Thursday, May 08, 2008

Bertelsmann Reports Improved Results

Random House corporate parent Bertelsmann reported improved quarterly operating profit performance and remains optimistic about the remainder of the year. From their press release:
Bertelsmann, the international media company, today reported strong first quarter fiscal 2008 results. First-quarter operating profits (Operating EBIT) were up by 9.6 percent compared with the previous year. Operating EBIT for the period under review amounted to €217 million (Q1/2007: €198 million). These developments were driven by the continuing positive performance of the major core businesses. Group net income improved to €35 million (Q1/2007: €-70 million). Meanwhile, revenues declined by 3.9 percent year-over-year to €4.2 billion. Adjusted for portfolio changes and foreign-exchange effects, revenue decreased 1.7 percent year-over-year. The revenue performance reflected negative foreign-exchange effects due to the Euro’s strength relative to the U.S. dollar and British pound. Revenues were also impacted by declines in sales of physical recordings and revenues at Direct Group in North America. Adjusted for portfolio changes and foreign-exchange effects, Bertelsmann expects a moderate rise in revenues for 2008. The Company expects operating results for 2008 will be on par or slightly above the high levels seen in 2007. Group net income will be well above 2007 due to fewer special items and lower interest expenditure.

The company announced earlier this month that they have hired Morgan Stanley to sell the Direct Business.

Bertelsmann investor presentation reflecting the full year results from all divisions. Here. (RH revenue of $1.8bill and op income $172mm for 2007).

No comments: