10-QPeriod: Q1 FY2010

EXPEDITORS INTERNATIONAL OF WASHINGTON INC Quarterly Report for Q1 Ended Mar 31, 2010

Filed May 7, 2010For Securities:EXPD

Summary

Expeditors International of Washington, Inc. (EXPD) reported a solid first quarter for 2010, reflecting a recovery in global trade volumes following the economic downturn of 2009. Total revenues increased by 31.7% year-over-year to $1.2 billion, driven by a significant rebound in airfreight services, which saw tonnage increase by 41%. Net earnings attributable to shareholders rose to $61.2 million, or $0.28 per diluted share, up from $59.3 million, or $0.27 per diluted share, in the prior year quarter. While volumes are improving, the company is experiencing margin pressure. Net revenue per kilo for airfreight and net revenue per container for ocean freight consolidation decreased compared to the prior year's strong first quarter, which benefited from favorable spot market buying opportunities. This was due to increased carrier capacity limitations and rising buy rates as demand recovered. Despite these pressures, the company's customs brokerage and other services segment showed robust growth. Management remains focused on its core strategy of organic growth, superior customer service, and employee development, while navigating ongoing legal proceedings related to alleged anti-competitive behavior.

Financial Statements
Beta
Revenue$1.20B
Gross Profit$361.82M
Operating Expenses$1.10B
Operating Income$100.54M
Interest Expense$87K
Net Income$61.25M
EPS (Basic)$0.29
EPS (Diluted)$0.28
Shares Outstanding (Basic)212.19M
Shares Outstanding (Diluted)216.63M

Key Highlights

  • 1Total revenues surged 31.7% year-over-year to $1.2 billion, indicating a recovery in global trade.
  • 2Airfreight services revenue increased significantly, with tonnage up 41%, demonstrating a strong rebound in demand.
  • 3Net earnings attributable to shareholders grew to $61.2 million, an increase from $59.3 million in the prior year period.
  • 4Diluted EPS rose slightly to $0.28 from $0.27, reflecting the overall business improvement.
  • 5Customs brokerage and other services net revenues increased 13%, highlighting strength in this segment.
  • 6The company reported a substantial cash position of $1.04 billion in cash and cash equivalents, with no long-term debt.
  • 7Expeditors is actively defending against ongoing investigations and litigation related to alleged anti-competitive practices, which pose a potential material risk.

Frequently Asked Questions

The primary driver of revenue growth was the recovery in global trade volumes following the 2009 downturn. Specifically, airfreight services saw a significant 41% increase in tonnage, and customs brokerage and other services net revenues grew by 13%.

Yes, Expeditors is experiencing margin pressure, particularly in airfreight and ocean freight consolidation. This is due to increased carrier capacity limitations and rising buy rates as demand recovers, which contrasts with favorable buying opportunities seen in the prior year's first quarter. This led to a decrease in net revenue per kilo for airfreight and net revenue per container for ocean freight consolidation compared to Q1 2009.

Expeditors maintained a strong financial position with $1.04 billion in cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments as of March 31, 2010. Notably, the company had no long-term debt, indicating a healthy balance sheet and significant liquidity.

Expeditors is involved in significant legal proceedings, including investigations by the U.S. Department of Justice and the European Commission regarding alleged anti-competitive behavior among air cargo freight forwarders. Additionally, the company is a defendant in an antitrust class action lawsuit. While the company believes these allegations are without merit and intends to defend itself vigorously, these matters could result in substantial fines or penalties that could materially impact the company's financial position.