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WDC · WESTERN DIGITAL CORP

31 filings

10-K

WDC 10-K Annual Reports

WESTERN DIGITAL CORP - 31 annual reports

Filing record · 2016–202610-K1110-Q328-K197

2026
WESTERN DIGITAL CORP Annual Report, Year Ended Jul 3, 2026
Western Digital Corporation (WDC) reported a significant year-over-year increase in net revenue for fiscal year 2026, reaching $12.919 billion, a 36% rise from $9.520 billion in 2025. This growth was primarily driven by a 25% increase in exabytes sold and an 8% increase in average selling price (ASP) per exabyte, reflecting strong demand across its Cloud, Client, and Consumer end markets. The Cloud segment, which constitutes 89% of total revenue, saw a substantial 38% increase, indicating robust demand for high-capacity enterprise HDDs, fueled by AI and hybrid data workloads. The company also reported a significant improvement in profitability, with operating income rising to $4.453 billion from $2.334 billion in the prior year, and a strong gross margin of 48.9%. The company has actively managed its capital structure, completing the separation of its Flash business in February 2025 and utilizing cash flow to reduce debt and repurchase shares. Financially, WDC demonstrated strong operational performance, with net cash provided by operating activities increasing significantly to $3.929 billion from $1.691 billion in the previous year, largely due to improved profitability. The company continues to invest in research and development to support its technology roadmap, with R&D expenses increasing by 17% to $1.161 billion. WDC also initiated a quarterly cash dividend program in April 2025 and repurchased $2.59 billion of its common stock during fiscal year 2026, demonstrating a commitment to returning capital to shareholders. The company ended the fiscal year with a solid liquidity position and expects its current cash and credit facilities to be sufficient to meet its obligations and fund future operations.
Aug 14, 2026
2025
WESTERN DIGITAL CORP Annual Report, Year Ended Jun 27, 2025
Western Digital Corporation (WDC) has completed a significant transformation with the separation of its Hard Disk Drive (HDD) and Flash business units into two independent companies, with WDC now solely focused on its HDD operations. Fiscal year 2025 saw a dramatic increase in revenue, up 51% year-over-year, primarily driven by a substantial increase in average selling price per unit due to a shift towards higher-capacity drives, alongside a 15% rise in unit shipments, largely from data center expansions. The Cloud segment was the primary growth engine, with revenue surging 65%. Despite this revenue growth, the company has actively managed its balance sheet, reducing debt by $2.78 billion during the fiscal year and initiating capital return programs, including a new quarterly cash dividend and a significant share repurchase authorization. Investors should closely monitor the company's ability to maintain its leadership in the HDD market amidst evolving technology trends and macroeconomic uncertainties.
Aug 14, 2025
2024
WESTERN DIGITAL CORP Annual Report, Year Ended Jun 28, 2024
Western Digital Corporation (WDC) has filed its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 27, 2024. The company, a leader in data storage solutions, is actively pursuing a strategic separation of its Hard Disk Drive (HDD) and Flash business units into two independent public companies, with the goal of completing this separation by the end of calendar year 2024. This move is intended to unlock greater value and specialized growth opportunities for each distinct business. Financially, WDC reported a net loss for the year, a reversal from the prior year's profit, primarily impacted by challenging market conditions early in the fiscal year that led to reduced demand, lower pricing, and supply-demand imbalances. Despite these headwinds, the company saw revenue growth in both its Flash and HDD segments in the latter half of fiscal 2024 due to improving market dynamics, including increased exabytes sold and recovering Average Selling Prices (ASPs). The company is managing its liquidity effectively and has sufficient resources for its operational needs.
Aug 20, 2024
2023
WESTERN DIGITAL CORP Annual Report, Year Ended Jun 30, 2023
Western Digital Corporation (WDC) reported a significant year-over-year revenue decline of 34% for fiscal year 2023, ending June 30, 2023. This downturn was primarily driven by macroeconomic pressures leading to softened demand and supply-demand imbalances, particularly impacting average selling prices in the Flash segment. The company also incurred a net loss of $1.7 billion for the year, a stark contrast to the profit recorded in the previous fiscal year. Despite the challenging operating environment, WDC continues to advance its product roadmap with new high-capacity hard disk drives and updated flash memory technology.
