IT - 12.31.2013 - 10K
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-K
|
| |
þ | ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 |
| For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2013 |
OR
|
| |
o | TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 |
Commission file number: 1-14443
GARTNER, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
|
| |
Delaware | 04-3099750 |
(State or other jurisdiction of | (I.R.S. Employer |
incorporation or organization) | Identification No.) |
| |
P.O. Box 10212 | |
56 Top Gallant Road | |
Stamford, CT | 06902-7700 |
(Address of principal executive offices) | (Zip Code) |
| |
(203) 316-1111 | |
(Registrant’s telephone number, | |
including area code) | |
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
|
| | |
Title of each class | | Name of each exchange on which registered |
Common Stock, $.0005 par value per share | | New York Stock Exchange |
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Yes þ No o
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Exchange Act. Yes o No þ
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 þ No o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§ 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yes þ No o
Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K. þ
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):
|
| | | |
Large accelerated filer þ | Accelerated filer o | Non-accelerated filer o | Smaller reporting company o |
(Do not check if a smaller reporting company) |
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes o No þ
As of June 30, 2013, the aggregate market value of the registrant’s common stock held by non-affiliates of the registrant was $5,152,997,503 based on the closing sale price as reported on the New York Stock Exchange.
The number of shares outstanding of the registrant’s common stock was 91,968,869 as of January 31, 2014.
DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
|
| | |
Document | | Parts Into Which Incorporated |
Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held May 29, 2014 (Proxy Statement) | | Part III |
GARTNER, INC.
2013 ANNUAL REPORT ON FORM 10-K
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PART I
ITEM 1. BUSINESS.
GENERAL
Gartner, Inc. (“Gartner”) (NYSE: IT) is the world’s leading information technology research and advisory company. We deliver the technology-related insight necessary for our clients to make the right decisions, every day. From CIOs and senior IT leaders in corporations and government agencies, to business leaders in high-tech and telecom enterprises and professional services firms, to supply chain professionals and technology investors, we are the valuable partner to clients in 14,099 distinct organizations. We work with clients to research, analyze and interpret the business of IT within the context of their individual roles. Founded in 1979, Gartner is headquartered in Stamford, Connecticut, U.S.A., and as of December 31, 2013, had 5,997 associates, including 1,475 research analysts and consultants, and clients in 85 countries.
The foundation for all Gartner products and services is our independent research on IT and supply chain issues. The findings from this research are delivered through our three business segments – Research, Consulting and Events:
| |
• | Research provides objective insight on critical and timely technology and supply chain initiatives for CIOs, other IT professionals, supply chain leaders, technology companies and the investment community through reports, briefings, proprietary tools, access to our analysts, peer networking services and membership programs that enable our clients to make better decisions about their IT and supply chain investments. |
| |
• | Consulting provides customized solutions to unique client needs through on-site, day-to-day support, as well as proprietary tools for measuring and improving IT performance with a focus on cost, performance, efficiency and quality. |
| |
• | Events provide IT, supply chain and business professionals the opportunity to attend various symposia, conferences and exhibitions to learn, contribute and network with their peers. From our flagship event Symposium/ITxpo, to summits focused on specific technologies and industries, to experimental workshop-style seminars, our events distill the latest Gartner research into applicable insight and advice. |
For more information regarding Gartner and our products and services, visit gartner.com.
References to “the Company,” “we,” “our,” and “us” are to Gartner, Inc. and its consolidated subsidiaries.
MARKET OVERVIEW
Technological innovations are changing how businesses and organizations work and what they do at an increasingly rapid pace. Today, everyone is living and working in the midst of a technological revolution. Major technological forces – including social media, mobile, cloud and information – are driving change on a scale not seen before in every organization around the world, from business enterprises of every size, to governments and government agencies, as well as other organizations. This technology revolution is likely to remain vibrant for decades to come.
Information technology (IT) is critical to supporting increased productivity, service improvement and revenue growth. IT and the supply chain are viewed today as strategic components of growth and operating performance. As the costs of IT solutions continue to rise, IT executives and professionals have realized the importance of making well-informed decisions and increasingly seek to maximize their returns on IT capital investments. As a result, every IT investment decision in an enterprise is subject to increased financial scrutiny, especially in the current challenging economic climate. In addition, today’s IT marketplace is dynamic and complex. Technology providers continually introduce new products with a wide variety of standards and features that are prone to shorter life cycles. Users of technology – a group that encompasses nearly all organizations – must keep abreast of new developments in technology to ensure that their IT systems are reliable, efficient, and meet both their current and future needs.
Given the strategic and critical nature of technology decision-making and spending, business enterprises, governments and their agencies, and other organizations turn to Gartner for guidance in order to make the right decisions to maximize the value of their IT investments.
OUR SOLUTION
We provide IT decision makers with the insight they need to understand where – and how – to successfully use IT and the supply chain to achieve their objectives. We employ a diversified business model that utilizes and leverages the breadth and depth of our
intellectual capital. The foundation of our business model is our ability to create and distribute our proprietary research content as broadly as possible via published reports and briefings, consulting and advisory services, and our events, including Gartner Symposium/ITxpo.
We have 966 analysts located around the world who create timely, high-quality, independent and objective research and fact-based analysis on all aspects of the IT industry. Through our robust product portfolio, our global research team provides thought leadership and technology insights that CIOs, supply chain professionals, executives and other technology practitioners need to make the right decisions, every day. In addition to our analysts, we have 509 experienced consultants who combine our objective, independent research with a practical business perspective focused on the IT industry. Finally, our events are the largest of their kind, gathering highly qualified audiences of CIOs, other senior business executives and IT professionals, supply chain leaders, and purchasers and providers of technology and supply chain products and services.
PRODUCTS AND SERVICES
Our diversified business model provides multiple entry points and synergies that facilitate increased client spending on our research, consulting services and events. A critical part of our long-term strategy is to increase business volume with our most valuable clients, identifying relationships with the greatest sales potential and expanding those relationships by offering strategically relevant research and advice. We also seek to extend the Gartner brand name to develop new client relationships, augment our sales capacity, and expand into new markets around the world. In addition, we seek to increase our revenue and operating cash flow through more effective pricing of our products and services. These initiatives have created additional revenue streams through more effective packaging, campaigning and cross-selling of our products and services.
Our principal products and services are delivered via our Research, Consulting and Events segments:
| |
• | RESEARCH. Gartner delivers independent, objective IT research and insight primarily through a subscription-based, digital media service. Gartner research is the fundamental building block for all Gartner services and covers all technology-related markets, topics and industries, as well as supply chain topics. We combine our proprietary research methodologies with extensive industry and academic relationships to create Gartner solutions that address each role within an IT organization. Our research agenda is defined by clients’ needs, focusing on the critical issues, opportunities and challenges they face every day. Our research analysts are in regular contact with both technology providers and technology users, enabling them to identify the most pertinent topics in the IT marketplace and develop relevant product enhancements to meet the evolving needs of users of our research. They provide in-depth analysis on all aspects of technology, including hardware; software and systems; services; IT management; market data and forecasts; and vertical-industry issues. Our proprietary research content, presented in the form of reports, briefings, updates and related tools, is delivered directly to the client’s desktop via our website and/or product-specific portals. Clients normally sign subscription contracts that provide access to our research content for individual users over a defined period of time, which is typically one year. |
| |
• | CONSULTING. Gartner Consulting deepens relationships with our Research clients by extending the reach of our research through custom consulting engagements. Gartner Consulting brings together our unique research insight, benchmarking data, problem-solving methodologies and hands-on experience to improve the return on a client’s IT investment. Our consultants provide fact-based consulting services to help clients use and manage IT to optimize business performance. |
Consulting solutions capitalize on Gartner assets that are invaluable to IT decision making, including: (1) our extensive research, which ensures that our consulting analyses and advice are based on a deep understanding of the IT environment and the business of IT; (2) our market independence, which keeps our consultants focused on our clients' success; and (3) our market-leading benchmarking capabilities, which provide relevant comparisons and best practices to assess and improve performance.
Gartner Consulting provides solutions to CIOs and other IT executives, and to those professionals responsible for IT applications, enterprise architecture, go-to-market strategies, infrastructure and operations, program and portfolio management, and sourcing and vendor relationships. Consulting also provides targeted consulting services to professionals in specific industries. Finally, we provide actionable solutions for IT cost optimization, technology modernization and IT sourcing optimization initiatives.
| |
• | EVENTS. Gartner Symposium/ITxpo events and Gartner Summit events are gatherings of technology’s most senior IT professionals, business strategists and practitioners. Gartner Events offers current, relevant and actionable technology sessions led by Gartner analysts to clients and non-clients. These sessions are augmented with technology showcases, peer exchanges, analyst one-on-one meetings, workshops and keynotes by technology’s top leaders. They also provide attendees with an opportunity to interact with business executives from the world’s leading technology companies. |
Gartner events attract high-level IT and business professionals who seek in-depth knowledge about technology products and services. Gartner Symposium/ITxpo events are large, strategic conferences held in various locations throughout the world for CIOs and other senior IT and business professionals. Gartner Summit events focus on specific topics, technologies and industries, providing IT professionals with the insight, solutions and networking opportunities to succeed in their job role. Finally, we offer targeted events for CIOs and IT executives, such as CIO Leadership Forum.
COMPETITION
We believe that the principal factors that differentiate us from our competitors are the following:
| |
• | Superior IT research content – We believe that we create the broadest, highest-quality and most relevant research coverage of the IT industry. Our research analysis generates unbiased insight that we believe is timely, thought-provoking and comprehensive, and that is known for its high quality, independence and objectivity. |
| |
• | Our leading brand name – We have provided critical, trusted insight under the Gartner name for 35 years. |
| |
• | Our global footprint and established customer base – We have a global presence with clients in 85 countries on six continents. A substantial portion of our revenues is derived from sales outside of the U.S. |
| |
• | Experienced management team – Our management team is composed of IT research veterans and experienced industry executives. |
| |
• | Substantial operating leverage in our business model — We have the ability to distribute our intellectual property and expertise across multiple platforms, including research publications, consulting engagements, conferences and executive programs, to derive incremental revenue and profitability. |
| |
• | Vast network of analysts and consultants – As of December 31, 2013, we had 1,475 research analysts and consultants located around the world. Our analysts collectively speak 47 languages and are located in 26 countries, enabling us to cover all aspects of IT on a global basis. |
Notwithstanding these differentiating factors, we face competition from a significant number of independent providers of information products and services. We compete indirectly with consulting firms and other information providers, including electronic and print media companies. These indirect competitors could choose to compete directly with us in the future. In addition, we face competition from free sources of information that are available to our clients through the Internet. Limited barriers to entry exist in the markets in which we do business. As a result, new competitors may emerge and existing competitors may start to provide additional or complementary services. While we believe the breadth and depth of our research assets position us well versus our competition, increased competition could result in loss of market share, diminished value in our products and services, reduced pricing, and increased sales and marketing expenditures.
INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY
Our success has resulted in part from proprietary methodologies, software, reusable knowledge capital and other intellectual property rights. We rely on a combination of patent, copyright, trademark, trade secret, confidentiality, non-compete and other contractual provisions to protect our intellectual property rights. We have policies related to confidentiality, ownership and the use and protection of Gartner’s intellectual property. We also enter into agreements with our employees as appropriate that protect our intellectual property, and we enforce these agreements if necessary. We recognize the value of our intellectual property in the marketplace and vigorously identify, create and protect it. Additionally, we actively monitor and enforce contract compliance by our end users.
EMPLOYEES
We had 5,997 employees as of December 31, 2013, an increase of 10% compared to the prior year end as we continued to invest for future growth. We have 1,054 employees located at our headquarters in Stamford, Connecticut and a nearby office in Trumbull, Connecticut; 2,383 employees located elsewhere in the United States; and 2,560 employees located outside of the United States. Our employees may be subject to collective bargaining agreements at a company or industry level in those foreign countries where this is part of the local labor law or practice. We have experienced no work stoppages and consider our relations with our employees to be favorable.
AVAILABLE INFORMATION
Our Internet address is www.gartner.com and the investor relations section of our website is located at www.investor.gartner.com. We make available free of charge, on or through the investor relations section of our website, printable copies of our annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K and amendments to those reports filed or furnished pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”) as soon as reasonably practicable after we electronically file such material with, or furnish it to, the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”).
Also available at www.investor.gartner.com, under the “Corporate Governance” link, are printable and current copies of our (i) CEO & CFO Code of Ethics which applies to our Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, controller and other financial managers, (ii) Code of Conduct, which applies to all Gartner officers, directors and employees, (iii) Board Principles and Practices, the corporate governance principles that have been adopted by our Board and (iv) charters for each of the Board’s standing committees: Audit, Compensation and Governance/Nominating.
ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS
We operate in a highly competitive and rapidly changing environment that involves numerous risks and uncertainties, some of which are beyond our control. In addition, we and our clients are affected by global economic conditions. The following sections discuss many, but not all, of the risks and uncertainties that may affect our future performance, but is not intended to be all-inclusive. Any of the risks described below could have a material adverse impact on our business, prospects, results of operations, financial condition, and cash flows, and could therefore have a negative effect on the trading price of our common stock. Additionally risks not currently known to us or that we now deem immaterial may also harm us and negatively affect your investment.
Risks related to our business
Our operating results could be negatively impacted by global economic conditions. Our business is impacted by general economic conditions and trends, in the U.S and abroad. Economic growth continues to be both weak and uneven in many parts of the world. In addition, problems continue with government deficit spending in the U.S. and other countries, ongoing uncertainty in global trade, and high levels of sovereign debt. These conditions could negatively and materially affect future demand for our products and services. Such difficulties could include the ability to maintain client retention, wallet retention and consulting utilization rates, achieve contract value and consulting backlog growth, attract attendees and exhibitors to our events or obtain new clients. Such developments could negatively impact our financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows.
