Form 20-F
UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D. C. 20549
FORM 20-F
ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(D)
OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2009
Commission File Number: 000-30540
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
REPUBLIC OF SINGAPORE
(Jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)
8TH FLOOR, 207 TIDING BOULEVARD, SECTION 2, TAIPEI 114, TAIWAN, R.O.C.
(Address of principal executive offices)
Arthur M. Wang, Chief Executive Officer
8TH FLOOR, 207 TIDING BOULEVARD, SECTION 2, TAIPEI 114, TAIWAN, R.O.C.
Tel: 886-2-2656-8000; Fax: 886-2-2656-8003
Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Exchange Act:
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Title of Each Class
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Name of Each Exchange on Which Registered |
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Ordinary Shares
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The NASDAQ Stock Market LLC |
Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Exchange 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 issuers classes of capital or common
stock as of the close of the period covered by the annual report:
54,994,800 ordinary shares
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule
405 of the Securities Act. Yes o No þ
If this annual 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 o No þ
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 obligations 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 þ No o
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):
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Large accelerated filer o
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Accelerated filer þ
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Non-accelerated filer o |
Indicate by check mark which basis of accounting the registrant has used to prepare the financial statements included in this filing:
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U.S. GAAP þ
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International Financial Reporting Standards as issued
by the International Accounting Standards Board o
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Other o |
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 o Item 18 o
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 o No þ
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
þ No o
CERTAIN TERMS AND CONVENTSIONS
In this annual report, all references to (i) we, us, our, our Company or GigaMedia
are to GigaMedia Limited and, unless the context requires otherwise, its subsidiaries, or where the
context refers to any time prior to the incorporation of any of its subsidiaries, the business
which predecessors of the present subsidiaries were engaged in and which were subsequently assumed
by such subsidiaries; (ii) Shares are to ordinary shares of our Company; (iii) CESL are to
Cambridge Entertainment Software Limited (formerly known as Grand Virtual International Limited), a
company incorporated under the laws of The British Virgin Islands; (iv) Hoshin GigaMedia are to
Hoshin GigaMedia Center Inc., a company incorporated under the laws of Taiwan, Republic of China,
(Taiwan or R.O.C.); (v) FunTown are to our online games business operated through our two
operating subsidiaries, Hoshin GigaMedia and FunTown World Limited, a company incorporated under
the laws of The British Virgin Islands; (vi) T2CN are to T2CN Holding Limited, a company
incorporated under the laws of The British Virgin Islands, and its subsidiaries; (vii) Internet
access and service business are to an Internet access and service business that we historically
operated through Koos Broadband Telecom Co., Ltd. (KBT) and completely disposed of in September
2008; and (viii) UIM are to Ultra Internet Media S.A., a company incorporated under the laws of
Nevis; and (ix) Mangas Everest are to Mangas Everest, a société par actions simplifiée registered
with the Trade and Companies Registry of Paris and organized under the laws of France.
For the purpose of this annual report only, geographical references to China and the PRC
are to the Peoples Republic of China and do not include Taiwan, the Hong Kong Special
Administrative Region (Hong Kong) and the Macau Special Administrative Region (Macau). Except
the context otherwise requires and for the purposes of this annual report only, references to
Greater China include the PRC, Taiwan, Hong Kong and Macau. References to South Korea are to
the Republic of Korea.
All references in this annual report to U.S. dollar, $ and US$ are to the legal currency
of the United States; all references to NT dollar or New Taiwan dollar are to the legal
currency of Taiwan; all references to RMB, Rmb or Renminbiare to the legal currency of the
PRC; and all references to Hong Kong dollar are to the legal currency of Hong Kong.
We have approximated certain numbers in this annual report to their closest round numbers or a
given number of decimal places. Due to rounding, figures shown as totals in tables may not be
arithmetic aggregations of the figures preceding them.
DISCLOSURE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This annual report includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of, and intended
to qualify for the safe harbor from liability established by, the United States Private Securities
Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements, which are not statements of historical fact, may
contain estimates, assumptions, projections and/or expectations regarding future events, which may
or may not occur. These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors
which may cause our actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any
future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements.
Some of the risks are listed under Item 3, Key Information D. Risk Factors and elsewhere in
this annual report. In some cases, you can identify these forward-looking statements by words such
as anticipate, believe, could, estimate, expect, intend, may, plan, potential,
should, will, would, or similar expressions, including their negatives. These forward-looking
statements include, without limitation, statements relating to:
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our business plan and strategies; |
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our future business development and potential financial condition, results of
operations and other projected financial information; |
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our ability to manage current and potential future growth; |
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expected continued acceptance of our revenue model; |
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our plans for strategic partnerships, licenses and alliances; |
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our acquisition and strategic investment strategy, and ability to successfully
integrate any past, current, or future acquisitions into our operations; |
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our ability to protect our intellectual property rights and the security of our
customers information; |
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launch of new online games according to our timetable; |
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expected continued acceptance of our online games, including expected growth of the
online games industry, and consumer preferences for our products and services; |
1
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the in-house development of new online games and our plans to expand our in-house
online game development team; |
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the performance of Mangas Everest and developments in the online gaming industry; |
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our plans to license additional games from third parties, and the launch of these
new games or gaming software systems, including the timing of any such development,
licenses or launches, in various geographic markets; |
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our ability to maintain and strengthen our position as one of the largest online
MahJong operators in Taiwan; |
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our ability to maintain the well-established online sports game platform in the PRC; |
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potential entry of new competitors in any of our business lines; |
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changes in the global regulatory environment relating to the online gaming business; |
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changes or stability in certain regulatory environments relating to Mangas Everests
operations or gaming licenses; |
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changes in PRC laws and regulations, and future enforcement of those laws and
regulations, including laws and regulations relating to Internet usage, advertising
over the Internet, Internet content providers, foreign investment and ownership in
online business, distribution of dividends and foreign exchange controls; |
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the outcome of ongoing, or any future, litigation or arbitration; and |
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our corporate classification by various governmental entities. |
These forward-looking statements are based on our own information and on information from
other sources we believe to be reliable. Our actual results may differ materially from those
expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements as a result of risk factors and other
factors noted throughout this annual report, including those described under Item 3, Key
Information D. Risk Factors and those detailed from time to time in other filings with the U.S.
Securities and Exchange Commission (the SEC). We do not guarantee that the transactions and
events described in this annual report will happen as described or that they will happen at all. We
undertake no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements to reflect events or
circumstances after the date of this annual report or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated
events. Whether actual results will conform to our expectations and predictions is subject to a
number of risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond our control, and reflect future
business decisions that are subject to change. Given this level of uncertainty, you are advised not
to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements.
PART I
ITEM 1. IDENTITY OF DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND ADVISERS
Not applicable, but see Item 6, Directors, Senior Management and Employees A. Directors and
Senior Management in this annual report.
ITEM 2. OFFER STATISTICS AND EXPECTED TIMETABLE
Not applicable.
ITEM 3. KEY INFORMATION
Exchange Rates
Our consolidated financial statements were historically reported in New Taiwan dollars.
Effective January 1, 2004, we adopted the U.S. dollar as our reporting currency because operations
denominated in U.S. dollars represented a significant portion of our business following the
acquisition of our gaming software and service business.
Assets and liabilities on our balance sheet denominated in non-U.S. dollars are translated
into U.S. dollars using year-end exchange rates. Income and expense items in our statement of
operations denominated in non-U.S. dollars are translated into U.S. dollars using the
weighted-average exchange rates. Certain other operating financial information denominated in
non-U.S. dollars,
not included in our consolidated financial statements and provided in this annual report, are
translated using weighted-average exchange rates. For convenience, transactions in 2010
denominated in non-U.S. dollars have been translated into U.S. dollars using the year-end exchange
rate for 2009. We make no representation that the non-U.S. dollars could be converted to U.S.
dollars at such rate or any particular rates.
2
A. Selected Financial Data
The following selected consolidated balance sheet data as of December 31, 2008 and 2009 and
the selected consolidated statement of operations data for the years ended December 31, 2007, 2008
and 2009 have been derived from our audited consolidated financial statements included in Item 18
in this annual report. The selected consolidated balance sheet data as of December 31, 2005, 2006
and 2007, and the selected consolidated statement of operations data for the years ended December
31, 2005 and 2006 have been derived from our audited consolidated financial statements for the
years ended December 31, 2005, 2006 and 2007, which are not included in this annual report. The
consolidated financial statements have been prepared and presented in accordance with generally
accepted accounting principles in the United States, or U.S. GAAP. You should read the following
selected consolidated financial data in conjunction with Item 5, Operating and Financial Review
and Prospects, and the consolidated financial statements and the accompanying notes to those
statements included in this annual report. The statements of operations for the years ended
December 31, 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2008 have been retroactively restated to reflect (i) the results
of our music distribution business, which was sold in September 2005, and (ii) the results of our
Internet access and service business, which was sold in September 2008, as discontinued operations.
Certain prior-year amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current-year presentation.
These reclassifications had no effect on the results of operations or equity as previously
reported.
For the Years Ended December 31,
(in thousands except for earnings per share amounts)
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2005 |
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2006 |
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2007 |
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2008 |
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2009 |
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US$ |
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US$ |
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US$ |
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US$ |
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US$ |
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STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS DATA: |
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OPERATING REVENUES |
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Gaming software and service revenues |
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22,511 |
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55,019 |
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118,950 |
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144,765 |
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112,694 |
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Online game and service revenues |
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0 |
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18,692 |
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32,764 |
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45,604 |
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46,887 |
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Total operating revenues |
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22,511 |
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73,711 |
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151,714 |
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190,369 |
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159,581 |
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OPERATING COSTS |
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Cost of gaming software and service revenues |
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(3,327 |
) |
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(7,824 |
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(16,201 |
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(22,770 |
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(20,102 |
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Cost of online game and service revenues |
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0 |
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(3,667 |
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(9,118 |
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(12,404 |
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(16,785 |
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Total operating costs |
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(3,327 |
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(11,491 |
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(25,319 |
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(35,174 |
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(36,887 |
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GROSS PROFIT |
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19,184 |
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62,220 |
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126,395 |
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155,195 |
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122,694 |
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OPERATING EXPENSES |
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Product development and engineering expenses |
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(2,524 |
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(5,244 |
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(7,338 |
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(13,455 |
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(14,195 |
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Selling and marketing expenses |
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(8,042 |
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(27,653 |
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(60,106 |
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(74,173 |
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(79,421 |
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General and administrative expenses |
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(6,374 |
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(11,096 |
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(20,983 |
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(25,035 |
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(29,692 |
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Bad debt expenses |
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0 |
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(448 |
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(548 |
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(2,905 |
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(1,092 |
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Impairment loss on property, plant, and equipment |
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0 |
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0 |
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0 |
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0 |
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(1,250 |
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Impairment loss on goodwill |
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0 |
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0 |
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0 |
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0 |
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(14,103 |
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Impairment loss on prepaid licensing fees and
intangible assets |
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0 |
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0 |
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0 |
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(1,524 |
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(23,002 |
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Total operating expenses |
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(16,940 |
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(44,441 |
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(88,975 |
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(117,092 |
) |
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(162,755 |
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Income (loss) from operations |
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2,244 |
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17,779 |
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37,420 |
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38,103 |
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(40,061 |
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Income (loss) from continuing operations |
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3,525 |
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18,173 |
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39,083 |
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35,710 |
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(56,102 |
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Income from discontinued operations |
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2,961 |
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12,932 |
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1,088 |
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9,435 |
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222 |
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Net income (loss) |
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6,486 |
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31,105 |
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40,171 |
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45,145 |
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(55,880 |
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Less: Net (income) loss attributable to the
noncontrolling interest |
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(150 |
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(321 |
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(1,281 |
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(757 |
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6,795 |
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Net income (loss) attributable to GigaMedia |
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6,336 |
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30,784 |
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38,890 |
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44,388 |
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(49,085 |
) |
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Earnings (loss) per share (in dollars): |
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Basic: |
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Income (loss) from continuing operations |
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0.07 |
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0.35 |
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0.72 |
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0.65 |
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(0.90 |
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Income from discontinued operations |
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0.06 |
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0.25 |
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0.02 |
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0.17 |
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0.00 |
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Net income (loss) |
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0.13 |
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0.60 |
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0.74 |
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0.82 |
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(0.90 |
) |
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Diluted: |
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Income (loss) from continuing operations |
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0.06 |
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0.30 |
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0.63 |
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0.58 |
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(0.90 |
) |
Income from discontinued operations |
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0.06 |
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0.21 |
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0.02 |
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0.16 |
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0.00 |
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Net income (loss) |
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0.12 |
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|
0.51 |
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|
0.65 |
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0.74 |
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(0.90 |
) |
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3
As of December 31,
(US dollars in thousands except for number of issued shares)
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2005 |
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2006 |
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2007 |
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2008 |
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2009 |
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US$ |
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US$ |
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US$ |
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US$ |
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US$ |
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BALANCE SHEET DATA: |
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Total current assets |
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70,204 |
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64,176 |
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|
115,417 |
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128,799 |
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|
104,839 |
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Property, plant and equipment-net |
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10,747 |
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10,098 |
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13,008 |
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13,468 |
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5,989 |
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Goodwill |
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29,243 |
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55,817 |
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|
85,149 |
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87,098 |
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|
44,417 |
|
Intangible assets-net |
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2,704 |
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|
23,067 |
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|
26,060 |
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|
28,930 |
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|
18,924 |
|
Total assets |
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113,519 |
|
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|
182,619 |
|
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|
283,865 |
|
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|
316,793 |
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|
260,181 |
|
Total GigaMedia shareholders equity |
|
|
100,648 |
|
|
|
134,087 |
|
|
|
180,665 |
|
|
|
228,456 |
|
|
|
184,745 |
|
Common shares, no par value, and
additional paid-in capital |
|
|
287,920 |
|
|
|
289,495 |
|
|
|
296,793 |
|
|
|
300,021 |
|
|
|
304,379 |
|
Number of issued shares (in thousands) |
|
|
50,344 |
|
|
|
51,495 |
|
|
|
53,700 |
|
|
|
54,365 |
|
|
|
54,995 |
|
Dividends declared per share (in dollars) |
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
Presentation of financial information for the years ended December 31, 2005, 2006, 2007 and
2008 has been reclassified to conform to the presentation for the year ended December 31, 2009 for
non-controlling interest.
B. Capitalization and Indebtedness
Not applicable.
C. Reasons for the Offer and Use of Proceeds
Not applicable.
D. Risk Factors
Risks Related to Our Business and Industries
The limited operating history of the Mangas Everest business and our online games business may
not provide you with an adequate basis upon which to evaluate our business and prospects
We commenced our gaming software and service business operations in April 2004 and our online
games business in January 2006. We sold 60 percent interest in our gaming software business to
Mangas Gaming (Mangas), a leading European sports betting and online gaming group, on April 8,
2010. The strategic alliance with Mangas was structured as a stock and asset sale to a
newly-formed French entity, Mangas Everest, in which we hold a 40 percent stake. Mangas Everests
operating history as an online gambling operator and our operating history as an online games
operator may be too short to give you a sufficient basis for evaluating our business and financial
performance. It is also difficult to evaluate our prospective business, because we may not have
sufficient experience to address the risks frequently encountered by companies entering new and
rapidly evolving markets such as the online gaming and online games market. These risks include
our potential failure to:
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respond to technological changes or resolve unexpected service interruptions in a
timely manner; |
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adapt to regulatory changes; |
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retain existing customers or attract new customers; |
4
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license, develop, or acquire additional online games that are appealing to
consumers; |
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anticipate and adapt to changing consumer preferences; |
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adapt to competitive market conditions; |
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adequately and efficiently operate, upgrade and develop our transaction and service
platforms; and |
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maintain adequate control of our expenses. |
If we are unsuccessful in addressing any of these risks, our business and financial condition will
be adversely affected. In addition, certain management members have worked at our Company for a
relatively short period. We may not be able to achieve similar results or growth in future
periods. Accordingly, you should not rely on our results of operations for any prior periods as an
indication of our future performance.
In operating our online games business, we may fail to launch new games according to our
timetable, and our new games may not be commercially successful
In order for our online games business strategy to succeed over time, we will need to license,
acquire or develop new online games that can generate additional revenue and further diversify our
revenue sources. A number of factors, including technical difficulties, government approvals and
game licenses required for launching new games, lack of sufficient game development personnel and
other resources, and adverse developments in our relationship with the licensors of our new
licensed games could result in delay in launching our new games. Therefore, we cannot assure you
that we will be able to meet our timetable for new game launches.
In January 2009, we introduced Holic Online, an adventure-themed massively multi-player online
role playing game (MMORPG), in Taiwan. On June 25, 2009, we launched Warhammer Online: Age of
Reckoning, a war-themed MMORPG, in Taiwan, Hong Kong and Macau. On July 7, 2009, we launched Luna
Online, a casual fantasy-themed MMORPG in the PRC. Warhammer Online: Age of Reckoning and Luna
Online were not commercially successful in the territories in which they were launched. As a
result, we terminated the license agreements for these two games in April 2010 and June 2010,
respectively. In addition, we have one MMORPG and two advanced casual games in the pipeline, which
we expect to launch in various target markets in Greater China, including the PRC, Taiwan, Hong
Kong and Macau. There are many factors that may adversely affect the popularity of our new games.
For example, we may fail to anticipate and adapt to future technical trends and new business
models, fail to satisfy game player preferences and requirements, fail to effectively plan and
organize marketing and promotion activities, fail to effectively detect and prevent programming
errors or defects in the games, and fail to operate our new games at acceptable costs. We cannot
assure you that our new games will gain market acceptance and become commercially successful. If
we are not able to license, develop or acquire additional online games that are commercially
successful, our future revenues and profitability may decline.
Due to increased competition among online games operators in the PRC and Taiwan, license fees
for online games have increased and most licensors are demanding upfront license fees and
guaranteed minimum royalty payments. If any of the new games we license from third parties fails
to appeal to players, we may not be able to fully recover upfront and/or minimum royalty licensing
costs, which can be significant. As a result, our results of operations and financial condition
may be materially and adversely affected.
We may not be successful in operating and improving our existing online games to satisfy the
changing demands and preferences of players
The level of demand and market acceptance of our existing online games is subject to a high
degree of uncertainty. Our future operating results will depend on numerous factors, many of which
are beyond our control. These factors include:
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the popularity of existing and new online games operated by us; |
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the introduction of new online games by us or third parties, competing with or
replacing our existing online games; |
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general economic conditions, particularly economic conditions adversely affecting
discretionary consumer spending; |
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changes in our customer demands and preferences; |
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the availability of other forms of entertainment; and |
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critical reviews and public tastes and preferences, all of which change rapidly and
cannot be predicted. |
5
Our ability to plan for product development and distribution and promotional activities will
be significantly affected by how well we anticipate and adapt to relatively rapid changes in
consumer tastes and preferences. Currently, a substantial portion of our online games revenue is
derived from revenues from Freestyle, an online sports game offered in the PRC, and the online
MahJong games offered in Taiwan and Hong Kong. However, there is no assurance that these games
will continue to be popular. A decline in the popularity of online games in general or, in
particular, Freestyle and online MahJong, is likely to adversely affect our business, financial
condition and results of operations. To maintain competitiveness of our games, we are generally
required to continuously invest in enhancing, improving, expanding or upgrading our games. If we
fail to do so, revenues generated from our existing games may decline.
In addition, we expect that as we introduce new online games, a portion of our existing
customers will switch to the new games. If this transfer of players from our existing games
exceeds our expectations, we may have to adjust our marketing, pricing and other business plans
and, as a result, our growth and profitability could be materially and adversely affected.
Our results of operations are subject to significant fluctuations
Our revenues, expenses and results of operations have varied in the past and may fluctuate
significantly in the future due to a variety of factors, many of which are beyond our control. The
key factors affecting our businesses include:
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Gaming software and service business: the regulatory restrictions applicable to the
Internet gaming industry; the revenues, expenses and results of operations of Mangas
Everest, our joint venture with Mangas; global economic conditions and general economic
conditions of the markets where our products target; availability of the Internet
infrastructure; and the technological and other competition from existing and new
competitors. |
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Online games business: our ability to retain existing users; attract new users and
maintain user satisfaction; the pace of rolling out new games or updating existing
games by us or our competitors; the amount and timing of operating costs and capital
expenditures relating to our business operations and expansion; seasonal trends in
Internet use; price competition in the industry; regulatory and other risks associated
from our operations in China and Taiwan. |
In addition, our operating expenses are based on our expectations of the future demand for our
services and are relatively fixed in the short term. We may be unable to adjust spending quickly
enough to offset any unexpected demand shortfall. A decrease in revenues in relation to our
expenses could have a material and adverse effect on our business, results of operations and
financial condition. You should not place undue reliance on our financial guidance, nor should you
rely on year-to-year or quarter-to-quarter comparisons of our results of operations as indicators
of our future performance.
The online games market is characterized by rapid technological change, and failure to respond
quickly and effectively to new Internet technologies or standards may have a material adverse
effect on our business
The online games industry is evolving rapidly. Any new technologies and new standards may
require increases in expenditures for online game development and operations. In addition, we use
internally developed software systems that support nearly all aspects of our billing and payment
transactions in our online games business. All of our businesses may be adversely affected if we
are unable to upgrade our systems effectively to accommodate future traffic levels, to avoid
obsolescence or to successfully integrate any newly developed or acquired technology with our
existing systems. Capacity constraints could cause unanticipated system disruptions and slower
responses, which could adversely affect data transmission and game play. These factors could,
among other things, cause us to lose existing or potential users and existing or potential game
development partners.
The current global economic slowdown and other adverse economic conditions may negatively
impact our business
The current global economic slowdown has resulted in an increased level of commercial and
consumer delinquencies, lack of consumer confidence and increased market volatility. These
unfavorable changes in economic conditions have resulted in decreased spending by our customers.
The impact of economic conditions on our licensees and business partners could adversely affect our
business and revenues. In addition, the current global financial turmoil and the tightening of
credit have resulted in a general credit crunch and have negatively impacted our ability to obtain
additional financings. If the current global economic slowdown and global financial turmoil
continue on a sustained basis, they will further negatively impact the demand for our online
games and Mangas Everests gaming software products and services and adversely affect our
business, revenues, cash flows, profitability and financial condition.
6
Our business could suffer if we do not successfully manage current growth and potential future
growth
We are pursuing a number of growth strategies. Some of these strategies relate to services,
products or markets in which we lack experience and expertise. As part of our growth strategy for
the online games operation, in December 2006, we entered into a strategic alliance with Infocomm
Asia Holdings Pte Ltd (Infocomm Asia), an online gaming operator and distributor operating
primarily in the Southeast Asia region, in which we had no business operations at that time. On
April 30, 2010, we increased our investment in Infocomm Asia by acquiring additional preferred
shares from Infocomm Asia and certain shareholders of Infocomm Asia. The acquisition of Infocomm
Asia is expected to close in the third quarter of 2010 and upon closing, we will hold preferred
shares convertible into approximately 80 percent of the common shares of Infocomm Asia. Infocomm
Asia has entered into certain license agreements with Blizzard Entertainment International, a
division of Coöperatie Activision Blizzard International U.A. (Blizzard), under which Blizzard
agreed to license certain games to Infocomm Asia or its wholly owned subsidiary in Southeastern
Asia. We cannot assure you that we will be able to leverage our past experience and successfully
manage our expansion into Southeastern Asia and other new markets.
Our growth to date has placed, and our anticipated further expansion of our operations will
continue to place, a significant strain on our management, operation systems and resources. In
addition to training and managing our workforce, we will need to continue to develop and improve
our financial and management controls and our reporting systems and procedures, including those of
acquired businesses. We cannot assure you that we will be able to effectively manage the growth of
our operations, and any failure to do so may limit our future growth and materially and adversely
affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Our business strategy, which contemplates growth through acquisitions and strategic
investments, exposes us to significant risks
We have pursued and may continue to pursue growth through acquisitions and strategic
investments. Any acquisition or investment is subject to a number of risks. Such risks include the
diversion of management time and resources, disruption of our ongoing business, lack of familiarity
with new markets, difficulties in supporting the acquired business, and dilution to existing
stockholders if our common stock is issued in consideration for an acquisition or investment,
incurring or assuming indebtedness or other liabilities in connection with an acquisition.
The total costs incurred in connection with our acquisitions and investments in various
businesses in 2009 were approximately US$9.9 million. For additional information with respect to
our acquisitions and investments, see Item 4, Information on The Company A. History and
Development of Our Company in this annual report. Our financial results may be affected by such
acquisitions or investments. We may incur debts upon an acquisition or suffer losses related to
the impairment of goodwill and other intangible assets following the acquisition. These debts or
losses could negatively impact our results of operations. We recognized impairment loss on
goodwill of approximately US$14.1 million and impairment loss on marketable securities and
investments of approximately US$15.7 million in 2009. (See note 10 Marketable Securities
Current to our consolidated financial statements for additional information). Any impairment on
goodwill and marketable securities and investments in the future will have a negative impact on our
financial results.
We will continue to examine the merits, risks and feasibility of potential transactions, and
expect to explore additional acquisition opportunities in the future. Such examination and
exploration efforts, and any related discussions with third parties, may or may not lead to future
acquisitions and investments. We may not be able to complete acquiring or investing transactions
that we initiate. Our ability to grow through such acquisitions and investments will depend on
many factors, including the availability of suitable acquisition candidates at an acceptable cost,
our ability to reach agreement with acquisition candidates or investee companies on commercially
reasonable terms, the availability of financing to complete the transactions and our ability to
obtain any required governmental approvals.
We also face challenges in integrating any acquired business. These challenges include
eliminating redundant operations, facilities and systems, coordinating management and personnel,
retaining key employees, managing different corporate cultures, maintaining the relationship with
the suppliers, vendors and/or distributors of acquired businesses, and achieving cost reductions
and cross-selling opportunities. There can be no assurance that we will be able to successfully
integrate all aspects of acquired businesses. The process of integrating the acquired business may
disrupt our business and divert our resources. In addition, the benefits of an acquisition or
investment transaction may take considerable time to be fully realized and we cannot assure you
that any particular acquisition or investment and the subsequent integration will produce the
intended benefits.
Our online games business faces intense competition, which may adversely affect our revenues,
profitability and planned business expansion
The online games market is highly competitive. Our main competitors in the online games
business are online game operators in Taiwan and China. Our major competitors in Taiwan include
Gamania Digital Entertainment Co., Ltd. (Gamania),
Soft-World International Corporation (Soft-World), International Games System, Co., Ltd.
(IGS), UserJoy Technology Co., Ltd. (UserJoy) and GodGame Inc. (GodGame). Our major
competitors in the PRC include Shanda Interactive Entertainment Ltd. (Shanda), Giant Interactive
Group, Inc. (Giant), Changyou.com Limited (Changyou), The9 Limited, Shanghai Everstar Online
Entertainment Co., Ltd. (Nineyou), Tencent Holdings Limited (Tencent), Beijing Globalink
Computer Technology Co., Ltd.(Ourgames.com) and Chinagames.net.
7
In addition, we compete for users against various offline games, such as console games, arcade
games and handheld games, as well as various other forms of traditional or online entertainment.
We expect more online games operating companies to enter in the markets where we operate,
including Taiwan, the PRC and Hong Kong, and a wider range of online games to be introduced to
these markets, given the relatively low entry barriers to the online games industry. Our
competitors vary in size and include private and public companies, many of which have greater
financial, marketing and technical resources as well as name recognition. We intend to continue to
enhance our market position through providing competitive products and quality services that meet
market trends and users preferences, as well as strengthening sales effectiveness.
As a result of the above, significant competition may reduce the number of our users or the
growth rate of our user base, reduce the average number of hours played by our users, or cause us
to reduce usage fees. All of these competitive factors could have a material adverse effect on our
business, financial condition and results of operations.
Our online games business depends on the reliability of the network infrastructure and related
services provided by ourselves and third parties, which is subject to physical, technological,
security and other risks; the Mangas Everest business also faces similar risks
The development and operation of our online networks and those of Mangas Everest, are subject
to physical, technological, security and other risks which may result in interruption in service or
reduced capacity. These risks include physical damage, power loss, telecommunications failure,
capacity limitation, hardware or software failures or defects and breaches of security by computer
viruses, system break-ins or otherwise. An increase in the volume of usage of online services
could strain the capacity of the software and hardware employed, which could result in slower
response time or system failures. We have a variety of backup servers at our primary site to deal
with possible system failures. However, we do not have redundant facilities in the event of an
emergency. The occurrence of any of these events could result in interruptions, delays or cessation
in service to users of our online services, which could have a material adverse effect on our
business and results of operations.
While we and Mangas Everest have implemented industry-standard security measures, our network
and those of Mangas Everest may still be vulnerable to unauthorized access, computer viruses,
denial of service and other disruptive problems. Our Internet-based services may be interrupted as
a result of the accidental or intentional actions of Internet users, our current and former
employees or others. A party that is able to circumvent security measures could misappropriate
proprietary information, attack our security and network system, and, perhaps, most importantly,
cause interruptions in our operations. We and Mangas Everest have experienced, in the past, and
may experience, in the future, security breaches and attacks. We may be required to expend
significant capital or other resources to protect against the threat of security breaches and
attacks or to alleviate problems caused by such actions. There can be no assurance that any
measures implemented will not be circumvented in the future.
Our business and that of Mangas Everest are also vulnerable to delays or interruptions due to
our reliance on infrastructure and related services provided by third parties. End-users of Mangas
Everests gaming software depend on ISPs and Mangas Everests system infrastructure for access to
the Internet gaming sites operated by UIM and its sub-licensees and currently by Mangas Everest.
Many of these services have experienced service outages in the past and could experience service
outages, delays and other difficulties due to system failures, stability or interruption. For
example, in February 2007, an earthquake off the coast of Taiwan damaged several undersea fiber
optic cables linking countries such as Malaysia, Singapore, Australia, Japan, South Korea, China,
the United States and Europe, causing disruptions in Internet traffic worldwide. We may lose
customers as a result of delays or interruption in service, including delays or interruptions
relating to high volumes of traffic or technological problems, which may prevent communication over
the Internet and could materially adversely affect our business, revenues, results of operations
and financial condition.
Any failure to maintain a stable and efficient distribution and payment network could have a
material and adverse impact on our online games business, financial condition and results of
operations
Our online games business operation relies heavily on a multi-layer distribution and payment
network composed of third party distributors for our sales to, and collection of payment from, our
users. As we do not enter into long-term agreements with any of our distributors, we cannot assure
you that we will continue to maintain favorable relationships with them. If we fail to maintain a
stable and efficient distribution and payment network, our business, financial condition and
results of operations could be materially and adversely affected.
8
In addition, our ability to process electronic commerce transactions depends on bank
processing and credit card systems. In order to prepare for certain types of system problems, we
have a formal disaster recovery plan. Nevertheless, any system failure, including network,
software or hardware failure, which causes a delay or interruption in our e-commerce services could
have a material adverse effect on our business, revenues, results of operations and financial
condition.
We could be liable for breaches of security on our websites and fraudulent transactions by
users of our websites
A portion of our transactions are conducted through our websites. In such transactions,
secured transmission of confidential information (such as customers credit card numbers and
expiration dates, personal information and billing addresses) over public networks is essential to
maintain consumer confidence. In addition, we may face internal fraud, including potential
unauthorized usage of customer credit card information by our employees. While we have taken steps
to prevent this, including the implementation of payment card industry data security standards, our
current security measures may not be adequate. Security breaches could expose us to litigation and
possible liability for failing to secure confidential customer information and could harm our or
our licensees reputation and ability to attract and retain customers. Mangas Everest may also face
similar risks in its online gaming operations.
Undetected programming errors or defects in our software, services and games and the
proliferation of cheating programs could materially and adversely affect our online games business
and the Mangas Everest business, financial condition and results of operations
Mangas Everests software, services and games may contain undetected programming errors or
other defects. These errors or other defects could result in losses to the licensees of Mangas
Everests gaming software, end-users and us. Claims resulting from losses to end users could damage
Mangas Everests reputation and subject it to liability. As to online games, parties unrelated to
us may develop Internet cheating programs that enable users to acquire superior features for their
game characters that they would not have otherwise. Furthermore, certain cheating programs could
cause the loss of a characters superior features acquired by a user. The occurrence of undetected
errors or defects in our games, and our failure to discover and disable cheating programs affecting
the fairness of our game environment, could disrupt our operations, damage our reputation and
detract from the game experience of our users. As a result, such errors, defects and cheating
programs could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of
operations. If such errors, defects and cheating programs occur in software, services and games
Mangas Everest operates, Mangas Everests business operations and, in turn, our business and
financial condition could be materially and adversely affected.
Online
games and online gaming are relatively new industries and therefore, we do not know if the market will
continue to grow
The
online games and online gaming industries are at an early stage of
development, and the extent of acceptance of online games and
online gaming products and services is uncertain. Market data for the
online games and online gaming industries is
not as readily available as that on other more established industries where trends can be assessed
more reliably from data gathered over a longer period of time. If the market fails to develop,
develops more slowly than expected, or becomes saturated with our or
Mangas Everests competitors, or if our or Mangas Everests products
and services do not achieve market acceptance, or if the availability of the Internet commercial
transactions fails to develop sufficiently to support the online
games and online gaming industries, our and Mangas Everests business,
revenues, results of operations and financial condition could be materially and adversely affected.
Operation of pirate game servers and the expenses incurred in protecting our online games
operation against unlawful operations through pirate servers may adversely affect our business
We continue to face challenges from pirate game servers, which are game servers that operate
unauthorized copies of our online games and permit users to play those games without purchasing
pre-paid game cards from us. The existence of unauthorized servers may attract game players away
from our games and may result in decreases in our revenues. We have detected the operation by
pirate servers of unauthorized copies of several of our games. In January 2009, for example, we
discovered that certain unauthorized third parties had misappropriated the source codes of Luna
Online and had set up unauthorized servers to unlawfully operate the game in the PRC. Although we
have made efforts to detect and shutdown pirate servers in China, Taiwan and Hong Kong, we cannot
assure you that such efforts will be successful in eliminating these unauthorized servers. In
addition, detailed comparisons of software codes and litigation proceedings are often necessary to
enforce the intellectual property rights, whether owned by or licensed by us, which sometimes
result in substantial costs. The continued illegal operation of any of our existing games by
pirate game servers, or the illegal operation of any of our new games by pirate servers, may
materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.
We may be subject to claims of intellectual property right infringement by third parties,
which could subject us to significant liabilities and other costs
Our success depends largely on our ability to use and develop our technology and know-how
without infringing upon the intellectual property rights of third parties. We cannot assure you
that third parties will not assert intellectual property claims against us. The validity and scope
of claims relating to the intellectual property may involve complex scientific, legal and factual
questions and analysis, and tend to be uncertain. If third parties assert copyright or patent
infringement or violation of other intellectual property rights against us, we have to defend
ourselves in legal or administrative proceedings, which can be costly and
time consuming and may significantly divert the efforts and resources of our technical and
management personnel. An adverse determination in any such proceedings to which we may become a
party could subject us to significant liability to third parties, require us to seek licenses from
third parties, and prevent us from selling our products and services. The imposition of
liabilities that are not covered by insurance, in excess of insurance coverage or for which we are
not indemnified by a content provider, could have a material adverse effect on our business,
results of operations and financial condition.
9
We may need to incur significant expenses to protect our intellectual property rights, and if
we are unable to adequately protect our intellectual property rights, our competitive position
could be harmed
We regard our copyrights, service marks, trademarks, trade secrets, patents and other
intellectual property as critical to our success. We rely on a combination of copyright and
trademark laws, trade secret protection, confidentiality and non-disclosure agreements, and other
contractual provisions to protect our proprietary software, trade secrets and similar intellectual
property. We have patents, copyrights and trademarks in certain jurisdictions and may apply for
further trademark and copyright registrations and additional patents, which may provide such
protection in relevant jurisdictions. However, we cannot assure you that our efforts will prove to
be sufficient or that third parties will not infringe upon or misappropriate our proprietary
rights. Unauthorized use of the intellectual property, whether owned by or licensed to us, could
adversely affect our business and reputation.
The validity, enforceability and scope of protection of intellectual property in
Internet-related industries are evolving, and therefore, uncertain. In particular, the laws and
enforcement procedures of the PRC, Taiwan and Hong Kong are uncertain or do not protect
intellectual property rights to the same extent as the laws and enforcement procedures of the
United States do. We may have to engage in litigation or other legal proceedings to enforce and
protect our intellectual property rights, which could result in substantial costs and diversion of
our resources, and have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results
of operations.
Our future results of operations or the growth of our business may suffer if we are unable to
maintain satisfactory relationships with the licensors of our online games
We primarily source MMORPGs and advanced casual games through licensing from developers in
various regions where online game development is relatively established. As of the date of this
annual report, we have four licensed MMORPGs and six licensed advanced casual games in our online
game portfolio, including the games we currently offer and the games in the pipeline. We need to
maintain stable and satisfactory working relationships with our licensors in order to ensure the
continued operation of our licensed online games and our continued access to new online game
licenses. We depend on our licensors to provide the necessary technical support for the operation
of the licensed games as well as expansion packs and upgrades that sustain continuing interest in
the games. Our ability to maintain satisfactory working relationships with our licensors may also
influence our ability to license new online games developed by the same or other licensors. If we
are unable to maintain satisfactory relationships with our licensors, our financial condition,
results of operations, future profitability and growth prospects may be materially and adversely
affected.
Failure to maintain effective internal controls could have a material adverse effect on our
business, results of operations and the trading price of our Shares
Effective internal controls are necessary for us to provide reasonable assurance with respect
to our financial reports and to effectively prevent fraud. If we cannot provide reasonable
assurance with respect to our financial reports and effectively prevent fraud, our results of
operations could be materially and adversely affected. We are subject to reporting requirements
under the U.S. securities laws. The SEC, as required by Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of
2002, has adopted rules requiring public companies to include a report of management on such
companys internal control over financial reporting in its annual report, which must contain an
assessment by management of the effectiveness of such companys internal control over financial
reporting. In addition, an independent registered public accounting firm must express an opinion
on the effectiveness of our Companys internal control over financial reporting.
Our management conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our internal control over
financial reporting and concluded that our internal control over financial reporting was effective
as of December 31, 2009. In addition, the report of our independent registered public accounting
firm includes an opinion regarding the effectiveness of our internal control over financial
reporting. We have successfully completed our Section 404 assessment under the Sarbanes-Oxley Act
and received our auditors attestation as of December 31, 2009. However, internal control over
financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements because of its inherent limitations,
including the possibility of human error, the circumvention or overriding of controls, or fraud.
Therefore, even effective internal controls can provide only reasonable assurance with respect to
the preparation and fair presentation of financial statements. In addition, projections of any
evaluation of effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting to future periods are
subject to the risk that the control may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or
that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
Our failure to maintain effective internal control over financial reporting could result in
the loss of investor confidence in the reliability of our financial statements, which in turn could
harm our business and negatively impact the trading price of our
Shares. Furthermore, we may incur additional costs and use significant management and other
resources in an effort to comply with Section 404 and other requirements of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act
going forward.
10
We may need additional capital in the future, and it may not be available on acceptable terms
The development of our business may require significant additional capital in the future to:
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enhance and expand the range of products and services we offer; and |
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respond to competitive pressures and perceived opportunities, such as investment,
acquisition and international expansion activities. |
We cannot assure you that additional financing will be available on terms favorable to us, if
at all. If adequate funds are not available on acceptable terms, we may be forced to curtail or
cease our operations. Moreover, even if we are able to continue our operations, any failure to
obtain additional financing could have a material and adverse effect on our business, financial
condition and results of operations, and we may need to delay the deployment of our services. See
Item 5, Operating and Financial Review and Prospects B. Liquidity and Capital Resources.
We depend on our key personnel, and our business and growth prospects may be severely
disrupted if we lose their services
Our future success is heavily dependent upon the continued service of our key executives and
other key employees. In particular, we rely on the expertise, experience and leadership ability of
our chief executive officer, Arthur M. Wang, and our president and chief operating officer, Thomas
Hui, in our business operations, and rely on their personal relationships with our employees, the
relevant regulatory authorities, and our game and service suppliers. We also rely on a number of
key technology officers and staff for the development and operation of our online games. In
addition, as we expect to focus increasingly on our online games business, we will need to continue
attracting and retaining skilled and experienced professionals to maintain our competitiveness.
If one or more of our key personnel are unable or unwilling to continue in their present
positions, we may not be able to easily replace them and may incur additional expenses to recruit
and train new personnel. As a result, our business could be severely disrupted, and our financial
condition and results of operations could be materially and adversely affected. Furthermore, since
our industry is characterized by high demand and intense competition for talent, we may need to
offer higher compensation and other benefits in order to attract and retain key personnel in the
future. We cannot assure you that we will be able to attract or retain the key personnel that we
will need to achieve our business objectives.
Our results of operations and financial condition are affected by political stability, as well
as the occurrence of natural disasters and epidemics
We operate our online games business both in Taiwan and the PRC. Political unrest, war, acts
of terrorism and other instability, as well as natural disasters such as earthquakes and typhoons
which are common in Taiwan and the PRC, can result in disruption to our business or the businesses
of our customers.
Our business could be adversely affected by natural disasters and the effects of influenza A
(H1N1), avian flu, SARS or other epidemics. Any prolonged recurrence of such adverse public health
developments in the regions where we operate may have material adverse effect on our business
operations. These could include illness and loss of our management and key employees. Natural
disasters or outbreak of epidemics may result in a decrease in economic activities or temporary
closure of many businesses and disruption in our operations. In addition, other major natural
disasters may also adversely affect our business by, for example, causing disruptions of the
Internet network or otherwise affecting access to our games.
In 2009, we recorded operating and net losses, and we may experience losses in the future
In 2009, we recorded an operating loss of US$40.1 million and a net loss of US$49.1 million.
Our future profitability will depend primarily upon the performance of our online games business
and the Mangas Everest business. We cannot assure you that we will not experience operating or net
losses in future periods.
11
Risks Related to Our Joint Venture with Mangas
We do not control the management of our joint venture with Mangas and have no control over its
business decisions and any significant difficulties encountered by the joint venture in its
operations may have a material and adverse effect on our business and financial results
On April 8, 2010, we completed the sale of a 60 percent interest in our online gaming software
business to Mangas, a leading European sports betting and online gaming group. The strategic
alliance with Mangas was structured as a stock and asset sale to a newly-formed French entity,
Mangas Everest, in which we received a 40 percent stake. Concurrent with the transaction, we
purchased the shares of UIM, our then-major licensee which provided online gaming services, and
sold all of UIMs material assets to Mangas Everest.
We hold the remaining 40 percent of Mangas Everest with a put option to sell all or part of
our shares to Mangas. The put option is exercisable in 2013, 2014 and 2015. Mangas holds a call
option on any remaining Mangas Everest interests held by us which it may exercise in 2015 and 2016.
For both our put option and Mangas call option, the price paid will be determined based upon the
fair market value of Mangas Everest as of December 31 of the prior year, as determined by mutual
agreement between the parties or, failing that, an appraisal process.
While Mangas will generally control the day-to-day operations of Mangas Everest, so long as we
hold at least 20 percent of Mangas Everests share capital, we will have approval rights over
certain material actions of Mangas Everest, including certain issuances of securities of Mangas
Everest, acquisitions and dispositions of certain assets and material changes to the principal
business of Mangas Everest. In addition, so long as we hold at least 10 percent of Mangas
Everests share capital, we will have representation on the board of directors of Mangas Everest.
We do not control Mangas Everests management and hence have no control over its business
decisions. Our rights under the earn-out and the put or call option are of uncertain value. We may
have disputes with Mangas regarding the operations of Mangas Everest or the calculation of the
earn-out or put or call option payments. We cannot assure you that our strategic alliance with
Mangas through such joint venture structure will be commercially successful. Any significant
difficulties encountered by Mangas Everest in its operations or significant deviation from the
terms of the agreement with Mangas, may have a material and adverse effect on our business and
financial results.
The uncertain global legal and regulatory environment could have a negative impact on the
Mangas Everest business and prospects
We historically relied on our gaming software and services business for a substantial majority
of our revenues. Our gaming software and services business included software development and the
provision of application services for Internet gaming, including online poker rooms, casinos and
the related marketing affiliate programs. We historically licensed our gaming software to UIM,
which operates various online poker rooms and casinos and also sub-licenses our software products
to third parties. Fees earned by us were historically based on UIMs gross receipt from the
operation utilizing the licensed software. UIM held a gaming license issued by the Kahnawake
Gaming Commission in Canada and two gaming licenses issued by Lotteries and Gaming Authority in
Malta. Issues such as determining the physical location of a gaming event and significant
differences among the gaming laws and Cyberlaws of various countries make traditional concepts of
jurisdiction and conflicts of laws difficult to apply. In addition, the substantial uncertainties
in the global regulatory environment relating to online gaming expose us to the risk that
regulatory authorities in various jurisdictions may determine that our Company provided online
gaming services (rather than only licensing software and providing application services) and thus
subject our Company to gaming laws and regulations in such jurisdictions.
On April 8, 2010, we completed the sale of a 60 percent interest in our online gaming software
business to Mangas. As part of and as a condition to the completion of the transaction, we
purchased the shares of our then-major licensee, UIM, all of the material assets (including the
Everest Poker operations) of which were sold to Mangas Everest as part of the transaction. See Item
5, Operating and Financial Review and Prospects A.
Operating Results Subsequent Events
Transaction with Mangas for additional information. In accordance with the terms of the strategic
alliance, Mangas Everest will endeavor to migrate all Mangas poker players to the Everest Poker
platform creating one of the largest poker player liquidity platforms in Europe. Everest Poker
will also be able to benefit from the sports betting solutions of Mangas. In addition, the combined
user base of Everest Poker and BetClic both leading brands in France strongly positions the
alliance to capture potential growth from the soon to be opened and regulated French market, one of
the largest in Europe. Mangas Everest operates under two full remote gaming licenses (a Class 1
and a Class 3) issued by Malta Lotteries and Gaming Authority and a license issued by the Kahnawake
Gaming Commission, subject to continuing compliance with applicable licensing requirements. On June
7, 2010, Everest Poker and BetClic Poker operations, owned by Mangas Everest, received online poker
licenses as part of the first grant of licenses in France. Everest Poker and BetClic Poker
accounted for two of the seven licenses granted in the initial approvals and expect to begin French
operations in late June 2010.
12
Mangas Everest, our joint venture with Mangas, primarily targets non-U.S. markets,
predominantly in Continental European markets. Several European countries have adopted a regulated
online gaming approach. For example, Italy has introduced a new set of regulations on online
gaming. In Italy, there is a general prohibition on casino-type games. As early as October or
November of 2010, Italy will also prohibit cash games in online poker offerings, thereby
restricting the poker activity to tournaments. The French government has published a gaming bill
and has begun issuing licenses that allow an operator to conduct remote sports betting, pari-mutual
horserace betting, and poker. No regulations permitting the operation of online casino operations
have yet been enacted in France. Spain and Ireland have announced their intentions to introduce a
regulatory framework on online gaming. As of yet, no regulations have been issued, however there
is speculation that a draft of the Spanish regulations may be issued as soon as the summer of 2010.
Other jurisdictions in which Mangas Everest operates may require local licensing in the future.
There can be no assurance that Mangas Everest will be successful in its efforts to obtain a gaming
license from these jurisdictions, and that Mangas Everest would not face the potential loss of
users in these jurisdictions. In addition, many European countries, including The Netherlands,
Denmark and Germany, have taken actions or introduced legislation aimed at banning foreign online
gaming operators, which could have a material adverse effect on Mangas Everest and consequently on
our Company.
The Internet gaming industry is still in an early stage of development and the global legal
and regulatory environment in which the Internet gaming businesses operate remains highly uncertain
and is subject to change. While many jurisdictions have some form of legal framework applicable to
games of chance and land-based casinos, few provide clear guidance on how this framework applies to
Internet gaming. In addition, the very nature of Internet gaming creates new and unique forms of
entertainment that were neither contemplated nor feasible in the past. There can be no assurance
that legislation prohibiting Internet gaming or regulating various aspects of Internet gaming
industry will not be proposed and passed in potentially relevant jurisdictions. We cannot assure
you that Mangas Everest as an online gaming operator, are in compliance with all laws and
regulations of the jurisdictions in which it operates, or that changes in such laws and
regulations, or in their interpretation, will not adversely affect our business and results of
operations.
For additional information on the regulatory environment relating to online gaming, see Item
4, Information on the Company B. Business Overview Regulation in this annual report.
The Mangas Everest business faces intense competition, which may adversely affect our
financial results
We are exposed to competition among Mangas Everest and other game operators in the online
gaming industry. Mangas Everest faces intense competition in the online gaming industry, which is
characterized by low barriers to entry, rapid technological change and ever-changing consumer
preferences. New entrants to the online gaming industry, increasingly competitive market
consolidations and aggressive marketing and pricing by competitors may lead to a significant
decline in the customer base, revenues and margins of Mangas Everest. In addition, the online
gaming industry is influenced by various other factors, including changes in policies and
regulations and economic conditions in different jurisdictions. For example, as a result of the
Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act of 2006 (UIGEA) and the subsequent closing of the
online gaming market in the United States, Mangas Everest faces increased competition from
entertainment service providers in markets in Continental Europe, which are also increasingly
subject to regulation from governmental authorities. Furthermore, some of Mangas Everests
competitors have greater experiences, resources and distribution capabilities. For additional
information, see Item 4, Information on the Company B. Business Overview Gaming Software and
Service Business Competition in this annual report.
The Mangas Everest business will be materially and adversely affected if credit card companies
and other financial institutions cease to accept online gaming transactions
A substantial portion of Mangas Everests proceeds from its online gaming operations is from
the deposits or payments made by its customers through credit card transactions. Financial
institutions in the United States have ceased to accept online gaming transactions after the
enactment of the UIGEA, which prohibits the use of communication facilities and financial
transactions in connection with Internet gambling. For additional information, see Item 4, The
Information on The Company B. Business Overview Regulation in this annual report. Although
Mangas Everest primarily targets non-U.S. markets, predominantly in Continental European markets,
there can be no assurance that credit card companies or other financial institutions in the
jurisdictions where Mangas Everest operates will continue to accept and process online gaming
transactions. Furthermore, there is a higher incidence of fraud associated with online credit card
payments than with other types of payments, which could further discourage issuing banks from
processing online gaming transactions. If credit card companies or other financial institutions
cease to accept online gaming transactions, either generally or in the jurisdictions where Mangas
Everest operates, Mangas Everests revenues and, in turn, its gaming software and service business
could be materially and adversely affected.
The Mangas Everest business is international and therefore faces associated risks
There are certain difficulties and inherent risks faced by our Company and Mangas Everest, our
joint venture with Mangas, in doing business internationally, including the burden of complying
with multiple and conflicting regulatory requirements, foreign exchange controls, potential
restrictions or tariffs on gaming activities that may be imposed, potentially adverse tax
consequences and tax risks. Changes in the political and economic stability, regulatory and
taxation structures, and the interpretation thereof, in jurisdictions in which we or Mangas Everest
operate, and in which our or Mangas Everests customers are located could have a material adverse
effect on our business, revenues, results of operations and financial condition. In addition,
while the functional currency of the Mangas Everest business is U.S. dollar, the principal
geographic markets of Mangas Everest products and services are Continental European markets. The
fluctuation of exchange rate between Euro and U.S. dollar may
adversely affect spending of players from Continental Europe and the demand for Mangas Everest
products and services, and in turn, adversely affect our business and revenues.
13
Risks Related to Doing Business in Greater China
PRC laws and regulations restrict foreign ownership and investment in the online game
industry, and substantial uncertainties exist with respect to the application and implementation of
PRC laws and regulations
We are classified as a foreign enterprise under PRC laws and various regulations in the PRC
currently restrict foreign or foreign-owned enterprises from holding certain licenses required to
provide online games over the Internet in the PRC, including Internet content provision, Internet
culture operation and Internet publishing licenses. In order to comply with foreign ownership
restrictions, we operate our online games business in the PRC through our three variable interest
entities (VIEs), including Shanghai T2 Entertainment Co., Ltd. (T2 Entertainment), Shanghai T2
Advertisement Co., Ltd. (T2 Advertisement) and Shanghai Jinyou Network & Technology Co., Ltd.
(Jinyou). All the VIEs are effectively controlled by T2CN through contractual arrangements. T2
Entertainment and Jinyou hold the Internet content provision and Internet cultural operation
licenses that are required to operate our online games business in the PRC, and T2 Advertisement
holds an advertising license that is required to sell advertisements on our websites in the PRC.
Beginning in June 2007, the results of T2 Entertainment and T2 Advertisement have been included in
our consolidated financial statements. The results of Jinyou have been included in our
consolidated financial statements starting from September 2008. For additional information, see
Item 4, Information on the Company B. Business Overview Regulation Regulations Relating to
Online Games in the PRC Foreign Ownership Restrictions and Item 4, Information on the Company
C. Organizational Structure in this annual report.
In July 2006, the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT, formerly the
Ministry of Information Industry) issued a notice, which prohibits Internet content providers (ICP
licenses) and holders of value-added telecommunications business operation licenses from leasing,
transferring or selling a telecommunications business operating license to any foreign investors in
any form, or providing any resource, sites or facilities to any foreign investors for their illegal
operation of telecommunications business in the PRC. The notice also requires that ICP license
holders and their shareholders directly own the domain names and trademarks used by such ICP
license holders in their daily operations. The notice further requires each ICP license holder to
have the necessary facilities for its approved business operations and to maintain such facilities
in the regions covered by its license. In addition, all value-added telecommunication service
providers are required to maintain network and information security in accordance with the
standards set forth under relevant PRC regulations. Local authorities in the various regions were
required to ensure that existing ICP license holders conducted self-assessments of their compliance
with the Notice and submitted their status reports to the MIIT prior to November 1, 2006. T2
Entertainment has conducted its self-assessment and believes that it is in compliance with the
requirements of notice. Jinyou obtained the ICP license in September 2008.
On September 28, 2009, the PRC General Administration of Press and Publication (GAPP),
National Copyright Administration, and National Office of Combating Pornography and Illegal
Publications jointly published a notice, which, among others, (i) provides that GAPP is
responsible for pre-examination and approval of internet games as authorized by the central
government and State Council, and that the provision of Internet games either online or on a
downloaded basis constitutes Internet game publishing, which is subject to pre-examination and
approval by GAPP; and (ii) prohibits foreign investors from participating in Internet game
operating businesses via wholly owned, equity joint venture or cooperative joint venture
investments in the PRC, and from controlling and participating in such businesses directly or
indirectly through contractual or technical support arrangements. If applied literally and
uniformly, such notice would render our ownership structure in the PRC invalid and illegal. To
date, however, there are substantial uncertainties regarding the interpretation and application of
such notice.
There are substantial uncertainties regarding the interpretation and application of current or
future PRC laws and regulations. Accordingly, we cannot assure you that PRC government authorities
will ultimately take a view that is consistent with our view. If we or any of our PRC operating
companies are found to be in violation of any existing or future PRC laws or regulations, the
relevant government authorities would have broad discretion in dealing with such violations and
could impose significant penalties and sanctions or other regulatory or enforcement actions,
including levying fines, confiscating income, revoking business or operating licenses, requiring us
to restructure our ownership structure, and requiring us to discontinue all or any part of our
business operations. Any of these actions could have a material adverse effect on our business,
financial condition and results of operations.
We could also face material and adverse tax consequences if the PRC tax authorities determine
that our contractual arrangements with T2 Entertainment, T2 Advertisement and Jinyou were not made
on reasonable commercial terms. In such an event, they could adjust our income and expenses for
PRC tax purposes in the form of a transfer pricing adjustment which could result in an increase in
our PRC subsidiaries tax liability or limit our PRC subsidiaries ability to maintain preferential
tax treatments and other financial incentives.
14
The contractual arrangements with T2 Entertainment, T2 Advertisement and Jinyou and their
shareholders may not be as effective in providing operational control as direct ownership and the
shareholders of T2 Entertainment, T2 Advertisement and Jinyou may have potential conflicts of
interest with us
We operate our online games business through T2 Entertainment, T2 Advertisement and Jinyou,
all of which are our VIEs. We have no ownership interest in any of these VIEs and rely on a series
of contractual arrangements that are intended to give us effective control over them. However, the
contractual arrangements may not be as effective as compared to having direct ownership and control
over these companies. Direct ownership would allow us, for example, to directly exercise our
rights as a shareholder to effect changes in the board of directors, which, in turn, could affect
changes, at the management level. In addition, these VIEs could violate their contractual
arrangements with us, go bankrupt, suffer from problems in their businesses or otherwise become
unable to perform their contracts with us. As a result, our business could be disrupted and our
results of operations may be materially and adversely affected.
Most principal shareholders of T2 Entertainment, T2 Advertisement and Jinyou are executive
officers of T2CN and have no substantial shareholdings in our Company. Thus, their interests as
shareholders of the VIEs and their duties to our Company may conflict. We cannot assure you that
when conflicts of interest arise, these persons will act completely in our interests or that
conflicts of interests will be resolved in our favor. Any legal proceeding could result in the
disruption of our business, diversion of our resources and the incurring of substantial costs.
All of these contractual arrangements are governed by PRC laws and provide for the resolution
of disputes through either arbitration or litigation in the PRC. Accordingly, the underlying
contracts would be interpreted in accordance with PRC laws and any disputes would be resolved in
accordance with PRC legal procedures. The legal environment in the PRC is not as developed as in
other jurisdictions, such as the United States. As a result, uncertainties in the PRC legal system
could limit our ability to enforce these contractual arrangements. In the event we are unable to
enforce these contractual arrangements, we may be unable to exert effective control over our PRC
operating VIEs, and our ability to conduct our business may be negatively affected. See Item 4,
Information on the Company C. Organizational Structure in this annual report.
The laws and regulations governing the online games industry in the PRC are evolving and new
regulations may adversely affect our business
Our provision of online games and online game-related content on our websites in China is
subject to various PRC laws and regulations relating to the telecommunications industry and
Internet and online games, and is regulated by various government and regulatory authorities. The
principal PRC regulations governing the provision of Internet content and online gaming services
include (among others) the Telecommunications Regulations (2000), the Administrative Rules for
Foreign Investments in Telecommunications Enterprises (2001), the Tentative Measures for the
Administration of Internet Publications (2002), the Tentative Measures for Administration of
Internet Culture (2003), the Opinions on the Development and Management of Online Games (2005), the
Anti-Internet Addiction Regulations (2007), the Administrative Measures for Telecommunications
Business Operating Licenses (2009), and the Tentative Measures for Cyber Games Administration
(2010). We may be affected by these regulations, which seek to regulate the content of online
games and the business operation of online game operators and discourage online game players from
spending excessive amounts of time playing online games. This may reduce the number of our users,
the growth rate of our user base, the general online games market in the PRC or the average number
of hours played by online game players, or cause us to reduce usage fees or other charges in
connection with our online games business. In addition, compliance with such regulations may
require us to incur substantial costs in modifying or adapting our game software to comply with the
regulatory requirements. This may adversely affect our business, financial condition and results
of operations.
The adoption of new laws or regulations in the PRC relating to the Internet, or particular
applications or interpretations of existing laws, could decrease the growth in the use of the
Internet, decrease the demand for our products and services, increase the cost of conducting our
business or could otherwise have a material adverse effect on our business, revenues, results of
operations and financial condition.
New PRC laws and regulations that address issues such as user privacy, pricing, online
content, taxation, advertising, intellectual property, information security, and the
characteristics and quality of online products and services may be enacted. For example, in order
to counter the Internet addiction, in April 2007, eight PRC government authorities issued
regulations to discourage online game-players who are minors from spending excessive amounts of
time playing online games. Pursuant to these regulations, Internet game operators have been
ordered to install anti-addiction software features on games offered in the PRC, which will, among
other features, limit the number of points and other benefits which can be awarded to game players
after they have been online in excess of specified periods of time. Internet game operators will
also be required to adopt real-name registration, which will require online game players to
register their real identity information before they will be allowed to play online games. See
Item 4, Information on the Company B. Business Overview Regulation in this annual report.
15
There are currently no clear laws or regulations governing virtual asset property rights, in
particular, in Greater China, and therefore, it is not clear what liabilities, if any, online game
operators may have in respect of virtual assets
In the course of playing online games, some virtual assets, such as special equipment, player
experience grades and other features of our users game characters, are acquired and accumulated.
Such virtual assets can be important to online game players. In practice, virtual assets can be
lost for various reasons, often through unauthorized use of user identifications by other users and
occasionally through data loss caused by delay of network service or by a network crash. Currently
there are no clear laws or regulations governing virtual asset property rights, in particular, in
Greater China where we operate our online games business. As a result, it is unclear under PRC law
whether an operator of online games such as us would have any liability (whether in contract, tort
or otherwise) for loss of such virtual assets by game players. Based on several judgments regarding
the liabilities of online game operators for loss of virtual assets by game players, the PRC courts
have generally required online game operators to provide well-developed security systems to protect
such virtual assets owned by game players. In the case of a loss of virtual assets, we may be sued
by online game players and could be held liable for damages, which may negatively affect our
business, financial condition and results of operations.
Restrictions on virtual currency may adversely affect our revenues from online game operations
in the PRC
Our online game operations revenues in the PRC are primarily collected through the sale of our
prepaid game cards or online sale of game points. On February 15, 2007, 14 PRC government
authorities jointly issued Circular for Further Strengthening the Administration of Internet Café
and Online Games, which directs the Peoples Bank of China (PBOC) to strengthen the
administration of virtual currency in online games to avoid any adverse impact on the PRC economy
and financial system. This circular provides that the total amount of virtual currency issued by
online game operators and the amount purchased by individual game players should be strictly
limited, with a strict and clear division between virtual transactions and real transactions
carried out by way of electronic commerce. This notice also provides that virtual currency should
only be used to purchase virtual items. On June 4, 2009, the Ministry of Culture and the Ministry
of Commerce jointly issued the Circular on Strengthening the Administration of Virtual Currency in
Online Games. According to this circular, any PRC entities engaging in issuance or trade service of
virtual currency in online games shall meet the requirements of Commercial Online Cultural
Entities as prescribed in the Tentative Measures for Administration of Internet Culture (2003) and
are required to apply to the Ministry of Culture for an approval. This circular further provides,
among others, that (i) the form, issuance scope and unit purchase price of virtual currency, the
refund method in case of termination of online games, the purchase method for the users (including
cash, bank card, payment via Internet, etc.), the protection measures for users rights and
interests, and the technology security safeguard measures, shall be filed with the Ministry of
Culture for record; (ii) the unit purchase price of virtual currency shall not be changed by online
games operators; (iii) the new type of virtual currency shall be filed with the Ministry of Culture
for record before issuance by online games operators; and (iv) the virtual currency trade service
shall not be open to the minors. These restrictions may result in lower sales of our prepaid game
cards or game points, and could have an adverse effect on our game operations revenues.
Our business may be adversely affected by government policies and regulation of Internet cafés
in the PRC
Internet cafés are one of the primary venues where our online games were distributed and
played in the PRC. In April 2001, the PRC government began tightening its regulation and
supervision of Internet cafés. In particular, a large number of Internet cafés without requisite
government licenses have been closed. In addition, the PRC government has imposed higher capital
and facility requirements for the establishment of Internet cafés. The PRC governments policy,
which encourages the development of a limited number of national and regional Internet café chains
and discourages the establishment of independent Internet cafés, may also slow down the growth in
the number of new Internet cafés. In February 2007, 14 PRC government authorities jointly issued a
notice, which suspended approval for the establishment of new Internet cafés and called for
strengthened regulation of existing Internet cafés. It is unclear when or if this suspension will
be lifted. The PRC governmental authorities may from time to time impose stricter requirements,
such as the customers age limit and hours of operation, among others, as a result of the
occurrence and perception of, and the media attention on, gang fights, arson and other incidents in
or related to Internet cafés. The implementation of these measures, or enactment by the PRC
government of any additional laws to further regulate Internet cafés, may result in fewer customers
or less time spent by customers playing our online games, which could restrict our ability to
maintain or increase our revenues and expand our customer base. See Item 4, Information on the
Company B. Business Overview Regulation Internet Café Regulation in this annual report.
Fluctuations in the exchange rates between the U.S. dollar and other currencies in which we
conduct our business could adversely affect our profitability
The operations of our online games business are conducted in NT dollars, Hong Kong dollars and
Renminbi. Accordingly, fluctuations in the exchange rates could have a positive or negative effect
on our reported results. Generally, an appreciation of NT dollars, Hong Kong dollars or Renminbi
against U.S. dollars results in a foreign exchange loss for monetary assets denominated in U.S.
dollars, and a foreign exchange gain for monetary liabilities denominated in U.S. dollars. On the
contrary, a devaluation of NT dollars, Hong Kong dollars or Renminbi against U.S. dollars results
in a foreign exchange gain for monetary assets denominated in U.S. dollars, and a foreign exchange
loss for monetary liabilities denominated in U.S. dollars. Given the constantly changing currency
exposures and the substantial volatility of currency exchange rates, we cannot predict the effect
of exchange rate fluctuations upon future operating results. There can be no assurance that we
will not experience currency losses in the future, which could have a material adverse effect on
our business, revenues, results of operations and financial condition.
16
Changes in foreign exchange and foreign investment regulations and limitations on dividend
payment in the PRC may affect our ability to invest in China and the ability of our PRC
subsidiaries to pay dividends and service debts
Renminbi is not a freely convertible currency at present. The PRC government regulates
conversion between Renminbi and foreign currencies. Changes in PRC laws and regulations on foreign
exchange may result in uncertainties in our financing and operating plans in China. Over the years,
China has significantly reduced the governments control over routine foreign exchange transactions
under current accounts, including trade and service related foreign exchange transactions, payment
of dividends and service of foreign debts. In accordance with the existing foreign exchange
regulations in China, our PRC subsidiaries may, within the scope of current account transactions,
pay dividends and service debts in foreign currencies without prior approval from the PRC State
Administration of Foreign Exchange, or SAFE, by complying with certain procedural requirements.
However, there can be no assurance that the current PRC foreign exchange policies with respect to
debt service and payment of dividends in foreign currencies will continue in the future. Changes in
PRC foreign exchange policies may have a negative impact on our ability to service our foreign
currency-denominated indebtedness and to distribute dividends to our shareholders in foreign
currencies since our subsidiaries in China need to convert their Renminbi cash flow to service such
foreign debt and to make such dividend payments.
Foreign exchange transactions by our PRC subsidiaries under the capital account continue to be
subject to significant foreign exchange controls. In particular, foreign exchange transactions
involving foreign direct investment, foreign debts and outbound investment in securities and
derivatives are subject to limitations and require approvals from the relevant SAFE authorities. We
have the choice, as permitted by the PRC foreign investment regulations, to invest in the form of
registered capital or a shareholder loan into our PRC subsidiaries to finance our operations in
China. Our choice of investment is affected by the different treatments under the relevant PRC
regulations with respect to capital-account and current-account foreign exchange transactions in
China. For example, our transfer of funds to our subsidiaries in China is subject to approval of
PRC governmental authorities in case of an increase in registered capital, or subject to
registration with PRC governmental authorities in case of a shareholder loan. These and other
limitations on the flow of funds between us and our PRC subsidiaries could restrict our ability to
act in response to changing market conditions and limit our flexibility in the management of our
cash flow and financings. See Item 10, Additional Information D. Exchange Controls in this
annual report.
In addition, recent PRC regulations relating to the establishment of offshore special purpose
companies by PRC residents may subject the PRC resident shareholders of our PRC subsidiaries or us
to penalties and limit our ability to inject capital into our PRC subsidiaries, limit our
subsidiaries ability to increase their registered capital, distribute profits to us, or otherwise
adversely affect us. Moreover, our PRC subsidiaries are required to set aside a certain percentage
of their after-tax profit based on PRC accounting standards each year for their reserve fund in
accordance with the requirements of relevant PRC laws and the relevant provisions in their
respective articles of associations. As a result, our PRC subsidiaries may be restricted in their
ability to transfer any portion of their net income to us whether in the form of dividends, loans
or advances.
There are economic risks associated with doing business in Taiwan, particularly due to the
tense relationship between Taiwan and the PRC
Our principal executive offices and a significant portion of our assets are located in Taiwan
and a major portion of our revenues of online games business are derived from our operations in
Taiwan. Taiwan, as part of the Republic of China, has a unique international political status.
The PRC asserts sovereignty over mainland China and Taiwan and does not recognize the legitimacy of
the Taiwan government. Relations between Taiwan and the PRC and other factors affecting the
political or economic conditions of Taiwan could also affect our online games business.
Risks Related to Ownership of our Shares
The price of our Shares has been volatile historically and may continue to be volatile, which
may make it difficult for holders to resell our Shares when desired or at attractive prices
The trading price of our Shares has been and may continue to be subject to wide fluctuations.
In 2009, the closing prices of our Shares on the NASDAQ Stock Market have ranged from US$3.04 to
US$7.47 per share, and the closing price on June 25, 2010 was US$2.03. Our Share price may
fluctuate in response to a number of events and factors. In addition, the financial markets in
general, and the market prices for Internet-related companies in particular, have experienced
extreme volatility that often has been unrelated to the operating performance of such companies.
These broad market and industry fluctuations may adversely affect the price of our Shares,
regardless of our operating performance.
We are controlled by the Koo family, which has significant influence in determining the
outcome of any corporate transaction or other matters submitted to our shareholders for approval,
and their interests may conflict with your interests
As of March 31, 2010, members of the Koo family beneficially owned approximately 19.59 percent
of our outstanding Shares. Accordingly, the members of the Koo family have significant influence
in determining the outcome of any corporate transaction or other matters submitted to our
shareholders for approval, including mergers, consolidations, the sale of all or
substantially all of our assets and the power to prevent or cause a change in control. The
interests of such members of the Koo family may differ from or conflict with your interests.
17
Our transactions with related parties may not benefit us and may harm our Company
We have entered into several transactions with certain related parties. We believe that we
have conducted our related-party transactions on an arms-length basis and on terms comparable to,
or more favorable to us than, similar transactions we would enter into with independent third
parties. However, we cannot assure you that all our future transactions with related parties will
be beneficial to us. See Item 7, Major Shareholders and Related-Party Transactions in this
annual report.
Our online games business in the PRC relies on payments made by our PRC VIEs to T2CN, our
majority-owned subsidiary, pursuant to contractual arrangements to transfer any such revenues to
T2CN. Any restriction on such payments and any increase in the amount of PRC taxes applicable to
such payments may materially and adversely affect our business and our ability to pay dividends to
our shareholders
T2 Entertainment, T2 Advertisement and Jinyou are not owned by us and they are not able to
make dividend payments to us. Instead, T2CN, our majority-owned subsidiary in China, entered into a
number of agreements with T2 Entertainment, T2 Advertisement and Jinyou, including certain
exclusive technical service and consultancy agreement and exclusive business consultancy service
agreements, pursuant to which T2 Entertainment, T2 Advertisement and Jinyou pay T2CN for certain
services that T2CN provides to these companies. However, depending on the nature of services
provided, certain of these payments are subject to PRC taxes at different rates, including business
taxes and VATs, which effectively reduce the amount that T2CN receives from T2 Entertainment, T2
Advertisement and Jinyou. We cannot assure you that the PRC government will not impose
restrictions on such payments or change the tax rates applicable to such payments. Any such
restrictions on such payment or increases in the applicable tax rates may materially and adversely
affect our ability to receive payments from T2 Entertainment, T2 Advertisement and Jinyou or the
amount of such payments, and may in turn materially and adversely affect our business, our net
income and our ability to pay dividends to our shareholders.
The ability of our subsidiaries in Taiwan to distribute dividends to us may be subject to
restrictions under the laws of Taiwan
We are a holding company, and some of our assets constitute our ownership interests in our
subsidiaries in Taiwan, including Hoshin GigaMedia, which owns the Taiwan-based operations of our
online games business. Accordingly, part of our primary internal source of funds to meet our cash
needs is our share of the dividends, if any, paid by our subsidiaries, including those in Taiwan.
The distribution of dividends to us from these subsidiaries in Taiwan is subject to restrictions
imposed by the applicable corporate and tax regulations in these countries, which are more fully
described in Item 5, Operating and Financial Review and Prospects B. Liquidity and Capital
Resources Dividends from Our Subsidiaries in this annual report. In addition, although there
are currently no foreign exchange control regulations which restrict the ability of our
subsidiaries in Taiwan to distribute dividends to us, the relevant regulations may be changed and
the ability of these subsidiaries to distribute dividends to us may be restricted in the future.
Anti-takeover provisions under the Singapore Securities and Futures Act (Chapter 289) and the
Singapore Code on Take-overs and Mergers may delay, deter or prevent a future takeover or change of
control of our Company, which could adversely affect the price of our Shares
The Singapore Code on Take-overs and Mergers (the Code) issued pursuant to Section 321 of
the Singapore Securities and Futures Act (Chapter 289) regulates the acquisition of ordinary shares
of, inter alia, listed public companies and contain certain provisions that may delay, deter or
prevent a future takeover or change of control of our Company. Any person acquiring an interest,
either on his own or together with parties acting in concert with him, in 30 percent or more of the
voting shares in our Company must, except with the prior consent of the Singapore Securities
Industry Council (the SIC), extend a takeover offer for the remaining voting shares in our Company
in accordance with the provisions of the Code. Likewise, any person holding between 30 percent and
50 percent of the voting shares in our Company, either on his own or together with parties acting
in concert with him, must, except with the prior consent of the SIC, make a takeover offer in
accordance with the provisions of the Code if that person together with parties acting in concert
with him acquires additional voting shares in excess of one percent of the total number of voting
shares in any six-month period.
Under the Code, an offeror must treat all shareholders of the same class in an offeree company
equally. A fundamental requirement is that shareholders in the company subject to the takeover
offer must be given sufficient information, advice and time to consider and decide on the offer.
These provisions contained in the Code may discourage or prevent transactions that involve an
actual or threatened change of control of our Company. This may harm you because an acquisition
bid may allow you to sell your Shares at a price above the prevailing market price.
18
Our shareholders may be subject to Singapore taxes
Singapore tax law may differ from the tax laws of other jurisdictions, including the United
States. Gains from the sale of our Shares by a person not tax resident in Singapore may be taxable
in Singapore if such gains are part of the profits of any business carried on in Singapore. For
additional information, see Item 10, Additional Information E. Taxation Singapore Tax
Consideration in this annual report. You should consult your tax advisors concerning the overall
tax consequences of acquiring, owning or selling the Shares.
We are a Singapore company, and because the rights of shareholders under Singapore law differ
from those under U.S. law, you may have difficulty in protecting your shareholder rights or
enforcing any judgment obtained in the U.S. against us or our affiliates
Our corporate affairs are governed by our memorandum and articles of association and by the
laws governing corporations incorporated in Singapore. The rights of our shareholders and the
responsibilities of members of our board of directors under Singapore law are different from those
applicable to a corporation incorporated in the United States and, therefore, our shareholders may
have more difficulty protecting their interests in connection with actions by the management,
members of our board of directors or our controlling shareholders than they would as shareholders
of a corporation incorporated in the United States.
Our Company is incorporated under the laws of the Republic of Singapore. Many of our
directors and senior management reside outside the United States. As a result, it may be difficult
for investors to effect service of process within the United States upon us or any of these persons
or to enforce in the United States any judgment obtained in the U.S. courts against us or any of
these persons, including judgments based upon the civil liability provisions of the U.S. federal
securities laws or any state or territory of the United States. Judgments of the U.S. courts based
upon the civil liability provisions of the U.S. federal securities laws may not be enforceable in
Singapore courts, and there is doubt as to whether Singapore courts will enter judgments in
original actions brought in Singapore courts based solely upon the civil liability provisions of
the U.S. federal securities laws.
We may incur significant costs and management time to avoid being considered an investment
company under the United States Investment Company Act of 1940, which could have a significant
negative impact on our results of operations
We may be deemed to be an investment company under the United States Investment Company Act of
1940 (the 1940 Act), and may suffer adverse consequences as a result. Generally, the 1940 Act
provides that a company is not an investment company and is not required to register under the 1940
Act as an investment company if the company is primarily engaged, directly or through a
wholly-owned subsidiary or subsidiaries, in a business or businesses other than that of investing,
reinvesting, owning, holding or trading in securities and has investment securities that comprise
less than 40% of its total assets (exclusive of U.S. government securities or cash items) on an
unconsolidated basis.
Following the completion of our restructuring efforts in September 2008, we have devoted our
efforts and resources to the gaming software products and application services and operating online
games businesses primarily through our significant wholly-owned subsidiaries. From time to time,
we also make strategic non-controlling investments in entities that we believe, at the time of such
investments, complement or enhance our business (Strategic Investments). These Strategic
Investments may be deemed to be investment securities under the 1940 Act. In April 2010, we
consummated the sale of a 60 percent interest in our gaming software business to Mangas Gaming, a
leading European sports betting and online gaming group, for US$100 million in cash and the right
to a possible earnout payment based on the future performance of the business. As part of the
transaction, we purchased the shares of UIM, our then-major licensee which provided online gaming
services, and sold all of UIMs material assets to the GigaMedia and Mangas strategic alliance.
GigaMedia and Mangas also hold, respectively, put and call options on our 40 percent interest in
the gaming software and services business exercisable at fair market value at various dates over
the next several years. As a result of the transaction with Mangas in 2010, we no longer have
majority control of the gaming software and services business and have a significant amount of cash
on hand. See Item 5, Operating and Financial Review and
Prospects A. Operating Results
Subsequent Events Transaction with Mangas for additional information. Consequently, there is a
risk that we could be deemed to be an investment company because our investment securities may be
deemed to comprise more than 40% of our total assets (exclusive of U.S. government securities or
cash items) on an unconsolidated basis pending investment of the proceeds of the sale into our
remaining businesses.
However, based on our historical and current business activities, the primary activities of
our officers and directors and an analysis of our non-cash assets and income during 2009 and the
first quarter of 2010, we do not believe that we are an investment company. Nevertheless, a part of
the determination of whether we are an investment company is based upon the composition and value
of our assets, a significant portion of which are presently comprised of our Strategic Investments.
As a result, we could be deemed to be an investment company.
We intend to conduct our businesses and operations so as to avoid being required to register
as an investment company. If, nevertheless, we were to be required to register as an investment
company, because we are a foreign company, the 1940 Act would prohibit us and any person deemed to
be an underwriter of our securities from offering for sale, selling or delivering after sale, in
connection with a public offering, any security issued by the Company in the United States.
Additionally, we may be unable to continue operating as we currently do and might need to acquire
or sell assets that we would not otherwise acquire or sell in order to
avoid becoming an investment company as defined under the 1940 Act. We may incur
significant costs and management time to avoid being considered an investment company under the
1940 Act, which could have a significant negative impact on our results of operations.
19
We may be classified as a passive foreign investment company for U.S. federal income tax
purposes. As a result, you may be subject to materially adverse tax consequences with respect to
Shares
In light of our significant cash balances resulting from the transaction with Mangas as
described in Item 5, Operating and Financial Review and Prospects A. Operating Results
Subsequent Events Transaction with Mangas, we may be classified as a passive foreign investment
company, or PFIC, for the current taxable year. A non-United States corporation, such as us, will
be treated as a PFIC for any taxably year in which 75% or more if its gross income consists of
passive income or 50% or more of its assets (based on an average of the quarterly values during
such taxable year) are classified as passive assets. For this purpose, cash and other liquid
assets are generally classified as passive and goodwill and other unbooked intangibles associated
with active business activities may generally be classified as active. Because the value of our
assets for purposes of the PFIC test will generally be determined by reference to the market price
of our Shares, fluctuations in the market price of our Shares will significantly affect the overall
level of our active assets. In addition, the composition of our income and assets will be affected
by how, and how quickly, we spend our liquid assets and the cash raised in our transaction with
Mangas.
Because there are uncertainties in the application of the relevant rules and PFIC status is a
fact-intensive determination made on an annual basis, no assurance can be given that we are not or
will not become classified as a PFIC. If we were to be classified as a PFIC in any taxable year, a
U.S. person (as defined in E. Taxation U.S. Tax Considerations Passive Foreign Investment
Company Rules) would be subject to special rules generally intended to reduce or eliminate any
benefits from the deferral of United States federal income tax that a U.S. person could derive from
investing in a non-United States corporation that does not distribute all of its earnings on a
current basis. Further, if we are classified as a PFIC for any year during which a U.S. person
holds our Shares, we generally will continue to be treated as a PFIC for all succeeding years
during which such U.S. person holds our Shares. For more information, see the section entitled E.
Taxation U.S. Tax Considerations Passive Foreign Investment Company Rules.
ITEM 4. INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY
A. History and Development of Our Company
Our legal and commercial name is GigaMedia Limited. We trace our origin back to the
incorporation of Hoshin GigaMedia in Taiwan in October 1998. For the purpose of a public equity
offering, we were incorporated in Singapore in September 1999 as a company limited by shares. We
acquired 99.99 percent of equity interest in Hoshin GigaMedia in November 1999 and the remaining
0.01 percent in October 2002.
In February 2000, we completed the initial public offering of our Shares. Our Shares are
traded on the NASDAQ Stock Market under the symbol GIGM.
Prior to September 2002, we primarily provided broadband Internet access and services in
Taiwan through Hoshin GigaMedia. In September 2002, we acquired Rose Records (formerly known as
Point Records Co., Ltd.) and Tachung Records (formerly known as Music King Co., Ltd.), two of the
largest music store chains in Taiwan. Subsequent to these two acquisitions, we commenced the
recorded music distribution business.
In 2004, we began the restructuring of our principal business operations with a view to
shifting our strategic focus to gaming software and services business and online games business.
The following chart highlights some of the major historical developments of our restructuring and
the relevant strategic acquisitions and investments from 2004 to 2008:
|
|
|
Time |
|
Event |
|
|
|
April 2004
|
|
We acquired the business and operations of Grand Virtual,
Inc., a privately-held gaming software developer and
application service provider, and its affiliates. |
|
|
|
April 2004
|
|
We entered into an end user license agreement with UIM,
pursuant to which we granted a nonexclusive,
non-transferable worldwide license to UIM to use our
software and certain operational and support services. The
royalties under the agreement were determined based on a
revenue sharing mechanism. The term of the agreement was
10 years. The end user license agreement with UIM was
terminated in April 2010 as the part of the transaction
with Mangas. |
|
|
|
September 2005
|
|
We sold all of our ownership interest in the Rose Records
and Tachung Records music store chains with a view to
eliminating non-core operations. |
20
|
|
|
Time |
|
Event |
|
|
|
January 2006
|
|
We acquired FunTown, an online games business operated in
Taiwan and Hong Kong, to enhance our position in the online
entertainment market. |
|
|
|
May 2006
|
|
We disposed of our ADSL business, which was an operational
line of our Internet access and services business. |
|
|
|
December 2006
|
|
We entered into a strategic alliance with Infocomm Asia, an
operator and distributor of online games in Southeast Asia.
In connection with the strategic alliance, we acquired
preferred shares convertible into the issued ordinary
shares of Infocomm Asia. As of May 31, 2010, we held
preferred shares convertible into 28.43 percent of the
ordinary shares of Infocomm Asia. Upon conversion of the
preferred shares held by us into the ordinary shares of
Infocomm Asia, we expect to become the largest shareholder
of Infocomm Asia. |
|
|
|
June 2007
|
|
We completed the acquisition of the controlling interest in
T2CN, one of the online casual game operators in the PRC.
On August 8 and August 12, 2009, we acquired certain
ordinary shares of T2CN from two existing shareholders
respectively. As of May 31, 2010, we held approximately
67.09 percent of the total outstanding voting rights of
T2CN. |
|
|
|
October 2007
|
|
We entered into a strategic alliance with Neostorm Holdings
Limited (Neostorm), a South Korean gaming developer. In
connection with the strategic alliance, we acquired
preferred shares convertible into the common shares of
Neotorm. As of May 31, 2010, we held preferred shares
convertible into approximately 33.33 percent of the common
shares of Neostorm. |
|
|
|
December 2007
|
|
We entered into a strategic alliance with XLGames Inc. (XL
Games), a South Korean online game developer that focuses
on the development of MMORPGs. In connection with the
strategic alliance, we acquired preferred shares
convertible into the common shares of XL Games. As of May
31, 2010, we held preferred shares convertible into 14.55
percent of the common shares of XL Games. |
|
|
|
January 2008
|
|
We entered into a strategic alliance with Access China
Holding Limited (Access China), an online game developer
in the PRC. In connection with the strategic alliance, we
acquired preferred shares convertible into the common
shares of Access China. As of May 31, 2010, we held
preferred shares convertible into approximately 24.74
percent of the common shares of Access China. |
|
|
|
May 2008
|
|
We entered into certain agreements with SuperCup
Entertainment (Holdings) Limited (SuperCup) and its
affiliates, pursuant to which we purchased preferred shares
convertible into the common shares of SuperCup and obtained
worldwide exclusive rights to cooperate with SuperCup in
MahJong and certain Asian card games business. As of May
31, 2010, we held preferred shares convertible into 39.65
percent of the issued share capital of SuperCup. SuperCup
ceased its operation in 2009. |
|
|
|
September 2008
|
|
We sold our last remaining non-core business, our consumer
cable modem and corporate ISP business, to China Network
Systems Co., Ltd. and its affiliates. The disposal
effectively completed our business restructuring process
which we began in 2004. For additional information, see
Item 5, Operating and Financial Review and Prospects
Certain Significant Events affecting Our Results of
Operations for 2007, 2008 and 2009 Divestiture of our
legacy Internet access and service business and Item 10,
Additional Information C. Material Contracts Sale of
Internet Access and Service Business in this annual
report. |
|
|
|
October 2008
|
|
We entered into a software and supply agreement with a
third-party gaming software developer with a view to adding
the flash downloadable Internet casino games in our gaming
platform. |
|
|
|
December 2008
|
|
We entered into a strategic partnership with Victor
Chandler, a renowned sports betting operator. Under the
partnership, we cooperate with Victor Chandler in marketing
its online sports betting on Everest Bets, an affiliate
website utilizing our software solution, with a view to
further enhancing cross-selling across the games on the
Everest-branded platform. On December 16, 2009, we
terminated such strategic partnership with Victor Chandler.
We entered into a strategic alliance with Mangas, a leading
French sports betting and online gaming group. Under the
arrangement, Mangas will provide Mangas Everest with a
sports betting solution in late 2010. |
On January 1, 2009, we launched Holic Online, an adventure-themed MMORPG, in Taiwan.
In January 2009, in cooperation with Microsoft Corporation (Microsoft), we launched FunTown
MahJong, our first Xbox 360 game title for worldwide release.
On January 22, 2009, we entered into a game license agreement with a third-party online game
developer with respect to the licensing of an online game titled Luna Online in the PRC and
Macau. On July 7, 2009, we launched Luna Online in the PRC. On June 1, 2010, we terminated the
Luna Online game license agreement with its game developer by mutual agreement.
21
On March 9, 2009, we entered into a strategic alliance with Numen Soft Co. Ltd. (Numen
Soft), an online game developer in South Korea. In connection with the strategic alliance, we
acquired the ordinary shares of Numen Soft. As of May 31, 2010, we held 10 percent of the ordinary
shares of Numen Soft.
On May 26, 2009, we entered into a strategic alliance with Gorilla Banana Entertainment Corp.
(GBE), an online game developer in South Korea. In connection with the strategic partnership, we
acquired the ordinary shares of GBE. As of May 31, 2010, we held 19.92 percent of the ordinary
shares of GBE.
On June 25, 2009, we launched Warhammer Online: Age of Reckoning, a war-themed MMORPG
developed by Electronic Arts Inc., in Taiwan, Hong Kong and Macau. On April 22, 2010, we terminated
the Warhammer Online license and distribution agreement with its game developer by mutual
agreement.
On September 22, 2009, we acquired certain common shares of JC Entertainment Corporation
(JCE). As of May 31, 2010, we held 12.5 percent of the common shares of JCE. We license
Freestyle, a highly popular online basketball game, from JCE and currently operate Freestyle in the
PRC through T2 Entertainment.
On December 23, 2009, we entered into a strategic alliance with Possibility Space
Incorporated, an online game developer in the PRC. In connection with the strategic alliance, we
acquired certain preferred shares of Possibility Space Incorporated. The transaction was closed in
March, 2010. As of May 31, 2010, we held preferred shares convertible into 49 percent of the
ordinary shares of Possibility Space Incorporated.
In 2009, we launched FunTown Game Zone. We also added World Tour Video Slot, Race Course
Winner, Baccarat, Pirates Pachi Slot, Paradise Island, Red Dog, Roshambo, Pai Gow Poker, Double
Double Bonus Poker and Grand Slam Mahjong to our online game contents.
On March 15, 2010, we secured an exclusive license from Neowiz Corporation, an online game
company in South Korea, to operate Alliance of Valiant Arms, an online massively multiplayer first
person shooter game which provides large-scale and team-based combat. We expect to launch Alliance
of Valiant Arms in Taiwan, Hong Kong and Macau in the second half of 2010.
On March 18, 2010, we entered into a game development, publishing and distribution agreement
with Nickelodeon Asia Holdings Pte Ltd (Nickelodeon), a division of Viacom International Inc.
(NYSE: VIA, VIA.B) pursuant to which we agreed to develop, publish and distribute a massively
multiplayer online game (MMOG) based upon and branded with the Nickelodeon animated television
program SpongeBob SquarePants for Nickelodeon. On May 14, 2010, we entered into a development
agreement with Blueark Limited (Blueark), an online game developer in South Korea under which
Blueark agreed to develop and deliver to us an online game based on the Spongebob SquarePants
intellectual property. The SpongeBob SquarePants MMOG is expected to launch in 2011 in multiple
languages for players in the PRC, Korea, Japan, Taiwan, Southeast Asia and India.
On April 8, 2010, we completed the sale of a 60 percent interest in our online gaming software
business to Mangas, a leading European sports betting and online gaming group. The strategic
alliance with Mangas was structured as a stock and asset sale to a newly-formed French entity,
Mangas Everest, in which we received a 40 percent stake. As part of and as a condition to the
completion of the transaction, we purchased the shares of our then-major licensee, UIM, all of the
material assets of which were sold to Mangas Everest as part of the transaction.
On April 30, 2010, we entered into several agreements with Infocomm Asia itself and certain
shareholders of Infocomm Asia, to acquire additional preferred shares of Infocomm Asia. The
acquisition of Infocomm Asia is expected to close in the third quarter of 2010. Upon closing, we
will hold preferred shares convertible into approximately 80 percent of the common shares of
Infocomm Asia. Infocomm Asia is a leading publisher, operator and distributor based in Singapore
with over 35 million registered users in Southeastern Asia and operates several award-winning
titles including FIFA Online 2, Granado Espada and Dragonica. Infocomm Asia entered into certain
license agreements with Blizzard, under which Blizzard agreed to license its existing game library,
Diablo, StarCraft and Warcraft, and a new game, StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty, to Infocomm Asia or
its wholly owned subsidiary in Southeastern Asia.
On June 7, 2010, Everest Poker and BetClic Poker operations, owned by Mangas Everest, our
joint venture with Mangas, received online poker licenses as part of the first grant of licenses in
France. Everest Poker and BetClic Poker accounted for two of the seven licenses granted in the
initial approvals and expect to begin French operations in late June 2010.
Our Singapore company registration number is 199905474H. Our principal executive offices are
located at 8th Floor, 207 Tiding Boulevard, Section 2, Taipei 114, Taiwan, and our telephone number
is 886-2-2656-8000. Our website address is: http://www.gigamedia.com.
22
Descriptions of our principal capital expenditures and divestitures and descriptions of
acquisitions of material assets are found in our discussion and analysis of financial condition and
results of operation and in the notes to our consolidated financial statements included elsewhere
in this annual report.
There have been no public takeover offers by third parties in respect of our shares or by us
in respect of other companies shares which have occurred during the last and current financial
year.
B. Business Overview
We were a provider of gaming software and services to the online gaming industry, particularly
the online poker and casino markets, and an operator of online games in Greater China, including
the PRC, Taiwan, Hong Kong and Macau. We were incorporated in Singapore in September 1999. Our
principal business operations remained limited to the provision of Internet access and service
business, and recorded music distribution in Taiwan until 2004, when we commenced a business
restructuring to shift our strategic focus to the gaming software and services and online games
operations. We began our gaming software and services business in 2004 by acquiring the business
of a gaming software provider. In 2006, through a series of strategic acquisitions, we expanded
our operations into the online games market, which we believe has high growth potential. During
the restructuring process, we disposed of our non-core businesses, including our retail music
distribution and Internet and access service businesses. We completed the entire business
restructuring in September 2008 with the sale of our last non-core business.
Subsequent to completion of the restructuring and through April 8, 2010, we generated our
revenue primarily through providing gaming software products and application services and operating
online games. We operated our gaming software and services through CESL, our wholly-owned
subsidiary. Since 2004, we have been focused on developing software packages for online poker and
casino operations. We provided the Everest-branded gaming platform to various online poker and
casino game sites, including Everest Poker, one of the worlds largest online poker websites in
terms of seven-day average player counts according to PokerScout, a third-party online poker review
service. Our products and services included online poker and casino gaming software packages,
extensive online gaming management tools, and application and consulting services. To improve
usability of our products in international markets and serve customers seeking geographic
expansion, we developed the expertise and infrastructure to make our products suitable for the
local markets in which the games are offered. Our gaming software products and services, now
operated by Mangas Everest, are currently available in 15 major languages. Our gaming software and
services business was historically dependent on our then-largest licensee, UIM. UIM operated
various online poker and casino websites, including Everest Poker, primarily targeting players from
Continental European markets. Fees earned by us were historically based on UIMs gross receipts
from the operation utilizing the licensed software. Historically, we had experienced seasonality
primarily as a result of UIMs slower sales in the second and third quarters, during which people
tend to spend less time indoors and online as daylight hours increase and the weather conditions in
Continental Europe improve. Typically, our first and fourth quarters were our strongest revenue
periods. The financial results of UIM were historically incorporated into our consolidated
financial statements in accordance with the FASB Accounting Standards Codification although we did
not historically own any equity interest in UIM.
On April 8, 2010, we completed the sale of a 60 percent interest in our online gaming software
business to Mangas, a leading European sports betting and online gaming group. The strategic
alliance with Mangas was structured as a stock and asset sale to a newly-formed French entity,
Mangas Everest, in which we received a 40 percent stake. As part of and as a condition to the
completion of the transaction, we purchased the shares of our then-major licensee, UIM, all of the
material assets (including the Everest Poker operations) of which were sold to Mangas Everest as
part of the transaction. In accordance with the terms of the strategic alliance, Mangas Everest
will endeavor to migrate all Mangas poker players to the Everest Poker platform creating one of the
largest poker player liquidity platforms in Europe. Everest Poker will also be able to benefit
from the sports betting solution of Mangas. In addition, the combined user base of Everest Poker
and BetClic both leading brands in France strongly positions the alliance to capture potential
growth from the soon to be opened and regulated French market, one of the largest in Europe. On
June 7, 2010, Everest Poker and BetClic Poker operations, owned by Mangas Everest, received online
poker licenses as part of the first grant of licenses in France. Everest Poker and BetClic Poker
expect to begin French operations in late June 2010. From and after April 9, 2010, we no longer
consolidate the results of CESL and UIM in our consolidated financial statements. From that date,
we account for our interest in Mangas Everest using the equity method of accounting. As a result,
it may be difficult to compare our results of operations in future periods to our historical
results of operations.
We operate an increasingly diversified online games business in Greater China markets. We
conduct our online games business in the PRC primarily through T2CN and in Taiwan, Hong Kong and
Macau primarily through FunTown. Our online game portfolio currently includes online MahJong,
MMORPGs, advanced casual games and a variety of online card, chance-based and simple casual games.
We offer online MahJong through FunTown-branded game platform, which we believe is one of the
largest online MahJong networks in Taiwan. In accordance with our online games expansion strategy,
we have added MMORPGs to our online game portfolio. We currently offer three licensed MMORPGs,
including Warhammer Online: Age of Reckoning in Taiwan, Hong Kong and Macau, Holic Online in Taiwan
and Luna Online in PRC. We are in the process of shutting down Warhammer Online and Luna Online due
to poor commercial performance. In addition, we expect to launch a new MMORPG, XK Online in the
PRC. Our online game portfolio also includes various advanced casual games which, as compared to
MMORPGs, are easier to play and can attract a broader range of players. We currently offer four
advanced casual games, including Tales Runner in Taiwan and Hong Kong, Freestyle in the PRC,
Nanaimo in Hong Kong and Paipaijoy in the PRC. In addition, we expect to launch Alliance of Valiant
Arms, a new online massively multiplayer first person shooter game which provides large-scale and
team-based combat,
in Taiwan, Hong Kong and Macau in the second half of 2010. We also expect to launch Freestyle
Season 2 in the PRC in the second half of 2010. In addition, through our integrated FunTown-branded
game platform, we offer over 34 online card, chance-based and simple casual games. To complement
our online games, we offer various value-added services and virtual items for players to enhance
their game experience, skills and online personal character. We focus on building community-based
online platforms to cater to different social networking needs of our users and provide various
channels to facilitate communications among them.
23
We intend to continue to seek growth and enhance our market position in the online games
industry. We will continue to focus on the Greater China markets and further diversify our online
game portfolio. While we will continue to broaden our access to high quality online games through
licensing, we intend to expand our in-house game development team and strengthen our online game
development capabilities, particularly in development of MMORPGs and advanced casual games.
We also believe that Southeastern Asia is a large and fast growing market opportunity. We
entered into a strategic alliance with Blizzard through Southeastern Asia games operator Infocomm
Asia, of which we will be a controlling shareholder in the third quarter of 2010. We expect to
bring both Blizzards existing game library, Diablo, StarCraft and Warcraft, and also a new game,
StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty, to Southeastern Asia. We believe that led by Infocomm Asia,
Southeastern Asia will be a major area of growth and expansion for us.
While we have historically experienced significant growth in our operations of gaming software
and services and online games, we experienced a significant downturn in 2009. For the years ended
December 31, 2007, 2008 and 2009, our revenue from the gaming software and services segment was
US$119.0 million, US$144.8 million and US$112.7 million, respectively, and our revenue from the
online games segment was US$32.8 million, US$45.6 million and US$46.9 million, respectively. For
the years ended December 31, 2007 and 2008, our consolidated net income was US$38.9 million and
US$44.4 million and for the year ended December 31, 2009, our consolidated net loss wasUS$49.1
million.
Online Games Business
Our Games
We offer an increasingly diversified portfolio of online games, including MahJong, MMORPGs,
advanced casual games, and a variety of card, chance-based and simple casual games. Our online
games business is operated in Taiwan and Hong Kong primarily through FunTown and in the PRC
primarily through T2CN.
MahJong
MahJong is a traditional and highly popular Chinese title game, which is widely played in
Taiwan, Hong Kong, the PRC, Japan, South Korea and many other Asian regions. Similar to poker,
MahJong involves skill, strategy, calculation, as well as a certain degree of chance.
Through our FunTown-branded platform, we offer various local versions of MahJong for players
in Asia, particularly for those from Taiwan and Hong Kong. To play our online MahJong games,
players install the client-end software which can be downloaded free of charge from our game
websites. Players can compete with anyone throughout the FunTown network. Our MahJong games are
designed for players of all levels of skills and experience. To accommodate various needs of
players, we offer different online MahJong rooms based on skill levels or stakes. We believe our
online MahJong game site is one of the largest online MahJong networks in Taiwan.
Players may play our online MahJong free of charge. To continue to play on a regular basis
and establish a track record inside our online MahJong community, players may choose to purchase
the game points or game-playing time through various distribution channels, such as convenient
stores, telephones, computer-based payment processing terminals, and credit cards. By purchasing
our game points, players may exchange for virtual currency and deposit into their virtual bank
accounts. The virtual currency may be used to play MahJong and other games in the FunTown game
site or to purchase in-game virtual items, but may not be redeemed for cash.
We continue to expand and diversify the game platforms for our online MahJong. In January
2009, in cooperation with Microsoft, we launched FunTowns online MahJong on the Xbox 360 game
consoles for worldwide release. Since April 2009, in cooperation with Skype Limited, we integrated
the Skype softwares Voice over IP functions into our online MahJong game system, allowing our
MahJong game players to add friends from Skype to our game system and use Skypes voice chatting
function while playing our online MahJong games. Since July 2009, we have been providing a
multi-login mechanism to enable players to play our MahJong and chance-based casual games at the
same time. In September 2009, we entered into a strategic alliance with Pili International
Multimedia, owner of popular puppet characters in Taiwan, and introduced the certain of these
popular puppet
characters into our online games. Our game players may create puppet characters using 13
items, consisting of avatars, voices, and wallpapers. We are also developing a Web version of
MahJong as well as a Web version of Big2 to be released in 2010.
24
We organize offline events from time to time with a view to attracting more players and
enhancing our leading position in the online MahJong market. Pursuant to the agreement entered
into among us, the World MahJong Organization and the World MahJong Contest Center, we co-hosted
the World Series of MahJong in Taiwan, Japan and Europe and the first World MahJong Championship in
the PRC in 2007. In the same year, we organized the annual MahJong tournament in Taipei which was
open to anyone joining one of FunTowns MahJong clubs. Approximately 400 clubs and over 20,000
players attended the tournament. In 2008, we modified the application process for MahJong
Tournaments in Taipei so that only the players who pass the preliminary heats are entitled to join
the final match. The online preliminary heats were held for two months. Approximately 100 clubs and
3,264 players attended the final match in 2008 and approximately 100 clubs and 5,000 players
attended the final match in 2009.
On May 15, 2008, we made a strategic investment into SuperCup and obtained worldwide exclusive
rights to cooperate with SuperCup in MahJong and certain Asian card games business. SuperCup
hosted a series of tournaments for SuperCup Mahjong Competition from September 2008 to December
2008. According to SuperCup, over 12,500 players participated in the tournaments, from which
approximately 340 were qualified to compete in the finals. SuperCup ceased its operation in 2009.
MMORPGs
MMORPGs are Internet-based computer games in which a large number of players interact with one
another in an online virtual world. Like any role playing game, a player controls a character with
an avatar, which he or she directs to complete tasks for experience, interact with other characters
and acquire items.
Since 2006, we have expanded our online game operations to include several MMORPGs. From
September 2006 to December 2008, we offered NeoSteam, the first MMORPG that we licensed from a
third-party developer, in the PRC. We continue to enlarge and diversify our MMORPG portfolio,
which includes four MMROPGs that we currently offer or expect to launch in various target markets
in Greater China. Our MMORPGs encompass various genres, including adventure, action, war and
casual fantasy. The following table summarizes the three MMORPGs that we offered as of the date of
this annual report:
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Commercial |
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Game |
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Revenue |
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Game |
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Description |
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Launch |
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Source |
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Model |
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Market |
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Holic Online
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Cartoon style adventure
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January 2009
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Licensed
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Item-billing
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Taiwan |
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Warhammer Online:
Age of Reckoning
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War
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June 2009
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Licensed
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Pay-to-play
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Taiwan
Hong Kong |
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Macau |
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Luna Online
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Casual fantasy
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July 2009
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Licensed
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Item-billing
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PRC |
We launched the Warhammer Online: Age of Reckoning and Luna Online in June and July 2009,
respectively. These two games were not commercially successful in the territories in which they
were launched. As a result, we terminated the Warhammer Online: Age of Reckoning license and
distribution agreement and Luna Online game license agreement with the relevant game developers by
mutual agreement on April 22, 2010 and June 1, 2010, respectively. As part of the termination of
the operation of these games, we are currently executing a transition for end users by allowing end
users to continue playing Warhammer Online and Luna Online as of the date of this annual report.
The following table summarizes one MMORPG which we expect to launch in various geographic
markets in 2010:
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Game |
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Description |
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Status |
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Game Source |
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Target Market |
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XK Online
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Martial arts adventure
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Game Development
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In-house Developed
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PRC |
Warhammer Online: Age of Reckoning is operated under the pay-to-play revenue model that
requires users to purchase the retail copy of the game as well as the subscription or game cards
for playing time. By subscribing or purchasing game cards, users may play for an unlimited amount
of time within a specified number of days.
Our other MMORPGs are operated or expected to be operated under the item-billing revenue
model. Under item-billing model, users are able to play the basic functions of a MMORPG for free.
Players may choose to purchase in-game value-added services as well as in-game virtual items and
premium features to enhance the game experience. These services and items allow players to utilize
more functions, improve performance and skills, and personalize the appearance of a game character.
Game points are consumed as users purchase value-added services and in-game items.
25
Advanced Casual Games
As compared to MMORPGs, advanced casual games have relatively simple rules and require no
long-term commitment to play. They are targeted to the casual players across all game genres.
We operate a diversified portfolio of advanced casual games. We believe that advanced casual
games provide us with certain benefits and opportunities not typically available through MMORPGs,
including:
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broader range of players, including casual players, due to the casual nature and
relatively short duration; and |
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a greater breadth of tools, engines, middleware and server solutions that can make
development of casual games relatively more cost-effective. |
In Taiwan and Hong Kong, we offer various advanced casual games through FunTown. In June
2006, we launched our first advanced casual game, Tales Runner. Tales Runner is a multi-player
obstacle running game in which players compete by running, jumping, dashing and using items. Since
the launch, Tales Runner has become one of the most popular online sports games in Hong Kong. In
December 2007, we launched Nanaimo, a cute style action-based casual game.
In the PRC, we operate our advanced casual games through T2CN. We currently operate
Freestyle, a highly popular online basketball game in the PRC. Freestyle is a peer-to-peer street
basketball game, in which players can form teams to compete against other teams and customize
in-game character appearances and skills by purchasing virtual items. The cartoon characters and
the scenes modes are embodied by full 3D graphics. Players improve the skills through more
practice and competitions. In 2009, the peak current users, or PCCU, reached 118,832 for
Freestyle. We also offer Paipaijoy, another sports game, in the PRC. Going forward, we intend to
leverage our well-established sports game platform to offer a wide range of advanced casual games
in the PRC.
The following table summarizes our four advanced casual games that we offered as of the date
of this annual report:
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Commercial |
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Game |
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Revenue |
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Game |
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Description |
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Launch |
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Source |
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Model |
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Market |
Tales Runner
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Sports Obstacle running
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June 2006 in Taiwan
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Licensed
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Item-billing
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Taiwan |
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August 2006 in Hong
Kong
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Hong Kong |
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Freestyle
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Sports Basketball
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December 2005
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Licensed
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Item-billing
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PRC |
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Nanaimo
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Action
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December 2007
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Licensed
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Item-billing
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Hong Kong |
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Paipaijoy
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Sports Tennis
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June 2008
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Licensed
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Item-billing
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PRC |
The following table summarizes our advanced casual games which we expect to launch in various
geographic markets as indicated at regular intervals in 2010:
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Game |
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Description |
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Status |
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Game Source |
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Target Market |
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Alliance of Valiant
Arms
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Massively
multiplayer
first-person
shooter
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Game Localization
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Licensed
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Taiwan |
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Hong Kong |
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Macau |
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Freestyle Season 2
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Sports Basketball
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Closed Beta Testing
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Licensed
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PRC |
26
We had secured an exclusive license from Electronic Arts Asia Pacific Pte. Ltd. to offer and
operate NBA Street Online, an online basketball game featuring fast paced streetball action with
star players of the NBA, in the PRC, Taiwan and Hong Kong.
The NBA Street Online game has not been commercially launched in any territory and the
exclusive license was terminated on December 4, 2009 by mutual agreement.
On March 15, 2010, we secured an exclusive license from Neowiz Corporation, an online game
company in South Korea, to operate Alliance of Valiant Arms, an online massively multiplayer first
person shooter game which provides large-scale and team-based combat. We expect to launch Alliance
of Valiant Arms in Taiwan, Hong Kong and Macau in the second half of 2010. We also expect to launch
Freestyle Season 2 in the PRC in the second half of 2010.
Players download and install client software from our websites. Our advanced casual games are
offered free-of-charge to all players. In order to enhance their online game playing experience,
players may purchase virtual items that enhance their characters performance and game playing
experience, or personalize their characters.
Card, Chance-Based and Simple Casual Games
Through our FunTown-branded platform, we offer various online games, including card,
chance-based and simple casual games. These online games are Internet-based and developed through
computer simulation and adaptation of non-computer games, which are traditionally played offline.
The FunTown platform targets players from different regions, particularly Taiwan and Hong Kong.
We provide many different online card games, which are popular in various regions in Asia.
Players can select their desired table based on the level of skill or stakes. These games are
designed with online multiplayer features that allow players to compete against one another. To
diversify FunTown products, we also offer chance-based games, including bingo, lotto, horse racing,
Sic-Bo, slots and various simple casual games. We are working towards expanding the casual games
platform by providing a variety of casual games. Since 2009, we introduced World Tour Video Slot,
Race Course Winner, Baccarat, Pirates Pachi Slot, Paradise Island, Red Dog, Roshambo, Pai Gow
Poker, Double Double Bonus Poker, and Grand Slam Mahjong into our game contents. These newly added
games improve the competitiveness of our online games business and help to increase our revenues.
We are working on 7 additional chance-based casual games which we expect to be released in 2010.
Like online MahJong, players may play our FunTown games for free. They may choose to purchase
playing time or virtual currency to play on a continuous and regular basis. Virtual currencies may
be used to play all the games in the FunTown game site or to purchase virtual items, but may not be
redeemed for cash.
Game Sources
In-house development of MahJong, Card, Chance-Based and Simple Casual Games
We develop our games offered on FunTowns game platform, including online MahJong, card,
chance-based and simple casual games. Our in-house development enables us to have better control
of the game features and allow for seamless integration into our FunTown platform. In order to
support product development capabilities and develop our proprietary online games, we have an
in-house team, which was comprised of approximately 35 software engineers in Taipei and 12 software
engineers in Shanghai as of May 31, 2010. In addition, T2CN had 152 software engineers in Shanghai
as of May 31, 2010.
Sources of MMORPGs and Advanced Casual Games
We primarily source MMORPGs and advanced casual games through licensing from developers in
various regions where online game development is well established. We monitor each of the United
States, South Korean, the PRC, Japanese and European markets and maintain communications with a
number of leading game development studios to identify and source new online games.
In selecting games, we evaluate the key factors that indicate the market trend and player
demand and interest in the regions where we operate. We believe that our market analysis enables
us to better assess the quality, risks, costs and potential returns of the games.
Prior to negotiating a license agreement with a game developer, our game testing team
evaluates the game and prepares detailed evaluation reports covering the theme, storyline, in-game
culture and environment, character progression, system architecture, game art and design, virtual
articles and items.
We enter into the license agreement after we decide to operate the selected game based on the
results of our evaluation. The cost of licensing games from developers generally consists of an
upfront licensing fee, which we normally pay in several installments, and ongoing licensing fees,
or royalties, which are equal to a percentage of revenues generated from operation of the game. We
may also have to provide certain minimum guarantees in royalties to developers.
27
In preparing for the commercial launch of each new game, we cooperate with the game developer
to localize the game to make it suitable for the target markets where we plan to launch. Once the
developer completes the localization and provides the first-built version, we conduct closed beta
testing of the game with a select group of users. During the test period, we identify and
eliminate any technical problems, assess how likely users will be to play the game regularly over a
period of time (referred to as user stickiness), and modify and add certain game features in
order to increase user stickiness. The closed beta testing is followed by open beta testing,
during which we operate our games under open market conditions and monitor the performance,
consistency and stability of operational systems for the game.
Following the commercial launch of a game, we continuously implement improvements and upgrades
to our games.
While we will continue to broaden our access to high quality MMORPGs and advanced casual games
through licensing, we intend to expand our in-house game development team and strengthen our online
game development capabilities. We are currently testing XK Online, which is expected to be our
first in-house developed MMORPG.
Our Primary Platforms and Services
FunTown
Our FunTown platform provides many online game services for the users to enhance their playing
and entertainment experiences, facilitate information communication among them and support the
development of a strong player community. These services include:
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Player Clubs. We offer online club services in the FunTown game community. FunTown
players can form their own clubs, invite other players with similar interests or skill
levels to join, and organize online and offline events for club members. Player clubs
complement the strong social features of online games by helping to maintain an online
game community. |
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Tournaments. As one of the key services, FunTown provides various tournaments for
its online MahJong players. After players join a club, they can participate in online
in-club tournaments and compete in weekly online inter-club tournaments. On an annual
basis, FunTown organizes large-scale tournaments, in which a large number of players
are invited to the tournament premises and compete online via computers. |
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Avatars. To enhance players overall entertainment experience, FunTown offers many
in-game virtual items which may be purchased by players to customize their online
personal graphic profiles, or avatars. Players use avatars to create their own unique
look while participating in the online community. The virtual items for avatars
include facial expressions, clothes and different accessories. These items are
particularly popular with younger players, who customize their avatars to establish
unique identities and pursue distinct fashions in the online community. |
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Friends and Family Messenger. The FunTown platform has a unique function designed
for players personal contacts, which is similar to the contact list of instant message
programs. This enables players to see when their friends and family members are online
and invite people in their personal network to play games together. |
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Social Networking. The FunTown platform provides an online social networking
community called FunTown Village, in which players meet each other through their online
avatars. In FunTown Village, players can interact and communicate, purchase virtual
items, and even get married virtually. We plan to introduce more virtual items within
FunTown Village to address the strong social interests of our players and to help
increase FunTowns overall appeal as a distinct online game community. |
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Customer Services. FunTown provides support and services to its customers primarily
through walk-in customer service centers in Taipei and Hong Kong and e-mails and online
bulletin boards where players can inquire and receive responses from us and other
players. |
T2CN
Our T2CN platform provides the following services and player support to our users in the PRC:
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Membership Management. T2CN utilizes an integrated service platform, namely
T2CN-Passport, to provide one-stop service to customers as well as distributors.
T2CN-Passport is an integrated membership management and payment system, which allows
T2CN to maintain a single customer database containing each customers profile and
transaction history. Customers may log in, pay and use any of the fee-based products
and services. In addition,
T2CN-Passport allows our distributors to sell our game points to Internet cafés.
Internet cafés can also use T2CN-Passport to check their point-balances and make payment
on behalf of individual purchasers. |
28
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Social Networking. T2CNs integrated system also incorporates a variety of online
community features, such as bulletin boards which allow registered users to post notes
or inquiries and respond to other users questions and comments. We believe these
features increase the user stickiness on our site and facilitate player interaction.
T2CN is currently building an online social networking community to further facilitate
access to our online game offering and accommodate different social net working needs
of our users in the PRC. |
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Game Masters. T2CN delegates game masters to provide various in-game services for
our MMORPG players. Game masters are responsible for organizing in-game events,
troubleshooting and actively and continuously monitoring the online game environment.
They respond to players inquiries, handle error reporting and removal process, and
identify and deter inappropriate player behaviors. We believe that the provision of
game masters is an important customer service function to maintain customer loyalty and
effectively address technical problems as they arise. |
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Customer Services. T2CN focuses on providing quality customer service in order to
retain its existing customers as well as attract new customers. T2CN offers multiple
communication channels, including telephone hotline and customer service email, for the
customers to provide feedback and complaints about our products or services at any
time. |
Non-Computer Based Platforms for Certain Games
As technologies advance and enable people to access the Internet in new ways, we plan to
expand our offerings to match these new access technologies and platforms. We are currently
working with Microsoft to develop and offer some of our games available on the Xbox 360 platform.
In January 2009, we launched FunTown MahJong, our first Xbox 360 game title for worldwide release.
We also offer certain of our popular games on the media-on-demand (MOD) digital TV platform,
called FunTown Game Zone, which involves cooperation with Intel by utilizing its Viiv technology.
In January 2009, FunTown Game Zone section was activated on the MOD system operated by Chungwa
Telecom Co., Ltd. The titles of FunTown Game Zone include MahJong, Chinese Chess, Connect 5 and
Blind Chess. We have also developed mobile phone versions of our certain games. In addition, as
the video games become an emerging facet of in-flight entertainment, we offer various in-flight
games to certain airlines, which are networked to allow interactive game play among multiple
passengers on the same flight. We do not expect the games offered through non-computer based
platforms to contribute materially to our revenue in the near future.
Our Marketing
Our marketing strategy is to capitalize on our established brand names and utilize our diverse
distribution networks to retain our existing users and attract new users. We use various
qualitative and quantitative market research methods to analyze our target market and to
differentiate our product offerings from those of our competitors. We are engaged in a variety of
traditional and online marketing programs and promotional activities, including the following:
In-Game Events and Marketing
We organize in-game events for our users, which we believe encourages the development of
online communication and teamwork among our users and increases user interest in our games.
Examples of in-game events include scheduled challenges or competitions for prizes. In addition,
we use in-game events to introduce new features of our games.
Cross-Marketing
We have cross-marketing relationships with popular consumer brands, major technology companies
and telecommunication carriers. We believe that our cross-marketing relationships with certain
well-known companies, including Coca-Cola, 7-11 and Microsoft, will increase the recognition of our
online game brands.
Open Beta Testing
Our open beta testing is conducted under open market conditions. During open beta testing, we
do not charge users to play the new game. Open beta testing serves important marketing functions,
including instilling initial interests, establishing an initial user base, and generating
word-of-mouth publicity to support the following commercial launch of the game.
29
Advertisements and Offline Promotions
We advertise our brand names and our games across a variety of media, including newspapers,
the Internet, television, radio and outdoor advertisements. From time to time we distribute
game-related posters, promotional prepaid cards for new users and souvenirs at trade shows,
selected Internet cafés and other locations. We also conduct events at popular venues to stage
exhibitions, distribute software and game content-related merchandise, and interact directly with
our users.
Game Magazines
In addition to advertising certain games in various magazines, we also collaborate with
certain game magazines for various promotions, including giving away copies of certain games free
of charge with each magazine sold.
Direct Marketing
We use telemarketing and email correspondence to inform our users of new games, promotions and
other game-related services.
Our Distribution and Payment Channels
We sell game points for our online games through various channels. Our distribution and
payment channels include:
Offline Physical Distribution Channels
Physical distribution channels include convenience chain stores and Internet cafés. At these
locations, users may purchase pre-paid game cards with varying amounts of game points.
Alternatively, users may purchase game packs to play specific games on FunTowns and T2CNs game
platforms.
Internet-Based Distribution Channels
Internet-based distribution channels consist of various websites, including official websites
of FunTown and T2CN. Users may purchase game points through these websites with their credit cards
or computer-based payment processing terminals.
Telecommunication Network Operators
We also distribute game points through cooperation with telecommunication network operators
and their service providers. Our cooperating operators and service providers charge the fees to
the purchasers phone bills, which are prepared and collected by the network operators.
We sell our game points to distributors at prices lower than the face value of the game
points. The costs of distributing game points through Internet-based channels are generally lower
than the costs involved in offline distribution of physical game cards. To encourage use of the
Internet-based channels and provide more convenience for users, we give our users the
computer-based payment processing terminals for free so that they can purchase game points online
at home.
Our Operation Architecture
We have a scalable and modular operation architecture that enables us to support and expand
our game offerings and services. The architecture consists of several key subsystems, including
game services, central user database, billing and payment, online customer service, game telemetry
and monitoring. Both FunTown and T2CN have their own unified user account systems, which allow
players to use a single account to access all FunTown games and T2CN games, respectively. Our
billing and game management system supports various billing models and deposit options, and is
sufficiently flexible to accommodate in-house developed games and licensed games. Our customer
service system enables us to assist our players inside and outside the games. Our game telemetry
and monitoring system allows us to track our concurrent online users in real time and effectively
identify and fix technical problems in our server network.
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Technology Infrastructure
Due to the real-time interaction among thousands of users, the stable operation of our MMORPGs
and advanced casual games requires a significant number of servers and a significant amount of
connectivity bandwidth. We have developed an extensive technology infrastructure that supports the
operation of our online games.
As of December 31, 2009, we owned approximately 871 servers and leased 23 servers from ISPs
for our online games operation in the PRC. As of the same date, our server network in the PRC
consisted of approximately 628 game servers.
As of December 31, 2009, we owned approximately 721 servers for our online games operation in
Taiwan and Hong Kong. As of the same date, our server network in Taiwan and Hong Kong consisted of
approximately 397 game servers.
We seek to adapt our infrastructure promptly in response to changing circumstances.
Our Players
In the PRC, as of December 31, 2009, we had an aggregate of over 101.52 million registered
usernames of our online games. In the month of December 2009, we recorded over 277 thousand paying
players, approximately 83 thousand peak concurrent users and 30 thousand average concurrent users.
In Taiwan and Hong Kong, as of December 31, 2009, we had an aggregate of over 15.2 million
registered usernames of our online games. In the month of December 2009, we recorded over 69
thousand paying players, approximately 29 thousand peak concurrent users and 14 thousand average
concurrent users.
Competition
Our primary competitors in the online games business are online game operators based in Taiwan
and the PRC. Our major competitors in Taiwan include Gamania, Soft-World, IGS, UserJoy and
GodGame. Our major competitors in the PRC include Shanda, Giant, Changyou, The9 Limited, Nineyou,
Tencent, Ourgames.com and Chinagames.net.
In addition, we compete for users against various offline games, such as console games, arcade
games and handheld games, as well as various other forms of traditional or other online
entertainment.
We expect more online games operating companies to enter into the markets where we operate,
including Taiwan, the PRC and Hong Kong, and that a wider range of online games to be introduced to
the these market given the relatively low entry barriers to the online games industry. Our
competitors vary in size and include private and public companies, many of which have greater
financial, marketing and technical resources as well as name recognition. We intend to continue to
enhance our market position through providing competitive products and quality services that meet
market trends and users preferences, as well as strengthening sales effectiveness.
Gaming Software and Service Business
Prior to completing the sale of a 60 percent interest to Mangas, a leading European sports
betting and online gaming group, on April 8, 2010, we operated our gaming software and service
business through CESL, our wholly-owned subsidiary. We offered online gaming solutions primarily
focused on the online poker and casino segments of the global online gaming industry. We
historically partnered with UIM, our then-largest licensee, to provide a multilingual,
multi-product game platform, namely the Everest-branded gaming platform.
CESLs Products and Services
We historically and primarily provided the software and services for the online poker rooms,
casinos and the related marketing affiliate programs operated by UIM through CESL. CESLs online
gaming solution comprised online gaming software, online gaming management tools, and application
and consulting services.
Online Gaming Software and Management Tools
CESLs major software products were downloadable game client software programs, or game
clients, which provided an intuitive user interface for players to register, deposit and withdraw
funds, play free and real money games, manage their accounts and profiles, and seek assistance.
CESLs game clients processed locally in each end-users computer and interacted remotely with
UIMs gaming servers to display virtual poker rooms and casinos, generated a sequence of random
numbers for game playing, and enabled users to play poker and casino games through the Internet.
To improve the usability of CESLs software and the accessibility of CESLs gaming platform for
customers around the world, CESL localized its game clients to reflect the local languages and
conventions. CESLs game clients were available in 15 supported languages. The game clients were
installed
directly from websites. Patches and updates were provided automatically and applied to the
product content each time the software programs started.
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CESLs gaming management tools included an e-commerce system, marketing support tools and
back-office applications. CESLs e-commerce system accommodated a broad array of deposit and
payment options such as credit card processors and various electronic wallet programs. CESLs
marketing support tools provided UIM with a highly integrated web-based promotion platform, which
could be interactively edited through a content management system. CESLs back-office applications
provided tools for e-commerce promotions, player accounts and customer support. The back-office
platform also included a sophisticated system that features data warehousing and management,
business intelligence functions and provided tools for preventing and detecting fraud and other
irregularities during the games as well the e-commerce transactions.
Application and Consulting Services
In addition to licensing CESLs software products, CESL also provided to UIM a variety of
software application and support services including:
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Infrastructure Design and Management Services. CESL provided the architectural
design of various infrastructure elements, including the servers, databases, networks,
routers, firewalls and management tools that are required for Internet gaming
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Transaction Processing Services. These services included (i) payment consultation
for designing timely collection and distribution systems for payments through a variety
of channels and merchants; (ii) billing consultation for designing real-time and
out-of-band transaction processing and order management; and (iii) risk management
consultation for creating and designing tools and processes for fraud detection,
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Customer Support Services. CESL offered UIM a comprehensive round-the-clock
consultation support to resolve infrastructure issues. CESL also provided platform
technical support during periodic maintenance to update, patch, and fine-tune the
system performance of our software solutions. |
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Custom Gaming Software Development Services. CESL customized the entertainment
modules and interfaces for the gaming platform to meet specific requests of UIMs
affiliates or partners. |
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Marketing Support Services. CESL created branded websites and provide marketing
support services to assist UIM in attracting new players. |
CESLs Technology and Infrastructure
CESLs online gaming platform was composed of multiple fault-tolerant distributed modules
supporting a wide range of functionality, including the server application program, loyalty program
management, financial stored-value management, e-commerce engines, and an extensive set of tools to
perform fraud screening, data mining, player support and affiliate marketing programs. CESLs
real-time gaming server software enabled integrated management of end user registration, account
administration, deposit and transactions. CESLs transaction server software encapsulated business
logic and abstract data and third-party services, such as payment processors.
Relationship with UIM
Prior License Arrangement with UIM
Our gaming software and services business was historically dependent on our largest licensee,
UIM, an online gaming operator. On April 1, 2004, we entered into an end user license agreement
with UIM, pursuant to which we granted a nonexclusive, non-transferable, worldwide license to UIM
to use our software and certain operational and support services. The end user license agreement
was amended on March 1, 2006, March 1, 2007, March 1, 2008 and April 1, 2009, respectively. The
term of the agreement was 10 years. The license fees were determined based on a revenue sharing
mechanism under the end user agreement, as amended. The end user license agreement with UIM was
terminated in April 2010 as the part of the transaction with Mangas. See Item 5, Operating and
Financial Review and Prospects A. Operating Results Subsequent Events Transaction with Mangas
for additional information. In addition to licensing software, we provided UIM with application
services and consulting services for its Internet infrastructure, including website design, payment
gateways and database and operating systems, in return for a fixed percentage of UIMs gross
receipt. The financial results of UIM were historically incorporated into our consolidated
financial statements in accordance with the FASB Accounting Standards Codification although we did
not historically own any equity interest in UIM.
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UIM
UIM was an online entertainment operator that provided online gaming entertainment, including
online casinos and virtual poker rooms. UIM offered this entertainment content through several
websites, including Everest Poker (www.everestpoker.com), which was awarded Poker Operator of the
Year for each of 2007 and 2008 and the Online Marketing Campaign of the Year for 2009 by e-Gaming
Review, a UK-based independent industry journal magazine. UIM marketed its game sites through
affiliate programs where private and commercial owners of websites were invited to place, on their
websites, banners containing links to UIMs websites, in return for fees with reference to the
number of qualified new player sign-ups, or based on revenues generated by users that have been
directed to UIMs website from such banners.
UIM operated exclusively from computer servers located in the Kahnawake Territory in Canada
under a gaming license issued by the Kahnawake Gaming Commission. On March 1, 2010, UIM received
two full remote gaming licenses (a Class 1 and a Class 3) issued by Malta Lotteries and Gaming
Authority.
Sale of Material Assets of CESL and UIM to Mangas Everest, and Investment in Mangas Everest
On April 8, 2010, we completed the sale of a 60 percent interest in our online gaming software
business to Mangas, a leading European sports betting and online gaming group. The strategic
alliance with Mangas was structured as a stock and asset sale to a newly-formed French entity,
Mangas Everest, in which we received a 40 percent stake. As part of and as a condition to the
completion of the transaction, we purchased the shares of our then-major licensee, UIM, all of the
material assets (including Everest Poker operation) of which were sold to Mangas Everest as part of
the transaction. See Item 5, Operating and Financial
Review and Prospects A. Operating Results
Subsequent Events Transaction with Mangas for additional information.
Mangas Everests games are available in 15 supported languages, including Danish, Dutch,
English, Finnish, French, German, Greek, Hungarian, Italian, Japanese, Norwegian, Polish,
Portuguese, Spanish and Swedish. Their poker offering includes popular poker games such as Texas
Holdem and Omaha. All poker games are real-time and multi-player capable and features 3D graphics
and realistic visual effects. Mangas Everest also offers a full range of traditional and new
casino games, including blackjack, video poker, slots, roulette, solitaire and others. Their
casino game client can be skinned with different interfaces, enabling Mangas Everest to market
casinos under a number of different brands and custom-branded casinos for its affiliates.
Mangas Everest operates under two full remote gaming licenses (a Class 1 and a Class 3) issued
by Malta Lotteries and Gaming Authority and a license issued by the Kahnawake Gaming Commission,
subject to continuing compliance with applicable licensing requirements. Mangas Everests primary
computer server operations are located in Malta with certain components of its business operating
from servers in Kahnawake. See Regulation Regulation Relating to Online Gaming.
In accordance with the terms of the strategic alliance, Mangas Everest will endeavor to
migrate all Mangas poker players to the Everest Poker platform creating one of the largest poker
player liquidity platforms in Europe. Everest Poker will also be able to benefit from the sports
betting solutions of Mangas. In addition, the combined user base of Everest Poker and BetClic
both leading brands in France strongly positions the alliance to capture potential growth from
the soon to be opened and regulated French market, one of the largest in Europe. On June 7, 2010,
Everest Poker and BetClic Poker operations, owned by Mangas Everest, received online poker licenses
as part of the first grant of licenses in France. Everest Poker and BetClic Poker accounted for two
of the seven licenses granted in the initial approvals. Everest Poker and BetClic Poker expect to
begin French operations in late June 2010.
Competition
Mangas Everest faces intense competition in the online gaming industry, which is characterized
by low barriers to entry, rapid technological change and ever-changing consumer preferences. New
entrants to the online gaming industry, increasingly competitive market consolidations and
aggressive marketing and pricing by competitors may lead to a significant decline in the customer
base, revenues and margins of Mangas Everest. In addition, online gaming industry is influenced by
various other factors, including changes in policies and regulations and economic conditions in
different jurisdictions. For example, as a result of the UIGEA and the subsequent closing of the
online gaming market in the United States, Mangas Everest faces increased competition from
entertainment service providers in markets in Continental Europe, which are also increasingly
subject to regulation from governmental authorities. Furthermore, some of Mangas Everests
competitors have greater experience, resources and distribution capabilities.
