10-QPeriod: Q1 FY2002

BECTON DICKINSON & CO Quarterly Report for Q1 Ended Dec 31, 2001

Filed February 14, 2002For Securities:BDX

Summary

Becton, Dickinson and Company (BDX) reported revenues of $944.9 million for the three months ended December 31, 2001, a 9% increase compared to the same period in the prior year. This growth was driven by strong performance across its Medical, Clinical Laboratory, and Biosciences segments, with notable contributions from advanced protection devices and prefillable drug delivery systems. Net income for the quarter was $99.7 million, or $0.38 per diluted share, reflecting a significant increase from the prior year's $36.9 million net income, partly due to the adoption of new accounting standards that eliminated goodwill amortization. The company also highlighted its solid financial position, with a decreased debt-to-capital ratio and robust cash flow from operations. The company's strategic initiatives, including a focus on advanced protection products and ongoing restructuring efforts, appear to be contributing to operational improvements. While some product lines, like diabetes syringes, saw reduced sales due to strategic shifts, overall revenue growth and improved operating income demonstrate the company's resilience and effective management. BDX continues to invest in research and development and manage its cost structure, positioning itself for future growth despite a dynamic healthcare landscape. Investors should note the company's proactive management of legal proceedings and its commitment to shareholder returns through stock repurchases.

Key Highlights

  • 1Revenues increased by 9% to $944.9 million for the quarter ended December 31, 2001, compared to $864.4 million in the prior year.
  • 2Net income surged to $99.7 million ($0.38/share) from $36.9 million ($0.15/share) in the comparable prior-year period, benefiting from the adoption of SFAS 141 & 142 which eliminated goodwill amortization.
  • 3Operating income grew to $141.7 million from $122.5 million year-over-year, indicating improved operational efficiency.
  • 4The Medical Systems segment saw revenue growth of 9%, driven by advanced protection devices and prefillable drug delivery systems.
  • 5The Biosciences segment demonstrated strong revenue growth of 14%, particularly in international markets.
  • 6Cash flow from operating activities significantly improved, reaching $155.5 million compared to $95.2 million in the prior year, aided by better working capital management.
  • 7The company repurchased approximately 1.6 million shares of its common stock for $53 million during the quarter, demonstrating a commitment to shareholder returns.

Frequently Asked Questions

Revenue growth was driven by strong performance across all three segments: Medical Systems, Clinical Laboratory Solutions, and Biosciences. Key contributors included sales of advanced protection devices in the United States, prefillable drug delivery devices, and molecular diagnostic platforms. International sales, particularly in Europe, Latin America, and Asia Pacific, also played a significant role.

The adoption of SFAS No. 141 and SFAS No. 142 effective October 1, 2001, eliminated the amortization of goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets. This change led to an increase in net income and earnings per share by approximately $6.1 million and $0.03 per share for the quarter, respectively, compared to what would have been reported under the previous accounting method. The company also reclassified certain assets previously considered 'Other Intangibles' as they no longer met the criteria for separate recognition.

The company reported a strong cash flow from operations of $155.5 million for the quarter, an increase from the prior year. Total debt as a percentage of total capital decreased to 34.2%. Becton Dickinson has access to $900 million in credit facilities to support its commercial paper program and general corporate needs, indicating confidence in its ability to manage short-term financing and refinance debt. The company also engaged in a share repurchase program during the quarter.

The company is involved in various legal proceedings, including product liability and environmental matters. Notable ongoing litigations include claims related to latex gloves, an antitrust action filed by Retractable Technologies, Inc. (RTI) concerning market exclusion, and class action lawsuits concerning needlestick injuries. While the company believes these matters will not materially affect its consolidated financial condition, it acknowledges that charges in excess of reserves may be incurred upon resolution.