SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
FORM 10-Q
x | QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE | |
ACT OF 1934 | ||
FOR THE QUARTERLY PERIOD ENDED JUNE 30, 2002 | ||
OR | ||
o | TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE | |
ACT OF 1934 | ||
For the transition period from to |
BELLSOUTH CORPORATION
Georgia
(State of Incorporation) |
58-1533433 (I.R.S. Employer Identification Number) |
|
1155 Peachtree Street, N. E.,
Atlanta, Georgia (Address of principal executive offices) |
30309-3610 (Zip Code) |
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 o
At July 26, 2002, 1,871,705,594 common shares were outstanding.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Item | Page | |||||
PART I | ||||||
1.
|
Financial Statements | 3 | ||||
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.
|
Managements Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations | 17 | ||||
3.
|
Qualitative and Quantitative Disclosures About Market Risk | 29 | ||||
PART II | ||||||
1.
|
Legal Proceedings | 31 | ||||
4.
|
Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders | 31 | ||||
6.
|
Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K | 31 |
2
PART I Financial Information
Item 1. Financial Statements
BELLSOUTH CORPORATION
(UNAUDITED) |
For the Three | For the Six | ||||||||||||||||||
Months | Months | ||||||||||||||||||
Ended June 30, | Ended June 30, | ||||||||||||||||||
2001 | 2002 | 2001 | 2002 | ||||||||||||||||
Operating Revenues:
|
|||||||||||||||||||
Communications group
|
$ | 4,764 | $ | 4,631 | $ | 9,429 | $ | 9,276 | |||||||||||
Latin America
|
744 | 597 | 1,517 | 1,253 | |||||||||||||||
Domestic advertising and publishing
|
436 | 538 | 870 | 754 | |||||||||||||||
All other
|
41 | 14 | 88 | 31 | |||||||||||||||
Total Operating Revenues
|
5,985 | 5,780 | 11,904 | 11,314 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Expenses:
|
|||||||||||||||||||
Operational and support expenses
|
3,232 | 3,008 | 6,393 | 5,973 | |||||||||||||||
Depreciation and amortization
|
1,203 | 1,170 | 2,360 | 2,331 | |||||||||||||||
Provision for restructuring
|
| 357 | | 357 | |||||||||||||||
Total Operating Expenses
|
4,435 | 4,535 | 8,753 | 8,661 | |||||||||||||||
Operating income
|
1,550 | 1,245 | 3,151 | 2,653 | |||||||||||||||
Interest expense
|
334 | 301 | 694 | 605 | |||||||||||||||
Gain (loss) on sale of operations, net
|
| | | 1,318 | |||||||||||||||
Net earnings of equity affiliates
|
108 | 176 | 190 | 341 | |||||||||||||||
Foreign currency transaction losses
|
36 | 355 | 64 | 645 | |||||||||||||||
Other income (expense), net
|
116 | (61 | ) | 228 | (436 | ) | |||||||||||||
Income Before Income Taxes and Cumulative Effect
of Change in Accounting Principle
|
1,404 | 704 | 2,811 | 2,626 | |||||||||||||||
Provision for Income Taxes
|
524 | 411 | 1,040 | 1,178 | |||||||||||||||
Income Before Cumulative Effect of Change in
Accounting Principle
|
880 | 293 | 1,771 | 1,448 | |||||||||||||||
Cumulative Effect of Change in Accounting
Principle, Net of Tax
|
| | | (1,285 | ) | ||||||||||||||
Net Income
|
$ | 880 | $ | 293 | $ | 1,771 | $ | 163 | |||||||||||
Weighted-Average Common Shares Outstanding:
|
|||||||||||||||||||
Basic
|
1,874 | 1,875 | 1,873 | 1,877 | |||||||||||||||
Diluted
|
1,886 | 1,882 | 1,886 | 1,885 | |||||||||||||||
Dividends Declared Per Common Share
|
$ | 0.19 | $ | 0.20 | $ | 0.38 | $ | 0.39 | |||||||||||
Basic Earnings Per Share:
|
|||||||||||||||||||
Income Before Cumulative Effect of Change in
Accounting Principle
|
$ | 0.47 | $ | 0.16 | $ | 0.95 | $ | 0.77 | |||||||||||
Net Income
|
$ | 0.47 | $ | 0.16 | $ | 0.95 | $ | 0.09 | |||||||||||
Diluted Earnings Per Share:
|
|||||||||||||||||||
Income Before Cumulative Effect of Change in
Accounting Principle
|
$ | 0.47 | $ | 0.16 | $ | 0.94 | $ | 0.77 | |||||||||||
Net Income
|
$ | 0.47 | $ | 0.16 | $ | 0.94 | $ | 0.09 |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
3
BELLSOUTH CORPORATION
December 31, | June 30, | |||||||||||
2001 | 2002 | |||||||||||
(Unaudited) | ||||||||||||
ASSETS
|
||||||||||||
Current assets:
|
||||||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents
|
$ | 592 | $ | 1,842 | ||||||||
Accounts receivable, net of allowance for
uncollectibles of $466 and $441
|
4,989 | 4,270 | ||||||||||
Material and supplies
|
382 | 328 | ||||||||||
Other current assets
|
892 | 852 | ||||||||||
Total current assets
|
6,855 | 7,292 | ||||||||||
Investments and advances
|
10,620 | 9,866 | ||||||||||
Property, plant and equipment
|
64,332 | 64,630 | ||||||||||
Less: accumulated depreciation
|
39,389 | 40,383 | ||||||||||
Property, plant and equipment, net
|
24,943 | 24,247 | ||||||||||
Deferred charges and other assets
|
5,122 | 5,566 | ||||||||||
Goodwill
|
1,639 | 358 | ||||||||||
Other intangible assets, net
|
2,867 | 2,685 | ||||||||||
Total assets
|
$ | 52,046 | $ | 50,014 | ||||||||
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS
EQUITY
|
||||||||||||
Current liabilities:
|
||||||||||||
Debt maturing within one year
|
$ | 5,111 | $ | 5,406 | ||||||||
Accounts payable
|
1,656 | 1,313 | ||||||||||
Other current liabilities
|
3,301 | 3,593 | ||||||||||
Total current liabilities
|
10,068 | 10,312 | ||||||||||
Long-term debt
|
15,014 | 12,635 | ||||||||||
Noncurrent liabilities:
|
||||||||||||
Deferred income taxes
|
3,206 | 4,076 | ||||||||||
Other noncurrent liabilities
|
5,161 | 5,247 | ||||||||||
Total noncurrent liabilities
|
8,367 | 9,323 | ||||||||||
Shareholders equity:
|
||||||||||||
Common stock, $1 par value (8,650 shares
authorized; 1,877 and 1,873 shares outstanding)
|
2,020 | 2,020 | ||||||||||
Paid-in capital
|
6,875 | 6,878 | ||||||||||
Retained earnings
|
15,137 | 14,485 | ||||||||||
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
|
(294 | ) | (476 | ) | ||||||||
Shares held in trust and treasury
|
(4,996 | ) | (5,104 | ) | ||||||||
Guarantee of ESOP debt
|
(145 | ) | (59 | ) | ||||||||
Total shareholders equity
|
18,597 | 17,744 | ||||||||||
Total liabilities and shareholders equity
|
$ | 52,046 | $ | 50,014 | ||||||||
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
4
BELLSOUTH CORPORATION
For the Six Months | ||||||||||
Ended June 30, | ||||||||||
2001 | 2002 | |||||||||
Cash Flows from Operating
Activities:
|
||||||||||
Net income
|
$ | 1,771 | $ | 163 | ||||||
Adjustments to net income:
|
||||||||||
Depreciation and amortization
|
2,360 | 2,331 | ||||||||
Provision for uncollectibles
|
219 | 411 | ||||||||
Net earnings of equity affiliates
|
(190 | ) | (341 | ) | ||||||
Dividends received from equity affiliates
|
214 | | ||||||||
Minority interests in income of subsidiaries
|
(10 | ) | (77 | ) | ||||||
Deferred income taxes
|
156 | 809 | ||||||||
Net losses on sale or impairment of equity
securities
|
50 | 388 | ||||||||
Postretirement benefit curtailment charge
|
72 | | ||||||||
Brazilian loan impairment
|
| 383 | ||||||||
A&P unbilled receivable adjustment
|
| 163 | ||||||||
Provision for restructuring
|
| 357 | ||||||||
Foreign currency transaction losses
|
64 | 645 | ||||||||
Cumulative effect of change in accounting
principle
|
| 1,285 | ||||||||
(Gain) loss on sale of operations
|
| (1,318 | ) | |||||||
Net change in:
|
||||||||||
Accounts receivable and other current assets
|
(199 | ) | 86 | |||||||
Accounts payable and other current liabilities
|
(287 | ) | (582 | ) | ||||||
Deferred charges and other assets
|
(519 | ) | (455 | ) | ||||||
Other liabilities and deferred credits
|
138 | | ||||||||
Other reconciling items, net
|
88 | (55 | ) | |||||||
Net cash provided by operating activities
|
3,927 | 4,193 | ||||||||
Cash Flows from Investing
Activities:
|
||||||||||
Capital expenditures
|
(3,357 | ) | (2,028 | ) | ||||||
Investments in and advances to equity affiliates
|
(160 | ) | (7 | ) | ||||||
Proceeds from sale of investment
|
1,018 | 1,454 | ||||||||
Purchases of wireless licenses
|
(10 | ) | | |||||||
Proceeds from disposition of short-term
investments
|
108 | 2 | ||||||||
Purchases of short-term investments
|
(76 | ) | | |||||||
Proceeds from repayment of loans and advances
|
6 | 426 | ||||||||
Investments in debt securities
|
(176 | ) | | |||||||
Other investing activities, net
|
(42 | ) | 63 | |||||||
Net cash used for investing activities
|
(2,689 | ) | (90 | ) | ||||||
Cash Flows from Financing
Activities:
|
||||||||||
Net borrowings (repayments) of short-term
debt
|
(2,251 | ) | (1,393 | ) | ||||||
Proceeds from long-term debt
|
1,819 | 8 | ||||||||
Repayments of long-term debt
|
(547 | ) | (568 | ) | ||||||
Dividends paid
|
(712 | ) | (713 | ) | ||||||
Purchase of treasury shares
|
| (189 | ) | |||||||
Other financing activities, net
|
50 | 2 | ||||||||
Net cash used for financing activities
|
(1,641 | ) | (2,853 | ) | ||||||
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash
equivalents
|
(403 | ) | 1,250 | |||||||
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
|
1,061 | 592 | ||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
|
$ | 658 | $ | 1,842 | ||||||
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
5
BELLSOUTH CORPORATION
(UNAUDITED) |
For the Six Months Ended June 30, 2001 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Number of Shares | Amount | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Shares | Shares | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Held in | Accum. Other | Held in | Guarantee | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Common | Trust and | Common | Paid-in | Retained | Comprehensive | Trust and | of ESOP | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Stock | Treasury | Stock | Capital | Earnings | Income/(Loss) | Treasury | Debt | Total | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
(a) | (a) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Balance at December 31, 2000
|
2,020 | (148 | ) | $ | 2,020 | $ | 6,740 | $ | 14,074 | $ | (488 | ) | $ | (5,222 | ) | $ | (212 | ) | $ | 16,912 | |||||||||||||||||
Net income
|
1,771 | 1,771 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Other comprehensive income, net of tax:
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Foreign currency translation adjustment
|
(12 | ) | (12 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net unrealized losses on securities
|
(236 | ) | (236 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net unrealized losses on derivatives
|
(11 | ) | (11 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total comprehensive income(b)
|
1,512 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Dividends declared
|
(713 | ) | (713 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Share issuances for employee benefit plans
|
2 | 3 | (32 | ) | 96 | 67 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Tax benefit related to stock options
|
20 | 20 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
ESOP activities and related tax benefit
|
2 | 80 | 82 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Balance at June 30, 2001
|
2,020 | (146 | ) | $ | 2,020 | $ | 6,763 | $ | 15,102 | $ | (747 | ) | $ | (5,126 | ) | $ | (132 | ) | $ | 17,880 | |||||||||||||||||
For the Six Months Ended June 30, 2002 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Number of Shares | Amount | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Shares | Shares | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Held in | Accum. Other | Held in | Guarantee | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Common | Trust and | Common | Paid-in | Retained | Comprehensive | Trust and | of ESOP | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Stock | Treasury | Stock | Capital | Earnings | Income/(Loss) | Treasury | Debt | Total | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
(a) | (a) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Balance at December 31, 2001
|
2,020 | (143 | ) | $ | 2,020 | $ | 6,875 | $ | 15,137 | $ | (294 | ) | $ | (4,996 | ) | $ | (145 | ) | $ | 18,597 | |||||||||||||||||
Net income
|
163 | 163 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Other comprehensive income, net of tax:
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Foreign currency translation adjustment
|
(180 | ) | (180 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net unrealized losses on securities
|
(26 | ) | (26 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net unrealized gains on derivatives(c)
|
24 | 24 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total comprehensive income(b)
|
(19 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Dividends declared
|
(734 | ) | (734 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Share issuances for employee benefit plans
|
4 | 3 | (65 | ) | 109 | 47 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Purchase of treasury stock
|
(8 | ) | (235 | ) | (235 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Purchase of stock by grantor trust
|
(18 | ) | 18 | | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
ESOP activities and related tax benefit
|
2 | 86 | 88 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Balance at June 30, 2002
|
2,020 | (147 | ) | $ | 2,020 | $ | 6,878 | $ | 14,485 | $ | (476 | ) | $ | (5,104 | ) | $ | (59 | ) | $ | 17,744 | |||||||||||||||||
(a) | Trust and treasury shares are not considered to be outstanding for financial reporting purposes. As of June 30, 2001, there were approximately 36 shares held in trust and 110 shares held in treasury. As of June 30, 2002, there were approximately 37 shares held in trust and 110 shares held in treasury. |
(b) | Total comprehensive income for second quarter 2001 was $770. Total comprehensive income for second quarter 2002 was $435. |
(c) | Net unrealized gains on derivatives include an adjustment for realized gains of $31. |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
6
BELLSOUTH CORPORATION
NOTE APREPARATION 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 shown. 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 years information have been reclassified to conform to the current years presentation.
