer, and may interfere with some electronic medical devices, including hearing aids and pacemakers. Research and studies are ongoing. The World Health Organisation has declared that, on the basis of current scientific knowledge, there are no known adverse effects on health from emissions at levels below internationally recognised health and safety standards. However, the enlarged group cannot provide assurance that research in the future will not establish links between radio frequency emissions and health risks.
Whether or not research or studies conclude that there is a link between radio frequency emissions and health, popular concerns about radio frequency emissions may discourage the use of wireless devices, impairing the enlarged group’s ability to retain customers and attract new customers, and may result in restrictions on the location and operation of mobile communications sites and the usage of the enlarged group’s wireless technology. These concerns could also lead to litigation against the enlarged group. Any restrictions on use or litigation could have an adverse effect on the enlarged group’s business and operations.
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ITEM 4. INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY
4.A History and development of the company
The information set forth under the headings:
| • | “How our lines of business performed” on page 8, excluding the information set forth on pages 11 through 18; |
| • | “Information for shareholders — Background” on page 210; |
| • | “Group performance — Capital expenditure” on page 88; and |
| • | “General information — Capital management and funding policy” on page 132; |
of the Annual Report 2015 is incorporated herein by reference.
4.B Business overview
The information set forth under the headings:
| • | “Key performance indicators” on page 6; |
| • | “Our purpose” on page 21; |
| • | “Our goal” on page 21; |
| • | “Our strategy” on page 21; |
| • | “Information for shareholders — Financial effects of the acquisition considered in the shareholder circular” on page 222; |
| • | “Our networks and physical assets” on page 33; |
| • | “Research and development” on page 34; |
| • | “Brand and reputation” on page 34; |
| • | “Our lines of business” on page 54; |
| • | “Stakeholders and relationships — Our suppliers” on page 36; |
| • | “Stakeholders and relationships — Human Rights” on page 37; |
| • | “Stakeholders and relationships — Our relationship with HM Government” on page 38; |
| • | “Regulation” on page 38; |
| • | “Consolidated financial statements — Notes to the consolidated financial statements — Segment information” on page 155; |
| • | “Financial and operational statistics — Operational statistics” on page 208; |
| • | “Information for shareholders — Cautionary statement regarding forward-looking statements” on page 209; and |
| • | “Information for shareholders — Further note on certain activities” on page 224 |
of the Annual Report 2015 is incorporated herein by reference.
4.C Organizational structure
The information set forth under the headings:
| • | “Operating Committee” on page 26; |
| • | “Our business model” on page 28; |
| • | “Our lines of business” on page 54; and |
| • | “Subsidiary undertakings” on page 199 |
of the Annual Report 2015 is incorporated herein by reference.
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4.D Property, plants and equipment
The information set forth under the headings:
| • | “Our networks and physical assets — Properties” on page 33; |
| • | “Consolidated financial statements — Notes to the consolidated financial statements — Property, plant and equipment” on page 168; and |
| • | “Financial and operational statistics — Financial statistics” on page 207 |
of the Annual Report 2015 is incorporated herein by reference.
ITEM 4A. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS
As far as the Company is aware, there are no unresolved written comments from the SEC staff regarding its periodic reports under the Exchange Act received more than 180 days before March 31, 2015.
ITEM 5. OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS
5.A Operating results
The information set forth under the headings:
| • | “Our lines of business” on page 54; |
| • | “Group performance” on page 80, excluding the information set forth under the sub-heading “Profit estimate and profit forecast considered within the shareholder circular” on page 80; |
| • | “Delivering societal and environmental benefits” on page 90; |
| • | “Alternative performance measures” on page 202; and |
| • | “Information for shareholders — Cautionary statement regarding forward-looking statements” on page 209 |
of the Annual Report 2015 is incorporated herein by reference.
