SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D. C. 20549
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FORM 10-Q
(Mark One)
|X| QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d)
OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the quarterly period ended June 30, 2003
OR
[ ] TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d)
OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from to
Commission file number 1-8607
BELLSOUTH CORPORATION
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
Georgia 58-1533433
(State of Incorporation) (I.R.S. Employer
Identification Number)
1155 Peachtree Street, N. E., 30309-3610
Atlanta, Georgia (Zip Code)
(Address of principal executive offices)
Registrant's telephone number 404-249-2000
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required
to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during
the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was
required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing
requirements for the past 90 days. Yes X No ___
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is an accelerated filer (as
defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes __X__ No____
At July 31, 2003, there were 1,847,358,800 common shares outstanding.
Table of Contents
Item Page
Part I
1. Unaudited Financial Statements
Consolidated Statements of Income ..................... 3
Consolidated Balance Sheets ........................... 4
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows ................. 5
Consolidated Statements of Shareholders' Equity
And Comprehensive Income ........................... 6
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements ............ 7
2. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial
Condition and Results of Operations................. 20
3. Qualitative and Quantitative Disclosures about
Market Risk......................................... 36
4. Controls and Procedures.................................. 36
Part II
1. Legal Proceedings ....................................... 37
4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders ..... 38
6. Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K ........................ 39
PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION
ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
BELLSOUTH CORPORATION
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
(IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
(Unaudited)
For the Three Months For the Six Months
Ended June 30, Ended June 30,
2002 2003 2002 2003
--------------------------------------------------------------------- ----------- -- ------------ -- ----------- -- ------------
--------------------------------------------------------------------- ----------- -- ------------ -- ----------- -- ------------
(As (As
adjusted adjusted
- Note D) - Note D)
Operating Revenues:
Communications group $ 4,631 $4,545 $ 9,276 $9,053
Latin America 597 563 1,253 1,072
Advertising and publishing 538 520 754 1,014
All other 14 14 31 26
----------- ------------ ----------- ------------
----------- ------------ ----------- ------------
Total Operating Revenues 5,780 5,642 11,314 11,165
Operating Expenses:
Cost of services and products (excludes depreciation
and amortization shown separately below) 1,922 2,008 3,839 3,941
Selling, general, and administrative expenses 1,132 1,133 2,219 2,185
Depreciation and amortization 1,170 1,046 2,331 2,084
Provisions for restructuring 357 20 357 141
----------- ------------ ----------- ------------
Total Operating Expenses 4,581 4,207 8,746 8,351
Operating income 1,199 1,435 2,568 2,814
Interest expense 301 249 605 545
Gain (loss) on sale of operations - (75) 1,335 (75)
Net (losses) earnings of equity affiliates 113 180 (122) 353
Foreign currency transaction gains (losses) (355) 98 (645) 144
Other income (expense), net 2 84 11 171
----------- ------------ ----------- ------------
----------- ------------ ----------- ------------
Income Before Income Taxes and Cumulative Effect of
Changes in Accounting Principle 658 1,473 2,542 2,862
Provision for Income Taxes 395 522 1,148 996
----------- ------------ ----------- ------------
Income Before Cumulative Effect of Changes in Accounting Principle
263 951 1,394 1,866
Cumulative Effect of Changes in Accounting Principle, Net of Tax
- - (1,285) 315
----------- ------------ ----------- ------------
----------- ------------ ----------- ------------
Net Income $ 263 $ 951 $ 109 $ 2,181
=========== ============ =========== ============
=========== ============ =========== ============
Weighted-Average Common Shares Outstanding:
Basic 1,875 1,847 1,877 1,853
Diluted 1,882 1,851 1,885 1,855
Dividends Declared Per Common Share $0.20 $ 0.23 $ 0.39 $ 0.44
Basic Earnings Per Share:
Income Before Cumulative Effect of Changes in Accounting
Principle $ 0.14 $ 0.51 $ 0.74 $ 1.01
Cumulative Effect of Accounting Changes - - (0.68) 0.17
------ ------ ------ ----
Net Income $ 0.14 $ 0.51 $ 0.06 $ 1.18
====== ====== ====== ======
Diluted Earnings Per Share:
Income Before Cumulative Effect of Changes in Accounting
Principle $ 0.14 $ 0.51 $ 0.74 $ 1.01
Cumulative Effect of Accounting Changes - - (0.68) 0.17
------ ------ ------ ----
Net Income $ 0.14 $ 0.51 $ 0.06 $ 1.18
====== ====== ====== ======
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these
consolidated financial statements.
BELLSOUTH CORPORATION
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
December 31, June 30,
2002 2003
------------------------------------------
(as adjusted (unaudited)
note D)
ASSETS
Current Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents $ 2,482 $ 4,122
Accounts receivable, net of
allowance for uncollectibles
of $476 and $492 4,129 2,999
Material and supplies 313 312
Other current assets 938 1,029
----------------- -----------------
Total current assets 7,862 8,462
----------------- -----------------
Investments and advances 9,741 8,283
Property, plant and equipment, net 23,445 24,047
Deferred charges and other assets 5,726 5,757
Goodwill 347 346
Intangible assets, net 2,358 2,356
----------------- -----------------
Total assets $ 49,479 $ 49,251
================= =================
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Current Liabilities:
Debt maturing within one year $ 5,114 $ 3,694
Accounts payable 1,572 1,344
Other current liabilities 2,897 3,421
----------------- -----------------
Total current liabilities 9,583 8,459
----------------- -----------------
Long-term debt 12,283 11,718
----------------- -----------------
Noncurrent liabilities:
Deferred income taxes 4,452 5,109
Other noncurrent liabilities 5,255 4,908
----------------- -----------------
Total noncurrent liabilities 9,707 10,017
----------------- -----------------
Shareholders' equity:
Common stock, $1 par value
(8,650 shares authorized;
1,860 and 1,847 shares
outstanding) 2,020 2,020
Paid-in capital 7,546 7,620
Retained earnings 14,531 15,744
Accumulated other
comprehensive income (loss) (740) (779)
Shares held in trust and
treasury (5,372) (5,503)
Guarantee of ESOP debt (79) (45)
----------------- -----------------
Total shareholders' equity 17,906 19,057
----------------- -----------------
Total liabilities and
shareholders' equity $ 49,479 $ 49,251
================= =================
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these
consolidated financial statements.
BELLSOUTH CORPORATION
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(IN MILLIONS)
(Unaudited)
For the Six Months
Ended June 30,
2002 2003
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(As adjusted
- Note D)
Cash Flows from Operating Activities:
Net Income $ 109 $ 2,181
Adjustments to net income:
Depreciation and amortization 2,331 2,084
Provision for uncollectibles 420 306
Net losses (earnings) of equity
affiliates 122 (353)
Minority interests in income
(loss) of subsidiaries (77) 12
Deferred income taxes and
investment tax credits 777 688
Net losses on sale or impairment
of equity securities 388 8
Pension income (410) (267)
Pension settlement losses - 87
Curtailment and termination
benefit charges 60 -
Stock-based compensation expense 92 67
Unbilled receivable adjustment 163 -
Foreign currency transaction
(gains) losses 645 (144)
Cumulative effect of changes in
accounting principles 1,285 (539)
(Gain) loss on sale of
operations (1,335) 75
Net Change in:
Accounts receivable and other
current assets 77 (1)
Accounts payable and other
current liabilities (285) 111
Deferred charges and other
assets (44) 114
Other liabilities and deferred
credits - (39)
Other reconciling items, net (125) 36
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net cash provided by operating
activities 4,193 4,426
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cash Flows from Investing Activities:
Capital expenditures (2,028) (1,360)
Investments in and advances to
equity affiliates (7) -
Proceeds from sale of securities and
operations 1,454 81
Proceeds from repayment of loans and
advances 426 1,899
Settlement of derivatives on
advances 85 (352)
Other investing activities, net (20) (29)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net cash provided by (used for)
investing activities (90) 239
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cash Flows from Financing Activities:
Net repayments of short-term debt (1,393) (381)
Proceeds from long-term debt 8 1
Repayments of long-term debt (568) (1,586)
Dividends paid (713) (759)
Purchase of treasury shares (189) (322)
Other financing activities, net 2 22
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net cash used by financing
activities (2,853) (3,025)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net increase in cash and cash
equivalents 1,250 1,640
Cash and cash equivalents at
beginning of period 592 2,482
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cash and cash equivalents at
end of period $ 1,842 $ 4,122
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these
consolidated financial statements.
BELLSOUTH CORPORATION
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
(IN MILLIONS)
(Unaudited)
Number of Shares Amount
------------------ -------------------------------------------------------------------
(a) Accum. (a)
Shares Other Shares
Held in Compre- Held in
Trust hensive Trust Guarantee
Common and Common Paid-in Retained Income and of ESOP
Stock Treasury Stock Capital Earnings (Loss) Treasury Debt Total
Balance (as adjusted see Note D)
at December 31, 2001 2,020 (143) $ 2,020 $ 7,368 $ 14,805 $ (294) $ (4,996) $ (145) $ 18,758
Net Income 109 109
Other comprehensive income, net of tax
Foreign currency translation
adjustment (180) (180)
Net unrealized losses on
securities (26) (26)
Net unrealized gains on
derivatives (b) 24 24
Total comprehensive income (73)
Dividends declared (734) (734)
Share issuances for employee benefit
plans 4 (6) (65) 109 38
Stock-based compensation 92 92
Purchase of stock by grantor trust - (18) 18 -
Purchase of treasury stock (8) (235) (235)
ESOP activities and related tax benefit 2 86 88
Balance at June 30, 2002 2,020 (147) $ 2,020 $ 7,454 $ 14,099 $ (476) $ (5,104) $ (59) $ 17,934
Balance (as adjusted see Note D)
at December 31, 2002 2,020 (160) $ 2,020 $ 7,546 $ 14,531 $ (740) $ (5,372) $ (79) $ 17,906
Net Income 2,181 2,181
Other comprehensive income, net of tax
Foreign currency translation
adjustment (c) (45) (45)
Net unrealized gains on securities 28 28
Net unrealized losses on
derivatives (b) (22) (22)
Total comprehensive income 2,142
Dividends declared (815) (815)
Share issuances for employee benefit
plans 2 (15) (42) 79 22
Stock-based compensation 67 67
Purchase of stock by grantor trust - (112) 112 -
Purchase of treasury stock (15) (322) (322)
Tax benefit related to stock options 22 22
ESOP activities and related tax benefit 1 34 35
Balance at June 30, 2003 2,020 (173) $ 2,020 $ 7,620 $ 15,744 $ (779) $ (5,503) $ (45) $ 19,057
(a) Trust and treasury shares are not considered to be outstanding for financial
reporting purposes. As of June 30, 2002, there were approximately 37 shares held
in trust and 110 shares held in treasury. As of June 30, 2003, there were
approximately 49 shares held in trust and 124 shares held in treasury.