NOTE BNEW ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS
GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS
On January 1, 2002, we adopted Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 142, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (SFAS No. 142). Under SFAS No. 142, we ceased to amortize goodwill, embedded goodwill related to equity investments and costs associated with indefinite life wireless licenses. In addition, our net earnings of equity affiliates reflect the impact of adopting this new accounting standard on the operations of our equity investments (the most significant of which is our investment in Cingular Wireless). As required by SFAS No. 142, we reassessed the expected useful lives of existing intangible assets. This resulted in changes to the expected useful lives of some of our Latin American wireless licenses.
Cingular has determined that the FCC wireless licenses they own have an indefinite useful life because cash flows are expected to continue indefinitely and historical practice has shown that Cingular has been able to renew the licenses at each expiration period. Under SFAS No. 142, Cingular will not amortize these wireless licenses until Cingular determines that the licenses have a finite life.
Summarized below are the major classes of intangible assets that will continue to be amortized under SFAS No. 142, as well as the carrying values of those intangible assets, which will no longer be amortized:
December 31, 2001 | June 30, 2002 | |||||||||||||||||
Carrying | Accumulated | Carrying | Accumulated | |||||||||||||||
Amount | Amortization | Amount | Amortization | |||||||||||||||
Intangible assets subject to amortization:
|
||||||||||||||||||
Capitalized software
|
$ | 2,208 | $ | 686 | $ | 2,316 | $ | 758 | ||||||||||
Wireless licenses
|
897 | 284 | 897 | 300 | ||||||||||||||
Customer lists
|
419 | 291 | 419 | 316 | ||||||||||||||
Other
|
36 | 11 | 30 | 13 | ||||||||||||||
Total
|
$ | 3,560 | $ | 1,272 | $ | 3,662 | $ | 1,387 | ||||||||||
Intangible assets not subject to amortization:
|
||||||||||||||||||
Wireless licenses
|
$ | 360 | $ | 22 | $ | 184 | $ | 15 |
The table above does not include assets held for sale, which represent Multichannel Multipoint Distribution Service (MMDS) licenses. MMDS licenses held for sale represented $267 gross and $241 net and are included in other intangibles, net in the December 31, 2001 and June 30, 2002 consolidated balance sheets.
The following table presents current and expected amortization expense of the existing intangible assets as of June 30, 2002 for each of the following periods:
Aggregate amortization expense:
|
|||||
For the six months ended June 30, 2002
|
$ | 294 | |||
Expected amortization expense for the years
ending:
|
|||||
2003
|
567 | ||||
2004
|
560 | ||||
2005
|
557 | ||||
2006
|
435 | ||||
2007
|
432 |
The following table shows our 2001 results presented on a comparable basis to the 2002 results, adjusted to exclude amortization expense related to goodwill and indefinite lived wireless licenses. We expect the annual increase to earnings for 2002 compared to 2001 to approximate $130, or $0.07 per share.
7
(UNAUDITED)
For the Three | For the Six | ||||||||||||||||
Months | Months | ||||||||||||||||
Ended June 30, | Ended June 30, | ||||||||||||||||
2001 | 2002 | 2001 | 2002 | ||||||||||||||
Income before extraordinary item and cumulative
effect of change in accounting principle as
reported
|
$ | 1,404 | $ | 704 | $ | 2,811 | $ | 2,626 | |||||||||
Add back: License amortization, net of tax
|
2 | | 4 | | |||||||||||||
Add back: Goodwill amortization, net of tax
|
15 | | 25 | | |||||||||||||
Add back: Equity method amortization, net of tax
|
15 | | 30 | | |||||||||||||
Income before extraordinary item and cumulative
effect of change in accounting principle as adjusted
|
$ | 1,436 | $ | 704 | $ | 2,870 | $ | 2,626 | |||||||||
Basic earnings per share:
|
|||||||||||||||||
Net income as reported
|
$ | 0.47 | $ | 0.16 | $ | 0.95 | $ | 0.09 | |||||||||
Goodwill amortization
|
0.01 | | 0.01 | | |||||||||||||
Equity method amortization
|
0.01 | | 0.02 | | |||||||||||||
Net income as adjusted
|
$ | 0.49 | $ | 0.16 | $ | 0.98 | $ | 0.09 | |||||||||
Diluted earnings per share:
|
|||||||||||||||||
Net income as reported
|
$ | 0.47 | $ | 0.16 | $ | 0.94 | $ | 0.09 | |||||||||
Goodwill amortization
|
0.01 | | 0.01 | | |||||||||||||
Equity method amortization
|
0.01 | | 0.02 | | |||||||||||||
Net income as adjusted
|
$ | 0.49 | $ | 0.16 | $ | 0.97 | $ | 0.09 | |||||||||
As part of the adoption of SFAS No. 142, we were required to perform initial valuations to determine if any impairment of goodwill and indefinite-lived intangibles exists. We will continue to test embedded goodwill related to equity investments for impairment under accounting rules for equity investments, which are based on comparisons between fair value and carrying value.
During the second quarter 2002, we completed the transitional impairment test required under SFAS No. 142. In accordance with SFAS No. 142, goodwill was tested for impairment by comparing the fair value of our reporting units to their carrying values. Fair values were determined by the assessment of future discounted cash flows. The fair values of our Latin American reporting units were less than the carrying value of these units. The allocation of fair values to identifiable tangible and intangible assets resulted in an implied valuation of the goodwill associated with these reporting units of $118. As a result we recorded an impairment loss of $1,277, with no income tax benefit. Additionally, our equity investee, Cingular Wireless, adopted SFAS No. 142 in the second quarter. These impairment losses are recorded as a cumulative effect of change in accounting principle on the income statement as of January 1, 2002.
The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill by operating segment for the six months ended June 30, 2002 are as follows:
Domestic | Latin | |||||||||||
Wireless | America | Total | ||||||||||
Balance at December 31, 2001
|
$ | 244 | $ | 1,395 | $ | 1,639 | ||||||
SFAS No. 142 impairment
|
| (1,277 | ) | (1,277 | ) | |||||||
Other
|
6 | (10 | ) | (4 | ) | |||||||
Balance at June 30, 2002
|
$ | 250 | $ | 108 | $ | 358 | ||||||
The $1,285 cumulative effect of change in accounting principle in the consolidated income statements includes $8 recorded through net earnings (losses) of equity affiliates.
ASSET RETIREMENT OBLIGATIONS
In June 2001, the FASB issued SFAS No. 143, Accounting for Asset Retirement Obligations. This standard provides the accounting for the cost of legal obligations associated with the retirement of long-lived assets. SFAS No. 143 requires that companies recognize the fair value of a liability for asset retirement obligations in the period in which the obligations are incurred and capitalize that amount as a part of the book value of the long-lived asset. That cost is then depreciated over the remaining life of the underlying long-lived asset. We are required to adopt SFAS No. 143 effective January 1, 2003. We are currently evaluating the impact this new standard will have on our future results of operations or financial position.
NOTE CEARNINGS 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
8
(UNAUDITED)
NOTE CEARNINGS PER SHARE (Continued)
reconciliation of the weighted-average share amounts (in millions) used in calculating earnings per share:
For the Three | For the Six | |||||||||||||||
Months | Months | |||||||||||||||
Ended June 30, | Ended June 30, | |||||||||||||||
2001 | 2002 | 2001 | 2002 | |||||||||||||
Basic common shares outstanding
|
1,874 | 1,875 | 1,873 | 1,877 | ||||||||||||
Incremental shares from stock options and benefit
plans
|
12 | 7 | 13 | 8 | ||||||||||||
Diluted common shares outstanding
|
1,886 | 1,882 | 1,886 | 1,885 | ||||||||||||
The earnings amounts used for per-share calculations are the same for both the basic and diluted methods. Outstanding options to purchase 52 million shares for the three months ended June 30, 2001 and 48 million shares for the six months ended June 30, 2001 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. Outstanding options to purchase 67 million shares for the three months ended June 30, 2002 and 62 million shares for the six months ended June 30, 2002 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.
NOTE DPURCHASE OF TREASURY SHARES
We have announced our intention to purchase up to $2 billion of our outstanding common stock over the next 18 months. During second quarter 2002, we purchased 7.6 million shares of our common stock in the open market for approximately $235, which included $189 of cash payments and $46 of purchases that settled in July.
NOTE EDIVESTITURES
Conversion of E-Plus Interest to KPN
In March 2002, we completed a transaction with Dutch telecommunications provider Royal KPN N.V. (KPN) in which we exchanged our 22.51% stake in E-Plus for 234.7 million KPN shares. After this exchange, we held approximately 9.42% of KPNs outstanding shares. As part of this transaction, we surrendered existing warrants to purchase KPN shares and exchange rights with regard to KPN Mobile. We recorded a gain of $1,335, or $854 after tax, representing the difference in the fair value of the KPN shares received and the carrying value of our investment in E-Plus. We sold the 234.7 million shares that we held in KPN in March 2002 for $1,076 in proceeds and recognized a loss of $27, or $17 after tax, on the sale.
We report our results on a calendar basis, except for our international operations, including E-Plus, which we reported on a one-month lag basis. As described above, we disposed of our investment in E-Plus during March 2002. Therefore, the lag basis of reporting was no longer applicable to this investment. Accordingly, the gain resulting from this transaction was recorded in our financial statements for the period ended March 31, 2002.
As part of the agreement, KPN repaid $426 under a loan facility provided by BellSouth and assumed approximately 2.13 billion Euro of BellSouth loans that were previously extended to E-Plus. Concurrent with KPNs assumption of loans, we unwound several foreign-currency forward contracts associated with the original loans to E-Plus and recognized a gain of $31, or $20 after tax. At the same time, we entered into three foreign currency swap contracts to mitigate foreign currency risk on the KPN loans. The swaps, which qualify as cash flow hedges, lock-in the foreign exchange rate at an average of Euro/USD of 0.8730 for the three payments of principal along with the quarterly interest payments from KPN during 2002 through 2004.
