REPORT OF FOREIGN PRIVATE ISSUER
PURSUANT TO RULE 13a-16 OR 15a-16 OF
THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
Report on Form 6-K dated February 1, 2006
Partner
Communications Company Ltd.
(Translation of Registrants Name Into English)
8 Amal Street
Afeq Industrial
Park
Rosh Haayin 48103
Israel
(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 o
(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 o No x
(If Yes is marked, indicate below the file
number assigned to the
registrant
in connection with Rule 12g3-2(b): 82- )
This Form 6-K is incorporated by reference into the Companys Registration Statement on Form F-3 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on December 26, 2001 (Registration No. 333-14222).
Enclosure: | Press Release dated February 1, 2006 re: Partner Communications 2005 Annual Results. |
PARTNER COMMUNICATIONS 2005 ANNUAL RESULTS
COMPANY MAINTAINS REVENUE AND EBITDA AT 2004 LEVEL
DESPITE REDUCTION IN TERMINATION RATES
103,000 3G SUBSCRIBERS AT YEAR END 2005
BOARD RECOMMENDS CASH DIVIDEND OF NIS 0.65 PER SHARE
Rosh Ha'ayin, Israel, February 1, 2006 - Partner Communications Company Ltd. (NASDAQ and TASE: PTNR; LSE: PCCD), a leading Israeli mobile communications operator, today announced its results for the year and quarter ended December 31st 2005.
Partner reported revenues in 2005 of NIS 5,122.9 million (US$ 1,113.0 million), EBITDA of NIS 1,568.6 million (US$ 340.8 million), equivalent to 30.6% of total revenue, and net income of NIS 354.6 million (US$ 77.0 million) or NIS 2.17 per diluted ADS or share (US$ 0.47 per ADS or share).
For the fourth quarter of 2005, Partner reported revenues of NIS 1,259.3 million (US$ 273.6 million), EBITDA of NIS 364.5 million (US$ 79.2 million), and net income of NIS 83.3 million (US$ 18.1 million).
Partner also reported that its 3G subscriber base stood at over 103,000 at year-end 2005.
The board has resolved to recommend to the shareholders to authorize the distribution of a cash dividend in the amount of NIS 0.65 per share (totaling approximately NIS 100 million) to shareholders on record as of April 10, 2006. The dividend payment is subject to the approval of the Companys shareholders.
1
Key Financial Results:
NIS '000 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004 |
2005 | ||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Revenues | 4,054,563 | 4,467,719 | 5,140,737 | 5,122,939 | ||||||||||
Cost of revenues | 3,069,458 | 3,136,456 | 3,615,014 | 3,766,352 | ||||||||||
Gross profit | 985,105 | 1,331,263 | 1,525,723 | 1,356,587 | ||||||||||
SG&A | 451,673 | 476,395 | 506,377 | 453,681 | ||||||||||
Operating profit | 533,432 | 854,868 | 1,019,346 | 902,906 | ||||||||||
Other expenses | 4,054 | 3,530 | - | - | ||||||||||
Financial expenses | 445,180 | 321,710 | 260,545 | 345,448 | ||||||||||
Income before taxes | 84,198 | 529,628 | 758,801 | 557,458 | ||||||||||
Tax benefit (tax expenses) | - | 633,022 | (287,248 | ) | (202,898 | ) | ||||||||
Net income for the period | 84,198 | 1,162,650 | 471,553 | 354,560 | ||||||||||
Cash flow from operating activities net of investing | ||||||||||||||
activities | (133,777 | ) | 654,723 | 599,186 | 459,632 |
NIS '000 |
Q4 2004 |
Q1 2005 |
Q2 2005 |
Q3 2005 |
Q4 2005 | ||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Revenues | 1,319,132 | 1,260,468 | 1,250,875 | 1,352,322 | 1,259,274 | ||||||||||||
Cost of revenues | 951,008 | 924,825 | 887,474 | 1,023,828 | 930,225 | ||||||||||||
Gross profit | 368,124 | 335,643 | 363,401 | 328,494 | 329,049 | ||||||||||||
SG&A | 125,830 | 98,873 | 111,645 | 117,327 | 125,836 | ||||||||||||
Operating profit | 242,294 | 236,770 | 251,756 | 211,167 | 203,213 | ||||||||||||
Financial Expenses & Other | 63,464 | 50,854 | 82,826 | 148,782 | 62,986 | ||||||||||||
Income before taxes | 178,830 | 185,916 | 168,930 | 62,385 | 140,227 | ||||||||||||
Tax expenses | 47,414 | 61,423 | 53,096 | 31,441 | 56,938 | ||||||||||||
Net income for period | 131,416 | 124,493 | 115,834 | 30,944 | 83,289 | ||||||||||||
Cash flow from operating activities net | |||||||||||||||||
of investing activities | 105,258 | 81,752 | 132,837 | 46,076 | 198,967 |
Key Operating Indicators:
2002 |
2003 |
2004 |
2005 | |||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
EBITDA (NIS millions) | 1,052 | 1,380 | 1,576 | 1,569 | ||||||||||
EBITDA as a percentage of total revenues | 26.0 | % | 30.9 | % | 30.7 | % | 30.6 | % | ||||||
Subscribers (thousands) | 1,837 | 2,103 | 2,340 | 2,529 | ||||||||||
Estimated Market Share (%) | 29 | % | 31 | % | 32 | % | 32 | % | ||||||
Annual Churn Rate (%) | 10.9 | % | 13.6 | % | 12.0 | % | 13.6 | % | ||||||
Average Monthly Usage per Subscriber (minutes) | 280 | 277 | 286 | 294 | ||||||||||
Average Monthly Revenue per Subscriber (NIS) | 183 | 171 | 170 | 156 | ||||||||||
Average Subscriber Acquisition Costs (NIS) | 470 | 362 | 295 | 282 |
2
Commenting on the 2005 annual results, Partners CEO, Amikam Cohen, said:
The results this year continue to demonstrate Partners ability to bring innovation and excellence to all aspects of the business. Once again, our core strengths in customer services, marketing and branding capabilities have been highly acclaimed. For the third year running, orange was chosen as the leading telecommunications brand in Israel and as the second most valuable brand in Israel by Globes, a leading Israeli business daily newspaper. We were also awarded the prestigious Effie Platinum award for our continued outstanding achievements in marketing activities over the last five years.