Aug 22, 2023
2022
WESTERN DIGITAL CORP Annual Report, Year Ended Jul 1, 2022
Western Digital Corporation (WDC) reported a strong fiscal year 2022 with a significant increase in net revenue to $18.79 billion, up 11% from the prior year. This growth was driven by higher exabyte shipments in both Flash and HDD segments, particularly in the Cloud market. The company also saw an improvement in gross margin to 31.3% from 26.7% in the previous year, attributed to product mix shifts and cost efficiencies. Despite macroeconomic headwinds and supply chain challenges that impacted the Client segment, WDC maintained a positive outlook. The company continued to invest in R&D and took steps to strengthen its financial position by reducing debt levels. Notably, WDC announced in June 2022 that it is exploring strategic alternatives, including the potential separation of its Flash and HDD business units, to further optimize stockholder value. The company ended the fiscal year with a solid cash position and sufficient liquidity to meet its ongoing obligations.
Aug 25, 2022
2021
WESTERN DIGITAL CORP Annual Report, Year Ended Jul 2, 2021
Western Digital Corporation (WDC) filed its 10-K for the fiscal year ending July 2, 2021, presenting a complex financial picture characterized by revenue stabilization and significant shifts in product segment performance. While overall revenue saw a modest 1% increase to $16.9 billion, driven by strong performance in Client Devices, the Data Center segment experienced a notable decline due to cloud digestion and qualification delays, though there are signs of recovery. The company's strategic reorganization into two dedicated business units (flash-based and HDD) aims to enhance focus and execution. Financially, WDC reported a return to profitability with net income of $821 million, a significant improvement from the prior year's net loss of $250 million. This turnaround was supported by improved gross margins, partly due to lower amortization expenses and reduced COVID-19 related charges, as well as cost management in R&D and SG&A. However, the company continues to manage substantial debt and has significant capital expenditure plans for the upcoming fiscal year, including its joint venture with Kioxia.
Aug 27, 2021
2020
WESTERN DIGITAL CORP Annual Report, Year Ended Jul 3, 2020
Western Digital Corporation (WDC) reported relatively flat net revenue for the fiscal year ended July 3, 2020, compared to the prior year, at approximately $16.7 billion. This stability was achieved despite a 12% decline in Client Devices revenue, largely due to a 24% increase in Data Center Devices and Solutions revenue, driven by strong demand for enterprise HDDs and Flash products, partly attributed to the accelerated shift to cloud services amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The company experienced a net loss of $250 million for the fiscal year, a significant improvement from the $754 million net loss in the prior year. This improvement, however, was accompanied by a substantial increase in R&D expenses and a decrease in SG&A expenses. The company suspended its quarterly cash dividend in April 2020 to reinvest in the business and support deleveraging efforts.
Aug 28, 2020
2019
WESTERN DIGITAL CORP Annual Report, Year Ended Jun 28, 2019
Western Digital Corporation (WDC) reported a net loss of $754 million for the fiscal year ended June 28, 2019, a significant downturn from the $675 million net income in the prior year. This reversal was primarily driven by a substantial decrease in gross profit, which fell by 51% compared to fiscal year 2018. The decline in profitability was attributed to lower average selling prices (ASPs) for flash-based products due to oversupply and intense competition, coupled with significant charges. These charges included $264 million for flash manufacturing underutilization and $145 million related to a power outage incident. Despite these challenges, the company emphasized its strong position in the data storage market, offering a broad portfolio of HDD and flash-based solutions across client devices, data centers, and client solutions segments. The company's strategy focuses on technology leadership, a broad product portfolio, and operational excellence. However, investors should note the significant debt level of $10.69 billion, which could impact future financial flexibility and operations.
Aug 27, 2019
2018
WESTERN DIGITAL CORP Annual Report, Year Ended Jun 29, 2018
Western Digital Corporation (WDC) reported solid financial performance for the fiscal year ended June 29, 2018. The company experienced revenue growth across all its key end markets: Client Devices, Data Center Devices and Solutions, and Client Solutions. This growth was driven by strong demand for flash-based products and capacity enterprise HDDs, coupled with ongoing improvements in production costs from technology transitions. Despite a significant loss on debt extinguishment and a substantial provisional tax expense related to the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, the company's net income saw an increase compared to the previous fiscal year. WDC also continued its shareholder return program through dividends and share repurchases, demonstrating a commitment to capital allocation. However, investors should note the company's significant debt load and the ongoing risks associated with its joint venture with Toshiba Memory Corporation (TMC), including potential supply disruptions and strategic misalignments. The company also faces intense competition and rapid technological change in the data storage industry.
