10-QPeriod: Q1 FY2007

SCHWAB CHARLES CORP Quarterly Report for Q1 Ended Mar 31, 2007

Filed May 8, 2007For Securities:SCHWSCHW-PDSCHW-PJ

Summary

The Charles Schwab Corporation (SCHW) reported solid financial results for the first quarter of 2007, demonstrating growth in key areas despite market volatility. Net income increased by 12% year-over-year to $273 million, with diluted earnings per share rising to $0.22 from $0.19 in the prior year. This growth was driven by a 9% increase in total net revenues, largely fueled by a 15% rise in asset-based and other revenues, which benefited from higher interest rate spreads and growth in client assets. The company also made strategic progress, including the acquisition of The 401(k) Company and the pending sale of U.S. Trust Corporation, which is expected to generate a significant pre-tax gain. These strategic moves reflect the company's focus on enhancing its service offerings and streamlining its operations. Overall, SCHW appears to be navigating the economic landscape effectively, with a strong focus on client asset growth and profitability.

Key Highlights

  • 1Net income increased by 12% to $273 million in Q1 2007 compared to Q1 2006.
  • 2Diluted earnings per share rose to $0.22 from $0.19 year-over-year.
  • 3Total net revenues grew by 9% to $1,153 million, primarily driven by a 15% increase in asset-based and other revenues.
  • 4Net new client assets reached $51.3 billion, including $17.8 billion from the acquisition of The 401(k) Company, with organic growth up 27% year-over-year.
  • 5Total client assets reached a record $1.306 trillion at the end of the quarter, a 16% increase from the prior year.
  • 6The company announced the pending sale of U.S. Trust Corporation to Bank of America, expected to close in Q3 2007, with an estimated pre-tax gain of $1.9 billion.
  • 7The acquisition of The 401(k) Company was completed on March 31, 2007, for $115 million in cash, adding goodwill and intangible assets.

Frequently Asked Questions

Revenue growth was primarily driven by a 15% increase in asset-based and other revenues. This was fueled by higher interest rate spreads due to the prevailing interest rate environment and growth in client assets, leading to increased asset management and administration fees, as well as net interest revenue.

The pending sale of U.S. Trust is expected to provide significant proceeds and a substantial pre-tax gain, which will be used for general corporate purposes, including share repurchases and reinvestment in core businesses. The acquisition of The 401(k) Company on March 31, 2007, expands the company's defined contribution plan services, demonstrating a strategy of both divesting non-core assets and acquiring businesses that enhance its service offerings.

The company reported continued strengthening of its operating and financial performance despite heightened economic uncertainty and securities market volatility. Management expressed confidence in its ability to navigate the economic landscape, supported by client asset growth, robust revenue streams, and strategic initiatives. The company expects continued growth and profitability, while acknowledging the inherent risks in its business.

Trading revenue decreased by 11% to $202 million compared to the first quarter of 2006. This decline was primarily attributed to lower daily average revenue trades, although it was partially offset by a higher average revenue earned per revenue trade.