Furthermore, our push to lead the 3G revolution in Israel is already yielding fruits. By the end of 2005 over 103,000 subscribers were enjoying the wide range of 3G services we already offer over our 3G network. We are pleased with the progress we have made to date with 3G and are excited by the prospect that 3G network will deliver significant growth opportunities in the future.
Financial Review
Partners 2005 revenues totaled NIS 5,122.9 million (US$ 1,113.0 million), down 0.3% from NIS 5,140.7 million in 2004. Quarterly revenues decreased by 4.5%, from NIS 1,319.1 million in Q4 2004 to NIS 1,259.3 million (US$ 273.6 million) in Q4 2005.
2005 annual revenues from services totaled NIS 4,619.9 million (US$ 1,003.7 million), approximately equal to the revenues from services in 2004 of NIS 4,615.8 million. Revenues from services in Q4 2005 decreased by 3.8% to NIS 1,132.9 million (US$ 246.1 million), compared with NIS 1,177.8 million in Q4 2004.
Compared with 2004, total network minutes increased by 12.8%, offset by a 12.9% dilution in the average tariff per minute including incoming calls. The increase in total network minutes was driven primarily by an expanding subscriber base which grew by 8.1% from the end of 2004 to the end of 2005. The dilution in the average tariff per minute compared with 2004 was driven primarily by the reduction in interconnection tariffs which went into effect in March 2005, as well as increased competition and the increased weight of business subscribers in our customer base. The average business subscriber generates substantially more minutes of use than post-paid private and prepaid subscribers, whilst their average tariff per minute is materially lower. Compared with Q4 2004, revenues from services in Q4 2005 were lower primarily as a result of the reduction in interconnection tariffs which went into effect in March 2005, as well as a seasonal shift due to timing of the Jewish holidays which fell between Q3 and Q4 in 2004 but only in Q4 in 2005.
3
Revenues from equipment in 2005 were NIS 503.0 million (US$ 109.3 million), a decrease of 4.2% from NIS 525.0 million in 2004. In Q4 2005, equipment revenues decreased by 10.6% from NIS 141.4 million in Q4 2004 to NIS 126.4 million (US$ 27.5 million) in Q4 2005. The decrease compared with 2004 was driven primarily by a decrease in the average revenue per sale. Compared with Q4 2004, the decrease in Q4 2005 was caused by decreases in the average revenue per sale and in the number of sales to new and upgrading subscribers.
Data and content revenues, including SMS messages, in 2005 totaled NIS 404.2 million (US$ 87.8 million), accounting for 7.9% of total revenues or 8.7% of service revenues, up from NIS 351.1 million, or 6.8% of total revenues, 7.6% of service revenues, in 2004, despite the reduction in SMS interconnection tariffs. For Q4 2005, data and content revenues including SMS messages were NIS 110.4 million (US$ 24.0 million), 8.8% of total revenues or 9.7% of service revenues, up 17.0% from NIS 94.3 million, 7.2% of total revenues or 8.0% of service revenues in Q4 2004. Both the annual and quarterly increases compared with 2004 were driven by data and content non-SMS service revenues which increased by 34.5%. Revenues from SMS services in 2005 decreased by 4.0% compared with 2004, reflecting the reduction in SMS interconnect tariffs from March 2005, as mandated by the Ministry of Communications. In 2005, SMS messages accounted for approximately 42% of data and content revenues, compared with approximately 50% in 2004.
The total cost of revenues in 2005 increased by 4.2% from NIS 3,615.0 million in 2004 to NIS 3,766.4 million (US$ 818.2 million) in 2005. For Q4 2005, the cost of revenues decreased by 2.2% compared with Q4 2004, from NIS 951.0 million to NIS 930.2 million (US$ 202.1 million).
The cost of revenues related to services in 2005 was NIS 3,022.5 million (US$ 656.6 million), representing a 4.8% increase from NIS 2,885.1 million in 2004. The increase was primarily driven by the increased depreciation and amortization of over NIS 100 million related to the launch of the 3G network towards the end of 2004 together with the additional network expenses associated with the 3G network. Compared with Q4 2004, the cost of revenues related to services increased by 2.3% from NIS 739.5 million to NIS 756.8 million (US$ 164.4 million) in Q4 2005. The increase was again due primarily to depreciation, amortization and network expenses related to the 3G network.
4
The cost of revenues related to equipment totaled NIS 743.9 million (US$ 161.6 million) in 2005, an increase of 1.9% from NIS 729.9 million in 2004. The increase was driven primarily by the marketing of more advanced and higher cost handsets and approximately 5% growth in sales transactions to new and upgrading subscribers. For Q4 2005, the cost revenues related to equipment was NIS 173.4 million (US$ 37.7 million), down 18.0% from NIS 211.5 million in Q4 2004, driven primarily by an approximate 12% decrease in sales transactions to new and upgrading subscribers.
Overall, 2005 gross profit was NIS 1,356.6 million (US$ 294.7 million), the equivalent of 26.5% of revenues, down 11.1% from NIS 1,525.7 million, or 29.7% of revenues, in 2004. Gross profit for Q4 2005 was NIS 329.0 million (US$ 71.5 million), 26.1% of revenues, down 10.6% from NIS 368.1 million, or 27.9% of revenues, in Q4 2004. Both the annual and quarterly decreases can be primarily attributed to the increased depreciation, amortization and network expenses related to the Companys 3G network.
Selling and marketing expenses in 2005 totaled NIS 272.9 million (US$ 59.3 million), representing an annual decrease of 16.1% from NIS 325.2 million in 2004. The decrease was principally due to reductions in distribution and advertising costs. Compared with Q4 2004, selling and marketing expenses increased by 2.2% from NIS 76.3 million to NIS 78.0 million (US$ 16.9 million) in Q4 2005, due primarily to end of year promotional campaigns.
General and administrative expenses were NIS 180.8 million (US$ 39.3 million) in 2005, down 0.2% from NIS 181.1 million in 2004. For Q4 2005, general and administrative expenses decreased by 3.4% from NIS 49.5 million in Q4 2004 to NIS 47.8 million (US$ 10.4 million), primarily reflecting a decrease in payroll expenses.
5
The decreases in both general and administrative expenses and selling and marketing expenses reflect the cost-cutting measures the Company put in place as part of its plan to mitigate the effects of the inter-carrier termination rate reductions that were mandated by the Ministry of Communications.
Overall, operating profit for 2005 was NIS 902.9 million (US$ 196.2 million), representing a decrease of 11.4% from NIS 1,019.3 million in 2004. As a percentage of revenues, operating profit decreased from 19.8% in 2004 to 17.6% in 2005. Q4 2005 operating profit was NIS 203.2 million (US$ 44.1 million), 16.1% of revenues, a decrease of 16.1% from NIS 242.3 million, or 18.4% of revenues, in Q4 2004. Both decreases can be primarily attributed to the impact of the inter-carrier termination rate reductions that were mandated by the Ministry of Communications, as well as the increased depreciation, amortization and network expenses related to the Companys 3G network.
The Company recorded annual EBITDA for 2005 of NIS 1,568.6 million (US$ 340.8 million), the equivalent of 30.6% of revenues, down 0.5% from NIS 1,576.0 million, or 30.7% of revenues in 2004. EBITDA for Q4 2005 was NIS 364.5 million (US$ 79.2 million), a 7.2% decrease from NIS 392.7 million in Q4 2004.
Financial expenses were NIS 345.4 million (US$ 75.0 million) in 2005, an increase of 32.6% from NIS 260.5 million in 2004. The increase was primarily driven by a one-off charge in the amount of NIS 63 million related to the redemption of the US$ 175 million 13% Senior Subordinated Notes on August 15, 2005, interest charges related to both the redeemed Notes and the new CPI-linked shekel-denominated Notes and a one-off amortization of capitalized expenses related to the Companys previous bank facility. Q4 2005 financial expenses decreased by 0.8% from NIS 63.5 million in Q4 2004 to NIS 63.0 million (US$ 13.7 million).
Net income in 2005 was NIS 354.6 million (US$ 77.0 million) or earnings of NIS 2.19 (US$ 0.48) per basic ADS or share (NIS 2.17 per diluted ADS or share), representing a 24.8% decrease from NIS 471.6 million, or earnings of NIS 2.57 per basic ADS or share (NIS 2.56 per diluted ADS or share), in 2004. Q4 2005 net income was NIS 83.3 million (US$ 18.1 million), down 36.6% from NIS 131.4 million in Q4 2004. The decrease in 2005 net income compared with 2004 resulted primarily from the financial expenses related to the restructuring of the Companys debt, the impact of the inter-carrier termination rate reductions that were mandated by the Ministry of Communications, and the increased depreciation, amortization and network expenses related to the Companys 3G network.
6
Funding and Investing Review
On March 31, 2005, Partner completed an offering of NIS 2.0 billion of unsecured Series A notes, which were issued at their NIS par value. The notes were registered in Israel. Of these notes, approximately NIS 36.5 million was purchased by Partner Future Communications 2000 Ltd. (PFC), a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company. The net proceeds from the offering (received on April 3, 2005) were approximately NIS 1,929 million (US$ 419 million) after deducting the notes purchased by PFC, commissions and offering expenses.
The principal amount of the Notes is payable in 12 quarterly installments, beginning June 30, 2009 until March 31, 2012. The Notes, linked to the Israeli Consumer Price Index, bear NIS interest at the rate of 4.25% per year, which is payable quarterly on the last day of each quarter, commencing June 30, 2005.
On April 14, 2005 the Company entered into a new $550 million bank credit facility. The facility is divided into two tranches: a six year $450 million term loan facility and a six year $100 million revolving loan facility, and is secured by a first ranking floating charge on the Companys assets. The new credit facility replaced the Companys previous facility.
On April 20, 2005, the Company repurchased approximately 33.3 million of its shares pursuant to an offer received from its founding Israeli Shareholders in February 2005. These shareholders held together approximately 22.5% of the Companys outstanding shares at the time of the offer. As a result of the repurchase, the collective shareholdings of the founding Israeli shareholders were reduced to approximately 5.4% of the Companys issued and outstanding share capital. The price per share at which these shares were acquired was NIS 32.2216 per share. The total consideration paid for the shares was approximately NIS 1,074 million. The Company cancelled the repurchased shares.
On May 1, 2005, following the Companys offering of NIS 2 billion of unsecured Series A notes, the Company exercised an option to reduce the term facility to $150 million (in addition to an advance of approximately $25 million carried over from the Companys previous facility), and to change the final maturity date of both facilities to September 1, 2009.
7
On August 15, 2005, the Company redeemed its outstanding US$ 175 million 13% Senior Subordinated Notes, due 2010. According to the terms of the Notes, the redemption price was 106.5% of the principal amount. The redemption, which was financed from the Companys new bank facility and funds generated from current operations, concluded the refinancing of the Companys long term debt into lower cost CPI linked shekel-denominated debt.
On September 13, 2005, the Companys shareholders approved the distribution of a cash dividend of NIS 0.57 per share (approximately NIS 86.8 million or US$ 18.9 million) to shareholders on record as of September 26, 2005.
