Summary
Mastercard Inc. reported a significant net loss for the second quarter of 2008, primarily driven by a substantial charge related to the American Express Settlement. This settlement, covering U.S. federal antitrust litigation, resulted in a pre-tax charge of $1.649 billion. Despite this one-time event, the company's underlying operational performance showed strength, with net revenue growth of 25.0% for the quarter, fueled by increased transactions and volumes. Foreign currency fluctuations also positively contributed to revenue growth. The company maintained a strong liquidity and capital position, with significant cash reserves and equity. The company continues to focus on its growth strategy, aiming to deepen penetration within its existing customer base and expand into targeted geographies and higher-growth segments. Investments in brand enhancement and technology are ongoing. While the company acknowledges the impact of the challenging economic environment, regulatory actions, and ongoing litigation, it remains confident in its ability to fund its operations and future obligations through operational cash flow and existing borrowing capacity.
Financial Highlights
29 data points| Revenue | $1.25B |
| Operating Expenses | $2.48B |
| Operating Income | -$1.23B |
| Interest Expense | $15.44M |
| Net Income | -$746.65M |
| EPS (Basic) | $-0.57 |
| EPS (Diluted) | $-0.57 |
| Shares Outstanding (Basic) | 1.30B |
| Shares Outstanding (Diluted) | 1.30B |
Key Highlights
- 1Significant net loss of $747 million in Q2 2008, primarily due to a $1.649 billion pre-tax charge for the American Express Settlement.
- 2Net revenue increased by 25.0% to $1.247 billion in Q2 2008 compared to $997 million in Q2 2007, driven by increased transactions and volumes.
- 3Gross dollar volume (GDV) on a U.S. dollar converted basis increased by 18.2% to $655 billion in Q2 2008 compared to the prior year period.
- 4Operating expenses increased by 240.6% to $2.480 billion in Q2 2008, largely due to the American Express Settlement charge.
- 5Excluding litigation settlements, operating expenses increased by 14.6%, reflecting increased personnel costs, foreign currency impacts, and other operating initiatives.
- 6The company completed its $1.25 billion share repurchase program during the quarter.
- 7Mastercard had $2.5 billion in cash, cash equivalents, and current available-for-sale securities as of June 30, 2008, indicating strong liquidity.