10-QPeriod: Q2 FY2012

AMAZON COM INC Quarterly Report for Q2 Ended Jun 30, 2012

Filed July 27, 2012For Securities:AMZN

Summary

Amazon.com, Inc. reported its financial results for the second quarter and first half of 2012. The company experienced robust top-line growth, with consolidated net sales increasing by 29% year-over-year in the second quarter to $12.8 billion and by 32% for the first half of the year to $26.0 billion. This growth was driven by strong performance in both North America and International segments, with North America sales up 36% in Q2 and International sales up 22% in Q2. Despite this revenue expansion, operating income saw a significant decline, falling 47% year-over-year in the second quarter to $107 million, attributed to increased operating expenses, particularly in fulfillment, technology, and content, which outpaced sales growth. While revenue growth remains a key positive, investors should note the pressure on profitability. The company continued to invest heavily in its infrastructure and technology, evidenced by a substantial increase in capital expenditures and technology and content expenses. Net income for the quarter was a mere $7 million, a sharp decrease from $191 million in the prior year period, reflecting the impact of these investments and operational cost increases on the bottom line. The balance sheet shows a strong cash position, though reduced from the prior year-end, and a significant increase in goodwill, largely due to the acquisition of Kiva Systems.

Financial Statements
Beta
Revenue$12.83B
Cost of Revenue$9.49B
Gross Profit$3.35B
Operating Expenses$12.73B
Operating Income$107.00M
Interest Expense$21.00M
Net Income$7.00M
EPS (Basic)$0.00
EPS (Diluted)$0.00
Shares Outstanding (Basic)9.02B
Shares Outstanding (Diluted)9.16B

Key Highlights

  • 1Consolidated net sales grew 29% year-over-year to $12.8 billion in Q2 2012, and 32% for the first six months of 2012 to $26.0 billion.
  • 2North America segment sales increased by 36% in Q2 2012, while International segment sales grew by 22% in the same period.
  • 3Operating income decreased significantly by 47% year-over-year to $107 million in Q2 2012, indicating margin pressure.
  • 4Net income for Q2 2012 was $7 million, a substantial decrease from $191 million in Q2 2011.
  • 5Capital expenditures increased significantly, with Q2 2012 spending at $657 million compared to $433 million in Q2 2011, reflecting ongoing investment in infrastructure.
  • 6Goodwill increased to $2.52 billion as of June 30, 2012, up from $1.96 billion at December 31, 2011, primarily due to the acquisition of Kiva Systems.
  • 7The company repurchased $960 million of its common stock in Q1 2012 under its authorized repurchase program.

Frequently Asked Questions

Amazon's consolidated net sales grew by 29% year-over-year to $12.834 billion for the quarter ended June 30, 2012. This growth was observed across both its North America and International segments.

Profitability was under pressure, with income from operations declining by 47% year-over-year to $107 million. Net income also saw a sharp decrease, falling to $7 million from $191 million in the prior year's second quarter, largely due to increased operating expenses outpacing revenue growth.

The increase in operating expenses was primarily driven by higher costs in Fulfillment (up 44% in Q2), Marketing (up 58%), and Technology and Content (up 55%). These increases reflect significant investments in infrastructure, technology, and customer service to support the company's growth.

Amazon generated $594 million in cash from operating activities in Q2 2012. The company also utilizes its substantial cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities balances, which stood at $5.0 billion as of June 30, 2012. Additionally, the company repurchased $960 million of its common stock in Q1 2012 and continues to manage its debt and capital lease obligations.