Sydney, Aug 10, 2006 (ABN Newswire) - SAI Global Limited (ASX: SAI) today announced a net profit after tax of A$14.0 million, representing an increase of 20.7% over last year's result of A$11.6 million. Earnings per share under the AIFRS reporting principles were up 8.7% to 12.5 cents per share from last year's of 11.5 cents.
The directors have declared a final fully franked dividend of 5.4 cents per share, bringing the total dividends for the year to 10.4 cents, up 13.0% on last year on an expanded capital base.
Underlying cash earnings were A$19.6 million, up 52.9% over the A$12.8 million achieved in the corresponding period (AIFRS restated).
-----------------------------------------------------
HIGHLIGHTS
-----------------------------------------------------
Revenue (excl interest)
$159.7 million Up 50.7% on 2005
EBITDA
$30.1 million Up 56.2% on 2005
Net Profit After Tax
$14.0 million Up 20.7% on 2005
Underlying cash earnings
$19.6 million Up 52.9% on 2005
EPS
12.5 cents per share Up 8.7% on 2005
Underlying cash EPS
17.3 cents per share Up 36.2% on 2005
Fully Franked Dividend
5.4 cents per share 0.4 cent up on 2005 final dividend
Net Operating Cash Inflow
$21.8 million Up 43.4% from $15.2 million last year
--------------------------------------------------------
Note: Currency quoted in Australian Dollars
The Chairman of SAI Global Limited, Mr George Edwards, said: "This has been a year of significant growth for SAI Global and the Company has continued to improve its profit and dividends, based on organic growth and acquisitions. We plan to continue to build our global reputation by increasing our global reach and developing a critical mass in each geographic region in our publishing, compliance and assurance businesses, supported by professional services."
On the full year result the Chief Executive of SAI Global Limited, Mr Ross Wraight, said: "Our business strategy is being executed delivering solid financial outcomes. SAI Global has grown revenue and profit strongly since listing in December 2003. These results correlate directly with our strategic intent to build a global company."
During the period SAI Global made four acquisitions; Anstat in Australia, EFSIS in Europe, Central Certification Service and ILI in the United Kingdom.
Going forward, ongoing solid demand for SAI Global products and services in Australia and overseas is expected, with revenue and profit growth to continue. More acquisitions are likely. Revenue growth in excess of 25% is expected which should translate into an increase in net profit after tax in excess of 30%, but with a second half bias. The fully franked final dividend will be paid on the 21 September 2006 to shareholders registered as at 25 August 2006.