EXFO EXFO Inc

 

		Years ended August 31,
		2017				2016				2015
Net earnings for the year		$	851			$	8,900			$	4,857
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes
Items that will not be reclassified subsequently to net earnings
Foreign currency translation adjustment			8,262				707				(39,175	)
Items that may be reclassified subsequently to net earnings
Unrealized gains/losses on forward exchange contracts			1,403				862				(5,583	)
Reclassification of realized gains/losses on forward exchange contracts in net earnings			423				2,797				2,107
Deferred income tax effect of gains/losses on forward exchange contracts			(479	)			(935	)			905
Other comprehensive income (loss)			9,609				3,431				(41,746	)
Comprehensive income (loss) for the year		$	10,460			$	12,331			$	(36,889	)

Classification

Financial assets

Cash	Loans and receivables
Short-term investments	Available for sale
Accounts receivable	Loans and receivables
Other assets	Loans and receivables
Forward exchange contracts	Derivatives used for hedging

Financial liabilities

Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	Other financial liabilities
Contingent liability	Financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss
Forward exchange contracts	Derivatives used for hedging

Available-for-sale financial assets

Available-for-sale financial assets are non-derivative financial assets that are designated as available for sale, or are not classified in any of the other categories. They are initially recognized at fair value plus transaction costs and   are subsequently measured at fair value. After their initial recognition, any changes in their fair value are reflected in other comprehensive income.

Loans and receivables

Loans and receivables are non-derivative financial assets with fixed or determinable payments that are not quoted in an active market. After their initial measurement at fair value   plus transaction costs, they are carried at amortized cost, using the effective interest rate method, which generally corresponds to the nominal amount due to their short-term maturity.

Other financial liabilities

Other financial liabilities are non-derivative financial liabilities initially measured at fair value   plus transaction costs, and they are subsequently carried at amortized cost, using the effective interest rate method, which generally corresponds to the nominal amount due to their short-term maturity.

Financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss

Financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss are non-derivative financial liabilities initially measured at fair value plus transaction costs and are subsequently measured at fair value. After their initial recognition, any changes in their fair value are reflected in the consolidated statements of earnings.

 

 

 

 

Derivative financial instruments and hedging activities

Forward exchange contracts are utilized by the company to manage its foreign currency exposure. Forward exchange contracts are entered into by the company to hedge anticipated US-dollar-denominated sales and the related accounts receivable as well as Indian-rupee-denominated operating expenses and the related accounts payable. The company's policy is not to utilize those derivative financial instruments for trading or speculative purposes.

The company's forward exchange contracts, which are designated as cash flow hedging instruments, qualify for hedge accounting.

They are initially recorded at fair value plus transaction costs and subsequently measured at fair value. The fair value of forward exchange contracts is determined using quoted prices and forward exchange rates at the balance sheet date, with the resulting value discounted back to present value. After initial recognition, the effective portion of changes in their fair value is reflected in other comprehensive income. Any ineffective portion is recognized immediately in the consolidated statements of earnings. Upon recognition of related hedged sales and operating expenses, accumulated changes in fair value of forward exchange contracts are respectively reclassified in sales and net research and development expenses in the consolidated statements of earnings.

At the inception of a hedge relationship, the company formally designates and documents the hedge relationship to which the company wishes to apply hedge accounting, the risk management objectives, the hedging instrument, the hedged item and the method used to test effectiveness. The company assesses effectiveness of the hedge relationship at inception and on an ongoing basis using the dollar-offset method.

Fair value hierarchy

The company classifies its derivative and non-derivative financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value using the fair value hierarchy as follows:

Level 1:

Quoted prices (unadjusted) in active market for identical assets or liabilities;

Level 2:

Inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are observable for the asset and liability, either directly or indirectly;

Level 3:

Unobservable inputs for the asset or liability.

The company's short-term investments, forward exchange contracts and contingent liability are measured at fair value at each balance sheet date. The company's short-term investments are classified within Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy because they are valued using quoted market prices in active markets. The company's forward exchange contracts are classified within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy because they are valued using quoted prices and forward foreign exchange rates at the balance sheet dates. The company's contingent liability is classified within level 3 of the fair value hierarchy because it is valued using unobservable inputs such as expected future sales of Ontology.

