10-QPeriod: Q2 FY2007

CARNIVAL CORP Quarterly Report for Q2 Ended May 31, 2007

Filed June 29, 2007For Securities:CCL

Summary

Carnival Corporation & plc reported solid financial results for the six months and three months ended May 31, 2007, demonstrating continued revenue and net income growth compared to the prior year period. Total revenues for the six months increased by 8.6% to $4.41 billion, driven by a combination of increased passenger capacity and slightly higher net revenue yields. Net income for the six-month period rose to $673 million, translating to basic earnings per share of $0.85, up from $0.78 in the prior year. The company continues to invest heavily in its fleet, with significant capital expenditures related to new shipbuilding programs. Despite these investments and an increase in net interest expense, Carnival maintained strong operating income and a healthy cash flow from operations. The company's outlook for the remainder of fiscal 2007 remained positive, with expectations for continued earnings growth, although management highlighted various risk factors that could impact future results.

Key Highlights

  • 1Net income for the six months ended May 31, 2007, increased to $673 million, up from $631 million in the same period of 2006.
  • 2Diluted earnings per share for the six-month period were $0.83, an improvement from $0.77 in the prior year.
  • 3Total revenues for the six months increased by 8.6% to $4.41 billion, driven by an 8.3% increase in available lower berth days (ALBDs) and a slight increase in net revenue yields.
  • 4The company's operating income for the six months was $812 million, a slight increase from $797 million in the prior year period, indicating strong operational performance.
  • 5Cash flow from operations remained robust, totaling $2.09 billion for the six months ended May 31, 2007, providing ample liquidity.
  • 6Capital expenditures were significant, with $2.13 billion invested in new shipbuilding programs and ship improvements, reflecting ongoing fleet expansion.
  • 7The company declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.35 per share, an increase from the previous $0.25 per share, signaling confidence in future performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Carnival Corporation & plc reported an increase in net cruise revenues for the six months ended May 31, 2007, reaching $4.41 billion, up 8.6% from $4.06 billion in the same period of 2006. Net income also grew to $673 million from $631 million, with diluted earnings per share rising to $0.83 from $0.77.

For the full year 2007, Carnival Corporation & plc expected diluted earnings per share to be in the range of $2.85 to $2.95. This guidance was based on assumptions regarding fuel prices and currency exchange rates at the time of the filing.

The company generated substantial cash flow from operations, which provided strong liquidity. While capital expenditures for new ships were significant, Carnival also borrowed funds to support these acquisitions and manage its debt. At May 31, 2007, the company reported liquidity of $5.10 billion, including cash, investments, and available credit facilities, and expressed confidence in its ability to meet future obligations and fund growth.

Yes, management highlighted several risk factors that could impact future results. These include general economic and business conditions, international political climate, competition, accidents or adverse weather, changes in laws and regulations, fluctuations in operating and financing costs (such as fuel and currency exchange rates), and the ability to successfully implement shipbuilding programs and business strategies.