8-KOther Events

AGILENT TECHNOLOGIES, INC. 8-K Report (May 17, 2004)

Filed May 17, 2004For Securities:A

Summary

Agilent Technologies, Inc. filed a Form 8-K on May 17, 2004, primarily to announce its financial results for the three months ended April 30, 2004. The filing emphasizes the company's use of non-GAAP financial information to provide a clearer view of operational performance and enhance investor understanding of core financial performance and future prospects. Management utilizes these non-GAAP measures, which exclude items like restructuring and amortization, for internal comparisons and decision-making. While the specific financial figures are detailed in the attached press release (Exhibit 99.1), this 8-K highlights Agilent's commitment to transparency by supplementing GAAP results with management's view of operating performance. Investors are encouraged to review the non-GAAP information provided, understanding that it may differ from GAAP and from non-GAAP measures used by other companies, as it is intended to offer insights into the ongoing operational health of the business.

Key Highlights

  • 1Agilent Technologies reported its financial results for the first quarter ended April 30, 2004.
  • 2The company is providing non-GAAP financial information to offer investors a better understanding of operational performance.
  • 3Non-GAAP measures are used by management for internal performance assessment and comparison with competitors.
  • 4Items excluded from non-GAAP results include restructuring charges and amortization, which can materially impact GAAP earnings.
  • 5The company aims to provide greater transparency by supplementing GAAP figures with management's operational view.
  • 6Agilent believes this non-GAAP reporting enhances comparability to historical results and provides consistency.
  • 7The press release containing the detailed financial results is attached as Exhibit 99.1.

Frequently Asked Questions

The main purpose of this 8-K filing is to announce Agilent Technologies, Inc.'s financial results for the three months ended April 30, 2004, as detailed in the accompanying press release (Exhibit 99.1).

Agilent is providing non-GAAP financial information to offer investors a more meaningful supplemental view of its operational performance and core financial health, as seen through the eyes of management. This allows for better understanding of ongoing performance and future prospects, and facilitates internal and competitive comparisons.

The non-GAAP financial information provided by Agilent excludes items that may have a material effect on GAAP earnings, such as restructuring charges and amortization. Management monitors these items for GAAP reporting but does not use them to measure ongoing operating performance.

Investors should view Agilent's non-GAAP financial information as a supplement to, not a replacement for, GAAP results. It is intended to provide insights into management's perspective on operational performance. Investors should also be aware that Agilent's non-GAAP measures may differ from those of other companies.