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10-QPeriod: Q3 FY2003

AMAZON COM INC Quarterly Report for Q3 Ended Sep 30, 2003

Filed October 24, 2003For Securities:AMZN

Summary

Amazon.com reported its third-quarter 2003 results, showing continued top-line growth with a 33% increase in net sales year-over-year for both the three and nine-month periods, reaching $1.13 billion and $3.32 billion respectively. The company achieved net income of $15.6 million for the quarter, a significant improvement from a net loss of $35.1 million in the prior year's third quarter, although full nine-month results still showed a net loss. The International segment exhibited particularly strong growth, with net sales up 61% and 69% for the three and nine-month periods, respectively. Operating income showed substantial improvement year-over-year, driven by revenue growth and better cost leverage, particularly in the North America segment. Despite the quarterly profit, the company highlighted significant foreign exchange impacts on earnings, primarily from the remeasurement of its Euro-denominated PEACS debt. The company also has substantial long-term debt obligations and is facing various legal proceedings. While the company generated positive operating income and cash flow from operations for the trailing twelve months, investors should remain aware of the ongoing risks related to competition, international expansion, and the inherent volatility of the e-commerce sector.

Key Highlights

  • 1Net sales increased by 33% to $1.13 billion for the three months ended September 30, 2003, and by 33% to $3.32 billion for the nine months ended September 30, 2003.
  • 2Amazon.com reported a net income of $15.6 million for the third quarter of 2003, a substantial turnaround from a net loss of $35.1 million in the same period of 2002.
  • 3The International segment experienced robust growth, with net sales increasing by 61% year-over-year in the third quarter and 69% year-over-year for the nine-month period.
  • 4Operating income improved significantly, with income from operations of $51.9 million in Q3 2003 compared to a loss of $9.6 million in Q3 2002. For the nine-month period, operating income was $133 million versus a loss of $6.4 million.
  • 5Despite quarterly profitability, the company incurred a net loss of $37.9 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2003, compared to a loss of $151.8 million in the prior year's comparable period.
  • 6Long-term debt remains substantial, totaling $2.08 billion as of September 30, 2003, primarily related to convertible notes.
  • 7The company noted significant foreign currency impacts, particularly from the remeasurement of its Euro-denominated 6.875% PEACS, which resulted in substantial gains/losses impacting net income.

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