TR Property investment Trust PLC is managed by TR PROPERTY INVESTMENT TRUST PLC ## Annual Report ## 31-03-2023 | Overview | Financial statements | | | --- | --- | --- | | 1 Company Summary | 76 Group Statement of Comprehensive | | | 2 Financial Highlights and Performance | | Income | | 3 Historical Performance | 77 Group and Company Statement of | | Changes in Equity | Strategic report | 78 Group and Company Balance Sheets | | | --- | --- | --- | | 4 Chairman’s Statement | 79 Group and Company Cash Flow | | | 7 Manager’s Report | | Statements | | 16 Responsible investment | 80 Notes to the Financial Statements | | 26 Portfolio 27 Investment Portfolio by country Glossary and AIFMD disclosure 28 Twelve largest equity investments 106 Glossary and AIFM disclosure 32 Investment properties | 33 Investment objective and benchmark | Notice of AGM | | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | | 33 Business Model | 110 Notice of Annual General Meeting | | | | 34 Strategy and investment policies | 115 Explanation of Notice of Annual | | That there will be limitations on what can be achieved but wanting to see a positive direction of travel. | | 35 Key Performance Indicators | | General Meeting | | 37 Principal and emerging risks 41 Long-term viability Shareholder information 118 Directors and other information Governance 119 General Shareholder information 44 Directors 121 Investing 46 Managers 47 Report of the Directors 50 Corporate Governance Report 56 Report of the Nomination Committee 58 Report of the Management Engagement Committee 60 Report of the Audit Committee 63 Directors’ Remuneration Report 66 Statement of Directors’ Responsibilities in Relation to the Group Financial Statements 67 Independent Auditor’s Report to the Members of TR Property Investment Trust plc Overview Strategic report Governance Financial statements Glossary and AIFMD disclosure Notice of AGM Shareholder information ## TR Property Investment Trust plc ### The investment objective of TR Property Investment Trust ### plc is to maximise shareholders’ total returns by investing ### in the shares and securities of property companies and ### property related businesses internationally and also in ### investment property located in the UK. Introduction Independent board TR Property Investment Trust plc (the ‘Company’) was The Directors are all independent of the Manager formed in 1905 and has been a dedicated property and meet regularly to consider investment strategy, investor since 1982. The Company is an Investment to monitor adherence to the stated objective and Trust and its shares are premium listed on the London investment policies and to review investment Stock Exchange. performance. Details of how the Board operates and fulfils its responsibilities are set out in the Report of the Benchmark Directors on page 47. The benchmark is the FTSE EPRA/NAREIT Developed Europe Capped Net Total Return Index in sterling. Performance The Financial Highlights for the current year are set out Investment policy on page 2 and Historical Performance can be found on The Company seeks to achieve its objective by page 3. Key Performance Indicators are set out in the investing in shares and securities of property Strategic Report on pages 35 and 36. companies and property related businesses on an international basis, although, with a pan-European Retail investors advised by IFAs benchmark, the majority of the investments will be The Company currently conducts its affairs so that located in that geographical area. The Company also its shares can be recommended by Independent invests in investment property located in the UK only. Financial Advisers (‘IFAs’) in the UK to retail investors in accordance with the Financial Conduct Authority Further details of the Investment Policies, the Asset (‘FCA’) rules in relation to non-mainstream investment Allocation Guidelines and policies regarding the use of products and intends to continue to do so. The shares gearing are set out in the Strategic Report on page 34 are excluded from the FCA’s restrictions, which apply and the entire portfolio is shown on page 27. to non-mainstream investment products, because they are shares in an authorised investment trust company. Investment manager Columbia Threadneedle Investment Business Limited Further information acts as the Company’s alternative investment General shareholder information and details of how fund manager (‘AIFM’) with portfolio management to invest in the Company, including investment delegated to Thames River Capital LLP (the ‘Portfolio through an ISA or savings scheme, can be found on Manager’ or the ‘Manager’). Marcus Phayre-Mudge pages 118 onwards. This information can also be has managed the portfolio since 1 April 2011 and been found on the Company’s website www.trproperty.com part of the Fund Management team since 1997. Annual Report & Accounts 2023 1 ## Financial highlights and performance | Year ended | | Year ended | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | | 31 March | | 31 March | | | | 2023 | | 2022 Change | Balance Sheet Net asset value per share 305.13p 492.43p -38.0% Shareholders’ funds (£’000) 968,346 1,562,739 -38.0% Shares in issue at the end of the year (m) 317.4 317.4 +0.0% 1,6 Net debt 12.3% 10.2% Share Price Share price 279.00p 456.50p -38.9% Market capitalisation £885m £1,449m -38.9% | Year ended | | Year ended | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | | 31 March | | 31 March | | | | 2023 | | 2022 Change | Revenue Revenue earnings per share 17.22p 13.69p +25.8% Dividends² Interim dividend per share 5.65p 5.30p +6.6% Final dividend per share 9.85p 9.20p +7.1% Total dividend per share 15.50p 14.50p +6.9% Performance: Assets and Benchmark 3,6 Net Asset Value total return -35.5% +21.4% 6 Benchmark total return -34.0% +12.2% 4,6 Share price total return -36.2% +19.9% 5,6 Ongoing Charges Including performance fee 0.73% 2.19% Excluding performance fee 0.73% 0.60% Excluding performance fee and direct property costs 0.67% 0.58% 1. Net debt is the total value of loan notes, loans (including notional exposure to CFDs and Total Return Swap) less cash as a proportion of net asset value. 2. Dividends per share are the dividends in respect of the financial year ended 31 March 2023. An interim dividend of 5.65p was paid on 12 January 2023. Afinal dividend of 9.85p (2022: 9.20p) will be paid on 1 August 2023 to shareholders on the register on 30 June 2023. The shares will be quoted ex-dividend on 29June2023. 3. The NAV Total Return for the year is calculated by reinvesting the dividends in the assets of the Company from the relevant ex-dividend date. Dividends are deemed to be reinvested on the ex-dividend date as this is the protocol used by the Company’s benchmark and other indices. 4. The Share Price Total Return is calculated by reinvesting the dividends in the shares of the Company from the relevant ex-dividend date. 5. Ongoing Charges are calculated in accordance with the AIC methodology. The Ongoing Charges ratios provided in the Company's Key Information Document are calculated in line with the PRIIPs regulation which is different to the AIC methodology. 6. Considered to be an Alternative Performance Measure as defined on page 106. 2 TR Property Investment Trust # Historical performance for the year ended 31 March 2023 | | 2013 | 2014 | 2015 | 2016 | 2017 | 2018 | 2019 | 2020 | 2021 | 2022 | 2023 | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | **Performance for the year:** | | | | | | | | | | | | | **Total Return (%)** | | | | | | | | | | | | | NAV^{(A)} | 21.5 | 22.4 | 28.3 | 8.2 | 8.0 | 15.5 | 9.1 | -11.5 | 20.7 | 21.4 | -35.5 | | Benchmark^{(B)} | 17.8 | 14.9 | 23.3 | 5.4 | 6.5 | 10.2 | 5.6 | -14.0 | 15.9 | 12.2 | -34.0 | | Share Price^{(C)} | 25.8 | 37.7 | 29.5 | -1.6 | 9.1 | 25.5 | 6.2 | -16.8 | 28.3 | 19.9 | -36.2 | | **Shareholders' funds (£'m)** | | | | | | | | | | | | | Ordinary shares | 684 | 809 | 1,010 | 1,065 | 1,118 | 1,256 | 1,328 | 1,136 | 1,326 | 1,563 | 968 | | **Ordinary shares** | | | | | | | | | | | | | **Net revenue (pence per share)** | | | | | | | | | | | | | Earnings | 6.74 | 8.09 | 8.89 | 8.36 | 11.38 | 13.22 | 14.58 | 14.62 | 12.25 | 13.69 | 17.22 | | Dividends^{(E)} | 7.00 | 7.45 | 7.70 | 8.35 | 10.50 | 12.20 | 13.50 | 14.00 | 14.20 | 14.50 | 15.50 | | NAV per share (pence) | 215.25 | 254.94 | 318.12 | 335.96 | 352.42 | 395.64 | 418.54 | 358.11 | 417.97 | 492.43 | 305.13 | | Share price (pence) | 186.30 | 247.50 | 310.50 | 297.50 | 314.50 | 382.50 | 394.00 | 317.50 | 392.50 | 456.50 | 279.00 | | **Indices of growth** (indicated on 31 March 2023) | | | | | | | | | | | | | Share price^{(F)} | 100 | 133 | 167 | 160 | 169 | 205 | 211 | 170 | 211 | 245 | 133 | | Net Asset Value^{(F)} | 100 | 118 | 148 | 156 | 164 | 184 | 194 | 166 | 194 | 229 | 142 | | Dividend Net^{(G)} | 100 | 106 | 110 | 119 | 150 | 174 | 193 | 200 | 203 | 207 | 221 | | IRR | 100 | 102 | 103 | 105 | 108 | 112 | 115 | 118 | 119 | 130 | 148 | | Benchmark^{(H)} | 100 | 107 | 128 | 131 | 136 | 146 | 149 | 124 | 141 | 155 | 99 | **Figures have been prepared in accordance with UK-adopted international accounting standards.** - (A) The NAV Total Return for each year is calculated by reinvesting the dividends in the assets of the Company from the relevant ex-dividend date. Dividends are deemed to be reinvested at the ex-dividend date as this is the protocol used by the Company's benchmark and other indices. This is considered to be an Alternative Performance Measure as defined on page 106. - (B) Benchmark Index composite index comprising the FTSE EPRA/NAREIT Developed Europe TR Index up to March 2013, and thereafter the FTSE EPRA/NAREIT Developed Europe Capped Index. Source: Thames River Capital. - (C) The Share Price Total Return is calculated by reinvesting the dividends in the shares of the Company from the relevant ex-dividend date. - (D) Dividends per share in the year to which their declaration relates and not the year they were paid. - (E) Share prices only. These do not reflect dividends paid. - (F) Capital only values. These do not reflect dividends paid. - (G) Price only value of the indices set out in (B) above. Overview Strategic report Governance Financial statements Glossary and AIFMS disclosure Notice of AGM Shareholder information Annual Report & Accounts 2023 3 ## Chairman’s statement Market Backdrop This has been a very difficult year for the property ### Markets have had to market, for property shares and for the Company. Net ### absorb huge increases asset value total return was -35.5%, slightly worse than ### in the cost of capital and our benchmark at -34.0%. The share price total return ### real estate equities have was -36.2% as the discount between the NAV and the ### suffered consequential price share price widened slightly, reflecting weaker investor ### adjustments. However, this is sentiment as a whole. Although the change in the second half was modest (first half NAV total return of -33.6% ### an unusual cycle where both March to September 2022) we have experienced some ### interest rates and rents are very dramatic price action in the intervening six months. ### rising. In many of our markets ### property fundamentals are Macro-economic forces continued to dominate. The ### sound and we see few signs drivers and trajectory of inflation remained everyone’s ### of over-supply. focus. Central bankers appeared as unsure of the consequences of their actions as market participants. David Watson Volatility remained elevated. Whilst our total return CHAIRMAN figures are clearly very poor, the autumnal rally in property stocks, somewhat punctured (in the UK) by political events in November, did resume in earnest in January. This three month rally, based squarely on a change in the expected trajectory of interest rates, gave us, at last, a taste of a more optimistic attitude towards our asset class. The last few weeks of the financial year saw market sentiment damaged by the failure of two regional banks in the US and the final take out of Credit Suisse. This raised knee-jerk concerns of bank contagion which here feels sensationalist given the enhanced levels of regulatory oversight and controls on European banks post the global financial crisis. Your investment management team have a long track record of alpha generation through dynamic stock selection. It is fair to say that the investment dynamics of the last 12 months have not been their preferred context. The dramatic price falls and bear market rallies have been largely undiscriminating between the good and the bad. Forced sellers were interested in volume not price. Small caps, as usual, struggled in these conditions. This macro-driven environment is hopefully, finally, abating as investors appear increasingly interested in differentiating between individual companies’ prospects following the significant correction. Our investment universe has now seen a number of companies who have suspended or reduced dividends. These were, in the main, the likely suspects and it would be a surprise to us if many others now emerge given the economic cycle. One of the core attractions of real estate investing is the potential of indexed income and this is showing through and remains our focus. 4 TR Property Investment Trust ## Revenue Results and Dividend Earnings per share increased by 26% from 13.69p per share to 17.22p. This is an all-time high. Although company earnings did in general recover to pre-Covid-19 levels, our headline earnings were further flattered by changes in the timing of some dividend payments. More detail of this is set out in the Manager's report. The Board is pleased to announce a final dividend of 9.85p taking the full year dividend to 15.50p, representing a 6.9% increase. In determining the dividend the Board has been very sensitive to investor appetite for income but has also been conscious of the underlying income growth and the potential impact of interest and exchange rates on future earnings. ## Revenue Outlook Following a record level of earnings in 2022/23, the Board expect to report a reduction in net income for the year to 2023/24. This is not only as a result of the non-recurrence of certain items which enhanced the current year earnings, but also because of the number of companies that have announced dividend cuts or suspensions. All companies have had to adjust to the change in the price of debt. For some the impact has been immediate, while for others it will be somewhat delayed as they continue to benefit from historic fixed rates. However, on the income side of the equation, index-linked rents will benefit. Companies need to balance the pluses and minuses and some have reacted quickly and cautiously to protect their balance sheets. The medium to longer-term outlook for interest rates is difficult to predict so it could be a while before companies feel confident about the longer-term outlook. ## Net Debt and Currencies Gearing at 12.3% is an almost identical figure to that at the half year. Inevitably these numbers are just snapshots in time, the level of gearing has varied in response to the market volatility and as investment opportunities have occurred. Sterling weakened over the year by just over 4%. This marginally enhanced our income account as non-sterling dividends were worth more in sterling terms. As our balance sheet is denominated in sterling a weaker pound served to help the reported value of non-sterling assets. The balance sheet exposure remains materially in line with the benchmark as we hedge exposure to match the benchmark. ## Discount and Share Repurchases The discount of the share price to the NAV widened slightly over the year from -7.3% to -8.6%. However, the spread over the year has been much wider, swinging between close to -1% and over -10%. This volatility is indicative of the rapid changes in sentiment towards the sector. The average over the year under review was -5.8%, close to the 10-year average of -4.9% and an improvement on the -6.6% average since the invasion of Ukraine. In light of the transient nature of the discount volatility, no share buy-backs or issues were made during the year. Ordinary Share Class Performance: Total Return over 10 years (rebased) ![img-0.jpeg](img-0.jpeg) Annual Report & Accounts 2023 5 Overview Strategic Report Governance Financial statements Glossary and AIFMD disclosure Notice of ADM Shareholder information Chairman’s statement continued Board Changes Outlook I reported at the half year that we had commenced Macro considerations continue to dominate. Markets the search for a new Director who would broaden have had to absorb a huge adjustment in the cost of and strengthen the Board and add diversity of age, capital and real estate equities have certainly borne their experience and ethnicity. In January this year we share of price adjustments. However, this is an unusual were delighted to announce the appointment of cycle where both rates and rents are rising. In many of Busola Sodeinde to the Board as an independent our areas of focus, real estate market fundamentals are Non-Executive Director and we have greatly sound and we see few signs of over-supply. Our central appreciated her early insight and perspective on a assumption is that the interest rate cycle will peak this wide range of issues. year but that inflation will remain above central banks’ targets. Listed property companies are generally more We also announced my intention to step down from conservatively geared than their private counterparts the Board with effect from the conclusion of the and this should stand them in good stead. The sector forthcoming AGM. As announced, Kate Bolsover has been hit hard and many of our companies are will succeed me as Chairman and Tim Gillbanks will trading at large discounts to asset values that have succeed Kate as Senior Independent Director. also been recalibrated. As in previous cycles, if the sector is undervalued then private capital will be quick Environmental, Social and to step in. Just after the year end, Industrials REIT, one Governance ('ESG') of the Company’s 10 largest holdings, announced a ESG reports within annual accounts are becoming recommended bid for cash at a 40% premium to the longer and contain more and more detail. This undisturbed share price. More recently in early May, is wholly appropriate for an operating company Civitas, the social housing landlord announced a cash bid and we welcome the additional disclosure. As an from an Asian conglomerate at a similar premium. These investment trust company and primarily an investor businesses are chalk and cheese but both have proved in companies, we have to think about what ESG attractive to very different groups of investors. These should mean for us. events remind us that, for many, real estate is seen as a crucial part of the investment jigsaw particularly in these Our ESG approach covers three areas. Firstly, the inflationary times. governance and policies which apply directly to the investment trust as a Company under the direct control of the Board. Secondly, ESG considerations as part of the investment process for our equity David Watson portfolio adopted by our Manager. Although our Chairman Manager cannot have any direct control over ESG 1 June 2023 policies in underlying investee companies, it can, and does, use its influence carefully through corporate voting and engagement with the companies in which we invest. Thirdly, our Manager does have control over our direct property portfolio and here we continue to drive for greater energy efficiency and environmental care in all that we do. Our Responsible Investment Report on pages 16 to 25 sets out our approach in each of these areas with some case study examples. This is of course an area of active evolution. 6 TR Property Investment Trust Overview Strategic report Governance Financial statements Glossary and AIFMD disclosure Notice of AGM Shareholder information ## Manager’s report Performance The Company’s net asset value (‘NAV’) total return for ### For a sector where returns are the 12 months to 31 March 2023 was -35.5%, whilst the benchmark, FTSE EPRA/NAREIT Developed Europe TR (in ### anchored by income, these GBP), fell -34.0%. These figures are clearly disappointing ### levels of volatility and multiple but not materially different from those reported at the ### directional shifts are almost half year, where the NAV had fallen -33.6% in the first six ### unparalleled. The whole months of the financial year. Equally important to note ### period has been dominated is that these figures are snapshots in very volatile times. ### by the ebbs and flows around To illustrate the point, the first four months of the second half of the financial year (i.e. October to January) saw our ### interest rate expectations universe rally +14.5% only to then give up all of those gains ### and real estate fundamentals in the subsequent nine weeks. The end result was a finish ### have taken the proverbial to the year which was marginally worse than where we ### back seat. However, looking were at the half year stage. ### forward, we anticipate a ### renewed focus on those In the half year review, I wrote that shareholders will no doubt be concerned that given the scale of the ### sectors offering rental growth. correction, the direction of travel was obvious and more protective action should have been taken. It always looks Marcus Phayre-Mudge clear in hindsight but as we walk through the year in the FUND MANAGER next few paragraphs, the dramatic swings in sentiment will help explain some of the difficulties we faced in trying to rotate the portfolio into the headwinds, avoid the rip currents but then also catch the spring tides of sentiment recovery The first quarter of the financial year saw the sector fall 24% as investors really focused on the impact of rising interest rates. However, you could still have made money over a four-week period (in May and early June) and this highlights the sense of sentiment rather than facts driving markets in mid-2022. Everyone became central bank-focused whilst real estate fundamentals were ignored. July saw a strong reversal (+9.5%) as bond markets responded to the theme that rising interest rates were having the required deflationary effect. However, the summer break was followed by hawkish statements from the US Federal Reserve at Jackson Hole and our benchmark fell -30% between mid-August and mid- October as investors began to believe the ‘higher for longer’ mantra. This severe bout of pessimism was then followed by a +25% rally in pan-European property stocks between mid-October and the end of January. The tail end of the financial year saw this recovery then ebb away with the sector falling 13% in the last two months of the financial year. Annual Report & Accounts 2023 7 Manager’s report continued Benchmark Performance FTSE EPRA/NAREIT Developed Europe Capped Total Return Net GBP (Daily) 5% 0% -5% -10% -15% -20% -25% -30% -35% -40% -45% Dec-22 Jan-23 Feb-23 Mar-23Nov-22Oct-22Sep-22Aug-22Jul-22Jun-22May-22Apr-22Mar-22 For a ‘value’ sector where returns are driven – year cohorts share a couple of similar outcomes; firstly, those in, year out – by income, these levels of volatility and companies which have reduced or suspended dividends multiple directional shifts are almost unparalleled. What are disproportionately represented and secondly, these is happening? Essentially, the whole period has been two groups have experienced the greatest volatility within dominated by the ebbs and flows around interest rate our universe. To illustrate the point, Swedish property expectations and bond market behaviour. Real estate companies collectively fell 40.5% in the year to 31 March fundamentals have taken the proverbial back seat. A 2023 however, within that period there were three sharp longstanding real estate equity market observer with over bear market rallies of +17% (May), +39% (July to mid- 30 years’ experience recently wrote to clients ‘I can’t recall August) and +53% (mid-October to the end of January). a period of time when capital values have fallen so sharply These groups were highly susceptible to changes in and yet occupier demand in most sectors has remained sentiment towards the outlook for rates and margin on pretty robust’. I have reproduced the statement verbatim new (or refinanced) debt instruments. as it neatly encapsulates the environment we find ourselves in. In other words, yields are rising but so are Previously, I have written about the merits of the market rents, this is atypical. It is now clear that, through 2022, I fundamentals of German residential. The vast supply/ placed too much emphasis on this quality of earnings (and demand imbalance and the persistent widening of the indeed earnings growth) in many of our companies. The gap between regulated rents and open market values market paid little heed, choosing to focus on the impact of remains in place. What has been most frustrating is that rising yields/capitalisation rates on assetvalues. our largest relative position in that area is Phoenix Spree Deutschland, which has no refinancing requirements The speed at which central banks responded, as until 2026 and is a market minnow (portfolio value less inflation gathered pace, took many participants by than €750m) where all sales, however few, will make a surprise. The rising cost of debt affected all property difference performed in line with its larger cousins. stocks, but it had the greatest impact on two particular cohorts of companies. Those companies which had Collectively the market capitalisation of the German successfully utilised unsecured bond market financing residential businesses reduced by 57%. Meanwhile, the now discovered that this source of (re)financing was underlying asset values have corrected less than 10% in the effectively shut. German residential businesses, year and top line earnings have grown with vacancy levels particularly the larger ones, Vonovia, LEG and the stable and the ‘mietspegiel’ (the rent table) continuing to more diversified Aroundtown (part owner of Grand increase rents, albeit at a sub-inflationary rate. The asset City Properties), are all seeing their cost of debt rise class offers consistently low vacancy, steady rental growth dramatically as the expiry of existing bonds require and the opportunity to move to market rents through refinancing. The other heavily impacted group were refurbishment or sales to owner-occupiers. As a result, those with higher loan to value compounded by high yields steadily tightened as the cost of finance fell. By the levels of floating rate debt. The impact on earnings beginning of 2022, capitalisation rates were below 3%, fully for this group has been dramatic and the majority of reflecting the stability and low risk profile of the income. At Swedish companies fall into this category. Both these such low capitalisation rates, a modest reversal upwards of 100bps has a very dramatic effect on valuation. 8 TR Property Investment Trust Much the same effect was felt in the valuation of the other low yielding sector - industrial/logistics. This sector had enjoyed a surge in investor demand as strong rental growth fuelled the attractiveness of the asset class and we saw capitalisation rates tighten dramatically over the last three years. Again, the impact of the abrupt rise in the cost of debt led to a quick reversal in yields. However, unlike regulated residential rents in Germany, which deliver sub-inflationary growth, we are confident that strong rental growth will persist in industrial/logistics property given market fundamentals. ### Offices Offices continue to be the sector most under scrutiny and rightly so. The repercussions and evolution of the working from home ('WFH') regime are still being worked through by tenants and landlords. Much has already been written on the topic and firm conclusions are hard to pin down given the speed of change. However, we are confident that since the half year we have seen more data to support our current thesis. Offices remain crucial infrastructure for knowledge-based businesses – physical interaction is a vital part of business life. However, the amount of space required has reduced whilst crucially the demand for better quality space has risen. This demand for better quality working environment is augmented by the requirement for better energy efficiency and green credentials. The result is a historically wide market bifurcation between best in class, well located, energy efficient buildings and the rest. Offices account for approximately 15% of our benchmark and well over 50% of that exposure is to London and Paris, hence our focus on those markets in this commentary. Gecina, our largest European office exposure (see top 12 holdings) in their Q1 2023 results highlighted that their prime inner Paris assets recorded an eye-catching 30% reversion, whilst their outer ring assets saw negative reversion. Overall rental growth was positive at 7% but that statistic highlights the gulf between the growth achieved in central assets and the rest. Couvin, which owns offices in Paris, Milan and several German cities reported the same phenomenon, with central Milan recording solid demand and rental growth. Central London office vacancy is elevated at 8%, however the divide between West End (3.7%) and the City (11.9%) is almost as stark as it has ever been. The situation in Docklands is even more dire with a number of major financial institutions who have announced either a reduction in their space requirements (including HSBC, Citi and JPMorgan) or wholesale relocation (e.g. Clifford Chance). In the case of the latter, the firm is also cutting its space requirements by 40%. One should be careful not to read single statistic across to the wider market as that particular firm has had excess space in Canary Wharf for several years. This increasing vacancy in financial services-focused districts such as Canary Wharf, La Defense and further afield Lower Manhattan is a reflection of both WFH but also the lack of headcount growth. This is a particular problem in London where post Brexit, global financial services businesses continue to increase their footprint in Paris, Frankfurt and Dublin at the expense of London. This bifurcation of 'best and the rest' can be clearly seen in recent valuation in the specialist London office landlords. Great Portland reported in their H1 2023 results a divergence in performance based on their buildings' EPC (energy efficiency) ratings. Those at the highest levels (A&B) saw value declines of 2.5% whilst C&D rated were -4.2%. Derwent London produced data based on values per foot. The most valuable (+£1,500 per ft) saw capital drift of -3.5% and rental growth of +2%, whilst the least (+£1,000 per ft) saw value falls of -11.8% and rental growth of just 0.3%. Even though the best in class continues to enjoy steady rental growth, this is partly due to its scarcity. The bulk of all office markets are made up of much more average product and take up levels in the post pandemic world have been weak. Paris Centre West (the core) saw available supply fall year on year (-19%) whilst it rose in all other markets. The further out, the greater the supply, with La Defense just +4% whilst the inner Rim (+35%). All of this has fed through into negative sentiment towards all offices except the best quality in the best locations. MSCI/IPD's office sector capital decline in H2 2022 was -15.7%, underperforming retail which fell 14.5%. Central London initial yield has moved 80bps from 4.8% (December 2021) to 5.6% (January 2023). As discussed many times, the UK's independent valuer community have always attempted to mark-to-market rather than the Continental approach which is more 'mark-to-model'. The latter approach results in a smoother correction of values but can equally lead to the criticism that valuations are woefully historic when markets are correcting fast. As a result, we feel that highlighting the modest moves in Continental European valuations in H2 2022 would be misleading. They will catch up over the course of 2023 and beyond. ### Retail It feels as though this much maligned asset class has finally passed through the worst of the impact of the shift to online retailing, the way we search for products (and pricing) as well as the increasing demand for entertainment/leisure ahead of more 'stuff'. The huge reduction in values has been felt more acutely in the UK. Alongside the differences between the UK and Continental European shopping malls, it is also crucial Overview Strategy report Governance Financial statements Glossary and AIFMS disclosure Notice of ADM Shareholder information Annual Report & Accounts 2023 9 Manager's report continued to highlight the sub-sectors within retail as they have, largely, performed very differently over the last few years. The worst performing group remains the larger malls which are, quite simply, too big with an excess of floor space, often a shuttered department store (or two) and a service charge with a chunky non-recoverable element (due to voids). None of this is new information I hear you say. Agreed. However, the update is that we have now seen capitulation by landlords (and lenders), rents have re-rated (often halving) and vacant space beginning to be repurposed for other uses. Malls must become community hubs with a range of (lower value) uses such as fitness, medical uses, nurseries, day care etc. Landsec successfully acquired the 50% of the St David's Centre in Cardiff which they did not own. The seller was the administrator of Intu and Landsec acquired the outstanding loans on the asset. The price equated to a yield of over 9% on a rent roll which has dropped materially over the last decade. We are confident that at the right rents (and yields) those centres which can reinvent themselves such as this dominant city centre asset will deliver acceptable returns. The strongest sub-sector remains retail warehousing and outlet malls. For different reasons both offer retailers sales channels which complement online. In the case of the former, it is the convenience and pricing of edge of and out of town retail parks. Free home delivery will become unsustainable from both a profit and an ESG perspective. Click and collect and free returns to store will drive demand for these super convenient locations. The Company is a large holder of Ediston Property which has announced a strategic review given the subscale size of the business. We are hopeful that this will provide further evidence of supportive valuations in the sector. Outlets help retailers offload lines without damaging full price/premium offerings. The success of the likes of Bicester Village (where Hammerson have a non-controlling stake) and Gunwharf Quay in Portsmouth (owned by Landsec) are proof of the concept and we remain confident about their prospects. The combining of retail, leisure and food continues, particularly in tourist destinations. BNP have highlighted the pick-up in post Covid footfall in the most upmarket locations such as Regent St, Champs Elysees, Portal de Angel (Barcelona), Via del Corso (Rome) and Kaufingerstrasse (Munich) with footfall increasing on average by 1/3 and, in some cases, more than 65% (Paris and Munich). Retail investment has been resilient, particularly in Continental Europe where investors see affordable rents and higher yields than other sectors. Whilst investment levels are unsurprisingly below the 2012 to 2022 decade average, they did increase year on year to €40.1bn (+2.6%) according to BNP in the UK, retail warehousing continued to dominate volumes (+60%) over 2021 and 2022. This figure was lower across Europe and highlights the continued lack of large shopping centre transactions in the UK. ## Industrial and Logistics UK logistics take-up in Q1 2023 was 8.6m sq ft, a slowing when compared to a quarterly average of 12.0m sq ft in 2022 and 13.8m sq ft in 2021 but still ahead of the quarterly average of 8.3m sq ft in the pre-Covid decade. Vacancy remains at 3% and rents continue to rise. Against this comfortable backdrop we saw yields rise by 175bps for prime distribution units between June 2022 and March 2023. Such was the impact of the cost of money, whilst market fundamentals are deemed less relevant. Even an asset with strong rental growth prospects cannot have a capitalisation rate 200bps below the risk-free rate. However, that pricing adjustment has largely been completed in our view. We are beginning to see stability in asset prices. In Continental Europe the picture was very similar. Savills report 32m sq metres taken up in 2022 across the 13 largest markets, just 6% below the record year of 2021 and ahead of the 5-year average in virtually all markets. Higher construction and finance costs led to reduced speculative construction maintaining the intense supply-demand imbalance in so many markets. Over €50bn was invested in 2022, again below the record of 2021 but well ahead of the 5-year average. Yield expansion (c. 100bps) was much less than in the UK but again we expect upward pressure to ease as fundamentals drive capital back into the sector. We have long been cheerleaders for multi-let industrials (MLI), generally terraces of smaller units, management intensive, but often located in dense urban locations. Very little new stock has been built over the last few decades with alternative (multi-storey) uses being far more valuable. Rents remain low in many parts of the country making new development unviable. The tenant rosters have evolved hugely in the last 20 years, undergoing 'gentrification' from being the domain of light industrial 'metal bashers' to a much broader swathe of uses, many born out of internet connectivity and the ability to access customers directly. Our largest exposure was through Industrials REIT, where we owned 11% of the company. Just after the year end (3 April) Blackstone announced an agreed cash bid at a 40% premium to the undisturbed share price. The private equity behemoth already has substantial exposure to this sub-sector but it is a timely reminder that if quality assets are left undervalued then private capital will acquire them. Our other MLI exposure is through Sirius (65% Germany, 35% UK) and diversified names such as Picton and London Metric (which acquired Mucklow in 2021 where we owned 5%). The healthy supply-demand imbalance makes it a sub-sector we are keen to maintain exposure to. 10 TRI Property Investment Trust ## Residential The shortage of private sector rental accommodation remains acute, yet the listed companies focused on this sector were amongst the poorest performers in the financial year. This group of companies (mostly in Germany and Sweden) highlighted how management teams were lured into increased leverage given the stability of the underlying income streams and occupancy levels. However, very low yielding assets struggle to provide positive cashflows when interest rates rise. At the asset level, rental growth has remained well below current inflation rates given the backward-looking nature of regulated rents. We fully expect to see these rents rise at historically fast rates as they factor in some of the dramatic inflation datapoints. The serious shortage of housing underpins long-term values. The fly in the ointment is the cost of improving the energy efficiency of this housing stock through both insulation and the type of heating. In open market regimes such as the UK and Finland, the cost of these improvements will be passed through to rent prices. In regulated markets where only a proportion of the capital expenditure can currently be reinitialised, this remains an impediment to rental growth. Within open market regimes such as the UK we have seen strong rental growth through the combination of a shortage of rental stock (amateur landlords leaving the market due to higher regulation and lower tax efficiency), high levels of employment/wage inflation and market timing (where buyers decide to continue to temporarily rent awaiting price corrections). ## Alternatives Purpose built student accommodation continues to fare well, with rising numbers of students across the UK and Europe. The traditional accommodation alternative of private rented houses (HMOs - Houses in Multiple Occupation) are reducing as regulation just less up licensing costs and (correctly) impedes overcrowding and sub-standard accommodation. Unite, our largest student accommodation stock was one of the few companies to see positive capital value appreciation in 2022 with 4% annualised growth. It has recently increased its rental growth outlook for academic year 2023/24 from 5% to 6-7%. Self-storage continues to confound the sceptics. Rate growth and occupancy have begun to normalise post the 'Covid boom' but remain encouragingly positive. Safestore, our largest holding in the sector, enjoyed like-for-like rental growth of 10.7% in the year to October 2022. Hotels particularly leisure and tourist focused have also enjoyed strong growth as consumers continue to make up for lost opportunities to travel in 2020 and 2021. Recent STR data highlights London hotels across the quality spectrum showing RevPAR growth of +22% year on year. UK hotels ex London was also strong at +11% year on year and 25% versus 2019. Healthcare was the poorest performer of the alternatives group. Profitability of private care providers is being constantly squeezed through wage and cost inflation. Continental European healthcare operators have been rocked by the scandal at Orpea. The level of state support, both direct and indirect, are the crucial figures required by investors. Even then, the rate of rental growth can be quite pedestrian as seen at Primary Health Properties and Assura. ## Debt and Equity Markets Both debt and equity markets were very subdued during the year. The total capital raised in 2022 was €14bn compared to €32bn in 2021 and €21bn in 2020. Over €9bn of the total raised in 2022 was debt in the first quarter. To illustrate the change in pricing over the last year, we need only review the most prolific issuer, Vonovia, Europe's largest property company. In March 2022, it issued 4, 6 and 8 year maturities totalling €2.5bn priced at 1.375%, 1.875% and 2.375% respectively. By November, new 2027 and 2030 maturities were costing 4.75% and 5.0%. Short-dated leverage risked the vicious cycle of increased interest costs resulting in lower earnings, so risking credit downgrades leading to even higher cost of debt. Leverage needed to be reduced to defend earnings; if asset sales weren't possible then equity (even when trading at deep discounts to asset values) needed to be raised through rights issues. At the half year, I detailed the capital raising by TAG Immobilien, who had over stretched themselves with the acquisition of a Polish housebuilder. They raised €200m at a 27% discount to the theoretical ex-rights price to help pay off the bridging loan from the acquisition. In November, VGP, a Belgium logistics developer raised €302m. This was more front-footed with the raise diluting NTA by 10% in a one for four share issuance. The business is overly dependent on selling assets into Allianz private funds and this capital makes them less dependent on one customer. The CEO and CFO own 49% of the equity and 'stood their corner' which reassured investors. In Sweden, Catena, another logistics developer raised SEK 1.4bn (£135m) as its share price hovered close to NTA and, whilst small, it was unusual as it was an accelerated bookbuild and not a rights issue. Balder raised SEK 1.8bn which it used to repay a hybrid bond and strengthen its overall balance sheet. The only merger and acquisition activity in the 12 months to 31 March (the privatisation of Industrials REIT was announced on 3 April) were two mergers, both widely expected but the timing less sure. The joining of Shaftesbury and Capco finally happened after a tortuously long period of negotiation, capped off by a CMA review on whether the combined entity could be a price setter. The most disappointing aspect for Overview Strategic Report Governance Financial statements Glossary and AIFMS disclosure Notice of ADM Shareholder information Annual Report & Accounts 2023 11 Manager’s report continued shareholders (we do not own either company) was forecasts. The market was not interested in supply and that the deal results in the repayment of much of demand at the property/occupational market level or Shaftesbury’s cheap debt due to a change of control whether there were still profits to be achieved from the provision. When coupled with further increases in development pipeline. debt costs next year and some extraordinarily high advisor fees (given it was an agreed transaction) The ability of the market pendulum to (over) swing there will be precious little earnings benefit from between exuberance (greed) and melancholy (fear) was the anticipated synergies. The other merger was very much in evidence and we battled to between LXI and Secure Income REIT on a NAV for react accordingly. NAV basis. It was a much more straightforward affair. We were a large shareholder in SIR and A good example of this was our collective underweight benefited immediately as the 12% discount closed to Swedish property companies. Whilst this call was our to NAV. The managers of SIR were also large largest contributor to positive relative performance over shareholders in the company and their excellent the year, the volatility in the group resulted in multiple timing in previous property cycles was once again on phases of repositioning. Whilst the broad statement that display. They even sold the management company Swedish property companies are amongst the most which had a contract to run SIR for the next three leveraged in our investment universe is true, some are years. obviously more exposed than others. It was therefore crucial to understand which company would suffer the Investment Activity – property shares fastest earnings degradation from rising interest rates but Portfolio turnover (purchases and sales divided by also to assess when the market had over reacted. Those two) totalled £477m in the year, considerably less most at risk were those exposed to bond markets rather than the £549m in the previous year. With average than bank lending or had complex hybrid instruments net assets over the year of £1.18bn, turnover dreamt up by bankers when money was cheap. The scale was 40% of net assets, which was higher than of share price volatility is best explained in a handful the previous year’s figure of 36% and reflects the of figures. EPRA Sweden fell -42% in the first quarter volatility in the year. only to recover +33% in the next six weeks followed by another 40% drop to mid-October and then the long In the half year report, I recorded that each rally then recovery (+36%) to the end of January, followed by a trended down to a new low and therefore virtually renewed bout of nerves sending the sector down almost all buys looked poor and all sells looked clever. to the October lows. These figures are the collective The second half of the year saw the largest and impact of 18 companies. For the most leveraged (SBB, longest recovery from October to the end of January, Castellum, Corem and Balder) the volatility was far greater. followed by the most dramatic correction back to the Underlying property market fundamentals do not drive this October lows, this new low point virtually coinciding level of price action, this was caused by changes in the with the year end. Throughout the year, the renewed market outlook for the cost/availability of debt impacting bouts of negative sentiment towards the sector on a tiny market segment (free float capitalisation of just were based on either a change in the outlook for £20bn). interest rates (and the concern that central banks’ behaviour would become more hawkish) or renewed Our exposure to German residential was the poorest speculation of a failure in the credit transmission asset allocation decision of the year. I remained mechanism. Essentially, investor sentiment was convinced, for too long, that the market fundamentals of driven by the expectation of the change in the price virtually full occupancy and (sub-market) regulated rents and availability of debt. would underpin investor sentiment. The fact that even at prices a year ago all of these names were trading below In hindsight, maintaining our long-standing the reinstatement cost of the underlying assets mattered discipline of buying (or adding) to companies where not a jot. The market focused exclusively on the impact we felt confident in the resilience of earnings driven of the cost of debt. During the year we reduced exposure by market fundamentals just wasn’t enough. in the larger names (Vonovia, LEG) but maintained the holding in Phoenix Spree, the small Berlin focused As would be expected, we have carefully analysed vehicle. It is an externally managed fund which has an all of our companies’ balance sheet capacity (in annually renewed contract with QSix, the manager. Its terms of the quantum of leverage, cost and duration assets are all prime Berlin, where open-market rents of debt). In many cases, the market had quickly continue to grow. The share price total return in the year adjusted the earnings expectations but what became was -50%. I remain convinced that once prices stabilise apparent as the year progressed was that we were the smaller companies will benefit disproportionately being overly rational about these revised earnings from the impact of portfolio sales. With a market cap of 12 TR Property Investment Trust Overview Strategic report Governance Financial statements Glossary and AIFMD disclosure Notice of AGM Shareholder information just £190m and the share price at half the asset value, and British Land. The bulk of our exposure is through it is an excellent example of a portfolio of assets which Ediston Property which owns only retail warehouses. are no longer benefiting from being held in a listed However, its market cap at £140m is too small for the company. listed market and we applaud the announcement from the board that they are carrying out a strategic review With the price of money rising so rapidly in the year, for the future of the company. We remain hopeful that it was the lowest yielding assets which saw the most a merger with another listed company is a viable option aggressive repricing and so it was with German (and which will ensure the assets remain in the listed space. Swedish) residential. The compression in yields in The company was a relative outperformer in the year the previous five years was a rational response to (-18%) as were virtually all the high yielding retail names. the combination of strong market conditions, (high Hammerson remains a play on corporate reconstruction occupancy and rental growth) combined with very rather than a bellwether for retail property. We believe low cost of borrowing. This strong yield compression they are on the right path and we opened a holding in (and capital value growth) was even greater in the the year. The crown jewels are the minority ownerships industrial/logistics sector. The structural tailwinds in the premium outlet malls controlled by Value Retail. have been discussed, ad nauseum, in previous reports. Investors will need to remain patient as the breakup will For many markets these persist but capitalisation take time, but value is reappearing. rates had simply been driven too low with insatiable investor appetite for assets with income growth. Investors’ attitudes towards office property has been The reversal (yield expansion) described earlier was highlighted earlier. We fully subscribe to the bifurcation dramatic and the sector was hit very hard. Again, of returns between the best and the rest. Smaller our smaller companies suffered disproportionately European cities have also performed better with lower as they fell alongside larger names on the way down WFH and higher occupancy levels. We have sought but often failed to catch the bounce in any recovery. greater exposure to those cities through Arima (Madrid), We are confident that these conservatively managed Wihlborgs (Malmo, Lund) and Fabege (Stockholm). Core businesses with the right amount of leverage and CBD exposure in the largest cities has been through quality portfolios will perform well. However, if the Gecina (Paris), Great Portland and Landsec (London). stock market continues to undervalue them, then no We have also added to the short lease, flexible offering one should be surprised when more privatisations business model through Workspace (London) and Sirius occur. In the industrial group in the UK, I would include (primarily German flexspace). Both of these names Industrials REIT, Picton Property and CT Property had a poor year with total returns of -35% and -32% Trust. Whilst in Europe the list would include Argan, respectively but we found recently published operational Sirius and Catena. data reassuring. Landsec (-16%) was a top performer as it continued to reduce leverage through sales of newly With the lowest yielding (highest growth) names completed prime offices in Central London. We are suffering from capitalisation rates rising above the strong advocates of capital recycling and expect to see new cost of debt, it was the highest yielding sectors more sales from non-core assets such as hotels and which suffered the least from this devaluation. Retail leisure. property has clearly been out of favour for many years as the weakening in tenant demand for physical retail In the alternatives space, our overweight to self-storage space continued. In Continental Europe, we focused was entirely through Safestore (-27%) rather than Big on Eurocommercial and Klepierre given their high Yellow (-21%). Safestore has outperformed on a three- earnings yield but crucially their secure balance sheets. year and five-year view but clearly not in this last period. We avoided Unibail-Rodamco and Wereldhave. Here In fact, we find it hard to choose between these two you have two companies at either ends of the asset very well managed companies. Both own irreplaceable quality spectrum but both suffered from weak balance estates with core holdings in densely populated areas. sheets and the need to de-leverage. Unibail announced Demand for space has been remarkably stable given 2 years ago its intention to sell its US portfolio whilst the economic backdrop. Unite (-16%), the student Wereldhave has continued to sell assets whenever accommodation provider, was another relative winner it can. European retail as a subset outperformed the in the year. The combination of increased earnings full benchmark and our stock selection also added to guidance and solid market evidence on modest yield performance with Unibail -27.5% and Klepierre -2.5% movement continues to support the asset class. over the year. Both these asset types have intensive operational requirements and we are confident that the market UK retail is now a small part of the listed universe. undervalues the platform through the traditional asset For most investors the only way to gain exposure value model. This was certainly the case with Industrials is through the diversified portfolios of Landsec REIT where Blackstone paid a premium for the operating business alongside the assets. Annual Report & Accounts 2023 13 Manager's report continued ## Revenue and Revenue Outlook As noted in the Chairman's Statement, the current year's income benefited from a number of non-recurring items. Eurocommercial and Swiss Prime both changed their pattern of distributions during the year effectively resulting in an additional half year payment from each of these companies. The Argan annual dividend which generally goes ex-dividend on or around the last business day in March therefore moves between March and April. In the year to 31 March 2023, we received dividends in April 2022 and March 2023, resulting in two full year payments. If the dividend due around 31 March 2024 falls back into next April, there will be no income recorded from this company in the year to March 2024. We have no control over these timings and there are several companies where dividends go ex-div around the year end. Each of three holdings noted above are approximately 2.5% of the portfolio so this has had a significant impact. Without these (and the small enhancement due to foreign exchange movements), we estimate the earnings would have been around 1.13p lower than reported. The dividend for the year to March 2023 is therefore well covered. The dividend for the previous two years was partly paid out of revenue reserves as the effects of COVID forced revenue down. In 2022/23, the earnings, adjusted for the one-offs set out above, are just over 10% higher than the last reported period before COVID-19 (being the year to 31 March 2019). The full year dividend to 31 March 2023 is almost 15% ahead of the pre-COVID dividend as the Board recognises the importance of a growing dividend to our shareholders. Looking ahead to the 2023-24 financial year, at this stage, we expect to report a fall in earnings. This is partly explained by the one-off adjustments highlighted above. However, the additional impact is from the number of the German residential and Swedish companies that have announced dividend suspensions and/or cuts as they work to reduce their gearing levels in the face of rising debt costs. The residential names in particular are making progress with their disposal programmes so we expect to see their dividends resuming, although possibly at a lower level, in the not too distant future. The impact of higher interest rates will feed through to earnings as fixed or capped debt structures come up for refinancing. The impact of this of course depends on the duration of such debt packages and this varies hugely across our companies. It is encouraging to note that for most of them, the majority of their debt is fixed (or capped) until 2026 and beyond. On a more encouraging note, top line revenue is benefiting from inflation. All of our European companies and a significant number of our UK names benefit from rents linked to some form of indexation. It varies widely across countries and sectors but is clearly an important part of our revenue growth trajectory. Although the revenue for the forthcoming year is likely to be under some pressure given all these competing factors, we are optimistic that growth will return over the medium term. Market fundamentals continue to drive organic rental growth in so many of our sectors. In the meantime, the Company still has plentiful revenue reserves to maintain dividend levels over short term income falls, as was seen through the COVID-19 pandemic. ## Gearing and Debt Gearing began the year at 10.2%, increased to 12.0% by the half year and finished the year at 12.2%. This does not represent the changes in gearing seen throughout the period as gearing has been actively changed in response to the very variable market conditions throughout the year and has ranged between 10% and 16%. The cost of our debt has increased through the year as our revolving credit facilities and CFD financing are linked to SONIA (or other currency equivalents). However, an important part of our debt book are the EUR 50m and GBP 15m loan notes both at fixed rates of interest. The combination of the fixed and floating rate debt gives us a high degree of flexibility with some price stability at lower levels of gearing. Generally, where higher levels of gearing are appropriate (so drawing on the floating rate financing) the market conditions are such that returns are not too sensitive to the pricing. ## Physical Portfolio In the year to the end of March the physical property portfolio produced a total return of -13.7%, made up of a capital return of -17.5% and an income return of 3.8%. The MSCI Monthly UK Property Index returned -14.7% over the same period, made up of an income return of 5.0% and a capital fall of 18.8%. 