10-QPeriod: Q3 FY2017

BOSTON SCIENTIFIC CORP Quarterly Report for Q3 Ended Sep 30, 2017

Filed November 2, 2017For Securities:BSX

Summary

Boston Scientific Corporation reported strong top-line growth in the third quarter of 2017, with net sales increasing by 5.6% to $2.22 billion compared to the prior year. On an operational basis, excluding currency fluctuations, net sales grew by 5.7%. The company also showed improved profitability, with net income rising to $283 million from $228 million in the same period last year. This growth was driven by solid performance across key segments, particularly MedSurg and Interventional Cardiology. Acquisitions, including Symetis SA and Apama Medical Inc., are being integrated and are expected to contribute to future growth. The company's financial health remains robust, supported by operating cash flow of $554 million for the first nine months of the year. Management also highlighted ongoing strategic initiatives, including investments in R&D and expansion into emerging markets. While the company faces ongoing litigation and regulatory matters, particularly concerning transvaginal surgical mesh products, management believes its accruals are adequate and its overall financial position is strong enough to meet its obligations for the next twelve months. Key challenges include managing patent litigation and adapting to evolving healthcare regulations.

Financial Statements
Beta
Revenue$2.22B
Cost of Revenue$637.00M
Gross Profit$1.58B
SG&A Expenses$800.00M
Operating Expenses$1.21B
Operating Income$377.00M
Interest Expense$57.00M
Net Income$283.00M
EPS (Basic)$0.21
EPS (Diluted)$0.20
Shares Outstanding (Basic)1.37B
Shares Outstanding (Diluted)1.39B

Key Highlights

  • 1Net sales increased by 5.6% to $2.22 billion in Q3 2017 compared to Q3 2016. Operational net sales grew by 5.7%.
  • 2Net income increased to $283 million in Q3 2017, up from $228 million in Q3 2016, with diluted EPS at $0.20 compared to $0.17.
  • 3Strong growth in the MedSurg segment (10.3% operational growth) and solid performance in Interventional Cardiology (4.2% operational growth) were key drivers.
  • 4The company completed the acquisition of Symetis SA for approximately $430 million, adding to its structural heart business, and announced the acquisition of Apama Medical Inc.
  • 5Operating cash flow for the first nine months of 2017 was $554 million, demonstrating healthy cash generation.
  • 6The company remains compliant with its debt covenants, with a leverage ratio of 2.3 times, well below the 3.5 times maximum.
  • 7Significant litigation remains, particularly for transvaginal surgical mesh products, with approximately 48,500 cases pending, though settlement agreements are in progress for a substantial number.

Frequently Asked Questions

Boston Scientific reported net sales of $2.222 billion for the third quarter of 2017, representing a 5.6% increase compared to $2.105 billion in the third quarter of 2016. On an operational basis, which excludes the impact of foreign currency fluctuations, net sales increased by 5.7%.

Net income for the third quarter of 2017 was $283 million, or $0.20 per diluted share, an increase from $228 million, or $0.17 per diluted share, in the same period of 2016. Adjusted net income, excluding certain charges, was $432 million, or $0.31 per share, compared to $368 million, or $0.27 per share, in the prior year.

Growth was driven by strong performance in the MedSurg segment (particularly Endoscopy and Urology/Pelvic Health) and Interventional Cardiology. Key strategic moves included the acquisition of Symetis SA for structural heart devices and the announcement of the Apama Medical Inc. acquisition to enhance its Rhythm Management segment.

As of September 30, 2017, Boston Scientific had $210 million in cash and cash equivalents and total debt of $5.682 billion. Cash flow from operations for the first nine months of 2017 was $554 million. The company stated that it believes its current resources and cash flow are sufficient to fund operations, investments, and debt service for the next twelve months. The company was also in compliance with its debt covenants, with a leverage ratio of 2.3x, below the covenant limit of 3.5x.

The company faces ongoing product liability litigation, notably concerning transvaginal surgical mesh products, with approximately 48,500 cases pending or resolved. While settlement agreements are in progress for a significant portion, the ultimate financial impact remains uncertain. The company also continues to navigate tax disputes with the IRS regarding transfer pricing, with potential tax payments of approximately $275 million plus interest if the settlement is finalized.