On January 22, 2006, the Company signed an agreement with MED I.C.- 1 (1999) Ltd (Med 1) to purchase the transmission business activity of MED 1, for a consideration of approximately US$ 15 million, subject to certain adjustments. The transaction is subject to fulfillment of the closing conditions.
Cash flows generated from operating activities in 2005, net of cash flows from investing activities, totaled NIS 459.6 million (US$ 99.9 million), compared with NIS 599.2 million in 2004, a decrease of 23.3%. The decrease was primarily due to a decrease in cash flows from operating activities, offset by a decrease in the level of investment in fixed assets. The main reasons for the decrease in cash flows from operating activities were the payment of one-off charges related to the redemption of the US$ 175 million 13% Senior Subordinated Notes, interest charges related to both the redeemed Notes and the new CPI-linked shekel-denominated Notes and inventory increases. Q4 2005 cash flows generated from operating activities, net of cash flows from investing activities, increased by 89.0% from NIS 105.3 million in Q4 2004 to NIS 199.0 million (US$ 43.2 million), primarily due to a decrease in the level of investment in fixed assets.
Net investment in fixed assets in 2005 totaled NIS 486.4 million (US$ 105.7 million), compared with NIS 601.0 million in 2004. The Company substantially completed its 3G coverage build-out in Q3 2005, achieving over 90% nationwide population coverage by year-end.
8
Approximately 189,000 net active subscribers joined the Company in 2005 compared with approximately 237,000 in 2004, with the business sector accounting for approximately 39% of net new active subscribers over the year. The Companys active subscriber base at the end of December 2005 was approximately 2,529,000, including approximately 507,000 business subscribers or 20% of the base, approximately 1,268,000 postpaid private subscribers, or 50% of the base, and approximately 754,000 prepaid subscribers, or 30% of the base. Of the Companys subscriber base, approximately 103,000 were 3G subscribers. We estimate our 2005 year-end market share to be around 32%
The annual churn rate in 2005 increased to 13.6% from 12.0% in 2004, the increase primarily due the prepaid sector.
Average monthly usage per subscriber (MOU) for 2005 was 294 minutes, an increase of 2.8% compared with 286 minutes in 2004. In 2005, average monthly revenue per subscriber (ARPU) was NIS 156 (US$ 33.9), a decrease of 8.2% compared with approximately NIS 170 in 2004. The decrease in ARPU is attributed primarily to the reduction in interconnection charges mandated by the Ministry of Communications, despite the increase in MOU.
Although handset subsidies per new subscriber increased in 2005 compared with 2004, the average cost of acquiring a new subscriber (SAC) in 2005 went down from NIS 295 in 2004 to NIS 282 (US$ 61.3). The reduction reflects a reduction in non-handset subsidy components of SAC including commissions.
Commenting on the Companys results, Mr. Alan Gelman, Partners Chief Financial Officer said: We are pleased with Partners performance this year. 2005 posed a number of challenges, including the reduction in interconnect tariffs and additional expenses arising from the launch of our 3G network. Despite these challenges we have maintained EBITDA at the level of the previous year by restructuring our tariffs and customer offerings and by reducing costs.
9
Furthermore, we have invested this year in two major courses of action designed to significantly improve the future financial success of the Company. First, we have restructured our debt into lower cost CPI linked shekel-denominated debt which will reduce future financial expenses. Second, we have continued to demonstrate our commitment to 3G services by advancing the roll-out the 3G network to near-full population coverage, introducing four new 3G handsets and a 3G datacard for business users, and developing a range of content services that can only be experienced on our 3G network. These investments in 3G will increase profit opportunities going forward.
Commenting on the Companys outlook, Mr. Alan Gelman, Partners Chief Financial Officer said: Looking forward to 2006, given the highly penetrated market, we expect the rate at which we continue to add net subscribers to be lower than in 2005. With respect to 3G subscriber growth in 2006, we anticipate that lower 3G handset prices should reduce the price differential from 2G handset prices and drive 3G subscriber growth higher.
We also expect revenues to grow in 2006, despite the decline in ARPU that will result primarily from the 9% decline in inter-carrier termination rates from March 2006, as mandated by the Ministry of Communications. Along with a rise in revenues, we foresee increases in operating income, net income and earnings per share and all related margins in 2006. We expect to continue to grow shareholder value in 2006, with the EPS to increase substantially due to higher operating income, substantially lower financial expenses, resulting from the refinancing of our long-term debt in 2005, and the lower average shares outstanding after we repurchased approximately 17% of our outstanding shares from our founding Israeli shareholders. We anticipate that capital expenditures which were lower in 2005 compared with 2004 will rise in 2006, owing to the infrastructure transaction with Med-1. The additional infrastructure purchased from Med-1 will enable us to reduce operating costs over the long-term. In addition, we expect subscriber acquisition and retention costs per subscriber to be higher due to higher subsidies on 3G handsets as compared to 2G handsets. Furthermore, we expect churn to continue to increase, primarily in the prepaid sector.
10
Partner Communications will hold a conference call to discuss the companys 2005 full-year and fourth-quarter results on Wednesday, February 01, 2006, at 17:00 Israel local time (10AM EST). This conference call will be broadcast live over the Internet and can be accessed by all interested parties through our investor relations web site at http://www.investors.partner.co.il.
To listen to the broadcast, please go to the web site at least 15 minutes prior to the start of the call to register, download and install any necessary audio software. For those unable to listen to the live broadcast, an archive of the call will be available via the Internet (at the same location as the live broadcast) shortly after the call ends, and until midnight of February 08, 2006.
