I sometimes wonder if facts matter a lot, or even at all.

In its release of financial results for the year to June 30 2011, fuel giant Sasol has sought some acclaim for its contribution to the tax affairs of our country. It has received some, too.

Are you surprised, when you see this tone and content from the company:-

"We have paid R25,4 billion direct and indirect taxes to the South African government. This makes Sasol one of the largest corporate taxpayers in South Africa, contributing significantly to the South African economy. We contribute about 5% of South Africa's gross domestic product (GDP), directly and indirectly. We employ approximately 34 000 people globally, of which 80% are in South Africa, and create about 200 000 additional indirect jobs."

This aligns in a way with the facts in Sasol's FY11 "Analyst Book", which are:-

All good so far, isn't it? But how else might one look at the same facts? Try this:-

Cheers

Stuart