(b) Net unrealized gains on derivatives include an adjustment for realized gains
of $31 in 2002 and $20 in 2003.
(c) Foreign currency translation adjustment includes an adjustment for realized
losses of $86 in 2003.
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these
consolidated financial statements.
BELLSOUTH CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(DOLLARS IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
(Unaudited)
NOTE A - PREPARATION OF INTERIM FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
In this report, BellSouth Corporation and its subsidiaries are referred to as
"we" or "BellSouth."
The accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements have been prepared
based upon Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) rules that permit reduced
disclosure for interim periods. In our opinion, these statements include all
adjustments necessary for a fair presentation of the results of the interim
periods shown. All adjustments are of a normal recurring nature unless otherwise
disclosed. Revenues, expenses, assets and liabilities can vary during each
quarter of the year. Therefore, the results and trends in these interim
financial statements may not be the same as those for the full year. For a more
complete discussion of our significant accounting policies and other
information, you should read this report in conjunction with the consolidated
financial statements included in our latest annual report on Form 10-K, as
modified by the current report on Form 8-K dated May 30, 2003.
Certain amounts within the prior year's information have been reclassified to
conform to the current year's presentation.
NOTE B - EARNINGS PER SHARE
Basic earnings per share is computed on the weighted-average number of common
shares outstanding during each period. Diluted earnings per share is based on
the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding plus net incremental
shares arising out of employee stock options and benefit plans. The following is
a reconciliation of the weighted-average share amounts (in millions) used in
calculating earnings per share:
For the Three Months For the Six Months
Ended June 30, Ended June 30,
-------------- --------------
2002 2003 2002 2003
---- ---- ---- ----
Basic common shares outstanding 1,875 1,847 1,877 1,853
Incremental shares from stock
options and benefit plans 7 4 8 2
--- --- --- ---
Diluted common shares outstanding 1,882 1,851 1,885 1,855
===== ===== ===== =====
The earnings amounts used for per-share calculations are the same for both the
basic and diluted methods. Outstanding options to purchase 67 million shares for
the three months ended June 30, 2002 and 62 million shares for the six months
ended June 30, 2002 were not included in the computation of diluted earnings per
share because the exercise price of these options was greater than the average
market price of the common stock. Outstanding options to purchase 81 million
shares for the three months ended June 30, 2003 and 82 million shares for the
six months ended June 30, 2003 were not included in the computation of diluted
earnings per share because the exercise price of these options was greater than
the average market price of the common stock.
NOTE C - RECENTLY ISSUED ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities
In April 2003, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued SFAS No.
149, "Amendment of Statement 133 on Derivative Instruments and Hedging
Activities." This standard amends and clarifies the accounting for and
definition of derivative instruments and hedging activities under SFAS No. 133.
This statement is effective for contracts entered into or modified after June
30, 2003, and for hedging relationships designated after June 30, 2003. Adoption
of this standard will not have a material impact on our results of operations,
financial position or cash flows.
Financial Instruments with Characteristics of Both Liabilities and Equity
In May 2003, the FASB issued SFAS No. 150 "Accounting for Certain Financial
Instruments with Characteristics of Both Liabilities and Equity." This Statement
establishes standards for how an issuer classifies and measures certain
financial instruments with characteristics of both liabilities and equity. It
requires that an issuer classify a financial instrument that is within its scope
as a liability because that financial instrument embodies an obligation of the
issuer. This Statement is effective beginning July 1, 2003. This standard will
not have a material impact on our results of operations, financial position and
cash flows.
Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities
In January 2003, the FASB issued FASB Interpretation No. 46, Consolidation of
Variable Interest Entities (FIN 46). FIN 46 clarified the application of
Accounting Research Bulletin No. 51, Consolidated Financial Statements, to
certain entities in which equity investors do not have the characteristics of a
controlling financial interest or do not have sufficient equity at
BELLSOUTH CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(DOLLARS IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
(Unaudited)
NOTE C - RECENTLY ISSUED ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS (Continued)
risk for the entity to finance its activities without additional subordinated
support from other parties. FIN 46 requires existing unconsolidated variable
interest entities to be consolidated by their primary beneficiaries if the
entities do not effectively disperse risks among parties involved. All companies
with variable interests in variable interest entities created after January 31,
2003, must apply the provisions of this Interpretation to those entities
immediately. A public company with a variable interest in a variable interest
entity created before February 1, 2003, must apply the provisions of this
Interpretation to that entity no later than the beginning of the first interim
or annual reporting period after June 15, 2003. For variable interest entities
for which an enterprise holds a variable interest that it acquired before
February 1, 2003, FIN 46 may be applied by restating previously issued financial
statements or prospectively from the date of adoption. We have evaluated our
investments and concluded that neither Cingular nor any of our other equity
method investments will qualify as a "variable interest entity" as described in
FIN 46. Accordingly, none of our investments qualified for consolidation under
FIN 46 and our accounting treatment of these entities will remain unchanged.
Revenue Recognition for Multi-Element Deliverables
In November 2002, the EITF of the FASB reached a consensus on EITF No. 00-21,
Accounting for Revenue Arrangements with Multiple Element Deliverables. The
issue addresses how to account for arrangements that may involve the delivery or
performance of multiple products, services and/or rights to use assets. Revenue
arrangements with multiple deliverables should be divided into separate units of
accounting if the deliverables in the arrangement meet certain criteria.
Arrangement consideration should be allocated among the separate units of
accounting based on their relative fair values. The issue also supersedes
certain guidance set forth in Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 101 (SAB 101),
Revenue Recognition in Financial Statements. The final consensus is applicable
to agreements entered into in quarters beginning after June 15, 2003, with early
adoption permitted. Additionally, companies are permitted to apply the consensus
guidance to all existing arrangements as a cumulative effect of a change in
accounting principle. We adopted this new pronouncement July 1, 2003. The
impacts of adoption of 00-21 will not have a material impact on our results of
operations, financial position and cash flows.
NOTE D - CHANGES IN ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLE
Stock Options
Effective January 1, 2003, we adopted the fair value recognition provisions of
SFAS No. 123, "Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation," for stock-based
employee compensation. Previously, we applied the intrinsic value method
permitted under SFAS No. 123 in accounting for our stock-based compensation
plans. Compensation cost related to stock options was not reflected in
previously reported results, as all options granted had an exercise price equal
to the market value of the underlying stock on the date of grant. We elected to
adopt the fair value recognition method using the retroactive restatement
alternative provided by SFAS No. 148, "Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation -
Transition and Disclosure." Accordingly, all prior periods presented have been
restated to reflect the compensation cost that would have been recorded had the
fair value expense recognition provisions of SFAS No. 123 been applied.
Stock-based compensation cost related to stock options of $29 ($19 net of tax or
$0.01 per share) for the second quarter 2003 and $57 ($37 net of tax or $0.02
per share) for the six months ended June 30, 2003 is included in our results of
operations. Stock-based compensation cost related to stock options of $46 ($29
net of tax or $0.02 per share) for the second quarter 2002 and $84 ($53 net of
tax or $0.03 per share) for the six months ended June 30, 2002 is included in
our results of operations.
Asset Retirement Obligations
Effective January 1, 2003, we adopted SFAS No. 143, "Accounting for Asset
Retirement Obligations" (SFAS No. 143). This statement provides the accounting
for the cost of legal obligations associated with the retirement of long-lived
assets. SFAS No. 143 requires that companies recognize the fair value of a
liability for asset retirement obligations in the period in which the
obligations are incurred and capitalize that amount as part of the book value of
the long-lived asset. SFAS No. 143 also precludes companies from accruing
removal costs that exceed gross salvage in their depreciation rates and
accumulated depreciation balances if there is no legal obligation to remove the
long-lived assets. For our outside plant accounts, such as telephone poles and
cable, estimated cost of removal does exceed gross salvage.
Although we have no legal obligation to remove assets, we have historically
included in our group depreciation rates estimated net removal costs associated
with these outside plant assets in which estimated cost of removal exceeds gross
salvage. These costs were reflected in the calculation of depreciation expense,
which results in greater periodic depreciation expense and the recognition in
accumulated depreciation of future removal costs for existing assets. When the
assets are actually retired and removal costs are expended, the net removal
costs are recorded as a reduction to accumulated depreciation.
BELLSOUTH CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(DOLLARS IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
(Unaudited)
NOTE D - CHANGES IN ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLE (Continued)
In connection with the adoption of this standard, we were required to remove
existing accrued net costs of removal in excess of the related estimated salvage
from our accumulated depreciation for those accounts. The adjustment is
reflected in the first quarter income statement as a cumulative effect of
accounting change adjustment and on the balance sheet as an increase to net
plant and equipment of $1,334 and an increase to deferred income taxes of $518.
The cumulative effect of the change increased net income by $816 or $0.44 per
share for the six months ended June 30, 2003.
Since we previously accrued for net cost of removal through our depreciation
rates, depreciation expense for the three months ended June 30, 2003 and the six
months ended June 30, 2003 was approximately $33 and $66, respectively, lower
than it otherwise would have been absent this change in accounting. We are
expensing net cost of removal as incurred beginning January 1, 2003 for the
affected plant accounts. Cost of removal expensed for the three months ended
June 30, 2003 and for the six months ended June 30, 2003 was approximately $10
and $18, respectively.
Revenue Recognition for Publishing Revenues
Effective January 1, 2003, we changed our method for recognizing revenues and
expenses related to our directory publishing business from the publication and
delivery method to the deferral method. Under the publication and delivery
method, we recognized 100% of the revenues and direct expenses at the time the
directories were published and delivered to end-users. Under the deferral
method, revenues and direct expenses are recognized ratably over the life of the
related directory, generally 12 months. The change in accounting method recorded
in the first quarter 2003 is reflected in the income statement as a cumulative
effect of accounting change adjustment and on the balance sheet as a decrease to
accounts receivable of $845, increase to other current assets of $166, increase
to current liabilities of $129, and a decrease to deferred income taxes of $307.
The cumulative effect of the change resulted in a decrease to net income of $501
or $0.27 per share for the six months ended June 30, 2003.
Pro Forma Impact of Accounting Changes
The following table presents our 2002 results (adjusted for stock-based
compensation) on a basis comparable to the 2003 results, adjusted to reflect the
changes in accounting for asset retirement obligations and revenue recognition
for publishing revenues:
For the Three Months Ended June 30,
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
2002 SFAS No. Directory 2002 2003
As Adjusted 143 Publishing Pro Forma
------------------------------------------------------------ ------------
Total Operating Revenue $ 5,780 $ - $ 26 $ 5,806 $ 5,642
Operating Expenses
Cost of services and products 1,922 9 10 1,941 2,008
Selling, general, and administrative expenses 1,132 - 4 1,136 1,133
Depreciation and amortization 1,170 (33) - 1,137 1,046
Provision for restructuring 357 - - 357 20
-------------- ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
Total operating expenses 4,581 (24) 14 4,571 4,207
Operating income 1,199 24 12 1,235 1,435
Non-operating income (expense), net (541) - - (541) 38
-------------- ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
Income before income taxes and cumulative effect 658 24 12 694 1,473
of changes in accounting principle
Provision for income taxes 395 8 4 407 522
-------------- ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
Income before cumulative effect of changes in
accounting principle 263 16 8 287 951
Cumulative effect of changes in accounting
principle, net of tax - - - - -
-------------- ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
Net Income $ 263 $ 16 $ 8 $ 287 $ 951
============== ============ ============ ============ ============
Basic earnings per share*:
Income before cumulative effect of changes in
accounting principle $ 0.14 $ 0.01 - $ 0.15 $ 0.51
Net income $ 0.14 $ 0.01 - $ 0.15 $ 0.51
Diluted earnings per share*:
Income before cumulative effect of changes in
accounting principle $ 0.14 $ 0.01 - $ 0.15 $ 0.51
Net income $0.14 $ 0.01 - $ 0.15 $ 0.51
BELLSOUTH CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(DOLLARS IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
(Unaudited)
NOTE D - CHANGES IN ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLE (Continued)
For the Six Months Ended June 30,
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
2002 SFAS No. Directory 2002 2003
As Adjusted 143 Publishing Pro Forma
------------------------------------------------------------ ------------
Total Operating Revenue $ 11,314 $ - $ 153 $ 11,467 $ 11,165
Operating Expenses
Cost of services and products 3,839 16 42 3,897 3,941
Selling, general, and administrative expenses 2,219 - 24 2,243 2,185
Depreciation and amortization 2,331 (66) - 2,265 2,084
Provision for restructuring 357 - - 357 141
-------------- ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
Total operating expenses 8,746 (50) 66 8,762 8,351
Operating income 2,568 50 87 2,705 2,814
Non-operating income (expense), net (26) - - (26) 48
-------------- ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
Income before income taxes and cumulative effect 2,542 50 87 2,679 2,862
of changes in accounting principle
Provision for income taxes 1,148 18 33 1,199 996
-------------- ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
Income before cumulative effect of changes in 32 54 1,480
accounting principle 1,394 1,866
Cumulative effect of changes in accounting
principle, net of tax (1,285) - - (1,285) 315
-------------- ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
Net Income $ 109 $ 32 $ 54 $ 195 $ 2,181
============== ============ ============ ============ ============
Basic earnings per share*:
Income before cumulative effect of changes in
accounting principle $0.74 $ 0.02 $ 0.03 $ 0.79 $ 1.01
Net income $ 0.06 $ 0.02 $ 0.03 $ 0.10 $ 1.18
Diluted earnings per share*:
Income before cumulative effect of changes in
accounting principle $0.74 $ 0.02 $ 0.03 $ 0.79 $ 1.01
Net income $0.06 $ 0.02 $ 0.03 $ 0.10 $ 1.18
*Earnings per share amounts do not sum due to rounding.
NOTE E - INVESTMENTS AND ADVANCES
Brazil
In May 2003, we sold our entire stake in BSE, a wireless communications company
that operates in six states of Brazil's Northeastern region, to Telecom
Americas, a subsidiary of America Movil. We received net proceeds of $20 and
recorded a loss of $75, or $73 net of tax, which included the recognition of
cumulative foreign currency translation losses of $86.
BCP, a wireless communications company that operates in Brazil, and its
controlling shareholders, including BellSouth, are negotiating with
representatives of BCP's senior secured creditors a settlement that contemplates
the restructuring of BCP's debt and the transfer of the shares held by the
controlling shareholders to such creditors. The settlement is subject to the
approval of the senior secured creditors and to regulatory approvals. Upon sale
or liquidation of our investment, we will recognize cumulative foreign currency
translation losses as part of the gain or loss on exit. The cumulative foreign
currency translation losses related to this investment were $182 at June 30,
2003.
Colombia
In January 2003, we received proceeds of $35 from the exercise of a put in our
$279 loan participation agreement with our Colombian partner. As a result, no
gain or loss was recognized.
Note Receivable from KPN
In April 2003, we received net proceeds of $1,458 resulting from an early
repayment by KPN of the entire outstanding balance of a Euro loan we had
extended to KPN and the settlement of related currency swaps. The net proceeds
include $1,802 for the full face value of the loan and $8 for accrued interest,
reduced by a settlement of a $352 liability associated with foreign currency
swap contracts. As a result of the early repayment and settlement of the
currency contracts, we recorded a gain of $20, or $13 net of tax.
BELLSOUTH CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(DOLLARS IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
(Unaudited)
NOTE E - INVESTMENTS AND ADVANCES (Continued)
Cingular
The following table displays the summary combined financial information of
Cingular, our wireless equity method business in which we own 40%. These amounts
are shown on a 100% basis.
For the Three Months Ended For the Six Months Ended
June 30, June 30,
-------- --------
2002 2003 2002 2003
---- ---- ---- ----
Revenues $ 3,748 $ 3,786 $ 7,291 $ 7,376
======= ======= ======= =======
Operating income $ 722 $ 756 $ 1,389 $ 1,472
===== ===== ======= =======
Net income $ 395 $ 410 $ 733 $ 829
===== ===== ===== =====
Real Estate Partnerships
In June 2003, we sold our interests in two real estate partnerships that held
buildings, portions of which we used for general and administrative space. We
received proceeds of $26 for our interest in the partnerships resulting in
recognition of a gain of $16, or $11 net of tax. In addition, we received
proceeds of $97 for the repayment of loans we had extended to the partnerships.
NOTE F - PURCHASE OF TREASURY SHARES
For the six months ended June 30, 2003, we purchased 14.8 million shares of our
common stock for an aggregate cost of $322. There were no purchases during
second quarter 2003, however $67 of first quarter 2003 purchases settled in
April 2003. During second quarter 2002, we purchased 7.6 million shares of our
common stock in the open market for approximately $235, which included $189 of
cash payments and $46 of purchases that settled in July 2002. There were no
purchases in first quarter 2002. In July 2002, we announced our intention to
purchase up to $2 billion of our outstanding common stock through December 31,
2003. As of June 30, 2003, our total purchases since the announcement are 29.6
million shares for an aggregate of $678.
NOTE G - WORKFORCE REDUCTION AND RESTRUCTURING
Based on ongoing challenges in the telecom industry, continued economic
pressures and the uncertainty resulting from recent Federal Communications
Commission (FCC) regulatory rulings, we initiated workforce reductions of
approximately 1,800 positions during the six months ended June 30, 2003. The
positions are primarily in network operations where the volume of work has
substantially decreased. The accrual was recorded in accordance with the
provisions of SFAS No. 112, "Employers Accounting for Postemployment Benefits,"
and consisted of cash severance, outplacement and payroll taxes related to
ongoing separation pay plans. The $71 in additions to the accrual associated
with employee separations relate to accruals for estimated payments for the
current year workforce reductions. Deductions of $104 consist of $88 in cash
severance payments and $16 for adjustments to the accrual due to estimated
demographics being different than actual demographics of employees that
separated from the company. Deductions from the accrual for other exit costs
consist primarily of cash payments of $18 settling liabilities for early
contract terminations.
The following table summarizes activity associated with the workforce reduction
and restructuring liability for the six months ended June 30, 2003:
Type of Cost
---------------------------
Employee Other Exit
Separations Costs Total
Balance at December 31, 2002 $ 84 $ 31 $115
Additions 71 - 71
Deductions (104) (23) (127)
---- --- ----
Balance at June 30, 2003 $ 51 $ 8 $ 59
==== === ====
As a result of the work force reductions, lump-sum distributions from the
pension plan exceeded the settlement threshold equal to the sum of the service
and interest costs components of net periodic pension costs. This resulted in
the recognition of settlement losses of $20, or $12 net of tax, in the second
quarter and $87, or $53 net of tax, in the year-to-date period.
BELLSOUTH CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(DOLLARS IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
(Unaudited)
NOTE H - DEBT
During the second quarter of 2003 we redeemed $300 of 40-year, 7.5 percent
debentures, due June 15, 2033. The redemption price was 104.75 percent of the
principal amount resulting in a loss of $18, or $11 net of tax, on the early
extinguishment of this debt.
NOTE I - SEGMENT INFORMATION
We have four reportable operating segments: (1) Communications group; (2)
Domestic wireless; (3) Latin America; and (4) Advertising and publishing.
To align with internal reporting, the 2002 segment results for the Advertising
and publishing segment have been recast to reflect the change in accounting
method as discussed in Note D. Prior period results for all segments have been
restated for the effects of adopting the fair value method of accounting for
stock-based compensation.
