Company Registration No. 08775625 (England and Wales)
WASSERMAN MUSIC LIMITED
ANNUAL REPORT AND GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
WASSERMAN MUSIC LIMITED
COMPANY INFORMATION
Directors
Mr David Hallybone
Mr Alex Hardee
Mr Thomas Schroeder
Mr James Whitting
Mr Scott Lindley
Mr Mike Pickles
Company number
08775625
Registered office
1 Wenlock Road
London
United Kingdom
N1 7SL
Auditor
Prager Metis LLP
5a Bear Lane
Southwark
London
United Kingdom
SE1 0UH
WASSERMAN MUSIC LIMITED
CONTENTS
Page
Strategic report
1
Directors' report
2 - 3
Independent auditor's report
4 - 6
Profit and loss account
7
Group statement of comprehensive income
8
Group balance sheet
9
Company balance sheet
10 - 11
Group statement of changes in equity
12
Company statement of changes in equity
13
Group statement of cash flows
14
Notes to the financial statements
15 - 35
WASSERMAN MUSIC LIMITED
STRATEGIC REPORT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
- 1 -

The directors present the strategic report for the group to inform and enable shareholders to assess how the directors have performed their duty in promoting the group’s success during the year ended 31 December 2024.

Fair Review of the Business

The principal activity of the group is the provision of agency services to artists within the music industry. In recent years the group has broadened its provision of services to include corporate and private bookings and brand partnerships, which covers brand campaigns, endorsement, music supervision and licensing.

 

The group has continued to prioritise its strategy of developing its people and has sought to invest in its existing team of agents and promote internally.

Principal risks and uncertainties

The group’s income is dependent upon the continued popularity of live music shows and events. The live events industry for musicians is a well-established and stable market and business has continued to expand globally. As such the Directors do not foresee any significant uncertainty to the future of business moving into 2025 and beyond. As the business is starting to grow so are staffing numbers in terms of Agents and support staff given the increased volume. The effects of competitors operating within the industry could be viewed as a risk factor; Wasserman has built a reputation of being artist-centric and innovative which has led to a significant share of the market. The company is continuing to grow and develop its agents and does not foresee any decrease in its existing market share.

 

The group has a normal level of exposure to price, credit and cash flow risk arising from trading. Fluctuations in foreign exchange rates impact overseas show fees and thus commission earned from those shows.

Development and performance

We aim to continue the strategy that has resulted in the growth generated in recent years and we remain confident that the business is well positioned to continue its growth in the coming years.

Key performance indicators

We use revenue as our main financial KPI. Revenue is driven by new signings, developing up and coming artists and creating worldwide tours for our broad range of clients.

On behalf of the board

Mr David Hallybone
Director
1 August 2025
WASSERMAN MUSIC LIMITED
DIRECTORS' REPORT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
- 2 -

The directors present their annual report and financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2024.

Principal activities

The principal activity of the company and group continued to be that of a music artist booking agency.

Results and dividends

The results for the year are set out on page 7.

Ordinary dividends were paid amounting to £5,285,977. The directors do not recommend payment of a further dividend.

Directors

The directors who held office during the year and up to the date of signature of the financial statements were as follows:

Mr David Hallybone
Mr Alex Hardee
Mr Thomas Schroeder
Mr James Whitting
Mr Scott Lindley
Mr Mike Pickles
Auditor

In accordance with the company's articles, a resolution proposing that Prager Metis LLP be reappointed as auditor of the group will be put at a General Meeting.

Statement of directors' responsibilities

The directors are responsible for preparing the Annual Report and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and regulations.

 

Company law requires the directors to prepare financial statements for each financial year. Under that law the directors have elected to prepare the financial statements in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice (United Kingdom Accounting Standards and applicable law). Under company law the directors must not approve the financial statements unless they are satisfied that they give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the group and company, and of the profit or loss of the group for that period. In preparing these financial statements, the directors are required to:

 

 

The directors are responsible for keeping adequate accounting records that are sufficient to show and explain the group’s and company’s transactions and disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the group and company and enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Companies Act 2006. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the group and company and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.

Statement of disclosure to auditor

So far as each person who was a director at the date of approving this report is aware, there is no relevant audit information of which the auditor of the company is unaware. Additionally, the directors individually have taken all the necessary steps that they ought to have taken as directors in order to make themselves aware of all relevant audit information and to establish that the auditor of the company is aware of that information.

WASSERMAN MUSIC LIMITED
DIRECTORS' REPORT (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
- 3 -
Medium-sized companies exemption

This report has been prepared in accordance with the provisions applicable to companies entitled to the medium-sized companies exemption.

On behalf of the board
Mr David Hallybone
Director
1 August 2025
WASSERMAN MUSIC LIMITED
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT
TO THE MEMBERS OF WASSERMAN MUSIC LIMITED
- 4 -
Opinion

We have audited the financial statements of Wasserman Music Limited (the 'parent company') and its subsidiaries (the 'group') for the year ended 31 December 2024 which comprise the group profit and loss account, the group statement of comprehensive income, the group balance sheet, the company balance sheet, the group statement of changes in equity, the company statement of changes in equity, the group statement of cash flows and notes to the financial statements, including significant accounting policies. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation is applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards, including FRS 102 The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).

In our opinion the financial statements:

Basis for opinion

We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK) (ISAs (UK)) and applicable law. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditor's responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements section of our report. We are independent of the company in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the financial statements in the UK, including the FRC’s Ethical Standard, and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion.

Conclusions relating to going concern

In auditing the financial statements, we have concluded that the directors' use of the going concern basis of accounting in the preparation of the financial statements is appropriate.

 

Based on the work we have performed, we have not identified any material uncertainties relating to events or conditions that, individually or collectively, may cast significant doubt on the group's and parent company’s ability to continue as a going concern for a period of at least twelve months from when the financial statements are authorised for issue.

 

Our responsibilities and the responsibilities of the directors with respect to going concern are described in the relevant sections of this report.

Other information

The other information comprises the information included in the annual report other than the financial statements and our auditor's report thereon. The directors are responsible for the other information contained within the annual report. Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover the other information and, except to the extent otherwise explicitly stated in our report, we do not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon. Our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the course of the audit, or otherwise appears to be materially misstated. If we identify such material inconsistencies or apparent material misstatements, we are required to determine whether this gives rise to a material misstatement in the financial statements themselves. If, based on the work we have performed, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are required to report that fact.

 

We have nothing to report in this regard.