Partner Communications Company Ltd. (Partner) is a leading Israeli mobile communications operator providing GSM/ GPRS/ UMTS services and wire free applications under the orange brand. The Company commenced full commercial operations in January 1999 and, through its network, provides quality service and a range of features to 2.529 million subscribers in Israel. Partner subscribers can use roaming services in 163 destinations using 349 GSM networks. The Company launched its 3G service in 2004. Partners ADSs are quoted on NASDAQ under the symbol PTNR and on the London Stock Exchange under the symbol PCCD. Its shares are quoted on the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange under the symbol PTNR.
Partner is a subsidiary of Hutchison
Telecommunications International Limited (Hutchison Telecom). Hutchison Telecom is a
leading listed telecommunications operator (SEHK: 2332; NYSE: HTX) focusing on dynamic
markets. It currently offers mobile and fixed-line telecommunication services in Hong
Kong, and operates or is rolling out mobile telecommunication services in India, Israel,
Macau, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Ghana, Indonesia and Vietnam.
For more information about
Partner, see www.investors.partner.co.il
Notes: Some of the information in this release contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. We have based these forward-looking statements on our current expectations and projections about future events. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions about us.
11
Words such as believe, anticipate, expect, intend, seek, will, plan, could, may, project, goal, target and similar expressions often identify forward-looking statements but are not the only way we identify these statements. All statements other than statements of historical fact included in this annual report regarding our future performance, plans to increase revenues or margins or preserve or expand market share in existing or new markets, reduce expenses and any statements regarding other future events or our future prospects, are forward-looking statements.
Because such statements involve risks and uncertainties, actual results may differ materially from the results currently expected. Factors that could cause such differences include, but are not limited to:
the effects of the high degree of regulation in the telecommunications market in which we operate;
regulatory developments relating to tariffs, including interconnect tariffs;
the difficulties associated with obtaining all permits required for building and operating of antenna sites;
alleged health risks related to antenna sites and use of telecommunication devices;
the possible requirement to indemnify planning committees in respect of claims made against them relating to the depreciation of property values or to alleged health damages resulting from antenna sites;
the effects of vigorous competition in the market in which we operate and for more valuable customers, which may decrease prices charged, increase churn and change our customer mix, profitability and average revenue per user, and the response of competitors to industry and regulatory developments;
the impact of existing and new competitors in the market in which we compete, including competitors that may offer less expensive products and services, desirable or innovative products, technological substitutes, or have extensive resources or better financing;
uncertainties about the degree of growth in the number of consumers in Israel using wireless personal communications services and the growth in the Israeli population;
12
the risks associated with the implementation of a third generation (3G) network and business strategy, including risks relating to the operations of new systems and technologies, expenditures required and potential unanticipated costs, uncertainties regarding the adequacy of suppliers on whom we must rely to provide both network and consumer equipment and consumer acceptance of the products and services to be offered;
the risks associated with technological requirements, technology substitution and changes and othertechnological developments;
fluctuations in foreign exchange rates;
the availability and cost of capital and the consequences of increased leverage;
the results of litigation filed or that may be filed against us; and
the possibility of the market in which we compete being impacted by changes in political, economic or other factors, such as monetary policy, legal and regulatory changes or other external factors over which we have no control;
As well as the risk factors specified under the heading Risk Factors in our 2004 annual report on form 20-F filed with the SEC on April 22, 2005.
The attached financial results were prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP.
The convenience translations of the Nominal New Israeli Shekel (NIS) figures into US Dollars were made at the rate of exchange prevailing at December 31st, 2005: US $1.00 equals NIS 4.603. The translations were made purely for the convenience of the reader.
Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization, exceptional items and capitalization of intangible assets (EBITDA) is presented because it is a measure commonly used in the telecommunications industry and is presented solely in order to improve the understanding of the Companys operating results and to provide further perspective on these results. EBITDA, however, should not be considered as an alternative to operating income or income for the year as an indicator of the operating performance of the Company. Similarly, EBITDA should not be considered as an alternative to cash flows from operating activities as a measure of liquidity. EBITDA is not a measure of financial performance under generally accepted accounting principles and may not be comparable to other similarly titled measures for other companies. EBITDA may not be indicative of the historic operating results of the Company; nor is it meant to be predictive of potential future results.
13
Reconciliation between our cash flows from operating activities and EBIDTA is presented in the attached summary financial results.
Contacts:
Mr. Alan Gelman | Dr. Dan Eldar | ||
Chief Financial Officer | V.P. Carrier, Investor and International Relations | ||
Tel: | +972-54-7814951 | Tel: | +972-54-7814151 |
Fax: | +972-54-7815961 | Fax: | +972-54 -7814161 |
E-mail: | alan.gelman@orange.co.il | E-mail: | dan.eldar@orange.co.il |
14
PARTNER COMMUNICATIONS COMPANY LTD.