We face significant competition and our failure to compete successfully could materially and adversely affect our results of operations, financial condition, and cash flows. We face direct competition from a significant number of independent providers of information products and services, including information available on the Internet free of charge. We also compete indirectly against consulting firms and other information providers, including electronic and print media companies, some of which may have greater financial, information gathering and marketing resources than we do. These indirect competitors could also choose to compete directly with us in the future. In addition, limited barriers to entry exist in the markets in which we do business. As a result, new competitors may emerge and existing competitors may start to provide additional or complementary services. Additionally, technological advances may provide increased competition from a variety of sources.
There can be no assurance that we will be able to successfully compete against current and future competitors and our failure to do so could result in loss of market share, diminished value in our products and services, reduced pricing and increased marketing expenditures. Furthermore, we may not be successful if we cannot compete effectively on quality of research and analysis, timely delivery of information, customer service, and the ability to offer products to meet changing market needs for information and analysis, or price.
We may not be able to maintain our existing products and services. We operate in a rapidly evolving market, and our success depends upon our ability to deliver high quality and timely research and analysis to our clients. Any failure to continue to provide credible and reliable information that is useful to our clients could have a material adverse effect on future business and operating results. Further, if our predictions prove to be wrong or are not substantiated by appropriate research, our reputation may suffer and demand for our products and services may decline. In addition, we must continue to improve our methods for delivering our products and services in a cost-effective manner. Failure to increase and improve our electronic delivery capabilities could adversely affect our future business and operating results.
We may not be able to enhance and develop our existing products and services, or introduce the new products and services that are needed to remain competitive. The market for our products and services is characterized by rapidly changing needs for
information and analysis on the IT industry as a whole. The development of new products is a complex and time-consuming process. Nonetheless, to maintain our competitive position, we must continue to anticipate the needs of our client organizations, enhance and improve our products and services, develop or acquire new products and services, deliver all products and services in a timely manner, and appropriately position and price new products and services relative to the marketplace and our costs of producing them. Any failure to achieve successful client acceptance of new products and services could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial position. Additionally, significant delays in new product or services releases or significant problems in creating new products or services could adversely affect our business, results of operations and financial position.
We depend on renewals of subscription-based services and sales of new subscription-based services for a significant portion of our revenue, and our failure to renew at historical rates or generate new sales of such services could lead to a decrease in our revenues. A large portion of our success depends on our ability to generate renewals of our subscription-based research products and services and new sales of such products and services, both to new clients and existing clients. These products and services constituted 71% and 70% of our revenues for 2013 and 2012, respectively. Generating new sales of our subscription-based products and services, both to new and existing clients, is often a time consuming process. If we are unable to generate new sales, due to competition or other factors, our revenues will be adversely affected.
Our research subscription agreements are generally for twelve months, although we do enter into multi-year agreements in certain circumstances. Our ability to maintain contract renewals is subject to numerous factors, including the following:
| |
• | delivering high-quality and timely analysis and advice to our clients; |
| |
• | understanding and anticipating market trends and the changing needs of our clients; and |
| |
• | delivering products and services of the quality and timeliness necessary to withstand competition. |
Additionally, as we continue to adjust our products and service offerings to meet our clients’ continuing needs, we may shift the type and pricing of our products which may impact client renewal rates. While our research client retention rate was 82% at December 31, 2013 and 83% at December 31, 2012, there can be no guarantee that we will continue to maintain this rate of client renewals.
We depend on non-recurring consulting engagements and our failure to secure new engagements could lead to a decrease in our revenues. Consulting segment revenues constituted 18% of our total revenues in 2013 and 19% in 2012. Consulting engagements typically are project-based and non-recurring. Our ability to replace consulting engagements is subject to numerous factors, including the following:
| |
• | delivering consistent, high-quality consulting services to our clients; |
| |
• | tailoring our consulting services to the changing needs of our clients; and |
| |
• | our ability to match the skills and competencies of our consulting staff to the skills required for the fulfillment of existing or potential consulting engagements. |
Any material decline in our ability to replace consulting arrangements could have an adverse impact on our revenues and our financial condition.
The profitability and success of our conferences, symposia and events could be adversely affected by external factors beyond our control. The market for desirable dates and locations for conferences, symposia and events is highly competitive. If we cannot secure desirable dates and locations for our conferences, symposia and events their profitability could suffer, and our financial condition and results of operations may be adversely affected. In addition, because our events are scheduled in advance and held at specific locations, the success of these events can be affected by circumstances outside of our control, such as labor strikes, transportation shutdowns and travel restrictions, economic slowdowns, reductions in government spending, terrorist attacks, weather, natural disasters, and other occurrences impacting the global, regional, or national economy, the occurrence of any of which could negatively impact the success of the event. Additionally, a significant recovery in the global economy could make our ability to procure space for our events and efforts to keep associated costs down more challenging.
Our sales to governments are subject to appropriations and may be terminated. We derive significant revenues from contracts with the U.S. government and its respective agencies, numerous state and local governments and their respective agencies, and foreign governments and their agencies. At December 31, 2013 and 2012, approximately $283.0 million and $255.0 million,
respectively, of our Research contract value and Consulting backlog was attributable to governments. We believe substantially all of the amount attributable to governments at December 31, 2013 will be filled in 2014. Our U.S. government contracts are subject to the approval of appropriations by the U.S. Congress to fund the agencies contracting for our services. Additionally, our contracts at the state and local levels, as well as foreign government contracts, are subject to various governmental authorizations and funding approvals and mechanisms. In general, most if not all of these contracts may be terminated at any time without cause or penalty (“termination for convenience”). Similarly, contracts with domestic and foreign governments and their agencies are subject to increasingly complex bidding procedures and intense competition. Should appropriations for the governments and agencies that contract with us be curtailed, or should government contracts be terminated for convenience, we may experience a significant loss of segment and consolidated revenues.
We may not be able to attract and retain qualified personnel which could jeopardize the quality of our products and services. Our success depends heavily upon the quality of our senior management, research analysts, consultants, sales and other key personnel. We face competition for the limited pool of these qualified professionals from, among others, technology companies, market research firms, consulting firms, financial services companies and electronic and print media companies, some of which have a greater ability to attract and compensate these professionals. Some of the personnel that we attempt to hire are subject to non-compete agreements that could impede our short-term recruitment efforts. Any failure to retain key personnel or hire and train additional qualified personnel as required to support the evolving needs of clients or growth in our business, could adversely affect the quality of our products and services, as well as future business and operating results.
We may not be able to maintain the equity in our brand name. We believe that our “Gartner” brand, including our independence, is critical to our efforts to attract and retain clients and that the importance of brand recognition will increase as competition increases. We may expand our marketing activities to promote and strengthen the Gartner brand and may need to increase our marketing budget, hire additional marketing and public relations personnel, and expend additional sums to protect our brand and otherwise increase expenditures to create and maintain client brand loyalty. If we fail to effectively promote and maintain the Gartner brand, or incur excessive expenses in doing so, our future business and operating results could be adversely impacted.
Our international operations expose us to a variety of operational risks which could negatively impact our future revenue and growth. We have clients in 85 countries and a substantial amount of our revenues is earned outside of the U.S. Our operating results are subject to the risks inherent in international business activities, including general political and economic conditions in each country, changes in market demand as a result of tariffs and other trade barriers, challenges in staffing and managing foreign operations, changes in regulatory requirements, compliance with numerous foreign laws and regulations, differences between U.S. and foreign tax rates and laws, and the difficulty of enforcing client agreements, collecting accounts receivable and protecting intellectual property rights in international jurisdictions. Furthermore, we rely on local distributors or sales agents in some international locations. If any of these arrangements are terminated by our agent or us, we may not be able to replace the arrangement on beneficial terms or on a timely basis, or clients of the local distributor or sales agent may not want to continue to do business with us or our new agent.
Our international operations expose us to volatility in foreign currency exchange rates. Revenues earned outside the U.S. are typically transacted in local currencies, which may fluctuate significantly against the U.S. dollar. While we may use forward exchange contracts to a limited extent to seek to mitigate foreign currency risk, our revenues and results of operations could be adversely affected by unfavorable foreign currency fluctuations.
Natural disasters or geo-political events may disrupt our business. A major weather event, terrorist attack, earthquake, flood, volcanic activity, or other catastrophic disaster could significantly disrupt our operations. Such events could cause delays in initiating or completing sales, impede delivery of our products and services to our clients, disrupt other critical client-facing and business processes, or dislocate our critical internal functions and personnel. Our corporate headquarters is located approximately 30 miles from New York City, and we have an operations center located in Ft. Myers, Florida, a hurricane-prone area. We also operate in numerous international locations, and we have offices in a number of major cities across the globe. Abrupt political change, terrorist activity, and armed conflict pose a risk of general economic disruption in affected countries and regions, which may negatively impact our sales and increase our operating costs. Additionally, these conditions also may add uncertainty to the timing and budget decisions of our clients. Such events could significantly harm our ability to conduct normal business operations and negatively impact our financial condition and operating results.
Internet and critical internal computer system failures, cyber-attacks, or compromises of our systems or security could damage our reputation and harm our business. A significant portion of our business is conducted over the Internet and we rely heavily on computer systems. A cyber-attack, widespread Internet failure, or disruption of our critical information technology systems through viruses or other events could cause delays in initiating or completing sales, impede delivery of our products and services to our clients, disrupt other critical client-facing or business processes, or dislocate our critical internal functions. Such events could
significantly harm our ability to conduct normal business operations and negatively impact our financial condition and operating results.
We take steps generally acknowledged as standard for the industry to secure our management information systems, including our computer systems, intranet, proprietary websites, email and other telecommunications and data networks, and we carefully scrutinize the security of outsourced website and service providers prior to retaining their services. However, the security measures implemented by us or by our outside service providers may not be effective and our systems (and those of our outside service providers) may be vulnerable to theft, loss, damage and interruption from a number of potential sources and events, including unauthorized access or security breaches, cyber-attacks, computer viruses, power loss, or other disruptive events. Our reputation, brand, financial condition and operating results could be adversely affected if, as a result of a significant cyber event or other technology-related catastrophe, our operations are disrupted or shutdown; our confidential, proprietary information is stolen or disclosed; we incur costs or are required to pay fines in connection with stolen customer, employee, or other confidential information; we are required to dedicate significant resources to system repairs or increase cyber security protection; or we otherwise incur significant litigation or other costs as a result of these occurrences.
We may experience outages and disruptions of our online services if we fail to maintain an adequate operations infrastructure. Our increasing user traffic and complexity of our products and services demand more computing power. We have spent and expect to continue to spend substantial amounts to maintain data centers and equipment and to upgrade our technology and network infrastructure to handle increased traffic on our websites. However, any inefficiencies or operational failures could diminish the quality of our products, services, and user experience, resulting in damage to our reputation and loss of current and potential users, subscribers, and advertisers, potentially harming our financial condition and operating results.
Our outstanding debt obligation could impact our financial condition or future operating results. We have a credit arrangement that provides for a five-year, $150.0 million term loan and a $600.0 million revolving credit facility (the “2013 Credit Agreement”). The credit arrangement contains an expansion feature by which the term loan and revolving facility may be increased, at our option and under certain conditions, by up to an additional $250.0 million in the aggregate. At December 31, 2013, we had a total of $200.0 million outstanding under the 2013 Credit Agreement.
The affirmative, negative and financial covenants of the 2013 Credit Agreement could limit our future financial flexibility. Additionally, a failure to comply with these covenants could result in acceleration of all amounts outstanding under the arrangement, which would materially impact our financial condition unless accommodations could be negotiated with our lenders. No assurance can be given that we would be successful in doing so in this current financial climate, or that any accommodations that we were able to negotiate would be on terms as favorable as those presently contained in the credit arrangement. The associated debt service costs of this credit arrangement could impair our future operating results. The outstanding debt may limit the amount of cash or additional credit available to us, which could restrain our ability to expand or enhance products and services, respond to competitive pressures or pursue future business opportunities requiring substantial investments of additional capital.
We may require additional cash resources which may not be available on favorable terms or at all. We believe that our existing cash balances, projected cash flow from operations, and the borrowing capacity we have under our revolving credit facility will be sufficient to fund our plans for the next 12 months and the foreseeable future.
However, we may require additional cash resources due to changed business conditions, implementation of our strategy and stock repurchase program, to repay indebtedness or to pursue future business opportunities requiring substantial investments of additional capital. If our existing financial resources are insufficient to satisfy our requirements, we may seek additional borrowings. Prevailing credit market conditions may negatively affect debt availability and cost, and, as a result, financing may not be available in amounts or on terms acceptable to us, if at all. In addition, the incurrence of additional indebtedness would result in increased debt service obligations and could require us to agree to operating and financial covenants that would further restrict our operations.
If we are unable to enforce and protect our intellectual property rights our competitive position may be harmed. We rely on a combination of copyright, trademark, trade secret, confidentiality, non-compete and other contractual provisions to protect our intellectual property rights. Despite our efforts to protect our intellectual property rights, unauthorized third parties may obtain and use technology or other information that we regard as proprietary. Our intellectual property rights may not survive a legal challenge to their validity or provide significant protection for us. The laws of certain countries, particularly in emerging markets, do not protect our proprietary rights to the same extent as the laws of the United States. Accordingly, we may not be able to protect our intellectual property against unauthorized third-party copying or use, which could adversely affect our competitive position. Our employees are subject to non-compete agreements. When the non-competition period expires, former employees may compete against us. If a former employee chooses to compete against us prior to the expiration of the non-competition period, we seek to enforce these non-compete provisions but there is no assurance that we will be successful in our efforts. Additionally, there can be no assurance that another party will not assert that we have infringed its intellectual property rights.
We have grown, and may continue to grow, through acquisitions and strategic investments, which could involve substantial risks. We have made and may continue to make acquisitions of, or significant investments in, businesses that offer complementary products and services. The risks involved in each acquisition or investment include the possibility of paying more than the value we derive from the acquisition, dilution of the interests of our current stockholders or decreased working capital, increased indebtedness, the assumption of undisclosed liabilities and unknown and unforeseen risks, the ability to retain key personnel of the acquired company, the inability to integrate the business of the acquired company, the time to train the sales force to market and sell the products of the acquired business, the potential disruption of our ongoing business and the distraction of management from our business. The realization of any of these risks could adversely affect our business. Additionally, we face competition in identifying acquisition targets and consummating acquisitions.