The following table provides information for each operating segment:
For the Three Months For the Six Months
Ended June 30, Ended June 30,
-------------------------------- --------------------------------
2002 2003 2002 2003
---- ---- ---- ----
Communications group
External revenues $ 4,631 $ 4,545 $ 9,276 $ 9,053
Intersegment revenues 40 41 77 109
-- -- -- ---
Total segment revenues 4,671 4,586 9,353 9,162
Segment operating income 1,244 1,162 2,550 2,412
Segment net income 702 679 1,437 1,388
Domestic wireless
External revenues $ 1,500 $ 1,514 $ 2,917 $ 2,950
Intersegment revenues - - - -
--- --- --- ---
Total segment revenues 1,500 1,514 2,917 2,950
Segment operating income 290 303 556 589
Segment net income 99 104 191 205
Latin America
External revenues $ 597 $ 563 $ 1,253 $ 1,072
Intersegment revenues 1 2 4 2
--- --- --- ---
Total segment revenues 598 565 1,257 1,074
Segment operating income 76 75 135 100
Net earnings (losses) of equity affiliates (2) 2 (8) 8
Segment net income 12 41 15 51
Advertising and publishing
External revenues $ 565 $ 520 $ 1,071 $ 1,014
Intersegment revenues 5 5 9 9
--- --- --- ---
Total segment revenues 570 525 1,080 1,023
Segment operating income 247 252 490 495
Segment net income 151 157 299 306
RECONCILIATION TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL INFORMATION
For the Three Months For the Six Months
Ended June 30, Ended June 30,
-------------------------------- --------------------------------
2002 2003 2002 2003
---- ---- ---- ----
Operating revenues
Total reportable segments $ 7,339 $ 7,190 $ 14,607 $ 14,209
Cingular proportional consolidation (1,500) (1,514) (2,917) (2,950)
Advertising and publishing accounting change (26) - (153) -
Unbilled receivable adjustment - - (163) -
Corporate, eliminations and other (33) (34) (60) (94)
-------------- -------------- --------------- --------------
Total consolidated $ 5,780 $ 5,642 $ 11,314 $ 11,165
============== ============== =============== ==============
BELLSOUTH CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(DOLLARS IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
(Unaudited)
NOTE I - SEGMENT INFORMATION (Continued)
For the Three Months For the Six Months
Ended June 30, Ended June 30,
------------------------------- --------------------------------
2002 2003 2002 2003
---- ---- ---- ----
Operating income
Total reportable segments $ 1,857 $ 1,792 $ 3,731 $ 3,596
Cingular proportional consolidation (290) (303) (556) (589)
Advertising and publishing accounting change (12) - (87) -
Unbilled receivable adjustment - - (163) -
Restructuring charge (357) - (357) (54)
Pension settlement loss - (20) - (87)
Corporate, eliminations and other 1 (34) - (52)
------------- -------------- --------------- --------------
Total consolidated $ 1,199 $ 1,435 $ 2,568 $ 2,814
============= ============== =============== ==============
Net Income
Total reportable segments $ 964 $ 981 $ 1,942 $ 1,950
Foreign currency transaction gains (losses) (354) 65 (558) 113
Brazil loan impairments - - (263) -
Net gain (loss) on sale of operations - (73) 857 (73)
Unbilled receivable adjustment - - (101) -
Net losses on sale or impairment of securities (124) (5) (274) (5)
Cumulative effect of changes in accounting principle - - (1,285) 315
Advertising and publishing accounting change (8) - (54) -
Restructuring charge (225) - (225) (33)
Pension settlement loss - (12) - (53)
Corporate, eliminations and other 10 (5) 70 (33)
-------------- -------------- --------------- --------------
Total consolidated $ 263 $ 951 $ 109 $ 2,181
============== ============== =============== ==============
Reconciling items are transactions or events that are included in reported
consolidated results but are excluded from segment results due to their
nonrecurring or nonoperational nature.
NOTE J - RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
We have made advances to Cingular that totaled $3,816 at June 30, 2003 and June
30, 2002. We earned $71 in the second quarter of 2003, $71 in the second quarter
of 2002, $141 year-to-date 2003 and $141 year-to-date 2002 from interest income
on this advance. In addition, Cingular owed us $43 at June 30, 2003, which
represents receivables primarily incurred in the ordinary course of business. We
generated revenues of approximately $103 and $112 in second quarter 2003 and
2002, respectively, and $201 and $190 year-to-date 2003 and 2002, respectively,
from the provision of local interconnect and long distance services to Cingular
and sales agency fees from Cingular.
NOTE K - VENEZUELAN CURRENCY TRANSLATION
In Venezuela, we own a 78.2% interest in Telcel, a wireless communications
company that we consolidate in our financial statements. The functional currency
used for accounting purposes is the Venezuelan Bolivar. The local currency has
significantly devalued against the U.S. Dollar over the past 12 months due
primarily to political and economic turmoil and the government's decision in
February 2002 to let the currency trade freely in the open market ending the
government's prior fixed band exchange policy. During February 2003, the
Venezuelan government announced a new foreign exchange control regime and set a
fixed exchange rate of 1,600 Bolivars to the U.S. Dollar. The government has
established procedures for the conversion of Bolivars into U.S. Dollars for the
import of a limited number of goods and services. Our local operation has been
able to purchase dollars for the import of cellular handsets used in its
business.
Due to the currency controls, there is no free market currency exchange rate.
Therefore, in preparing our consolidated financial statements, we used the
exchange rate established by the Venezuelan government of 1,600 Bolivars to the
U.S. Dollar to translate the local currency financial statements into our
reporting currency, the U.S. Dollar. When the Bolivar resumes trading on the
open market, the exchange rate may be different than the rate set by the
government. A significant devaluation of the local currency would result in a
decline in revenues and, to a lesser extent, operating expenses when reported in
the U.S. Dollar. As an example, a devaluation in the Venezuelan currency from
the 1,600 rate currently used in our financial statements to 2,400 Bolivars to
the U.S. Dollar would equate to a decrease in revenues of approximately $80 for
the quarter ended June 30, 2003. Such a change in the exchange rate would also
result in a
BELLSOUTH CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(DOLLARS IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
(Unaudited)
NOTE K - VENEZUELAN CURRENCY TRANSLATION (Continued)
reduction in the company's net assets of approximately $200 which would be
reported as a reduction in shareholder's equity through the cumulative foreign
currency translation adjustment. Because certain expenses are settled in U.S.
Dollars, determination of the net income impact of such a devaluation is not
practicable.
Due to the currency controls in place, we are currently unable to repatriate
capital related to this investment. We have assessed the situation and believe
it is temporary in nature. Therefore, we have continued to consolidate the
financial statements of this operation in accordance with SFAS No. 94. In the
event the situation is deemed other than temporary, we would cease to
consolidate this operation and would reflect the investment using the cost
method of accounting.
NOTE L - CONTINGENCIES
VENEZUELAN PUT-CALL PROVISION
We own approximately 78% of Telcel, our Venezuelan operation. Telcel's other
major shareholder holds an indirect 21% interest in Telcel. Under a Stock
Purchase Agreement, that shareholder has the right to initiate a process that
could require us to purchase (the puts), and we have the right to initiate a
process that could require that shareholder to sell (the calls) to us, the
shareholder's interest in Telcel with notice of the initiation of the process
with respect to approximately half of that shareholder's interest to be given in
2000 and notice with respect to the remaining balance to be given in 2002. If we
exercise our call right, we would purchase that shareholder's interest at
between 100% and 120% of its appraised fair value. If we are required to
purchase the interest, we would do so at between 80% and 100% of its appraised
fair value.
In 2000, the shareholder initiated a process for appraising the value of
approximately half of its interest in Telcel, but the process was not completed.
The shareholder also has sent a letter purporting to exercise the balance of the
Buy-back Rights under the Stock Purchase Agreement. We are currently in
arbitration with our partner over alleged breaches by BellSouth and the
shareholder of the Stock Purchase Agreement, including the timing of the
valuation and whether the process was properly initiated in 2000. The
arbitration does not directly involve the valuation of the balance of the
Buy-back Rights. The shareholder is seeking damages and specific performance,
and BellSouth is seeking, among other things, unspecified damages and a ruling
that it has not breached the Stock Purchase Agreement in any respect. We expect
the hearing on this matter to take place later this year. If the arbitration
panel rules against BellSouth, it is possible that the appraised fair value of
the shareholder's interest in Telcel could be substantially in excess of current
value. At this time, the likely outcome of this arbitration cannot be predicted,
nor can a reasonable estimate of the amount of loss, if any, be made.
RECIPROCAL COMPENSATION
Following the enactment of the Telecommunications Act of 1996, our telephone
company subsidiary, BellSouth Telecommunications, Inc. (BST), and various
competitive local exchange carriers entered into interconnection agreements
providing for, among other things, the payment of reciprocal compensation for
local calls initiated by the customers of one carrier that are completed on the
network of the other carrier. These agreements were the subject of litigation
before various regulatory commissions. After an FCC ruling in April 2001
prescribing new rates, BellSouth settled its claims with competitors for traffic
occurring through mid-June 2001, and entered into agreements that contained the
FCC rates for traffic occurring from mid-June 2001 forward. The District of
Columbia Circuit Court of Appeals, in the second quarter of 2002, remanded the
ruling to the FCC to implement a rate methodology consistent with the Court's
opinion. The FCC's previous rules and rates remain in effect while it
reconsiders them. A change in the rules or rates could increase our expenses.
REGULATORY MATTERS
Beginning in 1996, we operated under a price regulation plan approved by the
South Carolina Public Service Commission (PSC) under existing state laws. In
April 1999, however, the South Carolina Supreme Court invalidated this price
regulation plan. In July 1999, we elected to be regulated under a new state
statute, adopted subsequent to the Commission's approval of the earlier plan.
The new statute allows telephone companies in South Carolina to operate under
price regulation without obtaining approval from the Commission. The election
became effective during August 1999. The South Carolina Consumer Advocate
petitioned the Commission seeking review of the level of our earnings during the
1996-1998 period when we operated under the subsequently invalidated price
regulation plan. The Commission voted to dismiss the petition in November 1999
and issued orders confirming the vote in February and June of 2000. In July
2000, the Consumer Advocate appealed the Commission's dismissal of the petition.
If the Consumer Advocate prevails, the case could be remanded to the South
Carolina PSC, which could, after considering evidence, order material refunds to
customers in South Carolina. At this time, we are unable to predict the outcome
of this appeal and, therefore, cannot determine the impact, if any, this matter
may have on future earnings.
BELLSOUTH CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(DOLLARS IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
(Unaudited)
NOTE L - CONTINGENCIES (Continued)
LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
Employee Related
On April 29, 2002 five African-American employees filed a putative class action
lawsuit, captioned Gladys Jenkins et al. v. BellSouth Corporation, against the
Company in the United States District Court for the Northern District of
Alabama. The complaint alleges that BellSouth discriminated against current and
former African-American employees with respect to compensation and promotions in
violation of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and 42 USC. Section 1981.
Plaintiffs purport to bring the claims on behalf of two classes: a class of all
African-American hourly workers employed by BellSouth at any time since April
29, 1988, and a class of all African-American salaried workers employed by
BellSouth at any time since April 29, 1988 in management positions at or below
Job Grade 59/Level C. The plaintiffs are seeking unspecified amounts of back
pay, benefits, punitive damages and attorneys' fees and costs, as well as
injunctive relief. At this early stage of the litigation, the likely outcome of
the case cannot be predicted, nor can a reasonable estimate of the amount of
loss, if any, be made.