(An Israeli Corporation)
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
December 31 |
|||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
2004 |
2005 |
2005 | |||||||||
New Israeli shekels |
Convenience translation into U.S. dollars |
||||||||||
In thousands |
|||||||||||
A s s e t s | |||||||||||
CURRENT ASSETS: | |||||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents | 4,611 | 4,008 | 871 | ||||||||
Accounts receivable: | |||||||||||
Trade | 625,220 | 795,156 | 172,747 | ||||||||
Other | 70,158 | 97,128 | 21,101 | ||||||||
Inventories | 101,656 | 209,323 | 45,476 | ||||||||
Deferred income taxes | 255,503 | 65,361 | 14,200 | ||||||||
T o t a l current assets | 1,057,148 | 1,170,976 | 254,395 | ||||||||
INVESTMENTS AND LONG-TERM RECEIVABLES: | |||||||||||
Accounts receivable - trade | 96,687 | 189,013 | 41,062 | ||||||||
Funds in respect of employee rights upon retirement | 69,128 | 75,443 | 16,390 | ||||||||
165,815 | 264,456 | 57,452 | |||||||||
FIXED ASSETS, net of accumulated depreciation and | |||||||||||
amortization | 1,843,182 | 1,768,895 | 384,292 | ||||||||
LICENSE AND DEFERRED CHARGES, | |||||||||||
net of accumulated amortization | 1,325,592 | 1,321,167 | 287,023 | ||||||||
DEFERRED INCOME TAXES | 94,442 | 86,505 | 18,793 | ||||||||
T o t a l assets | 4,486,179 | 4,611,999 | 1,001,955 | ||||||||
15
December 31 |
|||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
2004 |
2005 |
2005 | |||||||||
New Israeli shekels |
Convenience translation into U.S. dollars |
||||||||||
In thousands |
|||||||||||
Liabilities and shareholders' equity | |||||||||||
CURRENT LIABILITIES: | |||||||||||
Current maturities of long-term liabilities | 34,464 | 7,487 | |||||||||
Accounts payable and accruals: | |||||||||||
Trade | 552,377 | 665,542 | 144,589 | ||||||||
Other | 307,364 | 231,480 | 50,289 | ||||||||
Related party - trade | 10,513 | 2,284 | |||||||||
Dividend payable | 44,996 | 9,775 | |||||||||
T o t a l current liabilities | 859,741 | 986,995 | 214,424 | ||||||||
LONG-TERM LIABILITIES: | |||||||||||
Bank loans, net of current maturities | 1,185,088 | 665,974 | 144,682 | ||||||||
Notes payable | 753,900 | 2,022,257 | 439,335 | ||||||||
Liability for employee rights upon retirement | 92,808 | 102,238 | 22,211 | ||||||||
Other liabilities | 7,567 | 19,184 | 4,168 | ||||||||
T o t a l long-term liabilities | 2,039,363 | 2,809,653 | 610,396 | ||||||||
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENT LIABILITIES | |||||||||||
T o t a l liabilities | 2,899,104 | 3,796,648 | 824,820 | ||||||||
SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY: | |||||||||||
Share capital - ordinary shares of NIS 0.01 par | |||||||||||
value: authorized - December 31, 2004 and 2005 - | |||||||||||
235,000,000 shares; issued and outstanding - | |||||||||||
December 31, 2004 - 184,037,221 shares and | |||||||||||
December 31, 2005 - 152,528,288 shares issued | 1,840 | 1,525 | 331 | ||||||||
Less - receivables in respect of shares | (2,260 | ) | |||||||||
Capital surplus | 2,362,027 | 2,401,160 | 521,651 | ||||||||
Deferred compensation | (23,650 | ) | (12,735 | ) | (2,766 | ) | |||||
Accumulated deficit | (750,882 | ) | (1,574,599 | ) | (342,081 | ) | |||||
T o t a l shareholders' equity | 1,587,075 | 815,351 | 177,135 | ||||||||
4,486,179 | 4,611,999 | 1,001,955 | |||||||||
16
PARTNER COMMUNICATIONS COMPANY LTD.
(An Israeli Corporation)
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
Year ended December 31 |
||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
2003 |
2004 |
2005 |
2005 | |||||||||||
New Israeli shekels |
Convenience translation into U.S. dollars |
|||||||||||||
In thousands (except per share data) |
||||||||||||||
REVENUES - net: | ||||||||||||||
Services | 4,117,887 | 4,615,781 | 4,619,932 | 1,003,679 | ||||||||||
Equipment | 349,832 | 524,956 | 503,007 | 109,278 | ||||||||||
4,467,719 | 5,140,737 | 5,122,939 | 1,112,957 | |||||||||||
COST OF REVENUES: | ||||||||||||||
Services | 2,586,707 | 2,885,077 | 3,022,480 | 656,633 | ||||||||||
Equipment | 549,749 | 729,937 | 743,872 | 161,606 | ||||||||||
3,136,456 | 3,615,014 | 3,766,352 | 818,239 | |||||||||||
GROSS PROFIT | 1,331,263 | 1,525,723 | 1,356,587 | 294,718 | ||||||||||
SELLING AND MARKETING EXPENSES | 314,008 | 325,244 | 272,900 | 59,287 | ||||||||||
GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES | 162,387 | 181,133 | 180,781 | 39,275 | ||||||||||
OPERATING PROFIT | 854,868 | 1,019,346 | 902,906 | 196,156 | ||||||||||
FINANCIAL EXPENSES, net | 321,710 | 260,545 | 345,448 | 75,048 | ||||||||||
LOSS ON IMPAIRMENT OF | ||||||||||||||
INVESTMENTS IN | ||||||||||||||
NON-MARKETABLE | ||||||||||||||
SECURITIES | 3,530 | |||||||||||||
INCOME BEFORE TAX | 529,628 | 758,801 | 557,458 | 121,108 | ||||||||||
TAX BENEFIT (TAX EXPENSES) | 633,022 | (287,248 | ) | (202,898 | ) | (44,080 | ) | |||||||
NET INCOME FOR THE YEAR | 1,162,650 | 471,553 | 354,560 | 77,028 | ||||||||||
EARNINGS PER SHARE (EPS): | ||||||||||||||
Basic | 6.39 | 2.57 | 2.19 | 0.48 | ||||||||||
Diluted | 6.34 | 2.56 | 2.17 | 0.47 | ||||||||||
WEIGHTED AVERAGE NUMBER OF | ||||||||||||||
SHARES OUTSTANDING: | ||||||||||||||
Basic | 181,930,803 | 183,389,383 | 161,711,125 | 161,711,125 | ||||||||||
Diluted | 183,243,157 | 184,108,917 | 163,617,272 | 163,617,272 | ||||||||||
17
PARTNER COMMUNICATIONS COMPANY LTD.
