10-QPeriod: Q2 FY2011

STRYKER CORP Quarterly Report for Q2 Ended Jun 30, 2011

Filed July 28, 2011For Securities:SYK

Summary

Stryker Corporation's (SYK) second quarter and first half of 2011 results demonstrate a company navigating significant growth, driven by strategic acquisitions, while also managing increased operating expenses and integration costs. Net sales saw robust year-over-year growth, particularly in the Neurotechnology and Spine segment, largely propelled by the substantial acquisition of Boston Scientific's Neurovascular division. However, reported net earnings experienced a slight decline due to higher costs associated with these acquisitions, including inventory step-ups and integration expenses. The company's balance sheet reflects a significant increase in goodwill and other intangible assets, indicating its aggressive M&A strategy. Despite the impact of acquisition-related charges on reported earnings, the company's adjusted earnings per share showed strong growth, suggesting underlying operational strength. Investors should monitor the integration progress of recent acquisitions and the company's ability to translate these strategic moves into sustainable profitability. Furthermore, ongoing legal and tax matters, while not immediately impacting current financials, represent potential risks that warrant attention.

Financial Statements
Beta

Key Highlights

  • 1Net sales increased by 16% in Q2 2011 and 14% in the first half of 2011 compared to the prior year periods, driven by strong performance in MedSurg and Neurotechnology and Spine segments.
  • 2The acquisition of Boston Scientific's Neurovascular division for $1.45 billion and Orthovita for $316 million significantly boosted the Neurotechnology and Spine segment sales by 53% in Q2 and 51% in H1 2011.
  • 3Reported net earnings decreased by 3% in Q2 and 4% in H1 2011, primarily due to acquisition and integration-related charges, including a $36.8 million inventory step-up in Q2.
  • 4Adjusted diluted EPS grew by 13% in Q2 and 13% in H1 2011 (excluding acquisition-related charges), indicating solid underlying operational performance.
  • 5Cash flow from operations decreased significantly, largely due to increased working capital needs, particularly higher inventory levels and cash paid for acquisitions.
  • 6The company maintained a strong liquidity position with $497.1 million in cash and cash equivalents and $2,177.9 million in marketable securities at the end of Q2 2011.
  • 7Stryker is actively managing its tax positions, having reached agreements with the IRS on certain income allocation matters, but faces ongoing assessments related to cost sharing arrangements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Stryker's sales growth was primarily driven by strong performance in its MedSurg and Neurotechnology and Spine segments. The acquisition of Boston Scientific's Neurovascular division significantly contributed to the surge in the Neurotechnology and Spine segment. Increased unit volumes and favorable product mix also played a role across various segments.

The decline in reported net earnings was mainly due to significant acquisition and integration-related charges. These include the amortization of inventory stepped-up to fair value at the time of acquisition and other integration expenses associated with recent acquisitions, particularly the Neurovascular and Orthovita deals.

Recent acquisitions have significantly impacted cash flow. The substantial cash outflows for the acquisitions of Neurovascular and Orthovita, coupled with increased working capital needs, particularly higher inventory levels, led to a decrease in cash generated from operating activities compared to the prior year.

Stryker faces several risks and uncertainties, including potential impacts from economic conditions on product demand, pricing pressures, foreign exchange rate fluctuations, legislative and regulatory changes, issues with FDA approvals, changes in reimbursement levels, product liability claims, resolution of tax audits, changes in financial markets, competitive landscape shifts, and challenges in integrating acquired businesses.