14 TR Property Investment Trust Overview Strategic report Governance Financial statements Glossary and AIFMD disclosure Notice of AGM Shareholder information During the year we sold the residential element of the Outlook Colonnades development for £5m on a new 999 year Inflationary pressures persist. Central banks appear lease at a peppercorn rent. The value of this element resolutely determined to remain hawkish with another is determined by the outstanding lease extensions round of base rate increases in May. Whilst a relatively remaining on the individual flats. During the Company’s blunt instrument, there are signs that the medicine of ownership we completed lease extensions over 75% of increased interest rates is having the required effect with the flats and received more than £12.5m in premiums. reduced retail sales growth. Energy has been a major In addition, the sale facilitated the simplification of the driver of cost inflation and the spot price of gas has leasehold structure of the asset. The Company has fallen back to pre-invasion prices. This will soon begin to retained the freehold of the island site as well as all the feed into lower headline inflation figures and also reduce commercial elements. The locality continues to improve the likelihood of a recession. We expect wage inflation, with the redevelopment of the old Whiteleys shopping driven by high employment levels, to persist, resulting in centre nearing completion. This is an important next inflation remaining ahead of central banks’ target rates. phase in the further gentrification of Bayswater. Against this backdrop real estate fundamentals, in It was a busy 12 months for asset management at our preferred sectors, remain solid with little signs of Ferrier Street, Wandsworth. The strategy remains to let over-supply and stable demand. Economic growth is the estate on a short-term basis, retaining the flexibility likely to be at best anaemic, for a while, and speculative for either a refurbishment of the existing or a more development will remain subdued. Income, often index- comprehensive redevelopment under the planning linked, will remain the key valuation underpin. We will permission secured in June 2022. During the year the maintain our focus on the most judiciously leveraged, Company concluded 10 new leases (five renewals and avoiding those with large near-term refinancing five new lettings) covering over 60% of the estate. This requirements. With such a large number of well financed secured over £500,000 of rent with the average rent on listed companies, we also expect opportunities to gather new lettings exceeding £30 per sq. ft. The attractiveness assets from those struggling to refinance in a world of the estate continues to benefit from the further where debt availability is getting more restricted. reduction in supply of London industrial space, whilst the depth of demand from occupiers has increased. The sector has a long tail of micro-cap companies The diversity of our occupiers reflect this broad based and we continue to encourage boards to explore the demand and range from photographic studios to food opportunities for consolidation where it improves share production and even a plant nursery. liquidity and reduces costs. Otherwise, we will continue to see the steady stream of privatisations as these smaller companies are attractive bite sized morsels for large private real estate owners. Whilst the Company has often benefited from these premium bids (and continues to hold a wide range of small caps) we also believe that growing the number of larger companies is in the best interests of the sector and investors. As we go to print at the beginning of June, we are pleased to report an all-paper bid by London Metric (market cap. £1,700m) for CT Property Trust (£180m). The Company owns 10% of CT Property Trust and the price rose 25% on the announcement. Marcus Phayre-Mudge Fund Manager 1 June 2023 Annual Report & Accounts 2023 15 ## Responsible investment Introduction Regulations 2013). Investment trust companies are The Board recognises the importance of considering currently exempt from reporting against the Task Force on Environmental, Social and Governance ('ESG') factors Climate-Related Financial Disclosures ('TCFD'), however, when making investments and in acting as a responsible the Financial Conduct Authority ('FCA') has now published steward of capital. This covers the Company's own regulations that require the Company’s Manager, as its responsibilities on governance and reporting and, the Alternative Investment Fund Manager (‘AIFM’), to report most material way in which the Company can have against TCFD at both the AIFM and product level by June an impact, through responsible ownership of the 2024. This means that there will be a TCFD disclosure investments that are made on its behalf by its Manager. specific to the Company’s portfolio available in the future, which will be published on the Manager’s website. The Manager has produced a report on its overall climate 1. The Company's own approach to change approach, which is structured using the TCFD Corporate Governance and Reporting categories and is available on its website. Maintaining a high level of Governance and disclosure in the Company’s own operations and reporting is extremely important. Our Fund Managers are 2. Our Portfolio Manager’s Approach to ESG encouraging and supporting this from the companies Our Portfolio Manager’s primary duty is to pursue the in which we invest and we cannot fall short of these objective set out at the beginning of this annual report, standards ourselves. which is to invest in property and property related companies with the objective of exceeding the returns of The Company’s compliance with the AIC Code of our benchmark. Corporate Governance is detailed in the Corporate Governance Report on page 50. The Company has not set out its stall to be an ESG focused fund, however, as a long-term investor, Under Section 414 of the Companies Act 2006 there is governance and sustainability considerations have a requirement to detail information about employee and always been embedded in our Manager’s investment human rights, including information about any policies process. ESG risk assessments and considerations are in relation to these matters and the effectiveness of factors which feed into the investment decisions. This these policies. As the Company has no employees, this reflects the belief that strong governance combined with requirement does not apply. The Company is not within a responsible approach to social obligations and the the scope of the UK Modern Slavery Act 2015 because it commitment to protect our environment will enhance has not exceeded the turnover threshold and is therefore shareholder returns in the long term. not obliged to make a slavery and human trafficking statement. The Directors are satisfied that, to the best In the part of the portfolio that is invested directly into of their knowledge, the Company’s principal suppliers, commercial real estate we endeavour to "practice what which are listed on page 120, comply with the provisions wepreach". of the UK Modern Slavery Act 2015. These are principally professional advisers and service providers in the financial LISTED EQUITY PORTFOLIO services industry, consequently the Board considers the As a dedicated investor in the property sector our Manager Company to be low risk in relation to this matter. is not having to consider some of the more controversial areas of what is ethical investment. However we are The Board currently comprises three male Directors investing in buildings where construction and ongoing and three female Directors. The Board also meets the management have a direct impact on the environment. FCA's rules for diversity and inclusion, following the All property is in some way delivering a social purpose. recommendations of the Parker Review. Modern building practices are very much more focused on reducing energy consumption and efficiency than in The activities of the Nomination Committee in relation the past. Properties have varying lifespans but are built to Board changes are referred to in the Nomination for the long term. Older buildings which are less energy Committee Report on pages 56 and 57. efficient than their modern counterparts are a fact of life, their replacement has wider environmental and The Board’s diversity policy is outlined in more detail in social repercussions as well as huge cost implications. the Corporate Governance Report. They are going to form part of the investible universe for the foreseeable future and their efficient improvement The Company has no greenhouse gas emissions to report and management is just as important as ensuring new from its operations, nor does it have responsibility for any developments follow the highest possible environmental other emissions producing sources under the Companies standards. Although older buildings will most likely show Act 2006 (Strategic Report and Directors’ Reports inferior "scores" to their more modern counterparts on a 16 TR Property Investment Trust Overview Strategic report Governance Financial statements Glossary and AIFMD disclosure Notice of AGM Shareholder information number of environmental measures, we are looking for This may eventually converge into some form of demonstration of best efforts to improve these measures, consensus or standardisation but it still has a way to recognising that there will be limitations on what can be go. Conceptually, making ESG comparisons between achieved but wanting to see a positive direction of travel. companies and portfolios appears simple, but it is actually rather complex and it is important to ensure that There are two fundamental considerations to investment valid comparisons are being made. As the shortcomings in property companies: the assets themselves and their are being uncovered and the different approaches management. The Manager seeks to invest in long-term highlighted we hope that this will put pressure on the assets which are managed by quality teams in a well data providers to improve the quality and clarify the basis governed corporate structure. As a result, there has been of their analysis. The data services are subscribed to so a long-standing and strong culture of stewardship in the have to be fit forpurpose. Manager’s investment approach. The Manager believes that engaging with companies is best in the first instance, Having noted the shortfalls above with the data collected rather than simply divesting or excluding investment from the different providers, our Manager is enhancing opportunities. However, there are instances where the way in which ESG date is collected and compared. governance matters have driven a decision not to invest Their own company database covers financial and in a company. As one of the largest teams investing in operational information together with extensive pan-European real estate equities, our Manager meets modelling. ESG data is being collated alongside this, with a significant number of management teams of allowing comparisons to be made more easily between investee and potential investee companies each year and the various data sources for a single company and has a robust record of engagement, with an agenda of interrogated rather than relying on high level “scores”. reducing risk, improving performance and encouraging Interactions with companies on ESG matters are best practice. This is augmented by the strength of noted and progress, or otherwise, can be tracked more Columbia Threadneedle's Responsible Investment efficiently. team and its broader engagement. Over the course of the year, our management team participated in 227 The Manager is therefore dedicating direct resource to individual orgroup meetings with companies and their the analysis of the information available and also has management teams. the benefit of input from its award-winning Responsible Investment Team. This is work in progress and a The Manager is committed to responsible investment significant investment in resource but it will improve the and is actively developing new procedures and ways in Manager’s ability to engage with our investee companies which information is gathered and used to support their on environmental matters and play out our responsible engagement with companies on ESG matters. investment aims. Corporate Governance disclosure requirements have It is crucial to disaggregate between quality companies increased transparency enormously in recent years and which also have strong ESG credentials and companies enabled closer scrutiny and engagement on Governance which may appear to have strong ESG credentials (on issues for some years. Environmental measures are now the surface at least) but will make poor investments. One rapidly coming to the fore and, with wider disclosure example of this approach is Home REIT. On the face of it requirements being placed upon our investee companies, Home REIT’s ESG credentials appeared strong given the the Manager is increasingly able to scrutinise other company’s business model is focused on the provision measures such as climate change and sustainability of accommodation to help tackle homelessness in the policies and outcomes. UK. In addition, its leases are 100% “green”, meaning Home and its tenants agree to identify and implement However, the Board and Manager are still of the view that appropriate strategies for the improvement of the the ESG rating industry and its approach and processes properties’ environmental performance. However, we has significant limitations, making it difficult to draw elected not to participate in the company’s IPO, and true comparisons and make fully informed decisions. the fund has never owned the shares subsequently, as The assessments from the various data providers we had reservations about the overall economics of reach different conclusions as they do not all score in a the business. We were concerned about the covenant consistent way. Some of the assessments are subjective quality of the tenants (often newly-formed charities) and different data providers have different definitions and and believed that the long lease structures put in place criteria. by Home REIT risked overstating a realistic value of the underlying assets. This approach proved correct – short seller Viceroy published a report on Home REIT in November 2022 which highlighted numerous Annual Report & Accounts 2023 17 Responsible investment continued concerns with the business and the company has been least one management proposal at 52% of shareholder investigated by regulatory bodies on a number of items meetings. This represents 13% of total items voted. Of in recent months. The shares are currently suspended the items voted against, the proposals can be broadly pending a decision over the future of the business, categorised as follows: having dropped 61% from the original IPOprice. 3% 2% An example of a large holding where we believe the ESG Remuneration 4% credentials complement the investment case is Landsec. 5% Shareholder rights As well as adhering to the governance standards Election / Reelection of Directors | we would expect from a leading listed company, the | 14% | | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | | company also has a clearly outlined sustainability | | 55% | Share repurchase policy | | framework. This includes long-term targets, progress | | | other | | against which is regularly monitored and presented | | | Director terms | 19% back to investors, such as operational carbon emissions Ratify Auditor reduction of 70% by 2030 (with a 2013/14 baseline) and average embodied carbon reduction of 50% compared with a typical building by 2030. The company’s newest For the year, the Manager engaged with 24companies developments, which in our view contribute positively directly on a range of ESG related matters. These to the investment case given their ability to contribute engagements were conducted at both the board and to both earnings and net tangible asset value over time, senior executive level as well as directly with investor are also all net zero buildings, which we believe will relations. Topics of engagement were split as follows: contribute to an improved rental growth tone when the assets are let. As such there is a symbiotic relationship 4% between the company’s strong ESG credentials and its 12% underlying economic performance. Climate Chang 36% Governance Labour Standard Governance covers matters such as board structure; 22% effectiveness, diversity and independence, executive pay and criteria, shareholder rights and financial and governance reporting and standards. 26% Exercise of Voting Power and engagement The Manager has a corporate governance voting policy The Manager tracks the milestones of the engagement which, in its opinion, accords with current best practice strategy and has seen progress this year on a number whilst maintaining a primary focus on financial returns. of matters. Examples include the publication of The exercise of voting rights attached to the portfolio sustainability reports and board accountability on human has been delegated to the Manager. Where practicable, rights risk management. all shareholdings were voted at all company meetings in the financial year in accordance with Columbia Social Threadneedle’s own corporate governance policies. This All buildings have a social function to some extent, ensures that a strong, consistent approach is taken to providing places to live, work, eat, shop, store etc. proxy voting which backs up and reinforces engagement, Management of buildings needs to ensure any social takes a robust line on key governance issues such as obligations to the occupants are met in terms of executive pay and integrates environmental, social & Health & Safety, employee management and wellbeing diversity issues and sustainability practices into the and commitment to communities. Most of these voting process. obligations are the responsibility of the tenant but our investee companies are obliged to report on matters Columbia Threadneedle’s Stewardship Report 2022 affecting their own employees and such statements are provides more information on its firm-level stewardship considered. policies, as well as how these comply with the expectations of the UK Stewardship Code 2020 to which the Manager is a signatory. Its statement of compliance e can be found on the website at Environmental Standards https://www.columbiathreadneedle.com/en/. s Corporate Governance During the financial year, the Manager voted against at Human Rights 18 TR Property Investment Trust ## Environmental Environmental policies in the property sector focus largely on sustainability and climate change. Climate change is one of the defining challenges of modern times. The management team have sourced data and research from several providers, including the Columbia Threadneedle Responsible Investment team, MSCI and Global ESG Benchmark for Real Assets ('GRESB'). The quantity and depth of data available in our sector varies greatly, the larger companies now have teams dedicated to providing environmental impact data and reporting. However many of our companies are small and do not currently have the resources to contribute data to the organisations providing analysis to the investor community. As a consequence, we see strong correlations between company size, maturity and overall scores. Since our investment strategy leads us to own focused mid-sized companies in preference to some of the larger diversified ones, the portfolio's overall ESG score might tend to be unflattering compared to the wider benchmark. The rigour of our process ensures that these companies receive scrutiny by the team. ### GRESB GRESB is a mission-driven and investor-led organisation providing standardised and validated ESG data to the capital markets. Established in 2009, GRESB now covers over USD 5 trillion in real estate assets, publishing i) an annual real estate assessment score for participating companies, and ii) a public disclosure score for all listed real estate companies. The real estate assessment score ranks Environment, Social and Governance metrics based on data contributed directly from participating companies, whilst the public disclosure score evaluates the level of ESG disclosure by listed property companies and REITs. Further detail on GRESB can be found at www.gresb.com For 2023 there is increased GRESB Real Estate Assessment coverage of the Company's equity portfolio (66% from 50%). German residential companies representing 11.6% of the index do not submit data to GRESB due to the requirement to submit data at the asset or building level and concerns around fair comparisons of data aggregation. We continue to engage with GRESB, encouraging them to modify the requirements to encourage wider participation. ### MSCI MSCI ESG research covers a wide range of environmental impact measures including CO2 and greenhouse gas emissions, energy and water usage, in addition to wider corporate governance scores. Further detail can be found at www.msci.com/our-solutions/esg-investing/esg-ratings Coverage of our sector reduced from 99% to 96% and the Company's portfolio increased from 89% to 96%. Where coverage is based on public data, a significant proportion is included, whereas where specific data has to be submitted by companies the coverage is currently much thinner. The table below compares coverage by both data providers year on year. ## Data coverage as % of weight of the invested equity portfolio | 2023 | GRESB | | | | MSCI | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | | Real Estate Assessment | | Public Disclosure | | Company Rating | | | | Fund | Benchmark | Fund | Benchmark | Fund | Benchmark | | Rated | 66% | 62% | 99% | 96% | 96% | 96% | | Unrated | 34% | 38% | 1% | 4% | 4% | 4% | | Total | 100% | 100% | 100% | 100% | 100% | 100% | Source: GRESB, MSCI, Columbia Threadneedle Investments. Data as at 31.03.2023. Fund exposure calculated as the % weight of the invested equity portfolio | 2022 | GRESB | | | | MSCI | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | | Real Estate Assessment | | Public Disclosure | | Company Rating | | | | Fund | Benchmark | Fund | Benchmark | Fund | Benchmark | | Rated | 50% | 54% | 97% | 97% | 89% | 99% | | Unrated | 50% | 46% | 3% | 3% | 11% | 1% | | Total | 100% | 100% | 100% | 100% | 100% | 100% | Source: GRESB, MSCI, Columbia Threadneedle Investments. Data as at 31.03.2022. Fund exposure calculated as the % weight of the invested equity portfolio Annual Report & Accounts 2023 19 Overview Strategy Report Governance Financial statements Glossary and AIFMD disclosure Notice of ADM Shareholder information Responsible investment continued We continue to collect data on emissions and compare to prior years with the emphasis being more on direction of travel than the absolute measures themselves. This is also an area where we expect to see further change which is also explained. # Portfolio-weighted carbon intensity For the year ended 31 March 2022, we disclosed, as best we were able to, the portfolio-weighted carbon intensity of the total portfolio for the first time. Carbon Risk measures exposure to carbon intensive companies. MSCI's definition and calculation, with data based on MSCI CarbonMetrics, is the portfolio-weighted average of issuer carbon intensity. At the issuer level, carbon intensity is the ratio of annual scope 1 and 2 carbon emissions to annual revenue. Carbon Risk is categorized as Very Low (0 to <15), Low (15 to <70), Moderate (70 to <250), High (250 to <525), and Very High (>=525). The Carbon Risk of the equity portfolio measured at the financial year end, was 43.6 T CO2E/$M Sales (2022: 63.3 T CO2E/$M Sales), falling within the low risk MSCI category. The Company's portfolio-weighted carbon intensity was lower than that of the benchmark of 49.8 T CO2E/$M Sales. Comparing against the results from last year shows a headline c.31% decrease in carbon intensity for both our own equity portfolio and -18% for the index. There are a number of reasons for this. Whilst the ratio is a snapshot taken at each financial year end, reflecting the change in equity holdings over the period, there is also wider coverage of data at the 2023 financial year end (98% for the current year fund holdings versus 89% for the prior year). The latest emissions data for each company is captured by MSCI on publication of their data; each company is not releasing their data at the same point so timing differences will arise. The ratio will also be impacted by the changing value of $ Sales, including the impact of FX rates. However, within these limitations, we can be reasonably confident that the Carbon Risk of the portfolio is improving and currently better than the benchmark. T CO2E/$M Sales ![img-1.jpeg](img-1.jpeg) TR Property Investment Trust FTSE EPRA/NARBIT Developed Europe Capped Index In order to attempt to give a picture of the direction of travel, we have looked at the individual companies the Company holds to assess which have improving or deteriorating carbon intensity metrics over three and five year periods. This analysis depends upon the integrity of the underlying data and breadth of data coverage, so we would caution that this is a work in progress, but it indicates a positive trend as awareness improves and companies are obliged to disclose data. ![img-2.jpeg](img-2.jpeg) | | Improving | | --- | --- | | | Deteriorating | | | Neutral | By number of companies. Improving where end of period value is less than start of period. Deteriorating where end of period value is greater. 3yrs : Data for 47 of 61 stocks. 5yrs : Data for 43 of 61 stocks. Source: MSCI, Columbia Threadneedle Investments. Data as at 31.03.2023 20 TR Property Investment Trust Overview Strategic report Governance Financial statements Glossary and AIFMD disclosure Notice of AGM Shareholder information For the property sector, the focus is currently on the In last year’s report we identified the three key pillars energy efficiency of buildings once they are occupied, to establish the foundation for the delivery of our ESG but we expect in time more attention will be paid to the strategy. These three pillars, namely Asset Energy carbon emitted in getting them built and eventually Performance (Environment), Occupier Engagement dismantled which accounts for a large proportion of a (Social) and Operational Performance (Governance) building’s emissions over itslifespan. continue to navigate the Management Team towards the successful realisation of our ESG strategy. DIRECT PROPERTY PORTFOLIO Sustainability is core to the strategy of the direct property Whilst the significant progress made over the last 12 portfolio which we invest in, hold and manage on behalf months reinforces our commitment to achieve net zero of shareholders and this has been a key focus for the carbon by 2050, our ultimate goal is to ambitiously management team in their asset management approach. improve on this 2050 target. To that end, we have instructed net zero audits across the portfolio to facilitate Central to the year’s approach was energy consumption. us in identifying exactly how we can bring this target As the primary source of carbon emissions within the forward from 2050. This strategic framework will be portfolio, a priority over the last twelve months has driven by science-based targets in a cost-efficient been to gain a clear understanding of the consumption manner, and we will be articulating our improved intensity across the portfolio, establishing a benchmark pathway over the forthcoming year. from which we can map the strategy to manage the environmental impact of these assets through energy Environmental saving interventions. This data collection allows us to Accurate data collection and transparent reporting are fix the base year from which to set out future targets as integral to our goal of reducing carbon emissions across well as a clear path toward a net zero carbon portfolio. our portfolio. We have put in place a number of initiatives Alongside this we have also worked hard to future-proof to this end which are outlined below. the portfolio against the forthcoming Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards. Data Management Reliable and accurate data collection is the cornerstone We also recognise that the built environment plays a to understanding the carbon intensity of our assets. This fundamental role in the life of local communities. As a gives us the ability to set ambitious targets to reduce landlord the Company continues to enhance its social the carbon intensity and Scope 1 and 2 emissions for engagement with the local community stakeholders both ourselves and our occupiers. To this end we have at our assets. We also strive to work with local supply been working in collaboration with our stakeholders chain partners to deliver a best-in-class service for our to implement a programme to install automatic meter occupiers, whilst also supporting the local economies readers (‘AMRs’) across the portfolio to enable the surrounding our assets. This helps us demonstrate the accurate measurement and monitoring of each asset’s social value we bring to communities, occupiers and energy consumption. This consumption data is now shareholders. being collated and analysed by the property industry- recognised SIERA+ platform. This means we can The final strand to our approach is governance. measure energy consumption and access live data This forms the foundation for how we manage our which we can analyse and then use to shape our building properties. The manager operates a Sustainability and operation decisions. The AMRs have also provided the Social Responsibility Committee which focuses on the dataset which will form part of the Company’s inaugural implementation and delivery of all ESG initiatives and GRESB submission currently underway, setting the provides full transparency on our proactive hands-on benchmark for future ESG performance. With ongoing approach. From this we can execute our environmental access to this fully transparent and live dataset we can and social responsibilities. We are only able to achieve take control of our carbon emissions with integrity and our goals through a joined-up approach with our property pinpoint exactly where further improvements can be manager, energy consultant and other key partners with achieved. whom we work. Annual Report & Accounts 2023 21 Responsible investment continued GRESB Two significant achievements of note are the As outlined in the last report a key objective for the Fund improvement of the two EPC G ratings within the was to commence its first GRESB submission. Now that portfolio to B and C ratings and increasing the we have an accurate dataset of carbon consumption, we percentage of assets now qualifying for EPC ratings have been able to begin the first GRESB submission for by over 20%. This has been accomplished through 2022/23. The results of this submission will be available detailed operational analysis of our assets and the in October 2023 and from this we will be able to identify implementation of energy saving enhancements. further sustainability opportunities and enhance our strategy towards net zero. This is a significant milestone It is important to note that the increase in E rating is for the Company and GRESB will enable us to measure due to changes in the assessment criteria and the our ESG performance within a uniform and globally majority of the E and D ratings are at Wandsworth where established platform. the strategy is to either complete a comprehensive refurbishment or a full-scale redevelopment in the mid Green Lease Clauses term. Work on this project will complete prior to the 2030 Another key element to managing the carbon intensity MEES standard which will require a minimum EPC of of the portfolio is through the implementation of Green B. Once this project has been delivered the percentage Leases Clauses across the portfolio. It has enabled us of the portfolio by ERV achieving 2030 compliance will to embed our net zero commitments into the formal increase to 88%. This is before any other enhancements structure within which we lease our assets, setting out are implemented. a mutual agreement between landlord and occupier to strive to improve energy efficiencies and reduce Further to this, the Company has now raised the target carbon emissions generated by the assets. They also of achieving a minimum EPC rating to the minimum of a provide a formal framework for the Company to work B for all planned refurbishments and upgrade works to with occupiers on our data collection workstream in the portfolio. This forms part of the wider ESG-focused instances where we are not in control of the utility supply. refurbishment checklist. This in turn strengthens our ability to enforce carbon intensity targets and gain further control of Scope 1 and EPC (% of ERV) 2 emissions. Renewable Energy Sources E: 8% (2022: 6%) Further control of carbon emissions has been achieved through the successful transition of all energy across landlord areas for the whole portfolio to renewable sources. This is a portfolio-wide initiative and 100% of landlord electricity and gas supplies are now contracted B: 58% D: 28% (2022: 47%) on certified green tariffs, backed by the Ofgem regulated (2022: 32%) Renewable Energy Guarantees of Origin (REGO) scheme. Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) and Minimum Energy Efficient Standards (‘MEES’) From 1 April 2023 all commercial rental properties C: 6% are required to have an EPC of E or better. The direct (2022: 13%) property portfolio currently meets these standards and, overall, the portfolio’s EPC profile is well placed for the short-term requirements and improved ratings have been achieved over the last 12 months. 22 TR Property Investment Trust Overview Strategic report Governance Financial statements Glossary and AIFMD disclosure Notice of AGM Shareholder information Case Study: IO Centre Gloucester – Installation of PVcells The Company has been working closely with the major tenant of our industrial estate in Gloucester to install PV cells on the roof of the building to generate cheap, low carbon (carbon neutral) energy on site. Infusion, who package specialist teas for a number of high-end, 3rd party customers have been a key tenant on the estate since purchase in 2015 and sustainability is key to the company ethos. The installation of PV cells on the roof was a critical development for the company in its path towards net zero carbon. Results to date have been very positive with 80% of the onsite generation being consumed on site and the balance being exported to grid. Infusion project that 75% of their total annual electricity consumption will be generated on site. The key facts of the installation are: • System Size – 244.8kWp • Year 1 Generation Prediction – 231,752kWh’s • CO2 Saving per annum – 49 tonnes • EPC improvement from C rating to B. This hugely successful project demonstrates our occupier-focused, opportunity-led approach whereby we have championed our occupier’s success in achieving their sustainability goals whilst also improving the environmental profile for the portfolio. Following this success we are investigating installing PV onto the remaining units on the estate. “Infusion GB are extremely committed to reducing our environmental footprint and the installation of Solar PV at Gloucester was a critical step towards this. The proactive engagement of TRPIT was instrumental to this and enabled us to install a self-generating power source to our buildings. This initiative has been incredibly well received by customers, suppliers and employees alike.” Bruce Stevens, Commercial Director, Infusion GB. Annual Report & Accounts 2023 23 Responsible investment continued Social The management team has continued actively to engage with occupiers to support and potentially invest in their ESG objectives. Communication and collaboration plays a central role in achieving ESG goals. A quarterly ESG newsletter is now published and circulated with occupiers to encourage engagement. Key content for the newsletter includes inviting occupiers to participate in the AMR installation programme, community engagement initiatives and raising biodiversity awareness across the portfolio which include the installation of bird boxes and bug hotels at Gloucester. At Wandsworth we have successfully managed to integrate a critical local community partner into Ferrier Street through the letting of Unit 16 to the Wandsworth Foodbank. By letting the unit at nil rent we have enabled them to continue to support people and families facing severe hardship across Wandsworth Borough. In the last year over 11,0000 emergency food parcels were provided to local households in severe hardship. With a larger facility at Ferrier St they have been able to increase their emergency food provision by 71% throughout the borough and deliver directly to those households who cannot access their Welcome Centres. “Wandsworth Foodbank are extremely grateful to TR Property Investment Trust for enabling our move to Ferrier St. The warehouse provides us with a space to receive, sort and store large amounts of donated food, and dispatch it to our seven Welcome Centres and directly to people's homes. We are really grateful for this partnership as we support local households through the cost-of-living crisis.” Dan Frith, Wandsworth Foodbank Manager. 24 TR Property Investment Trust Overview Strategic report Governance Financial statements Glossary and AIFMD disclosure Notice of AGM Shareholder information The Colonnades is also central to the community In order to further futureproof the portfolio against MEES landscape of the Bayswater area and it is vital that it is we will continue to track our exposure to inefficient fully integrated into this environment. We have continued assets through regular EPC analysis. By reducing the to work with our local community partners at the portfolio’s reliance on fossil fuels and implementing Colonnades over the last 12 months to help alleviate the further renewable energy sources through solar PV, we challenges of rough sleepers in the Bayswater area. will continue to drive down the higher EPC rated assets. Governance Over the next twelve months we will strengthen our In order to deliver our ESG targets it is essential that our management of Scope 3 emissions. We will continue to internal management structure is fully aligned with our collaborate with our suppliers and occupiers to adopt strategy. The Sustainability and Social Responsibility more sustainable practices, reduce their reliance on Committee meets on a bimonthly basis to ensure that we fossil fuels and deliver best in class asset management are on track with our Sustainability Roadmap objectives to improve our pathway to net zero carbon through through the thorough review of current initiatives and carefully planned and delivered interventions. implementation. The Committee works in partnership with our managing agents (Stiles Harrold Williams) By successfully achieving these objectives over the to ensure we maintain a sustainable supply chain forthcoming year we expect to be able to declare which complements our net zero carbon goals. This is an ambitious improvement on our net zero carbon demonstrated through objectives set to ensure 100% commitment, bringing it forward from 2050. of waste material under landlord control is not sent to landfill. The accreditation of our managing agent to Safe Contractor also demonstrates our commitment to paying all directly employed staff on our assets a real Living Wage. In addition, the management team attend regular ESG training events and seminars, continuing our internal education around ESG and making sure that all avenues are being explored to achieve positive outcomes across the portfolio. Net Zero Carbon Pathway This significant progress over the last twelve months demonstrates our firm commitment to bring forward our net zero carbon 2050 strategy. Through our thorough carbon consumption data management, GRESB submission and MEES improvements we will be able to clearly set out our key objectives for the forthcoming year. We will continue to expand our AMR programme to maximise our comprehensive dataset on Sierra+. This will provide further insight into how we can identify and implement energy saving measures, targeting Scope 1 and 2 emissions. In October 2023 we will have the Company’s inaugural GRESB rating. From this we will be able analyse the results to formulate a robust strategy to strengthen this rating and target an increase of at least one star for the next submission. Annual Report & Accounts 2023 25 ## Portfolio Distribution of Investments as at 31 March 0.5% 2023 2023 2022 2022 £’000 % £’000 % UK Securities¹ 33.2% - quoted 385,876 40.5 518,417 33.2 UK Investment Properties 73,957 7.7 96,255 6.1 51.3% 40.5% UK Total 459,833 48.2 614,672 39.3 60.2% Continental Europe Securities 6.1% - quoted 488,839 51.3 940,744 60.2 7.7% Investments held at fair value 948,672 99.5 1,555,416 99.5 - CFD (creditor)/debtor² 4,662 0.5 7,657 0.5 Total Investment Positions 953,334 100.0 1,563,073 100.0 UK Securities UK Property | Investment Exposure | | | | | Continental Europe | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | as at 31 March | | | | | | Securities | | | 2023 | 2023 | 2022 | 2022 | | | CFD Debtors/Creditors £’000 % £’000 % UK Securities - quoted 385,876 35.7 518,417 25.6 7.0% - CFD exposure³ 75,963 7.0 57,324 2.9 UK Investment Properties 73,957 7.0 96,255 5.5 UK Total 535,796 49.7 671,996 34.0 Continental Europe Securities - quoted 488,839 45.2 940,744 59.5 - CFD exposure³ 54,943 5.1 87,318 6.5 4 Total investment exposure 1,079,578 100.0 1,700,058 100.0 93.0% Portfolio Summary Securities as at 31 March UK Property 2023 2022 2021 2020 2019 Total investments £949m £1,555m £1,401m £1,155m £1,291m Net assets £968m £1,563m £1,326m £1,136m £1,328m UK quoted property shares 41% 33% 28% 31% 33% Overseas quoted property shares 51% 60% 66% 61% 59% Direct property (externally valued) 8% 6% 6% 8% 8% Net Currency Exposure as at 31 March | | 2023 | | | 2023 | | | 2022 | | | 2022 | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Company | | | Benchmark | | | Company | | | Benchmark | | | | | | % | | | % | | | % | | | % | GBP 33.6 35.1 33.9 33.6 EUR 42.3 41.3 41.9 42.3 CHF 9.9 9.5 7.4 7.1 SEK 13.8 13.8 16.3 16.3 NOK 0.4 0.3 0.5 0.4 ¹ UK securities includes one unlisted holding (0.01%). ² Net unrealised (loss)/gain on CFD contracts held as balance sheet (creditor)/debtor. ³ Gross value of CFD positions. 0.5% 4 Total investments illustrating market exposure including the gross value of CFD positions. 7.0% 51.3% 40.5% 26 TR Property Investment Trust 7.7% 93.0% Overview Strategic report Governance Financial statements Glossary and AIFMD disclosure Notice of AGM Shareholder information ## Investment portfolio by country | | | Market | | | | Market | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | | | value | | | | value | | | | £’000 | | % | | £’000 | | % | | Belgium | | | | Sweden | | | | | Xior Student Housing 15,267 1.6 | | | | Wihlborgs 21,999 2.3 | | | | | Aedifica 8,959 0.9 | | | | Fastighets Balder B 19,804 2.1 | | | | | Care Property Invest 7,191 0.7 | | | | Catena 11,166 1.2 | | | | | Icade 5,457 0.6 | | | | Sagax 10,677 1.1 | | | | | I n t e r v e s t O f fi c e s & Wa r e h o u s e s 3,476 0.4 | | | | Samhallsbyggnadsbolaget 8,410 0.9 | | | | | Montea 1,732 0.2 | | | | Fabege 6,382 0.7 | | | | | Warehouses De Pau 1,429 0.1 | | | | Pandox 3,939 0.4 | | | | | Shugard Self Storage 601 0.1 | | | | Platzer Fastigheter 2,706 0.3 | | | | | | 44,112 4.6 | | | Atrium Ljungberg 1,493 0.1 | | | | Cibus Nordic Real Estate 1,274 0.1 France Fastighets Neobo 742 0.1 Gecina 34,321 3.6 88,592 9.3 Klepierre 29,984 3.1 | Argan 22,445 2.4 | Switzerland | | | --- | --- | --- | | Covivio 16,785 1.8 | Psp Swiss Property 40,606 4.2 | | | Carmila 5,741 0.6 | Swiss Prime Site 25,547 2.7 | | | Altarea 1,170 0.1 | | 66,153 6.9 | 110,446 11.6 United Kingdom | Germany | Segro 79,223 8.3 | | --- | --- | | Vonovia 72,456 7.6 | Safestore Holdings 42,509 4.5 | | LEG Immobilien 14,868 1.6 | Picton Property Income 32,628 3.4 | | TAG Immobilien 13,014 1.3 | Industrials REIT 28,318 3.0 | | Aroundtown 4,310 0.5 | LandSec 28,199 3.0 | Sirius Real Estate 23,664 2.5 104,648 11.0 Phoenix Spree Deutschland 23,137 2.4 Great Portland 22,973 2.4 Netherlands Ediston Property 19,440 2.0 Eurocommercial Properties 24,767 2.6 Londonmetric Property 17,115 1.8 NSI 2,902 0.3 Unite Group 15,219 1.6 Unibail Rodamco Westfield 2,110 0.2 CT Property 14,262 1.5 29,779 3.1 Workspace 13,390 1.4 Tritax Big Box REIT 7,033 0.7 Norway Supermarket Income REIT 2,909 0.3 Entra 3,509 0.4 Hammerson 2,827 0.3 3,509 0.4 Warehouse REIT 2,700 0.3 Atrato Cap 2,573 0.3 Spain Urban Logistics REIT 2,494 0.3 Merlin Properties 26,908 2.8 Shaftsbury 1,709 0.2 Arima Real Estate 10,531 1.1 Helical 1,408 0.1 Inmobiliaria Colonial 4,161 0.4 Cap & Regional 1,205 0.1 41,600 4.3 Newriver REIT 941 0.1 385,876 40.5 Direct Property 73,957 7.8 CFD Positions (included in current assets and liabilities) 4,662 0.5 Total Investment Positions 953,334 100.0 Notes > Companies shown by country of listing. > The above positions are the physical holdings included in the investments held at fair value in the Balance Sheet. The CFD positions is the net of the profit or loss on the CFD contracts (i.e. not the investment exposure) included in the Balance Sheet current assets and liabilities. Annual Report & Accounts 2023 27 ## Twelve largest equity investments | 1 | | | 2 | | | 3 | | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | 31 March 2023 2022 | | | 31 March 2023 2022 | | | 31 March 2023 2022 | | | | Shareholding | | | Shareholding | | | Shareholding | | | | value £79.2m £77.3m | | | value £72.5m £149.9m | | | value £59.6m £61.5m | | | | % of investment | | | % of investment | | | % of investment | | | | | † | | | † | | | † | | | portfolio | | 7.3% 4.5% | portfolio | | 6.7% 8.8% | portfolio | | 5.5% 3.6% | | % of equity | | | % of equity | | | % of equity | | | | owned 0.9% 0.5% | | | owned 0.6% 0.5% | | | owned 1.1% 1.0% | | | | Share price 768p 1346.0p | | | Share price €17.34 €42.31 | | | Share price €20.85 €24.18 | | | | Segro (UK) | Vonovia (Germany) | Klepierre (France) | | --- | --- | --- | | Segro is the largest UK REIT by market cap | Vonovia is a German listed residential | Klépierre is a French REIT, which owns, | | and is the largest operator of logistics and | company and the largest real estate | operates, and manages a portfolio of | | industrial property listed in the UK, with a | company in Continental Europe by market | European shopping centres, spanning ten | | total portfolio of c.