Aug 24, 2018
2017
WESTERN DIGITAL CORP Annual Report, Year Ended Jun 30, 2017
Western Digital Corporation (WDC) reported strong revenue growth in fiscal year 2017, primarily driven by the full year impact of the SanDisk acquisition completed in May 2016. Revenue increased by 47% to $19.09 billion. The company's gross margin also saw significant improvement, rising to 31.8% from 26.4% in the prior year, largely due to the higher-margin nature of SanDisk's NAND-flash products and ongoing manufacturing integration efforts. Despite increased operating expenses, particularly in R&D and SG&A related to the acquisition, operating income saw a substantial jump from $466 million to $1.95 billion. However, the significant increase in debt to finance the SanDisk acquisition led to a substantial rise in interest expense, impacting net income, which grew to $397 million from $242 million in fiscal year 2016. The company's strategy focuses on leveraging innovation and execution to be an industry leader in storage solutions, optimizing its core HDD business, and leading in NAND-flash memory and solutions. Key developments include advancements in 3D NAND technology with BiCS3 (64 layers) and development of BiCS4 (96 layers). The company continues to manage its debt and expects to meet its working capital and capital expenditure needs from current cash flows and available credit facilities. Investors should note the significant debt burden and ongoing integration activities as key factors for consideration.
Aug 29, 2017
2016
WESTERN DIGITAL CORP Annual Report, Year Ended Jul 1, 2016
Western Digital Corporation's (WDC) 2016 10-K filing highlights a significant strategic transformation, primarily driven by the acquisition of SanDisk Corporation in May 2016. This acquisition aimed to expand WDC's addressable market and integrate NAND flash storage solutions into its portfolio, making it a more comprehensive data storage provider. Concurrently, the company received regulatory approval to integrate its HGST operations, paving the way for greater operational efficiencies. Despite a challenging market environment reflected in lower net revenue compared to the prior year, WDC is positioned to capitalize on continued growth in digital data. The company's financial performance in fiscal year 2016 was impacted by acquisition-related costs and restructuring charges. However, the strategic moves are expected to strengthen its competitive position in both traditional hard drive (HDD) and emerging solid-state drive (SSD) markets, with a focus on datacenter, client, and emerging technology segments.
Aug 29, 2016
2015
WESTERN DIGITAL CORP Annual Report, Year Ended Jul 3, 2015
Western Digital Corporation's (WDC) 2015 10-K filing details a company focused on data storage solutions, including Hard Disk Drives (HDDs) and Solid-State Drives (SSDs). The report covers the fiscal year ending July 3, 2015, highlighting the company's strategic acquisitions to bolster its enterprise SSD and cloud storage offerings. Despite a slight decrease in net revenue year-over-year, driven by a decline in PC demand, WDC demonstrated resilience with an increase in HDD Average Selling Prices (ASPs) and growth in its enterprise SSD segment. The company is navigating a rapidly evolving storage market characterized by increasing data proliferation and a shift towards cloud computing. WDC's strategy involves balancing its core HDD business with investments in newer technologies and markets, aiming for operational excellence and collaborative customer relationships. Key risks include intense competition, volatile demand, and the potential impact of technological shifts. The company's financial health appears stable, with a significant cash balance and ongoing share repurchase and dividend programs, though it faces ongoing legal matters, notably the Seagate arbitration award.
Aug 21, 2015
2014
WESTERN DIGITAL CORP Annual Report, Year Ended Jun 27, 2014
Western Digital Corporation's (WDC) 2014 10-K filing reveals a company navigating a dynamic storage market, highlighted by a 1% revenue decrease to $15.1 billion, primarily due to modest price declines and a shift in product mix, though offset by increased unit shipments. The acquisition of HGST in the previous year continues to influence the company's structure and operations, with ongoing efforts to integrate these businesses pending regulatory approval from China's MOFCOM. Despite revenue headwinds, WDC demonstrated strong operational performance, with operating income increasing significantly to $1.8 billion, driven by a focus on operational excellence and growth in enterprise, cloud, and consumer electronics segments. Key strategic initiatives include continued investment in R&D, particularly in SSD technology, and expansion into adjacent markets. The company is positioned to capitalize on the long-term growth trends of digital data expansion. WDC also returned significant capital to shareholders through share repurchases and dividends, underscoring a commitment to shareholder value while managing substantial R&D investments and potential market risks.
Aug 15, 2014
2013
WESTERN DIGITAL CORP Annual Report, Year Ended Jun 28, 2013
Western Digital Corporation (WDC) has filed its 2013 10-K report, detailing its operations for the fiscal year ending June 28, 2013. The company, a leading developer and manufacturer of storage solutions, reported significant revenue growth driven by the full-year inclusion of HGST operations, acquired in March 2012. Despite a slight decrease in average selling prices (ASPs) for hard drives, WDC saw a substantial increase in net revenue to $15.4 billion. A key strategic shift noted is the increasing reliance on non-PC markets, which accounted for 50% of net revenue in fiscal 2013, up from 19% in fiscal 2012. This diversification indicates a strategic move away from the declining PC market. The company faced challenges including a significant charge of $681 million related to an arbitration award from Seagate Technology LLC. Additionally, increased research and development (R&D) and selling, general, and administrative (SG&A) expenses, largely due to the HGST acquisition and ongoing product development, impacted profitability. Despite these headwinds, WDC continues to invest in growth areas like solid-state storage with the pending acquisition of sTec, Inc., positioning itself for future opportunities in the evolving data storage landscape.
