10-QPeriod: Q1 FY2008

TE Connectivity plc Quarterly Report for Q1 Ended Dec 28, 2007

Filed February 7, 2008For Securities:TEL

Summary

TE Connectivity plc (TEL) reported strong financial performance for the quarter ended December 28, 2007. Net sales surged by 18.8% year-over-year to $3.675 billion, driven by significant organic growth in the Undersea Telecommunications and Network Solutions segments, along with a favorable impact from foreign currency exchange rates. Net income also saw a substantial increase, reaching $949 million, up from $281 million in the prior year's quarter. This growth was supported by improved operating income across most segments, particularly the Electronic Components and Network Solutions divisions. The company also reported a significant "Other Income" of $592 million, primarily due to the adoption of FIN 48 for uncertain tax positions, which offset a lower effective tax rate in the period. The company initiated a $750 million share repurchase program and repurchased approximately $232 million in the quarter. Despite strong revenue and profit growth, investors should note the increase in restructuring and other charges, and the ongoing legal proceedings and tax-related contingencies, which carry potential future financial impacts.

Key Highlights

  • 1Net sales increased by 18.8% to $3.675 billion, driven by strong organic growth and favorable foreign currency translation.
  • 2Net income significantly rose to $949 million from $281 million in the prior year's quarter.
  • 3Income from operations grew to $478 million (13.0% of sales) from $394 million (12.7% of sales), indicating improved operational leverage.
  • 4The company completed the sale of its Power Systems business, recording a $56 million pre-tax gain and generating $102 million in net cash proceeds.
  • 5A substantial "Other Income" of $592 million was recognized, largely due to the adoption of FIN 48 related to uncertain tax positions.
  • 6A $750 million share repurchase program was authorized, with approximately $232 million repurchased during the quarter.
  • 7Backlog of unfilled orders increased to $3.585 billion from $2.974 billion at the end of the previous quarter.

Frequently Asked Questions

The primary driver of the 18.8% increase in net sales was strong organic growth, particularly in the Undersea Telecommunications and Network Solutions segments. Additionally, favorable foreign currency exchange rates, mainly the euro, contributed significantly to the sales increase.

The substantial increase in net income was due to higher net sales and improved income from operations. A significant factor contributing to the net income figure was the "Other Income" of $592 million recognized in the quarter, largely resulting from the adoption of FIN 48 concerning uncertain tax positions, which boosted the bottom line.

TE Connectivity, along with Tyco International and Covidien, is jointly and severally liable for the class action settlement amount. The company's share of the settlement liability is 31%. As of December 28, 2007, TE Connectivity reflected $933 million for its portion of the escrow and had a receivable from Tyco International and Covidien for their portions. The company notes that if Tyco International or Covidien default on their obligations, TE Connectivity could be responsible for additional amounts. Adverse outcomes in unresolved proceedings could materially affect the company's results.

The company generated strong cash flow from operations, which increased to $392 million from $213 million in the prior year's quarter, driven by improved working capital performance and higher income. Capital expenditures decreased significantly compared to the prior year due to the absence of a large asset acquisition. The company also initiated a share repurchase program and maintained compliance with its debt covenants. Its ability to fund future needs depends on operational cash flow, financing arrangements, and access to capital markets.