(An Israeli Corporation)
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
Year ended December 31 |
||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
2003 |
2004 |
2005 |
2005 | |||||||||||
New Israeli shekels |
Convenience translation into U.S. dollars |
|||||||||||||
In thousands |
||||||||||||||
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES: | ||||||||||||||
Net income for the year | 1,162,650 | 471,553 | 354,560 | 77,028 | ||||||||||
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash | ||||||||||||||
provided by operating activities: | ||||||||||||||
Depreciation and amortization | 536,871 | 558,222 | 683,503 | 148,490 | ||||||||||
Loss on impairment of investments in | ||||||||||||||
non-marketable securities | 3,530 | |||||||||||||
Amortization of deferred compensation related | ||||||||||||||
to employee stock option grants, net | 5,177 | 10,720 | 10,353 | 2,249 | ||||||||||
Liability for employee rights upon retirement | 15,540 | 16,302 | 9,430 | 2,049 | ||||||||||
Deferred income taxes | (633,752 | ) | 283,807 | 198,079 | 43,033 | |||||||||
Income tax benefit in respect of exercise of options | ||||||||||||||
granted to employees | 730 | 3,440 | 4,820 | 1,047 | ||||||||||
Accrued interest, exchange and linkage | ||||||||||||||
differences on (erosion of) long-term liabilities | (67,438 | ) | (10,258 | ) | 108,411 | 23,552 | ||||||||
Erosion of security deposit | 8,877 | |||||||||||||
Amount carried to deferred charges | (13,820 | ) | (3,002 | ) | ||||||||||
Capital loss (gain) on sale of fixed assets | (7,829 | ) | (391 | ) | 493 | 107 | ||||||||
Changes in operating asset and liability items: | ||||||||||||||
Decrease (increase) in accounts receivable: | ||||||||||||||
Trade | 22,721 | (225,860 | ) | (262,262 | ) | (56,976 | ) | |||||||
Other | (5,557 | ) | (13,615 | ) | (26,970 | ) | (5,859 | ) | ||||||
Increase (decrease) in accounts payable and | ||||||||||||||
accruals: | ||||||||||||||
Related parties | 10,513 | 2,284 | ||||||||||||
Trade | (93,444 | ) | 135,600 | 112,857 | 24,518 | |||||||||
Other | 47,541 | 41,613 | (75,884 | ) | (16,486 | ) | ||||||||
Increase (decrease) in asset retirement obligations | 1,228 | 464 | (92 | ) | (20 | ) | ||||||||
Decrease (increase) in inventories | 34,647 | 1,205 | (107,667 | ) | (23,391 | ) | ||||||||
Net cash provided by operating activities | 1,031,492 | 1,272,802 | 1,006,324 | 218,623 | ||||||||||
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES: | ||||||||||||||
Purchase of fixed assets | (350,344 | ) | (609,795 | ) | (498,851 | ) | (108,374 | ) | ||||||
Proceeds from sale of fixed assets | 12,309 | 552 | 16 | 3 | ||||||||||
Withdrawal of security deposit | 98,917 | |||||||||||||
Purchase of additional spectrum | (121,388 | ) | (53,969 | ) | (41,542 | ) | (9,025 | ) | ||||||
Funds in respect of employee rights upon retirement | (16,263 | ) | (10,404 | ) | (6,315 | ) | (1,372 | ) | ||||||
Net cash used in investing activities | (376,769 | ) | (673,616 | ) | (546,692 | ) | (118,768 | ) | ||||||
18
PARTNER COMMUNICATIONS COMPANY LTD.
(An Israeli Corporation)
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
Year ended December 31 |
||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
2003 |
2004 |
2005 |
2005 | |||||||||||
New Israeli shekels |
Convenience translation into U.S. Dollars |
|||||||||||||
In thousands |
||||||||||||||
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES: | ||||||||||||||
Repayment of capital lease | (1,893 | ) | (411 | ) | ||||||||||
Repurchase of company's shares (including purchase cost of NIS 17,591,000 ($ 3,900,000)) | (1,091,841 | ) | (237,202 | ) | ||||||||||
Issuance of notes payable under a prospectus, net of issuance | ||||||||||||||
costs | 1,929,223 | 419,123 | ||||||||||||
Redemption of notes payable | (793,100 | ) | (172,301 | ) | ||||||||||
Proceeds from exercise of stock options granted to | ||||||||||||||
employees | 3,391 | 25,798 | 37,153 | 8,072 | ||||||||||
Dividend paid | (41,773 | ) | (9,075 | ) | ||||||||||
Long-term bank loans received | 240,000 | 359,000 | 77,993 | |||||||||||
Repayment of long-term bank loans | (895,700 | ) | (624,147 | ) | (857,004 | ) | (186,185 | ) | ||||||
Net cash used in financing activities | (652,309 | ) | (598,349 | ) | (460,235 | ) | (99,986 | ) | ||||||
INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH AND CASH | ||||||||||||||
EQUIVALENTS | 2,414 | 837 | (603 | ) | (131 | ) | ||||||||
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT | ||||||||||||||
BEGINNING OF YEAR | 1,360 | 3,774 | 4,611 | 1,002 | ||||||||||
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT | ||||||||||||||
END OF YEAR | 3,774 | 4,611 | 4,008 | 871 | ||||||||||
SUPPLEMENTARY DISCLOSURE OF CASH | ||||||||||||||
FLOW INFORMATION - cash paid during the year: | ||||||||||||||
Interest | 287,629 | 179,205 | 235,854 | 51,239 | ||||||||||
Advances to income tax authorities | 3,750 | 4,900 | 30,840 | 6,700 | ||||||||||
Supplementary information on investing and financing activities not involving cash flows At December 31, 2003, 2004 and 2005, trade payables include NIS 65.7 million, NIS 103.8 million and NIS 90.3 million ($ 19.6 million), respectively, in respect of acquisition of fixed assets. In addition, at December 31, 2004 and 2005 trade payables include NIS 13.8 million and NIS 27.7 million ($6.0 million) in respect of acquisition of additional spectrum, respectively.
