10-QPeriod: Q1 FY2001

MICRON TECHNOLOGY INC Quarterly Report for Q1 Ended Nov 30, 2000

Filed January 12, 2001For Securities:MU

Summary

Micron Technology Inc. (MU) reported its first quarter 2001 results, showing a modest increase in net sales to $1.83 billion, up 16% year-over-year, primarily driven by its Semiconductor operations. Despite the sales growth, operating income saw a slight decline from $532 million to $504 million year-over-year. Net income remained relatively stable at $352.2 million, or $0.58 per diluted share, compared to $341.3 million, or $0.60 per diluted share, in the prior year's quarter. The company highlighted significant investments in research and development, a substantial increase in capital expenditures planned for the upcoming year, and ongoing efforts to transition to advanced manufacturing technologies. Key financial shifts include a notable increase in inventories and a decrease in receivables, alongside a substantial reduction in long-term debt primarily due to the conversion of convertible notes into equity. The company also faces ongoing litigation with Rambus, Inc., concerning patent infringement, the outcome of which remains uncertain and could materially impact future results. Investors should note the company's continued focus on semiconductor memory products, with DRAM being the primary driver, and the inherent volatility and competitive pressures within this industry.

Key Highlights

  • 1Net sales increased by 16% year-over-year to $1.83 billion, driven by a 16% increase in Semiconductor operations net sales.
  • 2Operating income slightly decreased to $504 million from $532 million in the prior year quarter.
  • 3Net income was $352.2 million, a slight increase from $341.3 million year-over-year, with diluted EPS at $0.58.
  • 4Inventories increased significantly to $1,026.4 million from $704.8 million in the prior quarter, while receivables decreased to $992.6 million from $1,573.7 million.
  • 5Long-term debt was significantly reduced from $933.7 million to $242.5 million, largely due to the conversion of convertible subordinated notes.
  • 6Research and development expenses increased by 52.1% year-over-year to $139.5 million, reflecting investment in new technologies.
  • 7The company plans substantial capital expenditures, expecting them to exceed $2 billion in fiscal 2001, up from $544 million in the current quarter.
  • 8Micron is involved in ongoing patent litigation with Rambus, Inc., with potential material adverse effects on its business.

Frequently Asked Questions

Micron Technology reported a 16% increase in net sales year-over-year, reaching $1.83 billion, primarily due to growth in its Semiconductor operations. However, operating income saw a slight decrease to $504 million from $532 million in the prior year's comparable quarter. Net income remained relatively stable at $352.2 million, resulting in diluted earnings per share of $0.58.

The company experienced a significant increase in inventories, which rose to $1.03 billion from $704.8 million in the prior quarter. Conversely, receivables decreased substantially to $992.6 million from $1.57 billion in the previous quarter, suggesting improved collections or a shift in sales terms.

Micron significantly reduced its long-term debt from $933.7 million to $242.5 million, largely attributable to the conversion of $685 million in convertible subordinated notes into common stock. Looking ahead, the company plans to make substantial capital investments, exceeding $2 billion for fiscal year 2001, indicating a strong focus on future growth and technological advancement.

Micron's report flags several key risks, including the inherent volatility of the DRAM industry with potential for rapid price declines, dependence on the PC market, significant competition, and the ongoing patent litigation with Rambus, Inc., which could lead to material adverse effects. The company also notes the potential impact of increased worldwide DRAM production and the transition to new technologies.