10-QPeriod: Q3 FY2012

THERMO FISHER SCIENTIFIC INC. Quarterly Report for Q3 Ended Sep 29, 2012

Filed November 2, 2012For Securities:TMO

Summary

Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. (TMO) reported its financial results for the quarter ending September 29, 2012. The company demonstrated revenue growth driven by both organic expansion and strategic acquisitions, particularly the notable acquisition of One Lambda. While revenue increased year-over-year, the company is navigating a complex economic environment with global uncertainties and shifting customer demand, particularly in academic and government markets. Key financial metrics indicate a solid operational performance. The company maintained a strong operating income margin and continued to invest in research and development. Management highlighted productivity improvements and cost efficiencies as drivers of profitability. Despite increased interest expenses due to recent debt issuances for acquisitions, the company's liquidity position remains robust, supported by operating cash flows and available credit facilities, enabling it to meet short-term and long-term financial obligations.

Financial Statements
Beta
Revenue$3.09B
Cost of Revenue$1.51B
Gross Profit$1.30B
R&D Expenses$92.00M
SG&A Expenses$839.00M
Operating Expenses$2.73B
Operating Income$352.20M
Interest Expense$60.30M
Net Income$290.40M
EPS (Basic)$0.80
EPS (Diluted)$0.79
Shares Outstanding (Basic)362.60M
Shares Outstanding (Diluted)365.40M

Key Highlights

  • 1Total revenues for the three months ended September 29, 2012, increased by 5% to $3.09 billion compared to $2.93 billion in the prior year period.
  • 2Operating income for the third quarter of 2012 increased by 11% to $352 million, with an improved operating income margin of 11.4% compared to 10.8% in Q3 2011.
  • 3The company made significant acquisitions during the period, including One Lambda for approximately $884 million and Doe & Ingalls for $175 million, enhancing its Specialty Diagnostics and Laboratory Products and Services segments, respectively.
  • 4Net income for the three months ended September 29, 2012, was $290.4 million, a slight increase from $265.4 million in the prior year period, despite higher interest expenses.
  • 5Cash flow from operations for the first nine months of 2012 was strong at $1.38 billion, an increase from $1.05 billion in the same period of 2011, supporting investments and debt management.
  • 6The company's effective tax rate decreased to 5.8% for the first nine months of 2012 from 10.9% in the prior year, primarily due to increased earnings in lower tax jurisdictions.
  • 7Thermo Fisher continues to repurchase its common stock, with $350 million remaining under its authorized repurchase programs as of September 29, 2012.

Frequently Asked Questions

Revenue growth was primarily driven by a combination of sales from existing businesses and contributions from recent acquisitions, notably Phadia and One Lambda. The company experienced increased demand across its segments, though sales to industrial markets saw a slight moderation after strong growth in the prior year.

The acquisitions, such as One Lambda and Doe & Ingalls, significantly contributed to revenue growth, particularly within the Specialty Diagnostics and Laboratory Products and Services segments. These acquisitions are part of the company's strategy to enhance its offerings and market presence. While they contributed to revenue, they also increased interest expenses due to associated debt financing.

Thermo Fisher acknowledges global economic uncertainties and is particularly noting weakness in academic and government markets due to funding uncertainties in the U.S. and Europe. The company expects this trend to continue in the near term and is monitoring the impact of currency exchange rate fluctuations, especially given the significant portion of international revenue.

The company has a strong liquidity position supported by operating cash flows and revolving credit facilities totaling $2.0 billion. Despite issuing new debt to fund acquisitions, management believes its current cash, investments, and credit capacity are sufficient to meet its financial obligations for at least the next 24 months. The company also continues to repurchase its stock, indicating confidence in its financial health.