Securities
As previously disclosed, from August through October 2002 several individual
shareholders filed substantially identical class action lawsuits against
BellSouth and three of its senior officers alleging violations of the federal
securities laws. The cases have been consolidated in the United States District
Court for the Northern District of Georgia and are captioned In re BellSouth
Securities Litigation. Pursuant to the provisions of the Private Securities
Litigation Reform Act of 1995, the court has appointed a Lead Plaintiff. The
Lead Plaintiff filed a Consolidated and Amended Class Action Complaint on or
about July 15, 2003 and named four outside directors as additional defendants.
The Consolidated and Amended Class Action Complaint alleges that during the
period November 7, 2000 through February 19, 2003, the Company (1) overstated
the unbilled receivables balance of its advertising and publishing subsidiary;
(2) failed to properly implement SAB 101 with regard to its recognition of
advertising and publishing revenues; (3) improperly billed competitive local
exchange carriers (CLEC) to inflate revenues, (4) failed to take a reserve for
refunds that ultimately came due following litigation over late payment charges
and (5) failed to properly write down goodwill of its Latin American operations.
The plaintiffs are seeking an unspecified amount of damages, as well as
attorneys' fees and costs. At this early stage of the litigation, the likely
outcome of the case cannot be predicted, nor can a reasonable estimate of loss,
if any, be made. In February 2003, a similar complaint was filed in the Superior
Court of Fulton County, Georgia on behalf of participants in BellSouth's Direct
Investment Plan alleging violations of Section 11 of the Securities Act.
Defendants removed this action to federal court pursuant to the provisions of
the Securities Litigation Uniform Standards Act of 1998. On or about July 3,
2003, the federal court issued a ruling that the case should be remanded to
Fulton County Superior Court. Defendants are seeking permission to appeal this
determination. The plaintiffs are seeking an unspecified amount of damages, as
well as attorneys' fees and costs. At this early stage of the litigation, the
likely outcome of the case cannot be predicted, nor can a reasonable estimate of
loss, if any, be made.
As previously disclosed, in September and October 2002 three substantially
identical class action lawsuits were filed in the United States District Court
for the Northern District of Georgia against BellSouth, its directors, three of
its senior officers, and other individuals, alleging violations of the Employee
Retirement Income Security Act ("ERISA"). The cases have been consolidated and
on April 21, 2003, a Consolidated Complaint was filed. The plaintiffs, who seek
to represent a putative class of participants and beneficiaries of BellSouth's
401(k) plan (the "Plan"), allege in the Consolidated Complaint that the company
and the individual defendants breached their fiduciary duties in violation of
ERISA, by among other things, (1) failing to provide accurate information to the
Plan participants and beneficiaries; (2) failing to ensure that the Plan's
assets were invested properly; (3) failing to monitor the Plan's fiduciaries;
(4) failing to disregard Plan directives that the defendants knew or should have
known were imprudent and (5) failing to avoid conflicts of interest by hiring
independent fiduciaries to make investment decisions. The plaintiffs are seeking
an unspecified amount of damages, injunctive relief, attorneys' fees and costs.
Certain underlying factual allegations regarding BellSouth's advertising and
publishing subsidiary and its Latin American operation are substantially similar
to the allegations in the putative securities class action captioned In re
BellSouth Securities Litigation, which is described above. At this early stage
of the litigation, the likely outcome of the cases cannot be predicted, nor can
a reasonable estimate of loss, if any, be made.
Antitrust
A number of antitrust class action lawsuits have been filed against BellSouth in
federal district courts in Atlanta, Georgia and Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. The
plaintiffs purport to represent putative classes consisting of all BellSouth
local telephone service subscribers and/or all subscribers of competitive local
exchange carriers in nine southeastern states since 1996.
BELLSOUTH CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(DOLLARS IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
(Unaudited)
NOTE L - CONTINGENCIES (Continued)
The plaintiffs allege that BellSouth engaged in unlawful anti-competitive
conduct in violation of state and federal antitrust laws by, among other things,
(1) denying competitors access to certain essential facilities necessary for
competitors to provide local telephone service; (2) using its monopoly power in
the wholesale market for local telephone service as leverage to maintain a
monopoly in the retail market; and (3) failing to provide the same quality of
service, access and billing to competitors that it provides its own retail
customers. The plaintiffs are seeking an unspecified amount of treble damages,
injunctive relief, as well as attorneys' fees and costs. At this early stage of
the litigation, the likely outcome of the case cannot be predicted, nor can a
reasonable estimate of loss, if any, be made.
A consumer class action alleging antitrust violations of Section 1 of the
Sherman Antitrust Act has been filed against BellSouth, Verizon, SBC and Qwest
in Federal Court in the Southern District of New York. The complaint alleges
that defendants conspired to restrain competition by "agreeing not to compete
with one another and otherwise allocating customers and markets to one another."
The plaintiffs are seeking an unspecified amount of treble damages and
injunctive relief, as well as attorneys' fees and expenses. At this early stage
of the litigation, the likely outcome of the case cannot be predicted, nor can a
reasonable estimate of loss, if any, be made.
Other
We are subject to claims arising in the ordinary course of business involving
allegations of personal injury, breach of contract, anti-competitive conduct,
employment law issues, regulatory matters and other actions. BST is also subject
to claims attributable to pre-divestiture events involving environmental
liabilities, rates, taxes, contracts and torts. Certain contingent liabilities
for pre-divestiture events are shared with AT&T Corp. While complete assurance
cannot be given as to the outcome of these claims, we believe that any financial
impact would not be material to our results of operations, financial position or
cash flows.
NOTE M - SUBSIDIARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION
We have fully and unconditionally guaranteed all of the outstanding debt
securities of BellSouth Telecommunications, Inc. ("BST"), which is a 100% owned
subsidiary of BellSouth. In accordance with SEC rules, BST is no longer subject
to the reporting requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and we are
providing the following condensed consolidating financial information. BST is
listed separately because it has debt securities, registered with the
SEC, that we have guaranteed. During the second quarter of 2003, we revised the
condensed consolidating financial information as of December 31, 2002 and for
the three- and six-month periods ended June 30, 2002 to reflect the application
by BST and BellSouth (Parent) of the equity method of accounting for investments
in their subsidiaries. The Other column represents all other wholly owned
subsidiaries excluding BST and BST subsidiaries. The Adjustments column includes
the necessary amounts to eliminate the intercompany balances and transactions
between BST, Other and Parent and to consolidate wholly owned subsidiaries to
reconcile to our consolidated financial information.
The revisions described above had no effect on the consolidated financial
statements. Further, the revisions had no effect on the revenues or net income
in the BST column. The primary impact of these revisions on the December 31,
2002 consolidating information was an approximate $19 billion increase in Parent
Shareholders' Equity (of which $17 billion was an increase in Investments in
Subsidiaries) and a reclassification of approximately $3 billion between
Accounts Receivable and Investments in the BST column. Additionally, there were
reclassifications between Operating Expenses, Equity in Earnings and Income
Taxes. These changes resulted in increases in Operating Expenses, Cash Flows,
and Equity in Earnings, and decreases in Income Taxes in the BST column, which
were offset by changes within the Adjustments column. We do not believe any of
these revisions are material.
The condensed consolidating financial information as of December 31, 2002 and
for the three- and six-month periods ended June 30, 2002 has also been revised
to reflect the retroactive application of the fair value method of recognizing
stock-based employee compensation as described in Note D.
