Summary
Automatic Data Processing, Inc. (ADP) reported its third quarter fiscal year 2018 results, indicating solid revenue growth driven by its core Employer Services and PEO Services segments. Total revenues increased by 8% and 7% for the three and six months ended December 31, 2017, respectively, compared to the prior year periods. This growth was primarily attributed to new business bookings and an increase in the number of employees on clients' payrolls. The company also highlighted strategic acquisitions, including Global Cash Card, Inc. (GCC) to enhance its digital payments capabilities and Work Market, Inc. to expand into freelance management solutions. While reported net earnings saw a slight decrease due to a prior-year gain on business divestitures, adjusted net earnings showed a significant increase of 13% and 8% for the respective periods, reflecting operational improvements and the positive impact of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. The company's effective tax rate decreased notably due to this legislation. ADP continued its commitment to shareholder returns through significant share repurchases and dividend payments, underscoring a focus on both business investment and capital distribution.
Financial Highlights
53 data points| Revenue | $3.24B |
| Cost of Revenue | $1.94B |
| Gross Profit | $1.30B |
| SG&A Expenses | $723.60M |
| Operating Expenses | $2.69B |
| Interest Expense | $27.50M |
| Net Income | $670.40M |
| EPS (Basic) | $1.52 |
| EPS (Diluted) | $1.51 |
| Shares Outstanding (Basic) | 441.30M |
| Shares Outstanding (Diluted) | 443.70M |
Key Highlights
- 1Total revenues increased by 8% for the three months and 7% for the six months ended December 31, 2017, driven by new business bookings and growth in client employee counts.
- 2Adjusted net earnings increased by 13% for the three months and 8% for the six months ended December 31, 2017, demonstrating improved operational performance.
- 3The company completed the acquisition of Global Cash Card, Inc. (GCC) in October 2017, enhancing its digital payment solutions, and Work Market, Inc. in January 2018, expanding into freelance management.
- 4The effective tax rate significantly decreased due to the enactment of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act in December 2017, which led to a provisional net benefit of $45.7 million.
- 5Shareholder returns remained strong with over $400 million returned via share repurchases and approximately $500 million via dividends during the six-month period.
- 6Client revenue retention improved, particularly on strategic platforms, indicating positive client satisfaction and loyalty.
- 7The company maintains a solid financial position with approximately $1.8 billion in cash and cash equivalents and marketable securities as of December 31, 2017.