We face risks related to litigation. We are, and may in the future be, subject to a variety of legal actions, such as employment, breach of contract, intellectual property-related, and business torts, including claims of unfair trade practices and misappropriation of trade secrets. Given the nature of our business, we are also subject to defamation (including libel and slander), negligence, or other claims relating to the information we publish. Regardless of the merits, any such claim can affect our reputation, and responding to any such claim could be time consuming, result in costly litigation and require us to enter into settlements, royalty and licensing agreements which may not be offered or available on reasonable terms. If a successful claim is made against us and we fail to settle the claim on reasonable terms, our business, brand, results of operations or financial position could be materially and adversely affected.
We face risks related to taxation. We operate in numerous jurisdictions around the world. The Company recognizes tax expense based upon the applicable tax rates and tax laws of the countries where income is generated. A substantial amount of our income is generated outside of the U.S. and is taxed at rates significantly less than the U.S. statutory income tax rate of 35%. The U.S. and many other countries in which the Company operates are considering proposals which may significantly change the taxation of income earned outside of the U.S. Our future effective tax rate, financial position and results of operations could be materially adversely affected by changes in law or if more of our income is earned in higher taxing jurisdictions and less is earned in lower taxing jurisdictions.
In addition, our tax filings for various years are subject to examination by taxing authorities and during the ordinary course of business, we are under audit by one or more tax authorities. Although we believe that our tax filings are reasonable, the final resolution of tax audits may be different from what is reflected in our historical tax provisions and accruals and could have a material adverse effect on our financial position and results of operations.
Our corporate compliance program cannot guarantee that we are in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations. We operate in a number of countries, and as a result we are required to comply with numerous, and in many cases, changing international and U.S. federal, state and local laws and regulations. As a result, we have developed and instituted a corporate compliance program which includes the creation of appropriate policies defining employee behavior that mandate adherence to laws, employee training, annual affirmations, monitoring and enforcement. However, if any employee fails to comply with, or intentionally disregards, any of these laws or regulations, a range of liabilities could result for the employee and for the Company, including, but not limited to, significant penalties and fines, sanctions and/or litigation, and the expenses associated with defending and resolving any of the foregoing, any of which could have a material impact on our business.
Risks related to our Common Stock
Our operating results may fluctuate from period to period and may not meet the expectations of securities analysts or investors or guidance we have given, which may cause the price of our Common Stock to decline. Our quarterly and annual operating results may fluctuate in the future as a result of many factors, including the timing of the execution of research contracts, the extent of completion of consulting engagements, the timing of symposia and other events, the amount of new business generated, the mix of domestic and international business, currency fluctuations, changes in market demand for our products and services, the timing of the development, introduction and marketing of new products and services, and competition in the industry. An inability to generate sufficient earnings and cash flow, and achieve our forecasts, may impact our operating and other activities. The potential fluctuations in our operating results could cause period-to-period comparisons of operating results not to be meaningful and may provide an unreliable indication of future operating results. Furthermore, our operating results may not meet the expectations of securities analysts or investors in the future or guidance we have given. If this occurs, the price of our stock would likely decline.
Our stock price may be impacted by factors outside of our control and you may not be able to resell shares of our Common Stock at or above the price you paid. The trading price of our Common Stock could be subject to significant fluctuations in response to, among other factors, developments in the industries in which we do business, general economic conditions, general market conditions, changes in the nature and composition of our stockholder base, changes in securities analysts’ recommendations
regarding our securities and our performance relative to securities analysts’ expectations for any quarterly period, as well as other factors outside of our control. These factors may adversely affect the market price of our Common Stock.
Future sales of our Common Stock in the public market could lower our stock price. Sales of a substantial number of shares of Common Stock in the public market by our current stockholders, or the threat that substantial sales may occur, could cause the market price of our Common Stock to decrease significantly or make it difficult for us to raise additional capital by selling stock. Furthermore, we have various equity incentive plans that provide for awards in the form of stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock, restricted stock units and other stock-based awards which have the effect of adding shares of Common Stock into the public market.
As of December 31, 2013, the aggregate number of shares of our Common Stock issuable pursuant to outstanding grants and awards under these plans was approximately 3.6 million shares (approximately 0.8 million of which have vested). In addition, approximately 6.4 million shares may be issued in connection with future awards under our equity incentive plans. Shares of Common Stock issued under these plans are freely transferable without further registration under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), except for any shares held by affiliates (as that term is defined in Rule 144 under the Securities Act). We cannot predict the size of future issuances of our Common Stock or the effect, if any, that future issuances and sales of shares of our Common Stock will have on the market price of our Common Stock.
Interests of certain of our significant stockholders may conflict with yours. To our knowledge, as of December 31, 2013, and based upon publicly-available SEC filings, five institutional investors each presently hold over 5% of our Common Stock. While no stockholder or institutional investor individually holds a majority of our outstanding shares, these significant stockholders may be able, either individually or acting together, to exercise significant influence over matters requiring stockholder approval, including the election of directors, amendment of our certificate of incorporation, adoption or amendment of equity plans and approval of significant transactions such as mergers, acquisitions, consolidations and sales or purchases of assets. In addition, in the event of a proposed acquisition of the Company by a third party, this concentration of ownership may delay or prevent a change of control in us. Accordingly, the interests of these stockholders may not always coincide with our interests or the interests of other stockholders, or otherwise be in the best interests of us or all stockholders.
Our anti-takeover protections may discourage or prevent a change of control, even if a change in control would be beneficial to our stockholders. Provisions of our restated certificate of incorporation and bylaws and Delaware law may make it difficult for any party to acquire control of us in a transaction not approved by our Board of Directors. These provisions include:
| |
• | the ability of our Board of Directors to issue and determine the terms of preferred stock; |
| |
• | advance notice requirements for inclusion of stockholder proposals at stockholder meetings; and |
| |
• | the anti-takeover provisions of Delaware law. |
These provisions could discourage or prevent a change of control or change in management that might provide stockholders with a premium to the market price of their Common Stock.
ITEM 1B. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS.
The Company has no unresolved written comments that were received from the SEC staff 180 days or more before the end of our fiscal year relating to our periodic or current reports under the Exchange Act.
ITEM 2. PROPERTIES.
We currently lease 27 domestic and 51 international offices and we have a significant presence in Stamford, Connecticut; Ft. Myers, Florida; and Egham, the United Kingdom. The Company does not own any properties.
Our corporate headquarters is located in approximately 213,000 square feet of leased office space in three buildings located in Stamford. This facility also accommodates research and analysis, marketing, sales, client support, production, corporate services, and administration. The Company's lease on the Stamford facility expires in 2028 and we have three options to renew the lease at fair market value for five years each. Our Ft. Myers operations are located in 120,000 square feet of leased office space in one building for which the lease will expire in 2026. Our Egham location has approximately 72,000 square feet of leased office space in two buildings for which the leases expire in 2020 and 2025, respectively. Our other domestic and international locations support our research, consulting, domestic and international sales efforts, and other functions.
Our existing facilities are adequate for our current needs. However, over the past several years we have invested in our business by adding headcount, and we anticipate that trend to continue. As a result, we may need additional office space in various locations. Should additional space be necessary, we believe that it will be available and at reasonable terms.
ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS.
We are involved in various legal and administrative proceedings and litigation arising in the ordinary course of business. The outcome of these individual matters is not predictable at this time. However, we believe that the ultimate resolution of these matters, after considering amounts already accrued and insurance coverage, will not have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations, or cash flows in future periods.
ITEM 4. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES.
Not applicable.
PART II
ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES.
Our Common Stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol IT. As of January 31, 2014, there were 1,799 holders of record of our Common Stock. Our 2014 Annual Meeting of Stockholders will be held on May 29, 2014 at the Company’s corporate headquarters in Stamford, Connecticut. We did not submit any matter to a vote of our stockholders during the fourth quarter of 2013.
The following table sets forth the high and low sale prices for our Common Stock as reported on the New York Stock Exchange for the periods indicated:
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| 2013 | | 2012 |
| High | | Low | | High | | Low |
Quarter ended March 31 | $ | 54.52 |
| | $ | 46.52 |
| | $ | 43.19 |
| | $ | 34.39 |
|
Quarter ended June 30 | 59.09 |
| | 53.01 |
| | 44.97 |
| | 39.50 |
|
Quarter ended September 30 | 63.00 |
| | 55.75 |
| | 51.45 |
| | 42.49 |
|
Quarter ended December 31 | $ | 71.49 |
| | $ | 57.19 |
| | $ | 48.65 |
| | $ | 42.81 |
|
DIVIDEND POLICY
We currently do not pay cash dividends on our Common Stock. In addition, our 2013 Credit Agreement contains a negative covenant which may limit our ability to pay dividends.
SECURITIES AUTHORIZED FOR ISSUANCE UNDER EQUITY COMPENSATION PLANS
The equity compensation plan information set forth in Part III, Item 12 of this Form 10-K is hereby incorporated by reference into this Part II, Item 5.
SHARE REPURCHASES
On February 4, 2014, the Company’s Board of Directors authorized $800.0 million to repurchase the Company's common stock. This authorization succeeds the Company’s prior $500.0 million share repurchase authorization, which was substantially utilized. The Company may repurchase its common stock from time to time in amounts and at prices the Company deems appropriate, subject to the availability of stock, prevailing market conditions, the trading price of the stock, the Company’s financial performance and other conditions. Repurchases may be made through open market purchases, private transactions or other transactions and will be funded from cash on hand and borrowings under the Company’s credit agreement.
The following table summarizes the repurchases of our Common Stock in the three months ended December 31, 2013 pursuant to our prior $500.0 million share repurchase authorization and pursuant to the settlement of share-based compensation awards:
|
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Period | | Total Number of Shares Purchased (#) | | Average Price Paid Per Share ($) | | | Maximum Approximate Dollar Value of Shares that May Yet Be Purchased Under the Plans or Programs ($000’s) (2) |
October | | 210 | | $ | 58.95 |
| | | |
|
November | | 147,325 | | 63.80 |
| | | |
|
December | | 426,073 | | 70.49 |
| | | |
|
Total (1) | | 573,608 | | $ | 68.77 |
| | | $ | 800,000 |
|
| |
(1) | For the year ended December 31, 2013, the Company repurchased a total of 3,432,854 shares for a total cost of $196.7 million , of which $181.7 million was paid in 2013 and $15.0 million was paid in early January 2014. |
| |
(2) | Amount available as of February 4, 2014. |
ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
The fiscal years presented below are for the respective twelve-month period from January 1 through December 31. Data for all years was derived or compiled from our audited consolidated financial statements included herein or from submissions of our Form 10-K in prior years. The selected consolidated financial data should be read in conjunction with our consolidated financial statements and related notes contained in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
(In thousands, except per share data) | | 2013 | | 2012 | | 2011 | | 2010 | | 2009 |
STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS DATA: | | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
|
Revenues: | | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
|
Research | | $ | 1,271,011 |
| | $ | 1,137,147 |
| | $ | 1,012,062 |
| | $ | 865,000 |
| | $ | 752,505 |
|
Consulting | | 314,257 |
| | 304,893 |
| | 308,047 |
| | 302,117 |
| | 286,847 |
|
Events | | 198,945 |
| | 173,768 |
| | 148,479 |
| | 121,337 |
| | 100,448 |
|
Total revenues | | 1,784,213 |
| | 1,615,808 |
| | 1,468,588 |
| | 1,288,454 |
| | 1,139,800 |
|
Operating income | | 275,492 |
| | 245,707 |
| | 214,062 |
| | 149,265 |
| | 134,477 |
|
Net income | | $ | 182,801 |
| | $ | 165,903 |
| | $ | 136,902 |
| | $ | 96,285 |
| | $ | 82,964 |
|
| | | | | | | | | | |
PER SHARE DATA: | | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
|
Basic income per share | | $ | 1.97 |
| | $ | 1.78 |
| | $ | 1.43 |
| | $ | 1.01 |
| | $ | 0.88 |
|
Diluted income per share | | $ | 1.93 |
| | $ | 1.73 |
| | $ | 1.39 |
| | $ | 0.96 |
| | $ | 0.85 |
|
| | | | | | | | | | |
Weighted average shares outstanding: | | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
|
Basic | | 93,015 |
| | 93,444 |
| | 96,019 |
| | 95,747 |
| | 94,658 |
|
Diluted | | 94,830 |
| | 95,842 |
| | 98,846 |
| | 99,834 |
| | 97,549 |
|
| | | | | | | | | | |
OTHER DATA: | | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
|
Cash and cash equivalents | | $ | 423,990 |
| | $ | 299,852 |
| | $ | 142,739 |
| | $ | 120,181 |
| | $ | 116,574 |
|
Total assets | | 1,783,582 |
| | 1,621,277 |
| | 1,379,872 |
| | 1,285,658 |
| | 1,215,279 |
|
Long-term debt | | 136,250 |
| | 115,000 |
| | 150,000 |
| | 180,000 |
| | 124,000 |
|
Stockholders’ equity | | 361,316 |
| | 306,673 |
| | 181,784 |
| | 187,056 |
| | 112,535 |
|
Cash provided by operating activities | | $ | 315,654 |
| | $ | 279,814 |
| | $ | 255,566 |
| | $ | 205,499 |
| | $ | 161,937 |
|
The following items impact the comparability and presentation of our consolidated data:
| |
• | In 2013 we refinanced our debt (see Note 5 — Debt in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements). We also refinanced our debt in 2010. |
| |
• | In 2013 we repurchased 3.4 million of our common shares at a total cost of $196.7 million. We also repurchased 2.7 million, 5.9 million, 3.9 million, and 0.3 million of our common shares in 2012, 2011, 2010, and 2009, respectively (see Note 7 — Stockholders’ Equity in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements). |
| |
• | In 2012 we acquired Ideas International, Inc. and recognized $2.4 million in pre-tax acquisition and integration charges (see Note 1 — Business and Significant Accounting Policies in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements). In addition, in 2009 we acquired AMR Research, Inc. and Burton Group, Inc., and in 2010 and 2009 we recognized $7.9 million and $2.9 million in pre-tax acquisition charges, respectively. The operating results of these three businesses, which were not material, were included in our consolidated financial results beginning on their respective acquisition dates. |
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS.