5.B Liquidity and capital resources
The information set forth under the headings:
| • | “Group performance” on page 80, excluding the information set forth under the sub-heading “Profit estimate and profit forecast considered within the shareholder circular” on page 80; |
| • | “Information for shareholders — Cautionary statement regarding forward-looking statements” on page 209; |
| • | “Consolidated financial statements — Notes to the consolidated financial statements — Loans and other borrowings” on page 183; |
| • | “Consolidated financial statements — Notes to the consolidated financial statements — Financial instruments and risk management” on page 187; and |
| • | “Consolidated financial statements — Notes to the consolidated financial statements — Financial commitments and contingent liabilities” on page 194 |
of the Annual Report 2015 is incorporated herein by reference.
5.C Research and development, patents and licenses
The information set forth under the headings:
| • | “Research and development” on page 34; and |
| • | “Financial and operational statistics — Financial statistics” on page 207 |
of the Annual Report 2015 is incorporated herein by reference.
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5.D Trend information
The information set forth under the headings:
| • | “Group performance” on page 80, excluding the information set forth under the sub-heading “Profit estimate and profit forecast considered within the shareholder circular” on page 80; |
| • | “Selected financial data” on page 205; and |
| • | “Information for shareholders — Cautionary statement regarding forward-looking statements” on page 209 |
of the Annual Report 2015 is incorporated herein by reference.
5.E Off-balance sheet arrangements
The information set forth under the heading “General information — Off-balance sheet arrangements” on page 133 of the Annual Report 2015 is incorporated herein by reference.
5.F Tabular disclosure of contractual obligations
The information set forth under the heading “Group performance — Contractual obligations and commitments” on page 90 of the Annual Report 2015 is incorporated herein by reference.
ITEM 6. DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND EMPLOYEES
6.A Directors and senior management
The information set forth under the headings:
| • | “Board of Directors” on page 96; and |
| • | “The Board” on page 98 |
of the Annual Report 2015 is incorporated herein by reference.
6.B Compensation
The information set forth under the headings:
| • | “Reports of the Board committees — Report on Directors’ Remuneration” on page 111; |
| • | “Consolidated financial statements — Notes to the consolidated financial statements — Retirement benefit plans” on page 172; and |
| • | “Consolidated financial statements — Notes to the consolidated financial statements — Share-based payments” on page 180 |
of the Annual Report 2015 is incorporated herein by reference.
6.C Board practices
The information set forth under the headings:
| • | “Board of Directors” on page 96; |
| • | “The Board” on page 98; and |
| • | “Reports of the Board committees — Report on Directors’ Remuneration” on page 111 |
of the Annual Report 2015 is incorporated herein by reference.
6.D Employees
The information set forth under the headings:
| • | “Our people” on page 30; |
| • | “Group performance — Income statement — Operating costs” on page 82; and |
| • | “Consolidated financial statements — Notes to the consolidated financial statements — Employees” on page 160 |
of the Annual Report 2015 is incorporated herein by reference.
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6.E Share ownership
The information set forth under the headings:
| • | “Reports of the Board committees — Report on Directors’ Remuneration” on page 111; and |
| • | “Consolidated financial statements — Notes to the consolidated financial statements — Share-based payments” on page 180 |
of the Annual Report 2015 is incorporated herein by reference.
ITEM 7. MAJOR SHAREHOLDERS AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
7.A Major shareholders
The information set forth under the headings:
| • | “Shareholders and Annual General Meeting — Relations with shareholders — Substantial shareholdings” on page 135; and |
| • | “Information for shareholders — Analysis of shareholdings at 31 March 2015” on page 211 |
of the Annual Report 2015 is incorporated herein by reference.
7.B Related party transactions
The information set forth under the headings:
| • | “Directors’ information — Interest of management in certain transactions” on page 131; and |
| • | “Consolidated financial statements — Notes to the consolidated financial statements — Related party transactions” on page 193 |
of the Annual Report 2015 is incorporated herein by reference.