Opinions on other matters prescribed by the Companies Act 2006

In our opinion, based on the work undertaken in the course of our audit:

WASSERMAN MUSIC LIMITED
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT (CONTINUED)
TO THE MEMBERS OF WASSERMAN MUSIC LIMITED
- 5 -
Matters on which we are required to report by exception

In the light of the knowledge and understanding of the group and the parent company and its environment obtained in the course of the audit, we have not identified material misstatements in the strategic report and the directors' report.

 

We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters where the Companies Act 2006 requires us to report to you if, in our opinion:

 

Responsibilities of directors

As explained more fully in the directors' responsibilities statement, the directors are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements and for being satisfied that they give a true and fair view, and for such internal control as the directors determine is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error. In preparing the financial statements, the directors are responsible for assessing the parent company's ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless the directors either intend to liquidate the company or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so.

Auditor's responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements

Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor's report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with ISAs (UK) will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these financial statements.

Irregularities, including fraud, are instances of non-compliance with laws and regulations. We design procedures in line with our responsibilities, outlined above, to detect material misstatements in respect of irregularities, including fraud. The extent to which our procedures are capable of detecting irregularities, including fraud, is detailed below.

 

WASSERMAN MUSIC LIMITED
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT (CONTINUED)
TO THE MEMBERS OF WASSERMAN MUSIC LIMITED
- 6 -

 

No instances of material non-compliance were identified. However, the likelihood of detecting irregularities, including fraud, is limited by the inherent difficulty in detecting irregularities, the effectiveness of the entity's controls, and the nature, timing and extent of the audit procedures performed. Irregularities that result from fraud might be inherently more difficult to detect than irregularities that result from error. As explained above, there is an unavoidable risk that material misstatements may not be detected, even though the audit has been planned and performed in accordance with ISAs (UK).

A further description of our responsibilities is available on the Financial Reporting Council’s website at: https://www.frc.org.uk/auditorsresponsibilities. This description forms part of our auditor's report.

Use of our report

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. 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 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.

Austin Jacobs (Senior Statutory Auditor)
For and on behalf of Prager Metis LLP, Statutory Auditor
Chartered Accountants
5a Bear Lane
Southwark
London
SE1 0UH
United Kingdom
29 August 2025
WASSERMAN MUSIC LIMITED
GROUP PROFIT AND LOSS ACCOUNT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
- 7 -
2024
2023
Notes
£
£
Turnover
3
25,147,584
20,646,476
Cost of sales
(435,915)
(699,647)
Gross profit
24,711,669
19,946,829
Administrative expenses
(19,888,516)
(13,220,227)
Other operating income
-
390
Exceptional item
4
-
0
(4,687,500)
Operating profit
5
4,823,153
2,039,492
Share of results of joint ventures
(20,696)
(39,856)
Interest receivable and similar income
8
919,846
421,440
Interest payable and similar expenses
9
(196,379)
(195,844)
Amounts written off investments
10
20,696
(317,507)
Profit before taxation
5,546,620
1,907,725
Tax on profit
11
(1,415,559)
(1,725,387)
Profit for the financial year
26
4,131,061
182,338
Profit for the financial year is all attributable to the owners of the parent company.
WASSERMAN MUSIC LIMITED
GROUP STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
- 8 -
2024
2023
£
£
Profit for the year
4,131,061
182,338
Other comprehensive income
Revaluation of tangible fixed assets
(375,000)
(425,000)
Cash flow hedges gain arising in the year
-
0
-
0
Total comprehensive income for the year
3,756,061
(242,662)
Total comprehensive income for the year is all attributable to the owners of the parent company.
WASSERMAN MUSIC LIMITED
GROUP BALANCE SHEET
AS AT
31 DECEMBER 2024
31 December 2024
- 9 -
2024
2023
Notes
£
£
£
£
Fixed assets
Intangible assets
2,341
13,143
Tangible assets
15
5,576,878
5,675,455
5,579,219
5,688,598
Current assets
Debtors
19
3,455,570
2,537,941
Cash at bank and in hand
21,003,262
18,884,134
24,458,832
21,422,075
Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
20
(23,508,986)
(19,671,776)
Net current assets
949,846
1,750,299
Total assets less current liabilities
6,529,065
7,438,897
Creditors: amounts falling due after more than one year
21
(3,588,746)
(3,030,000)
Provisions for liabilities
Deferred tax liability
23
61,338
-
0
(61,338)
-
Net assets
2,878,981
4,408,897
Capital and reserves
Called up share capital
25
202
202
Profit and loss reserves
26
2,878,779
4,408,695
Total equity
2,878,981
4,408,897

These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the provisions relating to medium-sized groups.

The financial statements were approved by the board of directors and authorised for issue on 1 August 2025 and are signed on its behalf by:
01 August 2025
Mr David Hallybone
Director
Company registration number 08775625 (England and Wales)
WASSERMAN MUSIC LIMITED
COMPANY BALANCE SHEET
AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2024
31 December 2024
- 10 -
2024
2023
Notes
£
£
£
£
Fixed assets
Intangible assets
2,341
13,143
Tangible assets
15
376,878
100,455
Investments
16
2
2
379,221
113,600
Current assets
Debtors
19
5,711,934
5,822,442
Cash at bank and in hand
20,935,010
18,772,434
26,646,944
24,594,876
Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
20
(23,435,152)
(19,422,297)
Net current assets
3,211,792
5,172,579
Total assets less current liabilities
3,591,013
5,286,179
Creditors: amounts falling due after more than one year
21
(801,146)
-
Provisions for liabilities
Deferred tax liability
23
61,338
-
0
(61,338)
-
Net assets
2,728,529
5,286,179
Capital and reserves
Called up share capital
25
202
202
Profit and loss reserves
26
2,728,327
5,285,977
Total equity
2,728,529
5,286,179
WASSERMAN MUSIC LIMITED
COMPANY BALANCE SHEET (CONTINUED)
AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2024
31 December 2024
- 11 -

As permitted by s408 Companies Act 2006, the company has not presented its own profit and loss account and related notes. The company’s profit for the year was £2,728,327 (2023 - £129,727 profit).

These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the provisions relating to medium-sized companies.

