01—Abstract
Summary
Summary of the 10-Q filed November 5, 2014. Cited figures are marked; the original filing is the authoritative source.
American Water Works Company, Inc. (AWK) reported a net income of $152.2 milliona ($0.85 diluted EPS) for the third quarter of 2014, a slight increase from $150.7 million ($0.84 diluted EPS) in the prior year period.
For the first nine months of 2014, net income rose to $329.6 millionb ($1.83 diluted EPS) from $309.6 million ($1.73 diluted EPS) in the comparable period of 2013. The company's financial performance was driven by growth in its Regulated Businesses segment, which benefited from higher revenues due to rate increases and infrastructure charges, as well as lower operation and maintenance (O&M) expenses. The Market-Based Operations segment also saw revenue growth, primarily from military contracts.
AWK continued its strategy of expanding its regulated operations through acquisitions. Liquidity remains strong, with significant availability under its revolving credit facility.
The company also made progress on operational efficiency, with an improved O&M efficiency ratio in its Regulated Businesses. However, AWK faces ongoing litigation and regulatory matters, including those related to the West Virginia chemical spill and a labor dispute settlement.
02—Key points
Key Highlights
- Net income increased by 0.9% to $152.2 million for Q3 2014 and by 6.5% to $329.6 million for the first nine months of 2014, compared to the prior year periods.
- Diluted EPS grew to $0.85 for Q3 2014 and $1.83 for the first nine months of 2014, up from $0.84 and $1.73, respectively.
- Operating revenues increased by 2.9% in Q3 2014 and 4.9% for the nine-month period, driven by rate increases and acquisitions in the Regulated Businesses segment and growth in military contracts for Market-Based Operations.
- The O&M efficiency ratio for Regulated Businesses improved to 32.6% in Q3 2014 and 36.9% for the nine-month period, indicating enhanced operational efficiency.
- Capital expenditures for the first nine months of 2014 totaled $664.9 million, primarily for infrastructure upgrades, with an estimated full-year capital plan of $1.0 billion.
- The company made progress in resolving a labor dispute regarding national benefit agreements, reaching a settlement agreement in October 2014.
- AWK continues to actively pursue regulatory approvals for rate increases and infrastructure charges across various states to support revenue growth.
03—One dollar
04—Financials
Financial Highlights
Figures from 10-QQ3 FY2014filed November 5, 2014Financial Statements
Q3 FY2014 against Q3 FY2013
| Line item | Q3 FY2014Q3 FY2013 | Change |
|---|---|---|
| Revenue | $846.17M$822.19M | +2.9% |
| Operating Expenses | $508.88M$499.02M | +2.0% |
| Operating Income | $337.00M$323.17M | +4.3% |
| Interest Expense | $75.44M$77.39M | −2.5% |
| Net Income | $152.00M$150.66M | +0.9% |
| EPS (Basic) | $0.85$0.85 | 0.0% |
| EPS (Diluted) | $0.85$0.84 | +1.2% |
| Shares Outstanding (Basic) | 178.99M177.97M | +0.6% |
| Shares Outstanding (Diluted) | 179.95M179.15M | +0.4% |
05—Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What was American Water's financial performance in the third quarter of 2014?
American Water Works Company, Inc. reported net income of $152.2 million, or $0.85 per diluted share, for the third quarter of 2014. This represents a slight increase compared to the $150.7 million, or $0.84 per diluted share, reported in the third quarter of 2013. Income from continuing operations also saw an increase, reaching $156.6 million, or $0.87 per diluted share, compared to $149.9 million, or $0.84 per diluted share, in the prior year.
How did the company's different segments perform?
The Regulated Businesses segment was the primary driver of growth, showing increased operating revenues due to rate increases, surcharges, and acquisitions. This segment also benefited from lower operation and maintenance (O&M) expenses, leading to an improved O&M efficiency ratio. The Market-Based Operations segment also contributed positively with increased revenues from military contracts and home services, although it experienced higher O&M costs.
What are the key investments or capital allocation strategies for American Water?
American Water invested approximately $664.9 million in capital expenditures during the first nine months of 2014, primarily for upgrading infrastructure and systems. The company estimates its total capital plan for the full year 2014 to be around $1.0 billion, with additional funds allocated for acquisitions and strategic investments. The company also continues to expand its regulated operations through targeted acquisitions and organic growth.
Are there any significant legal or regulatory issues affecting the company?
Yes, American Water faces several ongoing legal and regulatory matters. These include a labor dispute settlement agreement reached in October 2014, litigation related to the West Virginia chemical spill, and various environmental and water supply matters in California. The company also continues to engage with regulatory bodies to obtain rate increases and infrastructure charges, with several applications pending approval.
06—Continue