NOTE FBRAZILIAN LOAN IMPAIRMENT
We own equity interests in two wireless communications companies in Brazil (BCP SA and BSE SA). In addition to equity infusions, we have advanced these companies an aggregate of $398 in the form of shareholder loans. In January 2002, we guaranteed R$246 (approximately $108) of a BCP debenture issuance. We have not guaranteed any other debt of BCP. Our principal partner and we have been in discussions regarding shareholder support for the funding requirements of the respective operations and were not able to reach an agreement prior to the March 2002 due date for a $375 principal payment that BCP owes its principal lenders. This disagreement regarding shareholder support and BCPs inability to meet the payment from its own operating cash flows led to BCPs default on the $375 payment.
9
(UNAUDITED)
BSE is experiencing similar difficulties in paying its debt obligations from its operating cash flows.
As a result of default and inability to reach an agreement, we recorded a contingent liability for the debt guarantee, which increased our investment in Brazil. We also evaluated the probability of collecting our outstanding loans to these companies. In our assessment, given the companies current capital structures, deterioration of credit measures and the subordination of some of our loans to other third-party debt, we determined that it was probable that the loans would not be repaid. In determining the impairment, we compared the book basis of our net investment, including the debt guarantee, with the fair value of our interests in the companies. This analysis indicated an impairment of approximately $383, including $7 of accrued interest on the loans. Subsequent to the impairment, our net investment in these companies is $50 at June 30, 2002. Because our investment and net advances to BCP have been reduced to zero and due to the fact we are no longer committed to further financial support of the operation, we have ceased recognizing losses related to this operation.
We continue to discuss alternatives with our principal partner and these companies lenders. The parties have not reached any agreement to date. There can be no assurance that an agreement will be reached.
In the event of sale or liquidation of our investment, we will recognize cumulative translation losses as part of the gain or loss on sale or liquidation. The cumulative foreign currency translation losses related to these investments were $226 at June 30, 2002.
NOTE GFOREIGN CURRENCY TRANSACTION LOSSES
In early 2002, the Argentine government announced economic reforms, including a devaluation of its national currency, the Peso. The Peso has lost over 70 percent of its value as compared to the US Dollar since the beginning of 2002. Based on the current monetary liability position of this operation, we recorded foreign currency transaction losses of $353 in the second quarter of 2002. We recorded a 100% valuation allowance, reserving against the tax benefits generated by these losses due to the lack of clarity in the tax law and potentially limited tax carryforward period in Argentina.
As a result of the cumulative devaluation, our Argentine operation violated covenants on $350 of its U.S. Dollar-denominated debt. The debt is classified as current in the June 30, 2002 balance sheet. We are currently working with lenders to resolve this matter. The devaluation, resulting new laws and regulations instituted, and the instability of the government makes it difficult to anticipate the long-term impacts of the economic situation in Argentina.
The second quarter 2002 includes $78 after tax in foreign currency transaction losses related to the first quarter of 2002. During June 2002, we discovered a miscalculation of foreign currency transaction losses at our Argentine operation, resulting in an understatement of the foreign currency transaction losses reported in the first quarter of 2002. Adjusted foreign currency transaction losses would have been $282 for the first quarter of 2002 instead of the $204 originally reported. Our analysis indicates that: no reporting period was materially misstated and operating trends were not affected; no regulatory requirements have been affected; our compliance with debt covenants were not affected by this error; and the error did not result from an unlawful transaction.
NOTE HRESTRUCTURING AND BENEFIT
In the fourth quarter 2001, we recorded a charge of $232, or $143 after tax, reflecting restructuring actions that were taken to reduce operating costs. As a result of these reductions, we eliminated approximately 4,200 positions. The charge, recorded in accordance with provisions of SFAS No. 112, Employers Accounting for Postemployment Benefits, consisted primarily of cash severance and enhancements to post employment health benefits under pre-existing separation pay plans.
In second quarter 2002, we recorded a restructuring charge of $357, or $225 after tax, related to our plans to reduce our workforce by approximately 5,000 positions to reduce operating costs in response to a slow economy, increased competition and regulatory pricing pressures. The charge, recorded in accordance with provisions of SFAS No. 112, Employers Accounting for Postemployment Benefits, consisted primarily of cash severance and enhancements to post employment health benefits under pre-existing separation plans. Since the offer included both voluntary and involuntary separations, we will incur further charges in the third
10
(UNAUDITED)
quarter 2002 as acceptance of the voluntary offers are received.
As of June 30, 2002, the aggregate liability related to these restructuring charges, was $384. We expect to complete the plans by the end of 2002.
In first quarter 2001, we recognized a curtailment loss of $72 in accordance with provisions of SFAS No. 106, Employers Accounting for Postretirement Benefits Other Than Pensions. The loss resulted from accelerated recognition of prior service cost in excess of the decrease in our postretirement benefit obligation for the wireless employees that were subsequently transferred to and covered under Cingulars postretirement benefit plans.
NOTE IDEBT
In second quarter 2002, we redeemed $500 of our outstanding debt and recognized a $4 loss on early extinguishment of debt.
In April 2001, we privately sold $1,000 of 20-year annual put reset securities. In April 2002, the notes were remarketed in accordance with the global notes agreement at a rate of 4.105%. Annually, if the holders of the put options on these securities do not require us to repurchase the securities, the interest rates for these securities will be reset.
NOTE JMARKETABLE SECURITIES
We have investments in marketable securities, primarily common stocks, which are accounted for under the cost method and are classified as available-for-sale under SFAS No. 115. Under SFAS No. 115, available-for-sale securities are required to be carried at their fair value, with unrealized gains and losses, net of income taxes, recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) in our statements of changes in shareholders equity and comprehensive income.
The fair values of our investments in marketable securities are determined based on market quotations. Equity securities that are restricted for more than one year or are not publicly traded are recorded at cost.
Qwest
At the beginning of 2001, we held 74.0 million shares of Qwest common stock. Since that time, we have sold all of our shares for a total of $1.4 billion in cash proceeds.
The following table summarizes our Qwest transactions (in millions):
Other-than- | |||||||||||||||||
Cash | Losses on | temporary | |||||||||||||||
Shares | Proceeds | Sales | Impairments | ||||||||||||||
12/31/00
|
74.0 | ||||||||||||||||
Less Sales:
|
|||||||||||||||||
1Q01
|
22.2 | $ | 1,000 | $ | 52 | $ | | ||||||||||
2Q01
|
0.1 | 2 | 1 | | |||||||||||||
3Q01
|
4.5 | 135 | 78 | 1,286 | |||||||||||||
4Q01
|
1.7 | (a) | | | 231 | ||||||||||||
1Q02
|
18.5 | 166 | 93 | 156 | |||||||||||||
2Q02
|
18.5 | 116 | 36 | 51 | |||||||||||||
3Q02
|
8.5 | 18 | | | |||||||||||||
| $ | 1,437 | $ | 260 | $ | 1,724 | |||||||||||
(a) Shares exchanged for services (at book value of $81). |
Other-than-temporary Impairments
Qwest stock has declined significantly since the beginning of 2001. We concluded that the continuing difficulties experienced by Qwest and other companies in the telecom sector indicated that the decline was other than temporary and therefore required an adjustment as reflected in the preceding table. These charges are included in Other income (expense), net, in our consolidated statements of income.
Telecentro Oeste Celular Participacoes SA (TCO)
During first quarter 2002, we sold the American Depositary Receipts representing nonvoting preferred stock that we held in TCO. We received total proceeds of $90 and recognized a gain of $22, or $14 after tax. The pretax gain is included in Other income (expense), net, in our consolidated statement of income.
11
(UNAUDITED)
NOTE KSEGMENT INFORMATION
We have four reportable operating segments: (1) Communications group; (2) Domestic wireless; (3) Latin America; and (4) Domestic advertising and publishing.
The following table provides information for each operating segment:
For the | |||||||||||||||||
Three Months | For the | ||||||||||||||||
Ended | Six Months | ||||||||||||||||
June 30, | Ended June 30, | ||||||||||||||||
2001 | 2002 | 2001 | 2002 | ||||||||||||||
Communications group
|
|||||||||||||||||
External revenues
|
$ | 4,749 | $ | 4,631 | $ | 9,386 | $ | 9,276 | |||||||||
Intersegment revenues
|
35 | 40 | 69 | 77 | |||||||||||||
Total revenues
|
$ | 4,784 | $ | 4,671 | $ | 9,455 | $ | 9,353 | |||||||||
Operating income
|
$ | 1,430 | $ | 1,287 | $ | 2,940 | $ | 2,650 | |||||||||
Segment net income
|
$ | 819 | $ | 729 | $ | 1,674 | $ | 1,499 | |||||||||
Domestic wireless
|
|||||||||||||||||
External revenues
|
$ | 1,414 | $ | 1,500 | $ | 2,724 | $ | 2,917 | |||||||||
Intersegment revenues
|
| | | | |||||||||||||
Total revenues
|
$ | 1,414 | $ | 1,500 | $ | 2,724 | $ | 2,917 | |||||||||
Operating income
|
$ | 303 | $ | 289 | $ | 508 | $ | 555 | |||||||||
Net losses of equity affiliates
|
$ | (4 | ) | $ | (27 | ) | $ | (6 | ) | $ | (50 | ) | |||||
Segment net income
|
$ | 129 | $ | 99 | $ | 217 | $ | 191 | |||||||||
Latin America
|
|||||||||||||||||
External revenues
|
$ | 744 | $ | 597 | $ | 1,517 | $ | 1,253 | |||||||||
Intersegment revenues
|
5 | 1 | 14 | 4 | |||||||||||||
Total revenues
|
$ | 749 | $ | 598 | $ | 1,531 | $ | 1,257 | |||||||||
Operating (loss) income
|
$ | 89 | $ | 80 | $ | 87 | $ | 143 | |||||||||
Net losses of equity affiliates
|
$ | (7 | ) | $ | (2 | ) | $ | (20 | ) | $ | (8 | ) | |||||
Segment net (loss) income
|
$ | (7 | ) | $ | 14 | $ | (70 | ) | $ | 18 | |||||||
Domestic advertising and publishing
|
|||||||||||||||||
External revenues
|
$ | 436 | $ | 538 | $ | 870 | $ | 917 | |||||||||
Intersegment revenues
|
7 | 5 | 10 | 9 | |||||||||||||
Total revenues
|
$ | 443 | $ | 543 | $ | 880 | $ | 926 | |||||||||
Operating income
|
$ | 196 | $ | 239 | $ | 422 | $ | 411 | |||||||||
Segment net income
|
$ | 119 | $ | 146 | $ | 256 | $ | 250 | |||||||||
Reconciliation to Consolidated Financial
Information
|
|||||||||||||||||
Operating Revenues
|
|||||||||||||||||
Total reportable segments
|
$ | 7,390 | $ | 7,312 | $ | 14,590 | $ | 14,453 | |||||||||
Cingular proportional consolidation
|
(1,387 | ) | (1,455 | ) | (2,672 | ) | (2,841 | ) | |||||||||
A&P unbilled receivable adjustment
|
| | | (163 | ) | ||||||||||||
Customer premises equipment revenues
|
| | 13 | | |||||||||||||
Florida gross receipts tax
|
15 | | 30 | | |||||||||||||
Corporate, eliminations and other
|
(33 | ) | (77 | ) | (57 | ) | (135 | ) | |||||||||
Total consolidated
|
$ | 5,985 | $ | 5,780 | $ | 11,904 | $ | 11,314 | |||||||||
Net income
|
|||||||||||||||||
Total reportable segments
|
$ | 1,060 | $ | 988 | $ | 2,077 | $ | 1,958 | |||||||||
Foreign currency transaction losses
|
(111 | ) | (354 | ) | (155 | ) | (558 | ) | |||||||||
Brazilian loan impairments
|
| | | (263 | ) | ||||||||||||
Net gains on sales of operations
|
| | | 857 | |||||||||||||
A&P unbilled receivable adjustment
|
| | | (101 | ) | ||||||||||||
Net losses on sale or impairment of securities
|
| (124 | ) | (32 | ) | (274 | ) | ||||||||||
Provision for restructurings and asset impairments
|
| (225 | ) | (47 | ) | (225 | ) | ||||||||||
FAS 142 Impairment charge
|
| | | (1,285 | ) | ||||||||||||
Adjustment to ISP Accrual
|
(88 | ) | | (88 | ) | | |||||||||||
Corporate and other
|
19 | 8 | 16 | 54 | |||||||||||||
Total consolidated
|
$ | 880 | $ | 293 | $ | 1,771 | $ | 163 | |||||||||
NOTE LSUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION FOR EQUITY INVESTEES
The following table displays the summary combined financial information of our equity method businesses. These amounts are shown on a 100-percent basis.