The purpose of the following Management’s Discussion and Analysis (“MD&A”) is to help facilitate the understanding of significant factors influencing the operating results, financial condition and cash flows of Gartner, Inc. Additionally, the MD&A also conveys our expectations of the potential impact of known trends, events or uncertainties that may impact future results. You should read this discussion in conjunction with our consolidated financial statements and related notes included in this report. Historical results and percentage relationships are not necessarily indicative of operating results for future periods. References to “the Company,” “we,” “our,” and “us” are to Gartner, Inc. and its consolidated subsidiaries.
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
In addition to historical information, this Annual Report on Form 10-K contains certain forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are any statements other than statements of historical fact, including statements regarding our expectations, beliefs, hopes, intentions or strategies regarding the future. In some cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as “may,” “will,” “expect,” “should,” “could,” “believe,” “plan,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “predict,” “potential,” “continue,” or other words of similar meaning.
Forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those discussed in, or implied by, the forward-looking statements. Factors that might cause such a difference include, but are not limited to, those discussed in Part 1, Item 1A, Risk Factors. Readers should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which reflect management’s opinion only as of the date on which they were made. Except as required by law, we disclaim any obligation to review or update these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances as they occur. Readers should review carefully any risk factors described in other reports we filed with the SEC.
BUSINESS OVERVIEW
Gartner, Inc. is the world’s leading information technology research and advisory company that helps executives use technology to build, guide and grow their enterprises. We offer independent and objective research and analysis on the information technology, computer hardware, software, communications and related technology industries. We provide comprehensive coverage of the IT industry to thousands of client organizations across the globe. Our client base consists primarily of CIOs and other senior IT and executives from a wide variety of business enterprises, government agencies and the investment community.
We have three business segments: Research, Consulting and Events.
| |
• | Research provides objective insight on critical and timely technology and supply chain initiatives for CIOs, other IT professionals, supply chain leaders, technology companies and the investment community through reports, briefings, proprietary tools, access to our analysts, peer networking services, and membership programs that enable our clients to make better decisions about their IT and supply chain investments. |
| |
• | Consulting provides customized solutions to unique client needs through on-site, day-to-day support, as well as proprietary tools for measuring and improving IT performance with a focus on cost, performance, efficiency, and quality. |
| |
• | Events provide IT, supply chain, and business professionals the opportunity to attend various symposia, conferences and exhibitions to learn, contribute and network with their peers. From our flagship event Symposium/ITxpo, to Summits focused on specific technologies and industries, to experimental workshop-style Seminars, our events distill the latest Gartner research into applicable insight and advice. |
BUSINESS MEASUREMENTS
We believe the following business measurements are important performance indicators for our business segments:
|
| | |
BUSINESS SEGMENT | | BUSINESS MEASUREMENTS |
Research | | Contract value represents the value attributable to all of our subscription-related research products that recognize revenue on a ratable basis. Contract value is calculated as the annualized value of all subscription research contracts in effect at a specific point in time, without regard to the duration of the contract. |
| | |
| | Client retention rate represents a measure of client satisfaction and renewed business relationships at a specific point in time. Client retention is calculated on a percentage basis by dividing our current clients, who were also clients a year ago, by all clients from a year ago. |
| | |
| | Wallet retention rate represents a measure of the amount of contract value we have retained with clients over a twelve-month period. Wallet retention is calculated on a percentage basis by dividing the contract value of clients, who were clients one year earlier, by the total contract value from a year earlier, excluding the impact of foreign currency exchange. When wallet retention exceeds client retention, it is an indication of retention of higher-spending clients, or increased spending by retained clients, or both. |
| | |
Consulting | | Consulting backlog represents future revenue to be derived from in-process consulting, measurement and strategic advisory services engagements. |
| | |
| | Utilization rate represents a measure of productivity of our consultants. Utilization rates are calculated for billable headcount on a percentage basis by dividing total hours billed by total hours available to bill. |
| | |
| | Billing rate represents earned billable revenue divided by total billable hours. |
| | |
| | Average annualized revenue per billable headcount represents a measure of the revenue generating ability of an average billable consultant and is calculated periodically by multiplying the average billing rate per hour times the utilization percentage times the billable hours available for one year. |
| | |
Events | | Number of events represents the total number of hosted events completed during the period. |
| | |
| | Number of attendees represents the total number of people who attend events. |
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY OF OPERATIONS AND FINANCIAL POSITION
We have executed a consistent growth strategy since 2005 to drive double-digit annual revenue and earnings growth. The fundamentals of our strategy include a focus on creating extraordinary research content, delivering innovative and highly differentiated product offerings, building a strong sales capability, providing world class client service with a focus on client engagement and retention, and continuously improving our operational effectiveness.
We had total revenues of $1,784.2 million in 2013, an increase of 10% over 2012 while diluted earnings per share increased by $.20 per share, to $1.93. Excluding the impact of foreign currency, 2013 total revenues increased 11% over 2012.
Research revenues rose 12% year-over-year, to $1,271.0 million in 2013, and the contribution margin increased 1 point, to 69%. At December 31, 2013, Research contract value was $1,423.2 million, an increase of 13% over December 31, 2012 and 12% adjusted for the impact of foreign exchange. Client retention was 82% and wallet retention was 98% at December 31, 2013.
Consulting revenues in 2013 increased 3% compared to 2012, while the gross contribution margin was 34%. Consultant utilization was 64% for 2013 compared to 67% in 2012, and we had 509 billable consultants at December 31, 2013 compared to 503 at year-end 2012. Backlog increased 3% year-over-year, to $106.1 million at December 31, 2013.
Events revenues increased 14% year-over-year, to $198.9 million, while the segment contribution margin was 46%. We held 64 events in 2013 compared to 62 in 2012, with a slight decline in the number of attendees.
For a more detailed discussion of our results, see the Segment Results section below.
Cash flow from our operating activities increased 13% in 2013 compared to 2012, to $315.7 million. We continued to focus on maximizing shareholder value in 2013, and we repurchased 3.4 million of our outstanding common shares during the year. We ended 2013 with almost $424.0 million in cash and cash equivalents, which is a record year-end cash balance. We refinanced our debt in 2013 to take advantage of favorable market conditions, and as of year-end 2013 we had over $541.0 million of borrowing capacity on our revolving credit facility. We believe that we have adequate liquidity to meet our currently anticipated needs.
FLUCTUATIONS IN QUARTERLY RESULTS
Our quarterly and annual revenue, operating income, and cash flow fluctuate as a result of many factors, including: the timing of our Symposium/ITxpo series, which are normally held during the fourth calendar quarter, as well as other events; the timing and amount of new business generated; the mix between domestic and international business; changes in market demand for our products and services; changes in foreign currency rates; the timing of the development, introduction and marketing of our new products and services; competition in the industry; general economic conditions; and other factors which are beyond our control. The potential fluctuations in our operating income could cause period-to-period comparisons of operating results not to be meaningful and could provide an unreliable indication of future operating results and cash flows.
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES
The preparation of financial statements requires the application of appropriate accounting policies and the use of estimates. Our significant accounting policies are described in Note 1 in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. Management considers the policies discussed below to be critical to an understanding of our financial statements because their application requires complex and subjective management judgments and estimates. Specific risks for these critical accounting policies are described below.
The preparation of our financial statements also requires us to make estimates and assumptions about future events. We develop our estimates using both current and historical experience, as well as other factors, including the general economic environment and actions we may take in the future. We adjust such estimates when facts and circumstances dictate. However, our estimates may involve significant uncertainties and judgments and cannot be determined with precision. In addition, these estimates are based on our best judgment at a point in time and as such these estimates may ultimately differ from actual results. On-going changes in our estimates could be material and would be reflected in the Company’s financial statements in future periods.
Our critical accounting policies are as follows:
Revenue recognition — Revenue is recognized in accordance with SEC Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 101, Revenue Recognition in Financial Statements (“SAB 101”), and SEC Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 104, Revenue Recognition (“SAB 104”). Revenue is only recognized once all required criteria for revenue recognition have been met. Revenue by significant source is accounted for as follows:
| |
• | Research revenues are derived from subscription contracts for research products and are deferred and recognized ratably over the applicable contract term. Fees from research reprints are recognized when the reprint is shipped. |
| |
• | Consulting revenues are principally generated from fixed fee and time and material engagements. Revenues from fixed fee contracts are recognized on a proportional performance basis. Revenues from time and materials engagements are recognized as work is delivered and/or services are provided. Revenues related to contract optimization contracts are contingent in nature and are only recognized upon satisfaction of all conditions related to their payment. |
| |
• | Events revenues are deferred and then recognized upon the completion of the related symposium, conference or exhibition. |
The majority of research contracts are billable upon signing, absent special terms granted on a limited basis from time to time. All research contracts are non-cancelable and non-refundable, except for government contracts that may have cancellation or fiscal
funding clauses. It is our policy to record the entire amount of the contract that is billable as a fee receivable at the time the contract is signed with a corresponding amount as deferred revenue, since the contract represents a legally enforceable claim.
Uncollectible fees receivable — We maintain an allowance for losses which is composed of a bad debt allowance and a sales reserve. Provisions are charged against earnings, either as a reduction in revenues or an increase to expense. The measurement of likely and probable losses and the allowance for losses is based on historical loss experience, aging of outstanding receivables, an assessment of current economic conditions and the financial health of specific clients. This evaluation is inherently judgmental and requires estimates. These valuation reserves are periodically re-evaluated and adjusted as more information about the ultimate collectability of fees receivable becomes available. Circumstances that could cause our valuation reserves to increase include changes in our clients’ liquidity and credit quality, other factors negatively impacting our clients’ ability to pay their obligations as they come due, and the effectiveness of our collection efforts.
The following table provides our total fees receivable and the related allowance for losses (in thousands):
|
| | | | | | | |
| December 31, |
| 2013 | | 2012 |
Total fees receivable | $ | 497,923 |
| | $ | 470,368 |
|
Allowance for losses | (7,000 | ) | | (6,400 | ) |
Fees receivable, net | $ | 490,923 |
| | $ | 463,968 |
|
Goodwill and other intangible assets — The Company evaluates recorded goodwill in accordance with Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) Topic 350, which requires goodwill to be assessed for impairment at least annually and whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable. In addition, an impairment evaluation of our amortizable intangible assets may also be performed on a periodic basis should events or circumstances indicate potential impairment. If we determine that the fair value of a reporting unit or an intangible asset is less than its related carrying amount, we must recognize an impairment charge against earnings. Among the factors we consider important that could trigger an impairment review are the following:
| |
• | Significant under-performance relative to historical or projected future operating results; |
| |
• | Significant changes in the manner of our use of acquired assets or the strategy for our overall business; |
| |
• | Significant negative industry or general economic trends; |
| |
• | Significant decline in our stock price for a sustained period; and |
| |
• | Our market capitalization relative to net book value. |
The annual assessment of the recoverability of recorded goodwill can be based on either a qualitative or qualitative assessment or a combination of the two. Both methods require the use of estimates which in turn contain judgments and assumptions regarding future trends and events. As a result, both the precision and reliability of the resulting estimates are subject to uncertainty. In 2013, we completed the required annual goodwill impairment test utilizing a qualitative approach. Based on this assessment, the Company believes the fair values of the Company’s reporting units continue to substantially exceed their respective carrying amounts. See Note 1 — Business and Significant Accounting Policies in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional discussion.
Accounting for income taxes — We estimate our income taxes in each of the jurisdictions where we operate. This process involves estimating our current tax expense together with assessing temporary differences resulting from differing treatment of items for tax and accounting purposes. These differences result in deferred tax assets and liabilities, which are included within our consolidated balance sheets. We record a valuation allowance to reduce our deferred tax assets when future realization is in question. We consider the availability of loss carryforwards, existing deferred tax liabilities, future taxable income and ongoing prudent and feasible tax planning strategies in assessing the need for the valuation allowance. In the event we determine that we are able to realize our deferred tax assets in the future in excess of the net recorded amount, an adjustment is made to reduce the valuation allowance and increase income in the period such determination is made. Likewise, if we determine that we will not be able to realize all or part of our net deferred tax asset in the future, an adjustment to the valuation allowance is charged against income in the period such determination is made.
Accounting for stock-based compensation — The Company accounts for stock-based compensation in accordance with FASB ASC Topics 505 and 718, as interpreted by SEC Staff Accounting Bulletins No. 107 (“SAB No. 107”) and No. 110 (“SAB No. 110”). The Company recognizes stock-based compensation expense, which is based on the fair value of the award on the date of grant, over the related service period, net of estimated forfeitures (see Note 8 — Stock-Based Compensation in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information regarding stock-based compensation).
Determining the appropriate fair value model and calculating the fair value of stock compensation awards requires the input of certain complex and subjective assumptions, including the expected life of the stock compensation award and the Company’s Common Stock price volatility. In addition, determining the appropriate amount of associated periodic expense requires management to estimate the rate of employee forfeitures and the likelihood of achievement of certain performance targets. The assumptions used in calculating the fair value of stock compensation awards and the associated periodic expense represent management’s best estimates, but these estimates involve inherent uncertainties and the application of judgment. As a result, if factors change and the Company deems it necessary in the future to modify the assumptions it made or to use different assumptions, or if the quantity and nature of the Company’s stock-based compensation awards changes, then the amount of expense may need to be adjusted and future stock compensation expense could be materially different from what has been recorded in the current period.