Aug 19, 2013
2012
WESTERN DIGITAL CORP Annual Report, Year Ended Jun 29, 2012
Western Digital Corporation's (WDC) 2012 10-K report details a transformative year, primarily driven by the significant acquisition of Hitachi Global Storage Technologies (HGST) in March 2012. This strategic move aimed to create a more efficient, customer-focused storage company with enhanced scale and a broader product portfolio. The acquisition, funded by a combination of cash, debt, and newly issued shares, significantly impacted the company's financial statements, increasing assets, liabilities, and goodwill. The company also navigated operational challenges, most notably the severe flooding in Thailand in late 2011, which disrupted production and led to substantial charges. Despite these headwinds, WDC reported a significant increase in net revenue and gross margin for fiscal year 2012, largely due to a substantial rise in average selling prices (ASPs) for hard drives, a consequence of industry-wide supply constraints stemming from the Thailand floods. The report also highlights ongoing investments in research and development and efforts to maintain competitive product offerings in a dynamic market.
Aug 20, 2012
2011
WESTERN DIGITAL CORP Annual Report, Year Ended Jul 1, 2011
Western Digital Corporation (WDC) has filed its annual report for the fiscal year ended July 1, 2011. The company is a global provider of data storage solutions, primarily through hard disk drives (HDDs) and also offers solid-state drives (SSDs) and home entertainment/networking products. The most significant development discussed is the planned acquisition of Hitachi Global Storage Technologies (HGST) for approximately $4.3 billion, expected to close in Q2 FY2012. This acquisition is subject to regulatory approvals and will be financed through cash, debt, and newly issued WDC shares. The company also reported a decrease in net revenue for FY2011 to $9.5 billion from $9.8 billion in FY2010, largely due to a decline in average selling prices (ASPs) for HDDs, despite an increase in unit shipments. Gross margins also saw a significant decrease. Management highlights investments in R&D and sales expansion to support new products and markets. The company continues to emphasize operational excellence, product quality, and strong customer relationships. Key risks include integration challenges with HGST, volatile industry pricing, competition, and global economic conditions.
Aug 12, 2011
2010
WESTERN DIGITAL CORP Annual Report, Year Ended Jul 2, 2010
Western Digital Corporation's (WDC) 2010 10-K report highlights a period of significant growth and strategic expansion. The company experienced a substantial 32% increase in net revenue, reaching $9.8 billion, driven by a 33% rise in hard drive unit shipments to 194 million units. This growth was particularly strong in the mobile PC market, with shipments of mobile drives increasing by 45% year-over-year. The company also saw a notable improvement in its gross margin, which rose to 24.4% from 17.9% in the previous year, attributed to higher volumes, lower costs, and a favorable product mix. Strategically, WDC continues to diversify its revenue streams, with 64% of its hard drive revenue in 2010 coming from non-desktop markets, including consumer electronics and enterprise applications. The company also made a key acquisition of Hoya Corporation's magnetic media sputtering operations to strengthen its vertical integration and meet growing demand. WDC's financial health appears robust, with a significant increase in cash and cash equivalents and a strong balance sheet, positioning it well for future investments and market opportunities. The company also successfully executed its strategy of expanding into new markets, including the traditional enterprise market, and improving its product portfolio.
Aug 13, 2010
2009
WESTERN DIGITAL CORP Annual Report, Year Ended Jul 3, 2009
Western Digital Corporation (WDC) filed its annual report for the fiscal year ended July 3, 2009. The company designs, develops, manufactures, and sells hard drives and has recently expanded into media players and solid-state drives (SSDs) through acquisitions. Financially, WDC experienced a revenue decrease of 8% to $7.5 billion in fiscal year 2009, driven by lower average selling prices (ASPs) despite an increase in unit shipments. Gross margin also declined, reflecting a more competitive pricing environment. The company reported net income of $470 million, or $2.08 per diluted share, compared to $867 million, or $3.84 per diluted share, in the prior year. WDC underwent a restructuring plan, closing a manufacturing facility and reducing headcount, which incurred significant charges. Key strategic moves include the acquisition of SiliconSystems, Inc. to bolster its SSD offerings and a continued shift in revenue mix towards non-desktop sources (62% in 2009 vs. 56% in 2008), indicating a diversification of its business beyond traditional PCs.