BELLSOUTH CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(DOLLARS IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
(Unaudited)
NOTE M - SUBSIDIARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION (Continued)
Condensed Consolidating Statements of Income
For the Three Months Ended June 30, 2002
(As adjusted - Note D)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
BST Other Parent Adjustments Total
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total operating revenues $ 4,571 $ 1,929 $ -- $ (720) $ 5,780
Total operating expenses 4,382 1,483 114 (1,398) 4,581
------------- ------------- ----------- ----------- ----------
Operating income 189 446 (114) 678 1,199
Interest expense 146 81 157 (83) 301
Net earnings (losses) of equity affiliates 434 117 436 (874) 113
Other income (expense), net (7) (309) 12 (49) (353)
------------- ------------- ----------- ----------- ----------
Income before income taxes and cumulative effect
of changes in accounting principle 470 173 177 (162) 658
Provision (benefit) for income taxes (3) 210 (86) 274 395
------------- ------------- ----------- ----------- ----------
Income before cumulative effect of changes in
accounting principle 473 (37) 263 (436) 263
Cumulative effect of changes in accounting
principle -- -- -- -- --
------------- ------------- ----------- ----------- ----------
Net income (losses) $ 473 $ (37) $ 263 $ (436) $ 263
============= ============= =========== =========== ==========
For the Three Months Ended June 30, 2003
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
BST Other Parent Adjustments Total
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total operating revenues $ 4,335 $ 1,956 $ -- $ (649) $ 5,642
Total operating expenses 3,705 1,527 15 (1,040) 4,207
------------- ------------- ----------- ----------- ----------
Operating income 630 429 (15) 391 1,435
Interest expense 135 30 147 (63) 249
Net earnings (losses) of equity affiliates 287 185 1,017 (1,309) 180
Other income (expense), net (21) 77 52 (1) 107
------------- ------------- ----------- ----------- ----------
Income before income taxes and cumulative effect
of changes in accounting principle 761 661 907 (856) 1,473
Provision (benefit) for income taxes 178 227 (44) 161 522
------------- ------------- ----------- ----------- ----------
Income before cumulative effect of changes in
accounting principle 583 434 951 (1,017) 951
Cumulative effect of changes in accounting
principle -- -- -- -- --
------------- ------------- ----------- ----------- ----------
Net income (losses) $ 583 $ 434 $ 951 $ (1,017) $ 951
============= ============= =========== =========== ==========
For the Six Months Ended June 30, 2002
(As Adjusted - Note D)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
BST Other Parent Adjustments Total
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total operating revenues $ 8,929 $ 3,567 $ -- $ (1,182) $11,314
Total operating expenses 7,652 2,939 118 (1,963) 8,746
------------- ------------- ----------- ----------- ----------
Operating income 1,277 628 (118) 781 2,568
Interest expense 300 175 317 (187) 605
Net earnings (losses) of equity affiliates 540 (114) 1,755 (2,303) (122)
Other income (expense), net (20) 979 (151) (107) 701
------------- ------------- ----------- ----------- ----------
Income before income taxes and cumulative effect
of changes in accounting principle 1,497 1,318 1,169 (1,442) 2,542
Provision (benefit) for income taxes 359 701 (225) 313 1,148
------------- ------------- ----------- ----------- ----------
Income before cumulative effect of changes in
accounting principle 1,138 617 1,394 (1,755) 1,394
Cumulative effect of changes in accounting
principle -- (1,285) (1,285) 1,285 (1,285)
------------- ------------- ----------- ----------- ----------
Net income (losses) $ 1,138 $ (668) $ 109 $ (470) $ 109
============= ============= =========== =========== ==========
BELLSOUTH CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(DOLLARS IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
(Unaudited)
NOTE M - SUBSIDIARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION (Continued)
Condensed Consolidating Statements of Income (Continued)
For the Six Months Ended June 30, 2003
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
BST Other Parent Adjustments Total
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total operating revenues $ 8,732 $ 3,732 $ -- $ (1,299) $11,165
Total operating expenses 7,444 2,922 36 (2,051) 8,351
------------- ------------- ----------- ----------- ----------
Operating income 1,288 810 (36) 752 2,814
Interest expense 281 99 297 (132) 545
Net earnings (losses) of equity affiliates 536 366 2,014 (2,563) 353
Other income (expense), net (21) 184 106 (29) 240
------------- ------------- ----------- ----------- ----------
Income before income taxes and cumulative effect
of changes in accounting principle 1,522 1,261 1,787 (1,708) 2,862
Provision (benefit) for income taxes 371 398 (79) 306 996
------------- ------------- ----------- ----------- ----------
Income before cumulative effect of changes in
accounting principle 1,151 863 1,866 (2,014) 1,866
Cumulative effect of changes in accounting
principle 816 (501) 315 (315) 315
------------- ------------- ----------- ----------- ----------
Net income (losses) $ 1,967 $ 362 $ 2,181 $ (2,329) $ 2,181
============= ============= =========== =========== ==========
Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheets
December 31, 2002 June 30, 2003
--------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------
BST Other Parent Adjust- Total BST Other Parent Adjust- Total
ments ments
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents $ -- $ 752 $ 1,643 $ 87 $ 2,482 $ -- $ 808 $ 3,240 $ 74 $ 4,122
Accounts receivable, net 63 1,901 2,807 (642) 4,129 65 1,073 3,452 (1,591) 2,999
Other current assets 463 695 81 12 1,251 435 870 21 15 1,341
Total current assets 526 3,348 4,531 (543) 7,862 500 2,751 6,713 (1,502) 8,462
Investments and advances 3,322 6,924 23,340 (23,845) 9,741 3,411 7,321 21,683 (24,132) 8,283
Property, plant and equipment,
net 21,351 2,037 5 52 23,445 22,088 1,917 4 38 24,047
Deferred charges and other
assets 4,698 329 124 575 5,726 4,756 308 122 571 5,757
Intangible assets, net 1,072 1,477 3 153 2,705 1,083 1,474 3 142 2,702
Total assets $ 30,969 $ 14,115 $ 28,003 $(23,608) $ 49,479 $31,838 $ 13,771 $28,525 $(24,883) $49,251
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS'
EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Debt maturing within one year $ 2,845 $1,120 $ 2,991 $(1,842) $ 5,114 $ 2,958 $ 856 $ 2,550 $(2,670) $ 3,694
Other current liabilities 3,351 1,563 743 (1,188) 4,469 3,556 1,709 827 (1,327) 4,765
Total current liabilities 6,196 2,683 3,734 (3,030) 9,583 6,514 2,565 3,377 (3,997) 8,459
Long-term debt 5,371 3,344 6,294 (2,726) 12,283 4,848 1,553 6,296 (979) 11,718
Noncurrent liabilities:
Deferred income taxes 3,507 1,508 (733) 170 4,452 4,365 1,318 (757) 183 5,109
Other noncurrent liabilities 3,224 1,147 802 82 5,255 3,199 1,081 552 76 4,908
Total noncurrent liabilities 6,731 2,655 69 252 9,707 7,564 2,399 (205) 259 10,017
Shareholders' equity 12,671 5,433 17,906 (18,104) 17,906 12,912 7,254 19,057 (20,166) 19,057
Total liabilities and
shareholders' equity $30,969 $14,115 $28,003 $(23,608) $49,479 $31,838 $13,771 $28,525 $(24,883) $49,251
BELLSOUTH CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(DOLLARS IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
(Unaudited)
NOTE M - SUBSIDIARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION (Continued)
Condensed Consolidating Cash Flow Statements
For the Six Months Ended June 30, 2002
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
BST Other Parent Adjustments Total
---------------- ------------------------------- -----------------------------
Cash flows from operating activities $ 3,441 $ 447 $ 1,987 $ (1,682) $ 4,193
Cash flows from investing activities (1,800) (300) 1,390 620 (90)
Cash flows from financing activities (1,646) (3) (2,222) 1,018 (2,853)
Net (decrease) increase in cash $ (5) $ 144 $ 1,155 $ (44) $ 1,250
For the Six Months Ended June 30, 2003
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
BST Other Parent Adjustments Total
---------------- ------------------------------- -----------------------------
Cash flows from operating activities $ 3,367 $ 1,026 $ 2,344 $ (2,311) $ 4,426
Cash flows from investing activities (1,365) (236) 683 1,157 239
Cash flows from financing activities (2,002) (734) (1,430) 1,141 (3,025)
Net (decrease) increase in cash $ -- $ 56 $ 1,597 $ (13) $ 1,640
NOTE N - SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
As of July 1, 2003, Cingular executed Amended, Restated and Consolidated
Subordinated Promissory Notes to modify the terms of our and SBC Communication's
(SBC) advances to them. These notes to us and SBC reduced the fixed interest
rate from 7.5% to 6.0% per annum and extended the maturity date from March 31,
2005 to June 30, 2008.
In August 2003, Cingular executed an agreement with NextWave Telecom, Inc. and
certain of its affiliates ("NextWave") pursuant to which Cingular would purchase
FCC licenses to provide wireless services in 34 markets from NextWave and its
affiliates for $1.4 billion in cash, subject to terms and conditions set forth
in the agreement. Because NextWave and its affiliates are currently seeking
relief under Chapter 11 of the Bankruptcy Code, the agreement and the
transactions contemplated thereby are subject to the approval of the United
States Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York. Furthermore, the
transaction is subject to various other closing conditions, many of which are
outside of Cingular's control, including the receipt of all necessary approvals
of the FCC and expiration or termination of the applicable waiting period under
the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976, as amended.
Item 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL
CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
(Dollars in Millions, Except Per Share Amounts)
For a more complete understanding of our industry, the drivers of our business
and our current period results, you should read the following Management's
Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations in
conjunction with our latest annual report on Form 10-K, as modified by the
current report on Form 8-K dated May 30, 2003.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Consolidated Results of Operations
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Key financial and operating data for the three and six months ended June 30,
2002 and 2003 are as follows. All references to earnings per share are on a
diluted basis. The discussion of consolidated results should be read in
conjunction with the discussion of results by segment directly following this
section.
Prior year periods have been restated to include the effects of the adoption of
the fair value recognition provisions of SFAS No. 123, "Accounting for
Stock-Based Compensation."
For the Three Months For the Six Months
Ended June 30, % Ended June 30, %
-------------------------------------------------------- ------------------------ ----------- ------------------------ -----------
2002 2003 Change 2002 2003 Change
Results of operations:
-------------------------------------------------------- ------------ ----------- ----------- ------------ ----------- -----------
-------------------------------------------------------- ------------ ----------- ----------- ------------ ----------- -----------
Total operating revenues $ 5,780 $ 5,642 -2.4% $ 11,314 $ 11,165 -1.3%
Cost of services and products 1,922 2,008 4.5% 3,839 3,941 2.7%
Selling, general, and administrative expenses 1,132 1,133 0.1% 2,219 2,185 -1.5%
Depreciation and amortization 1,170 1,046 -10.6% 2,331 2,084 -10.6%
Provision for restructuring and asset impairments 357 20 * 357 141 -60.5%
--- --- --- ---
Total operating expenses 4,581 4,207 -8.2% 8,746 8,351 -4.5%
Operating income 1,199 1,435 19.7% 2,568 2,814 9.6%
Interest expense 301 249 -17.3% 605 545 -9.9%
Net (losses) earnings of equity affiliates 113 180 59.3% (122) 353 *
Gain (loss) on sale of operations - (75) * 1,335 (75) *
Foreign currency transaction gains (losses) (355) 98 * (645) 144 *
Other income (expense), net 2 84 * 11 171 *
- -- --- ---
Income before taxes and cumulative effect of changes
in accounting principle, net of tax 658 1,473 * 2,542 2,862 12.6%
Provision for income taxes 395 522 32.2% 1,148 996 -13.2%
--- --- ----- ---
Income before cumulative effect of changes in
accounting principle 263 951 * 1,394 1,866 33.9%
Cumulative effect of changes in accounting principle,
net of tax - - * (1,285) 315 *
----- ---- ------- ------
Net income $ 263 $951 * $ 109 $2,181 *
===== ==== ====== ======
Earnings per share:
Income before effect of changes in accounting principle
$ 0.14 $ 0.51 * $ 0.74 $ 1.01 *
Net income $ 0.14 $ 0.51 * $ 0.06 $ 1.18 *
Cash flow data:
Cash provided by operating activities $ 2,128 $2,518 18.3% $ 4,193 $4,426 5.6%
Cash (used for) provided by investing activities $ (835) $ 859 * $ (90) $ 239 *
Cash used for financing activities $(1,512) $ (1,697) 12.2% $ (2,853) $ (3,025) 6.0%
Other:
Effective tax rate 60.0% 35.4% * 45.2% 34.8% *
Average short-term debt $ 5,256 $ 3,942 -25.0% $ 4,948 $ 4,330 -12.5%
Average long-term debt $ 13,606 $ 12,033 -11.6% $ 14,213 $ 12,133 -14.6%
Total average debt $ 18,862 15,975 -15.3% $ 19,161 $ 16,463 -14.1%
* Not meaningful
Operating Revenues
Operating revenues of $5,642 in second quarter 2003 and $11,165 in the
year-to-date period decreased $138 and $149, respectively, as compared to the
same periods in 2002 reflecting:
o A decline in revenues of $86 for the second quarter 2003 and $223 for
the year-to-date period at the Communications group attributable to:
weak economic conditions and increased competitive activity including
wireless substitution; conversion of retail access lines to UNE-P,
primarily in the residential market; and unfavorable impacts from the
movement of wholesale customers from a resale basis to lower-priced
unbundled network elements. These decreases were partially offset by
growth in retail DSL and long distance revenues.
o A decline in revenues of $34 for the second quarter 2003 and $181 for
the year-to-date period at the Latin America group. Revenues in this
segment were negatively impacted by the effect of foreign currency
exchange rates as the currencies in Argentina and Venezuela both
experienced significant devaluations against the U.S. Dollar since the
beginning of 2002, although the Argentine Peso has strengthened in
recent months. The exit from the advertising and publishing business
during the fourth quarter of 2002 also negatively impacted the period
over period comparisons.
o A decrease in revenues of $18 for the second quarter 2003 and an
increase of $260 for the year-to-date period at the Advertising and
publishing group. The increase in the year-to-date period was
primarily driven by a change in accounting principle for recognizing
revenues during 2003 (see Note D) and the impact of a $163 reduction
in revenues recorded in the first quarter of 2002 related to the
correction of unbilled accounts receivable.