Short-term investments

All investments with original terms to maturity of three months or less and that are not required for the purposes of meeting short-term cash requirements are classified as short-term investments. Short-term investments are classified as available-for-sale financial assets; therefore, they are carried at fair value in the consolidated balance sheet, and any changes in their fair value are reflected in other comprehensive income. Upon the disposal or maturity of these assets, accumulated changes in their fair value are reclassified in the consolidated statements of earnings.

 

 

 

 

 

Inventories

Inventories are valued on an average cost basis, at the lower of cost and net realizable value. Net realizable value is the estimated selling price in the ordinary course of business less the estimated costs necessary to make the sale.

The cost of work in progress and finished goods includes material, labor and an allocation of manufacturing overhead.

Property, plant and equipment and depreciation

Property, plant and equipment are recorded at cost, net of accumulated depreciation and accumulated impairment losses. Such cost is reduced by related research and development tax credits.

Depreciation is provided on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the asset as follows:

	Term
Land improvements	15 years
Buildings	20 to 60 years
Equipment	3 to 15 years
Leasehold improvements	The lesser of useful life and remaining lease term

The assets' residual values and useful lives are reviewed at each financial year-end, and adjusted prospectively, if appropriate.

Intangible assets, goodwill and amortization

Intangible assets

Intangible assets with finite useful lives primarily include the cost of core technology, customer relationships and software. The cost of intangible assets acquired in a business combination is the fair value of the assets at the date of acquisition. Following initial recognition, intangible assets are carried at cost less accumulated amortization and accumulated impairment losses. Amortization is provided on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of one to five years for core technology, five years for customer relationships, and four and eight years for software. None of the company's intangible assets were developed internally.

The amortization method and the useful lives of intangible assets are reviewed at each financial year-end, and adjusted prospectively, if appropriate.

Goodwill

Goodwill represents the excess of the purchase price of acquired businesses over the estimated fair value of net identifiable assets acquired, and is allocated to each cash-generating unit (CGU) or group of CGUs that are expected to benefit from the related business combination. A group of CGUs represents the lowest level within the company at which the goodwill is monitored for internal management purposes, which is not higher than an operating segment. Goodwill is not amortized but must be tested for impairment on an annual basis or more frequently if events or circumstances indicate that it might be impaired.

 

 

 

EXFO Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

(tabular amounts in thousands of US dollars, except share and per share data and as otherwise noted)

 

Research and development

All costs related to research are expensed as incurred, net of related tax credits and grants. Development costs are expensed as incurred, net of related tax credits and grants, unless they meet the recognition criteria of IAS 38, " Intangible Assets '', in which case they are capitalized, net of related tax credits and grants and amortized on a straight-line basis over the estimated benefit period. Research and development expenses mainly comprise salaries and related expenses, material costs as well as fees paid to third-party consultants. As at August 31, 2016 and 2017, the company had not capitalized any development costs.

The company elected to account for non-refundable research and development tax credits under IAS 20, " Accounting for Governmental Grants and Disclosures of Governmental Assistance '', and as such, these tax credits are presented against gross research and development expenses in the consolidated statements of earnings. Non-refundable research and development tax credits are included in earnings or deducted from the related assets, provided there is reasonable assurance that the company has complied and will comply with the conditions related to the tax credits and that the tax credits will be received.

Impairment of non-financial assets

The company assesses at each reporting date whether there is an indication that the carrying value of property, plant and equipment and finite-life intangible assets may not be recoverable. Non-financial assets that are not amortized (such as goodwill) are subject to an annual impairment test. If any indication exists, or when annual impairment testing is required, the company estimates the asset or asset group's recoverable amount. For the purpose of measuring recoverable amounts, assets are grouped at the lowest levels for which there are separately identifiable cash flows (CGUs). The recoverable amount is the higher of an asset or CGU's fair value less costs of disposal and its value in use. Where the carrying value of an asset or CGU exceeds its recoverable amount, the asset or the CGU is considered impaired and is written down to its recoverable amount. The company performs its annual goodwill impairment test in the fourth quarter of each fiscal year.

