10-QPeriod: Q3 FY2016

EQUIFAX INC Quarterly Report for Q3 Ended Sep 30, 2016

Filed October 27, 2016For Securities:EFX

Summary

Equifax Inc. reported strong financial performance for the third quarter and the first nine months of 2016, demonstrating significant growth driven by both organic expansion and strategic acquisitions. Total operating revenue increased by 20% and 17% for the respective periods compared to 2015, largely propelled by the acquisition of Veda and solid organic growth across its U.S. Information Solutions and Workforce Solutions segments. Net income attributable to Equifax saw a substantial increase, rising 13% for the quarter and 15% for the nine-month period. This growth was supported by improved operating income across all segments, despite higher interest expenses related to debt incurred for the Veda acquisition. The company's balance sheet reflects a significant increase in assets, primarily due to goodwill and intangible assets arising from the Veda acquisition, alongside a substantial increase in long-term debt to finance this transaction. Equifax's liquidity remains strong, with ample cash flow from operations and available credit facilities to support its ongoing business and strategic initiatives.

Financial Statements
Beta
Revenue$804.10M
SG&A Expenses$233.40M
Operating Expenses$592.00M
Operating Income$212.10M
Interest Expense$24.30M
Net Income$132.80M
EPS (Basic)$1.11
EPS (Diluted)$1.09
Shares Outstanding (Basic)119.50M
Shares Outstanding (Diluted)121.30M

Key Highlights

  • 1Operating revenue increased by 20% in Q3 2016 and 17% for the nine months ended September 30, 2016, compared to the prior year, primarily driven by the acquisition of Veda and organic growth.
  • 2Net income attributable to Equifax rose by 13% in Q3 2016 and 15% for the nine months ended September 30, 2016, reflecting improved profitability.
  • 3The acquisition of Veda for approximately $1.7 billion on February 24, 2016, significantly contributed to revenue and asset growth, adding substantial goodwill and intangible assets.
  • 4Total assets grew from $4.5 billion at the end of 2015 to $6.8 billion at September 30, 2016, largely due to acquisitions.
  • 5Long-term debt increased substantially from $1.1 billion at December 31, 2015, to $2.1 billion at September 30, 2016, primarily to finance the Veda acquisition.
  • 6Operating income in the U.S. Information Solutions segment increased by 19% for Q3 and 8% for the nine months, with operating margins improving significantly.
  • 7Workforce Solutions also demonstrated strong performance, with operating income up 40% in Q3 and 37% for the nine months, alongside expanded operating margins.

Frequently Asked Questions

The primary driver was the acquisition of Veda Group Limited for approximately $1.7 billion, which closed on February 24, 2016. This acquisition significantly boosted operating revenue and added substantial goodwill and intangible assets to the balance sheet.

The Veda acquisition was financed through a combination of new debt, including the Term Loan and commercial paper, leading to a significant increase in long-term debt. Total long-term debt rose from $1.1 billion at the end of 2015 to $2.1 billion at September 30, 2016.

The company anticipates long-term average organic revenue growth between 6% and 8%, with an additional 1% to 2% from strategic acquisitions. Demand is correlated with economic activity and consumer credit activity.

Equifax is involved in ongoing legal proceedings, including a class-action lawsuit related to bankruptcy filings and investigations by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) regarding credit reporting and workforce solutions practices. While the company believes it has strong defenses, the outcomes are uncertain and could result in adverse judgments, penalties, or other relief.