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SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D. C. 20549
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FORM 10-Q
(Mark One)
|X| QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d)
OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the quarterly period ended March 31, 2004
OR
[ ] TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d)
OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from to
Commission file number 1-8607
BELLSOUTH CORPORATION
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
Georgia 58-1533433
(State of Incorporation) (I.R.S. Employer
Identification Number)
1155 Peachtree Street, N. E., 30309-3610
Atlanta, Georgia (Zip Code)
(Address of principal executive offices)
Registrant's telephone number 404-249-2000
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required
to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during
the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was
required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing
requirements for the past 90 days. Yes __X__ No ___
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is an accelerated filer (as
defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes __X__ No____
At April 30, 2004, 1,834,354,590 common shares were outstanding.
Table of Contents
Item Page
Part I
1. Financial Statements
Consolidated Statements of Income 3
Consolidated Balance Sheets 4
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows 5
Consolidated Statements of Shareholders' Equity
And Comprehensive Income 6
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 7
2. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial
Condition and Results of Operations 17
3. Qualitative and Quantitative Disclosures about Market Risk 28
4. Controls and Procedures 28
Part II
2. Changes in Securities, Use of Proceeds and Issuer
Purchases of Equity Securities 29
6. Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K 30
PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION
BELLSOUTH CORPORATION
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
(IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
(Unaudited)
For the Three Months
Ended March 31,
2003 2004
------------ ------------
Operating Revenues:
Communications group $ 4,508 $ 4,485
Advertising and publishing 494 479
All other 12 12
------------ ------------
Total Operating Revenues 5,014 4,976
Operating Expenses:
Cost of services and products
(excludes depreciation and
amortization shown separately below) 1,675 1,798
Selling, general, and administrative
expenses 919 909
Depreciation and amortization 949 898
Provisions for restructuring 120 13
------------ ------------
Total Operating Expenses 3,663 3,618
Operating income 1,351 1,358
Interest expense 258 215
Net earnings (losses) of equity affiliates 171 104
Gain on sale of operations -- 462
Other income (expense), net 76 64
------------ ------------
Income Before Income Taxes, Discontinued
Operations and Cumulative Effect of
Changes in Accounting Principle 1,340 1,773
Provision for income taxes 490 623
------------ ------------
Income Before Discontinued Operations and
Cumulative Effect of Changes in Accounting
Principle 850 1,150
Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations,
net of tax 65 449
------------ ------------
Income Before Cumulative Effect of Changes
in Accounting Principle 915 1,599
Cumulative Effect of Changes in Accounting
Principle, net of tax 315 --
------------ ------------
Net Income $ 1,230 $ 1,599
============ ============
Weighted-Average Common Shares Outstanding:
Basic 1,858 1,832
Diluted 1,861 1,838
Dividends Declared Per Common Share $ 0.21 $ 0.25
Basic Earnings Per Share:
Income Before Discontinued Operations and
Cumulative Effect of Changes in Accounting
Principle $ 0.46 $ 0.63
Discontinued Operations, net of tax 0.03 0.25
Cumulative Effect of Accounting Changes,
net of tax 0.17 --
------------ ------------
Net Income* $ 0.66 $ 0.87
============ ============
Diluted Earnings Per Share:
Income Before Discontinued Operations and
Cumulative Effect of Changes in
Accounting Principle $ 0.46 $ 0.63
Discontinued Operations, net of tax 0.03 0.24
Cumulative Effect of Accounting Changes,
net of tax 0.17 --
------------ ------------
Net Income $ 0.66 $ 0.87
============ ============
*Net income per share does not sum due to rounding
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial
statements.
BELLSOUTH CORPORATION
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
December 31, March 31,
2003 2004
--------------------------------------
(unaudited)
ASSETS
Current Assets :
Cash and cash equivalents $ 4,556 $ 5,368
Accounts receivable, net of allowance
for uncollectibles of $496 and $396 2,870 2,385
Material and supplies 375 293
Other current assets 1,048 887
Assets of discontinued operations -- 3,796
---------------- -----------------
Total current assets 8,849 12,729
---------------- -----------------
Investments and advances 8,552 8,206
Property, plant and equipment, net 23,807 22,282
Deferred charges and other assets 5,855 5,938
Goodwill 342 249
Intangible assets, net 2,297 1,525
---------------- -----------------
Total assets $ 49,702 $ 50,929
================ =================
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Current Liabilities:
Debt maturing within one year $ 3,491 $ 2,618
Accounts payable 1,339 1,047
Other current liabilities 3,628 3,059
Liabilities of discontinued operations -- 2,582
---------------- -----------------
Total current liabilities 8,458 9,306
---------------- -----------------
Long-term debt 11,489 10,506
---------------- -----------------
Noncurrent liabilities:
Deferred income taxes 5,349 5,694
Other noncurrent liabilities 4,694 4,367
---------------- -----------------
Total noncurrent liabilities 10,043 10,061
---------------- -----------------
Shareholders' equity:
Common stock, $1 par value (8,650
shares authorized; 1,830 and
1,834 shares outstanding) 2,020 2,020
Paid-in capital 7,729 7,708
Retained earnings 16,540 17,626
Accumulated other comprehensive
income (loss) (585) (471)
Shares held in trust and treasury (5,992) (5,827)
--------------- -----------------
Total shareholders' equity 19,712 21,056
---------------- -----------------
Total liabilities and shareholders'
equity $ 49,702 $ 50,929
=============== =================
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial
statements.
BELLSOUTH CORPORATION
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(IN MILLIONS)
(Unaudited)
For the Three Months
Ended March 31,
2003 2004
-----------------------------------
Cash Flows from Operating Activities:
Income before discontinued operations and
cumulative effect of changes in accounting
principles $ 850 $ 1,150
Adjustments to reconcile income to cash
provided by operating activities from
continuing operations:
Depreciation and amortization 949 898
Provision for uncollectibles 159 115
Net losses (earnings) of equity
affiliates (171) (104)
Deferred income taxes and investment tax
credits 270 169
Pension income (134) (121)
Pension settlement (gains) losses 67 --
Stock-based compensation expense 27 28
Gain on sale of operations -- (462)
Net Change in:
Accounts receivable and other current
assets (106) (14)
Accounts payable and other current
liabilities (33) 41
Deferred charges and other assets 86 (25)
Other liabilities and deferred credits (56) 3
Other reconciling items, net 2 50
-------------- --------------
Net cash provided by operating activities
from continuing operations 1,910 1,728
============== ==============
Cash Flows from Investing Activities:
Capital expenditures (588) (635)
Proceeds from sale of operations -- 525
Proceeds from sale of debt and equity securities -- 34
Investments in debt and equity securities (14) (140)
Proceeds from repayment of loans and advances -- 109
Settlement of derivatives on advances -- (17)
Other investing activities, net (3) (5)
-------------- --------------
Net cash used in investing activities from
continuing operations (605) (129)
============== ==============
Cash Flows from Financing Activities:
Net borrowings (repayments) of short-term debt (212) (362)
Repayments of long-term debt (512) (7)
Dividends paid (371) (457)
Purchase of treasury shares (255) --
Other financing activities, net 13 48
-------------- --------------
Net cash used in financing activities from
continuing operations (1,337) (778)
============== ==============
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash
equivalents from continuing operations (32) 821
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash
equivalents from discontinued operations (8) (9)
-------------- --------------
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash
equivalents (40) 812
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of
period 2,482 4,556
-------------- --------------
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period $ 2,442 $ 5,368
============== ==============
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial
statements.
BELLSOUTH CORPORATION
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
(IN MILLIONS)
(Unaudited)
Number of Shares Amount
------------------ -------------------------------------------------------------------
(a) Accum. (a)
Shares Other Shares
Held in Compre- Held in
Trust hensive Trust Guarantee
Common and Common Paid-in Retained Income and of ESOP
Stock Treasury Stock Capital Earnings (Loss) Treasury Debt Total
Balance at December 31, 2002 2,020 (160) $ 2,020 $ 7,546 $ 14,531 $ (740) $ (5,372) $ (79) $ 17,906
Net Income 1,230 1,230
Other comprehensive income, net of tax
Foreign currency translation
adjustment (126) (126)
Net unrealized losses on
securities 10 10
Net unrealized gains on
derivatives (3) (3)
Total comprehensive income 1,111
Dividends declared (390) (390)
Share issuances for employee benefit
plans 2 (15) (29) 57 13
Purchase of treasury stock (15) (322) (322)
Stock-based compensation 31 31
ESOP activities and related tax benefit 44 44
Balance at March 31, 2003 2,020 (173) $ 2,020 $ 7,562 $ 15,342 $ (859) $ (5,637) $ (35) $ 18,393
Balance at December 31, 2003 2,020 (190) $ 2,020 $ 7,729 $ 16,540 $ (585) $ (5,992) $ -- $ 19,712
Net Income 1,599 1,599
Other comprehensive income, net of tax
Foreign currency translation
adjustment(b) 99 99
Net unrealized losses on securities 10 10
Net unrealized gains on
derivatives (c) 5 5
Total comprehensive income 1,713
Dividends declared (457) (457)
Share issuances for employee benefit
plans 4 (60) (56) 165 49
Stock-based compensation 30 30
Tax benefit related to stock options 9 9
Balance at March 31, 2004 2,020 (186) $ 2,020 $ 7,708 $ 17,626 $ (471) $ (5,827) $ -- $ 21,056
(a) Trust and treasury shares are not considered to be outstanding for
financial reporting purposes. As of March 31, 2003, there were
approximately 37 shares held in trust and 136 shares held in treasury.
As of March 31, 2004, there were approximately 37 shares held in trust
and 149 shares held in treasury.
(b) Net unrealized foreign currency translation adjustments include
realized gains of $13 in first quarter 2004 and none in
first quarter 2003.
(c) Net unrealized gains on derivatives include adjustments for realized
losses of $3 in first quarter 2004 and none in first quarter 2003.
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial
statements.
BELLSOUTH CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(DOLLARS IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS AND AS OTHERWISE INDICATED)
(Unaudited)
NOTE A - PREPARATION OF INTERIM FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
In this report, BellSouth Corporation and its subsidiaries are referred to as
"we" or "BellSouth."
The accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements have been prepared
based upon Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) rules that permit reduced
disclosure for interim periods. In our opinion, these statements include all
adjustments necessary for a fair presentation of the results of the interim
periods presented. All adjustments are of a normal recurring nature unless
otherwise disclosed. Revenues, expenses, assets and liabilities can vary during
each quarter of the year. Therefore, the results and trends in these interim
financial statements may not be the same as those for the full year. For a more
complete discussion of our significant accounting policies and other
information, you should read this report in conjunction with the consolidated
financial statements included in our latest annual report on Form 10-K.
Certain amounts within the prior year's information have been reclassified to
conform to the current year's presentation.
NOTE B - EARNINGS PER SHARE
Basic earnings per share is computed on the weighted-average number of common
shares outstanding during each period. Diluted earnings per share is based on
the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding plus net incremental
shares arising out of employee stock options and benefit plans. The following is
a reconciliation of the weighted-average share amounts (in millions) used in
calculating earnings per share:
For the Three Months
Ended March 31,
2003 2004
Basic common shares outstanding 1,858 1,832
Incremental shares from stock options and benefit plans 3 6
_____ _____
Diluted common shares outstanding 1,861 1,838
===== =====
The earnings amounts used for per-share calculations are the same for both the
basic and diluted methods. Outstanding options to purchase 87 million shares for
the three months ended March 31, 2003 and 80 million shares for the three months
ended March 31, 2004 were not included in the computation of diluted earnings
per share because the exercise price of these options was greater than the
average market price of the common stock or the effect was anti-dilutive.