For property, plant and equipment and finite-life intangible assets, the reversal of impairment is limited so that the carrying value of the asset does not exceed its recoverable amount, nor exceed the carrying value that would have been determined, net of depreciation or amortization, had no impairment loss been recognized for the asset in prior periods. Impairment losses on goodwill are not reversed.

Leases

Operating leases are leases for which the company does not assume substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership of the asset. Operating lease rentals are charged to the consolidated statements of earnings on a straight-line basis over the lease term.

As at August 31, 2016 and 2017, all significant leases of the company were classified as operating leases.

Government grants

Grants related to operating expenses are included in earnings when the related expenses are incurred. Grants related to capital expenditures are deducted from the related assets. Grants are included in the consolidated statements of earnings or deducted from the related assets, provided there is reasonable assurance that the company has complied and will comply with all the conditions related to the grants and that the grants will be received.

 

 

 

 

 

Warranty

The company offers its customers basic warranties of one to three years, depending on the specific products and terms of the purchase agreement. The company's typical warranties require it to repair or replace defective products during the warranty period at no cost to the customer. Costs related to basic warranties are accrued at the time of shipment, based upon estimates of expected rework and warranty costs to be incurred. Costs associated with separately priced extended warranties are expensed as incurred.

Income taxes

Income taxes comprise current and deferred income taxes.

Current income taxes

Current income tax assets and liabilities for the current and prior years are measured at the amount expected to be recovered or paid to the taxation authorities. Income tax rates used to calculate the amount are those that are enacted or substantively enacted at the balance sheet dates in the tax jurisdictions where the company generates taxable income/loss.

Deferred income taxes

The company provides for deferred income taxes using the liability method. Under this method, deferred income tax assets and liabilities are determined based on deductible or taxable temporary differences between financial statement values and tax values of assets and liabilities as well as the carry-forward of unused tax losses and deductions, using enacted or substantively enacted income tax rates at the balance sheet dates, that are expected to be in effect for the years in which the assets are expected to be recovered or the liabilities to be settled.

Deferred income tax assets are recognized only to the extent that it is probable that future taxable income will be available against which the deductible temporary differences as well as unused tax losses and deductions can be utilized.

Deferred tax liabilities are recognized for all taxable temporary differences and for taxable temporary differences arising on investments in subsidiaries, except where the reversal of these temporary differences can be controlled and it is probable that the differences will not reverse in the foreseeable future.

Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are presented as non-current in the consolidated balance sheets.

Uncertain tax positions

The company is subject to income tax laws and regulations in several jurisdictions. There are many transactions and calculations during the course of business for which the ultimate tax determination is uncertain. The company maintains provisions for uncertain tax positions that it believes appropriately reflect its risk. These provisions are made using the best estimate of the amount expected to be paid based on a qualitative assessment of all relevant factors. The company reviews the adequacy of these provisions at the end of the reporting periods and any changes in the provisions are recognized in the consolidated statements of earnings when they occur. However, it is possible that at some future dates, liabilities in excess of the company's provisions could result from audits by, or litigation with, the relevant taxing authorities. Where the final outcome of these tax-related matters is different from the amounts that were initially recorded, such differences will be recognized in the consolidated statement of earnings in the period in which such determination is made.

 

 

 

 

Earnings per share

Basic earnings per share are calculated by dividing net earnings attributable to common equity holders of the company by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the year.

Diluted earnings per share are calculated by dividing net earnings attributable to common equity holders of the company by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the year, plus the effect of dilutive potential common shares outstanding during the year. This method requires that diluted earnings per share be calculated (using the treasury stock method) as if all dilutive potential common shares had been exercised at the latest at the beginning of the year or on the date of issuance, as the case may be, and that the funds obtained thereby (plus an amount equivalent to the unamortized portion of related stock-based compensation costs) be used to purchase common shares of the company at the average market price of the common shares during the year.

Stock-based compensation

Equity-settled awards

The company's stock options, restricted share units and deferred share units are equity-settled awards. The company accounts for stock-based compensation costs on equity-settled awards using the Black-Scholes option valuation model. The fair value of equity-settled awards is measured at the date of grant. Stock-based compensation costs are amortized to expense over the vesting periods together with a corresponding change in contributed surplus in shareholders' equity. For equity-settled awards with graded vesting, each tranche is considered a separate grant with a different vesting date and fair value, and each tranche is accounted for separately.

