What drove the revenue growth in the nine months ended March 31, 2004?

Revenue grew by 14% to $42.02 billion, driven by higher sales volume across all segments, revenue growth from existing and new customers, the addition of new products, and pharmaceutical price increases. The company's strategy of offering integrated solutions across its diverse portfolio also contributed to this growth.

How has the company's cash flow situation changed?

The company reported a substantial increase in net cash provided by operating activities, up $819.6 million to $1.34 billion for the nine months ended March 31, 2004. This improvement is attributed to reduced investment in working capital (driven by a shift to a 'just-in-time' model in pharmaceutical distribution) and improved earnings from continuing operations.

What are the key strategic initiatives or significant events during this period?

Key events include the completion of the acquisition of Intercare Group, plc, which expanded the company's global presence, and significant share repurchase programs totaling $1 billion authorized and approximately $460.3 million completed by March 31, 2004. The company is also undergoing a business model transition in its pharmaceutical distribution segment towards a fee-for-service model.

What is the company's stance on ongoing litigation and investigations?

Cardinal Health is involved in several legal proceedings, including shareholder litigation and product liability claims. The company is also subject to an SEC investigation concerning accounting treatment of certain recoveries. While management believes the outcome of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the company's financial position, liquidity, or results of operations, they are actively defending these actions and cooperating with the SEC.

CAH 10-Q Quarterly Report Q3 FY2004 — Revenue, Net Income, EPS

Summary

Cardinal Health, Inc. (CAH) reported strong financial performance for the nine months ended March 31, 2004. Revenue increased by 14% year-over-year to $42.02 billion, driven by broad-based growth across all segments, particularly in Pharmaceutical Distribution and Provider Services and Medical Products and Services. Net earnings saw a 9% increase to $1.13 billion. The company also experienced a significant increase in net cash provided by operating activities, reaching $1.34 billion, largely due to improved earnings and reduced working capital investment, signaling a shift towards a more efficient "just-in-time" inventory model in its pharmaceutical distribution segment. During the period, Cardinal Health continued its strategic acquisition activity, notably completing the acquisition of Intercare Group, plc, expanding its global reach. The company also actively engaged in share repurchases, demonstrating a commitment to returning value to shareholders. Despite ongoing litigation and an SEC investigation, management expressed confidence in the company's financial position and future prospects, highlighting disciplined expense control and the benefits of its diversified portfolio.

Key Highlights

1Revenue grew 14% to $42.02 billion for the nine months ended March 31, 2004.
2Net earnings increased 9% to $1.13 billion for the nine months ended March 31, 2004.
3Operating earnings from continuing operations rose 10% to $1.14 billion for the nine months.
4Net cash provided by operating activities significantly increased by $819.6 million to $1.34 billion.
5Completed the acquisition of Intercare Group, plc, enhancing global reach.
6Actively repurchased $1 billion of common stock in the first quarter and an additional $460.3 million through an accelerated program by March 31, 2004.
7Pharmaceutical Distribution and Provider Services segment revenue grew 13% for the nine months, with "Direct Store Door" sales up 24%.

CARDINAL HEALTH INC Quarterly Report for Q3 Ended Mar 31, 2004

Summary

Key Highlights

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