NOTE C - DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS
In March 2004, we signed an agreement with Telefonica Moviles, the wireless
affiliate of Telefonica, S.A., to sell our interests in 10 Latin American
operations. The sale is currently expected to generate approximately $3.2
billion in net cash proceeds, after consideration of the $1 billion of cash held
in these operations. Based on the net book value of our investment and the
anticipated proceeds, we expect to record a gain at the closing of the
transaction. The transaction is subject to due diligence and governmental
approvals. It is expected to close in stages as closing conditions are
satisfied, with the final closing expected to occur in the second half of 2004.
In accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 144,
"Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets," we have
classified the results of our Latin American segment as discontinued operations.
The presentation of discontinued operations includes revenues and expenses of
the Latin American operations as one line item on the income statement.
Beginning with the second quarter of 2004, long-lived assets of the Latin
America group will no longer be depreciated (amortized) in accordance with SFAS
No. 144.
Summary Financial Information
The assets and liabilities of our Latin American operations are aggregated and
presented as current assets and current liabilities in the consolidated balance
sheet at March 31, 2004. Additional detail related to the assets and liabilities
of our discontinued operations follows:
At March 31, 2004:
Current assets (excluding cash of $1,016)...................$ 1,327
Property, plant and equipment, net ......................... 1,238
Investments and advances ................................... 381
Other non-current assets.................................... 850
----------
Total Assets ........................................$ 3,796
==========
BELLSOUTH CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(DOLLARS IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS AND AS OTHERWISE INDICATED)
(Unaudited)
NOTE C - DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS (Continued)
At March 31, 2004:
Current liabilities ........................................$ 1,748
Long-term debt.............................................. 483
Other non-current liabilities .............................. 351
----------
Total Liabilities ....................................$ 2,582
==========
Summarized results of operations for the discontinued operations are as follows:
Period ended March 31, 2003 2004
Revenue ............................................$ 509 $ 677
Operating income ................................... $ 28 $ 71
Income from discontinued operations ............... $ 65 $ 449
Tax over Book Basis Differential
Our tax basis in the Latin America investments exceeds the book basis by
approximately $1.7 billion. No US tax benefit was previously recognized on
losses generated by the Latin American operations due to the essentially
permanent duration of those investments. The agreement with Telefonica provides
evidence that the temporary difference will reverse in the foreseeable future
and, accordingly, we recorded a $424 tax benefit in accordance with SFAS No.
109, "Accounting for Income Taxes" (SFAS No. 109). An additional $182 tax
benefit was recorded in equity related to the cumulative currency translation
balance associated with the discontinued operations.
Buyout of Minority Partners
In March and April 2004, we purchased interests and other rights of minority
partners in Argentina, Ecuador and Colombia. These purchases bring our ownership
interest in Argentina and Ecuador to 100% and to 77.6% in Colombia. The
aggregate purchase price of these acquisitions, including payment of minority
shareholder loans, was $177. Because the Latin America group reports on a
one-month lag basis, these acquisitions closed subsequent to quarter-end and
therefore did not impact the results for the period ended March 31, 2004. In
connection with the purchase of our minority partner in Argentina, the
consideration paid exceeded the fair value by approximately $33. Accordingly,
this amount will be recognized as a charge to income / loss from discontinued
operations in the second quarter.
Put-Call Arrangements
We own a 78.2% interest in Telcel, our Venezuelan operation. Telcel's other
major shareholder holds an indirect 21% interest in Telcel. Under a Stock
Purchase Agreement, that shareholder has the right to initiate a process that
could require us to purchase (the puts), and we have the right to initiate a
process that could require that shareholder to sell (the calls) to us, the
shareholder's interest in Telcel. Notice of the initiation of the process with
respect to approximately half of that shareholder's interest was to be given in
2000 and notice with respect to the remaining balance was to be given in 2002.
If we exercise our call right, we would purchase that shareholder's interest at
between 100% and 120% of its appraised fair value. If we are required to
purchase the interest (the puts), we would do so at between 80% and 100% of its
appraised fair value.
In 2000, the shareholder initiated a process for appraising the value of
approximately half of its interest in Telcel, but the process was not completed.
The shareholder also has sent a letter purporting to exercise the balance of the
puts under the Stock Purchase Agreement. We are currently in arbitration with
the shareholder over alleged breaches by BellSouth and the shareholder of the
Stock Purchase Agreement, including the timing of the valuation and whether the
process was properly initiated in 2000. The shareholder is seeking damages and
specific performance, and BellSouth is seeking, among other things, unspecified
damages and a ruling that it has not breached the Stock Purchase Agreement in
any respect. The arbitration also relates to an alleged oral agreement to buy
out the shareholder's entire interest in Telcel, which we argue does not exist.
Hearings on these matters occurred in January and April 2004. If the arbitration
panel rules against BellSouth, it is possible that the appraised fair value of
the shareholder's interest in Telcel could be substantially in excess of current
value. At this time, the likely outcome of this arbitration cannot be predicted,
nor can a reasonable estimate of the amount of loss, if any, be made.
We are the majority shareholder in BellSouth Colombia, a wireless operator in
Colombia. We have agreed with our partner to a series of related put and call
agreements whereby we can acquire, or could be compelled by our partner to
acquire, additional shares of the Colombian operation currently held by our
partner for a price equal to the appraised fair value.
BELLSOUTH CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(DOLLARS IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS AND AS OTHERWISE INDICATED)
(Unaudited)
NOTE C - DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS (Continued)
In March 2004, we exercised our call right with respect to the first put/call
provision. As a result, we purchased 11.6% of the Colombian operation from our
partner, increasing our ownership interest in BellSouth Colombia from 66% to
77.6%. The purchase price for the additional interest was $32 and was funded
from cash on hand. Under a second put/call option, the remaining balances of our
partner's shares can be called by us or put to us beginning in 2006 until 2009.
We cannot predict if either party will exercise its rights under the second
put/call option provision. Upon completion of the pending acquisition of our
Colombian operations by Telefonica Moviles, the shareholders agreement will be
assigned to Telefonica and all of our obligations under the shareholders
agreement will cease.
Venezuela Currency
We consolidate the operations of Telcel in Venezuela. There are currency
restrictions in place in Venezuela that limit our ability to physically convert
local currency to US Dollars. Because of the currency controls, we are
accumulating significant balances in Bolivars held in local banks. We are
analyzing available alternatives in order to convert the currency into US
Dollars. During February 2004, the official exchange rate was adjusted by the
government to 1,920 Bolivars to the US Dollar, but the currency exchange
restrictions were not lifted.
Due to the currency controls, there is no free market currency exchange rate.
Therefore, in preparing our consolidated financial statements, we used the
exchange rate established by the Venezuelan government of 1,920 Bolivars to the
US Dollar to translate the local currency financial statements into our
reporting currency, the US Dollar. When the Bolivar resumes trading on the open
market, the exchange rate may be different from the rate set by the government.
A significant devaluation of the local currency would result in a decline in
revenues and, to a lesser extent, operating expenses when reported in the US
Dollar. To the extent permissible by regulatory and market conditions, a portion
of the effect of a devaluation could be offset by local rate increases. As an
example, a devaluation in the Venezuelan currency from the average rate used in
our financial statements to 3,000 Bolivars to the US Dollar would equate to a
decrease in revenues of approximately $111 for the first quarter of 2004, not
taking into consideration any potential impacts from offsetting local rate
increases. Such a change in the exchange rate would also result in a reduction
in the company's net assets of approximately $178, which would be reported as a
reduction in shareholders' equity through the cumulative foreign currency
translation adjustment. Because certain expenses are settled in US Dollars,
determination of the net income impact of such a devaluation is not practicable.
We are monitoring the situation, but continue to believe it is temporary in
nature. Therefore, we have continued to consolidate the financial statements of
this operation in accordance with SFAS No. 94, "Consolidation of All
Majority-Owned Subsidiaries." In the event the currency restrictions are deemed
other-than-temporary, we would cease to consolidate this operation and would
reflect the investment using the cost method of accounting.
Colombia Debt Restructure
On March 19, 2004, our Colombian operation completed the refinancing of its
senior secured debt. According to the terms of the refinancing, (1) the maturity
was extended from 2005 to 2007, (2) on a pro rata basis with our partner, we
agreed to provide support in the aggregate amount of $70 for 30 months and (3)
we and our partner pledged 100% of the capital stock of the Colombian operations
as security for the loan. After closing this transaction, BellSouth Colombia
will have outstanding debt of approximately $490, of which $139 is remaining
under the loan participation agreement. Subsequent to the transaction,
BellSouth's consolidated balance sheet will reflect $139 as the remaining
investment in loan participation and outstanding debt of approximately $490.
Both these amounts will be reflected as assets and liabilities of discontinued
operations.
NOTE D - EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS
Substantially all of our employees are covered by noncontributory defined
benefit pension plans, as well as postretirement health and life insurance
welfare plans ("other benefits").
The following details pension and postretirement benefit costs included in
operating expenses (in cost of sales and selling, general and administrative
expenses) in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Income. We account for
these costs in accordance with SFAS No. 87, "Employers' Accounting for Pensions"
and SFAS No. 106, "Employers' Accounting for Postretirement Benefits Other Than
Pensions." Components of Net periodic benefit costs for the three months ended
March 31 were as follows:
BELLSOUTH CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(DOLLARS IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS AND AS OTHERWISE INDICATED)
(Unaudited)
NOTE D - EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS (Continued)
Pension Benefits Other Benefits
---------------- --------------
2003 2004 2003 2004
---- ---- ---- ----
Service cost ...................$ 45 $ 44 $ 13 $ 12
Interest cost ................... 186 174 121 108
Expected return on plan assets ..(347) (329) (78) (80)
Amortizations:
Unrecognized net obligation ... (1) -- 18 25
Unrecognized prior service cost (10) (11) 40 53
Unrecognized (gain) loss....... (7) 1 27 20
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
Net periodic benefit cost
(income) .................... (134) (121) 141 138
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
Settlements .................. 69 -- -- --
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
Net periodic benefit cost
(income), adjusted. ..........$ (65) $ (121) $ 141 $ 138
============ ============ ============ ============
Medicare Prescription Drug Subsidy
In December 2003, the Medicare Prescription Drug Act was signed into law. The
Act allows companies who provide certain prescription drug benefits for retirees
to receive a federal subsidy beginning in 2006. We accounted for the government
subsidy provided for in the Medicare Act in the calculation of our 2003 retiree
medical obligation, resulting in a reduction to the liability of $575. We
previously accounted for the subsidy provided under the Act as a plan amendment
under SFAS No. 106. Effective January 1, 2004, we changed the method to treat
the subsidy as an actuarial gain. The cumulative effect of the change in method
was $6. This change did not affect the retiree medical obligation.
Employer Contributions
For the quarter ended March 31, 2004 we made no contributions to our pension
plans and anticipate no funding for the remainder of 2004. As of March 31, 2004,
we have contributed $127 to fund other benefits (primarily retiree medical) and
expect to contribute an additional $350 to $400 of funding for other benefits
during the remainder of 2004.
NOTE E - INVESTMENTS AND ADVANCES
Cingular
The following table displays the summary financial information of Cingular, our
wireless equity method investment in which we own 40%. These amounts are shown
on a 100% basis.
December 31, 2003 March 31, 2004
Balance Sheet Information:
Current assets ....................... $ 3,300 $ 3,103
Noncurrent assets .................... $22,226 $ 22,024
Current liabilities .................. $ 3,187 $ 2,560
Noncurrent liabilities ............... $13,196 $ 13,207
Minority interest .................... $ 659 $ 649
Members' capital ..................... $ 8,484 $ 8,711
For the Three Months
Ended March 31,
2003 2004
---- ----
Income Statement Information:
Revenues ............................ $ 3,638 $3,942
Operating income ..................... $ 716 $ 559
Net income ........................... $ 419 $ 227
As of March 31, 2004, our book investment exceeded our proportionate share of
the net assets of Cingular by $228.
