10-QPeriod: Q1 FY2005

DIGITAL REALTY TRUST, INC. Quarterly Report for Q1 Ended Mar 31, 2005

Filed May 16, 2005For Securities:DLRDLR-PJDLR-PKDLR-PL

Summary

Digital Realty Trust, Inc. (DLR) reported its first quarter 2005 results, showcasing significant growth following its recent IPO in November 2004. The company's total assets grew to $1.1 billion, with net investments in real estate reaching $852.1 million. Revenues more than doubled year-over-year, driven by the acquisition of 12 new properties in the past year, expanding the portfolio to 26 properties. The company also successfully completed a preferred stock offering in February 2005, raising $99.3 million to reduce debt and fund acquisitions. Despite the increased scale, DLR reported a slight decrease in net income to $2.7 million compared to $3.5 million in the prior year, primarily due to higher interest expenses and increased general and administrative costs associated with being a public company and internalizing asset management. However, the company's strategic focus on technology-related real estate, coupled with a strong acquisition pipeline and an expanded credit facility, positions it for continued expansion. Investors should note the company's commitment to maintaining its REIT status, which necessitates significant distributions to shareholders.

Key Highlights

  • 1Total assets grew to $1.1 billion as of March 31, 2005, up from $1.01 billion at December 31, 2004.
  • 2Net investments in real estate increased to $852.1 million, reflecting portfolio expansion.
  • 3Total revenues for the quarter more than doubled to $39.6 million, compared to $18.8 million in Q1 2004, driven by property acquisitions.
  • 4The company successfully completed a $99.3 million preferred stock offering in February 2005, using proceeds to reduce debt and fund acquisitions.
  • 5Net income decreased slightly to $2.7 million from $3.5 million year-over-year, impacted by increased interest and G&A expenses.
  • 6DLR expanded its unsecured credit facility from $200 million to $350 million, enhancing its financial flexibility for future growth.
  • 7The company's portfolio consisted of 26 properties by the end of the quarter, with further acquisitions under contract.

Frequently Asked Questions

Digital Realty Trust, Inc. (DLR) experienced significant revenue growth in Q1 2005, more than doubling to $39.6 million compared to $18.8 million in Q1 2004. This growth was primarily driven by the acquisition of 12 new properties. However, net income saw a slight decrease to $2.7 million from $3.5 million in the prior year. This was attributed to increased interest expenses related to new debt and higher general and administrative costs associated with operating as a public company.

DLR raised approximately $99.3 million in net proceeds from a preferred stock offering in February 2005. These funds were used to reduce borrowings under its credit facility and to acquire two properties in March 2005. Additionally, the company expanded its unsecured credit facility to $350 million, providing further capital for acquisitions, tenant improvements, and general corporate purposes.

As of March 31, 2005, DLR's portfolio comprised 26 technology-related real estate properties across the United States and London, totaling approximately 6.3 million net rentable square feet. The portfolio's occupancy rate was approximately 88.9% as of the end of the quarter, with an average remaining lease term of 7.1 years. The company also has two additional properties under contract for acquisition.

Key risks include adverse economic or real estate developments in their markets or the technology industry, increased interest rates and operating costs, difficulties in acquiring and operating properties, potential failure to maintain REIT status, changes in tax law, and competitive pressures. Tenant defaults or non-renewals also pose a risk, as noted with VarTec Telecom, Inc. filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy.