10-QPeriod: Q3 FY2002

FLEX LTD. Quarterly Report for Q3 Ended Dec 31, 2001

Filed February 12, 2002For Securities:FLEX

Summary

Flextronics International Ltd. (FLEX) reported its financial results for the nine months ended December 31, 2001. While net sales showed an increase compared to the prior year's nine-month period, growing to $9.8 billion from $9.0 billion, the company experienced a significant net loss of $159.5 million for the period. This contrasts with a net income of $67.8 million in the same period of the prior year, indicating a substantial downturn. The company's balance sheet as of December 31, 2001, shows total assets of $8.3 billion and total liabilities and shareholders' equity of the same amount. Notably, the company had $449.0 million in cash and cash equivalents, but also significant bank borrowings and long-term debt totaling $1.4 billion. The period was marked by substantial "unusual charges" totaling $516.1 million in the second quarter of fiscal 2002, primarily related to facility closures and impairment of investments. These charges, along with restructuring activities and ongoing economic downturn in the electronics industry, significantly impacted profitability. Despite the net loss, the company generated positive cash flow from operations of $605.4 million for the nine months ended December 31, 2001, indicating operational cash generation capability. Investors should note the significant restructuring efforts and the impact of the broader economic climate on the company's performance. While revenue growth is present, driven partly by acquisitions, the substantial net loss and increased debt levels warrant careful consideration. The company's forward-looking statements suggest an awareness of significant risks related to operational management, customer dependence, and industry competition.

Key Highlights

  • 1Net sales for the nine months ended December 31, 2001, increased by 9.0% to $9.8 billion from $9.0 billion in the prior year's comparable period.
  • 2The company reported a net loss of $159.5 million for the nine months ended December 31, 2001, a significant reversal from a net income of $67.8 million in the prior year's nine-month period.
  • 3Total assets stood at $8.3 billion as of December 31, 2001, with $449.0 million in cash and cash equivalents.
  • 4Significant 'unusual charges' of approximately $516.1 million were recognized in the second quarter of fiscal 2002, primarily due to facility closures and investment impairments, heavily impacting profitability.
  • 5Cash flow from operating activities was positive at $605.4 million for the nine months ended December 31, 2001, an improvement from $(314.9) million in the prior year's period.
  • 6The company completed over 30 acquisitions since the beginning of fiscal 2001, contributing to revenue growth but also increasing complexity and potential integration risks.
  • 7Total debt (bank borrowings and long-term debt) stood at approximately $1.4 billion as of December 31, 2001.

Frequently Asked Questions

The primary driver for the net loss was approximately $516.1 million in 'unusual charges' recognized in the second quarter of fiscal 2002. These charges were mainly for facility closures and impairment of investments, coupled with the general economic downturn affecting the electronics industry and associated costs for restructuring and acquisitions.

As of December 31, 2001, the company had $574.2 million in bank borrowings and current portion of long-term debt, and $858.0 million in long-term debt, net of current portion, totaling approximately $1.4 billion. This represents an increase in short-term borrowings compared to the prior year's balance sheet. Financing activities also involved substantial debt repayments and new borrowings during the period.

The company reported $449.0 million in cash and cash equivalents as of December 31, 2001, and had $219.0 million available under its credit facility. They believe existing cash, anticipated operational cash flows, and available borrowings will be sufficient for at least the next twelve months. However, they anticipate continued use of debt and equity financings for future growth and potential acquisitions.

The adoption of SFAS 142 in the first quarter of fiscal 2002 eliminated the amortization of goodwill. This resulted in a decrease in goodwill and intangibles amortization expense to $9.1 million for the nine months ended December 31, 2001, from $37.0 million in the prior year. The company will now perform annual impairment testing for goodwill instead of amortizing it.