To compete effectively against Mangas Everests existing competitors and new competitors in
the future, Mangas Everest intends to continue to improve the principal competitive factors that it
believes can keep it competitive, including brand, technology, financial stability and resources,
regulatory compliance, independent oversight and transparency of business practices.
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Intellectual Property
We rely on a combination of patent, trademark, copyright and trade secret laws in the U.S. and
other jurisdictions as well as confidentiality procedures and contractual provisions to protect our
proprietary technology and our brand. We have patents, copyrights and trademarks in certain
jurisdictions and may apply for further trademark and copyright registrations and additional
patents, which may provide such protection in relevant jurisdictions. However, there is no
assurance that this will be sufficient to fully protect our proprietary technology. In addition,
our technologies may not be able to withstand any third-party claims or rights against their use.
We also enter into confidentiality and invention assignment agreements with our employees and
consultants and confidentiality agreements with other third parties, and we rigorously control
access to proprietary technology.
Regulation
Regulations Relating to Online Games in Taiwan
At present, there is no specific law in Taiwan governing online game services, nor are there
any specific licensing requirements imposed on Internet content providers in connection with
offering online game services. The National Communications Commission (the NCC) was established
in March 2006. In December 2006, the NCC proposed the overhaul of the regulatory framework in the
communications and broadcasting sectors by amending the Telecommunications Act, the Radio and
Television Act, the Cable Radio and Television Act and the Satellite Radio and Television Act.
Pursuant to the original proposal, the legislation at issue would be consolidated into a new
legislative Act to be known as the Communications and Broadcasting Act. In December 2008, the NCC
announced a change to its policy, stating that it had decided to delay enacting the Communication
and Broadcasting Act for two to four years.
Rating of Internet Content. The Government Information Office, which was the agency in charge
of Internet content prior to establishment of the NCC, promulgated the Regulations for the Rating
of Internet Content in April 2004, as amended in October 2005. In general, Internet content shall
not include any illegal or banned materials. To avoid negative impact on the physical or mental
development of children or adolescents, Internet content containing any of the following materials
shall be rated as restricted and shall not be viewed by those below the age of 18: (i) excessive
depiction of gambling, robbery or other criminal offenses; (ii) excessive depiction of suicide;
(iii) depiction involving terror, blood or cruelty which is presented in a manner acceptable to
adults; or (iv) depiction of sexual acts or sexual obscenity which does not embarrass or disgust
adults in general. If Internet content is in violation of the Regulations for the Rating of
Internet Content, competent authorities may order the relevant ISPs to restrict access to children
or adolescents or remove the offending content and impose an administrative fine on the offenders.
Computer Software Ratings. The Ministry of Economic Affairs announced in July 2006 the
Regulations Governing Computer Software Rating, which took effect in January 2007. This regulation
was amended in June 2009 and the amendment took effect in December 2009. Computer software includes
the game software which can be installed in computers, televisions and handheld gaming devices.
The provider of computer software shall identify the rating of the computer software when it
provides it to users. There are four ratings: (i) Mature Audience Only (not suitable for those
below the age of 18); (ii) Parental Guidance Advisable (not suitable for those below the age of 12;
parental guidance is advisable for those between the ages of 12 to 18); (iii) Parental Guidance
Strongly Suggested (not suitable for those below the age of 6; guidance from parents, teachers or
adults is strongly suggested for those between the ages of 6 to 12); and (iv) General Audience
(suitable for all ages).
Online Game Contract Template. The Ministry of Economic Affairs and the Consumer Protection
Commission have published a model contract template which sets out permitted terms and limitations
with respect to online game services offered in Taiwan, pursuant to the Consumer Protection Act.
Generally, consumers should be given at least three days to review such contract. Amendments or
changes to fees payable for services offered must be publicly announced at least thirty days prior
to such amendment, and notification provided to consumers. Consumer game records must be
maintained by each online game operator for a minimum period of thirty days and shall be open to
inspection by such consumers. Suspension periods for consumers who have breached the terms of their
online game contracts may not exceed a period of seven days.
Personal Data Protection Act. On April 27, 2010, the Legislative Yuan passed a bill to amend
the Computer-processed Personal Data Protection Act, which was renamed as the Personal Data
Protection Act. Whenever an entity collects personal data from any individual, it shall inform
such individual about (i) the name and identity of the collecting entity; (ii) the purpose of
collection; (iii) how the collected personal data will be used; (iv) his/her rights; and (v) the
consequences of his/her failure to provide the required personal data. If personal data is not
provided by individuals, in addition to the information required to be disclosed as described
above, the collecting entity shall inform such individual of the source of the data before
processing or using the data. In principle, prior consent from the individual is required for use
of his/her personal data. These requirements shall be exempted if relevant personal data of the
individual (i) is used for public interests; or (ii) is available from the public domain and the
interest to be protected is more important than the privacy of such individual. Depending on the
gravity of a violation, damages of NT$500 to NT$20,000 may be claimed against a person for each
violation of the Personal Data Protection Act even if the actual damage cannot be proved. If there
is more than one victim in a single violation, the maximum damages would be up to NT$200,000,000.
However, if the interests involved therein exceed NT$200,000,000, restrictions on maximum amount
for
damages to be claimed and on minimum amount for damages to be claimed (NT$500 per person for
each violation) shall not apply. This new Personal Data Protection Act will take effect pursuant
to the announcement of the Executive Yuan, which is expected to be valid sometime in 2011.
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Regulations Relating to Online Games in the PRC
As the online games industry is at an early stage of development in the PRC, the PRC laws and
regulations governing the online games industry and related business in the PRC involve substantial
uncertainties and are subject to further changes. See Item 3, Key Information D. Risk Factors
Risks Related to Doing Business in Greater China The laws and regulations governing the online
games industry in the PRC are evolving and new regulations may adversely affect our business in
this annual report.
The principal PRC regulations governing the provision of Internet content and online gaming
services include (among others) the Telecommunications Regulations (2000), the Administrative Rules
for Foreign Investments in Telecommunications Enterprises (2001), the Tentative Measures for the
Administration of Internet Publications (2002), the Tentative Measures for Administration of
Internet Culture (2003), the Opinions on the Development and Management of Online Games (2005), the
Anti-Internet Addiction Regulations (2007), the Administrative Measures for Telecommunications
Business Operating Licenses (2009) and the Tentative Measures for Cyber Games Administration
(2010).
Our provision of online games and online game-related content on our websites in the PRC is
subject to various Chinese laws and regulations relating to the telecommunications industry,
Internet and online games, and is regulated by various government and regulatory authorities,
including:
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MIIT (formerly the Ministry of Information Industry); |
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the Ministry of Culture, or MOC; |
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the General Administration of Press and Publication, or GAPP (formerly known as the
State Press and Publications Administration, or SPPA); |
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the Ministry of Public Security; |
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the State Administration of Industry and Commerce, or SAIC; |
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the State Administration for Radio, Film and Television, or SARFT; |
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the State Council Information Office, or SCIO; and |
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the Ministry of Commerce, or MOFCOM. |
Foreign Ownership Restrictions
Current PRC laws and regulations impose substantial restrictions on the foreign ownership of
companies that provide Internet content services in the PRC. Foreign investors are also restricted
from owning equity in entities which provide Internet publications. In addition, foreign or
foreign-owned enterprises are currently not able to apply for the required licenses for operating
online games in the PRC. These licenses can only be held by domestic PRC persons. Furthermore,
pursuant to a notice promulgated by the GAPP, National Copyright Administration, and National
Office of Combating Pornography and Illegal Publications on September 28, 2009, foreign investors
are prohibited from participating in Internet game operating businesses via wholly owned, equity
joint venture or cooperative joint venture investments in the PRC, and from controlling and
participating in such businesses directly or indirectly through contractual or technical support
arrangements. If applied literally and uniformly, such notice would render our ownership structure
in the PRC invalid and illegal. To date, however, there are substantial uncertainties regarding the
interpretation and application of such notice. Under PRC law, we are not considered to be a
domestic PRC person for this purpose. In order to comply with foreign ownership restrictions, we
operate our online games business in the PRC through contractual arrangements with T2
Entertainment, T2 Advertisement and Jinyou, all of which are VIEs. For further information of our
VIEs, see C. Organizational Structure in this annual report.
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We believe that the ownership structure and business operation models of our PRC subsidiaries
comply with all existing PRC laws, rules and regulations, and no consent, approval or license is
required under any of the existing laws and regulations of the PRC for their ownership structure,
businesses and operations, except those which we have already obtained or which would not have a
material adverse effect on our business or operations as a whole. There are, however, substantial
uncertainties regarding the interpretation and application of current or future PRC laws and
regulations. Accordingly, we cannot assure you that PRC government authorities will ultimately
take a view that is consistent with our view. See Item 3,
Key Information D. Risk Factors
Risks Related to Doing Business in Greater China PRC laws and regulations restrict foreign
ownership and investment in the online game industry, and substantial uncertainties exist with
respect to the application and implementation of PRC laws and regulations in this annual report.
Licenses
As Internet content providers, our PRC operating companies are required to either hold ICP
licenses issued by MIIT. Internet content providers offering ICP services in multiple provinces,
autonomous regions and centrally administered municipalities may be required to obtain an
inter-regional ICP license. Since online games fall within the definition of Internet culture
products under the Tentative Measures for Internet Culture Administration of 2003, a commercial
operator of online games must, in addition to the ICP licenses, obtain an Internet culture
operation license from MOC for its operation of online games, and foreign investors are restricted
from owning equity in such entities. The provision of online games is also deemed an Internet
publication activity, within the meaning of the Tentative Measures for Internet Publication
Administration of 2002, and therefore, an online game operator must also obtain the approval of the
relevant press and publication administrative authorities or cooperate with a licensed Internet
publisher, as well as the appropriate licenses, in order to carry on its online games business in
the PRC.
T2 Entertainment and Jinyou hold the ICP licenses, Internet culture operation licenses and
other licenses that are required to operate our online games business in the PRC. T2 Advertisement
holds the advertising license that is required to sell advertisements on our websites in the PRC.
Online Games Regulations
In April 2007, eight PRC governmental authorities, including GAPP, MIIT, the Ministry of
Education and the Ministry of Public Security, jointly promulgated the Notice on the Implementation
of Online Game Anti-addiction System to Protect the Physical and Psychological Health of Minors,
which requires online game operators to implement anti-addiction measures for users under eighteen
years of age. Under this anti-addiction notice, the first three hours of game-playing time of a
user are considered healthy time, the following two hours are designated fatigue time and any
time spent playing beyond five consecutive hours is categorized as unhealthy time. Online game
operators are required to establish anti-addiction system and develop software features on all
existing online games to reduce fatigue time and unhealthy time such that, when a user has been
playing in excess of specified periods of time, periodic in-game warnings will be sent to prompt
the user to leave the game and the number of points or other benefits will be limited. Internet
game operators are also required to develop identification verification system and registration
software, which will require online game players to register their real identity information before
they are allowed to play online games. Failure to comply with these requirements may subject the
operator to penalties, including but not limited to suspension of operation of online games,
revocation of operating licenses and approvals for operations, rejection or suspension of
application for approvals, licenses, or filings for any new game, or prohibition of operating any
new game. See Item 3, Key Information D. Risk
Factors Risks Related to Doing Business in
Greater China The laws and regulations governing the online games industry in the PRC are
evolving and new regulations may adversely affect our business in this annual report.
In addition, the current PRC law prohibits any online game products involving illegal
money-collecting. On February 15, 2007, 14 governmental authorities, including the Ministry of
Culture, the Ministry of Information Industry, the State Administration for Industry and Commerce,
and PBOC, jointly issued the Circular for Further Strengthening the Administration of Internet Café
and Online Games. This circular grants the PBOC administrative authority over virtual currencies
issued by online game operators for use by players in online games to avoid the potential impact
such virtual currencies may have on the real-world financial systems. The circular also restricts
the volume of virtual currency that may be issued and the purchase of such virtual currencies.
Virtual currency must not be used to purchase any physical products, refunded with a premium, or
otherwise illegally traded. On June 4, 2009, the MOC and the MOFCOM jointly issued the Circular on
Strengthening the Administration of Virtual Currency in Online Games. According to this circular,
any PRC entities engaging in issuance or trade service of virtual currency in online games shall
meet the requirements of Commercial Online Cultural Entities as prescribed in the Tentative
Measures for Administration of Internet Culture (2003) and are required to apply to the MOC for an
approval. This circular further provides, among others, that (i) the form, issuance scope and unit
purchase price of virtual currency, the refund method in case of termination of online games, the
purchase method for the users (including cash, bank card, payment via Internet, etc.), the
protection measures for users rights and interests, and the technology security safeguard
measures, shall be filed with the MOC for record; (ii) the unit purchase price of virtual currency
shall not be changed by online games operators; (iii) the new type of virtual currency shall be
filed with the MOC for record before issuance by online games operators; and (iv) the virtual
currency trade service shall not be open to the minors. See
Item 3, Key Information D. Risk
Factors Risks Related to Doing Business in Greater China Restrictions on virtual currency may
adversely affect our revenues from online game operations in the PRC in this annual report.
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On June 3, 2010, the MOC issued the Tentative Measures for Cyber Games Administration, which
will take effect as of August 1, 2010. The new measures govern the operation of online games,
including the issuance or trading of virtual currency, the content of online games and the business
operations of online game operators. According to the new measures, entities engaging in the
operation of online games, or which issue or permit the trading of virtual currency in online
games, are required to apply to the MOC for an Internet culture operation license. In addition,
imported online games are required to pass a content examination by the MOC. Online games
developed outside the PRC are not allowed to be put into operation in the PRC until they have been
examined and approved by the MOC. Any material changes to the content of imported online games
also require examination and approval by the MOC. The new measures further provide that the
consent of users is required for games where users will engage in matches or battles with other
users. In addition, online game operators are prohibited from using random selection methods to
solicit to enable users to pay legal currency or virtual currency for obtaining online game
products or services. In addition, all online game users are required to register using their real
names and to provide to the game operator valid documentary proof of identity. Online game
operators are required to keep records of such personal information.
Internet Content and Publishing Regulations
The PRC government has promulgated measures relating to Internet content through a number of
ministries and agencies, including MIIT, MOC and GAPP. These measures specifically prohibit
Internet activities, which includes the operation of online games that result in the publication of
any content which is found to, among other things, propagate obscenity, gambling or violence,
instigate crimes, undermine public morality or the cultural traditions of the PRC, or compromise
State security or secrets. If an ICP license holder violates these measures, the PRC government
may revoke its ICP license and shut down its websites.
Import Regulations
Our ability to license online games from abroad and import them into China is subject to
various registration requirements under the relevant PRC laws and regulations. We are required to
register with the MOFCOM any license agreement with a foreign licensor that involves imports of
technologies, including online game software into China. Without that registration, we cannot
remit licensing fees out of China to any foreign game licensor. The State Copyright Bureau requires
us to register copyright license agreements relating to imported software. Without the State
Copyright Bureau registration, we are not allowed to publish or reproduce the imported game
software in China. Furthermore, imported online game software is also required to obtain an
approval by the GAPP and pass a content examination by the MOC. Any imported online game software,
which has not been examined and approved by the GAAP and MOC, is not allowed to be put into
operation in China.
Information Security Regulations
Internet content in the PRC is regulated and restricted from a State security standpoint. The
Standing Committee of the National Peoples Congress, the PRCs national legislative body, issued a
decision in December 2000, as amended in August 2009, according to which following conducts in
China may be subject to criminal punishment in China; any effort to: (i) gain improper entry into a
computer or system of strategic importance; (ii) disseminate politically disruptive information;
(iii) leak State secrets; (iv) spread false commercial information; or (v) infringe intellectual
property rights. The Ministry of Public Security has promulgated measures that prohibit use of the
Internet in ways which, among other things, result in a leakage of State secrets or a spread of
socially destabilizing content. The Ministry of Public Security has supervision and inspection
rights in this regard, and we may be subject to the jurisdiction of the local security bureaus. If
an ICP license holder violates these measures, the PRC government may revoke its ICP license and
shut down its websites.
On May 14, 2004, the MOC issued the Notice Regarding the Strengthening of Online Game
Censorship. The notice mandates the establishment of a new committee under the MOC that will screen
the content of imported online games. In addition, all imported and domestic online games are
required to be filed with the MOC.
On July 12, 2005, the MOC and the MIIT promulgated the Opinions on the Development and
Administration of Online Game, which reflects the PRC governments intent to foster and control the
development of the online game industry in China.
In addition, the MOC will censor online games that threaten state security, disturb the social
order, or contain obscenity or violence.
37
Internet Café Regulation
Internet cafés are required to obtain a license from MOC and SAIC, and are subject to
requirements and regulations with respect to location, size, number of computers, age limit of
customers and business hours. Although we do not own or operate any Internet cafés, many Internet
cafés distribute our virtual pre-paid game cards. The PRC government has announced its intention,
and has begun, to intensify its regulation of Internet cafés, which are currently one of the
primary venues for our users to play online games. In April 2001, the PRC government began
tightening its regulation and supervision of Internet cafés. In particular, a large
number of Internet cafés without requisite government licenses have been closed. In addition,
the PRC government has imposed higher capital and facility requirements for the establishment of
Internet cafés. The PRC governments policy, which encourages the development of a limited number
of national and regional Internet café chains and discourages the establishment of independent
Internet cafés, may also slow down the growth in the number of new Internet cafés. In February
2004, the SAIC and other related government agencies issued a notice to suspend issuance of new
Internet café licenses for a six month period. Though this nationwide suspension was generally
lifted in 2005, local authorities have the authority of controlling the number and recipients of
new Internet café licenses at their own discretion. In addition, local and higher-level
governmental authorities may from time to time strictly enforce customer age limits and other
requirements relating to Internet cafés as a result of the occurrence of, and media coverage of,
gang fights, arson or other incidents in or related to Internet cafés. In February 2007, 14 PRC
government authorities jointly issued a notice, which suspended approval for the establishment of
new Internet cafés and called for strengthened regulation of existing Internet cafés. Intensified
government regulation of Internet cafés could restrict our ability to maintain or increase our
revenues and expand our customer base.
Privacy Protection
PRC laws do not prohibit Internet content providers from collecting and analyzing personal
information from their users. We require our users to accept a user agreement whereby they agree
to provide certain personal information to us. However, PRC law prohibits Internet content
providers from disclosing to any third parties any information transmitted by users through their
networks unless otherwise permitted by law. PRC government authorities have recently enacted
legislation regarding the use of the Internet, which recognizes the importance of protecting
personal information from unauthorized disclosure. Under the Internet Information Service
Administrative Measures issued by the State Council on September 25, 2000, Internet information
service providers are prohibited from producing, copying, publishing or distributing information
that is humiliating or slanderous to others or that infringes the lawful rights and interests of
others. If an Internet content provider violates these measures, the MIIT or its local bureaus may
impose penalties, and the Internet content provider may be liable for damages caused to its users.
In addition, the PRC government retains the power and authority to order Internet content
providers to turn over personal information of Internet users if the users post any prohibited
content or engage in illegal activities on the Internet.
Global Regulatory Environment Relating to the Mangas Everest Business
We historically operated our gaming software and services business primarily through providing
software solutions for online poker rooms, casinos and the related marketing affiliate programs
operated by UIM and its sub-licensees. We earned fees from UIM based upon revenues earned by UIM
from its operations utilizing our software. After the completion of the transaction with Mangas,
we operate our gaming software and services business primarily through Mangas Everest, our joint
venture with Mangas.
We are incorporated in Singapore, and Singapore law does not prohibit us from providing
software products and application services to online gaming operators. However, the end users of
our software products, including the online gaming customers of Mangas Everest, are located around
the world and it is, in many cases, uncertain which governments have authority to legislate or
regulate different aspects of online gaming industries. Issues such as determining the physical
location of an online gaming event as well as significant differences in the gaming laws and
Cyberlaws of various countries all make traditional concepts of jurisdiction and conflicts of
laws difficult to apply. Substantial uncertainties in the global regulatory environment relating
to online gaming expose our Company to a real risk that regulatory authorities in various
jurisdictions may determine that our gaming software and services business provided online gaming
services (rather than only providing software and application services to UIM) and thus subject our
Company to the gaming laws and regulations in those jurisdictions.
The Internet gaming industry is still at an early stage of development. The very nature of
Internet gaming creates new and unique forms of entertainment that were neither contemplated nor
feasible in the past. While many jurisdictions have some form of legal framework applicable to
games of chance, few provide clear guidance on how this framework applies to the online gaming
industry. Although governments around the world are increasingly seeking to regulate online
gaming, the shifting political and economic landscape subject online gaming industry to significant
uncertainties. As a result, it is difficult for us to assess whether the Internet gaming services
provided by Mangas Everest, are in compliance with all laws and regulations of the jurisdictions
where it operates.
Mangas Everest operates under two full remote gaming licenses (a Class 1 and a Class 3) issued
by Malta Lotteries and Gaming Authority and a license issued by the Kahnawake Gaming Commission,
subject to continuing compliance with applicable licensing requirements. On June 7, 2010, Everest
Poker and BetClic Poker operations, owned by Mangas Everest, received online poker licenses as part
of the first grant of licenses in France. Everest Poker and BetClic Poker accounted for two of the
seven licenses granted in the initial approvals and expect to begin French operations in late June
2010. Mangas Everest primarily targets non-U.S. markets, predominantly in Continental Europe.
38
U.S. Regulations on Online Gaming
The U.S. government has been of the view that Internet gambling that crosses state boundaries
is unlawful. Under the Wire Act of 1961, the Department of Justice has prosecuted online gambling
operators in the United States. Under the Uniting and Strengthening America by Providing
Appropriate Tools Required to Intercept and Obstruct Terrorism Act of 2001, both U.S. and non-U.S.
banks that process online gaming transactions for U.S. persons may face potential criminal
proceedings, as U.S. jurisdiction extends to non-U.S. banks that have correspondent accounts in the
United States. Internet gambling activity also constitutes illegal gambling activity in all 50
U.S. states, including those states where other forms of gambling are legal.
Effective October 13, 2006, the UIGEA prohibits the use of communication facilities and
financial transactions in connection with Internet gambling by restricting the payment methods for
such activities and by imposing criminal penalties on Internet gambling businesses which accept
wagers or payment in violation of such restrictions. The UIGEA criminalizes any gambling business
which arises from using a communication facility to transmit bets or wagers, or to transmit
information assisting in the placing of bets and wagers, to or from the United States, and prevents
gambling businesses from accepting credit cards or other bank instruments in connection with
illegal Internet gambling. The UIGEA also directs various federal agencies to implement
regulations that would require financial institutions with electronic payment systems to establish
policies and procedures to identify and block unlawful Internet gambling transactions, and creates
judicial procedures through which federal agencies could obtain injunctions directing interactive
computer services to remove or disable access to online sites that violate the law. The United
States Treasury drafted UIGEA regulations in late 2007 and implemented the regulations on January
19, 2009. Financial institutions were not required to comply with the UIGEA regulations until
December 1, 2009. The UIGEA regulations, however, did not define what specifically constitutes an
unlawful Internet gambling transaction under UIGEA. Congressman Barney Frank has recently
introduced the bill entitled the Payment System Protection Act, which would seem clarify, among
other things, what constitutes unlawful Internet gambling transactions under UIGEA. Congressman
Barney Frank has announced his intention to resubmit the bill in the upcoming congressional
session.
Regulatory Environment in Europe
According to the Report on Integrity of Online Gambling by the Committee on the Internal
Market and Consumer Protection of European Parliament, dated February 17, 2009, the European online
gambling markets are regulated and the regulatory frameworks for the online gambling market in the
European Union (EU) member states are very much heterogeneous.
Several European countries have introduced regulatory frameworks on online gaming.
Spain and Ireland have announced their intentions to introduce a regulatory framework on
online gaming. As of yet, no affirmative regulations have been issued, however there is
speculation that a draft of the Spanish regulations may be issued as soon as the summer of 2010.
Italy has recently introduced a new set of regulations on online gaming. In Italy, there is a
general prohibition on casino-type games. As soon as October or November of 2010, Italy will also
prohibit cash games in online poker offerings, thereby restricting the poker activity to
tournaments. Online poker tournaments, pari-mutual betting on horseraces and sports events are
legal provided that the game operators are licensed by the relevant authorities.
The French government has recently published a gaming bill and has begun issuing licenses that
allow an operator to conduct remote sports betting, pari-mutual horserace betting and poker. No
regulations permitting the operation of online casino operations have yet been enacted. Mangas
Everest, our joint venture with Mangas, was granted one of these licenses to operate online poker
in France on June 7, 2010. Everest Poker and BetClic Poker operations, owned by Mangas Everest,
are expected to begin French operations under the license in late June 2010.
Many European countries, where there are state-owned gaming monopolies, have taken actions or
introduced legislation aimed at banning foreign online gaming operators, which could have a
material adverse effect on our licensees and consequently on our Company. Such actions were in
contrast with rulings from the European Court of Justice and have prompted the European Commission
(EC) to explore the possibility of creating new legislation that could harmonize online gaming
within the EU, in line with the EUs principles regarding the European single market.
Denmark has also taken steps to liberalize its online gaming regulations and has passed an act
whereby online operators can apply for a license, and if granted, may accept wagers from players in
Denmark. The proposed act is tentatively scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2011, provided the
EU determines that the high fees are not in violation of any EU community law.
The Netherlands continues to threaten to enforce domestic laws that permit online gaming to be
offered only by domestic government-controlled monopolies, along with payment blocking directives
for banks that process payments on behalf of foreign operators. The government has established an
investigatory commission to determine the benefits and risks to liberalizing the
online gaming market. No report from this commission has been issued to date, and it is
unlikely any substantive moves forward will occur until 2011.
39
In Germany, the German Interstate Gambling Treaty came into force on January 1, 2008, an
agreement that seeks a prohibition on the use of the Internet for all gambling services (except
horserace betting). Certain German states have sent out prohibition orders aimed at a number of
online operators, however most operators have filed oppositions to these prohibition orders on
various grounds. At least one state has stated its intention to abandon the German Interstate
Gambling Treaty and attempt to liberalize its market as of 2012. In addition, a number of German
cases are pending in the European Court of Justice, and the outcomes of those cases will very
likely indicate the future of a liberalized market in Germany.
For additional information on the regulatory environment relating to online gaming, see Item
3, Key Information D. Risk Factors Risks Related
to our Business and Industries The
uncertain global legal and regulatory environment could have a negative impact on the Mangas
Everest business and prospects.
C. Organizational Structure
We were incorporated in Singapore as a company limited by shares on September 13, 1999. As of
the date of this annual report, our principal operating subsidiaries include Hoshin GigaMedia,
FunTown World Limited and T2CN. Hoshin GigaMedia, our wholly owned subsidiary incorporated in
Taiwan, operates our online games business in Taiwan. FunTown World Limited, our wholly owned
subsidiary incorporated in The British Virgin Islands, operates our online games business in Hong
Kong and Macau. T2CN, our majority owned subsidiary incorporated in The British Virgin Islands,
operates our online games business in the PRC. We currently hold a 40 percent interest in Mangas
Everest through GigaMedia Europe Limited S.à.r.l., our wholly owned subsidiary incorporated in
Luxembourg. Our 40 percent interest in Mangas Everest is, from April 8, 2010, accounted for using
the equity method.
Due to restrictions in the PRC on foreign equity ownership of companies providing Internet
content services and certain other licensing restrictions, we operate the online games business in
the PRC through our three VIEs, T2 Entertainment, T2 Advertisement and Jinyou, which hold the
licenses required for the operation of our online games business in the PRC, and all of which are
owned by PRC nationals. All of the three VIEs are controlled by T2CN though the following
contractual arrangements:
|
|
|
Each of the shareholders of T2 Entertainment has irrevocably granted T2CN
Information Technology (Shanghai) Co., Ltd. (T2 Technology), the wholly-owned
subsidiary of T2CN in the PRC, the power to exercise all of their voting rights of T2
Entertainment pursuant to the relevant voting rights and proxy agreement; |
|
|
|
Each of the shareholders of T2 Advertisement has irrevocably granted T2 Technology
the power to exercise all of their voting rights of T2 Advertisement pursuant to the
relevant voting rights and proxy agreement; |
|
|
|
Each of the shareholders of Jinyou has irrevocably granted T2 Technology the power
to exercise all of their voting rights of Jinyou pursuant to the relevant voting rights
and proxy agreement; |
|
|
|
Our majority-owned subsidiary in China has the power to appoint all directors and
senior management members of the three VIEs; |
|
|
|
Each of the shareholders of T2 Entertainment has pledged all of their respective
equity interests in T2 Entertainment as security for the full performance of their
respective obligations under all of their agreements with T2 Technology; |
|
|
|
Each of the shareholders of T2 Advertisement has pledged all of their respective
equity interests in T2 Advertisement as security for the full performance of their
respective obligations under all of their agreements with T2 Technology; |
40
|
|
|
Each of the shareholders of Jinyou has pledged all of their respective equity
interests in Jinyou as security for the full performance of their respective
obligations under all of their agreements with T2 Technology; |
|
|
|
Each of the shareholders of T2 Entertainment has granted T2 Technology an
irrevocable option to acquire all or part of the equity interests held by them in T2
Entertainment pursuant to the relevant exclusive call option agreement, to the extent
permitted by then-effective laws and regulations in the PRC; |
|
|
|
Each of the shareholders of T2 Advertisement has granted T2 Technology an
irrevocable option to acquire all or part of the equity interests held by them in T2
Advertisement pursuant to the relevant exclusive call option agreement, to the extent
permitted by then-effective laws and regulations in the PRC; and |
|
|
|
Each of the shareholders of Jinyou has granted T2 Technology an irrevocable option
to acquire all or part of the equity interests held by them in Jinyou pursuant to the
relevant exclusive call option agreement, to the extent permitted by then-effective
laws and regulations in the PRC. |
In addition, through T2 Technology, we have entered into certain exclusive technical service
agreements and exclusive commercial service agreements with T2 Entertainment, T2 Advertisement and
Jinyou, respectively, under which T2 Technology provides various technical consulting services,
business consulting services and other services to these VIEs in exchange for substantially all of
their net incomes. See Item 3, Key Information D. Risk Factors Risks Related to Doing
Business in Greater China PRC laws and regulations restrict foreign ownership and investment in
the online game industry, and substantial uncertainties exist with respect to the application and
implementation of PRC laws and regulations and B. Business Overview Regulation Regulations
Relating to Online Games in the PRC Foreign Ownership Restrictions in this annual report.
41
The following organization chart and table set forth our business structure and selected
information for each of our principal subsidiaries and VIEs as of the date of this annual report:
42
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Our |
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|
Year of |
|
Place of |
|
Percentage |
|
|
|
Entity |
|
Incorporation |
|
Incorporation |
|
Holding |
|
|
Principal Activities |
|
|
|
|
|
|
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Held by our Company |
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|
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|
|
|
|
|
|
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GigaMedia International Holdings Limited |
|
2004 |
|
British Virgin Islands |
|
|
100 |
% |
|
Holding company |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
GigaMedia (Taiwan) Limited |
|
2004 |
|
Taiwan |
|
|
100 |
% |
|
Holding company |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Held by GigaMedia International Holdings Limited |
|
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|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
GigaMedia SuperCup Holdings Limited |
|
2008 |
|
British Virgin Islands |
|
|
100 |
% |
|
Holding company |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
GigaMedia Global Limited |
|
2004 |
|
British Virgin Islands |
|
|
100 |
% |
|
Online games |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cambridge Entertainment Software Limited |
|
2004 |
|
British Virgin Islands |
|
|
100 |
% |
|
Holding company |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
GigaMedia (HK) Limited |
|
2004 |
|
Hong Kong |
|
|
100 |
% |
|
Holding company |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Crestmillion International Limited |
|
2007 |
|
British Virgin Islands |
|
|
100 |
% |
|
Holding company |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
GigaMedia Japan Pte. Ltd. |
|
2007 |
|
Singapore |
|
|
100 |
% |
|
Holding company |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
GigaMedia Finance International Limited |
|
2000 |
|
Cayman Islands |
|
|
100 |
% |
|
Holding company |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Bridgepoint International Limited |
|
2004 |
|
British Virgin Islands |
|
|
100 |
% |
|
Holding company |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Gloryland Asia Limited |
|
2008 |
|
British Virgin Islands |
|
|
100 |
% |
|
Online games |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
GigaMedia Online Entertainment Corp. |
|
2009 |
|
Cayman Islands |
|
|
100 |
% |
|
Holding company |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Held by GigaMedia Online Entertainment Corp. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
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|
FunTown World Limited |
|
2005 |
|
British Virgin Islands |
|
|
100 |
% |
|
Holding company |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
GigaMedia Asia Limited |
|
2005 |
|
British Virgin Islands |
|
|
100 |
% |
|
Holding company |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
GigaMedia Asia Pacific Limited |
|
2006 |
|
British Virgin Islands |
|
|
100 |
% |
|
Holding company |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Skyace Pacific Limited |
|
2006 |
|
British Virgin Islands |
|
|
100 |
% |
|
Online games |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Centermax Limited |
|
2007 |
|
British Virgin Islands |
|
|
100 |
% |
|
Holding company |
43
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Our |
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|
Year of |
|
Place of |
|
Percentage |
|
|
|
Entity |
|
Incorporation |
|
Incorporation |
|
Holding |
|
|
Principal Activities |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
GigaMedia Capital Limited |
|
2007 |
|
British Virgin Islands |
|
|
100 |
% |
|
Holding company |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
GigaMedia Development Limited |
|
2007 |
|
British Virgin Islands |
|
|
100 |
% |
|
Online games |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Giga Slam Dunk Corporation |
|
2007 |
|
Malaysia |
|
|
100 |
% |
|
Online games |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Giga Wartime Corporation |
|
2007 |
|
Malaysia |
|
|
100 |
% |
|
Online games |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
E-Sports International Corporation Limited |
|
2008 |
|
Hong Kong |
|
|
100 |
% |
|
Online games |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Dragon Mark Holdings Limited |
|
2008 |
|
British Virgin Islands |
|
|
100 |
% |
|
Holding company |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Premier Vantage Holdings Limited |
|
2009 |
|
British Virgin Islands |
|
|
100 |
% |
|
Holding company |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
GigaMedia
Freestyle Holdings Limited |
|
2009 |
|
British Virgin Islands |
|
|
100 |
% |
|
Holding company |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Spring Asia
Limited (formally known as New Media Investment Corporation) |
|
2009 |
|
Labuan |
|
|
100 |
% |
|
Holding company |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Asia Online Games Corporation (formally known
as GigaMedia (Labuan New) Limited) |
|
2006 |
|
Labuan |
|
|
100 |
% |
|
Holding company |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
GigaMedia (Labuan) Limited |
|
2005 |
|
Labuan |
|
|
100 |
% |
|
Holding company |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Megabiz Limited |
|
2010 |
|
British Virgin Islands |
|
|
100 |
% |
|
Holding company |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Nova Matrix Limited |
|
2010 |
|
British Virgin Islands |
|
|
100 |
% |
|
Holding company |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Held by FunTown World Limited |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
FunTown Hong Kong Limited |
|
1999 |
|
Hong Kong |
|
|
100 |
% |
|
Online games |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Held by FunTown Hong Kong Limited |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
FunTown Software (Shanghai) Limited |
|
2006 |
|
PRC |
|
|
100 |
% |
|
Online games |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Held by Skyace Pacific Limited |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Dragongate Enterprises Limited |
|
2006 |
|
British Virgin Islands |
|
|
70 |
% |
|
Online games |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Held by Dragongate Enterprises Limited |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
GigaMedia Dragongate Limited |
|
2007 |
|
Malaysia |
|
|
100 |
% |
|
Online games |
44
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
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|
|
|
|
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|
|
|
Our |
|
|
|
|
|
Year of |
|
Place of |
|
Percentage |
|
|
|
Entity |
|
Incorporation |
|
Incorporation |
|
Holding |
|
|
Principal Activities |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Held by Cambridge Entertainment Software Limited |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cambridge Interactive Development Corporation |
|
1997 |
|
U.S.A. |
|
|
100 |
% |
|
Software development and application services |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cambridge Interactive Development Corporation
(Quebec) Inc. |
|
2005 |
|
Canada |
|
|
100 |
% |
|
Financial and management services |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cambridge Interactive Development Co., Ltd |
|
2008 |
|
United Kingdom |
|
|
100 |
% |
|
Software support services |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Internet Media Licensing Limited |
|
2005 |
|
British Virgin Islands |
|
|
100 |
% |
|
Software development and application services |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Held by Internet Media Licensing Limited |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
GigaMedia Europe Limited S.à.r.l. |
|
2010 |
|
Luxembourg |
|
|
100 |
% |
|
Holding company for 40% of Everest Mangas |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Ultra Internet Media S.A. |
|
2004 |
|
Nevis |
|
|
100 |
% |
|
Online entertainment operator |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Held by GigaMedia Europe Limited S.à.r.l. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Mangas Everest |
|
2010 |
|
France |
|
|
40 |
% |
|
Online gaming operator |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Held by Dragon Mark Holdings Limited |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Wolverine Holdings Group Limited |
|
2009 |
|
British Virgin Islands |
|
|
100 |
% |
|
Holding company |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Held by GigaMedia (Labuan) Limited |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Leisure Alliance Sdn. Bhd. |
|
2009 |
|
Malaysia |
|
|
100 |
% |
|
Holding company |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Held by Leisure Alliance Sdn. Bhd. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Hoshin GigaMedia Center Inc. |
|
1998 |
|
Taiwan |
|
|
100 |
% |
|
Online games |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Held by Bridgepoint International Limited |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Implus International Limited |
|
2004 |
|
British Virgin Islands |
|
|
100 |
% |
|
Holding company |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Held by GigaMedia Asia Pacific Limited |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Spring Asia Limited |
|
2005 |
|
British Virgin Islands |
|
|
100 |
% |
|
Holding company |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Infocomm Asia Holdings Pte. Ltd. |
|
2004 |
|
Singapore |
|
|
28.43 |
% |
|
Online games |
45
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Our |
|
|
|
|
|
Year of |
|
Place of |
|
Percentage |
|
|
|
Entity |
|
Incorporation |
|
Incorporation |
|
Holding |
|
|
Principal Activities |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Held by GigaMedia Asia Limited |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
GigaMedia China Limited |
|
2005 |
|
British Virgin Islands |
|
|
100 |
% |
|
Holding company |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Held by GigaMedia China Limited |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
T2CN Holding Limited |
|
2004 |
|
British Virgin Islands |
|
|
67.09 |
% |
|
Online games |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Held by T2CN Holding Limited |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
J-Town Information (Shanghai) Co., Ltd. |
|
2005 |
|
PRC |
|
|
100 |
% |
|
Online games |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
T2CN Information Technology (Shanghai) Co., Ltd. |
|
2004 |
|
PRC |
|
|
100 |
% |
|
Online games |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Controlled by T2CN Information Technology (Shanghai) Co., Ltd. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Shanghai T2 Entertainment Co., Ltd. |
|
2004 |
|
PRC |
|
|
* |
|
|
Online games |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Shanghai T2 Advertisement Co., Ltd. |
|
2006 |
|
PRC |
|
|
* |
|
|
Advertising |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Shanghai Jinyou Network & Technology Co., Ltd. |
|
2007 |
|
PRC |
|
|
* |
|
|
Online games |
|
|
|
* |
|
We have entered into a series of contractual arrangements through which we have effective control
over these entities. |
D. Property, Plant and Equipment
Our headquarters are located on the 7th to 9th Floors, 207 Tiding
Boulevard, Section 2, Taipei 114, Taiwan. As of May 31, 2010, our headquarters occupied
approximately 35,398 square feet.
We also lease office and warehouse space, including space for our servers, in various other
locations.
As of May 31, 2010, we leased approximately 8,992 square feet as office premises in Hong Kong.
As of May 31, 2010, we leased approximately 47,137 square feet as office premises for
FunTowns head office in Taipei, Taiwan and approximately 4,831 square feet as office premises for
FunTowns office in Hong Kong. In addition, we leased approximately 1,265 square feet of warehouse
space in Hong Kong.
As of May 31, 2010, we leased approximately 37,497 square feet as office premises for T2CNs
head office in Shanghai, the PRC. In addition, we leased approximately 375 square feet as office
premises for our online games operation in Shanghai, the PRC.
46
ITEM 5. OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS
A. Operating Results
Unless stated otherwise, the discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of
operations in this section apply to our consolidated financial statements as prepared in accordance
with U.S. GAAP. You should read the following discussion of our financial condition and results of
operations together with the financial statements and the notes to these statements included
elsewhere in this annual report.
Overview
We are a holding company. We operate two principal businesses through our subsidiaries:
|
|
|
Until April 8, 2010, through our gaming software and service business, we developed
and licensed online poker and casino gaming software solutions and application
services, primarily targeting continental European markets. |
|
|
|
Our online games business operates a portfolio of online games, primarily targeting
online Greater China markets. |
In 2009, we recorded total operating revenues of approximately US$159.6 million, a decrease of
approximately US$30.8 million year-over-year, primarily resulting from a decrease in revenue from
our gaming software and service business. Our gaming software and service business had a decrease
in operating revenues of approximately US$32.1 million year-over-year, which was offset by an
increase of approximately US$1.3 million in revenue from our online game business. Our total costs
and expenses increased by approximately US$47.4 million year-over-year to US$199.6 million. We
recorded an operating loss of approximately US$40.1 million, a decrease of approximately US$78.2
million year-over-year. We recognized a net loss (net of that attributable to the noncontrolling
interest) of approximately US$49.1 million, a decrease of approximately US$93.5 million
year-over-over.
Gaming Software and Service Business. Until April 8, 2010, we operated our gaming software and
service business through our subsidiary, CESL, and through its wholly-owned subsidiaries, CIDC and
IMLL. Our gaming software and service business generated revenues of approximately US$112.7
million, gross profit of approximately US$92.6 million, and operating income of approximately
US$7.5 million in 2009. On April 8, 2010, we completed the sale of a 60 percent interest in our
online gaming software business to Mangas, a leading European sports betting and online gaming
group (the Mangas Transaction). The strategic alliance with Mangas was structured as a stock and
asset sale to a newly-formed French entity, Mangas Everest, in which we received a 40 percent
stake. As part of and as a condition to the completion of the transaction, we purchased the shares
of our then-major licensee, UIM, all of the material assets of which were sold to Mangas Everest as
part of the transaction.
Until the completion of the Mangas Transaction, the financial results of UIM were incorporated
into our consolidated financial statements as UIM meets the criteria of variable-interest entities
(VIE) as defined by the FASB Accounting Standards Codification.
See A. Operating Results Certain Significant Events Affecting Our Results of Operations
for 2007, 2008 and 2009 Consolidation of UIM, T2 Entertainment, T2 Advertisement, and Jinyou.
Under the terms of the licenses granted by us to UIM, we are entitled to a share of the revenues of
such licensee, and as such, we bear certain economic risks with respect to, and derive certain
economic benefits from, their operations.
Following the completion of the Mangas Transaction, we no longer consolidate CESL or UIM. Our
40 percent interest in Mangas Everest is, from April 8, 2010, accounted for using the equity
method. See Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects A. Operating Results
Subsequent Events Transaction with Mangas.Online Games Business. We operate our online games
business through FunTown and T2CN. We acquired FunTown in January 2006 and incorporated results of
the business into our consolidated financial statements starting from January 1, 2006. We
consolidated and incorporated T2CNs operating results into our consolidated financial statements
starting from June 1, 2007. Our online games business generated revenues of approximately US$46.9
million, a gross profit of approximately US$30.1 million, and operating loss of approximately
US$34.6 million in 2009.
In December 2006, we entered into a strategic alliance with Infocomm Asia, a Southeast Asia
online games operator and distributor offering online games. In April 2010, we entered into several
agreements to acquire additional ownership of Infocomm Asia. The acquisition of a controlling
interest in Infocomm Asia is expected to close in the third quarter of 2010. See Item 5. Operating
and Financial Review and Prospects A. Operating Results Subsequent Events Transactions with
Infocomm Asia.
47
We also entered into strategic alliances with Neostorm, XL Games, Access China, Gorilla Banana
Entertainment, JC Entertainment Corporation, and Possibility Space Incorporated in October 2007,
December 2007, January 2008, May 2009, September 2009, and December 2009, respectively. Neostorm
was formed by the merger of four previously independent game development studios creating one of
the largest independent game development companies in South Korea. Neostorm focuses on medium-core
casual game titles. XL Games was founded by the creator of one of the most popular online game
franchises in history and focuses on MMORPGs with studios in Seoul, South Korea and Austin, Texas.
Access China is an online game software developer in the PRC. Gorilla Banana Entertainment is an
online game software developer in Korea. JC Entertainment is a listed company which operates
online games in Korean. Possibility Space Incorporated is an online game software developer in the
PRC. For additional information with respect to our acquisitions and investments, see Item 4,
Information on The Company A. History and Development of Our Company in this annual report.
Online casual game operators in Greater China are currently our primary competitors. We also
compete with online casual game and MMORPG operators throughout Greater China. Given the low
barriers to entry in the online game industry and the increasing popularity of Internet-based
businesses, there are a large number of potential competitors scattered throughout many different
segments of the software and Internet industries. In addition to the aforementioned competitors,
traditional entertainment service providers and other entities, many of which have significant
financial resources and name brand recognition, may provide online game services in the future, and
thus become our competitors.
Faced with our known competitors, and most likely several new competitors which may be
established in the near future, we will continue to improve the principal competitive factors that
we believe can differentiate our product offerings from those offered by our competitors,
including: brand, technology, financial stability and resources, proven track record, independent
oversight and transparency of business practices in our industry.
Certain Significant Events Affecting Our Results of Operations for 2007, 2008 and 2009
Divestiture of Our Legacy Internet Access and Service Business
In September 2008, we completed the sale of our Internet access and service business, which
included 100 percent of our wholly-owned subsidiaries, Koos Broadband Telecom Co., Ltd. (KBT) and
Hoshin Multimedia Center Inc., as well as certain assets and liabilities related to our Internet
access and service business, for a total transaction price of US$20.0 million.
The transaction price, net of transaction costs, price adjustments and cash transferred, was
approximately US$16.5 million. The after-tax gain from the sale of the Internet access and service
business was approximately US$9.8 million.
An amount of US$2.5 million of the transaction price was deposited into an escrow account
established with the escrow agent for an agreed period, to be available for any price adjustment
payment, severance payment, and indemnification payment set forth in the
agreements. As of December 31, 2008, the escrow account balance was approximately US$2.1
million after payment of the severance payment. The escrow account was released in September 2009.
In addition to the above purchase price, we may be entitled to receive additional cash
payments of US$3.0 million and US$2.0 million if the Internet access and service business that we
sold achieves certain earn-out targets by September 2009 and 2010. The earn-out targets are to be
determined by future gross profits in accordance with a formula and timeline set forth in the
agreements. As of December 31, 2009, we did not accrue any additional receivable for the sale of
the Internet access and service business since the earn-out target for the first period ended
September 2009 was not achieved.
Results for the Internet access and service operations are reported as discontinued operations
in 2007, 2008 and 2009. In 2008, income from discontinued operations was US$9.4 million, which
included an after-tax loss from the Internet access and service business of US$0.4 million and an
after-tax gain on the sale of the business of US$9.8 million.
48
Summarized selected financial information for discontinued operations is as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(in US$ thousands) |
|
2007 |
|
|
2008 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Revenue |
|
$ |
15,164 |
|
|
$ |
9,289 |
|
|
$ |
159 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income (loss) from discontinued operations before tax |
|
$ |
1,090 |
|
|
$ |
(593 |
) |
|
$ |
222 |
|
Gain on sale of the discontinued operations before tax |
|
|
|
|
|
|
11,014 |
|
|
|
|
|
Income tax expenses |
|
|
(2 |
) |
|
|
(986 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income from discontinued operations |
|
$ |
1,088 |
|
|
$ |
9,435 |
|
|
$ |
222 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Major classes of assets and liabilities which comprised the Internet access and service
business at the date of disposal, September 2008, included the following:
|
|
|
|
|
(in US$ thousands) |
|
|
|
|
Cash |
|
$ |
493 |
|
Accounts receivable |
|
|
2,325 |
|
Other current assets |
|
|
1,125 |
|
Property and equipment |
|
|
4,328 |
|
Other assets |
|
|
165 |
|
|
|
|
|
Total assets |
|
$ |
8,436 |
|
|
|
|
|
Accounts payable |
|
$ |
1,056 |
|
Other current liabilities |
|
|
759 |
|
Noncurrent liabilities |
|
|
672 |
|
|
|
|
|
Total liabilities |
|
$ |
2,487 |
|
|
|
|
|
Consolidation of UIM, T2 Entertainment, T2 Advertisement, and Jinyou
The financial statements of the following VIEs have been consolidated into our Companys
consolidated financial statements in accordance with the FASB Accounting Standards Codification.
Our Company entered into a software license and support service contract with UIM to provide
Internet software support services for UIMs online gaming operations. The contract allows for us
to charge a percentage of UIM gross receipts resulting from UIMs online gaming operations. The
percentage of gross receipts varies depending upon the software and support services provided to
UIM. We analyzed our contractual relationships with UIM and determined that we were and continue to
be a primary beneficiary of UIM. As a result of such determination, we have incorporated the
results of UIM into our consolidated US financial statements even though we own none of UIMs
equity and recorded goodwill arising from the consolidation of UIM totaling US$209 thousand. The
net assets (liabilities), total assets and total liabilities of UIM were approximately US$448
thousand, US$87.4 million and US$86.9 million, respectively, as of December 31, 2008, and US$(932)
thousand, US$82.9
million and US$83.8 million, respectively, as of December 31, 2009. For the years ended
December 31, 2007, 2008 and 2009, total revenue and net income (loss) of UIM were as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(in US$ thousands) |
|
2007 |
|
|
2008 |
|
|
2009 |
|
Total revenue |
|
$ |
118,650 |
|
|
$ |
144,765 |
|
|
$ |
112,694 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net income (loss) |
|
$ |
348 |
|
|
$ |
(206 |
) |
|
$ |
(1,226 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Beginning in June 2007, we consolidated T2CN. Pursuant to various agreements entered into
between T2CN, Shanghai T2 Entertainment Co., Ltd. (T2 Entertainment), Shanghai T2 Advertisement
Co., Ltd. (T2 Advertisement) and the equity owners of T2 Entertainment and T2 Advertisement, T2CN
generally has control and the risks and rewards of ownership of T2 Entertainment and T2
Advertisement and is considered the primary beneficiary of T2 Entertainment and T2 Advertisement.
T2 Entertainment and T2 Advertisement were established to hold the necessary licenses for our
participation in online game and related advertisement services in the Peoples Republic of China
(PRC). Accordingly, from the date that we consolidated T2CN, the results of T2 Entertainment and
T2 Advertisement are included in the accompanying consolidated financial statements.
In November 2007, T2CN entered into various agreements with Shanghai Jinyou Network &
Technology Co., Ltd. (Jinyou) and the equity owners of Jinyou. The agreements provided for T2CN
to obtain conditional effective and enforceable clauses upon acquiring an Internet Content Provider
(ICP) license by Jinyou. Jinyou was established to hold the necessary licenses for our
participation in online games in the PRC. In September 2008, Jinyou acquired the ICP license and
the above agreements became effective. T2CN generally has control and the risks and rewards of
ownership of Jinyou and is considered the primary beneficiary of Jinyou. Accordingly, the results
of Jinyou are included in the accompanying consolidated financial statements starting from
September 2008.
49
The net assets, total assets and total liabilities in the aggregate of T2 Entertainment, T2
Advertisement and Jinyou were approximately US$3.3 million, US$17.5 million and US$14.2 million,
respectively, as of December 31, 2008, and US$1.6 million, US$18.2 million and US$16.6 million,
respectively, as of December 31, 2009. For the years ended December 31, 2007, 2008 and 2009, total
revenue and net income (loss) in the aggregate of T2 Entertainment, T2 Advertisement and Jinyou
were as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(in US$ thousands) |
|
2007 |
|
|
2008 |
|
|
2009 |
|
Total revenue |
|
$ |
14,973 |
|
|
$ |
20,312 |
|
|
$ |
18,673 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net income (loss) |
|
$ |
2,429 |
|
|
$ |
1,571 |
|
|
$ |
(2,990 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
See Item 3, Key Information D. Risk Factors Risks Related to Doing Business in Greater
China The contractual arrangements with T2 Entertainment, T2 Advertisement and Jinyou and their
shareholders may not be as effective in providing operational control as direct ownership and the
shareholders of T2 Entertainment, T2 Advertisement and Jinyou may have potential conlicts of
interest with us in this annual report.
Acquisitions
T2CN
Beginning in June 2007, we consolidated T2CN. We acquired T2CN in order to enhance our
position in the online games market in Asia. This primary factor, among others, contributed to a
purchase price in excess of the fair market value of the net tangible assets and intangible assets
acquired. As of May 31, 2010, we owned 43,633,681 common shares of T2CN, which represents a
controlling interest of 66.29 percent of the total outstanding voting rights of T2CN.
The following summarizes our acquisitions of T2CN during the period from 2006 to 2009:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(in US$ thousands) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Accumulated |
|
Date of acquisition |
|
Purchase Price |
|
|
Description |
|
voting interest |
|
2006 |
|
$ |
15,000 |
|
|
Purchased 7,500,000 convertible voting preferred shares |
|
|
19.02 |
% |
2007 |
|
$ |
23,736 |
* |
|
Acquired 38,613,681 common shares (including convertible voting preferred shares converted into common shares) in total |
|
|
58.11 |
% |
2008 |
|
$ |
3,375 |
|
|
Purchased 4,500,000 common shares |
|
|
65.68 |
% |
2009 |
|
$ |
285 |
|
|
Purchased 520,000 common shares |
|
|
67.09 |
% |
|
|
|
* |
|
Includes the issuance of 226,385 common shares of GigaMedia, valued at approximately US$2.7
million. |
(a) Acquisition in 2007
In connection with the step acquisitions through July 2007, we recorded goodwill of US$29.4
million. Such goodwill amount is non-deductible for tax purposes. Since June 1, 2007, results of
T2CNs operations have been included in our consolidated financial statements under the online game
and service business.
(b) Acquisition in 2008
In connection with the purchase of additional common shares of T2CN in May 2008, we recorded
additional goodwill of US$1.7 million. Such goodwill amount is non-deductible for tax purposes. We
also recorded additional identified intangible assets of US$136 thousand which are being amortized
on a straight-line basis over their useful lives of three years.
In addition, T2CN bought back and cancelled part of its common shares owned by independent
third parties for US$1.3 million during 2008, resulting in an increase of our ownership interest in
T2CN from 65.68 percent to 66.29 percent, and we recorded additional goodwill of US$511 thousand.
50
(c) Acquisition in 2009
In connection with the purchase of additional common shares of T2CN in August 2009, which
resulted an increase of our ownership interest in T2CN to 67.09 percent, as we maintained control
in T2CN, we recognized this transaction as an equity transaction and adjusted additional paid-in
capital by US$112 thousand.
Impairment Loss Related to Underperforming Game Projects in Our Online Games And Service
Business
As a result of underperforming game projects including but not limited to Hellgate: Longon,
Luna Online, Holic, Warhammer Online, and NBA Street Online, we recorded an impairment loss of
approximately US$37.7 million within our online games and service business in our consolidated
financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2009 as follows:
1) US$14.1 million impairment loss on goodwill. Our estimates of future cash flows for T2CNs
business have been reduced due to lower than expected operating performance results in 2009, which
indicated the goodwill from the acquisition of T2CN cannot be fully recovered. Goodwill is valued
on a nonrecurring basis when impairment exists, using a discounted cash flow model to determine
fair value, incorporating available market discount information, our estimate for liquidity risk
and other cash flow model related assumptions based on unobservable inputs.
2) US$18.3 million impairment loss on prepaid licensing and royalty fees, which was related
to certain licensed games that we stopped operating or for which the carrying amounts were
determined not to be recoverable due to lower than expected performances. Prepaid licensing and
royalty fees are valued on a nonrecurring basis when impairment exists, using a discounted cash flow
model to determine fair value, incorporating available market discount information, our estimate
for liquidity risk and other cash flow model related assumptions based on unobservable inputs.
3) US$4.5 million impairment loss on intangible assets for capitalized software costs to
reflect a full provision relating to certain projects that we have ceased to further develop; and
4) US$777 thousand impairment loss on fixed assets, which was related to servers used in
certain impaired licensed games or internally developed games. Fixed assets are valued on a
nonrecurring basis when impairment exists, using a discounted cash flow model to determine fair
value, incorporating available market discount information, our estimate for liquidity risk and
other cash flow model related assumptions based on unobservable inputs.
Subsequent Events
Litigation
On April 1, 2010, a complaint was filed on behalf of UIM against Harrahs License Company, LLC
(Harrahs) in connection with the promotion agreement for the World Series of Poker dated
February 24, 2008 (the Agreement) for: 1) breach of the Agreement; 2) breach of the implied
covenant of good faith and fair dealing; 3) unjust enrichment; 4) declaratory relief; and 5)
injunctive relief. The complaint seeks compensatory damages, a declaration that Harrahs
materially breached the Agreement and the Agreement is therefore terminated as of April 1, 2010, an
injunction precluding Harrahs from violating the Agreement pending the outcome of the litigation,
and attorney fees and costs.
A letter of termination was also sent by UIM to Harrahs on April 1, 2010 to terminate the
Agreement for multiple material breaches by Harrahs and to demand the refund of past payments.
An application for a temporary restraining order (TRO) and motion for preliminary
injunction was also filed. The request for the TRO was subsequently denied by the court. On April
28, 2010, UIM had a hearing on its motion asking the court to force Harrahs to remove a certain
non-Everest Poker name and logo reference from the broadcasts into France, as UIM has exclusive
promotional and advertising rights pursuant to the Agreement. The motion was denied on the grounds
that UIM failed to show that the broadcasts containing the other references digital overlay were
certain to continue into the future. The court did not rule on the merits of the underlying claims
in any way. The judge has yet to issue a formal order.
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Harrahs also filed a motion to dismiss the complaint. A date for a hearing has not yet been
scheduled. In addition, on April 27, 2010, Harrahs Interactive Entertainment, Inc. (Harrahs
Interactive) filed a separate lawsuit against UIM for 1) breach of the Agreement; 2) breach of the
implied covenant of good faith and fair dealing; and, 3) unjust enrichment, and included GigaMedia
as a defendant for tortious interference with contractual relations. In May 2009, the Agreement
was assigned by Harrahs to Harrahs Interactive. UIM has asked Harrahs to stipulate to
consolidation, and Harrahs has agreed to do so.
We are currently awaiting a hearing date for the lawsuit.
Transactions with Mangas
On April 8, 2010, we completed the sale of a 60 percent interest in our online gaming software
business to Mangas Gaming, a leading European sports betting and online gaming group. Mangas is
jointly owned by former media tycoon Stephane Courbits Lov Group and the world renowned Monte
Carlo Casino owner Société des Bains de Mer de Monaco, controlled by the Principality of Monaco.
Mangas has an extensive European gambling portfolio, including BetClic, Expekt, and Bet-at-Home,
together offering sports betting, poker and casino services to over four million registered users
in over 25 countries. The strategic alliance with Mangas was structured as a stock and asset sale
to a newly-formed French entity, Mangas Everest, in which we received a 40 percent stake.
As part of and as a condition to the completion of the transaction, we purchased the shares of
our then-major licensee UIM all of the material assets of which were sold to Mangas Everest as part
of the transaction. We had historically consolidated UIMs assets, liabilities and results of
operations in our consolidated financial statements in accordance with the FASB Accounting
Standards Codification, although we did not historically hold any equity ownership in UIM. UIM was
an online entertainment operator that provided online gaming services, including online casinos and
virtual poker rooms. We sometimes refer to our online gaming software business and UIMs business
as the Everest Business. At the time the sale of the Everest Business was completed, UIM held
gaming licenses issued by the Kahnawake Gaming Commission and the Lotteries and Gaming Authority of
Malta.
For its 60 percent stake in the Everest Business, Mangas made an initial cash payment of
approximately US$100 million, which may be followed by a final earn-out payment in 2012 to be
determined by reference to the fair-market value of Mangas Everest in May 2012, as defined in the
agreement.
GigaMedia holds the remaining 40 percent of Mangas Everest with a put option to sell all or
part of its share to Mangas. The put option is exercisable in 2013, 2014 and 2015. Mangas holds a
call option on any remaining Mangas Everest interests held by GigaMedia which it may exercise in
2015 and 2016. For both GigaMedias put option and Mangas call option, the price paid will be
determined based upon the fair market value of Mangas Everest as of December 31 of the prior year,
as determined by mutual agreement between the parties or, failing that, an appraisal process.
GigaMedia has retained the liability, if any, for certain potential tax claims, if any, and
existing liabilities of the Everest Business, and also has agreed to provide a limited indemnity
with respect to breaches of representations and warranties (which generally survive until December
31, 2011) and covenants contained in the purchase agreement.
While Mangas will generally control the day-to-day operations of Mangas Everest, so long as we
own at least 20 percent of Mangas Everests share capital, we will have approval rights over certain
material actions of Mangas Everest, including certain issuances of securities of Mangas Everest,
certain acquisitions and dispositions of assets and material changes to the principal business of
Mangas Everest. In addition, so long as GigaMedia holds at least 10 percent of Mangas Everests
share capital, we will have representation on the board of directors of Mangas Everest.
Mangas has agreed that it will not acquire other online poker businesses without first giving
Mangas Everest the opportunity to acquire such business, at GigaMedias discretion, so long as
GigaMedia holds at least 20 percent of Mangas Everests share capital.
The foregoing summary is qualified in its entirety by the Stock and Asset Purchase Agreement
entered into in connection with the transaction, which is attached hereto as Exhibit 4.42.
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Transactions with Infocomm Asia
On April 30, 2010, GigaMedia entered into several agreements with certain shareholders of
Infocomm Asia, as well as with Infocomm Asia itself, to acquire additional preferred shares of
Infocomm Asia. The acquisition of Infocomm Asia is expected to be closed in the third quarter of
2010, after the closing conditions set forth in the agreements are met. The total purchase price
pursuant to the agreements for the preferred shares is approximately US$17.2 million. After the
acquisition, the total number of preferred shares owned by GigaMedia can be converted into
approximately 80 percent of Infocomm Asias outstanding common shares.
On April 30, 2010, GigaMedia signed an agreement to provide a loan facility to Infocomm Asia
with a principal amount of US$7 million. The loan is to be used by Infocomm Asia to support its
current operations. The loan has a five year term and bears interest at 3% per annum. GigaMedia
also provided a guarantee on behalf of Infocomm Asia to a licensor of certain games to Infocomm
Asia and its subsidiaries. The guarantee includes but is not limited to payment of the royalties,
license fees and the minimum guarantees associated with the licensed games as set forth within the
licensing agreements. The total amount of GigaMedias guarantee, taking into account funds received
by Infocomm Asia from subscription money and the loan from GigaMedia, is approximately US$13.6
million.
On April 30, 2010, GigaMedia entered into a share purchase agreement with Infocomm Asia to
acquire one of its wholly-owned subsidiaries in exchange for US$6 million. The agreement was
closed on May 7, 2010. The agreement includes certain put/call arrangements commencing immediately
upon the expiration of the first anniversary of the closing date, for a period of three years
thereafter.
Critical Accounting Policies
The discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations are derived
from our consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with accounting
principles generally accepted in the U.S., or U.S. GAAP. The preparation of these financial
statements requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of
assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses, and the related disclosure of contingent assets and
liabilities as of the date of the consolidated financial statements. We continually evaluate our
estimates and assumptions, which are based on historical experience and other various factors that
we believe are reasonable under the circumstances. The results of these estimates and assumptions
form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of certain assets and liabilities.
Our actual results could differ significantly from those estimates under different assumptions and
conditions. We believe that the following discussion addresses the most critical accounting
policies applicable to our Company, which are those that are most important to the portrayal of the
financial condition and results of operations of our Company, and require managements most
difficult, subjective and complex judgments, often as a result of the need to make estimates about
the effect of matters that are inherently uncertain.
Consolidation
The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of GigaMedia and our wholly-owned
and majority-owned subsidiaries after elimination of all inter-company accounts and transactions.
In addition, the accounts of our Companys VIEs as defined by the FASB Accounting Standards
Codification are included in the consolidated financial statements. See note 3 to our consolidated
financial statements for additional information. The accounting policies for other less than
majority-owned investments are described in note 1 to our consolidated financial statements in the
paragraphs headed Marketable Securities and Investments.
Acquisitions
Before January 1, 2009, our Company accounted for its business acquisitions using the purchase
method as required by the FASB. Under the purchase method, the acquiring company allocates the
purchase price to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on their estimated fair values
at the date of acquisition, including intangible assets that can be identified. The purchase price
in excess of the fair value of the net assets and liabilities identified is recorded as goodwill.