Aug 14, 2009
2008
WESTERN DIGITAL CORP Annual Report, Year Ended Jun 27, 2008
Western Digital Corporation (WDC) reported strong financial performance for the fiscal year ended June 27, 2008. The company experienced significant revenue growth, increasing by 48% to $8.1 billion, driven by a substantial increase in unit shipments and a strategic shift towards non-desktop markets, which now account for 56% of revenue. This diversification into consumer electronics, enterprise, mobile, and branded products has proven successful, with significant unit increases in mobile and DVR segments. The company also saw a notable improvement in profitability, with gross margin increasing to 21.5% from 16.5% in the prior year. This was attributed to a more favorable revenue mix, operational efficiencies, higher utilization, and the integration of recently acquired media operations. Operating income and net income also saw substantial increases, reflecting the company's operational improvements and strategic initiatives. The acquisition of Komag, Inc. in September 2007 for approximately $1 billion was a key event, enhancing production efficiencies and providing greater control over technology and competitive positioning in the hard drive industry. Looking ahead, WDC appears well-positioned to capitalize on the growing demand for data storage across various markets. Investments in research and development, particularly in advanced head and media technologies, alongside strategic expansions, underscore the company's commitment to maintaining its competitive edge. The company's financial health is further supported by robust cash flow and a solid liquidity position.
Aug 20, 2008
2007
WESTERN DIGITAL CORP Annual Report, Year Ended Jun 29, 2007
Western Digital Corporation (WDC) reported strong revenue growth in fiscal year 2007, reaching $5.5 billion, a 26% increase from the previous year, driven by robust unit shipments and a strategic shift towards non-desktop markets. While the company saw an increase in operating income, its gross margin percentage declined to 16.5% from 19.1% in fiscal year 2006, attributed to typical technology price declines and increased market competition. WDC's commitment to research and development remains strong, with R&D expenses totaling $306 million in 2007, supporting the development of new product platforms and advanced technologies. A significant development during the fiscal year was the announcement of the definitive agreement to acquire Komag, Incorporated for approximately $1.0 billion. This strategic move aims to enhance production efficiencies and integrate media manufacturing into WDC's operations, strengthening its vertical integration strategy. The company also demonstrated a healthy cash flow from operations, increasing to $618 million in 2007, and ended the year with a solid cash position of $907 million, indicating sound financial management and liquidity to support ongoing operations and strategic initiatives.
Aug 28, 2007
2006
WESTERN DIGITAL CORP Annual Report, Year Ended Jun 30, 2006
Western Digital's fiscal 2006 10-K (year ended June 30, 2006) shows a company in strong operating recovery. Revenue rose 19.3% to $4.34 billion on 73.3 million unit shipments (up from 61.4 million). Gross margin expanded to 19.1% from 16.2%, and operating income nearly doubled to $366 million, or 8.4% of revenue. Net income reached $395 million, or $1.76 per diluted share, helped by a $13 million income tax benefit from a partial release of the deferred tax valuation allowance. Management attributed margin gains to manufacturing efficiencies, lower warranty costs (including a roughly $30 million favorable warranty accrual adjustment) and a richer capacity mix. Growth in non-desktop markets is a key theme: non-desktop sources rose to 29% of revenue from 21%, with mobile shipments reaching 5.4 million units and DVR shipments 6.7 million. Investors should weigh several caveats. Operating cash flow fell to $402 million from $461 million because of a $173 million working capital build, and capital spending rose to $302 million with guidance of $350-375 million for fiscal 2007. Free cash flow was therefore thin. Customer concentration is high: Dell accounted for 12% of revenue and the top ten customers for 47%. The filing also discloses a stock option backdating review that led to restated prior-year financials (about $20.9 million in cumulative pre-tax and tax charges, judged immaterial), plus several shareholder derivative lawsuits. The company also reported that its lenders had agreed to a deadline extension because the filing was delayed. Note that the filing's own text contains some internal inconsistencies, such as references to a November 2007 date and a fiscal 2006 Coyne succession, so readers should verify those details against the primary document. Looking forward, management highlighted a $1.075 billion purchase commitment for fiscal 2008 and plans to expand into head manufacturing, with about 70% of heads planned to be self-produced. These moves boost cost control and supply security but add fixed-cost and utilization risk in a cyclical, price-deflating industry, where average selling prices were flat at $59 per unit this year.
