10-QPeriod: Q2 FY2005

SLB LIMITED/NV Quarterly Report for Q2 Ended Jun 30, 2005

Filed July 28, 2005For Securities:SLB

Summary

Schlumberger Limited (SLB) reported strong financial performance for the second quarter and the first six months of 2005, driven by robust activity in its Oilfield Services and WesternGeco segments. Operating revenue for the second quarter increased significantly to $3.43 billion from $2.83 billion in the prior year, while net income grew to $482 million from $356 million. The six-month period also showed substantial top-line growth, with revenue reaching $6.59 billion compared to $5.51 billion in the first half of 2004, and net income rising to $1.01 billion from $576 million. The company's Oilfield Services segment demonstrated impressive year-over-year revenue and pretax operating income growth, attributed to increased exploration and production activity globally, technological advancements, and favorable pricing. WesternGeco also saw significant revenue and income improvements, particularly in its Marine and Land operations, benefiting from higher vessel utilization and increased pricing. The company continued its strategic acquisition of PetroAlliance Services, increasing its ownership to 51% and consolidating its results, which contributed to segment performance.

Key Highlights

  • 1Significant year-over-year revenue growth for both the second quarter (3.43B vs 2.83B) and the first six months (6.59B vs 5.51B).
  • 2Net income for the second quarter rose to $482 million from $356 million in Q2 2004, and for the first six months to $1.01 billion from $576 million in H1 2004.
  • 3Oilfield Services segment revenue increased 20% year-over-year in Q2 and 48% in pretax operating income.
  • 4WesternGeco segment revenue increased 31% year-over-year in Q2 and 31% in pretax operating income.
  • 5Strategic acquisition of PetroAlliance Services advanced with Schlumberger now holding a 51% controlling interest.
  • 6Strong performance in North America and international markets, indicating broad-based demand for oilfield services.
  • 7Effective tax rate for Q2 2005 was 24.9%, compared to 22.5% in Q2 2004, primarily due to the geographic mix of earnings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Revenue growth was primarily driven by strong performance in both the Oilfield Services and WesternGeco segments. Increased exploration and production activity worldwide, coupled with higher pricing and the introduction of new technologies, fueled the Oilfield Services segment. WesternGeco benefited from higher vessel utilization, increased pricing in its Marine operations, and strong activity in its Land operations, particularly in the Middle East.

Schlumberger increased its ownership in PetroAlliance Services to 51% in the second quarter of 2005, leading to its consolidation into Schlumberger's financial statements. This acquisition contributed to the revenue and profitability growth of the Europe/CIS/West Africa region within the Oilfield Services segment, with the consolidation of 20 days of financial results in the second quarter.

Yes, in the second quarter of 2005, Schlumberger recorded a pretax gain of approximately $146 million from the sale of its facility in Montrouge, France. This gain was classified under 'Interest and other income'. In the prior year, 2004, the company incurred various charges, including debt extinguishment costs, restructuring charges, and losses on the sale of Atos Origin shares, which impacted net income.

The report indicates a strong positive momentum, with significant growth in revenue and income for both major segments. The company highlights continued global progression and depth in the current business cycle, with strong demand across multiple technologies and regions. While specific forward-looking statements are included in the report's "Forward-Looking Statements" section, the overall tone suggests optimism based on the current operational performance and market conditions.