For the Three | For the Six | |||||||||||||||
Months Ended | Months Ended | |||||||||||||||
June 30, | June 30, | |||||||||||||||
2001 | 2002 | 2001 | 2002 | |||||||||||||
Revenues
|
$ | 4,695 | $ | 4,348 | $ | 9,106 | $ | 8,928 | ||||||||
Operating income
|
$ | 812 | $ | 809 | $ | 1,283 | $ | 1,609 | ||||||||
Net income
|
$ | 233 | $ | 204 | $ | 351 | $ | 601 | ||||||||
12
(UNAUDITED)
NOTE MRELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
We have made advances to Cingular that totaled $3,816 at June 30, 2002. We earned $72 in the second quarter of 2001 and $71 in the second quarter of 2002 and $143 year-to-date 2001 and $141 year-to-date 2002 from interest income on this advance. In addition, Cingular owed us $82 at June 30, 2002, which represents receivables incurred in the ordinary course of business, and is included in other current assets. In addition, we generated revenues of approximately $54 and $112 in second quarter 2001 and 2002, respectively and $105 and $190 year-to-date 2001 and 2002, respectively from the provision of local interconnect and long distance services to Cingular.
NOTE NCONTINGENCIES
REGULATORY MATTERS
Beginning in late 1996, we operated under a price regulation plan approved by the South Carolina Public Service Commission 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 statute, adopted subsequent to the Commissions approval of the earlier plan. The new statute allows telephone companies in South Carolina to operate under price regulation without obtaining approval from the Commission. The election became effective during August 1999. The South Carolina Consumer Advocate petitioned the Commission seeking review of the level of our earnings during the 19961998 period when we operated under the subsequently invalidated price regulation plan. The Commission voted to dismiss 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 Commissions dismissal of the petition. If the Consumer Advocate prevails, the case could be remanded to the South Carolina PSC which could, after considering evidence, order refunds to customers in South Carolina. At this time, we are unable to determine the impact, if any, this may have on future earnings.
Also in 2000, the Florida Public Service Commission issued a proposed agency action stating that our change in 1999 from a late charge based on a percentage of the amounts overdue to a flat rate fee plus an interest charge violated the Florida price regulation statute and voted that approximately $65 should be refunded. We protested the decision. On August 30, 2001, the Commission issued an order adopting its proposed action. We have appealed to the Florida Supreme Court and continue to collect the charges subject to refund. The total amount as of June 30, 2002 subject to potential refund was approximately $100, including accrued interest. No accrual has been recorded in these financial statements related to this matter.
OTHER CLAIMS
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 U.S.C. Section 1981. Plaintiffs purport to bring the claims on behalf of two classes: a class of all African-American hourly workers employed by the Company at any time since April 29, 1998, and a class of all African-American salaried workers employed by the Company 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 early stage of the litigation, the likely outcome of the case cannot be predicted, nor can a reasonable estimate of the amount of loss, if any, be made.
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.
13
(UNAUDITED)
NOTE OSUBSIDIARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION
We have fully and unconditionally guaranteed all of the outstanding debt securities of BST that are subject to the reporting requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. BST 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 condensed consolidating financial information.
BST is listed separately because it has debt securities, registered with the SEC, that we have guaranteed. All other operating subsidiaries that do not have registered securities guaranteed by us are presented in the Other column. The Parent column is comprised of headquarter entities which provide, among other services, executive management, administrative support and financial management to operating subsidiaries. The Parent column also reflects the equity in earnings of all consolidated and unconsolidated subsidiaries. The Adjustments column includes the necessary amounts to eliminate the intercompany balances and transactions between BST, Other and Parent to reconcile to our consolidated financial information.
Condensed Consolidating Statements of Income
For the Three Months Ended June 30, 2001 | ||||||||||||||||||||
BST | Other | Parent | Adjustments | Total | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues
|
$ | 4,658 | $ | 1,604 | $ | 649 | $ | (926 | ) | $ | 5,985 | |||||||||
Total operating expenses
|
3,529 | 1,383 | 452 | (929 | ) | 4,435 | ||||||||||||||
Operating income
|
1,129 | 221 | 197 | 3 | 1,550 | |||||||||||||||
Interest expense
|
164 | 79 | 179 | (88 | ) | 334 | ||||||||||||||
Net earnings (losses) of equity affiliates
|
4 | 99 | 1,118 | (1,115 | ) | 106 | ||||||||||||||
Other income (expense), net
|
2 | 28 | 143 | (91 | ) | 82 | ||||||||||||||
Income before income taxes
|
971 | 269 | 1,279 | (1,115 | ) | 1,404 | ||||||||||||||
Provision for income taxes
|
344 | 155 | 23 | 2 | 524 | |||||||||||||||
Net income
|
$ | 627 | $ | 114 | $ | 1,256 | $ | (1,117 | ) | $ | 880 | |||||||||
For the Three Months Ended June 30, 2002 | ||||||||||||||||||||
BST | Other | Parent | Adjustments | Total | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues
|
$ | 4,492 | $ | 1,538 | $ | 614 | $ | (864 | ) | $ | 5,780 | |||||||||
Total operating expenses
|
3,597 | 1,287 | 518 | (867 | ) | 4,535 | ||||||||||||||
Operating income
|
895 | 251 | 96 | 3 | 1,245 | |||||||||||||||
Interest expense
|
121 | 40 | 197 | (57 | ) | 301 | ||||||||||||||
Net earnings (losses) of equity affiliates
|
5 | 164 | (2,295 | ) | 2,302 | 176 | ||||||||||||||
Other income (expense), net
|
(7 | ) | (459 | ) | 110 | (60 | ) | (416 | ) | |||||||||||
Income before income taxes
|
772 | (84 | ) | (2,286 | ) | 2,302 | 704 | |||||||||||||
Provision for income taxes
|
283 | 119 | 15 | (6 | ) | 411 | ||||||||||||||
Net income
|
$ | 489 | $ | (203 | ) | $ | (2,301 | ) | $ | 2,308 | $ | 293 | ||||||||
For the Six Months Ended June 30, 2001 | ||||||||||||||||||||
BST | Other | Parent | Adjustments | Total | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues
|
$ | 9,233 | $ | 3,180 | $ | 1,193 | $ | (1,702 | ) | $ | 11,904 | |||||||||
Total operating expenses
|
6,745 | 2,785 | 932 | (1,709 | ) | 8,753 | ||||||||||||||
Operating income
|
2,488 | 395 | 261 | 7 | 3,151 | |||||||||||||||
Interest expense
|
331 | 168 | 367 | (172 | ) | 694 | ||||||||||||||
Net earnings (losses) of equity affiliates
|
8 | 176 | 2,274 | (2,268 | ) | 190 | ||||||||||||||
Other income (expense), net
|
10 | 91 | 243 | (180 | ) | 164 | ||||||||||||||
Income before income taxes
|
2,175 | 494 | 2,411 | (2,269 | ) | 2,811 | ||||||||||||||
Provision for (benefit from) income taxes
|
783 | 293 | (39 | ) | 3 | 1,040 | ||||||||||||||
Net income
|
$ | 1,392 | $ | 201 | $ | 2,450 | $ | (2,272 | ) | $ | 1,771 | |||||||||
For the Six Months Ended June 30, 2002 | ||||||||||||||||||||
BST | Other | Parent | Adjustments | Total | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues
|
$ | 9,014 | $ | 2,769 | $ | 1,225 | $ | (1,694 | ) | $ | 11,314 | |||||||||
Total operating expenses
|
6,905 | 2,511 | 945 | (1,700 | ) | 8,661 | ||||||||||||||
Operating income
|
2,109 | 258 | 280 | 6 | 2,653 | |||||||||||||||
Interest expense
|
245 | 90 | 400 | (130 | ) | 605 | ||||||||||||||
Net earnings (losses) of equity affiliates
|
8 | 328 | (1,152 | ) | 1,157 | 341 | ||||||||||||||
Other income (expense), net
|
(11 | ) | (595 | ) | 981 | (138 | ) | 237 | ||||||||||||
Income before income taxes and change in
accounting principle
|
1,861 | (99 | ) | (291 | ) | 1,155 | 2,626 | |||||||||||||
Provision for (benefit from) income taxes
|
692 | 195 | 294 | (3 | ) | 1,178 | ||||||||||||||
Cumulative effect of change in accounting
principle
|
| | (1,285 | ) | | (1,285 | ) | |||||||||||||
Net income
|
$ | 1,169 | $ | (294 | ) | $ | (1,870 | ) | $ | 1,158 | $ | 163 | ||||||||
14
(UNAUDITED)
NOTE OSUBSIDIARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION (Continued)
Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheets
December 31, 2001 | June 30, 2002 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
BST | Other | Parent | Adjustments | Total | BST | Other | Parent | Adjustments | Total | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
ASSETS
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Current assets:
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents
|
$ | 111 | $ | 481 | $ | | $ | | $ | 592 | $ | 60 | $ | 635 | $ | 1,147 | $ | | $ | 1,842 | ||||||||||||||||||||
Accounts receivable,
net |
3,032 | 2,152 | 4,046 | (4,241 | ) | 4,989 | 2,769 | 1,749 | 3,448 | (3,696 | ) | 4,270 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Other current assets
|
520 | 727 | 95 | (68 | ) | 1,274 | 386 | 679 | 225 | (110 | ) | 1,180 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total current assets
|
3,663 | 3,360 | 4,141 | (4,309 | ) | 6,855 | 3,215 | 3,063 | 4,820 | (3,806 | ) | 7,292 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Investments and advances
|
287 | 5,801 | 8,117 | (3,585 | ) | 10,620 | 315 | 6,031 | 6,677 | (3,157 | ) | 9,866 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Property, plant and
equipment, net |
22,085 | 2,580 | 278 | | 24,943 | 21,861 | 2,080 | 306 | | 24,247 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Deferred charges and other
assets |
4,795 | 213 | 180 | (66 | ) | 5,122 | 5,106 | 214 | 294 | (48 | ) | 5,566 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Intangible assets, net
|
1,122 | 3,081 | 288 | 15 | 4,506 | 1,163 | 2,817 | (937 | ) | | 3,043 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total assets
|
$ | 31,952 | $ | 15,035 | $ | 13,004 | $ | (7,945 | ) | $ | 52,046 | $ | 31,660 | $ | 14,205 | $ | 11,160 | $ | (7,011 | ) | $ | 50,014 | ||||||||||||||||||
LIABILITIES AND
SHAREHOLDERS EQUITY |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Current liabilities:
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Debt maturing within one year
|
$ | 3,468 | $ | 794 | $ | 4,261 | $ | (3,412 | ) | $ | 5,111 | $ | 4,272 | $ | 882 | $ | 3,177 | $ | (2,925 | ) | $ | 5,406 | ||||||||||||||||||
Other current liabilities
|
3,063 | 1,568 | 1,182 | (856 | ) | 4,957 | 2,971 | 1,255 | 1,497 | (817 | ) | 4,906 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total current liabilities
|
6,531 | 2,362 | 5,443 | (4,268 | ) | 10,068 | 7,243 | 2,137 | 4,674 | (3,742 | ) | 10,312 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Long-term debt
|
7,353 | 2,313 | 8,450 | (3,102 | ) | 15,014 | 5,482 | 1,426 | 8,280 | (2,553 | ) | 12,635 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Noncurrent liabilities:
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Deferred income taxes
|
2,907 | 1,080 | (840 | ) | 59 | 3,206 | 3,347 | 1,419 | (705 | ) | 15 | 4,076 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Other noncurrent liabilities
|
3,330 | 1,436 | 492 | (97 | ) | 5,161 | 3,327 | 1,116 | 853 | (49 | ) | 5,247 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total noncurrent liabilities
|
6,237 | 2,516 | (348 | ) | (38 | ) | 8,367 | 6,674 | 2,535 | 148 | (34 | ) | 9,323 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Shareholders equity
|
11,831 | 7,844 | (541 | ) | (537 | ) | 18,597 | 12,261 | 8,107 | (1,942 | ) | (682 | ) | 17,744 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total liabilities and
shareholders equity |
$ | 31,952 | $ | 15,035 | $ | 13,004 | $ | (7,945 | ) | $ | 52,046 | $ | 31,660 | $ | 14,205 | $ | 11,160 | $ | (7,011 | ) | $ | 50,014 | ||||||||||||||||||
15
(UNAUDITED)
NOTE OSUBSIDIARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Condensed Consolidating Cash Flow Statements
For the Six Months Ended June 30, 2001 | ||||||||||||||||||||
BST | Other | Parent | Adjustments | Total | ||||||||||||||||
Cash flows from operating activities
|
$ | 3,217 | $ | 599 | $ | (165 | ) | $ | 276 | $ | 3,927 | |||||||||
Cash flows from investing activities
|
(2,859 | ) | (301 | ) | (704 | ) | 1,175 | (2,689 | ) | |||||||||||
Cash flows from financing activities
|
(317 | ) | (327 | ) | 454 | (1,451 | ) | (1,641 | ) | |||||||||||
Net increase (decrease) in cash
|
$ | 41 | $ | (29 | ) | $ | (415 | ) | $ | | $ | (403 | ) | |||||||
For the Six Months Ended June 30, 2002 | ||||||||||||||||||||
BST | Other | Parent | Adjustments | Total | ||||||||||||||||
Cash flows from operating activities
|
$ | 3,601 | $ | 595 | $ | 1,203 | $ | (1,206 | ) | $ | 4,193 | |||||||||
Cash flows from investing activities
|
(1,765 | ) | (146 | ) | 1,317 | 504 | (90 | ) | ||||||||||||
Cash flows from financing activities
|
(1,887 | ) | (295 | ) | (1,373 | ) | 702 | (2,853 | ) | |||||||||||
Net increase (decrease) in cash
|
$ | (51 | ) | $ | 154 | $ | 1,147 | $ | | $ | 1,250 | |||||||||
NOTE PDOMESTIC ADVERTISING AND PUBLISHING
During first quarter 2002, we determined that the unbilled receivable balance at our advertising and publishing subsidiary was overstated. As a result, we recorded a reduction to advertising and publishing revenues of $163 million, or $101 million after tax, to adjust the unbilled receivable balance. Based on our analysis of this matter, we have concluded that the overstatement was caused by a number of customer adjustments that were not properly posted to the general ledger. Our analysis indicates that: this issue occurred over an extended period of time; no one period was materially misstated and operating trends were not affected; no regulatory requirements have been affected; we do not have any debt or any covenants with which to comply that are affected by this error; and the error did not result from an unlawful transaction.
