10-QPeriod: Q2 FY2009

STRYKER CORP Quarterly Report for Q2 Ended Jun 30, 2009

Filed August 7, 2009For Securities:SYK

Summary

Stryker Corporation's (SYK) second-quarter 2009 filing reveals a mixed financial performance impacted by the ongoing economic downturn. While net sales experienced a slight decline compared to the prior year, driven by weaker demand in the MedSurg Equipment segment and unfavorable currency exchange rates, the Orthopaedic Implants segment showed resilience with constant currency sales growth. The company maintained a strong liquidity position with substantial cash and marketable securities, and generated positive cash flow from operations. However, increased inventory levels and cost of sales percentage suggest pressure on margins and operational efficiency. Investors should note the ongoing legal and regulatory investigations, particularly concerning Stryker Biotech and FDA compliance, which could pose future risks.

Financial Statements
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Key Highlights

  • 1Net sales decreased by 5% to $1.63 billion in Q2 2009 compared to Q2 2008, with unfavorable currency exchange rates impacting reported sales.
  • 2The Orthopaedic Implants segment demonstrated strength, with constant currency sales increasing by 5% in Q2 2009 year-over-year, driven by strong performance in hips, knees, trauma, and spine products.
  • 3The MedSurg Equipment segment experienced a significant sales decline of 11% (8% on a constant currency basis) in Q2 2009, attributed to weaker demand for certain products amidst the economic slowdown.
  • 4Inventories increased by approximately 4% to $991.7 million, with an increase in days sales in inventory to 167 days, attributed to lower production levels and compliance initiatives.
  • 5The company reported net earnings of $291.3 million for Q2 2009, a 5% decrease from $305.8 million in the prior year period, with diluted EPS remaining stable at $0.73.
  • 6Stryker highlighted ongoing legal and regulatory matters, including investigations into Stryker Biotech for product promotion and misbranding, and FDA warning letters related to manufacturing compliance.
  • 7The company maintained a strong balance sheet with $666.3 million in cash and cash equivalents and $1,761.6 million in marketable securities as of June 30, 2009.

Frequently Asked Questions

Stryker's net sales decreased by 5% to $1.63 billion in Q2 2009 compared to Q2 2008. This decline was primarily due to weaker demand for certain MedSurg Equipment products amidst the economic slowdown and unfavorable currency exchange rate movements. However, the Orthopaedic Implants segment showed resilience, with constant currency sales growing by 5%, driven by strong performance across various product lines like hips, knees, trauma, and spine.

Net earnings for the second quarter of 2009 were $291.3 million, a 5% decrease from $305.8 million in the same period of 2008. Diluted earnings per share remained stable at $0.73. While gross profit decreased by 7%, this was partially offset by reductions in research, development, and selling, general, and administrative expenses.

The filing highlights several significant risks and ongoing investigations. These include a federal grand jury investigation into Stryker Biotech regarding illegal promotion and misbranding, multiple FDA warning letters related to manufacturing compliance at various facilities, and ongoing scrutiny from the New Jersey Attorney General and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services regarding physician arrangements. The company is also facing proposed adjustments from the IRS concerning its cost-sharing arrangements with Irish entities, which could materially impact future tax expenses.

Stryker projects full-year 2009 diluted net earnings per share to be between $2.90 and $3.10, representing a 2% to 10% increase over 2008 adjusted diluted EPS. The company anticipates a constant currency net sales increase of 1% to 3%, reflecting continued weaker demand in MedSurg Equipment and slower elective procedural growth in Orthopaedic Implants. Currency exchange rates are expected to have an unfavorable impact on net sales for the full year.