Business acquisitions that our Company enters into after January 1, 2009 are being accounted for in
accordance with the new accounting guidance issued by the FASB using the acquisition method. Under
the new accounting guidance, our Company recognizes and measures the identifiable assets acquired,
the liabilities assumed and any noncontrolling interest at their acquisition-date fair values, with
limited exceptions. Acquisition-related costs will generally be expensed as incurred.
53
Revenue Recognition
Our Company recognizes revenues when persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, delivery
occurs or services are rendered, the sales price is fixed or determinable and collectability is
reasonably assured. We present the sales taxes assessed by governmental authorities on our revenue
transactions on a net basis in our consolidated financial statements.
Our Company enters into multiple-element revenue arrangements, which may include any
combination of services, software, and/or products. To the extent that a deliverable in a
multiple-element arrangement is subject to specific accounting guidance, whether and/or how to
separate multiple deliverable arrangements into separate units of accounting (separability) and how
to allocate the arrangement consideration among those separate units of accounting (allocation) for
that deliverable is accounted for in accordance with such specific guidance.
In addition to the aforementioned general policies, the following are the specific revenue
recognition policies for each major category of revenue.
Gaming Software and Service Revenues
Gaming software and service revenues for 2007, 2008 and 2009 are related to software products
we develop and license and support services we provide for online real-money gaming solutions and
applications.
Until the completion of the Mangas Transaction on April 8, 2010, the financial results of UIM
were incorporated into our consolidated financial statements as UIM meets the criteria of VIE as
defined by the FASB Accounting Standards Codification. Our software licensing and support service
revenues for 2007, 2008 and 2009 were based upon a percentage of gross receipts generated by UIMs
online gaming operations, and were recognized monthly. Software licensing and support service
revenues we received from providing such services to UIM were eliminated in consolidation.
UIM historically generated revenues by providing and promoting online games of skill and
chance that are available on its free download gaming software. We considered multiple-element
revenue arrangements involving UIMs provision of software and software-related elements to
customers. UIMs online gaming service was inseparable from the software element involved and UIM
did not sell each element separately. UIMs online gaming service did not involve significant
production, modification, or customization of the gaming software. Revenues derived from UIMs
online gaming software platform were recognized at the time games were played and were net of
player winnings. Transaction fee revenues derived from UIMs online multi-player poker platform
were recognized as services were provided.
Following the completion of the Mangas Transaction, we no longer consolidate CESL or UIM. Our
40 percent interest in Mangas Everest is, from April 8, 2010, accounted for using the equity
method. See Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects A. Operating Results
Subsequent Events Transaction with Mangas.
Online Game and Service Revenues
Online game and service revenues are related to our online game and service business that
operates play-for-fun games online in Asia.
Online game revenues are earned through the sale of online game points, pre-paid cards, and
game packs. Virtual online game points are sold directly to end-users who can make the payments
through credit cards, the Internet ATMs or telecommunication service operators. Physical pre-paid
cards and game packs are sold through distributors and convenience stores. Proceeds from sales of
physical cards and game packs, net of sales discounts, and online game points are deferred when
received and revenue is recognized upon the actual usage of the playing time or in-game virtual
items by the end-users; over the estimated useful life of virtual items; or when the sold game
points expire and can no longer be used to access the online games or products in accordance with
our published game points expiration policy.
54
We report sales of virtual online game points on a gross basis. In the sales of virtual online
game points, we act as principal and we have latitude in establishing price. Fixed percentage fees
retained by service providers for payment processing related to our online game services are
recognized as cost of online game revenues.
Online game and service revenues also include revenues derived from online advertising
arrangements, sponsorship arrangements, or a combination of both. These service arrangements allow
advertisers to place advertisements on particular areas of our Companys websites and online game
platforms over a stated period of time. Service revenues from online advertising arrangements are
recognized ratably over the displayed period of the contract when the collectability is reasonably
assured.
Revenue included within Discontinued Operations
For 2007, 2008 and 2009, a portion of our Companys revenue was generated from our Internet
access and service business. We disposed of the remaining portion of our Internet access and
service business in September 2008, and as a result, have classified the income from these
revenue-generating activities as part of discontinued operations. See note 4 to our consolidated
financial statements for additional information.
Our Internet access and service business revenues were recorded net of discounts and net of
fees paid to cable partners, and were recognized on a straight-line basis over the subscription
period or for the period in which the service was performed. Any advanced payment receipts were
recorded as deferred revenues included in other current liabilities in our consolidated balance
sheets and were amortized over the subscription period. The sale of other Internet access-related
products and rental income from the lease of Internet access-related equipment to subscribers were
recognized when products were delivered or services were provided.
Player Account Balances
Player account balances are related to player deposits from our gaming software and service
business. Player account balances are presented as current liabilities, which are first accrued for
in full upon the receipt of player deposits, and increased or decreased based on player activities,
including player wins or losses, withdrawals and refunds. See note 5 to our consolidated financial
statements for additional information.
Deferred Revenues
Deferred revenues are included in other current liabilities, and consist of the prepaid income
related to our online game and service business.
Operating Costs
Operating costs primarily consist of processing costs, online game royalties, bandwidth,
production costs for prepaid game cards and game packs, amortization of intangible assets, customer
service department costs, depreciation, maintenance and other overhead expenses directly
attributable to our gaming software and service revenues and online game and service revenues.
Prepaid Licensing and Royalty Fees
Our Company, through our subsidiaries and VIE subsidiaries, routinely enters into agreements
with licensors to acquire licenses for using, marketing, distributing, selling and publishing of
multi-player online games.
Prepaid licensing fees paid to licensors are capitalized when technological feasibility is
achieved, and amortized on a straight-line basis over the shorter of the useful economic life of
the relevant online game or license period, which is usually within two to five years. The annual
amortization is modified if the amount computed using the ratio that current gross revenues for a
game license bear to the total of current and anticipated future gross revenues for that game
license is greater than the amount computed using the straight-line method.
55
Prepaid royalty fees and related costs are recognized in the period in which the related
online game revenue is recognized.
Fair Value Measurement
We adopted the guidance issued by FASB for fair value measurements and the fair value option
for financial assets and financial liabilities on January 1, 2008. We did not record an adjustment
to retained earnings as a result of the adoption of the guidance for fair value measurements, and
the adoption did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements. The guidance
for the fair value option for financial assets and financial liabilities provides companies the
irrevocable option to measure many financial assets and liabilities at fair value with changes in
fair value recognized in earnings. Our Company has not elected to measure any financial assets or
liabilities at fair value that were not previously required to be measured at fair value.
Our Company generally determines or calculates the fair value of financial instruments using
quoted market prices in active markets when such information is available or using appropriate
present value or other valuation techniques, such as discounted cash flow analyses, incorporating
adjusted available market discount rate information and our Companys estimates for non-performance
and liquidity risk. These techniques rely extensively on the use of a number of assumptions,
including the discount rate, credit spreads, and estimates of future cash flows.
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts
An allowance for doubtful accounts is provided based on an evaluation of the collectability of
notes receivable, accounts receivable, and other receivables. An allowance for doubtful accounts is
also provided, when considered necessary, to loans receivable. We review the collectability of
loans receivable on an individual basis and the evaluation primarily consists of an analysis based
upon current information available about the borrower.
For those accounts in which a loss is probable, we record a specific reserve. Receivable
losses are charged against the allowance when the Company believes the uncollectability of the
receivable is confirmed. Subsequent recoveries, if any, are credited to the allowance.
Marketable Securities
All of our Companys investments in marketable securities are classified as
available-for-sale. These marketable securities are stated at fair value with any unrealized gains
or losses recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) within equity until realized.
Other-than-temporary impairments, if any, are charged to non-operating expense in the period
in which the loss occurs. In determining whether an other-than-temporary impairment has occurred,
our Company primarily considers, among other factors, the length of the time and the extent to
which the fair value of an investment has been less than cost. When an other-than-temporary loss is
recorded, the fair value of the investment becomes the new cost basis of the investment and is not
adjusted for subsequent recoveries in fair value. Realized gains and losses also are included in
non-operating income and expense in the consolidated statements of operations.
As a result of our assessment of the recoverability of our marketable securities, we
recognized other-than-temporary impairment of US$14.7 million in 2009. See note 10 to our
consolidated financial statements for additional information.
Investments
Equity investments in non-publicly traded securities of companies over which our Company has
no ability to exercise significant influence are accounted for under the cost method. The equity
investments accounted for under the cost method as of December 31, 2008 and 2009 totaled US$1,830
thousand and US$3,255 thousand, respectively.
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Equity investments in companies over which our Company has the ability to exercise significant
influence but does not hold a controlling interest are accounted for under the equity method and
our Companys income or loss on equity method investments is recorded in non-operating income or
expenses. The difference between the cost of the acquisition and our Companys share of the fair
value of the net identifiable assets is recognized as goodwill and is included in the carrying
amount of the investment. When our Companys carrying value in an equity method investee is reduced
to zero, no further losses are recorded in our consolidated financial statements unless our Company
guaranteed obligations of the investee or has committed additional funding. When the investee
subsequently reports income, our Company will not record its share of such income until it equals
the amount of its share of losses not previously recognized.
Unrealized losses that are considered other-than-temporary, if any, are charged to
non-operating expenses. Realized gains and losses, measured against carrying amount, are also
included in non-operating income and expenses in the consolidated statements of operations. As a
result of our assessment of the recoverability of our investments, we recognized
other-than-temporary impairment of US$1.0 million in 2009. See note 10 to our consolidated
financial statements for additional information.
Impairment of Intangible Assets, Goodwill and Long-Lived Assets
Potential impairment of intangible assets with indefinite useful lives is evaluated, at the
reporting unit level, at least annually, or whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate
that the carrying value of an asset might not be recoverable from its related future undiscounted
cash flows. Impairment is measured as the difference between the carrying amounts and the fair
value of the assets, and is recognized as a loss from operations.
Potential impairment of goodwill is tested annually, or sooner when circumstances indicate an
impairment may exist, using a fair-value approach at the reporting unit level. A reporting unit is
the operating segment, or a business, which is one level below that operating segment (the
component level) if discrete financial information is prepared and regularly reviewed by
management at the segment level. Components are aggregated as a single reporting unit if they have
similar economic characteristics. After completing our annual impairment reviews during the fourth
quarters of 2007 and 2008, we concluded that goodwill was not impaired in fiscal years of 2007 and
2008. In fourth quarter of 2009, we assessed the recoverability of goodwill and recognized
impairment charges of US$14.1 million. See note 10 to our consolidated financial statements for
additional information.
Potential impairment of long-lived assets other than goodwill and intangible assets not being
amortized (which includes prepaid licensing and royalty fees) is evaluated, at least annually, or
whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value of an asset might not
be recoverable from its related future undiscounted cash flows. If such assets are considered to be
impaired, the impairment to be recognized is measured by the extent to which the carrying amounts
of the assets exceeds the fair value of the assets. When an impairment is identified, the carrying
amount of the asset is reduced to its estimated fair value, and is recognized as a loss from
operations. Impairment charges relating to long-lived assets other than goodwill and intangible
assets not being amortized amounting to US$0, US$1.5 million and US$24.3 million were recognized in
2007, 2008 and 2009, respectively. See note 10 to our consolidated financial statements for
additional information.
Software Cost
Costs to develop our gaming software until the completion of the Mangas Transaction on April
8, 2010 and online game products are capitalized after technological feasibility has been
established, and when the product is available for general release to customers, costs are
expensed. Costs incurred prior to the establishment of technological feasibility are expensed when
incurred and are
included in product development and engineering expenses. Capitalized amounts are amortized
using the straight-line method, which is applied over the useful economic life of the software,
ranging from three to five years. The annual amortization is modified if the amount computed using
the ratio that current gross revenues for a product bear to the total of current and anticipated
future gross revenues for that product is greater than the amount computed using the straight-line
method.
We capitalize certain costs incurred to purchase or to internally create and implement
internal-use computer software, which includes software coding, installation, testing and certain
data conversion. These capitalized costs are amortized on a straight-line basis over the shorter of
the useful economic life of the software or its contractual license period, which range from three
to five years.
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Advertising
Direct-response advertising costs incurred related to the acquisition or origination of a
customer relationship are capitalized and deferred. The deferred costs are recognized in the
consolidated statements of operations over the estimated lives of customer relationships. Costs of
communicating advertising are recorded as expenses as advertising airtime is used. Other
advertising expenditures are expensed as incurred.
Advertising expenses incurred in 2007, 2008 and 2009 totaled US$50.1 million, US$60.1 million
and US$63.6 million, respectively (including US$28 thousand, US$42 thousand, and US$0 reported in
discontinued operations in 2007, 2008 and 2009, respectively). As of December 31, 2008 and 2009,
prepaid advertising amounted to US$8.3 million and US$6.8 million, respectively (of which US$6.8
million is included separately in assets held for sale and retained ownership of gaming software
and service business, see note 5 to our consolidated financial statements for additional
information).
Income Taxes
Income taxes are accounted for under the asset and liability method. Deferred tax assets and
liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the
financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax
bases. We recognize the tax benefit from investment credits and certain equity investments using
the flow-through method. Loss carryforwards and investment credits are measured using the enacted
tax rate and laws that will be in effect in different jurisdictions in which we operate when the
differences are expected to reverse. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted
tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are
expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change
in tax rates is recognized in income in the period that includes the tax rates enactment date.
Deferred tax assets are subject to valuation allowances based upon the managements estimate of
realization. Due to slow market growth and the strong competition we face in our Internet access
and service business and certain subsidiaries and VIE subsidiaries of our online game and services
business that will not be able to utilize their operating loss carryforwards, we made a substantial
allowance for all of the aggregate net deferred tax assets as of December 31, 2007. As of December
31, 2008, we evaluated the available evidence and determined that it was more likely than not that
we would realize the benefit of the deferred tax assets. The primary reason for the reversal of the
valuation allowance in 2008 was that the sale of our Internet access and service operation was
completed in September 2008. Based on weighing all available evidence, we determined that evidence
exists to conclude that it is more likely than not that we will generate sufficient taxable income
to utilize the majority of the deferred tax assets within the allowable carryforward periods. In
2009, the valuation allowance on the deferred tax assets increased by US$962 thousand to US$1.1
million primarily because certain subsidiaries and VIE subsidiaries of our online game and service
business are not likely to be able to utilize all of the deferred tax assets based on their
estimated future taxable income. See note 23 to our consolidated financial statements for
additional information. Actual results may differ significantly from managements estimate.
Our Company recognizes the financial statement impact of a tax position when it is more likely
than not that the position will be sustained upon examination. If the tax position meets the
more-likely-than-not recognition threshold, the tax effect is recognized at the largest amount of
the benefit that has greater than a fifty percent likelihood of being realized upon ultimate
settlement. The interest and penalties are reflected as income tax benefits (expenses) on our
consolidated financial statements. See note 23 to our consolidated financial statements for
additional information.
Noncontrolling Interest
We adopted the new accounting guidance issued by the FASB for noncontrolling interest on
January 1, 2009. This guidance requires that the noncontrolling interest in the equity of a
subsidiary be accounted for and reported as equity, provides revised guidance on the treatment of
net income and losses attributable to the noncontrolling interest and changes in ownership
interests in a subsidiary and requires additional disclosures that identify and distinguish between
the interests of the controlling and noncontrolling owners. As a result, we have retrospectively
applied the presentation and disclosure requirements of the new standard and adjusted prior periods
for comparative purposes as required. Changes in our Companys ownership interest in a subsidiary
that do not result in deconsolidation are accounted for as equity transactions. Any retained
noncontrolling equity investment upon the deconsolidation of a subsidiary is initially measured at
fair value.
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Share-Based Compensation
Share-based compensation represents the cost related to share-based awards granted to
employees. We measure share-based compensation cost at the grant date, based on the estimated fair
value of the award. Share-based compensation is recognized for the portion of the award that is
ultimately expected to vest and the cost is amortized on a straight-line basis (net of estimated
forfeitures) over the vesting period. Our Company estimates the fair value of stock options using
the Black-Scholes valuation model. The cost is recorded in operating costs and operating expenses
in the Consolidated Statement of Operations based on the employees respective function.
For shares and stock options granted to non-employees, we measure the fair value of the equity
instruments granted at the earlier of the performance commitment date or when the performance is
completed.
Foreign Currency Translation
The consolidated financial statements of our Company and our subsidiaries have been reported
in U.S. dollars. Assets and liabilities denominated in non-U.S. currency are translated to U.S.
dollars at year-end exchange rates. Income and expense items are translated at weighted-average
rates of exchange prevailing during the year. Cumulative translation adjustments resulting from
this process are charged or credited to other comprehensive income within equity. Gains and losses
on foreign currency transactions are included in other income and expenses. Cumulative translation
adjustments as of December 31, 2007, 2008 and 2009 were (US$27) million, (US$27) million, and
(US$26) million, respectively.
Taxation
The corporate income tax rate in Taiwan is 25 percent. Effective from 2010, the corporate
income tax rate in Taiwan is reduced to 17 percent. In addition to the corporate income tax rate,
all retained earnings generated beginning January 1, 1998 by our subsidiaries under Taiwan law and
not distributed to us as dividends in the following year are assessed a 10 percent retained
earnings tax. This rule applies primarily to our Internet access and service business, which was
sold in September 2008 and our FunTown online games portal, whose principal operating entities are
incorporated under Taiwan law.
On January 1, 2006, the Taiwanese government enacted the AMT Act. Taxes imposed under the AMT
Act are supplemental tax payable if the income tax payable pursuant to the R.O.C. Income Tax Act is
below the minimum amount prescribed under the AMT Act. The AMT rate for business entities is 10
percent. The taxable income for calculating the AMT includes most income that is exempted from
income tax under various legislation such as tax holidays and investment tax credits. For example,
gains on disposal of marketable securities from our Taiwan-based entities were exempt from income
tax based on Taiwan tax laws prior to the AMT Act. However, such gains will need to be included for
the purpose of calculating the AMT.
Effective from January 1, 2008, T2CNs subsidiaries and its VIE subsidiaries that are
incorporated in the PRC, are subject to Enterprise Income Tax (EIT) on the taxable income as
reported in their respective statutory financial statements adjusted in accordance with the
Corporate Income Tax Law of the PRC (the New CIT Law) as enacted by the National Peoples
Congress on March 16, 2007.
Pursuant to the New CIT Laws, T2CNs subsidiaries and its VIE subsidiaries in the PRC are
generally subject to EIT at a statutory rate of 25 percent unless they qualify under certain
limited exceptions.
In 2007, T2 Entertainment and J-Town Information Co. (Shanghai), Ltd. (J-Town) received
approval from certain government authorities to be classified as a Software Enterprise. This
classification, subject to annual inspection, entitles these two entities to two years of EIT
exemption for 2006 and 2007 followed by three years of a 50 percent EIT tax reduction for 2008,
2009 and 2010, for which the related tax authorities have granted approval. The New CIT Law
provides grandfather treatment for Software Enterprises that received special tax holidays under
the previous Corporate Income Tax Law, which allow them to continue to enjoy their tax holidays
until expiration. The applicable income tax rate of T2 Entertainment and J-Town is 12.5 percent for
the year ended December 31, 2009.
In 2008, T2 Technology received approval from certain government authorities to be classified
as a Software Enterprise. This classification, subject to annual inspection, entitles T2
Technology to two years of EIT exemption for 2008 and 2009 followed by three years of a 50 percent
EIT tax reduction for 2010, 2011 and 2012, for which the related tax authorities have granted
approval.
59
The majority of our gaming software and service business is located outside the United States,
with the exception of CIDC, an entity registered in Delaware which is subject to U.S. federal
income tax, state tax and local tax. Current U.S. federal income tax rates and state and local tax
rates applicable to our business for the year ended December 31, 2009 are 34.0 percent and 8.14
percent, respectively. Our operations in the United States did not have a significant tax impact on
our consolidated financial statements.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
In January 2010, the FASB issued additional disclosure requirements for fair value
measurements. In accordance with the new guidance, the fair value hierarchy disclosures are to be
further disaggregated by class of assets and liabilities. A class is often a subset of assets or
liabilities within a line item in the statement of financial position. In addition, significant
transfers between Levels 1 and 2 of the fair value hierarchy will be required to be disclosed.
These additional requirements will be effective for our Company on January 1, 2010. These
amendments will not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements, however they
will require additional disclosures. In addition, the guidance requires more detailed disclosures
of the changes in Level 3 instruments. These changes will be effective for our Company on
January 1, 2011 and are not expected to have a material impact on our consolidated financial
statements.
In October 2009, the FASB issued amended revenue recognition guidance for arrangements with
multiple deliverables. The new guidance eliminates the residual method of revenue recognition and
allows the use of managements best estimate of selling price for individual elements of an
arrangement when vendor-specific objective evidence (VSOE), vendor objective evidence (VOE) or
third-party evidence (TPE) is unavailable. The changes will be effective for our Company on January
1, 2011. The adoption is not expected to have a material effect in our consolidated financial
statements.
In October 2009, the FASB issued guidance which amends the scope of existing software revenue
recognition accounting. Tangible products containing software components and non-software
components that function together to deliver the products essential functionality would be scoped
out of the accounting guidance on software and accounted for based on other appropriate revenue
recognition guidance. This guidance must be adopted in the same period that our Company adopts the
amended accounting for arrangements with multiple deliverables described in the preceding
paragraph. The changes will be effective for our Company on January 1, 2011. The adoption is not
expected to have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements.
In July 2009, the FASB issued the FASB Accounting Standards Codification (the Codification).
The Codification became the single source of authoritative nongovernmental U.S. GAAP, superseding
existing FASB, American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), Emerging Issues Task
Force (EITF) and related literature. The Codification eliminates the previous U.S. GAAP hierarchy
and establishes one level of authoritative GAAP. All other literature is considered
non-authoritative. The Codification was effective for annual periods ending after September 15,
2009. Our Company adopted the Codification accordingly and there was no material impact to our
consolidated financial statements.
In June 2009, the FASB issued amendments to the accounting rules for VIEs and for transfers of
financial assets. The new guidance for VIEs eliminates the quantitative approach previously
required for determining the primary beneficiary of a variable interest entity and requires ongoing
qualitative reassessments of whether an enterprise is the primary beneficiary. In addition,
qualifying special
purpose entities (QSPEs) are no longer exempt from consolidation under the amended guidance.
The amendments also limit the circumstances in which a financial asset, or a portion of a financial
asset, should be derecognized when the transferor has not transferred the entire original financial
asset to an entity that is not consolidated with the transferor in the financial statements being
presented, and/or when the transferor has continuing involvement with the transferred financial
asset. These changes will be effective for our Company on January 1, 2010. We are in the process of
evaluating what effect, if any, the adoption may have in our consolidated financial statements.
In May 2009, the FASB issued guidelines on subsequent event accounting which set forth: 1) the
period after the balance sheet date during which management of a reporting entity should evaluate
events or transactions that may occur for potential recognition or disclosure in the financial
statements; 2) the circumstances under which an entity should recognize events or transactions
occurring after the balance sheet date in its financial statements; and 3) the disclosures that an
entity should make about events or transactions that occurred after the balance sheet date. These
guidelines were effective for annual periods ending after June 15, 2009. In February 2010, the FASB
amended this standard whereby companies that file with the Securities and Exchange Commission
(SEC), like our Company, are required to evaluate subsequent events through the date the
financial statements are issued, but are no longer required to disclose in the financial statements
that they have done so or disclose the date through which subsequent events have been evaluated.
Our Company adopted the guidance accordingly, and there was no impact to our consolidated financial
statements.
60
Discussion of Results of Operations
Factors Affecting Our Performance
We believe that the following are the principal factors affecting our results of operations:
Acquisitions and disposals. We have made several significant acquisitions and dispositions of
businesses during the past several years, and may enter into additional acquisition and disposition
transactions in the future. Past acquisitions and dispositions have had a significant impact on our
results of operations over the past several years, and if we engage in such transactions in the
future, the nature, amounts and timing of our revenues, expenses and cash flows and the nature and
amounts our assets and liabilities are likely to be materially affected.
Development of gaming software and service and online games industries. The online gaming and
online games industries are in relatively early stages of development. We believe that our results
of operations are likely to be affected by developments in these industries, including:
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|
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the development and regulation of these industries generally; |
|
|
|
our adaptation to technological change; |
|
|
|
changing consumer preferences; |
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|
|
legal development affecting these industries, in particular the gaming software and
service industry; and |
|
|
|
general economic conditions in the markets where we or our licensees operate. |
Competition. All of our businesses are in industries that are extremely competitive. Our
gaming software and online games businesses are characterized by rapid technological change and we
face significant and intense competition from online gaming software design houses, application
service providers and casual games operators.
For each of our businesses, we cannot assure you that we will be successful in adapting to
technological developments and achieving widespread acceptance of our services before our
competitors offer services similar to our current or prospective offerings. As a consequence, we
may lose our existing customers and not expand our client base, which would have a material adverse
effect on our revenues and financial condition.
61
The table below presents, for the periods indicated, information regarding certain revenues
and expense items for our consolidated operations.
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|
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|
|
|
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|
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|
For the year ended December 31, |
|
|
|
2007 |
|
|
2008 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
|
Amount in |
|
|
% of |
|
|
Amount |
|
|
% of |
|
|
Amount |
|
|
% of |
|
|
|
US$ |
|
|
total |
|
|
in US$ |
|
|
total |
|
|
in US$ |
|
|
total |
|
|
|
thousands |
|
|
revenues |
|
|
thousands |
|
|
revenues |
|
|
thousands |
|
|
revenues |
|
Particulars |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
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|
OPERATING REVENUES |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Gaming software and service revenues |
|
|
118,950 |
|
|
|
78.4 |
|
|
|
144,765 |
|
|
|
76.0 |
|
|
|
112,694 |
|
|
|
70.6 |
|
Online game and service revenues |
|
|
32,764 |
|
|
|
21.6 |
|
|
|
45,604 |
|
|
|
24.0 |
|
|
|
46,887 |
|
|
|
29.4 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total operating revenues |
|
|
151,714 |
|
|
|
100.0 |
|
|
|
190,369 |
|
|
|
100.0 |
|
|
|
159,581 |
|
|
|
100.0 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
OPERATING COSTS |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cost of gaming software and service
revenues |
|
|
16,201 |
|
|
|
10.7 |
|
|
|
22,770 |
|
|
|
12.0 |
|
|
|
20,102 |
|
|
|
12.6 |
|
Cost of online game and service revenues |
|
|
9,118 |
|
|
|
6.0 |
|
|
|
12,404 |
|
|
|
6.5 |
|
|
|
16,785 |
|
|
|
10.5 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total operating costs |
|
|
25,319 |
|
|
|
16.7 |
|
|
|
35,174 |
|
|
|
18.5 |
|
|
|
36,887 |
|
|
|
23.1 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Gross profit |
|
|
126,395 |
|
|
|
83.3 |
|
|
|
155,195 |
|
|
|
81.5 |
|
|
|
122,694 |
|
|
|
76.9 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
OPERATING EXPENSES |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Product development and engineering expenses |
|
|
7,338 |
|
|
|
4.8 |
|
|
|
13,455 |
|
|
|
7.1 |
|
|
|
14,195 |
|
|
|
8.9 |
|
Selling and marketing expenses |
|
|
60,106 |
|
|
|
39.6 |
|
|
|
74,173 |
|
|
|
39.0 |
|
|
|
79,421 |
|
|
|
49.8 |
|
General and administrative expenses |
|
|
20,983 |
|
|
|
13.8 |
|
|
|
25,035 |
|
|
|
13.2 |
|
|
|
29,692 |
|
|
|
18.6 |
|
Bad debt expense |
|
|
548 |
|
|
|
0.4 |
|
|
|
2,905 |
|
|
|
1.5 |
|
|
|
1,092 |
|
|
|
0.7 |
|
Impairment loss on property, plant, and equipment |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1,250 |
|
|
|
0.8 |
|
Impairment loss on goodwill |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
14,103 |
|
|
|
8.8 |
|
Impairment loss on prepaid
licensing fees and intangible
assets |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1,524 |
|
|
|
0.8 |
|
|
|
23,002 |
|
|
|
14.4 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total operating expenses |
|
|
88,975 |
|
|
|
58.6 |
|
|
|
117,092 |
|
|
|
61.5 |
|
|
|
162,755 |
|
|
|
102.0 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income from operations |
|
|
37,420 |
|
|
|
24.7 |
|
|
|
38,103 |
|
|
|
20.0 |
|
|
|
(40,061 |
) |
|
|
(25.1 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
NON-OPERATING INCOME (EXPENSES) |
|
|
2,064 |
|
|
|
1.4 |
|
|
|
(1,324 |
) |
|
|
(0.7 |
) |
|
|
(15,524 |
) |
|
|
(9.8 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
INCOME (LOSS) FROM CONTINUING
OPERATIONS BEFORE INCOME TAXES |
|
|
39,484 |
|
|
|
26.1 |
|
|
|
36,779 |
|
|
|
19.3 |
|
|
|
(55,585 |
) |
|
|
(34.9 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
INCOME TAX EXPENSE |
|
|
(401 |
) |
|
|
(0.3 |
) |
|
|
(1,069 |
) |
|
|
(0.6 |
) |
|
|
(517 |
) |
|
|
(0.3 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
INCOME (LOSS) FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS |
|
|
39,083 |
|
|
|
25.8 |
|
|
|
35,710 |
|
|
|
18.7 |
|
|
|
(56,102 |
) |
|
|
(35.2 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
INCOME FROM DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS |
|
|
1,088 |
|
|
|
0.7 |
|
|
|
9,435 |
|
|
|
5.0 |
|
|
|
222 |
|
|
|
0.2 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
NET INCOME (LOSS) |
|
|
40,171 |
|
|
|
26.5 |
|
|
|
45,145 |
|
|
|
23.7 |
|
|
|
(55,880 |
) |
|
|
(35.0 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
LESS: NET (INCOME) LOSS
ATTRIBUTABLE TO NONCONTROLLING
INTEREST |
|
|
(1,281 |
) |
|
|
(0.9 |
) |
|
|
(757 |
) |
|
|
(0.4 |
) |
|
|
6,795 |
|
|
|
4.2 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
NET INCOME (LOSS) ATTRIBUTABLE TO
GIGAMEDIA |
|
|
38,890 |
|
|
|
25.6 |
|
|
|
44,388 |
|
|
|
23.3 |
|
|
|
(49,085 |
) |
|
|
(30.8 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
62
The key items included in our income statement are:
OPERATING REVENUES. Our operating revenues consist of revenues from our gaming software and
service business, and online games business. Revenues from the gaming software and service business
include revenues of UIM, our licensee, from providing
and promoting online games of skill and chance. Software licensing and support services
revenues received by our subsidiary, CESL, from UIM have been eliminated in consolidation. Online
game revenues are related to our online games business in Asia and are collected through the sale
of online game points, pre-paid cards and game packs.
OPERATING COSTS. Operating costs consist primarily of gaming software and online game
processing costs, online game royalties, production costs for prepaid game cards and game packs,
amortization of intangible assets, customer service department costs, operational department costs,
depreciation, maintenance and other overhead expenses directly attributable to the provision of
gaming software and services and online games and services.
OPERATING EXPENSES. Operating expenses include product development and engineering expenses,
selling and marketing expenses, general and administrative expenses, bad debt expenses and
impairment losses.
NON-OPERATING INCOME (EXPENSES). Non-operating income and expenses consist of interest income
and expenses, gain or loss on sales of marketable securities, foreign exchange gain or loss, gain
or loss on disposal of property, plant and equipment, loss on equity method investments, and
impairment loss on marketable securities and investments.
INCOME TAX EXPENSES. Taxes include current income tax in various jurisdictions in which our
subsidiaries operate and deferred tax expenses related to temporary tax assets or liabilities that
arise due to the timing differences between book profits and taxable profits that originate in one
period and are capable of reversal in one or more subsequent periods. Taxes are measured using the
tax rates and laws that have been enacted or subsequently enacted as of the date of the financial
statements.
NONCONTROLLING INTEREST. Noncontrolling interest represents the portion of net income
allocated to the non-controlling voting stock of our majority-owned subsidiaries (T2CN and
Dragongate Enterprises) as well as UIM, which is consolidated pursuant to the FASB Accounting
Standards Codification.
The financial information in relation to our business segments is provided net of
inter-segment transactions.
For the Years Ended December 31, 2009 and 2008
Consolidated Results of Operations
OPERATING REVENUES. Operating revenues for 2009 declined by approximately 16.2 percent to
approximately US$159.6 million from approximately US$190.4 million in 2008. The decrease was
primarily a result of a 22.2 percent revenue decline in our gaming software and service business,
which contributed approximately US$112.7 million or 70.6 percent of our total revenues in 2009. Our
online games and service business revenues increased by 2.8 percent to approximately US$46.9
million, or 29.4 percent of our total revenues in 2009.
OPERATING COSTS. Operating costs increased by approximately 4.9 percent to approximately
US$36.9 million in 2009 from approximately US$35.2 million in 2008. The increase in total operating
costs was mainly due to a US$4.4 million or 35.3 percent increase in operating costs in our online
games and service business related to a higher level of license fee and fixed costs resulting from
newly launched games, which was offset by a US$2.7 million or 11.7 percent decrease in operating
costs in our gaming software and service business, which was in line with the revenue decrease.
GROSS PROFIT. Gross profit decreased by approximately 20.9 percent to approximately US$122.7
million in 2009 from approximately US$155.2 million in 2008. The decrease in consolidated gross
profit resulted from respective 24.1 percent and 9.3 percent decreases in gross profits in our
gaming software and service business and our online games and service business.
OPERATING EXPENSES. Total operating expenses increased by approximately 39.0 percent to
approximately US$162.8 million in 2009 from approximately US$117.1 million in 2008. The increase in
total operating expenses was mainly due to a US$39.5 million or 156.9 percent increase in expenses
in our online games and service business, while operating expense was flat in 2009 compared to 2008
in our gaming software and service business.
63
Consolidated product development and engineering expenses increased by approximately 5.5
percent in 2009 to approximately US$14.2 million from US$13.5 million in 2008, mainly due to a
US$305 thousand or 2.5 percent increase in our gaming software and service business.
Consolidated selling and marketing expenses increased by approximately 7.1 percent to
approximately US$79.4 million in 2009 from US$74.2 million in 2008, primarily due to an increase of
US$5.2 million or 51.1 percent in selling and marketing expenses in our online games and service
business related to promotion and activities held for newly launched games.
Consolidated general and administrative expenses increased by approximately 18.6 percent in
2009 to US$29.7 million from US$25.0 million in 2008, primarily reflecting a US$872 thousand or 9.4
percent increase in our gaming software and service business and a US$771 thousand or 8.1 percent
increase in our online games and service business. The remaining US$3.0 million increase was
related to corporate headquarter expenses.
Consolidated impairment loss increased by approximately US$36.8 million to approximately
US$38.4 million in 2009 from US$1.5 million in 2008, primarily resulting from an increase of
US$36.2 million in our online games and service business. The total consolidated impairment loss
was composed of a US$4.7 million impairment loss on intangible assets for capitalized software
costs, a US$18.3 million impairment loss on prepaid licensing and royalty fees, a US$1.3 million
impairment loss on fixed assets, and a US$14.1 million impairment loss on goodwill related to T2CN.
OPERATING INCOME. Operating income for 2009 decreased by approximately US$78.2 million to a
loss of US$40.1 million from approximately US$38.1 million in 2008. The decrease was primarily due
to a decrease of US$28.9 million in operating income in our gaming software and service business
and a decrease of US$42.6 million in operating income in our online games business.
NON-OPERATING INCOME (EXPENSES). Non-operating items decreased from a loss of approximately
US$1.4 million in 2008 to a loss of approximately US$15.5 million in 2009. This was primarily due
to US$15.7 million impairment losses on marketable securities and investments.
INCOME FROM DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS. Income from discontinued operations decreased by
approximately US$9.2 million to approximately US$222 thousand in 2009 from approximately US$9.4
million in 2008. The decrease was principally due to the sale of our legacy Internet access and
service business in September 2008, which contributed approximately US$9.8 million of an after tax
disposal gain in 2008.
NET INCOME (LOSS) ATTRIBUTABLE TO GIGAMEDIA. Net income attributable to GigaMedia for 2009
decreased by approximately US$93.5 million to a loss of approximately US$49.1 million from net
income of approximately US$44.4 million in 2008.
Business Segment Results
Gaming Software and Service Business
On April 8, 2010, we completed the sale of 60 percent interest in our online gaming software
and service business to Mangas. From then on, we no longer consolidate CESL or UIM. Our 40 percent
interest in Mangas Everest is, from April 8, 2010, accounted for using equity method onward. See
Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects
A. Operating Results Subsequent Events
Transaction with Mangas.
OPERATING REVENUES. Consolidated revenues of our gaming software and service business include
the revenues of UIM, our licensee. Software licensing and support services revenues received by us
from UIM have been eliminated in consolidation. Total operating revenues in 2009 decreased by 22.2
percent to approximately US$112.7 million from US$144.8 million in 2008. Such decrease was
attributable to decline in both our poker software business and casino software business in 2009.
Software licensing and support services revenues received by us from UIM decreased by 38.1 percent
from US$66.2 million in 2008 to US$41.0 million in 2009. Revenues from our poker software business
declined from approximately US$104.5 million in 2008 to US$73.7 million in 2009 and
accounted for approximately 65.4 percent of our gaming software and service revenues in 2009
compared to 72.2 percent in 2008. Revenues from our casino software business decreased to
approximately US$39.0 million in 2009 from US$40.2 million in 2008.
OPERATING COSTS. Costs of our gaming software and service revenues decreased by 11.7 percent
to approximately US$20.1 million in 2009 from US$22.8 million in 2008. The decrease was due to less
business volume and the associated decrease in payment processing costs in 2009.
GROSS PROFIT. Gross profit decreased by 24.1 percent to approximately US$92.6 million in 2009
from US$122.0 million in 2008. The decrease was primarily due to revenue decline in both poker
software business and casino software business in the period. Gross profit margin decreased from
approximately 84.3 percent in 2008 to approximately 82.2 percent in 2009 because the revenue
decline outpaced certain fixed cost.
64
OPERATING EXPENSES. Total operating expenses decreased by approximately US$515 thousand to
approximately US$85.1 million in 2009 from approximately US$85.6 million in 2008. The decrease in
total operating expenses resulted primarily from a 2.9 percent or approximately US$1.8 million
decrease in selling and marketing expenses, which was offset by a 2.5 percent or US$305 thousand
increase in product development and engineering expenses and a 9.4 percent or US$872 thousand
increase in general and administrative expenses.
Selling and marketing expenses. Selling and marketing expenses decreased by approximately 2.9
percent to approximately US$62.2 million in 2009 from US$64.1 million in 2008, which was
attributable to a decrease in payments to marketing affiliates.
General and administrative expenses. General and administrative expenses increased by
approximately US$872 thousand to US$10.1 million in 2009 from US$9.3 million in 2008. The increase
was due to additional general and administrative departmental cost being incurred in 2009.
Product development and engineering expenses. Product development and engineering expenses
increased by approximately US$305 thousand to US$12.6 million in 2009 from US$12.2 million in 2008,
mainly due to increases in headcount related cost.
OPERATING INCOME. Operating income in 2009 decreased by 79.5 percent to approximately US$7.5
million from US$36.4 million in 2008. The decrease was attributable to lower revenue, gross profit
and operating expenses which despite a decrease in absolute terms were proportionately higher,
resulting in a decrease in operating margin to 6.6 percent in 2009 from 25.1 percent in 2008.
Operating income does not reflect certain corporate headquarters expenses. For a reconciliation of
business segment results to our consolidated net income, see note 27 to our consolidated financial
statements.
Online Games Business
OPERATING REVENUES. Total operating revenues increased by approximately 2.8 percent to
approximately US$46.9 million in 2009 from approximately US$45.6 million in 2008. Such increase was
driven by a 10.3 percent increase related to FunTown in Taiwan and Hong Kong, which was offset by a
7.1 percent decrease related to T2CN in China. Revenue from FunTown increased by approximately
US$2.7 million to US$28.6 million in 2009 from US$25.9 million in 2008. Revenue from T2CN
decreased by approximately US$1.4 million to US$18.3 million in 2009 from US$19.7 million in 2008.
OPERATING COSTS. Costs of our online game revenues increased by 35.3 percent to approximately
US$16.8 million in 2009 from US$12.4 million in 2008. The increase was due to increased bandwidth
costs, royalty fees and licensing fees related to newly launched games in 2009.
GROSS PROFIT. Gross profit decreased by 9.3 percent to approximately US$30.1 million in 2009
from US$33.2 million in 2008. The decrease resulted from cost increases outpacing revenue growth.
Gross profit margin decreased from approximately 72.8 percent in 2008 to approximately 64.2 percent
in 2009.
OPERATING EXPENSES. Total operating expenses increased by approximately US$39.5 million to
approximately US$64.8 million in 2009 from approximately US$25.2 million in 2008. The increase was
due to increased selling and marketing expenses related to newly launched games and impairment
losses primarily on prepaid licensing and royalty fees, intangible assets, and goodwill.
Selling and marketing expenses. Selling and marketing expenses increased by approximately
US$5.2 million to US$15.3 million in 2009 from US$10.1 million in 2008. The increase was primarily
related to new games launched in 2009.
General and administrative expenses. General and administrative expenses increased by
approximately 8.1 percent to approximately US$10.3 million in 2009 from US$9.5 million in 2008,
primarily due to additional professional fees and general and administrative department cost being
incurred in 2009.
65
Bad debt expenses. Bad debt expenses decreased by approximately US$2.5 million to US$372
thousand in 2009 from US$2.9 million in 2008 as we recognized US$2.6 million of bad debt expenses
related to the loans to Flagship in 2008.
Impairment loss. Impairment loss increased by approximately US$36.2 million to approximately
US$37.7 million in 2009 from US$1.5 million in 2008. The impairment loss in 2009 was composed of a
US$4.5 million impairment loss on intangible assets for capitalized software costs, a US$18.3
million impairment loss on prepaid licensing and royalty fees, a US$777 thousand impairment loss on
fixed assets, and a US$14.1 million impairment loss on goodwill related to T2CN.
OPERATING INCOME. Operating income in 2009 decreased by approximately US$42.6 million to a
loss of US$34.6 million from US$8.0 million in 2008. The decrease was due to the aforementioned
higher selling and marketing expenses as well as impairment losses. Operating income does not
reflect certain corporate headquarter expenses.
NON-OPERATING INCOME (EXPENSES). Non-operating items decreased by approximately US$11.6
million from a loss of US$2.0 million in 2008 to a loss of US$13.6 million in 2009. This was
primarily due to $13.7 million of impairment losses on marketable securities and investments in
2009.
For a reconciliation of business segment results to our consolidated net income, see note 27
to our consolidated financial statements.
For the Years Ended December 31, 2008 and 2007
Consolidated Results of Operations
OPERATING REVENUES. Operating revenues for 2008 grew by approximately 25.5 percent to
approximately US$190.4 million from approximately US$151.7 million in 2007. The increase was
primarily due to a 21.7 percent revenue growth in our gaming software and service business, which
contributed approximately US$144.8 million or 76.0 percent of our total revenues in 2008. Our
online games and service business revenues also increased by 39.2 percent to approximately US$45.6
million, or 24.0 percent of our total revenues in 2008.
OPERATING COSTS. Operating costs increased by approximately 38.9 percent to approximately
US$35.2 million in 2008 from approximately US$25.3 million in 2007. The increase in total operating
costs was mainly due to a US$6.6 million or 40.6 percent increase in operating costs in our gaming
software and service business related to higher volume in 2008, and a US$3.3 million or 36.0
percent increase in operating costs in our online games and service business which was also related
to higher volume in 2008.
GROSS PROFIT. Gross profit increased by approximately 22.8 percent to approximately US$155.2
million in 2008 from approximately US$126.4 million in 2007. The increase in consolidated gross
profit resulted from 18.7 percent and 40.4 percent increases in gross profits in our gaming
software and service business and our online games and service business, respectively.
OPERATING EXPENSES. Total operating expenses increased by approximately 31.6 percent to
approximately US$117.1 million in 2008 from approximately US$89.0 million in 2007. The increase in
total operating expenses was mainly due to a US$20.6 million or 31.7 percent increase in expenses
in our gaming software and service business, and a US$8.4 million or 50.0 percent increase in
expenses in our online games and service business.
Consolidated product development and engineering expenses increased by approximately 83.4
percent in 2008 to approximately US$13.5 million from US$7.3 million in 2007, mainly due to a
US$4.9 million or 67.2 percent increase in our gaming software and service business.
Consolidated selling and marketing expenses increased by approximately 23.4 percent to
approximately US$74.2 million in 2008 from US$60.1 million in 2007, primarily due to an increase of
US$14.0 million or 28.0 percent in selling and marketing expenses in our gaming software and
service business, and a US$0.4 million or 4.1 percent increase in selling and marketing expenses in
our online games business.
66
Consolidated general and administrative expenses increased by approximately 19.3 percent in
2008 to US$25.0 million from US$21.0 million in 2007, primarily reflecting a US$1.6 million or 20.8
percent increase in our gaming software and service business and a US$2.9 million or 44.7 percent
increase in our online games and service business.
OPERATING INCOME. Operating income for 2008 increased by approximately 1.8 percent to US$38.1
million from approximately US$37.4 million in 2007. The increase was primarily due to a 16.9
percent increase in operating income in our online games business, offset by a 3.6 percent
decrease in operating income in our gaming software and service business.
NON-OPERATING INCOME (EXPENSES). Non-operating items decreased from approximately US$2.1
million income in 2007 to a loss of approximately US$1.3 million in 2008. This was principally due
to an investment loss on CJIT2, an equity method investment, of approximately US$2.9 million
recognized in 2008.
INCOME FROM DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS. Income from discontinued operations increased in 2008 by
approximately 767.0 percent to approximately US$9.4 million in 2008 from approximately US$1.1
million in 2007. The increase was principally due to the sale of our legacy Internet access and
service business in September 2008, which contributed approximately US$9.8 million of an after tax
disposal gain.
NET INCOME ATTRIBUTABLE TO GIGAMEDIA. Net income attributable to GigaMedia for 2008 increased
by approximately 14.1 percent to US$44.4 million from approximately US$38.9 million in 2007.
Business Segment Results
Gaming Software and Service Business
OPERATING REVENUES. Consolidated revenues of our gaming software and service business include
the revenues of UIM, our licensee. Software licensing and support services revenues received by us
from UIM have been eliminated in consolidation. Total operating revenues in 2008 increased by 21.7
percent to approximately US$144.8 million from US$119.0 million in 2007. Such increase was
attributable to growth in both our poker software business and casino software business in 2008.
Software licensing and support services revenues received by us from UIM increased by 23.6 percent
from US$53.6 million in 2007 to US$66.2 million in 2008. Revenues from our poker software business
grew from approximately US$89.7 million in 2007 to US$104.5 million in 2008 and accounted for
approximately 72.2 percent of our gaming software and service revenues in 2008 compared to 75.6
percent in 2007. Revenues from our casino software business increased to approximately US$40.2
million in 2008 from US$29.0 million in 2007.
OPERATING COSTS. Cost of our gaming software and service revenues increased by 40.6 percent to
approximately US$22.8 million in 2008 from US$16.2 million in 2007. The increase was due to higher
business volume and the associated increase in payment processing costs in 2008.
GROSS PROFIT. Gross profit increased by 18.7 percent to approximately US$122.0 million in 2008
from US$102.7 million in 2007. The increase was primarily due to revenue growth in both poker
software business and casino software business in the period. Gross profit margin decreased from
approximately 86.4 percent in 2007 to approximately 84.3 percent in 2008. The decrease was due
primarily to increased payment processing fees and departmental costs in both the customer service
department and operational department.
OPERATING EXPENSES. Total operating expenses increased by approximately 31.7 percent to
approximately US$85.6 million in 2008 from approximately US$65.0 million in 2007. The increase in
total operating expenses resulted from increases in selling and marketing expenses, general and
administrative expenses, and product development and engineering expenses incurred to support
revenue growth.
Selling and marketing expenses. Selling and marketing expenses increased by approximately 28.0
percent to approximately US$64.1 million in 2008 from US$50.0 million in 2007. The increase was
attributable to increases in payments to marketing affiliates, as well as increases in sales and
marketing headcount and our sponsorship of the World Series of Poker.
67
General and administrative expenses. General and administrative expenses increased by
approximately US$1.6 million to US$9.3 million in 2008 from US$7.7 million in 2007. The increase
was due to more professional fees and general and administrative departmental cost incurred to
support revenue growth.
Product development and engineering expenses. Product development and engineering expenses
increased by approximately US$4.9 million to US$12.2 million in 2008 from US$7.3 million in 2007,
mainly due to increases in product development and engineering headcounts incurred to support
revenue growth.
OPERATING INCOME. Operating income in 2008 decreased by 3.6 percent to approximately US$36.4
million from US$37.7 million in 2007. The decrease was due to operating margin decline from 31.7
percent in 2007 to 25.1 percent in 2008. The decrease was primarily due to increases in sales and
marketing, general and administrative, and product development and engineering expenses. Operating
income does not reflect certain corporate headquarters expenses. For a reconciliation of business
segment results to our consolidated net income, see note 27 to our consolidated financial
statements.
Online Games Business
OPERATING REVENUES. Total operating revenues increased 39.2 percent to approximately US$45.6
million in 2008 from approximately US$32.8 million in 2007. Such increase was driven by organic
growth of FunTown in Taiwan and Hong Kong and full year consolidation of T2CN in China. Revenue
from FunTown grew 9.0 percent from US$23.8 million in 2007 to US$25.9 million in 2008. Revenue
from T2CN increased by 118.7 percent to approximately US$19.7 million in 2008 from US$9.0 million
in 2007, for the seven months of 2007 from initial consolidation of T2CN in June 2007.
OPERATING COSTS. Cost of our online game revenues increased by 36.0 percent to approximately
US$12.4 million in 2008 from US$9.1 million in 2007. The increase was due to increased bandwidth
costs, increased royalty fees and licensing fees related to the licensing of new games.
GROSS PROFIT. Gross profit increased by 40.4 percent to approximately US$33.2 million in 2008
from US$23.6 million in 2007. The increase resulted from organic revenue growth of FunTown and full
year consolidation of T2CN in 2008. Gross profit margin slightly increased from approximately 72.2
percent in 2007 to approximately 72.8 percent in 2008.
OPERATING EXPENSES. Total operating expenses increased by approximately 50.0 percent to
approximately US$25.2 million in 2008 from approximately US$16.8 million in 2007. The increase was
due to increased general and administrative expenses incurred to support revenue growth, bad debt
expenses related to the loans to Flagship, as well as an a loss on impairment of capitalized
license costs and intangible assets.
Selling and marketing expenses. Selling and marketing expenses increased by approximately
US$400 thousand to US$10.1 million in 2008 from US$9.7 million in 2007. The increase was primarily
due to full year consolidation of T2CN.
General and administrative expenses. General and administrative expenses increased by
approximately 44.7 percent to approximately US$9.5 million in 2008 from US$6.6 million in 2007,
primarily due to full year consolidation of T2CN.
Bad debt expense and impairment loss. Bad debt expenses increased by approximately 430.3
percent to US$2.9 million in 2008 from 548 thousand in 2007 as we recognized US$2.6 million of bad
debt expenses related to the loans to Flagship. We also recognized a loss of US$1.5 million in
2008 on the impairment of capitalized license costs and intangible assets.
OPERATING INCOME. Operating income in 2008 increased by approximately 16.9 percent to US$8.0
million from US$6.8 million in 2007. The increase was due to revenue growth during the period.
Operating margin declined from 20.9 percent in 2007 to 17.6 percent in 2008, which reflected the
aforementioned higher general and administrative expenses, and bad debt expense related to the
loans to Flagship as well as the impairment loss. Operating income does not reflect certain
corporate headquarter expenses.
68
NON-OPERATING INCOME (EXPENSES). Non-operating income (expenses) decreased from US$1.6 million
income in 2007 to a loss of US$2.0 million in 2008. The decrease was due to the equity investment
loss on CJIT2 of approximately US$2.9 million in 2008.
For a reconciliation of business segment results to our consolidated net income, see note 27
to our consolidated financial statements.
B. Liquidity and Capital Resources
Our principal sources of liquidity consist of cash generated from our operations, proceeds
generated from the disposal of our investments and other assets, bank borrowings, and interest
derived from our investments. Our cash and cash equivalents are held primarily in U.S. dollars, RMB
and NT dollars. Our policy with respect to liquidity management is to maintain sufficient cash and
cash equivalents to fund operations and strategic transactions, while placing remaining funds in
higher yield investment instruments.
Our future cash requirements will depend on a number of factors including:
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the rate at which we enter into strategic transactions; |
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the rate at which we expand our operations and employee base; |
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the timing of entry into new markets and new services offered; |
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changes in revenues and cost splits with our business partners; |
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the rate at which we invest in developing and licensing our products and upgrading
and maintaining our network and future technologies; and |
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the rate at which we grow and monetize our customer bases. |
As a result of our operating, investing and financing activities during 2009, the amount of
our cash and cash equivalents decreased from approximately US$96.0 million as of December 31, 2008
to US$55.6 million as of December 31, 2009. Such decrease
was primarily attributable to reclassifying cash and cash equivalents of US$35.0 million
relating to our gaming software and service business to assets held for sale and our retained
ownership relating to our gaming software and service business, as we sold 60% of this business in
April 2010.
We believe that our existing cash, cash equivalents, marketable securities and expected cash
flow from operations will be sufficient to meet our capital expenditure, working capital, and cash
obligations under our existing lease arrangements and license agreements through 2010. We continue
to seek and review potential merger and acquisition opportunities on an ongoing basis, which may be
funded through cash on our balance sheet, bank borrowings or equity offerings. We do not believe
that any potential merger or acquisition that we may be engaged in would alter our goal of
preserving sufficient cash and cash equivalents to fund future operations.
OPERATING ACTIVITIES. In 2009, our net cash provided by operating activities amounted to
approximately US$8.6 million. Although we had a loss from continuing operations, we still
generated positive operating cash flow after non-cash adjustments, such as impairment losses,
depreciation and amortization expenses, and stock-based compensation. In 2008, our net cash
provided by operating activities amounted to US$50.8 million. This was primarily from income from
continuing operations of US$35.7 million.
69
INVESTING ACTIVITIES. Our net cash used in investment activities in 2009 was approximately
US$22.1 million. This was primarily due to capital expenditures of approximately US$14.7 million,
and a strategic investment in JC Entertainment of approximately US$7.1 million. Our net cash used
in investment activities in 2008 was approximately US$6.4 million. This was primarily due to
capital expenditures of approximately US$16.7 million, an additional acquisition in T2CN of
approximately US$3.4 million, as well as strategic investments in Access China and SuperCup of
approximately US$5.0 million, which were partially offset by proceeds from disposal of our Internet
access and service business of approximately US$16.5 million.
FINANCING ACTIVITIES. Our net cash generated from financing activities in 2009 was US$8.4
million. This was primarily due to proceeds from short-term borrowings of US$7.3 million. Our net
cash used in financing activities in 2008 was approximately US$17.9 million, which was primarily
due to repayment of approximately US$18.1 million of short term loans.
We have sufficient cash balances as of December 31, 2009 to meet our operating cash flow
requirements for the coming 12 months. In April 2010, we received cash payment of approximately
US$100 million, subject to certain adjustments, from Mangas relating to sale of 60 percent stake of
our gaming software business, which will further support our operating cash requirements as well as
future potential M&A opportunities and obligations.
Capital Expenditures
We typically finance our capital expenditures through cash holdings. Our gross capital
expenditures for equipment, furniture and fixtures, software, intangible assets and other deferred
assets were US$9.9 million, US$16.7 million, and US$14.7 million for 2007, 2008, and 2009
respectively. Capital expenditures during 2009 were primarily for capitalized software development
and computer hardware equipment for our gaming software and service business and online games and
service business. Our capital expenditure plans for 2010 will continue to focus primarily on
software development and computer hardware equipment for our online game and service business. We
may adjust the amount of our capital expenditures upward or downward based on cash flow from
operations, the progress of our expansion plans, and market conditions.
Indebtedness
As of December 31, 2008 and 2009, short-term borrowings totaled $15.2 million and $22.5
million, respectively. These amounts were borrowed from certain financial institutions. The annual
interest rates on these borrowings ranged from 2.5 percent to 5.04 percent for 2008, and from 1.99
percent to 4.29 percent for 2009, respectively. The maturity dates ranged from March 2009 to
September 2009 as of December 31, 2008, and from January 2010 to June 2010 as of December 31, 2009,
respectively. As of December 31, 2008 and 2009, the weighted-average interest rate on total
short-term borrowings was 3.20 percent and 2.24 percent, respectively.
As of December 31, 2009, the unused lines of credit under short-term borrowing agreements were
approximately $10.3 million.
During the period from January 2010 to March 2010, we repaid certain short-term borrowings
totaling $5.3 million, and renewed short-term borrowing agreements totaling $6.3 million.
We pledged certain time deposits, land, and buildings as collateral for borrowings from
certain financial institutions. The total value of collateral amounted to $1.6 million and $2.1
million as of December 31, 2008 and 2009, respectively.
Dividends From Our Subsidiaries
Under Singapore tax regulations, foreign-sourced dividend income used for capital
expenditures, including investments, and repayment of borrowings, would not be deemed as remitted
to Singapore and is therefore not taxable. As of December 31, 2009, the Company has not accrued
deferred income taxes on $21.9 million of unremitted earnings from non-Singapore subsidiaries as
such earnings are considered to be reinvested overseas or repayment of borrowings. Determination of
the amount of unrecognized deferred tax liability related to these earnings is considered
impracticable.
70
In accordance with R.O.C. law, an appropriation for legal reserve amounting to 10 percent of a
companys net profit is required until the reserve equals the aggregate par value of such Taiwan
companys issued capital stock. As of December 31, 2008 and 2009, the legal reserves of Hoshin
GigaMedia, which represent a component of our consolidated accumulated deficit, were $2.3 million,
and $3.0 million, respectively. The reserve can only be used to offset a deficit or be distributed
as a stock dividend of up to 50 percent of the reserve balance when the reserve balance has reached
50 percent of the aggregate paid-in capital of Hoshin GigaMedia.
In accordance with the regulations in the PRC and their respective articles of association,
subsidiaries and VIE subsidiaries of T2CN incorporated in the PRC are required to make an
appropriation of retained earnings for statutory reserve equal to at least 10 percent of their
respective after-tax profits, calculated in accordance with the PRC accounting standards and
regulations until the reserve equals 50 percent of the registered capital of the respective
companies. As of December 31, 2008 and 2009, the statutory reserves of subsidiaries and VIE
subsidiaries of T2CN in the aggregate of $339 thousand and $715 thousand, respectively, are
included as a component of GigaMedias consolidated accumulated deficit.
The statutory reserves can be used to offset a deficit or to increase capital of the
respective companies. They are not transferable to our Company in the form of dividends, advances,
or loans.
Under PRC laws and regulations, there are certain foreign exchange restrictions on our
Companys PRC subsidiaries and VIE subsidiaries with respect to transferring certain of their net
assets to our Company either in the form of dividends, loans or advances.
As of December 31, 2008 and 2009, our Companys total restricted net assets, which include
paid up capital and statutory reserve funds of PRC subsidiaries and the net assets of VIE
subsidiaries in which our Company has no legal ownership, were approximately $13.2 million and $8.1
million, representing approximately 4.2 percent and 3.1 percent of our total assets, respectively.
C. Research, Development, Patents and Licenses, etc.
We make investments in research and development to keep pace and remain competitive with
technology advancements and product development relating to our gaming software and service
business and our online game business. For the years 2007, 2008, and 2009, we incurred US$7.3
million, US$13.5 million, and US$14.2 million, respectively, on research and development
activities.
D. Trend Information
Please see Item 3, Key Information D. Risk Factors and Item 5, Operating and Financial
Review and Prospects A. Operating Results Subsequent Events for a discussion of the most recent
trends in our operating costs and revenues since the end of 2009. In addition, please refer to
discussions included in this Item for a discussion of known trends, uncertainties, demands,
commitments or events that we believe are reasonable likely to have a material effect on our net
operating revenues, income from continuing operations, profitability or capital resources, or that
would cause reported financial information not necessarily to be indicative of future operating
results or financial condition.
Our 2009 results were negatively affected by economic conditions and strong competitive
pressures in Europe, as well as substantial marketing and other expenses related to unsuccessful
new online game initiatives in Asia. Both the gambling software and the Asian online games
businesses delivered worse than expected performance during the year. The company wrote-off
several non-performing games and game investments with an aggregate non-cash net impact of
approximately $48.9 million during the year.
The year 2010 looks brighter than 2009 for both our investment in Mangas Everest and our
investment in Infocomm Asia. Everest is now part of one of the largest online gaming groups in
Europe. The sale positions Everest to capture potential growth from the soon to be opened and
regulated French market and following that to build a strong Italian presence. Looking ahead, we
expect to expand our Asian online games business into the South East Asia region through acquiring
majority control of our affiliate Infocomm Asia.
71
E. Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
Other than as disclosed in note 25 to our consolidated financial statements, we currently do
not have (a) any obligation under a guarantee contract that has any of the characteristics
identified by ASC 460 Guarantees; (b) a retained or contingent interest in assets transferred to
an unconsolidated entity or similar arrangement that serves as credit, liquidity or market risk
support to such entity for such assets; (c) any obligation under a derivative instrument that is
both indexed to our Companys own stock and classified in equity, or not reflected, in our
Companys statement of financial position; (d) any obligation, including a contingent obligation,
arising out of a variable interest in an unconsolidated entity that is held by, and material to,
our Company, where such entity provides financing, liquidity, market risk or credit risk support
to, or engages in leasing, hedging or research and development services with, our Company.
F. Tabular Disclosure of Contractual Obligations
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Payment Due by Period (in US dollars) |
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Within 1 year |
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1-3 years |
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3-5 years |
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>5 years |
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Total |
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1. Operating leases |
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3,733,072 |
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2,220,651 |
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5,953,723 |
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2. License fees |
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0 |
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2,700,000 |
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2,700,000 |
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3. Minimum guarantees against royalties |
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2,625,000 |
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8,600,000 |
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11,225,000 |
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Total contractual cash obligations* |
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6,358,072 |
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13,520,651 |
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|
|
19,878,723 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
4. Other liabilities-accrued pension
liabilities |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
82,492 |
|
|
|
82,492 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
5. Other long-term obligations |
|
|
|
|
|
|
47,405 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
47,405 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
* |
|
In April 2010, we entered into termination agreements with certain of our game licensors. The
table above reflects the future payments considering these terminations. The table also reflects
the reduction of future operating lease payments resulting from the sale of our gaming software
and service business in April 2010. |
The initial minimum guarantees against future royalties and license fees are not required to
be paid until the licensed games are commercially released or until certain milestones are
achieved, as stipulated in the individual license agreements. The remaining minimum guarantees are
generally required to be paid within three years subsequent to the commercial release dates of the
licensed games.
Additionally, we also have contractually committed to support related marketing, promotion and
advertising activities for certain games, and our commitments are contingent to occur based on the
payment schedules set forth in the individual license agreements. As of December 31, 2009, our
total commitments to these marketing expenditures amounted to not less than US$10.0 million.
However, we are not required to make these payments pursuant to any timeline and therefore the
yearly amount was not included in the table above.
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosure About Market Risk
Please refer to Item 11, Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk in this
annual report.
72
ITEM 6. DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND EMPLOYEES
A. Directors and Senior Management
The following table sets forth information with respect to our directors and executive
officers as of May 31, 2010:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Year Appointed to |
Name |
|
Age |
|
Position |
|
Current Position |
DING, Michael Y.J. |
|
53 |
|
Chairman of the Board, Chairman of the Audit Committee of the Board and Independent Non-Executive Director |
|
2009*/2003 |
WANG, Arthur M. |
|
49 |
|
Director and Chief Executive Officer |
|
2003 |
HUI, Thomas T. |
|
38 |
|
Director, President and Chief Operating Officer |
|
2005/2007 |
BAO, Gilbert |
|
44 |
|
Independent Non-Executive Director |
|
2003 |
HSU, Emmet Yu-Jui |
|
47 |
|
Independent Non-Executive Director |
|
2003 |
HU ZEE, Nancy Jing-Ying |
|
51 |
|
Independent Non-Executive Director |
|
2003 |
LEE, Howe Yong |
|
54 |
|
Independent Non-Executive Director |
|
2004 |
LEE, John Francis Woon-Jae |
|
39 |
|
Chief Strategy Officer and Head of International Business |
|
2008 |
LEE, Yichin |
|
49 |
|
Chairman of the Compensation Committee of the Board and Independent Non-Executive Director |
|
2009**/2003 |
TANG, Quincy |
|
47 |
|
Chief Financial Officer |
|
2008 |
WONG, Lester A. |
|
43 |
|
General Counsel |
|
2008 |
WANG, Jim Ji |
|
39 |
|
Head of Online Games Business in
the PRC and Chief Executive Officer of T2CN |
|
2008 |
|
|
|
* |
|
Mr. Ding was appointed as chairman of the board of directors of our Company on May 14, 2009
following the resignation of Mr. Daniel Chuen-Tai Wu, the former chairman, on April 29, 2009. |
|
** |
|
Mr. Lee was appointed as Chairman of the Compensation Committee of the Board on May
14, 2009. |
Biographical information with respect to each of our directors and executive officers is set
forth below.