NOTE QGUATEMALA
As a result of continuing poor economic conditions in Latin America and increasing competition, the long-term value of our equity investment in Guatemala has declined significantly. Our review indicated the declines in fair value below carrying value were other-than-temporary and, accordingly, we recorded an impairment loss of $62 with no tax benefit. This charge reduced the carrying amount of our investment to its fair value.
16
Item 2. Managements Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
BELLSOUTH CORPORATION
For a more complete understanding of our industry, the drivers of our business and our current period results, you should read the following Managements Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations in conjunction with our latest annual report on Form 10-K, our previous quarterly report on Form 10-Q, and our other filings with the SEC.
Key financial and operating data for the second quarter 2001 and 2002 and the respective year-to-date periods are as follows. All references to earnings per share are on a diluted basis:
For the Three Months | For the Six Months | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Ended June 30, | Ended June 30, | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
% | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
2001 | 2002 | Change | 2001 | 2002 | Change | ||||||||||||||||||||
Results of operations:
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||
Operating revenues
|
$ | 5,985 | $ | 5,780 | (3.4 | ) | $ | 11,904 | 11,314 | (5.0 | ) | ||||||||||||||
Operating expenses
|
4,435 | 4,535 | 2.3 | 8,753 | 8,661 | (1.1 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||
Operating income
|
1,550 | 1,245 | (19.7 | ) | 3,151 | 2,653 | (15.8 | ) | |||||||||||||||||
Interest expense
|
334 | 301 | (9.9 | ) | 694 | 605 | (12.8 | ) | |||||||||||||||||
Gain on sale of operations
|
| | N/M | * | | 1,318 | N/M | ||||||||||||||||||
Net earnings of equity affiliates
|
108 | 176 | 63.0 | 190 | 341 | 79.5 | |||||||||||||||||||
Other income (expense), net
|
80 | (416 | ) | N/M | 164 | (1,081 | ) | N/M | |||||||||||||||||
Provision for income taxes
|
524 | 411 | (21.6 | ) | 1,040 | 1,178 | 13.3 | ||||||||||||||||||
Cumulative effect of change in accounting
principle
|
| | N/M | | (1,285 | ) | N/M | ||||||||||||||||||
Net income
|
$ | 880 | $ | 293 | (66.7 | ) | $ | 1,771 | $ | 163 | (90.8 | ) | |||||||||||||
Earnings per share
|
$ | 0.47 | $ | 0.16 | (66.0 | ) | $ | 0.94 | $ | 0.09 | (90.4 | ) | |||||||||||||
Cash flow data:
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||
Cash provided by operating activities
|
$ | 2,254 | $ | 2,128 | (5.6 | ) | $ | 3,927 | $ | 4,193 | 6.8 | ||||||||||||||
Cash (used for) provided by investing activities
|
$ | (1,749 | ) | $ | (835 | ) | 52.3 | $ | (2,689 | ) | $ | (90 | ) | N/M | |||||||||||
Cash used for financing activities
|
$ | (559 | ) | $ | (1,512 | ) | N/M | $ | (1,641 | ) | $ | (2,853 | ) | (73.9 | ) | ||||||||||
Other:
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||
Effective tax rate
|
37.3 | % | 58.4 | % | N/M | 37.0 | % | 44.9 | % | N/M | |||||||||||||||
Average debt balances:
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||
Short-term debt
|
$ | 6,039 | $ | 5,256 | (13.0 | ) | $ | 6,281 | $ | 4,948 | (21.2 | ) | |||||||||||||
Long-term debt
|
$ | 13,431 | $ | 13,606 | 1.3 | $ | 13,197 | $ | 14,213 | 7.7 | |||||||||||||||
Total average debt balance
|
$ | 19,470 | $ | 18,862 | (3.1 | ) | $ | 19,478 | $ | 19,161 | (1.6 | ) | |||||||||||||
* | Not Meaningful |
17
The following events impacted operating revenues and
Impact on Reported Results | ||||||||||||||||
Increase (Decrease) | ||||||||||||||||
Income | ||||||||||||||||
Operating | Operating | Before | Net | |||||||||||||
Revenues | Expense | Taxes | Income | |||||||||||||
2001
|
||||||||||||||||
Postretirement benefit expense for former
wireless employees
|
$ | | $ | 72 | $ | (72 | ) | $ | (47 | ) | ||||||
Adjustment to ISP accrual
|
| 143 | (143 | ) | (88 | ) | ||||||||||
$ | | $ | 215 | $ | (215 | ) | $ | (135 | ) | |||||||
2002
|
||||||||||||||||
Domestic advertising and publishing unbilled
receivable adjustment
|
$ | (163 | ) | $ | | $ | (163 | ) | $ | (101 | ) | |||||
Workforce reduction
|
| 357 | (357 | ) | (225 | ) | ||||||||||
$ | (163 | ) | $ | 357 | $ | (520 | ) | $ | (326 | ) | ||||||
Postretirement benefit expense for former wireless employees The amount shown represents expense for changes in postretirement medical benefit obligations for the wireless employees that were transitioned to Cingular.
Adjustment to ISP accrual Represents the adjustment of the accrual for prior claims from competitive local exchange carriers regarding reciprocal compensation for ISP traffic.
Domestic advertising and publishing unbilled receivable adjustment During first quarter 2002, BellSouth determined that the unbilled receivable balance was overstated. As a result, BellSouth recorded a reduction to advertising and publishing revenues.
Workforce reduction The amount shown represents the expense to reduce our workforce by approximately 5,000 positions. We are eliminating these positions in an effort to reduce operating costs in response to a slow economy, increased competition and regulatory pricing pressures. See note H to our consolidated financial statements for further discussion.
Operating Revenues
Operating revenues decreased $205 in second quarter 2002 and $590 for the year-to-date period as compared to the same periods in 2001. Excluding the impact of the preceding items, revenues decreased $427 for the year-to-date period as compared to the same period in 2001. The remaining decreases reflect:
| A decline in communications group revenues due to: continuing weak demand intensified by business failures, including failures in the telecommunications industry, and continued market share losses, most notably in the wholesale and business markets; loss of retail access lines, specifically in the small business and mid-market segments; and unfavorable impacts from the movement of wholesale customers from a resale basis to lower-priced unbundled network elements. Revenue growth was also impacted by product substitution and, to a lesser degree, by the discontinuation of our payphone business and lower collocation rents. These decreases were offset by growth in retail digital and data revenues, in wholesale long distance revenues and, to a lesser degree, in calling features and the impact of SAB 101. |
| A decline in revenues at the Latin America group. Revenues in this segment were negatively impacted by the effect of foreign currency exchange rates. |
| An increase in revenues in the second quarter and in the year-to-date period from the domestic advertising and publishing group driven by timing of directory publishing schedules. |
| An other revenues decrease for the second quarter and year-to-date period, respectively, due to the loss of wireless handset captive insurance revenues. |
Operating Expenses
Total operating expenses increased $100 during the second quarter 2002 and decreased $92 for the year-to-date period as compared to the same periods in 2001. Excluding the impact of the preceding events, total operating expenses decreased $114 during the second quarter 2002 and decreased $234 for the year-to-date period as compared to the same periods in 2001.
| Operational and support expenses decreased $224 during the second quarter 2002 and $420 in the year-to-date period 2002. Excluding the impact of the previously discussed items, operational and support expenses decreased $81 for the second quarter 2002 and decreased $205 for the year-to-date as compared to the same periods in 2001. |
| Expenses in the communications group increased in the second quarter 2002 and in the year-to-date period as a result of higher volumes in |
18
BellSouths wholesale long distance businesses, higher uncollectibles due to bankruptcies of telecom sector customers and continued economic slowing, and higher employee benefit costs driven primarily by higher pension and retiree benefits and increasing medical costs and the impact of SAB 101, offset by lower salary and wages and employee expenses due to force reductions. | ||
| Expenses in the Latin America segment decreased in the second quarter 2002 and for the year-to-date period driven primarily by changes in foreign currency exchange rates. | |
| Other contributing factors include decreases in headquarters related expenses, which include a reduction in expenses related to the exit of the wireless entertainment business. |
| Depreciation and amortization decreased $33 in second quarter 2002 and $29 in the year-to-date period. These decreases are due to a decline in expenses in the Latin America segment for second quarter 2002 and for the year-to-date period, reflecting the effect of foreign currency exchange rates, the cessation of amortization of goodwill due to the adoption of SFAS No. 142 and revisions to depreciation at the Colombian operations, which resulted in lower depreciation expense in first quarter 2002. The decreases were partially offset by increases at the communications group reflecting additional deployment of capitalized software and investment in the network. |
Interest expense
Interest expense decreased $33 during second quarter 2002 and $89 for the year-to-date period as compared to the same periods in 2001. Lower short-term interest rates and lower average principal amounts outstanding on short-term and long-term borrowings drove the decrease.
Gain on sale of operations
Gain on sale of operations for year-to-date 2002 includes a gain of $1,335 related to the conversion of our ownership interest in E-Plus and a loss of $17 associated with the exit of one of our Brazilian advertising and publishing companies.