The financial statements were approved by the board of directors and authorised for issue on 1 August 2025 and are signed on its behalf by:
01 August 2025
Mr David Hallybone
Director
Company registration number 08775625 (England and Wales)
WASSERMAN MUSIC LIMITED
GROUP STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
- 12 -
Share capital
Revaluation reserve
Other reserves
Profit and loss reserves
Total
Notes
£
£
£
£
£
Balance at 1 January 2023
202
-
0
2,187,500
8,225,856
10,413,558
Year ended 31 December 2023:
Profit for the year
-
-
-
182,338
182,338
Other comprehensive income:
Revaluation of tangible fixed assets
-
(425,000)
-
-
(425,000)
Total comprehensive income
-
(425,000)
-
182,338
(242,662)
Dividends
12
-
-
-
(5,761,999)
(5,761,999)
Transfers
-
425,000
-
(425,000)
-
Other movements
-
-
(2,187,500)
2,187,500
-
Balance at 31 December 2023
202
-
0
-
4,408,695
4,408,897
Year ended 31 December 2024:
Profit for the year
-
-
-
4,131,061
4,131,061
Other comprehensive income:
Revaluation of tangible fixed assets
-
(375,000)
-
-
(375,000)
Total comprehensive income
-
(375,000)
-
4,131,061
3,756,061
Dividends
12
-
-
-
(5,285,977)
(5,285,977)
Transfers
-
375,000
-
(375,000)
-
Balance at 31 December 2024
202
-
0
-
2,878,779
2,878,981
WASSERMAN MUSIC LIMITED
COMPANY STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
- 13 -
Share capital
Other reserves
Profit and loss reserves
Total
Notes
£
£
£
£
Balance at 1 January 2023
202
2,187,500
8,730,749
10,918,451
Year ended 31 December 2023:
Profit and total comprehensive income for the year
-
-
129,727
129,727
Dividends
12
-
-
(5,761,999)
(5,761,999)
Other movements
-
(2,187,500)
2,187,500
-
Balance at 31 December 2023
202
-
5,285,977
5,286,179
Year ended 31 December 2024:
Profit and total comprehensive income
-
-
2,728,327
2,728,327
Dividends
12
-
-
(5,285,977)
(5,285,977)
Balance at 31 December 2024
202
-
2,728,327
2,728,529
WASSERMAN MUSIC LIMITED
GROUP STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
- 14 -
2024
2023
Notes
£
£
£
£
Cash flows from operating activities
Cash generated from operations
30
7,885,482
4,657,077
Interest paid
(196,379)
(170,503)
Income taxes paid
(1,397,881)
(2,861,192)
Net cash inflow from operating activities
6,291,222
1,625,382
Investing activities
Purchase of tangible fixed assets
(369,833)
(56,918)
Proceeds from disposal of tangible fixed assets
988
2,500
Interest received
936,962
404,324
Net cash generated from investing activities
568,117
349,906
Financing activities
Proceeds from borrowings
801,146
-
Repayment of bank loans
(242,400)
(211,200)
Payment of finance leases obligations
-
(58,319)
Dividends paid to equity shareholders
(5,285,977)
(5,761,999)
Net cash used in financing activities
(4,727,231)
(6,031,518)
Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
2,132,108
(4,056,230)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year
18,884,134
22,940,424
Effect of foreign exchange rates
(12,980)
(60)
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year
21,003,262
18,884,134
WASSERMAN MUSIC LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
- 15 -
1
Accounting policies
Company information

Wasserman Music Limited (“the company”) is a private limited company domiciled and incorporated in England and Wales. The registered office is 1 Wenlock Road, London, N1 7SL.

 

The group consists of Wasserman Music Limited and its wholly owned subsidiaries Coda (Wenlock) Limited and Coda Agency Limited.

1.1
Accounting convention

These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with FRS 102 “The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland” (“FRS 102”) and the requirements of the Companies Act 2006.

The financial statements are prepared in sterling, which is the functional currency of the company. Monetary amounts in these financial statements are rounded to the nearest £.

The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention, modified to include the revaluation of freehold properties and certain financial instruments at fair value. The principal accounting policies adopted are set out below.

The company is a qualifying entity for the purposes of FRS 102, being a member of a group where the parent of that group prepares publicly available consolidated financial statements, including this company, which are intended to give a true and fair view of the assets, liabilities, financial position and profit or loss of the group. The company has therefore taken advantage of exemptions from the following disclosure requirements for parent company information presented within the consolidated financial statements:

 

1.2
Business combinations

In the parent company financial statements, the cost of a business combination is the fair value at the acquisition date of the assets given, equity instruments issued and liabilities incurred or assumed, plus costs directly attributable to the business combination. The excess of the cost of a business combination over the fair value of the identifiable assets, liabilities and contingent liabilities acquired is recognised as goodwill. The cost of the combination includes the estimated amount of contingent consideration that is probable and can be measured reliably, and is adjusted for changes in contingent consideration after the acquisition date. Provisional fair values recognised for business combinations in previous periods are adjusted retrospectively for final fair values determined in the 12 months following the acquisition date. Investments in subsidiaries, joint ventures and associates are accounted for at cost less impairment.

 

Deferred tax is recognised on differences between the value of assets (other than goodwill) and liabilities recognised in a business combination accounted for using the purchase method and the amounts that can be deducted or assessed for tax, considering the manner in which the carrying amount of the asset or liability is expected to be recovered or settled. The deferred tax recognised is adjusted against goodwill or negative goodwill.

WASSERMAN MUSIC LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
1
Accounting policies
(Continued)
- 16 -
1.3
Basis of consolidation

The consolidated group financial statements consist of the financial statements of the parent company Wasserman Music Limited together with all entities controlled by the parent company (its subsidiaries) and the group’s share of its interests in joint ventures and associates.

 

All financial statements are made up to 31 December 2024. Where necessary, adjustments are made to the financial statements of subsidiaries to bring the accounting policies used into line with those used by other members of the group.

 

All intra-group transactions, balances and unrealised gains on transactions between group companies are eliminated on consolidation. Unrealised losses are also eliminated unless the transaction provides evidence of an impairment of the asset transferred.

Subsidiaries are consolidated in the group’s financial statements from the date that control commences until the date that control ceases.

Entities in which the group holds an interest and which are jointly controlled by the group and one or more other venturers under a contractual arrangement are treated as joint ventures. Entities other than subsidiary undertakings or joint ventures, in which the group has a participating interest and over whose operating and financial policies the group exercises a significant influence, are treated as associates.

Investments in joint ventures and associates are carried in the group balance sheet at cost plus post-acquisition changes in the group’s share of the net assets of the entity, less any impairment in value. The carrying values of investments in joint ventures and associates include acquired goodwill.

 

If the group’s share of losses in a joint venture or associate equals or exceeds its investment in the joint venture or associate, the group does not recognise further losses unless it has incurred obligations to do so or has made payments on behalf of the joint venture or associate.

 

Unrealised gains arising from transactions with joint ventures and associates are eliminated to the extent of the group’s interest in the entity.

1.4
Going concern

At the time of approving the financial statements, the directors have a reasonable expectation that the group has adequate cash reserves and support from the major shareholder to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future. Thus the directors continue to adopt the going concern basis of accounting in preparing the financial statements.

1.5
Turnover

Turnover is recognised at the fair value of agency commissions receivable in respect of live music performances, and is shown net of VAT and other sales related taxes. The fair value of consideration takes into account trade discounts, settlement discounts and volume rebates.

 

When cash inflows are deferred and represent a financing arrangement, the fair value of the consideration is the present value of the future receipts. The difference between the fair value of the consideration and the nominal amount received is recognised as interest income.

WASSERMAN MUSIC LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
1
Accounting policies
(Continued)
- 17 -
1.6
Intangible fixed assets - goodwill

Goodwill arising on the acquisition of trade and assets of Coda Music Agency LLP represents the excess of the cost of acquisition of a business over the fair value of net assets acquired. It is initially recognised as an asset at cost and is subsequently measured at cost less accumulated amortisation and accumulated impairment losses. Goodwill is considered to have a finite useful life and is amortised on a systematic basis over its expected life, which is 20 years.

 

For the purposes of impairment testing, goodwill is allocated to the cash-generating units expected to benefit from the acquisition. Cash-generating units to which goodwill has been allocated are tested for impairment at least annually, or more frequently when there is an indication that the unit may be impaired. If the recoverable amount of the cash-generating unit is less than the carrying amount of the unit, the impairment loss is allocated first to reduce the carrying amount of any goodwill allocated to the unit and then to the other assets of the unit pro-rata on the basis of the carrying amount of each asset in the unit.

 

During the prior year the directors' determined that goodwill should be fully impaired, following the impact that the majority takeover by Wasserman Music LLC. has had on the company.

1.7
Intangible fixed assets other than goodwill

Intangible assets acquired separately from a business are recognised at cost and are subsequently measured at cost less accumulated amortisation and accumulated impairment losses.

 

Intangible assets acquired on business combinations are recognised separately from goodwill at the acquisition date where it is probable that the expected future economic benefits that are attributable to the asset will flow to the entity and the fair value of the asset can be measured reliably; the intangible asset arises from contractual or other legal rights; and the intangible asset is separable from the entity.

Amortisation is recognised so as to write off the cost or valuation of assets less their residual values over their useful lives on the following bases:

Software
20% straight line basis

Costs associated with maintaining computer software are recognised as an expense as incurred.

 

The costs associated with the development of new software are recognised as an intangible asset when the Group is able to demonstrate all of the following are met:

 

a) The technical feasibility of completing the development so the intangible asset will be available for use or sale;

b) Its intention to complete the development and to use or sell the intangible asset;

c) Its ability to use or sell the intangible asset;

d) How the intangible asset will generate probable future economic benefits;

e) The availability of adequate technical, financial and other resources to complete the developments and to use or sell the intangible asset; and

f) Its ability to measure reliably the expenditure attributable to the intangible asset during its development.

 

All development expenditure that does not meet the above conditions are expensed as incurred.

1.8
Tangible fixed assets

Tangible fixed assets are initially measured at cost and subsequently measured at cost or valuation, net of depreciation and any impairment losses.

WASSERMAN MUSIC LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
1
Accounting policies
(Continued)
- 18 -

Depreciation is recognised so as to write off the cost or valuation of assets less their residual values over their useful lives on the following bases:

Freehold land and buildings
not depreciated
Fixtures and fittings
straight line over 4 years
Computers
33%, 25% or 20% straight line
Motor vehicles
25% straight line

The gain or loss arising on the disposal of an asset is determined as the difference between the sale proceeds and the carrying value of the asset, and is recognised in the profit and loss account.

1.9
Fixed asset investments

Equity investments are measured at fair value through profit or loss, except for those equity investments that are not publicly traded and whose fair value cannot otherwise be measured reliably, which are recognised at cost less impairment until a reliable measure of fair value becomes available.

 

In the parent company financial statements, investments in subsidiaries, associates and jointly controlled entities are initially measured at cost and subsequently measured at cost less any accumulated impairment losses.

A subsidiary is an entity controlled by the group. Control is the power to govern the financial and operating policies of the entity so as to obtain benefits from its activities.

An associate is an entity, being neither a subsidiary nor a joint venture, in which the company holds a long-term interest and where the company has significant influence. The group considers that it has significant influence where it has the power to participate in the financial and operating decisions of the associate.

 

Investments in associates are initially recognised at the transaction price (including transaction costs) and are subsequently adjusted to reflect the group’s share of the profit or loss, other comprehensive income and equity of the associate using the equity method. Any difference between the cost of acquisition and the share of the fair value of the net identifiable assets of the associate on acquisition is recognised as goodwill. Any unamortised balance of goodwill is included in the carrying value of the investment in associates.

 

Losses in excess of the carrying amount of an investment in an associate are recorded as a provision only when the company has incurred legal or constructive obligations or has made payments on behalf of the associate.

 

In the parent company financial statements, investments in associates are accounted for at cost less impairment.

Entities in which the group has a long term interest and shares control under a contractual arrangement are classified as jointly controlled entities.

1.10
Impairment of fixed assets

At each reporting period end date, the group reviews the carrying amounts of its tangible and intangible assets to determine whether there is any indication that those assets have suffered an impairment loss. If any such indication exists, the recoverable amount of the asset is estimated in order to determine the extent of the impairment loss (if any). Where it is not possible to estimate the recoverable amount of an individual asset, the company estimates the recoverable amount of the cash-generating unit to which the asset belongs.

 

The carrying amount of the investments accounted for using the equity method is tested for impairment as a single asset. Any goodwill included in the carrying amount of the investment is not tested separately for impairment.

WASSERMAN MUSIC LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
1
Accounting policies
(Continued)
- 19 -

Recoverable amount is the higher of fair value less costs to sell and value in use. In assessing value in use, the estimated future cash flows are discounted to their present value using a pre-tax discount rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and the risks specific to the asset for which the estimates of future cash flows have not been adjusted.

