10-KPeriod: FY2006

CBRE GROUP, INC. Annual Report, Year Ended Dec 31, 2006

Filed March 1, 2007For Securities:CBRE

Summary

CB Richard Ellis Group, Inc. (CBRE) reported strong financial performance for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2006, highlighted by significant revenue growth and increased profitability. The company completed its largest acquisition to date, Trammell Crow Company, which is expected to enhance its outsourcing services and development capabilities. This strategic move, along with a robust global market for commercial real estate services driven by improved leasing fundamentals and increased client outsourcing, positions CBRE for continued expansion. Operationally, CBRE demonstrated broad-based growth across its segments, particularly in the Americas and EMEA regions. The company's focus on leveraging its global platform, expanding client relationships, and capitalizing on cross-selling opportunities contributed to its positive results. Despite increased leverage from the Trammell Crow acquisition, CBRE's management anticipates continued operational efficiencies and strategic growth initiatives to drive long-term shareholder value.

Key Highlights

  • 1Revenue increased by 26.2% to $4.0 billion in 2006, driven by organic growth and strategic acquisitions, including the significant Trammell Crow Company acquisition.
  • 2Net income grew substantially to $318.6 million, a 46.6% increase from 2005, reflecting strong operating performance across key segments.
  • 3EBITDA saw a significant increase of 43.9% to $653.5 million, demonstrating the company's operational leverage and profitability.
  • 4The company experienced robust growth in its Global Investment Management segment, with assets under management increasing to $28.6 billion.
  • 5CBRE's international operations contributed significantly, accounting for 37.6% of revenue, with notable growth in the EMEA and Asia Pacific regions.
  • 6The company successfully managed its debt, redeeming high-interest notes and refinancing debt related to the Trammell Crow acquisition, though overall leverage increased.
  • 7CBRE continues to invest in its platform, with a focus on technology, client services, and talent retention to maintain its market leadership.

Frequently Asked Questions

The most significant strategic move for CBRE in 2006 was the acquisition of Trammell Crow Company. This was the company's largest acquisition to date and was aimed at deepening its outsourcing services, strengthening integrated account management, and expanding its real estate development services.

The acquisition of Trammell Crow Company significantly increased CBRE's revenue and expanded its service offerings, particularly in outsourcing and development. However, it also led to a substantial increase in long-term debt, with approximately $2.1 billion borrowed to finance the acquisition, increasing the company's leverage.

CBRE's revenue growth is driven by several factors: improved leasing fundamentals in global commercial real estate markets, the continued outsourcing of real estate services by corporations and institutions, client consolidation of service providers, and increasing institutional ownership of commercial real estate. Organic growth and strategic acquisitions also play a crucial role.

No, CBRE has not declared or paid any cash dividends on its common stock since its inception and does not anticipate doing so in the foreseeable future. The company intends to retain future earnings to finance growth and reduce debt. Furthermore, its ability to pay dividends is restricted by its debt agreements.