Summary
Altria Group, Inc. reported a net loss of $1.3 billion for the year ended December 31, 2019, a significant shift from the $7.0 billion net earnings in the prior year. This decline was largely driven by an $8.6 billion impairment charge related to its investment in JUUL, coupled with a $1.4 billion loss on Cronos-related financial instruments. Excluding these and other special items, Altria's adjusted diluted earnings per share were $4.22, demonstrating underlying operational performance. The company forecasts 4%-7% adjusted diluted EPS growth for 2020, indicating confidence in its core business despite the significant investment write-downs. The company's primary revenue driver, the smokeable products segment (cigarettes and cigars), saw a slight decrease in net revenues, primarily due to lower shipment volumes, although pricing actions helped offset some of this decline. The smokeless products segment showed modest net revenue growth, supported by higher pricing. However, the wine segment experienced a decline in operating income, partly due to a goodwill impairment charge. Altria's strategic investments in JUUL and Cronos have significantly impacted profitability in 2019, highlighting the risks associated with diversifying into new product categories.
Financial Highlights
52 data points| Revenue | $25.11B |
| Cost of Revenue | $7.08B |
| Gross Profit | $12.71B |
| R&D Expenses | $168.00M |
| Operating Income | $10.33B |
| Interest Expense | $1.32B |
| Net Income | -$1.29B |
| EPS (Basic) | $-0.70 |
| EPS (Diluted) | $-0.70 |
| Shares Outstanding (Basic) | 1.87B |
| Shares Outstanding (Diluted) | 1.87B |
Key Highlights
- 1Reported a net loss of $1.3 billion for fiscal year 2019, significantly impacted by an $8.6 billion impairment charge on its JUUL investment.
- 2Adjusted diluted EPS was $4.22 for fiscal year 2019, with the company forecasting 4%-7% growth for 2020.
- 3Smokeable products segment net revenues decreased slightly due to lower shipment volumes, partially offset by pricing increases.
- 4Smokeless products segment reported a modest increase in net revenues, driven by higher pricing.
- 5Wine segment operating income declined, impacted by a $74 million goodwill impairment charge.
- 6The company continued to return capital to shareholders through dividends, paying out approximately $6.1 billion in 2019.
- 7Altria faces ongoing regulatory scrutiny and litigation risks, particularly concerning its e-vapor investments and tobacco products.