Cash-settled awards

The company's stock appreciation rights are cash-settled awards. The company accounts for stock-based compensation costs on cash-settled awards using the Black-Scholes option valuation model. The fair value of the cash-settled awards is remeasured at the end of each reporting period, with any changes in the fair value recognized in the consolidated statements of earnings.

Operating segments

Operating segments are defined as components of an entity engaged in business activities from which it may earn revenues and incur expenses, and whose operating results are regularly reviewed by the chief operating decision maker (CODM) to make decisions about resources to be allocated to segments and assess their performance and for which discrete information is available. The function of the CODM is performed by the Chief Executive Officer who reviews consolidated results for the purposes of allocating resources and evaluating performance. Accordingly, the company determines that it has one operating segment as of, and for the years ended August 31, 2015, 2016 and 2017. Entity-wide disclosures are presented in note 21.

Critical accounting judgments in applying accounting policies and estimates

The preparation of financial statements in accordance with IFRS requires management to make judgments, estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenue and expenses as well as the disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements. Actual results could differ from those judgments, estimates and assumptions.

 

 

 

EXFO Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

(tabular amounts in thousands of US dollars, except share and per share data and as otherwise noted)

 

Critical judgments, estimates and assumptions are the following:

Critical judgments in applying accounting policies

(a)	Determination of functional currency

The company operates in multiple countries and generates revenue and incurs expenses in several currencies, namely the Canadian dollar, the US dollar, the euro, the British pound, the Indian rupee and the CNY (Chinese currency). The determination of the functional currency of the company and its subsidiaries may require significant judgment. In determining the functional currency of the company and its subsidiaries, management takes into account primary, secondary and tertiary indicators. When indicators are mixed and the functional currency is not obvious, management uses its judgment to determine the functional currency.

(b)	Determination of cash generating units and allocation of goodwill

For the purpose of impairment testing, goodwill must be allocated to each CGU or group of CGUs that are expected to benefit from the synergies of the business combination. Initial allocation and possible reallocation of goodwill to a CGU or a group of CGUs requires judgment.

Critical estimates and assumptions

(a)	Inventories

The company states its inventories at the lower of cost, determined on an average cost basis, and net realizable value, and provides reserves for excess and obsolete inventories. The company determines its reserves for excess and obsolete inventories based on the quantities on hand at the reporting dates compared to foreseeable needs, taking into account changes in demand, technology or market.

(b)	Income taxes

The company is subject to income tax laws and regulations in several jurisdictions. Under these laws and regulations, uncertainties exist with respect to the interpretation of complex tax laws and regulations and the amount and timing of future taxable income. The company maintains provisions for uncertain tax positions that it believes appropriately reflect its risk based on its interpretation of laws and regulations. In addition, management has made reasonable estimates and assumptions to determine the amount of deferred tax assets that can be recognized in the consolidated financial statements, based upon the likely timing and level of anticipated future taxable income together with tax planning strategies. The ultimate realization of the company's deferred income tax assets is dependent upon the generation of sufficient future taxable income during the periods in which those assets are expected to be realized.

(c)	Tax credits recoverable

Tax credits are recorded provided that there is reasonable assurance that the company has complied and will comply with all the conditions related to the tax credits and that the tax credits will be received. The ultimate recovery of the company's non-refundable tax credits is dependent upon the generation of sufficient future taxable income during the tax credits carry-forward periods. Management has made reasonable estimates and assumptions to determine the amount of non-refundable tax credits that can be recognized in the consolidated financial statements, based upon the likely timing and level of anticipated future taxable income together with tax planning strategies (note 19).

 

 

 

 

(d)	Impairment of non-financial assets

Impairment exists when the carrying value of an asset or group of assets (CGU) exceeds its recoverable amount, which is the higher of its fair value less costs of disposal and its value in use. The fair value less costs of disposal calculation for the company's CGUs is based on a market approach that relies on unobservable inputs based on valuation multiples and recent transactions for comparable assets or businesses, within the same industry. The company applies judgment in making adjustments to the unobservable inputs for factors such as size, risk profile or profitability. The company also considers the company's value derived from its market capitalization, adjusting for a control premium considered appropriate based on other comparable companies with significant controlling interests. Depending on the market evidence available, the company, from time to time, may further supplement this market approach with an income approach that considers discounted cash flows to determine fair value less costs of disposal. The discounted cash flow model involves significant judgment with respect to estimating cash flows (based on market participant assumptions) and the appropriate discount rate.