Directors
MICHAEL Y.J. DING is chairman of the board of directors of our Company and an independent
non-executive director of our Company. Mr. Ding is currently the chairman and CEO of Waterland
Securities Co, Ltd. Previously, Mr. Ding was chairman of Fubon Securities Investment Consulting
Co., Ltd., and president and chief executive officer of Fubon Asset Management Co., Ltd., president
and fund manager of the R.O.C. Fund (listed on the New York Stock Exchange), as well as president
of the International Investment Trust Co. in Taiwan, where he also served as chief investment
officer and a senior vice president. Mr. Ding was previously chief economist and head of research
at Citicorp International Securities Ltd. in Taipei and head of research and information for the
Greater China region at McKinsey & Co., Inc. Mr. Ding holds a bachelors degree in laws from
Chinese Cultural University and a masters degree and a doctorate degree in economics from Indiana
University.
ARTHUR M. WANG is chief executive officer and a director of our Company. He is also a member
of the board of Linmark Group, a Hong Kong Stock Exchange listed global sourcing firm, where he
serves as chair of the compensation committee. Previously, Mr. Wang was a managing partner of 698
Capital Limited, an Asian investment firm, as well as an executive director of KGI Asia Limited
(KGI). At KGI, Mr. Wang served as head of corporate finance. He also served as an investment
advisor and board member of UFJ Asia Finance Technology Fund of the UFJ Group (formerly the Sanwa
Bank Group of Japan), and as a board member and director of Softbank Investment International
(Strategic) Limited, the Hong Kong Stock Exchange listed arm of Softbank Corporation. He practiced
corporate and securities law in the New York and Hong Kong offices of Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher
& Flom LLP. Mr. Wang received his bachelors degree from the University of California, Los Angeles,
and his Juris Doctorate degree from Yale Law School.
THOMAS T. HUI is president, chief operating officer and a director of our Company. Mr. Hui
joined GigaMedia from Goldman Sachs (Asia) L.L.C. (Goldman Sachs), where he was an executive
director of the investment banking division. At Goldman Sachs, Mr. Hui originated and executed a
broad range of mergers and acquisitions and financing transactions in Asia. Prior to working at
Goldman Sachs, Mr. Hui served as an investment banker at Merrill Lynch & Co. and as a management
consultant at McKinsey & Company, both in Hong Kong. Mr. Hui received a bachelors degree in
electrical engineering from the University of Wisconsin Madison and a masters degree in
electrical engineering from Cornell University.
GILBERT BAO is an independent non-executive director of our Company. He also currently serves
in various positions, including chairman of Chung Shing Textile Co., Ltd., general supervisor of
Taiwan Spinners Association, and independent director of China Development Financial Holding
Corporation. He graduated from the University of Southern California in 1986.
73
EMMET YU-JUI HSU is an independent non-executive director of our Company. He is also currently
chairman and president of Shihlin Electric and Engineering Corp., Hsinchu Transportation Co. Ltd.,
and The Ambassador Hotel in Taipei, Taiwan. He majored in business administration at the University
of Southern California and received an MBA degree from Chengchi University in Taiwan.
NANCY JING-YING HU ZEE is an independent non-executive director of our Company. Ms. Hu is
currently chief executive officer of Asia Television Limited, which is one of the free-to-air
television broadcasters in Hong Kong. Ms. Hu holds a bachelors degree from National Taiwan
University, a masters degree in computers from Barry University and an MBA degree from Florida
International University.
HOWE YONG LEE is an independent non-executive director of our Company. He is currently the
managing director of Lee Kim Yew (Pte) Ltd., an investment company based in Singapore. Mr. Lee
received a bachelors degree in business administration from the University of Washington in 1984.
YICHIN LEE is Chairman of the Compensation Committee of the Board and an independent
non-executive director of our Company. He is also currently the managing director of Giant
Management Consulting, LLC of Taiwan and a founder of AMIA, Inc., an education consultancy based in
Belmont, California. Since 2007, Mr. Lee has also served as an independent director of the Board of
Asia Pacific Wire & Cable Corp. Ltd. (NASDAQ: AWRCF.OB). Mr. Lee holds a doctorate degree in
resource planning and management from Stanford University.
Executive Officers
ARTHUR M. WANG is chief executive officer and a director of our Company. He is also a member
of the board of Linmark Group, a Hong Kong Stock Exchange listed global sourcing firm, where he
serves as chair of the compensation committee. Previously, Mr. Wang was a managing partner of 698
Capital Limited, an Asian investment firm, as well as an executive director of KGI Asia Limited
(KGI). At KGI, Mr. Wang served as head of corporate finance. He also served as an investment
advisor and board member of UFJ Asia Finance Technology Fund of the UFJ Group (formerly the Sanwa
Bank Group of Japan), and as a board member and director of Softbank Investment International
(Strategic) Limited, the Hong Kong Stock Exchange listed arm of Softbank Corporation. He practiced
corporate and securities law in the New York and Hong Kong offices of Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher
& Flom LLP. Mr. Wang received his bachelors degree from the University of California, Los Angeles,
and his Juris Doctorate degree from Yale Law School.
THOMAS T. HUI is president, chief operating officer and a director of our Company. Mr. Hui
joined GigaMedia from Goldman Sachs (Asia) L.L.C. (Goldman Sachs), where he was an executive
director of the investment banking division. At Goldman Sachs, Mr. Hui originated and executed a
broad range of mergers and acquisitions and financing transactions in Asia. Prior to working at
Goldman Sachs, Mr. Hui served as an investment banker at Merrill Lynch & Co. and as a management
consultant at McKinsey & Company, both in Hong Kong. Mr. Hui received a bachelors degree in
electrical engineering from the University of Wisconsin Madison and a masters degree in
electrical engineering from Cornell University.
QUINCY TANG is the chief financial officer of our Company. Mr. Tang has over 20 years of
financial and managerial experience. Prior to joining us, Mr. Tang was chief financial officer of
Vimicro International Corporation and served in various corporate management and finance positions,
including the finance director of TOM Group, a Hong Kong-listed Internet and media company, and an
auditor at Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu. Mr. Tang is a fellow member of the Hong Kong Institute of
Certified Public Accountants, a fellow member of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants
in the United Kingdom, and an associate member of the Hong Kong Institute of Chartered Secretaries.
Mr. Tang graduated from Hong Kong Polytechnic University with a professional diploma in
accountancy.
LESTER A. WONG is general counsel of our Company. Prior to joining us, Mr. Wong was the senior
legal counsel in CDC Corporation (NASDAQ: CHINA), a provider of enterprise software, online games,
and Internet and media services. Prior to that, Mr. Wong was a founding associate in Latitude
Capital Group, an Asian merchant banking firm, that was subsequently acquired by the Cowen Group.
Mr. Wong was admitted to the Law Society of Upper Canada (Ontario) in 1993, Law Society of British
Columbia in 1993 and Law Society of Hong Kong in 1997. Mr. Wong obtained a bachelors degree from
the University of Western Ontario and a bachelor of law degree from the University of British
Columbia in Canada.
74
JOHN LEE is the chief strategy officer of GigaMedia and the head of international business of
our company. Mr. Lee has held numerous executive positions in gaming and investment companies in
the U.S. and Asia, including NCsoft Corporation, Turbine Entertainment and Softbank Corp. Earlier
in his career, he was a management consultant at McKinsey & Company. Mr. Lee received a Master of
Business Administration degree from New York University and a Bachelor of Arts degree in political
science from the University of Michigan.
JIM JI WANG is the head of the online games business in the PRC. Mr. Wang has been chief
executive officer of T2CN since March 2008, and also held various positions within T2CN, including
chief strategy officer, president and director. Prior to joining T2CN, he was the founder and
president of HDT Technologies, Inc., an Internet technology and service provider in the PRC. Mr.
Wang graduated from Fudan University in China with a bachelors degree in computer software.
B. Compensation
Compensation of Directors and Executive Officers
For the year ended December 31, 2009, the aggregate cash compensation paid by us to our
directors and executive officers was approximately US$3.2 million. For information on total amounts
set aside by our Company to provide pension and retirement benefits, see note 19 to our
consolidated financial statements.
As of December 31, 2009, the total outstanding number of share options granted to our
directors and officers was 4,674,000, of which 3,883,650 shares were vested and 790,350 were
unvested. As of the same date, the total number of restricted stock units granted to our directors
and officers was 29,500 of which 25,000 shares were vested. For more information on stock option
plans and equity incentive plans, see E. Share Ownership below.
Employment of Executive Officers
Officers are selected by and serve at the discretion of our board of directors. No executive
officer is entitled to any severance benefits upon termination of his or her employment with our
Company.
C. Board Practices
Our board of directors is currently comprised of eight directors, including six independent
non-executive members. Each of our directors is elected by our Companys shareholders and hold
office until such directors successor is elected and duly qualified, or until such directors
earlier death, bankruptcy, insanity, resignation or removal. No director is entitled to any
severance benefits on termination of his or her service. We have established two committees of the
board of directors, including the audit committee and the compensation committee.
Our audit committee currently consists of Michael Y. J. Ding, Gilbert Bao and Yichin Lee. Our
audit committee will select and evaluate, on our behalf, the independent public accountants who
audit our annual financial statements, and will review and approve the planned scope of our annual
audit, subject to the appointment, replacement or removal from office of our independent public
accountants as has been approved by our shareholders at our Annual General Meeting. In accordance
with our Articles of Association and our audit committee charter, all of the members of our audit
committee must be persons who qualify as independent directors under the standards set forth in
NASDAQ Marketplace Rules 4350(d)(2)(A)(i) and (ii) and each of them is able to read and understand
fundamental financial statements.
Our compensation committee currently consists of Michael Y.J. Ding and Yichin Lee. Our
compensation committee reviews and evaluates the compensation and performance of executive
officers, our Companys general compensation plans and other employee benefit plans, and performs
other duties and responsibilities pursuant to the compensation committee charter. In accordance
with our compensation committee charter, all of the members of the compensation committee are
qualified independent directors under the standards set forth in NASDAQ Marketplace Rules
4350(d)(2)(A)(i) and (ii).
75
D. Employees
In the years ended December 31, 2007, 2008 and 2009, our total employees were 975, 751 and
835, respectively.
As of May 31, 2010, we had a total of 651 employees, excluding part-time and temporary
personnel and consultants. Of the total 651 employees as of May 31, 2010, 97 were located at our
corporate headquarters; 1 was employed for our gaming software and service business; and 553 were
employed for our online games business, including 276 employees in FunTown and 277 employees in
T2CN. Of the total 651 employees, 650 were in Asia and 1 was in North America.
E. Share Ownership
Share Ownership of Directors and Executive Officers
The table below sets forth information as to our directors and executive officers share
ownership in our Company as of May 31, 2010:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Number of |
|
|
Number of Shares |
|
|
|
Common |
|
|
Issuable upon exercise |
|
Person |
|
Shares |
|
|
of options |
|
DING, Michael Y.J. |
|
|
* |
|
|
|
* |
|
WANG, Arthur M. |
|
|
* |
|
|
|
3,049,000 |
|
HUI, Thomas T. |
|
|
* |
|
|
|
2,300,000 |
|
BAO, Gilbert T.C. |
|
|
* |
|
|
|
* |
|
HSU, Emmet Yu-Jui |
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
* |
|
HU ZEE, Nancy Jing-Ying |
|
|
* |
|
|
|
* |
|
LEE, Howe Yong |
|
|
* |
|
|
|
* |
|
LEE, John Francis Woon-Jae |
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
* |
|
LEE, Yichin |
|
|
* |
|
|
|
* |
|
TANG, Quincy |
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
* |
|
WONG, Lester A. |
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
* |
|
WANG, Jim Ji |
|
|
* |
|
|
|
* |
|
Directors and Officers as a group |
|
|
* |
|
|
|
6,639,000 |
|
All options granted to our directors and executive officers were granted pursuant to the
option plans and the equity incentive plans as described under Employee Share Option Plans and
Equity Incentive Plans below.
Employee Share Option Plans and Equity Incentive Plans
2002 Employee Share Option Plan
At the June 2002 Annual General Meeting, the shareholders of our Company approved the
GigaMedia Limited 2002 Employee Share Option Plan (the 2002 Plan) under which up to 3,000,000
common shares of our Company were reserved for issuance. All employees, officers, directors,
advisors and consultants of our Company are eligible to participate in the 2002 Plan. The 2002 Plan
is administered by a committee designated by the board of directors. The committee as plan
administrator has complete discretion to determine the exercise price for the option grants, to
determine which eligible individuals are to receive option grants, the time or times when options
grants are to be made, the number of shares subject to grant and vesting schedule.
In August 2004, options to purchase 3,000,000 shares of our Companys common stock were
granted and vested at an exercise price of US$0.79 pursuant to the 2002 Plan. The maximum
contractual term under the 2002 Plan is approximately 10 years. Termination of employment will not
affect rights of exercise under vested options.
76
2004 Employee Share Option Plan
At the June 2004 Annual General Meeting, the shareholders of our Company approved the
GigaMedia Limited 2004 Employee Share Option Plan (the 2004 Plan) under which up to 7,000,000
common shares of our Company were reserved for issuance. All employees, officers, directors,
advisors and consultants of our Company are eligible to participate in the 2004 Plan. The 2004 Plan
is administered by a committee designated by the board of directors. The committee as plan
administrator has complete discretion to determine the exercise price for the option grants, to
determine which eligible individuals are to receive option grants, the time or times when options
grants are to be made and the number of shares subject to grant vesting schedule.
In August 2004, options to purchase 5,462,530 shares of our Companys common stock were
granted at an exercise price of US$0.79 pursuant to the 2004 Plan. These options were subject to
two vesting schedules. In accordance with the terms of the first vesting schedule, 3,863,888
options were vested and exercisable upon granting. In accordance with the terms of the second
vesting schedule, 1,598,642 options were granted, of which 399,663 options were vested and
exercisable upon granting. The remaining 1,198,979 options were vested at a rate of 399,661 options
per year from the grant date.
In May 2005, options to purchase 100,000 shares of our Companys common stock were granted at
an exercise price of US$1.45 pursuant to the 2004 Plan. In accordance with the terms of the vesting
schedule, 25,000 options were vested and exercisable upon granting. The remaining 75,000 options
were vested at the rate of 25,000 options per year from the grant date.
In December 2005, options to purchase 1,805,655 shares of our Companys common stock were
granted at an exercise price of US$2.55. These options were subject to two vesting schedules. In
accordance with the terms of the first vesting schedule, 1,570,655 options were vested and
exercisable upon granting. In accordance with the terms of the second vesting schedule, 94,000
options were vested and exercisable in December 2007. The remaining 141,000 options were vested and
exercisable in December 2008.
In May, 2010, options to purchase 175,000 shares of our Companys common stock were granted at
an exercise price of US$2.47. These options will be vested annually from 2010 to 2014. In
accordance with the terms of the vesting schedule, 20 percent of 175,000 options will be exercised
on or after the grant date and the remaining 80 percent of 175,000 options will be exercised
annually from the first anniversary of the grant date to the fourth anniversary of the grant date.
The maximum contractual term under the 2004 Plan is 10 years. Termination of employment will
not affect exercise rights under vested options. Unvested options will be forfeited upon
termination of employment.
2006 Equity Incentive Plan
At the June 2006 Annual General Meeting, the shareholders of our Company approved the
GigaMedia Limited 2006 Equity Incentive Plan (the 2006 Plan) under which up to 1,000,000 common
shares of our Company have been reserved for issuance. The 2006 Plan is administered by a committee
designated by the board of directors. The committee as plan administrator has complete discretion
to determine the grant of awards under the 2006 Plan.
In December 2006, we granted 115,000 restricted stock units (RSUs) to our employees. These
RSUs were subject to two schedules for the lapsing of restrictions on transfer. 25,000 RSUs are
subject to the terms of the first lapsing schedule, under which the restrictions on transfer shall
lapse with respect to the first 33 percent of the RSUs upon granting with the remaining 67 percent
of the RSUs vesting over a two-year period so long as the employee is employed by or providing
services to our Company. 90,000 RSUs are subject to the terms of the second lapsing schedule, under
which the restrictions on transfer shall lapse with respect to approximately 33 percent of the RSUs
annually over a three-year period, beginning April 1, 2007 so long as the employee is employed by
or providing services to our Company.
In March 2007, we granted 49,000 RSUs to employees of our Company. In accordance with the
terms of the lapsing schedule, the restrictions on transfer shall lapse with respect to
approximately 14.29 percent of the RSUs quarterly from June 2007 to December 2008 so long as the
employee is employed by or providing services to our Company.
77
In August 2007, we granted 30,000 RSUs to directors of our Company. In accordance with the
terms of the lapsing schedule, the restrictions on transfer shall lapse with respect to 25 percent
of the RSUs quarterly from November 2007 to August 2008 so long as the directors are providing
services to our Company. In August 2007, we also granted 126,443 RSUs to employees of our Company.
These RSUs were subject to two schedules for the lapsing of restrictions on transfer. 6,443 RSUs
are subject to the terms of the first lapsing schedule, under which the restrictions on transfer
shall lapse with respect to approximately 33 percent of the RSUs annually over a three-year period,
beginning January 1, 2008 so long as the employee is employed by or providing services to our
Company. 120,000 RSUs are subject to the terms of the second lapsing schedule, under which the
restrictions on transfer shall lapse with respect to 6.25 percent of the RSUs quarterly from
November 2007 to August 2011 so long as the employee is employed by or providing services to our
Company. Also in August 2007, options to purchase 580,000 shares of our Companys common stock were
granted at an exercise price of US$10.15. In accordance with the terms of the vesting schedule,
6.25 percent of the options are vested quarterly from November 2007 to August 2011.
In October 2007, options to purchase 50,000 shares of our Companys common stock were granted
at an exercise price of US$16.60. In accordance with the terms of the vesting schedule, 6.25
percent of the options are vested quarterly from January 2008 to October 2011.
In January 2008, options to purchase 31,987 shares of our Companys common stock were granted
at an exercise price of US$16.01. In accordance with the terms of the vesting schedule, 50 percent
of the options are vested annually from January 2009 to January 2010.
In January 2008, we also granted 17,113 RSUs to employees of our Company. In accordance with
the terms of the lapsing schedule, the restrictions on transfer shall lapse with respect to
approximately 50 percent of the RSUs annually from January 2009 to January 2010 so long as the
employee is employed by or providing services to our Company.
In February, 2010, we granted 17,790 RSUs to employees of our Company. In accordance with the
terms of the lapsing schedule, the restrictions on transfer shall lapse with respect to 100 percent
of the RSUs on the first anniversary of the grant date so long as the employee is employed by or
providing services to our Company.
In May, 2010, options to purchase 100,000 shares of our Companys common stock were granted at
an exercise price of US$2.47. These options will be vested annually from 2010 to 2014. In
accordance with the terms of the vesting schedule, 20 percent of 100,000 options will be exercised
on or after the grant date and the remaining 80 percent of 100,000 options will be exercised
annually from the first anniversary of the grant date to the fourth anniversary of the grant date.
The maximum contractual term under the 2006 Plan is 10 years. Options will be forfeited upon
termination of employment, unless the relevant award agreement extends the exercisability of the
outstanding options. In the event that the employees employment with or service to our Company is
terminated prior to the lapsing of restrictions with respect to any portion of the RSUs, such
portion of the RSUs shall become forfeited.
2007 Equity Incentive Plan
At the June 2007 Annual General Meeting, the shareholders of our Company approved the
GigaMedia Limited 2007 Equity Incentive Plan (the 2007 Plan) under which up to 2,000,000 common
shares of our Company have been reserved for issuance. The 2007 Plan is administered by a committee
designated by the board of directors. The committee as plan administrator has complete discretion
to determine the grant of awards under the 2007 Plan.
In August 2007, options to purchase 465,000 shares of our Companys common stock were granted
at an exercise price of US$10.15. These options were subject to two vesting schedules. In
accordance with the terms of the first vesting schedule, 6.25 percent of the 400,000 options are
vested quarterly from November 2007 to August 2011. In accordance with the terms of the second
vesting schedule, 25 percent of the 65,000 options are vested annually from August 2008 to August
2011.
78
In December 2007, options to purchase 50,000 shares of our Companys common stock were granted
at an exercise price of US$18.17. In accordance with the terms of the vesting schedule, 6.25
percent of the options are vested quarterly from March 2008 to December 2011.
In January 2008, options to purchase 18,818 shares of our Companys common stock were granted
at an exercise price of US$16.01. In accordance with the terms of the vesting schedule, 50 percent
of the options are vested annually from January 2009 to January 2010.
In March 2008, we granted 51,735 RSUs to employees of our Company. In accordance with the
terms of the lapsing schedule, the restrictions on transfer shall lapse with respect to
approximately 12.5 percent of the RSUs quarterly from April 2008 to January 2010 so long as the
employee is employed by or providing services to our Company.
In September 2008, we granted 465,000 RSUs to employees of our Company. In accordance with the
terms of the lapsing schedule, the restrictions on transfer shall lapse upon the occurrence of a
Change of Control so long as the employee is employed by or providing services to our Company.
In December 2008, we granted 100,000 RSUs to employees of our Company. In accordance with the
terms of the lapsing schedule, the restrictions on transfer shall lapse with respect to
approximately 25 percent of the RSUs quarterly from December 2009 to December 2012 so long as the
employee is employed by or providing services to our Company.
In December 2008, options to purchase 730,000 shares of our Companys common stock were
granted at an exercise price of US$4.24. In accordance with the terms of the vesting schedule, 25
percent of the options will be vested annually from December 2009 to December 2012.
In January 2009, we granted 100,354 RSUs to employees of our Company. In accordance with the
terms of the lapsing schedule, the restrictions on transfer shall lapse with respect to 100 percent
of the RSUs on the first anniversary of the grant date so long as the employee is employed by or
providing services to our Company.
In March, 2010, we granted 31,000 RSUs to employees of our Company. In accordance with the
terms of the lapsing schedule, the restrictions on transfer shall lapse with respect to
approximately 50 percent of the RSUs quarterly from March 2010 to September 2010 so long as the
employee is employed by or providing services to our Company.
In May, 2010, we granted 70,000 RSUs to employees of our Company. In accordance with the terms
of the lapsing schedule, the restrictions on transfer shall lapse with respective to 100 percent of
the RSUs on the grant date so long as the employee is employed by or providing services to our
Company.
In May, 2010, options to purchase 350,000 shares of our Companys common stock were granted at
an exercise price of US$2.47. These options will be vested annually from 2010 to 2014. In
accordance with the terms of the vesting schedule, 20 percent of 350,000 options will be exercised
on or after the grant date and the remaining 80 percent of 350,000 options will be exercised
annually from the first anniversary of the grant date to the fourth anniversary of the grant date.
The maximum contractual term under the 2007 Plan is 10 years. Options will be forfeited upon
termination of employment, unless the relevant award agreement extends the exercisability of the
outstanding options.
2008 Equity Incentive Plan
At the June 2008 Annual General Meeting, the shareholders of our Company approved the
GigaMedia Limited 2008 Equity Incentive Plan (the 2008 Plan) under which up to 1,000,000 common
shares of our Company have been reserved for issuance. The 2008 Plan is administered by a committee
designated by the board of directors. The committee as plan administrator has complete discretion
to determine the grant of awards under the 2008 Plan.
79
In December 2008, options to purchase 560,000 shares of our Companys common stock were
granted at an exercise price of US$4.24. These options were subject to two vesting schedules. In
accordance with the terms of the first vesting schedule, 25 percent of 360,000 options are vested
annually from December 2009 to December 2012. In accordance with the terms of the second vesting
schedule, 16.7 percent of the remaining 200,000 options will be vested annually from December 2009
to December 2014.
In May, 2010, options to purchase 340,000 shares of our Companys common stock were granted at
an exercise price of US$2.47. These options will be vested annually from 2010 to 2014. In
accordance with the terms of the vesting schedule, 20 percent of 340,000 options will be exercised
on or after the grant date and the remaining 80 percent of 340,000 options will be exercised
annually from the first anniversary of the grant date to the fourth anniversary of the grant date.
In May 2010, options to purchase 100,000 shares of our Companys common stock were granted at
an exercise price of US$2.47. These options will be vested annually from 2010 to 2012. In
accordance with the terms of the vesting schedule, 34 percent of 100,000 options will be exercised
on or after the grant date and the remaining 66 percent of 100,000 options will be exercised
annually from the first anniversary of the grant date to the second anniversary of the grant date.
The maximum contractual term under the 2008 Plan is 10 years. Options will be forfeited upon
termination of employment, unless the relevant award agreement extends the exercisability of the
outstanding options.
All options, RSUs and other share-based awards are expected to be settled by issuing new
shares.
2009 Equity Incentive Plan
At the June 2009 Annual General Meeting, the shareholders of our Company approved the
GigaMedia Limited 2009 Equity Incentive Plan (the 2009 Plan) under which up to 1,500,000 common
shares of our Company have been reserved for issuance. The 2009 Plan is administered by a committee
designated by the board of directors. The committee as plan administrator has complete discretion
to determine the grant of awards under the 2009 Plan.
In May 2010, options to purchase 1,500,000 shares of our Companys common stock were granted
at an exercise price of US$2.47. These options will be vested annually from 2010 to 2014. In
accordance with the terms of the vesting schedule, 20 percent of 1,500,000 options will be
exercised on or after the grant date and the remaining 80 percent of 1,500,000 options will be
exercised annually from the first anniversary of the grant date to the fourth anniversary of the
grant date.
The maximum contractual term under the 2009 Plan is 10 years. Options will be forfeited upon
termination of employment, unless the relevant award agreement extends the exercisability of the
outstanding options. All options, RSUs and other share-based awards are expected to be settled by
issuing new shares.
Options
In 2007, 2008 and 2009, 1,910,996, 518,284 and 543,049 options were exercised, respectively,
and cash received from the exercise of stock options was US$2.7 million, US$0.5 million and US$1.4
million, respectively, which resulted in no significant tax benefit realized on a consolidated
basis.
80
The options on ordinary shares of the Company outstanding as of December 31, 2009 are as
follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Options outstanding |
|
Options currently exercisable |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Weighted average |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
No. of Shares |
|
|
remaining |
|
|
|
No. of Shares |
|
Exercise price |
|
(in thousands) |
|
|
contractual life |
|
Exercise price |
|
(in thousands) |
|
under $1 |
|
|
5,392 |
|
|
4.50 years |
|
under $1 |
|
|
5,392 |
|
$1~$10 |
|
|
1,590 |
|
|
7.27 years |
|
$1~$10 |
|
|
640 |
|
$10~$20 |
|
|
707 |
|
|
7.65 years |
|
$10~$20 |
|
|
388 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
7,689 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
6,420 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The number of total
outstanding options as of December 31, 2009 is 7,689 thousand, which includes
options with exercise prices of US$0.79, US$1.45, US$2.55, US$4.24 and US$10.15, US$16.01,
US$16.60 and US$18.17. During the financial year ended December 31, 2009, a total of 55 thousand
options granted pursuant to the 2006 Plan and 2007 Plan had been cancelled or forfeited. During the
financial year ended December 31, 2008, a total of 448 thousand options granted pursuant to the
2004 Plan, 2006 Plan and 2007 Plan had been cancelled or forfeited.
Employee Share Purchase Plans
At the June 2008 Annual General Meeting, the shareholders of our Company approved the
GigaMedia Limited 2008 Employee Share Purchase Plan (the 2008 ESPP) under which up to 200,000
common shares of our Company were reserved for issuance. Any person who is regularly employed by
our Company or our designated subsidiaries shall be eligible to participate in the 2008 ESPP.
Pursuant to the 2008 ESPP, our Company would offer the Shares to qualified employees on favorable
terms. Employees are also subject to certain restrictions on the amount that may be invested to
purchase the shares and to other terms and conditions of the 2008 ESPP. The 2008 ESPP is
administered by a committee designated by the board of directors. As of the date of this annual
report, no shares have been subscribed by qualified employees under the 2008 ESPP.
At the June 2009 Annual General Meeting, the shareholders of our Company approved the
GigaMedia Limited 2009 Employee Share Purchase Plan (the 2009 ESPP) under which up to 200,000
common shares of our Company were reserved for issuance. Any person who is regularly employed by
our Company or our designated subsidiaries shall be eligible to participate in the 2009 ESPP.
Pursuant to the 2009 ESPP, our Company would offer the Shares to qualified employees on favorable
terms. Employees are also subject to certain restrictions on the amount that may be invested to
purchase the shares and to other terms and conditions of the 2009 ESPP. The 2009 ESPP is
administered by a committee designated by the board of directors. As of the date of this annual
report, no shares have been subscribed by qualified employees under the 2009 ESPP.
Outstanding Options Granted Under Our Employee Share Option Plans and Equity Incentive Plans
The following table summarizes, as of May 31, 2010, the outstanding options granted under our
employee share option plans and equity incentive plans to our directors and executive officers as a
group.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Ordinary Shares |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Underlying |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Outstanding |
|
|
Exercise Price |
|
|
|
|
Date of Grant |
|
Options |
|
|
($/Share) |
|
|
Date of Expiration |
|
August 12, 2004 |
|
|
3,559,000 |
|
|
|
0.79 |
|
|
June 29, 2014 |
August 9, 2007 |
|
|
200,000 |
|
|
|
10.15 |
|
|
August 9, 2017 |
December 1, 2008 |
|
|
400,000 |
|
|
|
4.24 |
|
|
June 29, 2017 |
|
|
|
515,000 |
|
|
|
4.24 |
|
|
June 19, 2018 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
May 13, 2010 |
|
|
1,965,000 |
|
|
|
2.47 |
|
|
May 13, 2020 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total |
|
|
6,639,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
81
ITEM 7. MAJOR SHAREHOLDERS AND RELATED-PARTY TRANSACTIONS
A. Major Shareholders
The following table sets forth information known to us with respect to the ownership of our
Shares as of March 31, 2010 by each shareholder known by us to own more than 5 percent of our
Shares:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Percentage of |
|
Name of Owner |
|
Shares Owned |
|
|
Shares Owned |
|
Best Method Limited (1) |
|
|
10,799,999 |
|
|
|
19.59 |
% |
Martin Currie Investment Management Ltd.(2) |
|
|
3,989,265 |
|
|
|
7.24 |
% |
|
|
|
(1) |
|
Through Best Method Limited, a British Virgin Islands company, Jeffrey Koo, Jr. and Andre Koo
jointly have a beneficial ownership of 10,799,999 common shares of our Company. |
|
(2) |
|
Martin Currie Investment Management Ltd. owns 901,270 common shares of our Company through
its wholly owned subsidiary Martin Currie China Ltd. |
As of March 31, 2010, we had 55,116,202 Shares outstanding, of which 40,326,938 shares
representing approximately 73.17 percent of our total outstanding shares were not held by our major
shareholders as disclosed above. As of March 31, 2010, 43,760,928 Shares were held by 18 record
holders, including nominee holders, with a registered address in the United States.
None of our major shareholders have voting rights different from those of our other
shareholders.
B. Related-Party Transactions
We have engaged from time to time in various transactions with related parties.
Until September 2008, in the course of operating our business, we provided Internet access and
services to, or sourced services from, our Companys related parties, including companies in which
we hold an interest and companies with which members of our board, senior managers of our Company,
and our major shareholders or beneficial owners are associated. Transactions with these related
parties did not have material effect on our business operations.
Except for the following transactions, we were not a party to any transaction with any related
party that did not arise in the ordinary course of business or that was material to us.
Licensing Contractual Arrangements
Freestyle License Agreement
As of December 31, 2007, December 31, 2008, December 31, 2009 and May 31, 2010, JC
Entertainment Corporation (JCE) owned approximately 10.5, 10.8, 10.8 and 10.8 percent,
respectively, of the total outstanding voting rights of T2CN.
During 2007 and after our consolidation of T2CN, J-Town paid to JCE total licensing fees of
approximately US$3.0 million and total royalty fees of approximately US$1.4 million. During 2008,
J-Town paid to JCE total licensing fees of approximately US$1.2 million and total royalty fees of
approximately US$2.8 million. During 2009, J-Town paid to JCE total licensing fees of
approximately US$1.5 million and total royalty fees of approximately US$2.6 million. As of
December 31, 2008 and 2009, J-Town had a royalty payable to JCE of approximately US $445 thousand
and US $925 thousand, respectively, and prepaid licensing fees of approximately US $6.6 million and
US $5.4 million, respectively. As of December 31, 2009, based on the game licensing agreements
signed with JCE, J-Town also committed to pay certain licensing fees totaling approximately $1.5
million. During the period from January 1, 2010 until May 31, 2010, J-Town paid to JCE total
licensing fees of nil and total royalty fees of approximately US$1.1 million.
82
Borrowings
A key manager of Waterland Financial Holdings is one of our directors. As of December 31,
2008, December 31, 2009 and May 31, 2010, we had short-term borrowings in the amount of US$1.5
million, US$1.6 million, and nil, bearing interest of 5.038 percent, 3.288 percent, and nil,
respectively, indebted to Waterland Financial Holdings.
Stock Transaction
In December 2006, we resigned from the board of directors of Gamania Digital Entertainment
Co., Ltd. (Gamania). Following our resignation from the board of Gamania, we sold in the public
market all of our Gamania shares, which resulted in gains of US$2.1 million reported in
discontinued operations.
Stock Option Grants and Employee Share Purchase
See Item 6, Directors, Senior Management and Employees E. Share Ownership.
C. Interests of Experts and Counsel
Not applicable.
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL INFORMATION
A. Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information
Financial Statements
See pages beginning on page F-1 in this annual report.
Information on Legal or Arbitration Proceedings
Class Action
In December 2001, a class action lawsuit was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Southern
District of New York against our Company and some of its former directors and officers, its
registration agent as well as various underwriters in connection with our initial public offering
of the Shares. Substantially similar actions were filed concerning the initial public offerings by
more than 300 issuers and the cases were consolidated as In re Initial Public Offering Sec Litig,
No. 91 MC 92 for pretrial purposes. After the consolidation by the District Court, there are
approximately 310 consolidated actions, including action against our Company. In April 2002, a
consolidated amended complaint was filed in the matter against our Company under the caption In re
GigaMedia Ltd. Initial Public Offering Securities, Litig., 01 Civ. 10884.
The complaint named as defendants our Company, its former officers and directors and its
registration agent, including Chester Koo, Angelo Koo, Jeffrey Koo, Jr., Leslie Koo, Andre Koo,
Morris Chang, Stephen Wu, Kent Yen, Raymond Chang, Yichun Chang and Donald Puglisi (collectively,
the Individual Defendants). The complaint also named as defendants certain underwriters,
including Goldman Sachs & Co., Inc. and Deutsche Bank Alex Brown, Inc.
83
The plaintiffs asserted claims against the defendants for alleged violations of Sections 11
and 15 of the Securities Act of 1933 (the Securities Act), Section 10(b) of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934 (the Securities Exchange Act), Rule 10b-5 under the Securities Exchange Act
and Section 20(a) of the Securities Exchange Act. The plaintiffs substantive allegations
included: (i) unlawful conduct in connection with the initial public offering; (ii) the
registration statement or prospectus was materially false and misleading; (iii) market manipulation
through the use of analysts; and (iv) unlawful conduct through the artificial inflation of the
stock price. The plaintiffs sought to hold all defendants jointly and severally liable for class
damages and statutory compensation in an amount to be determined at trial, plus interest, costs and
attorneys fees.
In July 2002, the underwriter defendants filed their motion to dismiss the amended complaints.
Subsequently, the issuer defendants filed their motion to dismiss the amended complaints. The
parties completed the briefing on the motions to dismiss and the District Court held oral arguments
on these motions. In October 2002, the plaintiffs voluntarily dismissed their claims against the
Individual Defendants without prejudice. In February 2003, the District Court granted the motions
in part and denied the motions in part. As to our Company, the Rule 10b-5 claims were dismissed
without prejudice while the Section 11 claims survived the motion.
In June 2004, the plaintiffs and the issuer defendants, including our Company, presented the
executed settlement agreement to the presiding judge during a court conference. The proposed
settlement agreement did not resolve plaintiffs claims against the underwriter defendants. The
terms of settlement, if approved, would have dismissed and released all of the settling issuer
defendants, including our Company. In February 2005, the District Court granted preliminary
approval to the settlement agreement, subject to a narrowing of the proposed bar order as to only
contribution claims. In July 2005, the settling parties reached agreement and submitted
modifications to the settlement agreement in accordance with the District Courts opinion. In
August 2005, the District Court issued an order preliminarily approving the settlement. In April,
2006, the District Court held a fairness hearing on the proposed settlement. In June 2006 and
October 2006, the District Court held meetings with all legal counsel involved in the case to
discuss the proposed settlement. Subsequent to these meetings, the parties submitted an amendment
to the proposed settlement.
In December 2006, the United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit issued an opinion
vacating the District Courts class certification of a litigation class in that portion of the case
between the plaintiffs and the underwriter defendants. In January 2007, plaintiffs filed a petition
in the Second Circuit for rehearing regarding the decision on class certification. In April 2007,
the Second Circuit rendered its decision, which denied the rehearing petition. In June 2007, the
District Court signed an order terminating the settlement.
In September 2007, discovery moved forward in the six focus cases, which do not include our
Company. Plaintiffs filed amended complaints against underwriter defendants and issuer defendants
in the six focus cases and moved for class certification in those actions. The underwriter
defendants and issuer defendants filed a motion to dismiss the amended complaints in the focus
cases. In March 2008, the District Court granted in part and denied in part the motion to dismiss
the focus cases. The motion to dismiss was granted only as to claims brought under Section 11 of
the Securities Act by plaintiffs who sold their securities for a price in excess of the initial
offering price and by those plaintiffs who purchased outside the previously certified class period.
In May 2008, the parties completed briefing on class certification. However, in October 2008, the
motion for class certification was withdrawn without prejudice.
In February 2009, liaison counsel for the plaintiffs informed the District Court that a
settlement agreement had been reached among all the parties to these actions. Subsequently, the
plaintiffs made a motion for preliminary approval of the settlement. On or around June 10, 2009,
the District Court granted the plaintiffs motion for preliminary approval of the settlement
agreement, and set the date for a hearing on final approval of the settlement on September 10,
2009. Subsequently, in October 2009, the judge granted final approval to the settlement. Certain
objectors have filed notices of appeal to the United States Circuit Court for the Second Circuit
seeking to reverse or vacate the order granting final approval to the settlement agreement.
However, no briefs have been filed yet with respect to these appeals.
Pursuant to the settlement agreement, the defendants agreed to pay a total amount of US$586
million (the Settlement Amount) in exchange for the plaintiffs agreement to release all claims
arising from or related to the allegations in the complaint. In addition, the issuers insurers
and the underwriter defendants agreed to advance US$10 million for the purposes of notice and
administration costs. The parties agreed that final approval of the settlement in all actions is
required.
Our Companys share of the Settlement Amount will be paid by the insurance. We had an
insurance policy with American Insurance Group with US$10 million of liability coverage when the
class action lawsuit was made. According to the insurance policy, our Company is required to pay a
US$500,000 deductible. We recorded a provision of US$500,000 in 2003, representing our deductible
amount, related to these claims. In 2005, our legal counsel advised that it is unlikely that we
will have to pay any remaining, unused portion of our deductible with respect to the claims. Accordingly, we reversed the provision
of US$500,000 in 2005. As of December 31, 2009, we were indebted to our legal counsel in the amount
of US$22,388.61 for billed but unpaid fess or other charges, which should be paid by the insurers.
We believe that the insurance coverage is sufficient to cover the liability arising from the
settlement and claims.
84
Patent Litigation
In July 2006, Hoshin GigaMedia, our wholly-owned subsidiary, obtained a patent in Taiwan
(Patent No. I258284), which entitles us to use the method of Point to Point Protocol over
Ethernet to distribute fixed Internet protocol addresses to our ADSL users (the PPPoE Patent).
Two major Taiwanese Internet access and service providers, Taiwan Fixed Network Co., Ltd.
(TFN) and Chunghwa Telecom Co., Ltd. (CHT), are using the PPPoE method to distribute fixed
Internet protocol addresses to their ADSL users, which we believe infringes our PPPoE Patent.
In April and May 2008, we filed lawsuits in Taipei District Court against TFN and CHT for
infringement of our PPPoE Patent and claimed damages amounting to approximately US$1.54 million and
US$15.42 million, respectively. Both TFN and CHT have submitted their defenses and the court
procedures are proceeding. On May 12, 2009, Taipei District Court completed the sixth hearing in
connection with our allegations against CHT and instructed the parties to continue the negotiation
for a settlement. On May 26, 2009, Taipei District Court completed the third hearing in connection
with our allegations against TFN and set the next hearing for further investigation. Neither we,
nor our legal counsel, are able to assess the likelihood of the outcome.
In addition, TFN and CHT filed patent invalidation applications with Taiwan Intellectual
Property Office and Taiwan Ministry of Economic Affairs to invalidate the PPPoE Patent against us
in July 2008 and January 2009, respectively. We submitted our responses to TFN and CHTs patent
invalidation applications in September 2008 and March 2009, respectively. The patent invalidation
applications are still under review and investigation by Taiwan Intellectual Property Office, we
are not able to assess the likelihood of the outcome, nor can we provide a timeline for the
eventual resolutions. On November 20, 2008, we filed an application with Taiwan Intellectual
Property Office to amend the contents of the specification and drawings of our PPPoE Patent to
correct certain errors made therein.
Mgame Arbitration
On February 3, 2010, a notice of arbitration was submitted to the Singapore International
Arbitration Centre (the SIAC) by Hoshin GigaMedia Center Inc., our wholly-owned subsidiary (
HGC) on its own behalf against Mgame Corporation (Mgame) in connection with an Exclusive Game
License Agreement dated as of September 17, 2007 and a Supplemental Agreement dated as of January
1, 2008 (together, the Agreement), under which Mgame granted a license to HGC and Funtown Hong
Kong Limited, our wholly-owned subsidiary, to operate, promote, publish, produce and distribute the
Holic Online game in Taiwan, Hong Kong and Macau (the Notice of Arbitration). In the Notice of
Arbitration, HGC accused Mgame of wrongful actions and of breaching Article 6 of the Agreement.
Mgames wrongful conducts include, but are not limited to: (a) failing to take necessary measures
to ensure that the Holic Online game is adequately protected and safeguarded against any hackings;
(b) failing to effectively take all necessary technical and legal measures against the hackings
occurred during the past twelve months; and (c) unilaterally shutting down the Holic Online game
servers for consecutive three days starting from December 1, 2009 without any reasonable cause or
prior agreement by HGC causing the Holic Online game to become inaccessible and unplayable by the
end users of the Holic Online game.
On April 29, 2010, Mgame filed a response to notice of arbitration and counterclaim under
which Mgame denied all HGCs claims and allegations in the Notice of Arbitration and brought a
counterclaim for (a) declaring that HGC breached its obligations to pay the minimum guarantee as
provided in the Agreement; (b) ordering HGC to pay US$375,000 for its due and outstanding amount of
the minimum guarantee payment together with 3% per annum accrued thereon; and (c) ordering HGC to
pay any other outstanding amounts for which it is liable under the Agreement.
HGC and Mgame agreed that the dispute shall be resolved by arbitration in Singapore in
accordance with the Arbitration Rules of the SIAC and be heard and decided by a sole arbitrator
selected by HGC and Mgame.
85
We believe HGC will be successful in pursuing the arbitration with Mgame. However, there is
no assurance that HGC will be successful in its claims against Mgame, including its claim for
Mgames refunding the minimum guarantee in respect of Taiwan and the costs and expenses of the
arbitration.
ESET Litigation
In September 2009, UIM and Internet Media Licensing Ltd. (IML), our wholly-owned subsidiary,
became aware that ESET, LLC (ESET), an anti-virus software provider, had marked and identified
the software used on the Everest Poker and Everest Casino online gaming websites (the Everest
Software) as malware, which, in turn, resulted in users being blocked and prevented from
accessing the Everest Software. In November 2009, UIM and IML filed a complaint in California
against ESET for defamation, trade libel, tortious interference with contractual relations,
intentional interference with prospective economic advantage and negligent interference with
prospective economic advantage. A hearing was held on April 9, 2010 in San Diego. The motion for
dismissal made by ESET was granted in April 2010. IML and UIM are currently evaluating the benefit
of filing an appeal.
World Series of Poker Litigation
On April 1, 2010, a complaint was filed on behalf of UIM, our wholly owned subsidiary, against
Harrahs License Company, LLC (Harrahs) in connection with the promotional agreement for the
World Series of Poker dated February 24, 2008 (the Agreement) for: (a) breach of the Agreement;
(b) breach of the implied covenant of good faith and fair dealing; (c) unjust enrichment; (d)
declaratory relief; and (e) injunctive relief. The complaint seeks compensatory damages, a
declaration that Harrahs materially breached the Agreement and the Agreement is therefore
terminated as of April 1, 2010, an injunction precluding Harrahs from violating the Agreement
pending the outcome of the litigation, and attorney fees and costs.
A letter of termination was also sent by UIM to Harrahs on April 1, 2010 to terminate the
Agreement for multiple material breaches by Harrahs and to demand the refund of past payments.
An application for a temporary restraining order (TRO) and motion for preliminary injunction
was also filed. The request for the TRO was subsequently denied by the Court. On April 28, 2010,
UIM had a hearing on its motion asking the court to force Harrahs to remove a certain non-Everest
Poker name and logo reference from the broadcasts into France, as UIM has exclusive promotional and
advertising rights pursuant to the Agreement. The motion was denied on the grounds that UIM failed
to show that the broadcasts containing the other references digital overlay were certain to
continue into the future. The court did not rule on the merits of the underlying claims in any
way. The judge has yet to issue a formal order.
Harrahs also filed a motion to dismiss the complaint. The next step in the process will be
oral argument, but a date for a hearing has not yet been scheduled. In addition, on April 27,
2010, Harrahs Interactive Entertainment, Inc. (Harrahs Interactive) filed a separate lawsuit
against UIM for (a) breach of the Agreement; (b) breach of the implied covenant of good faith and
fair dealing; and, (c) unjust enrichment, and included GigaMedia as a defendant for tortious
interference with contractual relations. In May 2009 the Agreement was assigned by Harrahs to
Harrahs Interactive. UIM has asked Harrahs to stipulate to consolidation, and Harrahs has
agreed to do so.
We believe UIM will be successful in pursuing and defending the lawsuits of Harrahs.
However, there is no assurance that UIM will be successful in our claims against Harrahs,
including our claim for compensatory damages and/or attorney fees and costs.
Except
for the above mentioned arbitration and litigations, we confirm that we are not involved
in any other litigation or legal or administrative proceedings that, in our managements view,
would have a material adverse effect on our business operations.
Dividend Policy
We have neither declared nor paid any dividends on our Shares. We anticipate that we will
continue to retain any earnings for use in the operation of our business, and we do not intend to
pay dividends in the foreseeable future. See Item 10, Additional Information B. Memorandum and
Articles of Association Dividends in this annual report.
86
B. Significant Changes
Except as disclosed in this annual report, no significant change has occurred since the date
of our consolidated financial statements.
ITEM 9. THE OFFER AND LISTING
Not applicable, except for A. Offer and Listing Details 4. Information Regarding the
Price History of the Stock and C. Markets as disclosed below.
Our Shares have been listed and traded on the NASDAQ Stock Market since February 18, 2000.
The following table shows, for the periods indicated, the high and low closing prices for our
Shares as quoted on the NASDAQ Stock Market.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Common Shares |
|
Year Ending December 31 |
|
High |
|
|
Low |
|
|
|
(in US$) |
|
2005 |
|
$ |
2.99 |
|
|
$ |
1.30 |
|
2006 |
|
$ |
12.38 |
|
|
$ |
2.90 |
|
2007 |
|
$ |
24.61 |
|
|
$ |
9.28 |
|
2008 |
|
$ |
20.70 |
|
|
$ |
2.90 |
|
2009 |
|
$ |
7.47 |
|
|
$ |
3.04 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Common Shares |
|
Year Ending December 31, 2009 |
|
High |
|
|
Low |
|
|
|
(in US$) |
|
First quarter |
|
$ |
7.47 |
|
|
$ |
4.33 |
|
Second quarter |
|
$ |
7.02 |
|
|
$ |
5.29 |
|
Third quarter |
|
$ |
5.77 |
|
|
$ |
4.41 |
|
Fourth quarter |
|
$ |
4.95 |
|
|
$ |
3.04 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Common Shares |
|
Year Ending December 31, 2010 |
|
High |
|
|
Low |
|
|
|
(in US$) |
|
First quarter |
|
$ |
3.32 |
|
|
$ |
2.74 |
|
Second quarter (through June 25, 2010) |
|
$ |
3.25 |
|
|
$ |
2.03 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Common Shares |
|
Monthly Highs and Lows |
|
High |
|
|
Low |
|
|
|
(in US$) |
|
December 2009 |
|
$ |
4.18 |
|
|
$ |
3.04 |
|
January 2010 |
|
$ |
3.32 |
|
|
$ |
2.74 |
|
February 2010 |
|
$ |
3.06 |
|
|
$ |
2.76 |
|
March 2010 |
|
$ |
3.31 |
|
|
$ |
2.90 |
|
April 2010 |
|
$ |
3.25 |
|
|
$ |
2.98 |
|
May 2010 |
|
$ |
2.98 |
|
|
$ |
2.33 |
|
June 2010 (only through June 25, 2010) |
|
$ |
2.45 |
|
|
$ |
2.03 |
|
Under NASDAQ Rule 4350(l), as amended (Rule 4350(1)), all securities listed on NASDAQ must
be eligible for a direct registration program, or DRS, operated by a registered clearing agency,
unless the foreign private issuer is prohibited from complying by a law or regulation in its home
country. In order to fulfill the direct registration program eligibility requirements, we are
required to, among other provisions; amend our constitutional documents to allow for the issue of
non-certificated securities.
87
We are incorporated in the Republic of Singapore and are subject to the Singapore Companies
Act (Cap.50). We are advised by our Singapore counsel that, under the Singapore Companies Act,
Singapore-incorporated companies are required to issue physical share certificates to its
registered shareholders, and there are no exceptions to or exemptions from this requirement that
would enable us to amend our constitutional documents to allow for the issue of non-certificated
securities. Therefore, we will not be able to comply with the DRS eligibility provisions of Rule
4350(l).
Under Rule 4350(1), as a foreign private issuer, we are allowed to follow our home country
practice in lieu of the requirements set out in the rule, subject to certain exceptions. We will be
relying on this rule for an exemption from the DRS eligibility requirement under Rule 4350(l). We
have informed the NASDAQ Stock Market about our election to comply with the laws of Singapore in
lieu of the DRS eligibility provisions of Rule 4350(l).
ITEM 10. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
A. Share Capital
Not applicable.
B. Memorandum and Articles of Association
We incorporate by reference into this annual report the description of our amended memorandum
and articles of association contained in our annual report for the year ended December 31, 2007 on
Form 20-F (File No. 000-30540), filed with the SEC on June 30, 2008.
As of May 31, 2010, an aggregate of 55,340,202 shares have been issued and are outstanding.
C. Material Contracts
The following are summaries of our certain material contracts. However, these summaries may
not contain all the information important to you. For more complete information, you should read
the entire agreements, which have been included as exhibits to this annual report.
Sale of Internet Access and Service Business
Share Sales and Purchase Agreement among Champion Limited, Gigamedia International Holdings
Limited and GigaMedia, dated August 28, 2008
On August 28, 2008, we entered into a share sale and purchase agreement, pursuant to which we
sold 100 percent of Hoshin Multimedia to Champion Limited, an affiliate of China Network Systems
Co., Ltd. for an aggregate sale price of US$7.0 million.
Share Sales and Purchase Agreement between China Network Systems Co., Ltd. and Hoshin
GigaMedia, dated August 28, 2008
On August 28, 2008, we entered into a share sale and purchase agreement, pursuant to which we
sold 100 percent of KBT, our wholly-owned subsidiary, to China Network Systems Co., Ltd. for an
aggregate sale price of US$10.0 million. In addition, we may be entitled to receive additional cash
payments of US$3.0 million and US$2.0 million if the Internet access and service business that we
sold achieves certain earn-out targets by September 2009 and September 2010, respectively. The
earn-out targets will be determined by future gross profits in accordance with a formula and
timeline set forth in the agreement.
88
Asset Sale and Purchase Agreement among Ko Ying Co., Ltd., Hoshin GigaMedia and China Network
Systems Co., Ltd., dated August 28, 2008
On August 28, 2008, we entered into an asset sale and purchase agreement, pursuant to which we
sold certain assets, rights, interests related to our Internet access and service business to Ko
Ying Co., Ltd. (Ko Ying), a wholly-owned subsidiary of China Network Systems Co., Ltd., and Ko
Ying assumed certain liabilities, for a total sale price of US$3.0 million, subject to certain
adjustment.
Transitional Service Agreement among Ko Ying, Hoshin GigaMedia and KBT, dated September 3,
2008
On September 3, 2008, we entered into a transitional service agreement with Ko Ying, under
which we agreed to provide certain transitional services to facilitate the sale of our Internet
access and service business under the relevant sales and purchase agreements.
Assignment and Assumption Agreement between Hoshin GigaMedia and Hoshin Multimedia, dated
September 3, 2008
In connection with our sale of 100 percent of Hoshin Multimedia to Champion Limited, an
affiliate of China Network Systems Co., Ltd., on September 3, 2008, Hoshin GigaMedia entered into
an assignment and assumption agreement with Hoshin Multimedia, under which Hoshin GigaMedia
assigned to Hoshin Multimedia all of the its rights, interests, duties and obligations with respect
to certain broadband service agreement. Before the assignment and assumption, Hoshin GigaMedia had
exclusive rights and interests to provide broadband Internet services through the cable TV system
under the broadband service agreement.
Transactions with Infocomm Asia
Subscription Agreement between Infocomm Asia and GigaMedia Asia Pacific Limited, dated April
30, 2010
On April 30, 2010, we entered into a subscription agreement with Infocomm Asia, under which
Infocomm Asia agreed to allot and issue, and we agreed to subscribe for, an aggregate of 10,000,000
class B preference shares of Infocomm Aisa at US$1.00 for each share, for an aggregate
consideration of US$10 million.
The Amendment to the Subscription Agreement between Infocomm Asia and GigaMedia Asia Pacific
Limited, June 25, 2010
On June 25, 2010, we entered into an amendment to the subscription agreement with Infocomm
Asia, under which Infocomm Asia agreed to allot and issue, and we agreed to subscribe and pay for
500,000 class B preference shares of Infocomm Asia at US$20.00 for each share, for an aggregate
consideration of US$10 million. Except as expressly modified in this Amendment, all other terms and
conditions contained in the Subscription Agreement dated April 30, 2010 shall remain in full force
and effect.
Share Purchase Agreement between Infocomm Investments Pte Ltd and GigaMedia Asia Pacific
Limited, dated April 30, 2010
On April 30, 2010, we entered into a share purchase agreement with Infocomm Investments Pte
Ltd, under which Infocomm Investments Pte Ltd agreed to sell and we agreed to purchase, a total of
3,000,000 class A preference shares of Infocomm Asia for an aggregate consideration of US$1.5
million.
89
Share Purchase Agreement between Bodhi Investments LLC and GigaMedia Asia Pacific Limited,
dated April 30, 2010
On April 30, 2010, we entered into a share purchase agreement with Bodhi Investments LLC,
under which Bodhi Investments LLC agreed to sell and we agreed to purchase, a total of 208,881
class B preference shares of Infocomm Asia for an aggregate consideration of US$2,668,430.
Share Purchase Agreement between China Interactive Limited and GigaMedia Asia Pacific Limited, dated June 30, 2010
On June 30, 2010, we entered into a share purchase agreement with China Interactive Limited, under which China Interactive
Limited agreed to sell and we agreed to purchase, a total of 3,000,000 class A preference shares of Infocomm Asia for an aggregate consideration of US$3 million.
Deed of Guarantee, Undertaking and Indemnity among GigaMedia Asia Pacific Limited, Management
Capital International Ltd and China Interactive Limited, dated April 30, 2010
On April 30, 2010, we entered into a deed of guarantee, undertaking and indemnity with
Management Capital International and China Interactive Limited, under which we agreed to provide a
guarantee on behalf of Infocomm Asia and its wholly owned subsidiary Monsoon Online Pte. Ltd.
(Monsoon) to a licensor of certain games to Infocomm Asia and Monsoon. The guarantee includes but
is not limited to payment of the royalties, license fees and the minimum guarantees associated with
the licensed games as set forth within relevant licensing agreements.
Shareholder Loan Agreement between GigaMedia Asia Pacific Limited and Infocomm Asia, dated
April 30, 2010
On April 30, 2010, we entered into a shareholder loan agreement with Infocomm Asia, under
which we agreed to make available a loan facility to Infocomm Asia and Infocomm Asia agreed to
borrow from us, in a fixed aggregate principal amount of US$7 million. The loan is to be used by
Infocomm Asia to support its current operations. The loan has a five year term and bears interest
at 3 percent per annum. The shareholder loan agreement was amended on June 1, 2010.
Loan Assignment Agreement among GigaMedia Asia Pacific Limited, Infocomm Asia and Spring Asia
Limited, dated June 1, 2010
On June 1, 2010, we entered into a loan assignment agreement with Infocomm Asia and Spring
Asia Limited, under which we agreed to assign and transfer to Spring Asia Limited, a Labuan company
wholly owned by us, and Spring Asia Limited agreed to accept the assignment and transfer from us
of, all of our rights and interests as a lender under the Shareholder Loan Agreement dated April
30, 2010 and the Amendment to Shareholder Loan Agreement dated June 1, 2010.
Loan Agreement between Spring Asia Limited and Infocomm Asia, dated May 20, 2010
On May 20, 2010, we entered into a loan agreement with Infocomm Asia, under which we agreed to
make available a loan facility to Infocomm Asia and Infocomm Asia agreed to borrow from us, in a
fixed aggregate principal amount of US$6.5 million. Infocomm Asia shall apply the loan towards
meeting its working capital requirements. The loan will expire at the closing date of the
subscription agreement between Infocomm Asia and us dated April 30, 2010 and bears interest at 3
percent per annum. The loan agreement was amended on June 1, 2010.
Transaction with Mangas Gaming
Stock and Asset Purchase Agreement among Mangas Gaming, GigaMedia Limited, UIM and the Other
Parties Named Thereto, dated December 15, 2009 and Amendment No. 1 to Stock and Asset Purchase
Agreement, dated March 31, 2010
On December 15, 2009, we entered into a stock and asset purchase agreement with Mangas Gaming,
UIM and the other parties named in the agreement, under which we agreed to sell 60 percent interest
in our online game software business to Mangas, a leading European sports betting and online gaming
group. The strategic alliance with Mangas was structured as a stock and asset sale to a
newly-formed French entity, Mangas Everest, in which we received a 40 percent stake. The sale was
completed on April 8, 2010.
As part of and as a condition to the completion of the transaction, we purchased the shares of
our then-major licensee, UIM, all of the material assets of which were sold to Mangas Everest as
part of the transaction. We had historically consolidated UIMs assets, liabilities and results of
operations in our consolidated financial statements in accordance with the FASB Accounting
Standards Codification, although we did not historically hold any equity ownership in UIM. UIM was
an online entertainment operator that provided online gaming services, including online casinos and virtual poker rooms. We
sometimes refer to our online gaming software business and UIMs business as the Everest
Business. For its 60 percent stake in the Everest Business, Mangas made an initial cash payment of
approximately US$100 million, which will be followed by a final earn-out payment in 2012 to be
determined by reference to the fair-market value of Mangas Everest in May 2012.
90
We hold the remaining 40 percent of Mangas Everest with a put option to sell all or part of
its share to Mangas. The put option is exercisable in 2013, 2014 and 2015. Mangas holds a call
option on any remaining Mangas Everest interests held by GigaMedia which it may exercise in 2015
and 2016. For both GigaMedias put option and Mangass call option, the price paid will be
determined based upon the fair market value of Mangas Everest as of December 31 of the prior year,
as determined by mutual agreement between the parties or, failing that, an appraisal process.
GigaMedia has retained liability for certain potential tax claims, if any, and existing
liabilities of the Everest Business, and also has agreed to provide a limited indemnity with
respect to breaches of representations and warranties (which generally survive until December 31,
2011) and covenants contained in the purchase agreement.
While Mangas will generally control the day-to-day operations of Mangas Everest, so long as we
at least hold 20 percent of Mangas Everests share capital, we will have approval rights over
certain material actions of Mangas Everest, including certain issuances of securities of Mangas
Everest, certain acquisitions and dispositions of assets and material changes to the principal
business of Mangas Everest. In addition, so long as GigaMedia holds at least 10 percent of Mangas
Everests share capital, we will have representation on the board of directors of Mangas Everest.
Mangas has agreed that it will not acquire other online poker businesses without first giving
Mangas Everest the opportunity to acquire such business, at GigaMedias discretion, so long as
GigaMedia holds at least 20 percent of Mangas Everests share capital.
T2CN Agreement with Jinyou
See Item 4, Information on the Company C. Organizational Structure in this annual report.
Other Material Contracts
Other material contracts are incorporated by reference to our annual reports for the year
ended December 31, 2007 and for the year ended December 31, 2008 on Form 20-F (File No. 000-30540)
and for additional information on our material contracts, see Item 7, Major Shareholders and
Related Party Transactions B. Related Party Transactions in this annual report.
D. Exchange Controls
There are no limitations imposed by Singapore law or by our Articles of Association on the
right of a non-resident or foreign owner to hold or vote the Shares.
As we have disclosed in Item 3, Key Information D. Risk Factors Risk Related to Doing
Business in Greater China Changes in foreign exchange and foreign investment regulations and
limitations on dividend payment in the PRC may affect our ability to invest in China and the
ability of our PRC subsidiaries to pay dividends and service debts in this annual report, Renminbi
is not a freely convertible currency at present. Under the current PRC regulations, conversion of
Renminbi is permitted in China for routine current-account foreign exchange transactions, including
trade and service related foreign exchange transactions, payment of dividends and service of
foreign debts. Conversion of Renminbi for most capital-account items, such as direct investments,
investments in PRC securities markets and repatriation of investments, however, is still subject to
the approval of SAFE or its local competent branches.
Pursuant to the above-mentioned administrative rules, foreign-invested enterprises, such as
our PRC subsidiaries, may buy, sell and/or remit foreign currencies for current-account
transactions at banks in the PRC with authorization to conduct foreign exchange business by
complying with certain procedural requirements, such as presentment of valid commercial documents.
For capital-account transactions involving foreign direct investment, foreign debts and outbound
investment in securities and derivatives, approval from SAFE or its local competent branches is a
pre-condition. Capital investments by foreign-invested enterprises outside the PRC are subject
to limitations and requirements in the PRC, such as prior approvals from the MOFCOM, SAFE and
National Development and Reform Commission of the PRC.
91
E. Taxation
Singapore Tax Considerations
Taxation of Dividends received by Singapore Resident Shareholders
Dividends paid by us would be taxable in Singapore if they are received in Singapore or if
they are considered, in the hands of a particular shareholder, to be derived in Singapore (for
example if they constitute the income of a trade or business carried out in Singapore).
Under the Singapore-Taiwan Tax Treaty, if a dividend is paid by a company which is tax
resident in Taiwan to a person who is tax resident in Singapore, the tax on the dividend shall not
exceed an amount which, together with the corporate income tax on the profits of the company paying
the dividends, constitutes 40 percent of that part of the taxable income out of which the dividends
are paid. The term corporate income tax payable shall be deemed to include the corporate income
tax that would have been paid but for the reduction or exemption under the laws designed to promote
economic development.
If our shareholder is a company receiving or deriving such dividends is tax resident in
Singapore, he would be entitled to foreign tax credits under the Singapore-Taiwan Tax Treaty and,
if the recipient is a company which owns not less than 25 percent of our Shares, the tax credit
will include underlying tax paid by us.
Singapore foreign tax credit is limited to the lower of the foreign tax suffered and the
Singapore tax payable on the net foreign income (after attributable and allowable expenses).
Certain foreign dividends received by a Singapore resident person on or after June 1, 2003 will,
however, be exempt from tax. The main conditions to be satisfied for such exemption are that:
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the dividends are received from a jurisdiction with a maximum tax rate on the trade
or business income of a company of at least 15 percent; and |
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the dividends themselves, or the income from which they are paid, have been subject
to tax in the foreign jurisdiction or have been exempted from tax under an incentive
granted for substantive business activities. |
The normal tax rate for corporate profits in Singapore is 17 percent for the year of
assessment 2010 (i.e., for the income earned in the financial year or other basis period ended
2009). Resident individuals are subject to tax at progressive rates.
If our shareholders are corporations, our shareholders will be regarded as being tax resident
in Singapore if the control and management of our shareholders business is exercised in Singapore.
For example, if our shareholders board of directors meets and conducts the business of our
shareholders company in Singapore, our shareholders will be regarded as tax resident in Singapore.
