10-QPeriod: Q1 FY2013

ELECTRONIC ARTS INC. Quarterly Report for Q1 Ended Jun 30, 2012

Filed August 3, 2012For Securities:EA

Summary

Electronic Arts Inc. (EA) reported its first-quarter results for fiscal year 2013, ending June 30, 2012. The company generated total net revenue of $955 million, a slight decrease of 4% compared to the same period in the prior year. While product revenue saw a significant decline of 21%, this was largely offset by a substantial 141% increase in service and other revenue, driven by strong performance in digital content and services, including subscription-based offerings. Net income for the quarter was $201 million, down from $221 million in the prior year, resulting in diluted EPS of $0.63, a decrease from $0.66. This decline was attributed to increased personnel costs, a decrease in gross profit from lower net revenue, and higher restructuring charges, partially offset by a reduction in acquisition-related contingent consideration. The company continues to focus on its digital transformation strategy, with digital revenue showing robust growth, indicating a successful shift in its business model. EA also announced a new $500 million stock repurchase program, signaling confidence in its financial position and commitment to returning value to shareholders.

Financial Statements
Beta
Revenue$955.00M
Cost of Revenue$205.00M
Gross Profit$750.00M
Operating Expenses$535.00M
Operating Income$215.00M
Interest Expense$7.00M
Net Income$201.00M
EPS (Basic)$0.63
EPS (Diluted)$0.63
Shares Outstanding (Basic)317.00M
Shares Outstanding (Diluted)320.00M

Key Highlights

  • 1Total net revenue for the quarter was $955 million, a 4% decrease year-over-year, primarily due to lower product revenue (-21%), offset by a significant increase in service and other revenue (+141%).
  • 2Net income decreased to $201 million from $221 million in the prior year, with diluted EPS at $0.63 compared to $0.66.
  • 3The company is experiencing a strong shift towards digital revenue, with 'Wireless, Internet-derived, and advertising (digital)' revenue increasing by 55% year-over-year.
  • 4Restructuring and other charges increased by $9 million to $27 million, largely due to costs associated with the fiscal 2013 restructuring plan.
  • 5Cash used in operating activities decreased by $30 million to $244 million, indicating improved cash flow management compared to the prior year.
  • 6Electronic Arts announced a new $500 million stock repurchase program in July 2012, following the completion of its previous $600 million program.
  • 7The company highlighted ongoing investments in next-generation platforms, with $80 million planned for fiscal year 2013.

Frequently Asked Questions

The substantial increase in 'Service and other revenue' was primarily driven by strong performance in digital content and services, including subscription-based offerings. Specifically, subscriptions for 'Star Wars: The Old Republic' and revenue from the FIFA and The Sims franchises significantly contributed to this growth.

Electronic Arts is actively focusing on its digital transformation strategy. This is evidenced by the robust 55% year-over-year growth in 'Wireless, Internet-derived, and advertising (digital)' revenue. The company is shifting its focus from traditional packaged goods to digital downloads, subscriptions, micro-transactions, and services, aligning its product strategy with evolving consumer behavior.

Restructuring and other charges increased by $9 million to $27 million for the quarter. These charges are primarily related to the fiscal 2013 restructuring plan, which aims to align the cost structure with the company's digital transformation efforts. While these charges reduced net income for the quarter, they are part of a strategic initiative to improve long-term operational efficiency and profitability.

The company believes that its cash, cash equivalents, short-term investments, and marketable equity securities, along with cash generated from operations and available financing facilities, will be sufficient to meet its operating requirements for at least the next 12 months. This includes needs for working capital, capital expenditures, and potential acquisitions or stock repurchases.