Accenture plc Annual Report, Year Ended Aug 31, 2009

Accenture plc's 2009 10-K filing reflects a challenging year marked by a global economic downturn, leading to an 8% decrease in net revenues to $21.58 billion. Despite this revenue contraction, the company demonstrated resilience, particularly in its outsourcing segment, which saw a 6% increase in local currency. Accenture also focused on cost management, including a workforce realignment and office space consolidation, resulting in $253 million in restructuring costs. The company successfully transitioned its parent incorporation to Ireland during the year. Despite the economic headwinds, Accenture maintained a strong balance sheet with increased cash and cash equivalents and continued its commitment to returning value to shareholders through share repurchases and dividends. Key financial highlights include a slight improvement in gross margin due to better outsourcing contract profitability and a decrease in operating income, largely due to restructuring costs. Diluted earnings per share saw a decrease, influenced by these restructuring charges. The report also details the company's extensive global operations, its diverse service offerings across multiple industries, and a robust risk factor section highlighting concerns about economic conditions, competition, and technological changes. Overall, the filing portrays a company navigating a difficult economic environment while strategically managing its resources and operations.