Net earnings of equity affiliates
Earnings from our unconsolidated businesses increased $68 in second quarter 2002 and $151 for the year-to-date period compared to the same periods in 2001. The increases were attributable to no longer recording losses for our investment in BCP. Losses not recorded were $69 for the second quarter and the year-to-date 2002, and a decrease in losses from our former wireless subsidiary in Germany of $20 in second quarter 2002 and $45 for year-to-date 2002. These increases were slightly offset by decreases in equity in earnings from Cingular of $52 and $45 for the second quarter and year-to-date period, respectively.
Other income (expense), net
Other income (expense), net includes interest income, gains (losses) on disposition of assets, foreign currency gains (losses), gains (losses) on the sale and impairments of investments and miscellaneous nonoperating income.
The quarter over quarter decrease of $177 is primarily driven by: a $36 increase in losses associated with the sale of Qwest shares; $51 of expense in second quarter 2002 to reduce our remaining investment in Qwest to market value; and a $62 loss related to an impairment of our investment in BellSouth Guatemala.
The year over year decrease of $664 is primarily driven by: $275 of expense in first quarter 2002 from the recognition of an impairment on shareholder loans to our Brazilian equity investments; $108 of expense in first quarter 2002 for the recognition of a guarantee on a portion of the Brazilian operations debt; a $266 increase in losses associated with the sale and impairment of Qwest shares; and $62 for an impairment of our investment in BellSouth Guatemala. These expenses and losses were partially offset by a $67 increase in minority interests at our Latin American operations.
Foreign currency transaction losses
Foreign currency transaction losses, which relate primarily to U.S. dollar denominated debt in Latin America, increased $319 and $581 for the second quarter and year-to-date period, respectively, compared to comparable periods in 2001. The majority of the losses in 2002 were driven by the devaluation of the Argentinean peso.
Provision for income taxes
The provision for income taxes decreased $113 in second quarter 2002 and increased $138 year-to-date as compared to comparable periods in the prior year. The effective tax rate increased from 37.3% in second quarter 2001 to 58.4% in second quarter 2002 and from 37.0% in year to 2001 to 44.9% in year-to-date 2002. The increases in the effective tax rate were driven by recording a 100% foreign tax valuation allowance, reserving against the tax benefits generated by losses at our operations in Argentina. The valuation allowance is necessary due to the lack of clarity in the tax law and potentially limited tax carry-forward period.
19
Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle
This amount reflects a one-time charge related to the adoption of new accounting rules for goodwill, known as Statement of Financial Accounting Standard No. 142 (SFAS No. 142). The non-cash charge reduced the value of goodwill on the companys balance sheet by approximately $1.3 billion. The effect of SFAS No. 142 was recorded as a cumulative effect of accounting change as of January 1, 2002 to BellSouths first quarter 2002 results. See note B to our consolidated financial statements for further discussion.
Our reportable segments reflect strategic business units that offer similar products and services and/or serve similar customers. We have four reportable operating segments:
| Communications group; | |
| Domestic wireless; | |
| Latin America; and | |
| Domestic advertising and publishing. |
We have included the operations of all other businesses falling below the reporting threshold in the All other businesses segment.
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 K to the consolidated financial statements for a reconciliation of segment results to the 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.
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.
20
For the Three Months | For the Six Months | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Ended June 30, | Ended June 30, | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
% | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2001 | 2002 | Change | 2001 | 2002 | Change | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Results of Operations
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Segment operating revenues:
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Local service
|
$ | 2,952 | $ | 2,939 | (0.4 | ) | $ | 5,850 | $ | 5,880 | 0.5 | ||||||||||||||||
Network access
|
1,224 | 1,182 | (3.4 | ) | 2,459 | 2,387 | (2.9 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||
Long distance
|
175 | 213 | 21.7 | 346 | 418 | 20.8 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Other communications
|
434 | 337 | (22.4 | ) | 801 | 668 | (16.6 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||
Total segment operating revenues
|
4,785 | 4,671 | (2.4 | ) | 9,456 | 9,353 | (1.1 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||
Segment operating expenses:
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Operational and support expenses
|
2,342 | 2,361 | 0.8 | 4,527 | 4,665 | 3.0 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Depreciation and amortization
|
1,013 | 1,023 | 1.0 | 1,989 | 2,038 | 2.5 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Total segment operating expenses
|
3,355 | 3,384 | 0.9 | 6,516 | 6,703 | 2.9 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Segment operating income
|
1,430 | 1,287 | (10.0 | ) | 2,940 | 2,650 | (9.9 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||
Segment net income
|
$ | 819 | $ | 729 | (11.0 | ) | $ | 1,674 | $ | 1,499 | (10.5 | ) | |||||||||||||||
Key Indicators
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Access line counts:
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Access lines(1):
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Residential retail
|
16,520 | 15,777 | (4.5 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Residential wholesale
|
605 | 988 | 63.3 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Business retail
|
7,795 | 7,517 | (3.6 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Business wholesale
|
517 | 662 | 28.0 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Other
|
229 | 194 | (15.3 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Total access lines
|
25,666 | 25,138 | (2.1 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Access line equivalents(2)
|
33,993 | 42,766 | 25.8 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total equivalent access lines
|
59,659 | 67,904 | 13.8 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Resold lines and unbundled network elements
|
1,501 | 2,070 | 37.9 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
DSL customers
|
381 | 803 | 110.8 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Access minutes of use (millions)
|
27,986 | 25,073 | (10.4 | ) | 56,416 | 50,656 | (10.2 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||
Toll messages (millions)
|
111 | 97 | (12.6 | ) | 222 | 193 | (13.1 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||
Digital and data services revenues
|
$ | 1,014 | $ | 1,075 | 6.0 | $ | 1,982 | $ | 2,179 | 9.9 | |||||||||||||||||
Calling feature revenues
|
$ | 573 | $ | 589 | 2.8 | $ | 1,136 | $ | 1,181 | 4.0 | |||||||||||||||||
Capital expenditures
|
$ | 1,417 | $ | 918 | (35.2 | ) | $ | 2,894 | $ | 1,840 | (36.4 | ) | |||||||||||||||
(1) | Access lines includes an adjustment to convert ISDN lines to a switched access line basis for comparability purposes. |
(2) | Access line equivalents represent a conversion of non-switched data circuits to a switched access line basis and are presented for comparability purposes. Equivalents are calculated by converting high-speed/high-capacity data circuits to the equivalent of a switched access line based on transport capacity. While the revenues generated by access line equivalents have a directional relationship with these counts, growth rates cannot be compared on an equivalent basis. |
Segment operating revenues
Local service
Local service revenues decreased $13 in the second quarter 2002 and increased $30 for the year-to-date period when compared to the same periods in 2001. The year-to-date increases are attributable to strong growth in digital and data revenues and, to a lesser extent, by our marketing of calling features. The impact of net SAB 101 revenue deferrals increased revenues $54 in the second quarter and $89 in the year-to-date period. These increases were offset by corresponding increases in expenses. Those increases were substantially offset by a decrease in basic and extended area service revenues.
The core business was affected by a slowing economy, competitive impacts related to over 300 active carriers authorized to provide telecommunications services in our region and technological changes manifested in the shifting of customers from wireline to wireless and second line customers to high-speed access service.
Residential access lines decreased 2.1% and business access lines decreased 1.6%. We continue to experience a shift in retail to wholesale mix of access lines.
At June 30, 2002, we provided 2.1 million wholesale lines to competitors, on both a resale and unbundled network elements (UNE) basis. At June 30, 2002, UNEs accounted for approximately 74% of our wholesale lines versus at June 30, 2001 when they represented 51%. Because of the larger discounts associated with UNEs versus resale, this shift to UNEs is negatively impacting our revenue growth. We also estimate that we have lost an additional 2.3 million lines to facilities-based competitors.
21
Revenues from optional calling features such as caller ID, call waiting, call return and voicemail service increased $16, or 2.8%, during second quarter 2002 and $45, or 4.0%, for the year-to-date period when compared to the same periods in 2001. These increases were driven by growth in calling feature usage through our Complete Choice® Package, a one-price bundled offering of over 20 calling features.
Network access
Network access revenues decreased $42 in the second quarter of 2002 when compared to the same 2001 period, and $72 year over year. Revenues from dedicated high-capacity data line offerings grew approximately $29 quarter over quarter and $61 year over year as high-capacity users increased their use of our network. These increases were offset by a $70 decline in the second quarter and $138 decline for the year-to-date period in revenues derived from switched access services resulting from a 10.4% decrease quarter over quarter and 10.2% decrease year over year in access minutes-of-use volumes and a shift in the basis of wholesale line sales from resale to UNEs, which do not provide switched access revenues. These volumes continue to be negatively impacted by migration of minutes to dedicated digital and data services offerings which are fixed-charge based rather than minute-of-use based, competition from competitive local exchange carriers whose traffic completely bypasses our network, and the effect of alternative services such as wireless and Internet e-mail.
Long distance
Long distance revenues increased $38 quarter-over-quarter and $72 for the year-to-date period. Strong growth of $47 quarter over quarter and $107 year over year in wholesale long distance and prepaid long distance cards was partially offset by $9 of losses quarter over quarter and $35 of losses year over year in intraLATA toll revenues as toll messages declined 12.6% for the quarter and 13.1% for the year. Growth in wholesale long distance was driven by increased sales to second and third tier long distance carriers and higher volumes related to Cingular driven by proliferation of free long distance plans. IntraLATA toll losses are driven by the expansion of our local calling areas and the increased demand for Area Plus services, which are included in local service.
During the second quarter 2002, we obtained the right to provide interLATA services in Georgia and Louisiana. While this did not significantly impact reported amounts for the second quarter 2002, we expect increases in future periods.
Other communications
Other communications revenue decreased $97 during second quarter 2002 and $133 for the year-to-date period. Reductions in payphone and collocation rent were the primary drivers of the decrease. BellSouth continues to transition out of the payphone business by year-end 2003.
Segment operating expenses
Operational and support expenses
Operational and support expenses increased $19 during second quarter 2002 and $138 for the year-to-date period.
Higher volumes in the wholesale long distance business contributed to an increase in expense of $39 in the second quarter and $82 for the year-to-date period. The provision for uncollectibles expense increased $86 and $127 in the second quarter and year-to-date periods due to bankruptcies of telecom sector customers and continued weak economic conditions. Employee benefit costs were up in both periods as pension income, net of postretirement benefit costs, was $25 lower in the second quarter and $50 lower for the year-to-date period. Increased medical and prescription drug claim costs also contributed to the increase.
The impact of net SAB 101 expense deferrals increased expenses $54 in the second quarter and $89 in the year-to-date period. These increases were offset by corresponding increases in revenues.
These cost increases were partially offset by work force reductions and lower overtime for network repair and maintenance activity, primarily as a result of reduced business volumes, that resulted in decreased expenses of $70 and $141 in the second quarter and year-to-date periods, respectively. Other employee-related expenses such as travel, training and conferences decreased $26 in the second quarter and $55 for the year-to-date period. Non-employee related expenses such as contract services, commissions, rents and materials and supplies costs decreased $86 in the second quarter and $95 for the year-to-date period in response to lower demand and the current competitive environment.
Depreciation and amortization
Depreciation and amortization expense increased $10 during second quarter 2002 and $49 for the year-to-date period when compared to the same periods in 2001. The increases are primarily attributable to amortization of capitalized software and depreciation resulting from higher levels of net property, plant and equipment partially offset by declines in the overall composite depreciation rate.
22
During fourth quarter 2000, we contributed our domestic wireless operations to a joint venture with SBC Communications, forming the second largest wireless carrier in the U.S., Cingular. We own an approximate 40% economic interest in the venture and share control with SBC. We account for the investment under the equity method. For management purposes, we evaluate our domestic wireless segment based on our proportionate share of Cingulars results. Accordingly, results for our domestic wireless segment reflect the proportional consolidation of approximately 40% of Cingulars results. Customers and related revenues for the periods ended June 30, 2001 do not reflect SBCs September 2001 contribution of over 500,000 customers in their Puerto Rico operations. Excluding the impact of these customers on our results for the three and six months ended June 30, 2002, our domestic wireless segment revenue growth was 4.2% and 5.2% for the three and six months ended June 30, 2002, respectively.
