10-QPeriod: Q2 FY2009

ELECTRONIC ARTS INC. Quarterly Report for Q2 Ended Sep 30, 2008

Filed November 6, 2008For Securities:EA

Summary

Electronic Arts Inc. (EA) reported a net loss of $310 million, or $0.97 per share, for the third quarter of fiscal year 2009, a wider loss compared to the $195 million loss ($0.62 per share) in the same period last year. Revenue increased by 40% to $894 million, driven by strong sales in North America and Europe, particularly from titles like Rock Band and Madden NFL 09. The increased loss is attributed to a significant rise in cost of goods sold, higher personnel and external development costs, and charges related to abandoned acquisition costs and strategic investments. The company experienced substantial growth in net revenue, but this was outpaced by increased operating expenses and cost of goods sold, leading to a widened net loss. Despite the loss, EA highlighted increased revenue and continued investment in new titles and platforms, while also managing significant future commitments.

Financial Statements
Beta

Key Highlights

  • 1Net loss for the third quarter widened to $310 million ($0.97/share) from $195 million ($0.62/share) in the prior year's quarter.
  • 2Total net revenue increased significantly by 40% to $894 million, primarily driven by strong performance in North America and Europe.
  • 3Cost of Goods Sold increased by 41% to $557 million, impacting gross profit margins.
  • 4Operating expenses rose significantly, with Research and Development expenses increasing by 44% to $372 million.
  • 5The company recorded $34 million in losses on strategic investments, primarily related to Neowiz common stock and preferred shares.
  • 6A $21 million charge was recognized for costs related to the abandoned acquisition of Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc.
  • 7Cash used in operating activities increased to $415 million for the six months ended September 30, 2008, compared to $296 million in the prior year.

Frequently Asked Questions

The widened net loss is primarily due to a significant increase in the cost of goods sold (up 41%), higher operating expenses including personnel costs and external development, a $34 million impairment charge on strategic investments, and a $21 million charge related to the abandoned acquisition of Take-Two.

Net revenue showed strong growth, increasing by 40% to $894 million. This growth was primarily driven by strong sales in North America and Europe, with key titles including Rock Band, Madden NFL 09, and NCAA Football 09.

EA is deferring revenue for online-enabled packaged goods and digital content over an estimated six-month period due to accounting standards. For the three months ended September 30, 2008, this deferral decreased reported net revenue by $232 million, impacting gross profit percentages as the cost of goods sold is expensed when delivered.

EA believes that its current cash, cash equivalents, short-term investments, and available financing facilities are sufficient to meet its operating requirements for at least the next twelve months. The company may also seek additional capital for expansion, acquisitions, or strategic investments.