10-KPeriod: FY2010

EQUIFAX INC Annual Report, Year Ended Dec 31, 2010

Filed February 23, 2011For Securities:EFX

Summary

Equifax Inc. (EFX) reported solid revenue growth in 2010, up 8% year-over-year, primarily driven by its TALX segment and acquisitions in the U.S. Consumer Information Solutions (USCIS) and TALX segments. The company successfully divested non-strategic assets (APPRO and Direct Marketing Services), contributing positively to net income. Despite a challenging economic environment, Equifax demonstrated resilience with improved operating income and margins, particularly in its TALX and North America Commercial Solutions segments. The company also maintained a strong liquidity position, with a significant amount available under its Senior Credit Facility, and continued its share repurchase program, signaling confidence in its financial health and future prospects. Key strategic initiatives for 2011 focus on new product innovation, leveraging diverse data assets, and disciplined expense management. While the credit economy is expected to see modest improvement, Equifax anticipates organic growth from new offerings and its 2010 performance momentum. The company's diversified business model across various segments and geographies, coupled with prudent financial management, positions it to navigate ongoing economic uncertainties and capitalize on future opportunities.

Financial Statements
Beta
Revenue$1.86B
SG&A Expenses$507.40M
Operating Expenses$1.43B
Operating Income$430.00M
Interest Expense$56.10M
Net Income$266.70M
EPS (Basic)$2.14
EPS (Diluted)$2.11
Shares Outstanding (Basic)124.80M
Shares Outstanding (Diluted)126.50M

Key Highlights

  • 1Operating revenue increased by 8% to $1.86 billion in 2010, driven by acquisitions and growth across segments, particularly TALX (+14%) and International (+10%).
  • 2Net income attributable to Equifax increased by 14% to $266.7 million, or $2.11 per diluted share, aided by gains from divestitures of non-strategic businesses (APPRO and Direct Marketing Services).
  • 3Operating income grew by 13% to $430.0 million, with operating margin improving to 23.1% from 22.2% in 2009, reflecting revenue growth and expense management.
  • 4The TALX segment showed strong performance with a 14% revenue increase and a significant operating margin improvement to 23.3%, driven by The Work Number verification services.
  • 5The company repurchased 5.2 million shares of common stock for $167.5 million in 2010, demonstrating a commitment to returning value to shareholders.
  • 6Total debt decreased by $174.5 million to $1.0 billion by year-end 2010, indicating a strengthening balance sheet.
  • 7Equifax successfully completed strategic acquisitions in 2010, including Anakam, Inc., to expand its capabilities in multi-factor authentication solutions.

Frequently Asked Questions

In 2010, Equifax reported a strong financial performance with an 8% increase in operating revenue to $1.86 billion and a 14% increase in net income attributable to Equifax to $266.7 million. The operating margin also improved to 23.1%, indicating effective cost management alongside revenue growth.

The divestitures of APPRO loan origination software and Direct Marketing Services were considered non-strategic and contributed positively to the company's net income. Gains from these sales helped boost overall profitability for the year.

The TALX segment showed robust growth, with revenue up 14% and operating margin improving significantly. The International segment also saw a 10% revenue increase. The U.S. Consumer Information Solutions segment experienced modest revenue growth, while North America Personal Solutions and Commercial Solutions also reported increases.

Equifax maintained a strong liquidity position, with $848.3 million available under its Senior Credit Facility at the end of 2010. The company also reduced its total debt by $174.5 million and continued its share repurchase program, buying back 5.2 million shares for $167.5 million.