Collingham plc produces electronic measuring instruments for medical research. It has recorded strong and consistent growth during the past 10 years since its present team of managers bought it out from a large multinational corporation. They are now contemplating obtaining a stock market listing. Collingham’s accounting statements for the last financial year are summarised below. Fixed assets, including freehold land and premises, are shown at historic cost net of depreciation. The debenture is redeemable in two years although early redemption without penalty is permissible.
Profit and Loss Account for the year ended 31 December 1994 (£m)
Turnover
80.0
Cost of sales
(70.0)
Operating profit
10.0
Interest charges
(3.0)
Pre-tax profit
7.0
Corporation tax (after capital allowances)
(1.0)
Profits attributable to ordinary shareholders
6.0
Dividends
(0.5)
Retained earnings
5.5
Balance Sheet as at 31 December 1994 (£m)
Assets employed
Fixed: Land and premises
Machinery
20.0
30.0
Current: Stocks
Debtors
Cash
3.0
23.0
Current liabilities: Trade creditors
(15.0)
Bank overdraft
(5.0)
(20.0)
Net current assets
Total assets less current liabilities
33.0
14% Debentures
Net assets
28.0
Financed by:
Issued share capital (par value 50p):
Voting shares
2.0
Non-voting ‘A’ shares
Profit and Loss Account
24.0
Shareholders’ funds
The following information is also available regarding key financial indicators for Collingham’s industry.
Return on (long-term) capital employed
22% (pre-tax)
Return on equity
14% (post-tax)
Operating profit margin
10%
Current ratio
1.8:1
Acid test
1.1:1
Gearing (total debt/equity)
18%
Interest cover
5.2
Dividend cover
2.6
P:E ratio
13:01
Required
(a) Briefly explain why companies like Collingham seek stock market listings.
(b) Discuss the performance and financial health of Collingham in relation to that of the industry as a whole.
(c) In what ways would you advise Collingham:
(i) to restructure its balance sheet prior to flotation?
(ii) to change its financial policy following flotation?
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