10-QPeriod: Q3 FY2016

CENTENE CORP Quarterly Report for Q3 Ended Sep 30, 2016

Filed October 25, 2016For Securities:CNC

Summary

Centene Corporation's (CNC) Q3 2016 report highlights significant growth driven primarily by the acquisition of Health Net, Inc., completed in March 2016. Total revenues surged by 86% year-over-year for the quarter and 74% for the first nine months, reaching $10.8 billion and $28.7 billion, respectively. This revenue growth was accompanied by a substantial increase in managed care membership, which more than doubled to 11.4 million. The company successfully integrated Health Net's operations, contributing to expanded Medicaid and Medicare offerings and diversification across new markets. Despite the impressive top-line growth, investors should note the significant increase in debt and the associated rise in interest expenses, largely due to financing the Health Net acquisition. The company's general and administrative expenses also saw a substantial rise, partly due to acquisition-related costs and integration efforts. While net earnings attributable to Centene Corporation increased by 56% to $145 million for the quarter, diluted EPS saw a slight decrease year-over-year due to a larger share base post-acquisition and the impact of acquisition-related expenses. The company continues to navigate a complex regulatory environment, with ongoing focus on managing medical costs and adapting to evolving healthcare policies.

Financial Statements
Beta
Revenue$10.85B
SG&A Expenses$940.00M
Operating Expenses$10.50B
Operating Income$342.00M
Interest Expense$57.00M
Net Income$147.00M
EPS (Basic)$0.43
EPS (Diluted)$0.42
Shares Outstanding (Basic)341.55M
Shares Outstanding (Diluted)350.99M

Key Highlights

  • 1Total revenues for Q3 2016 increased by 86% to $10.8 billion, driven by the Health Net acquisition and organic growth.
  • 2Managed care membership grew significantly to 11.4 million by September 30, 2016, a 137% increase year-over-year.
  • 3The acquisition of Health Net, Inc. was completed in March 2016 for approximately $6.0 billion, significantly expanding Centene's market presence and service offerings.
  • 4Net earnings attributable to Centene Corporation increased by 56% to $145 million for the third quarter of 2016.
  • 5Total debt increased substantially to $4.6 billion as of September 30, 2016, primarily to fund the Health Net acquisition.
  • 6General and administrative expenses rose by 105% to $940 million in Q3 2016, impacted by acquisition-related costs and integration efforts.
  • 7Diluted EPS for the third quarter was $0.83, a slight increase from $0.76 in Q3 2015, but acquisition-related expenses and a larger share base were noted.

Frequently Asked Questions

The primary driver of Centene's significant revenue growth in the third quarter of 2016 was the acquisition of Health Net, Inc., completed on March 24, 2016. This acquisition substantially increased the company's revenue base and membership.

The acquisition of Health Net significantly impacted Centene's balance sheet. Total assets nearly tripled, growing from $7.3 billion at the end of 2015 to $19.6 billion by September 30, 2016. This was largely due to the recognition of acquired assets and goodwill. Liabilities also increased substantially, particularly long-term debt, which rose from $1.2 billion to $3.7 billion to finance the acquisition.

Centene anticipates continued growth from the Health Net acquisition, expansion in various states, and new contracts. However, challenges include managing increased debt and interest expenses, integrating operations effectively, navigating a complex regulatory environment, and controlling medical costs. The company's reliance on government-sponsored programs also presents risks related to funding levels and regulatory changes.

Net earnings attributable to Centene Corporation increased by 56% to $145 million for the third quarter. However, diluted earnings per share (EPS) saw a smaller increase to $0.83 from $0.76 in the prior year's quarter. This was due to a larger weighted average number of common shares outstanding post-acquisition and the impact of acquisition-related expenses, which management highlighted when discussing adjusted EPS.