10-QPeriod: Q2 FY2004

WESTERN DIGITAL CORP Quarterly Report for Q2 Ended Dec 26, 2003

Filed February 3, 2004For Securities:WDC

Summary

Western Digital Corporation (WDC) reported its financial results for the fiscal second quarter ended December 26, 2003. The company demonstrated revenue growth, with net revenue increasing by 11.4% year-over-year to $834.8 million. This growth was driven by a 24.3% increase in unit shipments to 12.7 million, although average selling prices (ASPs) decreased by approximately 9.6% to $66 per unit. Despite the revenue increase, net income saw a slight decrease of 7.5% to $68.8 million, primarily due to a less favorable pricing environment compared to the prior year's quarter, which experienced hard drive shortages. Operationally, the company integrated its newly acquired head manufacturing operations, which contributed positively to results despite initial start-up expenses. R&D expenses increased significantly due to investments in mobile and enterprise platforms and head design, including a one-time charge for acquired in-process R&D. The company maintained a strong liquidity position with $318.4 million in cash and cash equivalents. Management anticipates continued focus on operational efficiency and strategic investments in growth markets.

Key Highlights

  • 1Revenue increased 11.4% year-over-year to $834.8 million, driven by higher unit shipments.
  • 2Net income decreased 7.5% to $68.8 million, impacted by lower average selling prices and a less favorable pricing environment compared to the prior year.
  • 3The company successfully integrated acquired head manufacturing operations.
  • 4Research and Development (R&D) expenses increased significantly due to investments in new platforms and a one-time charge for in-process R&D.
  • 5Cash and cash equivalents stood at $318.4 million, indicating a solid liquidity position.
  • 6The company is strategically focusing on growth in emerging markets, particularly in Asia.
  • 7Operating expenses were managed effectively as a percentage of revenue, decreasing to 8.4% from 9.1% year-over-year.

Frequently Asked Questions

Revenue growth was primarily driven by an increase in total unit shipments, which rose to 12.7 million units from 10.3 million units in the comparable prior year period. This increase was partially offset by a decline in average selling prices (ASPs).

Net income decreased by 7.5% mainly because the prior year's second quarter benefited from significant hard drive shortages, leading to a more favorable pricing environment. In the current quarter, those shortages were absent, resulting in lower average selling prices and consequently, lower profitability compared to the prior year's advantageous pricing conditions.

The company completed the integration of newly acquired head manufacturing operations. Research and Development expenses saw a substantial increase, partly due to investments in mobile and enterprise platform development and head design, and also due to a $25.6 million charge for acquired in-process research and development. The company also paid a $45.0 million litigation settlement during the six-month period.

Western Digital reported $318.4 million in cash and cash equivalents as of December 26, 2003. The company anticipates that cash flow from operations will be sufficient to meet its operating requirements and expects to use its liquidity to improve its hard drive and head manufacturing operations. They do not anticipate drawing on their revolving credit line.