£18bn (split c.62.0% in | capitalisation. At the end of 2022, the | countries. At the end of 2022, the company | | the UK, c.38.0% in Continental Europe, with | company owned a portfolio of c.€95.8bn, | owned a portfolio of c.€19.8bn, with major | | c.56.0% urban warehouses, c.26.0% big | primarily split between Germany (c.88.9% | exposures in France (c.38.3% of value), | | boxes and c.18.0% land and other uses). | of value), Sweden (c.7.4%) and Austria | Italy (c.23.8%), Iberia (c.13.0%), Germany/ | | In the UK, the group is mainly exposed to | (c.3.7%). The portfolio has increased | Netherlands (c.9.7%), and the Nordics | | Greater London industrial and logistics. | dramatically and stands at 548,000 units, | (c.8.7%). The company, like all shopping | | Rental growth in these markets has been | following a string of acquisitions, mostly | centre owners, has reaped the benefits of | | extremely strong as there remains an | of listed peers, such as Deutsche Wohnen, | a return to normality as social gatherings | | acute supply-demand imbalance, fuelled | Hembla, Victoria Park, and BUWOG. | are permitted and travel restrictions have | | by tenants’ requirements to deal with the | | been lifted demonstrated in its strong | | growth in e-commerce. | Vonovia is involved in the whole value chain | rebound in footfall and tenant sales. While | | | of the residential sector, via its rental business | the ongoing shift towards e-commerce | | In Europe, Germany and France are the | (c.80.1% of group EBITDA), third-party | as a retail channel has continued, it has | | group’s largest markets with Italy third; | development segment (c.6.7%), recurring | at a slower rate, even retreating in certain | | these markets have a lower, but still | sales segment (c.4.9%), its value-add | markets, with digitally native retailers | | positive, rental growth outlook (and are | segment (energy, multimedia, and other | pivoting to physical by opening stores. On | | geographically less space-constrained). In | services segment, c.4.6%) and its nursing | a relative basis, the company continues to | | 2H22 UK valuations saw a sharp correction, | segment (c.3.0%). The German residential | benefit from its 100% focus on Continental | | while EU valuations have lagged the | sector remains heavily regulated, yet Vonovia | Europe, without any exposure to weaker | | aggressive repricing of the UK. Segro has | has continually been able to generate solid | UK and US markets. Lastly, the company | | extensive development exposure that it | rent growth (+3.3% in 2022), whilst also | benefits from the experience of the | | manages largely to pre-let and develop at | complying with regulations and assuming a | Chairman, David Simon, also Chairman | | yields significantly in excess of investment | social role, which permits them to benefit from | and CEO of Simon Property Group, which | | values (c.6-7% yield on cost vs. an EPRA | critical political goodwill and partnerships (as | owns a c.22.3% stake in Klépierre. | | net initial yield of 3.7% at FY22). This has | observed by the 20,000-unit portfolio sale to | In 2022, EPS growth was +18.7% YoY, | | been a successful formula to drive both | the State of Berlin in 2021). Even though asset | benefiting from accelerating indexation | | earnings and NAV growth, as well as high | values have come under pressure, as seen | and occupancy improvements, with | | shareholder returns. | with all real estate asset classes, operationally | EPRA NTA broadly flat YoY. Meanwhile, | | | the business continues to perform strongly as | it’s financial metrics remain conservative | | The five-year total shareholder return has | seen by FFO I growth of 14.6% p/s, driven by | with a net debt to EBITDA of 7.9x and an | | been +45.7%. | operational improvements and healthy rent | EPRA LTV of c.43.7%. Its average cost of | | | growth. Moreover, market evidence points | debt is low at just c.1.2%, and is expected | | | to further upward revisions to rent growth | to remain low, as evidenced by its high | | | estimates as the supply demand imbalance in | hedging ratio of c.90.0%, and weighted | | | Germany persists. | average loan maturity of 6.5 years. | | | The five-year total shareholder return has | The five-year total shareholder return has | | | been -45.7%. | been -4.5%. | † Notes: > The percentage of investment portfolio positions set out above include exposures through CFD for both the individual positions and the portfolio. > The five-year total shareholder returns are the returns in the local currency of the holding. 28 TR Property Investment Trust Overview Strategic report Governance Financial statements Glossary and AIFMD disclosure Notice of AGM Shareholder information | 4 | | | 5 | | | 6 | | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | 31 March 2023 2022 | | | 31 March 2023 2022 | | | 31 March 2023 2022 | | | | Shareholding | | | Shareholding | | | Shareholding | | | | value £59.3m £45.2m | | | value £52.4m £44.0m | | | value £42.5m £60.4m | | | | % of investment | | | % of investment | | | % of investment | | | | | † | | | † | | | † | | | portfolio | | 5.5% 2.7% | portfolio | | 4.8% 2.6% | portfolio | | 3.9% 3.6% | | % of equity | | | % of equity | | | % of equity | | | | owned 1.3% 0.8% | | | owned 0.8% 0.6% | | | owned 2.1% 2.1% | | | | Share price 621p 786p | | | Share price €95.55 €114.3 | | | Share price 950p 1340p | | | | Land Securities (UK) | Gecina (France) | Safestore (UK) | | --- | --- | --- | | Landsec is one of the UK’s largest REITs, | Gecina is the largest French REIT | Safestore is the UK’s largest self-storage | | with a portfolio valued at c.£11bn. The | and is one of the largest real estate | operator, owning c.160 stores, primarily | | company’s assets are a mix of offices | companies in Continental Europe by | in the UK (and weighted towards London | | (c.51.0%), retail assets (c.36.0% split | market capitalisation. At the end of 2022, | and the South East with c.44% of total | | between shopping centres and outlets) | its portfolio was valued at c.€20.1bn, | group stores). In addition the company | | and other uses (c.13.0% such as leisure | comprising of offices (c.80.0% of value), | has a large footprint in the Paris market | | assets, retail parks and hotels); c.61.0% | residential (c.18.0%), and student | and has recently been expanding into | | of the assets are in central London. | accommodation (c.2.0%). | new European cities (through both JV | | Since joining the business in 2020 new | | structures and outright ownership) taking | | CEO Mark Allen has sought to alter the | Gecina develops, manages, and owns | footholds in Holland, Spain and Belgium. | | company’s strategy, pledging to sell out | a diversified portfolio, which is heavily | Safestore has a best in class operating | | of its non-core assets (e.g. hotels, leisure | skewed toward the Paris region (c.97.0%), | platform which, along with peer Big Yellow, | | assets and retail parks), while increasing | and has been selling non-core assets | allows it to dominate the UK storage | | the size of the development pipeline to | outside of Paris in recent years. In 2022, | market, particularly in terms of online | | focus on large mixed-use schemes that | Gecina was a primary beneficiary of the | search. | | others do not have the capabilities to | much-debated return to the office trend, | | | deliver. In addition to the established office | helped by its centrally located and high- | The company has driven consistent | | development pipeline the company now | quality portfolio. As a result, Gecina saw | earnings growth both organically (through | | plans to spend an additional £1.5bn over | solid rent increases driven by index-linked | like-for-like occupancy, rate growth and | | five years on mixed use developments, | rents, positive reversion and a material | opening new developments) and through | | with a 20% profit on cost target. Balance | increase in occupancy levels YoY which | acquisitions. The self-storage market also | | sheet management has been relatively | all helped to drive 7.4% EPS growth YoY. | performed extremely strongly during the | | conservative with a very long debt | Asset values during FY22 were broadly | COVID-19 pandemic and has repeatedly | | maturity of 10.9 years as at September | flat (-0.6% including value creation from | shown its resilient credentials during wider | | 2022, net debt to EBITDA of 8.7x and LTV | pipeline), as widening yields were offset | economic turbulence. | | at September 2022 of 31% (and lower | with improving rental markets and | | | since that date following disposals of | stronger indexation, and highlights the | The five-year total shareholder return has | | large office assets including 1New Street | high quality of the portfolio. | been +119.6%. | Square). The company intends to recycle | capital to fund the development pipeline, | The company is one of a handful of | | --- | --- | | avoiding gearing up despite capex spend, | European real estate companies with an | | and has a medium-term target of LTV | A rating from Moody’s and S&P, given its | | remaining in the mid-30s. | conservative financial profile, operating | with an EPRA LTV of c.36.8%. The average The five-year total shareholder return has cost of debt is low at c.1.2%, alongside a been -17.0%. high hedging ratio of c.90.0%, and a long weighted average loan maturity at 7.5 years. The five-year total shareholder return has been -15.4%. † Notes: > The percentage of investment portfolio positions set out above include exposures through CFD for both the individual positions and the portfolio. > The five-year total shareholder returns are the returns in the local currency of the holding. Annual Report & Accounts 2023 29 Twelve largest equity investments continued | 7 | | | 8 | | | 9 | | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | 31 March 2023 2022 | | | 31 March 2023 2022 | | | 31 March 2023 2022 | | | | Shareholding | | | Shareholding | | | Shareholding | | | | value £40.6m £44.6m | | | value £37.3m £35.9m | | | value £34.5m £53.3m | | | | % of investment | | | % of investment | | | % of investment | | | | | † | | | † | | | † | | | portfolio | | 3.7% 2.6% | portfolio | | 3.4% 2.1% | portfolio | | 3.2% 3.1% | | % of equity | | | % of equity | | | % of equity | | | | owned 1.0% 1.0% | | | owned 9.9% 6.7% | | | owned 9.8% 9.2% | | | Share price 69p 98p Share price CHF104.0 CHF121.5 Share price 118p 198p | PSP Swiss Property (Switzerland) | Picton (UK) | Industrials REIT (UK) | | --- | --- | --- | | PSP Swiss Property is one of Switzerland’s | Picton is a diversified UK REIT with a | Industrials REIT is a UK focused | | leading real estate companies, owning | weighting towards UK industrial. The | multi-let industrial business. The portfolio | | a diversified portfolio of high quality | £850m portfolio, as at September 2022, | has been transformed over a number of | | real estate assets in Switzerland. At the | was c.58.0% industrial, c.32.0% offices | years to focus solely on the UK MLI sector, | | end of 2022, its portfolio was valued at | (of which c.22.0% London and the South | and the £660m portfolio is now c.95% MLI | | CHF9.4bn, comprising of offices (c.64.0%), | East) and c.10.0% retail (of which c.7.0% | (as at September 2022). Over a number | | retail (c.16.0%), food (c.6.0%), and | retail park). Along with a high quality asset | of years the UK MLI asset class has seen | | other (c.14.0%). The portfolio is skewed | portfolio, where rental growth and capital | strong capital value growth, driven by | | towards Switzerland’s key economic | value performance have repeatedly beaten | both yield compression and ongoing ERV | | centers, including Zurich (c.57.0%, Geneva | relevant benchmarks, the company is | growth (in the 12 months to December | | (c.14.0%), Basel (c.8.0%), and other major | run conservatively, taking very limited | 2022 Industrials REIT has seen LfL ERV | | cities at c 21.0%. | development risk as well as maintaining | growth of +10.5%), with rents coming from | | | a very strong balance sheet. For example, | a low base (average passing rent in the | | Underlying property markets in | the company’s LTV as at December | portfolio was £5.94 at December 2022). In | | Switzerland appear to be holding up well. | 2022 was c.26.0%, with long-dated debt | addition to its strong underlying property | | Transactional evidence is light, but from | maturity (c.10 years) and very limited | fundamentals the company’s Hive | | the few transactions taking place it seems | near term refinancing requirements. In | operating platform gives the company | | that property values for prime assets are | addition, we believe the portfolio boasts | access to data on enquiry levels and | | broadly stable. Similarly, demand for office | a number of valuable asset management | demand, as well as allowing for innovative | | space in economic centers such as Zurich | opportunities, including both vacancy | operational approaches such as the | | and Geneva is expected to remain strong. | reduction in heavily under-rented space, | use of digital short-form smart leases, | | As a result, PSP made further progress | and the potential for residential conversion | speeding the letting process and reducing | | during the year on its vacancy reduction, | in certain assets which could provide | any negative drag from portfolio vacancy. | | lowering vacancy from 3.8% to 3.0% at | lucrative upside versus current valuations. | Total shareholder return since IPO in June | | Dec 23, and saw like-for-like rents grow by | | 2018 has been +29.0%, and the company | | +2.2%; all this led to EPRA EPS growth of | The five-year total shareholder return has | was recently bid for by Blackstone at a | | +4.1%. Moreover, EPRA NTA still grew 3% | been -0.4%. | premium of +42.0% to the closing price | | over the year on modest revaluation gains | | before the offer was made. | and retained earnings. LTV remained low at 32.6%; amongst the lowest levels for The total shareholder return since listing European property companies while its (15/06/18) has been +29.0%. current cost of debt is fixed for 4.1 years. The five-year total shareholder return has been +31.4%. † Notes: > The percentage of investment portfolio positions set out above include exposures through CFD for both the individual positions and the portfolio. > The five-year total shareholder returns are the returns in the local currency of the holding. 30 TR Property Investment Trust Overview Strategic report Governance Financial statements Glossary and AIFMD disclosure Notice of AGM Shareholder information ## 10 11 12 | 31 March 2023 2022 | | | 31 March 2023 2022 | | | 31 March 2023 2022 | | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Shareholding | | | Shareholding | | | Shareholding | | | | value £26.9m £47.8m | | | value £26.8m £51.9m | | | value £25.6m £27.4m | | | | % of investment | | | % of investment | | | % of investment | | | | | † | | | † | | | † | | | portfolio | | 2.5% 2.8% | portfolio | | 2.5% 3.1% | portfolio | | 2.4% 1.6% | | % of equity | | | % of equity | | | % of equity | | | | owned 0.8% 1.1% | | | owned 15.7% 14.7% | | | owned 0.5% 0.5% | | | Share price CHF76.05 CHF91.25 Share price €8.06 €10.59 Share price 186p 382p | Merlin Properties (Spain) | Phoenix Spree (UK) | Swiss Prime Site (Switzerland) | | --- | --- | --- | | Merlin Properties is a Spanish diversified | Phoenix Spree Deutschland is a UK listed | Swiss Prime Site is one of the largest | | REIT with a c.€11.3bn portfolio. The | investment company that owns residential | real estate companies in Switzerland, | | majority of the company’s assets are | units, exclusively in Berlin, Germany. The | with a diversified portfolio of real estate | | offices (c.56.4%), where the company | company is predominantly invested in | assets, coupled with a leading real estate | focusses its exposure on major cities, so-called ‘altbau’ properties (typically built investment (indirect) business. It owns primarily Madrid and Barcelona. between 1900-1940) which offer features a diversified real estate portfolio, which Additionally, the company owns shopping that remain highly desired by prospective was valued at CHF13.1bn, comprising of centres (c.18.9%), data centres/logistics tenants and buyers. At the end of 2022, offices (c.44.0% of value), retail (c.26.0%), (c.12.4%), with the residual c.12.4% of the company’s portfolio was valued at logistics (9.0%), hotels (c.7.0%), with the assets in land and other uses. c.€776m. The company aims to maximize residual c.14.0% of assets in land and shareholder returns by converting other uses. As a result of inflation and continued rental units into condominiums and sell tenant demand in the Spanish market, the these in the open market at significantly Despite a slowdown in transactions, business continued to perform well, with highervalues. underlying property markets in average like-for-like rent growth of 7.3% and Switzerland appear to be holding up well, year end occupancy of 95.1% (a 60bps YoY During 2023, the company continued as the few transactions that did take improvement). Even though property values to benefit from a structural supply and place appeared broadly supportive of are not insulated from wider market trends | (asset values declined -1.5% YoY) yields | demand imbalance in Germany and Berlin | existing asset values. Moreover, tenant | | --- | --- | --- | | have already significantly widened by 44bps | specifically, which led to healthy rent | demand remains healthy. During 2022 | | and are therefore likely to provide more | growth of +3.9%, with new lettings signed | and the early start of 2023 SPS has made | | protection going forward. During 2022, | 6.6% ahead of the prior year. Furthermore, | significant efforts to simplify its corporate | | Merlin completed the sale of its net lease | increased mortgage costs will likely mean | structure (the sale of Wincasa, a real | | portfolio, comprised of 659 bank branches | that many prospective buyers will rent | estate services company) and exit the | | let to BBVA, for c.€2.0bn at a 17% premium | for longer as mortgages have become | retail business (Jelmoli). Meanwhile, the | | to its book value (the BBVA portfolio | more expensive. This will likely lead to | underlying business continues to perform | | represented c.15% of the total portfolio). | further upward pressure to market rents. | well, with like-for-like rent growth of +1.9% | As a result of this transaction, the company Nonetheless, property values reduced by and further vacancy reduction (-30bps managed to significantly reduce its EPRA -3.1% over the year as a result of increased to 4.3%) whilst EPRA NTA increased LTV by 800bps to c.35.8% by financial year interest rates, which led to a decline in the modestly with +1.7% on the back of stable end. This gives the company significant EPRA NTA of -9.7%, even as average sales property values. The reported LTV reduced flexibility going forward as it evaluates prices were still materially (+22.4%) ahead by 130bps over the year to 38.9% and cost its development pipeline in combination of trailing book values. Whilst transaction of debt was kept low at 0.9%. outlook for property values. Moreover, its volumes have significantly declined as cost of debt remains low, at an average of a result of interest rate increases, it is The five-year total shareholder return has c.2.0%, with a hedge ratio of c.99.6%, and expected that investment volumes should been +5.9%. a weighted average loan maturity remains pick up again once interest rates have long at 4.9 years. stabilized. The five-year total shareholder return has The five-year total shareholder return has been-15.4%. been -40.5%. † Notes: > The percentage of investment portfolio positions set out above include exposures through CFD for both the individual positions and the portfolio > The five-year total shareholder returns are the returns in the local currency of the holding.. Annual Report & Accounts 2023 31 ## Investment properties Spread of direct portfolio by capital value (%) as at 31 March 2023 Retail Industrial Total West End of London 50.0 – 50.0 Inner London* 1.7 37.6 39.3 South West – 10.7 10.7 Total 51.7 48.3 100.0 *Inner London defined as inside the North and South Circular. Lease lengths within the direct property portfolio Contracted rent as at 31 March 2023 as at 31 March 2023 4% Year 1 ## £2.9m | 0 to 5 years | | | | 40% | | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | 5 to 10 years | | Gross rental | | | Year 2-5 | | | | 43% | | income | | | £9.9m | 10 to 15 years 15 to 20 years 20+ years Year 5+ 13% ## £14.15m Value in excess of £10 million Value less than £10 million The Colonnades, Bishops Bridge Road, Ferrier Street Industrial Estate, 10 Centre, Gloucester Business Park, London, W2 Wandsworth, London, SW18 Gloucester, GL3 | Sector: Mixed use | Sector: Industrial | Sector: Industrial | | --- | --- | --- | | Tenure: Freehold | Tenure: Freehold | Tenure: Freehold | | Size (sq ft): 64,000 | Size (sq ft): 36,000 | Size (sq ft): 63,000 | | Principal tenants: Waitrose Ltd, | Principal tenants: Sweaty Betty, Richard | Principal tenants: Infusion GB, Pulsin Ltd | | Graham & Green, Happy Lamb Hot Pot, | Dawes Fine Wines, Lockdown Bakers | | 1Rebel, Specsavers | The property comprises a large | Site of just over an acre, 50 metres from | The IO Centre comprises six industrial | | --- | --- | --- | | mixed-use block in Bayswater, constructed | Wandsworth Town railway station in an | units occupied by three tenants and | | in the mid-1970s. The site extends to | area that is predominantly residential. | sits on a 4.5-acre site. Gloucester | | approximately 2 acres on the north east | The estate comprises 16 small industrial | Business Park is located to the east of | | corner of the junction of Bishops Bridge | units generally let to a mix of small to | Junction 11A of the M5 and one mile to | | Road and Porchester Road, close to | medium-sized private companies. | the east of Gloucester City Centre. The | | Bayswater tube station and ongoing | Planning permission granted in | property also has easy access to the | | development of The Whiteley. The | December 2019 for a mixed-use | A417 providing good links to the M4 via | | commercial element was extended and | employment led redevelopment. | junction 15. | refurbished in 2015 with a new 20 year lease being agreed with Waitrose. 32 TR Property Investment Trust Overview Strategic report Governance Financial statements Glossary and AIFMD disclosure Notice of AGM Shareholder information Investment objective and benchmark Business Model The Company’s investment objective is to maximise The Company’s business model follows that of an shareholders’ total returns by investing in the shares externally managed investment trust company. and securities of property companies and property The Company has no employees. Its wholly non- related businesses internationally and also in executive Board of Directors retains responsibility investment property located in the UK. for corporate strategy; corporate governance; risk management and internal control; the overall The benchmark is the FTSE EPRA/NAREIT Developed investment and dividend policies; setting limits Europe Capped Net Total Return Index in sterling. The on gearing and asset allocation and monitoring index, calculated by FTSE, is free-float based and as investment performance. at 31 March 2023 had 109 constituent companies. The index limits exposure to any one company to 10% The Board has appointed Columbia Threadneedle and reweights the other constituents pro-rata. The Investment Business Limited as the Company’s benchmark website www.epra.com contains further Alternative Investment Fund Manager (‘AIFM’) with details about the index and performance. portfolio management delegated to Thames River Capital LLP. Marcus Phayre-Mudge acts as Fund Manager to the Company on behalf of Thames River Capital LLP and Alban Lhonneur is Deputy Fund Manager. George Gay is the Direct Property Manager and Joanne Elliott the Finance Manager. They are supported by a team of equity and portfolio analysts. Further information in relation to the Board and the arrangements under the Investment Management Agreement can be found in the Report of the Directors on pages 49 to 51. In accordance with the Alternative Investment Fund Managers Directive (‘AIFMD’), BNP Paribas has been appointed as Depositary to the Company. BNP Paribas also provides custodial and administrative services to the Company. Company Secretarial services are provided by Columbia Threadneedle Investment Business Limited. A summary of the terms of the Investment Management Agreement are set out on pages58and59. Annual Report & Accounts 2023 33 ## Strategy and investment policies | The investment selection process seeks to identify | Gearing | | --- | --- | | well managed companies of all sizes. The Manager | The Company may employ levels of gearing from | | generally regards future growth and capital | time to time with the aim of enhancing returns, | | appreciation potential more highly than immediate | subject to an overall maximum of 25% of the portfolio | | yield or discount to asset value. | value. | | Although the investment objective allows for | In certain market conditions the Manager may | | investment on an international basis, the Company’s | consider it prudent not to employ gearing at all, and | | benchmark is a pan-European Index and the | to hold part of the portfolio in cash. | majority of the investments will be located in that geographical area. Direct property investments are The current asset allocation guideline is 10% net located in the UK only. cash to 25% net gearing (as a percentage of portfolio value). As a dedicated investor in the property sector the Company cannot offer diversification outside Property valuation that sector, however, within the portfolio there Investment properties are valued every six months by are limitations, as set out below, on the size of an external independent valuer. Valuations of all the individual investments held to ensure that there is Group’s properties as at 31 March 2023 have been diversification within the portfolio. carried out on a ‘RICS Red Book’ basis and these valuations have been adopted in the accounts. Asset allocation guidelines The maximum holding in the stock of any one issuer Allocation of costs between or of a single asset is limited to 15% of the portfolio revenue & capital at the point of acquisition. In addition, any holdings in The Group charges 75% of annual base management excess of 5% of the portfolio must not in aggregate fees and finance costs to capital, in line with the exceed 40% of the portfolio. Board’s expected long-term split of returns in the form of capital gains and income. All performance The Manager currently applies the following fees are charged to capital. guidelines for asset allocation: Holdings in investment companies It is the Board’s current intention to hold no more UK listed equities 25 – 60% than 15% of the portfolio in listed closed-ended Continental European listed equities 45 – 75% investment companies. Direct Property – UK 0 – 20% Some companies investing in commercial or Other listed equities 0 – 5% residential property are structured as listed externally Listed bonds 0 – 5% managed closed-ended investment companies Unquoted investments 0 – 5% and therefore form part of our investment universe. Although this is not a model usually favoured by our The asset allocation guideline upper limit for UK Fund Manager, some investments are made in these listed equities has increased from 50% to 60%. The structures in order to access a particular sector of the requirement for the weighting to UK commercial market or where the management team is regarded property has not changed, however the number of as especially strong. If those companies grow and companies holding real estate located in Europe become a larger part of our investment universe and/ butwith a UK listing has increased, therefore the or new companies come to the market in this format asset allocation guideline has been changed to the Fund Manager may wish to increase exposure accommodate this. to those vehicles. If the Manager wishes to increase investment to over 15%, the Company will make an announcement accordingly. 34 TR Property Investment Trust # Key Performance Indicators The Board assesses the performance of the Manager in meeting the Company's objective against the following Key Performance Indicators ('KPIs'): ## Net Asset Value Total Return relative to the benchmark ### KPI The Directors regard the out-performance of the Company's net asset value total return relative to the benchmark as being an overall measure of value delivered to the shareholders' over the longer term. ### Board monitoring The Board reviews the performance in detail at each meeting and discusses the results and outlook with the Manager. ### Outcome | | 1 year | 5 years | | --- | --- | --- | | NAV Total Return* (Annualised) | -35.5% | -1.8% | | Benchmark Total Return (Annualised) | -34.0% | -4.9% | * The NAV Total Return is calculated by assuming dividends paid by the Company are reinvested in the assets of the Company on the relevant ex-dividend date. The benchmark total return assumes dividends are re-invested on the relevant ex-dividend dates. Although this KPI has not been met in the current year, it has over 5 years. The NAV Total Return has exceeded the benchmark for the previous 12 years. ## Delivering a reliable dividend which is growing over the longer term ### KPI The principal objective of the Company is a total return objective, however, the Fund Manager also aims to deliver a reliable dividend with growth over the longer term. ### Board monitoring The Board reviews statements on income received to date and income forecasts at each meeting. ### Outcome | | 1 year | 5 years | | --- | --- | --- | | Compound Annual Dividend Growth* | 6.9% | 4.9% | | Compound Annual RPI | 13.5% | 5.7% | * The final dividend in the time series divided by the initial dividend in the period raised to the power of 1 divided by the number of years in the series. The exceptional inflation figure for the year to 31 March 2023 means the Dividend Annual Growth Rate has fallen behind RPI on both a one and a five year basis. However a growing dividend has been delivered in the current and previous 12 years, despite a fall in earnings through the COVID pandemic. Over the longer term, the dividend growth rate has comfortably exceeded RPI on an annualised basis (10 years: 8.3% vs 4.0% and 20 years: 10.6% vs 3.6%). ## The discount or premium to Net Asset Value at which the Company's shares trade ### KPI Whilst expectation of investment performance is a key driver of the share price discount or premium to the Net Asset Value of an investment trust company over the longer term, there are periods when the discount can widen. The Board is aware of the vulnerability of a sector-specialist to a change of investor sentiment towards that sector, or to periods of wider market uncertainty and the impact that can have on the discount. ### Board monitoring The Board takes powers at each AGM to buy-back and issue shares. When considering the merits of share buy-back or issuance the Board looks at a number of factors, in addition to the short and longer-term discount or premium to NAV, to assess whether action would be beneficial to shareholders overall. Particular attention is paid to the current market sentiment, the potential impact of any share buy-back activity on the liquidity of the shares and on Ongoing Charges over the longer term. ### Outcome | | 1 year | 5 years | | --- | --- | --- | | Average discount* | -5.8% | -4.7% | | Total number of shares repurchased | - | - | * Average daily discount throughout the period of share price to NAV with income. Source: Bloomberg. The discount has seen wide fluctuations through the year as market sentiment towards the sector has changed. The average discount over 1 year is wider than we have seen for a while however, over 5 years is at a similar level to the prior year level of -4.6% and to the ten year average of -4.9%. Annual Report & Accounts 2023 35 Overview Strategy report Governance Financial statements Glossary and AIFMD disclosure Notice of AGM Shareholder information Key Performance Indicators continued Level of Ongoing Charges 1 year 5 years KPI Outcome The Board is conscious of expenses and aims to Ongoing charges excluding deliver a balance between excellent service and costs. performance fees 0.73% 0.64% Ongoing charges excluding The AIC definition of Ongoing Charges includes any performance fees and direct direct property costs in addition to the management property costs 0.67% 0.62% fees and all other expenses incurred in running a publicly listed company. As no other investment trust The Company’s Ongoing Charges are competitive when companies hold part of their portfolio in direct property compared to the peer group. (they either hold 100% of their portfolio as property securities or as direct property), in addition to Ongoing Costs over the year have not increased significantly; the Charges as defined by the AIC, this statistic is shown increase in the ongoing charges percentage is as a result without direct property costs in order to allow a clearer of the fall in NAV over the year. comparison of overall administration costs with those of other funds investing in securities. Board monitoring The Board monitors the Company’s Ongoing Charges, in comparison to a range of other investment trust companies of similar size, both property sector specialists and other sector specialists. The broker provides a list of companies it believes is a reasonable comparison. Note there is no other Investment Trust specialising in property related equities. Expenses are budgeted for each financial year and the Board reviews reports on actual and forecast expenses during the year. Investment Trust Status KPI Outcome The Company must continue to meet the requirements The Directors believe that the conditions and ongoing of Section 1158 of the Corporation Tax Act 2010. requirements have been met in respect of the year to 31March 2023 and that the Company will continue to Board monitoring meet the requirements. The Board reviews financial information and forecasts at each meeting which set out the requirements outlined in Section 1158. The KPIs are considered to be Alternative Performance Measures as defined later in the Annual Report. 36 TR Property Investment Trust Overview Strategic report Governance Financial statements Glossary and AIFMD disclosure Notice of AGM Shareholder information ## Principal and emerging risks ### In delivering long-term returns to shareholders, the Board must also identify and monitor the ### risks that have been taken in order to achieve those returns. It has included below details of ### the principal and emerging risks facing the Company and the appropriate measures taken in ### order to mitigate those risks as far as practicable. ### The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has impacted energy and commodity supplies creating ### inflationary pressures and prompting central banks to raise interest rates in response. ### Interest rates have risen more quickly and to higher levels than was initially anticipated. This ### has brought challenges not seen for many years and particularly impacted the property ### sector. ### The legacy of COVID-19 has seen ongoing changes and challenges in the workplace in terms ### of resourcing and changes in working practices. Risk identified Board monitoring and mitigation Share price performs poorly in comparison to the underlying NAV The shares of the Company are listed on the London Stock The Board monitors the level of discount or premium at Exchange and the share price is determined by supply and which the shares are trading over the short and longer term. demand. The shares may trade at a discount or premium The Board encourages engagement with the shareholders. to the Company’s underlying NAV and this discount or The Board receives reports at each meeting on the activity premium may fluctuate over time. of the Company’s brokers, PR agent and meetings and events attended by the Fund Manager. The Company’s shares are available through the Columbia Threadneedle savings schemes and the Company participates in the active marketing of those schemes. The shares are also widely available on open architecture platforms and can be held directly through the Company’s registrar. The Board takes the powers to issue and to buy back shares at each AGM. Poor investment performance of the portfolio relative to the benchmark The Company’s portfolio is actively managed. In addition The Manager’s objective is to outperform the benchmark. to investment securities, the Company also invests in The Board regularly reviews the Company’s long-term commercial property and accordingly, the portfolio may not strategy and investment guidelines and the Manager’s follow or outperform the return of the benchmark. relative positions against those. The Management Engagement Committee reviews the Manager’s performance annually. The Board has the powers to change the Manager if deemed appropriate. Annual Report & Accounts 2023 37 Principal and emerging risks continued Risk identified Board monitoring and mitigation Market risk Both share prices and exchange rates may move rapidly and The Board receives and considers a regular report from the can adversely impact the value of the Company’s portfolio. Manager detailing asset allocation, investment decisions, Although the portfolio is diversified across a number of currency exposures, gearing levels and rationale in relation geographical regions, the investment mandate is focused to the prevailing market conditions. on a single sector and therefore the portfolio will be sensitive The report considers the impact of a range of current towards the property sector, as well as global equity markets issues and sets out the Manager’s response in positioning more generally. the portfolio and the ongoing implications for the property Property companies are subject to many factors which can market, valuations overall and by each sector. adversely affect their investment performance. They include the general economic and financial environment in which their tenants operate, interest rates, availability of investment and development finance and regulations issued by governments and authorities. Rising interest rates have an impact on both capital values and distributions of property companies. Higher interest rates depress capital values as investors demand a margin over an increased risk-free rate of return. Although the UK has now exited the European Union, the structure of its relationship with Continental Europe continues to evolve and there could be an impact on occupation across each sector. The COVID-19 global pandemic has changed the way we live and work and uncertainty remains regarding the impact on economies and property markets around the world both in the short and longer term. The invasion of Ukraine by Russia in February 2022 created further market volatility and uncertainty which remains. Inflation and interest rates are at elevated levels not seen in over 10 years. Any strengthening or weakening of sterling will have a direct impact as a proportion of our balance sheet is held in non-GBP denominated currencies. The currency exposure is maintained in line with the benchmark and will change over time. As at 31 March 2023, 66.4% of the Company’s exposure was to currencies other than sterling. 38 TR Property Investment Trust Overview Strategic report Governance Financial statements Glossary and AIFMD disclosure Notice of AGM Shareholder information Risk identified Board monitoring and mitigation The Company is unable to maintain dividend growth Lower earnings in the underlying portfolio putting pressure The Board receives and considers regular income on the Company’s ability to grow the dividend could result forecasts. from a number of factors: Income forecast sensitivity to changes in FX rates is also • Although most companies negatively impacted by monitored. COVID-19 returned to paying dividends during the year, The Company has substantial revenue reserves which are with many at pre-covid levels, rising interest rates have drawn upon when required. posed a new threat. The effect on dividends has (in general) not been felt through the financial year that we The Board continues to monitor the impact of interest are reporting on but the increased debt costs will have an rates, Brexit and COVID-19 and the long-term implications impact on earnings and hence distributions in future; for income generation. • prolonged vacancies in the direct property portfolio and lease or rental renegotiations as a result of longer-term changes following COVID-19; • strengthening of sterling reducing the value of overseas dividend receipts in sterling terms. The Company saw a material increase in the level of earnings in the years leading up to the COVID-19 pandemic. A significant factor in this was the weakening of sterling following the UK’s decision to leave the EU (‘Brexit’). Although this has now passed, the value of sterling may continue to fluctuate in the near or medium term as the longer-term implications of Brexit and COVID-19 and the impact on the UK and European economies become clearer. The invasion of Ukraine by Russia has also increased market uncertainty. The longer-term implications will differ across the European economies. This could lead to currency volatility. Strengthening of sterling would lead to a fall in earnings; • adverse changes in the tax treatment of dividends or other income received by the Company; • changes in the timing of dividend receipts from investee companies; • legacy impact of COVID-19 on working practices and resulting changes in workspace demand; and • negative outlook leading to a reduction in gearing levels in order to protect capital has an adverse effect on earnings. Accounting and operational risks Disruption or failure of systems and processes Third-party service providers produce periodic reports underpinning the services provided by third parties and the to the Board on their control environments and business risk that those suppliers provide a sub- standard service. continuation provisions on a regular basis. The Management Engagement Committee considers the performance of each of the service providers on a regular basis and considers their ongoing appointment and terms and conditions. The Custodian and Depositary are responsible for the safeguarding of assets. In the event of a loss of assets the Depositary must return assets of an identical type or corresponding value unless it is able to demonstrate that the loss was the result of an event beyond its reasonable control. Annual Report & Accounts 2023 39 Principal and emerging risks continued Risk identified Board monitoring and mitigation Loss of Investment Trust Status The Company has been accepted by HM Revenue & The Investment Manager monitors the investment portfolio, Customs as an investment trust company, subject to income and proposed dividend levels to ensure that the continuing to meet the relevant eligibility conditions. provisions of CTA 2010 are not breached. The results are Assuch the Company is exempt from capital gains tax on reported to the Board at each meeting. the profits realised from the sale of investments. Income forecasts are reviewed by the Company’s tax Any breach of the relevant eligibility conditions could lead advisor through the year who also reports to the Board on to the Company losing investment trust status and being the year-end tax position and on CTA 2010 compliance. subject to corporation tax on capital gains realised within the Company’s portfolio. Legal, regulatory and reporting risks Failure to comply with the London Stock Exchange The Board receives regular regulatory updates from Listing Rules and Disclosure Guidance and Transparency the Manager, Company Secretary, legal advisers and Rules; failure to meet the requirements of the Alternative the Auditor. The Board considers those reports and Investment Fund Managers Regulations, the provisions recommendations and takes action accordingly. of the Companies Act 2006 and other UK, European and The Board receives an annual report and update from the overseas legislation affecting UK companies. Depositary. Failure to meet the required accounting standards or Internal checklists and review procedures are in place at make appropriate disclosures in the Half Year and Annual service providers. Reports. Inappropriate use of gearing Gearing, either through the use of bank debt or derivatives, The Board receives regular reports from the Manager on may be utilised from time to time. Whilst the use of the levels of gearing in the portfolio. These are considered gearing is intended to enhance the NAV total return, it will against the gearing limits set out in the Board’s Investment have the opposite effect when the return of the Company’s Guidelines and also in the context of current market investment portfolio is negative or where the cost of debt conditions and sentiment. The cost of debt is monitored is higher than the return from the portfolio. and a balance sought between term, cost and flexibility. Other Financial risks The Company’s investment activities expose it to a variety Details of these risks together with the policies for of financial risks which include counterparty credit risk, managing them are found in the Notes to the Financial liquidity risk and the valuation of financial instruments. Statements. Personnel changes at Investment Manager The Chairman conducts regular meetings with the Fund Loss of portfolio manager or other key staff. Management team. The fee basis protects the core infrastructure and depth and quality of resources. The fee structure incentivises outperformance and is fundamental in the ability to retain key staff. 40 TR Property Investment Trust Overview Strategic report Governance Financial statements Glossary and AIFMD disclosure Notice of AGM Shareholder information ## Long-term viability In accordance with provision 31 of the UK Corporate • The Company is able to take advantage of its Governance Code, which requires the Company closed-end investment trust company structure to assess the prospects of the Company over to hold a proportion of its portfolio in less liquid, the longer term, the Directors have assessed the direct property and the less liquid securities of prospects of the Company over the coming three smaller companies with a view to long-term years. This period is used by the Board during the outperformance. strategic planning process as it considers this period of time to be appropriate for a business of the • At the Balance Sheet date the Company had Company’s nature and size. £120million undrawn on its revolving loan facilities. This assessment takes account of the Company’s current position and the policies and processes for • The structure has also enabled the Company to managing the principal and emerging risks set out on secure long-term financing. EUR 50 million loan pages 37 to 40 and the Company’s ability to continue notes issued in 2016 are due to mature at par in in operation and to meet its liabilities as they fall due 2026 and GBP 15 million loan notes issued on the over the period of assessment. same date are due to mature at par in 2031. In making this statement the Board carried out a • The result of this is that of our own debt, 32% has robust assessment of the principal and emerging fixed interest rates (assuming all loans are fully risks facing the Company, including those that might drawn). The flexible structure allows debt levels to threaten its business model, future performance, be rapidly increased and reduced as needed. solvency and liquidity. • The impact of COVID-19 on the UK and European In reaching their conclusions the Directors have commercial property markets continued to reviewed three year forecasts for the Company with diminish through the year. This resulted in dividend sensitivity analysis to a number of assumptions: receipts from investee companies in the current investee company dividend growth, interest rates, year significantly stronger than the prior year as foreign exchange rates, tax rates and asset value the majority of companies have now returned to growth. paying dividends, although some at lower levels than before the pandemic. In assessing of the viability of the Company the Directors have noted that: • The invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 has created further market volatility and uncertainty. • The Company has a long-term investment However the portfolio remains highly liquid. strategy under which it invests mainly in readily realisable, publicly listed securities and which • The core part of the direct property portfolio is restricts the level of borrowings. defensively positioned, with 40% of the income secured to a major supermarket for over 10 years • Of the current equity portfolio, 50% could be and benefits from fixed uplifts. The balance of the liquidated within five trading days and 71% within portfolio is focused on the industrial sector where 10 trading days. the supply and demand dynamics remain positive from an occupational standpoint. • On a Group basis, current assets exceed current liabilities at the Balance Sheet Date. • The expenses of the Company are largely predictable and modest in comparison with • The Company invests in real estate related the assets. Regular and robust monitoring of companies which hold real estate assets and revenue and expenditure forecasts are undertaken invests in commercial real estate directly. These throughout the year. Analysis has shown that the investments provide cash receipts in the form of Company could suffer a reduction in earnings of dividends, property income distributions and rental 86% and still be able to meet its liabilities from income. revenue cashflow as they fell due. Expenses could be met entirely from capital if required due to the liquid nature of the portfolio. Annual Report & Accounts 2023 41 Long-term viability continued • Index linked income will benefit from the increase in interest rates. • Global interest rate increases have adversely affected the property sector and the resulting increase in the cost of debt will ultimately have an impact on earnings. • Some companies' fixed debt for the medium term so, for these companies, the impact of current rates will not be felt for a while. • The Company has no employees and consequently does not have redundancy or other employment related liabilities or responsibilities. • The Company retains title to its assets held by the Custodian which are subject to further safeguards imposed on the Depositary. • The impact of a range of factors have been considered in terms of the potential effect on sterling. 66% of the portfolio is exposed to currencies other than sterling. The following assumptions have been made in assessing the longer-term viability: • Real Estate will continue to be an investible sector of international stock markets and investors will continue to wish to have exposure to that sector. • Closed-end investment trust companies will continue to be in demand by investors and regulation or tax legislation will not change to an extent to make the structure unattractive in comparison to other investment products. • The performance of the Company will continue to be satisfactory. Should the Board deem that performance is less than satisfactory, it has the appropriate powers to replace the Investment Manager. The Company’s business model, capital structure and strategy have enabled it to operate over many decades and the Board expects this to continue into the future. The Directors confirm therefore that they have a reasonable expectation that the Company will continue in operation and meet its liabilities in full over the coming three years to 31March 2026. By order of the Board David Watson Chairman 1 June 2023 42 TR Property Investment Trust Overview Strategic report Governance Financial statements Glossary and AIFMD disclosure Notice of AGM Shareholder information ## Governance Annual Report & Accounts 2023 43 ## Directors | David Watson | Kate Bolsover | Tim Gillbanks | | --- | --- | --- | | Chairman | Senior Independent Director | Chairman of the Audit Committee | | Appointed: | Appointed: | Appointed: | | April 2012 | October 2019 | January 2018 | | Experience: | Experience: | Experience: | | --- | --- | --- | | David became Chairman in July 2020, | Kate previously worked for Cazenove | Tim is a Chartered Accountant, with | | prior to which he served as the Board’s | Group and J.P. Morgan Cazenove | 30years’ experience in the financial | | Senior Independent Director ('SID') | between 1995 and 2005 where she was | services and investment industry. Most | | and Chairman of the Audit Committee. | Managing Director of the mutual fund | recently he spent 13 years at Columbia | | David spent 9 years as Finance Director | business and latterly director of Corporate | Threadneedle Investments, initially | | of M&G Group plc, where he was a | Communications. Prior to that, she worked | as Chief Financial Officer, then Chief | | director of four equity investment | extensively in the investment fund industry | Operating Officer and finally as interim | | trusts, and more recently at Aviva | and was Managing Director of Baring’s | Chief Executive Officer. | | plc as Chief Finance Officer of Aviva | mutual funds group. Kate was previously | | | General Insurance. He was Chairman of | a non-executive director of JPMorgan | | | Aegon Asset Management UK plc until | American Investment Trust plc, Senior | | | September 2022. David is a Chartered | Independent Director of Montanaro UK | | | Accountant and has had a distinguished | Smaller Companies Trust and Chairman | | | career in the financial services industry. | and Trustee of Tomorrow’s People. | | Skills and contribution to the Board: Skills and contribution to the Board: Skills and contribution to the Board: Throughout his executive career, David From her executive experience, Kate Tim brings a wide experience, particularly has accumulated relevant skills in contributes significant and relevant skills in financial services and investment finance, audit and risk management and of the investment industry. Her role on management. His previous financial experience in the investment industry. various boards also gives her the relevant experience during his executive career His experience as SID and Chair on a experience in shareholder and investor informs him in his role as the Chairman of number of boards have built significant engagement. the Audit Committee. experience in shareholder and investor . engagement. Other appointments: Other appointments: Other appointments: David is currently a Director of the Kate is currently Chairman of Fidelity Tim is currently a Non-Executive Director Prudential Assurance Company, where Asian Values PLC and Senior Independent of Brown Shipley & Co Limited, Janus he Chairs the Audit Committee. Director of Invesco Bond Income Plus Henderson (UK) Investors Limited and Limited. She is also a non-executive Janus Henderson Group Holdings Limited. Director of Baillie Gifford & Co Ltd and of He is also Vice-Chair of the Board of Bellevue Healthcare Trust. Trustees of Blood Cancer UK. 44 TR Property Investment Trust Overview Strategic report Governance Financial statements Glossary and AIFMD disclosure Notice of AGM Shareholder information | Sarah-Jane Curtis | Andrew Vaughan | Busola Sodeinde | | --- | --- | --- | | Non-Executive Director | Non-Executive Director | Non-Executive Director | | Appointed: | Appointed: | Appointed: | | January 2020 | August 2022 | January 2023 | | Experience: | Experience: | Experience: | | --- | --- | --- | | Sarah-Jane is a Member of the Royal | Andrew joined Redevco UK in 2000 as | Busola is a Chartered Management | | Institution of Chartered Surveyors. She | Managing Director and was appointed CEO | Accountant who has spent most of her | | was previously Business Director at | in 2011. He began his career at Friends | executive career in Financial Services. Until | | Bicester Village for Value Retail. Prior | Provident where he was a fund manager. | 2019 she was a Managing Director/Chief | | to that, Sarah-Jane was a director of | Andrew spent three years at Moorfield Group | Financial Officer at State Street Global | | Covent Garden for Capital and Counties | as an Investment Specialist before joining | Markets EMEA, prior to which she was | | PLC. She has also worked for Grosvenor | Redevco. He has a BSc in Urban Estate | Finance Director to the Corporate Finance | | for 24 years, including as London Estate | Surveying. | team of Deutsche Bank Capital Markets. | | Director (retail/residential) and Fund | | Busola is the founder of a digital publishing | | Manager for LiverpoolONE. | | firm focused on literacy and is also a | supporter of women-led ventures. Skills and contribution to the Board: Skills and contribution to the Board: Skills and contribution to the Board: Sarah-Jane has gained extensive Andrew brings deep experience as a pan- Busola has considerable experience in experience during her varied European direct property investor. the financial services sector and from her career, particularly in the retail and non-executive career has gained expertise experience sectors and in fund and in audit and risk. She also has experience investment management activities. in digital (social) media and consumer engagement. Other appointments: Other appointments: Other appointments: Sarah-Jane is currently Property Andrew is Chief Executive Office of Busola is a non-executive director of Director of Bicester Motion as well as a Redevco B.V. Hargreave Hale AIM VCT PLC, The consultant to Value Retail PLC. Ombudsman Services, a trustee of the Church Commissioners for England, where she sits on the Audit & Risk Committee, and a Trustee of The Scouts Association. Annual Report & Accounts 2023 45 # Managers ![img-3.jpeg](img-3.jpeg) **Marcus Phayre-Mudge** Fund Manager Marcus Phayre-Mudge joined the management team for the Company at Henderson Global Investors in January 1997, initially managing the Company's direct property portfolio and latterly focusing on real estate equities, managing a number of UK and pan-European real estate equity funds in addition to activities in the Trust. Marcus moved to Thames River Capital in October 2004 where he is also fund manager of Thames River Property Growth & Income Fund Limited. Prior to joining Henderson, Marcus was an investment surveyor at Knight Frank (1990) and was made an Associate Partner in the fund management division (1995). He qualified as a Chartered Surveyor in 1992 and has a BSc (Hons) in Land Management from Reading University. ![img-4.jpeg](img-4.jpeg) **Jo Elliott** Finance Manager Jo Elliott has been Finance Manager since 1995, first at Henderson Global Investors then, since January 2005, at Thames River Capital, when she joined as CFO for the property team. She joined Henderson Global Investors in 1995, where she most recently held the position of Director of Property, Finance & Operations, Europe. Previously she was Corporate Finance Manager with London and Edinburgh Trust plc and prior to that was an investment/treasury analyst with Heron Corporation plc. Jo has a BSc (Hons) in Zoology from the University of Nottingham and qualified as a Chartered Accountant with Ernst & Young in 1988. ![img-5.jpeg](img-5.jpeg) **George Gay** Direct Property Fund Manager George Gay has been the Direct Property Fund Manager since 2008. He joined Thames River Capital in 2005 as assistant direct property manager and qualified as a Chartered Surveyor in 2006. George was previously at niche City investment agent, Morgan Pepper where as an investment graduate he gained considerable industry experience. He has an MA in Property Valuation and Law from City University. ![img-6.jpeg](img-6.jpeg) **Alban Lhonneur** Deputy Fund Manager Alban Lhonneur, Deputy Fund Manager, joined Thames River Capital in August 2008. He was previously at Citigroup Global Markets as an Equity Research analyst focusing on Continental European Real Estate. Prior to that he was at Societe Generale Securities, where he focused on transport equity research. He has a BSc in Business and Management from the ESC Toulouse including one year at Brunel University, London. He also attended CERAM Nice High Business School. In 2005 he obtained a post-graduate Specialised Master in Finance in 2005 from ESCP-EAP. 46 TR Property Investment Trust # Report of the Directors The Directors present the audited financial statements of the Group and the Company and their Strategic Report and Report of Directors for the year ended 31 March 2023. The Group comprises TR Property Investment Trust plc and its wholly owned subsidiaries. As permitted by legislation, some matters normally included in the Report of the Directors have been included in the Strategic Report because the Board considers them to be of strategic importance. Therefore, the review of the business of the Company, recent events and outlook can be found on pages 4 to 42. ## Status The Company is an investment company, as defined in Section 833 of the Companies Act 2006 and operates as an investment trust in accordance with Section 1158 of the Corporation Tax Act 2010. The Company has a single share class, Ordinary shares, with a nominal value of 25p each which are premium listed on the London Stock Exchange. The Company has received confirmation from HM Revenue & Customs that it has been accepted as an approved investment trust for accounting periods commencing on or after 1 April 2012 subject to the Company continuing to meet the eligibility conditions of Section 1158 Corporation Tax Act 2010 and the ongoing requirements for approved companies in Chapter 3 of Part 2 Investment Trust (Approved Company) (Tax) Regulations 2011 (Statutory Instrument 2011/2999). The Directors are of the opinion that the Company has conducted and will continue to conduct its affairs so as to maintain investment trust status. The Company has also conducted its affairs, and will continue to conduct its affairs, in such a way as to comply with the Individual Savings Accounts Regulations. The Ordinary shares can be held in Individual Savings Accounts ('ISAs'). ## Results and dividends At 31 March 2023 the net assets of the Company amounted to £968 million (2022: £1,563 million), on a per share basis 305.13p (2022: 492.43p) per share. Revenue earnings per share for the year amounted to 17.22p (2022: 13.69p) and the Directors recommend the payment of a final dividend of 9.85p (2022: 9.20p) per share bringing the total dividend for the year to 15.50p (2022: 14.50p). In arriving at their dividend proposal, the Board also reviewed the income forecast for the year to March 2024. Performance details are set out in the Financial Highlights on page 2 and the outcome of what the Directors consider to be the Key Performance Indicators on pages 35 and 36. The Chairman's Statement and the Manager's Report give full details and analysis of the results for the year. ## Share capital and buy-back activity At 31 March 2023 the Company had 317,350,980 (2022: 317,350,980) Ordinary shares in issue. At the AGM in 2022 the Directors were given power to buy back up to 47,570,911 Ordinary shares. Since that AGM the Directors have not bought back any Ordinary shares under that authority, which will expire at the 2023 AGM. The Board will seek to renew the authority to make market purchases of the Company's Ordinary shares at this year's AGM. Since 1 April 2023 to the date of this report, the Company has made no market purchases for cancellation. The Board has not set a specific discount at which shares will be repurchased. ## Management arrangements and fees Details of the management arrangements and fees are set out in the Report of the Management Engagement Committee beginning on page 58. Total fees paid to the Manager in any one year (Management and Performance Fees) may not exceed 4.99% of Group Equity Shareholders' Funds. Total fees payable for the year to 31 March 2023 amount to 0.6% (2022: 2.0%) of Group Equity Shareholders' Funds. No performance fee was earned in the year ended 31 March 2023 (2022: £24,489,000). ## Basis of accounting and IFRS The Group and Company financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2023 have been prepared on a going concern basis in accordance with UK-adopted international accounting standards and in conformity with the requirement of the Companies Act 2006. The financial statements have also been prepared in accordance with the Statement of Recommended Practice 'Financial Statements of Investment Trust Companies and Venture Capital Trusts' ('SORP') to the extent that it is consistent with UK-adopted international accounting standards. The accounting policies are set out in note 1 to the Financial Statements on pages 80 to 83. Overview Strategic report Overview Financial statements Glossary and AIFMS disclosure Notice of AGM Shareholder information Annual Report & Accounts 2023 47 Report of the Directors continued Financial instruments the Audit Committee does not consider it necessary for The Company’s Financial Instruments comprise its the Company to establish its own internal audit function. investment portfolio, cash balances, borrowings Instead, the Audit Committee relies on internal control and debtors and creditors that arise directly from its reports received from its principal service providers to operations such as sales and purchases awaiting satisfy itself as to the controls in place. settlement, profit or loss balances on derivative instruments and accrued income and expenses. The The Board has established a process for identifying, financial risk management objectives and policies arising evaluating and managing any major risks faced by the from its financial instruments and exposure of the Group. It undertakes an annual review of the Group’s Company to risk are disclosed in note 11 to the financial system of risk management and internal control in line statements. with relevant guidance. Business risks have also been analysed by the Board and recorded in a risk map that Risk management and internal control is reviewed regularly. Each quarter the Board receives a The Board has overall responsibility for the Group’s formal report from each of the AIFM, Portfolio Manager, system of risk management and internal control and the Administrator and the Company Secretary detailing for reviewing its effectiveness. The Portfolio Manager is any identified internal control failures or errors. responsible for the day to day investment management decisions on behalf of the Group. Accounting and The Board also considers the flow of information and Company Secretarial services have both been outsourced. the interaction between the third-party service providers and the controls in place to ensure accuracy and The system of risk management and internal control aims completeness of the recording of assets and income. to ensure that the assets of the Group are safeguarded, The Board receives a report from the Portfolio Manager proper accounting records are maintained, and the setting out the key controls in operation. financial information used within the business and for publication is reliable. Control of the risks identified, The Board also has direct access to Company Secretarial covering financial, operational, compliance and risk advice and services provided by Columbia Threadneedle management, is embedded in the controls of the Group Investment Business Limited which, through its by a series of regular investment performance and nominated representative, is responsible for ensuring attribution statements, financial and risk analyses, AIFM that the Board and Committee procedures are followed and Portfolio Manager reports and quarterly control and that applicable regulations are complied with. reports. These controls have been in place throughout the year Key risks have been identified and controls put in under review and up to the date of signing the accounts. place to mitigate them, including those not directly the responsibility of the AIFM or Portfolio Manager. The key Key risks identified by the Auditor are considered by the risks are explained in more detail in the Strategic Report Audit Committee to ensure robust internal controls and on pages 37 to 40. monitoring procedures are in place in respect of these risks on an ongoing basis. The effectiveness of each third-party provider’s internal controls is assessed on an ongoing basis by the Annual General Meeting (the ‘AGM’) Compliance and Risk departments of the AIFM and The Company’s AGM will be held at the Royal Automobile Portfolio Manager, the Administrator and the Company Club, 89/91 Pall Mall, London SW1Y 5HS on Thursday Secretary. Each maintains its own system of risk 20 July 2023 at 2.30pm. The Notice of AGM is set out on management and internal control and the Board and pages 110 to 114 and explanatory notes follow on pages Audit Committee receive regular reports from them. 115 and 116. The risk management and internal control system is designed to provide reasonable, but not absolute, Material interests assurance against material misstatement or loss and to There were no contracts subsisting during or at the end manage, rather than eliminate, risk of failure to achieve of the year in which a Director of the Company is or was objectives. As the Company has no employees and its materially interested and which is or was significant in operational functions are undertaken by third parties, relation to the Company’s business. No Director has a contract of service with the Company. Further details regarding the Directors' appointment letters can be found on page 57. 48 TR Property Investment Trust ## Listing Rule 9.8.4R The Company confirms that there are no items which require disclosure under Listing Rule 9.8.4R in respect of the year ended 31 March 2023. ### Voting interests #### Rights and Obligations Attaching to Shares Subject to applicable statutes and other shareholders' rights, shares may be issued with such rights and restrictions as the Company may by ordinary resolution decide, or (if there is no such resolution or so far as it does not make specific provision) as the Board may decide. Subject to the Articles of Association (the 'Articles'), the Companies Act 2006 and other shareholders' rights, unissued shares are at the disposal of the Board. #### Voting At a general meeting of the Company, when voting is undertaken by way of a poll, each share affords its owner one vote. #### Restrictions on Voting No member shall be entitled to vote if he has been served with a restriction notice (as defined in the Articles) after failure to provide the Company with information concerning interests in those shares required to be provided under the Companies Act 2006. #### Deadlines for Voting Rights Votes are exercisable at a general meeting of the Company in respect of which the business being voted upon is being heard. Votes may be exercised in person, by proxy, or in relation to corporate members, by corporate representatives. The Articles provide a deadline for submission of proxy forms of not less than 48 hours (or such shorter time as the Board may determine) before the meeting (not excluding non-working days). #### Transfer of Shares Any shares in the Company may be held in uncertificated form and, subject to the Articles, title to uncertificated shares may be transferred by means of a relevant system. Subject to the Articles, any member may transfer all or any of his certificated shares by an instrument of transfer in any usual form or in any other form which the Board may approve. ## Significant Voting Rights As at 31 March 2023, the following shareholders had notified that they held over 3% of the voting rights in the Company on a non-discretionary basis: | Shareholder | % of voting rights* | | --- | --- | | Brewin Dolphin Ltd | 11.0% | | Interactive Investor Share Dealing Services | 8.4% | | Rathbone Investment Management Ltd | 4.9% | | Hargreaves Lansdown Asset Management Ltd | 5.5% | | Quilter Cheviot Investment Management Ltd | 3.7% | | Investec Wealth & Investment Ltd | 3.6% | | Charles Stanley Group plc | 3.2% | | Smith & Williamson Investment Managers | 3.0% | * See above for further information on the voting rights of Ordinary shares. Since 31 March 2023 the Company has been informed that Integrafin Holdings plc hold 4.0% of the voting rights in the Company. #### Articles of Association The Company's Articles of Association may only be amended by a special resolution at a General Meeting of the shareholders. They were amended at the 2021 AGM and are available to view on the Company's website. #### Corporate Governance Full details are given in the Corporate Governance Report on pages 49 to 55. The Corporate Governance Report forms part of this Directors' Report. Overview Strategic report Comments Financial statements Glossary and AIFMD disclosure Notice of AGM Shareholder information Annual Report & Accounts 2023 49 ## Corporate Governance report The Board of Directors is accountable to shareholders for Composition and Independence of the Board the governance of the Company’s affairs. This statement The Board currently consists of six Directors, all of describes how the principles of the 2018 UK Corporate whom are non-executive. The Board’s independence, Governance Code (the 'Code') issued by the Financial including that of the Chairman, has been considered Reporting Council (the ‘FRC’) in 2018 have been applied and all of the Directors are deemed to be independent in character and have no relationships to the affairs of the Company. The Code can be viewed at or circumstances which are likely to affect their www.frc.org.uk. judgement. Application of the AIC Code’s Principles The Board subscribes to the view expressed in the In applying the principles of the Code, the Directors AIC Code that long-serving Directors should not be have also taken account of the 2019 Code of Corporate prevented from forming part of an independent majority. Governance published by the AIC (the ‘AIC Code’), of which It does not consider that the length of a Director’s tenure, the Company is a member. The AIC Code establishes the in isolation, reduces their ability to act independently. framework of best practice specifically for the Boards of The Board’s policy on tenure is that continuity and investment trust companies. Furthermore, the AIC Code experience add significantly to the strength of the Board, has full endorsement of the FRC, which means that AIC although it believes in the merits of an ongoing and members who report against the AIC Code meet their progressive refreshment of its composition. obligations under the Code and the related disclosure requirements contained in the Listing Rules. The AIC Code Diversity can be viewed at www.theaic.co.uk. The Board recognises the benefit of diversity and as at the date of this report it comprises three men The Directors believe that during the year under review the and three women. Diversity is taken into account as Company has complied with the main principles and relevant part of the recruitment, appointment and succession provisions of the Code, insofar as they apply to the Company’s planning process. The Board is committed to business, and with the provisions of the AIC Code. appointing the most appropriate candidate, regardless of gender or other forms of diversity and therefore no Compliance Statement targets have been set against which to report. The Directors note that the Company did not comply with the following provisions of the Code in the year ended 31 In accordance with Listing Rule 9.8.6R (9), (10) March 2023: and (11) the Board has provided the following information in relation to its diversity: Provision 9. Due to the nature and structure of the Company the Board of non-executive directors does not (1) Board Gender as at 31 March 2023 feel it is appropriate to appoint a chief executive. Number of senior | Provision 19. The Chairman has served on the Board for | Number | Percentage | | positions | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | more than nine years. In accordance with the AIC Code, | of Board | | of the | | on the | | the Board nonetheless considers that he is independent. | members | | Board | | Board | He will stand down at the forthcoming AGM. (2) Men 3 50% 2 (3) (4) Women 3 50% 1 Provision 24. The Board believes that all Directors, including (1) the Chairman, should sit on all of the Board’s Committees. The Company does not disclose the number of Directors in executive management as this is not applicable for an investment trust company. Provision 26. As the Company has no employees and its (2) operational functions are undertaken by third parties, the The three senior positions are: Chairman of the Board, Senior Independent Director and Chairman of the Audit Committee. Audit Committee does not consider it appropriate for the Note: the position of the Chairman of the Audit Committee Company to establish its own internal audit function. The is not currently defined as a senior position under the Listing Company’s service providers provide assurance of their Rules, however the Board believes that, for an investment trust effective system of risk management and internal and company, it should be regarded as such as it is broadly equivalent control. to the Chief Financial Officer of a trading company. (3) This meets the Listing Rules target of 40%. Provision 32. The Board does not have a separate (4) This meets the Listing Rules target of 1. Remuneration Committee. The functions of a Remuneration Committee are carried out by the Management Engagement Committee. 50 TR Property Investment Trust Overview Strategic report Governance Financial statements Glossary and AIFMD disclosure Notice of AGM Shareholder information (1) | Board Ethnic Background as at 31 March 2023 | | | | | There are no contracts or arrangements with third | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | | | | | Number | parties which affect, alter or terminate upon a | | | | | | of senior | change of control of the Company. | | | Number | Percentage | | positions | | | | of Board | | of the | on the | | Directors members Board Board Simon Marrison retired from the Board at the White British conclusion of the 2022 AGM. Andrew Vaughan or other White was appointed a Director on 1 August 2022 and (including minority- (2) BusolaSodeinde joined the Board on 24 January white groups) 5 83% 3 2023. The Directors’ biographies are set out Mixed/Multiple on pages 44 and 45. All Directors will stand for Ethnic Groups 1 17% – re-election by shareholders at the forthcoming (1) The Company does not disclose the number of Directors AGMin accordance with the Code, with the exception in executive management as this is not applicable for an investment trust company. of David Watson, who will retire from the Board at (2) the conclusion of the meeting. Kate Bolsover will The three senior positions are: Chairman of the Board, Senior Independent Director and Chairman of the Audit Committee. succeed him as Chairman and Tim Gillbanks will Note: the position of the Chairman of the Audit Committee become Senior Independent Director. is not currently defined as a senior position under the Listing Rules, however the Board believes that, for an investment trust Board committees company, it should be regarded as such as it is broadly equivalent to the Chief Financial Officer of a trading company. The Board has established an Audit Committee, a Nomination Committee and a Management The information included in the above tables has Engagement Committee, which also carries out been obtained through questionnaires completed by the functions of a Remuneration Committee. All the individual Directors. the Directors of the Company are non-executive and serve on each Committee of the Board. It has Powers of the Directors been the Company’s policy to include all Directors Subject to the Company’s Articles of Association, on all Committees. This encourages unity, clear the Companies Act 2006 and any directions given communication and avoids duplication of discussion by special resolution, the business of the Company between the Board and the Committees. is managed by the Board who may exercise all the powers of the Company, whether relating to the The roles and responsibilities of each Committee management of the business of the Company or not. are set out in the individual Committee reports In particular, the Board may exercise all the powers of which follow. Each Committee has written terms the Company to borrow money and to mortgage or of reference which clearly define its responsibilities charge any of its undertakings, property, assets and and duties. These can be found on the Company’s uncalled capital and to issue debentures and other website, are available on request and will also be securities and to give security for any debt, liability or available for inspection at the AGM. obligation of the Company to any third party. Board meetings The number of meetings of the Board and Committees held during the year under review, and the attendance of individual Directors, are shown below: Board Audit MEC Nomination Attended Eligible Attended Eligible Attended Eligible Attended Eligible David Watson 6 6 2 2 1 1 1 1 Tim Gillbanks 6 6 2 2 1 1 1 1 1 Simon Marrison 2 2 1 1 0 0 0 0 Kate Bolsover 6 6 2 2 1 1 1 1 Sarah-Jane Curtis 6 6 2 2 1 1 1 1 2 Andrew Vaughan 4 4 1 1 1 1 1 1 3 Busola Sodeinde 2 2 0 0 1 1 1 1 1 Retired from the Board on 26 July 2022. 2 Appointed to the Board on 1 August 2022. 3 Appointed to the Board on 24 January 2023. In addition to formal Board and Committee meetings, the Directors also attend a number of ad hoc meetings which are convened as and when necessary. Annual Report & Accounts 2023 51 Corporate Governance report continued The Board This information is also available on the Company’s The Board is responsible for the effective stewardship website, www.trproperty.com, together with a of the Company’s affairs. Certain strategic issues monthly factsheet and Manager commentary. are monitored by the Board at meetings against a framework which has been agreed with the Manager. The Annual Report and Accounts and Notice of the Additional meetings may be arranged as required. The AGM are issued to shareholders so as to provide at least Board has a formal schedule of matters specifically twenty working days’ notice of the AGM, in accordance reserved for its decision, which are categorised under with corporate governance best practice. Shareholders various headings, including strategy, management, wishing to lodge questions in advance of the AGM, or to structure, capital, financial reporting, internal controls, contact the Board at any other time, are invited to do so gearing, asset allocation, share price discount, contracts, by writing to the Company Secretary at the registered investment policy, finance, risk, investment restrictions, address given on page118. performance, corporate governance and Board membership and appointments. General presentations are given to both shareholders and analysts following the publication of the annual In order to enable them to discharge their responsibilities, results. All meetings between the Manager and all Directors have full and timely access to relevant shareholders are reported to the Board. information. At each meeting, the Board reviews the Company’s investment performance and considers Section 172 Companies Act 2006 financial analyses and other reports of an operational Section 172 of the Companies Act 2006 requires nature. The Board monitors compliance with the directors to act in good faith and in a way that is the Company’s objectives and is responsible for setting asset most likely to promote the success of the Company. allocation and investment and gearing limits within which In accordance with the requirements of the the Portfolio Manager has discretion to act and thus Companies (Miscellaneous Reporting) Regulations supervises the management of the investment portfolio, 2018, below, the Company explains how the which is contractually delegated to the Portfolio Manager. Directors have discharged their duty under section 172 during the year. Fulfilling this duty naturally The Board has responsibility for the approval of supports the Company in achieving its Investment investments in unquoted investments and any Objective and helps to ensure that all decisions are investments in funds managed or advised by the made in a responsible and sustainable way. Portfolio Manager. It has also adopted a procedure for Directors, in the furtherance of their duties, to take On appointment, Directors’ are provided with a independent professional advice at the expense of the detailed induction outlining their duties, legally Company. and regulatory, as a Director of a UK public limited company and continue to receive regular relevant Conflicts of interest technical updates and training. The Directors also In line with the Companies Act 2006, the Board has the have access to the advice and services of the power to authorise any potential conflicts of interest Company Secretary and, when deemed necessary, that may arise and impose such limits or conditions they have the opportunity to seek independent as it thinks fit. A register of potential conflicts is professional advice in the furtherance of their duties maintained and is reviewed at every Board meeting as a Director, at the Company’s expense. to ensure all details are kept up-to-date. Appropriate authorisation will be sought prior to the appointment of Decision making any new Director or if any new conflicts arise. The importance of stakeholder considerations, in particular in the context of decision-making, is Relations with shareholders regularly brought to the Board’s attention by the Shareholder relations are given high priority by the Company Secretary and taken into account at every Board, the AIFM and the Portfolio Manager. The prime Board meeting. The Board considers the impact medium by which the Company communicates with that any material decision will have on all relevant shareholders is through the Half Year and Annual stakeholders to ensure that it is making a decision Reports which aim to provide shareholders with a clear that promotes the long-term success of the Company, understanding of the Company’s activities and their whether this be, for example, in relation to dividends, results. This information is supplemented by the daily new investment opportunities or the Company’s calculation of the Net Asset Value of the Company’s future strategy. In addition, the Board, together with Ordinary shares which is published on the London the Manager, holds a meeting focused on strategy Stock Exchange. on an annual basis to look ahead in the market and anticipate potential scenarios and how this may impact the Company’s stakeholders. 52 TR Property Investment Trust Overview Strategic report Governance Financial statements Glossary and AIFMD disclosure Notice of AGM Shareholder information Stakeholders The Board recognises the needs and importance of Company), nor does it have a direct impact on the the Company’s stakeholders and ensures that they are community or environment in the conventional sense. considered during all its discussions and as part of its The Board recognises its key stakeholders and explains decision-making. Since the Company is an investment below why these stakeholders are considered important trust company that is externally managed, the Company to the Company and the actions taken to ensure that does not have any employees (the Directors have a their interests are taken into account. Letter of Appointment and are not employees of the Stakeholder Group and why Board engagement they are important Shareholders Shareholder support is The Company has over 3,000 shareholders, including institutional and retail investors. essential to the existence TheBoard is committed to maintaining open channels of communication and to engage with of the Company and shareholders in a manner they find most meaningful in order to gain an understanding of delivery of the long-term their views. These include the channels below: strategy of the business. • Ann ual General Meeting – the Company welcomes and encourages attendance and participation from shareholders at its AGM. The Manager gives a presentation at the AGMon the Company’s performance and the future outlook. Shareholders have the opportunity to meet the Directors and Manager and to address questions to them directly. The Company values any feedback and questions it receives from shareholders ahead of and during the AGM and takes action or makes changes if and when appropriate. • Publ ications – the annual and half year reports are made available on the website and sent to shareholders. These publications provide information on the Company and its portfolio of investments and a better understanding of the Company’s financial position. This is supplemented by daily publication of the NAV on the London Stock Exchange and monthly factsheets on the Company’s website. The Company is open to feedback from shareholders to improve its publications. • Shareh older meetings – the Manager meets with shareholders periodically and often and feedback is shared with the Board. • Wo rking with the Brokers – the Manager and Brokers work together to maintain dialogue with shareholders and prospective investors at scheduled meetings. The Board is provided with regular updates at meetings and outside meetings if required. • Shareh older concerns – In the event that shareholders wish to raise issues or concerns with the Board, they are welcome to do so at any time by writing to the Chairman at the registered office. The Senior Independent Director is also available to shareholders if they have concerns that contact through the normal channel of the Chairman has failed to resolve or for which such contact is inappropriate. The Manager Holding the Company’s Maintaining a close and constructive working relationship with the Manager is crucial, as the shares offers investors a Board and the Manager both aim to continue to achieve consistent, long-term returns in line liquid investment vehicle with the Company’s investment objective. Important components in the collaboration with through which they can the Manager, representative of the Company’s culture include those listed below. obtain exposure to the • Encouraging open, honest and collaborative discussions at all levels, allowing time and Company’s diversified space for original and innovative thinking. portfolio. The Investment Manager’s performance is • Ensuring that the impact on the Manager is fully considered and understood before any critical for the Company business decision is made. to successfully deliver its • Ensuring that any potential conflicts of interest are avoided or managed effectively. investment strategy and meet its objective. The Board holds detailed discussions with the Manager on all key strategic and operational topics on an ongoing basis. In addition, the Chairman regularly meets with the Manager to ensure a close dialogue is maintained. Annual Report & Accounts 2023 53 Corporate Governance report continued Stakeholder Group and why Board engagement they are important External Service Providers, particularly the Company Secretary, the Administrator, the Registrar and the Depository and the Broker A range of advisers The Board maintains regular contact with its key external providers and receives regular enables the Company reporting from them through Board and committee meetings, as well as outside of the to function and ensure regular meeting cycle. Their advice, as well as their needs and views, are routinely taken into that it meets its relevant account. The Management Engagement Committee formally assesses their performance, obligations as an fees and continuing appointment at least annually to ensure that the key service providers investment trust company continue to function at an acceptable level and are appropriately remunerated to deliver and a constituent of the the expected level of service. The Audit Committee reviews and evaluates the control FTSE 250. environments in place at each service provider as appropriate. Lenders Availability of funding and The Board needs to demonstrate to lenders that it is a well-managed business, capable of liquidity are crucial to the delivering long-term returns consistently. Company’s ability to take advantage of investment opportunities as they arise. Regulators The Company can only The Board regularly considers how it and the Company meet the various regulatory and operate with the approval statutory obligations and follows voluntary and best-practice guidance, including how any of its regulators who have governance decisions it makes can have an impact on its stakeholders, both in the shorter a legitimate interest in how and in the longer term. the Company operates in the market and treats its shareholders. Investee Companies Portfolio companies are The Manager communicates regularly with portfolio companies and is an engaged ultimately shareholders’ shareholder (on behalf of the Company). The Board monitors the Manager’s stewardship assets and the Board arrangements and receives regular feedback on meetings with the management of portfolio recognises the importance companies and voting at their general meetings. of good stewardship and communication with investee companies in meeting the Company’s investment objective and strategy. The Board is always mindful of the requirement to act in Dividends the best interests of shareholders as a whole and to have Subject to shareholder approval of the proposed final regard to the other requirements of section 172 which form dividend, the Company will pay a total dividend of 15.50p for part of Board’s decision-making process. The following key the financial year, representing an increase of 6.9% on the decisions taken by the Board during the year ended 31 March previous year. Income rose sharply as companies resumed 2023 are examples of this: paying dividends and, as a result, this year’s dividend is covered by earnings. Initial forecasts for the financial year Gearing to 31 March 2024 indicate that revenue may fall again as a During the financial year, the Company continued to number of companies have suspended dividends. The Board utilise its existing revolving annual loan facilities and recognises the importance of dividends to shareholders and, following a review of the available options each were subject to careful review of the Company’s revenue forecasts renewed on broadly similar terms as the renewals fell and reserves together with the investment outlook, it remains due throughout the year. The Board is keen to maintain prepared to use revenue reserves to support the dividends a wide range of banking relationships to ensure that it paid to shareholders over periods of income shortfall or has access to a diverse range of terms and is not reliant volatility for identified reasons. on any one provider. The facilities provide flexibility and complement the longer-term private placement fixed term debt that is in place. 54 TR Property Investment Trust Overview Strategic report Governance Financial statements Glossary and AIFMD disclosure Notice of AGM Shareholder information Portfolio management Directors’ indemnity During the year the Board continued to focus on the Directors’ and Officers’ liability insurance cover is in performance of the Manager in achieving the Company’s place in respect of the Directors. The Company’s Articles investment objective within an appropriate risk of Association allow it, to the extent permitted by the framework. The Board continued to consider the impact Companies Acts, to indemnify the Directors against any on the Company (including portfolio activity, risks and liability. opportunities, gearing, revenue forecasts and the operations of other third party providers) of a number of events through The Company has entered into deeds of indemnity for the financial year to ensure that the portfolio had sufficient the benefit of each Director of the Company in respect of resilience together with the Company’s operational structure liabilities which may attach to them in their capacity as to meet the unprecedented circumstances. Directors of the Company. These provisions, which are qualifying third party indemnity provisions as defined by Culture and business conduct section 234 of the Companies Act 2006, were introduced in The Board believes that having a good corporate January 2007 and currently remain in force. culture, particularly in its engagement with the Manager, shareholders and other key stakeholders, aids delivery of Directors’ statement as to disclosure of its long-term strategy. In line with this purpose, the Board information to the Auditor promotes a culture of openness, debate and integrity through The Directors who were members of the Board at the time ongoing engagement with the Manager and with its other of approving the Directors’ Report are listed on pages 44 service providers. The Directors agree that establishing and and 45. Having made enquiries of fellow Directors and of the maintaining a healthy corporate culture within the Board and Company’s Auditor, each of the Directors confirms that: in its interaction with the Manager, shareholders and other stakeholders will support the delivery of its purpose, values • so far as they are aware, there is no information of which and strategy. The Board strives to ensure that its culture is in the Company’s Auditor is unaware; and line with the Company’s purpose, values and strategy. • each Director has taken all the steps that they ought to The Company has a number of policies and procedures have taken as a Director to make themselves aware of in place to assist with maintaining a culture of good any relevant audit information and to establish that the governance including those relating to diversity, Directors’ Company’s Auditor is aware of that information. conflicts of interest and Directors’ dealings in the Company’s shares. The Board assesses and monitors compliance with This information is given and should be interpreted in these policies as well as the general culture of the Board accordance with the provisions of Section 418 of the regularly through Board meetings and in particular during Companies Act 2006. the annual evaluation process (for more information see the Board evaluation section on page 56). By order of the Board, The Board seeks to appoint the best possible service Columbia Threadneedle Investment providers and evaluates their service on a regular basis as Business Limited, described on page 58. The Board considers the culture of the Company Secretary Manager and other service providers, including their policies, 1 June 2023 practices and behaviour, through regular reporting from those stakeholders and in particular during the annual review of the performance and continuing appointment of all service providers. Employee, social impact and wider community The Board recognises the requirement under the Companies Act 2006 to detail information about human rights, employees and community issues, including information about any policies it has in relation to those matters and the effectiveness of those policies. These requirements, practically, are not applicable to the Company as it has no employees, all the Directors are non-executive and it has outsourced all operational functions to third-party service providers. Therefore, the Company has not reported further in respect of these provisions. Annual Report & Accounts 2023 55 ## Report of the Nomination Committee Nomination Committee In light of the external performance evaluation, the Board Chairman: David Watson confirms that the performance of each Director continues to be effective and demonstrates their commitment to Key responsibilities their role. Therefore all Directors, with the exception of • Review the Board and its Committees and make David Watson, will offer themselves for re-election at the recommendations to the Board in relation to structure, forthcoming AGM. Further information on each Director’s size and composition, the balance of knowledge, skills, experience and their contribution to the Board are experience and skill ranges; outlined in the biographies on pages 44 and 45. • Consider succession planning and tenure policy and In accordance with the provisions of the Code, it is the oversee the development of a diverse pipeline; intention of the Board to engage an external facilitator to assist with the performance evaluation every three years • Consider the re-election of Directors; and and the next external evaluation will be carried out during the year ending 31 March 2026. The Board will continue • Review the outcome of the Board evaluation process. to complete an internal board evaluation annually in the intervening years. The Nomination Committee meets at least annually, and more frequently as and when required. It last met in Board’s policy on tenure March 2023. Provision 24 of the AIC Code of Corporate Governance allows a different approach to tenure in relation to investment Activity during the year companies, reflecting how they differ to operating The Committee discussed succession planning of companies in not having a chief executive. The Board took the Board, its tenure and diversity policies. It reviews into consideration the approach and introduced its ‘Policy annually the size and structure of the Board and will Governing Board Members’ Tenure and Reappointment’. continue to review succession planning and further This policy outlines the Board’s approach to tenure and recruitment, taking into account the recommendations reappointment of non-executive directors. It states its belief of Board evaluations. The Committee appointed a search that the value brought through continuity and experience of consultant and, following interviews with a number of Directors with longer periods of service is not only desirable, suitable candidates, it recommended the appointment of but essential in an investment company. The Board did Busola Sodeinde to the Board. not feel that it would be appropriate to set a specific tenure limit for individual Directors or the Chairman of the Board Board evaluation or its committees. Instead, the Board will seek to recruit During the year the Board engaged Tim Stephenson a new Director, on average, every two to three years so as of Stephenson & Co, an independent company which regularly to bring the stimulus of fresh thinking into the specialises in investment trust board evaluations, to Board’s discussions, ensuring that on each occasion that the facilitate an independent evaluation of the effectiveness Board enters into new investment commitments, at least of the Board, its committees and the performance of half the Board members have direct personal experience of each Director. In addition to the Directors, the most negotiating previous commitments with the Manager. senior members of the Investment Management teams were interviewed. Mr Stephenson’s report was discussed Board Succession by the Committee. Having served as a Director since 2012, I will stand down from the Board at the conclusion of the forthcoming The evaluation was considered by the Committee to be AGM. Kate Bolsover will succeed me as Chairman. constructive in terms of analysing Board composition and Tim Gillbanks will succeed Kate as Senior Independent providing recommendations on Board succession planning. Director. Busola Sodeinde was appointed a Director on 24January 2023. An independent third party agency, There were no significant actions arising from the Nurole Limited, was engaged for the recruitment process evaluation process and it was agreed that the current which resulted in Busola’s appointment. Nurole have no composition of the Board and its Committees reflected a other connection with the Company. suitable mix of skills and experience, and that the Board as a whole, the individual Directors and its Committees were functioning effectively. 56 TR Property Investment Trust Overview Strategic report Governance Financial statements Glossary and AIFMD disclosure Notice of AGM Shareholder information Directors’ training On appointment, new Directors are offered training to suit their needs. Directors are also provided with key information on the Company’s activities on a regular basis, including regulatory and statutory requirements and internal controls. Changes affecting Directors’ responsibilities are advised to the Board as they arise. Directors ensure that they are updated on regulatory, statutory and industry matters. Letters of appointment No Director has a contract of employment with the Company. Directors’ terms and conditions for appointment are set out in letters of appointment which are available for inspection at the registered office of the Company and at the AGM. David Watson Chairman of the Nomination Committee 1 June 2023 Annual Report & Accounts 2023 57 ## Report of the Management Engagement Committee Management Engagement all shareholders. Asummary of the significant terms Committee(the‘MEC’) of the Investment Management Agreement and the Chairman: David Watson third-party service providers who support the Company are set out below. Key responsibilities • Monitor and review the performance of the AIFM and During the year, the MEC also reviewed the performance Portfolio Manager; of all their third party service providers including BNP Paribas, Computershare, Columbia Threadneedle acting • Review the terms of the Investment Management as Company Secretary, both firms of corporate brokers, Agreement; Panmure Gordon and Stifel, and PwC (as tax advisors). The Portfolio Manager provides regular updates on the • Annually review the contracts and performance of performance of all third-party providers during the year each external third-party service provider; and and attended this part of the MEC Meeting. The MEC confirmed that it was satisfied with the level of services • Review, on an annual basis, the remuneration of the delivered by each third-party provider. Directors. Management arrangements and fees In addition to investment management, the Board On 11 July 2014, the Board appointed BMO Investment has delegated to external third parties the depositary Business Limited (now Columbia Threadneedle and custodial services functions (which include the Investment Business Limited) as the Company’s safeguarding of assets), the day to day accounting, Alternative Investment Fund Manager (in accordance company secretarial, administration and share with the Alternative Investment Fund Managers registration services. Each of these contracts was Directive) with portfolio management delegated to the entered into after full and proper consideration of the Investment Manager, Thames River Capital LLP. quality of the services offered, including the control systems in operation insofar as they relate to the The significant terms of the Investment Management affairs of the Company. The MEC determines and Agreement with the Manager are as follows: approves Directors’ fees, having regard to the level of fees payable to non- executive Directors in the industry Notice period generally, the role that individual Directors fulfil in The Investment Management Agreement (‘IMA’) respect of Board and Committee responsibilities and provides for termination of the agreement by either the time committed to the Company’s affairs. For party without compensation on the provision of not further details please see the Directors’ Remuneration less than 12 months’ written notice. Report on pages 63 to 65. Management fees The MEC meets at least annually, towards the end of The fee for the period under review was a fixed fee of the financial year and last met in March 2023. £3,895,000 plus an ad valorem fee of 0.20% pa based on the net asset value (determined in accordance with Activity during the year the AIC method of valuation) on the last day of March, At the meeting held in March 2023, the MEC June, September and December, payable quarterly in reviewed the performance of the AIFM and Portfolio advance. The fee arrangements have been reviewed by Manager and considered both the appropriateness the Board for the year to 31 March 2024 and the fixed of the Manager’s appointment and the contractual element of the fee will increase to £4,090,000, whilst arrangements (including the structure and level of the ad valorem rate will remain unchanged. remuneration) with the Manager. The Board continues to consider that the fee structure In addition to the reviews by the MEC, the Board aligns the interests of the shareholder and the Manager reviewed and considered performance reports as well as being highly competitive. from the Portfolio Manager at each Board meeting. The Board also received regular reports from the The fee arrangements will continue to be reviewed on Administrator and Company Secretary. an annual basis. The Board believe that the Manager’s track record Performance fees and performance remains outstanding. As a result, In addition to the management fees, the Board has the MEC confirmed that the AIFM and Portfolio agreed to pay the Manager performance related fees in Manager should be retained for the financial year respect of an accounting period if certain performance ending 31 March 2024, being in the best interests of objectives are achieved. 58 TR Property Investment Trust Overview Strategic report Governance Financial statements Glossary and AIFMD disclosure Notice of AGM Shareholder information A performance fee is payable if the total return of Management company adjusted net assets (after deduction of all Base On 8 November 2021 BMO’s asset management Management Fees and other expenses), as defined business in Europe, the Middle East and Africa became in the IMA, at 31 March each year outperforms the part of Columbia Threadneedle Investments, the global total return of the Company’s benchmark plus 1% asset management business of Ameriprise Financial, (the ‘hurdle rate’); this outperformance (expressed Inc. The process of integrating the two firms is well as a percentage) is known as the ‘percentage advanced and both companies have confirmed the outperformance’. Any fee payable will be the importance of maintaining the stability and continuity amount equivalent to the adjusted net assets at of the teams which support the Company. 31 March each year multiplied by the percentage outperformance, then multiplied by 15%. The Depositary arrangements and fees maximum performance fee payable for a period is BNP Paribas was appointed as Depositary on capped at 1.5% of the adjusted net assets. However, 14 July 2014 in accordance with the AIFMD. if the adjusted net assets at the end of any period The Depositary’s responsibilities include: cash are less than at the beginning of the period, the monitoring; segregation and safe keeping of the maximum performance fee payable will be limited to Company’s financial instruments; and monitoring the 1% of the adjusted net assets. Company’s compliance with investment and leverage requirements. The Depositary receives for its services ‘Adjusted Net Assets’ means the Net Asset Value a fee of 2.0 basis points per annum on the first after (i) excluding any increases or decreases in Net £150million of the Company’s assets, 1.4 basis points Asset Value attributable to the issue or repurchase of per annum on assets above £150 million and below any Ordinary Shares; (ii) adding back the aggregate £500 million and 0.75 basis points on assets above amount of any dividends paid or distributions made £500 million. in respect of any Ordinary Shares; and (iii) excluding the amount of any Performance Fee accrued for Review of third party service theperiod. providers fees Custody and Administration Services are provided If the total return of shareholders’ funds for any by BNP Paribas and Company Secretarial Services performance period is less than the benchmark by Columbia Threadneedle Investment Business for the relevant performance period, such Limited. The fees for these services are charged underperformance (expressed as a percentage) will directly to the Company and are disclosed within other be carried forward to future performance periods. administrative expenses disclosed in notes to the accounts. If any fee exceeds the cap, such excess performance (expressed as a percentage) will be carried | forward and applied to offset any percentage | David Watson | | --- | --- | | underperformance in future performance periods. | Chairman of the Management | | In the event that the benchmark is exceeded but | Engagement Committee | | the hurdle is not, that outperformance of the | 1 June 2023 | benchmark can be used to offset past or future underperformance. These amounts can be used for offset purposes only and therefore cannot have the effect of creating a fee in a year where a fee would not otherwise be payable or increasing the fee in that year. The -1.5% underperformance of the benchmark in the current year has been offset against the brought forward outperformance as described above. As a result of this, the carry forward of outperformance at 31 March 2023 is 0.4% (2022:1.9%). Annual Report & Accounts 2023 59 ## Report of the Audit Committee Audit committee This has included consideration of the impact of the Chairman: Tim Gillbanks COVID-19 pandemic, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, inflationary and interest rate increases across a range of Key responsibilities risk categories, • Review the internal financial and non-financial controls; • The Group’s Internal Controls and consideration of the Reports thereon; • Review reports from key third party service providers; • The ISAE/AAF reports or their equivalent from BMO/ • Consider and recommend to the Board for approval the Columbia Threadneedle and BNP Paribas; contents of the draft Half year and Annual Reports; • Whether the Company should have its own internal • Review accounting policies and significant financial audit function; reporting judgements; • The external Auditor’s planning memorandum setting • Monitor, together with the Manager, the Company’s out the scope of the annual audit and proposed key compliance with financial reporting, maintenance of areas of focus; Investment Trust status and regulatory requirements; and • The reports from the Auditor concerning its audit of the Financial Statements of the Company and • Consider the impact of providing non-audit services on Consideration of Significant issues in relation to the the external Auditor’s independence and objectivity. Financial Statements; Representatives of the Manager’s internal audit and • The appropriateness of, and any changes to, the compliance departments may attend committee accounting policies of the Company, including the meetings at the Committee Chairman’s request. reasonableness of any judgements required by such policies; Representatives of the Company’s Auditor attend the Committee meetings at which the draft Half Year and • The Long-Term Viability statement and consideration Annual Report and Accounts are reviewed and are given of the preparation of the Financial Statements on the opportunity to speak to the Committee members a Going Concern basis, taking account of forward without the presence of the representatives of the looking income forecasts, the liquidity of the Manager. investment portfolio and debt profile; The Board recognises the requirement for at least one • The financial and other disclosures in the Financial Committee member to have recent and relevant financial Statements; experience and for the Audit Committee as a whole to have competence relevant to the sector. The Committee • The information presented in the Half Year and Annual Chairman, Mr Watson and Ms Sodeinde are qualified Reports to assess whether, taken as a whole, they are accountants with extensive and recent experience in the fair, balanced and understandable and the information Financial Services Industry. The other members of the presented will enable shareholders to assess the Committee have a combination of property, financial, Company’s position, performance, business model investment and business experience through senior and strategy; positions held throughout their careers. • The performance of the external auditor, to approve Activity during the year their audit fees and consider the assessment of During the year the Committee met twice with all independence; members at each meeting and considered the following: • The review and subsequent proposal to the Board of • Consideration of the Risk Map: any changes to the interim and final dividends; and the likelihood or impact of risks and consequential changes required to Board Monitoring and mitigation • The reviewal of the Committee’s terms of reference, procedures. Consideration of any new or emerging ensuring they remain appropriate and compliant with risks and inclusion in the Risk Map if appropriate. the 2018 UK Corporate Governance Code. 60 TR Property Investment Trust Overview Strategic report Governance Financial statements Glossary and AIFMD disclosure Notice of AGM Shareholder information Going concern Significant issues in relation to the financial In assessing whether it continues to be appropriate to statements prepare the Accounts on a Going Concern basis, the The Committee has considered this report and financial Committee has made a detailed assessment of the statements and the Long-Term Viability statement ability of the Company and Group to meet its liabilities on pages 41 and 42. The Committee considered the as they fall due, including stress and liquidity tests which Auditor’s assessment of risk of material misstatement considered the effects of substantial falls in investment and reviewed the internal controls in place in respect valuations, substantial reductions in revenue received of the key areas identified and the process by which and reductions in market liquidity. the Board monitors each of the procedures to give the Committee comfort on those risks on an ongoing basis. In light of the testing carried out, the overall levels of Those risks are also highlighted in the Committee’s Risk the investment liquidity held by the Company and the Map. significant net asset position, the Parent Company and Group, the Directors confirm that they are satisfied that • Carrying amount of listed investments (Group and the Company and the Group have adequate financial Parent Company) – the Group’s investments are resources to continue in operation for at least the priced for the daily NAV by BNP Paribas. next 12months following the signing of the financial statements and therefore it is appropriate to continue to The quoted assets are priced by the Administrator’s adopt the Going Concern basis of accounting. Global Pricing Platform which uses independent external pricing sources. The control process surrounding this is The long-term viability of the Company was also set out in the BNP Paribas AAF 01/06 Internal Controls assessed as set out on pages 41 and 42. Report and testing by the reporting accountant for the period reported to 30 September 2022 which did not Risk management and internal control reveal any significant exceptions. The quarterly control The Board has overall responsibility for the Group’s report to the Board from BNP Paribas covering the period system of Risk Management and Internal Control and for up to 31 March 2023 disclosed no significant issues to reviewing their effectiveness. Key risks identified by the report. In addition, on each business day, the Manager Auditor are considered by the Audit Committee to ensure estimates the NAV using an alternative pricing source as that robust internal controls and monitoring procedures an independent check. in respect of these are in place on an ongoing basis. Further details can be found on page 48. The Auditor agreed 100% of the listed investments of the portfolio to externally quoted prices and independently The Audit Committee received and considered reports received third-party confirmations from investment on Internal Controls from the key service providers. No custodians and found the carrying value of listed areas of concern were highlighted. investments to be acceptable. The Company’s Risk Map was considered to identify • Valuation of Direct Property Investments (Group and any emerging risks and whether any adjustments were Parent Company) – the physical property portfolio is required to existing risks, and the controls and mitigation valued every six months by professional independent measures in place in respect of those risks. valuers. Elevated levels of inflation and interest rates and the Knight Frank LLP value the portfolio on the basis of Russian invasion of Ukraine were also considered and Fair Value in accordance with the RICS Valuation – the risks associated with those events reflected in the Professional Standards VPS4 (1.5) Fair Value and VPGA risk map. 1 Valuations for Inclusion in Financial Statements, which apply the definition of Fair Value adopted by the The legacy impact of COVID-19 on economies around International Financial Reporting Standards. IFRS 13 the world and operational changes made by our service defines Fair Value as: providers in response to changing workplace practices were considered and the risk map adjusted accordingly. ‘The amount for which an asset could be exchanged, a liability settled, or an equity instrument granted could be Based on the processes and controls in place within exchanged, between knowledgeable, willing parties in an Columbia Threadneedle Investments and other arm’s length transaction.’ significant service providers, the Board has concurred that there is no current need for the Company to have its own internal audit function. Annual Report & Accounts 2023 61 Report of the Audit Committee continued In undertaking their valuation of each property, The Committee has approved and implemented Knight Frank make their assessment on the basis of a policy on the engagement of the Auditor to a collation and analysis of appropriate comparable supply non-audit services, taking into account the investments, rental and sale transactions, together recommendations of the Accounting Practices with evidence of demand within the vicinity of each Board with a view to ensuring that the external property. This information is then applied to the Auditor does not provide non-audit services that properties, taking into account size, location, terms, have the potential to impair or appear to impair the covenant and other material factors. independence of their audit role. In addition, the Committee reviewed the actions put in place by The Board has reviewed reports from the Manager the Auditor to ensure there was a clear separation and the external valuer and determined the valuation between audit and advisory services. The Committee to be reasonable. does not believe there to be any impediment to the Auditor’s objectivity and independence. The Auditor has set out their detailed testing and procedures in respect of the direct property valuation Full details of the Auditor’s fees are provided in note and concluded that they found the Company’s 6 to the accounts on page 85. The fees for non- valuation of investment properties to be acceptable. audit services for the year to 31 March 2023 were nil (2022: nil). There has been nothing brought to the Committee’s attention in respect of the financial statements for Following each audit, the Committee reviews the the year ended 31 March 2023 that was material audit process and considers its effectiveness or significant or that the Committee felt should be and the quality of the services provided to the brought to shareholders’ attention. Company. Within this process, the Committee takes into consideration their own assessment, the self-evaluation of the auditor and the Audit Quality Auditor assessment and independence Review Report produced by the FRC in order to The Company’s external auditor, KPMG LLP ('KPMG') monitor the progress of the Auditor’s performance was appointed as the Company’s auditor at the 2016 comparable with its peers and the targets set by AGM. The Committee undertook a review during the FRC. The review following the completion of 2021 to ensure that shareholders were receiving the 2023 audit concluded that the Committee the best services and value for money. A number of was satisfied with the Auditor’s effectiveness and firms were invited to express interest and respond performance. The Committee felt that KPMG had on a small number of key points. The decision was run an effective and efficient audit process with made for the audit to remain with KPMG. This is Mr appropriate challenge. A resolution to re-appoint Merchant’s second year as the Company’s Audit KPMG LLP as the Company’s Auditor will be put to Partner. shareholders at the forthcomingAGM. The Committee expects to repeat a tender process | no later than 2026 in respect of the audit for the | Tim Gillbanks | | --- | --- | | following 31 March year end, in line with the current | Chairman of the Audit Committee | | audit regulations. | 1 June 2023 | At the half year meeting of the Committee, KPMG presented their audit plan for the year end and the Committee considered the audit process and fee proposal. The Committee also reviewed KPMG’s independence policies and procedures, including quality assurance procedures. It was considered that those policies are fit for purpose and the Directors are satisfied that KPMG is independent. Total fees payable to the Auditor in respect of the audit for the year to 31 March 2023 were £97,000 (2022: £82,000), which were approved by the Audit Committee. 62 TR Property Investment Trust # Directors' Remuneration Report ## Introduction The Board has prepared this report and the Directors' Remuneration Policy, in accordance with the requirements of Schedule 8 of the Large and Medium Sized Companies and Groups (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2013. An ordinary resolution for the approval of this report will be put to the members at the forthcoming Annual General Meeting. The law requires the Company's Auditor, KPMG LLP, to audit certain of the disclosures provided. Where disclosures have been audited, they are indicated as such. The Auditor's opinion is included in the 'Independent Auditor's Report'. ## Annual statement from the chairman of the committee The MEC met in March 2023 and considered the results and feedback from the Board evaluation. It was agreed that the Directors' fees would be increased, with effect from 1 April 2023, to the following levels: Chairman £73,000; Audit Committee Chairman £43,000; Senior Independent Director £43,000; and other Directors £37,000. ## Directors' remuneration policy *The Company's policy is that the fees payable to the Directors should reflect the time spent by the Board on the Company's affairs and the responsibilities borne by the Directors and should be sufficient to enable candidates of high calibre to be recruited. The policy is for the Chairman of the Board, the chairman of the Audit Committee and the Senior Independent Director to be paid higher fees than the other Directors in recognition of their more onerous roles. This policy was approved by the members at the 2020 AGM, and the Directors' intention is that this will continue for the year ending 31 March 2024. In accordance with the regulations, an ordinary resolution to approve the Directors' remuneration policy will be put to shareholders at the forthcoming AGM on 20 July 2023, as required every three years.* *The Directors are paid in the form of fees, payable monthly in arrears, to the Director personally or to a third party specified by that Director. There are no long-term incentive schemes, share option schemes or pension arrangements and the fees are not specifically related to the Directors' performance, either individually or collectively.* *The Board comprises entirely of non-executive Directors, whose appointments are reviewed formally every year. None of the Directors have a contract of service and a Director may resign by notice in writing to the Board at any time; there are no notice periods and no payments made for loss of office. The terms of their appointment are detailed in an appointment letter when they join the Board. As the Directors do not have service contracts, the Company does not have a policy on termination payments. The Company's Articles of Association currently limit the total aggregate fees payable to the Board to £300,000 per annum.* *Any shareholders' views in respect of Directors' remuneration are communicated at the Company's AGM and are taken into account in formulating the Directors' remuneration policy. At the 2022 AGM, 99.8% of shareholders' votes cast were in favour of the resolution approving the Directors' Remuneration Report, with 0.2% against, showing very significant shareholder support.* *The components of the remuneration package for Non-executive Directors, which are comprised in the Directors' remuneration policy of the Company are set out below, with a description and approach to determination.* Overview Strategic report Comments Financial statements Glossary and AIFMD disclosure Notice of AGM Shareholder information Annual Report & Accounts 2023 63 Directors’ Remuneration report continued Remuneration Type Fixed Fees Additional Fees Expenses Other | The aggregate limit for | Additional fees may be paid | The Directors are entitled | Board members are not | | --- | --- | --- | --- | | the fees for the Board | to any Director who fulfils the | to be paid all reasonable | eligible for bonuses, pension | | as a whole is £300,000 | role of the Chairman, who | expenses properly incurred | benefits, share options, | | per annum which, in | chairs any committee of the | by them attending meetings | long-term incentive schemed | | accordance with the | Board or who is appointed | with shareholders or other | or other non-cash benefits or | | Articles of Association, | as the Senior Independent | Directors or otherwise in | taxable expenses. | | is divided between the | Director. | connection with the discharge | | | Directors as they deem | | of their duties as Directors. | | These fees are set at a appropriate. competitive level to reflect Fees are set to reflect experience and time the role of each Board commitment. member and the time commitment required to carry out their duties and are reviewed with reference to the fees paid to Directors of similar investment companies. Annual remuneration report For the year ended 31 March 2023, Directors’ fees were paid at the annual rates of Chairman: £72,000 (2022: £70,000) and all other Directors: £36,000 (2022: £36,000). An additional £6,000 was paid per annum for each of the roles of Audit Committee Chairman and Senior Independent Director. The actual amounts paid to the Directors during the financial year under review are as shown below. Amount of each Director's emoluments (audited) The fees payable in respect of each of the Directors who served during the financial year were as follows: 31 March 2023 31 March 2022 £ £ David Watson 72,000 70,000 (1) Simon Marrison 14,000 40,000 Tim Gillbanks 42,000 40,000 (2) Kate Bolsover 40,069 35,000 Sarah-Jane Curtis 36,000 35,000 (3) Andrew Vaughan 24,000 - (4) Busola Sodeinde 6,831 - Total 234,900 220,000 All fees are at a fixed rate and there is no variable remuneration. Fees are pro-rated where a change takes place during a financial year There were no payments to third parties included in the fees referred to in the table above There are no further fees to disclose as the Company has no employees, chief executive or executive directors. (1) resigned from the Board on 26 July 2022 (2) appointed Senior Independent Director on 26 July 2022 (3) appointed to the Board on 1 August 2022 (4) appointed to the Board on 24 January 2023 64 TR Property Investment Trust Overview Strategic report Governance Financial statements Glossary and AIFMD disclosure Notice of AGM Shareholder information Company performance Relative Importance of spend on pay The graph below compares, for the ten years ended 31 March 2023, the percentage change over each period 2023 2022 in the share price total return to shareholders compared £’000 £’000 Change to the share price total return of benchmark, which the Dividends paid 47,127 45,381 3.8% Board considers to be the most appropriate benchmark for investment performance measurement purposes. An Directors’ fees 228 220 3.6% explanation of the performance of the Company is given Five year change comparison in the Chairman’s Statement and Manager’s Report. Over the last five years, Directors’ pay has increased as set out in the table below: Change Ordinary Share Class Performance: Total Return 2023 2018 over Annualised over 10 years (rebased) £’000 £’000 5 years Change Chairman 72 70 2.9% 0.6% Audit Committee Chairman 42 38 10.5% 2.0% Senior Independent Director 42 38 10.5% 2.0% Director 36 33 9.1% 1.8% Annual percentage change in Directors Fees The table below sets out the annual percentage change in fees for each director who served in the year under review. % change % change % change from 2022 from 2021 from 2020 Mar-21 Mar-22Mar-20Mar-19Mar-18Mar-17Mar-16Mar-15Mar-14Mar-13 | | to 2023 | | to 2022 | | to 2021 | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | | (audited) | | (audited) | | (audited) | | | Director | | % | | % | | % | Share Price Total Return assuming investment of £1,000 on 31 March | | | | | (1) | | (1) | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | 2013 and reinvestment of all dividends (excluding dealing expenses). | David Watson +2.9 +15.8 | | | | +51.2 | | | (Source: Thames River Capital) | | (5) | | (2) | | (2) | | | Simon Marrison -65.0 | | +4.1 | | +9.7 | | Benchmark Total Return assuming notional investment into the index of Tim Gillbanks +5.0 0.0 0.0 £1,000 on 31 March 2013. (Source: Thames River Capital) (6) (3) Kate Bolsover +14.5 0.0 +100.0 (4) Sarah-Jane Curtis +2.9 0.0 +449.3 (7) Directors’ shareholdings (audited) Andrew Vaughan n/a n/a n/a (8) Busola Sodeinde n/a n/a n/a The interests of the Directors in the shares of the (1) Company, at the beginning and at the end of the year, or Appointed as Chairman with effect from 28 July 2020, increase reflects date of appointment, if later, were as follows: the initial part year and subsequent full year in the role. (2) Appointed as Senior Independent Director with effect from 28 July 2020, increase reflects the initial part year and subsequent full year in the role. Ordinary shares of 25 pence (3) Appointed as a non-executive Director on 1 October 2019, increase 31 March 2023 reflects the first full year with the Company. or as at date of (4) Appointed as a non-executive Director on 28 January 2020, increase appointment 31 March 2022 reflects the first full year with the Company. (5) Retired 26 July 2022. 4000 David Watson 41,864 36,407 (6) Appointed as Senior Independent Director with effect from 26 July 2022, Kate Bolsover 2,360 2,360 increase reflects the change in role during the year. 3500 Sarah-Jane Curtis 10,009 5,237 (7) Appointed as a non-executive Director on 1 August 2022. Tim Gillbanks - - (8) 3000 Appointed as a non-executive Director on 24 January 2023. Busola Sodeinde - n/a 2500 Andrew Vaughan 11,071 n/a Since 31 March 2023 to the date of this report, there have 2000 For and on behalf of the Board been no changes to the Directors’ interests in the shares of the Company. David Watson 1500 Chairman of the Management Engagement Committee 1 June 2023 1000 Annual Report & Accounts 2023 65 Mar-23 Benchmark Total Return TR Property Share Price Total Return ## Statement of Directors’ responsibilities in relation ## to the Group financial statements The Directors are responsible for preparing the Annual Under applicable law and regulations, the Directors Report and the Group and Parent Company financial are also responsible for preparing a Strategic Report, statements in accordance with applicable law and Directors’ Report, Directors’ Remuneration Report regulations. and Corporate Governance Statement. Company law requires the Directors to prepare Group The Directors are responsible for the maintenance and Parent Company financial statements for each and integrity of the corporate and financial financial year. Directors are required to prepare the Group information included on the Company’s website. financial statements in accordance with UK-adopted Legislation in the UK governing the preparation and international accounting standards and applicable dissemination of financial statements may differ law and have elected to prepare the Parent Company from legislation in other jurisdictions. financial statements on the same basis. In accordance with Disclosure Guidance and Under company law the Directors must not approve Transparency Rule 4.1.14R, the financial statements the financial statements unless they are satisfied that will form part of the annual financial report prepared they give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the using the single electronic reporting format under Group and Parent Company and of the Group’s profit or the TD ESEF Regulation. The Auditor's report on loss for that period. In preparing each of the Group and these financial statements provides no assurance Parent Company financial statements, the Directors are over the ESEF format. required to: • select suitable accounting policies and apply them Responsibility statement of the Directors consistently; in respect of the annual financial report Each of the Directors confirms that to the best of • make judgements and estimates that are reasonable, their knowledge: relevant and reliable; • the financial statements, prepared in accordance • state whether they have been prepared in accordance with the applicable set of accounting standards, with international accounting standards in conformity give a true and fair view of the assets, liabilities, with the requirements of UK-adopted international financial position and profit or loss of the Group accounting standards. and Parent Company and the undertakings included in the consolidation taken as a whole; and • assess the Group and Parent Company’s ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, • the strategic report includes a fair review of the matters related to going concern; and development and performance of the business and the position of the issuer and the undertakings • use the going concern basis of accounting unless included in the consolidation taken as a whole, they either intend to liquidate the Group or the Parent together with a description of the principal risks Company or to cease operations or have no realistic and uncertainties that they face. alternative but to do so. The Directors consider that the Annual Report The Directors are responsible for keeping adequate and Accounts, taken as a whole, is fair, balanced accounting records that are sufficient to show and and understandable and provides the information explain the Parent Company’s transactions and disclose necessary for shareholders to assess the Group’s with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position and performance, business model and position of the Parent Company and enable them to strategy. ensure that its financial statements comply with the Companies Act 2006. They are responsible for such internal control as they determine is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, By order of the Board and have general responsibility for taking such steps as David Watson are reasonably open to them to safeguard the assets Chairman of the Group and to prevent and detect fraud and other 1 June 2023 irregularities. 66 TR Property Investment Trust KPMG # Independent auditor's report to the members of TR Property Investment Trust Plc ## 01 Our opinion is unmodified We have audited the financial statements of TR Property Investment Trust Plc (the 'Company') for the year ended 31 March 2023 which comprise the Group Statement of Comprehensive Income, Group and Company Statements of Changes in Equity, Group and Company Balance Sheets, Group and Company Cash Flow Statements and the related notes, including the accounting policies in note 1. ### In our opinion: - the financial statements give a true and fair view of the state of the Group's and of the parent Company's affairs as at 31 March 2023 and of the Group's return for the year then ended; - the Group financial statements have been properly prepared in accordance with UK-adopted international accounting standards; - the parent Company financial statements have been properly prepared in accordance with UK-adopted international accounting standards and as applied in accordance with the provisions of the Companies Act 2006; and - the financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006. ### Basis for opinion We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK) ('ISAs (UK)') and applicable law. Our responsibilities are described below. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is a sufficient and appropriate basis for our opinion. Our audit opinion is consistent with our report to the audit committee. We were first appointed as auditor by the Directors on 2 November 2016. The period of total uninterrupted engagement is for the seven financial years ended 31 March 2023. We have fulfilled our ethical responsibilities under, and we remain independent of the Group in accordance with, UK ethical requirements including the FRC Ethical Standard as applied to listed public interest entities. No non-audit services prohibited by that standard were provided. | Overview | | | --- | --- | | Materiality: group financial statements as a whole | £10.5m (2022: £16.8m) 1% (2022: 1%) of Total Assets | | **Key audit matters vs 2022** | **vs 2022** | | Recurring risks | Valuation of direct property investments | | | Carrying amount of listed investments | ## 02 Key audit matters: our assessment of risks of material misstatement Key audit matters are those matters that, in our professional judgement, were of most significance in the audit of the financial statements and include the most significant assessed risks of material misstatement (whether or not due to fraud) identified by us, including those which had the greatest effect on: the overall audit strategy, the allocation of resources in the audit, and directing the efforts of the engagement team. We summarise below the key audit matters (unchanged from 2022), in decreasing order of audit significance, in arriving at our audit opinion above, together with our key audit procedures to address those matters and our findings from those procedures in order that the Company's members, as a body, may understand better the process by which we arrived at our audit opinion. These matters were addressed, and our findings are based on procedures undertaken, in the context of, and solely for the purpose of, our audit of the financial statements as a whole, and in forming our opinion thereon, and consequently are incidental to that opinion, and we do not provide a separate opinion on these matters. Overview Strategic report Investments Financial statements Glossary and APME disclosure Notice of AGM Shareholder information Annual Report & Accounts 2023 67 Independent auditor’s report continued 02 Key audit matters: our assessment of risks of material misstatement continued The risk Our response Subjective valuation: Valuation of direct We performed the detailed tests below rather propertyinvestments 7.0% (2022: 5.7%) of the Group’s, than seeking to rely on any of the Group’s (Group andParent) and 6.8% (2022: 5.6%) of the Parent controls, because the nature of the balance (£74.0 million; Company’s, total assets (by value) are is such that we would expect to obtain audit 2022:£96.3million) held in investment properties. evidence primarily through the detailed procedures described. Refer to pages 60 to The fair value of each property requires 62 (Audit Committee significant estimation, in particular with Our procedures included: Report), pages 81 and 82 regard to the estimated rental value and yield assumptions. The assumptions • Assessi ng valuer’s credentials: Using our own (accounting policy), note 10 will be impacted by a number of factors property valuation specialist, we evaluated the on pages 89 to 92 (financial including quality and condition of the competence, experience and independence of disclosures). building and tenant financial strength. the external valuer; The effect of these matters is that, • Te sts of detail: We compared the information as part of our risk assessment, we provided by the Group to its external property determined that the valuation of valuer for a sample of properties, such as investment properties has a high rental income and tenancy data to supporting degree of estimation uncertainty, with a documents including lease agreements; potential range of reasonable outcomes • Met hodology choice: We held discussions greater than our materiality for the with the Group’s external property valuer to financial statements as a whole. The determine the valuation methodology used is financial statements (note 10) disclose appropriate. Using our own property valuation the sensitivity estimated by the Group. specialist, we critically assessed the results of the valuer’s report by checking that the valuations were in accordance with the RICS Valuation Professional Standards ‘the Red Book’ and IFRS and that the methodology adopted was appropriate by reference to acceptable valuation practice; • Ben chmarking assumptions: With the assistance of our own property valuation specialist, we held discussions with the Group’s external property valuer to understand movements in property values. For a sample of properties, we assessed the key assumptions used by the valuer upon which the valuations are based, including those relating to estimated rental value and yield, by making a comparison to our own understanding of the market and to industry benchmarks; • Assessi ng transparency: We also considered the adequacy of the Group’s disclosures about the degree of estimation and sensitivity to key assumptions made when valuing the direct property investments. Our findings We found the Group’s valuation of investment properties to be balanced (2022: balanced). We have considered the associated disclosures to be proportionate. 68 TR Property Investment Trust Overview Strategic report Governance Financial statements Glossary and AIFMD disclosure Notice of AGM Shareholder information The risk Our response | Carrying amount of | Low risk, high value: | We performed the detailed tests below rather | | --- | --- | --- | | listedinvestments | The portfolio of listed level 1 | than seeking to rely on any of the group’s | | (Group and Parent) | investments makes up 83.0% (2022: | controls, because the nature of the balance | | (£872.1 million; | 86.4%) of the Group’s, and 80.2% (2022: | is such that we would expect to obtain audit | | 2022: £1,456.8 million) | 84.6%) of the Parent Company’s, total | evidence primarily through the detailed | | | assets (by value) and is one of the key | procedures described. | Refer to pages 60 to 62 drivers of results. We do not consider (Audit Committee Report), Our procedures included: these investments to be at a high risk of page 82 (accounting policy) material misstatement, or to be subject • Te st of detail: Agreeing the valuation of 100% and note 10 on pages 89 to to a significant level of judgement of level 1 listed investments in the portfolio to 92 (financial disclosures). because they comprise liquid, quoted externally quoted prices; and investments. However, due to their | materiality in the context of the | • Enq | uiry of custodians: Agreeing 100% of | | --- | --- | --- | | financial statements as a whole, they | level 1 listed investment holdings in the | | | are considered to be one of the areas | portfolio to independently received third party | | | which had the greatest effect on our | confirmations from investment custodians. | | overall audit strategy and allocation of resources in planning and completing our audit. Our findings We found no differences from third party holdings confirmations nor from the externally quoted prices of a size to require reporting to the Audit Committee (2022: no differences). 03 Our application of materiality and an We agreed to report to the Audit Committee any overview of the scope of our audit corrected or uncorrected identified misstatements Materiality for theGroup financial statements as a whole exceeding £0.53m (2022: £0.84m) for the Group and was set at £10.5m (2022: £16.8m), determined with exceeding £0.5m (2022: £0.8m) for the Parent Company, reference to a benchmark of total assets, of which it in addition to other identified misstatements that represents 1.0% (2021: 1.0%). warranted reporting on qualitative thresholds. Materiality for the parent Company financial statements The audit team performed the audit of the Group as a as a whole was set at £9.97m (2022: £16.0m), which single aggregated set of financial information rather is the component materiality for the Parent Company than scoping in individual components. This approach determined by the Group audit engagement team. This is unchanged from the prior year. The audit of the is lower than the materiality we would otherwise have Group and Parent Company was performed using the determined with reference to Parent Company total materiality levels set out above and was performed by a assets, of which it represents 0.95% (2022: 0.95%). single audit team. The scope of the audit work performed was fully substantive as we did not rely upon the Group’s In line with our audit methodology, our procedures internal controls over financial reporting. on individual account balances and disclosures were performed to a lower threshold, performance materiality, so as to reduce to an acceptable level the risk that Total Assets Group Materiality individually immaterial misstatements in individual £1,051m (2022: £1,686m) £10.5m (2022: £16.8m) account balances add up to a material amount across the financial statements as a whole. Performance £10.5m Whole financial statements materiality was set at 75% (2022: 75%) of materiality materiality (2022: £16.8m) for the financial statements as a whole, which equates £7.85m to £7.85m (2022: £12.6m) for the Group and £7.45m Whole financial statements (2022: £12m) for the Parent Company. We applied performance materiality this percentage in our determination of performance (2022: £12.6m) materiality because we did not identify any factors £9.97m indicating an elevated level of risk. Parent Company Materiality (2022: £16.0m) £0.5m Misstatements reported to the audit committee (2022: £0.8m) Total Assets Annual Report & Accounts 2023 69 Independent auditor’s report continued 04 The impact of climate change on our audit • The liquidity of the investment portfolio and its ability We have performed a risk assessment of how the impact to meet the liabilities of the Group as and when they of climate change may affect the financial statements fall due; and and our audit. Level 1 listed investments make up 83.0% of the Group’s total assets, for which fair value • The operational resilience of key service organisations. is determined as the quoted market price. Therefore, we assessed that the financial statement estimate that We considered whether these risks could plausibly affect is primarily exposed to climate risk is the investment the liquidity or covenant compliance in the going concern property portfolio, for which the valuation assumptions period by assessing the degree of downside assumption and estimates may be impacted by physical and policy that, individually and collectively, could result in a liquidity or legal climate risks, such as flooding or an increase issue, taking into account the Group or Company’s in climate related compliance expenditure. We held current and projected cash and liquid investment discussions with our own climate change professionals position (and the results of their reverse stress testing). to challenge our risk assessment. We assessed that, whilst climate change posed a risk to the determination We considered whether the going concern disclosure of investment property valuations in the current year, in note 1 gives a full and accurate description of the this risk was not significant when considering both the Directors’ assessment of going concern, including the nature and domicile of the properties and the tenure of identified risks and related sensitivities. unexpired leases. Therefore, there was no significant impact of this on our key audit matters. Our conclusions based on this work: We have read the disclosure of climate related narrative • we consider that the Directors’ use of the going in the front half of the financial statements and concern basis of accounting in the preparation of the considered consistency with the financial statements financial statements is appropriate; and our audit knowledge. • we have not identified, and concur with the Directors’ 05 Going concern assessment that there is not, a material uncertainty The Directors have prepared the financial statements related to events or conditions that, individually or on the going concern basis as they do not intend to collectively, may cast significant doubt on the Group’s liquidate the Group or the Company or to cease their or Company's ability to continue as a going concern operations, and as they have concluded that the Group’s for the going concern period; and the Company’s financial position means that this is realistic. They have also concluded that there are no • we have nothing material to add or draw attention to material uncertainties that could have cast significant in relation to the Directors’ statement on the use of the doubt over their ability to continue as a going concern for going concern basis of accounting with no material at least a year from the date of approval of the financial uncertainties that may cast significant doubt over statements ('the going concern period'). the Group and Company’s use of that basis for the going concern period, and we found the going concern We used our knowledge of the Group, its industry, disclosure in note 1 to be acceptable; and and the general economic environment to identify the inherent risks to its business model and analysed • the related statement under the Listing Rules set out how those risks might affect the Group or Company’s on page 61 is materially consistent with the financial financial resources or ability to continue operations over statements and our audit knowledge. the going concern period. The risks that we considered most likely to adversely affect the Group or Company’s However, as we cannot predict all future events or available financial resources and its ability to operate conditions and as subsequent events may result in over this period were: outcomes that are inconsistent with judgements that were reasonable at the time they were made, the above • The impact of a significant reduction in the valuation conclusions are not a guarantee that the Group or the of investments and the implications for the Group or Company will continue in operation. Company’s debt covenants; 70 TR Property Investment Trust Overview Strategic report Governance Financial statements Glossary and AIFMD disclosure Notice of AGM Shareholder information 06 Fraud and breaches of laws and Identifying and responding to risks of material regulations – ability to detect misstatement due to non-compliance with laws and Identifying and responding to risks of material regulations misstatement due to fraud We identified areas of laws and regulations that could To identify risks of material misstatement due to fraud reasonably be expected to have a material effect on ('fraud risks') we assessed events or conditions that the financial statements from our general commercial could indicate an incentive or pressure to commit fraud and sector experience and through discussion with or provide an opportunity to commit fraud. Our risk the Directors, the Investment Manager and the assessment procedures included: Administrator (as required by auditing standards) and discussed with the Directors the policies and • Enquiring of Directors as to the Group’s high-level procedures regarding compliance with laws and policies and procedures to prevent and detect fraud, regulations. We communicated identified laws and as well as whether they have knowledge of any actual, regulations throughout our team and remained alert to suspected or alleged fraud; any indications of non-compliance throughout the audit. As the Parent Company is regulated, our assessment of • Assessing the segregation of duties in place between risks involved gaining an understanding of the control the Directors, the Administrator and the Group’s environment including the entity’s procedures for Investment Manager; and complying with regulatory requirements. • Reading Board and Audit Committee minutes. The potential effect of these laws and regulations on the financial statements varies considerably. As required by auditing standards, we perform procedures to address the risk of management override Firstly, the Group is subject to laws and regulations of controls, in particular to the risk that management that directly affect the financial statements including may be in a position to make inappropriate accounting financial reporting legislation (including related entries. We communicated identified fraud risk companies legislation), distributable profits legislation, throughout the audit team and remained alert to any and its qualification as an Investment Trust under UK indications of fraud throughout the audit. We evaluated taxation legislation, any breach of which could lead to the design and implementation of the controls over the Group losing various deductions and exemptions journal entries and other adjustments and made from UK corporation tax, and we assessed the extent of inquiries of the Administrator about inappropriate or compliance with these laws and regulations as part of unusual activity relating to the processing of journal our procedures on the related financial statement items. entries and other adjustments. We assessed the legality of the distributions made by We substantively tested all material post- closing the Company in the period based on comparing the entries and, based on the results of our risk assessment dividends paid to the distributable reserves prior to each procedures and understanding of the process, including distribution. the segregation of duties between the Directors and the Administrator, no further high-risk journal entries or Secondly, the Group is subject to many other laws and other adjustments were identified. regulations where the consequences of non-compliance could have a material effect on amounts or disclosures On this audit we have rebutted the fraud risk related in the financial statements, for instance through the to revenue recognition because the revenue is imposition of fines or litigation. We identified the non- judgemental and straightforward, with limited following areas as those most likely to have such an opportunity for manipulation. We did not identify any effect: money laundering, data protection, bribery and significant unusual transactions or additional fraud risks. corruption legislation and certain aspects of Company legislation recognising the financial nature of the Group’s activities and its legal form. Auditing standards limit the required audit procedures to identify non- compliance with these laws and regulations to enquiry of the Directors and the Administrator and inspection of regulatory and legal correspondence, if any. Therefore, if a breach of operational regulations is not disclosed to us or evident from relevant correspondence, an audit will not detect that breach Annual Report & Accounts 2023 71 Independent auditor’s report continued 06 Fraud and breaches of laws and regulations – Directors’ remuneration report abilityto detect continued In our opinion the part of the Directors’ Remuneration Report to be audited has been properly prepared in Context of the ability of the audit to detect fraud or accordance with the Companies Act 2006. breaches of law or regulation Owing to the inherent limitations of an audit, there is an Disclosures of emerging and principal risks and unavoidable risk that we may not have detected some longer-term viability material misstatements in the financial statements, even We are required to perform procedures to identify though we have properly planned and performed our audit whether there is a material inconsistency between in accordance with auditing standards. For example, the the Directors’ disclosures in respect of emerging and further removed non-compliance with laws and regulations principal risks and the viability statement, and the is from the events and transactions reflected in the financial financial statements and our audit knowledge. statements, the less likely the inherently limited procedures required by auditing standards would identify it. Based on those procedures, we have nothing material to add or draw attention to in relation to: In addition, as with any audit, there remained a higher risk of non-detection of fraud, as these may involve collusion, • the Directors’ confirmation within the Long-term forgery, intentional omissions, misrepresentations, or the Viability statement on page 41 that they have carried override of internal controls. Our audit procedures are out a robust assessment of the emerging and principal designed to detect material misstatement. We are not risks facing the Group, including those that would responsible for preventing non-compliance or fraud and threaten its business model, future performance, cannot be expected to detect non-compliance with all laws solvency andliquidity; and regulations. • the Principal and emerging risks and uncertainties 07 We have nothing to report on the other disclosures describing these risks and how emerging information in the Annual Report risks are identified, and explaining how they are being The Directors are responsible for the other information managed and mitigated; and presented in the Annual Report together with the financial statements. Our opinion on the financial statements • the Directors’ explanation in the Long- term Viability does not cover the other information and, accordingly, statement of how they have assessed the prospects we do not express an audit opinion or, except as explicitly of the Group, over what period they have done so and stated below, any form of assurance conclusion thereon. why they considered that period to be appropriate, and their statement as to whether they have a reasonable Our responsibility is to read the other information and, expectation that the Group will be able to continue in doing so, consider whether, based on our financial in operation and meet its liabilities as they fall due statements audit work, the information therein is over the period of their assessment, including any materially misstated or inconsistent with the financial related disclosures drawing attention to any necessary statements or our audit knowledge. Based solely on that qualifications or assumptions. work we have not identified material misstatements in the other information. We are also required to review the Long-term Viability statement, set out on page 41 and 42 under the Listing Strategic report and Directors’ Report Rules. Based on the above procedures, we have Based solely on our work on the other information: concluded that the above disclosures are materially consistent with the financial statements and our audit • we have not identified material misstatements in the knowledge. strategic report and the Directors’ report; Our work is limited to assessing these matters in the • in our opinion the information given in those reports context of only the knowledge acquired during our for the financial year is consistent with the financial financial statements audit. As we cannot predict all statements; and future events or conditions and as subsequent events may result in outcomes that are inconsistent with • in our opinion those reports have been prepared in judgements that were reasonable at the time they accordance with the Companies Act 2006. were made, the absence of anything to report on these statements is not a guarantee as to the Group’s and Company’s longer-term viability. 72 TR Property Investment Trust Overview Strategic report Governance Financial statements Glossary and AIFMD disclosure Notice of AGM Shareholder information Corporate governance disclosures 09 Respective Responsibilities We are required to perform procedures to identify Directors’ responsibilities whether there is a material inconsistency between the As explained more fully in their statement set out Directors’ corporate governance disclosures and the on page 66, the Directors are responsible for: the financial statements and our audit knowledge. preparation of the financial statements including being satisfied that they give a true and fair view; such internal Based on those procedures, we have concluded that control as they determine is necessary to enable the each of the following is materially consistent with the preparation of financial statements that are free from financial statements and our audit knowledge: material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error; assessing the Group and parent Company’s ability to • the Directors’ statement that they consider that the continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, annual report and financial statements taken as matters related to going concern; and using the going a whole is fair, balanced and understandable, and concern basis of accounting unless they either intend to provides the information necessary for shareholders liquidate the Group or the parent Company or to cease to assess the Group’s position and performance, operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so. business model and strategy; Auditor’s responsibilities • the section of the annual report describing the work of Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance the Audit Committee, including the significant issues about whether the financial statements as a whole are that the audit committee considered in relation to free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud the financial statements, and how these issues were or error, and to issue our opinion in an auditor’s report. addressed; and Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but does not guarantee that an audit conducted in • the section of the annual report that describes accordance with ISAs (UK) will always detect a material the review of the effectiveness of the Group’s risk misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise management and internal control systems. from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in aggregate, they could reasonably be We are required to review the part of the Corporate expected to influence the economic decisions of users Governance Statement relating to the Group’s taken on the basis of the financial statements. compliance with the provisions of the UK Corporate Governance Code specified by the Listing Rules for our A fuller description of our responsibilities is review. We have nothing to report in this respect. provided on the FRC’s website at www.frc.org.uk/ auditorsresponsibilities. 08 We have nothing to report on the other matters on which we are required to report The Company is required to include these financial byexception statements in an annual financial report prepared using Under the Companies Act 2006, we are required to report the single electronic reporting format specified in the to you if, in our opinion: TD ESEF Regulation. This auditor’s report provides no assurance over whether the annual financial report has • adequate accounting records have not been kept by been prepared in accordance with that format. the parent Company, or returns adequate for our audit have not been received from branches not visited byus; or • the parent Company financial statements and the part of the Directors’ Remuneration Report to be audited are not in agreement with the accounting records and returns; or • certain disclosures of Directors’ remuneration specified by law are not made; or • we have not received all the information and explanations we require for our audit. We have nothing to report in these respects. Annual Report & Accounts 2023 73 Independent auditor’s report continued 10 The purpose of our audit work and to whom we owe our responsibilities This report is made solely to the Company’s members, as a body, in accordance with Chapter 3 of Part 16 of the Companies Act 2006 and the terms of our engagement by the Company. Our audit work has been undertaken so that we might state to the Company’s members those matters we are required to state to them in an auditor’s report, and the further matters we are required to state to them in accordance with the terms agreed with the Company and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the Company and the Company’s members, as a body, for our audit work, for this report, or for the opinions we have formed. Philip Merchant (Senior Statutory Auditor) for and on behalf of KPMG LLP, Statutory Auditor Chartered Accountants Saltire Court 20 Castle Terrace Edinburgh EH1 2EG 1 June 2023 74 TR Property Investment Trust Overview Strategic report Governance Financial statements Glossary and AIFMD disclosure Notice of AGM Shareholder information ## Financial ## statements Annual Report & Accounts 2023 75 ## Group statement of comprehensive income for the year ended 31 March 2023 Year ended 31 March 2023 Year ended 31 March 2022 | | Revenue | | Capital | | Revenue | | Capital | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | | | Return | Return | Total | | Return | Return | Total | | Notes | | £'000 | £'000 | £'000 | | £’000 | £’000 | £’000 | Income Investment income 2 52,077 - 52,077 44,170 - 44,170 Other operating income 4 255 12 267 5 - 5 Gross rental income 3 3,513 - 3,513 2,773 - 2,773 Service charge income 3 946 - 946 1,103 - 1,103 (Losses)/gains on investments held at fair value 10 - (549,430) (549,430) - 249,038 249,038 Net movement on foreign exchange; investments and loan notes - (2,780) (2,780) - 1,136 1,136 Net movement on foreign exchange; cash and cash equivalents - 2,016 2,016 - 637 637 Net returns on contracts for difference 10 9,462 (45,556) (36,094) 5,701 16,361 22,062 Total Income 66,253 (595,738) (529,485) 53,752 267,172 320,924 Expenses Management and performance fees 5 (1,560) (4,680) (6,240) (1,663) (29,477) (31,140) Direct property expenses, rent payable and service charge costs 3 (1,660) - (1,660) (1,435) - (1,435) Other administrative expenses 6 (1,163) (542) (1,705) (1,621) (608) (2,229) Total operating expenses (4,383) (5,222) (9,605) (4,719) (30,085) (34,804) Operating profit/(loss) 61,870 (600,960) (539,090) 49,033 237,087 286,120 Finance costs 7 (1,146) (3,438) (4,584) (629) (1,886) (2,515) Profit/(loss) from operations before tax 60,724 (604,398) (543,674) 48,404 235,201 283,605 Taxation 8 (6,087) 2,495 (3,592) (4,967) 3,049 (1,918) Total comprehensive income 54,637 (601,903) (547,266) 43,437 238,250 281,687 Earnings/(loss) per Ordinary share 9 17.22p (189.67)p (172.45)p 13.69p 75.07p 88.76p The Total column of this statement represents the Group’s Statement of Comprehensive Income, prepared in accordance with UK-adopted international accounting standards. The Revenue Return and Capital Return columns are supplementary to this and are prepared under guidance published by the Association of Investment Companies. All items in the above statement derive from continuing operations. The Group does not have any other income or expense that is not included in the above statement therefore “Total comprehensive income” is also the profit and loss for the year. All income is attributable to the shareholders of the parent company. The notes from pages 80 to 104 form part of these Financial Statements. TR Property Investment Trust76 Overview Strategic report Governance Financial statements Glossary and AIFMD disclosure Notice of AGM Shareholder information ## Group and Company statement of changes in equity Group | | | | Share | | Capital | | | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | | Share | Premium | | Redemption | | Retained | | | | | Capital | Account | | | Reserve | Earnings | | Total | | For the year ended 31 March 2023 Notes | £'000 | | £'000 | | £'000 | | £'000 | £'000 | At 31 March 2022 79,338 43,162 43,971 1,396,268 1,562,739 Total comprehensive income - - - (547,266) (547,266) Dividends paid 17 - - - (47,127) (47,127) At 31 March 2023 79,338 43,162 43,971 801,875 968,346 Company | | | | Share | | Capital | | | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | | Share | Premium | | Redemption | | Retained | | | | | Capital | Account | | | Reserve | Earnings | | Total | | For the year ended 31 March 2023 Notes | £'000 | | £'000 | | £'000 | | £'000 | £'000 | At 31 March 2022 79,338 43,162 43,971 1,396,268 1,562,739 Total comprehensive income - - - (547,266) (547,266) Dividends paid 17 - - - (47,127) (47,127) At 31 March 2023 79,338 43,162 43,971 801,875 968,346 Group | | | | Share | | Capital | | | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | | Share | Premium | | Redemption | | Retained | | | | | Capital | Account | | | Reserve | Earnings | | Total | | For the year ended 31 March 2022 Notes | £’000 | | £’000 | | £’000 | | £’000 | £’000 | At 31 March 2021 79,338 43,162 43,971 1,159,962 1,326,433 Total comprehensive income - - - 281, 687 281,687 Dividends paid 17 - - - (45,381) (45,381) At 31 March 2022 79,338 43,162 43,971 1,396,268 1,562,739 Company | | | | Share | | Capital | | | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | | Share | Premium | | Redemption | | Retained | | | | | Capital | Account | | | Reserve | Earnings | | Total | | For the year ended 31 March 2022 Notes | £’000 | | £’000 | | £’000 | | £’000 | £’000 | At 31 March 2021 79,338 43,162 43,971 1,159,962 1,326,433 Total comprehensive income - - - 281,687 281,687 Dividends paid 17 - - - (45,381) (45,381) At 31 March 2022 79,338 43,162 43,971 1,396,268 1,562,739 The notes from pages 80 to 104 form part of these Financial Statements. Annual Report & Accounts 2023 77 ## Group and company balance sheets as at 31 March 2023 | | Group | Company | | Group | Company | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | | 2023 | | 2023 | 2022 | | 2022 | | Notes | £'000 | | £'000 | £’000 | | £’000 | Non-current assets Investments held at fair value 10 948,672 948,672 1,506,436 1,506,436 Investments in subsidiaries 10 - 36,292 - 36,297 Investments held for sale 10 - - 48,980 48,980 948,672 984,964 1,555,416 1,591,713 Deferred taxation asset 12 903 903 903 903 949,575 985,867 1,556,319 1,592,616 Current assets Debtors 12 65,287 65,293 97,673 97,208 Cash and cash equivalents 36,071 36,069 32,109 32,107 101,358 101,362 129,782 129,315 (23,654) (59,950) Current liabilities 13 (66,109) (101,939) Net current assets 77,704 41,412 63,673 27,376 Total assets plus net current assets/(liabilities) 1,027,279 1,027,279 1,619,992 1,619,992 Non-current liabilities 13 (58,933) (58,933) (57,253) (57,253) Net assets 968,346 968,346 1,562,739 1,562,739 Capital and reserves Called up share capital 14 79,338 79,338 79,338 79,338 Share premium account 15 43,162 43,162 43,162 43,162 Capital redemption reserve 15 43,971 43,971 43,971 43,971 Retained earnings 16 801,875 801,875 1,396,268 1,396,268 Equity shareholders’ funds 968,346 968,346 1,562,739 1,562,739 Net Asset Value per: Ordinary share 19 305.13p 305.13p 492.43p 492.43p These financial statements were approved by the directors of TR Property Investment Trust plc (Company No:84492) and authorised for issue on 1 June 2023. D Watson Director The notes from pages 80 to 104 form part of these Financial Statements. TR Property Investment Trust78 Overview Strategic report Governance Financial statements Glossary and AIFMD disclosure Notice of AGM Shareholder information ## Group and Company cash flow statements for the year ended 31 March 2023 | Group | Company | | Group | Company | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | 2023 | | 2023 | 2022 | | 2022 | | £'000 | | £'000 | £’000 | | £’000 | Reconciliation of profit from operations before tax to net cash outflow from operating activities (Loss)/profit from operations before tax (543,674) (543,674) 283,605 283,605 Finance costs 4,584 4,584 2,515 2,515 Losses/(gains) on investments and derivatives held at fair value through profit or loss 594,986 594,990 (265,399) (258,387) Net movement on foreign exchange; cash and cash equivalents and loan notes (336) (336) (977) (977) Scrip dividends included in investment income and net returns on contracts for difference (6,325) (6,325) (10,839) (10,839) Sale of investments 448,587 448,587 544,370 544,370 Purchase of investments (427,509) (427,509) (430,830) (430,831) (Increase)/decrease in prepayments and accrued income (978) (978) 8 8 Decrease/(increase) in sales settlement debtor 30,399 30,399 (32,871) (32,871) Increase in purchase settlement creditor 3,172 3,172 5,170 5,170 Decrease in other debtors 1,419 1,413 2,951 2,951 (Decrease)/increase in other creditors (22,265) (21,797) 13,809 6,798 Net cashflow from operating activities before interest and taxation 82,060 82,526 111,512 111,512 Interest paid (4,584) (4,584) (2,515) (2,515) Taxation paid (3,403) (3,869) (1,258) (1,258) Net cashflow from operating activities 74,073 74,073 107,739 107,739 Financing activities Equity dividends paid (47,127) (47,127) (45,381) (45,381) Repayment of loans (25,000) (25,000) (60,000) (60,000) Net cashflow from financing activities (72,127) (72,127) (105,381) (105,381) Increase in cash 1,946 1,946 2,358 2,358 Cash and cash equivalents at start of year 32,109 32,107 29,114 29,112 Net movement on foreign exchange; cash and cash equivalents 2,016 2,016 637 637 Cash and cash equivalents at end of year 36,071 36,069 32,109 32,107 The notes from pages 80 to 104 form part of these Financial Statements. Annual Report & Accounts 2023 79 ## Notes to the financial statements 01 Accounting policies The financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2023 have been prepared on a going concern basis, in accordance with UK-adopted International accounting standards and in conformity with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006. The financial statements have also been prepared in accordance with the Statement of Recommended Practice, “Financial Statements of Investment Trust Companies and Venture Capital Trusts," ('SORP'), to the extent that it is consistent with UK-adopted international accounting standards. In assessing Going Concern the Board has made a detailed assessment of the ability of the Company and the Group to meet its liabilities as they fall due, including stress and liquidity tests which considered the effects of substantial falls in investment valuations, revenues received and market liquidity as the global economy continues to suffer disruption due to inflationary pressures, the war in Ukraine and the after-effects of the COVID-19 pandemic . In light of the testing carried out, the liquidity of the level 1 assets held by the Company and the significant net asset value, and the net current asset position of the Group and Parent Company, the Directors are satisfied that the Company and Group have adequate financial resources to continue in operation for at least the next 12 months following the signing of the financial statements and therefore it is appropriate to adopt the going concern basis of accounting. The Group and Company financial statements are expressed in sterling, which is their functional and presentational currency. Sterling is the functional currency because it is the currency of the primary economic environment in which the Group operates. Values are rounded to the nearest thousand pounds (£'000) except where otherwise indicated . Key estimates and judgements The preparation of the financial statements necessarily requires the exercise of judgement, both in application of accounting policies, which are set out below, and in the selection of assumptions used in the calculation of estimates. These estimates and judgements are reviewed on an ongoing basis and are continually evaluated based on historical experience and other factors. However, actual results may differ from these estimates. The only key estimate is considered to be the valuation of investment properties. See section (f) of this note. There are not considered to be any key judgements. a) Basis of consolidation The Group financial statements consolidate the financial statements of the Company and its subsidiaries to 31 March 2023. All the subsidiaries of the Company have been consolidated in these financial statements. In accordance with IFRS10 the Company has been designated as an investment entity on the basis that: • It obtains funds from investors and provides those investors with investment management services; • It commits to its investors that its business purpose is to invest funds solely for returns from capital appreciation and investment income; and • It measures and evaluates performance of substantially all of its investments on a fair value basis. Each of the subsidiaries of the Company was established for the sole purpose of operating or supporting the investment operations of the Company (including raising additional financing), and is not itself an investment entity. IFRS 10 sets out that in the case of controlled entities that support the investment activity of the investment entity, those entities should be consolidated rather than presented as investments at fair value. Accordingly the Company has consolidated the results and financial positions of those subsidiaries. Subsidiaries are consolidated from the date of their acquisition, being the date on which the Company obtains control, and continue to be consolidated until the date that such control ceases. The financial statements of subsidiaries used in the preparation of the consolidated financial statements are based on consistent accounting policies. All intra-group balances and transactions, including unrealised profits arising therefrom, are eliminated. b) Income Dividends receivable on equity shares are treated as revenue for the year on an ex-dividend basis. Where no ex-dividend date is available, dividends receivable on or before the year end are treated as revenue for the year. Provision is made for any dividends not expected to be received. Where the Group has elected to receive these dividends in the form of additional shares rather than cash the amount of cash dividend foregone is recognised as income. Differences between the value of shares received and the cash dividend foregone are recognised in the capital returns of the Group Statement of Comprehensive Income. The fixed returns on debt securities are recognised on a time apportionment basis so as to reflect the effective yield on each such security. Interest receivable from cash and short term deposits is accrued to the end of the year. Stock lending income is recognised on an accruals basis. Underwriting commission is taken to revenue, unless any shares underwritten are required to be taken up, in which case the proportionate commission received is deducted from the cost of the investment. Recognition of property rental income is set out in section (f) of this note. Recognition of income from contracts for difference is set out in section (g) of this note. TR Property Investment Trust80 Overview Strategic report Governance Financial statements Glossary and AIFMD disclosure Notice of AGM Shareholder information Annual Report & Accounts 2023 81 01 Accounting policies continued c) Expenses All expenses and finance costs are accounted for on an accruals basis. An analysis of retained earnings broken down into revenue and capital items is given in note 16. In arriving at this breakdown, expenses have been presented as revenue items except as follows: • Expenses which are incidental to the acquisition or disposal of an investment; • Expenses are presented as capital where a connection with the maintenance or enhancement of the value of the investments can be demonstrated; this includes irrecoverable VAT incurred on costs relating to the extension of residential leases as premiums received for extending or terminating leases are recognised in the capital account. • One quarter of the base management fee is charged to revenue, with three quarters allocated to capital return to reflect the Board's expectations of long term investment returns. All performance fees are charged to capital return; • The fund administration, depositary, custody and company secretarial services are charged directly to the Company and are included within 'Other administrative expenses' in note 6. These expenses are charged on the same basis as the base management fee; one quarter to income and three quarters to capital. d) Finance costs The finance cost in respect of capital instruments other than equity shares is calculated so as to give a constant rate of return on the outstanding balance. One quarter of the finance cost is charged to revenue and three quarters to capital return. e) Taxation Current tax assets and liabilities are measured at the amount expected to be recovered from or paid to the taxation authorities, based on tax rates and laws that are enacted or substantively enacted by the balance sheet date. Income tax is charged or credited directly to equity if it relates to items that are credited or charged to equity. Otherwise income tax is recognised in the Group Statement of Comprehensive Income. The tax effect of different items of expenditure is allocated between capital and revenue using the Group's effective rate of tax for the year. The charge for taxation is based on the profit for the year and takes into account taxation deferred because of temporary differences between the treatment of certain items for taxation and accounting purposes. In accordance with the recommendations of the SORP, the allocation method used to calculate tax relief on expenses presented against capital returns in the supplementary information in the Statement of Comprehensive Income is the “marginal basis”. Under this basis, if taxable income is capable of being offset entirely by expenses presented in the revenue return column of the Statement of Comprehensive Income, then no tax relief is transferred to the capital column. Deferred tax is the tax expected to be payable or recoverable on differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities in the Balance Sheet and the corresponding tax bases used in the computation of taxable profit, and is accounted for using the balance sheet liability method. Deferred tax liabilities are recognised for all taxable temporary differences and deferred tax assets are recognised to the extent that it is probable that taxable profits will be available against which deductible temporary differences can be utilised. The Company is an investment trust under s.1158 of the Corporation Tax Act 2010 and, as such, is not liable for tax on capital gains. Capital gains arising in subsidiary companies are subject to capital gains tax. f) Investment property Investment property is measured initially at cost including transaction costs. Transaction costs include transfer taxes, professional fees for legal services and initial leasing commissions to bring the property to the condition necessary for it to be capable of operating. The carrying amount also includes the cost of replacing part of an existing investment property at the time that cost is incurred if the recognition criteria are met. The purchase and sale of properties is recognised to be effected on the date unconditional contracts are exchanged. Subsequent to initial recognition, investment property is stated at fair value. Gains or losses arising from changes in the fair values are included in the Group Statement of Comprehensive Income in the year in which they arise. Investment property is derecognised when it has been disposed of or permanently withdrawn from use and no future economic benefit is expected from its disposal. Any gains or losses on the retirement or disposal of investment property are recognised in the Group Statement of Comprehensive Income in the year of disposal. Gains or losses on the disposal of investment property are determined as the difference between net disposal proceeds and the carrying value of the asset at the date of disposal. Revaluation of investment properties The Group carries its investment properties at fair value in accordance with IFRS 13, revalued twice a year, with changes in fair values being recognised in the Group Statement of Comprehensive Income. The Group engaged Knight Frank as independent valuation specialists to determine fair value as at 31 March 2023. TR Property Investment Trust82 Notes to the financial statements continued 01 Accounting policies continued Valuations of investment properties Determination of the fair value of investment properties has been prepared on the basis defined by the RICS Valuation - Global Standards (The Red Book Global Standards) as follows: “The estimated amount for which a property should exchange on the date of valuation between a willing buyer and a willing seller in an arm’s length transaction after proper marketing wherein the parties had each acted knowledgeably, prudently and without compulsion.” The valuation takes into account future cash flow from assets (such as lettings, tenants’ profiles, future revenue streams, capital values of fixtures and fittings, plant and machinery, any environmental matters and the overall repair and condition of the property) and discount rates applicable to those assets. These assumptions are based on local market conditions existing at the balance sheet date. In arriving at their estimates of fair values as at 31 March 2023, the valuers have used their market knowledge and professional judgement and have not only relied solely on historical transactional comparables. Examples of inputs to the valuation can be seen in the sensitivity analysis disclosed in note 10 (e). Held for sale investment are presented separately on the face of the Balance Sheet. Held for sale Investment property classified as held for sale is measured fair value. This condition is regarded as met only when the investment property is available for immediate sale in its present condition and the sale is highly probable. Management must be committed to a plan for sale with an active programme to identify a buyer at a reasonable price in relation to its fair value which should be expected to qualify for recognition as a completed sale within one year from the date of classification. Rental income Rental income receivable under operating leases is recognised on a straight-line basis over the term of the lease, except for contingent rental income which is recognised when it arises. Incentives for lessees to enter into lease agreements or other negotiated rent free periods agreed are spread evenly over the lease term, even if the payments are not made on such a basis. The lease term is the non-cancellable period of the lease together with any further term for which the tenant has the option to continue the lease, where, at the inception of the lease, the directors are reasonably certain that the tenant will exercise that option. Premiums received to terminate or extend leases are recognised in the capital account of the Group Statement of Comprehensive Income when they arise. Service charges and expenses recoverable from tenants Income arising from expenses recharged to tenants is recognised in the period in which the expense can be contractually recovered. Service charges and other such receipts are included gross of the related costs in revenue as the directors consider that the Group acts as principal in this respect. g) Investments When a purchase or sale is made under contract, the terms of which require delivery within the timeframe of the relevant market, the investments concerned are recognised or derecognised on the trade date. All the Group’s investments are defined under IFRS as investments designated as fair value through profit or loss but are also described in these financial statements as investments held at fair value. All investments are designated upon initial recognition as held at fair value, and are measured at subsequent reporting dates at fair value, which, for quoted investments, is deemed to be closing prices for stocks sourced from European stock exchanges and for SETS stocks sourced from the London Stock Exchange. SETS is the London Stock Exchange electronic trading service covering most of the market including all the FTSE All -Share and the most liquid AIM constituents. Unquoted investments or investments for which there is only an inactive market are held at fair value which is based on valuations made by the directors in accordance with IPEVCA guidelines and using current market prices, trading conditions and the general economic climate. In its financial statements the Company recognises the fair value of its investments in subsidiaries as being the adjusted net asset value. The subsidiaries have historically been holding vehicles for direct property investment or financing vehicles. No assets are currently held through the subsidiary structure and all financing instruments are directly held by the Company. Changes in the fair value are recognised in the Group Statement of Comprehensive Income. On disposal, realised gains and losses are also recognised in the Group Statement of Comprehensive Income. Derivatives Derivatives are held at fair value based on traded prices. Gains and losses on derivative transactions are recognised in the Group Statement of Comprehensive Income. Gains and losses on contracts for difference ('CFDs') and total return swaps resulting from movements in the price of the underlying stock are treated as capital. Dividends from the underlying investment and financing costs of CFDs and total return swaps are treated as revenue/capital expenses. Gains and losses on forward currency contracts used for capital hedging purposes are treated as capital. Overview Strategic report Governance Financial statements Glossary and AIFMD disclosure Notice of AGM Shareholder information Annual Report & Accounts 2023 83 01 Accounting policies continued Derivatives continued CFDs are synthetic equities and are valued by reference to the investments' underlying market values. The sources of the returns under the derivative contract (e.g. notional dividends, financing costs, interest returns and capital changes) are allocated to the revenue and capital accounts in alignment with the nature of the underlying source of income and in accordance with the guidance given in the AIC SORP. Notional dividend income or expenses arising on long or short positions are apportioned wholly to the revenue account. Notional interest expense on long positions is apportioned between revenue and capital in accordance with the Board’s long term expected returns of the Company (currently determined to be 25% to the revenue account and 75% to capital reserves). Changes in value relating to underlying price movements of securities in relation to CFD exposures are allocated wholly to capital reserves. h) Borrowings, loan notes and debentures All loans and debentures are initially recognised at the fair value of the consideration received, less issue costs where applicable. After initial recognition, all interest bearing loans and borrowings are subsequently measured at amortised cost. Amortised cost is calculated by taking into account any discount or premium on settlement. The costs of arranging any interest bearing loans are capitalised and amortised over the life of the loan on an effective interest rate basis. i) Foreign currency translation Transactions involving foreign currencies are converted at the rate ruling at the date of the transaction. Foreign currency monetary assets and liabilities are translated into sterling at the rate ruling on the balance sheet date. Foreign exchange differences are recognised in the Group Statement of Comprehensive Income. j) Cash and cash equivalents Cash and cash equivalents are measured at amortised cost and comprise cash in hand and demand deposits. k) Dividends payable to shareholders Interim dividends are recognised in the period in which they are paid and final dividends are recognised when approved by shareholders. l) Adoption of new and revised Standards Standards and Interpretations effective in the current period The accounting policies adopted are consistent with those of the previous consolidated financial statements. There were no amendments to International Financial Reporting Standards or Interpretations that had an effect during the period.. Early adoption of standards and interpretations The standards issued before the reporting date that become effective after 31 March 2023 are not expected to have a material effect on equity or profit for the subsequent period. The Group has not early adopted any new International Financial Reporting Standard or Interpretation. Standards, amendments and interpretations issued but not yet effective up to the date of issuance of the Group's financial statements are listed below: IAS 1 Amendments - Classification of Liabilities as Current or Non-Current (effective date amended to 1 January 2023). The amendments specify the requirements for classifying liabilities as current or non-current. The amendments are not expected to have a material impact on the Group's financial statements. IAS 1 Amendments - Disclosure of Accounting Policies (effective 1 January 2023). The amendments require an entity to disclose its material accounting policy information instead of its significant accounting policies. The amendments contain guidance and examples on identifying material accounting policy information. IAS 8 Amendments - Definition of Accounting Estimates (effective 1 January 2023) The amendments define accounting estimates as "monetary amounts in financial statements that are subject to measurement uncertainty". The amendments also clarify the interaction between an accounting policy and an accounting estimate. IAS 12 Amendments - Deferred Tax related to Assets and Liabilities arising from a Single Transaction (effective 1 January 2023). The amendments require entities with certain assets to recognise deferred tax on particular transactions that, on initial recognition, give rise to equal amounts of taxable and deductible temporary differences. IAS 1 Amendments - Non-current Liabilities with Covenants (effective 1 January 2024). The amendments require disclose of information when there is a right to defer settlement of a liability for at least twelve months. ## Notes to the financial statements continued ### 02 Investment income | | 2022 £'000 | 2022 £'000 | | --- | --- | --- | | Dividends from UK listed investments | 3,084 | 3,101 | | Dividends from overseas listed investments | 30,891 | 21,349 | | Scrip dividends from listed investments | 6,325 | 10,693 | | Property income distributions | 11,777 | 9,027 | | | 52,077 | 44,170 | ### 03 Net rental income | | 2022 £'000 | 2022 £'000 | | --- | --- | --- | | Gross rental income | 3,513 | 2,773 | | Service charge income | 946 | 1,103 | | Direct property expenses, rent payable and service charge costs | (1,660) | (1,435) | | | 2,799 | 2,441 | #### Operating leases The Group has entered into commercial leases on its property portfolio. Commercial property leases typically have lease terms between 5 and 15 years and include clauses to enable periodic upward revision of the rental charge according to prevailing market conditions. Some leases contain options to break before the end of the lease term. Future minimum rentals under non-cancellable operating leases as at 31 March are as follows: | | 2022 £'000 | 2022 £'000 | | --- | --- | --- | | Within 1 year | 2,900 | 2,800 | | After 1 year but not more than 5 years | 9,900 | 10,250 | | More than 5 years | 14,150 | 17,500 | | | 26,950 | 30,550 | ### 04 Other operating income | | 2022 £'000 | 2022 £'000 | | --- | --- | --- | | Interest receivable | 255 | - | | Interest on refund of overseas withholding tax | - | 5 | | Income received to capital | 12 | - | | | 267 | 5 | 84 TR Property Investment Trust ## 05 Management and performance fees | | 2022 Revenue £'000 | 2022 Capital £'000 | 2022 Total £'000 | 2022 Revenue £'000 | 2022 Capital £'000 | 2022 Total £'000 | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Management fee | 1,560 | 4,680 | 6,240 | 1,663 | 4,988 | 6,651 | | Performance fee | - | - | - | - | 24,489 | 24,489 | | | 1,560 | 4,680 | 6,240 | 1,663 | 29,477 | 31,140 | A summary of the terms of the management agreement is given in the Report of the Directors on page 47. Under the terms of this agreement the manager is not entitled to a performance fee for the year to 31 March 2023. ## 06 Other administrative expenses | | 2022 £'000 | 2022 £'000 | | --- | --- | --- | | Directors' fees (Directors' Remuneration Report on pages 63 to 65) | 228 | 220 | | Auditor's remuneration: | | | | – for audit of the consolidated and parent company financial statements | 97 | 82 | | Legal fees | 1 | 21 | | Taxation fees | 90 | 77 | | Other administrative expenses | 187 | 199 | | Other expenses | 532 | 869 | | Irrecoverable VAT | 28 | 153 | | Expenses charged to Revenue | 1,163 | 1,621 | | Expenses charged to Capital | 542 | 608 | | | 1,705 | 2,229 | Other administrative expenses include depositary, custody and company secretarial services. These expenses are charged on the same basis as the base management fee, 25% to income and 75% to capital. Total other administrative expenses charged to both income and capital are £721,000 (2022: £807,000). Other expenses include broker fees, marketing and PR costs, Directors' National Insurance and recruitment, Registrars and listing fees, and annual report and other publication printing and distribution costs. These expenses are charged solely to the revenue account. Overview Strategic report Governance Financial statements Glossary and AIFMD disclosure Notice of ADM Shareholder information Annual Report & Accounts 2023 85 Notes to the financial statements continued ## 07 Finance costs | | 2022 £'000 | 2022 £'000 | | --- | --- | --- | | Loan notes, bank loans and overdrafts repayable within 1 year | 3,189 | 1,162 | | Loan notes repayable between 2 - 5 years | 837 | 814 | | Loan notes repayable after 5 years | 558 | 539 | | | 4,584 | 2,515 | | Amount allocated to Capital | (3,438) | (1,886) | | Amount allocated to Revenue | 1,146 | 629 | ## 08 Taxation ### a) Analysis of charge in the year | | 2022 Revenue £'000 | 2022 Capital £'000 | 2022 Total £'000 | 2022 Revenue £'000 | 2022 Capital £'000 | 2022 Total £'000 | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | UK corporation tax at 19% (2022: 19%) | 4,221 | (3,521) | 700 | 2,832 | (2,832) | - | | Overseas taxation | 2,148 | 1,026 | 3,174 | 2,135 | - | 2,135 | | | 6,369 | (2,495) | 3,874 | 4,967 | (2,832) | 2,135 | | Over provision in respect of prior years | (282) | - | (282) | - | - | - | | | 6,087 | (2,495) | 3,592 | 4,967 | (2,832) | 2,135 | | Deferred taxation | - | - | - | - | (217) | (217) | | Current tax charge for the year | 6,087 | (2,495) | 3,592 | 4,967 | (3,049) | 1,918 | 86 TR Property Investment Trust ## 08 Taxation continued ### b) Factors affecting total tax charge for the year The tax assessed for the year is lower (2022: lower) than the standard rate of corporation tax in the UK for a large company of 19% (2022: 19%). The difference is explained below: | | 2023 Revenue £'000 | 2023 Capital £'000 | 2022 Total £'000 | 2022 Revenue £'000 | 2022 Capital £'000 | 2022 Total £'000 | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Net profit/(loss) on ordinary activities before taxation | 60,724 | (604,398) | (543,674) | 48,404 | 235,201 | 283,605 | | Corporation tax charge at 19% (2022:19%) | 11,538 | (114,836) | (103,298) | 9,197 | 44,688 | 53,885 | | Effects of: | | | | | | | | Non-taxable losses/(gains) on investments | - | 104,392 | 104,392 | - | (47,317) | (47,317) | | Currency movements not taxable | - | 145 | 145 | - | (337) | (337) | | Tax relief on expenses charged to capital | - | (1,878) | (1,878) | - | 3,243 | 3,243 | | Non-taxable returns | - | 8,656 | 8,656 | - | (3,109) | (3,109) | | Non-taxable UK dividends | (586) | - | (586) | (603) | - | (603) | | Non-taxable overseas dividends | (6,791) | - | (6,791) | (5,810) | - | (5,810) | | Overseas withholding taxes | 2,148 | 1,026 | 3,174 | 2,135 | - | 2,135 | | Deferred tax movement | - | - | - | - | (217) | (217) | | Over provision in respect of prior years | (282) | - | (282) | - | - | - | | Disallowable expenses | 131 | - | 131 | 26 | - | 26 | | Deferred tax not provided | (71) | - | (71) | 22 | - | 22 | | | 6,087 | (2,495) | 3,592 | 4,967 | (3,049) | 1,918 | ### c) Provision for deferred taxation The amounts for deferred taxation provided at 25% (2022: 25%) comprise: #### Group | | 2023 Revenue £'000 | 2023 Capital £'000 | 2022 Total £'000 | 2022 Revenue £'000 | 2022 Capital £'000 | 2022 Total £'000 | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Unutilised losses carried forward | - | (903) | (903) | - | (903) | (903) | | Shown as: | | | | | | | | Deferred tax asset | - | (903) | (903) | - | (903) | (903) | | Company | 2023 Revenue £'000 | 2023 Capital £'000 | 2022 Total £'000 | 2022 Revenue £'000 | 2022 Capital £'000 | 2022 Total £'000 | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Unutilised losses carried forward | - | (903) | (903) | - | (903) | (903) | | Shown as: | | | | | | | | Deferred tax asset | - | (903) | (903) | - | (903) | (903) | Overview Strategic report Governance Financial statements Glossary and AIFMD disclosure Notice of ADM Shareholder information Annual Report & Accounts 2023 87 Notes to the financial statements continued # **08 Taxation continued** # **c) Provision for deferred taxation continued** The movement in provision in the year is as follows: | Group | 2023 Revenue £'000 | 2023 Capital £'000 | 2022 Total £'000 | 2022 Revenue £'000 | 2022 Capital £'000 | 2022 Total £'000 | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Provision at the start of the year | - | (903) | (903) | - | (686) | (686) | | Unutilised losses carried forward | - | - | - | - | (217) | (217) | | Provision at the end of the year | - | (903) | (903) | - | (903) | (903) | | Company | 2023 Revenue £'000 | 2023 Capital £'000 | 2022 Total £'000 | 2022 Revenue £'000 | 2022 Capital £'000 | 2022 Total £'000 | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Provision at the start of the year | - | (903) | (903) | - | (686) | (686) | | Unutilised losses carried forward | - | - | - | - | (217) | (217) | | Provision at the end of the year | - | (903) | (903) | - | (903) | (903) | The Group has not recognised deferred tax assets of £5,601,017 (2022: £8,007,769) arising as a result of losses carried forward. It is considered too uncertain that the Group will generate profits in the relevant companies that the losses would be available to offset against and, on this basis, the deferred tax asset in respect of these expenses has not been recognised. Due to the Company's status as an investment trust company and the intention to continue meeting the conditions required to obtain approval for the foreseeable future, the Company has not provided deferred tax on any capital gains arising on the revaluation or disposal of investments. # **09 Earnings/(loss) per Ordinary share** # **Earnings/(loss) per Ordinary share** The earnings per Ordinary share can be analysed between revenue and capital, as below: | | Year ended 31 March 2023 £'000 | Year ended 31 March 2022 £'000 | | --- | --- | --- | | Net revenue profit | 54,637 | 43,437 | | Net capital profit | (601,903) | 238,250 | | Net total profit | (547,266) | 281,687 | | Weighted average number of shares in issue during the year | 317,350,980 | 317,350,980 | | | pence | pence | | --- | --- | --- | | Revenue earnings per share | 17.22 | 13.69 | | Capital earnings per share | (189.67) | 75.07 | | Earnings per share | (172.45) | 88.76 | The Group has no securities in issue that could dilute the return per share. Therefore the basic and diluted return per share are the same. 88 TR Property Investment Trust ## 10 Investments held at fair value ### a) Analysis of investments | | Group 2022 £'000 | Company 2022 £'000 | Group 2022 £'000 | Company 2022 £'000 | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Listed in the United Kingdom | 383,303 | 383,303 | 516,076 | 516,076 | | Unlisted in the United Kingdom | 2,573 | 2,573 | 2,341 | 2,341 | | Listed Overseas | 488,839 | 488,839 | 940,744 | 940,744 | | Investment properties | 73,957 | 73,957 | 47,275 | 47,275 | | Investments held for sale | - | - | 48,980 | 48,980 | | Investments held at fair value | 948,672 | 948,672 | 1,555,416 | 1,555,416 | | Investments in subsidiaries at fair value | - | 36,292 | - | 36,297 | | | 948,672 | 984,964 | 1,555,416 | 1,591,713 | Investments held for sale, mixed use property, the Colonnades, London, W2, was under offer at 31 March 2022 with a sale expected to complete by the end of June 2022. Ultimately, the residential element of the Colonnades was sold and a decision was made to retain the commercial element for the foreseeable future. There are no investments held for sale as at 31 March 2023. ### b) Business segment reporting | | Valuation 31 March 2022 £'000 | Net additions/ (disposals) £'000 | Net appreciation/ (depreciation) £'000 | Valuation 31 March 2023 £'000 | Gross revenue 31 March 2023 £'000 | Gross revenue 31 March 2022 £'000 | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Listed investments | 1,456,820 | (52,591) | (532,087) | 872,142 | 51,450 | 43,775 | | Unlisted investments | 2,341 | - | 232 | 2,573 | 627 | 395 | | Contracts for difference | 7,657 | 42,561 | (45,556) | 4,662 | 9,462 | 5,701 | | Total investments segment | 1,466,818 | (10,030) | (577,411) | 879,377 | 61,539 | 49,871 | | Direct property segment | 96,255 | (4,723) | (17,575) | 73,957 | 4,459 | 3,876 | | | 1,563,073 | (14,753) | (594,986) | 953,334 | 65,998 | 53,747 | In seeking to achieve its investment objective, the Company invests in the shares and securities of property companies and property related businesses internationally and also in investment property located in the UK. The Company therefore considers that there are two distinct reporting segments, investments and direct property, which are used for evaluating performance and allocation of resources. The Board, which is the principal decision maker, receives information on the two segments on a regular basis. Whilst revenue streams and direct property costs can be attributed to the reporting segments, general administrative expenses cannot be split to allow a profit for each segment to be determined. The assets and gross revenues for each segment are shown above. The property costs included within note 3 are £1,660,000 (2022: £1,435,000) and deducting these costs from the direct property gross revenue above would result in net income of £2,799,000 (2022: £2,441,000) for the direct property reporting segment. Overview Strategic report Governance Financial statements Glossary and AIFMD disclosure Notice of ADM Shareholder information Annual Report & Accounts 2023 89 Notes to the financial statements continued # **10 Investments held at fair value continued** # **c) Geographical segment reporting** | | Valuation 31 March 2022 £'000 | Net additions/ (disposals) £'000 | Net appreciation/ (depreciation) £'000 | Valuation 31 March 2022 £'000 | Gross revenue 31 March 2022 £'000 | Gross revenue 31 March 2022 £'000 | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | UK listed equities and convertibles | 516,076 | 46,391 | (179,164) | **383,303** | **15,941** | 11,731 | | UK unlisted equities | 2,341 | - | 232 | **2,573** | **395** | 395 | | UK direct property^{1} | 96,255 | (4,723) | (17,575) | **73,957** | **4,459** | 3,876 | | Continental European listed equities | 940,744 | (98,982) | (352,923) | **488,839** | **35,741** | 32,044 | | | 1,555,416 | (57,314) | (549,430) | **948,672** | **56,536** | 48,046 | | UK contracts for difference^{2} | 1,627 | 31,268 | (33,831) | **(936)** | **3,425** | 1,616 | | European contracts for difference^{3} | 6,830 | 11,293 | (11,725) | **5,598** | **6,037** | 4,085 | | | 1,563,073 | (14,753) | (594,986) | **953,334** | **65,998** | 53,747 | Included in the above figures are purchase costs of £981,000 (2022: £489,000) and sales costs of £238,000 (2022: £259,000). These comprise mainly stamp duty and commission. The Company received £512,155,000 (2022: £544,092,000) from investments, including direct property, sold in the year. The book cost of these investments when they were purchased was £412,279,000 (2022: £356,438,000). These investments have been revalued over time and until they were sold any unrealised gains/losses were included in the fair value of the investments. $^{1}$ Net additions/(disposals) includes £480,000 (2022: £366,000) of capital expenditure. Net appreciation/(depreciation) includes amounts in respect of rent free periods. $^{2}$ Gross revenue for contracts for difference relates to dividends receivable, on an ex dividend basis, on the underlying positions held. The appreciation/(depreciation) in CFDs relates to the movement in fair value in the year. $^{3}$ The depreciation in the TRS relates to the movement in fair value in the year until maturity. # **d) Substantial share interests** The Group held interests in 3% or more of any class of capital in 6 companies (2022: 8 companies) in which it invests. None of these investments is considered significant in the context of these financial statements. See note 21 on pages 103 and 104 for further details of subsidiary investments. # **e) Fair value of financial assets and financial liabilities** Financial assets and financial liabilities are carried in the Balance Sheet either at their fair value (investments) or the balance sheet amount is a reasonable approximation of fair value (due from brokers, dividends and interest receivable, due to brokers, accruals and cash at bank). # **Fair value hierarchy disclosures** Categorisation within the hierarchy has been determined on the basis of the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement of the relevant asset as follows: Level 1 - valued using quoted prices in an active market for identical assets. Level 2 - valued by reference to valuation techniques using observable inputs other than quoted prices within Level 1. Level 3 - valued by reference to valuation techniques using inputs that are not based on observable market data. The valuation techniques used by the Group are explained in the accounting policies in notes 1(f) and 1(g). 90 TR Property Investment Trust ## 10 Investments held at fair value continued ### e) Fair value of financial assets and financial liabilities continued The table below sets out fair value measurements using IFRS 13 fair value hierarchy #### Financial assets/(liabilities) at fair value through profit or loss | At 31 March 2023 | Level 1 £'000 | Level 2 £'000 | Level 3 £'000 | Total £'000 | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Equity investments | 861,611 | 10,531 | 2,573 | 874,715 | | Investment properties | - | - | 73,957 | 73,957 | | Contracts for difference | - | 4,662 | - | 4,662 | | Foreign exchange forward contracts | - | (386) | - | (386) | | | 861,611 | 14,807 | 76,530 | 952,948 | | At 31 March 2022 | Level 1 £'000 | Level 2 £'000 | Level 3 £'000 | Total £'000 | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Equity investments | 1,456,820 | - | 2,341 | 1,459,161 | | Investment properties | - | - | 96,255 | 96,255 | | Contracts for difference | - | 7,657 | - | 7,657 | | Foreign exchange forward contracts | - | 2,736 | - | 2,736 | | | 1,456,820 | 10,393 | 98,596 | 1,565,809 | The table above represents the Group's fair value hierarchy. The Company's fair value hierarchy is identical except for the inclusion of the fair value of the investment in subsidiaries which at 31 March 2023 was £36,292,000 (2022: £36,297,000). These have been categorised as level 3 in both years. The movement in the year of £5,000 (2022: £7,015,000) is the change in fair value in the year. The total financial assets at fair value for the Company at 31 March 2023 was £984,964,000 (2022: £1,591,713,000). #### Reconciliation of movements in financial assets categorised as level 3 | At 31 March 2023 | 31 March 2022 £'000 | Purchases £'000 | Sales £'000 | Appreciation / (Depreciation) £'000 | 31 March 2022 £'000 | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Unlisted equity investments | 2,341 | - | - | 232 | 2,573 | | Investment properties | | | | | | | - Mixed use | 48,187 | 387 | (5,203) | (6,746) | 36,625 | | - Office & Industrial | 48,068 | 93 | - | (10,829) | 37,332 | | | 96,255 | 480 | (5,203) | (17,575) | 73,957 | | | 98,596 | 480 | (5,203) | (17,343) | 76,530 | All appreciation/(depreciation) as stated above relates to movements in fair value of unlisted equity investments and investment properties held at 31 March 2023. The Group held one unquoted investment at the year end (see 11.6 overleaf). #### Transfers between hierarchy levels There were no transfers during the year between any of the levels. Overview Strategic report Governance Financial statements Glossary and AIFMS disclosure Notice of ADM Shareholder information Annual Report & Accounts 2023 91 Notes to the financial statements continued # 10 Investments held at fair value continued # Sensitivity information for Investment Property Valuations The significant unobservable inputs used in the fair value measurement categorised within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy of investment properties are: - Estimated rental value: £7.5 - £65 per sq ft (2022: £6.5 - £65) - Capitalisation rates: 3.0% - 6.0% (2022: 2.0% - 6.0%) Significant increases (decreases) in estimated rental value and rent growth in isolation would result in a significantly higher (lower) fair value measurement. A significant increase (decrease) in long-term vacancy rate in isolation would result in a significantly lower (higher) fair value measurement. There are interrelationships between the yields and rental values as they are partially determined by market rate condition. The sensitivity of the valuation to changes in the most significant inputs per class of investment property are shown below: | Estimated movement in fair value of investment properties at 31 March 2023 arising from | Retail £'000 | Industrial £'000 | Other £'000 | Total £'000 | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Increase in rental value 5.0% | 289 | 1,712 | - | 2,001 | | Decrease in rental value 5.0% | (289) | (1,712) | - | (2,001) | | Increase in Yield 0.5% | (3,538) | (3,466) | - | (7,004) | | Decrease in Yield 0.5% | 4,343 | 4,261 | - | 8,604 | | Estimated movement in fair value of investment properties at 31 March 2022 arising from | Retail £'000 | Office & Industrial £'000 | Other £'000 | Total £'000 | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Increase in rental value by 5% | 306 | 2,266 | 145 | 2,717 | | Decrease in rental value by 5% | (294) | (2,266) | (1) | (2,561) | | Increase in yield by 0.5% | (3,865) | (6,343) | (832) | (11,040) | | Decrease in yield by 0.5% | 4,841 | 8,711 | 1,101 | 14,653 | No impairment losses have been recognised as at 31 March 2023. # 11 Financial instruments # Risk management policies and procedures The Group invests in equities and other instruments for the long term in the pursuit of the Investment Objective set out on page 33. The Group is exposed to a variety of risks that could result in either a reduction or an increase in the profits available for distribution by way of dividends. The principal risks the Group faces in its portfolio management activities are: - Market risk (comprising price risk, currency risk and interest rate risk) - Liquidity risk - Credit risk The Manager's policies and processes for managing these risks are summarised on pages 37 to 40 and have been applied throughout the year. 92 TR Property Investment Trust ## 11 Financial instruments continued ### 11.1 Market price risk By the very nature of its activities, the Group's investments are exposed to market price fluctuations. #### Management of the risk The Manager runs a diversified portfolio and reports to the Board on the portfolio activity and performance at each Board meeting. The Board monitors the investment activity and strategy to ensure it is compatible with the stated objectives. The Group's exposure to changes in market prices on its quoted equity investments, CFDs and investment property portfolio, was as follows: | | 2022 £'000 | 2022 £'000 | | --- | --- | --- | | Investments held at fair value | 948,672 | 1,555,416 | | CFD long gross exposure | 130,906 | 144,642 | #### Concentration of exposure to price risks As set out in the Investment Policies on page 34, there are guidelines to the amount of exposure to a single company, geographical region or direct property. These guidelines ensure an appropriate spread of exposure to individual or sector price risks. As an investment company dedicated to investment in the property sector, the Group is exposed to price movements across the property asset class as a whole. #### Price risk sensitivity The following table illustrates the sensitivity of the profit after taxation for the year and the value of shareholders' funds to an increase or decrease of 15% in the fair values of the Group's equity, fixed interest, CFD and direct property investments. The level of change is consistent with the illustration shown in the previous year. The sensitivity is based on the Group's equity, fixed interest, CFD and direct property exposure at each balance sheet date, with all other variables held constant. | | 2022 Increase in fair value £'000 | 2022 Decrease in fair value £'000 | 2022 Increase in fair value £'000 | 2022 Decrease in fair value £'000 | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Statement of Comprehensive Income – profit after tax | | | | | | Revenue return | (71) | 71 | (115) | 115 | | Capital return | 142,826 | (142,826) | 234,176 | (234,176) | | Change to the profit after tax for the year/shareholders' funds | 142,755 | (142,755) | 234,061 | (234,061) | | Change to total earnings per Ordinary Share | 44.98p | (44.98)p | 73.75p | (73.75)p | ### 11.2 Currency risk A proportion of the Group's portfolio is invested in overseas securities and their sterling value can be significantly affected by movements in foreign exchange rates. #### Management of the risk The Board receives a report at each Board meeting on the proportion of the investment portfolio held in sterling, Euros or other currencies. The Group may sometimes hedge foreign currency movements outside the Eurozone by funding investments in overseas securities with unsecured loans denominated in the same currency or through forward currency contracts. Cash deposits are held in sterling and/or Euro denominated accounts. Overview Strategic report Governance Financial statements Glossary and AIFMD disclosure Notice of AGM Shareholder information Annual Report & Accounts 2023 93 Notes to the financial statements continued # **11 Financial instruments continued** # **Foreign currency exposure** At the reporting date the Group had the following exposure: (sterling has been shown for reference) | Currency | 2023 | 2022 | | --- | --- | --- | | Sterling | 34.0% | 34.0% | | Euro | 42.0% | 42.0% | | Swedish Krona | 14.0% | 16.0% | | Other | 10.0% | 8.0% | The following table sets out the Group's total exposure to foreign currency risk and the net exposure to foreign currencies of the net monetary assets and liabilities: | 2023 | Sterling £'000 | Euro £'000 | Swedish Krona £'000 | Other £'000 | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Receivables (due from brokers, dividends and other income receivable) | 10,534 | 51,105 | 2,811 | 837 | | Cash at bank and on deposit | 8,226 | 20,620 | 4,299 | 2,926 | | Bank loans, loan notes and overdrafts | (10,000) | - | - | - | | Payables (due to brokers, accruals and other creditors) | (10,573) | (1,221) | (1,474) | - | | FX forwards | (118,592) | 52,283 | 39,628 | 26,295 | | Total foreign currency exposure on net monetary items | (120,405) | 122,787 | 45,264 | 30,058 | | Investments held at fair value | 459,832 | 330,586 | 88,592 | 69,662 | | Non-current assets | 903 | - | - | - | | Non-current liabilities | (15,000) | (43,933) | - | - | | Total currency exposure | 325,330 | 409,440 | 133,856 | 99,720 | | 2022 | Sterling £'000 | Euro £'000 | Swedish Krona £'000 | Other £'000 | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Receivables (due from brokers, dividends and other income receivable) | 53,912 | 27,758 | 12,659 | 608 | | Cash at bank and on deposit | 20,341 | 3,247 | 2,883 | 5,638 | | Bank loans, loan notes and overdrafts | (35,000) | - | - | - | | Payables (due to brokers, accruals and other creditors) | (25,642) | (111) | (1,634) | (3,722) | | FX forwards | (88,280) | (10,996) | 59,877 | 42,135 | | Total foreign currency exposure on net monetary items | (74,669) | 19,898 | 73,785 | 44,659 | | Investments held at fair value | 614,672 | 680,755 | 181,455 | 78,534 | | Non-current assets | 903 | - | - | - | | Non-current liabilities | (15,000) | (42,253) | - | - | | Total currency exposure | 525,906 | 658,400 | 255,240 | 123,193 | # **Foreign currency sensitivity** The following table illustrates the sensitivity of the profit after tax for the year on the Group's equity in regard to the exchange rates for sterling/Euro and sterling/Swedish Krona and other currencies. It assumes the following changes in exchange rates: - sterling/Euro +/- 15% (2022: 15%) - sterling/Swedish Krona +/- 15% (2022: 15%) - sterling/other +/- 15% (2022: 15%) 94 TR Property Investment Trust ## 11 Financial instruments continued ### Foreign currency sensitivity continued If sterling had strengthened against the currencies shown, this would have had the following effect: | | Year ended March 2023 | | | Year ended March 2022 | | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | | Euro £'000 | Swedish Krona £'000 | Other £'000 | Euro £'000 | Swedish Krona £'000 | Other £'000 | | Statement of Comprehensive Income – profit after tax | | | | | | | | Revenue return | (4,080) | (354) | (370) | (3,215) | (399) | (252) | | Capital return | (53,496) | (17,442) | (12,993) | (72,110) | (33,256) | (16,853) | | Change to the profit after tax for the year/shareholders' funds | (57,576) | (17,796) | (13,363) | (75,325) | (33,655) | (16,305) | | | 2023 | | | 2022 | | | | Change to total earnings per share | (27.96)p | | | (39.48)p | | | If sterling had weakened against the currencies shown, this would have the following effect: | | Year ended March 2023 | | | Year ended March 2022 | | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | | Euro £'000 | Swedish Krona £'000 | Other £'000 | Euro £'000 | Swedish Krona £'000 | Other £'000 | | Statement of Comprehensive Income – profit after tax | | | | | | | | Revenue return | 5,392 | 446 | 475 | 4,419 | 475 | 314 | | Capital return | 72,392 | 23,608 | 17,586 | 136,656 | 45,017 | 4,771 | | Change to the profit after tax for the year/shareholders' funds | 77,784 | 24,054 | 18,061 | 141,075 | 45,492 | 5,085 | | | 2023 | | | 2022 | | | | Change to total earnings per share | 37.78p | | | 60.39p | | | ### 11.3 Interest rate risk Interest rate movements may affect: - the fair value of any investments in fixed interest securities; - the fair value of the loan notes; - the level of income receivable from cash at bank and on deposit; - the level of interest expense on any variable rate bank loans; and - the prices of the underlying securities held in the portfolios. ### Management of the risk The possible effects on fair value and cash flows that could arise as a result of changes in interest rates are taken into account when making investment decisions. Property companies usually have borrowings themselves and the level of gearing and structure of its debt portfolio is a key factor when assessing the investment in a property company. The Group has fixed and has had variable rate borrowings during the year. The interest rates on the loan notes is fixed, details are set out in note 13. In addition to the loan notes the Group has unsecured, multi-currency revolving loan facilities which carry variable rates of interest based on the currencies drawn, plus a margin. The unused facilities total £120,000,000 (2022: £95,000,000). Overview Strategic report Governance Financial statements Glossary and AIFMD disclosure Notice of ADM Shareholder information Annual Report & Accounts 2023 95 Notes to the financial statements continued # 11 Financial instruments continued # Management of the risk continued The Manager considers both the level of debt on the balance sheet of the Group (i.e. the loan notes and any bank loans drawn) and the 'see-through' gearing, taking into account the assets and liabilities of the underlying investments, when considering the investment portfolio. These gearing levels are reported regularly to the Board. The majority of the Group's investment portfolio is non-interest bearing. As a result the Group's financial assets are not directly subject to significant amounts of risk due to fluctuations in the prevailing levels of market interest rates. # Interest rate exposure The exposure at 31 March of financial assets and financial liabilities to interest rate risk is shown by reference to - floating interest rates: when the interest rate is due to be re-set - fixed interest rates: when the financial instrument is due to be repaid. The Group's exposure to floating interest rates on assets is £81,170,000 (2022: £77,242,000) The Group's exposure to fixed interest rates on liabilities is £58,933,000 (2022: £57,253,000) The Group's exposure to floating interest rates on liabilities is £10,000,000 (2022: £35,000,000) Interest receivable and finance costs are at the following rates: - Interest received on cash balances, or paid on bank overdrafts, is at a margin over SONIA or its foreign currency equivalent (2022: same) - Interest paid on borrowings under the multi-currency loan facilities, is at a margin over SONIA or its foreign currency equivalent for the type of loan (2022: same). - The finance charges on the €50m and £15m loan notes are at interest rates of 1.92% and 3.59% respectively. The year end amounts are not representative of the exposure to interest rates during the year as the level of exposure changes as investments are made in fixed interest securities, borrowings are drawn down and repaid, and the mix of borrowings between floating and fixed interest rates changes. # Interest rate sensitivity A change of 2% on interest rates at the reporting date would have had the following direct impact: | | 2023 2% Increase £'000 | 2023 5% Decrease £'000 | 2022 2% Increase £'000 | 2022 2% Decrease £'000 | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Change to shareholders' funds | (198) | 198 | (243) | 243 | | Change to total earnings per share | (0.06)p | 0.06p | (0.08)p | 0.08p | This level of change is not representative of the year as a whole, since the exposure changes throughout the year. This assessment does not take into account the impact of interest rate changes on the market value of the investments the Group holds. # 11.4 Liquidity risk Unquoted investments in the portfolio are subject to liquidity risk. The Group held one unquoted investment at the year end (see 11.6 below). In certain market conditions, the liquidity of direct property investments may be reduced. At 31 March 2023, 8% (2022: 6%) of the Group's investment portfolio was held in direct property investments. At 31 March 2023, 92% (2022: 94%) of the Group's investment portfolio is held in listed securities which are predominantly readily realisable. Bank loan facilities are short term revolving loans which it is intended are renewed or replaced but renewal cannot be certain. Loan notes of €50m and £15m are repayable in February 2026 and 2031 respectively. The table shows the timing of cash outflows to settle the Group's current liabilities together with anticipated interest costs. 96 TR Property Investment Trust ## 11 Financial instruments continued ### Debt and Financing maturity profile | At 31 March 2023 | Within 1 year £'000 | Within 1-2 years £'000 | Within 2-3 years £'000 | Within 3-4 years £'000 | Within 4-5 years £'000 | More than 5 years £'000 | Total £'000 | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Bank loans* | 10,000 | - | - | - | - | - | 10,000 | | Loan notes | - | - | 43,933 | - | - | 15,000 | 58,933 | | Projected interest cash flows on bank and loan notes | 1,382 | 1,382 | 1,241 | 539 | 539 | 1,585 | 6,668 | | Securities and properties purchased for future settlement | 8,536 | - | - | - | - | - | 8,536 | | Accruals and deferred income | 2,953 | - | - | - | - | - | 2,953 | | Other creditors | 141 | - | - | - | - | - | 141 | | | 23,012 | 1,382 | 45,174 | 539 | 539 | 16,585 | 87,231 | | At 31 March 2022 | Within 1 year £'000 | Within 1-2 year £'000 | Within 2-3 year £'000 | Within 3-4 year £'000 | Within 4-5 year £'000 | More than 5 year £'000 | Total £'000 | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Bank loans | 35,000 | - | - | - | - | - | 35,000 | | Loan notes | - | - | - | 42,253 | - | 15,000 | 57,253 | | Projected interest cash flows on bank and loan notes | 1,350 | 1,350 | 1,350 | 1,241 | 539 | 2,124 | 7,954 | | Securities and properties purchased for future settlement | 5,364 | - | - | - | - | - | 5,364 | | Accruals and deferred income | 25,523 | - | - | - | - | - | 25,523 | | Other creditors | 222 | - | - | - | - | - | 222 | | | 67,459 | 1,350 | 1,350 | 43,494 | 539 | 17,124 | 131,316 | * A £50m multicarry facility with RBS was renewed for one year in February 2023. £10m (2022: £35m) was drawn on this facility at the balance sheet date. * A £30m one year facility with ING Luxembourg was renewed in July 2022. £ml (2022: £ml) was drawn on this facility at the balance sheet date. * A £40m facility with ICBC was renewed in November 2022. £ml (2022: £ml) was drawn on this facility at the balance sheet date. ### Management of the risk The Manager sets guidelines for the maximum exposure of the portfolio to unquoted and direct property investments. These are set out in the Investment Policies on page 34. All unquoted investments with a value over £1m and direct property investments with a value over £5 million must be approved by the Board for purchase. The Company maintains regular contact with the banks providing revolving facilities and renewal discussions commence well ahead of facility renewal dates. In addition new opportunities for the provision of debt are explored on an ongoing basis. ### 11.5 Credit risk The failure of a counterparty to a transaction to discharge its obligations under that transaction could result in the Group suffering a loss. At the period end the largest counterparty risk, which the Group was exposed to was within Debtors and Cash and cash equivalents where the total bank balances held with one counterparty was £56,326,000 (2022: £50,101,000). ### Management of the risk Investment transactions are carried out with a number of brokers, whose credit standing is reviewed periodically by the Manager, and limits are set on the amount that may be due from any one broker. Cash at bank is only held with banks with high quality external credit ratings. Overview Strategic report Governance Financial statements Glossary and AIFMD disclosure Notice of ADM Shareholder information Annual Report & Accounts 2023 97 Notes to the financial statements continued ## 11 Financial instruments continued ### Credit risk exposure In summary, compared to the amounts in the Balance Sheet, the maximum exposure to credit risk at 31 March was as follows: | | 2022 Balance Sheet £'000 | 2022 Maximum exposure £'000 | 2022 Balance Sheet £'000 | 2022 Maximum exposure £'000 | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Debtors | 65,287 | 65,287 | 97,673 | 97,673 | | Cash and cash equivalents | 36,071 | 36,071 | 32,109 | 32,109 | | | 101,358 | 101,358 | 129,782 | 129,782 | Where the receivables of the Group are exposed to credit risk, the requirement for impairment is assessed at each year end. For all receivables, in the table above, no impairment has been recognised in relation to expected credit losses as the impact of these losses is immaterial as at 31 March 2023 (31 March 2022: no impairment). ### Offsetting disclosures In order to define its contractual rights better and to secure rights that will help the Group mitigate its counterparty risk, the Group may enter into an ISDA Master Agreement or similar agreement with its OTC derivative contract counterparties. An ISDA Master Agreement is an agreement between the Group and the counterparty that governs OTC derivatives and foreign exchange contracts and typically contains, among other things, collateral posting terms and netting provisions in the event of a default and/or termination event. Under an ISDA Master Agreement, the Group has a contractual right to offset with the counterparty certain derivative financial instruments payables and/or receivables with collateral held and/or posted and create one single net payment in the event of default including the bankruptcy or insolvency of the counterparty. However, bankruptcy or insolvency laws of a particular jurisdiction may impose restrictions on or prohibitions against the right of offset in bankruptcy, insolvency or other events. The disclosures set out in the following tables include financial assets and financial liabilities that are subject to an enforceable master netting arrangement or similar agreement. At 31 March 2023 and 2022, the Group's derivative assets and liabilities (by type and counterparty) were as follows: | | Year ended 2023 | | Year ended 2022 | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | | Net amounts of financial assets/ (liabilities) presented in the Balance Sheet £'000 | Cash collateral pledged £'000 | Net amounts of financial assets/ liabilities presented in the Balance Sheet £'000 | Cash collateral pledged £'000 | | CFD positions: | | | | | | Goldman Sachs | 4,662 | 65,117 | 7,657 | 45,133 | | | 4,662 | 65,117 | 7,657 | 45,133 | | FX forward contracts: | | | | | | HSBC | (386) | - | 2,736 | - | | | (386) | - | 2,736 | - | 98 TR Property Investment Trust ## 11 Financial instruments continued ### 11.6 Fair values of financial assets and financial liabilities Except for the loan notes which are measured at amortised cost (refer to Note 13), the fair values of the financial assets and financial liabilities are either carried in the balance sheet at their fair value (investments) or the balance sheet amount is a reasonable approximation of fair value (debtors, creditors, cash at bank and bank overdrafts, accruals and prepayments). The fair values of the listed investments are derived from the closing price or last traded price at which the securities are quoted on the London Stock Exchange and other recognised exchanges. The fair value of contracts for difference are based on the underlying listed investment value as set out above and the amount due from or to the counterparty under the contract is recorded as an asset or liability accordingly, which is disclosed in Note 13 for the current year. The fair values of the properties are derived from an open market (Red Book) valuation of the properties on the Balance Sheet date by an independent firm of valuers (Knight Frank). There was one unquoted investment at the Balance Sheet date, Atrato, with a total value of £2,573,000 (2022: Atrato, £2,341,000). In the Parent Company accounts there are investments of £36,336,000 (2022: £36,297,000) in unlisted subsidiaries which are classified as level 3. The amounts of change in fair value for investments including net returns on CFDs recognised in the consolidated profit or loss for the year was a loss of £594,986,000 (2022: £265,399,000 gain). ### 11.7 Capital management policies and procedures The Group's capital management objectives are: - to ensure that it will be able to continue as a going concern; and - to maximise the total return to its equity shareholders through an appropriate balance of equity capital and debt. The equity capital of the Group at 31 March 2023 consisted of called up share capital, share premium, capital redemption and revenue reserves totalling £968,346,000 (2022: £1,562,739,000). The Group does not regard the loan notes and loans as permanent capital. The loan notes agreement requires compliance with a set of financial covenants, including: - Total Borrowings shall not exceed 33% of Adjusted Net Asset Value; - the Adjusted Total Assets shall at all times be equivalent to a minimum of 300% of Total Borrowings; and - the Adjusted NAV shall not be less than £260,000,000. ## 12 Debtors | | Group 2022 £'000 | Company 2022 £'000 | Group 2022 £'000 | Company 2022 £'000 | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Amounts falling due within one year: | | | | | | Securities and properties sold for future settlement | 2,739 | 2,739 | 33,138 | 33,138 | | Foreign exchange forward contracts for settlement | - | - | 2,736 | 2,736 | | Tax recoverable | 3,857 | 3,857 | 3,344 | 2,879 | | Prepayments and accrued income^{1} | 6,146 | 6,146 | 5,168 | 5,168 | | Amounts receivable in respect of Contracts for Difference | 5,598 | 5,598 | 7,657 | 7,657 | | CFD margin cash | 45,099 | 45,099 | 45,133 | 45,133 | | Other debtors | 1,848 | 1,854 | 497 | 497 | | | 65,287 | 65,293 | 97,673 | 97,208 | | Non-current assets | | | | | | Deferred taxation asset | 903 | 903 | 903 | 903 | $^{1}$ Includes amounts in respect of rent free periods. Annual Report & Accounts 2023 99 Overview Strategic report Governance Financial statements Glossary and AIFMD disclosure Notice of ADM Shareholder information Notes to the financial statements continued ### 13 Current and non-current liabilities | | Group 2022 £'000 | Company 2022 £'000 | Group 2022 £'000 | Company 2022 £'000 | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Amounts falling due within one year: | | | | | | Bank loans and overdrafts | 10,000 | 10,000 | 35,000 | 35,000 | | Securities and properties purchased for future settlement | 8,536 | 8,536 | 5,364 | 5,364 | | Amounts due to subsidiaries | - | 36,336 | - | 35,869 | | Amounts payable in respect of Contracts for Difference | 936 | 936 | - | - | | Tax payable | 702 | 700 | - | - | | Accruals and deferred income | 2,953 | 2,925 | 25,523 | 25,523 | | Foreign exchange forward contracts for settlement | 386 | 386 | - | - | | Other creditors | 141 | 131 | 222 | 183 | | | **23,654** | **59,950** | **66,109** | **101,939** | | Non-current liabilities: | | | | | | 1.92% Euro Loan Notes 2026 | 43,933 | 43,933 | 42,253 | 42,253 | | 3.59% GBP Loan Notes 2031 | 15,000 | 15,000 | 15,000 | 15,000 | | | **58,933** | **58,933** | **57,253** | **57,253** | #### Loan Notes On the 10th February 2016, the Company issued 1.92% Unsecured Euro 50,000,000 Loan Notes and 3.59% Unsecured GBP 15,000,000 Loan Notes which are due to be redeemed at par on the 10th February 2026 and 10th February 2031 respectively. The fair value of the 1.92% Euro Loan Notes was £43,979,000 (2022: £42,340,000) and the 3.59% GBP Loan Notes was £14,338,000 (2022: £14,879,000) at 31 March 2023. Using the IFRS 13 fair value hierarchy the Loan Notes are deemed to be categorised within Level 2. The loan notes agreement requires compliance with a set of financial covenants, including: - Total Borrowings shall not exceed 33% of Adjusted Net Asset Value; - the Adjusted Total Assets shall at all times be equivalent to a minimum of 300% of Total Borrowings; and - the Adjusted NAV shall not be less than £260,000,000. The Company and Group complied with the terms of the loan notes agreement throughout the year. #### Multi-currency revolving loan facilities The Group also had unsecured, multi-currency, revolving short-term loan facilities totalling £130,000,000 (2022: £130,000,000) at 31 March 2023. At 31 March 2023 £10,000,000 was drawn on these facilities (2022: £35,000,000). The maturity of these facilities is shown in notes 11.3 and 11.4. 100 TR Property Investment Trust ### 13 Current and non-current liabilities continued Reconciliation of liabilities arising from financing activities | Group and Company | Long term debt £'000 | Short term debt £'000 | Total £'000 | | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Opening liabilities from financing activities at 31 March 2022 | 57,253 | 35,000 | 92,253 | | Cash flows: | | | | | Repayment of bank loans | - | (25,000) | (25,000) | | Non cash-flows: | | | | | Movement on foreign exchange | 1,680 | - | 1,680 | | **Closing liabilities from financing activities at 31 March 2023** | **58,933** | **10,000** | **68,933** | ### 14 Called up share capital #### Ordinary share capital The balance classified as ordinary share capital includes the nominal value proceeds on the issue of the Ordinary equity share capital comprising ordinary shares of 25p. | | Number | Issued, allotted and fully paid £'000 | | --- | --- | --- | | Ordinary shares of 25p | | | | At 1 April 2022 | 317,350,980 | 79,338 | | At 31 March 2023 | 317,350,980 | 79,338 | The voting rights are disclosed in the Report of the Directors on page 49. During the year, the Company made no market purchases for cancellation of Ordinary shares of 25p each (2022: none). Since 31 March 2023 no Ordinary shares have been purchased and cancelled. ### 15 Share premium account and capital redemption reserve #### Share premium account The balance classified as share premium includes the premium above nominal value from the proceeds on issue of the equity share capital comprising Ordinary shares of 25p. #### Capital redemption reserve The capital redemption reserve is used to record the amount equivalent to the nominal value of purchases of the Company's own shares in order to maintain the Company's capital. ### 16 Retained earnings | | Group 2023 £'000 | Company 2023 £'000 | Group 2022 £'000 | Company 2022 £'000 | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Investment holding (losses) / gains | (99,771) | (81,449) | 412,934 | 431,260 | | Realised capital reserves | 828,859 | 802,597 | 918,057 | 891,806 | | Total capital reserves | 729,088 | 721,148 | 1,330,991 | 1,323,066 | | Revenue reserve | 72,787 | 80,727 | 65,277 | 73,202 | | **Total retained earnings** | **801,875** | **801,875** | **1,396,268** | **1,396,268** | The realised capital reserves are distributable by way of a dividend to shareholders or utilised for the repurchase of share capital, net of any unrealised losses on investments held. The revenue reserve represents accumulated revenue profits from which annual dividends are paid. Overview Strategic report Governance Financial statements Glossary and AIFMD disclosure Notice of ADM Shareholder information Annual Report & Accounts 2023 101 Notes to the financial statements continued ## 17 Dividends | | Year ended 31 March 2023 £'000 | Year ended 31 March 2022 £'000 | | --- | --- | --- | | Amounts recognised as distributions to equity holders in the year: | | | | Final dividend for the year ended 31 March 2022 of 9.20p (2021: 9.00p) per share | 29,196 | 28,562 | | Interim dividend for the year ended 31 March 2023 of 5.65p (2022: 5.30p) per share | 17,931 | 16,819 | | | 47,127 | 45,381 | | Amounts not recognised as distributions to equity holders in the year: | | | | Proposed final dividend for the year ended 31 March 2023 of 9.85p (2022: 9.20p) per share | 31,259 | 29,196 | The final dividend has not been included as a liability in these financial statements in accordance with IAS 10 'Events after the reporting period'. Set out below is the total dividend to be paid in respect of the year. This is the basis on which the requirements of s.1158 of the Corporation Tax Act 2010 are considered. | | Year ended 31 March 2023 £'000 | Year ended 31 March 2022 £'000 | | --- | --- | --- | | Interim dividend for the year ended 31 March 2023 of 5.65p (2022: 5.30p) per share | 17,931 | 16,819 | | Proposed final dividend for the year ended 31 March 2023 of 9.85p (2022: 9.20p) per share | 31,259 | 29,196 | | | 49,190 | 46,015 | ## 18 Company statement of comprehensive income As permitted by Section 408 of the Companies Act 2006, the Company has not presented its own Statement of Comprehensive Income. The net loss after taxation of the Company dealt with in the accounts of the Group was £547,266,000 (2022: £281,687,000 profit). ## 19 Net asset value per ordinary share Net asset value per Ordinary share is based on the net assets attributable to Ordinary shares of £968,346,000 (2022: £1,562,739,000) and on 317,350,980 (2022: 317,350,980) Ordinary shares in issue at the year end. ## 20 Commitments and contingent liabilities At 31 March 2023 the Group had capital commitments of £30,000 (2022: £74,000) but no contingent liabilities (2022: nil). 102 TR Property Investment Trust ## 21 Subsidiaries The Group has the following principal subsidiaries, all of which are registered and operating in Scotland, England and Wales: | Name | Reg. Number | Principal Activities | | --- | --- | --- | | New England Properties Limited | 788895 | Non-trading company | | The Colonnades Limited | 2826672 | Non-trading company | | Showart Limited | 2588726 | Non-trading company | | Trust Union Properties Residential Developments Limited | 2365875 | Non-trading company | | The Property Investment Trust Ltd | 2415846 | Non-trading company | | The Real Estate Investment Trust Limited | 2416015 | Non-trading company | | The Terra Property Investment Trust Limited | 2415843 | Non-trading company | | Trust Union Property Investment Trust Limited | 2416017 | Non-trading company | | Trust Union Properties (Number Five) Limited | 2415839 | Non-trading company | | Trust Union Properties (Number Six) Limited | 2416018 | Non-trading company | | Trust Union Properties (Number Seven) Limited | 2415836 | Non-trading company | | Trust Union Properties (Number Eight) Limited | 2416019 | Non-trading company | | Trust Union Properties (Number Nine) Limited | 2415833 | Non-trading company | | Trust Union Properties (Number Ten) Limited | 2416021 | Non-trading company | | Trust Union Properties (Number Eleven) Limited | 2415830 | Non-trading company | | Trust Union Properties (Number Twelve) Limited | 2416022 | Non-trading company | | Trust Union Properties (Number Thirteen) Limited | 2415818 | Non-trading company | | Trust Union Properties (Number Fourteen) Limited | 2416024 | Non-trading company | | Trust Union Properties (Number Fifteen) Limited | 2416026 | Non-trading company | | Trust Union Properties (Number Seventeen) Limited | 2416027 | Non-trading company | | Trust Union Properties (Number Eighteen) Limited | 2415768 | Non-trading company | | Trust Union Properties (Bayswater) Limited | 2416030 | Property investment | | Trust Union Properties (Cardiff) Limited | 2415772 | Non-trading company | | Trust Union Properties (Theale) Limited | 2416031 | Non-trading company | | Trust Union Properties (Number Twenty-Two) Limited | 2415765 | Non-trading company | | Trust Union Properties (Number Twenty-Three) Limited | 2416036 | Non-trading company | | Skilton Finance Limited | 2420758 | Non-trading company | | Trust Union Finance (1991) Plc | 2663561 | Investment financing | | FGH Developments Limited | 1481476 | Non-trading company | | FGH Developments (Aberdeen) Limited | SC68799 | Non-trading company | | FGH (Newcastle) Limited | 1466619 | Non-trading company | | NEP (1994) Limited | 977481 | Non-trading company | | New England Developments Limited | 1385909 | Non-trading company | | New England Investments Limited | 2613905 | Non-trading company | | New England Retail Properties Limited | 1447221 | Non-trading company | | New England (Southern) Limited | 1787371 | Non-trading company | | Sapco One Limited | 803940 | Non-trading company | | Trust Union Properties Limited | 2134624 | Non-trading company | | Trust Union Finance Limited | 1233998 | Investment holding and finance company | | TR Property Finance Limited | 2415941 | Investment holding and finance company | | Trust Union Properties (South Bank) Limited | 2420097 | Non-trading company | Overview Strategic report Governance Financial statements Glossary and AIFMS disclosure Notice of AGM Shareholder information Annual Report & Accounts 2023 103 ## Notes to the financial statements continued ### 21 Subsidiaries continued The Company has provided a guarantee for each of these subsidiaries in order for them to take the exemption from the requirement of an audit, in line with the requirements of S.479A of the Companies Act 2006. All the subsidiaries are fully owned and all the holdings are ordinary shares. All companies have the registered office of Exchange House, Primrose Street, London, EC2A 2NY with the exception of FGH Developments (Aberdeen) Limited which is registered to 50 Lothian Road, Festival Square, Edinburgh EH3 9BY. ### 22 Related party transactions disclosures Balances and transactions between the Company and its subsidiaries, which are related parties, have been eliminated on consolidation. The balances are interest free, unsecured and repayable on demand. #### Amounts due by the Company to subsidiaries per note 13 | | 2022 £'000 | 2022 £'000 | | --- | --- | --- | | The Colonnades Limited | 23,101 | 22,619 | | TR Property Finance Limited | 13,255 | 13,270 | | New England Properties Limited | (20) | (20) | | | 36,336 | 35,869 | #### Remuneration of key management personnel The remuneration of the Directors, who are the key management personnel of the Company for each of the relevant categories specified in IAS 24, Related Party Disclosures is provided in the audited part of the Directors' Remuneration Report on pages 63 and 65. #### Directors' transactions Directors' transactions in the Company's shares are considered to be a related party transaction due to the nature of their role as Directors. Movements in Directors' shareholdings are disclosed within the Directors' Remuneration Report on page 65. ### 23 Subsequent events There are no events that have occurred subsequent to the financial year end to report. 104 TR Property Investment Trust Overview Strategic report Governance Financial statements Glossary and aifmd disclosure Notice of AGM Shareholder informationOverview Strategic report Governance Financial statements Glossary and AIFMD disclosure Notice of AGM Shareholder information ## Glossary ## and AIFMD ## disclosure Annual Report & Accounts 2023 105 ## Glossary and AIFMD disclosure 1.0 Alternative Performance Measures Ongoing Charges Alternative Performance Measures are numerical The Ongoing Charges ratio has been calculated in measures of the Company’s current or historical accordance with the guidance issued by the AIC as the performance, financial position or cash flows, other total of investment management fees and administrative than the financial measures defined or specified in the expenses expressed as a percentage of the average Financial Statements. Net Asset Values throughout the year. The definition of administrative expenses does include property related The measures defined below are considered to be expenses, the Ongoing Charges calculation is shown Alternative Performance Measures. They are viewed as inclusive and exclusive of these expenses to allow particularly relevant and are frequently quoted for closed comparison of the direct administrative and management ended investment companies. charges with the majority of Investment Trusts which do not hold any direct property investments. Total Return The NAV Total Return is calculated by reinvesting the Excluding dividends in the assets of the Company from the relevant Including Excluding Performance Year to Performance Performance Fees & Direct ex-dividend date. Dividends are deemed to be reinvested 31 March Fees Fees Property Costs on the ex-dividend date as this is the protocol used 2023 £’000 £’000 £'000 by the Company’s benchmark and other indices. The | Share Price Total Return is calculated by reinvesting the | Management | | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | | dividends in the shares of the Company from the relevant | Fee (note 5) 6,240 | 6,240 | 6,240 | | ex-dividend date. | Other | | | Administrative expenses Year to (note 6) 1,705 1,705 1,705 31 March Share Property 2023 NAV Price Costs 714 714 Less: Non NAV/share price per share at recurring 31 March 2022 (pence) 492.43 456.5 expenses NAV/share price per share at 31 March 2023 (pence) 305.13 279.0 8,659 8,659 7,945 Average Net Change in year (38.0%) (38.9%) Assets 1,184,462 1,184,462 1,184,462 Impact of dividends reinvested 2.5% 2.6% Ongoing Total Return for the year (35.5%) (36.3%) Charge 2023 0.73% 0.73% 0.67% | Year to | | | | | | | | | | Excluding | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | 31 March | Share | | | Including | | | Including | | Performance | | | | 2022 NAV | Price | Year to | Performance | | | Performance | | | Fees & Direct | | | | | | 31 March | | | Fees | | | Fees | Property Costs | | | | NAV/share price per share at | | 2022 | | | £’000 | | | £’000 | | | £'000 | 31 March 2021 (pence) 417.97 392.50 NAV/share price per share at Management 31 March 2022 (pence) 492.43 456.50 Fee (note 5) 31,140 6,651 6,651 Other Change in year 17.8% 16.3% Administrative Impact of dividends reinvested 3.6% 3.6% expenses (note 6) 2,220 2,220 2,220 Total Return for the year 21.4% 19.9% Property Costs 332 332 Less: Non recurring expenses 33,692 9,203 8,871 Average Net Assets 1,536,825 1,536,825 1,536,825 Ongoing Charge 2022 2.19% 0.60% 0.58% 106 TR Property Investment Trust Overview Strategic report Governance Financial statements Glossary and aifmd disclosure Notice of AGM Shareholder information Overview Strategic report Governance Financial statements Glossary and AIFMD disclosure Notice of AGM Shareholder information Net Debt An average premium or discount is calculated by taking Net debt is the total value of loan notes, loans (including the sum of each daily premium and discount for the notional exposure to CFDs and TRSs) less cash as a period under review, divided by the number of days in the proportion of net asset value. given period. 