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10-QPeriod: Q3 FY2014

WESTERN DIGITAL CORP Quarterly Report for Q3 Ended Mar 28, 2014

Filed May 5, 2014For Securities:WDC

Summary

Western Digital Corporation (WDC) reported its third-quarter fiscal year 2014 results for the period ending March 28, 2014. The company generated $3.7 billion in net revenue, a slight decrease of 2% year-over-year, primarily attributed to a decline in average selling prices, which was partially offset by a modest increase in hard drive unit shipments. Gross margin saw a slight improvement to 28.6% from 28.2% in the prior year, driven by a more favorable product mix. The company's strategic shift towards non-PC markets, including enterprise applications and branded products, continued, with these segments now representing 53% of net revenue, up from 51% in the prior year. Net income for the quarter was $375 million, or $1.55 per diluted share. Financially, WDC ended the quarter with a strong liquidity position, holding $4.6 billion in cash and cash equivalents. The company also announced a new $4.0 billion credit agreement, providing robust financial flexibility. However, significant litigation related to a trade secret dispute with Seagate continues to be a notable factor, with an accrual of $745 million recorded. The company also reported increased R&D expenses, partly due to recent acquisitions of Virident and sTec, indicating continued investment in future technologies.

Financial Statements
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Key Highlights

  • 1Net revenue for the quarter was $3.7 billion, down 2% year-over-year, impacted by lower average selling prices.
  • 2Gross margin improved to 28.6% from 28.2% in the prior year, driven by product mix.
  • 3Non-PC markets represented 53% of revenue, an increase from 51% in the prior year, highlighting a strategic shift.
  • 4Net income was $375 million, translating to $1.55 in diluted earnings per share.
  • 5The company maintained a strong balance sheet with $4.6 billion in cash and cash equivalents.
  • 6A significant accrual of $745 million was recorded related to the ongoing arbitration award from the Seagate litigation.
  • 7Research and development expenses increased, reflecting investments in acquisitions (Virident, sTec) and ongoing innovation.

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