 

If the recoverable amount of an asset (or cash-generating unit) is estimated to be less than its carrying amount, the carrying amount of the asset (or cash-generating unit) is reduced to its recoverable amount. An impairment loss is recognised immediately in profit or loss, unless the relevant asset is carried at a revalued amount, in which case the impairment loss is treated as a revaluation decrease.

Recognised impairment losses are reversed if, and only if, the reasons for the impairment loss have ceased to apply. Where an impairment loss subsequently reverses, the carrying amount of the asset (or cash-generating unit) is increased to the revised estimate of its recoverable amount, but so that the increased carrying amount does not exceed the carrying amount that would have been determined had no impairment loss been recognised for the asset (or cash-generating unit) in prior years. A reversal of an impairment loss is recognised immediately in profit or loss, unless the relevant asset is carried at a revalued amount, in which case the reversal of the impairment loss is treated as a revaluation increase.

1.11
Cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents are basic financial assets and include cash in hand, deposits held at call with banks, other short-term liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less, and bank overdrafts. Bank overdrafts are shown within borrowings in current liabilities.

1.12
Financial instruments

The group has elected to apply the provisions of Section 11 ‘Basic Financial Instruments’ and Section 12 ‘Other Financial Instruments Issues’ of FRS 102 to all of its financial instruments.

 

Financial instruments are recognised in the group's balance sheet when the group becomes party to the contractual provisions of the instrument.

 

Financial assets and liabilities are offset and the net amounts presented in the financial statements when there is a legally enforceable right to set off the recognised amounts and there is an intention to settle on a net basis or to realise the asset and settle the liability simultaneously.

Basic financial assets

Basic financial assets, which include debtors and cash and bank balances, are initially measured at transaction price including transaction costs and are subsequently carried at amortised cost using the effective interest method unless the arrangement constitutes a financing transaction, where the transaction is measured at the present value of the future receipts discounted at a market rate of interest. Financial assets classified as receivable within one year are not amortised.

Other financial assets

Other financial assets, including investments in equity instruments which are not subsidiaries, associates or joint ventures, are initially measured at fair value, which is normally the transaction price. Such assets are subsequently carried at fair value and the changes in fair value are recognised in profit or loss, except that investments in equity instruments that are not publicly traded and whose fair values cannot be measured reliably are measured at cost less impairment.

WASSERMAN MUSIC LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
1
Accounting policies
(Continued)
- 20 -
Impairment of financial assets

Financial assets, other than those held at fair value through profit and loss, are assessed for indicators of impairment at each reporting end date.

 

Financial assets are impaired where there is objective evidence that, as a result of one or more events that occurred after the initial recognition of the financial asset, the estimated future cash flows have been affected. If an asset is impaired, the impairment loss is the difference between the carrying amount and the present value of the estimated cash flows discounted at the asset’s original effective interest rate. The impairment loss is recognised in profit or loss.

 

If there is a decrease in the impairment loss arising from an event occurring after the impairment was recognised, the impairment is reversed. The reversal is such that the current carrying amount does not exceed what the carrying amount would have been, had the impairment not previously been recognised. The impairment reversal is recognised in profit or loss.

Classification of financial liabilities

Financial liabilities and equity instruments are classified according to the substance of the contractual arrangements entered into. An equity instrument is any contract that evidences a residual interest in the assets of the group after deducting all of its liabilities.

Basic financial liabilities

Basic financial liabilities, including creditors, bank loans, loans from fellow group companies and preference shares that are classified as debt, are initially recognised at transaction price unless the arrangement constitutes a financing transaction, where the debt instrument is measured at the present value of the future payments discounted at a market rate of interest. Financial liabilities classified as payable within one year are not amortised.

 

Debt instruments are subsequently carried at amortised cost, using the effective interest rate method.

 

Trade creditors are obligations to pay for goods or services that have been acquired in the ordinary course of business from suppliers. Amounts payable are classified as current liabilities if payment is due within one year or less. If not, they are presented as non-current liabilities. Trade creditors are recognised initially at transaction price and subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method.

Other financial liabilities

Debt instruments that do not meet the conditions in FRS 102 paragraph 11.9 are subsequently measured at fair value through profit or loss. Debt instruments may be designated as being measured at fair value through profit or loss to eliminate or reduce an accounting mismatch or if the instruments are measured and their performance evaluated on a fair value basis in accordance with a documented risk management or investment strategy.

1.13
Equity instruments

Equity instruments issued by the group are recorded at the proceeds received, net of transaction costs. Dividends payable on equity instruments are recognised as liabilities once they are no longer at the discretion of the group.

1.14
Taxation

The tax expense represents the sum of the tax currently payable and deferred tax.

WASSERMAN MUSIC LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
1
Accounting policies
(Continued)
- 21 -
Current tax

The tax currently payable is based on taxable profit for the year. Taxable profit differs from net profit as reported in the profit and loss account because it excludes items of income or expense that are taxable or deductible in other years and it further excludes items that are never taxable or deductible. The group’s liability for current tax is calculated using tax rates that have been enacted or substantively enacted by the reporting end date.

Deferred tax

Deferred tax liabilities are generally recognised for all timing differences and deferred tax assets are recognised to the extent that it is probable that they will be recovered against the reversal of deferred tax liabilities or other future taxable profits. Such assets and liabilities are not recognised if the timing difference arises from goodwill or from the initial recognition of other assets and liabilities in a transaction that affects neither the tax profit nor the accounting profit.

 

The carrying amount of deferred tax assets is reviewed at each reporting end date and reduced to the extent that it is no longer probable that sufficient taxable profits will be available to allow all or part of the asset to be recovered. Deferred tax is calculated at the tax rates that are expected to apply in the period when the liability is settled or the asset is realised. Deferred tax is charged or credited in the profit and loss account, except when it relates to items charged or credited directly to equity, in which case the deferred tax is also dealt with in equity. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are offset if, and only if, there is a legally enforceable right to offset current tax assets and liabilities and the deferred tax assets and liabilities relate to taxes levied by the same tax authority.

1.15
Employee benefits

The costs of short-term employee benefits are recognised as a liability and an expense, unless those costs are required to be recognised as part of the cost of stock or fixed assets.

 

The cost of any unused holiday entitlement is recognised in the period in which the employee’s services are received.

 

Termination benefits are recognised immediately as an expense when the company is demonstrably committed to terminate the employment of an employee or to provide termination benefits.

1.16
Retirement benefits

Payments to defined contribution retirement benefit schemes are charged as an expense as they fall due.

1.17
Leases

Rental income from operating leases is recognised on a straight line basis over the term of the relevant lease. Initial direct costs incurred in negotiating and arranging an operating lease are added to the carrying amount of the leased asset and recognised on a straight line basis over the lease term.

1.18
Foreign exchange

Transactions in currencies other than pounds sterling are recorded at the rates of exchange prevailing at the dates of the transactions. At each reporting end date, monetary assets and liabilities that are denominated in foreign currencies are retranslated at the rates prevailing on the reporting end date. Gains and losses arising on translation in the period are included in profit or loss.

WASSERMAN MUSIC LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
- 22 -
2
Judgements and key sources of estimation uncertainty

In the application of the group’s accounting policies, the directors are required to make judgements, estimates and assumptions about the carrying amount of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. The estimates and associated assumptions are based on historical experience and other factors that are considered to be relevant. Actual results may differ from these estimates.

 

The estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognised in the period in which the estimate is revised where the revision affects only that period, or in the period of the revision and future periods where the revision affects both current and future periods.

Critical judgements

The following judgements (apart from those involving estimates) have had the most significant effect on amounts recognised in the financial statements.

Leases

In these accounts the directors have been required to assess whether leases entered into by the company either as a lessor or a lessee are operating leases or finance leases. These decisions depend on an assessment of whether the risks and rewards of ownership have been transferred from the lessor to the lessee on a lease by lease basis.

Impairment

In these accounts the directors have been required to assess whether there are any indicators of impairment of the company's assets such as goodwill and investments. Factors taken into consideration in reaching such a decision include the economic viability and expected future financial performance of these assets, their viability and the expected future performance of those assets.

Key sources of estimation uncertainty

The estimates and assumptions which have a significant risk of causing a material adjustment to the carrying amount of assets and liabilities are as follows.

Tangible fixed assets

Tangible fixed assets are depreciated over the useful lives taking into account residual values, where appropriate.

3
Turnover and other revenue
2024
2023
£
£
Turnover analysed by class of business
Agency fees and commissions
25,147,584
20,646,476
2024
2023
£
£
Turnover analysed by geographical market
United Kingdom
8,199,842
6,407,108
Europe
12,263,367
11,035,759
Rest of World
4,684,375
3,203,609
25,147,584
20,646,476
WASSERMAN MUSIC LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
3
Turnover and other revenue
(Continued)
- 23 -
2024
2023
£
£
Other revenue
Interest income
919,846
421,440

Government grants of £106,945 includes receipt of the following grant; CBILs interest settlement of £106,945.

4
Exceptional item
2024
2023
£
£
Expenditure
Impairment of goodwill
-
4,687,500
5
Operating profit
2024
2023
£
£
Operating profit for the year is stated after charging/(crediting):
Exchange gains
(578,018)
(627,085)
Fees payable to the group's auditor for the audit of the group's financial statements
30,969
54,946
Depreciation of owned tangible fixed assets
93,410
81,561
Profit on disposal of tangible fixed assets
(988)
(2,500)
Amortisation of intangible assets
10,802
513,426
Impairment of intangible assets
-
0
4,687,500
6
Employees

The average monthly number of persons (including directors) employed by the group and company during the year was:

Group
Company
2024
2023
2024
2023
Number
Number
Number
Number
105
96
105
96
WASSERMAN MUSIC LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
6
Employees
(Continued)
- 24 -

Their aggregate remuneration comprised:

Group
Company
2024
2023
2024
2023
£
£
£
£
Wages and salaries
15,858,502
9,895,967
15,858,502
9,895,967
Social security costs
2,185,629
1,220,966
2,185,629
1,220,966
Pension costs
101,949
89,898
101,949
89,898
18,146,080
11,206,831
18,146,080
11,206,831
7
Directors' remuneration
2024
2023
£
£
Remuneration for qualifying services
3,654,683
601,342

The number of directors for whom retirement benefits are accruing under defined contribution schemes amounted to 4 (2023 - 4).

Remuneration disclosed above includes the following amounts paid to the highest paid director:
2024
2023
£
£
Remuneration for qualifying services
1,844,693
236,470
Company pension contributions to defined contribution schemes
1,625
-
8
Interest receivable and similar income
2024
2023
£
£
Interest income
Interest on bank deposits
903,374
387,938
Other interest income
16,472
33,502
Total income
919,846
421,440
WASSERMAN MUSIC LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
- 25 -
9
Interest payable and similar expenses
2024
2023
£
£
Interest on bank overdrafts and loans
152,601
165,831
Interest payable to group undertakings
3,713
-
0
Interest on finance leases and hire purchase contracts
-
1
Other interest
40,065
30,012
Total finance costs
196,379
195,844
10
Amounts written off investments
2024
2023
£
£
Other gains and losses
20,696
(317,507)
11
Taxation
2024
2023
£
£
Current tax
UK corporation tax on profits for the current period
1,341,561
1,761,595
Adjustments in respect of prior periods
-
0
(28,516)
Total current tax
1,341,561
1,733,079
Deferred tax
Origination and reversal of timing differences
73,998
(7,692)
Total tax charge
1,415,559
1,725,387
WASSERMAN MUSIC LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
11
Taxation
(Continued)
- 26 -

The actual charge for the year can be reconciled to the expected charge for the year based on the profit or loss and the standard rate of tax as follows:

2024
2023
£
£
Profit before taxation
5,546,620
1,907,725
Expected tax charge based on the standard rate of corporation tax in the UK of 25.00% (2023: 23.52%)
1,386,655
448,697
Tax effect of expenses that are not deductible in determining taxable profit
31,533
96,435
Permanent capital allowances in excess of depreciation
(78,527)
2,235
Amortisation on assets not qualifying for tax allowances
-
0
110,250
Deferred tax movement
73,998
(7,692)
S455 tax due on overdrawn loan accounts
-
0
(28,516)
Goodwill impairment not deductible
-
0
1,102,500
Pension contributions unpaid
1,900
1,478
Taxation charge
1,415,559
1,725,387
12
Dividends
2024
2023
Recognised as distributions to equity holders:
£
£
Final paid
-
2,511,999
Interim paid
5,285,977
3,250,000
5,285,977
5,761,999
13
Impairments

Impairment tests have been carried out where appropriate and the following impairment losses have been recognised in profit or loss:

2024
2023
Notes
£
£
In respect of:
Goodwill
14
-
4,687,500
Investments in joint ventures
16
-
317,507
Recognised in:
Amounts written off investments
-
317,507
Exceptional items
-
4,687,500

The impairment losses in respect of financial assets are recognised in other gains and losses in the profit and loss account.