7.C Interests of experts and counsel
Not applicable
8.A Consolidated statements and other financial information
See Item 18 below
In addition, the information set forth under the headings:
| • | “General information — Legal proceedings” on page 133; |
| • | “Group performance — Dividends” on page 84; |
| • | “Consolidated financial statements — Notes to the consolidated financial statements — Financial commitments and contingent liabilities” on page 194; |
| • | “Information for shareholders — Dividends” on page 212; and |
| • | “Information for shareholders — Articles of Association (Articles) — Dividends” on page 215 |
of the Annual Report 2015 is incorporated herein by reference.
8.B Significant changes
The information set forth under the heading “Directors’ information — Going concern” on page 130 of the Annual Report 2015 is incorporated herein by reference.
9A. Offer and listing details
The information set forth under the heading “Information for shareholders — Stock exchange listings — Share and ADS prices” on page 210 of the Annual Report 2015 is incorporated herein by reference.
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9B. Plan of distribution
Not applicable
9C. Markets
The information set forth under the heading “Information for shareholders — Stock exchange listings” on page 210 of the Annual Report 2015 is incorporated herein by reference.
9D. Selling shareholders
Not applicable
9E. Dilution
Not applicable
9F. Expenses of the issue
Not applicable
ITEM 10. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
10A. Share capital
Not applicable
10B. Memorandum and articles of association
The information set forth under the heading “Information for shareholders — Articles of Association (Articles)” on page 215 of the Annual Report 2015 is incorporated herein by reference.
10C. Material contracts
The information set forth under the heading “Information for shareholders — Material contracts” on page 217 of the Annual Report 2015 is incorporated herein by reference.
10D. Exchange controls
The information set forth under the heading “Information for shareholders — Limitations affecting security holders” on page 225 of the Annual Report 2015 is incorporated herein by reference.
10E. Taxation
The information set forth under the heading “Information for shareholders — Taxation (US Holders)” on page 223 of the Annual Report 2015 is incorporated herein by reference.
10F. Dividends and paying agents
Not applicable
10G. Statement by experts
Not applicable
10H. Documents on display
The information set forth under the heading “Information for shareholders — Documents on display” on page 225 of the Annual Report 2015 is incorporated herein by reference.
10I. Subsidiary information
Not applicable
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ITEM 11. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
The information set forth under the headings:
| • | “Consolidated financial statements — Notes to the consolidated financial statements — Significant accounting policies — Financial instruments” on page 154; and |
| • | “Consolidated financial statements — Notes to the consolidated financial statements — Financial instruments and risk management” on page 187 |
of the Annual Report 2015 is incorporated herein by reference.
ITEM 12. DESCRIPTION OF SECURITIES OTHER THAN EQUITY SECURITIES
12.D American Depositary Shares
During the 2015 financial year, the Company received direct and indirect payments from the Depositary of USD 750,418 which included the annual NYSE listing fee, investor relations expenses and other costs relating to the ADR program.