For the Three Months | For the Six Months | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Ended June 30, | Ended June 30, | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
% | % | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
2001 | 2002 | Change | 2001 | 2002 | Change | |||||||||||||||||||||
Segment operating revenues:
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Service revenues
|
$ | 1,312 | $ | 1,398 | 6.6 | $ | 2,517 | $ | 2,724 | 8.2 | ||||||||||||||||
Equipment revenues
|
102 | 102 | 0.0 | 207 | 193 | (6.8 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||
Total segment operating revenues
|
1,414 | 1,500 | 6.1 | 2,724 | 2,917 | 7.1 | ||||||||||||||||||||
Segment operating expenses:
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Operational and support expenses
|
921 | 1,028 | 11.6 | 1,846 | 1,999 | 8.3 | ||||||||||||||||||||
Depreciation and amortization
|
190 | 183 | (3.7 | ) | 370 | 363 | (1.9 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||
Total segment operating expenses
|
1,111 | 1,211 | 9.0 | 2,216 | 2,362 | 6.6 | ||||||||||||||||||||
Segment operating income
|
303 | 289 | (4.6 | ) | 508 | 555 | 9.3 | |||||||||||||||||||
Segment net income
|
$ | 127 | $ | 99 | (22.0 | ) | $ | 217 | $ | 191 | (12.0 | ) | ||||||||||||||
Customers (000s)
|
8,258 | 8,873 | 7.4 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Average monthly revenue per customer
|
$ | 53 | $ | 52 | (1.9 | ) | $ | 52 | $ | 51 | (1.9 | ) |
Segment operating revenues
The rate of customer growth was impacted by churn reflecting management initiatives to migrate analog customers to digital services and reduce the mix of prepaid and reseller customers in Cingulars subscriber base.
These initiatives include the following:
| increasing pricing for postpaid analog customers; | |
| reducing the subsidy for handsets sold to prepaid customers; | |
| shortening the expiration date of new prepaid cards to 90 days from 180 days from the date of issue; | |
| removing from our count of resale customers those who were inactive for 60 days or longer; and | |
| deterioration in the reseller customer segment. |
Cingulars focus over the past several quarters on digital contract customers, who typically experience lower churn rates and generate higher revenues, but which entail higher acquisition costs, is reflected in their second quarter results. Net customer additions for this group in the second quarter 2002 were 248 thousand, offset by net decreases of 107 thousand analog, prepaid and reseller customers.
Segment operating revenues grew $86 during second quarter 2002 and $193 for the year-to-date period when compared to the same 2001 periods. Service revenues increased $86 quarter over quarter and $207 year over year, primarily as a result of higher local service revenues associated with growth in the customer base and the adoption of new national rate plans which offer larger numbers of included minutes and bundling of roaming and long distance offerings. Although service revenues increased for the quarter and year-to-date, the growth rate continues to decline. This decline reflects economic slowdown, higher penetration levels and increasing competition in all markets.
Revenues derived from the first quarter 2002 addition of a wireless handset captive insurance subsidiary contributed $16 to the increase for the quarter and $29 to the increase for the year. These increases were offset by declines in roaming and long distance revenues reflecting the migration of customers to the new national plans. Roaming revenues derived from the provision of access to customers of competitors declined as competitors continue to negotiate and pay lower rates as
23
Average monthly usage by customers increased during the first quarter reflecting the impact of the new customer plans. However, increases in revenues driven by growth in minutes of use were partially offset by lower per-minute pricing.
Segment operating expenses
Operational and support expenses
Operational and support expenses increased $107 during second quarter 2002 and $153 for the year-to-date period when compared to the same 2001 periods. Cingulars expense growth was driven by increased service costs resulting from a rise in minutes of use, higher long distance costs driven by the bundling of long distance offerings in new rate plans, and high customer acquisition costs per customer attributable to increase in post-pay digital customer adds. Also impacting expense growth for the second quarter, selling, general and administrative costs increased $72, or 15.1% compared to second quarter 2001. The increase was attributable to higher residual and upgrade commissions, higher billing and system development costs and costs associated with the launch of service in New York City. Slightly offsetting these increases were declines in branding expenses associated with the introduction of the Cingular brand name last year and lower interconnection costs and efficiencies attributable to greater digital usage.
Depreciation and amortization
Depreciation and amortization decreased during second quarter 2002 and year-to-date 2002 3.7% and 1.9%, respectively, when compared to the same 2001 periods. Depreciation expense attributable to higher levels of gross property, plant and equipment was largely offset by decreases associated with the contribution of network assets to a joint venture. Amortization expense declined $20 quarter over quarter and $39 year over year as a result of the cessation of amortization of licenses and goodwill due to the implementation of SFAS No. 142. Amortization decreases exceeded depreciation increases for the quarter and the year-to-date compared to same periods in the prior year.
The Latin America segment is comprised of our investments in wireless businesses in eleven countries in Latin America. Consolidated operations include our businesses in Argentina, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Nicaragua, Peru and Venezuela. All other businesses, the most significant being the wireless operations in Brazil, are accounted for under the equity method, and accordingly their results are reported as Net earnings (losses) of equity affiliates.
For the Three Months | For the Six Months | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Ended June 30, | Ended June 30, | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
% | % | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
2001 | 2002 | Change | 2001 | 2002 | Change | |||||||||||||||||||||
Segment operating revenues:
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Service revenues
|
$ | 629 | $ | 481 | (23.5 | ) | $ | 1,271 | $ | 1,027 | (19.2 | ) | ||||||||||||||
Equipment revenues
|
97 | 98 | 1.0 | 236 | 208 | (11.9 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||
Advertising and publishing revenues
|
23 | 19 | (17.4 | ) | 24 | 22 | (8.3 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||
Total segment operating revenues
|
749 | 598 | (20.0 | ) | 1,531 | 1,257 | (17.9 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||
Operating expenses:
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Operational and support expenses
|
505 | 400 | (20.8 | ) | 1,135 | 878 | (22.6 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||
Depreciation and amortization
|
155 | 118 | (23.9 | ) | 309 | 236 | (23.6 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||
Total operating expenses
|
660 | 518 | (21.5 | ) | 1,444 | 1,114 | (22.9 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||
Operating income
|
89 | 80 | (10.1 | ) | 87 | 143 | 64.4 | |||||||||||||||||||
Net losses of equity affiliates
|
(7 | ) | (2 | ) | N/M | * | (20 | ) | (8 | ) | N/M | |||||||||||||||
Segment net income (loss)
|
$ | (7 | ) | $ | 14 | N/M | $ | (70 | ) | $ | 18 | N/M | ||||||||||||||
Customers(a) (000s)
|
8,008 | 7,840 | (2.1 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Average monthly revenue per customer
(a)
|
$ | 26 | $ | 20 | (23.1 | ) | $ | 27 | $ | 22 | (18.5 | ) | ||||||||||||||
* | Not Meaningful |
(a) | The amounts shown are for our consolidated properties and do not include customer data for our unconsolidated properties. |
Segment operating revenues
Segment operating revenues decreased $151 compared to second quarter 2001 and $274 compared to year-to-date 2001 due to the continued weakening of our Latin American operations local currencies against the U.S. Dollar. Significant economic challenges continue in Argentina and Venezuela, two of BellSouths largest Latin
24
These decreases in Argentina and Venezuela were partially offset by increases in service revenues totaling $40 for the second quarter and $70 year-to-date at our operations in Colombia and Ecuador, attributable to growth in the customer bases of those operations. Revenues from complementary business ventures in Venezuela, primarily wholesale long distance voice, data access and transport and Internet access also increased by $34 in second quarter 2002 and $61 in the year-to-date period.
Segment operating expenses
Operational and support expenses
Operational and support expenses in the Latin America segment decreased $105 in the second quarter 2002 and $257 for the year-to-date period driven primarily by changes in foreign currency exchange rates. If foreign currency exchange rates had remained constant with the comparable periods in 2001, these expenses would have increased by $28 for the quarter and decreased by $37 for the year-to-date period. The remaining year-to-date reduction in expenses is primarily attributable to a 9.8% decline in gross customer additions and targeted reductions in administrative costs.
Depreciation and amortization
Depreciation expense decreased $8 quarter over quarter and $26 year over year as a result of lower depreciation in Colombia due to a true-up of depreciation on network assets. Amortization expense decreased $29 quarter over quarter and $47 year over year as a result of the cessation of amortization of goodwill due to the adoption of SFAS No. 142.
Net losses of equity affiliates
Net losses from our Latin America equity affiliates improved $5 to $(2) in second quarter 2002 and improved $12 to $(8) for the year-to-date period.
Our domestic advertising and publishing segment is comprised of companies in the U.S. that publish, print, sell advertising in and perform related services concerning alphabetical and classified telephone directories and electronic product offerings.
For the Three | For the Six | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Months Ended | Months Ended | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
June 30, | June 30, | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
% | % | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
2001 | 2002 | Change | 2001 | 2002 | Change | |||||||||||||||||||||
Segment operating revenues
|
$ | 443 | $ | 543 | 22.6 | $ | 880 | $ | 926 | 5.2 | ||||||||||||||||
Segment operating expenses:
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Operational and support expenses
|
241 | 296 | 22.8 | 445 | 501 | 12.6 | ||||||||||||||||||||
Depreciation and amortization
|
6 | 8 | 33.3 | 13 | 14 | 7.7 | ||||||||||||||||||||
Total segment operating expenses
|
247 | 304 | 23.1 | 458 | 515 | 12.4 | ||||||||||||||||||||
Segment operating income
|
196 | 239 | 21.9 | 422 | 411 | (2.6 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||
Segment net income
|
$ | 119 | $ | 146 | 22.7 | $ | 256 | $ | 250 | (2.3 | ) | |||||||||||||||
Segment operating revenues
Revenues increased $100 during second quarter 2002 and $46 for the year-to-date period when compared to the same 2001 periods. The increases are principally a result of the net change in the timing of directory publications. The timing of these directory publications was changed for many reasons including in response to competitive pressures and to streamline and maximize the efficiency of the selling and publication schedules. Absent these factors and other adjustments, revenues for the segment would have decreased 0.3% for the quarter and 0.8% for the year. Negative growth is attributable to continued weak economic conditions.
Segment operating expenses
Operational and support expenses increased $55 in second quarter 2002 and $56 for the year-to-date period. This increase is primarily due to higher bad debt expense of $62 and $72 for the second quarter and the year-to-date, respectfully, partially offset by lower printing and distribution costs.
25
All other businesses primarily consist of a captive insurance subsidiary and equity investments in wireless operations in Israel, Denmark and our former operations in Germany.
For the Three | For the Six | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Months Ended | Months Ended | |||||||||||||||||||||||
June 30, | June 30, | |||||||||||||||||||||||
% | % | |||||||||||||||||||||||
2001 | 2002 | Change | 2001 | 2002 | Change | |||||||||||||||||||
Segment operating revenues
|
$ | 34 | $ | 25 | (26.5 | ) | $ | 67 | $ | 50 | (25.4 | ) | ||||||||||||
Segment operating expenses
|
27 | 15 | (44.4 | ) | 54 | 30 | (44.4 | ) | ||||||||||||||||
Segment operating income
|
7 | 10 | 42.9 | 13 | 20 | 53.8 | ||||||||||||||||||
Net earnings of equity affiliates
|
(9 | ) | 14 | N/M | * | (29 | ) | 26 | N/M | |||||||||||||||
Segment net income (loss)
|
$ | (4 | ) | $ | (34 | ) | N/M | $ | (21 | ) | $ | (15 | ) | 28.6 | ||||||||||
* | Not Meaningful |
Segment operating results
Revenues and expenses were derived primarily from the sale of insurance on customer premises equipment and amortization of deferred revenues related to a transaction with Crown Castle to monetize wireless towers in 1999. The decrease in operating revenues and expenses is attributable to the discontinuance of sales of insurance on wireless handsets effective first quarter 2002.
Net earnings of equity affiliates increased $23 quarter over quarter and $55 year over year, attributable to improved operating results at our former German operation as well as higher income from the operations in both Denmark and Israel.