BELLSOUTH CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(DOLLARS IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS AND AS OTHERWISE INDICATED)
(Unaudited)
NOTE E - INVESTMENTS AND ADVANCES (Continued)
Sonofon
On February 12, 2004, we closed on a previously announced agreement to sell our
interest in Danish wireless provider, Sonofon, for 3.68 billion Danish Kroner to
Telenor ASA. We received 3.05 billion Danish Kroner, or $525, for our 46.5%
equity stake and 630 million Danish Kroner, or $109, for our shareholder loan
and accrued interest, reduced by a settlement of $17 associated with foreign
currency swap contracts. As a result of these transactions, we recorded a gain
of $462, or $295 net of tax, which included the recognition of cumulative
foreign currency translation gains of $13.
NOTE F - WORKFORCE REDUCTION AND RESTRUCTURING
Based on ongoing challenges in the telecom industry, continued economic
pressures, the uncertainty resulting from Federal Communications Commission
(FCC) regulatory rulings, as well as productivity improvements, we have made
adjustments to our force levels to match lower demand. During the first quarter
of 2004, we initiated a workforce reduction of approximately 800 positions,
primarily in network operations where the volume of work has substantially
decreased. Charges in earnings have been recognized in accordance with the
provisions of SFAS No. 112, "Employers Accounting for Postemployment Benefits"
and consisted primarily of cash severance, outplacement and payroll taxes under
pre-existing separation pay plans.
The following table summarizes activity associated with the workforce reduction
and restructuring liability for the three months ended March 31, 2004:
Type of Cost
---------------------------
Employee Other Exit
Separations Costs Total
Balance at December 31, 2003......$ 66 $ 6 $ 72
Additions......................... 23 -- 23
Deductions........................ (40) (4) (44)
---- ---- -----
Balance at March 31, 2004.........$ 49 $ 2 $ 51
==== ==== =====
The $23 in additions to the accrual associated with employee separations relates
to accruals for estimated payments for the current year workforce reductions.
Deductions to the accrual of $40 consist of $30 in cash severance payments and
$10 for adjustment to the accrual due to estimated demographics being different
than actual demographics of employees that separated from the Company.
Deductions from the accrual for other exit costs consist primarily of cash
payments settling liabilities for early contract terminations.
NOTE G - SEGMENT INFORMATION
As a result of the pending sale of our Latin American operations, we now have
three reportable operating segments: (1) Communications group; (2) Domestic
wireless; and (3) Advertising and publishing.
The following table provides information for each operating segment:
For the Three Months Ended March 31,
2003 2004
-------------- --------------
Communications group
External revenues..............$ 4,508 $ 4,535
Intersegment revenues ......... 68 40
-------------- --------------
Total segment revenues.....$ 4,576 $ 4,575
Segment operating income ......$ 1,250 $ 1,170
Segment net income ........$ 709 $ 687
============== ==============
Domestic wireless
External revenues .............$ 1,455 $ 1,577
Intersegment
revenues..................... -- --
-------------- --------------
Total segment revenues.....$ 1,455 $ 1,577
Segment operating income ......$ 286 $ 224
Segment net income.........$ 101 $ 59
============== ==============
BELLSOUTH CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(DOLLARS IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS AND AS OTHERWISE INDICATED)
(Unaudited)
NOTE G - SEGMENT INFORMATION (Continued)
For the Three Months Ended March 31,
2003 2004
-------------- --------------
Advertising and publishing
External revenues .............$ 494 $ 479
Intersegment revenues ......... 4 3
-------------- --------------
Total segment revenues.....$ 498 $ 482
Segment operating income ......$ 243 $ 239
Segment net income ........$ 149 $ 147
============== ==============
RECONCILIATION TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL INFORMATION
For the Three Months Ended March 31,
2003 2004
-------------- --------------
Operating revenues
Total reportable segments ....$ 6,529 $ 6,634
Cingular proportional
consolidation................ (1,455) (1,577)
South Carolina settlement ..... -- (50)
Corporate, eliminations and other (60) (31)
-------------- --------------
Total consolidated ............$ 5,014 $ 4,976
============== ==============
Operating income
Total reportable segments .....$ 1,779 $ 1,633
Cingular proportional
consolidation (286) (224)
South Carolina settlement ..... -- (53)
Restructuring charge........... (53) (13)
Pension settlement loss........ (67) --
Corporate, eliminations and other (22) 15
-------------- --------------
Total consolidated ............$ 1,351 $ 1,358
============== ==============
Net Income
Total reportable segments .....$ 959 $ 893
Net gain on sale of operations -- 295
South Carolina settlement ...... -- (33)
Net losses on sale or impairment
of securities.................. -- (4)
Cumulative effect of changes in
accounting principle, net of tax 315 --
Restructuring charge............ (33) (8)
Pension settlement loss......... (41) --
Discontinued operations, net of tax 65 449
Corporate, eliminations and other (35) 7
-------------- --------------
Total consolidated.............$ 1,230 $ 1,599
============== ==============
Reconciling items are transactions or events that are included in reported
consolidated results but are excluded from segment results due to their
nonrecurring or nonoperational nature.
NOTE H - RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
We have made advances to Cingular that totaled $3,812 at March 31, 2004. We
earned $70 in the first quarter of 2003 and $57 in the first quarter of 2004
from interest income on this advance. We generated revenues of approximately $98
and $117 in first quarter 2003 and 2004, respectively, from the provision of
local interconnect and long distance services to Cingular and sales agency fees
from Cingular. In addition, we have receivables and payables incurred in the
ordinary course of business recorded in our balance sheets as follows:
December 31, 2003 March 31, 2004
------------------------------------ --------------------- ------------------
Receivable from Cingular $ 57 $76
Payable to Cingular $ 33 $33
------------------------------------ --------------------- ------------------
BELLSOUTH CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(DOLLARS IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS AND AS OTHERWISE INDICATED)
(Unaudited)
NOTE I - CONTINGENCIES
GUARANTEES
In most of our sale and divestiture transactions, we indemnify the purchaser for
various items including labor and general litigation as well as certain tax
matters. Generally, the terms last one to five years for general and specific
indemnities and, in some cases, for the statutory review periods for tax
matters. The events or circumstances that would require us to perform under the
indemnity are transaction and circumstance specific. We regularly evaluate the
probability of having to incur costs associated with these indemnities and have
accrued for expected losses that are probable. In addition, in the normal course
of business, we indemnify counterparties in certain agreements. The nature and
terms of these indemnities vary by transaction. Historically, we have not
incurred significant costs related to performance under these types of
indemnities.
RECIPROCAL COMPENSATION
Following the enactment of the Telecommunications Act of 1996, our telephone
company subsidiary, BellSouth Telecommunications, Inc. (BST), and various
competitive local exchange carriers entered into interconnection agreements
providing for, among other things, the payment of reciprocal compensation for
local calls initiated by the customers of one carrier that are completed on the
network of the other carrier. These agreements were the subject of litigation
before various regulatory commissions. After an FCC ruling in April 2001
prescribing new rates, BellSouth settled its claims with competitors for traffic
occurring through mid-June 2001, and entered into agreements that contained the
FCC rates for traffic occurring from mid-June 2001 forward. The District of
Columbia Circuit Court of Appeals, in the second quarter of 2002, remanded the
ruling to the FCC to implement a rate methodology consistent with the Court's
opinion. The FCC's previous rules and rates remain in effect while it
reconsiders them. An unfavorable ruling could increase our expenses.
REGULATORY MATTERS
Beginning in 1996, we operated under a price regulation plan approved by the
South Carolina Public Service Commission (PSC) under existing state laws. In
April 1999, however, the South Carolina Supreme Court invalidated this price
regulation plan. In July 1999, we elected to be regulated under a new state
statute, adopted subsequent to the PSC's approval of the earlier plan. The new
statute allows telephone companies in South Carolina to operate under price
regulation without obtaining approval from the PSC. The election became
effective during August 1999. The South Carolina Consumer Advocate petitioned
the PSC seeking review of the level of our earnings during the 1996-1998 period
when we operated under the subsequently invalidated price regulation plan. The
PSC dismissed the petition in November 1999 and issued orders confirming the
vote in February and June of 2000. In July 2000, the Consumer Advocate appealed
the PSC's dismissal of the petition. In January 2004, the court hearing the
appeal affirmed the PSC's decision. An appeal of this decision to the South
Carolina Supreme Court was filed in March 2004.
In April 2004, BellSouth entered into agreements that would completely terminate
the litigation. Under the terms of the settlement, BellSouth will, among other
things, refund $50 to its South Carolina customers. The refund was recorded in
the first quarter 2004 as a reduction to revenue. Refunds will be implemented
following court approval of the agreements. BellSouth agreed to settle the case
to avoid further expensive litigation and uncertainty relating to the outcome of
the litigation. The settlement is not an admission of liability.
LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
Employment Claim
On April 29, 2002 five African-American employees filed a putative class action
lawsuit, captioned Gladys Jenkins et al. v. BellSouth Corporation, against the
Company in the United States District Court for the Northern District of
Alabama. The complaint alleges that BellSouth discriminated against current and
former African-American employees with respect to compensation and promotions in
violation of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and 42 USC Section 1981.
Plaintiffs purport to bring the claims on behalf of two classes: a class of all
African-American hourly workers employed by BellSouth at any time since April
29, 1998, and a class of all African-American salaried workers employed by
BellSouth at any time since April 29, 1998 in management positions at or below
Job Grade 59/Level C. The plaintiffs are seeking unspecified amounts of back
pay, benefits, punitive damages and attorneys' fees and costs, as well as
injunctive relief. At this time, the likely outcome of the case cannot be
predicted, nor can a reasonable estimate of the amount of loss, if any, be made.
Securities Claim
From August through October 2002 several individual shareholders filed
substantially identical class action lawsuits against BellSouth and three of its
senior officers alleging violations of the federal securities laws. The cases
have been consolidated in the United States District Court for the Northern
District of Georgia and are captioned In re BellSouth Securities Litigation.
Pursuant to the provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of
1995, the court has appointed a Lead Plaintiff. The Lead Plaintiff filed a
Consolidated and Amended Class Action Complaint on or about July
BELLSOUTH CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(DOLLARS IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS AND AS OTHERWISE INDICATED)
(Unaudited)
NOTE I - CONTINGENCIES (Continued)
15, 2003 and named four outside directors as additional defendants. The
Consolidated and Amended Class Action Complaint alleges that during the period
November 7, 2000 through February 19, 2003, the Company (1) overstated the
unbilled receivables balance of its advertising and publishing subsidiary; (2)
failed to properly implement SAB 101 with regard to its recognition of
advertising and publishing revenues; (3) improperly billed competitive local
exchange carriers (CLECs) to inflate revenues, (4) failed to take a reserve for
refunds that ultimately came due following litigation over late payment charges
and (5) failed to properly write down goodwill of its Latin American operations.
The plaintiffs are seeking an unspecified amount of damages, as well as
attorneys' fees and costs. At this time, the likely outcome of the case cannot
be predicted, nor can a reasonable estimate of loss, if any, be made.
In February 2003, a similar complaint was filed in the Superior Court of Fulton
County, Georgia on behalf of participants in BellSouth's Direct Investment Plan
alleging violations of Section 11 of the Securities Act. Defendants removed this
action to federal court pursuant to the provisions of the Securities Litigation
Uniform Standards Act of 1998. On or about July 3, 2003, the federal court
issued a ruling that the case should be remanded to Fulton County Superior
Court. The plaintiffs are seeking an unspecified amount of damages, as well as
attorneys' fees and costs. At this time, the likely outcome of the case cannot
be predicted, nor can a reasonable estimate of loss, if any, be made.