If our shareholders are individuals, our shareholders will be regarded as being tax resident in
Singapore in a year of assessment if, in the preceding year, our shareholders were physically
present in Singapore or exercised an employment in Singapore (other than as directors of a company)
for 183 days or more, or if our shareholders had resided in Singapore.
All foreign-sourced income received in Singapore (except for income received through a
partnership in Singapore) on or after January 1, 2004 by tax resident individuals will be exempt
from tax.
92
Gains on Disposal of Shares
Singapore does not impose tax on capital gains. However, there are no specific laws or
regulations which deal with the characterization of capital gains and hence, gains on disposal of
shares may be construed to be of an income nature and subject to Singapore income tax if they arise
from or are otherwise connected with the activities which the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore
regards as the carrying on of a trade or business in Singapore. You should consult your tax
advisors concerning the Singapore tax consequences of acquiring, owning, selling or otherwise
disposing the Shares.
Stamp Duty
There is no stamp duty payable in respect of the issuance and holding of our Shares. Where
existing shares are acquired in Singapore, stamp duty is payable on the instrument of transfer of
the shares at the rate of S$2.00 for every S$1,000 or any part thereof, of the consideration for
or market value of the shares, whichever is higher. The stamp duty is borne by the purchaser
unless there is an agreement to the contrary. Where an instrument is executed outside Singapore,
or no instrument of transfer is executed, no stamp duty is payable on the acquisition of existing
shares. However, stamp duty would be payable if an instrument of transfer which is executed
outside Singapore is received in Singapore.
Under Singapore law, our directors may not register a transfer of our Shares unless the
instrument of transfer has been duly stamped.
Singapore Estate Duty
Estate duty has been abolished for deaths occurring on or after February 15, 2008.
You should consult your tax advisors regarding the non-Singapore estate duty consequences of
your ownership of our Shares.
Goods and Services Tax (GST)
The sale of our Shares by an investor belonging in Singapore to another person belonging in
Singapore is an exempt supply not subject to GST. Any GST directly or indirectly incurred by the
investor in respect of this exempt supply would be a cost to the investor.
Where our Shares are sold by a GST-registered investor to a person belonging outside Singapore
and that person is outside Singapore when the sale is executed, the sale should generally be
considered as taxable supply subject to GST at zero-rate. Any GST incurred by the investor in the
making of such supply, if the same is a supply in the course of or furtherance of a business may be
fully recoverable from the Comptroller of GST.
Services such as brokerage, handling and clearing services rendered by a GST-registered person
to an investor belonging in Singapore in connection with the investors purchase, sale or holding
of our Shares will be subject to GST at the rate of 7 percent (previously, the GST rate was 5
percent). Similar services rendered to an investor belonging outside Singapore should generally be
subject to GST at zero-rate.
93
U.S. Tax Considerations
U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations for U.S. Holders
The following is a discussion of certain U.S. federal income tax considerations for investors
in Shares that are U.S. persons (as defined below) that hold the Shares as a capital asset. This
discussion is based on U.S. federal income tax law as in effect on the date
hereof, which is subject to change, possibly on a retroactive basis. This discussion is for
general information only and does not address all of the tax considerations that may be relevant to
you in light of your particular circumstances or if you are subject to special treatment under the
U.S. federal income tax laws, including if you are a:
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financial institution or insurance company; |
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person holding Shares as part of a straddle, hedge, conversion or other integrated
investment; |
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a person owning, actually or constructively, 10 percent or more of the combined
voting power of all classes of our stock; or |
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a person whose functional currency is not the U.S. dollar. |
This discussion does not address any U.S. state, local or foreign tax, or any U.S. federal
estate, gift or alternative minimum tax consideration of a holder of our Shares.
As used in this discussion, the term U.S. person means a:
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individual who is a citizen or resident of the United States; |
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corporation, or other entity treated as a corporation, created or organized under
the laws of the United States or any political subdivision thereof; |
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estate, the income of which is subject to U.S. federal income taxation regardless of
its source; or |
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trust if (1) it is subject to the primary supervision of a court within the United
States and one or more U.S. persons have the authority to control all substantial
decisions of the trust, or (2) it has otherwise elected to be treated as a U.S. person
under the Internal Revenue Code. |
If a partnership (including any entity treated as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax
purposes) holds Shares, the tax treatment of a partner in such partnership will generally depend
upon the status of the partner and the activities of the partnership. If you are a partner of a
partnership holding Shares, you are urged to consult your tax advisors as to the particular U.S.
federal income tax consequences as applicable to you.
You are urged to consult your tax advisor concerning the particular U.S. federal, state, local
and foreign income and other tax considerations regarding the ownership and disposition of the
Shares, including the application of the passive foreign investment company rules discussed below.
Investors should carefully review the discussion below under ¾Passive Foreign Investment
Company Rules.
94
Taxation of Dividends
Except as discussed below with respect to the passive foreign investment company tax rules,
the amount of distributions you receive on your Shares (other than certain pro rata distributions
of our Shares or rights to subscribe for Shares) will generally be treated as dividend income to
you if the distributions are made from our current and accumulated earnings and profits as
calculated according to U.S. federal income tax principles. Because we do not intend to determine
our earnings and profits on the basis of U.S. federal income tax principles, any distribution paid
will generally be treated as a dividend for U.S. federal income tax purposes. You will include
such dividends in your gross income as ordinary income on the day you actually or constructively
receive them. The amount of any distribution of property other than cash will be the fair market
value of such property on the date it is distributed. A non-corporate recipient of dividend income
will generally be subject to tax on dividend income from a qualified foreign corporation at a
maximum U.S. federal tax rate of 15 percent rather than the marginal tax rates generally applicable
to ordinary income, so long as certain holding period requirements are met. A non-U.S. corporation
(other than a passive foreign investment company) generally will be considered to be a qualified
foreign corporation (i) if it is eligible for the benefits of a comprehensive tax treaty with the
United States which the Secretary of Treasury of the United States determines is satisfactory for
purposes of this provision and which includes an exchange of information program or (ii) with
respect to any dividend it pays on stock which is readily tradable on an established securities
market in the United States. There is currently no tax treaty in effect between the United States
and Singapore. Shares are expected to be readily tradable on the NASDAQ Global Market, an
established securities market in the United States. U.S. corporate holders will generally not be
eligible for the dividends received deduction for distributions to domestic corporations with
regard to distributions on Shares.
The amount of any distribution paid in a currency other than the U.S. dollar will equal the
U.S. dollar value of the foreign currency you receive, calculated by reference to the exchange rate
in effect on the date you actually or constructively receive the distribution, regardless of
whether the foreign currency is actually converted into U.S. dollars. If you do not convert the
foreign currency you receive as a dividend on the date of receipt, you will have a basis in such
foreign currency equal to its U.S. dollar value on the date of receipt. Any gain or loss you
realize when you subsequently sell or otherwise dispose of such foreign currency generally will be
ordinary income or loss from sources within the United States for foreign tax credit limitation
purposes.
Holders may generally elect to claim a credit against their U.S. federal income tax liability
for Singapore tax withheld from dividends received with regard to the Shares. The rules relating
to the determination of the foreign tax credit are complex, and prospective purchasers are urged to
consult their personal tax advisors to determine whether and to what extent they would be entitled
to such credit. Holders that do not elect or are not permitted to claim foreign tax credits may
instead claim a deduction for Singapore tax withheld, but only for a year in which such holder
elects to do so for all creditable foreign income taxes. You will not be eligible for a foreign
tax credit for the underlying Singapore taxes on profits paid by us with respect to such dividends.
Sale or other disposition of Shares. Except as discussed below with respect to the passive
foreign investment company tax rules, a holder generally will recognize capital gain or loss for
U.S. federal income tax purposes upon a sale or other disposition of our Shares in an amount equal
to the difference between the amount realized from the sale or disposition and the holders
adjusted tax basis in the Shares. Such gain or loss generally will be long-term (taxable at a
reduced rate for individuals) if, on the date of sale or disposition, the Shares were held by the
holder for more than one year and will generally be treated as gain or loss from U.S. sources for
foreign tax credit purposes. The deductibility of a capital loss may be subject to limitations.
Passive Foreign Investment Company Rules
In general, we will be classified as a passive foreign investment company (PFIC) for any
taxable year if either (i) at least 75 percent of our gross income is passive income or (ii) at
least 50 percent of the value (determined on the basis of a quarterly average) of our assets
produce or are held for the production of passive income. For this purpose, cash and other liquid
assets are generally classified as passive and goodwill and other unbooked intangibles associated
with active business activities may generally be classified as active. We will be treated as
owning a proportionate share of the assets and earning a proportionate share of the income of any
other corporation in which we own, directly or indirectly, more than 25% (by value) of the stock.
In light of our significant cash balances resulting from our Transaction with Mangas, we may be
classified as a PFIC for the current taxable year. Whether we are classified as a PFIC in the
current or any future taxable year will be determined on the basis of, among other things, our
asset values (including, among other items, the level of our cash, cash equivalents and short-term
investments) and gross income (including whether such income is active versus passive income as
specially determined under the PFIC rules) for such taxable year, which assets, both of which and
gross income are subject to change from year to year. Because the determination of whether we
are a PFIC is a factual determination made annually and because there are uncertainties in the
application of the relevant rules, there can be no assurance we will not be classified a PFIC in
the current or any future taxable year. Such determination will depend, in part, on the market
value of our Shares, which we cannot control, and the composition of our income and assets will be
affected by how, and how quickly, we spend our liquid assets and the cash raised in our transaction with Mangas. Provided we are a PFIC for any taxable year
during your holding period of our Shares, the PFIC tax rules discussed below generally will apply
in future years even if we cease to be a PFIC in subsequent years. The 15 percent maximum rate on
our dividends would not apply if we are or become classified as a PFIC.
95
If we are classified as a PFIC for any taxable year during which you hold Shares, and unless
you make a mark-to-market election (as described below), you will generally be subject to special
tax rules that have a penalizing effect, regardless of whether we remain a PFIC, on (i) any excess
distribution that we make to you (which generally means any distribution received by you in a
taxable year that is greater than 125 percent of the average annual distributions received by you
in the three preceding taxable years or your holding period for the Shares, if shorter), and (ii)
any gain realized on the sale or other disposition, including a pledge, of our Shares. Under these
PFIC rules the:
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excess distribution or gain would be allocated ratably over your holding period for
the Shares; |
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amount allocated to the current taxable year and any taxable year prior to the first
taxable year in which we are classified as a PFIC (a pre-PFIC year) would be taxable
as ordinary income; |
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amount allocated to each prior taxable year, other than the current taxable year or
a pre-PFIC year, would be subject to tax at the highest tax rate in effect applicable
to you for that year; and |
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interest charge generally applicable to underpayments of tax would be imposed on the
tax attributable to each prior taxable year, other than the current taxable year or a
pre-PFIC year. |
As an alternative to the foregoing rules, a holder of marketable stock in a PFIC may make a
mark-to-market election, provided that the Shares are actively traded on a qualified exchange.
Under applicable Treasury regulations, a qualified exchange includes a national securities
exchange that is registered with the SEC or the national market system established under the
Securities and Exchange Act of 1934 (i.e., the NASDAQ Global Market). In addition, we believe
that, based on the current level of trading activity of our Shares on the NASDAQ Global Market,
Shares should qualify as being actively traded, but no assurances may be given in this regard. If
you make this election, you will generally (i) include as income for each taxable year the excess,
if any, of the fair market value of your Shares at the end of the taxable year over the adjusted
tax basis of the Shares and (ii) deduct as a loss the excess, if any, of the adjusted tax basis of
the Shares over the fair market value of the Shares at the end of the taxable year, but only to the
extent of the amount previously included in income as a result of the mark-to-market election.
Your adjusted tax basis in the Shares would be adjusted to reflect any income or loss resulting
from the mark-to-market election. If you make a mark-to-market election in respect of a
corporation classified as a PFIC and such corporation ceases to be classified as a PFIC, you will
generally not be required to take into account the gain or loss described above during any period
that such corporation is not classified as a PFIC.
The QEF Election, which serves as a further alternative to the foregoing rules, is not
available.
Under recently enacted legislation, each U.S. person who holds a PFIC is required to file an
annual report containing such information as the U.S. Treasury may require. In addition, if a U.S.
person holds Shares in any year in which we are a PFIC, such holder will be required to file
Internal Revenue Service Form 8621 regarding distributions received on the Shares, any gain
realized on the disposition of the Shares, and any reportable election.
Backup Withholding and Information Reporting
Recently enacted legislation imposes new reporting requirements on certain U.S. individual
investors in connection with holding shares of a foreign company, including our Shares, either
directly or through a foreign financial institution. This new legislation also imposes penalties
if a holder is required to submit such information to the Internal Revenue Service and fails to do
so. In addition, U.S. individual investors may be subject to information reporting to the Internal
Revenue Service with respect to dividends on and proceeds from the sale or other disposition of our
Shares. Dividend payments with respect to our Shares and proceeds from the sale or other
disposition of our Shares are not generally subject to U.S. backup withholding (provided that
certain certification requirements are satisfied). U.S. individual investors should consult their
tax advisors regarding the application of the United States information reporting and backup rules
to their particular circumstances.
96
F. Dividends and Paying Agents
Not applicable.
G. Statements by Experts
Not applicable.
H. Documents on Display
The SEC allows us to incorporate by reference the information we file with the SEC. This
means that we can disclose important information to you by referring you to another document filed
separately with the SEC. The information incorporated by reference in this annual report is
considered to be part of this annual report. We therefore incorporate by reference in Item 19 of
this annual report certain exhibits, which we filed with the SEC in prior filings. You may read
and copy this annual report, including the exhibits incorporated by reference in this annual
report, at the public reference room maintained by the SEC at 100 F Street, N.E., Washington, D.C.
20549. You can request copies of these documents upon payment of a duplicating fee, by writing to
the SEC. Please call the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330 for further information on the operation of the
public reference rooms. Additional information may also be obtained over the Internet at the SECs
website at www.sec.gov.
You may also request a copy of our SEC filings, at no cost, upon written request to our
investor relations department at 8th Floor, 207 Tiding Boulevard, Section 2, Taipei 114, Taiwan,
R.O.C., or by e-mail to: Brad.miller@GigaMedia.com.tw. A copy of each report submitted in
accordance with applicable U.S. law is also available for public review at our principal executive
offices.
As a foreign private issuer, we are exempt under the Securities Exchange Act from, among other
things, the rules prescribing the furnishing and content of proxy statements, and our executive
officers, directors and principal shareholders are exempt from the reporting and short-swing profit
recovery provisions contained in Section 16 of the Securities Exchange Act. In addition, we will
not be required under the Securities Exchange Act to file periodic reports and financial statements
with the SEC as frequently or as promptly as U.S. companies whose securities are registered under
the Securities Exchange Act.
I. Subsidiary Information
Not applicable.
ITEM 11. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
Market risk is the risk of loss related to adverse changes in market prices, including
interest rates and foreign exchange rates, of financial instruments. We are exposed to various
types of market risks in the normal course of business, including changes in interest rates and
foreign currency exchange rates.
Foreign Currency Risk
Our subsidiaries conduct most of their business transactions in their own measurement
currencies; therefore the foreign currency risks derived from operations are not significant.
However, we hold some assets or liabilities in foreign currencies other than measurement currency
and the value of these assets and liabilities are subject to foreign currency risks resulting from
fluctuations in exchange rates between the foreign-denominated currency and the measurement
currency. We have not used hedging transactions to reduce our exposure to exchange rate
fluctuations; however, we may choose to do so in the future. For more information on foreign
currency translations for our financial reporting purposes, see note 1(b) to our audited
consolidated financial statements beginning on page F-1 in this annual report.
97
As of December 31, 2009, we had bank deposits of approximately US$3.3 million denominated in
foreign currencies other than measurement currencies of the entities holding such assets. These
assets are subject to foreign currency exchange risk. We recorded a realized foreign exchange gain
of approximately US$247 thousand and unrealized foreign exchange loss of approximately US$79
thousand in the year ended December 31, 2009.
As of December 31, 2009, we had available-for-sale marketable securities of approximately
US$9.6 million and denominated in foreign currencies other than measurement currencies of the
entity holding such assets. Future fluctuation of the exchange rates could impact the periodic
impairment assessment on other-than-temporary loss of these assets.
Based on the sensitivity analysis of our exposure to foreign currency exchange rate risk
related our bank deposits and available-for-sale marketable securities which were denominated in a
foreign currency other than functional currencies of the entities holding such assets, a
hypothetical 10 percent change in the exchange rate between the U.S. dollar and the underlying
currencies of those instruments subject to foreign currency exchange rate risk would result in a
change of approximately 0.7 percent in our total equity as of December 31, 2009.
Interest Rate Risk
Our exposure to interest rates relates primarily to our short-term loans from various banks.
The variations in fair value of the marketable securities that we owned as of December 31, 2009 do
not have direct relationship with interest rates changes. As of December 31, 2009, we had no
investment in fixed-income or money market investment funds. Declines in interest rates over time
will, however, reduce our interest income from our bank deposits. Increases in interest rates of
the loans will increase our interest expenses. As of December 31, 2009, we had approximately
US$22.5 million of short-term loans, with a weighted average interest rate of approximately 2.24
percent. Based on our sensitivity analysis with respect to our short-term loans, we have no
significant exposure to fluctuations in interest rates. We have not entered into any interest rate
swaps, caps or hedge contracts to modify our exposure to interest rate fluctuations.
We did not include a quantitative tabular disclosure regarding the foreign currency risk and
the interest rate risk. As noted above, we believe that the magnitude of selected hypothetical
changes to such market risks on the consolidated financial statements is not significant. However,
we cannot assure you that we will not be affected by these risks in the future.
Other Market Risks
We are also exposed to other market risks, which are mainly derived from our investments.
Changes in the stock price, performance or net asset value of the companies that we invested and
investment funds might have significant impact on our financial positions or operating results.
ITEM 12. DESCRIPTION OF SECURITIES OTHER THAN EQUITY SECURITIES
Not applicable.
PART II
ITEM 13. DEFAULTS, DIVIDEND ARREARAGES AND DELINQUENCIES
None.
98
ITEM 14. MATERIAL MODIFICATIONS TO THE RIGHTS OF SECURITY HOLDERS AND USE OF PROCEEDS
A. Material Modification to the Instruments Defining the Rights of Security Holders
None.
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B. |
Material Modification to the Rights of Registered Securities by Issuing or Modifying or any Other Class of Securities |
None.
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C. |
Withdrawal or Substitution of a Material Amount of the Assets Securing any Registered Securities |
Not applicable.
D. Change of Trustees or Paying Agents for any Registered Securities
None.
E. Use of Proceeds
Not applicable.
ITEM 15. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
Disclosure Controls and Procedures
Our management, with the participation of our chief executive officer and our chief financial
officer, has evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined by
Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act) as December 31, 2009. There are
inherent limitations to the effectiveness of any system of disclosure controls and procedures,
including the possibility of human error and the circumvention or overriding of the controls and
procedures. Accordingly, in designing and evaluating the disclosure controls and procedures,
management recognized that any controls and procedures, no matter how well designed and operated,
can provide only reasonable, rather than absolute, assurance of achieving the desired control
objectives, and management necessarily was required to apply its judgment in evaluating the
cost-benefit relationship of possible controls and procedures.
Based upon that evaluation, and taking into account the foregoing, our chief executive officer
and chief financial officer have concluded that, as of December 31, 2009, our disclosure controls
and procedures were effective in providing reasonable assurance that information required to be
disclosed by us in the reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act was recorded,
processed, summarized and reported on a timely basis, and these controls and procedures were
effective in ensuring that information required to be disclosed by us in the reports that we file
or submit under the Exchange Act was accumulated and communicated to our management, including our
chief executive officer and chief financial officer, as appropriate to allow timely decisions
regarding required disclosure.
Managements Annual Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
Management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over
financial reporting (as defined by Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Exchange Act). Our
internal control over financial reporting is designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the
reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external
purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States. Our
internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (i) pertain
to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the
transactions and dispositions of our assets; (ii) provide reasonable assurance that transactions
are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with
generally accepted accounting principles in the United States and that receipts and expenditures
are being made only in accordance with authorizations of our management and directors and (iii)
provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition,
use or disposition of our assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.
99
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent
or detect all misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of the effectiveness of internal
control to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of
changes in conditions, and that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may
deteriorate.
Management assessed the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of
December 31, 2009. In making this assessment, management used the criteria set forth by the
Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO) in Internal Control
Integrated Framework. Based on our assessment using those criteria, our management has concluded
that our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2009 was effective.
Attestation Report of the Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
The effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2009 has
been audited by GHP Horwath, P.C., our independent registered public accounting firm, who has also
audited the consolidated financial statements included in this annual report on Form 20-F and, as
part of the audit, has issued a report, which appears on pages F-1 and F-2 of this annual report,
on the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting.
Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
During the year ended December 31, 2009, there were no changes in our internal control over
financial reporting that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect,
our internal control over financial reporting.
ITEM 16. Reserved
ITEM16A. AUDIT COMMITTEE FINANCIAL EXPERT
Our board of directors has determined that Mr. Michael Y. J. Ding, an independent director and
a member of our audit committee, is an audit committee financial expert.
ITEM 16B. CODE OF ETHICS
We have adopted a code of ethics, as defined in Item 16B of Form 20-F. Our code of ethics
applies to our chief executive officer, chief financial officer and persons performing similar
functions, as well as to our directors, other officers, employees and consultants. The code of
ethics was amended on December 19, 2005, May 10, 2006 and February 13, 2009 in order to conform
certain provisions in it with our newly adopted anti-fraud policy. The code of ethics was also
amended on April 30, 2010 to incorporate non-competition and non-solicitation provisions. The full
text of our code of ethics is available on our website, www.gigamedia.com If we further amend any
provisions of our code of ethics that apply to our chief executive officer, chief financial officer
or persons performing similar functions, or if we grant any waiver of such provisions, we will
disclose such amendment or waiver on our website at the same address. We will also provide any
person without charge a copy of our code of ethics upon written request to our investor relations
department at 8th Floor, No. 207 Tiding Boulevard, Section 2, Taipei 114, Taiwan, R.O.C., or by
e-mail to: Brad.miller@GigaMedia.com.
On December 19, 2005, our board of directors adopted an anti-fraud policy for the purpose of
preventing fraud schemes, including fraudulent financial reporting misappropriation of assets, any
fraud committed by senior management, and information technology fraud. According to our
anti-fraud policy, our audit committee is responsible for monitoring the implementation of our
anti-fraud policy and procedures, and an anti-fraud taskforce is assigned by our audit committee to
be responsible for the anti-fraud hotline management, risk assessment, complaint investigation and
resolution, and reporting to our chief executive officer, chief financial officer and audit
committee.
On May 10, 2006, our audit committee adopted a whistleblower program pursuant to our
anti-fraud policy. The whistleblower program enables all employees to know how and when to use the
whistleblower hotline and communicate or report, on a confidential or anonymous basis, without fear
of retribution, concerns related to wrongdoings or violations, and ensures that all reported
incidents are properly investigated.
100
On February 13, 2009, the code of ethics was amended to include the anti-fraud taskforces
reporting obligation to our chief exeutive officer, chief financial officer, chief operating
officer and audit committee after reviewing our anti-fraud policy, guidelines on fraud risk
assessment and whistleblower program annually.
On April 30, 2010, our board of directors adopted a non-competition provision under which all
of our employees, consultants, officers and directors may not participate, invest, license, employ
or being employed, or cooperate with any company or entity engaged in a line of business which may
be competitive with the business of the Company within three months after termination of their
employment of the Company, except in cases where the local law or the contract states otherwise.
The Company may take legal actions against such employees, consultants, officers or directors in
the event that non-competition obligations are being violated. An amended non-solicitation
provision was also adopted, under which all our employees, consultants, officers and directors may
not, during their employment or within twelve months after termination of the employment, directly
or indirectly, solicit, entice, or attempt to approach, solicit or entice any of the other
employees of the Company or its affiliates to terminate the employment.
ITEM 16C. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES
The following table summarizes the aggregate fees billed to us by GHP Horwath, P.C. for
services performed relating to the fiscal years ended December 31, 2008 and 2009.
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For the Years Ended December 31, |
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2008 |
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2009 |
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(in US$) |
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(in US$) |
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Audit Fees |
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1,190,974 |
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994,207 |
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Audit-Related Fees |
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0 |
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12,746 |
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Tax Fees |
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23,004 |
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23,123 |
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All Other Fees |
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0 |
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0 |
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A. Audit Fees
Audit fees consist of fees billed for the annual audit of our consolidated financial
statements. Audit fees also include fees for services that are normally provided by the independent
registered public accounting firm in connection with statutory and regulatory filings or
engagements for 2008 and 2009.
B. Audit-Related Fees
Audit-related fees consist of fees billed for assurance and related services that are
reasonably related to the performance of the audit or review of our consolidated financial
statements, and are not reported under the paragraph captioned Audit Fees above. Audit related
fees billed in 2009 consisted of accounting consultations in connection with business acquisitions
and dispositions.
C. Tax Fees
Tax fees include fees billed for tax compliance services, including the preparation of
original and amended tax returns, and tax advisory services.
D. All Other Fees
All other fees are fees billed for services provided by the independent registered public
accounting firm other than the services reported as audit fees, audit-related fees and tax fees
above. No other fees were billed during 2008 and 2009.
E. Audit Committee Pre-Approval Policies and Procedures
In May 2005, we adopted our audit committee charter. Consistent with the SECs policies
regarding auditor independence, our audit committee is directly responsible for the appointment,
compensation, retention and oversight of the work of auditors engaged to provide us with audit,
review or attest services. Our audit committee has sole discretion to review and pre-approve the
appointment of auditors and to set their fees for the performance of audit and non-prohibited non-audit
services in accordance with the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 and the SEC rules and regulations
promulgated thereunder, subject to the appointment, replacement or removal from office of our
independent public accountants as approved by our shareholders at our Annual General Meeting.
101
The appointment of our independent registered public accounting firm, GHP Horwath, P.C., as
well as the scope of each audit, audit-related or non-prohibited, as well as any non-audit services
provided pursuant to such appointment, and our auditors fees for all such services, were approved
by our audit committee.
ITEM 16D. EXEMPTIONS FROM THE LISTING STANDARDS FOR AUDIT COMMITTEES
Not applicable.
ITEM 16E. PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES BY THE ISSUER AND AFFILIATED PURCHASERS
None.
ITEM 16F. CHANGES IN REGISTRANTS CERTIFYING ACCOUNTANTS
Not applicable.
ITEM 16G. CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
Summary of Significant Differences in Corporate Governance Practices
Our Shares are currently listed on the NASDAQ Stock Market and, for so long as our securities
continue to be listed, we will remain subject to the rules and regulations established by NASDAQ as
being applicable to listed companies. Under NASDAQ Rule 5615(a)(3), a foreign private issuer such
as our Company may follow its home country practice in lieu of the requirements of the NASDAQ Rule
5600 Series, with certain exceptions, provided that it discloses each requirement that it does not
follow and describes the home country practice followed in lieu of such requirements. In addition,
NASDAQ has amended its Rule 4350(a)(1) to permit foreign private issuers to follow certain home
country corporate governance practices without the need to seek an individual exemption from
NASDAQ. However, a foreign private issuer must disclose in its annual report filed with the SEC
each requirement it does not follow and the alternative home country practice it does follow.
We are incorporated under the laws of Singapore. We currently comply with the specifically
mandated provisions of NASDAQ Rule 4350. We are currently exempt from the DRS eligibility
provisions of NASDAQ Rule 4350(1) as we are not allowed to issue of non-certificated securities
under Singapore law. See Item 9, The Offer and Listing in this annual report. We have elected
to voluntarily comply with other requirements of NASDAQ Rule 4350 in all material aspects,
notwithstanding that our home country does not mandate compliance; although we may in the future
determine to cease voluntary compliance with those provisions of NASDAQ Rule 4350.
PART III
ITEM 17. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
We have elected to provide financial statements pursuant to Item 18.
102
ITEM 18. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Our consolidated financial statements and the reports thereon by our independent registered
public accounting firm listed below are attached hereto as follows:
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Page |
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F-1 |
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F-2F-3 |
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F-4 |
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F-5 |
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F-6 |
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F-7F-8 |
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F-9F-86 |
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ITEM 19. EXHIBITS
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EXHIBIT |
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INDEX |
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1.1 |
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Amended Memorandum and Articles of Association of our Company, incorporated by reference to Exhibit
1.3 to our annual report for the year 2006 on Form 20-F filed with the SEC on June 29, 2007 |
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4.1 |
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End-User License Agreement between Internet Media Licensing Limited and Ultra Internet Media, S.A.,
dated April 1, 2004, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.41 to our annual report for the year 2004
on Form 20-F filed with the SEC on June 30, 2005 |
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4.2 |
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Second Amendment to the End-User License Agreement between Internet Media Licensing Limited and Ultra
Internet Media, S.A., dated March 1, 2006, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.41 to our annual
report for the year 2005 on Form 20-F filed with the SEC on June 28, 2006 |
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4.3 |
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Third Amendment to the End-User License Agreement between Internet Media Licensing Limited and Ultra
Internet Media, S.A., dated March 1, 2007, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.50 to our annual
report for the year 2006 on Form 20-F filed with the SEC on June 29, 2007 |
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4.4 |
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Fourth Amendment to the End-User License Agreement between Internet Media Licensing Limited and Ultra
Internet Media, S.A., dated March 1, 2008, incorporated by referance to Exhibit 4.4 to our annual report for the year 2008 on Form 20-F filed with the SEC on June 26, 2009 |
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4.5 |
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Exclusive Business Consultancy Service Agreement between T2 Technology and T2 Entertainment, dated
November 15, 2006, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.55 to our annual report for the year 2007 on
Form 20-F filed with the SEC on June 30, 2008 |
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4.6 |
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Supplemental Agreement to Exclusive Business Consultancy Service Agreement between T2 Technology and
T2 Entertainment, dated April 1, 2007, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.56 to our annual report
for the year 2007 on Form 20-F filed with the SEC on June 30, 2008 |
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4.7 |
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Exclusive Technical Service and Consultancy Agreement between T2 Entertainment and T2 Technology,
dated November 15, 2006, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.57 to our annual report for the year
2007 on Form 20-F filed with the SEC on June 30, 2008 |
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4.8 |
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Supplemental Agreement to Exclusive Technical Service and Consultancy Agreement between T2
Entertainment and T2 Technology, dated April 1, 2007, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.58 to our
annual report for the year 2007 on Form 20-F filed with the SEC on June 30, 2008 |
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4.9 |
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Agreement for Pledge of Shares in T2 Entertainment between Wang Chi, Lu Ning and T2 Technology, dated
February 9, 2007, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.59 to our annual report for the year 2007 on
Form 20-F filed with the SEC on June 30, 2008 |
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4.10 |
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Exclusive Call Option Agreement regarding T2 Entertainment between Wang Chi, Lu Ning, T2 Entertainment
and T2 Technology, dated February 9, 2007, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.60 to our annual
report for the year 2007 on Form 20-F filed with the SEC on June 30, 2008 |
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4.11 |
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Proxy Voting Agreement regarding T2 Entertainment between T2 Technology, T2 Entertainment, Wang Chi
and Lu Ning, dated February 9, 2007, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.61 to our annual report
for the year 2007 on Form 20-F filed with the SEC on June 30, 2008 |
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4.12 |
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Exclusive Business Consultancy Service Agreement between T2 Technology and T2 Advertisement, dated
November 15, 2006, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.62 to our annual report for the year 2007 on
Form 20-F filed with the SEC on June 30, 2008 |
103
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EXHIBIT |
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INDEX |
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4.13 |
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Supplemental Agreement to Exclusive Business Consultancy Service Agreement between T2 Technology and
T2 Advertisement, dated January 1, 2007, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.63 to our annual
report for the year 2007 on Form 20-F filed with the SEC on June 30, 2008 |
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4.14 |
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Agreement for Pledge of Shares in T2 Advertisement between Chi Min, Chang Tao and T2 Technology, dated
March 20, 2008, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.64 to our annual report for the year 2007 on
Form 20-F filed with the SEC on June 30, 2008 |
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4.15 |
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Exclusive Call Option Agreement regarding T2 Advertisement between Chi Min, Chang Tao, T2
Advertisement and T2 Technology, dated March 20, 2008, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.65 to
our annual report for the year 2007 on Form 20-F filed with the SEC on June 30, 2008 |
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4.16 |
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Proxy Voting Agreement regarding T2 Advertisement between T2 Technology, T2 Advertisement, Chi Min and
Chang Tao, dated March 20, 2008, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.66 to our annual report for
the year 2007 on Form 20-F filed with the SEC on June 30, 2008 |
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4.17 |
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Share Purchase Agreement between William Zhu and GigaMedia China Limited, dated June 3, 2007,
incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.67 to our annual report for the year 2007 on Form 20-F filed
with the SEC on June 30, 2008 |
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4.18 |
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Share Purchase Agreement between Yu-Chia Lee and GigaMedia China Limited, dated June 6, 2007,
incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.68 to our annual report for the year 2007 on Form 20-F filed
with the SEC on June 30, 2008 |
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4.19 |
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Share Purchase Agreement between Zheng Bin and GigaMedia China Limited, dated June 10, 2007,
incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.69 to our annual report for the year 2007 on Form 20-F filed
with the SEC on June 30, 2008 |
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4.20 |
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Share Purchase Agreement between J&R Music LLC, Ya-Tsen Lin and GigaMedia China Limited, dated July 5,
2007, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.70 to our annual report for the year 2007 on Form 20-F
filed with the SEC on June 30, 2008 |
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4.21 |
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Share Purchase Agreement between Kingland Overseas Development Inc. and GigaMedia China Limited, dated
July 6, 2007, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.71 to our annual report for the year 2007 on Form
20-F filed with the SEC on June 30, 2008 |
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4.22 |
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Share Purchase Agreement between Jim Ji Wang and GigaMedia China Limited, dated July 6, 2007,
incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.72 to our annual report for the year 2007 on Form 20-F filed
with the SEC on June 30, 2008 |
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4.23 |
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Share Purchase Agreement between Marvel City Investments Limited and GigaMedia China Limited, dated
May 26, 2008, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.73 to our annual report for the year 2007 on Form
20-F filed with the SEC on June 30, 2008 |
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4.24 |
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Agreement for Pledge of Shares in Jinyou among Yang Zhuojun, Tan Yihui and T2 Technology, dated June
15, 2009, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.24 to our annual report for the year 2008 on Form 20-F filed with the SEC on June 26, 2009 |
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4.25 |
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Exclusive Call Option Agreement regarding Jinyou among Yang Zhuojun, Tan Yihui, Jinyou and T2
Technology, dated June 15, 2009, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.25 to our annual report for the year 2008 on Form 20-F filed with the SEC on June 26, 2009 |
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4.26 |
|
|
Proxy Voting Agreement regarding Jinyou among T2 Technology, Jinyou, Yang Zhuojun and Tan Yihui, dated
June 15, 2009, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.26 to our annual report for the year 2008 on Form 20-F filed with the SEC on June 26, 2009 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
4.27 |
|
|
Exclusive Business Consultancy Service Agreement between T2 Technology and Jinyou, dated November 26,
2007, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.27 to our annual report for the year 2008 on Form 20-F filed with the SEC on June 26, 2009 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
4.28 |
|
|
Exclusive Technical Service and Consultancy Agreement between Jinyou and T2 Technology, dated November
26, 2007, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.28 to our annual report for the year 2008 on Form 20-F filed with the SEC on June 26, 2009 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
4.29 |
|
|
Share Sales and Purchase Agreement among Champion Limited, Gigamedia International Holdings Limited
and GigaMedia, dated August 28, 2008, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.29 to our annual report for the year 2008 on Form 20-F filed with the SEC on June 26, 2009 |
104
|
|
|
|
|
EXHIBIT |
|
INDEX |
|
|
|
|
|
|
4.30 |
|
|
Share Sales and Purchase Agreement between China Network Systems Co., Ltd. and Hoshin GigaMedia, dated
August 28, 2008, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.30 to our annual report for the year 2008 on Form 20-F filed with the SEC on June 26, 2009 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
4.31 |
|
|
Asset Sale and Purchase Agreement among Ko Ying, Hoshin GigaMedia and China Network Systems Co., Ltd.,
dated August 28, 2008, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.31 to our annual report for the year 2008 on Form 20-F filed with the SEC on June 26, 2009 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
4.32 |
|
|
Transitional Service Agreement among Ko Ying, Hoshin GigaMedia and KBT, dated September 3, 2008,
incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.32 to our annual report for the year 2008 on Form 20-F filed with the SEC on June 26, 2009 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
4.33 |
|
|
Assignment and Assumption Agreement between Hoshin GigaMedia and Hoshin Multimedia, dated September 3, 2008, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.33 to our annual report for the year 2008 on Form 20-F filed with the SEC on June 26, 2009 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
4.34 |
|
|
Subscription Agreement between Infocomm Asia and GigaMedia Asia Pacific Limited, dated April 30, 2010# |
|
|
|
|
|
|
4.35 |
|
|
The Amendment to the Subscription Agreement between Infocomm Asia and GigaMedia Asia Pacific Limited,
dated June 25, 2010# |
|
|
|
|
|
|
4.36 |
|
|
Share Purchase Agreement between Infocomm Investments Pte Ltd and GigaMedia Asia Pacific Limited,
dated April 30, 2010# |
|
|
|
|
|
|
4.37 |
|
|
Share Purchase Agreement between Bodhi Investments LLC and GigaMedia Asia Pacific Limited, dated April
30, 2010# |
|
|
|
|
|
|
4.38 |
|
|
Deed of Guarantee, Undertaking and Indemnity among GigaMedia Asia Pacific Limited, Management Capital
International Ltd and China Interactive Limited, dated April 30, 2010# |
|
|
|
|
|
|
4.39 |
|
|
Shareholder Loan Agreement between GigaMedia Asia Pacific Limited and Infocomm Asia, dated April 30,
2010# |
|
|
|
|
|
|
4.40 |
|
|
Loan Assignment Agreement among GigaMedia Asia Pacific Limited, Infocomm Asia and Spring Asia Limited,
dated June 1, 2010# |
|
|
|
|
|
|
4.41 |
|
|
Loan Agreement between Spring Asia Limited and Infocomm Asia, dated May 20, 2010# |
|
|
|
|
|
|
4.42 |
|
|
Stock and Asset Purchase Agreement among Mangas Gaming, GigaMedia Limited, UIM and the Other Parties
Named Thereto dated December 15, 2009 and Amendment No. 1 to Stock and Asset Purchase Agreement, dated
March 31, 2010# |
|
|
|
|
|
|
4.43 |
|
|
Fifth Amendment to the End-User License Agreement between Internet Media Licensing Limited and Ultra
Internet Media, S.A., dated April 1, 2009# |
|
|
|
|
|
|
4.44 |
|
|
Share Purchase Agreement between China Interactive Limited and GigaMedia Asia Pacific Limited,
dated June 30, 2010# |
|
|
|
|
|
|
8.1 |
|
|
List of Subsidiaries# |
|
|
|
|
|
|
12.1 |
|
|
Certification by our Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(b) of the Securities Exchange Act# |
|
|
|
|
|
|
12.2 |
|
|
Certification by our Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(b) of the Securities Exchange Act# |
|
|
|
|
|
|
13.1 |
|
|
Certification by our Chief Executive Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350 as adopted pursuant
to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002# |
|
|
|
|
|
|
13.2 |
|
|
Certification by our Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350 as adopted pursuant
to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002# |
|
|
|
|
|
|
15.1 |
|
|
Consent of GHP Horwath, P.C., Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm# |
105
SIGNATURE
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.
|
|
|
|
|
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
|
|
|
By: |
/s/ Arthur M. Wang
|
|
|
|
Arthur M. Wang |
|
|
|
Chief Executive Officer
Date: June 30, 2010 |
|
|
106
|
|
|
|
|
GHP Horwath, P.C.
1670 Broadway, Suite 3000
Denver, Colorado 80202
303.831.5000
303.831.5032 Fax
www.GHPHorwath.com |
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
Board of Directors and Shareholders
GigaMedia Limited
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of GigaMedia Limited and subsidiaries
(the Company) as of December 31, 2009 and 2008, and the related consolidated statements of
operations, comprehensive income (loss), equity, and cash flows for each of the three years in the
period ended December 31, 2009. We also have audited the Companys internal control over financial
reporting as of December 31, 2009, based on criteria established in Internal ControlIntegrated
Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).
The Companys management is responsible for these financial statements, for maintaining effective
internal control over financial reporting, and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal
control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying Managements Annual Report on
Internal Control over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these
financial statements and an opinion on the Companys internal control over financial reporting
based on our audits.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight
Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audits to obtain
reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement and
whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material
respects. Our audit of the financial statements included examining, on a test basis, evidence
supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the accounting
principles used and significant estimates made by management, and evaluating the overall financial
statement presentation. Our audit of internal control over financial reporting included obtaining
an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material
weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal
control based on the assessed risk. Our audits also included performing such other procedures as we
considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis
for our opinions.
A companys internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable
assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial
statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A
companys internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1)
pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the
transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that
transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance
with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company
are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company;
and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized
acquisition, use, or disposition of the companys assets that could have a material effect on the
financial statements.
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or
detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are
subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that
the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all
material respects, the financial position of GigaMedia Limited and subsidiaries as of December 31,
2009 and 2008, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years
in the period ended December 31, 2009, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted
in the United States of America. Also in our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material
respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2009, based on
criteria established in Internal ControlIntegrated Framework issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).
As discussed in Notes 1 and 5 to the consolidated financial statements, on December 15, 2009, the
Company entered into an agreement to sell 60 percent of substantially all of the assets and
liabilities of its gaming software and services business. The closing of the sale occurred on
April 8, 2010.
As discussed in Note 1 to the consolidated financial statements, during 2009 the provisions of new
accounting standards relating to business combinations and noncontrolling interests were adopted.
/s/ GHP HORWATH, P.C.
Denver, Colorado
May 13, 2010
A GHP Financial Group company
GHP Horwath, P.C. is a member firm of Crowe Horwath International Association. Each member firm is a separate and independent legal entity.
F-1
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
December 31, 2008 and 2009
(in thousands)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
December 31 |
|
|
|
2008 |
|
|
2009 |
|
ASSETS |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
CURRENT ASSETS |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash and cash equivalents (Note 11) |
|
$ |
95,953 |
|
|
$ |
55,566 |
|
Marketable securities-current (Note 12) |
|
|
3,419 |
|
|
|
3,486 |
|
Accounts receivable-net (Note 13) |
|
|
15,188 |
|
|
|
4,228 |
|
Prepaid expenses |
|
|
9,907 |
|
|
|
1,204 |
|
Restricted cash |
|
|
|
|
|
|
932 |
|
Assets held for sale-current (Note 5) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
35,444 |
|
Other current assets (Notes 15 and 23) |
|
|
4,332 |
|
|
|
3,979 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Current Assets |
|
|
128,799 |
|
|
|
104,839 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Marketable securities-noncurrent (Note 14) |
|
|
26,041 |
|
|
|
18,356 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Investments |
|
|
1,905 |
|
|
|
3,477 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Retained ownership of gaming software and service business (Note 5) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
25,951 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Land and buildings |
|
|
1,832 |
|
|
|
1,171 |
|
Information and communication equipment |
|
|
11,601 |
|
|
|
6,928 |
|
Office furniture and fixtures |
|
|
2,575 |
|
|
|
915 |
|
Leasehold improvements |
|
|
5,115 |
|
|
|
2,643 |
|
Other |
|
|
250 |
|
|
|
148 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
21,373 |
|
|
|
11,805 |
|
Less: Accumulated depreciation |
|
|
(7,905 |
) |
|
|
(5,816 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
13,468 |
|
|
|
5,989 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
GOODWILL (Note 7) |
|
|
87,098 |
|
|
|
44,417 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
INTANGIBLE ASSETS-NET (Note 8) |
|
|
28,930 |
|
|
|
18,924 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
ASSETS HELD FOR SALE-NONCURRENT (Note 5) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
31,301 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
OTHER ASSETS |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Restricted cash |
|
|
2,125 |
|
|
|
|
|
Refundable deposits |
|
|
7,265 |
|
|
|
1,079 |
|
Prepaid licensing and royalty fees (Notes 9 and 24) |
|
|
20,540 |
|
|
|
5,557 |
|
Other (Note 23) |
|
|
622 |
|
|
|
291 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Other Assets |
|
|
30,552 |
|
|
|
6,927 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
TOTAL ASSETS |
|
$ |
316,793 |
|
|
$ |
260,181 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(Continued)
F-2
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS-(Continued)
December 31, 2008 and 2009
(in thousands)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
December 31 |
|
|
|
2008 |
|
|
2009 |
|
LIABILITIES & EQUITY |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
CURRENT LIABILITIES |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Accounts payable |
|
$ |
899 |
|
|
$ |
591 |
|
Accrued compensation |
|
|
3,503 |
|
|
|
2,814 |
|
Accrued expenses (Note 17) |
|
|
11,345 |
|
|
|
6,719 |
|
Short-term borrowings (Notes 16 and 24) |
|
|
15,243 |
|
|
|
22,503 |
|
Player account balances |
|
|
32,827 |
|
|
|
|
|
Liabilities held for sale-current (Note 5) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
26,458 |
|
Other current liabilities (Notes 18 and 23) |
|
|
12,386 |
|
|
|
13,244 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Current Liabilities |
|
|
76,203 |
|
|
|
72,329 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
OTHER LIABILITIES |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Accrued pension liabilities (Note 19) |
|
|
108 |
|
|
|
83 |
|
Liabilities held for sale-noncurrent (Note 5) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
1,360 |
|
Other (Note 23) |
|
|
3,406 |
|
|
|
49 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Other Liabilities |
|
|
3,514 |
|
|
|
1,492 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Liabilities |
|
|
79,717 |
|
|
|
73,821 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (Notes 25 and 26) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
EQUITY (Note 20) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
GigaMedia Shareholders Equity: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Common shares, no par value, and
additional paid-in capital; issued and
outstanding 54,365 thousand and 54,995
thousand shares on December 31, 2008 and
2009 |
|
|
300,021 |
|
|
|
304,379 |
|
Accumulated deficit |
|
|
(45,304 |
) |
|
|
(94,389 |
) |
Accumulated other comprehensive loss |
|
|
(26,261 |
) |
|
|
(25,245 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total GigaMedia shareholders equity |
|
|
228,456 |
|
|
|
184,745 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Noncontrolling interest |
|
|
8,620 |
|
|
|
1,615 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Equity |
|
|
237,076 |
|
|
|
186,360 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND EQUITY |
|
$ |
316,793 |
|
|
$ |
260,181 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
F-3
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
For the Years Ended December 31, 2007, 2008 and 2009
(in thousands except for earnings per share amounts)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2007 |
|
|
2008 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
OPERATING REVENUES |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Gaming software and service revenues |
|
$ |
118,950 |
|
|
$ |
144,765 |
|
|
$ |
112,694 |
|
Online game and service revenues |
|
|
32,764 |
|
|
|
45,604 |
|
|
|
46,887 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total |
|
|
151,714 |
|
|
|
190,369 |
|
|
|
159,581 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
OPERATING COSTS |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cost of gaming software and service revenues |
|
|
(16,201 |
) |
|
|
(22,770 |
) |
|
|
(20,102 |
) |
Cost of online game and service revenues |
|
|
(9,118 |
) |
|
|
(12,404 |
) |
|
|
(16,785 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(25,319 |
) |
|
|
(35,174 |
) |
|
|
(36,887 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
GROSS PROFIT |
|
|
126,395 |
|
|
|
155,195 |
|
|
|
122,694 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
OPERATING EXPENSES |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Product development and engineering expenses |
|
|
(7,338 |
) |
|
|
(13,455 |
) |
|
|
(14,195 |
) |
Selling and marketing expenses |
|
|
(60,106 |
) |
|
|
(74,173 |
) |
|
|
(79,421 |
) |
General and administrative expenses |
|
|
(20,983 |
) |
|
|
(25,035 |
) |
|
|
(29,692 |
) |
Bad debt expenses (Notes 13 and 15) |
|
|
(548 |
) |
|
|
(2,905 |
) |
|
|
(1,092 |
) |
Impairment loss on property, plant and equipment (Note 10) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(1,250 |
) |
Impairment loss on goodwill (Note 10) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(14,103 |
) |
Impairment loss on prepaid licensing fees and intangible assets (Note 10) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(1,524 |
) |
|
|
(23,002 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(88,975 |
) |
|
|
(117,092 |
) |
|
|
(162,755 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
INCOME (LOSS) FROM OPERATIONS |
|
|
37,420 |
|
|
|
38,103 |
|
|
|
(40,061 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
NON-OPERATING INCOME (EXPENSES) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Interest income |
|
|
1,434 |
|
|
|
1,460 |
|
|
|
432 |
|
Gains on sales of marketable securities |
|
|
184 |
|
|
|
373 |
|
|
|
|
|
Interest expense |
|
|
(547 |
) |
|
|
(976 |
) |
|
|
(390 |
) |
Foreign exchange (loss) gain |
|
|
(679 |
) |
|
|
240 |
|
|
|
168 |
|
Loss on disposal of property, plant and equipment |
|
|
(102 |
) |
|
|
(253 |
) |
|
|
(31 |
) |
Loss on equity method investments |
|
|
(369 |
) |
|
|
(3,010 |
) |
|
|
(87 |
) |
Impairment loss on marketable securities and investments (Note 10) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(15,743 |
) |
Other (Note 22) |
|
|
2,143 |
|
|
|
842 |
|
|
|
127 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2,064 |
|
|
|
(1,324 |
) |
|
|
(15,524 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
INCOME (LOSS) FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS BEFORE INCOME TAXES |
|
|
39,484 |
|
|
|
36,779 |
|
|
|
(55,585 |
) |
INCOME TAX EXPENSES (Note 23) |
|
|
(401 |
) |
|
|
(1,069 |
) |
|
|
(517 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
INCOME (LOSS) FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS |
|
|
39,083 |
|
|
|
35,710 |
|
|
|
(56,102 |
) |
INCOME FROM DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS-NET OF TAX (Note 4) |
|
|
1,088 |
|
|
|
9,435 |
|
|
|
222 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
NET INCOME (LOSS) |
|
|
40,171 |
|
|
|
45,145 |
|
|
|
(55,880 |
) |
LESS: NET (INCOME) LOSS ATTRIBUTABLE TO THE NONCONTROLLING INTEREST |
|
|
(1,281 |
) |
|
|
(757 |
) |
|
|
6,795 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
NET INCOME (LOSS) ATTRIBUTABLE TO GIGAMEDIA |
|
$ |
38,890 |
|
|
$ |
44,388 |
|
|
$ |
(49,085 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
NET INCOME (LOSS) ATTRIBUTABLE TO GIGAMEDIA: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income (loss) from continuing operations-net of tax |
|
$ |
37,802 |
|
|
$ |
34,953 |
|
|
$ |
(49,307 |
) |
Income from discontinued operations-net of tax |
|
|
1,088 |
|
|
|
9,435 |
|
|
|
222 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
38,890 |
|
|
$ |
44,388 |
|
|
$ |
(49,085 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
EARNINGS (LOSS) PER SHARE ATTRIBUTABLE TO GIGAMEDIA (Note 2) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Basic: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income (loss) from continuing operations |
|
$ |
0.72 |
|
|
$ |
0.65 |
|
|
$ |
(0.90 |
) |
Income from discontinued operations |
|
|
0.02 |
|
|
|
0.17 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net income (loss) |
|
$ |
0.74 |
|
|
$ |
0.82 |
|
|
$ |
(0.90 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Diluted: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income (loss) from continuing operations |
|
$ |
0.63 |
|
|
$ |
0.58 |
|
|
$ |
(0.90 |
) |
Income from discontinued operations |
|
|
0.02 |
|
|
|
0.16 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net income (loss) |
|
$ |
0.65 |
|
|
$ |
0.74 |
|
|
$ |
(0.90 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
WEIGHTED AVERAGE SHARES USED TO COMPUTE |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
EARNINGS (LOSS) PER SHARE ATTRIBUTABLE TO GIGAMEDIA (Note 2) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Basic |
|
|
52,876 |
|
|
|
54,110 |
|
|
|
54,524 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Diluted |
|
|
60,022 |
|
|
|
60,152 |
|
|
|
54,524 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
F-4
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)
For the Years Ended December 31, 2007, 2008 and 2009
(in thousands)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2007 |
|
|
2008 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
NET INCOME (LOSS) |
|
$ |
40,171 |
|
|
$ |
45,145 |
|
|
$ |
(55,880 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME-NET OF TAX: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Unrealized gain (loss) on marketable securities |
|
|
58 |
|
|
|
(282 |
) |
|
|
67 |
|
Defined benefit pension plan adjustment |
|
|
(54 |
) |
|
|
95 |
|
|
|
(68 |
) |
Foreign currency translation adjustments |
|
|
855 |
|
|
|
893 |
|
|
|
1,003 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
859 |
|
|
|
706 |
|
|
|
1,002 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) |
|
|
41,030 |
|
|
|
45,851 |
|
|
|
(54,878 |
) |
COMPREHENSIVE (INCOME) LOSS ATTRIBUTABLE TO
THE NONCONTROLLING INTEREST |
|
|
(1,607 |
) |
|
|
(1,288 |
) |
|
|
6,809 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) ATTRIBUTABLE TO GIGAMEDIA |
|
$ |
39,423 |
|
|
$ |
44,563 |
|
|
$ |
(48,069 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
F-5
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EQUITY
For the Years Ended December 31, 2007, 2008 and 2009
(in thousands, except per share amounts)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
GIGAMEDIA SHAREHOLDERS |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Common shares |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Accumulated other |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
and additional paid-in capital |
|
|
Accumulated |
|
|
comprehensive |
|
|
Noncontrolling |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Shares |
|
|
Amount |
|
|
deficit (Note 20) |
|
|
income (loss) |
|
|
interest |
|
|
Total |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Balance as of January 1, 2007 |
|
|
51,495 |
|
|
$ |
289,495 |
|
|
$ |
(128,439 |
) |
|
$ |
(26,969 |
) |
|
$ |
1,534 |
|
|
$ |
135,621 |
|
Issuance of common shares from exercise of stock options and RSUs |
|
|
1,979 |
|
|
|
2,733 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2,733 |
|
Issuance of common shares for acquisition (Note 6) |
|
|
226 |
|
|
|
2,703 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2,703 |
|
Stock-based compensation |
|
|
|
|
|
|
1,862 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
58 |
|
|
|
1,920 |
|
Adjustment for initial application of new guidance related to
uncertain tax positions (Note 23) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(143 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(143 |
) |
Acquisitions and change in ownership interest of investments |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
6,811 |
|
|
|
6,811 |
|
Cash dividend to noncontrolling interest shareholders of
variable interest entity |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(200 |
) |
|
|
(200 |
) |
Net income |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
38,890 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1,281 |
|
|
|
40,171 |
|
Components of other comprehensive income: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Change in unrealized gain (loss) on marketable securities |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
58 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
58 |
|
Defined benefit pension plan adjustment |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(54 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(54 |
) |
Foreign currency translation adjustments |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
529 |
|
|
|
326 |
|
|
|
855 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total comprehensive income |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
41,030 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Balance as of December 31, 2007 |
|
|
53,700 |
|
|
|
296,793 |
|
|
|
(89,692 |
) |
|
|
(26,436 |
) |
|
|
9,810 |
|
|
|
190,475 |
|
Issuance of common shares from exercise of stock options and RSUs |
|
|
665 |
|
|
|
495 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
495 |
|
Stock-based compensation |
|
|
|
|
|
|
2,733 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
79 |
|
|
|
2,812 |
|
Purchase of T2CN common shares from noncontrolling interest and
T2CN buy back and cancellation of its common shares (Note 6) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(2,257 |
) |
|
|
(2,257 |
) |
Cash dividend to noncontrolling interest shareholders of
variable interest entity |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(300 |
) |
|
|
(300 |
) |
Net income |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
44,388 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
757 |
|
|
|
45,145 |
|
Components of other comprehensive income: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Change in unrealized gain (loss) on marketable securities |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(282 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(282 |
) |
Defined benefit pension plan adjustment |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
95 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
95 |
|
Foreign currency translation adjustments |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
362 |
|
|
|
531 |
|
|
|
893 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total comprehensive income |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
45,851 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Balance as of December 31, 2008 |
|
|
54,365 |
|
|
|
300,021 |
|
|
|
(45,304 |
) |
|
|
(26,261 |
) |
|
|
8,620 |
|
|
|
237,076 |
|
Issuance of common shares from exercise of stock options and RSUs |
|
|
630 |
|
|
|
1,320 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1,320 |
|
Stock-based compensation |
|
|
|
|
|
|
3,150 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
127 |
|
|
|
3,277 |
|
Purchase of T2CN common shares from noncontrolling interest
(Notes 1 and 6) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(112 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(173 |
) |
|
|
(285 |
) |
Cash dividend to noncontrolling interest shareholders of
variable interest entity |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(150 |
) |
|
|
(150 |
) |
Net loss |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(49,085 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(6,795 |
) |
|
|
(55,880 |
) |
Components of other comprehensive loss: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Change in unrealized gain (loss) on marketable securities |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
67 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
67 |
|
Defined benefit pension plan adjustment |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(68 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(68 |
) |
Foreign currency translation adjustments |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1,017 |
|
|
|
(14 |
) |
|
|
1,003 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total comprehensive loss |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(54,878 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Balance as of December 31, 2009 |
|
|
54,995 |
|
|
$ |
304,379 |
|
|
$ |
(94,389 |
) |
|
$ |
(25,245 |
) |
|
|
1,615 |
|
|
$ |
186,360 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
F-6
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
For the Years Ended December 31, 2007, 2008 and 2009
(in thousands)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2007 |
|
|
2008 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net income (loss) |
|
$ |
40,171 |
|
|
$ |
45,145 |
|
|
$ |
(55,880 |
) |
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided
by operating activities: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Depreciation |
|
|
3,184 |
|
|
|
4,031 |
|
|
|
4,358 |
|
Amortization |
|
|
3,214 |
|
|
|
4,342 |
|
|
|
5,219 |
|
Stock-based compensation |
|
|
1,862 |
|
|
|
2,780 |
|
|
|
3,277 |
|
Impairment loss on property, plant and equipment |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1,250 |
|
Impairment loss on goodwill |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
14,103 |
|
Impairment loss on prepaid licensing fees and intangible assets |
|
|
|
|
|
|
1,524 |
|
|
|
23,002 |
|
Provision for bad debt expenses |
|
|
743 |
|
|
|
2,953 |
|
|
|
1,092 |
|
Gain on divestiture of business |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(11,014 |
) |
|
|
|
|
Gain on sales of investment option rights |
|
|
(498 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Gain on cancellation of preferred share call options |
|
|
(1,069 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Loss on disposal of property, plant and equipment |
|
|
134 |
|
|
|
282 |
|
|
|
31 |
|
Gain on sale of marketable securities |
|
|
(205 |
) |
|
|
(400 |
) |
|
|
|
|
Loss on equity method investments |
|
|
369 |
|
|
|
3,010 |
|
|
|
87 |
|
Impairment loss on marketable securities and investments |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
15,743 |
|
Other |
|
|
(86 |
) |
|
|
300 |
|
|
|
25 |
|
Net changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of
business acquisitions and divestitures: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Accounts receivable |
|
|
(3,864 |
) |
|
|
465 |
|
|
|
(5,015 |
) |
Prepaid expenses |
|
|
(2,316 |
) |
|
|
(4,373 |
) |
|
|
1,061 |
|
Other current assets |
|
|
3,673 |
|
|
|
(2,304 |
) |
|
|
(553 |
) |
Accounts payable |
|
|
(327 |
) |
|
|
33 |
|
|
|
(298 |
) |
Accrued expenses |
|
|
2,893 |
|
|
|
2,326 |
|
|
|
2,243 |
|
Accrued compensation |
|
|
1,991 |
|
|
|
(2,057 |
) |
|
|
386 |
|
Player account balances |
|
|
17,609 |
|
|
|
5,691 |
|
|
|
2,187 |
|
Other current liabilities |
|
|
(1,259 |
) |
|
|
336 |
|
|
|
1,500 |
|
Accrued pension liabilities |
|
|
(62 |
) |
|
|
(167 |
) |
|
|
(25 |
) |
Prepaid licensing and royalty fees |
|
|
(9,829 |
) |
|
|
(4,685 |
) |
|
|
(4,216 |
) |
Other |
|
|
(165 |
) |
|
|
2,532 |
|
|
|
(941 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net cash provided by operating activities |
|
|
56,163 |
|
|
|
50,750 |
|
|
|
8,636 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(Increase) decrease in restricted cash |
|
|
(3,550 |
) |
|
|
4,122 |
|
|
|
187 |
|
Proceeds from disposal of marketable securities |
|
|
20,151 |
|
|
|
25,095 |
|
|
|
|
|
Divestiture of business, net of cash transferred |
|
|
4,930 |
|
|
|
16,471 |
|
|
|
1,006 |
|
Purchase of property, plant and equipment |
|
|
(4,900 |
) |
|
|
(8,814 |
) |
|
|
(5,761 |
) |
Proceeds from disposal of property, plant and equipment |
|
|
46 |
|
|
|
35 |
|
|
|
17 |
|
Proceeds from sales of investment option rights |
|
|
580 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Purchase of marketable securities |
|
|
(26,552 |
) |
|
|
(24,746 |
) |
|
|
(7,052 |
) |
Purchase of investments |
|
|
(1,827 |
) |
|
|
(190 |
) |
|
|
(2,612 |
) |
Purchase of intangible assets |
|
|
(4,642 |
) |
|
|
(7,509 |
) |
|
|
(8,807 |
) |
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired |
|
|
(13,983 |
) |
|
|
(4,642 |
) |
|
|
(285 |
) |
Increase in loan receivable |
|
|
(2,500 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(637 |
) |
Decrease (increase) in refundable deposits |
|
|
(610 |
) |
|
|
(5,862 |
) |
|
|
1,986 |
|
Other |
|
|
(314 |
) |
|
|
(380 |
) |
|
|
(120 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net cash used in investing activities |
|
|
(33,171 |
) |
|
|
(6,420 |
) |
|
|
(22,078 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(Continued)
F-7
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (Continued)
For the Years Ended December 31, 2007, 2008 and 2009
(in thousands)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2007 |
|
|
2008 |
|
|
2009 |
|
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Proceeds from (repayment of) short-term borrowings |
|
|
20,126 |
|
|
|
(18,058 |
) |
|
|
7,261 |
|
Capital contribution received from non-controlling interest shareholders |
|
|
30 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash received from the exercise of stock options |
|
|
2,733 |
|
|
|
495 |
|
|
|
1,320 |
|
Cash dividend to noncontrolling interest shareholders of variable
interest entity |
|
|
(200 |
) |
|
|
(300 |
) |
|
|
(150 |
) |
Other |
|
|
(117 |
) |
|
|
(13 |
) |
|
|
(5 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities |
|
|
22,572 |
|
|
|
(17,876 |
) |
|
|
8,426 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Exchange difference |
|
|
627 |
|
|
|
936 |
|
|
|
(356 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash balance included in assets held for sale and retained ownership of
gaming software and service business |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(35,015 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS |
|
|
46,191 |
|
|
|
27,390 |
|
|
|
(40,387 |
) |
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT BEGINNING OF YEAR |
|
|
22,372 |
|
|
|
68,563 |
|
|
|
95,953 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT END OF YEAR |
|
$ |
68,563 |
|
|
$ |
95,953 |
|
|
$ |
55,566 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Interest paid during the year |
|
$ |
621 |
|
|
$ |
1,008 |
|
|
$ |
388 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income tax paid during the year |
|
$ |
827 |
|
|
$ |
1,412 |
|
|
$ |
1,230 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
NON-CASH FINANCING AND INVESTING ACTIVITIES: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Change in unrealized holding gain (loss) on available-for-sale securities |
|
$ |
58 |
|
|
$ |
(282 |
) |
|
$ |
67 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Accrual for investing in marketable securities |
|
$ |
2,204 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Issuance of common shares for acquisition |
|
$ |
2,703 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Divestiture of business consideration receivable |
|
|
|
|
|
|
1,006 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
F-8
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
NOTE 1. BUSINESS OVERVIEW, BASIS OF PRESENTATION, AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
(a) Business Overview
GigaMedia Limited (referred to hereinafter as GigaMedia, our Company, we, us, or our) is a provider
of online entertainment software and services, with headquarters in Taipei, Taiwan.
We conduct our online entertainment business in two business segments: our gaming software and
service business, which develops and licenses software for online real-money gaming solutions and
applications; and our online game and service business, which operates play-for-fun games online.
The gaming software and service business develops and licenses online poker and casino gaming
software solutions and application services, primarily targeting continental European markets. As a
software developer and support service provider, we offer software solutions for online gaming,
which we license under a software license and support service contract. On December 15, 2009,
GigaMedia entered into a Stock and Asset Purchase Agreement (the SAPA) with Mangas Gaming, a
French Corporation, (Mangas) to sell 60 percent of our gaming software and service business in
2010. (See Note 5, Assets and Liabilities Held for Sale, for additional information).