Nov 20, 2006
2005
WESTERN DIGITAL CORP Annual Report, Year Ended Jul 1, 2005
Western Digital Corporation's (WDC) 2005 10-K filing highlights a year of significant growth and strategic expansion. The company reported a 19% increase in net revenue to $3.6 billion, driven by a 24% rise in unit shipments to 61.4 million. This growth was fueled by increasing demand in the desktop PC market and a strategic push into non-desktop segments, including consumer electronics (CE), enterprise, and mobile computing. Non-desktop revenue grew to 21% of total revenue, up from 14% in the prior year. Profitability also saw a notable improvement, with operating income increasing by $42 million to $197 million and gross margins expanding to 16.2% from 15.2%. The company generated a strong $461 million in cash flow from operations, ending the fiscal year with $598 million in cash and short-term investments. WDC's strategic investments in R&D, particularly in advanced head technologies and new product platforms for emerging markets like 1.0-inch drives for handheld devices, position it for future growth. The company also continues to actively manage its capital structure, evidenced by its stock repurchase program and credit facility.
Sep 14, 2005
2004
WESTERN DIGITAL CORP Annual Report, Year Ended Jul 2, 2004
Western Digital Corporation's 2004 Form 10-K highlights a year of significant revenue growth, driven by increased unit shipments and market share gains, primarily in the desktop PC segment which accounts for the vast majority of its sales. The company successfully integrated the head manufacturing operations acquired from Read-Rite, aiming to improve its cost structure and gain better control over technology, although this also led to increased fixed costs and initial start-up expenses. Despite revenue growth, gross margins experienced a slight decline due to aggressive pricing pressures within the competitive hard disk drive market. The company is strategically expanding into the consumer electronics (CE) and mobile computing markets, with plans to launch new 2.5-inch drives. Financials show an increase in total assets and shareholders' equity, supported by positive cash flow from operations, although working capital needs increased. Western Digital continues to focus on managing its supply chain, driving innovation, and maintaining strong relationships with key OEM customers like Dell and Hewlett-Packard.
Sep 14, 2004
2003
WESTERN DIGITAL CORP Annual Report, Year Ended Jun 27, 2003
Western Digital Corporation (WDC) reported strong financial performance for the fiscal year ended June 27, 2003, demonstrating significant growth and improved profitability. Net revenue increased by 26% to $2.7 billion, driven by a substantial increase in unit shipments and a recovery in the average selling price (ASP) after a period of decline. This top-line growth, combined with effective cost management and manufacturing efficiencies, led to a dramatic improvement in operating income, which rose by 268% to $187 million. The company also generated substantial cash flow from operations ($281 million) and ended the year with a strong cash position of $393 million. A key strategic development during the year was the acquisition of substantially all assets of Read-Rite Corporation, a major supplier of heads, for $170-$180 million. This vertical integration move aims to enhance operational flexibility and ensure future access to head technologies, although it is expected to incur initial start-up costs. The company also successfully retired all its convertible debt, strengthening its balance sheet.
Sep 23, 2003
2002
WESTERN DIGITAL CORP Annual Report, Year Ended Jun 28, 2002
Western Digital Corporation (WDC) reported its fiscal year 2002 results, ending June 28, 2002. The company experienced revenue growth, driven primarily by a significant increase in unit shipments, although this was partially offset by a decrease in average selling prices (ASPs). This shift in product mix towards lower-end desktop PCs and consumer electronics markets was a key factor in both revenue growth and the expansion of gross profit margins compared to the previous year. The company also made progress in managing its operating expenses and saw improvements in its cash flow from operations. Financially, WDC transitioned from a net loss in the prior year to a net profit in FY2002, demonstrating a significant operational turnaround. The company's liquidity position improved, with an increase in cash and cash equivalents and a negative cash conversion cycle, indicating efficient working capital management. Strategic initiatives such as the acquisition of a manufacturing facility in Thailand and the continued focus on R&D highlight WDC's commitment to expanding its market reach and technological capabilities. However, the company operates in a highly competitive and rapidly evolving industry characterized by short product cycles and pricing pressures, which remain key risks.