The Depositary also waived fees of USD 215,000 for administering the ADR program. The following table sets out the fees charged to ADR holders:
| Category (as defined by SEC) |
Depositary Actions |
Associated Fee | ||
| (a) Depositing or substituting the underlying shares | Each person to whom ADRs are issued against deposits of Shares, including deposits and issuances in respect of:
• Share distributions, stock split, rights, merger
• Exchange of securities or any other transaction or event or other distribution affecting the ADSs or the Deposited Securities |
USD 5.00 for each 100 ADSs (or portion thereof) evidenced by the new ADRs delivered | ||
| (b) Receiving or distributing dividends | Distribution of dividends | USD 0.02 or less per ADS | ||
| (c) Selling or exercising rights | Distribution or sale of securities, the fee being in an amount equal to the fee for the execution and delivery of ADSs which would have been charged as a result of the deposit of such securities | USD 5.00 for each 100 ADSs (or portion thereof) | ||
| (d) Withdrawing an underlying security | Acceptance of ADRs surrendered for withdrawal of deposited securities | USD 5.00 for each 100 ADSs (or portion thereof) evidenced by the ADRs surrendered | ||
| (e) Transferring, splitting or grouping receipts | Transfers, combining or grouping of depositary receipts | USD 2.50 per ADS | ||
| (f) General depositary services, particularly those charged on an annual basis | • Other services performed by the depositary in administering the ADRs
• Provide information about the depositary’s right, if any, to collect fees and charges by offsetting them against dividends received and deposited securities |
USD 0.02 per ADS (or portion thereof) not more than once each calendar year and payable at the sole discretion of the depositary by billing Holders or by deducting such charge from one or more cash dividends or other case distributions | ||
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| Category (as defined by SEC) |
Depositary Actions |
Associated Fee | ||
| (g) Expenses of the depositary | Expenses incurred on behalf of Holders in connection with
• Compliance with foreign exchange control regulations or any law or regulation relating to foreign investment
• The depositary’s or its custodian’s compliance with applicable law, rule or regulation
• Stock transfer or other taxes and other governmental charges
• Cable, telex, facsimile transmission/delivery
• Expenses of the depositary in connection with the conversion of foreign currency into U.S. dollars (which are paid out of such foreign currency)
• Any other charge payable by depositary or its agents |
Expenses payable at the sole discretion of the depositary by billing Holders or by deducting charges from one or more cash dividends or other cash distributions |
ITEM 13. DEFAULTS, DIVIDEND ARREARAGES AND DELINQUENCIES
Not applicable
ITEM 14. MATERIAL MODIFICATIONS TO THE RIGHTS OF SECURITY HOLDERS AND USE OF PROCEEDS
Not applicable
ITEM 15. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
The information set forth under the headings:
| • | “General Information — US Regulation — US Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002” on page 131; |
| • | “General Information — US Regulation — Disclosure controls and procedures” on page 131; |
| • | “General Information — US Regulation — Internal control over financial reporting” on page 132; and |
| • | “Report of the independent auditors — Consolidated financial statements — United States opinion” on page 143 |
of the Annual Report 2015 is incorporated herein by reference.
ITEM 16A. AUDIT COMMITTEE FINANCIAL EXPERT
The information set forth under the heading “General Information — US Regulation — US Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002” on page 131 of the Annual Report 2015 is incorporated herein by reference.
The information set forth under the heading “General Information — US Regulation — US Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002” on page 131 of the Annual Report 2015 is incorporated herein by reference.
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ITEM 16C. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES
16C.(a) Audit Fees
The information set forth in the table under the heading “Audit services” in “Consolidated financial statements — Notes to the consolidated financial statements — Audit, audit related and other non-audit services” on page 160 of the Annual Report 2015 is incorporated herein by reference.
16C.(b) Audit-Related Fees
The information set forth in the table under the heading “Audit related assurance services” in “Consolidated financial statements — Notes to the consolidated financial statements — Audit, audit related and other non-audit services” on page 160 of the Annual Report 2015 is incorporated herein by reference.
16C.(c) Tax Fees
The information set forth in the table under the headings “Other non-audit services — Taxation compliance services” and “Other non-audit services — Taxation advisory services” in “Consolidated financial statements — Notes to the consolidated financial statements — Audit, audit related and other non-audit services” on page 160 of the Annual Report 2015 is incorporated herein by reference.
16C.(d) All Other Fees
The information set forth in the table under the headings “Other non-audit services — All other assurance services” and “Other non-audit services — All other services” in “Consolidated financial statements — Notes to the consolidated financial statements — Audit, audit related and other non-audit services” on page 160 of the Annual Report 2015 is incorporated herein by reference.
16C.(e)
The information set forth under the headings:
| • | “Reports of the Board committees — Audit & Risk Committee Chairman’s report” on page 101; and |
| • | “Consolidated financial statements — Notes to the consolidated financial statements — Audit, audit related and other non-audit services” on page 160 |
of the Annual Report 2015 is incorporated herein by reference.