(e)	Purchase price allocation in business combinations

The fair value of the total consideration transferred in business combinations (purchase price) must be allocated based on estimated fair value of acquired net assets at the date of acquisition. Allocating the purchase price requires management to make estimates and judgments to determine assets acquired and liabilities assumed, useful lives of certain long-lived assets and the respective fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed; this may require the use of unobservable inputs, including management's expectations of future revenue growth, operating costs and profit margins as well as discount rates.

New IFRS pronouncements not yet adopted

Financial instruments

The final version of IFRS 9, " Financial Instruments ", was issued in July 2014 and will replace IAS 39, " Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement ". IFRS 9 uses a single approach to determine whether a financial asset is measured at amortized cost or fair value, replacing the multiple rules in IAS 39. The approach in IFRS 9 is based on how an entity manages its financial instruments in the context of its business model and the contractual cash flow characteristics of the financial assets. Most of the requirements in IAS 39 for classification and measurement of financial liabilities were carried forward unchanged to IFRS 9. The new standard also requires a single impairment method to be used, replacing the multiple impairment methods in IAS 39. Requirements relating to hedge accounting representing a new hedge accounting model have also been added to IFRS 9. The new standard is effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2018, and must be applied retrospectively. The company will adopt this new standard on September 1, 2018. The company is currently assessing the impact that the new standard will have on its consolidated financial statements.

 

 

 

 

Revenue from contracts with customers

IFRS 15, " Revenue from Contracts with Customers ", was issued in May 2014. The objective of this new standard is to provide a single, comprehensive revenue recognition model for all contracts with customers to improve comparability. This new standard contains principles that an entity will apply to determine the measurement of revenue and timing of when it is recognized. The underlying principle is that an entity will recognize revenue to depict the transfer of goods or services to customers at an amount that the entity expects to be entitled to in exchange for those goods or services. This new standard is effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2018. Early adoption is permitted. The company has performed an assessment to identify significant areas of impact, if any, between the company's current accounting treatment under IAS 18, " Revenue " and the new requirements of IFRS 15. Based on the assessments to date, the company anticipates that the main areas of impact will relate to the allocation of the transaction price to the various performance obligations under the contracts, the timing of revenue recognition for sales arrangement that contain customer acceptance clauses, and the sale of licenses that provide customers with the "right to use" the company's intellectual property. The company will adopt this new standard on September 1, 2018 using the modified retrospective method, with the cumulative effect of the initial application of the standard recognized as an adjustment to the opening balance of retained earnings as at the date of initial application. The company will apply this standard retrospectively only to contracts that are not completed at the date of initial application.

Leases

IFRS 16, " Leases ", was issued in January 2016.   IFRS 16 sets out the principles for the recognition, measurement, presentation and disclosure of leases for both parties to a contract, i.e., the customer (lessee) and the supplier (lessor). IFRS 16 will supersede IAS 17, " Leases ", and related Interpretations. This new standard is effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2019, with earlier adoption permitted if IFRS 15, " Revenue from Contracts with Customers ", is also applied. The company has not yet assessed the impact that the new standard will have on its consolidated financial statements.

Foreign Currency Transactions and Advance Consideration

IFRIC 22, " Foreign Currency Transactions and Advance Consideration ", was issued in December 2016. IFRIC 22 addresses how to determine the date of the transaction for the purpose of determining the exchange rate to use on initial recognition of the related asset, expense or income (or part of it) and on the derecognition of a non-monetary asset or non-monetary liability arising from the payment or receipt of advance consideration in a foreign currency. IFRIC 22 is effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2018. Early adoption is permitted. The company will adopt this interpretation on September 1, 2018 and is currently assessing the impact that it will have on its consolidated financial statements.