Restructuring and other accruals — We may record accruals for severance costs, costs associated with excess facilities that we have leased, contract terminations, asset impairments, and other costs as a result of on-going actions we undertake to streamline our organization, reposition certain businesses and reduce ongoing costs. Estimates of costs to be incurred to complete these actions, such as future lease payments, sublease income, the fair value of assets, and severance and related benefits, are based on assumptions at the time the actions are initiated. These accruals may need to be adjusted to the extent actual costs differ from such estimates. In addition, these actions may be revised due to changes in business conditions that we did not foresee at the time such plans were approved.
We also record accruals during the year for our various employee cash incentive programs. Amounts accrued at the end of each reporting period are based on our estimates and may require adjustment as the ultimate amount paid for these incentives are sometimes not known with certainty until after year end.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Consolidated Results
2013 VERSUS 2012
The following table presents the changes in selected line items in our Consolidated Statements of Operations for the two years ended December 31, 2013 (dollars in thousands):
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Twelve Months Ended December 31, 2013 | | Twelve Months Ended December 31, 2012 | | Income Increase (Decrease) $ | | Increase (Decrease) % |
Total revenues | $ | 1,784,213 |
| | $ | 1,615,808 |
| | $ | 168,405 |
| | 10 | % |
Costs and expenses: | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
|
Cost of services & product development | 713,484 |
| | 659,067 |
| | (54,417 | ) | | (8 | ) |
Selling, general and administrative | 760,458 |
| | 678,843 |
| | (81,615 | ) | | (12 | ) |
Depreciation | 28,996 |
| | 25,369 |
| | (3,627 | ) | | (14 | ) |
Amortization of intangibles | 5,446 |
| | 4,402 |
| | (1,044 | ) | | (24 | ) |
Acquisition & integration charges | 337 |
| | 2,420 |
| | 2,083 |
| | 86 |
|
Operating income | 275,492 |
| | 245,707 |
| | 29,785 |
| | 12 |
|
Interest expense, net | (8,837 | ) | | (8,859 | ) | | 22 |
| | — |
|
Other expense, net | (216 | ) | | (1,252 | ) | | 1,036 |
| | 83 |
|
Provision for income taxes | (83,638 | ) | | (69,693 | ) | | (13,945 | ) | | (20 | ) |
Net income | $ | 182,801 |
| | $ | 165,903 |
| | $ | 16,898 |
| | 10 | % |
TOTAL REVENUES for the twelve months ended December 31, 2013 increased $168.4 million, or 10%, compared to the twelve months ended December 31, 2012. Total revenues increased 11% excluding the unfavorable impact of foreign currency. Revenues increased in all three of our business segments and across all of our geographic regions.
The following table presents total revenues by geographic region for the twelve months ended:
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Geographic Region | | December 31, 2013 | | December 31, 2012 | | Increase (Decrease) $ | | Increase (Decrease) % | |
U.S. and Canada | | $ | 1,049,734 |
| | $ | 947,075 |
| | $ | 102,659 |
| | 11 | % | |
Europe, Middle East, Africa | | 508,755 |
| | 458,675 |
| | 50,080 |
| | 11 |
| |
Other International | | 225,724 |
| | 210,058 |
| | 15,666 |
| | 7 |
| |
Totals | | $ | 1,784,213 |
| | $ | 1,615,808 |
| | $ | 168,405 |
| | 10 | % | |
The following table presents our revenues by segment for the twelve months ended:
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Segment | | December 31, 2013 | | December 31, 2012 | | Increase (Decrease) $ | | Increase (Decrease) % | |
Research | | $ | 1,271,011 |
| | $ | 1,137,147 |
| | $ | 133,864 |
| | 12 | % | |
Consulting | | 314,257 |
| | 304,893 |
| | 9,364 |
| | 3 |
| |
Events | | 198,945 |
| | 173,768 |
| | 25,177 |
| | 14 |
| |
Totals | | $ | 1,784,213 |
| | $ | 1,615,808 |
| | $ | 168,405 |
| | 10 | % | |
Please refer to the section of this MD&A below entitled “Segment Results” for a further discussion of revenues and results by segment.
COST OF SERVICES AND PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT (“COS”) expense increased 8% in 2013 compared to 2012, or $54.4 million, to $713.5 million compared to $659.1 million in 2012. The increase was primarily due to higher payroll and related benefits costs from additional headcount as we continued to invest to support the growth in our business, and to a lesser extent, merit salary increases. We also had higher conference costs due to an increase in the number of events, a double-digit increase in the number of exhibitors at our events, and the upgrading of facilities in several locations to support anticipated growth in the events business. These additional costs were partially offset by the favorable impact of foreign currency. COS as a percentage of revenues was 40% in the 2013 period compared to 41% in the 2012 period.
SELLING, GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE (“SG&A”) expense increased by $81.6 million in 2013, or 12%, to $760.5 million compared to $678.8 million in 2012. The increase was primarily due to higher payroll and related benefits costs, which was partially offset by favorable foreign currency impact. The higher payroll and benefit cost was primarily driven by our investment in additional headcount, and to a lesser extent, higher sales commissions and merit salary increases. The increased headcount includes additional quota-bearing sales associates, which increased to 1,643 at December 31, 2013, a 16% increase over year-end 2012.
DEPRECIATION expense increased 14% in 2013 compared to 2012, primarily due to additional depreciation on leasehold improvements from two renovated buildings on our Stamford headquarters campus being placed into service during 2013.
AMORTIZATION OF INTANGIBLES increased 24% year-over-year due to a full year of amortization in 2013 of the intangible assets recorded from the Ideas International acquisition in mid-2012.
ACQUISITION AND INTEGRATION CHARGES was $0.3 million in 2013 compared to $2.4 million in 2012. These charges related to the acquisition of Ideas International in mid-2012 and include legal, consulting, severance, and other costs.
OPERATING INCOME increased $29.8 million year-over-year, or 12%, to $275.5 million in 2013 from $245.7 million in 2012. The increased operating income was primarily attributable to a substantially higher segment contribution from our Research segment. Operating income as a percentage of revenues was 15% for both periods.
INTEREST EXPENSE, NET was flat year-over-year.
OTHER EXPENSE, NET was $0.2 million in 2013 and $1.3 million in 2012. These expenses primarily consisted of net foreign currency exchange gains and losses.
PROVISION FOR INCOME TAXES was $83.6 million in 2013 compared to $69.7 million in 2012 and the effective tax rate was 31.4% for 2013 compared to 29.6% for 2012. The higher effective tax rate in 2013 was primarily attributable to a change in the annual mix of pre-tax income by jurisdiction as well as the impact of certain state tax credits recognized in 2012.
During 2013, the Company closed the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) audit of its 2008 and 2009 federal income tax returns. The resolution of the audit did not have a material adverse effect on the consolidated financial position, cash flows, or results of operations of the Company.
In late 2013 the Company received notice that the IRS intends to conduct an audit of the Company's 2010 and 2011 tax years. The audits for these years have commenced and are in the early stages of examination. Although the final resolution of these audits is uncertain, the Company believes that the ultimate disposition will not have a material adverse effect on its consolidated financial position, cash flows, or results of operations.
The American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012 (the “2012 Tax Act”) was enacted in January of 2013 and contained beneficial tax provisions for the Company which applied retroactively to 2012. However, since the 2012 Tax Act was passed in 2013, approximately $1.5 million of tax benefits relating to its retroactive application were recorded by the Company in early 2013.
NET INCOME was $182.8 million in 2013 and $165.9 million in 2012, an increase of $16.9 million, or 10%, primarily due to the higher operating income, which was partially offset by higher income tax charges. Diluted earnings per share increased 12% year-over-year due to the higher net income and to a lesser extent a lower number of weighted-average shares outstanding.
2012 VERSUS 2011
The following table presents the changes in selected line items in our Consolidated Statements of Operations for the two years ended December 31, 2012 (dollars in thousands):
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Twelve Months Ended December 31, 2012 | | Twelve Months Ended December 31, 2011 | | Income Increase (Decrease) $ | | Increase (Decrease) % |
Total revenues | $ | 1,615,808 |
| | $ | 1,468,588 |
| | $ | 147,220 |
| | 10 | % |
Costs and expenses: | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
|
Cost of services & product development | 659,067 |
| | 608,755 |
| | (50,312 | ) | | (8 | ) |
Selling, general and administrative | 678,843 |
| | 613,707 |
| | (65,136 | ) | | (11 | ) |
Depreciation | 25,369 |
| | 25,539 |
| | 170 |
| | 1 |
|
Amortization of intangibles | 4,402 |
| | 6,525 |
| | 2,123 |
| | 33 |
|
Acquisition & integration charges | 2,420 |
| | — |
| | (2,420 | ) | | (100 | ) |
Operating income | 245,707 |
| | 214,062 |
| | 31,645 |
| | 15 |
|
Interest expense, net | (8,859 | ) | | (9,967 | ) | | 1,108 |
| | 11 |
|
Other expense, net | (1,252 | ) | | (1,911 | ) | | 659 |
| | 34 |
|
Provision for income taxes | (69,693 | ) | | (65,282 | ) | | (4,411 | ) | | (7 | ) |
Net income | $ | 165,903 |
| | $ | 136,902 |
| | $ | 29,001 |
| | 21 | % |
TOTAL REVENUES for the twelve months ended December 31, 2012 increased $147.2 million, or 10%, compared to the twelve months ended December 31, 2011. Total revenues increased 12% excluding the unfavorable impact of foreign currency. Revenues increased by double-digits in both our Research and Events segments but declined slightly in Consulting. Revenues increased across all of our geographic regions, with a double-digit increase in Research revenues in every region.
An overview of our total revenues by geographic region follows:
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Geographic Region | | Twelve Months Ended December 31, 2012 | | Twelve Months Ended December 31, 2011 | | Increase (Decrease) $ | | Increase (Decrease) % | |
U.S. and Canada | | $ | 947,075 |
| | $ | 861,481 |
| | $ | 85,594 |
| | 10 | % | |
Europe, Middle East, Africa | | 458,675 |
| | 437,194 |
| | 21,481 |
| | 5 |
| |
Other International | | 210,058 |
| | 169,913 |
| | 40,145 |
| | 24 |
| |
Totals | | $ | 1,615,808 |
| | $ | 1,468,588 |
| | $ | 147,220 |
| | 10 | % | |
An overview of our total revenues by segment follows:
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Segment | | Twelve Months Ended December 31, 2012 | | Twelve Months Ended December 31, 2011 | | Increase (Decrease) $ | | Increase (Decrease) % | |
Research | | $ | 1,137,147 |
| | $ | 1,012,062 |
| | $ | 125,085 |
| | 12 | % | |
Consulting | | 304,893 |
| | 308,047 |
| | (3,154 | ) | | (1 | ) | |
Events | | 173,768 |
| | 148,479 |
| | 25,289 |
| | 17 |
| |
Totals | | $ | 1,615,808 |
| | 1,468,588 |
| | $ | 147,220 |
| | 10 | % | |
Please refer to the section of this MD&A below entitled “Segment Results” for a further discussion of revenues and results by segment.
COST OF SERVICES AND PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT (“COS”) expense increased 8% in 2012, or $50.3 million, to $659.1 million compared to $608.8 million in 2011. The increase was primarily due to higher payroll and related benefits costs from additional headcount as we continued to invest to support the growth in our business, and to a lesser extent, merit salary increases.
We also had higher conference costs and related travel expenses due to an increase in the number of events, as well as additional attendees and exhibitors at our events. These additional costs were partially offset by the favorable impact of foreign currency. COS as a percentage of revenues was 41% for both periods.
SELLING, GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE (“SG&A”) expense increased by $65.1 million in 2012, or 11%, to $678.8 million compared to $613.7 million in 2011. The increase was primarily due to higher payroll and related benefits costs, which was partially offset by favorable foreign currency impact. The higher payroll and benefit cost was primarily driven by our investment in additional headcount, and to a lesser extent, higher sales commissions and merit salary increases. The increased headcount includes additional quota-bearing sales associates, which increased to 1,417 at December 31, 2012, a 12% increase over the prior year-end.
DEPRECIATION expense decreased slightly year-over-year due to certain assets becoming fully depreciated which was only partially offset by the additional depreciation related to asset additions. Capital expenditures increased to $44.3 million in 2012 from $42.0 million in 2011, which includes $17.0 million and $9.5 million, respectively, of expenditures for the renovation of our Stamford headquarters facility. Up to $25.0 million of these expenditures are reimbursable by the facility landlord, and as of December 31, 2012, $22.0 million had been reimbursed.
AMORTIZATION OF INTANGIBLES decreased year-over-year due to certain intangibles becoming fully amortized, which was only partially offset by the additional amortization from the intangible assets recorded from the Ideas International acquisition in mid-2012.
ACQUISITION AND INTEGRATION CHARGES was $2.4 million in 2012 and zero in 2011. These charges related to the acquisition of Ideas International in mid-2012 and included legal, consulting, severance, and other costs.
OPERATING INCOME increased $31.6 million year-over-year, or 15%, to $245.7 million in 2012 from $214.1 million in 2011. Operating income as a percentage of revenues was 15% for both periods. Although both Research and Events had higher segment contributions in 2012, these increases were partially offset by a lower contribution in Consulting, as well as higher SG&A expenses, as discussed above.
INTEREST EXPENSE, NET declined by 11% in 2012 when compared to 2011. The decline was primarily due to a lower average amount of debt outstanding, which declined to $207.0 million in 2012 from $220.0 million in 2011, as well as lower amortization of capitalized debt refinancing costs.
OTHER EXPENSE, NET was $1.3 million in 2012 and $1.9 million in 2011. These expenses primarily consisted of net foreign currency exchange gains and losses.
PROVISION FOR INCOME TAXES was $69.7 million in 2012 compared to $65.3 million in 2011 and the effective tax rate was 29.6% for 2012 compared to 32.3% for 2011. The lower effective tax rate in 2012 was primarily attributable to the recognition of tax benefits in 2012 resulting from the settlement of tax audits, as well as benefits recorded in 2012 relating to the recognition of certain state tax credits.
