10-QPeriod: Q3 FY2021

AXON ENTERPRISE, INC. Quarterly Report for Q3 Ended Sep 30, 2021

Filed November 15, 2021For Securities:AXON

Summary

Axon Enterprise, Inc. reported strong top-line growth for the third quarter and first nine months of 2021, with net sales increasing by 39.4% and 42.0%, respectively, compared to the prior year periods. This growth was driven by robust demand across both the TASER and Software and Sensors segments, with particular strength in the new TASER 7 devices and cloud-based Axon Evidence services. The company's strategic shift towards a subscription model is progressing, indicated by a significant increase in future contracted revenues to $2.39 billion. Financially, the company reported a significant swing to net income of $48.5 million for the third quarter of 2021, a substantial improvement from a net loss of $0.9 million in the prior year period. This turnaround was partly due to a substantial income tax benefit of $51.2 million. However, the nine-month period still resulted in a net loss of $46.5 million, influenced by a significant increase in operating expenses, particularly stock-based compensation related to performance awards. The company maintained a strong liquidity position with $281.7 million in cash and cash equivalents.

Financial Statements
Beta

Key Highlights

  • 1Net sales increased by 39.4% to $232.0 million in Q3 2021 and by 42.0% to $645.8 million in the first nine months of 2021, demonstrating strong revenue growth.
  • 2The company swung to a net income of $48.5 million in Q3 2021 from a net loss of $0.9 million in Q3 2020, driven by revenue growth and a significant income tax benefit.
  • 3Future contracted revenues reached $2.39 billion as of September 30, 2021, indicating strong future revenue visibility, with 15-20% expected to be recognized in the next 12 months.
  • 4Gross margin improved year-over-year for both segments, reaching 62.4% in Q3 2021 (up from 59.0%) and 62.9% for the nine-month period (up from 60.5%), reflecting operational efficiencies and favorable product mix.
  • 5Operating expenses significantly increased, particularly stock-based compensation ($170.1M in nine months vs. $80.1M prior year) related to performance awards, contributing to a net loss for the nine-month period.
  • 6Cash and cash equivalents stood at a healthy $281.7 million as of September 30, 2021, providing ample liquidity.
  • 7The company raised its total addressable market (TAM) projections to $51.6 billion, driven by new product introductions and expansion into justice software and consumer safety markets.

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