Sep 25, 2002
2001
WESTERN DIGITAL CORP Annual Report, Year Ended Jun 29, 2001
Western Digital Corporation (WDC) reported flat revenues of approximately $2.0 billion for the fiscal year ended June 29, 2001, compared to the prior year. Despite flat revenue, the company managed to significantly reduce its net loss from continuing operations to $87.1 million in fiscal year 2001, a substantial improvement from $472.5 million in fiscal year 1999 and $329.5 million in fiscal year 2000. This improvement was driven by a strong rebound in gross profit margin to 10.6% in 2001, up from -0.1% in 1999 and 0.5% in 2000, alongside reduced operating expenses related to restructuring efforts and exiting the SCSI hard drive business. The company's core hard drive business remains its primary revenue source, with a strong focus on the desktop PC market, which constituted over 90% of its hard drive unit shipments in 2001. While this market faces intense price competition and declining average selling prices, WDC is also exploring emerging audio-visual markets. The company has undergone significant restructuring, including facility closures and headcount reductions, aimed at improving efficiency and cost management. Despite past losses and ongoing industry challenges, WDC ended the fiscal year with a small positive shareholders' equity of $6.8 million and maintains access to credit facilities, suggesting a path towards stabilizing its financial condition.
Sep 27, 2001
2000
WESTERN DIGITAL CORP Annual Report, Year Ended Jun 30, 2000
Western Digital Corporation (WDC) reported significant challenges and strategic shifts in its fiscal year ended June 30, 2000. The company experienced a substantial decline in revenues, down 29.3% from the previous year, driven by the decision to exit the enterprise hard drive market, intensified price competition in the desktop segment, and a product recall that impacted unit shipments. This financial pressure led to significant restructuring charges and an overall net loss for the year. Despite these headwinds, Western Digital is focusing on its core desktop PC market and exploring new opportunities in audio-visual applications and network-attached storage through its Connex subsidiary. The company is actively managing its operational footprint by consolidating manufacturing to Malaysia and working to improve its financial stability through debt reduction and strategic equity financings. Investors should closely monitor the company's ability to navigate the highly competitive hard drive market, manage product cycles, and successfully diversify into emerging storage solutions.
Sep 28, 2000
1998
WESTERN DIGITAL CORP Annual Report, Year Ended Jun 27, 1998
Western Digital's fiscal 1998 10-K (year ended June 27, 1998) shows a sharp deterioration in operating performance. Revenues fell 15% to $3.54 billion from $4.18 billion, and gross margin collapsed from 15.6% to 2.8%. The company posted a net loss of $290.2 million ($3.32 per share), versus net income of $267.6 million the prior year. Management attributes the decline to unusually severe desktop pricing pressure, lost market share, a costly accelerated transition from thin-film to MR head technology, and $148 million of second-quarter special charges, plus $22 million of R&D start-up costs tied to the IBM Agreement. Balance sheet and liquidity are the main investor concerns. Cash rose to $459.8 million, but that was driven by $460 million of 5.25% zero-coupon convertible debentures due 2018 (principal at maturity $1.3 billion) and a $50 million term loan. Shareholders' equity fell to $317.8 million from $620.0 million, and long-term debt stands at $519.2 million. Operating cash flow was negative $39.0 million, and capital expenditures of $198.6 million are expected to fall to about $135 million in 1999. The company says its current cash and cash flow will suffice through 1999, but it may not comply with financial covenants on its Senior Bank Facility at the end of the first quarter of 1999 and is negotiating a replacement facility under a non-binding term sheet. The strategic bet is the June 1998 IBM technology license and component supply agreement, which is intended to deliver GMR-head desktop drives in the first half of calendar 1999. Management also plans a significant R&D increase to build a full enterprise drive line by mid-2000, where the company holds roughly 8% share. Investors should weigh that upside against near-term risks: continued oversupply, expected pricing pressure through at least the first half of 1999, customer concentration (Compaq at 14% of revenue), a pending Amstrad trial scheduled for September 1998, and a Papst patent claim.
Sep 1, 1998
1996
WESTERN DIGITAL CORP Annual Report, Year Ended Jun 29, 1996
Western Digital's fiscal 1996 10-K (year ended June 29, 1996) shows a company whose profitability fell sharply while revenue grew. Revenue rose 34% to $2.87 billion, driven by a 50% increase in hard drive unit shipments, but gross margin compressed from 18.5% to 13.3% as higher-capacity products were sold at lower average selling prices and the mix shifted toward lower-margin desktop drives. Net income fell 21% to $96.9 million, or $2.01 per share, and that figure includes a one-time $17.3 million pre-tax gain from selling the multimedia business. Operating income dropped 42% to $77.5 million. The company's effective tax rate was a low 10%, helped by lower-taxed Singapore and Malaysia operations. The balance sheet and cash flow picture weakened. Cash and short-term investments fell to $219.2 million from $307.7 million, operating cash flow dropped to $58.3 million from $121.3 million, and inventories and receivables grew faster than sales. Management spent $132.1 million repurchasing 7.7 million shares and $108.7 million on capital expenditures, funded partly by $85.5 million in proceeds from divestitures. The company has no long-term debt and carries a $150 million undrawn revolving credit facility. Shareholders' equity declined slightly to $453.9 million. Looking ahead, management is betting on two new product lines, 3.0-inch mobile drives and SCSI enterprise drives, to begin shipping in 1997 and to improve margins. The risks are substantial. The hard drive industry is highly cyclical with persistent price erosion, the Seagate-Conner merger has reduced the number of competitors, the company depends on a few large OEM and reseller customers, and it has not yet made the transition to magnetoresistive heads. An Amstrad lawsuit seeking $186 million in damages is set for trial in February 1997, though management considers a material adverse outcome unlikely.
