01—Abstract
Summary
Summary of the 10-Q filed August 2, 2010. Cited figures are marked; the original filing is the authoritative source.
First Solar, Inc. (FSLR) reported solid revenue growth for the six months ended June 26, 2010, with net sales increasing by 22% year-over-year to $1.16 billiona.
This growth was driven by a 32%b increase in the volume of solar modules sold, fueled by strong demand in Germany and expanded manufacturing capacity. The company's average module selling price decreased by 16%, reflecting competitive pressures and a customer rebate program, but gross profit still saw a 6% increase due to improved manufacturing efficiency and cost reductions. Operationally, the company continues to focus on reducing manufacturing costs per watt, which declined by 11% year-over-year.
While the components segment remains the primary profit driver, the systems segment experienced significant growth, with net sales increasing substantially from $4.35 million to $125.61 millionc year-over-year. The company ended the period with a strong liquidity position, holding $960.5 million in cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities, which is expected to be sufficient for its operational and capital expenditure needs for at least the next 12 months.
02—Key points
Key Highlights
- Net sales increased 22% to $1.16 billion for the six months ended June 26, 2010, driven by higher module volume and systems business growth.
- Gross profit increased 6% to $566.2 million, despite a 16% decrease in average module selling price, due to improved manufacturing efficiency.
- Average manufacturing cost per watt decreased by 11% to $0.79 for the six months ended June 26, 2010.
- The Systems segment saw substantial growth, with net sales rising to $125.6 million for the six months ended June 26, 2010, compared to $4.4 million in the prior year.
- The company maintained a strong liquidity position with $960.5 million in cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities as of June 26, 2010.
- Significant investments were made in property, plant, and equipment, totaling $239.5 million for the six months ended June 26, 2010, to support manufacturing expansion.
- The company is actively managing foreign currency exposure through derivative instruments, with notable gains recognized in other comprehensive income.
03—One dollar
Follow one dollar
Of each $1.00 of revenue in Q2 FY2010, First Solar, Inc. kept $0.27.
- Revenue$587.9M100.0%
- Cost of revenue−$303.7M51.7%
- Gross profit$284.2M48.3%
- Operating costs−$103.7M17.6%
- Operating income$180.5M30.7%
- Interest, other & tax−$21.4M3.6%
- Net income$159.0M27.1%
04—Financials
Financial Highlights
Figures from 10-QQ2 FY2010filed August 2, 2010Financial Statements
Q2 FY2010 against Q2 FY2009
| Line item | Q2 FY2010Q2 FY2009 | Change |
|---|---|---|
| Revenue | $587.85M$525.88M | +11.8% |
| Cost of Revenue | $303.66M$227.78M | +33.3% |
| Gross Profit | $284.19M$298.10M | −4.7% |
| R&D Expenses | $22.84M$18.61M | +22.7% |
| SG&A Expenses | $78.60M$72.93M | +7.8% |
| Operating Expenses | $103.72M$94.06M | +10.3% |
| Operating Income | $180.47M$204.04M | −11.6% |
| Interest Expense | $6K$3.83M | −99.8% |
| Net Income | $159.04M$180.58M | −11.9% |
| EPS (Basic) | $1.87$2.16 | −13.4% |
| EPS (Diluted) | $1.84$2.11 | −12.8% |
| Shares Outstanding (Basic) | 84.85M83.72M | +1.3% |
| Shares Outstanding (Diluted) | 86.40M85.67M | +0.9% |
05—Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary driver of First Solar's revenue growth in this period?
The primary driver of First Solar's revenue growth for the six months ended June 26, 2010, was a significant increase in the volume of solar modules sold, up 32% year-over-year, coupled with substantial growth in the systems business.
How is the company managing the decline in average module selling prices?
First Solar is managing the decline in average module selling prices through continued manufacturing cost reductions, which have lowered the cost per watt, and by focusing on increasing sales volume. They are also seeing increased revenue from their systems business, which complements their module sales.
What is the company's financial position and outlook regarding liquidity?
First Solar maintains a strong financial position with $960.5 million in cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities as of June 26, 2010. Management believes this liquidity, along with operating cash flows and their revolving credit facility, will be sufficient to meet working capital and capital expenditure needs for at least the next 12 months.
What impact is the manufacturing excursion having on the company's financials?
The manufacturing excursion, which affected a small percentage of product manufactured between June 2008 and June 2009, has led to increased costs related to module replacement efforts that go beyond normal warranty coverage. This has resulted in additional expenses recognized in cost of sales and selling, general, and administrative expenses, impacting gross profit and operating income.
06—Continue