10-QPeriod: Q1 FY2020

CORNING INC /NY Quarterly Report for Q1 Ended Mar 31, 2020

Filed May 5, 2020For Securities:GLW

Summary

Corning Inc. reported a net loss of $96 million, or $0.16 per diluted share, for the first quarter of 2020, a significant decline from a net income of $499 million, or $0.55 per diluted share, in the same period of the prior year. This downturn was primarily attributed to a substantial decrease in net sales, which fell by 15% to $2.39 billion from $2.81 billion year-over-year. Key segments like Display Technologies and Optical Communications experienced considerable sales declines due to market weakness, reduced customer spending, and the impact of COVID-19. The company's gross margin also saw a significant contraction, dropping from 39% to 23%, largely due to accelerated depreciation, severance payments, and lower volumes in certain segments. Management has withdrawn its 2020 guidance due to economic uncertainty and is focusing on preserving financial health, protecting employees, and meeting customer commitments. Actions include cost reduction and capital spending adjustments, while share repurchases have been suspended, and the dividend is planned to be maintained.

Financial Statements
Beta

Key Highlights

  • 1Net sales decreased by 15% to $2.39 billion in Q1 2020 from $2.81 billion in Q1 2019.
  • 2The company reported a net loss of $96 million in Q1 2020, a sharp contrast to a net income of $499 million in Q1 2019.
  • 3Gross margin significantly declined from 39% in Q1 2019 to 23% in Q1 2020.
  • 4Display Technologies and Optical Communications segments experienced substantial revenue declines of 8% and 26% respectively.
  • 5A one-time $105 million revenue reduction related to a customer exiting LCD panel production negatively impacted results.
  • 6The company has withdrawn its 2020 financial guidance due to COVID-19 related economic uncertainty.
  • 7Corning has suspended share repurchases and is adjusting operating plans to reduce costs and capital spending.

Frequently Asked Questions

The primary driver for the decrease in net income was a 15% decline in net sales, coupled with a significant drop in gross margin. This was exacerbated by a $105 million cumulative adjustment to reduce revenue related to a customer exiting LCD panel production, lower translated earnings contract gains, and increased costs from severance payments and asset write-offs.

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to economic uncertainty, market weakness, and disruptions in supply chains. In response, Corning has withdrawn its full-year 2020 financial guidance and is focusing on cost reductions and capital spending adjustments to preserve financial strength. While the full impact is still uncertain, it has already affected demand and operations across several segments.

The Display Technologies segment saw an 8% decrease in net sales, and the Optical Communications segment experienced a significant 26% decline. The Environmental Technologies segment also saw a 12% decrease in net sales due to shutdowns by vehicle manufacturers.

Corning ended the first quarter of 2020 with $2 billion in cash and cash equivalents. The company has no debt due in the next twelve months, expects positive free cash flow, plans to maintain its dividend, and has suspended share buybacks. Management believes it has sufficient liquidity to fund operations and capital expenditures.