10-QPeriod: Q1 FY2009

LAM RESEARCH CORP Quarterly Report for Q1 Ended Sep 28, 2008

Filed November 7, 2008For Securities:LRCX

Summary

Lam Research Corporation (LRCX) reported its quarterly results for the period ending September 28, 2008. The company experienced a significant decline in revenue and net income compared to the prior year, reflecting the challenging macroeconomic environment and its impact on the semiconductor industry. Revenue for the quarter was $440.4 million, down from $684.6 million in the same period last year. Net income fell to $8.9 million, or $0.07 per diluted share, a steep drop from $148.6 million, or $1.18 per diluted share, in the prior year's quarter. The company highlighted ongoing investments in research and development, despite a sequential decrease in R&D expenses due to cost-containment measures and restructuring activities. Lam Research also noted the integration of SEZ, acquired in fiscal year 2008, which contributed to the revenue and operational expenses. Management emphasized cost-containment efforts and restructuring to align expenses with reduced business activity and maintain liquidity. Investors should note the significant year-over-year decline in financial performance, driven by broad economic headwinds impacting customer demand in the semiconductor sector. While the company is undertaking cost-reduction measures and focusing on R&D, the overall market conditions present a challenging outlook. The company's liquidity position remains strong, supported by cash and investments, enabling continued operations and strategic investments.

Key Highlights

  • 1Revenue declined significantly by 36% year-over-year to $440.4 million for the quarter ended September 28, 2008.
  • 2Net income saw a dramatic decrease to $8.9 million ($0.07 per diluted share) compared to $148.6 million ($1.18 per diluted share) in the prior year's quarter.
  • 3Gross margin percentage improved slightly to 41.6% from 41.4% sequentially, but was down from 50.2% in the prior year, impacted by reduced factory utilization and the inclusion of SEZ.
  • 4Operating expenses included $19.0 million in restructuring and asset impairment charges, primarily related to the integration of SEZ and cost-saving initiatives.
  • 5The company continues to invest in R&D, although expenses decreased sequentially due to cost-containment measures, with R&D representing 18.5% of revenue.
  • 6Lam Research maintained a strong liquidity position with $1.2 billion in cash, cash equivalents, and short-term investments as of September 28, 2008.
  • 7A new $250 million stock repurchase program was authorized in September 2008.

Frequently Asked Questions

The sharp decline in revenue and net income was primarily driven by the deteriorating global economic outlook and its direct impact on customer demand within the semiconductor industry. This led to reduced capital spending by customers, resulting in lower shipments and revenue for Lam Research. The company also incurred restructuring and asset impairment charges, further impacting profitability.

The acquisition of SEZ, completed in fiscal year 2008, is being integrated into Lam Research's operations. SEZ's results are included in the current period's financial statements, contributing to both revenue and expenses. The integration process also incurred restructuring and asset impairment charges, which are detailed in the financial statements.

Lam Research has implemented several cost-containment measures, including reductions in variable compensation, streamlining of operations, and the aforementioned restructuring activities related to SEZ integration. These actions aim to align operating expenses with the reduced business activity and preserve liquidity.

The company acknowledges the cyclical nature of the semiconductor industry and the significant impact of current economic uncertainties. While maintaining a strong liquidity position and continuing R&D investments, the management anticipates continued revenue and profitability fluctuations due to unpredictable customer demand and broader economic conditions. The company has authorized a new $250 million stock repurchase program, indicating confidence in its long-term prospects and available cash.