At December 31, 2005, dividend payable of approximately NIS 45 million ($9.8 million) is outstanding. These balances are recognized in the cash flow statements upon payment.
During 2005, the Company has undertaken a capital lease with respect to fixed assets in the amount of NIS15.8 million ($ 3.4 million)
19
PARTNER COMMUNICATIONS COMPANY LTD.
(An Israeli Corporation)
RECONCILIATION BETWEEN OPERATION CASH FLOWS
AND EBITDA
New Israeli shekels |
Convenience translation into U.S. dollars |
||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
2004 |
2005 |
2005 | |||||||||
(Unaudited) |
|||||||||||
In thousands |
|||||||||||
Net cash provided by operating activities | 1,272,802 | 1,006,324 | 218,623 | ||||||||
Liability for employee rights upon retirement | (16,302 | ) | (9,430 | ) | (2,049 | ) | |||||
Accrued interest and exchange and linkage differences on (erosion of) long-term liabilities | 10,258 | (108,411 | ) | (23,552 | ) | ||||||
Amount carried to differed charges | 13,820 | 3,002 | |||||||||
Increase in accounts receivable: | |||||||||||
Trade | 225,860 | 262,262 | 56,976 | ||||||||
Other | 13,615 | 26,970 | 5,859 | ||||||||
Decrease (increase) in accounts payable and accruals: | |||||||||||
Trade | (135,600 | ) | (112,857 | ) | (24,518 | ) | |||||
Other | (41,613 | ) | 75,884 | 16,486 | |||||||
Related parties | (10,513 | ) | (2,284 | ) | |||||||
Increase (decrease) in inventories | (1,205 | ) | 107,667 | 23,391 | |||||||
Decrease (increase) in Assets Retirement Obligation | (464 | ) | 92 | 20 | |||||||
Financial Expenses | 248,645 | 316,806 | 68,826 | ||||||||
EBITDA | 1,575,996 | 1,568,616 | 340,780 | ||||||||
20
PARTNER COMMUNICATIONS COMPANY LTD.
(An Israeli Corporation)
New Israeli shekels |
|||||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
3 month period ended |
|||||||||||||||||
December 31, 2004 |
March 31, 2005 |
June 30, 2005 |
September 30, 2005 |
December 31, 2005 | |||||||||||||
(Unaudited) |
|||||||||||||||||
In thousands |
|||||||||||||||||
REVENUES - net | 1,319,132 | 1,260,468 | 1,250,875 | 1,352,322 | 1,259,274 | ||||||||||||
COST OF REVENUES | 951,008 | 924,825 | 887,474 | 1,023,828 | 930,225 | ||||||||||||
GROSS PROFIT | 368,124 | 335,643 | 363,401 | 328,494 | 329,049 | ||||||||||||
SELLING AND | |||||||||||||||||
MARKETING | |||||||||||||||||
EXPENSES | 76,325 | 57,363 | 65,442 | 72,105 | 77,990 | ||||||||||||
GENERAL AND | |||||||||||||||||
ADMINISTRATIVE | |||||||||||||||||
EXPENSES | 49,505 | 41,510 | 46,203 | 45,222 | 47,846 | ||||||||||||
OPERATING PROFIT | 242,294 | 236,770 | 251,756 | 211,167 | 203,213 | ||||||||||||
FINANCIAL | |||||||||||||||||
EXPENSES - net | 63,464 | 50,854 | 82,826 | 148,782 | 62,986 | ||||||||||||
INCOME BEFORE | |||||||||||||||||
TAXES ON INCOME | 178,830 | 185,916 | 168,930 | 62,385 | 140,227 | ||||||||||||
TAXES ON INCOME | 47,414 | 61,423 | 53,096 | 31,441 | 56,938 | ||||||||||||
NET INCOME FOR THE | |||||||||||||||||
PERIOD | 131,416 | 124,493 | 115,834 | 30,944 | 83,289 | ||||||||||||
21
PARTNER COMMUNICATIONS COMPANY LTD. (An Israeli Corporation)
Summary Operating Data
2004 |
2005 | |||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Subscribers (in thousands) | 2,340 | 2,529 | ||||||
Estimated share of total Israeli mobile telephone subscribers | 32 | % | 32 | % | ||||
Churn rate in year | 12.0 | % | 13.6 | % | ||||
Average monthly usage in year per subscriber (minutes) | 286 | 294 | ||||||
Average monthly revenue in year per subscriber, including in-roaming | ||||||||
revenue (NIS) | 170 | 156 | ||||||
Number of 2G operational base stations (in parenthesis number of micro | ||||||||
sites out of total number of base stations) | 2,243 | (723) | 2,252 | (714) | ||||
Subscriber acquisition costs in year per subscriber (NIS) | 295 | 282 | ||||||
Number of employees (full-time equivalent) | 3,164 | 3,403 |
Q4 2004 |
Q4 2005 | |||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Subscribers (in thousands) | 2,340 | 2,529 | ||||||
Estimated share of total Israeli mobile telephone subscribers | 32 | % | 32 | % | ||||
Churn rate in quarter | 2.9 | % | 3.1 | % | ||||
Average monthly usage in quarter per subscriber (minutes) | 288 | 287 | ||||||
Average monthly revenue in year per subscriber, including in-roaming | ||||||||
revenue (NIS) | 167 | 148 | ||||||
Number of 2G operational base stations (in parenthesis number of micro | ||||||||
sites out of total number of base stations) | 2,243 | (723) | 2,252 | (714) | ||||
Subscriber acquisition costs in quarter per subscriber (NIS) | 339 | 256 | ||||||
Number of employees (full-time equivalent) | 3,164 | 3,403 |
22
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this Current Report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
Partner Communications Company Ltd. BY: /S/ Alan Gelman Alan Gelman Chief Financial Officer |
Dated: February 1, 2006