WASSERMAN MUSIC LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
13
Impairments
(Continued)
- 27 -

Reversals of previous impairment losses have been recognised in profit or loss as follows:

2024
2023
Notes
£
£
In respect of:
Investments in joint ventures
16
20,696
-
Recognised in:
Amounts written off investments
20,696
-
14
Intangible fixed assets
Group
Goodwill
Software
Total
£
£
£
Cost
At 1 January 2024 and 31 December 2024
9,375,000
1,193,454
10,568,454
Amortisation and impairment
At 1 January 2024
9,375,000
1,180,311
10,555,311
Amortisation charged for the year
-
0
10,802
10,802
At 31 December 2024
9,375,000
1,191,113
10,566,113
Carrying amount
At 31 December 2024
-
0
2,341
2,341
At 31 December 2023
-
0
13,143
13,143
Company
Goodwill
Software
Total
£
£
£
Cost
At 1 January 2024 and 31 December 2024
9,375,000
1,193,454
10,568,454
Amortisation and impairment
At 1 January 2024
9,375,000
1,180,311
10,555,311
Amortisation charged for the year
-
0
10,802
10,802
At 31 December 2024
9,375,000
1,191,113
10,566,113
Carrying amount
At 31 December 2024
-
0
2,341
2,341
At 31 December 2023
-
0
13,143
13,143

More information on impairment movements in the year is given in note 13.

WASSERMAN MUSIC LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
- 28 -
15
Tangible fixed assets
Group
Freehold land and buildings
Fixtures and fittings
Computers
Motor vehicles
Total
£
£
£
£
£
Cost
At 1 January 2024
5,575,000
303,362
287,398
126,043
6,291,803
Additions
-
0
319,481
50,352
-
0
369,833
Disposals
-
0
(5,058)
-
0
-
0
(5,058)
Revaluation
(375,000)
-
0
-
0
-
0
(375,000)
At 31 December 2024
5,200,000
617,785
337,750
126,043
6,281,578
Depreciation and impairment
At 1 January 2024
-
0
296,747
203,496
116,105
616,348
Depreciation charged in the year
-
0
12,982
71,255
9,173
93,410
Eliminated in respect of disposals
-
0
(5,058)
-
0
-
0
(5,058)
At 31 December 2024
-
0
304,671
274,751
125,278
704,700
Carrying amount
At 31 December 2024
5,200,000
313,114
62,999
765
5,576,878
At 31 December 2023
5,575,000
6,615
83,902
9,938
5,675,455
Company
Fixtures and fittings
Computers
Motor vehicles
Total
£
£
£
£
Cost
At 1 January 2024
303,361
287,399
126,043
716,803
Additions
319,481
50,352
-
0
369,833
Disposals
(5,058)
-
0
-
0
(5,058)
At 31 December 2024
617,784
337,751
126,043
1,081,578
Depreciation and impairment
At 1 January 2024
296,747
203,496
116,105
616,348
Depreciation charged in the year
12,982
71,255
9,173
93,410
Eliminated in respect of disposals
(5,058)
-
0
-
0
(5,058)
At 31 December 2024
304,671
274,751
125,278
704,700
Carrying amount
At 31 December 2024
313,113
63,000
765
376,878
At 31 December 2023
6,614
83,903
9,938
100,455
WASSERMAN MUSIC LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
- 29 -
16
Fixed asset investments
Group
Company
2024
2023
2024
2023
Notes
£
£
£
£
Investments in subsidiaries
17
-
0
-
0
2
2
Movements in fixed asset investments
Group
Shares in joint ventures
Other
Total
£
£
£
Cost or valuation
At 1 January 2024
317,507
123,190
440,697
Share of net loss
(20,696)
-
(20,696)
At 31 December 2024
296,811
123,190
420,001
Impairment
At 1 January 2024
317,507
123,190
440,697
Impairment loss reversals
(20,696)
-
(20,696)
At 31 December 2024
296,811
123,190
420,001
Carrying amount
At 31 December 2024
-
-
-
At 31 December 2023
-
-
0
-
Movements in fixed asset investments
Company
Shares in subsidiaries and joint ventures
Other
Total
£
£
£
Cost or valuation
At 1 January 2024 and 31 December 2024
485,002
123,190
608,192
Impairment
At 1 January 2024 and 31 December 2024
485,000
123,190
608,190
Carrying amount
At 31 December 2024
2
-
2
At 31 December 2023
2
-
0
2
17
Subsidiaries

Details of the company's subsidiaries at 31 December 2024 are as follows:

WASSERMAN MUSIC LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
17
Subsidiaries
(Continued)
- 30 -
Name of undertaking
Registered office
Class of
% Held
shares held
Direct
Coda (Wenlock) Limited
1 Wenlock Road, London, N1 7SL
Ordinary
100.00
Coda Agency Limited
1 Wenlock Road, London, N1 7SL
Ordinary
100.00
18
Joint ventures

Details of joint ventures at 31 December 2024 are as follows:

Name of undertaking
Registered office
Interest
% Held
held
Direct
Happy Hunting Ground Ltd
4-6 Canfield Place, London, NW6 3BT
Ordinary
50.00
19
Debtors
Group
Company
2024
2023
2024
2023
Amounts falling due within one year:
£
£
£
£
Trade debtors
478,342
87,177
478,343
87,177
Unpaid share capital
2
2
2
2
Corporation tax recoverable
-
0
28,516
-
0
28,516
Amounts owed by group undertakings
-
-
2,169,815
3,090,702
Other debtors
582,349
761,491
582,349
761,491
Prepayments and accrued income
2,394,877
1,648,095
2,481,425
1,841,894
3,455,570
2,525,281
5,711,934
5,809,782
Deferred tax asset (note 23)
-
0
12,660
-
0
12,660
3,455,570
2,537,941
5,711,934
5,822,442
20
Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
Group
Company
2024
2023
2024
2023
Notes
£
£
£
£
Bank loans
22
242,400
242,400
-
0
-
0
Trade creditors
226,447
309,494
226,447
303,527
Amounts owed to group undertakings
-
0
-
0
258,659
110,017
Corporation tax payable
182,941
267,777
170,503
235,294
Other taxation and social security
526,292
543,959
482,992
501,359
Other creditors
18,974,605
15,785,192
18,947,826
15,758,314
Accruals and deferred income
3,356,301
2,522,954
3,348,725
2,513,786
23,508,986
19,671,776
23,435,152
19,422,297
WASSERMAN MUSIC LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
- 31 -
21
Creditors: amounts falling due after more than one year
Group
Company
2024
2023
2024
2023
Notes
£
£
£
£
Bank loans and overdrafts
22
2,787,600
3,030,000
-
0
-
0
Other borrowings
22
801,146
-
0
801,146
-
0
3,588,746
3,030,000
801,146
-
Amounts included above which fall due after five years are as follows:
Payable by instalments
1,818,000
2,060,400
-
-
22
Loans and overdrafts
Group
Company
2024
2023
2024
2023
£
£
£
£
Bank loans
3,030,000
3,272,400
-
0
-
0
Other loans
801,146
-
0
801,146
-
0
3,831,146
3,272,400
801,146
-
Payable within one year
242,400
242,400
-
0
-
0
Payable after one year
3,588,746
3,030,000
801,146
-
0

The bank loans are secured by fixed charges over the Group's land and buildings.