Uncertainty over Income Tax Treatments

IFRIC 23, " Uncertainty over Income Tax Treatment ", was issued in June 2017. IFRIC 23 provides guidance on how to value uncertain income tax positions based on the probability of whether the relevant tax authorities will accept the company's tax treatments. A company is to assume that a taxation authority with the right to examine any amounts reported to it will examine those amounts and will have full knowledge of all relevant information when doing so. IFRIC 23 is effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2019. The company will adopt this interpretation on September 1, 2019 and is currently assessing the impact that it will have on its consolidated financial statements.

 

 

 

 

3	Business Combinations

Absolute Analysis Inc.

On October 31, 2016, the company acquired substantially all the assets of Absolute Analysis Inc. (Absolute), a privately held company located in the United States, supplying solutions for radio frequency testing of fiber-based radio access networks. The acquisition-date fair value of the total consideration transferred amounted to $8,490,000 and consisted of $5,000,000 in cash and the issuance of 793,070 subordinate voting shares valued at $3,490,000.

This acquisition was accounted for by applying the acquisition method as required by IFRS 3, " Business Combinations ", and the requirements of IFRS 10, " Consolidated Financial Statements "; consequently, the fair value of the total consideration transferred was allocated to the assets acquired and liability assumed based on management's estimate of their fair value as at the acquisition date. The results of operations of the acquired business have been included in the consolidated financial statements of the company since October 31, 2016, being the date of acquisition.

During the second quarter of fiscal 2017, the company completed the detailed valuation and finalized the allocation of the purchase price.

The fair value of the total consideration transferred was allocated based on a final estimate of fair value of acquired net assets at the date of acquisition as follows:

Intangible assets are amortized on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives of one to five years.

Acquired goodwill mainly represents synergies with the company's products as well as the Absolute acquired workforce. Acquired goodwill is deductible for tax purposes. Goodwill is allocated to the EXFO cash generating unit.

Ontology Partners Limited

On March 2, 2017, the company acquired all of the issued and outstanding shares of Ontology Partners Limited (Ontology), a privately held company located in the United Kingdom, a supplier of real-time network topology discovery and service-chain mapping. The acquisition-date fair value of the total consideration transferred amounted to $9,180,000 and consisted of $7,780,000 in cash, net of Ontology's cash of $2,156,000 at the acquisition date, plus a cash contingent consideration based on certain sales volumes of Ontology products over the 12-month period following the acquisition, with an estimated fair value of $1,400,000 at the acquisition date.

This acquisition was accounted for by applying the acquisition method as required by IFRS 3, " Business Combinations ", and the requirements of IFRS 10, " Consolidated Financial Statements "; consequently, the fair value of the total consideration transferred was allocated to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on management's estimate of their fair value as at the acquisition date. The results of operations of the acquired business have been included in the consolidated financial statements of the company since March 2, 2017, being the date of acquisition.

 

 

 

 

 

During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2017, the company completed the detailed valuation and finalized the allocation of the purchase price; this resulted in an increase of goodwill of $650,000 and a corresponding decrease in intangible assets.

The fair value of the total consideration transferred was allocated based on a final estimate of fair value of acquired net assets at the date of acquisition as follows:

Acquired intangible assets are amortized on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful life of five years.

Acquired goodwill mainly represents synergies with the company's products as well as Ontology acquired workforce. Acquired goodwill is not deductible for tax purposes. Goodwill is allocated to the Ontology cash generating unit.

As at August 31, 2017, the fair value of the cash contingent consideration amounted to $1,092,000 with the change in its fair value being accounted for in the consolidated statement of earnings.

4	Restructuring Charges

In May 2017, the company implemented a restructuring plan to streamline its passive monitoring solutions portfolio. This plan resulted in severance expenses of $4,049,000 and inventory writeoffs of $1,030,000, for total restructuring charges of $5,079,000 during the year.

As at August 31, 2017, unpaid severance expenses amounted to $2,477,000, which are expected to be paid in fiscal 2018 (note 11).

5	Capital Disclosures

The company is not subject to any external restrictions on its capital.

The company's objectives when managing capital are:

·	To maintain a flexible capital structure that optimizes the cost of capital at acceptable risk;

·	To sustain future development of the company, including research and development activities, market development and potential acquisitions of complementary businesses or products; and

·	To provide the company's shareholders with an appropriate return on their investment.