Sep 18, 1996
1995
WESTERN DIGITAL CORP Annual Report, Year Ended Jul 1, 1995
Western Digital's fiscal 1995 (ended July 1, 1995) was a sharp turnaround year. Revenue rose 38% to $2.13 billion, up from $1.54 billion, driven mainly by hard drive revenue of $1.9 billion (up 41%) on 49% higher unit shipments, largely from OEM customers. Operating income more than doubled to $133.0 million from $91.9 million, and net income reached $123.3 million, or $2.56 per primary share, versus $73.1 million in 1994 and a $25.1 million loss in 1993. The improvement came despite a roughly two-point decline in overall gross margin to 18.5%, as hard drive gross margins fell from 19.1% to 16.2% amid heavier OEM volume and tougher industry pricing, while microcomputer products margins rose to 41.8%. The company describes the hard drive market as highly cyclical with significant price erosion, so margin pressure is a structural risk for investors. The balance sheet improved markedly. Long-term debt was fully retired, with $58.1 million of 9% convertible debentures converted into equity during the year. Cash and short-term investments reached $307.7 million, shareholders' equity rose to $473.4 million from $288.2 million, and working capital grew to $360.5 million. Operating cash flow was $121.3 million, and management plans capital expenditures of about $125 million in 1996, a significant step up from $54.8 million in 1995, to expand hard drive capacity. Accounts receivable grew faster than revenue, and inventories also rose, which investors should monitor against future demand. Key risks include customer concentration (Gateway 2000 accounted for 11% of revenue), reliance on a single thin-film head supplier (Read-Rite), dependence on manufacturing in Singapore and Malaysia, and several pending lawsuits. The Amstrad suit seeks $186.0 million, and Conner and Rodime patent claims could be material, though management believes none will have a material adverse effect. The company has not paid cash dividends and does not intend to in the foreseeable future.
Sep 29, 1995
1994
WESTERN DIGITAL CORP Annual Report, Year Ended Jun 30, 1994
Western Digital's fiscal 1994 (year ended June 30, 1994) marked a sharp turnaround from the losses of 1992 and 1993. Net income reached $73.1 million, or $1.77 primary EPS ($1.70 fully diluted), compared with net losses of $25.1 million in 1993 and $72.9 million in 1992. Revenue rose 26% to $1.54 billion, driven by a 56% increase in disk drive unit volume and a mix shift toward higher-capacity drives (average 298 MB per drive versus 186 MB in 1993), partially offset by a 7% decline in average selling prices. Gross margin expanded from 14.9% to 20.6%, and operating income swung to $91.9 million from a $10.0 million loss. Management attributes the improvement to higher capacity per platter, factory utilization, lower component costs and a more stable pricing environment, but the filing repeatedly warns that the disk drive market is highly cyclical and that a renewed price war could reverse these gains. The balance sheet was substantially repaired during the year. Cash rose to $243.5 million from $33.8 million, bank debt of $143.3 million was fully retired using operating cash flow, roughly $95 million of proceeds from the December 1993 sale of the Irvine wafer fab to Motorola, and a February 1994 equity offering that raised $73.3 million. Shareholders' equity more than doubled to $288.2 million, and the company established an $85 million receivables facility as a backstop for working capital. Remaining risks include customer concentration (Gateway 2000 and IBM each about 12% of revenue), dependence on a few suppliers (notably Read-Rite for thin-film heads), the Malaysia facility conversion to drive manufacturing, and several significant patent and product-liability disputes, including Amstrad's claim of up to $186 million and Conner's patent suit. For investors, the key question is durability. The company has moved from loss-making to profitable and is now much better capitalized, with a debt-light balance sheet and a $1 GB product in volume shipment. However, earnings are tied to a volatile industry in which ASP declines are structural, and a single pricing cycle could erase the recent profit. The filing also flags an IBM cross-license expiring December 31, 1994 that could carry higher royalties, which creates a near-term item to monitor.
Sep 23, 1994