16C.(f)
Not applicable
ITEM 16E. PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES BY THE ISSUER AND AFFILIATED PURCHASERS
The information set forth under the heading “Information for shareholders — Share buyback” on page 212 of the Annual Report 2015 is incorporated by reference.
ITEM 16F. CHANGE IN REGISTRANT’S CERTIFYING ACCOUNTANT
Not applicable
ITEM 16G. CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
The information set forth under the heading “General Information — US Regulation — New York Stock Exchange” on page 131 of the Annual Report 2015 is incorporated herein by reference.
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Not applicable
The financial information concerning the Company set forth under the headings:
| • | “Report of the independent auditors — Consolidated financial statements — United States opinion” on page 143; and |
| • | “Consolidated financial statements” on page 144 |
of the Annual Report 2015 is incorporated herein by reference.
The following exhibits are filed as part of this annual report:
| 1.1 | Articles of Association of the Company, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 1.1 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 20-F dated May 26, 2010 | |
| 4.1 | Service contract appointing Gavin Patterson as Group Chief Executive dated September 16, 2013, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 20-F dated May 22, 2014 | |
| 4.2 | Updated service contract of Tony Chanmugam, Group Finance Director, dated October 1, 2013 incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 20-F dated May 22, 2014 | |
| 4.3 | Letter of appointment of Warren East as a non-executive director, dated October 23, 2013 incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.3 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 20-F dated May 22, 2014 | |
| 4.4 | Updated letter of appointment for Nick Rose as a non-executive director, dated December 19, 2013 incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.4 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 20-F dated May 22, 2014 | |
| 4.5 | Updated letter of appointment for Tony Ball as a non-executive director, dated January 6, 2014 incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.5 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 20-F dated May 22, 2014 | |
| 4.6 | Updated letter of appointment for Warren East as a non-executive director, dated January 28, 2014 incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.6 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 20-F dated May 22, 2014 | |
| 4.7 | Updated letter of appointment for Phil Hodkinson as a non-executive director, dated January 29, 2014 incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.7 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 20-F dated May 22, 2014 | |
| 4.8 | Updated letter of appointment for Karen Richardson as a non-executive director, dated January 29, 2014 incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.8 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 20-F dated May 22, 2014 | |
| 4.9 | Updated letter of appointment for Jasmine Whitbread as a non-executive director, dated December 20, 2013 incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.9 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 20-F dated May 22, 2014 | |
| 4.10 | Letter of appointment of Iain Conn as a non-executive director, dated March 9, 2014 incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.10 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 20-F dated May 22, 2014 | |
| 4.11 | Letter of appointment of Isabel Hudson as a non-executive director, dated September 3, 2014 | |
| 4.12 | Share purchase agreement relating to the proposed acquisition of EE between the Company, T-Mobile Holdings Limited, Orange Telecommunications Group Limited and the guarantors named therein, dated February 5, 2015 | |
| 7.1 | Table of Financial ratios | |
| 8.1 | Significant subsidiaries as of March 31, 2015, see “Subsidiary undertakings” on page 199 of the Annual Report & Form 20-F 2015 included as Exhibit 15.2 | |
| 12.1 | Section 302 certification of Chief Executive | |
| 12.2 | Section 302 certification of Group Finance Director | |
| 13.1 | Section 906 certification | |
| 15.1 | Consent of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, independent registered public accounting firm | |
| 15.2* | Annual Report & Form 20-F 2015 | |
| * | Certain of the information included within Exhibit 15.2, which is provided pursuant to Rule 12b-23(a)(3) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, is incorporated by reference in this Form 20-F, as specified elsewhere in this Form 20-F. With the exception of the items and pages so specified, the Annual Report & Form 20-F is not deemed to be filed as part of this Form 20-F. |
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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.
| BT Group plc | ||
| /s/ Tony Chanmugam | ||
| Name: Tony Chanmugam | ||
| Title: Group Finance Director | ||
Date: May 21, 2015
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