 

 

 

 

 

No changes were made to the objectives and policies during the years ended August 31, 2016 and 2017.

The company defines its capital as shareholders' equity, excluding accumulated other comprehensive loss. The capital of the company amounted to $229,975,000 and $235,755,000 as at August 31, 2016 and 2017 respectively.

 

Fair value

Cash, accounts receivable and accounts payable and accrued liabilities are financial instruments whose carrying values approximate their fair values due to their short-term maturities. The fair value of other assets approximates their carrying value due to their relatively short-term maturities.

 

 

 

 

Market risk

Currency risk

The functional currency of the company is the Canadian dollar. The company is exposed to currency risk as a result of its export sales of products manufactured in Canada, China and Finland, the majority of which are denominated in US dollars and euros. This risk is partially hedged by forward exchange contracts and certain cost of sales and operating expenses (US dollars and euros). In addition, the company is exposed to currency risk as a result of its research and development activities in India (Indian rupees). This risk is partially hedged by forward exchange contracts. Forward exchange contracts, which are designated as cash flow hedging instruments, qualify for hedge accounting.

As at August 31, 2016 and 2017, the company held contracts to sell US dollars for Canadian dollars and Indian rupees at various forward rates, which are summarized as follows:

 

 

 

The carrying amount of forward exchange contracts is equal to fair value, which is based on the amount at which they could be settled based on estimated current market rates. The fair value of forward exchange contracts amounted to net losses of $140,000 and net gains of $2,258,000 as at August 31, 2016 and 2017 respectively.

As at August 31, 2017, forward exchange contracts in the amount of $1,697,000 are presented as current assets in other accounts receivable and forward exchange contracts in the amount of $561,000 are presented as long-term assets in other long-term assets in the balance sheet. Forward exchange contracts of $261,000, included in other accounts receivable, for which related hedged sales are recognized, are recorded in the consolidated statement of earnings. Otherwise, other forward exchange contracts are not yet recorded in the consolidated statement of earnings and are recorded in other comprehensive income.

As at August 31, 2016, forward exchange contracts in the amount of $635,000 were presented as current assets in other accounts receivable; forward exchange contracts in the amount of $345,000 were presented as long-term assets in other long-term assets; forward exchange contracts in the amount of $1,075,000 were presented as current liabilities in accounts payable and accrued liabilities; and forward exchange contracts in the amount of $45,000 were presented as long-term liabilities in other long-term liabilities in the consolidated balance sheet.

Based on the portfolio of forward exchange contracts as at August 31, 2017, the company estimates that the portion of net unrealized gains on these contracts as of that date, which will be realized and reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income to net earnings over the next 12 months, amounts to $1,436,000.

For the years ended August 31, 2015, 2016 and 2017, the company recorded within its sales the following foreign exchange losses on forward exchange contracts:

		Years ended August 31,
		2017				2016				2015
Losses on forward exchange contracts		$	468			$	2,651			$	2,562

 

 

 

 

In addition to these assets and liabilities, the company has derivative financial liabilities for its outstanding forward exchange contracts in the amount (nominal value) of $33,800,000 and $29,200,000 as at August 31, 2016 and 2017 respectively for which the currency risk is charged to other comprehensive income.

The value of the Canadian dollar compared to the US dollar was CA$1.3116 = US$1.00 and CA$1.2536 = US$1.00 as at August 31, 2016 and 2017 respectively.

The value of the Canadian dollar compared to the euro was CA$1.4601 = €1.00 and CA$1.4825 = €1.00 as at August 31, 2016 and 2017 respectively.

The following sensitivity analysis summarizes the effect that a change in the value of the Canadian dollar (compared to the US dollar and euro) on derivative and non-derivative financial assets and liabilities denominated in US dollars and euros would have on net earnings, net earnings per diluted share and comprehensive income, based on the foreign exchange rates as at August 31, 2016 and 2017:

·	An increase (decrease) of 10% in the period-end value of the Canadian dollar compared to the US dollar would decrease (increase) net earnings by $2,342,000, or $0.04 per diluted share, and $2,726,000, or $0.05 per diluted share, as at August 31, 2016 and 2017 respectively.