In September and October 2002 three substantially identical class action
lawsuits were filed in the United States District Court for the Northern
District of Georgia against BellSouth, its directors, three of its senior
officers, and other individuals, alleging violations of the Employee Retirement
Income Security Act ("ERISA"). The cases have been consolidated and on April 21,
2003, a Consolidated Complaint was filed. In January 2004, a fourth ERISA class
action lawsuit was filed in the same court. The plaintiffs, who seek to
represent a putative class of participants and beneficiaries of BellSouth's
401(k) plans (the "Plans"), allege in the Consolidated Complaint that the
company and the individual defendants breached their fiduciary duties in
violation of ERISA, by among other things, (1) failing to provide accurate
information to the Plans' participants and beneficiaries; (2) failing to ensure
that the Plans' assets were invested properly; (3) failing to monitor the Plans'
fiduciaries; (4) failing to disregard Plan directives that the defendants knew
or should have known were imprudent and (5) failing to avoid conflicts of
interest by hiring independent fiduciaries to make investment decisions. The
plaintiffs are seeking an unspecified amount of damages, injunctive relief,
attorneys' fees and costs. Certain underlying factual allegations regarding
BellSouth's advertising and publishing subsidiary and its Latin American
operation are substantially similar to the allegations in the putative
securities class action captioned In re BellSouth Securities Litigation, which
is described above. At this time, the likely outcome of the cases cannot be
predicted, nor can a reasonable estimate of loss, if any, be made.
Antitrust Claims
In October 2002, a number of antitrust class action lawsuits were filed against
BellSouth in federal district courts in Atlanta, Georgia and Ft. Lauderdale,
Florida. The plaintiffs purported to represent putative classes consisting of
all BellSouth local telephone service subscribers and/or all subscribers of
competitive local exchange carriers in nine southeastern states since 1996. The
plaintiffs alleged that BellSouth engaged in unlawful anticompetitive conduct in
violation of state and federal antitrust laws by, among other things, (1)
denying competitors access to certain essential facilities necessary for
competitors to provide local telephone service; (2) using its monopoly power in
the wholesale market for local telephone service as leverage to maintain a
monopoly in the retail market; and (3) failing to provide the same quality of
service, access and billing to competitors that it provides its own retail
customers. The plaintiffs sought an unspecified amount of treble damages,
injunctive relief, as well as attorneys' fees and costs. Pursuant to the
plaintiffs' motion for voluntary dismissal, the court dismissed the cases on
March 9, 2004.
In December 2002, a consumer class action alleging antitrust violations of
Section 1 of the Sherman Antitrust Act was filed against BellSouth, Verizon, SBC
and Qwest in Federal Court in the Southern District of New York. The complaint
alleged that defendants conspired to restrain competition by "agreeing not to
compete with one another and otherwise allocating customers and markets to one
another." The plaintiffs are seeking an unspecified amount of treble damages and
injunctive relief, as well as attorneys' fees and expenses. In October 2003, the
district court dismissed the complaint for failure to state a claim and the case
is now on appeal.
OTHER CLAIMS
We are subject to claims arising in the ordinary course of business involving
allegations of personal injury, breach of contract, anti-competitive conduct,
employment law issues, regulatory matters and other actions. BST is also subject
to claims attributable to pre-divestiture events involving environmental
liabilities, rates, taxes, contracts and torts. Certain contingent liabilities
for pre-divestiture events are shared with AT&T Corp. While complete assurance
cannot be given as to the outcome of these claims, we believe that any financial
impact would not be material to our results of operations, financial position or
cash flows.
BELLSOUTH CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(DOLLARS IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS AND AS OTHERWISE INDICATED)
(Unaudited)
NOTE J - SUBSIDIARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION
We have fully and unconditionally guaranteed all of the outstanding debt
securities of BST, which is a 100% owned subsidiary of BellSouth. In accordance
with SEC rules, BST is no longer subject to the reporting requirements of the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and we are providing the following unaudited
condensed consolidating financial information. BST is listed separately because
it has debt securities, registered with the SEC, that we have guaranteed. The
BST and Parent columns reflect the application of equity method accounting for
investments in their subsidiaries. The Other column represents all other wholly
owned subsidiaries excluding BST and BST subsidiaries. The Adjustments column
includes the necessary amounts to eliminate the intercompany balances and
transactions between BST, Other and Parent and to consolidate wholly owned
subsidiaries to reconcile to our consolidated financial information.
Condensed Consolidating Statements of Income
For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2003
---------------------------------------------------
BST Other Parent Adjustments Total
---------------------------------------------------
Total operating revenues $4,397 $1,267 $ -- $ (650) $5,014
Total operating expenses 3,739 914 21 (1,011) 3,663
--------- -------- --------- -------- -------
Operating income ......... 658 353 (21) 361 1,351
Interest expense ......... 146 31 150 (69) 258
Equity in earnings ....... 249 179 932 (1,189) 171
Other income (expense), net 1 51 54 (30) 76
--------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Income before income taxes,
discontinued operations, and
cumulative effect of changes
in accounting principle 762 552 815 (789) 1,340
Provision (benefit) for
income taxes 193 188 (35) 144 490
--------- -------- -------- ------- --------
Income before discontinued
operations and cumulative
effect of changes in
accounting principle 569 364 850 (933) 850
Discontinued operations,
net of tax -- 65 65 (65) 65
Cumulative effect of changes
in accounting principle,
net of tax 816 (501) 315 (315) 315
-------- -------- --------- ------- --------
Net income (losses) $ 1,385 $ (72) $ 1,230 $(1,313) $ 1,230
-------- -------- --------- -------- --------
For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2004
-------------------------------------------------
BST Other Parent Adjustments Total
-------------------------------------------------
Total operating revenues $ 4,188 $1,517 $ -- $ (729) $ 4,976
Total operating expenses 3,643 1,074 (6) (1,093) 3,618
-------- -------- ------- ------- ----------
Operating income 545 443 6 364 1,358
Interest expense 124 6 139 (54) 215
Equity in earnings 256 103 1,196 (1,451) 104
Other income (expense), net (1) 522 23 (18) 526
-------- -------- ------- ------- ----------
Income before income taxes
and discontinued operations 676 1,062 1,086 (1,051) 1,773
Provision (benefit) for
income taxes ....... 152 387 (64) 148 623
-------- -------- ------- ------- ----------
Income before discontinued
operations............ 524 675 1,150 (1,199) 1,150
Discontinued operations,
net of tax.............. -- 449 449 (449) 449
-------- -------- ------- ------- ----------
Net income (losses) .... $ 524 $ 1,124 $ 1,599 $(1,648) $ 1,599
======== ======== ======= ======= ==========
BELLSOUTH CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(DOLLARS IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS AND AS OTHERWISE INDICATED)
(Unaudited)
NOTE J - SUBSIDIARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION (Continued)
Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheets
December 31, 2003 March 31, 2004
BST Other Parent Adjust- Total BST Other Parent Adjust- Total
ments ments
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents ..... $ 5 $1,190 $ 3,227 $ 134 $ 4,556 $ 23 $ 1,199 $ 4,093 $ 53 $ 5,368
Accounts receivable, net ...... 68 1,143 3,204 (1,545) 2,870 71 846 2,945 (1,477) 2,385
Other current assets .......... 393 831 81 118 1,423 405 639 23 113 1,180
Assets of discontinued
operations .................. -- -- -- -- -- -- 3,796 -- -- 3,796
Total current assets .......... 466 3,164 6,512 (1,293) 8,849 499 6,480 7,061 (1,311) 12,729
Investments and advances ...... 3,464 7,913 22,609 (25,434) 8,552 3,393 6,991 23,190 (25,368) 8,206
Property, plant and equipment,
net ......................... 21,818 1,947 4 38 23,807 21,620 622 4 36 22,282
Deferred charges and other
assets ...................... 5,029 287 72 467 5,855 5,095 275 91 477 5,938
Intangible assets, net ........ 1,036 1,460 5 138 2,639 1,011 624 6 133 1,774
Total assets ..................$ 31,813 $ 14,771 $ 29,202 $(26,084) $ 49,702 $31,618 $14,992 $30,352 $(26,033) $50,929
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS'
EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Debt maturing within one year .$ 2,454 $ 920 $ 2,470 $(2,353) $ 3,491 $ 2,467 $ 139 $ 2,116 $ (2,104) $ 2,618
Other current liabilities ..... 3,942 1,724 916 (1,615) 4,967 3,938 1,071 852 (1,755) 4,106
Liabilities of discontinued
operations................... -- -- -- -- -- -- 2,582 -- -- 2,582
Total current liabilities ..... 6,396 2,644 3,386 (3,968) 8,458 6,405 3,792 2,968 (3,859) 9,306
Long-term debt ................ 4,970 845 6,301 (627) 11,489 4,696 112 6,313 (615) 10,506
Noncurrent liabilities:
Deferred income taxes ......... 4,408 1,519 (751) 173 5,349 4,485 1,537 (549) 221 5,694
Other noncurrent liabilities .. 2,991 1,074 554 75 4,694 2,990 789 564 24 4,367
Total noncurrent liabilities .. 7,399 2,593 (197) 248 10,043 7,475 2,326 15 245 10,061
Shareholders' equity........... 13,048 8,689 19,712 (21,737) 19,712 13,042 8,762 21,056 (21,804) 21,056
Total liabilities and
shareholders' equity ........ $31,813 $14,771 $29,202 $(26,084) $49,702 $31,618 $14,992 $30,352 $(26,033) $50,929
Condensed Consolidating Cash Flow Statements
For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2003
BST Other Parent Adjustments Total
Cash flows from continuing operations:
Cash flows from operating activities ........ $ 2,435 $ 102 $ 1,572 $ (2,199) $ 1,910
Cash flows from investing activities ........ (570) (10) (902) 877 (605)
Cash flows from financing activities ........ (1,865) (17) (796) 1,341 (1,337)
Cash flows from discontinued operations ....... -- (8) -- -- (8)
Net (decrease) increase in cash ............... $ -- $ 67 $ (126) $ 19 $ (40)
For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2004
BST Other Parent Adjustments Total
Cash flows from continuing operations:
Cash flows from operating activities ........ $ 1,233 $ 280 $ 988 $ (763) $ 1,728
Cash flows from investing activities ........ (653) 583 638 (697) (129)
Cash flows from financing activities ........ (552) (845) (760) 1,379 (778)
Cash flows from discontinued operations ....... -- (9) -- -- (9)
Net (decrease) increase in cash ............... $ 18 $ 9 $ 866 $ (81) $ 812
BELLSOUTH CORPORATION
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL
CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
(Dollars in Millions, Except Per Share Amounts and as Otherwise Indicated)
For a more complete understanding of our industry, the drivers of our business
and our current period results, you should read the following Management's
Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations in
conjunction with our latest annual report on Form 10-K and our other filings
with the SEC.
Overview
We are a Fortune 100 company with annual revenues of over $20 billion. Our core
business is wireline communications and our largest customer segment is the
retail consumer. We have significant interests in wireless communications
through our ownership of approximately 40 percent of Cingular Wireless
(Cingular), the nation's second largest wireless company. We also operate one of
the largest directory advertising businesses in the United States. The great
majority of our revenues are generated based on monthly recurring services.
We operate much of our business in one of the country's strongest regional
economies, where the population is increasing, real income growth is outpacing
the national average and a diverse mix of businesses require advanced
information and communication technology solutions. In the Southeast, we expect
the growth in our markets to outpace the national average. The Southeast is a
net migration region, with positive net migration averaging almost 500 thousand
annually. The region's real income is expected to grow 10 to 15 percent higher
than the national average in the next five years.
REGULATION AND COMPETITION
The Telecommunications Act of 1996 required local telephone companies to open
their existing facilities to use by competitors on "non-discriminatory" terms
and prices under what is referred to as an unbundled network element platform,
or UNE-P. This requirement has distorted the competitive landscape by allowing
competitors to rent access lines at deeply discounted rates that are generally
below our historical cost. Utilizing UNE-P, competitors are able to market
telephone service and generate reasonable margins with little to no capital
investment at risk.