2.0 Glossary of terms and The net gearing has been calculated as follows: definitions AIFMD | Group | Group | | | --- | --- | --- | | 2023 | 2022 | The Alternative Fund Managers Directive is European | | £’000 | £’000 | legislation which created a European wide framework | for regulating the managers of “alternative investment Loan notes 58,933 57,253 funds” (AIFs). It is designed to regulate any fund which Loans 10,000 35,000 is not a UCITS (Undertakings for Collective Investment CFD positions (notional exposure) 130,906 144,642 in Transferable Securities) fund and which is managed Less: Cash (36,071) (32,109) or marketed in the EU. Less: Cash collateral (included within ‘Other debtors’ in Note 12) (45,099) (45,133) AIC 118,669 159,653 The Association of Investment Companies, the representative body for closed-ended investment Equity shareholders’ funds 968,346 1,562,739 companies. Net gearing 12.3% 10.2% Alternative Performance Measure A financial measure of financial performance or financial The Ongoing Charges ratio provided in the Company’s position other than a financial measure defined or Key Information Document is calculated in line with specified in the accounting statements. the PRIIPs regulations which is different to the AIC methodology above. Key Information Document Key Performance Indicators Under the PRIIPs Regulations a short, consumer friendly The Board assesses the performance of the Manager Key Information Document is required setting out the in meeting the Company’s objective against a number key features, risks, rewards and costs of the PRIIP and of Key Performance Indicators, which are considered to is intended to assist investors to better understand the be Alternative Performance Measures. Details of these Trust and make comparisons between Trusts. calculations are set out above. The document includes estimates of investment Compound Annual Dividend Growth performance under a number of scenarios. These (a) This is calculated by taking the final dividend in the time calculations are prescribed by the regulation and are (b) series, divided by the initial dividend in the period, raised based purely on recent historical data. It is important (c) to the power of 1 divided by the number of years in the for investors to note that there is no judgement applied series. and these do not in any way reflect the Board or 5 year period: Manager’s views. Key Performance Indicator ('KPI') A KPI is a quantifiable measure that evaluates how Premium/(Discount) successful the trust is in meeting its objectives. The The amount by which the market price of a share of an Company’s KPIs are discussed on pages 35 and 36. investment trust company is higher or lower than the Net Asset Value per share expressed as a percentage of the MiFID NAV per share. If the share price is lower than the NAV per The Markets in Financial Instruments Directive is the EU share, the shares are trading at a discount and if the share legislation that regulates firms who provide services to price is higher than the NAV per share the shares are clients linked to “financial instruments” (shares, bonds, trading at a premium. units in collective investment schemes and derivatives) and the venues where those instruments are traded. 2023 2022 Net Asset Value (NAV) per share pence pence The value of total assets less liabilities (including Net Asset Value per share (a) 305.13 492.43 borrowings) divided by the number of shares in issue. Share price per share (b) 279.00 456.50 Premium or (Discount) (c= (b-a)/a (c) (8.6%) (7.3%) Annual Report & Accounts 2023 107 | 4.9% = | | | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | | | c | | 5 | | a b 12.20p | | 15.50p | | Glossary and AIFMD disclosure continued 3.0 Alternative investment fund managers directive ('AIFMD') In accordance with the AIFMD, information in relation to the Company’s leverage and remuneration of the Company’s AIFM, Columbia Threadneedle Investment Business Limited, is required to be made available to investors. Detailed regulatory disclosures including those on the AIFM’s remuneration policy are available on the Columbia Threadneedle website or from Columbia Threadneedle on request. The numerical remuneration disclosures in relation to the AIFM’s first relevant accounting period will be made available in due course. Leverage Under the AIFM Directive, it is necessary for AIFs to disclose their leverage in accordance with prescribed calculations. Although leverage is often used as another term for gearing, under the AIFMD leverage is specifically defined. Two types of leverage calculations are defined; the gross and commitment methods. These methods summarily express leverage as a ratio of the exposure of the AIF against its net asset value. ‘Exposure’ typically includes debt, the value of any physical properties subject to mortgage, non-sterling currency, equity or currency hedging at absolute notional values (even those held purely for risk reduction purposes, such as forward foreign exchange contracts held for currency hedging) and derivative exposure (converted into the equivalent underlying positions). The commitment method nets off derivative instruments, while the gross method aggregates them. The table below sets out the current maximum permitted limit and the actual level of leverage for the Company as at 31 March 2023: Gross Commitment Leverage exposure method method Maximum permitted limit 200% 200% Actual 138% 130% The leverage limits are set by the AIFM and approved by the Board and are in line with the limits set out in the Company’s Articles of Association. This should not be confused with the gearing set out in the Financial Highlights which is calculated under the traditional method set out by the Association of Investment Companies. The AIFM is also required to comply with the gearing parameters set by the Board in relation to borrowings. 108 TR Property Investment Trust Overview Strategic report Governance Financial statements Glossary and AIFMD disclosure Notice of AGM Shareholder information ## Notice of AGM Annual Report & Accounts 2023 109 # Notice of Annual General Meeting ## This Notice is important and requires your immediate attention If you are in any doubt as to the action you should take you should seek your own advice from a stockbroker, solicitor, accountant or other independent professional adviser who is authorised under the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 if you are resident in the United Kingdom or, if not, from another appropriately authorised independent financial adviser. If you have sold or otherwise transferred all of your shares, please pass this document, together with the accompanying documents, to the purchaser or transferee, or to the person who arranged the sale or transfer so they can pass these documents to the person who now holds the shares. Notice is hereby given that the Annual General Meeting of TR Property Investment Trust plc (the 'Company') will be held at the Royal Automobile Club, 89/91 Pall Mall, London SW1Y 5HS on Thursday 20 July 2023 at 2.30 pm for the purpose of transacting the following business: To consider and, if thought fit, pass the following Resolutions, of which Resolutions 1 to 12 will be proposed as Ordinary Resolutions and Resolutions 13 and 14 shall be proposed as Special Resolutions: 1 To receive the Report of the Directors and the Audited Accounts for the year ended 31 March 2023. 2 To approve the Directors' Remuneration Policy. 3 To approve the Directors' Remuneration Report (excluding the Directors' Remuneration Policy) for the year ended 31 March 2023. 4 To declare a final dividend of 9.85p per Ordinary share. 5 To re-elect Kate Bolsover as a Director. 6 To re-elect Sarah-Jane Curtis as a Director. 7 To re-elect Tim Gillbanks as a Director. 8 To re-elect Bussola Sodeinde as a Director. 9 To re-elect Andrew Vaughan as a Director. 10 To re-appoint KPMG LLP (the 'Auditor') as Auditor of the Company to hold office until the conclusion of the next Annual General Meeting of the Company. 11 To authorise the Directors to determine the remuneration of the Auditor. 110 ## Special business ### Ordinary resolution 12 THAT, in substitution for all such existing authorities, the Directors be generally and unconditionally authorised pursuant to and in accordance with Section 551 of the Companies Act 2006 (the 'Act') to exercise all the powers of the Company to allot shares in the Company and to grant rights to subscribe for, or to convert any security into, shares in the Company up to a nominal value of £26,181,455 (being approximately 33% of the total issued share capital of the Company as at the latest practicable date prior to publication of this Notice) provided that this authority shall expire at the conclusion of the Annual General Meeting of the Company in 2024 (or, if earlier, at the close of business on 19 October 2024), save that the Company shall be entitled to make offers or agreements before the expiry of this authority which would or might require shares to be allotted or rights to be granted after such expiry and the Directors shall be entitled to allot shares and grant rights pursuant to any such offers or agreements as if this authority had not expired. ### Special resolutions 13 THAT, in substitution for all such existing authorities and subject to the passing of Resolution 12 set out above, the Directors be empowered pursuant to Section 570 and Section 573 of the Act to allot equity securities (as defined in Section 560 of the Act) for cash pursuant to the authority conferred by Resolution 12 above and/or to sell shares held by the Company as treasury shares for cash as if Section 561 of the Act did not apply to any such allotment or sale, provided that this power shall be limited: (a) to the allotment of equity securities and sale of treasury shares for cash in connection with an offer of, or invitation to apply for, equity securities: (i) to shareholders in proportion (as nearly as may be practicable) to their existing holdings; and (ii) to holders of other equity securities, as required by the rights of those securities, or as the Board otherwise considers necessary; and so that the Board may impose any limits or restrictions and make any arrangements which it considers necessary or appropriate to deal with treasury shares, fractional entitlements, record dates, legal, regulatory or practical problems in, or under the laws of, any territory or any other matter; and TR Property Investment Trust (b) in the case of the authority granted under Resolution 12 and/or in the case of any sale of treasury shares for cash, to the allotment (otherwise than under paragraph (i) above) of equity securities or sale of treasury shares up to a nominal amount of £3,966,887 (being approximately 5% of the total issued share capital of the Company as at the latest practicable date prior to publication of the notice of meeting), the power given by this resolution shall expire upon the expiry of the authority conferred by Resolution 12 above, save that the Company shall be entitled to make offers or agreements before expiry of such power which would or might require equity securities to be allotted after such expiry and the Directors shall be entitled to allot equity securities pursuant to any such offer or agreement as if the power conferred hereby had not expired. 14 THAT the Company be and is hereby generally and unconditionally authorised in accordance with Section 701 of the Act to make one or more market purchases (within the meaning of Section 693(4) of the Act) of Ordinary shares of 25p each in the capital of the Company on such terms and in such manner as the Directors may from time to time determine provided that: (a) the maximum number of Ordinary shares hereby authorised to be purchased shall be 14.99% of the Company's Ordinary shares in issue at the date of the Annual General Meeting (equivalent to 47,570,911 Ordinary shares of 25p each at 30 May 2023, the latest practicable date prior to publication of this Notice); (b) the maximum price (exclusive of expenses) which may be paid for any such share shall not be more than the higher of: (i) 105% of the average of the middle market quotations for an Ordinary share as taken from the London Stock Exchange Daily Official List for the five business days immediately preceding the date on which the Company agrees to buy the shares concerned; and (ii) the higher of the price of the last independent trade and the highest current independent bid for an Ordinary share in the Company on the trading venue where the purchase is carried out at the relevant time; and (c) the minimum price (exclusive of expenses) which may be paid for an Ordinary share shall be 25p, being the nominal value per Ordinary share, the authority hereby conferred shall expire at the conclusion of the Annual General Meeting of the Company in 2024 (or, if earlier, at the close of business on 19 October 2024), save that the Company shall be entitled to enter into a contract to purchase Ordinary shares which will, or may, be completed or executed wholly or partly after the power expires and the Company may purchase Ordinary shares pursuant to such contract as if the power conferred hereby had not expired. # **By Order of the Board** For and on behalf of Columbia Threadneedle Investment Business Limited Company Secretary 12 June 2023 Registered Office: Company registered in England and Wales. Company number: 84492 13 Woodstock Street London W1C 2AG Overview Strategic report Governance Financial statements Glossary and APME disclosure Board of directors Shareholder information Annual Report & Accounts 2023 111 Notice of Annual General Meeting continued Notes Shareholders intending to attend the AGM are asked to person must have his or her name entered on the register their intention as soon as practicable by email Company’s Register of Members by 2.30 pm on 18 to the following dedicated address: July 2023 (or 6.00 pm on the date two days before trpitagm@columbiathreadneedle.com. any adjourned meeting). Changes to entries on the Register of Members after this time shall be Shareholders who are not able or do not wish to attend disregarded in determining the rights of any person to the meeting in person will be able to watch a live webcast attend or vote at the meeting. of the meeting. This will include the formal business of the meeting, the Manager’s presentation and questions Voting will be conducted on a poll at the meeting. On and answers. The webcast will not enable shareholders to a poll vote every shareholder will through their proxy participate in the meeting or to vote. However, shareholders have one vote for every Ordinary share of which he or will be invited to submit questions through our website, she is the holder. by 12.00 noon on Tuesday 18 July 2023. Questions may be sent to the following email address: trpitagm@ 3 Shareholders should note that it is possible that, columbiathreadneedle.com. Questions of a very similar pursuant to requests made by shareholders of the nature may be grouped together to ensure the orderly Company under Section 527 of the Act, the Company running of the AGM. may be required to publish on a website a statement setting out any matter relating to: (i) the audit of the 1 A member entitled to attend and vote at the meeting Company’s accounts (including the Auditor's Report convened by the above Notice is entitled to appoint one and the conduct of the audit) that are to be laid before or more proxies to exercise all or any of the rights of the the AGM; or (ii) any circumstance connected with member to attend, speak and vote in his or her place. an auditor of the Company ceasing to hold office since the previous meeting at which annual accounts Shareholders are strongly encouraged to submit their and reports were laid in accordance with Section proxy vote in advance of the meeting and to appoint 437 of the Act. The Company may not require the the Chairman of the meeting as their proxy, rather than shareholders requesting any such website publication any other named person who may not be permitted to to pay its expenses in complying with Sections 527 or attend the AGM in the event of restrictions or limits on 528 of the of the Act. Where the Company is required attendance. A proxy need not be a shareholder of the to place a statement on a website under Section Company. To appoint more than one proxy, the proxy 527 of the Act, it must forward the statement to form should be photocopied and the name of the proxy the Company’s auditor not later than the time when to be appointed indicated on each proxy form together it makes the statement available on the website. with the number of shares that such proxy is appointed The business which may be dealt with at the AGM in respect of. Completion and submission of a proxy includes any statement that the Company has been instruction will not preclude a member from attending required under Section 527 of the Act to publish on a and voting in person at the AGM (subject to any website. restrictions on physical attendance). 4 Any corporation which is a member of the Company To be valid any proxy form or other instrument can appoint one or more corporate representatives appointing a proxy must be returned by post, by courier who may exercise on its behalf all of its powers as a or by hand to the Company’s Registrars, Computershare member provided that they do not do so in relation to Investor Services PLC, The Pavilions, Bridgwater Road, the same shares. Bristol BS99 6ZY, or alternatively, by going to www. eproxyappointment. com and following the instructions 5 The right to appoint a proxy does not apply to persons provided. All proxies must be appointed by no later than whose shares are held on their behalf by another 48 hours before the time of the AGM. In the case of person and who have been nominated to receive joint holders, where more than one of the joint holders communication from the Company in accordance purports to appoint a proxy, only the appointment with Section 146 of the Act ('Nominated Persons'). submitted by the most senior holder will be accepted. Nominated Persons may have a right under an Seniority is determined by the order in which the names agreement with the registered shareholder who holds of the joint holders appear in the Company's Register of shares on their behalf to be appointed (or to have Members in respect of the joint holding (the first named someone else appointed) as a proxy. Alternatively, if being deemed the most senior). nominated persons do not have such a right, or do not wish to exercise it, they may have a right under 2 In order to be able to attend and vote at the AGM or such an agreement to give instructions to the person any adjourned meeting (and also for the purpose of holding the shares as to the exercise of voting rights. calculating how many votes a person may cast), a 112 TR Property Investment Trust Overview Strategic report Governance Financial statements Glossary and AIFMD disclosure Notice of AGM Shareholder information 6 CREST members who wish to appoint a proxy business being dealt with at the meeting but no such or proxies through the CREST electronic proxy answer need be given if: (a) to do so would interfere appointment service may do so for the AGM to unduly with the preparation for the meeting or involve be held on 20 July 2023 and any adjournment(s) the disclosure of confidential information; (b) the thereof by using the procedures described in the answer has already been given on a website in the form CREST Manual. CREST personal members or other of an answer to a question; or (c) it is undesirable in CREST sponsored members, and those CREST the interests of the Company or the good order of the members who have appointed a voting service meeting that the question be answered. Questions of a provider should refer to their CREST sponsors or very similar nature may be grouped together to ensure voting service provider(s), who will be able to take the orderly running of the AGM. the appropriate action on their behalf. In order for a proxy appointment or instruction made by means of 8 Unacceptable behaviour on the part of any shareholder CREST to be valid, the appropriate CREST message attending the AGM will not be tolerated and the (a ‘CREST Proxy Instruction’) must be properly Chairman has the right to deal with such behaviour as authenticated in accordance with Euroclear UK & appropriate. Ireland Limited’s specifications and must contain the information required for such instructions, as 9 Under section 338 and section 338A of the Act, described in the CREST Manual. The message must members meeting the threshold requirements in those be transmitted so as to be received by the Company’s sections have the right to require the Company (i) to agent, Computershare Investor Services PLC (CREST give, to members of the Company entitled to receive Participant ID: 3RA50), no later than 48 hours before notice of the meeting, notice of a resolution which may properly be moved and is intended to be moved the time appointed for the meeting. For this purpose, at the meeting and/or (ii) to include in the business to the time of receipt will be taken to be the time (as be dealt with at the meeting any matter (other than a determined by the time stamp applied to the message proposed resolution) which may be properly included in by the CREST Application Host) from which the the business. A resolution may properly be moved or a Company’s agent is able to retrieve the message by matter may properly be included in the business unless enquiry to CREST in the manner prescribed by CREST. (a) (in the case of a resolution only) it would, if passed, be ineffective (whether by reason of inconsistency CREST members and, where applicable, their with any enactment or the company’s constitution or CREST sponsor or voting service provider should otherwise), (b) it is defamatory of any person, or (c)it note that Euroclear UK & Ireland Limited does not is frivolous or vexatious. Such a request may be in make available special procedures in CREST for any hard copy form or in electronic form, must identify the particular messages. resolution of which notice is to be given or the matter to be included in the business, must be authorised by Normal system timings and limitations will therefore the person or persons making it, must be received by apply in relation to the input of CREST Proxy the company not later than six clear weeks before the Instructions. It is the responsibility of the CREST meeting, and (in the case of a matter to be included member concerned to take (or, if the CREST member in the business only) must be accompanied by a is a CREST personal member or sponsored member statement setting out the grounds for the request. or has appointed a voting service provider, to procure that his or her CREST sponsor or voting service 10 As at 30 May 2023 (being the latest practicable day prior provider takes) such action as shall be necessary to publication of this Notice), the issued share capital to ensure that a message is transmitted by means of the Company was 317,350,980 Ordinary shares of of the CREST system by any particular time. In this 25p each and no ordinary shares were held in treasury. connection, CREST members and, where applicable, Therefore, the total number of voting rights in the their CREST sponsor or voting service provider Company at 30 May 2023 was 317,350,980. are referred in particular to those sections of the CREST Manual concerning practical limitations of 11 The terms of reference of the Audit Committee, the the CREST system and timings. The Company may Management Engagement Committee, the Nomination treat as invalid a CREST Proxy Instruction in the Committee and the Directors’ Letters of Appointment circumstances set out in Regulation 35(5)(a) of the will be available for inspection for at least 15 minutes Uncertificated Securities Regulations 2001. prior to and during the Company’s AGM. 7 Any member attending the meeting (subject to any 12 You may not use any electronic address provided restrictions in place at the time of the meeting) has either in this Notice or any related documents to the right to ask questions. The Company must cause communicate for any purposes other than those to be answered any such question relating to the expressly stated. Annual Report & Accounts 2023 113 Notice of Annual General Meeting continued 13 The Company may process personal data of attendees at the Annual General Meeting. This may include webcasts, photos, recording and audio and video links, as well as other forms of personal data. The Company shall process such personal data in accordance with its privacy policy, which can found at www.trproperty.com/ legal. 114 TR Property Investment Trust # Explanation of Notice of Annual General Meeting ## Resolutions 1, 2, 3 and 4: Accounts, Directors' remuneration policy, Directors' remuneration report and dividend These are the resolutions which deal with the presentation of the audited accounts, the approval of the Directors' Remuneration Policy, the approval of the Directors' Remuneration Report and the declaration of the final dividend. The vote to approve the Remuneration Policy must be put to shareholders every three years. The vote to approve the Remuneration Report is advisory only and will not require the Company to alter any arrangements detailed in the report should the resolution not be passed. The Board is proposing a final dividend for the year ended 31 March 2023 of 9.85p per Ordinary share. If approved at the AGM, the Company will pay the dividend on 1 August 2023 to those shareholders on the Company's Register of Members at the close of business on 30 June 2023. ## Resolutions 5 to 9: Re-election of Directors These resolutions deal with the re-election of Kate Bolsover, Sarah-Jane Curtis, Tim Gillbanks, Busola Sodeiride and Andrew Vaughan. In accordance with the UK Corporate Governance Code, all Directors retire on an annual basis and have confirmed that they will offer themselves for re-election, with the exception of David Watson who will retire at the conclusion of the AGM. A performance evaluation has been completed and the Board has determined that each of the Directors continues to be effective and demonstrates their commitment to their role. Their biographical details, which are set out on pages 44 and 45, demonstrate that the Board has the appropriate balance of skills, experience, independence and knowledge to lead the Company. Accordingly, the Board unanimously recommends their re-election. ## Resolutions 10 and 11: Auditor These deal with the reappointment of the Auditor, KPMG LLP, and the authorisation for the Directors to determine their remuneration. ## Resolution 12: Allotment of share capital The Board considers it appropriate that an authority be granted to allot shares in the capital of the Company up to a maximum nominal amount of £26,181,445 is stated in the resolution (representing approximately one third of the Company's issued share capital as at 30 May 2023, being the latest practical date prior to publication of this Notice of the meeting). As at 30 May 2023 the Company does not hold any shares in treasury. The Directors have no present intention of exercising this authority and would only expect to use the authority if shares could be issued at, or at a premium to, the Net Asset Value per share. This authority will expire at the earlier of the conclusion of the Annual General Meeting of the Company to be held in 2024 and close of business on 19 October 2024. ## Resolution 13: Disapplication of statutory pre-emption rights This Resolution would give the Directors the authority to allot shares (or sell any shares which the Company elects to hold in treasury) for cash without first offering them to existing shareholders in proportion to their existing shareholdings. This authority would be limited to allotments or sales in connection with pre-emptive offers and offers to holders of other equity securities if required by the rights of those shares or as the board otherwise considers necessary, or otherwise up to an aggregate nominal amount of £3,966,887. This aggregate nominal amount represents 5% of the total issued share capital of the Company as at 30 May 2023, the latest practicable date prior to publication of this Notice. If the powers sought by Resolution 13 are used in relation to a non-pre-emptive offer, the Directors confirm their intention to follow the shareholder protections in paragraph 1 of Part 2B of the Pre-emption Group's Statement of Principles published in November 2022. This authority will expire at the earlier of the conclusion of the Annual General Meeting of the Company to be held in 2024 and close of business on 19 October 2024. Overview Strategic report Governance Financial statements Glossary and APM disclosure Index of Audit Shareholder information Annual Report & Accounts 2023 115 Explanation of Notice of Annual General Meeting continued ### Resolution 14: Authority to make market purchases of the Company's Ordinary shares At the AGM held in 2022, a special resolution was passed which gave the Directors authority, until the conclusion of the AGM in 2023, to make market purchases of the Company's own issued shares up to a maximum of 14.99% of the issued share capital. The Board is proposing that they should be given renewed authority to purchase the Company's Ordinary shares in the market. It believes that to make such purchases in the market at appropriate times and prices is a suitable method of enhancing shareholder value. The Company would, within guidelines set from time to time by the Board, make either a single purchase or a series of purchases, when market conditions are suitable, with the aim of maximising the benefits to shareholders. Where purchases are made at prices below the prevailing Net Asset Value per share, this will enhance the Net Asset Value for the remaining shareholders. Therefore purchases would only be made at prices below Net Asset Value. The Board considers that it will be most advantageous to shareholders for the Company to be able to make such purchases as and when it considers the timing to be favourable and therefore does not propose to set a timetable for making any such purchases. The Companies (Acquisition of Own Shares) (Treasury Shares) Regulations 2003 enable companies in the United Kingdom to hold in treasury any of their own shares they have purchased with a view to possible resale at a future date, rather than cancelling them. If the Company does re-purchase any of its shares, the Directors do not currently intend to hold any of the shares re-purchased in treasury. The shares so re-purchased will continue to be cancelled. The Listing Rules of the Financial Conduct Authority limit the maximum price (exclusive of expenses) which may be paid for any such share. It shall not be more than the higher of: - (i) 105% of the average of the middle market quotations for an Ordinary share as taken from the London Stock Exchange Daily Official List for the five business days immediately preceding the date on which the Company agrees to buy shares concerned; and - (ii) the higher of the price of the last independent trade and the highest current independent bid for an Ordinary share in the Company on the trading venue where the purchase is carried out. The minimum price to be paid will be 25p per Ordinary share (being the nominal value). The Listing Rules also limit a listed company to purchases of shares representing up to 15% of its issued share capital in the market pursuant to a general authority such as this. For this reason, the Company is limiting its authority to make such purchases to 14.99% of the Company's Ordinary shares in issue at the date of the AGM; this is equivalent to 47,570,911 Ordinary shares of 25p each (nominal value £11,892,727) at 30 May 2023, the latest practicable date prior to publication this Notice. The authority will last until the conclusion of the Annual General Meeting of the Company to be held in 2024 or, if earlier, at the close of business on 19 October 2024. ### Recommendation The Board believes that the resolutions contained in this Notice of Annual General Meeting are in the best interests of the Company and shareholders as a whole and recommends that you vote in favour of them as your Directors intend to do in respect of their own beneficial shareholdings. 116 TR Property Investment Trust Overview Strategic report Governance Financial statements Glossary and AIFMD disclosure Notice of AGM Shareholder information ## Shareholder ## information Annual Report & Accounts 2023 117 ## Directors and other information | Directors | Registrar | | --- | --- | | D Watson (Chairman) | Computershare Investor Services PLC | | K Bolsover | The Pavilions, Bridgwater Road | | S-J Curtis | Bristol BS99 6ZZ | | T Gillbanks | Telephone: 0370 707 1355 | B Sodeinde A Vaughan Shareholders who hold their shares in certificated form can check their holdings | Registered office | with the Registrar, Computershare Investor | | --- | --- | | 13 Woodstock Street | Services PLC, via www.investorcentre.co.uk. | | London W1C 2AG | Please note that to gain access to your details | on the Computershare site you will need the Registered number holder reference number stated on the top left Registered as an investment company in hand corner of your share certificate. England and Wales No. 84492 Auditor | AIFM and Company Secretary | KPMG LLP | | --- | --- | | Columbia Threadneedle Investment | 15 Canada Square | | Business Limited | London E14 SGL | Exchange House Primrose Street Stockbrokers London EC2A 2NY Panmure Gordon (UK) Limited, One New Change Please contact Jonathan Latter for London EC4M 9AF Company Secretarial and administrative matters Stifel Nicolaus Europe Limited 150 Cheapside Portfolio Manager London EC2V 6ET Thames River Capital LLP, authorised | and regulated by the Financial Conduct | Solicitors | | --- | --- | | Authority | Slaughter and May | | 13 Woodstock Street | One Bunhill Row | | London W1C 2AG | London EC1Y 8YY | Telephone: 020 3530 6375 Depositary, custodian and fund Fund Manager administrator M A Phayre-Mudge MRICS BNP Paribas Securities Services 10 Harewood Avenue Finance Manager and London NW1 6AA Investor Relations J L Elliott ACA Website www.trproperty.com Deputy Fund Manager A Lhonneur Tax advisers PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP Direct Property Manager Central Square, South Orchard Street G P Gay MRICS Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 3AZ 118 TR Property Investment Trust # General Shareholder information ## Announcement of results The half year results are announced in late November. The full year results are announced in early June. ## Annual general meeting The AGM is held in London in July. ## Dividend payment dates Dividends are usually paid on the Ordinary shares as follows: Interim: January Final: August ## Dividend payments Dividends can be paid to shareholders by means of BACS (Bankers' Automated Clearing Services); mandate forms for this purpose are available from the Registrar. Alternatively, shareholders can write to the Registrar (the address is given on page 114 of this report) to give their instructions; these must include the bank account number, the bank account title and the sort code of the bank to which payments are to be made. ## Dividend re-investment plan ('DRIP') TR Property Investment Trust plc offers shareholders the opportunity to purchase further shares in the Company through the DRIP. Please note that following Brexit shareholders in the European Economic Area ('EEA') are no longer able to participate in the DRIP. DRIP forms may be obtained from Computershare Investor Services PLC through their secure website www.investorcentre.co.uk, or on 0370 707 1694. Charges apply; dealing commission of 0.75% (subject to a minimum of £2.50). Government stamp duty of 0.5% also applies. ## Share price listings The estimated Net Asset Value and market price of the Company's Ordinary shares, as well as the discount/premium, are published daily in The Financial Times. They can also be found on the Company's website at www.trproperty.com. ## Share price information ISIN GB0009064097 SEDOL 0906409 Bloomberg TRYLN Reuters TRYL Datastream TRY ## Benchmark Details of the benchmark are given in the Strategic Report on page 22 of this Annual Report and Accounts. The benchmark index is published daily and can be found on Bloomberg. FTSE EPRA/NAREIT Developed Europe Capped Net Total Return Index in sterling Bloomberg: TRORAG Index ## Disability Act Copies of this Report and Accounts and other documents issued by the Company are available from the Company Secretary. If needed, copies can be made available in a variety of formats, including Braille, audio tape or larger type as appropriate. You can contact the Registrar, Computershare Investor Services PLC, which has installed textphones to allow speech and hearing impaired people who have their own textphone to contact them directly, without the need for an intermediate operator, by dialling 0870 702 0005. Specially trained operators are available during normal business hours to answer queries via this service. Alternatively, if you prefer to go through a 'typetalk' operator (provided by the Royal National Institute for Deaf People) you should dial 18001 followed by the number you wish to dial. Overview Strategic report Governance Financial statements Glossary and AIFMS disclosure Notice of AGM Shareholder information Annual Report & Accounts 2023 119 General Shareholder information continued Nominee share code Where notification has been provided in advance, the Company will arrange for copies of shareholder communications to be provided to the operators of nominee accounts. Nominee investors may attend general meetings and speak at meetings when invited to do so by the Chairman. CGT base cost Taxation of capital gains for shareholders who formerly held Sigma shares Upon a disposal of all or part of a shareholder’s holding of Ordinary shares, the impact on the shareholder’s capital gains tax base cost of the conversion to Sig-ma shares in 2007 and the redesignation to Ordinary shares in 2012 should be considered. In respect of the conversion to Sigma in 2007, agreement was reached with HM Revenue & Customs (‘HMRC’) to base the apportionment of the capital gains tax base cost on the proportion of Ordinary shares that were converted by a shareholder into Sigma shares on 25 July 2007. Therefore, if an Ordinary shareholder converted 20% of their existing Ordinary shares into Sigma shares on 25 July 2007, the capital gains tax base cost of the new Sigma shares acquired would be equal to 20% of the original capital gains tax base cost of the Ordinary shares that they held pre-conversion. The base cost of their remaining holding of Ordinary shares would then be 80% of the original capital gains tax base cost of their Ordinary shares held pre-conversion. As part of the re-designation of the Sigma shares into Ordinary shares in December 2012, a further shareholder’s agreement was reached with HMRC that a shareholders capital gains tax base cost in their new Ordinary shares should be equivalent to their capital gains base cost in the pre-existing Sigma shares (i.e. their capital gains base cost under the existing agreement if applicable). If in doubt as to the consequences of this agreement with HMRC, shareholders should consult with their own professional advisors. 120 TR Property Investment Trust # Investing in TR Property Investment Trust plc ## Market purchases The Company's shares are listed and traded on the London Stock Exchange. Investors may purchase shares through their stockbroker, bank or other financial intermediary. ## Holding shares in certificated form Investors may hold their investment in certificated form. Our registrars, Computershare operate a dealing service which enables investors to buy and sell shares quickly and easily online without a broker or the need to open a trading account. Alternatively the Investor Centre allows investors to manage portfolios quickly and securely, update details and view balances without annual charges. Further details are available by contacting Computershare on 0370 707 1355 or visit www.investorcentre.co.uk. The Company offers shareholders the opportunity to purchase further shares in the company through the Dividend Re-investment Plan ('DRIP') through the registrar, Computershare. Shareholders can obtain further information on the DRIP through their secure website www.investorcentre.co.uk, or by phoning 0370 707 1694. Charges do apply. Please note that to gain access to your details or register for the DRIP on the Computershare site you will need the holder reference number stated on the top left hand corner of your share certificate. ## Saving schemes, ISAs and other plans A number of banks and wealth management organisations provide Savings Schemes and ISAs through which UK clients can invest in the Company. ISA and savings scheme providers do charge dealing and other fees for operating the accounts, and investors should read the Terms and Conditions provided by these companies and ensure that the charges best suit their planned investment profile. Most schemes carry annual charges but these vary between provider and product. Where dealing charges apply, in some cases these are applied as a percentage of funds invested and others as a flat charge. The optimum way to hold the shares will be different for each investor depending upon the frequency and size of investments to be made. Details are given below of two providers offering shares in the Company, but there are many other options. ## Interactive investor ('i') Interactive investor provide and administer a range of self-select investment plans, including tax-advantaged ISAs and SIPPs (Self-Invested Personal Pension), and Trading Accounts. For more information, interactive investor can be contacted on 0345 607 6001, or by visiting www.ii.co.uk/ Interactive investor offer investors in the Company and other investment trusts a free online shareholder voting and information service that enables investors to receive shareholder communications and, if they wish, to vote on the shareholdings held in their account. The Company is also on the interactive super 60 rated list. ## Columbia Threadneedle Management Limited ('CT') Columbia Threadneedle offer a number of savings plans for adults and children, from general investment accounts to a range of investment ISAs and a Child Trust Fund. Each product gives you the ability to invest in a range of investment trust companies. For more information see inside the back cover. Columbia Threadneedle can be contacted on 0800 136 420, or visit citinvest.co.uk. Please remember that the value of your investments and any income from them may go down as well as up. Past performance is not a guide to future performance. You may not get back the amount that you invest. If you are in any doubt as to the suitability of a plan or any investment available within a plan, please take professional advice. ## Saving Schemes and ISAs transferred from Alliance Trust Savings ('ATS') BNP Paribas Following the acquisition of Alliance Trust Savings by interactive investor, ATS self-directed accounts were transferred to the interactive investor platform on 14th October 2019. In 2012 BNP Paribas closed down the part of their business that operated Savings Schemes and ISAs. Investors were given the choice of transferring their schemes to Alliance Trust Savings ('ATS') or to a provider of their own choice, or to close their accounts and sell the holdings. If investors did not respond to the letters from BNP Paribas, their accounts were transferred to ATS. Following the acquisition of Alliance Trust Savings by interactive investor, ATS self-directed accounts were transferred to the interactive investor platform on 14 October 2019. Overview Strategic report Governance Financial statements Glossary and AIFMS disclosure Notice of AGM Distributor information Annual Report & Accounts 2023 121 Investing in TR Property Investment Trust plc continued Share fraud and boiler room scams Shareholders in a number of Investment Trusts have been approached as part of a share fraud where they are informed of an opportunity to sell their shares as the company is subject to a takeover bid. This is not true and is an attempt to defraud shareholders. The share fraud also seeks payment of a ‘commission’ by shareholders to the parties carrying out the fraud. Shareholders should remain alert to this type of scam and treat with suspicion any contact by telephone offering an attractive investment opportunity, such as a premium price for your shares, or an attempt to convince you that payment is required in order to release a settlement for your shares. These frauds may also offer to sell your shares in companies which have little or no value or may offer you bonus shares. These so called ‘boiler room’ scams can also involve an attempt to obtain your personal and/or banking information with which to commit identity fraud. The caller may be friendly and reassuring or they may take a more urgent tone, encouraging you to act quickly otherwise you could lose money or miss out on a deal. If you have been contacted by an unauthorised firm regarding your shares the FCA would like to hear from you. You can report an unauthorised firm using the FCA helpline on 0800 111 6768 or by visiting their website, which also has other useful information, at www.fca.org.uk. If you receive any unsolicited investment advice make sure you get the correct name of the person and organisation. If the calls persist, hang up. If you deal with an unauthorised firm, you will not be eligible to receive payment under the Financial Services Compensation Scheme. Please be advised that the Board or the Manager would never make unsolicited telephone calls of such a nature to shareholders. 122 TR Property Investment Trust # How to invest One of the most convenient ways to invest in TR Property Investment Trust plc is through one of the savings plans run by Columbia Threadneedle Investments. CT Individual Savings Account You can use your ISA allowance to make an annual tax-efficient investment of up to £20,000 for the current tax year with a lump sum from £100 or regular savings from £25 a month. You can also transfer any existing ISAs to us whilst maintaining the tax benefits. CT Junior Individual Savings Account (JISA)* A tax efficient way to invest up to £9,000 per tax year for a child. Contributions start from £100 lump sum or £25 a month. JISAs or CTFs with other providers can be transferred to Columbia Threadneedle. CT Lifetime Individual Savings Account (LISA) For those aged 18-39, a Lifetime ISA could help towards purchasing your first home or retirement in later life. Invest up to £4,000 for the current tax year and receive a 25% Government bonus up to £1,000 per year. Invest with a lump sum from £100 or regular savings from £25 a month. CT Child Trust Fund (CTF)* If your child already has a CTF you can invest up to £9,000 per birthday year, from £100 lump sum or £25 a month. CTFs with other providers can be transferred to Columbia Threadneedle. CT General Investment Account (GIA) This is a flexible way to invest in our range of Investment Trusts. There are no maximum contributions, and investments can be made from £100 lump sum or £25 a month. CT Junior Investment Account (JIA) This is a flexible way to save for a child in our range of Investment Trusts. There are no maximum contributions, and the plan can easily be set up under bare trust (where the child is noted as the beneficial owner) or kept in your name if you wish to retain control over the investment. Investments can be made from a £100 lump sum or £25 a month per account. You can also make additional lump sum top-ups at any time from £100 per account. Charges Annual management charges and other charges apply according to the type of plan. Annual account charge ISA/LISA: £60+VAT CIA: £40+VAT JISA/JIA/CTF: £25+VAT You can pay the annual charge from your account, or by direct debit (in addition to any annual subscription limits). Dealing charges £12 per fund (reduced to £0 for deals placed through the online Columbia Threadneedle Investor Portal) for ISA/GIA/LISA/JIA and JISA. There are no dealing charges on a CTF. Dealing charges apply when shares are bought or sold but not on the reinvestment of dividends or the investment of monthly direct debits. Government stamp duty of 0.5% also applies on the purchase of shares (where applicable). The value of investments can go down as well as up and you may not get back your original investment. Tax benefits depend on your individual circumstances and tax allowances and rules may change. Please ensure you have read the full Terms and Conditions, Privacy Policy and relevant Key Features documents before investing. For regulatory purposes, please ensure you have read the Principles Cost & Charges disclosure related to the product you are applying for, and the relevant Key Information Documents (KIDs) for the investment trusts you want to invest into. How to invest To open a new Columbia Threadneedle Investments plan, apply online at ctinvest.co.uk Online applications are not available if you are transferring an existing plan with another provider to Columbia Threadneedle Investments, or if you are applying for a new plan in more than one name but paper applications are available at ctinvest.co.uk/documents or by contacting Columbia Threadneedle Investments. New customers Call: 0800 136 420** (8.30am – 5.30pm, weekdays) Email: invest@columbiathreadneedle.com Existing plan holders Call: 0345 600 3030** (9.00am – 5.00pm, weekdays) Email: investor.enquiries@columbiathreadneedle.com By post: Columbia Threadneedle Management Limited, PO Box 11114 Chelmsford CM99 2DG investor.enquiries@columbiathreadneedle.com You can also invest in the Company through online dealing platforms for private investors that offer share dealing and ISAs. Companies include: Barclays Stockbrokers, EQL Halifax, Hargreaves Lansdown, HSBC, Interactive Investor, Lloyds Bank, The Share Centre * The CTF and JISA accounts are opened in the child's name and they have access to the money at age 18. ** Calls may be recorded or monitored for training and quality purposes. To find out more, visit ctinvest.co.uk 0345 600 3030, 9.00am – 5.00pm, weekdays, calls may be recorded or monitored for training and quality purposes. © 2023 Columbia Threadneedle Investments. Columbia Threadneedle Investments is the global brand name of the Columbia and Threadneedle group of companies. Financial promotions are issued for marketing and information purposes by Columbia Threadneedle Management Limited, authorised and regulated in the UK by the Financial Conduct Authority. 195600 (06/22) UK ![img-7.jpeg](img-7.jpeg) Annual Report & Accounts 2023 123 Overview Strategic report Governance Financial statements Glossary and AIFMD disclosure Notice of AGM Restricted information Design by Aspectus This report has been printed on Revive 100 Silk. ® Made from FSC Recycled certified post-consumer waste pulp. Manufactured in accordance with ISO certified Carbon Balanced standards for environmental, quality and energy management. CBP019216 | Overview | Financial statements | | | --- | --- | --- | | 1 Company Summary | 76 Group Statement of Comprehensive | | | 2 Financial Highlights and Performance | | Income | | 3 Historical Performance | 77 Group and Company Statement of | | Changes in Equity | Strategic report | 78 Group and Company Balance Sheets | | | --- | --- | --- | | 4 Chairman’s Statement | 79 Group and Company Cash Flow | | | 7 Manager’s Report | | Statements | | 16 Responsible investment | 80 Notes to the Financial Statements | | 26 Portfolio 27 Investment Portfolio by country Glossary and AIFMD disclosure 28 Twelve largest equity investments 106 Glossary and AIFM disclosure 32 Investment properties | 33 Investment objective and benchmark | Notice of AGM | | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | | 33 Business Model | 110 Notice of Annual General Meeting | | | | 34 Strategy and investment policies | 115 Explanation of Notice of Annual | | That there will be limitations on what can be achieved but wanting to see a positive direction of travel. | | 35 Key Performance Indicators | | General Meeting | | 37 Principal and emerging risks 41 Long-term viability Shareholder information 118 Directors and other information Governance 119 General Shareholder information 44 Directors 121 Investing 46 Managers 47 Report of the Directors 50 Corporate Governance Report 56 Report of the Nomination Committee 58 Report of the Management Engagement Committee 60 Report of the Audit Committee 63 Directors’ Remuneration Report 66 Statement of Directors’ Responsibilities in Relation to the Group Financial Statements 67 Independent Auditor’s Report to the Members of TR Property Investment Trust plc TR Property investment Trust PLC is managed by TR PROPERTY INVESTMENT TRUST PLC ## Annual Report ## 31-03-2023