10-QPeriod: Q2 FY2007

DIGITAL REALTY TRUST, INC. Quarterly Report for Q2 Ended Jun 30, 2007

Filed August 9, 2007For Securities:DLRDLR-PJDLR-PKDLR-PL

Summary

Digital Realty Trust, Inc. (DLR) reported its second quarter results for the period ending June 30, 2007. The company continues its aggressive growth strategy, evidenced by a 15-property acquisition over the past twelve months, expanding its portfolio to 62 technology-related real estate properties totaling 11.4 million rentable square feet. Operating revenues saw a significant increase of approximately 53.6% year-over-year for the quarter, primarily driven by these acquisitions. The company maintained a strong occupancy rate of 94.1% (excluding space held for redevelopment). Financially, DLR has a healthy balance sheet with a debt-to-total market capitalization ratio of approximately 29% as of June 30, 2007, well within its target of 60%. The company also successfully raised $169.1 million in net proceeds from a Series C preferred stock offering, which was used to pay down its unsecured credit facility, enhancing its liquidity. While growth and acquisitions are driving revenue, investors should note increased operating expenses and interest expenses, largely attributable to the expanded property portfolio and rising interest rates. DLR remains focused on its REIT status, intending to distribute 90% of its taxable income annually.

Key Highlights

  • 1Portfolio expansion through the acquisition of 15 properties in the 12 months leading up to June 30, 2007, bringing the total to 62 properties.
  • 2Significant year-over-year revenue growth, with total operating revenues increasing by approximately 53.6% to $95.6 million for the quarter ended June 30, 2007.
  • 3Maintained a high occupancy rate of 94.1% across its 11.4 million rentable square feet (excluding redevelopment space).
  • 4Strengthened financial position by raising $169.1 million through a Series C preferred stock issuance, used to reduce its unsecured credit facility balance.
  • 5Debt-to-total market capitalization ratio stood at a conservative 29% as of June 30, 2007, indicating prudent leverage management.
  • 6Identified 1.7 million square feet of redevelopment space within its portfolio, representing a future growth opportunity.
  • 7Operating and interest expenses increased year-over-year, largely due to the expanded property base and rising interest rates, impacting profitability.

Frequently Asked Questions

Digital Realty Trust's primary business is investing in technology-related real estate, focusing on high-quality, strategically located properties that house critical corporate data center and technology operations. Their strategy aims to maximize sustainable long-term growth in earnings, funds from operations, and cash flow per share by acquiring, managing, and leasing these specialized properties.

As of June 30, 2007, Digital Realty Trust had approximately $1.2 billion in consolidated debt, with 90.2% being fixed-rate or hedged with interest rate swaps, and only 9.8% variable rate unhedged. The company aims to limit its total indebtedness to 60% of its total market capitalization, and as of the reporting date, this ratio was approximately 29%. They utilize interest rate swaps to mitigate exposure to rising interest rates, though they note that increased rates can still impact their financial condition and access to capital markets.

The main revenue driver is rental income from its technology-related real estate portfolio, supplemented by tenant reimbursements for operating expenses. Key operating expenses include property operating and maintenance, property taxes, insurance, and significant depreciation and amortization costs related to its properties. General and administrative expenses are also a notable cost, increasing with the company's growth and public company compliance requirements.

Key risks include adverse economic or real estate developments in their markets, tenant defaults or lease non-renewals, increasing interest rates and operating costs, difficulties in managing growth, obtaining necessary financing, and challenges in identifying and acquiring new properties. The company also faces risks related to property development, zoning laws, tax law changes, environmental uncertainties, and competition within the technology-related real estate sector. Fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates also pose a risk due to their international properties.