During 2012, the Company closed the IRS audit of its 2007 federal income tax return. The resolution of the audit did not have a material adverse effect on the consolidated financial position, cash flows, or results of operations of the Company.
NET INCOME was $165.9 million in 2012 and $136.9 million in 2011, an increase of $29.0 million, or 21%, primarily due to a higher operating income, which was partially offset by $4.4 million in higher income tax charges. Although the year-over-year effective tax rate declined, pre-tax income increased substantially, resulting in the higher dollar amount of tax charges. Both basic and diluted earnings per share increased 24% year-over-year due to the higher net income and to a lesser extent a lower number of weighted-average shares outstanding.
SEGMENT RESULTS
We evaluate reportable segment performance and allocate resources based on gross contribution margin. Gross contribution is defined as operating income excluding certain Cost of services and product development charges, SG&A, Depreciation, Acquisition and integration charges, and Amortization of intangibles. Gross contribution margin is defined as gross contribution as a percentage of revenues.
The following sections present the results of our three business segments.
Research
The following table presents the financial results and business measurements of our Research segment as of and for the twelve months ended December 31: |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
|
2013 | | 2012 | | $ Increase (Decrease) | | % Increase (Decrease) | | 2012 | | 2011 | | $ Increase (Decrease) | | % Increase (Decrease) |
Financial Measurements: | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
|
Revenues (1) | $ | 1,271,011 |
| | $ | 1,137,147 |
| | $ | 133,864 |
| | 12 | % | | $ | 1,137,147 |
| | $ | 1,012,062 |
| | $ | 125,085 |
| | 12 | % |
Gross contribution (1) | $ | 879,384 |
| | $ | 774,342 |
| | $ | 105,042 |
| | 14 | % | | $ | 774,342 |
| | $ | 682,136 |
| | $ | 92,206 |
| | 14 | % |
Gross contribution margin | 69 | % | | 68 | % | | 1 point |
| | — |
| | 68 | % | | 67 | % | | 1 point |
| | — |
|
Business Measurements: | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
|
Contract value (1) | $ | 1,423,179 |
| | $ | 1,262,865 |
| | $ | 160,314 |
| | 13 | % | | $ | 1,262,865 |
| | $ | 1,115,801 |
| | $ | 147,064 |
| | 13 | % |
Client retention | 82 | % | | 83 | % | | (1) point |
| | — |
| | 83 | % | | 82 | % | | 1 point |
| | — |
|
Wallet retention | 98 | % | | 99 | % | | (1) point |
| | — |
| | 99 | % | | 99 | % | | — |
| | — |
|
2013 VERSUS 2012
Research segment revenues in 2013 increased compared to 2012. The impact of foreign exchange translation was not significant. The segment gross contribution margin increased by 1 point, to 69%, driven by the operating leverage in this business. Contribution margin improved in spite of an 8% increase in segment headcount as we continue to invest for future growth.
Research contract value increased 13% in 2013 to $1,423.2 million, and increased 12% year-over-year adjusted for the impact of foreign currency translation. Our growth in contract value was broad-based, with almost every region, industry segment, and client size growing at double-digit rates compared to 2012.
The number of research client organizations we serve increased by 6% in 2013, to 14,099. Both client retention and wallet retention remained strong during 2013, and were 82% and 98% at December 31, 2013, respectively.
2012 VERSUS 2011
Research segment revenues increased 12% in 2012 compared to 2011 but excluding the unfavorable effect of foreign currency translation, Research segment revenues increased 14%. The segment gross contribution margin increased by 1 point.
Research contract value increased 13% in 2012, to $1,262.9 million, but increased 14% year-over-year excluding the unfavorable impact of foreign currency translation. We had double-digit contract value growth across all of our Research product lines and client sizes, and almost every industry segment. Both client retention and wallet retention remained strong during 2012 at 83% and 99%, respectively.
Consulting
The following table presents the financial results and business measurements of our Consulting segment as of and for the twelve months ended December 31:
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
|
2013 | | 2012 | | $ Increase (Decrease) | | % Increase (Decrease) | | 2012 | | 2011 | | $ Increase (Decrease) | | % Increase (Decrease) |
Financial Measurements: | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
|
Revenues (1) | $ | 314,257 |
| | $ | 304,893 |
| | $ | 9,364 |
| | 3 | % | | $ | 304,893 |
| | $ | 308,047 |
| | $ | (3,154 | ) | | (1 | )% |
Gross contribution (1) | $ | 107,565 |
| | $ | 109,253 |
| | $ | (1,688 | ) | | (2 | )% | | $ | 109,253 |
| | $ | 114,838 |
| | $ | (5,585 | ) | | (5 | )% |
Gross contribution margin | 34 | % | | 36 | % | | (2) points |
| | — |
| | 36 | % | | 37 | % | | (1) point |
| | — |
|
Business Measurements: | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
|
Backlog (1) | $ | 106,130 |
| | $ | 102,718 |
| | $ | 3,412 |
| | 3 | % | | $ | 102,718 |
| | $ | 100,564 |
| | $ | 2,154 |
| | 2 | % |
Billable headcount | 509 |
| | 503 |
| | 6 |
| | 1 | % | | 503 |
| | 481 |
| | 22 |
| | 5 | % |
Consultant utilization | 64 | % | | 67 | % | | (3) points |
| | — |
| | 67 | % | | 65 | % | | 2 points |
| | — |
|
Average annualized revenue per billable headcount (1) | $ | 409 |
| | $ | 430 |
| | $ | (21 | ) | | (5 | )% | | $ | 430 |
| | $ | 424 |
| | $ | 6 |
| | 1 | % |
2013 VERSUS 2012
Consulting revenues increased 3% year-over-year and 4% when adjusted for the impact of foreign exchange. The increase was due to higher contract optimization revenue, which can fluctuate from period to period and are generally about 10% of total Consulting segment revenues. The increased contract optimization revenues were partially offset by slightly lower core consulting and strategic advisory (“SAS”) revenues. The gross contribution margin declined by 2 points due to higher payroll and benefit costs from additional headcount and merit salary increases, and to a lesser extent, lower utilization in core consulting. Backlog increased $3.4 million, or 3%, year-over-year, to $106.1 million at December 31, 2013.
2012 VERSUS 2011
Consulting revenues decreased 1% year-over-year due to lower revenues in our contract optimization business. The decrease in contract optimization revenue was substantially offset by higher core consulting revenues, which increased 5% year-over-year, driven by additional demand and increased headcount. SAS revenues were flat year-over-year. Excluding the unfavorable impact of foreign currency translation, revenues increased 1% year-over-year. The gross contribution margin declined by 1 point due to the lower revenues in our contract optimization business, which has a higher contribution margin than core consulting or SAS. Backlog increased 2% year-over-year, to $102.7 million at December 31, 2012.
Events
The following table presents the financial results and business measurements of our Events segment as of and for the twelve months ended December 31: |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
|
2013 | | 2012 | | $ Increase (Decrease) | | % Increase (Decrease) | | 2012 | | 2011 | | $ Increase (Decrease) | | % Increase (Decrease) |
Financial Measurements: | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
|
Revenues (1) | $ | 198,945 |
| | $ | 173,768 |
| | $ | 25,177 |
| | 14 | % | | $ | 173,768 |
| | $ | 148,479 |
| | $ | 25,289 |
| | 17 | % |
Gross contribution (1) | $ | 91,216 |
| | $ | 80,119 |
| | $ | 11,097 |
| | 14 | % | | $ | 80,119 |
| | $ | 66,265 |
| | $ | 13,854 |
| | 21 | % |
Gross contribution margin | 46 | % | | 46 | % | | — |
| | — |
| | 46 | % | | 45 | % | | 1 point |
| | — |
|
Business Measurements: | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
|
Number of events | 64 |
| | 62 |
| | 2 |
| | 3 | % | | 62 |
| | 60 |
| | 2 |
| | 3 | % |
Number of attendees | 44,986 |
| | 46,307 |
| | (1,321 | ) | | (3 | )% | | 46,307 |
| | 42,748 |
| | 3,559 |
| | 8 | % |
2013 VERSUS 2012
Events revenues increased $25.2 million when comparing 2013 to 2012, or 14%, but excluding the impact of foreign currency translation, revenues increased 15% year-over-year. We held 64 events in 2013, consisting of 58 ongoing events and 6 new events, compared to 62 events in 2012. The year-over-year revenue increase was primarily attributable to higher exhibitor revenue at our ongoing events. The overall number of attendees declined slightly while the number of exhibitors increased 11%. Average revenue per attendee rose 15% and average revenue per exhibitor increased 6%. The gross contribution margin was flat year-over-year at 46%.
2012 VERSUS 2011
Events revenues increased 17% year-over-year, or $25.3 million, but excluding the unfavorable impact of foreign currency translation, revenues increased 20% year-over-year. We held 62 events in 2012 compared to 60 in 2011. The 62 events held in 2012 consisted of 57 ongoing events and 5 new event launches, with 3 events held in prior years discontinued, while the overall number of attendees and exhibitors increased 8% and 20%, respectively. Average revenue per attendee rose 3% and average revenue per exhibitor increased 1%. Both the additional revenue and the higher contribution margin in 2012 were primarily due to the significantly higher exhibitor volume at our ongoing events.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
We finance our operations primarily through cash generated from our operating activities. For 2013, we had operating cash flow of $315.7 million, which was the highest in the Company’s history and represented an increase of 13% over 2012. Our operating cash flow has been continuously enhanced by the leverage characteristics of our subscription-based business model as well as our focus on operational efficiencies. Revenues in our Research segment, which increased 12% in 2013 compared to 2012, constituted 71% and 70% of our total revenues in 2013 and 2012, respectively. Our Research contracts generally renew annually and typically are paid in advance, and combined with a strong customer retention rate and high incremental margins, has generally resulted in strong growth in operating cash flow each year. Our cash flow generation has also benefited from our continuing efforts to improve the operating efficiencies of our businesses as well as a focus on the optimal management of our working capital as we increase our sales volume.
In addition to the strong increase in our operating cash flows, we also had almost $424.0 million of cash and cash equivalents at year-end 2013, which was the highest cash balance in the Company’s history. We refinanced our debt in 2013 to take advantage of favorable market conditions and we had $541.1 million of available borrowing capacity under our revolving credit facility at year-end 2013. We believe that our strong operating cash flow, as well as our existing cash balances and our available borrowing capacity, provide us with adequate liquidity to meet our currently anticipated needs.
Our cash and cash equivalents are held in numerous locations throughout the world. At December 31, 2013, $247.0 million of our cash and cash equivalents was held outside the U.S. Approximately half of the cash and cash equivalents held overseas represents unremitted earnings of our non-U.S subsidiaries. Under U.S. accounting rules, no provision for income taxes that may result from the remittance of such earnings is required if the Company intends to reinvest such funds overseas. Our current plans do not demonstrate a need to repatriate these undistributed earnings to fund our U.S. operations or otherwise satisfy the liquidity needs of our U.S operations. We intend to reinvest these earnings in our non-U.S. operations, except in instances in which the repatriation of these earnings would result in minimal additional tax. As a result, the Company has not recognized additional income tax expense that may result from the remittance of these earnings. However, should our liquidity needs change or we decide to repatriate some or all of these unremitted earnings, we may be required to accrue additional taxes which could have a material effect on our consolidated financial position, cash flows, and result of operations.
Changes in cash and cash equivalents
The following disclosure summarizes and explains the changes in our cash and cash equivalents for the three years ending December 31, 2013 (in thousands):
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| 2013 vs. 2012 | | 2012 vs. 2011 |
| Twelve Months Ended December 31, 2013 | | Twelve Months Ended December 31, 2012 | | Increase (Decrease) | | Twelve Months Ended December 31, 2012 | | Twelve Months Ended December 31, 2011 | | Increase (Decrease) |
Cash provided by operating activities | $ | 315,654 |
| | $ | 279,813 |
| | $ | 35,841 |
| | $ | 279,813 |
| | $ | 255,566 |
| | $ | 24,247 |
|
Cash used in investing activities | (36,498 | ) | | (54,673 | ) | | 18,175 |
| | (54,673 | ) | | (41,954 | ) | | (12,719 | ) |
Cash used by financing activities | (153,855 | ) | | (72,570 | ) | | (81,285 | ) | | (72,570 | ) | | (186,559 | ) | | 113,989 |
|
Net increase | 125,301 |
| | 152,570 |
| | (27,269 | ) | | 152,570 |
| | 27,053 |
| | 125,517 |
|
Effects of exchange rates | (1,163 | ) | | 4,543 |
| | (5,706 | ) | | 4,543 |
| | (4,495 | ) | | 9,038 |
|
Beginning cash and cash equivalents | 299,852 |
| | 142,739 |
| | 157,113 |
| | 142,739 |
| | 120,181 |
| | 22,558 |
|
Ending cash and cash equivalents | $ | 423,990 |
| | $ | 299,852 |
| | $ | 124,138 |
| | $ | 299,852 |
| | $ | 142,739 |
| | $ | 157,113 |
|
2013 VERSUS 2012
Operating
Operating cash flow increased by $35.8 million, or 13%, when comparing 2013 to 2012. The increase was primarily due to higher net income in the 2013 period, as well as additional receivable collections and other positive working capital changes. These increases were partially offset by additional cash payments in the 2013 period for bonus, commissions, and taxes, and we also had lower cash reimbursements in the 2013 period related to the completion of the renovation of our Stamford headquarters facility.
Investing
Cash used in our investing activities declined by $18.2 million in 2013 compared to 2012. The decrease was primarily due to $10.3 million of cash used in 2012 for the acquisition of Ideas International and to a lesser extent, higher capital expenditures in 2012.
Capital expenditures were $36.5 million in 2013 compared to $44.3 million in 2012, which included $7.7 million and $17.0 million, respectively, that were paid for the renovation of our Stamford headquarters facility. The Company's total expenditures on the renovation were approximately $34.2 million. The Company received a total of $25.0 million of reimbursements from the facility landlord for the renovation, of which $3.0 million was received in 2013, $13.0 million in 2012, and $9.0 million in 2011, which were recorded in operating cash flows.
Financing
We used $153.9 million of cash in our financing activities in 2013 compared to $72.6 million in 2012, an increase in cash used of $81.3 million, primarily due to share repurchases. We used $181.7 million of cash in 2013 for share repurchases compared to $111.3 million in 2012. We also had lower cash proceeds from employee share-based activity in the 2013 period, and we also paid $3.6 million of fees related to our debt refinancing in the 2013 period.
2012 VERSUS 2011
Operating
Operating cash flow increased by 9%, or $24.2 million, in 2012 compared to 2011, which was primarily due to higher net income. We also had lower cash payments for interest on our debt and other items, as well as higher cash reimbursements related to the renovation of our Stamford headquarters facility. These increased cash flows were partially offset by higher cash payments for income taxes during 2012.
Investing
Cash used for investing purposes was $54.7 million in 2012, an increase in cash used of $12.7 million compared to 2011, due to $10.3 million of cash used for the acquisition of Ideas International and to a lesser extent, higher capital expenditures.
Capital expenditures were $44.3 million in 2012 compared to $42.0 million in 2011, which included $17.0 million and $9.5 million, respectively, that were paid for the renovation of our Stamford headquarters facility. The Company received reimbursements from the facility landlord of $13.0 million in 2012 and $9.0 million in 2011, which were recorded in operating cash flows.
Financing
We used $114.0 million less cash in our financing activities in 2012 compared to 2011, primarily due to a lower number of shares repurchased. Cash used for share repurchases was $111.3 million in 2012 compared to $212.0 million in 2011, with 2.7 million and 5.9 million of shares repurchased, respectively. Cash used also declined due to net debt activity, as we borrowed an additional $5.0 million in 2012 compared to $20.1 million of debt repayments in 2011.
OBLIGATIONS AND COMMITMENTS
2013 Credit Agreement
The Company has a five-year credit arrangement that it entered into in March 2013 that provides for a $150.0 million term loan and a $600.0 million revolving credit facility (the “2013 Credit Agreement”). Under the revolving credit facility, amounts may be borrowed, repaid, and re-borrowed through the maturity date of the agreement in March 2018. The credit arrangement contains an expansion feature by which the term loan and revolving credit facility may be increased, at the Company’s option and under certain conditions, by up to an additional $250.0 million in the aggregate. The Company had a total of $200.0 million outstanding under the 2013 Credit Agreement as of December 31, 2013, which consisted of $144.4 million outstanding under the term loan and $55.6 million outstanding under the revolver. As of December 31, 2013, we had $541.1 million of borrowing availability under the revolver.
The term loan will be repaid in 16 consecutive quarterly installments which commenced on June 30, 2013, plus a final payment due on March 7, 2018, and may be prepaid at any time without penalty or premium at the Company’s option. The revolving credit facility may be used for loans, and up to $40.0 million may be used for letters of credit. The revolving loans may be borrowed,
repaid and re-borrowed until March 7, 2018, at which time all amounts borrowed must be repaid. See Note 5 - Debt herein in the Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information regarding the 2013 Credit Agreement.
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
Through December 31, 2013, we have not entered into any off-balance sheet arrangements or transactions with unconsolidated entities or other persons.
Contractual Cash Commitments
The Company has certain contractual commitments that require future payment. The following table summarizes the Company’s contractual cash commitments due after December 31, 2013 (in thousands):
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Commitment Description: | | Due In Less Than 1 Year | | Due In 2-3 Years | | Due In 4-5 Years | | Due In More Than 5 Years | | Total |
Debt – principal and interest (1), (2) | | $ | 20,555 |
| | $ | 50,485 |
| | $ | 160,620 |
| | $ | 5,210 |
| | $ | 236,870 |
|
Operating leases (3) | | 34,525 |
| | 48,135 |
| | 25,985 |
| | 82,485 |
| | 191,130 |
|
Deferred compensation arrangement (4) | | 3,280 |
| | 5,920 |
| | 3,800 |
| | 23,410 |
| | 36,410 |
|
Tax liabilities (5) | | 1,520 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | 1,520 |
|
Other (6) | | 21,500 |
| | 5,560 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | 27,060 |
|
Totals | | $ | 81,380 |
| | $ | 110,100 |
| | $ | 190,405 |
| | $ | 111,105 |
| | $ | 492,990 |
|
| |
(1) | Includes the contractual principal due under the Company’s 2013 Credit Agreement, which matures in March 2018. Amounts borrowed under the term loan arrangement have been classified in the table based on the scheduled repayment dates, while revolver borrowings are classified in the Due In 4-5 Years category since the amounts are not contractually due until 2018. Interest payments on amounts outstanding under the 2013 Credit Facility are based on a floating rate. However, the Company has a $200.0 million notional interest rate swap that converts the variable interest payments on the debt to a 2.26% fixed rate on the first $200.0 million of borrowings. As a result, in order to calculate an estimate for the future interest payments, the Company has used a rate of 3.64%, which includes the swap rate of 2.26% plus a loan margin of 1.38%. See Note 5 — Debt in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information on the Company's 2013 Credit Agreement. |
| |
(2) | The Company's $5.0 million State of Connecticut economic development loan is included in the Due In More Than 5 Years category since it has a 10 year maturity. Interest payments on the loan have been calculated based on the contractual fixed rate of interest of 3%. See Note 5 — Debt in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information on the loan. |
| |
(3) | The Company leases various facilities, furniture, autos, and computer equipment. These leases expire between 2013 and 2027 See Note 1 — Business and Significant Accounting Policies in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information on the Company's leases. |
| |
(4) | Represents the Company’s liability to participants in its supplemental deferred compensation arrangement (see Note 13 — Employee Benefits in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information). Amounts payable to active employees whose payment date is unknown have been included in the Due In More Than 5 Years category since the Company cannot determine when the amounts will be paid. |
| |
(5) | Includes interest and penalties. In addition to the amount presented in the table, the Company also has recorded liabilities of $13.1 million for unrecognized tax benefits and $3.1 million for related potential interest and penalties. We are uncertain as to when or if such amounts may be settled. |
| |
(6) | Includes contractual commitments for software, building maintenance, and telecom services. Also included are amounts due for share repurchase transactions that occurred in late December 2013 and were settled in early January 2014. See Note 7 — Stockholders' Equity in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information on the Company's share repurchases. |
QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA
The following tables present our quarterly operating results for the two year period ended December 31, 2013:
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
2013 | | | | | | | | |
(In thousands, except per share data) | | First | | Second | | Third | | Fourth |
Revenues | | $ | 406,754 |
| | $ | 446,047 |
| | $ | 410,705 |
| | $ | 520,707 |
|
Operating income | | 54,005 |
| | 73,987 |
| | 58,743 |
| | 88,757 |
|
Net income | | 36,675 |
| | 46,514 |
| | 38,194 |
| | 61,418 |
|
Net income per share: (1) | | |
| | |
| | | | |
|
Basic | | $ | 0.39 |
| | $ | 0.50 |
| | $ | 0.41 |
| | $ | 0.67 |
|
Diluted | | $ | 0.38 |
| | $ | 0.49 |
| | $ | 0.40 |
| | $ | 0.65 |
|
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
2012 | | | | | | | | |
(In thousands, except per share data) | | First | | Second | | Third | | Fourth |
Revenues | | $ | 369,171 |
| | $ | 397,482 |
| | $ | 374,406 |
| | $ | 474,749 |
|
Operating income | | 53,556 |
| | 62,722 |
| | 49,768 |
| | 79,661 |
|
Net income | | 34,221 |
| | 41,484 |
| | 31,375 |
| | 58,823 |
|
Net income per share: (1) | | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
|
Basic | | $ | 0.37 |
| | $ | 0.44 |
| | $ | 0.34 |
| | $ | 0.63 |
|
Diluted | | $ | 0.36 |
| | $ | 0.43 |
| | $ | 0.33 |
| | $ | 0.61 |
|
| |
(1) | The aggregate of the four quarters’ basic and diluted earnings per common share may not equal the reported full calendar year amounts due to the effects of share repurchases, dilutive equity compensation, and rounding. |
RECENTLY ISSUED ACCOUNTING STANDARDS
The FASB has issued new accounting rules which have not yet become effective. These new rules are described below, together with our assessment of the potential impact they may have on our financial statements and related disclosures in future periods:
In July 2013, the FASB issued ASU No. 2013-11, "Presentation of an Unrecognized Tax Benefit When a Net Operating Loss Carryforward, a Similar Tax Loss, or a Tax Credit Carryforward Exists" ("ASU 2013-11"). ASU 2013-11 addresses the balance sheet presentation of an unrecognized tax benefit when a net operating loss carryforward, a similar tax loss, or a tax credit carryforward exists. ASU 2013-11 requires that an unrecognized tax benefit, or a portion of an unrecognized tax benefit, should be presented in the financial statements as a reduction to a deferred tax asset for a net operating loss carryforward, a similar tax loss, or a tax credit carryforward. ASU No. 2013-11 is effective for the Company’s fiscal quarter ending March 31, 2014 and impacts balance sheet presentation only. The Company believes the balance sheet impact will not be material.
In March 2013, the FASB issued ASU No. 2013-05, Parent’s Accounting for the Cumulative Translation Adjustment upon Derecognition of Certain Subsidiaries or Groups of Assets within a Foreign Entity or of an Investment in a Foreign Entity. ASU No. 2013-05 provides updated guidance to resolve diversity in practice concerning the release of the cumulative foreign currency translation adjustment into net income when a parent sells a part or all of its investment in a foreign entity or no longer holds a controlling financial interest in a subsidiary or group of assets within a foreign entity. When a company ceases to have a controlling financial interest, the company should recognize any related cumulative translation adjustment into net income only if the sale or transfer results in the complete or substantially complete liquidation of the foreign entity in which the subsidiary had resided. Upon a partial sale, the company should release into earnings a pro rata portion of the cumulative translation adjustment. ASU No. 2013-05 is effective for the Company’s fiscal quarter ending March 31, 2014. The guidance in ASU 2013-05 will only impact the Company's financial statements upon the occurrence of a transaction within its scope.
The FASB also continues to work on a number of significant accounting rules which may impact the Company’s accounting and disclosures in future periods. Since these rules have not yet been issued, the effective dates and potential impact are unknown.
ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK.
INTEREST RATE RISK
We have exposure to changes in interest rates arising from borrowings under our 2013 Credit Agreement. At December 31, 2013, we had $200.0 million outstanding under the 2013 Credit Agreement, which consisted of $144.4 million outstanding under the term loan and $55.6 million outstanding under the revolver.
Amounts borrowed under the 2013 Credit Agreement bear interest at a rate equal to, at Gartner’s option, either (1) the greatest of: the Administrative Agent’s prime rate; the average rate on overnight federal funds plus 1/2 of 1%; and the Eurodollar rate (adjusted for statutory reserves) plus 1%, in each case plus a margin equal to between 0.25% and 0.75% depending on Gartner’s leverage ratio as of the end of the four consecutive fiscal quarters most recently ended, or (2) the Eurodollar rate (adjusted for statutory reserves) plus a margin equal to between 1.25% and 1.75%, depending on Gartner’s leverage ratio as of the end of the four consecutive fiscal quarters most recently ended.
We have an interest rate swap contract which effectively converts the floating base rate on the first $200.0 million of our borrowings to a 2.26% fixed rate. The Company only hedges the base interest rate risk on the first $200.0 million of its outstanding borrowings. Accordingly, we are exposed to interest rate risk on borrowings in excess of $200.0 million. A 25 basis point increase or decrease in interest rates could change pre-tax annual interest expense on the additional revolver borrowing capacity under the 2013 Credit Agreement (not including the expansion feature) by approximately $0.9 million.
FOREIGN CURRENCY RISK
For the fiscal years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012, approximately 45% and 46% of our revenues, respectively, were derived from sales outside of the U.S. As a result, we conduct business in numerous currencies other than the U.S dollar. Among the major foreign currencies in which we conduct business are the Euro, the British Pound, the Japanese Yen, the Australian dollar, and the Canadian dollar. Our foreign currency exposure results in both translation risk and transaction risk:
Translation Risk
We are exposed to foreign currency translation risk since the functional currencies of our foreign operations are generally denominated in the local currency. Translation risk arises since the assets and liabilities that we report for our foreign subsidiaries are translated into U.S. dollars at the exchange rates in effect at the balance sheet dates, and these exchange rates fluctuate over time. These foreign currency translation adjustments are deferred and are recorded as a component of stockholders’ equity and do not impact our operating results.
A measure of the potential impact of foreign currency translation on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets can be determined through a sensitivity analysis of our cash and cash equivalents. At December 31, 2013, we had almost $424.0 million of cash and cash equivalents, with approximately 58% denominated in foreign currencies. If the foreign exchange rates of the major currencies in which we operate changed in comparison to the U.S. dollar by 10%, the amount of cash and cash equivalents we would have reported on December 31, 2013 would have increased or decreased by approximately $20.0 million.
Because our foreign subsidiaries generally operate in a local functional currency that differs from the U.S. dollar, revenues and expenses in these foreign currencies translate into higher or lower revenues and expenses in U.S. dollars as the U.S. dollar continuously weakens or strengthens against these other currencies. Therefore, changes in exchange rates may affect our consolidated revenues and expenses (as expressed in U.S. dollars) from foreign operations. Historically, this impact on our consolidated earnings has not been material since foreign currency movements in the major currencies in which we operate tend to impact our revenues and expenses fairly equally.
Transaction Risk
We also have foreign exchange transaction risk since foreign subsidiaries typically enter into transactions in the normal course of business that are denominated in foreign currencies that differ from the local functional currency in which the foreign subsidiary operates. We may enter into foreign currency forward exchange contracts to mitigate the effects of foreign currency transaction risk. These contracts are normally short term in duration and unrealized and realized gains and losses are recognized in current period earnings. At December 31, 2013, we had 89 outstanding foreign currency forward contracts with a total notional amount of approximately $61.0 million and an immaterial net unrealized loss. Substantially all of these contracts matured by the end of January 2014.