Operating Expenses
Cost of services and products
Cost of services and products is comprised primarily of network infrastructure
and related support costs associated with the Communications group and Latin
America group and printing and distribution costs associated with our
advertising and publishing business. This line item also includes expenses
associated with certain aspects of customer service operations for the
Communications group. Cost of services and products of $2,008 in the second
quarter 2003 and $3,941 in the year-to-date period increased $86 and $102,
respectively, from the same periods in the prior year. The increases were driven
primarily by higher expenses in the Communications group associated with
increases in expenses attributable to pension and postretirement benefits plans
driven by rising health care costs, unfavorable returns on pension assets due to
weak capital markets and changes to plan assumptions regarding expected asset
returns and health care inflation rates. Other Communications group increases
include increases in costs supporting retail long distance growth partially
offset by lower salary and wages and other labor costs related to workforce
reductions.
Selling, general, and administrative expenses
Selling, general, and administrative expenses are comprised primarily of selling
and marketing expenses, administrative costs, provisions for uncollectible
accounts and costs associated with customer service and billing. Selling,
general, and administrative expenses of $1,133 in second quarter 2003 and $2,185
in the year-to-date period were relatively flat in second quarter 2003 as
compared to second quarter 2002 and decreased $34 in the year-to-date period as
compared to the same period in 2002. Second quarter 2003 expenses increased $20
in the Communications group, primarily due to increased customer acquisition
costs and increased employee pension and benefits, substantially offset by lower
uncollectible expense. This increase was partially offset by lower expense in
Latin America of $20, primarily due to the impacts of currency devaluations, and
lower expenses in the Advertising and Publishing group of $36, primarily due to
a decrease in uncollectible expense. The $34 decrease in the year-to-date period
was driven primarily by lower expense in Latin America of $100, primarily due to
the impacts of currency devaluations, and higher expenses in the Communication
group of $58, primarily due to increased customer acquisition costs, increases
in expenses attributable to pension and postretirement benefits plans driven by
rising health care costs, unfavorable returns on pension assets due to weak
capital markets and changes to plan assumptions regarding expected asset returns
and health care inflation rates, partially offset by reductions in salary and
wages and lower uncollectible expense.
Depreciation and amortization
Depreciation and amortization of $1,046 in second quarter 2003 and $2,084 in the
year-to-date period 2003 decreased $124 and $247, respectively, as compared to
the same periods in 2002 reflecting:
o a decline in the Communications group of $98 and $193 compared to
second quarter 2002 and the year-to-date period 2002, respectively.
These declines reflect the adoption of SFAS No. 143 and lower
depreciation rates under the group life method precipitated primarily
by the significant reductions in capital expenditures.
o a decrease in the Latin America group of $25 and $53 compared to the
second quarter 2002 and the year-to-date period 2002 due to the effects
of currency devaluations, primarily in Venezuela for the quarter over
quarter decrease and primarily in Argentina and Venezuela for the
year-to-date decrease.
Provision for restructuring
The provision for restructuring recorded in the second quarter 2003 relates to:
o pension settlement losses of $20. As a result of the work force
reductions, lump-sum distributions from the pension plan exceeded the
settlement threshold equal to the sum of the service and interest costs
components of net periodic pension costs. The accrual for workforce
reductions in the second quarter was insignificant after netting
adjustments to the existing accrual for changes in estimates.
The provision for restructuring in the year-to-date period 2003 relates to the
following:
o net charges of $54 associated with actions taken to reduce our
workforce, consisting of an accrual for cash severance payments.
o pension settlement losses of $87. As a result of the work force
reductions, lump-sum distributions from the pension plan exceeded the
settlement threshold equal to the sum of the service and interest costs
components of net periodic pension costs.
The provision for restructuring recorded in the second quarter and year-to-date
2002 relates to the following:
o charges of $297 associated with actions taken to reduce our workforce,
consisting of an accrual for cash severance payments.
o curtailment charges and special termination benefits of $60 related to
the workforce reduction.
Interest Expense
Interest expense of $249 in the second quarter and $545 in the year-to-date
period declined $52 and $60, respectively. Interest expense related to
interest-bearing debt was down $42 quarter-over-quarter and $67 year-over-year
reflecting debt reductions of $2.6 billion. The remaining differences in the
quarter and the year-to-date periods relate to interest accruals on other
liabilities and contingencies.
Net earnings (losses) of equity affiliates
Earnings from our unconsolidated businesses increased $67 in second quarter 2003
and $475 in the year-to-date period as compared to same periods in 2002. Losses
from our Guatemalan investment were $61 lower in second quarter 2003 compared to
2002 due to the recognition of other-than-temporary impairments of $62 in second
quarter 2002. Due to the recognition of other-than-temporary impairments of $383
in first quarter 2002 and the cessation of the recognition of operating losses
subsequent to the impairment, there are no losses in 2003. Equity earnings
related to Cingular increased $7 in second quarter 2003 and $23 in the
year-to-date period as compared to same periods in 2002, offset by lower
earnings related to our equity investment in Israel of $3 in second quarter 2003
and $11 in the year-to-date period.
Gain (loss) on sale of operations
The $75 loss on sale of operations in second quarter 2003 relates to the sale of
our entire stake in BSE. The $1,335 gain on sale of operations in the
year-to-date period 2002 relates to the conversion of our ownership interest in
E-Plus and related disposition of shares in KPN.
Foreign currency transaction gains (losses)
Foreign currency transaction gains (losses) of consolidated subsidiaries, which
relate primarily to U.S. Dollar denominated debt in Latin America, included a
net gain of $98 and $144 in the second quarter and year-to-date periods of 2003,
respectively, and a net loss of $355 and $645 in the second quarter and
year-to-date periods of 2002, respectively. The majority of the losses in 2002
were driven by the devaluation of the Argentinean Peso, while the 2003 gain
reflects a slight recovery of the Argentinean Peso, offset to some extent by
losses in Colombia. Second quarter 2003 includes a gain of $20 for the
settlement of foreign currency swap contracts resulting from the early repayment
of advances to KPN.
Other income (expense), net
Other income (expense), net includes interest income, gains (losses) on
disposition of assets, gains (losses) on the sale and impairments of investments
and miscellaneous non-operating income.
The quarter-over-quarter increase of $82 and year-over-year increase of $160 is
primarily driven by the recognition of $88 and $318 in losses in second quarter
2002 and the year-to-date period 2002, respectively, related to our investment
in Qwest, which was liquidated in second quarter 2002. In addition, we
recognized $29 in gains in second quarter 2003 related to the sale of interests
in two real estate partnerships and the sale of a building. These increases were
partially offset by an increase in minority interests expense for Colombia for
the quarter compared to the second quarter 2002, and $98 of minority interest
benefit recorded in Argentina in the year-to-date period 2002, driven by
significant foreign currency losses. Interest income was also down $9 in second
quarter 2003 and $60 in the year-to-date period as
compared to the same periods in 2002. The second quarter of 2003 also includes
$18 in losses related to the early extinguishment of debt.
Provision for income taxes
The provision for income taxes increased $127 in second quarter 2003 and
decreased $152 in the year-to-date period as compared to the same periods in
2002. The effective tax rate decreased substantially to 35.4% in second quarter
2003 from 60.0% in second quarter 2002. The recording of a foreign tax valuation
allowance, deferring recognition of the tax benefits generated by losses at our
operations in Argentina, substantially increased the rate in the second quarter
2002. Included in the second quarter 2003 rate were the recording of a valuation
allowance on the capital loss from the sale of BSE, offset by the impact of
reversal of foreign tax valuation allowance associated with Argentina foreign
currency gains.
The effective tax rate declined to 34.8% for the year-to-date period in 2003
from 45.2% for the year-to-date period in 2002. This decrease was impacted by
the items described above for the quarterly periods and the reversal of deferred
tax valuation allowances on net operating losses in Ecuador in the first quarter
of 2003. The year-to-date 2003 effective rate was further reduced by income tax
benefits related to the inflation adjustments deductible for Venezuelan tax
purposes.
Cumulative effect of changes in accounting principle
Asset Retirement Obligations
Effective January 1, 2003, we adopted SFAS No. 143, "Accounting for Asset
Retirement Obligations" (SFAS No. 143). In connection with the adoption of this
standard, we recorded the cumulative effect of accounting change that increased
2003 net income by $816. See Note D for further discussion of this change.
Revenue Recognition for Publishing Revenues
Effective January 1, 2003, we changed our method for recognizing revenues and
expenses related to our directory publishing business from the publication and
delivery method to the deferral method. The cumulative effect of the change in
accounting method is reflected in the income statement as a decrease to 2003 net
income of $501. See Note D for further discussion of this change.
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets
On January 1, 2002, we adopted Statement of Financial Accounting Standards
No. 142, "Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets" (SFAS No. 142). In connection
with the adoption of SFAS No. 142, we recorded an impairment loss in first
quarter 2002 of $1,277, with no income tax benefit. Additionally, Cingular
completed its transitional impairment test resulting in an additional loss to
BellSouth in first quarter 2002 of $8 after taxes.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Results by Segment
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Our reportable segments reflect strategic business units that offer similar
products and services and/or serve similar customers. We have four reportable
operating segments:
o Communications group;
o Domestic wireless;
o Latin America; and
o Advertising and publishing.
