10-QPeriod: Q1 FY2002

STRYKER CORP Quarterly Report for Q1 Ended Mar 31, 2002

Filed May 14, 2002For Securities:SYK

Summary

Stryker Corporation (SYK) reported strong financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2002. Net sales increased by 11% year-over-year, driven by robust performance in both its Orthopaedic Implants and MedSurg Equipment segments. The company also saw a significant 27% increase in net earnings, reflecting improved operational efficiency and the favorable impact of adopting new accounting standards for goodwill. Key financial metrics indicate healthy growth and operational improvements. The adoption of FASB Statement No. 142, which eliminated goodwill amortization, significantly boosted net earnings by $2.6 million ($.01 per diluted share) for the quarter. The company maintained a solid liquidity position with an increase in working capital and available borrowing capacity, despite using cash for capital expenditures, acquisitions, and dividend payments. Management expresses confidence in its ability to fund future operations and debt obligations.

Key Highlights

  • 1Net sales grew 11% to $702.9 million in Q1 2002 compared to $634.2 million in Q1 2001.
  • 2Net earnings increased 27% to $81.1 million ($0.40/diluted share) in Q1 2002 from $64.1 million ($0.32/diluted share) in Q1 2001.
  • 3The adoption of FASB Statement No. 142 positively impacted net earnings by $2.6 million ($.01/diluted share) due to the elimination of goodwill amortization.
  • 4Orthopaedic Implants and MedSurg Equipment segments showed strong sales growth of 10% and 12% respectively.
  • 5Domestic sales increased by a notable 15%, outpacing international sales growth of 3%.
  • 6Working capital increased to $535.7 million at March 31, 2002, indicating a healthy current financial position.
  • 7Despite increased borrowings and capital expenditures, the company has substantial available borrowing capacity under its credit facilities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Stryker's net sales increased by 11% in Q1 2002, driven by a combination of factors including increased unit volume (10%), higher selling prices (2%), and acquired businesses (1%), partially offset by a 2% decline due to foreign currency exchange rates. Both the Orthopaedic Implants and MedSurg Equipment segments showed strong performance.

The adoption of FASB Statement No. 142, which prohibits the amortization of goodwill, reduced intangible amortization expenses by $3.9 million and increased net earnings by $2.6 million (or $0.01 per diluted share) for the first quarter of 2002. The company also completed its initial goodwill impairment test and determined no impairment was necessary.

Stryker maintains a strong liquidity position. Working capital increased to $535.7 million at March 31, 2002. While the company utilized cash for capital expenditures, acquisitions, and dividends, it also borrowed under its credit facilities. Management believes its cash on hand, anticipated cash flows, and available borrowing capacity of $330.3 million are sufficient to meet future operating and investing needs and debt repayments.

Days sales in inventory increased to 147 days at March 31, 2002, from 138 days at December 31, 2001. Accounts receivable days sales outstanding, excluding the securitization program, increased slightly to 60 days from 59 days. These changes reflect growth in the business and the timing of inventory build-up.