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 June 30, 2002, our corporate debt rating was Aa3 from Moodys Investor Service and A+ from Standard and Poors. Our short-term credit rating at June 30, 2002 was P-1 from Moodys and A-1 from Standard and Poors. Our commercial paper program as of June 30, 2002 was $8.0 billion, with $1.8 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. Furthermore, we have $2.1 billion in unused committed back-up lines of credit available in case we are unable to access the commercial paper market. We also have a registration statement on file with the SEC under which $2.3 billion of long-term debt securities could be issued. While current liabilities exceed current assets, 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 needs of our business for the next twelve months.
Net cash provided by (used for):
For the Six Months | ||||||||||||||||
Ended June 30, | ||||||||||||||||
2001 | 2002 | Change | ||||||||||||||
Operating activities
|
$ | 3,927 | $ | 4,193 | $ | 266 | 6.8 | % | ||||||||
Investing activities
|
$ | (2,689 | ) | $ | (90 | ) | $ | 2,599 | N/M | * | ||||||
Financing activities
|
$ | (1,641 | ) | $ | (2,853 | ) | $ | (1,212 | ) | (73.9 | )% | |||||
* | Not Meaningful |
Net cash provided by operating activities
Cash generated by operations increased $266 in 2002 compared to 2001. The increase was driven primarily by working capital changes. These working capital impacts, which improved current year-to-date operating cash flows in comparison to comparable period in 2001, were slightly off-set by decreases in operating income and related margins.
Net cash used for investing activities
During 2002, we generated proceeds of $1,880 from the sale of our investment in KPN and Qwest and portions of our investment in TCO as well as proceeds
26
Net cash used for financing activities
During 2002 we reduced our short-term borrowings by almost $1.4 billion and long-term notes by $568 and paid dividends of $.38 per share totaling $713. Our debt to total capitalization ratio of 50.3% at June 30, 2002 decreased from 52.0% at December 31, 2001.
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 2001 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.
Domestic Economic Trends
On average, the economy of our nine-state region tends to closely track the U.S. economy. Real GDP growth for 2002 is expected to be 2.7 percent, increasing to 4 percent in 2003. Growth in the first half of the year was driven largely by consumer spending and by restocking of inventories. Business spending on plant and equipment is not expected to contribute significantly until well into the second half of the year when corporate profits begin to improve. Employment growth in the region, which has been closely correlated with various measures of BellSouths business performance in the past, is expected to gather pace in the second half of 2002. We expect 2002 employment growth in our region to be below one percent, but improving to 3 percent next year.
Real personal income growth in our nine-state region is expected to average 3.3 percent in 2002 and 3 percent in 2003. Residential construction activity, which did not slump in the recession, is expected to stay at a strong pace. Housing starts are expected to top 450 thousand in both 2002 and 2003. Historically, our business has generally followed the timing of the cycle in the overall economy, so we expect to see signs of recovery in our operations. Those signs have not appeared yet and may not appear at all this year.
Latin American Economic Trends
Poor economic conditions continued in most of the region during the first half of 2002. Growth is expected to be sluggish to modest in much of the region this year. We expect Latin America to grow at a faster pace in 2003 if the recession has ended in the United States by the end of 2002. However, Argentina and Venezuela are likely to be exceptions. In the wake of its financial crisis, Argentinas economy is expected to contract sharply this year, perhaps as much as 10 percent. No recovery is in sight and the countrys troubles are expected to extend into 2003 before the downturn ends. Following Venezuelas currency devaluation this winter, the economy is expected to contract in 2002 with a return to moderate growth in 2003. High oil prices should help to keep the economy afloat. However, recent political events in the country have significantly increased the downside risk to this forecast. We believe inflation rates upward of 20 percent are likely in both Argentina and Venezuela this year.
Colombias civil war remains a drain on its economy, resulting in outflows of both money and human capital. Sluggish growth of 2 percent is expected this year, improving in 2003 to over 3 percent.
Argentina. In early 2002, the Argentine government announced economic reforms, including a devaluation of the peso. As a result of the devaluation, our Argentine operation violated covenants on $350 of its U.S. Dollar-denominated debt. The debt is classified as current in the June 30, 2002 balance sheet. We are currently working with the lenders to resolve this matter. The devaluation, resulting new laws and regulations instituted, and the instability of the government make it difficult to anticipate the long-term impacts of the economic situation in Argentina. Due to the rapidly changing environment, we are closely monitoring the situation and cannot anticipate the ultimate outcome.
Brazil. In March 2002, BCP, one of our Brazilian investments, defaulted on a principal payment. We continue to discuss alternatives with our principal partner and BCPs lenders. The parties have not reached any agreement to date. There can be no assurance that an agreement will be reached. In addition, BSE, another of our Brazilian investments, is experiencing difficulties in meeting its debt obligations from its operating cash flows. See note F to our consolidated interim financial statements for further discussion of this investment.
27
Venezuela. On February 12, 2002, Venezuelas government floated its currency, ending a five-year-old regime that permitted the bolivar to trade only within a fixed-band against the U.S. Dollar. As a result, devaluation occurred. It is uncertain what the long-term impacts of the devaluation will have on our operations. Based on the current monetary position of this operation, we recorded a loss of $14, or $7 after taxes and minority partner interests, in second quarter 2002 and a benefit of $13, or $7 after taxes and minority partner interests, for year-to-date 2002.
Regulatory Developments
Beginning in late 1996, we operated under a price regulation plan approved by the South Carolina Public Service Commission 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 statute, adopted subsequent to the Commissions approval of the earlier plan. The new statute allows telephone companies in South Carolina to operate under price regulation without obtaining approval from the Commission. The election became effective during August 1999. The South Carolina Consumer Advocate petitioned the Commission seeking review of the level of our earnings during the 1996 1998 period when we operated under the subsequently invalidated price regulation plan. The Commission voted to dismiss 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 Commissions dismissal of the petition. If the Consumer Advocate prevails, the case could be remanded to the South Carolina PSC, which could, after considering evidence, order refunds to customers in South Carolina. At this time, we are unable to determine the impact, if any, this may have on future earnings.
Also in 2000, the Florida Public Service Commission issued a proposed agency action stating that our change in 1999 from a late charge based on a percentage of the amounts overdue to a flat rate fee plus an interest charge violated the Florida price regulation statute and voted that approximately $65 should be refunded. We protested the decision. On August 30, 2001, the Commission issued an order adopting its proposed action. We have appealed to the Florida Supreme Court and continue to collect the charges subject to refund. The total amount as of June 30, 2002 subject to potential refund was approximately $100, including accrued interest. No accrual has been recorded in these financial statements related to this matter.
Following applications that were filed in October 2001 and refiled in February 2002, the FCC on May 15, 2002 granted our applications to provide long distance in Georgia and Louisiana. On June 20, 2002, we filed applications at the FCC to provide long distance in Alabama, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina and South Carolina. The state commission for each state had earlier endorsed our seeking such authority. A decision on those applications is due on or before September 18, 2002. We have dockets pending before the state commissions in Florida and Tennessee that consider our potential requests for long distance authority in those states, and we expect to file applications with the FCC for those states at an appropriate point in the state commissions consideration. We do not know whether future approvals will be conditioned on changes in interconnection obligations or operating systems. Any changes could result in significant additional expense or a significant increase in customer loss to CLECs.
We are involved in numerous other 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 to our results of operations, financial position or cash flows. See note N to our consolidated interim financial statements.
Foreign Risks
Our reporting currency is the U.S. Dollar. However, most of our international revenues are generated in the currencies of the countries in which we operate. In addition, many of our international operations and equity investees hold U.S. Dollar-denominated short- and long-term debt. The currencies of many Latin American countries have experienced substantial volatility and depreciation in the past. Declines in the value of the local currencies in which we are paid relative to the U.S. Dollar will cause revenues in U.S. Dollar terms to decrease and dollar-denominated liabilities to increase in local currency. Where we consider it to be economically feasible, we attempt to limit our exposure to exchange rate fluctuations by using foreign currency forward exchange contracts or similar instruments as a vehicle for hedging; however, a substantial amount of our exposures are unhedged.
The impact of devaluation or depreciating currency on an entity depends on the residual effect on the local economy and the ability of an entity to raise prices and/or reduce expenses. Our ability to raise prices is limited in many instances by government regulation of tariff rates and competitive constraints. Due to our constantly changing currency exposure and the potential substantial volatility of currency exchange rates, we cannot predict the effect of exchange rate fluctuations on our business.
28
Economic, social and political conditions in Latin America are, in some countries, unfavorable and volatile, which may impair our operations. These conditions could make it difficult for us to continue development of our business, generate revenues or achieve or sustain profitability. Historically, recessions and volatility have been primarily caused by: monetary, exchange rate and/or fiscal policies; currency devaluations; significant governmental influence over many aspects of local economies; political and economic instability; unexpected changes in regulatory requirements; social unrest or violence; slow or negative economic growth; imposition of trade barriers; and wage and price controls. Our Latin American business could be materially adversely affected if the recent political and economic crisis in Argentina and Venezuela worsen, continue for a sustained period or spread to other Latin American countries.
Most or all of these factors have occurred at various times in the last two decades in our core Latin American markets. We have no control over these matters. Economic conditions in Latin America are generally less attractive than those in the U.S., and poor social, political and economic conditions may limit use of our services which may adversely impact our business.
New Accounting Pronouncements
See note B to our consolidated interim financial statements.
Item 3. Qualitative and Quantitative Disclosures About Market Risk
See the caption labeled Market Risk in Managements Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.
29
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 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:
| a change in economic conditions in domestic or international markets where we operate or have material investments which would affect demand for our services; |
| changes in U.S. 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; |
| continued pressure in the telecommunications industry from a financial, competitive, and regulatory perspective; |
| a decrease in the growth rate of demand for the services which we offer; |
| the intensity of competitive activity and its resulting impact on pricing strategies and new product offerings; |
| protracted delay in our entry into the interLATA long distance market; |
| significant deterioration in foreign currencies relative to the U.S. Dollar in foreign countries in which we operate; |
| the potential unwillingness or inability of our partners to fund their obligations to our international joint ventures due to deteriorating economic conditions or other facts; |
| the potential unwillingness of banks or other lenders to lend to our international joint ventures due to deteriorating economic conditions and tightening credit standards; |
| higher than anticipated start-up costs or significant up-front investments associated with new business initiatives; |
| the outcome of pending litigation; |
| unanticipated higher capital spending from, or delays in, the deployment of new technologies; |
| the impact of terrorist attacks on our business; and |
| 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 and financial capacity. |
30
PART II Other Information
Item 1. Legal Proceedings
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 U.S.C. Section 1981. Plaintiffs purport to bring the claims on behalf of two classes: a class of all African-American hourly workers employed by the Company at any time since April 29, 1998, and a class of all African-American salaried workers employed by the Company 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 early stage of the litigation, the likely outcome of the case cannot be predicted, nor can a reasonable estimate of the amount of loss, if any, be made.
Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders
Our annual meeting of shareholders was held on April 22, 2002. The voting results were as follows:
Number of Shares Outstanding as of Record Date:
1,914,843,211
Number of Shares Present: 1,547,502,340
Percent of Shares Present: 80.82%
Proposal 1
Election of Directors
For | Withheld | |||||||
F. Duane Ackerman
|
1,514,799,665 | 32,702,675 | ||||||
Reuben V. Anderson
|
1,510,059,325 | 37,443,015 | ||||||
Kathleen F. Feldstein
|
1,515,903,909 | 31,598,431 |
The terms of the following directors continued after the meeting.
James H. Blanchard
J. Hyatt Brown
Armando Codina
James P. Kelly
Joseph M. Magliochetti
Leo F. Mullin
Eugene F. Murphy
Robin B. Smith
William S. Stavropoulos
Proposal 2:
Ratification of Independent Accountants
For | Against | Abstain | ||||||||
1,491,894,708 | 40,259,505 | 15,348,087 |
Item 6. Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K
(a) Exhibits:
Exhibit | ||||
Number | ||||
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. | |||
11 | Computation of Earnings Per Common Share. | |||
12 | Computation of Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges. |
(b) Reports on Form 8-K:
None.
31
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 PresidentFinance | |
(Principal Accounting Officer) |
32
EXHIBIT INDEX
Exhibit | ||||
Number | ||||
11 | Computation of Earnings Per Common Share. | |||
12 | Computation of Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges. |
33