10-QPeriod: Q3 FY2017

CUMMINS INC Quarterly Report for Q3 Ended Oct 1, 2017

Filed October 31, 2017For Securities:CMI

Summary

Cummins Inc. (CMI) reported a strong third quarter for 2017, demonstrating robust top-line growth across all operating segments. Net sales increased by 26% year-over-year to $5.3 billion, driven by broad-based demand in key markets, including North American on-highway, global construction, and Chinese industrial sectors. This revenue growth translated into significant improvements in profitability, with net income attributable to Cummins Inc. soaring by 57% to $453 million, and diluted earnings per share rising from $1.72 to $2.71. The company's strategic investments and acquisitions, particularly the joint venture with Eaton Corporation in automated transmissions, are beginning to contribute to segment performance. Despite increased investments in R&D and SG&A expenses, driven by variable compensation and consulting, Cummins managed to improve its operating income by 64%. The company's financial position remains strong, with ample liquidity and a healthy debt-to-capital ratio, positioning it well to navigate market fluctuations and pursue future growth opportunities.

Key Highlights

  • 1Strong revenue growth of 26% to $5.3 billion in Q3 2017, driven by all operating segments.
  • 2Significant increase in net income attributable to Cummins Inc. by 57% to $453 million.
  • 3Diluted EPS grew substantially from $1.72 to $2.71.
  • 4The Components segment saw a 34% sales increase, boosted by the newly consolidated Eaton Cummins Automated Transmission Technologies joint venture.
  • 5Engine segment sales rose 26%, supported by robust demand in North American on-highway and global construction markets.
  • 6Operating income increased by 64% to $629 million, reflecting improved leverage and higher volumes.
  • 7The company maintained strong liquidity with $1.4 billion in cash and marketable securities and access to significant credit facilities.

Frequently Asked Questions

The 26% increase in net sales to $5.3 billion was driven by strong demand across all operating segments. Key contributors included higher demand in North American on-highway markets, improved global construction markets, robust sales in China for industrial applications, and the initial consolidation of the Eaton Cummins Automated Transmission Technologies joint venture.

The joint venture, consolidated in the third quarter of 2017, contributed $69 million in sales to the Components segment. While the company does not expect a significant impact on consolidated results for the full year 2017, its inclusion marks a strategic step in expanding Cummins' offerings in the automated transmissions market.

Cummins anticipates continued positive trends including strong North American heavy-duty truck demand, robust market demand in China for truck and off-highway markets, and strong North American construction markets. However, challenges such as potentially soft power generation markets and continued weak economic conditions in Brazil are also noted.

Cummins maintains a strong financial position. For the nine months ended October 1, 2017, net cash provided by operating activities was $1.5 billion. The company had $1.4 billion in cash and marketable securities on hand and access to $2.75 billion in credit facilities, indicating ample liquidity to fund operations and strategic initiatives.