CREDIT RISK
Financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to concentration of credit risk consist primarily of short-term, highly liquid investments classified as cash equivalents, accounts receivable, and an interest rate swap contract. The majority of the Company’s cash and cash equivalents and its interest rate swap contract are with large investment grade commercial banks that are participants in the Company’s 2013 Credit Agreement. Accounts receivable balances deemed to be collectible from customers have limited concentration of credit risk due to our diverse customer base and geographic dispersion.
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA.
Our consolidated financial statements for 2013, 2012, and 2011, together with the reports of KPMG LLP, our independent registered public accounting firm, are included herein in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE.
None.
ITEM 9A. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
DISCLOSURE CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
Management conducted an evaluation, as of December 31, 2013, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures, (as such term is defined in Rules 13a- 15(e) and 15d- 15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the “Exchange Act”)) under the supervision and with the participation of our chief executive officer and chief financial officer. Based upon that evaluation, our chief executive officer and chief financial officer have concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective in alerting them in a timely manner to material Company information required to be disclosed by us in reports filed or submitted under the Act.
MANAGEMENT’S ANNUAL REPORT ON INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING
Gartner management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f). Gartner’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States.
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. In addition, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions and that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate. Management assessed the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2013. In making this assessment, management used the criteria set forth in the Internal Control-Integrated Framework (1992) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). Management’s assessment was reviewed with the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors.
Based on its assessment of internal control over financial reporting, management has concluded that, as of December 31, 2013, Gartner’s internal control over financial reporting was effective.
The effectiveness of management’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2013 has been audited by KPMG LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, as stated in their report which is included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K in Part IV, Item 15.
CHANGES IN INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING
There were no changes in our internal controls over financial reporting during the quarter ended December 31, 2013 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal controls over financial reporting.
ITEM 9B. OTHER INFORMATION
Not applicable.
PART III
ITEM 10. DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
The information required to be furnished pursuant to this item will be set forth under the captions “Proposal One: Election of Directors,” “Executive Officers,” “Corporate Governance,” “Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance” and “Miscellaneous — Available Information” in the Company’s Proxy Statement to be filed with the SEC no later than April 30, 2014. If the Proxy Statement is not filed with the SEC by April 30, 2014, such information will be included in an amendment to this Annual Report filed by April 30, 2014. See also Item 1. Business — Available Information.
ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION.
The information required to be furnished pursuant to this item is incorporated by reference from the information set forth under the caption “Executive Compensation” in the Company’s Proxy Statement to be filed with the SEC no later than April 30, 2014. If the Proxy Statement is not filed with the SEC by April 30, 2014, such information will be included in an amendment to this Annual Report filed by April 30, 2014.
ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS.
The information required to be furnished pursuant to this item will be set forth under the caption “Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management” in the Company’s Proxy Statement to be filed with the SEC by April 30, 2014. If the Proxy Statement is not filed with the SEC by April 30, 2014, such information will be included in an amendment to this Annual Report filed by April 30, 2014.
ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE.
The information required to be furnished pursuant to this item will be set forth under the captions “Transactions With Related Persons” and “Corporate Governance — Director Independence” in the Company’s Proxy Statement to be filed with the SEC by April 30, 2014. If the Proxy Statement is not filed with the SEC by April 30, 2014, such information will be included in an amendment to this Annual Report filed by April 30, 2014.
ITEM 14. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES.
The information required to be furnished pursuant to this item will be set forth under the caption “Principal Accountant Fees and Services” in the Company’s Proxy Statement to be filed with the SEC no later than April 30, 2014. If the Proxy Statement is not filed with the SEC by April 30, 2014, such information will be included in an amendment to this Annual Report filed by April 30, 2014.
PART IV
ITEM 15. EXHIBITS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES.
(a) 1. and 2. Consolidated Financial Statements and Schedules
The reports of our independent registered public accounting firm and consolidated financial statements listed in the Index to Consolidated Financial Statements herein are filed as part of this report.
All financial statement schedules not listed in the Index have been omitted because the information required is not applicable or is shown in the consolidated financial statements or notes thereto.
3. Exhibits
|
| | |
EXHIBIT NUMBER | | DESCRIPTION OF DOCUMENT |
3.1(1) | | Restated Certificate of Incorporation of the Company. |
| | |
3.2(2) | | Bylaws as amended through February 2, 2012. |
| | |
4.1(1) | | Form of Certificate for Common Stock as of June 2, 2005. |
| | |
4.2(3) | | Credit Agreement, dated as of December 22, 2010, among the Company, the several lenders from time to time parties thereto, and JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. as administrative agent. |
| | |
10.1(4) | | Lease dated April 16, 2010 between Soundview Farms and the Company for premises at 56 Top Gallant Road, 70 Gatehouse Road, and 88 Gatehouse Road, Stamford, Connecticut. |
| | |
10.2(4) | | First Amendment to Lease dated April 16, 2010 between Soundview Farms and the Company for premises at 56 Top Gallant Road, 70 Gatehouse Road, and 88 Gatehouse Road, Stamford, Connecticut. |
| | |
10.4(5)+ | | 2011 Employee Stock Purchase Plan. |
| | |
10.6(6)+ | | 2003 Long-Term Incentive Plan, as amended and restated on June 4, 2009. |
| | |
10.7(7)+ | | Amended and Restated Employment Agreement between Eugene A. Hall and the Company dated as of April 13, 2011. |
| | |
10.8(8)+ | | Company Deferred Compensation Plan, effective January 1, 2009. |
| | |
10.9(9)+ | | Form of Stock Appreciation Right Agreement for executive officers. |
| | |
10.10(9)+ | | Form of Performance Stock Unit Agreement for executive officers. |
| | |
21.1* | | Subsidiaries of Registrant. |
| | |
23.1* | | Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm |
| | |
24.1 | | Power of Attorney (see Signature Page). |
| | |
31.1* | | Certification of chief executive officer under Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. |
| | |
31.2* | | Certification of chief financial officer under Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. |
| | |
32* | | Certification under Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. |
|
| |
* | Filed with this document. |
| |
+ | Management compensation plan or arrangement. |
| |
(1) | Incorporated by reference from the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated June 29, 2005 as filed on July 6, 2005. |
| |
(2) | Incorporated by reference from the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated February 2, 2012 as filed on February 7, 2012. |
| |
(3) | Incorporated by reference from the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K as filed on February 15, 2011. |
| |
(4) | Incorporated by reference from the Company’s Quarterly Report on form 10-Q as filed on August 9, 2010. |
| |
(5) | Incorporated by reference from the Company’s Proxy Statement (Schedule 14A) as filed on April 18, 2011. |
| |
(6) | Incorporated by reference from the Company’s Proxy Statement (Schedule 14A) as filed on April 21, 2009. |
| |
(7) | Incorporated by reference from the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q as filed on August 2, 2011. |
| |
(8) | Incorporated by reference from the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K as filed on February 20, 2009. |
| |
(9) | Incorporated by reference from the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated February 10, 2014 as filed on February 11, 2014. |
INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
GARTNER, INC.
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
All financial statement schedules have been omitted because the information required is not applicable or is shown in the consolidated financial statements or notes thereto.
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
The Board of Directors and Stockholders
Gartner, Inc.:
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Gartner, Inc. and subsidiaries (the Company) as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, and the related consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive income, stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2013. These consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements based on our audits.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Gartner, Inc. and subsidiaries as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2013, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.
We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2013, based on criteria established in Internal Control — Integrated Framework (1992) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO), and our report dated February 26, 2014 expressed an unqualified opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.
(KPMG LLP LOGO)
/s/ KPMG LLP
New York, New York
February 26, 2014
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
The Board of Directors and Stockholders
Gartner, Inc.:
We have audited Gartner, Inc. and subsidiaries’ (the Company) internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2013, based on criteria established in Internal Control — Integrated Framework (1992) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). The Company’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.
We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audit also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.
A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
In our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2013, based on criteria established in Internal Control — Integrated Framework (1992) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.
We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated balance sheets of Gartner, Inc. and subsidiaries as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, and the related consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive income, stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2013, and our report dated February 26, 2014 expressed an unqualified opinion on those consolidated financial statements.
(KPMG LLP LOGO)
/s/ KPMG LLP
New York, New York
February 26, 2014
GARTNER, INC.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT SHARE DATA)
|
| | | | | | | |
| December 31, |
| 2013 | | 2012 |
ASSETS | |
| | |
|
Current assets: | |
| | |
|
Cash and cash equivalents | $ | 423,990 |
| | $ | 299,852 |
|
Fees receivable, net of allowances of $7,000 and $6,400 respectively | 490,923 |
| | 463,968 |
|
Deferred commissions | 106,287 |
| | 87,933 |
|
Prepaid expenses and other current assets | 63,682 |
| | 75,713 |
|
Total current assets | 1,084,882 |
| | 927,466 |
|
Property, equipment and leasehold improvements, net | 91,759 |
| | 89,089 |
|
Goodwill | 519,203 |
| | 519,506 |
|
Intangible assets, net | 6,107 |
| | 11,821 |
|
Other assets | 81,631 |
| | 73,395 |
|
Total Assets | $ | 1,783,582 |
| | $ | 1,621,277 |
|
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY | |
| | |
|
Current liabilities: | |
| | |
|
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities | $ | 325,059 |
| | $ | 287,763 |
|
Deferred revenues | 766,114 |
| | 692,237 |
|
Current portion of long-term debt | 68,750 |
| | 90,000 |
|
Total current liabilities | 1,159,923 |
| | 1,070,000 |
|
Long-term debt | 136,250 |
| | 115,000 |
|
Other liabilities | 126,093 |
| | 129,604 |
|
Total Liabilities | 1,422,266 |
| | 1,314,604 |
|
Stockholders’ equity: | |
| | |
|
Preferred stock: | |
| | |
|
$.01 par value, authorized 5,000,000 shares; none issued or outstanding | — |
| | — |
|
Common stock: | |
| | |
|
$.0005 par value, authorized 250,000,000 shares for both periods; 156,234,415 shares issued for both periods | 78 |
| | 78 |
|
Additional paid-in capital | 718,644 |
| | 679,871 |
|
Accumulated other comprehensive income, net | 8,345 |
| | 5,968 |
|
Accumulated earnings | 1,091,283 |
| | 908,482 |
|
Treasury stock, at cost, 64,268,863 and 62,873,100 common shares, respectively | (1,457,034 | ) | | (1,287,726 | ) |
Total Stockholders’ Equity | 361,316 |
| | 306,673 |
|
Total Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity | $ | 1,783,582 |
| | $ | 1,621,277 |
|
See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
GARTNER, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)
|
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| Year Ended December 31, |
| 2013 | | 2012 | | 2011 |
Revenues: | |
| | |
| | |
|
Research | $ | 1,271,011 |
| | $ | 1,137,147 |
| | $ | 1,012,062 |
|
Consulting | 314,257 |
| | 304,893 |
| | 308,047 |
|
Events | 198,945 |
| | 173,768 |
| | 148,479 |
|
Total revenues | 1,784,213 |
| | 1,615,808 |
| | 1,468,588 |
|
Costs and expenses: | |
| | |
| | |
|
Cost of services and product development | 713,484 |
| | 659,067 |
| | 608,755 |
|
Selling, general and administrative | 760,458 |
| | 678,843 |
| | 613,707 |
|
Depreciation | 28,996 |
| | 25,369 |
| | 25,539 |
|
Amortization of intangibles | 5,446 |
| | 4,402 |
| | 6,525 |
|
Acquisition and integration charges | 337 |
| | 2,420 |
| | — |
|
Total costs and expenses | 1,508,721 |
| | 1,370,101 |
| | 1,254,526 |
|
Operating income | 275,492 |
| | 245,707 |
| | 214,062 |
|
Interest income | 1,551 |
| | 1,046 |
| | 1,249 |
|
Interest expense | (10,388 | ) | | (9,905 | ) | | (11,216 | ) |
Other expense, net | (216 | ) | | (1,252 | ) | | (1,911 | ) |
Income before income taxes | 266,439 |
| | 235,596 |
| | 202,184 |
|
Provision for income taxes | 83,638 |
| | 69,693 |
| | 65,282 |
|
Net income | $ | 182,801 |
| | $ | 165,903 |
| | $ | 136,902 |
|
| | | | | |
Net income per share: | |
| | |
| | |
|
Basic | $ | 1.97 |
| | $ | 1.78 |
| | $ | 1.43 |
|
Diluted | $ | 1.93 |
| | $ | 1.73 |
| | $ | 1.39 |
|
Weighted average shares outstanding: | |
| | |
| | |
|
Basic | 93,015 |
| | 93,444 |
| | 96,019 |
|
Diluted | 94,830 |
| | 95,842 |
| | 98,846 |
|
See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
GARTNER, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
(IN THOUSANDS)
|
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| Year Ended December 31, |
| 2013 | | 2012 | | 2011 |
Net income | $ | 182,801 |
| | $ | 165,903 |
| | $ | 136,902 |
|
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax | |
| | |
| | |
|
Foreign currency translation adjustments | 503 |
| | 4,318 |
| | (4,454 | ) |
Interest rate hedge - deferred gain (loss) | 2,107 |
| | (76 | ) | | (4,674 | ) |
Pension - deferred actuarial (loss) gain | (233 | ) | | (4,067 | ) | | 283 |
|
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax | 2,377 |
| | 175 |
| | (8,845 | ) |
Comprehensive income | $ | 185,178 |
| | $ | 166,078 |
| | $ | 128,057 |
|
See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
GARTNER, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
(IN THOUSANDS)
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Common Stock | | Additional Paid-In Capital | | Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Net | | Accumulated Earnings | | Treasury Stock | | Total Stockholders’ Equity |
Balance at December 31, 2010 | $ | 78 |
| | $ | |