 

The other loan relates to a revolving credit agreement with Wasserman Music LLC, the ultimate controlling entity. The loan shall bear interest on any outstanding principal amount thereof at a rate per annum equal to 8.5%.

23
Deferred taxation

The following are the major deferred tax liabilities and assets recognised by the group and company, and movements thereon:

Liabilities
Liabilities
Assets
Assets
2024
2023
2024
2023
Group
£
£
£
£
Accelerated capital allowances
61,338
-
-
12,660
WASSERMAN MUSIC LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
23
Deferred taxation
(Continued)
- 32 -
Liabilities
Liabilities
Assets
Assets
2024
2023
2024
2023
Company
£
£
£
£
Accelerated capital allowances
61,338
-
-
12,660
Group
Company
2024
2024
Movements in the year:
£
£
Asset at 1 January 2024
(12,660)
(12,660)
Charge to profit or loss
73,998
73,998
Liability at 31 December 2024
61,338
61,338

The deferred tax liability set out above is expected to reverse within 48 months and relates to accelerated capital allowances that are expected to mature within the same period.

24
Retirement benefit schemes
2024
2023
Defined contribution schemes
£
£
Charge to profit or loss in respect of defined contribution schemes
101,949
89,898

A defined contribution pension scheme is operated for all qualifying employees. The assets of the scheme are held separately from those of the group in an independently administered fund.

25
Share capital
Group and company
2024
2023
2024
2023
Ordinary share capital
Number
Number
£
£
Issued and not fully paid
Ordinary A Shares of 1p each
10,000
10,000
100
100
Ordinary B Shares of 1p each
10,000
10,000
100
100
Ordinary W Shares of 1p each
200
200
2
2
20,200
20,200
202
202

All Ordinary A and Ordinary B shares issued are fully paid. The Ordinary W shares issued are not fully paid and the £2 called up share capital not paid is in relation to these shares.

WASSERMAN MUSIC LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
- 33 -
26
Profit and loss reserves
Group
Company
2024
2023
2024
2023
£
£
£
£
At the beginning of the year
4,408,695
8,225,856
5,285,977
8,730,749
Profit for the year
4,131,061
182,338
2,728,327
129,727
Dividends
(5,285,977)
(5,761,999)
(5,285,977)
(5,761,999)
Transfer from revaluation reserve
(375,000)
(425,000)
-
-
Other movements
-
2,187,500
-
2,187,500
At the end of the year
2,878,779
4,408,695
2,728,327
5,285,977
Group
Company
2024
2023
2024
2023
£
£
£
£
Non-distributable profits included above
At the beginning of the year
(1,631,392)
(1,206,392)
-
-
Movement in non-distributable reserve in the period
(375,000)
(425,000)
-
-
At the end of the year
(2,006,392)
(1,631,392)
-
-
Distributable profits
4,885,171
6,040,087
2,728,327
5,285,977
27
Operating lease commitments

At the reporting end date the group had outstanding commitments for future minimum lease payments under non-cancellable operating leases, which fall due as follows:

Group
Company
2024
2023
2024
2023
£
£
£
£
Within one year
-
-
433,000
433,000
Between two and five years
-
-
154,812
587,812
-
-
587,812
1,020,812
WASSERMAN MUSIC LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
- 34 -
28
Related party transactions
Transactions with related parties

During the year WMG Management Europe Ltd (WMG) recharged costs of £368,162 (2023 - £400,845). WMG are a part of the same worldwide group as Wasserman Music Limited (WML). As at the reporting date £30,601 (2023 - £175,553) was due to WMG.

 

During the year Wasserman Music Limited recharged costs £97,475, accrued for income of £355,712 and accrued expenses of £211,397 relating to Wasserman Music LLC. Wasserman Music LLC are a part of the same worldwide group as WML. As at the reporting date £29,974 was due to WML and this is reported within Trade debtors.

 

During the year WML received a loan of $1,000,000 from Wasserman Music, LLC. The loan shall bear interest on the outstanding principal amount thereof at a rate per annum equal to 8.5%. As at the reporting date, the translated outstanding balance is £801,146.

 

29
Controlling party

Wasserman Music, LLC, a company registered in the United States, is the parent company.

At the reporting date the directors consider the ultimate controlling individual to be Casey Wasserman, by way of his ownership of the majority shareholder Wasserman Music, LLC.

30
Cash generated from group operations
2024
2023
£
£
Profit after taxation
4,131,061
182,338
Adjustments for:
Share of results of associates and joint ventures
20,696
39,856
Taxation charged
1,415,559
1,725,387
Finance costs
196,379
195,844
Investment income
(919,846)
(421,440)
Gain on disposal of tangible fixed assets
(988)
(2,500)
Amortisation and impairment of intangible assets
10,802
5,200,926
Depreciation and impairment of tangible fixed assets
93,410
81,561
Foreign exchange gains on cash equivalents
12,980
60
Other gains and losses
(20,696)
317,507
Movements in working capital:
Increase in debtors
(975,921)
(368,243)
Increase/(decrease) in creditors
3,922,046
(2,294,219)
Cash generated from operations
7,885,482
4,657,077
WASSERMAN MUSIC LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
- 35 -
31
Analysis of changes in net funds - group
1 January 2024
Cash flows
Exchange rate movements
31 December 2024
£
£
£
£
Cash at bank and in hand
18,884,134
2,132,108
(12,980)
21,003,262
Borrowings excluding overdrafts
(3,272,400)
(558,746)
-
(3,831,146)
15,611,734
1,573,362
(12,980)
17,172,116
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