Summary
Quest Diagnostics Incorporated (DGX) filed an 8-K on June 6, 2013, to disclose information presented at the Jefferies 2013 Global Healthcare Conference. The key takeaway for investors is the reaffirmation of the company's full-year 2013 guidance. Management expressed confidence in achieving prior-year revenue levels, with diluted earnings per share projected to be between $4.35 and $4.55. The company also anticipates approximately $1 billion in cash from operations and capital expenditures of around $250 million. While the second quarter of 2013 is expected to show year-over-year declines in both revenue and earnings, these results are anticipated to be an improvement compared to the first quarter. The company anticipates stronger performance in the second half of 2013 due to easier year-over-year comparisons and ongoing progress in operational excellence and growth initiatives. The "Invigorate" cost savings program is expected to contribute significantly more in the second half than in the first half of the year, doubling its impact.
Key Highlights
- 1Quest Diagnostics reaffirms full-year 2013 guidance at the Jefferies 2013 Global Healthcare Conference.
- 2Full-year 2013 revenue expected to approximate prior-year levels.
- 3Full-year 2013 diluted EPS guidance set between $4.35 and $4.55.
- 4Cash provided by operations for full-year 2013 is projected to be approximately $1 billion.
- 5Capital expenditures for full-year 2013 are expected to be around $250 million.
- 6Second quarter 2013 revenues and earnings expected to be down year-over-year but up sequentially from Q1.
- 7Significant ramp-up of "Invigorate" cost savings program expected in the second half of 2013.