There are a number of regulatory proceedings in progress that could bring about
reform. We are appealing the results of last year's FCC Triennial Review Order
because the FCC has not yet produced a set of rules on unbundling that comply
with the 1996 Telecom Act. In March, the court hearing the appeal issued an
opinion vacating most of the rules we challenged, effective June 15, 2004. In
response to the opinion, we have entered into negotiations with competitors for
services that would replace UNE-P at market-based rates. Further appeal of the
March opinion by competitors or the FCC is possible. We also have a pending
reconsideration request on the architectural requirements related to fiber
deployment for broadband before the FCC. In addition, the FCC is reviewing UNE
pricing rules, including an evaluation of the TELRIC methodology, access charge
reform and potential regulation of voice over Internet protocol (VoIP). Progress
on any of these issues would be positive to our business.
ACQUISITIONS AND DISPOSITIONS
On February 17, 2004, Cingular announced an agreement to acquire AT&T Wireless,
which will create the largest wireless carrier in the United States. The
acquisition, which is subject to the approvals of AT&T Wireless shareholders and
federal regulatory authorities, and to other customary closing conditions, is
expected to be completed in the fourth quarter of 2004.
On March 5, 2004, we signed an agreement with Telefonica Moviles, the wireless
affiliate of Telefonica, S.A., to sell our interests in 10 Latin American
operations. The transaction is subject to due diligence, governmental approvals
and other closing conditions. It is expected to close in stages as closing
conditions are satisfied, with the final closing expected to occur in the second
half of 2004.
On February 12, 2004, we closed on a previously announced agreement to sell our
interest in Danish wireless provider, Sonofon, for 3.68 billion Danish Kroner to
Telenor ASA. We received 3.05 billion Danish Kroner for our 46.5 percent equity
stake and 630 million Danish Kroner for our shareholder loan and accrued
interest. These transactions and related currency swaps resulted in net cash
received of $617 and an after-tax gain of $295, including net losses on currency
hedges, in the first quarter of 2004.
HIGHLIGHTS AND OUTLOOK
Consolidated revenues for the first quarter of 2004 were essentially flat
compared to the first quarter of 2003 reflecting top line pressures caused by
the loss of 1.6 million retail access lines to UNE-P competitors and technology
substitution. Revenue contraction due to line loss and pricing pressures were
offset by solid revenue growth in long distance and DSL.
(Dollars in Millions, Except Per Share Amounts and as Otherwise Indicated)
Our cost structure is heavily weighted towards labor and depreciation. Our
margins were stable in 2003 as we continued to focus on reducing operating costs
across the company and we executed on a targeted capital expenditure program. In
the Communications group, we must adjust our workforce as market share of access
lines shifts. Since the beginning of 2001, we reduced our workforce in this
group by almost 14,000 employees or 20%. In the first quarter of 2004, we
announced that the needs of the business would require additional force
reductions of nearly 800 employees. Maintaining operating margins going forward
will be challenging as competition intensifies and lower margin products, such
as long distance and DSL, generate a larger percentage of our overall revenue.
This was evident in the first quarter 2004 as operating margins decreased driven
by relatively flat revenue growth and expense increases.
Despite the lack of growth in the traditional business, cash flows were strong
in the first quarter of 2004 as we delivered $1.1 billion in operating free cash
flow from continuing operations (cash flow from operating activities less
capital expenditures).
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Consolidated Results of Operations
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Key financial and operating data for the three months ended March 31, 2003 and
2004 are set forth below. All references to earnings per share are on a diluted
basis. The discussion of consolidated results should be read in conjunction with
the discussion of results by segment directly following this section.
Following generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP), our financial
statements reflect results for the Latin American operations as Discontinued
Operations. The operational results and other activity, including the tax over
book basis gain, associated with the Latin American segment have been presented
on one line item in the income statement separate from Continuing Operations.
For the Three Months
Ended March 31, Percent
2003 2004 Change
- --------------------------------------- ------------- ----------- --------------
Results of operations:
- --------------------------------------- ------------- ----------- --------------
Operating revenues $ 5,014 $ 4,976 -0.8%
Operating expenses
Cost of services and products 1,675 1,798 7.3%
Selling, general, and administrative
expenses 919 909 -1.1%
Depreciation and amortization 949 898 -5.4%
Provision for restructuring and asset
impairments 120 13 -89.2%
----- ------ -------
Total operating expenses 3,663 3,618 -1.2%
Operating income 1,351 1,358 0.5%
Interest expense 258 215 -16.7%
Net (losses) earnings of equity affiliates 171 104 -39.2%
Gain (loss) on sale of operations -- 462 *
Other income (expense), net 76 64 -15.8%
------ ------ -------
Income before taxes and cumulative effect of
changes in accounting principle, net of tax 1,340 1,773 32.3%
Provision for income taxes 490 623 27.1%
------ ------ -------
Income before discontinued operations and
cumulative effect of accounting change 850 1,150 35.3%
Income (loss) from discontinued operations,
net of tax 65 449 *
------- ------ -------
Income before cumulative effect of changes
in accounting principle 915 1,599 74.8%
Cumulative effect of changes in accounting
principle, net of tax 315 -- *
------- ------ -------
Net (loss) income $1,230 $1,599 30.0%
======= ====== =======
* Not meaningful
Operating Revenues
The decrease in total operating revenues is attributable to lower revenues in
the Communications group caused by the loss of 1.6 million retail access lines
to UNE-P competitors and technology substitution. The first quarter 2004 also
includes the impact of a $50 customer refund accrual recorded in the first
quarter 2004 associated with a settlement agreement with the South Carolina
Consumer Advocate with respect to previously disclosed litigation. Voice
revenues were also negatively impacted by pricing strategies in our effort to
remain competitive. Revenues from the sale of wholesale data transport services
declined 11.8% in the first quarter 2004 primarily due to reductions in leased
circuits by large inter-exchange carriers as they rationalized their capacity
needs in relation to current demand. These decreases were substantially offset
by revenue growth in long distance and DSL, which together generated nearly $240
in new revenue in the first quarter 2004 compared to the first quarter 2003.
Beyond our traditional wireline business, Advertising and Publishing group
revenues were down $15 impacted by a reduction in print revenues due to lower
overall spending by our advertisers.
(Dollars in Millions, Except Per Share Amounts and as Otherwise Indicated)
Operating Expenses
Operating expenses declined $45 in the first quarter 2004 compared to the first
quarter 2003 driven by $107 in lower charges related to restructuring and asset
impairments as we rationalized our business in 2003 and $51 in lower
depreciation expense attributable to the declines in capital expenditures. These
decreases were partially offset by $42 of increases in labor costs in the
Communications group impacted by annual salary increases, change in employee
mix, higher incentive awards and higher active medical costs, partially offset
by lower average headcount, and $71 of increases in variable cost of goods for
the provision of long distance service.
Interest Expense
Interest expense related to interest-bearing debt was down $20 year-over-year
reflecting lower average debt balances caused by scheduled maturities and early
redemptions in 2003. The remaining year-over-year change relates to interest
accruals on other liabilities and contingencies.
Net earnings (losses) of equity affiliates
For the Three Months Ended March 31,
----------------------------------------
------------ -------------- ------------
2003 2004 Change
------------ -------------- ------------
------------ -------------- ------------
Cingular $ 165 $ 95 $ (70)
Other equity investees 6 9 3
------------ -------------- ------------
Total $ 171 $ 104 $ (67)
------------ -------------- ------------
Earnings from Cingular in 2004 were lower compared to 2003 primarily due to
significant growth in customers and the costs related to that growth.
Gain (loss) on sale of operations
Gain on sale of operations in 2004 relates to the sale of our interest in Danish
wireless provider, Sonofon, for 3.68 billion Danish Kroner to Telenor ASA. We
received 3.05 billion Danish Kroner, or $525, for our 46.5% equity stake and 630
million Danish Kroner, or $109, for our shareholder loan and accrued interest,
reduced by a settlement of $17 associated with foreign currency swap contracts.
As a result of these transactions, we recorded a gain of $462, or $295 net of
tax, which included the recognition of cumulative foreign currency translation
gains of $13.
Other income (expense), net
For the Three Months Ended March 31,
------------------------------------
---------- ------------ ------------
2003 2004 Change
---------- ------------ ------------
Interest income $ 84 $ 69 $ (15)
Other, net (8) (5) 3
---------- ------------ ------------
Total Other Income (Expense), net $ 76 $ 64 $ (12)
---------- ------------ ------------
The decrease in interest income reflects a lower rate on our advance to Cingular
and the loss of income on an advance to Dutch telecommunications provider Royal
KPN N.V. (KPN) due to early repayment.
Provision for income taxes
The provision for income taxes increased $133 compared to the prior year period
while the effective tax rate decreased to 35.1% in first quarter 2004 from 36.6%
in first quarter 2003. The lower rate in 2004 was impacted by a favorable
permanent difference for the Medicare Part D subsidy and a true up of taxes
payable associated with divested operations.
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax
Income from discontinued operations, net of tax, increased $384 in the first
quarter 2004 compared to the same period of the prior year primarily due to a
$424 tax basis differential gain recorded in the first quarter 2004 as our tax
basis in the Latin America investments exceeded the book basis by approximately
$1.7 billion. No US tax benefit was previously recognized on losses generated by
the Latin American operations due to the essentially permanent duration of those
investments. The agreement with Telefonica provides evidence that the temporary
difference will reverse in the foreseeable future and, accordingly, we recorded
a $424 tax benefit in accordance with SFAS No. 109.
Operating revenue in these operations improved $168 due to increases in revenue
in Venezuela, Argentina, Colombia and Chile. End of period customers increased
25%, with a 32% increase in billed minutes of use (MOUs). Cost of services
increased $74 due to increased network usage driven by higher average customer
base.
(Dollars in Millions, Except Per Share Amounts and as Otherwise Indicated)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Results by Segment
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Our reportable segments reflect strategic business units that offer similar
products and services and/or serve similar customers. We have three reportable
operating segments:
o Communications group;
o Domestic wireless; and
o Advertising and publishing.
Management evaluates the performance of each business unit based on net income,
exclusive of internal charges for use of intellectual property and adjustments
for unusual items that may arise. Unusual items are transactions or events that
are included in reported consolidated results but are excluded from segment
results due to their nonrecurring or nonoperational nature. In addition, when
changes in our business affect the comparability of current versus historical
results, we will adjust historical operating information to reflect the current
business structure. See Note G for a reconciliation of segment results to the
unaudited consolidated financial information.
The following discussion highlights our performance in the context of these
segments. For a more complete understanding of our industry, the drivers of our
business, and our current period results, you should read this discussion in
conjunction with our consolidated financial statements, including the related
notes.
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Communications Group
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Communications group includes our core domestic businesses including: all
domestic wireline voice, data, broadband, e-commerce, long distance, Internet
services and advanced voice features. The group provides these services to an
array of customers, including residential, business and wholesale.
During the first quarter 2004, the Communications group continued to emphasize
interLATA long distance and FastAccess(R) DSL, encouraging customers to purchase
packages containing multiple telecommunications services. We also continued to
experience retail access line market share loss due to competition and
technology substitution, and we expect these trends to continue during the
remainder of 2004.
For the Three Months
Ended March 31, Percent
2003 2004 Change
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Segment operating revenues:
Voice $ 3,163 $ 3,169 0.2%
Data 1,090 1,092 0.2%
Other 323 314 -2.8%
------- -------- -----
Total segment operating revenues 4,576 4,575 0.0%
Segment operating expenses:
Cost of services and products 1,625 1,745 7.4%
Selling, general, and administrative expenses 764 772 1.0%
Depreciation and amortization 937 888 -5.2%
------- ------- -----
Total segment operating expenses 3,326 3,405 2.4%
Segment operating income 1,250 1,170 -6.4%
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Segment net income $ 709 $ 687 -3.1%
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Segment net income including unusual items $1,451 $ 645 -55.5%
Key Indicators (000s except where noted)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Access Lines (1):
Residence Retail:
Primary 13,115 12,200 -7.0%
Additional 1,849 1,525 -17.5%
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Retail Residence 14,964 13,725 -8.3%
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Residential Wholesale:
Resale 296 160 -45.9%
UNE-P 1,156 1,963 69.8%
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Wholesale Residence 1,452 2,123 46.2%
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Residence 16,416 15,848 -3.5%
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Dollars in Millions, Except Per Share Amounts and as Otherwise Indicated)
Key Indicators (continued) For the Three Months
Ended March 31, Percent
2003 2004 Change
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Business Retail 5,621 5,354 -4.8%
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Business Wholesale:
Resale 77 67 -13.0%
UNE-P 614 714 16.3%
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Wholesale Business 691 781 13.0%
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Business 6,312 6,135 -2.8%
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Other Retail/Wholesale Lines (primarily public) 174 104 -40.2%
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Access Lines 22,902 22,087 -3.6%
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
DSL customers 1,122 1,618 44.2%
Long distance customers 1,930 4,596 138.1%
Access minutes of use (millions) 22,795 23,293 2.2%
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Capital expenditures $566 $612 8.1%
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
* Not meaningful
(1) Prior period operating data are often revised at later dates to reflect
updated information. The above information reflects the latest data available
for the periods indicated.
