10-QPeriod: Q3 FY2006

AMGEN INC Quarterly Report for Q3 Ended Sep 30, 2006

Filed November 9, 2006For Securities:AMGN

Summary

Amgen Inc. reported solid financial results for the third quarter and first nine months of 2006, demonstrating continued revenue growth across its key products like Aranesp®, Neulasta®, and Enbrel®. Despite a significant one-time charge of $1.1 billion for the write-off of acquired in-process research and development related to the Abgenix acquisition, the company maintained strong operating income. The company also saw an increase in R&D and SG&A expenses, partly due to the adoption of new accounting standards for stock-based compensation and investments in clinical trials. Amgen ended the period with a robust cash position and actively managed its capital structure, including significant stock repurchases and the issuance of convertible notes. Investors should note the ongoing impact of regulatory changes in reimbursement policies and the competitive landscape. The acquisition of Abgenix and Avidia highlights Amgen's strategic focus on expanding its pipeline and market presence. While the company faces inherent risks in drug development and market competition, its diversified product portfolio and strategic acquisitions position it for continued performance.

Key Highlights

  • 1Total revenues increased by 15% year-over-year for the third quarter, reaching $3.6 billion, and by 14% for the nine-month period, reaching $10.4 billion.
  • 2Net income for the third quarter was $1.1 billion ($0.94 per diluted share), compared to $967 million ($0.77 per diluted share) in the prior year quarter.
  • 3Operating income for the nine-month period decreased by 24% to $2.85 billion, primarily due to a $1.1 billion write-off of acquired in-process R&D related to the Abgenix acquisition.
  • 4Research and development expenses increased by 55% in the third quarter and 40% for the nine-month period, driven by clinical trial investments and the adoption of SFAS No. 123(R).
  • 5Amgen completed the acquisition of Abgenix, Inc. on April 1, 2006, for approximately $2.1 billion, and subsequently acquired Avidia, Inc. on October 24, 2006, for approximately $290 million.
  • 6The company repurchased $4.76 billion of its common stock during the nine months ended September 30, 2006, and had $1.78 billion available for future repurchases.
  • 7As of September 30, 2006, Amgen held $5.78 billion in cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities, with approximately $4.7 billion generated from foreign tax jurisdictions intended for use outside the U.S.

Frequently Asked Questions

Amgen acquired Abgenix on April 1, 2006, for approximately $2.1 billion. The acquisition contributed to revenue growth from April 1 onwards. However, a significant one-time charge of $1.1 billion was recognized in the second quarter for the write-off of acquired in-process research and development related to this acquisition, impacting the nine-month operating income.

Effective January 1, 2006, Amgen adopted SFAS No. 123(R), which requires the recognition of compensation expense for stock options. This resulted in lower net income and earnings per share compared to prior periods accounted for under APB No. 25. For the nine months ended September 30, 2006, net income was $124 million lower, and diluted EPS was $0.11 lower due to this adoption.

Amgen expects its key products (Aranesp®, Neulasta®, and Enbrel®) to continue driving year-over-year sales growth. However, the company anticipates increased competition and potential share loss in some segments. Growth is expected to be lower in the near term compared to historical rates due to market maturity and competitive pressures, particularly from biosimilar products in Europe.

Amgen significantly increased its long-term debt by issuing $5 billion in convertible notes in February 2006. These notes have low interest rates (0.125% and 0.375%) and have associated hedging and warrant transactions. The company also continued its substantial stock repurchase program, buying back $4.76 billion in shares during the nine months ended September 30, 2006.