10-QPeriod: Q3 FY2011

Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. Quarterly Report for Q3 Ended Sep 30, 2011

Filed October 28, 2011For Securities:AJG

Summary

Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. (AJG) reported its third-quarter and year-to-date results for the period ending September 30, 2011. The company demonstrated revenue growth across both its brokerage and risk management segments, driven by a combination of organic growth and strategic acquisitions. While facing economic headwinds, AJG managed to improve its operating results compared to the prior year's comparable periods. Key financial metrics indicate a positive trajectory, with increases in total revenues, adjusted total revenues, and adjusted EBITDAC (Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation, Amortization, and Change in Estimated Acquisition Earnout Payables). The company's acquisition strategy remains active, with a significant number of acquisitions completed year-to-date, contributing substantially to revenue growth. Investors should note the ongoing integration of the Heath Lambert acquisition, which is expected to impact margins in the short term but is part of AJG's broader international expansion strategy.

Financial Statements
Beta

Key Highlights

  • 1Total revenues increased by 21% in the third quarter and 14% year-to-date, driven by strong performance in both brokerage and risk management segments.
  • 2Organic growth in commissions, fees, and supplemental commissions was 2.6% for the brokerage segment and 12.9% for the risk management segment in the third quarter.
  • 3Adjusted EBITDAC (a non-GAAP measure) increased by 20% year-to-date for combined segments, reflecting operational improvements and strategic execution.
  • 4The company completed 21 acquisitions year-to-date, contributing significantly to revenue growth, including the substantial acquisition of Heath Lambert in the UK.
  • 5Net earnings from continuing operations for the nine-month period were $103.6 million, a decrease from $117.3 million in the prior year, impacted by various adjustments and acquisition-related costs.
  • 6The company maintained compliance with its debt covenants and has a strong liquidity position with $241.4 million in cash and cash equivalents and $483.5 million available under its credit facility.
  • 7Dividends declared per common share increased to $0.33 in Q3 2011 from $0.32 in Q3 2010, signaling continued commitment to returning value to shareholders.

Frequently Asked Questions

Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. reported increased total revenues in both its brokerage and risk management segments. Despite economic challenges, the company saw improvements in operating results compared to the prior year, with adjusted EBITDAC showing significant year-over-year growth. However, net earnings from continuing operations experienced a slight decline year-over-date, partly due to acquisition-related activities.

Acquisitions played a substantial role in AJG's revenue growth, contributing significantly to the increase in total revenues. The company completed 21 acquisitions year-to-date, including the notable acquisition of Heath Lambert in the UK, which is expected to bolster international operations. These acquisitions are a key part of AJG's growth strategy.

The company expects the favorable trend in earnings before income taxes, adjusted for non-cash items (EBITDAC), to continue, driven by organic growth and ongoing acquisitions. Management believes it has sufficient capital for its short and long-term needs. The integration of recent acquisitions, particularly Heath Lambert, is ongoing and may impact short-term margins but is anticipated to contribute to long-term strategic goals.

The filing mentions several risks, including the volatility of insurance premiums, potential adverse impacts from economic downturns, risks associated with international operations, regulatory changes, potential negative effects of healthcare reform, legal proceedings, the unpredictability of contingent commissions, challenges in recruiting and retaining talent, rising employee benefit costs, and uncertainties related to clean-energy investments and tax credits. These factors could materially impact future results.