10-QPeriod: Q3 FY2004

FEDEX CORP Quarterly Report for Q3 Ended Feb 29, 2004

Filed March 18, 2004For Securities:FDX

Summary

FedEx Corporation's (FDX) 10-Q filing for the quarter ending February 29, 2004, reveals a dynamic period characterized by significant strategic acquisition and ongoing operational adjustments. The company completed the acquisition of Kinko's for approximately $2.4 billion in cash, a move expected to enhance its capabilities in serving small- and medium-sized customers through Kinko's retail locations. This acquisition was financed through a combination of cash reserves and a $2 billion credit facility, resulting in substantial short-term borrowings. Operationally, FedEx is navigating business realignment initiatives, including voluntary early retirement and severance programs, which incurred significant costs but are aimed at optimizing the cost structure. While revenues showed growth, particularly driven by FedEx Express international priority shipments and FedEx Ground, operating income for the nine-month period declined due to these realignment costs. However, the third quarter saw a strong rebound in operating income, driven by cost savings from these initiatives and improved international performance. Investors should note the impact of these one-time charges on short-term profitability, alongside the long-term strategic implications of the Kinko's acquisition.

Key Highlights

  • 1Completion of the Kinko's acquisition for approximately $2.4 billion, financed significantly through short-term borrowings, is a major strategic move to expand service offerings.
  • 2Consolidated revenues increased by 9% for the quarter and 6% for the nine months, driven by volume and yield improvements across key segments like FedEx Express (International Priority) and FedEx Ground.
  • 3Operating income for the three months ended Feb 29, 2004, increased by 38% to $372 million, benefiting from business realignment cost savings ($65 million) and improved international volumes/yields.
  • 4Nine-month operating income decreased by 23% to $755 million, primarily due to substantial business realignment costs totaling $429 million.
  • 5Net income for the quarter rose 41% to $207 million ($0.68 per diluted share), while nine-month net income decreased 23% to $426 million ($1.40 per diluted share), impacted by realignment costs and a tax benefit.
  • 6Significant increase in short-term borrowings to $1.9 billion, primarily to finance the Kinko's acquisition, with plans to refinance a substantial portion.
  • 7Capital expenditures decreased by 24% year-to-date to $892 million, mainly due to lower aircraft expenditures at FedEx Express, but total expected FY2004 capex is projected at $1.4 billion.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Kinko's acquisition, completed on February 12, 2004, for approximately $2.4 billion, added $100 million in revenue and $0.01 to diluted earnings per share for the current quarter. While not material to consolidated results in this short period, it's expected to be accretive to 2004 results and contribute to future earnings growth. The acquisition was financed by cash and a $2 billion credit facility, leading to $1.9 billion in outstanding commercial paper borrowings as of February 29, 2004.

FedEx incurred $14 million in business realignment costs during the third quarter and $429 million for the nine months ended February 29, 2004. These costs are related to voluntary early retirement and severance programs, as well as elimination of management positions. While these initiatives resulted in significant charges, they also generated savings of $65 million in the quarter and $90 million year-to-date, contributing to improved operating income in the short term despite the large upfront expenses.

Cash and cash equivalents decreased to $475 million from $538 million. Operating activities generated $1.732 billion in cash, but investing activities used $3.288 billion, primarily for the Kinko's acquisition. To fund the acquisition, the company took on $1.929 billion in short-term borrowings via commercial paper, significantly increasing its short-term debt. Despite this, the company believes its operating cash flow and credit facilities are sufficient to meet its foreseeable working capital and capital expenditure needs.

FedEx anticipates revenue growth across all segments for the remainder of fiscal year 2004, driven by a strengthening global economy. The company expects continued strong growth in international volumes and yields at FedEx Express, and improved volume growth at FedEx Ground and FedEx Freight. Management anticipates strong fourth-quarter year-over-year growth in both operating income and margins, further benefiting from net savings from business realignment initiatives and revenue growth, partially offset by increased pension, healthcare, and compensation expenses.