10-QPeriod: Q3 FY2006

HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL INC Quarterly Report for Q3 Ended Sep 30, 2006

Filed October 19, 2006For Securities:HONHONIV

Summary

Honeywell International Inc. reported strong financial performance for the nine months ending September 30, 2006, with net sales increasing by 13% to $23.1 billion compared to the prior year period. This growth was driven by a combination of strategic acquisitions, particularly in the Automation and Control Solutions and Specialty Materials segments, and solid organic growth across most business areas. The company demonstrated effective cost management, with Selling, General and Administrative (SG&A) expenses as a percentage of sales remaining stable, and significant improvements in gross margin, especially in the Specialty Materials segment due to the full consolidation of UOP. Profitability saw a substantial increase, with income from continuing operations rising significantly, bolstered by strong performance in Aerospace and Automation and Control Solutions, alongside the contributions from recent acquisitions. The company also managed its capital resources effectively, with operating cash flow improving year-over-year, and strategically reduced its reliance on investing activities for funding compared to the previous year. Despite ongoing litigation and environmental liabilities, which are being managed through accruals and insurance, Honeywell appears financially robust and positioned for continued growth.

Key Highlights

  • 1Net sales for the nine months ended September 30, 2006, increased by 13% to $23.1 billion, driven by acquisitions and organic growth.
  • 2The acquisition of full ownership of UOP significantly boosted the Specialty Materials segment's performance.
  • 3Income from continuing operations increased substantially, reflecting strong segment profits and strategic acquisitions.
  • 4Operating cash flow improved by $367 million year-over-year, demonstrating strong operational performance.
  • 5The company strengthened its credit facilities, including a new $2.3 billion Five-Year Credit Agreement, indicating robust liquidity.
  • 6Repositioning and other charges decreased significantly in Q3 2006 compared to Q3 2005, signaling progress in cost-saving initiatives.
  • 7Share repurchases continued, with $1.586 billion authorized for future purchases, demonstrating a commitment to shareholder returns.

Frequently Asked Questions

The primary drivers for the 13% increase in net sales to $23.1 billion for the nine months ended September 30, 2006, were strategic acquisitions, particularly in the Automation and Control Solutions and Specialty Materials segments, along with solid organic growth across most of Honeywell's business segments.

The acquisition of full ownership of UOP in November 2005 significantly benefited the Specialty Materials segment. UOP's sales, now fully consolidated, drove a substantial increase in segment sales and profits, particularly due to strength in the petrochemical industry.

Honeywell continues to manage its environmental and asbestos liabilities through established accruals and insurance receivables. While these liabilities remain significant, the company states that it does not expect them to have a material adverse effect on its consolidated financial position, though adverse litigation outcomes could impact results of operations or cash flows in the period recognized.

Honeywell maintains a strong liquidity position. Operating cash flow increased significantly in the first nine months of 2006. The company also renewed its credit facilities, including a new $2.3 billion Five-Year Credit Agreement, and successfully issued new long-term debt, indicating access to capital markets and a focus on financial flexibility.