·	An increase (decrease) of 10% in the period-end value of the Canadian dollar compared to the euro would decrease (increase) net earnings by $830,000, or $0.02 per diluted share, and $1,025,000 or $0.02 per diluted share, as at August 31, 2016 and 2017 respectively.

·	An increase (decrease) of 10% in the period-end value of the Canadian dollar compared to the US dollar would increase (decrease) other comprehensive income by $2,176,000 and $2,744,000 as at August 31, 2016 and 2017 respectively.

 

 

 

 

 

The impact of the change in the value of the Canadian dollar compared to the US dollar and the euro on these derivative and non-derivative financial assets and liabilities is recorded in the foreign exchange gain or loss line item in the consolidated statements of earnings, except for outstanding forward contracts, whose impact is recorded in other comprehensive income. The change in the value of the Canadian dollar compared to the US dollar and the euro also affects the company's balances of income tax recoverable or payable, as well as deferred income tax assets and liabilities denominated in US dollars and euros; this may result in additional and significant foreign exchange gains or losses. However, these tax-related assets and liabilities are not considered financial instruments and are therefore excluded from the sensitivity analysis above. The foreign exchange rate fluctuations also flow through the consolidated statements of earnings line items, as a significant portion of the company's cost of sales and operating expenses are denominated in Canadian dollars, euros, British pounds and Indian rupees, and the company reports its results in US dollars; that effect is not reflected in the sensitivity analysis above.

Interest rate risk

The company has limited exposure to interest rate risk. The company is mainly exposed to interest rate risks through its cash and short-term investments.

 

Due to their short-term maturity, the company's short-term investments are not subject to a significant fair value interest rate risk. Accordingly, changes in fair value have been nominal to the degree that amortized cost approximates the fair value. Any change in the fair value of the company's short-term investments, all of which are classified as available for sale, is recorded in other comprehensive income.

Other financial instruments

Accounts receivable, other assets, accounts payable and accrued liabilities and the contingent liability are non-interest-bearing financial assets and liabilities.

 

 

EXFO Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

(tabular amounts in thousands of US dollars, except share and per share data and as otherwise noted)

 

Credit risk

Financial instruments that potentially subject the company to credit risk consist of cash, short-term investments, accounts receivable, other assets and forward exchange contracts (with a positive fair value). As at August 31, 2017, the company's short-term investments consist of debt instruments issued by high-credit quality corporations. These debt instruments are not expected to be affected by a significant credit risk. The company's cash and forward exchange contracts are held with or issued by high-credit quality financial institutions; therefore, the company considers the risk of non-performance on these instruments to be limited.

Generally, the company does not require collateral or other security from customers for trade accounts receivable; however, credit is extended to customers following an evaluation of creditworthiness. In addition, the company performs ongoing credit reviews of all its customers and establishes an allowance for doubtful accounts receivable when accounts are determined to be uncollectible. Allowance for doubtful accounts amounted to $3,752,000 and $2,960,000 as at August 31, 2016 and 2017 respectively.

For the year ended August 31, 2017, the company's top customer represented 10.1% of sales. For the years ended August 31, 2015 and 2016, no customer represented more than 10% of sales.

The following table summarizes the age of trade accounts receivable:

Changes in the allowance for doubtful accounts are as follows:

Liquidity risk

Liquidity risk is defined as the potential that the company cannot meet its obligations as they become due.

 

 

 

 

 

 

As at August 31, 2017, the company had $39,210,000 in cash and short-term investments and $45,037,000 in accounts receivable. In addition to these financial assets, the company has unused available lines of credit totaling $15,424,000 for working capital and other general corporate purposes, including potential acquisitions as well as unused lines of credit totaling $25,676,000 for foreign currency exposure related to its forward exchange contracts (notes 10 and 22).

The cost of sales comprised almost exclusively the amount of inventory recognized as an expense during the reporting years, and amounts to $88,098,000, $89,058,000 and $98,503,000 for the years ended August 31, 2015, 2016 and 2017 respectively, including related depreciation and amortization, which are shown separately in operating expenses (note 17).

Inventory writedown amounted to $4,066,000, $3,678,000 and $3,259,000 for the years ended August 31, 2015, 2016 and 2017 respectively.