Segment operating revenues
Voice
Voice revenues increased $6 in the first quarter 2004 compared to the same
period in 2003 driven primarily by the growth in interLATA long distance offset
by continued access line share loss. Total switched access lines declined
815,000 or 3.6% year-over-year with retail line losses being partially offset by
increases in wholesale lines. The access line decline was the result of
continued share loss and technology substitution.
Wholesale lines, which consist primarily of unbundled network element - platform
(UNE-P) lines, totaled approximately 3 million, up 278 thousand lines in the
quarter. The vast majority of the quarterly UNE-P additions were residential.
When lines over which we provide retail services are converted to UNE-P, we lose
revenue and margin. On average, the revenue from our provision of UNE-P does not
permit us to recover the fairly allocated costs we incur to provide it. To
mitigate this loss, we are actively seeking reform of the pricing rules that
regulators use to set UNE-P prices. We also continue to actively market our own
retail services and bundles.
In efforts to combat share loss, we continue to grow our package services.
BellSouth AnswersSM is our signature residential package that combines wireline,
wireless and Internet services. The package combines the Complete Choice calling
plan of local service and multiple convenience calling features with BellSouth
Long Distance, FastAccess(R)DSL or dial-up Internet, and Cingular Wireless
services.
We added approximately 397 thousand Answers customers in the first quarter,
ending the quarter with more than 3.4 million residential packages, representing
a 28% penetration of our retail primary line residence base. Over 78% of Answers
customers have long distance in their package and over 44% have either DSL or
dial-up Internet.
Long distance voice revenue increased $173 for the first quarter 2004 compared
to the same period in 2003, driven primarily by growth in interLATA and wireless
long distance. InterLATA revenues increased $177 in the first quarter compared
to the same period in 2003. Substantial interLATA growth reflects continued
large market share gains driven by marketing efforts and unlimited minute
offers. At March 31, 2004, we had almost 4.6 million long distance customers, a
penetration rate of 34% of primary residential access lines and 44% of
mass-market small business accounts. We also continued to grow our long distance
offerings in complex business, signing over 1,200 contracts for long distance
services during the quarter. Cumulatively, the company has signed over 8,500
complex business contracts with a total contract value of over $750. Revenue
from wholesale long distance services provided to Cingular increased $12 for the
first quarter 2004 compared to the same period in 2003. This increase was caused
by higher volumes associated with the proliferation of wireless package plans
that include long distance.
Switched access revenues are down in the first quarter compared to the same
period last year due to volume and rate decreases. Switched access rates were
lower due to effects of the CALLs program, an FCC access reform initiative. The
decline in rates, however, is substantially offset by higher subscriber line
charges which are also included in voice revenues. Switched access MOUs
increased 2.2% compared to the first quarter of 2003. The increase is due to the
impact of unlimited long distance plans offset somewhat by access line loss and
the continuing shift of wholesale lines from resale to UNE-P and alternative
communications services, primarily wireless and e-mail.
(Dollars in Millions, Except Per Share Amounts and as Otherwise Indicated)
Data
Data revenues increased $2 in the first quarter 2004 when compared to the same
period in 2003. Data revenues were driven by strong growth from the sale of
FastAccess(R) DSL service substantially offset by other data products. Combined
wholesale and retail DSL revenues were up $58 in the first quarter when compared
to the same periods in 2003, due to a larger customer base. As of March 31,
2004, we had over 1.6 million customers, an increase of almost 500 thousand
customers compared to March 2003.
Retail data services grew 13% in the first quarter 2004 compared to the
corresponding period in 2003 driven primarily by growth from the sale of
FastAccess(R) DSL service. Early in the third quarter 2003, we introduced
FastAccess(R) DSL Lite, creating a tiered approach to broadband that allows
customers to choose the connection speed and price best suited to their Internet
use. Including FastAccess(R) DSL Lite, BellSouth added 157,000 net retail
broadband customers in the first quarter 2004. These retail customer additions
were offset somewhat by wholesale disconnects as we continue to see a shift in
customer mix to retail. Other retail data products, primarily DS1 lines
(dedicated high capacity lines) were lower, driven by decreases in demand and
special access rate reductions effective July 2002.
Revenues from the sale of wholesale data transport services to other
communications providers, including long distance companies and CLECs, declined
11.8% in the first quarter 2004 compared to the same period in 2003, primarily
due to the lingering impacts of a soft economy, network consolidation by large
inter-exchange carriers and the renegotiation of an access contract with a
bankrupt wholesale customer.
Other
Other communications revenue decreased $9 in the first quarter 2004 primarily
due to the phase-out of our payphone business. Such revenues collectively
decreased $20 in the first quarter when compared to the same period in 2003. We
exited the payphone business in 2003. To a lesser extent, other revenues were
also impacted by decreases in late payment fees and revenues from billing and
collection agreements for other communications companies and decreases in paging
resale revenues. These decreases were more than offset by increases in equipment
and wholesale long distance revenues.
Segment operating expenses
Cost of services and products
Cost of services and products of $1,745 in first quarter 2004 increased $120
from first quarter 2003. Cost of services was impacted by increases of $71 in
costs of goods for the provision of long distance services, increases in labor
costs of $22 impacted by salary increases, change in employee mix slightly
offset by lower average workforce, and increases of $24 in contract services
related to network planning projects and equipment installations.
Selling, general, and administrative expenses
Selling, general, and administrative expenses of $772 in first quarter 2004
increased $8 from the first quarter 2003, reflecting $25 in higher corporate
affiliate billings and an increase of $20 in salary and wage expense driven by
incentive awards and pay increases partially offset by lower headcount. This
increase was substantially offset by the decrease in the provision for
uncollectibles of $22 as compared to the same period of the prior year driven by
continued improvement in our collection process and improved economic conditions
and lower advertising expense of $6.
Depreciation and amortization
Depreciation and amortization expense decreased $49 during first quarter 2004
compared to first quarter 2003. The primary driver of the year-over-year decline
in depreciation expense relates to lower depreciation rates under the group life
method of depreciation. The lower depreciation rates were precipitated primarily
by the reductions in capital expenditures over the past several years.
Amortization expense increased due to higher levels of capitalized software.
Unusual items excluded from segment net income
Unusual items that were excluded from this segment's net income consisted of the
following: for first quarter 2004, unusual items of $42 for the South Carolina
regulatory settlement and severance; for first quarter 2003, unusual items of
$742 in income for the cumulative effect of change in accounting principle
related to the adoption of FAS 143 offset by restructuring charges.
(Dollars in Millions, Except Per Share Amounts and as Otherwise Indicated)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Domestic Wireless
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
We own an approximate 40% economic interest in Cingular, a joint venture with
SBC Communications. Because we exercise influence over the financial and
operating policies of Cingular, we use the equity method of accounting for this
investment. Under the equity method of accounting, we record our proportionate
share of Cingular's earnings in our consolidated statements of income. These
earnings are included in the caption "Net earnings (losses) of equity
affiliates." For management purposes, we evaluate our Domestic wireless segment
based on our proportionate share of Cingular's results. Accordingly, results for
our Domestic wireless segment reflect the proportional consolidation of
approximately 40% of Cingular's results.
During the first quarter 2004, Cingular had net additions of 554,000 customers
substantially higher than first quarter 2003. Data revenue played an
increasingly important role in revenue composition in 2003 and early 2004, and
those impacts are expected to continue to increase through the remainder of
2004. Further, competition continues to be intense, with up to six competitors
in most of the significant markets.
For the Three Months
Ended March 31, Percent
2003 2004 Change
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Segment operating revenues:
Service revenues $ 1,357 $ 1,423 4.9%
Equipment revenues 98 154 57.1%
Total segment operating revenues 1,455 1,577 8.4%
Segment operating expenses:
Cost of services and products 487 584 19.9%
Selling, general, and administrative expenses 487 548 12.5%
Depreciation and amortization 195 221 13.3%
Total segment operating expenses 1,169 1,353 15.7%
Segment operating income 286 224 -21.7%
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Segment net income $ 101 $ 59 -41.6%
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Segment net income including unusual items $ 101 $ 59 -41.6%
Key Indicators:
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cellular/PCS Customers (000s) 8,846 9,847 11.3%
Wireless service average monthly revenue
per customer - Cellular/PCS $ 50.76 $ 47.95 -5.5%
Capital Expenditures $ 131 $ 134 2.3%
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Segment operating revenues
Cingular's cellular/PCS customers increased 11% compared to March 31, 2003. Our
proportional share of Cingular's net cellular/PCS additions in the first quarter
2004 was 221,600, 193% greater than the additions in first quarter 2003. During
the three months ended March 31, 2004, Cingular's postpaid, prepaid and reseller
customer bases increased. Postpaid gross additions were 71% of all gross
additions, similar to first quarter 2003.
For the three months ended March 31, 2004, the cellular/PCS churn rate was 2.7%
compared with a 2.6% churn rate for the three months ended March 31, 2003.
However, postpaid churn decreased over the same time period, while prepaid and
reseller churn increased. To date, wireless local number portability has not
materially impacted Cingular's customer churn rate.
Segment operating revenues grew $122 during first quarter 2004 compared to the
same period in 2003. Service revenues increased $66 primarily as a result of an
11% higher average cellular/PCS customer base offset by a lower average revenue
per user (ARPU). ARPU for cellular/PCS customers declined $2.81 to $47.95 from
$50.76 in the quarter ended March 31, 2003. The decrease in ARPU related to
several items including the increase in customers on FamilyTalk(R) plans, the
success of the RollOver Minutes program and a 1.4% shift in the cellular/PCS
subscriber base mix from higher ARPU postpaid customers to lower ARPU prepaid
and reseller customers. Additionally, ARPU decreased due to reductions in
revenues from roaming when compared to first quarter 2003, reflecting the
migration of customers to regional and national rate plans and a reduction in
roaming rates with major roaming partners to support all-inclusive rate plans.
Also, outcollect roaming revenue dropped as other carriers continue to build out
and/or better utilize their own networks. Partially offsetting these decreases
were increases in service revenue including an increase in USF regulatory fees
and an over 30% increase in data revenues from the first quarter of 2003,
reflective of higher penetration and usage of SMS short messaging data services
with Cingular's cellular/PCS customers as well as revenue increases related to
its Mobitex data network.
(Dollars in Millions, Except Per Share Amounts and as Otherwise Indicated)
Equipment revenues increased $56 due to higher unit sales. Handset sales were
impacted by postpaid/prepaid customer gross additions and increased upgrade
activity as a result of our GSM conversions and a move towards higher
functionality handsets.
Segment operating expenses
Cost of services and products
Cost of services and products increased $97 during first quarter 2004 compared
to the same 2003 period. Cingular's expense growth was driven by customer gross
additions, upgrade activity and increased expenses related to USF/regulatory
fees. Additionally, a 32.6% increase in system minutes of use on the network and
associated network system expansion costs resulted in higher quarter over
quarter expense.