The online game and service business operates a suite of play-for-fun online games and provides
related services, mainly targeting online game players in Asia.
(b) Basis of Presentation
In September 2008, we sold the remaining portion of our legacy Internet access and service business
(See Note 4, Divestitures, for additional information). The Internet access and service business
has been accounted for as a discontinued operation under accounting principles generally accepted
in the United States of America (GAAP) and, therefore, the results of operations of the Internet
access and service business have been removed from our Companys results of continuing operations
for all periods presented.
F-9
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
As a result of the SAPA entered into with Mangas in December 2009, 60 percent of substantially
all of the operating assets of our gaming software and service business, including certain
liabilities associated with these assets, are presented as held for sale as of December 31, 2009.
The gaming software and service business does not qualify as a component that may be reported as
discontinued operations due to our significant continuing involvement in the component after the
disposal transaction. (See Note 5, Assets and Liabilities Held for Sale, for additional
information).
Principles of Consolidation
The Consolidated Financial Statements include the accounts of GigaMedia and our wholly-owned and
majority-owned subsidiaries after elimination of all inter-company accounts and transactions. In
addition, the accounts of our Companys variable-interest entities (VIE) as defined by the
Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) are included in the Consolidated Financial
Statements. (See Note 3, Variable-Interest Entities). The accounting policies for other less than
majority-owned investments are described in Note 1 below within the paragraphs headed Marketable
Securities and Investments.
Foreign Currency Translation
The Consolidated Financial Statements of our Company and our subsidiaries have been reported in
U.S. dollars. Assets and liabilities denominated in non-U.S. currency are translated to U.S.
dollars at year-end exchange rates. Income and expense items are translated at weighted-average
rates of exchange prevailing during the year. Cumulative translation adjustments resulting from
this process are charged or credited to other comprehensive income within equity. Gains and losses
on foreign currency transactions are included in other income and expenses. Cumulative translation
adjustments as of December 31, 2007, 2008 and 2009 were ($27) million, ($27) million, and ($26)
million, respectively.
F-10
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
(c) Summary of significant accounting policies
Use of Estimates
The preparation of Consolidated Financial Statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to
make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and
disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities at the dates of the Consolidated Financial
Statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting periods. Actual
results could differ from those estimates.
Revenue Recognition
General
Our Company recognizes revenues when persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, delivery occurs
or services are rendered, the sales price is fixed or determinable and collectability is reasonably
assured.
We present the sales taxes assessed by governmental authorities on our revenue transactions on a
net basis in our Consolidated Financial Statements.
Multiple-Element Arrangements
Our Company enters into multiple-element revenue arrangements, which may include any combination of
services, software, and/or products. To the extent that a deliverable in a multiple-element
arrangement is subject to specific accounting guidance, whether and/or how to separate multiple
deliverable arrangements into separate units of accounting (separability) and how to allocate the
arrangement consideration among those separate units of accounting (allocation) for that
deliverable is accounted for in accordance with such specific guidance.
In addition to the aforementioned general policies, the following are the specific revenue
recognition policies for each major category of revenue.
F-11
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
Gaming Software and Service Revenues
Gaming software and service revenues are related to software products we develop and license and
support services we provide for online real-money gaming solutions and applications.
The results of a software licensee of our Company, Ultra Internet Media, S.A. (UIM) have been
incorporated into our Consolidated Financial Statements as UIM meets the criteria of VIE as defined
by the FASB Accounting Standards Codification. UIM and GigaMedia are separately owned. (See Note 3,
Variable-Interest Entities, for additional information). Our software licensing and support
service revenues are based upon a percentage of gross receipts generated by UIMs online gaming
operations, and are recognized monthly. Software licensing and support service revenues we receive
from providing such services to UIM have been eliminated in consolidation.
UIM generates revenues by providing and promoting online games of skill and chance that are
available on its free download gaming software. We consider multiple-element revenue arrangements
involving UIMs provision of software and software-related elements to customers. UIMs online
gaming service is inseparable from the software element involved and UIM does not sell each element
separately. UIMs online gaming service does not involve significant production, modification, or
customization of the gaming software. Revenues derived from UIMs online gaming software platform
are recognized at the time games are played and are net of player winnings. Transaction fee
revenues derived from UIMs online multi-player poker platform are recognized as services are
provided.
Online Game and Service Revenues
Online game and service revenues are related to our online game and service business that operates
play-for-fun games online in Asia.
Online game revenues are earned through the sale of online game points, pre-paid cards, and game
packs. Virtual online game points are sold directly to end-users who can make the payments through
credit cards, the Internet ATMs or telecommunication service operators. Physical pre-paid cards and
game packs are sold through distributors and convenience stores. Proceeds from sales of physical
cards and game packs, net of sales discounts, and online game points are deferred when received and
revenue is recognized upon the actual usage of the playing time or in-game virtual items by the
end-users; over the estimated useful life of virtual items; or when the sold game points expire and
can no longer be used to access the online games or products in accordance with our published game
points expiration policy.
F-12
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
We report sales of virtual online game points on a gross basis. In the sales of virtual online game
points, we act as principal and we have latitude in establishing price. Fixed percentage fees
retained by service providers for payment processing related to our online game services are
recognized as cost of online game revenues.
Online game and service revenues also include revenues derived from online advertising
arrangements, sponsorship arrangements, or a combination of both. These service arrangements allow
advertisers to place advertisements on particular areas of our Companys websites and online game
platforms over a stated period of time. Service revenues from online advertising arrangements are
recognized ratably over the displayed period of the contract when the collectability is reasonably
assured.
Revenue Included within Discontinued Operations
For 2007, 2008 and 2009, a portion of our Companys revenue was generated from our Internet access
and service business. We disposed of the remaining portion of our Internet access and service
business in September 2008, and as a result, have classified the income from these
revenue-generating activities as part of discontinued operations. (See Note 4, Divestitures, for
additional information).
Our Internet access and service business revenues were recorded net of discounts and net of fees
paid to cable partners, and were recognized on a straight-line basis over the subscription period
or for the period in which the service was performed. Any advanced payment receipts were recorded
as deferred revenues included in other current liabilities in our Consolidated Balance Sheets and
were amortized over the subscription period. The sale of other Internet access-related products and
rental income from the lease of Internet access-related equipment to subscribers were recognized
when products were delivered or services were provided.
F-13
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
Player Account Balances
Player account balances are related to player deposits from our gaming software and service
business. Player account balances are presented as current liabilities, which are first accrued for
in full upon the receipt of player deposits, and increased or decreased based on player activities,
including player wins or losses, withdrawals and refunds. (See Note 5, Assets and Liabilities Held
for Sale, for additional information).
Deferred Revenues
Deferred revenues are included in other current liabilities, and consist of the prepaid income
related to our online game and service business.
Operating Costs
Operating costs primarily consist of processing costs, online game royalties, bandwidth, production
costs for prepaid game cards and game packs, amortization of intangible assets, customer service
department costs, depreciation, maintenance and other overhead expenses directly attributable to
our gaming software and service revenues and online game and service revenues.
Prepaid Licensing and Royalty Fees
Our Company, through our subsidiaries and VIE subsidiaries, routinely enters into agreements with
licensors to acquire licenses for using, marketing, distributing, selling and publishing of
multi-player online games.
Prepaid licensing fees paid to licensors are capitalized when technological feasibility is
achieved, and amortized on a straight-line basis over the shorter of the useful economic life of
the relevant online game or license period, which is usually within two to five years. The annual
amortization is modified if the amount computed using the ratio that current gross revenues for a
game license bear to the total of current and anticipated future gross revenues for that game
license is greater than the amount computed using the straight-line method.
F-14
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
Prepaid royalty fees and related costs are recognized in the period in which the related online
game revenue is recognized.
Fair Value Measurement
We adopted the guidance issued by FASB for fair value measurements and the fair value option for
financial assets and financial liabilities on January 1, 2008. We did not record an adjustment
to retained earnings as a result of the adoption of the guidance for fair value measurements,
and the adoption did not have a material impact on our Consolidated Financial Statements. The
guidance for the fair value option for financial assets and financial liabilities provides
companies the irrevocable option to measure many financial assets and liabilities at fair
value with changes in fair value recognized in earnings. Our Company has not elected to
measure any financial assets or liabilities at fair value that were not previously required to
be measured at fair value.
Our Company generally determines or calculates the fair value of financial instruments using
quoted market prices in active markets when such information is available or using appropriate
present value or other valuation techniques, such as discounted cash flow analyses,
incorporating adjusted available market discount rate information and our Companys estimates
for non-performance and liquidity risk. These techniques rely extensively on the use of a
number of assumptions, including the discount rate, credit spreads, and estimates of future
cash flows. (See Note 10, Fair Value Measurement, for additional information).
Cash Equivalents
Cash equivalents are short-term, highly liquid investments that are readily convertible to known
amounts of cash and so near to their maturity that they present relatively insignificant risk from
changes in interest rates. Commercial paper, negotiable certificates of deposit, time deposits and
bank acceptances with original maturities of three months or less are considered to be cash
equivalents.
F-15
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
Marketable Securities
All of our Companys investments in marketable securities are classified as available-for-sale.
These marketable securities are stated at fair value with any unrealized gains or losses recorded
in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) within equity until realized.
Other-than-temporary impairments, if any, are charged to non-operating expense in the period in
which the loss occurs. In determining whether an other-than-temporary impairment has occurred, our
Company primarily considers, among other factors, the length of the time and the extent to which
the fair value of an investment has been less than cost. When an other-than-temporary loss is
recorded, the fair value of the investment becomes the new cost basis of the investment and is not
adjusted for subsequent recoveries in fair value. Realized gains and losses also are included in
non-operating income and expense in the Consolidated Statements of Operations. (See Note 10, Fair
Value Measurements, for additional information).
Investments
Equity investments in non-publicly traded securities of companies over which our Company has no
ability to exercise significant influence are accounted for under the cost method. The equity
investments accounted for under the cost method as of December 31, 2008 and 2009 totaled $1,830
thousand and $3,255 thousand, respectively.
Equity investments in companies over which our Company has the ability to exercise significant
influence but does not hold a controlling interest are accounted for under the equity method and
our Companys income or loss on equity method investments is recorded in non-operating income or
expenses. The difference between the cost of the acquisition and our Companys share of the fair
value of the net identifiable assets is recognized as goodwill and is included in the carrying
amount of the investment. When our Companys carrying value in an equity method investee is reduced
to zero, no further losses are recorded in our Consolidated Financial Statements unless our Company
guaranteed obligations of the investee or has committed additional funding. When the investee
subsequently reports income, our Company will not record its share of such income until it equals
the amount of its share of losses not previously recognized.
F-16
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
The equity investments accounted for under the equity method as of December 31, 2008 and 2009
totaled $75 thousand and $222 thousand, respectively.
As of December 31, 2008, we had an investment in CJIT2 Holding Limited and Taiwan E-Sport League
Co., Ltd (E-Sport) representing an approximate 23 percent and 20 percent ownership interest,
respectively, which we accounted for under the equity method of accounting. In June 2009, our
ownership interest in E-Sport decreased to 15 percent after E-Sport issued additional shares. As a
result of this transaction, we no longer have the ability to exercise significant influence over
E-sport. Therefore, subsequent to June 2009, we applied the cost method of accounting to our
investment in E-sport.
As of December 31, 2009, we had an investment in CJIT2 Holding Limited and Digiforce Co., Ltd.
representing an approximate 23 percent and 30 percent ownership interest, respectively, which we
accounted for under the equity method of accounting.
During 2008 and 2009, we recognized our share of losses under the equity method of accounting of
$3,010 thousand and $87 thousand, respectively.
Unrealized losses that are considered other-than-temporary, if any, are charged to non-operating
expenses. Realized gains and losses, measured against carrying amount, are also included in
non-operating income and expenses in the Consolidated Statements of Operations. (See Note 10, Fair
Value Measurements, for additional information).
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts
An allowance for doubtful accounts is provided based on an evaluation of the collectability of
notes receivable, accounts receivable, and other receivables. An allowance for doubtful accounts is
also provided, when considered necessary, to loans receivable. We review the collectability of
loans receivable on an individual basis and the evaluation primarily consists of an analysis based
upon current information available about the borrower.
F-17
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
For those accounts in which a loss is probable, we record a specific reserve. Receivable losses are
charged against the allowance when the Company believes the uncollectability of the receivable is
confirmed. Subsequent recoveries, if any, are credited to the allowance.
Property, Plant and Equipment
Property, plant and equipment are stated at cost, less accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is
provided on a straight-line basis over useful lives that correspond to categories as follows:
|
|
|
Categories |
|
Years |
Buildings |
|
50 |
Information and communication equipment |
|
2 to 5 |
Office furniture and equipment |
|
3 to 5 |
Leasehold improvements |
|
2 to 5 |
Leasehold improvements are depreciated over the life of the lease or the economic useful life
of the assets, whichever is shorter. Improvements and replacements are capitalized and depreciated
over their estimated useful lives, while ordinary repairs and maintenance are expensed as incurred.
In September 2008, we entered into agreements to lease certain of our Companys land and buildings
to a third party under an operating lease, which expires no later than September 2010. As of
December 31, 2008 and 2009, the carrying amount of the land and buildings under lease was $1.6
million and $1.2 million, respectively. The rental income under the operating lease amounted to $21
thousand and $50 thousand for 2008 and 2009, respectively. The minimum rental income to be received
under this operating lease is $20 thousand in 2010.
F-18
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
Acquisitions
Before January 1, 2009, our Company accounted for its business acquisitions using the purchase
method as required by the FASB. Under the purchase method, the acquiring company allocates the
purchase price to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on their estimated fair values
at the date of acquisition, including intangible assets that can be identified. The purchase price
in excess of the fair value of the net assets and liabilities identified is recorded as goodwill.
Business acquisitions that our Company enters into after January 1, 2009 are being accounted for in
accordance with the new accounting guidance issued by the FASB using the acquisition method.
Under the new accounting guidance, our Company recognizes and measures the identifiable assets
acquired, the liabilities assumed and any noncontrolling interest at their acquisition-date fair
values, with limited exceptions. Acquisition-related costs will be generally expensed as incurred.
Intangible Assets and Goodwill
Intangible assets with finite lives are amortized by the straight-line method over their estimated
useful lives, ranging from three to nine years. Intangible assets with indefinite useful lives are
not amortized. Goodwill is not amortized.
Impairment of Intangible Assets, Goodwill and Long-Lived Assets
Potential impairment of intangible assets with indefinite useful lives is evaluated, at the
reporting unit level, at least annually, or whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate
that the carrying value of an asset might not be recoverable from its related future undiscounted
cash flows. Impairment is measured as the difference between the carrying amounts and the fair
value of the assets, and is recognized as a loss from operations.
Potential impairment of goodwill is tested annually, or sooner when circumstances indicate an
impairment may exist, using a fair-value approach at the reporting unit level. A reporting unit is
the operating segment, or a business, which is one level below that operating segment (the
component level) if discrete financial information is prepared and regularly reviewed by
management at the segment level. Components are aggregated as a single reporting unit if they have
similar economic characteristics.
F-19
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
Potential impairment of long-lived assets other than goodwill and intangible assets not being
amortized (which includes prepaid licensing and royalty fees) is evaluated, at least annually, or
whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value of an asset might not
be recoverable from its related future undiscounted cash flows. If such assets are considered to be
impaired, the impairment to be recognized is measured by the extent to which the carrying amounts
of the assets exceeds the fair value of the assets. When an impairment is identified, the carrying
amount of the asset is reduced to its estimated fair value, and is recognized as a loss from
operations. (See Note 10, Fair Value Measurement, for additional information).
Software Cost
Costs to develop our gaming software and online game products are capitalized after technological
feasibility has been established, and when the product is available for general release to
customers, costs are expensed. Costs incurred prior to the establishment of technological
feasibility are expensed when incurred and are included in product development and engineering
expenses. Capitalized amounts are amortized using the straight-line method, which is applied over
the useful economic life of the software, ranging from three to five years. The annual amortization
is modified if the amount computed using the ratio that current gross revenues for a product bear
to the total of current and anticipated future gross revenues for that product is greater than the
amount computed using the straight-line method.
We capitalize certain costs incurred to purchase or to internally create and implement internal-use
computer software, which includes software coding, installation, testing and certain data
conversion. These capitalized costs are amortized on a straight-line basis over the shorter of the
useful economic life of the software or its contractual license period, which range from three to
five years.
F-20
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
Product Development and Engineering
Product development and engineering expenses primarily consist of research compensation,
depreciation, and amortization, and are expensed as incurred.
Advertising
Direct-response advertising costs incurred related to the acquisition or origination of a customer
relationship are capitalized and deferred. The deferred costs are recognized in the Consolidated
Statements of Operations over the estimated lives of customer relationships. Costs of communicating
advertising are recorded as expenses as advertising airtime is used. Other advertising expenditures
are expensed as incurred.
Advertising expenses incurred in 2007, 2008 and 2009 totaled $50.1 million, $60.1 million and $63.6
million, respectively (including $28 thousand, $42 thousand, and $0 reported in discontinued
operations in 2007, 2008 and 2009, respectively). As of December 31, 2008 and 2009, prepaid
advertising amounted to $8.3 million and $6.8 million, respectively (of which $6.8 million is
included in assets held for sale and retained ownership of gaming software and service business,
see Note 5, Assets and Liabilities Held for Sale, for additional information).
Leases
Leases for which substantially all of the risks and rewards of ownership remain with the leasing
company are accounted for as operating leases. Payments made under operating leases, net of any
incentives received by our Company from the leasing company, are charged to the
Consolidated Statements of Operations on a straight-line basis over the lease periods.
Share-Based Compensation
Share-based compensation represents the cost related to share-based awards granted to employees. We
measure share-based compensation cost at the grant date, based on the estimated fair value of the
award. Share-based compensation is recognized for the portion of the award that is ultimately
expected to vest and the cost is amortized on a straight-line basis (net of estimated forfeitures)
over the vesting period. Our Company estimates the fair value of stock options using the
Black-Scholes valuation model. The cost is recorded in operating costs and operating expenses in
the Consolidated Statement of Operations based on the employees respective function.
F-21
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
For shares and stock options granted to non-employees, we measure the fair value of the equity
instruments granted at the earlier of the performance commitment date or when the performance is
completed.
Retirement Plan and Net Periodic Pension Cost
Under our defined benefit pension plan, net periodic pension cost, which includes service cost,
interest cost, expected return on plan assets, amortization of unrecognized net transition
obligation and gains or losses on plan assets, is recognized based on an actuarial valuation
report. We recognize the funded status of pension plans and non-pension post-retirement benefit
plans (retirement-related benefit plans) as an asset or a liability in the Consolidated Balance
Sheets.
Under our defined contribution pension plans, net periodic pension cost is recognized as incurred.
Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Comprehensive income (loss) is recorded as a component of equity. Our Companys comprehensive
income (loss) consists of net income or loss, foreign currency translation adjustments, changes in
unrealized holding gains and losses on marketable securities, and unrecognized actuarial gains or
losses related to our defined benefit pension plan.
Accounting for Income Taxes
The asset and liability method is used in accounting for income taxes. Under this method, deferred
tax assets and liabilities are determined based on the differences between financial reporting and
tax bases of assets and liabilities. We recognize the tax benefit from the purchase of equipment
and technology, research and development expenditures, employee training, and certain equity
investments using the flow-through method. Loss carryforwards and investment credits are measured
using the enacted tax rate and laws that will be in effect when the differences are expected to
reverse. Valuation allowances are established when necessary to reduce deferred tax assets to the
amount that will more-likely-than-not be realized. In assessing the likelihood of realization,
management considers estimates of future taxable income.
F-22
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
In addition, we recognize the financial statement impact of a tax position when it is
more-likely-than-not that the position will be sustained upon examination. If the tax position
meets the more-likely-than-not recognition threshold, the tax effect is recognized at the largest
amount of the benefit that has greater than a 50 percent likelihood of being realized upon ultimate
settlement. The interest and penalties are reflected as income taxes expenses in the Consolidated
Financial Statements.
Earnings Per Share
Basic earnings per share is computed by dividing the net income available to common shareholders
for the period by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period.
Diluted earnings per share is computed by dividing the net income for the period by the weighted
average number of common shares and potential common shares outstanding during the period.
Potential common shares, composed of incremental common shares issuable upon the exercise of
warrants and options in all periods, are included in the computation of diluted earnings per share
to the extent such shares are dilutive. Diluted EPS also takes into consideration the effect of
diluted securities issued by subsidiaries. In a period in which a loss is incurred, only the
weighted average number of common shares issued and outstanding is used to compute the diluted loss
per share as the inclusion of potential common shares would be antidilutive. Therefore, for the
year ended December 31, 2009, basic and diluted earnings per share are the same.
Noncontrolling Interest
We adopted the new accounting guidance issued by the FASB for noncontrolling interest on January 1,
2009. This guidance requires that the noncontrolling interest in the equity of a subsidiary be
accounted for and reported as equity, provides revised guidance on the treatment of net income and
losses attributable to the noncontrolling interest and changes in ownership interests in a
subsidiary and requires additional disclosures that identify and distinguish between the interests
of the controlling and noncontrolling owners. As a result, we have retrospectively applied the
presentation and disclosure requirements of the new standard and adjusted prior periods for
comparative purposes as required. Changes in our Companys ownership interest in a subsidiary that
do not result in deconsolidation are accounted for as equity transactions. Any retained
noncontrolling equity investment upon the deconsolidation of a subsidiary is initially measured at
fair value.
F-23
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
Noncontrolling interest includes 100 percent of the common stock of UIM held by third-party
shareholders. UIM was deemed a VIE as our Company was considered the primary beneficiary of UIM.
Therefore, we have incorporated the results of UIM into our Consolidated Financial Statements, even
though we do not own any of UIMs equity. (See Note 3, Variable-Interest Entities, for more
information).
Noncontrolling interest also includes 30 percent of the common stock of Dragongate Enterprises
Limited (Dragongate Enterprises), which is held by Cyber Gateway Pte. Ltd. (Cyber Gateway),
which is 100 percent owned by Infocomm Asia Holdings Pte. Ltd. (Infocomm Asia). We also own
500,000 voting convertible preferred shares of Infocomm Asia.
Beginning in June 2007, we consolidated T2CN Holding Limited (T2CN), which is included in the
online game and service business. As of December 31, 2008 and 2009, noncontrolling interest also
includes 33.71 percent and 32.91 percent, respectively, of the common stock of T2CN, which is held
by third-party shareholders. (See Note 6, Acquisitions, for more information).
In 2009, we adjusted additional paid-in capital by $112 thousand in connection with the purchase of
520,000 common shares of T2CN. In accordance with the new accounting guidance, we did not change
the amounts recognized in our Companys Consolidated Financial Statements for acquisitions or
dispositions of noncontrolling interests that occurred before January 1, 2009. As a result, their
were no changes to GigaMedias additional paid-in capital relating to transfers to and from the
non-controlling interest for 2007 and 2008, as we accounted for these under the purchase method in
accordance with previous accounting guidance.
F-24
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
Reclassification
The presentation of certain prior years information has been reclassified to conform with current
year presentations.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
In January 2010, the FASB issued additional disclosure requirements for fair value measurements. In
accordance with the new guidance, the fair value hierarchy disclosures are to be further
disaggregated by class of assets and liabilities. A class is often a subset of assets or
liabilities within a line item in the statement of financial position. In addition, significant
transfers between Levels 1 and 2 of the fair value hierarchy will be required to be disclosed.
These additional requirements will be effective for our Company on January 1, 2010. These
amendments will not have a material impact on our Consolidated Financial Statements, however they
will require additional disclosures. In addition, the guidance requires more detailed disclosures
of the changes in Level 3 instruments. These changes will be effective for our Company on January
1, 2011 and are not expected to have a material impact on our Consolidated Financial Statements.
In October 2009, the FASB issued amended revenue recognition guidance for arrangements with
multiple deliverables. The new guidance eliminates the residual method of revenue recognition and
allows the use of managements best estimate of selling price for individual elements of an
arrangement when vendor-specific objective evidence (VSOE), vendor objective evidence (VOE) or
third-party evidence (TPE) is unavailable. The changes will be effective for our Company on January
1, 2011. The adoption is not expected to have a material effect in our Consolidated Financial
Statements.
F-25
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
In October 2009, the FASB issued guidance which amends the scope of existing software revenue
recognition accounting. Tangible products containing software components and non-software
components that function together to deliver the products essential functionality would be scoped
out of the accounting guidance on software and accounted for based on other appropriate revenue
recognition guidance. This guidance must be adopted in the same period that our Company adopts the
amended accounting for arrangements with multiple deliverables described in the preceding
paragraph. The changes will be effective for our Company on January 1, 2011. The adoption is not
expected to have a material effect on our Consolidated Financial Statements.
In July 2009, the FASB issued the FASB Accounting Standards Codification (the Codification). The
Codification became the single source of authoritative nongovernmental U.S. GAAP, superseding
existing FASB, American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), Emerging Issues Task
Force (EITF) and related literature. The Codification eliminates the previous U.S. GAAP hierarchy
and establishes one level of authoritative GAAP. All other literature is considered
non-authoritative. The Codification was effective for annual periods ending after September 15,
2009. Our Company adopted the Codification accordingly and there was no material impact to our
Consolidated Financial Statements.
In June 2009, the FASB issued amendments to the accounting rules for VIEs and for transfers of
financial assets. The new guidance for VIEs eliminates the quantitative approach previously
required for determining the primary beneficiary of a variable interest entity and requires ongoing
qualitative reassessments of whether an enterprise is the primary beneficiary. In addition,
qualifying special purpose entities (QSPEs) are no longer exempt from consolidation under the
amended guidance. The amendments also limit the circumstances in which a financial asset, or a
portion of a financial asset, should be derecognized when the transferor has not transferred the
entire original financial asset to an entity that is not consolidated with the transferor in the
financial statements being presented, and/or when the transferor has continuing involvement with
the transferred financial asset. These changes will be effective for our Company on January 1,
2010. We are in the process of evaluating what effect, if any, the adoption may have in our
Consolidated Financial Statements.
F-26
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
In May 2009, the FASB issued guidelines on subsequent event accounting which set forth: 1) the
period after the balance sheet date during which management of a reporting entity should evaluate
events or transactions that may occur for potential recognition or disclosure in the financial
statements; 2) the circumstances under which an entity should recognize events or transactions
occurring after the balance sheet date in its financial statements; and 3) the disclosures that an
entity should make about events or transactions that occurred after the balance sheet date. These
guidelines were effective for annual periods ending after June 15, 2009. In February 2010, the FASB
amended this standard whereby companies that file with the Securities and Exchange Commission
(SEC), like our Company, are required to evaluate subsequent events through the date the
financial statements are issued, but are no longer required to disclose in the financial statements
that they have done so or disclose the date through which subsequent events have been evaluated.
Our Company adopted the guidance accordingly, and there was no impact to our Consolidated Financial
Statements.
F-27
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
NOTE 2. EARNINGS PER SHARE
The following table provides a reconciliation of the denominators of the basic and diluted per
share computations:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(in US$ thousands) |
|
2007 |
|
|
2008 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Weighted average outstanding shares |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Basic |
|
|
52,876 |
|
|
|
54,110 |
|
|
|
54,524 |
|
Effect of dilutive securities |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Employee share-based compensation |
|
|
7,146 |
|
|
|
6,042 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Diluted |
|
|
60,022 |
|
|
|
60,152 |
|
|
|
54,524 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Options to purchase 5,115 thousand shares of common stock were not included in dilutive
securities for the year ended December 31, 2009, as the effect would be anti-dilutive.
NOTE 3. VARIABLE-INTEREST ENTITIES
UIM
Our Company entered into a software license and support service contract with UIM to provide
Internet software and support services for UIMs online gaming operations. The contract allows us
to charge a percentage of UIM gross receipts resulting from UIMs online gaming operations. The
percentage of gross receipts varies depending upon the software and support services provided to
UIM. We analyzed our contractual relationships with UIM and determined that we were and continue to
be the primary beneficiary of UIM. As a result of such determination, we have incorporated the
results of UIM into our Consolidated Financial Statements, even though we do not own any of UIMs
equity, and recorded goodwill arising from the consolidation of UIM totaling $209 thousand. The net
assets (liabilities), total assets and total liabilities of UIM were approximately $448 thousand,
$87.4 million and $86.9 million, respectively, as of December 31, 2008, and $(932) thousand, $82.9
million and $83.8 million, respectively, as of December 31, 2009. For the years ended December 31,
2007, 2008 and 2009, total revenue and net income (loss) of UIM were as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(in US$ thousands) |
|
2007 |
|
|
2008 |
|
|
2009 |
|
Total revenue |
|
$ |
118,650 |
|
|
$ |
144,765 |
|
|
$ |
112,694 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net income (loss) |
|
$ |
348 |
|
|
$ |
(206 |
) |
|
$ |
(1,226 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
F-28
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
T2CN
Beginning in June 2007, we consolidated T2CN. Pursuant to various agreements entered into between
T2CN, Shanghai T2 Entertainment Co., Ltd. (T2 Entertainment), Shanghai T2 Advertisement Co., Ltd.
(T2 Advertisement) and the equity owners of T2 Entertainment and T2 Advertisement, T2CN generally
has control and the risks and rewards of ownership of T2 Entertainment and T2 Advertisement and is
considered the primary beneficiary of T2 Entertainment and T2 Advertisement. T2 Entertainment and
T2 Advertisement were established to hold the necessary licenses for our participation in online
game and related advertisement services in the Peoples Republic of China (PRC). Accordingly,
from the date that we consolidated T2CN, the results of T2 Entertainment and T2 Advertisement are
included in the accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements.
In November 2007, T2CN entered into various agreements with Shanghai Jinyou Network & Technology
Co., Ltd. (Jinyou) and the equity owners of Jinyou. The agreements provided for T2CN to obtain
conditional effective and enforceable clauses upon acquiring an Internet Content Provider (ICP)
license by Jinyou. Jinyou was established to hold the necessary licenses for our participation in
online games in the PRC. In September 2008, Jinyou acquired the ICP license and the above
agreements became effective. T2CN generally has control and the risks and rewards of ownership of
Jinyou and is considered the primary beneficiary of Jinyou. Accordingly, the results of Jinyou are
included in the accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements starting from September 2008.
Details of certain key agreements between T2CN and its VIEs are as follows:
Shareholder Voting Rights Proxy Agreements. The shareholders of T2 Entertainment, T2
Advertisement and Jinyou entered into Shareholder Voting Rights Proxy Agreements with T2CN
Information Technology (Shanghai) Co., Ltd. (T2CN Technology), under which each shareholder
irrevocably granted T2CN Technology the power to exercise all voting rights to which they were
entitled as shareholders of T2 Entertainment, T2 Advertisement and Jinyou.
F-29
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
Exclusive Equity Transfer Call Agreements. T2CN entered into exclusive equity transfer call
agreements with each of the shareholders of T2 Entertainment, T2 Advertisement and Jinyou, under
which the parties irrevocably agreed that, at T2CNs sole discretion, it will be entitled to
acquire all or part of the equity interests in T2 Entertainment, T2 Advertisement and Jinyou, to
the extent as permitted by the then-effective PRC laws and regulations.
Exclusive Technical Service and Consultancy Agreement. T2CN Technology and T2
Entertainment, T2 Advertisement and Jinyou entered into certain exclusive technical service and
consultancy agreements whereby T2CN Technology provides T2 Entertainment, T2 Advertisement and
Jinyou with technical consulting and related services and information services. T2CN Technology is
the exclusive provider of these services. The initial term of these agreements is seventeen to
eighteen years. In consideration for those services, T2 Entertainment, T2 Advertisement and Jinyou
agreed to pay service fees to T2CN Technology. The service fees are eliminated upon consolidation.
Equity Pledge Agreements. To secure the full performance of their respective obligations
under a related exclusive technical service and consultancy agreement and shareholder voting rights
proxy agreements, the shareholders of T2 Entertainment, T2 Advertisement and Jinyou have pledged
all of their equity interests in T2 Entertainment, T2 Advertisement and Jinyou to T2CN Technology
under equity pledge agreements.
The net assets, total assets and total liabilities in the aggregate of T2 Entertainment, T2
Advertisement and Jinyou were approximately $3.3 million, $17.5 million and $14.2 million,
respectively, as of December 31, 2008, and $1.6 million, $18.2 million and $16.6 million,
respectively, as of December 31, 2009. For the years ended December 31, 2007, 2008 and 2009, total
revenue and net income (loss) in the aggregate of T2 Entertainment, T2 Advertisement and Jinyou
were as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(in US$ thousands) |
|
2007 |
|
|
2008 |
|
|
2009 |
|
Total revenues |
|
$ |
14,973 |
|
|
$ |
20,312 |
|
|
$ |
18,673 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net income (loss) |
|
$ |
2,429 |
|
|
$ |
1,571 |
|
|
$ |
(2,990 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
F-30
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
NOTE 4. DIVESTITURES
In September 2008, we completed the sale of our Internet access and service business, which
included 100 percent of our wholly-owned subsidiaries, Koos Broadband Telecom Co., Ltd. (KBT) and
Hoshin Multimedia Center Inc., as well as certain assets and liabilities related to our Internet
access and service business, for a total transaction price of $20.0 million.
The transaction price, net of transaction costs, price adjustments and cash transferred, was
approximately $16.5 million. The after-tax gain from the sale of the Internet access and service
business was approximately $9.8 million.
An amount of $2.5 million of the transaction price was deposited into an escrow account established
with the escrow agent for an agreed period, to be available for any price adjustment payment,
severance payment, and indemnification payment set forth in the agreements. As of December 31,
2008, the escrow account balance was approximately $2.1 million after payment of the severance
payment. The escrow account was released in September 2009.
In addition to the above purchase price, we may be entitled to receive additional cash payments of
$3.0 million and $2.0 million if the Internet access and service business that we sold achieves
certain earn-out targets by September 2009 and 2010. The earn-out targets are to be determined by
future gross profits in accordance with a formula and timeline set forth in the agreements. As of
December 31, 2009, we did not accrue any additional receivable for the sale of the Internet access
and service business since the earn-out target for the first period ended September 2009 was not
achieved.
Results for the Internet access and service operations are reported as discontinued operations in
2007, 2008 and 2009. In 2008, income from discontinued operations was $9.4 million, which included
an after-tax loss from the Internet access and service business of $0.4 million and an after-tax
gain on the sale of the business of $9.8 million.
F-31
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
Summarized selected financial information for discontinued operations is as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(in US$ thousands) |
|
2007 |
|
|
2008 |
|
|
2009 |
|
Revenue |
|
$ |
15,164 |
|
|
$ |
9,289 |
|
|
$ |
159 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income (loss) from discontinued operations before tax |
|
$ |
1,090 |
|
|
$ |
(593 |
) |
|
$ |
222 |
|
Gain on sale of the discontinued operations before tax |
|
|
|
|
|
|
11,014 |
|
|
|
|
|
Income tax expenses |
|
|
(2 |
) |
|
|
(986 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income from discontinued operations |
|
$ |
1,088 |
|
|
$ |
9,435 |
|
|
$ |
222 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Major classes of assets and liabilities which comprised the Internet access and service
business at the date of disposal, September 2008, included the following:
|
|
|
|
|
(in US$ thousands) |
|
|
|
|
Cash |
|
$ |
493 |
|
Accounts receivable |
|
|
2,325 |
|
Other current assets |
|
|
1,125 |
|
Property and equipment |
|
|
4,328 |
|
Other assets |
|
|
165 |
|
|
|
|
|
Total assets |
|
$ |
8,436 |
|
|
|
|
|
Accounts payable |
|
$ |
1,056 |
|
Other current liabilities |
|
|
759 |
|
Noncurrent liabilities |
|
|
672 |
|
|
|
|
|
Total liabilities |
|
$ |
2,487 |
|
|
|
|
|
F-32
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
NOTE 5. ASSETS AND LIABILITIES HELD FOR SALE
On December 15, 2009, GigaMedia entered into an agreement with Mangas to sell 60 percent of
substantially all of the assets and liabilities of its gaming software and service business, for
approximately $100 million in cash, subject to certain adjustments. The closing of the sale
occurred on April 8, 2010. The sale of the remaining 40 percent will be subject to a put and call
mechanism in place between GigaMedia and Mangas, as defined in the agreement. GigaMedia will have
the option to put all or part of its remaining 40 percent to Mangas in each of 2013, 2014, and 2015
at a mutually agreed upon price considering all relevant facts and circumstances after the end of
each year. If the put option owned by GigaMedia is not fully exercised, Mangas will have the option
to call the remaining interest held by GigaMedia in each of 2015 and 2016. (See Note 25,
Commitments and Contingencies, for additional information).
F-33
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
As of December 31, 2009, substantially all of the assets and liabilities in our gaming software and
service business were reclassified to assets and liabilities held for sale. The assets and
liabilities held for sale balances were reduced by 40 percent, which represents the ownership
interest that we retained in the gaming software and service business and recorded as Retained
ownership of gaming software and service business, which amounted $26.0 million as of December 31,
2009. Therefore, the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheet at December 31, 2009 includes the
following:
|
|
|
|
|
(in US$ thousands) |
|
|
|
|
Assets Held for Sale-Current |
|
|
|
|
Cash |
|
$ |
35,015 |
|
Accounts receivable |
|
|
15,817 |
|
Prepaid expenses |
|
|
7,609 |
|
Other current assets |
|
|
632 |
|
Less: retained ownership |
|
|
(23,629 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
35,444 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Assets Held for Sale-Noncurrent |
|
|
|
|
Property, plant and equipment |
|
$ |
7,358 |
|
Goodwill |
|
|
29,243 |
|
Intangible assets |
|
|
11,368 |
|
Other assets |
|
|
4,199 |
|
Less: retained ownership |
|
|
(20,867 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
31,301 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Liabilities Held for Sale-Current |
|
|
|
|
Accounts payable |
|
$ |
11 |
|
Accrued compensation |
|
|
1,076 |
|
Accrued expenses |
|
|
6,869 |
|
Player account balances |
|
|
35,015 |
|
Other current liabilities |
|
|
1,126 |
|
Less: retained ownership |
|
|
(17,639 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
26,458 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Liabilities Held for Sale-Noncurrent |
|
|
|
|
Other liabilities |
|
$ |
2,266 |
|
Less: retained ownership |
|
|
(906 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
1,360 |
|
|
|
|
|
In accordance with the FASB accounting standards codification, the amount of goodwill to be
included in the assets held for sale and the retained ownership is based on the relative fair
values of the business to be sold and the portion of the business that will be retained.
F-34
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
The 40 percent ownership interest that we retained in the gaming software and service business is
included in our Consolidated Balance Sheet as of December 31, 2009 as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
(in US$ thousands) |
|
|
|
|
Retained ownership of gaming software and service business: |
|
|
|
|
Current assets |
|
$ |
23,629 |
|
Noncurrent assets |
|
|
20,867 |
|
Current liabilities |
|
|
(17,639 |
) |
Noncurrent liabilities |
|
|
(906 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
25,951 |
|
|
|
|
|
NOTE 6. ACQUISITIONS
Beginning in June 2007, we consolidated T2CN. T2CN is an operator and provider of online sport
games in the PRC. We acquired T2CN in order to enhance our position in the online game market in
Asia. This primary
factor among others, contributed to a purchase price in excess of the
fair market value of the net tangible assets and intangible assets acquired.
As of December 31, 2008 and 2009, we owned 43,113,681 and 43,633,681 common shares of T2CN, which
represents a controlling interest of 66.29 percent and 67.09 percent, respectively, of the total
outstanding voting rights of T2CN.
F-35
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
The following summarizes our acquisitions of T2CN during the period from 2006 to 2009:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(in US$ thousands) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Accumulated |
|
Date of acquisition |
|
Purchase Price |
|
|
Description |
|
voting interest |
|
2006 |
|
$ |
15,000 |
|
|
Purchased 7,500,000 convertible |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
voting preferred shares |
|
|
19.02 |
% |
2007 |
|
$ |
23,736 |
* |
|
Acquired 38,613,681 common
shares (including convertible
voting preferred shares
converted into common shares) in total |
|
|
58.11 |
% |
2008 |
|
$ |
3,375 |
|
|
Purchased 4,500,000 common shares |
|
|
65.68 |
% |
2009 |
|
$ |
285 |
|
|
Purchased 520,000 common shares |
|
|
67.09 |
% |
|
|
|
* |
|
Includes the issuance of 226,385 common shares of GigaMedia, valued at approximately $2.7 million. |
(a) Acquisition in 2007
In connection with the step acquisitions through July 2007, we recorded goodwill of $29.4 million.
Such goodwill amount is non-deductible for tax purposes. Since June 1, 2007, results of T2CNs
operations have been included in our Consolidated Financial Statements under the online game and
service business.
F-36
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
The purchase price allocation was determined based on managements estimate of the fair value of
T2CN in connection with the acquisitions. The purchase price allocation of the acquisition was as
follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Amortization life |
|
|
|
(in US$ thousands) |
|
(in years) |
|
Amount |
|
Cash acquired |
|
|
|
$ |
11,773 |
|
Marketable securities / Investments |
|
|
|
|
3,724 |
|
Other current assets |
|
|
|
|
5,892 |
|
Fixed assets / non-current assets |
|
|
|
|
3,717 |
|
Intangible assets |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Capitalized software cost |
|
3.5~5 |
|
|
2,974 |
|
Goodwill |
|
N/A |
|
|
29,354 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total assets acquired |
|
|
|
|
57,434 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Current liabilities |
|
|
|
|
11,500 |
|
Noncurrent liabilities |
|
|
|
|
1,050 |
|
Noncontrolling interest |
|
|
|
|
6,171 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total liabilities assumed |
|
|
|
|
18,721 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total purchase price |
|
|
|
$ |
38,713 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The following unaudited pro-forma information presents a summary of the results of operations
of our Company for the year ended December 31, 2007 as if we controlled 58.11 percent of the total
outstanding voting rights of T2CN and consolidated T2CN as of January 1, 2007.
|
|
|
|
|
(in US$ thousands, except per share figures) |
|
(Unaudited) |
|
Net revenue |
|
$ |
172,473 |
|
Income from operations |
|
|
38,617 |
|
Net income |
|
|
38,980 |
|
Basic earnings per share |
|
|
0.74 |
|
Diluted earnings per share |
|
|
0.65 |
|
The unaudited pro forma supplemental information is based on estimates and assumptions, which
we believe are reasonable; it is not necessarily indicative of the consolidated financial position
or results of operations in future periods or the results that actually would have been realized
had we been a combined company during all of 2007. The above unaudited pro-forma financial
information includes adjustments for the amortization of identified intangible assets.
F-37
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
(b) Acquisition in 2008
In connection with the purchase of additional common shares of T2CN in May 2008, we recorded
additional goodwill of $1.7 million. Such goodwill amount is non-deductible for tax purposes. We
also recorded additional identified intangible assets of $136 thousand which are being amortized on
a straight-line basis over their useful lives of three years.
In addition, T2CN bought back and cancelled part of its common shares owned by independent third
parties for $1.3 million during 2008, resulting in an increase of our ownership interest in T2CN
from 65.68 percent to 66.29 percent, and we recorded additional goodwill of $511 thousand.
(c) Acquisition in 2009
In connection with the purchase of additional common shares of T2CN in August 2009, which resulted
an increase of our ownership interest in T2CN to 67.09 percent, we adjusted additional paid-in
capital by $112 thousand, in accordance with the new accounting guidance issued by the FASB.
F-38
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
NOTE 7. GOODWILL
The following table summaries the changes to our Companys goodwill by segment:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Gaming software |
|
|
Online game |
|
|
|
|
(in US$ thousands) |
|
and service |
|
|
and service |
|
|
Total |
|
Balance as of December 31, 2007 |
|
$ |
29,243 |
|
|
$ |
55,906 |
|
|
$ |
85,149 |
|
Acquisition-T2CN (Note 6) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
1,738 |
|
|
|
1,738 |
|
Other adjustment |
|
|
|
|
|
|
511 |
|
|
|
511 |
|
Translation adjustment |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(300 |
) |
|
|
(300 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Balance as of December 31, 2008 |
|
|
29,243 |
|
|
|
57,855 |
|
|
|
87,098 |
|
Impairment charge (Note 10) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(14,103 |
) |
|
|
(14,103 |
) |
Goodwill included in assets
held for sale and retained
ownership of gaming software
and service business (Note 5) |
|
|
(29,243 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(29,243 |
) |
Translation adjustment |
|
|
|
|
|
|
665 |
|
|
|
665 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Balance as of December 31, 2009 |
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
44,417 |
|
|
$ |
44,417 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
F-39
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
NOTE 8. INTANGIBLE ASSETS NET
The following table summarizes our Companys intangible assets, by major asset class:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
December 31, 2009 |
|
|
|
Gross carrying |
|
|
Accumulated |
|
|
|
|
(in US$ thousands) |
|
amount |
|
|
amortization |
|
|
Net |
|
Completed technology |
|
$ |
2,363 |
|
|
$ |
(1,350 |
) |
|
$ |
1,013 |
|
Trade name, trademark and non-competition agreement |
|
|
11,160 |
|
|
|
(15 |
) |
|
|
11,145 |
|
Capitalized software cost |
|
|
8,633 |
|
|
|
(5,137 |
) |
|
|
3,496 |
|
Customer relationships |
|
|
5,695 |
|
|
|
(2,531 |
) |
|
|
3,164 |
|
Other |
|
|
115 |
|
|
|
(9 |
) |
|
|
106 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total |
|
$ |
27,966 |
|
|
$ |
(9,042 |
) |
|
$ |
18,924 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
December 31, 2008 |
|
|
|
Gross carrying |
|
|
Accumulated |
|
|
|
|
(in US$ thousands) |
|
amount |
|
|
amortization |
|
|
Net |
|
Completed technology |
|
$ |
3,605 |
|
|
$ |
(2,288 |
) |
|
$ |
1,317 |
|
Trade name, trademark and non-competition agreement |
|
|
11,774 |
|
|
|
(539 |
) |
|
|
11,235 |
|
Capitalized software cost |
|
|
19,077 |
|
|
|
(6,435 |
) |
|
|
12,642 |
|
Customer relationships |
|
|
5,555 |
|
|
|
(1,852 |
) |
|
|
3,703 |
|
Other |
|
|
66 |
|
|
|
(33 |
) |
|
|
33 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total |
|
$ |
40,077 |
|
|
$ |
(11,147 |
) |
|
$ |
28,930 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Intangible assets include trade name assets of approximately $11.1 million which are not
amortized. The remaining intangible assets are amortized over their estimated useful lives ranging
from three to nine years, and the overall weighted-average life is 5.9 years.
F-40
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
For the years ended December 31, 2007, 2008 and 2009, total amortization expenses of
intangible assets were $3.0 million, $4.1 million, and $5.1 million, respectively (including $5
thousand, $20 thousand and $0 reported in discontinued operations in 2007, 2008 and 2009,
respectively), which includes amortization of capitalized software costs of $1.9 million, $3.0
million, and $3.9 million. As of December 31, 2009, based on the current amount of intangibles
subject to amortization, the estimated amortization expense for each of the succeeding five years
is as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Amount |
|
|
|
(in US$ thousands) |
|
2010 |
|
$ |
2,335 |
|
2011 |
|
|
2,096 |
|
2012 |
|
|
1,906 |
|
2013 |
|
|
821 |
|
2014 |
|
|
680 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
7,838 |
|
|
|
|
|
NOTE 9. PREPAID LICENSING AND ROYALTY FEES
The following table summarizes changes to our Companys prepaid licensing and royalty fees:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
December 31, |
|
(in US$ thousands) |
|
2008 |
|
|
2009 |
|
Beginning balance |
|
$ |
16,739 |
|
|
$ |
20,540 |
|
Additions |
|
|
6,968 |
|
|
|
5,484 |
|
Amortization of licensing and royalty costs |
|
|
(3,833 |
) |
|
|
(2,146 |
) |
Impairment charges (Note 10) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(18,301 |
) |
Translation adjustment |
|
|
666 |
|
|
|
(20 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Balance as of December 31, 2009 |
|
$ |
20,540 |
|
|
$ |
5,557 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
NOTE 10. FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS
The accounting framework for determining fair value includes a hierarchy for ranking the quality
and reliability of the information used to measure fair value, which enables the reader of the
financial statements to assess the inputs used to develop those measurements. The fair value
hierarchy consists of three tiers as follows: Level 1, defined as quoted market prices in active
markets for identical assets or liabilities; Level 2, defined as inputs other than Level 1 that are
observable, either directly or indirectly, such as quoted market prices for similar assets or
liabilities, quoted prices in markets that are not active, model-based valuation techniques for
which all significant assumptions are observable in the market, or other inputs that are observable
or can be corroborated by observable market data for substantially the full term of the assets and
liabilities; and Level 3, defined as unobservable inputs that are not corroborated by market data.
F-41
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
Assets and Liabilities that are Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis
Our Company has segregated all financial assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on
a recurring basis (at least annually) into the most appropriate level within the fair value
hierarchy based on the inputs used to determine the fair value at the measurement date in the table
below.
Assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are summarized as below:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Year Ended |
|
|
|
Fair Value Measurement Using |
|
|
December 31, |
|
(in US$ thousands) |
|
Level 1 |
|
|
Level 2 |
|
|
Level 3 |
|
|
2009 |
|
Assets |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Marketable securities current |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
- Open-end fund |
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
3,486 |
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
3,486 |
|
Marketable securities noncurrent |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
- Debt securities |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
14,204 |
|
|
|
14,204 |
|
- Equity securities |
|
|
4,152 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
4,152 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total |
|
$ |
4,152 |
|
|
$ |
3,486 |
|
|
$ |
14,204 |
|
|
$ |
21,842 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Year Ended |
|
|
|
Fair Value Measurement Using |
|
|
December 31, |
|
|
|
Level 1 |
|
|
Level 2 |
|
|
Level 3 |
|
|
2008 |
|
Assets |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash equivalents time deposits |
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
12,512 |
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
12,512 |
|
Marketable securities current |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
- Open-end fund |
|
|
|
|
|
|
3,419 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
3,419 |
|
Marketable securities noncurrent |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
- Debt securities |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
26,041 |
|
|
|
26,041 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total |
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
15,931 |
|
|
$ |
26,041 |
|
|
$ |
41,972 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash equivalents time deposits are convertible into a known amount of cash and are subject
to an insignificant risk of change in value. Marketable securities current are valued using a
market approach based on the quoted
market prices of identical instruments when available, or other observable inputs such as trading
prices of identical instruments in inactive markets. The fair value of the marketable equity
security noncurrent is derived using publicly quoted trading prices.
F-42
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
In 2007, 2008 and 2009, we recognized an unrealized gain (loss) of $58 thousand, ($282) thousand
and $67 thousand, respectively on marketable securities current which is included in other
comprehensive income (loss). In 2009, we recognized an other-than-temporary impairment of $2.9
million related to marketable equity securities noncurrent which is included in non-operating
expenses within impairment loss on marketable securities and investments in the Consolidated
Statements of Operations.
For assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis using significant
unobservable inputs (Level 3) during 2008 and 2009, a reconciliation of the beginning and ending
balances are presented as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Fair Value Measurements |
|
|
|
Using Significant Unobservable Inputs |
|
|
|
(Level 3) |
|
|
|
Marketable Securities - Noncurrent |
|
|
|
Debt Securities |
|
(in US$ thousands) |
|
2008 |
|
|
2009 |
|
Beginning Balance |
|
$ |
21,018 |
|
|
$ |
26,041 |
|
Total gains or losses (realized/unrealized) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Included in earnings |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(11,837 |
) |
Included in other comprehensive income |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Purchases and settlements |
|
|
5,023 |
|
|
|
|
|
Transfers in and/or out of Level 3 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Ending Balance |
|
$ |
26,041 |
|
|
$ |
14,204 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The amount of total gains or losses for the
period included in earnings attributable to
the change in unrealized gains or losses
relating to assets still held at the
reporting date |
|
None |
|
|
None |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The fair value of the marketable debt securities noncurrent is derived using a discounted
cash flow method using unobservable inputs. The discounted cash flow method incorporates adjusted
available market discount rate information and the Companys estimates of liquidity risk, and other
cash flow model related assumptions.
F-43
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
In 2008, there were no gains or losses (realized and unrealized) for marketable debt securities
noncurrent included in the Consolidated Statements of Operations. In 2009, we recognized an
other-than-temporary impairment of $11.8 million related to marketable debt securities which is
included in non-operating expenses within impairment loss on marketable securities and
investments in the Consolidated Statements of Operations.
The carrying amounts of the Companys cash, accounts receivable, accounts payable, and short-term
debt approximate fair value due to their short-term maturities.
Assets and Liabilities that are Measured at Fair Value on a Nonrecurring Basis
In 2008, we recognized an impairment charge of $641 thousand related to capitalized software costs
and an impairment loss of $883 thousand on prepaid licensing fees. The impairment charges were the
result of certain projects that we ceased further development on, and certain licensed games we
stopped operating.
Effective January 1, 2009, we adopted the fair value accounting standard for measuring the fair
value of assets and liabilities on a nonrecurring basis. Assets and liabilities measured at fair
value on a nonrecurring basis include measuring impairment when required for long-lived assets. For
GigaMedia, long-lived assets measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis include investments
accounted for under the equity method and cost method, property, plant, and equipment, intangible
assets, prepaid licensing and royalty fees and goodwill.
F-44
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
Assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis which were determined to be
impaired as of December 31, 2009 are summarized as below:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Year Ended |
|
|
Total |
|
|
|
Fair Value Measurement Using |
|
|
December 31, |
|
|
Impairment |
|
(in US$ thousands) |
|
Level 1 |
|
|
Level 2 |
|
|
Level 3 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
Losses |
|
Assets |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) Investment Cost method |
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
700 |
|
|
$ |
700 |
|
|
$ |
1,005 |
|
(b) Property, plant and equipment
Land and Building |
|
|
|
|
|
|
1,171 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1,171 |
|
|
|
473 |
|
(b) Property, plant and equipment
Information and
communication equipment |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
79 |
|
|
|
79 |
|
|
|
777 |
|
(c) Goodwill Resulting from
acquisition of T2CN |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
17,500 |
|
|
|
17,500 |
|
|
|
14,103 |
|
(d) Intangible assets Capitalized
software cost |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
4,701 |
|
(e) Prepaid licensing and royalty |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
18,301 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total |
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
1,171 |
|
|
$ |
18,279 |
|
|
$ |
19,450 |
|
|
$ |
39,360 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) |
|
Impairment losses on certain cost method investments which were determined to be impaired: |
|
|
|
In 2009, cost method investments with carrying amounts of $1.7 million were written down to their
fair value of $700 thousand, resulting in an impairment charge of $1 million which is included in
non-operating expenses within impairment loss on marketable securities and investments in the
Consolidated Statements of Operations. Cost method investments are measured at fair value on a
nonrecurring basis when deemed necessary, using other observable inputs such as trading prices of
similar classes of the stock or using discounted cash flows, incorporating adjusted available
market discount rate information and our Companys estimates for liquidity risk. |
|
(b) |
|
Impairment losses on certain property, plant, and equipment which were determined to be
impaired: |
|
|
|
In 2009, land and buildings with carrying amounts of $1.7 million were written down to their fair
value of $1.2 million, resulting in an impairment charge of $473 thousand which is included in
operating expenses within impairment loss on property, plant and equipment in the Consolidated
Statements of Operations. The impairment charge for the land and building was related to assets
that were used for the ISP business, which was disposed of in September 2008, and are currently
idle after the disposal. The land and building were valued based on the quoted prices of similar
assets in the market. |
F-45
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
|
|
|
|
|
In 2009, information and communication equipment with carrying amounts of $856 thousand were
written down to their fair value of $79 thousand, resulting in an impairment charge of $777
thousand which is included in operating expenses within impairment loss on property, plant and
equipment in the Consolidated Statements of Operations. The impairment charge for the equipment
was related to servers used in certain impaired licensed games or internally developed games within
our online game and service business for which the carrying amount was determined not to be
recoverable from its related future undiscounted cash flows. This equipment was valued using
unobservable inputs such as discounted cash flows, incorporating adjusted available market discount
rate information and our Companys estimates for liquidity risk, and other cash flow model related
assumptions. |
|
(c) |
|
Impairment losses on goodwill which was determined to be impaired: |
|
|
|
In 2009, goodwill from the acquisition of T2CN with a carrying amount of $31.6 million was written
down to its fair value of $17.5 million, resulting in an impairment charge of $14.1 million which
is included within operating expenses in the Consolidated Statements of Operations. The impairment
charge resulted because our estimates of future cash flows for T2CNs business have been reduced
due to lower than expected operating performance results in 2009, which indicated that the carrying
amount of the goodwill from the acquisition of T2CN cannot be fully recovered as of December 31,
2009. Goodwill is valued on a nonrecurring basis when impairment exists, using unobservable inputs
such as discounted cash flows, incorporating adjusted available market discount rate information
and our Companys estimates for liquidity risk, and other cash flow model related assumptions. |
|
(d) |
|
Impairment losses on certain intangible assets Capitalized software costs which were
determined to be impaired: |
|
|
|
In 2009, capitalized software costs with carrying amounts of $4.7 million were fully written down,
resulting in an impairment charge of $4.7 million which is included in operating expenses within
impairment loss on prepaid licensing fees and intangible assets in the Consolidated Statements of
Operations. The impairment charge for the intangible assets was the result of certain projects
within our online game and service business that we ceased further development on and as a result
we recorded a full impairment of the carrying value of the assets related to these projects. |
F-46
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
|
|
|
(e) |
|
Impairment losses on certain prepaid licensing and royalty fees which were determined to be
impaired: |
|
|
|
In 2009, prepaid licensing and royalty fees with carrying amounts of $18.3 million were fully
written down, resulting in an impairment charge of $18.3 million which is included in operating
expenses within impairment loss on prepaid licensing fees and intangible assets in the
Consolidated Statements of Operations. The impairment charge for the prepaid licensing and royalty
fees related to certain licensed games within our online game and service business that we stopped
operating or for which the carrying amounts of the related assets were determined not to be
recoverable from their expected future undiscounted cash flows. The licensed games and related
royalties are valued on a nonrecurring basis when impairment exists, using unobservable inputs such
as discounted cash flows, incorporating adjusted available market discount rate information and our
Companys estimates for liquidity risk, and other cash flow model related assumptions. |
NOTE 11. CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS
Cash and cash equivalents consist of the following:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
December 31, |
|
(in US$ thousands) |
|
2008 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Checking and savings accounts |
|
$ |
83,441 |
|
|
$ |
55,566 |
|
Time deposits |
|
|
12,512 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total |
|
$ |
95,953 |
|
|
$ |
55,566 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
NOTE 12. MARKETABLE SECURITIES CURRENT
Marketable securities current consist of the following:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
December 31, |
|
(in US$ thousands) |
|
2008 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Available-for-sale securities |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Open-end funds |
|
$ |
3,419 |
|
|
$ |
3,486 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
F-47
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
All of our Companys marketable securities current are classified as available-for-sale. As
of December 31, 2008 and 2009, the balances of unrealized gains for marketable securities current
were $387 thousand and $454 thousand, respectively. During 2007, 2008 and 2009, realized gains from
disposal of marketable securities current amounted to $205 thousand, $400 thousand, and $0,
respectively, (including $21 thousand, $27 thousand, $0 reported in discontinued operations in
2007, 2008 and 2009, respectively). The costs for calculating gains on disposal were based on each
securitys average cost.
NOTE 13. ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE NET
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
December 31, |
|
(in US$ thousands) |
|
2008 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Accounts receivable |
|
$ |
15,442 |
|
|
$ |
4,428 |
|
Less: Allowance for doubtful accounts |
|
|
(254 |
) |
|
|
(200 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net |
|
$ |
15,188 |
|
|
$ |
4,228 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The following is a reconciliation of changes in our Companys allowance for doubtful accounts
during the years ended December 31, 2007, 2008 and 2009:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
For the years ended December 31, |
|
(in US$ thousands) |
|
2007 |
|
|
2008 |
|
|
2009 |
|
Balance at beginning of year |
|
$ |
1,895 |
|
|
$ |
1,362 |
|
|
$ |
254 |
|
Additions: Provision for bad debt expenses |
|
|
743 |
|
|
|
313 |
|
|
|
158 |
|
Less: Write-offs |
|
|
(1,279 |
) |
|
|
(399 |
) |
|
|
(216 |
) |
Divestiture Internet access and service business |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(1,041 |
) |
|
|
|
|
Translation adjustment |
|
|
3 |
|
|
|
19 |
|
|
|
4 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Balance at end of year |
|
$ |
1,362 |
|
|
$ |
254 |
|
|
$ |
200 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
F-48
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
NOTE 14. MARKETABLE SECURITIES NONCURRENT
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
December 31, |
|
(in US$ thousands) |
|
2008 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Available-for-sale securities |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Debt securities |
|
$ |
26,041 |
|
|
$ |
14,204 |
|
Equity securities |
|
|
|
|
|
|
4,152 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
26,041 |
|
|
$ |
18,356 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Our Companys marketable securities noncurrent are invested in convertible preferred shares
and publicly traded common shares and classified as available-for-sale securities.
The preferred shares are convertible into common shares on 1:1 basis, subject to certain
adjustments, and shall be automatically converted upon certain conditions outlined in the
agreements. The convertible preferred shares are all redeemable at certain agreed-upon conditions.
The embedded conversion options of the convertible preferred shares do not meet the definition of
derivative instruments defined in the FASB accounting standards codification and therefore are not
bifurcated from the preferred share investment.
We have also considered and determined whether our investments in preferred shares are in-substance
common shares which should be accounted for under the equity method. Given that our convertible
preferred shares have substantive redemption rights and thus do not meet the criteria of
in-substance common shares, we have accounted for them as debt securities in accordance with the
guidance issued by FASB Accounting Standards Codification.
We assessed the estimated fair values and potential impairment of these investments as of December
31, 2008 and 2009. (See Note 10 Fair Value Measurement, for additional information).
F-49
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
NOTE 15. OTHER CURRENT ASSETS
Other current assets include loan receivables of approximately $763 thousand and $500 thousand (net
of a provision of $2.6 million and $3.6 million, respectively) as of December 31, 2008 and 2009,
respectively.
In November 2006, our Company entered into a loan agreement for $214 thousand with a third party
with no interest. The outstanding principal balance of this loan was due in November 2009, and is
currently past due. We do not expect to collect all principal, therefore, we recognized a full
provision for the loan of $214 thousand in 2009.
In December 2007, our Company entered into a loan agreement for $2.5 million with Flagship Studios,
Inc. (Flagship), receiving in exchange a note with an interest rate of 10 percent per annum from
Flagship. For 2007 and 2008, we have accrued, based on the stated interest rate, interest income of
$14 thousand and $126 thousand, respectively. The outstanding principal balance of this note,
together with all accrued and unpaid interest thereon, was due on or before December 31, 2008, and
is currently past due. Due to the financial status of Flagship, we do not expect to collect all
principal and interest. Therefore, in 2008, we recognized a full provision for the loan and
interest receivable, in the aggregate of $2.6 million in 2008, and discontinued to recognize
interest income.
During the period from December 2008 to December 2009, our Company entered into loan agreements in
the aggregate of $1.2 million with certain companies included in our available-for-sale investments
with interest rates ranging from 5 percent to 10.525 percent per annum. For 2008 and 2009, we have
accrued, based on the stated interest rate, interest income of $2 thousand and $34 thousand,
respectively. Due to the financial status of certain of our available-for-sale investments, we do
not expect to collect all principal
and interest. Therefore, we recognized a provision for certain loans and interest receivable, in
the aggregate of $719 thousand in 2009, and discontinued to recognize interest income.
F-50
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
NOTE 16. SHORT-TERM BORROWINGS
As of December 31, 2008 and 2009, short-term borrowings totaled $15.2 million and $22.5 million,
respectively. These amounts were borrowed from certain financial institutions. The annual interest
rates on these borrowings ranged from 2.5 percent to 5.038 percent for 2008, and from 1.99 percent
to 4.288 percent for 2009, respectively. The maturity dates ranged from March 2009 to September
2009 as of December 31, 2008, and from January 2010 to June 2010 as of December 31, 2009,
respectively. As of December 31, 2008 and 2009, the weighted-average interest rate on total
short-term borrowings was 3.20 percent and 2.24 percent, respectively.
As of December 31, 2009, the unused lines of credit under short-term borrowing agreements were
approximately $10.3 million.
During the period from January 2010 to March 2010, we repaid certain short-term borrowings totaling
$5.3 million, and renewed short-term borrowing agreements totaling $6.3 million.
We pledged certain time deposits, land, and buildings as collateral for borrowings from certain
financial institutions. The total value of collateral amounted to $1.6 million and $2.1 million as
of December 31, 2008 and 2009, respectively.
NOTE 17. ACCRUED EXPENSES
Accrued expenses consist of the following:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
December 31, |
|
(in US$ thousands) |
|
2008 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Accrued advertising expenses |
|
$ |
5,013 |
|
|
$ |
2,382 |
|
Accrued professional fees |
|
|
2,627 |
|
|
|
1,160 |
|
Other |
|
|
3,705 |
|
|
|
3,177 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total |
|
$ |
11,345 |
|
|
$ |
6,719 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
F-51
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
NOTE 18. OTHER CURRENT LIABILITIES
Other current liabilities consist of the following:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
December 31, |
|
(in US$ thousands) |
|
2008 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Deferred revenue |
|
$ |
7,738 |
|
|
$ |
8,295 |
|
Income taxes payable |
|
|
1,431 |
|
|
|
1,222 |
|
Other |
|
|
3,217 |
|
|
|
3,727 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total |
|
$ |
12,386 |
|
|
$ |
13,244 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
NOTE 19. PENSION BENEFITS
Our Company and our subsidiaries have defined benefit and defined contribution pension plans
that cover substantially all of our employees.
Defined Benefit Pension Plan
We have a defined benefit pension plan in accordance with the Labor Standards Law of the
Republic of China (R.O.C.) for our employees located in Taiwan, covering substantially all
full-time employees for services provided prior to July 1, 2005, and employees who have elected to
remain in the defined benefit pension plan subsequent to the enactment of the Labor Pension Act on
July 1, 2005. Under the defined benefit pension plan, employees are entitled to
two base points for every year of service for the first 15 years and one base point for every
additional year of service, up to a maximum of 45 base points. The pension payment to employees is
computed based on base point and average salaries or wages for the six months prior to approved
retirement.
We use a December 31 measurement date for our defined benefit pension plan. As of December 31,
2008 and 2009, the accumulated benefit obligation amounted to $229 thousand and $233 thousand,
respectively, and the funded status amounted to $108 thousand and $83 thousand, respectively. The
fair value of plan assets amounted to $177 thousand and $209 thousand as of December 31, 2008 and
2009, respectively.
F-52
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
The accumulated other comprehensive income amounted to $276 thousand and $208 thousand as of
December 31, 2008 and 2009, respectively. Included in accumulated other comprehensive income, is a
net pension gain of $14 thousand as of December 31, 2009 which is expected to be recognized in
2010.
The net periodic benefit cost for 2007, 2008 and 2009 amounted to $1 thousand, $101 thousand
and $76 thousand, respectively.
We have contributed an amount equal to 2 percent of the salaries and wages paid to all qualified
employees located in Taiwan to a pension fund (the Fund). The Fund is administered by a pension
fund monitoring committee (the Committee) and deposited in the Committees name in the Central
Trust of China in Taiwan. Our Company makes pension payments from our account in the Fund unless
the Fund is insufficient, in which case we make payments from internal funds as payments become
due. We seek to maintain a normal, highly liquid working capital balance to ensure payments are
made timely.
We expect to make a contribution of $24 thousand to the Fund in 2010. We do not expect to make any
benefit payments through 2019.
Defined Contribution Pension Plans
We have provided defined contribution plans for employees located in Taiwan, North America, the PRC
and Hong Kong. Contributions to the plans are expensed as incurred.
Taiwan
Pursuant to the new Labor Pension Act enacted on July 1, 2005, our Company has a defined
contribution pension plan for our employees located in Taiwan. For eligible employees who elect to
participate in the defined contribution pension plan, we contribute no less than 6 percent of an
employees monthly salary and wage and up to the maximum amount of NT$9 thousand (approximately
$281), to each of the eligible employees individual pension accounts at the Bureau of Labor
Insurance each month. Pension payments to employees are made either by monthly installments or in a
lump sum from the accumulated contributions and earnings in employees individual accounts.
F-53
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
North America
We provide a defined contribution plan for employees located in the United States. Participants
under the age of 50 are allowed to defer up to $16.5 thousand of their annual compensation under
the plan, whereas participants over the age of 50 are allowed to defer up to $22 thousand annually.
Our Company contributes an amount equal to the lesser of 3 percent of the participants
compensation or 100 percent of the amount deferred by the employee.
We also provide a defined contribution plan for employees located in Canada. Participants are
permitted to contribute a percentage of their earnings to this plan and select their own
investments. Each participants annual contributions are limited to 18 percent of his or her prior
year compensation or $19 thousand, whichever is less. Our Company contributes an amount equal to
the lesser of 3 percent of the participants compensation or 100 percent of the amount contributed
by the participant.
PRC
All PRC employees participate in employee social security plans, including
pension and other welfare benefits, which are organized and administered by governmental
authorities. We have no other substantial commitments to employees. The premiums and welfare
benefit contributions that should be borne by our Company are calculated in accordance with
relevant PRC regulations, and are paid to the labor and social welfare authorities.
Hong Kong
According to the relevant Hong Kong regulations, we provide a contribution plan for the eligible
employees in Hong Kong. We must contribute at least 5 percent of the employees total salaries.
For this purpose, the monthly relevant contribution to their individual contribution accounts is
subject to a cap of HK$1 thousand (approximately $128). After the termination of employment, the
benefits still belong to the employees in any circumstances.
F-54
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
The total amount of defined contribution pension expenses pursuant to the plans in Taiwan, North
America, the PRC and Hong Kong for the years ended December 31, 2007, 2008, and 2009 were $852
thousand, $1.1 million, and $1.3 million, respectively.
NOTE 20. EQUITY
In accordance with Singapore law, our Companys common stock does not have a par value. In
addition, we are not required to have a number of authorized common shares to be issued.
In accordance with R.O.C. law, an appropriation for legal reserve amounting to 10 percent of a
companys net profit is required until the reserve equals the aggregate par value of such Taiwan
companys issued capital stock. As of December 31, 2008 and 2009, the legal reserves of Hoshin
GigaMedia, which represent a component of our consolidated accumulated deficit, were $2.3 million,
and $3.0 million, respectively. The reserve can only be used to offset a deficit or be distributed
as a stock dividend of up to 50 percent of the reserve balance when the reserve balance has reached
50 percent of the aggregate paid-in capital of Hoshin GigaMedia.
In accordance with the regulations in the PRC and their respective articles of association,
subsidiaries and VIE subsidiaries of T2CN incorporated in the PRC are required to make an
appropriation of retained earnings for statutory reserve equal to at least 10 percent of their
respective after-tax profits, calculated in accordance with the PRC accounting standards and
regulations until the reserve equals 50 percent of the registered capital of the respective
companies. As of December 31, 2008 and 2009, the statutory reserves of subsidiaries and VIE
subsidiaries of T2CN in the aggregate of $339 thousand and $715 thousand, respectively, are
included as a component of GigaMedias consolidated accumulated deficit.
F-55
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
The statutory reserves can be used to offset a deficit or to increase capital of the respective
companies. They are not transferable to our Company in the form of dividends, advances, or loans.
Under PRC laws and regulations, there are certain foreign exchange restrictions on our Companys
PRC subsidiaries and VIE subsidiaries with respect to transferring certain of their net assets to
our Company either in the form of dividends, loans or advances.
As of December 31, 2008 and 2009, our Companys total restricted net assets, which include paid up
capital and statutory reserve funds of PRC subsidiaries and the net assets of VIE subsidiaries in
which our Company has no legal ownership, were approximately $13.2 million and $8.1 million,
respectively.
NOTE 21. SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION
The following table summarizes the total stock-based compensation expense recognized in our
Consolidated Statements of Operations:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(in US$ thousands) |
|
2007 |
|
|
2008 |
|
|
2009 |
|
Cost of online game and service revenues |
|
$ |
48 |
|
|
$ |
27 |
|
|
$ |
101 |
|
Product development & engineering expenses |
|
|
250 |
|
|
|
480 |
|
|
|
59 |
|
Selling and marketing expenses |
|
|
142 |
|
|
|
244 |
|
|
|
231 |
|
General and administrative expenses |
|
|
1,394 |
|
|
|
1,954 |
|
|
|
2,886 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Pre-tax stock-based compensation expense |
|
|
1,834 |
|
|
|
2,705 |
|
|
|
3,277 |
|
Income tax benefit |
|
|
249 |
|
|
|
497 |
|
|
|
382 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total stock-based compensation expense reported in continuing operations |
|
$ |
1,585 |
|
|
$ |
2,208 |
|
|
$ |
2,895 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total stock-based compensation expense reported in discontinued operations, net of tax |
|
$ |
28 |
|
|
$ |
63 |
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
There were no significant capitalized stock-based compensation costs at December 31, 2008
and 2009.
F-56
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
GigaMedia
(a) Overview of Stock-Based Compensation Plan
2002 Employee Share Option Plan
At the June 2002 annual general meeting of shareholders, the shareholders of our Company
approved the GigaMedia Limited 2002 Employee Share Option Plan (the 2002 Plan) under which up to
three million common shares of our Company have been reserved for issuance. All employees,
officers, directors, supervisors, advisors, and consultants of our Company are eligible to
participate in the 2002 Plan. The 2002 Plan is administered by a committee designated by the board
of directors. The committee as plan administrator has complete discretion to determine the exercise
price for the option grants, the eligible individuals who are to receive option grants, the time or
times when options grants are to be made, the number of shares subject to grant and the vesting
schedule. The maximum contractual term for the options under the 2002 Plan is 10 years.
2004 Employee Share Option Plan
At the June 2004 annual general meeting of shareholders, the shareholders of our Company
approved the GigaMedia Limited 2004 Employee Share Option Plan (the 2004 Plan) under which up to
seven million common shares of our Company have been reserved for issuance. All employees,
officers, directors, supervisors, advisors, and consultants of our Company are eligible to
participate in the 2004 Plan. The 2004 Plan is administered by a committee designated by the board
of directors. The committee as plan administrator has complete discretion to determine the exercise
price for the option grants, the eligible individuals who are to receive option grants, the time or
times when options grants are to be made, the number of shares subject to grant and the vesting
schedule. The maximum contractual term for the options under the 2004 Plan is 10 years.
F-57
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
2006 Equity Incentive Plan
At the June 2006 annual general meeting of shareholders, the shareholders of our Company approved
the GigaMedia Limited 2006 Equity Incentive Plan (the
2006 Plan) under which up to one million common shares of our Company have been reserved for
issuance. The 2006 Plan is administered by a committee designated by the board of directors. The
committee as plan administrator has complete discretion to determine the grant of awards under the
2006 Plan. The maximum contractual term for the options under the 2006 Plan is 10 years.
2007 Equity Incentive Plan
At the June 2007 annual general meeting of shareholders, the shareholders of our Company approved
the GigaMedia Limited 2007 Equity Incentive Plan (the 2007 Plan) under which up to two million
common shares of our Company have been reserved for issuance. The 2007 Plan is administered by a
committee designated by the board of directors. The committee as plan administrator has complete
discretion to determine the grant of awards under the 2007 Plan. The maximum contractual term for
the options under the 2007 Plan is 10 years.
2008 Equity Incentive Plan
At the June 2008 annual general meeting of shareholders, the shareholders of our Company approved
the GigaMedia Limited 2008 Equity Incentive Plan (the 2008 Plan) under which up to one million
common shares of our Company have been reserved for issuance. The 2008 Plan is administered by a
committee designated by the board of directors. The committee as plan administrator has complete
discretion to determine the grant of awards under the 2008 Plan. The maximum contractual term for
the options under the 2008 Plan is 10 years.
2008 Employee Share Purchase Plan
At the June 2008 annual general meeting of shareholders, the shareholders of our Company approved the GigaMedia Limited
2008 Employee Share Purchase Plan (the 2008 ESPP) under which up to two hundred thousand common shares of our Company
were reserved for issuance. Any person who is regularly employed by our Company or our designated subsidiaries shall be
eligible to participate in the 2008 ESPP. Pursuant to the 2008 ESPP, our Company would offer the shares to qualified
employees on favorable terms. Employees are also subject to certain restrictions on the amount that may be invested to
purchase the shares and to other terms and conditions of the 2008 ESPP. The 2008 ESPP is administered by a committee
designated by the board of directors. As of December 31, 2009, no shares have been subscribed by qualified employees
under the 2008 ESPP.
2009 Equity Incentive Plan
At the June 2009 annual general meeting of shareholders, the shareholders of our Company approved
the GigaMedia Limited 2009 Equity Incentive Plan (the 2009 Plan) under which up to one and a half
million common shares of our Company have been reserved for issuance. The 2009 Plan is administered
by a committee designated by the board of directors. The committee as plan administrator has
complete discretion to determine the grant of awards under the 2009 Plan. The maximum contractual
term for the options under the 2009
Plan is 10 years. As of December 31, 2009, no awards have been granted under the 2009 Plan.
F-58
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
2009 Employee Share Purchase Plan
At the June 2009 annual general meeting of shareholders, the shareholders of our Company approved
the GigaMedia Limited 2009 Employee Share Purchase Plan (the 2009 ESPP) under which up to two
hundred thousand common shares of our Company have been reserved for issuance. To be eligible,
employees must be regularly employed by us or our designated subsidiaries. Employees are also
subject to certain restrictions on the amount that may be invested to purchase the shares and to
other terms and conditions of the 2009 ESPP. The 2009 ESPP is administered by a committee
designated by the board of directors. As of December 31, 2009, no shares have been issued to
employees under the 2009 ESPP.
Summarized below are the general terms of our stock-based compensation plans, for which awards have
been granted as of December 31, 2009.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Stock-Based |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Options exercise |
|
RSUs grant date fair |
compensation plan |
|
Granted awards |
|
|
Vesting schedule |
|
price |
|
value |
2002 plan |
|
|
3,000,000 |
|
|
immediately upon granting |
|
$0.79 |
|
|
2004 plan |
|
|
7,528,185 |
* |
|
immediately upon granting to three years |
|
$0.79 ~ $2.55 |
|
|
2006 plan |
|
|
999,543 |
|
|
immediately upon granting to four years |
|
$10.15 ~ $16.6 |
|
$9.81 ~ $16.01 |
2007 plan |
|
|
1,980,907 |
|
|
one to four years |
|
$4.24 ~ $18.17 |
|
$4.24 ~ $15.35 |
2008 plan |
|
|
560,000 |
|
|
four to six years |
|
$4.24 |
|
|
|
|
|
* |
|
The granted awards, net of forfeited or canceled shares, were within reserved shares of
seven million common shares. |
Options and RSUs generally vest over the schedule described above. Certain RSUs provide for
accelerated vesting if there is a change in control. All options and RSUs are expected to be
settled by issuing new shares.
F-59
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
(b) Options
In 2008 and 2009, 518,284 and 543,049 options were exercised, and cash received from the
exercise of stock options was $0.5 million and $1.3 million, respectively, which resulted in no
significant tax benefit realized on a consolidated basis.
Our Company uses the Black-Scholes formula to estimate the fair value of stock options granted
to employees. There were no stock options granted in 2009. The following table summarizes the
assumptions used in the model for options granted during 2007 and 2008:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2007 |
|
2008 |
|
|
|
|
|
Option term (years) |
|
2.77 |
|
2.77~4.58 |
Volatility |
|
57.41%~58.80% |
|
57.83%~64.58% |
Weighted-average volatility |
|
58.68% |
|
64.01% |
Risk-free interest rate |
|
3.24%~4.56% |
|
1.72%~2.88% |
Dividend yield |
|
0% |
|
0% |
Weighted-average fair value of options granted |
|
$4.46 |
|
$2.36 |
Option term. The expected term of the options granted represents the period of time that they
are expected to be outstanding. Our Company estimates the expected term of options granted based on
historical experience with grants and option exercises.
Expected volatility rate. An analysis of historical volatility was used to develop the estimate of
expected volatility.
Risk-free interest rate. The risk-free interest rate is based on yields of U.S. Treasury bonds for
the expected term of the options.
Expected dividend yield. The dividend yield is based on our Companys current dividend yield.
F-60
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
Option transactions during the last three years are summarized as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2007 |
|
|
2008 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Weighted- Average |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Remaining |
|
|
Aggregate |
|
|
|
Weighted Avg. |
|
|
No. of Shares |
|
|
Weighted Avg. |
|
|
No. of Shares |
|
|
Weighted Avg. |
|
|
No. of Shares |
|
|
Contractual |
|
|
Intrinsic Value |
|
|
|
Exercise Price |
|
|
(in thousands) |
|
|
Exercise Price |
|
|
(in thousands) |
|
|
Exercise Price |
|
|
(in thousands) |
|
|
Term |
|
|
(in thousands) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Balance at
January 1, |
|
$ |
1.11 |
|
|
|
8,789 |
|
|
$ |
2.42 |
|
|
|
7,912 |
|
|
$ |
2.47 |
|
|
|
8,287 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Options granted |
|
|
10.78 |
|
|
|
1,145 |
|
|
|
4.69 |
|
|
|
1,341 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Options exercised |
|
|
1.43 |
|
|
|
(1,911 |
) |
|
|
0.95 |
|
|
|
(518 |
) |
|
|
2.42 |
|
|
|
(543 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Options
Forfeited/canceled /expired |
|
|
2.47 |
|
|
|
(111 |
) |
|
|
9.97 |
|
|
|
(448 |
) |
|
|
17.98 |
|
|
|
(55 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Balance at
December 31, |
|
$ |
2.42 |
|
|
|
7,912 |
|
|
$ |
2.47 |
|
|
|
8,287 |
|
|
$ |
2.36 |
|
|
|
7,689 |
|
|
|
5.36 |
|
|
$ |
13,673 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Exercisable at
December 31, |
|
$ |
1.06 |
|
|
|
6,692 |
|
|
$ |
1.33 |
|
|
|
6,448 |
|
|
$ |
1.65 |
|
|
|
6,420 |
|
|
|
4.87 |
|
|
$ |
13,673 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Vested and expected
to vest at
December 31, |
|
$ |
2.42 |
|
|
|
7,912 |
|
|
$ |
2.47 |
|
|
|
8,287 |
|
|
$ |
2.36 |
|
|
|
7,689 |
|
|
|
5.36 |
|
|
$ |
13,673 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The aggregate intrinsic value in the table above represents the total pretax intrinsic
value (the difference between GigaMedias closing stock price on the last trading day of 2009 and
the fair value of the exercise price, multiplied by the number of in-the-money options) that would
have been received by the option holders had they exercised their options on December 31, 2009.
This amount changes based on the fair market value of GigaMedias stock. The total intrinsic value
of options exercised for the years ended December 31, 2007, 2008, and 2009 were $25.1 million, $7.2
million, and $0.8 million, respectively.
As of December 31 2009, there was approximately $3.2 million of unrecognized compensation cost
related to nonvested options. That cost is
expected to be recognized over a period of 2.92 years.
F-61
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
The following table sets forth information about stock options outstanding at December 31, 2009:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Options outstanding |
|
Options currently exercisable |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Weighted average |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
No. of Shares |
|
|
remaining |
|
|
|
No. of Shares |
|
Exercise price |
|
(in thousands) |
|
|
contractual life |
|
Exercise price |
|
(in thousands) |
|
under $1 |
|
|
5,392 |
|
|
4.50 years |
|
under $1 |
|
|
5,392 |
|
$1~$10 |
|
|
1,590 |
|
|
7.27 years |
|
$1~$10 |
|
|
640 |
|
$10~$20 |
|
|
707 |
|
|
7.65 years |
|
$10~$20 |
|
|
388 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
7,689 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
6,420 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(c) RSUs
Nonvested RSUs during 2009 were as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Number of units |
|
|
Weighted-average |
|
|
|
(in thousands) |
|
|
grant date fair value |
|
Nonvested at December 31, 2008 |
|
|
641 |
|
|
$ |
10.41 |
|
Granted |
|
|
100 |
|
|
$ |
6.01 |
|
Vested |
|
|
(86 |
) |
|
$ |
10.15 |
|
Forfeited |
|
|
(15 |
) |
|
$ |
7.19 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Nonvested at December 31, 2009 |
|
|
640 |
|
|
$ |
9.83 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The fair value of RSUs is determined and fixed on the grant date based on our stock price. The
fair value of RSUs granted during the years ended December 31, 2007, 2008 and 2009 was $2.2
million, $6.8 million and $0.6 million, respectively. The total fair value of RSUs vested during
the years ended December 31, 2007, 2008 and 2009 was $773 thousand, $1.5 million and $0.9 million,
respectively, which resulted in no significant tax benefit realized on a
consolidated basis.
As of December 31 2009, there was approximately $0.3 million of unrecognized compensation cost
related to nonvested RSUs. That cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of
1.3 years. Our Company received no cash from employees as a result of employee stock award vesting
and the forfeiture of RSUs during 2007, 2008 and 2009.
F-62
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
T2CN
(a) Overview of Stock-Based Compensation Plan
The board members of T2CN approved the T2CN stock-based compensation plan for which up to 10.8
million common shares of T2CN have been reserved for issuance. The maximum contractual term is 11
years.
The stock options of T2CN generally vest over one to three years. Certain stock options
contingently vest upon meeting a specific performance goal. T2CN recognizes expenses for its stock
options that are ultimately expected to vest using the straight-line method over the vesting
period. The options generally expire five to 10 years after the grant date. The total value of
compensation expense for stock options is equal to the fair value of the award on the grant date.
All stock options are expected to be settled by issuing new shares.
(b) Options
No options have been exercised since our consolidation of T2CN in June 2007.
T2CN uses the Black-Scholes option-pricing model to estimate the fair value of stock options.
There were no stock options granted in 2009. The following table summarizes the assumptions used in
the model for options granted during each of the years ended 2007 and 2008:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2007 |
|
2008 |
|
|
|
|
|
Option term (years) |
|
5.44~6.02 |
|
3.50~6.26 |
Volatility |
|
44.64%~46.96% |
|
47.85%~57.41% |
Weighted-average volatility |
|
45.03% |
|
48.19% |
Risk-free interest rate |
|
4.31%~4.68% |
|
2.20%~4.54% |
Dividend yield |
|
0% |
|
0% |
Weighted-average fair value of option granted |
|
$0.52 |
|
$0.38 |
F-63
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
Option term. The expected term of the options granted represents the period of time that they
are expected to be outstanding. In the absence of sufficient historical data in the exercise
behavior of option holders, T2CN applies the mid point of option life and average vesting period.
Expected volatility rate. The expected volatility is based on the weighted average historical
volatility of the stock prices of comparable companies as at the grant dates.
Risk-free interest rate. The risk-free interest rate is based on yields of U.S. Treasury bonds for
the expected term of the options.
Expected dividend yield. The dividend yield is based on T2CNs current dividend yield.
Option and grant transactions for the period from June 1, 2007 to December 31, 2009 are summarized
as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2007 |
|
|
2008 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Weighted- Average |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Remaining |
|
|
Aggregate |
|
|
|
Weighted Avg. |
|
|
No. of Shares |
|
|
Weighted Avg. |
|
|
No. of Shares |
|
|
Weighted Avg. |
|
|
No. of Shares |
|
|
Contractual |
|
|
Intrinsic Value* |
|
|
|
Exercise Price |
|
|
(in thousands) |
|
|
Exercise Price |
|
|
(in thousands) |
|
|
Exercise Price |
|
|
(in thousands) |
|
|
Term |
|
|
(in thousands) |
|
Balance at
Beginning of the year |
|
$ |
1.30 |
|
|
|
2,973 |
|
|
$ |
1.24 |
|
|
|
3,300 |
|
|
$ |
1.07 |
|
|
|
6,841 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Options granted |
|
|
1.00 |
|
|
|
501 |
|
|
$ |
1.02 |
|
|
|
6,500 |
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Options
Forfeited/canceled
/expired |
|
|
1.57 |
|
|
|
(174 |
) |
|
$ |
1.15 |
|
|
|
(2,959 |
) |
|
$ |
1.02 |
|
|
|
(1,639 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Balance at
December 31, |
|
$ |
1.24 |
|
|
|
3,300 |
|
|
$ |
1.07 |
|
|
|
6,841 |
|
|
$ |
1.08 |
|
|
|
5,202 |
|
|
|
4.38 |
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Exercisable at
December 31, |
|
$ |
1.20 |
|
|
|
937 |
|
|
$ |
1.27 |
|
|
|
1,406 |
|
|
$ |
1.19 |
|
|
|
2,246 |
|
|
|
5.70 |
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Vested and expected
to vest at
December 31, |
|
$ |
1.24 |
|
|
|
3,016 |
|
|
$ |
1.06 |
|
|
|
5,753 |
|
|
$ |
1.11 |
|
|
|
3,758 |
|
|
|
4.81 |
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
* |
|
Since the estimated fair value of T2CNs stock was below the exercise price for all stock
options on December 31, 2009, there was no aggregate intrinsic value. |
F-64
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
As of December 31, 2009 there was $0.4 million of total unrecognized compensation cost,
net of estimated forfeitures, related to unvested share options which is expected to be recognized
over a weighted average period of 1.19 years. Total unrecognized compensation cost may be adjusted
for future changes in estimated forfeitures.
The following table sets forth information about stock options outstanding at December 31, 2009:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Options outstanding |
|
Options currently exercisable |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Weighted average |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Range of |
|
No. of Shares |
|
|
remaining |
|
Weighted average |
|
|
No. of Shares |
|
exercise price |
|
(in thousands) |
|
|
contractual life |
|
exercise price |
|
|
(in thousands) |
|
$1.00 |
|
|
4,502 |
|
|
3.98 years |
|
$ |
1.00 |
|
|
|
1,546 |
|
$1.60 |
|
|
700 |
|
|
6.96 years |
|
$ |
1.60 |
|
|
|
700 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
5,202 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2,246 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
NOTE 22. OTHER NON-OPERATING INCOME
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
For the years ended December 31, |
|
(in US$ thousands) |
|
2007 |
|
|
2008 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Gain on cancellation of preferred share call options |
|
$ |
1,069 |
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
Indemnification from termination of game licensing |
|
|
601 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Compensation from termination of investment option rights |
|
|
498 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Gain on early redemption of convertible notes |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Subsidy received from tax authority |
|
|
|
|
|
|
561 |
|
|
|
190 |
|
Other |
|
|
(25 |
) |
|
|
281 |
|
|
|
(63 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
2,143 |
|
|
$ |
842 |
|
|
$ |
127 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
F-65
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
NOTE 23. INCOME TAXES
Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes by geographic location is as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
For the years ended December 31, |
|
(in US$ thousands) |
|
2007 |
|
|
2008 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
U.S. operations |
|
$ |
489 |
|
|
$ |
1,095 |
|
|
$ |
1,324 |
|
Non-U.S. operations |
|
|
38,995 |
|
|
|
35,684 |
|
|
|
($56,909 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
39,484 |
|
|
$ |
36,779 |
|
|
|
($55,585 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income tax provision (benefit) from continuing operations by geographic location is as
follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
For the years ended December 31, |
|
(in US$ thousands) |
|
2007 |
|
|
2008 |
|
|
2009 |
|
U.S. operations |
|
$ |
224 |
|
|
$ |
620 |
|
|
$ |
557 |
|
Non-U.S. operations |
|
|
177 |
|
|
|
449 |
|
|
|
($40 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
401 |
|
|
$ |
1,069 |
|
|
$ |
517 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The components of income tax provision from continuing operations by taxing jurisdiction are
as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
For the years ended December 31, |
|
(in US$ thousands) |
|
2007 |
|
|
2008 |
|
|
2009 |
|
U.S. federal |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Current |
|
$ |
281 |
|
|
$ |
(57 |
) |
|
$ |
863 |
|
Deferred |
|
|
(111 |
) |
|
|
528 |
|
|
|
(443 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
170 |
|
|
$ |
471 |
|
|
$ |
420 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
U.S. state and local: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Current |
|
$ |
84 |
|
|
$ |
208 |
|
|
$ |
156 |
|
Deferred |
|
|
(30 |
) |
|
|
(59 |
) |
|
|
(19 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
54 |
|
|
$ |
149 |
|
|
$ |
137 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Non U.S.: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Current |
|
$ |
132 |
|
|
$ |
976 |
|
|
$ |
967 |
|
Deferred |
|
|
45 |
|
|
|
(527 |
) |
|
|
(1,007 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
177 |
|
|
$ |
449 |
|
|
$ |
(40 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total income tax
provisions |
|
$ |
401 |
|
|
$ |
1,069 |
|
|
$ |
517 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
F-66
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
A reconciliation of our continuing operations effective tax rate to the statutory U.S. federal
tax rate is as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
For the years ended December 31, |
|
(in US$ thousands) |
|
2007 |
|
|
2008 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Federal statutory rate |
|
|
34.00 |
% |
|
|
34.00 |
% |
|
|
34.00 |
% |
State and local net of
federal tax benefit |
|
|
6.27 |
% |
|
|
6.27 |
% |
|
|
8.14 |
% |
Foreign tax differential |
|
|
(36.16 |
%) |
|
|
(32.56 |
%) |
|
|
(43.53 |
%) |
Loss carryforward utilized |
|
|
(3.33 |
%) |
|
|
(2.89 |
%) |
|
|
|
|
Change in valuation allowance |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(4.69 |
%) |
|
|
(1.73 |
%) |
Other |
|
|
0.24 |
% |
|
|
2.78 |
% |
|
|
2.19 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Effective rate |
|
|
1.02 |
% |
|
|
2.91 |
% |
|
|
(0.93 |
%) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The effect of tax rate changes on deferred tax assets and liabilities did not have a material
impact on our continuing operations effective tax rate.
The provision for income taxes attributable to discontinued operations is $2 thousand, $986
thousand, and $0 for the years ended December 31, 2007, 2008 and 2009, respectively.
Significant components of our deferred tax assets consist of the following:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
December 31, |
|
(in US$ thousands) |
|
2008 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
Net operating loss carryforwards |
|
$ |
1 |
|
|
$ |
80 |
|
Deferred revenue |
|
|
472 |
|
|
|
540 |
|
Amortization |
|
|
378 |
|
|
|
(136 |
) |
Investment credits |
|
|
185 |
|
|
|
|
|
Share-based compensation |
|
|
116 |
|
|
|
230 |
|
Impairment charges |
|
|
34 |
|
|
|
1,465 |
|
Pension expense |
|
|
80 |
|
|
|
41 |
|
Depreciation |
|
|
22 |
|
|
|
86 |
|
Others |
|
|
180 |
|
|
|
121 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1,468 |
|
|
|
2,427 |
|
Less: valuation allowance |
|
|
(106 |
) |
|
|
(1,068 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Deferred tax assets net |
|
$ |
1,362 |
|
|
$ |
1,359 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
F-67
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
As of December 31, 2008 and 2009, $442 thousand and $243 thousand, respectively, of net
deferred tax assets were reported as non-current deferred tax assets and included in other assets.
Significant components of our deferred tax liabilities consist of the following:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
December 31, |
|
(in US$ thousands) |
|
2008 |
|
|
2009 |
|
Depreciation and amortization |
|
$ |
1,754 |
|
|
$ |
69 |
|
Others |
|
|
(244 |
) |
|
|
(37 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Deferred tax liabilities net |
|
$ |
1,510 |
|
|
$ |
32 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
As of December 31, 2008 and 2009, $1.1 million and $(3) thousand, respectively, of net
deferred tax liabilities were reported as non-current deferred tax liabilities and included in
other liabilities.
A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amounts of our valuation allowance on deferred tax
assets for the years ended December 31, 2007, 2008 and 2009 are as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
For the years ended December 31, |
|
(in US$ thousands) |
|
2007 |
|
|
2008 |
|
|
2009 |
|
Balance at beginning of year |
|
$ |
4,032 |
|
|
$ |
3,012 |
|
|
$ |
106 |
|
Subsequent reversal/utilization of valuation allowance |
|
|
(1,224 |
) |
|
|
(2,787 |
) |
|
|
(45 |
) |
Reversal of valuation allowance due to loss
carryforwards expired unused |
|
|
(990 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Addition of valuation allowance |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1,006 |
|
Divestiture |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(219 |
) |
|
|
|
|
Acquisition |
|
|
1,197 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Exchange differences |
|
|
(3 |
) |
|
|
100 |
|
|
|
1 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Balance at end of year |
|
$ |
3,012 |
|
|
$ |
106 |
|
|
$ |
1,068 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
As of December 31, 2007, we did not believe that sufficient objective, positive evidence
existed to conclude that the realization of deferred tax assets was more likely than not. Our
Internet access and service operations faced slow market growth and intense market competition, and
certain subsidiaries and VIE subsidiaries of our online game and service business were not likely
to be able to utilize their operating loss carryforwards. As a result, we provided a valuation
allowance covering substantially all of the deferred tax assets as of December 31, 2007.
F-68
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
For deferred tax assets as of December 31, 2008, we evaluated the available evidence and determined
that it was more likely than not that we would realize the benefit of the deferred tax assets. The
primary reason for the reversal of the valuation allowance in 2008 was that the sale of our
Internet access and service operation was completed in September 2008. Based on weighing all
available evidence, we determined that evidence existed to conclude that it is more likely than not
that we will generate sufficient taxable income to utilize the majority of the deferred tax assets
within the allowable carryforward periods.
In 2009, the valuation allowance on the deferred tax assets increased by $962 thousand to $1.1
million primarily because certain subsidiaries and VIE subsidiaries of our online game and service
business are not likely to be able to utilize all of the deferred tax assets based on their
estimated future taxable income.
In 2007, 2008 and 2009, we applied for investment tax credits and research and development tax
credits in the Taiwan tax jurisdiction.
As of December 31, 2009, the Company had net operating loss carryforwards available to offset
future income in Hong Kong and PRC, which begin to expire in 2011.
Under Singapore tax regulations, foreign-sourced dividend income used for capital expenditures,
including investments, and repayment of borrowings, would not be deemed as remitted to Singapore
and is therefore not taxable. As of December 31, 2009, the Company has not accrued deferred income
taxes on $21.9 million of unremitted earnings from non-Singapore subsidiaries as such earnings are
considered to be reinvested overseas or repayment of borrowings. Determination of the amount of
unrecognized deferred tax liability related to these earnings is considered impracticable.
F-69
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
Uncertain Tax Positions
In January 2007, we adopted the new accounting guidance issued by the FASB relating to uncertain
tax positions. The cumulative effects of adopting the new guidance related to uncertain tax
positions was to increase tax liabilities by $143 thousand, increase the accumulated deficit by
$143 thousand and derecognize deferred tax assets and the associated valuation allowance by $66
thousand. Including the cumulative effect increase at January 1, 2007, we had approximately $209
thousand of total gross unrecognized tax benefits at the date of our adoption of the new accounting
guidance.
A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits (excluding the
effects of accrued interest) for the years 2007, 2008 and 2009 are as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
(in US$ thousands) |
|
|
|
|
Balance at January 1, 2007 |
|
$ |
209 |
|
Decrease due to settlement |
|
|
(82 |
) |
|
|
|
|
Balance at December 31, 2007 |
|
|
127 |
|
Decrease due to settlement |
|
|
(127 |
) |
|
|
|
|
Balance at December 31, 2008 |
|
|
|
|
Increase for prior year tax positions |
|
|
220 |
|
Increase for current year tax positions |
|
|
460 |
|
Exchange differences |
|
|
22 |
|
|
|
|
|
Balance at December 31, 2009 |
|
$ |
702 |
|
|
|
|
|
As of December 31, 2009, if recognized, the $702 thousand of unrecognized tax benefits would
not have a material impact on our Companys effective tax rate.
Interest and penalties related to income tax liabilities are included in income tax expense. In
2007, 2008 and 2009, there were no significant interest and penalties recognized in income tax
expenses.
Our major tax jurisdictions are located in Taiwan, the PRC and the United States. As of December
31, 2009, the income tax filings under tax jurisdictions located in Taiwan have been examined
through 2007 but we have filed appeals for 2006 and 2007 tax filings. The tax authority in the PRC
has only examined the tax filings of T2 Entertainment through 2006. Our Company files income tax
returns in the United States federal and state jurisdictions. With few exceptions, our Company is
no longer subject to U.S. federal and state income tax examinations by tax authorities for years
before 2003.
F-70
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
In 2007 and 2008, all of our unrecognized tax benefits were related to research and development
credits filed in 2005 and 2006. These unrecognized tax benefits were all settled with tax
authorities and there was no unrecognized tax benefit as of December 31, 2008.
In 2009, our unrecognized tax benefits were related to research and development credits and also
related to amortization of goodwill and intangible assets resulting from the acquisition of
FunTown. For research and development credits, the income tax authority is in the process of
reviewing our claims in 2008. For amortization of goodwill and intangible assets resulting from the
acquisition of FunTown, the income tax authority has proposed adjustments on the amortization for
our 2006 and 2007 tax filings during 2009. We have filed appeals for these amortization adjustments
but havent received a response from the tax authority.
The amount of unrecognized tax benefits may increase or decrease in the future for various reasons
such as current year tax positions, expiration of statutes of limitations, litigation, legislative
activity, or other changes in facts
regarding realizability. However, at this time, an estimate of the potential range of change cannot
be reasonably made.
F-71
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
NOTE 24. RELATED-PARTY TRANSACTIONS
Except for the following transactions, we were not a party to any transaction with any related
party that did not arise in the ordinary course of business or that was material to us.
As of December 31, 2008 and 2009, JC Entertainment Corporation (JC) owned 10.8 percent, of the
total outstanding voting rights of T2CN. T2CN paid certain licensing and royalty fees, totaling
approximately $1.2 million, and $2.8 million, respectively, during 2008, and $1.5 million and $2.6
million, respectively, during 2009, to JC. As of December 31, 2008 and 2009, we had a royalty
payable to JC of approximately $445 thousand and $925 thousand, respectively, and prepaid licensing
fees of approximately $6.6 million and $5.4 million, respectively. As of December 31, 2009, based
on the game licensing agreements signed with JC, T2CN also committed to pay certain licensing fees
totaling approximately $1.5 million.
In 2008 and 2009, a key manager of Waterland Financial Holdings was one of our directors. As of
December 31, 2008 and 2009, we had short-term borrowings in the amount of $1.5 million and $1.6
million, respectively, bearing interest of 5.038 percent and 3.288 percent, respectively, owed to
Waterland Financial Holdings.
F-72
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
NOTE 25. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
Commitments
(a) Operating Leases
We rent certain properties used as office premises under lease agreements that expire at various
dates through 2012. The following table sets forth our future aggregate minimum lease payments
required under these operating leases, as of December 31, 2009:
|
|
|
|
|
(in US$ thousands) |
|
|
|
|
Year |
|
|
|
|
2010 |
|
$ |
3,733 |
|
2011 |
|
|
1,574 |
|
2012 |
|
|
646 |
|
|
|
|
|
Total |
|
$ |
5,953 |
|
|
|
|
|
The table above reflects the reduction of future payments resulting from the sale of our gaming
software and service business in April 2010.
Rental expenses for operating leases amounted to $3.3 million, $5.0 million and $5.1 million for
the years ended December 31, 2007, 2008 and 2009, respectively (including rental expense amounts of
$1.8 million, $1.6 million, and $0 reported in discontinued operations in 2007, 2008 and 2009,
respectively). As of December 31, 2008, our Company recorded deferred rent of $2.4 million, of
which $2.1 million was included in the other liabilities. As of December 31, 2009, our Company
recorded deferred rent of $2.6 million, which was included in liabilities held for sale and
retained ownership of gaming software and service business.
(b) License Agreements
We have contractual obligations under various license agreements to pay the licensors license fees
and minimum guarantees against future royalties. The following table summarizes the committed
license fees and minimum guarantees against future royalties set forth in the major license
agreements.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Minimum |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
guarantees against |
|
|
|
|
(in US$ thousands) |
|
License fees |
|
|
future royalties |
|
|
Total |
|
Minimum required payments: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
In 2010 |
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
2,625 |
|
|
$ |
2,625 |
|
After 2010 |
|
|
2,700 |
|
|
|
8,600 |
|
|
|
11,300 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
2,700 |
|
|
$ |
11,225 |
|
|
$ |
13,925 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
In April 2010, we entered into termination agreements with certain of our game licensors. The
table above reflects the future payments considering these terminations.
F-73
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
The initial minimum guarantees against future royalties and license fees are not required to be
paid until the licensed games are commercially released or until certain milestones are achieved,
as stipulated in the individual license agreements. The remaining minimum guarantees are generally
required to be paid within three years subsequent to the commercial release dates of the licensed
games.
Additionally, we also have contractually committed to support related marketing, promotion and
advertising activities for certain games, and our commitments are contingent to occur based on the
payment schedules set forth in the individual license agreements. As of December 31, 2009, our
total commitments to these marketing expenditures amounted to not less than $10 million.
Contingencies
(a) T2CN VIE
PRC laws and regulations currently limit foreign ownership of companies that provide Internet
content services in the PRC, which include operating online games. In addition, foreign invested
enterprises are currently not eligible to apply for licenses required for operating online games in
the PRC. T2CN is incorporated in the British Virgin Islands and considered a foreign entity under
PRC laws. Due to the restrictions on foreign ownership on the provision of online games, T2
Entertainment and Jinyou hold necessary licenses and approvals that are essential for the online
game and service business of T2CN. Hence, T2CNs online games operation in the PRC is dependent on
the game licenses and approvals held by T2 Entertainment and Jinyou. T2CN and its subsidiaries have
entered into contractual arrangements with T2 Entertainment and Jinyou for use of the relevant
licenses and websites. Pursuant to certain other agreements and undertakings, T2CN in substance
controls T2 Entertainment and Jinyou. In the opinion of T2CNs directors, as of December 31, 2009,
the ownership structures and the contractual arrangements with T2 Entertainment, Jinyou and their
equity
owners as well as their operations are in compliance with all existing PRC laws and
regulations. However, there may be changes and other developments in PRC laws and regulations or
their interpretation. Accordingly, T2CN cannot be assured that in the future the PRC government
authorities will not take a view contrary to the opinion of T2CNs directors. If the current
ownership structures of T2CN and its contractual arrangements with T2 Entertainment and Jinyou were
found to be in violation of any existing or future PRC laws or regulations, T2CN might be required
to restructure its ownership structure and operations in the PRC to comply with changing or new PRC
laws and regulations.
F-74
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
(b) Other
We are subject to legal proceedings and claims that arise in the normal course of business. We
believe the ultimate liabilities with respect to these actions will not have a material adverse
effect on our financial condition, results of operations or cash flows. (See Note 26, Litigation,
for additional information).
NOTE 26. LITIGATION
Class Action
In December 2001, a class action lawsuit was filed in the United States District Court for the
Southern District of New York (District Court) against our Company in connection with the initial
public offering of our stock.
The complaint alleged that we violated Section 11 and Section 15 of the Securities Exchange Act of
1933 and Section 10(b) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and Rule 10b-5 promulgated
thereunder. In October 2002, plaintiffs voluntarily dismissed the individual defendants without
prejudice. On February 19, 2003, the court issued an opinion and order on defendants motions to
dismiss, which granted the motions in part and denied the motions in part. As to GigaMedia, the
Rule 10b-5 claims were dismissed without prejudice, while the Section 11 claims survived the
motion. Discovery in the actions commenced.
F-75
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
In June 2004, plaintiffs and issuer defendants, including our Company, presented the executed
settlement agreement (the Issuers Settlement) to the judge during a court conference.
Subsequently, plaintiffs and issuer defendants made a motion for preliminary approval of the
settlement agreement. The key terms of the Issuers Settlement included: 1) the insurers of the
issuers would provide an undertaking to guarantee that the plaintiffs would recover a total of $1
billion; 2) the insurers would pay up to $15 million for the notice costs arising from the
settlement; 3) the issuers would assign their interest in certain claims against the underwriters
to a litigation trust, represented by plaintiffs counsel; and 4) the plaintiffs would release all
of the settling issuer defendants. That is, if plaintiffs were successful in recovering more than
$1 billion from the underwriters, the issuer defendants would not be obligated to pay any
additional amounts. If plaintiffs recovered less than $1 billion from the underwriters, the
insurers would pay the deficit between $1 billion and the amount received from the underwriters.
On February 15, 2005, the judge issued an opinion and order granting preliminary approval to the
settlement agreement subject to a narrowing of the proposed bar order as to only contribution
claims. On April 24, 2006, the court held a fairness hearing on the proposed Issuers Settlement,
which was subject to the courts approval.
On December 5, 2006, the United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit issued an
opinion vacating the District Courts class certification in the six focus cases, which do not
include the Company. Because the Second Circuits opinion was directed to class certification in
the focus cases, the opinions effect on the proposed class to be certified by the District Court
in connection with the Issuers Settlement was unclear.
On December 15, 2006, the District Court held a conference with all counsel in the IPO securities
class action lawsuit to discuss the impact of the foregoing opinion. In the conference, the
District Court agreed to stay all proceedings, including discovery and consideration of the
Issuers Settlement, pending further decisions from the Second Circuit.
On January 5, 2007, plaintiffs filed a petition in the Second Circuit for rehearing and rehearing
en banc regarding the decision on class certification (the Petition). On April 6, 2007, the
Second Circuit rendered its decision which denied the Petition.
F-76
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
In April, May, and June 2007, the District Court held several conferences to discuss the
issues regarding class certification, statute of limitations, the Issuers Settlement and
discovery. In June 2007, a stipulation terminating the Issuers Settlement was submitted to the
District Court.
In September 2007, discovery moved forward in the six focus cases, which do not include the
Company. Plaintiffs filed amended complaints against the focus case issuer and underwriter
defendants and moved for class certification in those actions. In November 2007, the underwriters
and issuers filed motions to dismiss the amended complaints in the focus cases. In December 2007,
plaintiffs filed their opposition to defendants motions to dismiss. In January 2008, defendants
filed their reply briefs in further support of the motions to dismiss.
On or about March 26, 2008, the District Court granted in part and denied in part the motion to
dismiss the focus cases. The motion to dismiss was granted only as to claims brought under Section
11 of the Securities Act by plaintiffs who sold their securities for a price in excess of the
initial offering price and by those plaintiffs who purchased outside the previously certified class
period.
On April 9, 2008, the underwriters filed a motion for reconsideration of the holding in the March
26, 2008 opinion that the Section 11 claims against the focus case issuer was not time barred, on
the basis that no Section 11 class in that case was certified in 2004. The issuers joined in that
motion on behalf of the focus case issuer by letter to the District Court on April 10, 2008.
In December 2007, the issuers filed their oppositions to class certification in the focus cases. In
March 2008, plaintiffs filed their reply brief in further support of class certification. The
underwriters and issuers submitted sur-replies in further opposition to class certification on
April 22, 2008, addressing issues related to the deposition of the plaintiffs expert.
F-77
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
As set forth in Plaintiffs Motion For Preliminary Approval of the Settlement and accompanying
documents, which were filed on April 2, 2009, after eight years of litigation all parties to the
IPO Cases have agreed to settle the actions on a global basis. Pursuant to the settlement, the
defendants have agreed to pay $586 million in total to settle all 309 IPO Cases, including the
GigaMedia action. The agreement to settle was reached after a lengthy mediation followed by months
of negotiation to reach agreement on the details. As to our Companys portion of the settlement
payment, our insurance companies are paying the entire settlement amount.
In June 2009, the District Court granted the plaintiffs motion for preliminary approval of the
settlement agreement. Subsequently, in October 2009, the judge granted final approval to the
settlement. Certain objectors have filed notices of appeal to the United States Circuit Court for
the Second Circuit seeking to reverse or vacate the order granting final approval to the settlement
agreement. However, no briefs have been filed yet with respect to these appeals.
We had an insurance policy with American Insurance Group with $10 million of liability coverage
when the class action lawsuit was made. We believe that the insurance coverage is sufficient to
cover the liability arising from the settlement and claim.
NOTE 27. SEGMENT INFORMATION
Segment data
Subsequent to the sale of Internet access and service business in 2008, we realigned our reportable
business segments. The corresponding segment profit or loss information for 2007 has been restated
to conform to the current year presentation. All income (loss) related to our Internet access and
service business has been excluded from the reconciliation of our segment totals to the GigaMedia
consolidated totals.
F-78
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
We have identified two reportable segments: a gaming software and service business segment and
an online game and service business segment. The gaming software and service business segment
mainly derives its revenues from developing and licensing online games of chance and skill. The
online game and service business segment mainly derives its revenues from recognizing the usage of
game playing time or in-game items by the end-users.
Our management relies on an internal management reporting process that provides revenue and segment
information for making financial decisions and allocating resources. The results are based on our
method of internal reporting and are not necessarily in conformity with GAAP. Management measures
the performance of each segment based on several metrics, including revenues and income or loss
from operations.
Financial information for each reportable segment was as follows as of and for the years ended
December 31, 2007, 2008, and 2009:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Gaming |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
software and |
|
|
Online game |
|
|
|
|
(in US$ thousands) |
|
service |
|
|
and service |
|
|
Total |
|
2007: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Segment profit or loss: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net revenue from external customers |
|
$ |
118,950 |
|
|
$ |
32,764 |
|
|
$ |
151,714 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income from operations |
|
$ |
37,703 |
|
|
$ |
6,844 |
|
|
$ |
44,547 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Share-based compensation |
|
$ |
548 |
|
|
$ |
373 |
|
|
$ |
921 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Interest income |
|
$ |
871 |
|
|
$ |
194 |
|
|
$ |
1,065 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Interest expense |
|
$ |
1 |
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
1 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Loss on sales of marketable securities |
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
104 |
|
|
$ |
104 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Foreign exchange loss |
|
$ |
486 |
|
|
$ |
195 |
|
|
$ |
681 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Loss on equity method investments |
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
369 |
|
|
$ |
369 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Depreciation |
|
$ |
1,060 |
|
|
$ |
589 |
|
|
$ |
1,649 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Amortization, including intangible assets |
|
$ |
1,271 |
|
|
$ |
1,852 |
|
|
$ |
3,123 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income tax expense |
|
$ |
229 |
|
|
$ |
172 |
|
|
$ |
401 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Segment assets: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Equity method investments |
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
2,762 |
|
|
$ |
2,762 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Additions to property, plant and equipment |
|
$ |
2,280 |
|
|
$ |
2,575 |
|
|
$ |
4,855 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Additions to intangible assets |
|
$ |
2,070 |
|
|
$ |
3,575 |
|
|
$ |
5,645 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Additions to goodwill |
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
29,354 |
|
|
$ |
29,354 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total assets |
|
$ |
93,144 |
|
|
$ |
92,597 |
|
|
$ |
185,741 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
F-79
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
The reconciliation of the segment information to GigaMedias consolidated information was not
included in the above table, as it is provided below in detail.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Gaming |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
software and |
|
|
Online game |
|
|
|
|
(in US$ thousands) |
|
service |
|
|
and service |
|
|
Total |
|
2008: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Segment profit or loss: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net revenue from external customers |
|
$ |
144,765 |
|
|
$ |
45,604 |
|
|
$ |
190,369 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income from operations |
|
$ |
36,360 |
|
|
$ |
7,998 |
|
|
$ |
44,358 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Share-based compensation |
|
$ |
1,249 |
|
|
$ |
547 |
|
|
$ |
1,796 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Impairment loss on prepaid licensing fees and intangible assets |
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
1,524 |
|
|
$ |
1,524 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Interest income |
|
$ |
680 |
|
|
$ |
367 |
|
|
$ |
1,047 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Interest expense |
|
$ |
7 |
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
7 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Gains on sales of marketable securities |
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
4 |
|
|
$ |
4 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Foreign exchange gain (loss) |
|
$ |
269 |
|
|
$ |
(124 |
) |
|
$ |
145 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Loss on equity method investments |
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
3,010 |
|
|
$ |
3,010 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Depreciation |
|
$ |
2,064 |
|
|
$ |
1,080 |
|
|
$ |
3,144 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Amortization, including intangible assets |
|
$ |
1,704 |
|
|
$ |
2,549 |
|
|
$ |
4,253 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income tax expense |
|
$ |
743 |
|
|
$ |
326 |
|
|
$ |
1,069 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Segment assets: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Equity method investments |
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
75 |
|
|
$ |
75 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Additions to property, plant and equipment |
|
$ |
6,095 |
|
|
$ |
1,585 |
|
|
$ |
7,680 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Additions to intangible assets |
|
$ |
3,953 |
|
|
$ |
3,383 |
|
|
$ |
7,336 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Additions to goodwill |
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
2,249 |
|
|
$ |
2,249 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total assets |
|
$ |
132,631 |
|
|
$ |
130,327 |
|
|
$ |
262,958 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The reconciliation of the segment information to GigaMedias consolidated information was
not included in the above table, as it is provided below in detail.
F-80
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Gaming |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
software and |
|
|
Online game |
|
|
|
|
(in US$ thousands) |
|
service |
|
|
and service |
|
|
Total |
|
2009: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Segment profit or loss: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net revenue from external customers |
|
$ |
112,694 |
|
|
$ |
46,887 |
|
|
$ |
159,581 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income (loss) from operations |
|
$ |
7,472 |
|
|
$ |
(34,649 |
) |
|
$ |
(27,177 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Share-based compensation |
|
$ |
501 |
|
|
$ |
931 |
|
|
$ |
1,432 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Impairment loss on prepaid licensing fees and intangible assets |
|
$ |
212 |
|
|
$ |
22,787 |
|
|
$ |
22,999 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Impairment loss on property, plant and equipment |
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
777 |
|
|
$ |
777 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Impairment loss on goodwill |
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
14,103 |
|
|
$ |
14,103 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Interest income |
|
$ |
242 |
|
|
$ |
129 |
|
|
$ |
371 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Interest expense |
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Foreign exchange gain (loss) |
|
$ |
521 |
|
|
$ |
(114 |
) |
|
$ |
407 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Loss on equity method investments |
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
87 |
|
|
$ |
87 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Impairment loss on marketable securities and investments |
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
13,719 |
|
|
$ |
13,719 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Depreciation |
|
$ |
2,279 |
|
|
$ |
1,500 |
|
|
$ |
3,779 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Amortization, including intangible assets |
|
$ |
2,027 |
|
|
$ |
3,120 |
|
|
$ |
5,147 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income tax expense (benefit) |
|
$ |
871 |
|
|
$ |
(101 |
) |
|
$ |
770 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Segment assets: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Equity method investments |
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
222 |
|
|
$ |
222 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Additions to property, plant and equipment |
|
$ |
2,731 |
|
|
$ |
2,929 |
|
|
$ |
5,660 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Additions to intangible assets |
|
$ |
5,793 |
|
|
$ |
2,307 |
|
|
$ |
8,100 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Additions to goodwill |
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total assets |
|
$ |
145,776 |
|
|
$ |
111,354 |
|
|
$ |
257,130 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The assets of our gaming software and service business segment are presented as assets held
for sale and retained ownership of gaming software and service business as of December 31, 2009 in
our Consolidated Balance Sheets.
The reconciliation of the segment information to GigaMedias consolidated information was not
included in the above table, as it is provided below in detail.
F-81
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
The reconciliations of segment information to GigaMedias consolidated totals are as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(in US$ thousands) |
|
2007 |
|
|
2008 |
|
|
2009 |
|
Income (loss) from operations: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total segments |
|
$ |
44,547 |
|
|
$ |
44,358 |
|
|
$ |
(27,177 |
) |
Adjustment* |
|
|
(7,127 |
) |
|
|
(6,255 |
) |
|
|
(12,884 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total GigaMedia consolidated |
|
$ |
37,420 |
|
|
$ |
38,103 |
|
|
$ |
(40,061 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Share-based compensation |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total segments |
|
$ |
921 |
|
|
$ |
1,796 |
|
|
$ |
1,432 |
|
Adjustment* |
|
|
913 |
|
|
|
909 |
|
|
|
1,845 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total GigaMedia consolidated |
|
$ |
1,834 |
|
|
$ |
2,705 |
|
|
$ |
3,277 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Impairment loss on prepaid licensing fees and intangible assets: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total segments |
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
1,524 |
|
|
$ |
22,999 |
|
Adjustment* |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
3 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total GigaMedia consolidated |
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
1,524 |
|
|
$ |
23,002 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Impairment loss on property, plant and equipment: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total segments |
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
777 |
|
Adjustment* |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
473 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total GigaMedia consolidated |
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
1,250 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Interest income: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total segments |
|
$ |
1,065 |
|
|
$ |
1,047 |
|
|
$ |
371 |
|
Adjustment* |
|
|
369 |
|
|
|
413 |
|
|
|
61 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total GigaMedia consolidated |
|
$ |
1,434 |
|
|
$ |
1,460 |
|
|
$ |
432 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Interest expense: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total segments |
|
$ |
1 |
|
|
$ |
7 |
|
|
$ |
|
|
Adjustment* |
|
|
546 |
|
|
|
969 |
|
|
|
390 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total GigaMedia consolidated |
|
$ |
547 |
|
|
$ |
976 |
|
|
$ |
390 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Gain (loss) on sales of marketable securities: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total segments |
|
$ |
(104 |
) |
|
$ |
4 |
|
|
$ |
|
|
Adjustments* |
|
|
288 |
|
|
|
369 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total GigaMedia consolidated |
|
$ |
184 |
|
|
$ |
373 |
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Foreign exchange gain (loss): |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total segments |
|
$ |
(681 |
) |
|
$ |
145 |
|
|
$ |
407 |
|
Adjustments* |
|
|
2 |
|
|
|
95 |
|
|
|
(239 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total GigaMedia consolidated |
|
$ |
(679 |
) |
|
$ |
240 |
|
|
$ |
168 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Impairment loss on marketable securities and investments: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total segments |
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
13,719 |
|
Adjustment* |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2,024 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total GigaMedia consolidated |
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
15,743 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
F-82
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(in US$ thousands) |
|
2007 |
|
|
2008 |
|
|
2009 |
|
Depreciation: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total segments |
|
$ |
1,649 |
|
|
$ |
3,144 |
|
|
$ |
3,779 |
|
Adjustments* |
|
|
|
|
|
|
177 |
|
|
|
579 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total GigaMedia consolidated |
|
$ |
1,649 |
|
|
$ |
3,321 |
|
|
$ |
4,358 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Amortization: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total segments |
|
$ |
3,123 |
|
|
$ |
4,253 |
|
|
$ |
5,147 |
|
Adjustments* |
|
|
26 |
|
|
|
34 |
|
|
|
72 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total GigaMedia consolidated |
|
$ |
3,149 |
|
|
$ |
4,287 |
|
|
$ |
5,219 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income tax expense: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total segments |
|
$ |
401 |
|
|
$ |
1,069 |
|
|
$ |
770 |
|
Adjustments* |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(253 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total GigaMedia consolidated |
|
$ |
401 |
|
|
$ |
1,069 |
|
|
$ |
517 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Additions to property, plant and equipment: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total segments |
|
$ |
4,855 |
|
|
$ |
7,680 |
|
|
$ |
5,660 |
|
Adjustments** |
|
|
1,392 |
|
|
|
1,134 |
|
|
|
101 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total GigaMedia consolidated |
|
$ |
6,247 |
|
|
$ |
8,814 |
|
|
$ |
5,761 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Additions to intangible assets: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total segments |
|
$ |
5,645 |
|
|
$ |
7,336 |
|
|
$ |
8,100 |
|
Adjustments** |
|
|
1,088 |
|
|
|
309 |
|
|
|
707 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total GigaMedia consolidated |
|
$ |
6,733 |
|
|
$ |
7,645 |
|
|
$ |
8,807 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total assets: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total segments |
|
$ |
185,741 |
|
|
$ |
262,958 |
|
|
$ |
257,130 |
|
Adjustment** |
|
|
98,124 |
|
|
|
53,835 |
|
|
|
3,051 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total GigaMedia consolidated |
|
$ |
283,865 |
|
|
$ |
316,793 |
|
|
$ |
260,181 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
* |
|
Adjustment items include corporate and certain back-office costs and expenses not attributable to any specific segment. |
|
** |
|
Adjustment items include total corporate assets, the Internet access and service business segment and eliminations. |
Major Customers
No single customer represented 10 percent or more of GigaMedias total net revenues in any period
presented.
F-83
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
Geographic Information
Revenues by geographic area are attributed by country of the server location. Revenue from
unaffiliated customers by geographic region is as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(in US$ thousands) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Geographic region / country |
|
2007 |
|
|
2008 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Canada |
|
$ |
118,650 |
|
|
$ |
144,765 |
|
|
$ |
112,694 |
|
Taiwan |
|
|
18,388 |
|
|
|
20,932 |
|
|
|
24,869 |
|
PRC |
|
|
8,883 |
|
|
|
19,652 |
|
|
|
18,318 |
|
Hong Kong |
|
|
5,360 |
|
|
|
4,964 |
|
|
|
3,700 |
|
Others |
|
|
433 |
|
|
|
56 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total |
|
$ |
151,714 |
|
|
$ |
190,369 |
|
|
$ |
159,581 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net long-lived assets by geographic region are as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(in US$ thousands) |
|
December 31, |
|
Geographic region / country |
|
2007 |
|
|
2008 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Taiwan |
|
$ |
8,431 |
|
|
$ |
4,118 |
|
|
$ |
3,642 |
|
Canada |
|
|
2,053 |
|
|
|
2,264 |
|
|
|
|
|
PRC |
|
|
1,334 |
|
|
|
1,734 |
|
|
|
1,920 |
|
United States |
|
|
943 |
|
|
|
4,642 |
|
|
|
|
|
Hong Kong |
|
|
247 |
|
|
|
710 |
|
|
|
427 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total |
|
$ |
13,008 |
|
|
$ |
13,468 |
|
|
$ |
5,989 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Long-lived assets of our gaming software and service business are presented as assets held for
sale and retained ownership of gaming software and service business as of December 31, 2009 in our
Consolidated Balance Sheets.
Note 28. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
Litigation
On April 1, 2010, a complaint was filed on behalf of UIM against Harrahs License Company, LLC
(Harrahs) in connection with the promotional agreement for the World Series of Poker dated
February 24, 2008 (the Agreement) for: 1) breach of the Agreement; 2) breach of the implied
covenant of good faith and fair dealing; 3) unjust enrichment; 4) declaratory relief; and 5)
injunctive relief. The complaint seeks compensatory damages, a declaration that Harrahs
materially breached the Agreement and the Agreement is therefore terminated as of April 1, 2010, an
injunction precluding Harrahs from violating the Agreement pending the outcome of the litigation,
and attorney fees and costs.
F-84
GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
A letter of termination was also sent by UIM to Harrahs on April 1, 2010 to
terminate the Agreement for multiple material breaches by Harrahs and to demand the refund of past
payments.
An application for a temporary restraining order (TRO) and motion for preliminary injunction was
also filed. The request for the TRO was subsequently denied by the Court. On April 28, 2010, UIM
had a hearing on its motion asking the court to force Harrahs to remove a certain non-Everest
Poker name and logo reference from the broadcasts into France, as UIM has exclusive promotional and
advertising rights pursuant to the Agreement. The motion was denied on the grounds that UIM failed
to show that the broadcasts containing the other references digital overlay were certain to
continue into the future. The court did not rule on the merits of the underlying claims in any
way. The judge has yet to issue a formal order.
Harrahs also filed a motion to dismiss the complaint. The next step in the process will be oral
argument, but a date for a hearing has not yet been scheduled. In addition, on April 27, 2010,
Harrahs Interactive Entertainment, Inc. (Harrahs Interactive) filed a separate lawsuit against
UIM for 1) breach of the Agreement; 2) breach of the implied covenant of good faith and fair
dealing; and, 3) unjust enrichment, and included GigaMedia as a defendant for tortious interference
with contractual relations. In May 2009 the Agreement was assigned by Harrahs to Harrahs
Interactive. UIM has asked Harrahs to stipulate to consolidation, and Harrahs has agreed to do
so.
The Company believes it will be successful in pursuing and defending the lawsuits of Harrahs.
However, there is no assurance that we will be successful in our claims against Harrahs, including
our claim for compensatory damages and/or attorney fees and costs.
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GIGAMEDIA LIMITED
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007, 2008 AND 2009
Transactions with Infocomm Asia
On April 30, 2010, GigaMedia entered into several agreements with certain shareholders of Infocomm
Asia, as well with Infocomm Asia itself, to acquire additional preferred shares of Infocomm Asia.
The acquisition of Infocomm Asia is expected to be closed in the third quarter of 2010, after the
closing conditions set forth in the agreements are met. The total purchase price pursuant to the
agreements for the preferred shares is approximately $17.2 million. After the acquisition, the
total number of preferred shares owned by GigaMedia can be converted into approximately 80 percent
of Infocomm Asias outstanding common shares.
On April 30, 2010, GigaMedia signed an agreement to provide a loan facility to Infocomm Asia with a
principal amount of $7 million. The loan is to be used by Infocomm Asia to support its current
operations. The loan has a five year term and bears interest at 3% per annum. GigaMedia also
provided a guarantee on behalf of Infocomm Asia to a licensor of certain games to Infocomm Asia and
its subsidiaries. The guarantee includes but is not limited to payment of the royalties, license
fees and the minimum guarantees associated with the licensed games as set forth within the
licensing agreements. The total amount of GigaMedias guarantee, taking into account funds received
by Infocomm Asia from subscription money and the loan from GigaMedia, is approximately $13.6
million.
On April 30, 2010, GigaMedia entered into a share purchase agreement with Infocomm Asia to acquire
one of its wholly-owned subsidiaries in exchange for $6 million. The agreement was closed on May
7, 2010. The agreement includes certain put/call arrangements commencing immediately upon the
expiration of the first anniversary of the closing date, for a period of three years thereafter.
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