Summary
General Electric Company (GE) reported a strong second quarter and first six months of 2007, demonstrating solid revenue and earnings growth across its diversified businesses. Total revenues increased by 12% year-over-year for the quarter to $42.3 billion, driven by robust organic growth of 8%. Earnings from continuing operations rose 12% to $5.4 billion for the quarter, translating to diluted EPS of $0.53, up from $0.48 in the prior year. The company highlighted significant contributions from its Infrastructure and Commercial Finance segments, while GE Money also showed revenue growth despite challenges in its U.S. mortgage business (WMC) and Japanese operations. GE's financial position remains strong, with total assets growing to $738.5 billion. The company continued its strategic acquisition activities, integrating businesses like Smiths Aerospace Group Ltd. and Vetco Gray to fuel growth. GE also announced its agreement to sell its Plastics business for approximately $11.6 billion, expected to close in Q3 2007 and generate a significant after-tax gain. The company reaffirmed its commitment to returning capital to shareholders through dividends and share repurchases, indicating confidence in its ongoing performance and financial flexibility.
Key Highlights
- 1Total revenues increased 12% to $42.3 billion for Q2 2007, with 8% organic growth.
- 2Earnings from continuing operations grew 12% to $5.4 billion for Q2 2007, with diluted EPS at $0.53.
- 3Infrastructure segment revenue increased 23% to $13.9 billion in Q2 2007, driven by strong volume and acquisitions.
- 4Commercial Finance segment revenue and net earnings increased 15% and 18% respectively in Q2 2007.
- 5GE announced an agreement to sell its Plastics business for approximately $11.6 billion, expected to close in Q3 2007.
- 6Total assets grew to $738.5 billion by June 30, 2007, an increase of $41.3 billion from year-end 2006.
- 7The company continued its share repurchase program, with approximately $11.7 billion remaining authorized under the program.