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10-QPeriod: Q3 FY2010

CUMMINS INC Quarterly Report for Q3 Ended Sep 26, 2010

Filed October 29, 2010For Securities:CMI

Summary

Cummins Inc. (CMI) reported a significant recovery in the third quarter of 2010, driven by strong demand in emerging markets like China, India, and Brazil, and early signs of recovery in developed markets. Net sales increased by 34% year-over-year for the quarter to $3.4 billion and by 23% for the nine-month period to $9.1 billion. This surge in sales translated into a substantial improvement in profitability, with diluted earnings per share rising to $1.44 for the quarter from $0.48 in the prior year, and $3.43 for the nine-month period from $0.80. The company's operational performance was bolstered by strong gross margins, which improved significantly due to higher volumes, favorable pricing, and reduced warranty expenses. While operating expenses like SG&A and R&D saw increases, likely due to higher compensation and investment in future products, the overall profitability was heavily influenced by the absence of significant restructuring charges that impacted the prior year. Cummins also benefited from a one-time pre-tax recovery of $32 million related to Brazilian taxes, further boosting its financial results.

Financial Statements
Beta

Key Highlights

  • 1Strong Q3 2010 revenue growth: Net sales increased 34% year-over-year to $3.4 billion, driven by a recovery in emerging markets and improved demand in developed markets.
  • 2Significant profit improvement: Diluted EPS rose to $1.44 in Q3 2010 from $0.48 in Q3 2009, and for the nine-month period, EPS increased to $3.43 from $0.80.
  • 3Enhanced Gross Margins: Gross margin improved significantly to 24.4% of sales in Q3 2010 (from 19.9% in Q3 2009), driven by volume, pricing, and reduced warranty costs.
  • 4Resumption of Share Buybacks and Dividend Increase: The company resumed share repurchases and increased its quarterly dividend by 50%, signaling confidence in its financial health.
  • 5Improved Liquidity and Credit Rating: Cummins maintained strong liquidity with a significant revolving credit facility and saw its credit ratings upgraded by S&P and Moody's.
  • 6Positive Outlook: Management anticipates continued demand improvement throughout the remainder of 2010, with emerging markets expected to remain strong.

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