Selling, general, and administrative expenses
Selling, general, and administrative expenses of $548 in first quarter 2004
increased $61 when compared to first quarter 2003, due to higher commissions
expense as a result of higher gross additions, increased advertising and
promotion costs, and higher customer service as a result of customer retention
and other service improvement initiatives.
Depreciation and amortization
Depreciation and amortization increased $26 in first quarter 2004 when compared
to the same period in 2003. The increase in depreciation expense of $26 was
attributable to on-going capital spending, including Cingular's GSM network
overlay. Amortization expense was flat compared to the same period of 2003.
Unusual items excluded from segment net income
There were no unusual items that were excluded from this segment's net income.
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Advertising and Publishing
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Our Advertising and publishing segment is comprised of companies in the US that
publish, print, sell advertising in and perform related services concerning
alphabetical and classified telephone directories and electronic media
offerings.
In the first quarter 2004, our Advertising and publishing group was negatively
affected by weak economic conditions and competition. Although an improving
economy should result in higher advertising spending, we expect continued
competitive pressure to impact volumes and pricing.
For the Three Months
Ended March 31, Percent
2003 2004 Change
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Segment operating revenues $ 498 $ 482 -3.2%
Segment operating expenses:
Cost of services and products 78 80 2.6%
Selling, general, and administrative expenses 170 156 -8.2%
Depreciation and amortization 7 7 0.0%
Total segment operating expenses 255 243 -4.7%
Segment operating income 243 239 -1.6%
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Segment net income $ 149 $147 -1.3%
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Segment net income (loss) including unusual
items $ (355) $147 *
Capital Expenditures $7 $8 14.3%
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
* Not meaningful.
Segment operating revenues
Segment operating revenues decreased $16 from first quarter 2003 to first
quarter 2004. The decrease includes a reduction in print revenues, partially
offset by an increase in electronic media revenues. Sales agency commission
revenues decreased slightly as the result of a discontinued line of business.
The print revenue decline between periods was primarily driven by the
amortization of revenues from directories issued in the latter half of 2003. The
decline in
(Dollars in Millions, Except Per Share Amounts and as Otherwise Indicated)
revenues from 2003 directories was attributable to the lingering effects of weak
economic conditions in 2003, that affected the directory advertising
environment, and the continued impact of competition. Revenues from directories
issued in 2004 also declined, but to a lesser extent, when compared to their
2003 issues, attributable to the factors discussed previously.
Segment operating expenses
Cost of services and products increased $2 from first quarter 2003 to first
quarter 2004, primarily reflecting the impact of increased distribution volumes.
Selling, general, and administrative expenses decreased $14 between periods.
Uncollectible expense drove this reduction, decreasing $21. The decrease
reflects the impact of improved collection performance between periods. Variable
costs associated with selling also decreased as the result of the reduction in
revenues. Partially offsetting these decreases was increased spending for
advertising in response to a more competitive environment. Depreciation and
amortization expenses were flat between periods.
Unusual items excluded from segment net income
Unusual items that were excluded from this segment's net income consisted of the
following: in 2003, unusual items of $(504) included the cumulative effect of
change in accounting principle and restructuring charges.
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Liquidity and Financial Condition
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net cash provided by (used for):
For the Three Months
Ended March 31,
2003 2004 Change
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Continuing Operations
Operating activities.... $ 1,910 $1,728 (182) -9.5%
Investing activities.... $ (605) $ (129) 476 78.7%
Financing activities.... $(1,337) $ (778) 559 41.8%
Discontinued Operations $ (8) $ (9) (1) -12.5%
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
CONTINUING OPERATIONS
Net cash provided by operating activities
Cash generated by operations decreased $182 during first quarter 2004 compared
to the prior year due primarily to higher income tax payments. Operating income
excluding depreciation and amortization in the Communications group decreased
$129 in the first quarter 2004 compared to the same period in 2003, contributing
to the operating cash flow decrease.
Net cash used for investing activities
Capital expenditures
Capital expenditures consist primarily of (a) gross additions to property, plant
and equipment having an estimated service life of one year or more, plus
incidental costs of preparing the asset for its intended use, and (b) gross
additions to capitalized software. Our capital expenditures during first quarter
2004 of $635 and first quarter 2003 of $588 were incurred to support our
wireline network, to promote the introduction of new products and services and
to increase operating efficiency and productivity. The increase in capital
expenditures compared to the prior period relates primarily to the timing of
capital projects and related expenditures as we expect spending in 2004 to be
comparable to 2003.
Other investing activities
During first quarter 2004 we received $525 for the sale of our investment in
Sonofon and $109 for the repayment of our shareholder loan and accrued interest,
reduced by a settlement of $17 associated with currency swap contracts. In
addition, we purchased and sold equity securities for a net cash expenditure of
$106. During first quarter 2003 we purchased $14 in equity securities.
Net cash used for financing activities
During first quarter 2004 we utilized cash from operations to reduce short-term
borrowings by $362 and pay dividends of 25 cents per share totaling $457. During
first quarter 2003 we reduced short-term borrowings by $212 and long-term
borrowings by $512. In addition, we paid dividends of 20 cents per share
totaling $371 and we purchased 14.8 million
(Dollars in Millions, Except Per Share Amounts and as Otherwise Indicated)
shares of our common stock for an aggregate cost of $322, which included $255 of
cash payments and $67 of purchases that settled in April.
DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS
In first quarter 2004, operating cash flow from discontinued operations was $69
and capital expenditures were $66. Distributions to minority partners of $41 are
included in first quarter 2004, offset by net proceeds of $19 related to the
purchase and sale of equity securities and $10 for net debt borrowings and
repayments.
In first quarter 2003, operating cash flow from discontinued operations was $(2)
and capital expenditures were $43. First quarter 2003 cash flow includes $35
proceeds from sale of Colombian securities and $9 for net debt borrowings and
repayments, offset by $7 for purchase of intangibles.
Anticipated sources and uses of funds
Cash flows from operations are our primary source of cash for funding existing
operations, capital expenditures, debt interest and principal payments, and
dividend payments to shareholders. Should the need arise, however, we believe we
are well positioned to raise capital in the public debt markets. At March 31,
2004, our consolidated cash balance was $5,368, which includes approximately $1
billion in our Latin American Discontinued Operations. At March 31, 2004, our
corporate debt rating was A1 from Moody's Investor Service and A+ from Standard
and Poor's. Our short-term credit rating at March 31, 2004 was P-1 from Moody's
and A-1 from Standard and Poor's. Moody's and Standard & Poor's have placed our
long-term and short-term ratings on negative credit watch due to the pending
acquisition by Cingular of AT&T Wireless. Our authorized commercial paper
program as of March 31, 2004 was $8.0 billion, with $1.1 billion outstanding. We
believe that we have ready access to the commercial paper market in the event
funding in excess of our operating cash flows is needed. We also have a
syndicated line of credit in the amount of $1.5 billion in case we are unable to
access the commercial paper market. We do not have any balances outstanding
under the line of credit. We also have a registration statement on file with the
SEC under which $2.3 billion of long-term debt securities could be issued. Our
sources of funds -- primarily from operations and, to the extent necessary, from
readily available external financing arrangements -- are sufficient to meet all
current obligations on a timely basis. We believe that these sources of funds
will be sufficient to meet the operating needs of our business for at least the
next twelve months.
The Communications group and Advertising and publishing group generate
substantially all of our consolidated cash provided by operating activities.
These segments generate sufficient cash flow to fund operating, investing and
financing needs and dividend excess cash to BellSouth for corporate uses. The
Domestic Wireless segment, which consists entirely of our equity investment in
Cingular, typically does not rely on BellSouth for funding. Cingular generates
sufficient cash flow to meet its operating, investing and financing needs
through its own operations or through its own financing activities. However, we
are committed to funding our pro rata share of Cingular's acquisition of AT&T
Wireless as described in the following paragraph.
As previously disclosed, on February 17, 2004, Cingular announced an agreement
to acquire AT&T Wireless, which will create the largest wireless carrier in the
United States. We have committed to funding our proportionate share of the all
cash deal. We expect our funding requirement will be approximately $16 billion.
Funding will be achieved through a mix of existing cash on hand, cash generated
from operations prior to closing the transaction and asset sales. We plan to
access the public debt markets for the remainder. We currently anticipate our
likely external funding needs for this transaction to be in the $5 billion
range.
In March 2004, we signed an agreement with Telefonica Moviles, the wireless
affiliate of Telefonica, S.A. to sell our interests in 10 Latin American
operations. The sale is currently expected to generate approximately $3.2
billion in net cash proceeds, after consideration of the $1 billion of cash held
in these operations. The transaction is subject to due diligence and
governmental approvals. It is expected to close in stages as closing conditions
are satisfied, with the final closing expected to occur in the second half of
2004. These net proceeds will be used to fund a portion of the AT&T Wireless
transaction described above, and are included in our external borrowing estimate
of $5 billion previously noted.
Debt Instruments
On March 19, 2004, our Colombian operation completed the refinancing of its
senior secured debt. According to the terms of the refinancing, (1) the maturity
was extended from 2005 to 2007, (2) on a pro rata basis with our partner, we
agreed to provide support in the aggregate amount of $70 for 30 months and (3)
we and our partner pledged 100% of the capital stock of the Colombian operations
as security for the loan. After closing this transaction, BellSouth Colombia
will have outstanding debt of approximately $490, of which $139 is remaining
under the loan participation agreement. Subsequent to the transaction,
BellSouth's consolidated balance sheet will reflect $139 as the remaining
investment in loan participation and outstanding debt of approximately $490.
Both these amounts will be reflected as assets and liabilities of discontinued
operations.
(Dollars in Millions, Except Per Share Amounts and as Otherwise Indicated)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Market Risk
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
For a complete discussion of our market risks, you should refer to the caption
"Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosure About Market Risk" in our 2003 annual
report on Form 10-K. Our primary exposure to market risks relates to unfavorable
movements in interest rates and foreign currency exchange rates. We do not
anticipate any significant changes in our objectives and strategies with respect
to managing such exposures.
In order to limit our risk from fluctuations in interest rates, we enter into
interest rate swap agreements to exchange fixed and variable rate interest
payment obligations without the exchange of the underlying principal amounts. In
first quarter 2004, we entered into an additional interest rate swap, bringing
the total notional value of our fair value hedges to $600. We did not enter into
any additional cash flow hedges.
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements and Aggregate Contractual Obligations
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Other than as set forth below, there are no material changes with respect to
off-balance sheet arrangements and aggregate contractual obligations as
presented in our 2003 Form 10-K.
Sales and other transaction taxes generally are required to be collected by the
vendor from the purchaser and remitted to the appropriate taxing authority. In
some instances, however, it is not clear whether the tax applies to a particular
transaction. When, as a purchaser, BellSouth wants to take the position that a
tax does not apply to a given transaction, it will request that the vendor not
bill the tax to BellSouth. As a condition of not billing the tax, vendors
sometimes request, and BellSouth generally agrees, to indemnify and hold the
vendor harmless in the event that the taxing authority asserts a claim against
the vendor for the tax. We believe any amounts subject to these types of
indemnification would not have a material impact on our results of operations,
financial position or cash flows.
Venezuelan put-call provision
We own a 78.2% interest in Telcel, our Venezuelan operation. Telcel's other
major shareholder holds an indirect 21% interest in Telcel. Under a Stock
Purchase Agreement, that shareholder has the right to initiate a process that
could require us to purchase (the puts), and we have the right to initiate a
process that could require that shareholder to sell (the calls) to us, the
shareholder's interest in Telcel. Notice of the initiation of the process with
respect to approximately half of that shareholder's interest was to be given in
2000 and notice with respect to the remaining balance was to be given in 2002.
If we exercise our call right, we would purchase that shareholder's interest at
between 100% and 120% of its appraised fair value. If we are required to
purchase the interest (the puts), we would do so at between 80% and 100% of its
appraised fair value.
In 2000, the shareholder initiated a process for appraising the value of
approximately half of its interest in Telcel, but the process was not completed.
