10-QPeriod: Q1 FY2014

Public Storage Quarterly Report for Q1 Ended Mar 31, 2014

Summary

Public Storage (PSA) reported solid performance in its first quarter of 2014, demonstrating growth in both its core self-storage operations and its diversified investments. Net income allocable to common shareholders increased to $174.1 million, or $1.01 per diluted share, up from $161.9 million, or $0.94 per diluted share, in the prior year's quarter. This growth was primarily driven by a significant increase in self-storage net operating income, which rose by $30.8 million, reflecting a 5.1% increase in revenue from Same Store Facilities due to higher occupancy and rental rates, and substantial contributions from newly acquired properties. The company continued its aggressive acquisition strategy, having acquired 121 facilities in 2013 and showing strong momentum in developing and expanding its portfolio. As of March 31, 2014, PSA had approximately $625 million in capital resources, including cash, available credit, and retained operating cash flow, which is expected to fund its commitments for the remainder of the year, including debt repayments, property acquisitions, and development projects. Management highlighted a strategic preference for preferred securities in its capital structure to maintain financial flexibility and meet REIT distribution requirements.

Financial Statements
Beta
Revenue$515.04M
Cost of Revenue$173.16M
Gross Profit$341.89M
Operating Income$217.09M
Interest Expense$3.48M
Net Income$228.27M
EPS (Basic)$1.01
EPS (Diluted)$1.01
Shares Outstanding (Basic)171.91M
Shares Outstanding (Diluted)172.81M

Key Highlights

  • 1Net income allocable to common shareholders increased by 7.5% to $174.1 million ($1.01 per diluted share) for the three months ended March 31, 2014, compared to $161.9 million ($0.94 per diluted share) in the prior year.
  • 2Self-storage net operating income (NOI) grew by 10.3% to $329.5 million, driven by a 5.1% revenue increase in Same Store Facilities and strong performance from recently acquired Non Same Store Facilities.
  • 3Same Store Facilities revenue increased 5.1% to $440.6 million, attributed to a 0.8% rise in average occupancy and a 4.3% increase in realized rent per occupied square foot.
  • 4The company significantly expanded its portfolio, acquiring 121 self-storage facilities in 2013 for $1.2 billion and continuing to pursue acquisitions and development projects, with approximately 1.9 million net rentable square feet of new space planned.
  • 5Funds From Operations (FFO) per diluted common share increased by 10.8% to $1.74, and Core FFO per diluted common share increased by 9.1% to $1.80, indicating strong operational performance beyond GAAP net income.
  • 6As of March 31, 2014, Public Storage had approximately $625 million in capital resources, including $101 million in cash and cash equivalents and $285 million in available borrowing capacity on its revolving line of credit.
  • 7The company's financial strategy continues to emphasize preferred securities as a primary form of leverage to maintain financial flexibility and satisfy REIT distribution requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

The primary driver for the increase in net income was a $30.8 million rise in self-storage net operating income. This was fueled by a 5.1% increase in revenue from Same Store Facilities due to higher occupancy and rental rates, as well as significant contributions from newly acquired properties (Non Same Store Facilities).

Public Storage continued its aggressive acquisition strategy, building on the 121 facilities acquired in 2013. The report highlights that Non Same Store Facilities, which include these recent acquisitions, saw substantial revenue growth (120.9%) and contributed significantly to the overall increase in net operating income. The company also has ongoing development projects aiming to add significant rentable square footage.

As of March 31, 2014, Public Storage had approximately $625 million in capital resources, comprising cash, available credit lines, and retained operating cash flow. The company faces significant capital commitments for the remainder of 2014, including debt repayments ($372 million term loan), acquisitions, and development projects. Management expects to bridge any potential gaps through various means, including issuing new securities, debt, or expanding its credit facility, while also noting sufficient operating cash flow to meet ongoing requirements.

Public Storage emphasizes a low debt-to-capitalization ratio, strategically utilizing preferred securities as its primary form of leverage. This approach is chosen because it aligns with REIT distribution requirements, avoids maturity and refinancing risks associated with debt, and provides financial flexibility. The company recently issued Series Y Preferred Shares and plans to use its capital resources to manage upcoming debt maturities and fund growth initiatives.