The shareholder also has sent a letter purporting to exercise the balance of the
puts under the Stock Purchase Agreement. We are currently in arbitration with
the shareholder over alleged breaches by BellSouth and the shareholder of the
Stock Purchase Agreement, including the timing of the valuation and whether the
process was properly initiated in 2000. The shareholder is seeking damages and
specific performance, and BellSouth is seeking, among other things, unspecified
damages and a ruling that it has not breached the Stock Purchase Agreement in
any respect. The arbitration also relates to an alleged oral agreement to buy
out the shareholder's entire interest in Telcel, which we argue does not exist.
Hearings on these matters occurred in January and April 2004. If the arbitration
panel rules against BellSouth, it is possible that the appraised fair value of
the shareholder's interest in Telcel could be substantially in excess of current
value. At this time, the likely outcome of this arbitration cannot be predicted,
nor can a reasonable estimate of the amount of loss, if any, be made.
Colombian Put-Call
We are the majority shareholder in BellSouth Colombia, a wireless operator in
Colombia. We have agreed with our partner to a series of related put and call
agreements whereby we can acquire, or could be compelled by our partner to
acquire, additional shares of the Colombian operation currently held by our
partner for a price equal to the appraised fair value.
In March 2004, we exercised our call right with respect to the first put/call
provision. As a result, we purchased 11.6% of the Colombian operation from our
partner, increasing our ownership interest in BellSouth Colombia from 66% to
77.6%. The purchase price for the additional interest was $32 and was funded
from cash on hand. This transaction will be reflected in our second quarter 2004
financial statements due to the month-in-arrears accounting for this entity.
Under a second put/call option, the remaining balances of our partner's shares
can be called by us or put to us beginning in 2006 until 2009. We cannot predict
if either party will exercise its rights under the second put/call option
provision. Upon completion of the pending acquisition of our Colombian
operations by Telefonica Moviles, the shareholders agreement will be assigned to
Telefonica and all of our obligations under the shareholders agreement will
cease.
(Dollars in Millions, Except Per Share Amounts and as Otherwise Indicated)
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Operating Environment
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Domestic Economic Trends
On average, the economy of the nine-state region tends to closely track the US
economy. Economic activity during the first quarter of 2004 showed continuing
strength following the acceleration of economic growth to an annual rate of 6.2
percent during the second half of 2003. The US economy is projected to grow at
an average annual rate of 4.6 percent in 2004.
Real personal income growth in our region, estimated at 2.0 percent in 2003, is
expected to reach 3.9 percent in 2004. Employment in the region, which has
historically been closely correlated with various measures of BellSouth's
business performance, is projected to rise 1.4 percent in 2004 following an
increase of just 0.2 percent in 2003. Residential construction activity was at
its strongest level since 1985-1986 in 2003 with more than 500,000 housing
starts. Residential construction in the region was still strong in the first
quarter and it is expected that housing starts will exceed 500,000 again in
2004. Historically, our business has improved with a stronger economy; however,
we expect the more competitive environment of 2004 to affect our performance.
Other Matters in the Domestic Business
In April 2004, MCI (formerly known as WorldCom) emerged from bankruptcy. As a
result, in the second quarter 2004, we will make a net payment to MCI of
approximately $81 related to our previously accrued and disclosed settlement.
Legal Matters
We are involved in numerous legal proceedings associated with state and federal
regulatory matters. While complete assurance cannot be given as to the outcome
of these matters, we believe that any financial impact would not be material,
individually or in the aggregate, to our results of operations, financial
position or cash flows. See Note I to our consolidated interim financial
statements.
Item 3. Qualitative and Quantitative Disclosures About Market Risk
See the caption labeled "Market Risk" in Management's Discussion and Analysis of
Financial Condition and Results of Operations.
Item 4. Controls and Procedures
We maintain disclosure controls and procedures that are designed to ensure that
information required to be disclosed in our Exchange Act reports is recorded,
processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the
SEC's rules and forms, and that such information is accumulated and communicated
to the management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial
Officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required
disclosure. Management necessarily applied its judgment in assessing the costs
and benefits of such controls and procedures, which, by their nature, can
provide only reasonable assurance regarding management's control objectives. We
also have investments in certain unconsolidated entities. As we do not control
or manage these entities, our disclosure controls and procedures with respect to
such entities are necessarily more limited than those we maintain with respect
to our consolidated subsidiaries.
The Company's management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief
Financial Officer, does not expect that our disclosure controls can prevent all
errors and all fraud. A control system, no matter how well conceived and
operated, can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance that the
objectives of the control system are met. There are inherent limitations in all
control systems, including the realities that judgments in decision-making can
be faulty, and that breakdowns can occur because of simple error or mistake.
Additionally, controls can be circumvented by the individual acts of one or more
persons. The design of any system of controls also is based in part upon certain
assumptions about the likelihood of future events, and, while our disclosure
controls and procedures are designed to be effective under circumstances where
they should reasonably be expected to operate effectively, there can be no
assurance that any design will succeed in achieving its stated goals under all
potential future conditions. Because of the inherent limitations in any control
system, misstatements due to error or fraud may occur and not be detected.
As of the end of the period covered by this report, we carried out an
evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of management,
including the Chief Executive Officer along with the Chief Financial Officer, of
the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and
procedures pursuant to Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(b) and 15d-15(b). Based upon
the foregoing, the Chief Executive Officer along with the Chief Financial
Officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective at
providing reasonable assurance that all material information relating to
BellSouth (including consolidated subsidiaries) required to be included in our
Exchange Act reports is reported in a timely manner. In addition, based on such
evaluation we have identified no change in our internal control over financial
reporting that occurred during the fiscal quarter covered by this report that
has materially affected or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our
internal control over financial reporting.
Cautionary Language Concerning Forward-Looking Statements
In addition to historical information, this document contains forward-looking
statements regarding events, financial trends and critical accounting policies
that may affect our future operating results, financial position and cash flows.
These statements are based on our assumptions and estimates and are subject to
risks and uncertainties. For these statements, we claim the protection of the
safe harbor for forward-looking statements provided by the Private Securities
Litigation Reform Act of 1995.
There are possible developments that could cause our actual results to differ
materially from those forecast or implied in the forward-looking statements. You
are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward- looking statements,
which are current only as of the date of this filing. We disclaim any intention
or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a
result of new information, future events or otherwise.
While the below list of cautionary statements is not exhaustive, some factors,
in addition to those contained throughout this document, that could affect
future operating results, financial position and cash flows and could cause
actual results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking
statements are:
o a change in economic conditions in domestic or international markets
where we operate or have material investments which could affect demand
for our services;
o changes in US or foreign laws or regulations, or in their
interpretations, which could result in the loss, or reduction in value,
of our licenses, concessions or markets, or in an increase in
competition, compliance costs or capital expenditures;
o continued pressures on the telecommunications industry from a financial,
competitive and regulatory perspective;
o the intensity of competitive activity and its resulting impact on
pricing strategies and new product offerings;
o changes in the federal and state regulations governing the terms on
which we offer wholesale services to our competitors;
o continued successful penetration of the interLATA long distance market;
o consolidation in the wireline and wireless industries in which we
operate;
o higher than anticipated start-up costs or significant up-front
investments associated with new business initiatives;
o the outcome of pending litigation;
o unanticipated higher capital spending from, or delays in, the deployment
of new technologies;
o the impact of terrorist attacks on our business;
o the impact and the success of the wireless joint venture with SBC
Communications, known as Cingular Wireless, including marketing and
product development efforts, technological change, financial capacity
and closing and integration of the pending acquisition of AT&T Wireless;
o Cingular Wireless' failure to realize, in the amounts and within the
timeframe contemplated, the capital and expense synergies and other
financial benefits expected from its proposed acquisition of AT&T
Wireless as a result of technical, logistical, regulatory and other
factors;
o the unwillingness of banks or other lenders to lend to our international
operations or to restructure existing debt, particularly in Latin
America; and
o continued deterioration in foreign currencies relative to the US Dollar
in foreign countries in which we operate, particularly in Latin America.
PART II -- OTHER INFORMATION
Item 2. Changes in Securities, Use of Proceeds and Issuer Purchases of Equity
Securities
The following table contains information about our purchases of our equity
securities during the first quarter of 2004.
Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
Approximate
Total Number Total Number of Dollar Value
of Average Shares Purchased as that May Yet Be
Shares Price Part of a Be Purchased
Period Purchased(1) Paid per Publicly Announced Under the
Share Plan Plan(2)
------ ------------ -------- ------------------- ----------------
January 1-31, 2004 1,530 $29.27 -- --
February 1-29, 2004 2,705 27.67 -- --
March 1-31, 2004 3,538 27.60 -- --
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Total 7,773 $27.95 -- --
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(1) Represents shares purchased from employees to pay taxes related to the
vesting of restricted shares. Excludes shares purchased from employees to
pay taxes related to the exercise of stock options.
(2) Our publicly announced stock repurchase program expired pursuant to its
terms on December 31, 2003.
Item 6. Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K
(a) Exhibits:
Exhibit
Number
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3b By-laws of BellSouth Corporation adopted April 26, 2004.
4a No instrument which defines the rights of holders of our
long- and intermediate-term debt is filed herewith pursuant
to Regulation S-K, Item 601(b)(4)(iii)(A). Pursuant to this
regulation, we agree to furnish a copy of any such
instrument to the SEC upon request.
10r-5 Third Amendment dated March 15, 2004 to the BellSouth
Corporation Trust Under Executive Benefit Plan(s).
10s-5 Third Amendment dated March 15, 2004 to the BellSouth
Telecommunications, Inc. Trust Under Executive
Benefit Plan(s).
10t-4 Third Amendment dated March 15, 2004 to the BellSouth
Corporation Trust Under Board of Directors Benefit Plan(s).
10u-4 Third Amendment dated March 15, 2004 to the BellSouth
Telecommunications, Inc. Trust Under Board of
Directors Benefit Plan(s).
11 Computation of Earnings Per Common Share.
12 Computation of Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges.
31a Section 302 certification of F. Duane Ackerman.
31b Section 302 certification of Ronald M. Dykes.
32 Statement Required by 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted
pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
(b) Reports on Form 8-K:
Date of Event Subject
January 22, 2004 Press release announcing financial results for fourth
quarter and fiscal year 2003.
February 17, 2004 Press release announcing execution of agreement for
Cingular Wireless to purchase AT&T Wireless.
March 10, 2004 Press release announcing execution of agreement to
sell Latin America segment to Telefonica Moviles.
March 31, 2004 Regulation FD disclosure reporting press release
announcing availability of recast financial
statements to give effect to sale of Latin America
segment.
SIGNATURE
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the
registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
BELLSOUTH CORPORATION
By /s/ W. Patrick Shannon
----------------------
W. PATRICK SHANNON
Vice President - Finance
(Principal Accounting Officer)
May 5, 2004
EXHIBIT INDEX
Exhibit
Number
3b By-laws of BellSouth Corporation adopted April 26, 2004.
4a No instrument which defines the rights of holders of our long-
and intermediate-term debt is filed herewith pursuant to
Regulation S-K, Item 601(b)(4)(iii)(A). Pursuant to this
regulation, we agree to furnish a copy of any such instrument
to the SEC upon request.
10r-5 Third Amendment dated March 15, 2004 to the BellSouth
Corporation Trust Under Executive Benefit Plan(s).
10s-5 Third Amendment dated March 15, 2004 to the BellSouth
Telecommunications, Inc. Trust Under Executive Benefit
Plan(s).
10t-4 Third Amendment dated March 15, 2004 to the BellSouth
Corporation Trust Under Board of Directors Benefit Plan(s).
10u-4 Third Amendment dated March 15, 2004 to the BellSouth
Telecommunications, Inc. Trust Under Board of Directors
Benefit Plan(s).
11 Computation of Earnings Per Common Share.
12 Computation of Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges.
31a Section 302 certification of F. Duane Ackerman.
31b Section 302 certification of Ronald M. Dykes.
32 Statement Required by 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted
pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.