We have included the operations of all other businesses falling below the
reporting threshold in the "All other businesses" segment.
Management evaluates the performance of each business unit based on net income,
exclusive of internal charges for use of intellectual property and adjustments
for unusual items that may arise. Unusual items are transactions or events that
are included in reported consolidated results but are excluded from segment
results due to their nonrecurring or nonoperational nature. In addition, when
changes in our business affect the comparability of current versus historical
results, we will adjust historical operating information to reflect the current
business structure. See Note I for a reconciliation of segment results to the
unaudited consolidated financial information.
The following discussion highlights our performance in the context of these
segments. For a more complete understanding of our industry, the drivers of our
business, and our current period results, you should read this discussion in
conjunction with our consolidated financial statements, including the related
notes.
Adjustments to Segment Results
To align with internal reporting, the 2002 segment results for the Advertising
and publishing segment have been recast to reflect the change in accounting
method as discussed in Note D. Prior period results for all segments and
consolidated results have been restated for the effects of adopting the fair
value method of accounting for stock-based compensation.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Communications Group
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Communications group includes our core domestic businesses including: all
domestic wireline voice, data, broadband, e-commerce, long distance, Internet
services and advanced voice features. The group provides these services to an
array of customers, including residential, business and wholesale.
For the Three Months For the Six Months
Ended June 30, % Ended June 30, %
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2002 2003 Change 2002 2003 Change
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Segment operating revenues:
Voice $3,132 $ 3,175 1.4% $ 6,309 $6,306 0.0%
Data 1,067 1,064 -0.3% 2,159 2,154 -0.2%
Other 472 347 -26.5% 885 702 -20.7%
--- --- --- ---
Total segment operating revenues 4,671 4,586 -1.8% 9,353 9,162 -2.0%
Segment operating expenses:
Cost of services and products 1,637 1,712 4.6% 3,255 3,337 2.5%
Selling, general, and administrative expenses 748 768 2.7% 1,474 1,532 3.9%
Depreciation and amortization 1,042 944 -9.4% 2,074 1,881 -9.3%
----- --- ----- -----
Total segment operating expenses 3,427 3,424 -0.1% 6,803 6,750 -0.8%
Segment operating income 1,244 1,162 -6.6% 2,550 2,412 -5.4%
Segment net income $ 702 $ 679 -3.3% $1,437 $1,388 -3.4%
Segment net income including unusual items $ 550 $ 656 19.3% $1,285 $2,107 64.0%
June 30, % June 30, %
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Key Indicators (000s except where noted) 2002 2003 Change 2002 2003 Change
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Access lines(1):
Residential retail 15,777 14,610 -7.4%
Residential wholesale 988 1,607 62.7%
--- -----
Total residential lines 16,765 16,217 -3.3%
Business retail 7,517 7,046 -6.3%
Business wholesale 662 721 8.9%
--- ---
Total business lines 8,179 7,767 -5.0%
Other 194 166 -14.4%
--- ---
Total access lines 25,138 24,150 -3.9%
Resale lines 532 319 -40.0%
UNE-P (included in access lines above) 1,140 2,052 80.0%
UNE-Loop 398 359 -9.8%
--- ---
Total Resale lines and UNEs 2,070 2,730 31.9%
DSL customers 803 1,225 52.6%
Long distance customers 147 2,786 *
Access minutes of use (millions) 25,073 23,053 -8.1% 50,656 45,848 -9.5%
Capital expenditures $ 918 $ 665 -27.6% $1,840 $1,231 -33.1%
* Not meaningful
(1) Access lines include an adjustment to convert ISDN lines to a switched
access line basis for comparability.
Segment operating revenues
Beginning with the second-quarter 2003, we began reporting product-aligned
revenue categories for the Communications Group segment. The new revenue
categories of Voice, Data and Other will replace Local Service, Network Access,
Long Distance, and Other. Long distance related revenues are included in the
Voice line item. The product-based categories will provide a clearer
presentation of the Communication Group revenue, and are more closely aligned
with the way we manage the business. This change has no net impact on total
revenues.
Voice
Voice revenues increased $43 in the second quarter 2003 and decreased $3 in the
year-to-date period as compared to the same periods in 2002 driven primarily by
the growth in interLATA long distance offset by continued access line share
loss. Total switched access lines declined 3.9% year-over-year. Retail
residential lines declined 7.4%; retail business lines declined 6.3%. The access
line decline was the result of a continued weak economy, share loss and
technology substitution. Wholesale lines continued to grow in the second quarter
driven by growth in UNE-P lines, which now total over 2 million. Total UNE-P
lines added in the quarter totaled 249,000, a reduction of 11.4% of additions as
compared with the prior year. The vast majority of the quarterly UNE-P adds were
residential. Business UNE-P line adds of 21,000 rose slightly from the prior
quarter while other wholesale UNE-P lines, primarily public, added 15,000 in the
second quarter 2003 to total 43,000.
In efforts to combat share loss, we continue to grow our package services.
BellSouth Answers is our signature residential package that combines wireline,
wireless and Internet services. The package combines the Complete Choice calling
plan of local service and multiple convenience calling features with BellSouth
Long Distance, FastAccess DSL or dial-up Internet, and Cingular Wireless
services. Customers have numerous Answers package options to choose from, or
they can customize their own package to best meet their communications needs.
We added approximately 544 thousand Answers customers in the second quarter,
ending the quarter with over 2.1 million residential packages, representing a
16.7% penetration of our retail primary line residence base. Over 70% of Answers
customers have long distance in their package and more than 35% have either DSL
or dial-up Internet. We believe the Answers package helps reduce competitive
churn for our high-value customers.
Long distance revenue increased 45.1%, driven primarily by growth in interLATA
and wireless long distance, partially offset by the discontinuance of
BellSouth's wholesale long distance business. InterLATA revenues were $126 in
the second quarter 2003, a $125 increase over the same period in 2002, while the
year-to-date revenues in 2003 were $203, a $202 increase compared to 2002. At
June 30, 2003 BellSouth had nearly 2.8 million long distance customers, a
penetration rate of 19% of primary residential access lines and 29% of
mass-market small business accounts. In Georgia and Louisiana, the only two
states where BellSouth has been offering LD service for at least a full year,
the company has achieved total mass market residential and business penetration
of 25.5%.
Switched access revenues are down in the second quarter and year-to-date periods
compared to the same periods last year due to volume and rate decreases.
Switched access rates were lower due to effects of the CALLs program, an FCC
access reform initiative. The decline in rates, however, is substantially offset
by higher subscriber line charges. Switched access minutes of use declined 8.1%
compared to the second quarter of 2002 and 9.5% compared to the year-to-date
period of 2002. These volumes continue to be negatively impacted by migration of
minutes to dedicated digital and data service offerings which are fixed-charge
based rather than usage based, competition from competitive local exchange
carriers whose traffic completely bypasses our network, and the effect of
alternative services such as wireless and internet e-mail.
Data
Data revenues decreased $3 in the second quarter 2003 and $5 in the year-to-date
period when compared to the same periods in 2002. Data revenue growth has slowed
compared to historical rates due primarily to weak sales of wholesale data
transport services to other communications providers. Wholesale data revenues
represented about 49% of total data services revenues while retail services such
as FastAccess DSL, ISDN, Frame Relay, Lightgate, and Smartring accounted for the
remaining 51%. Retail data services grew 11.5% in the second quarter 2003 and
10.3% for the year-to-date 2003 compared to the corresponding periods in 2002
driven primarily by FastAccess DSL growth. Revenues from the sale of wholesale
data transport services to other communications providers, including long
distance companies and CLECs, declined 10.1% in the second quarter 2003 and 8.8%
in the year-to-date 2003 compared to the same periods in 2002, primarily due to
the lingering impacts of a soft economy, network consolidation by large
inter-exchange carriers and the renegotiation of an access contract with a
bankrupt wholesale customer.
Combined wholesale and retail DSL revenues of $166 in second quarter 2003 and
$323 in the year-to-date period 2003 were up $52 and $98, respectively, from the
comparable prior year periods due to a larger customer base, although average
revenue per user was lower due to promotional activity. As of June 30, 2003, we
had 1.2 million customers, an increase of over 400 thousand customers compared
to June 2002. Other retail data products, primarily DS1 (dedicated high capacity
lines) lines were lower driven by decreases in demand and due to special access
rate reductions effective July 2002.
Other
Other communications revenue decreased $125 in the second quarter 2003 and $183
for the year-to-date period primarily due to the continuing phase-out of our
payphone business and declines of sales to second and third tier long distance
carriers due to our decision to eliminate certain products within the wholesale
long distance portfolio, which collectively decreased $63 in the second quarter
and $118 in the year-to-date period when compared to the same periods in 2002.
We plan to complete the exit of the payphone business by the end of 2003. Other
revenues were also impacted by decreases in late payment fees and revenues from
billing and collection agreements for other communications companies.
Collectively, these revenues decreased $24 in the second quarter and $45 in the
year-to-date period when compared to the same period in 2002. The late payment
fee decrease was due in part to the late 2002 Florida Supreme Court decision
regarding late payment billings in Florida. Billing and collection revenues
continue to decrease reflecting additional carriers utilizing their own billing
systems and the loss of carrier billing revenues as customers change from other
carriers to our long distance services.
Segment operating expenses
Cost of services and products
Cost of services and products of $1,712 in second quarter 2003 and $3,337 in the
year-to-date period increased $75 and $82, respectively as compared to the same
periods in 2002. The increase for the second quarter period reflects increases
in expenses attributable to pension and postretirement benefits plans driven by
rising health care costs, unfavorable returns on pension assets due to weak
capital markets and changes to plan assumptions regarding expected asset returns
and health care inflation rates impact of $80 compared to the same period in
2002. Other increases include higher long distance costs, which increased $64 as
compared to the second quarter of 2002, associated with the substantial growth
in retail interLATA long distance, increased service installation expense of
$39, reflecting decreased deferrals as compared to the prior period and higher
overtime for network repair and maintenance activity.
These cost increases were partially offset by work force reductions, primarily
as a result of reduced business volumes, that resulted in decreased salary and
wage related expenses of $47 in the second quarter of 2003. Costs associated
with the sale of wholesale long distance and data networking and paging
equipment were $83 lower due to the decision to de-emphasize sales of these
products.
The year-to-date increase reflects increases in expenses attributable to pension
and postretirement benefits plans driven by rising health care costs,
unfavorable returns on pension assets due to weak capital markets and changes to
plan assumptions regarding expected asset returns and health care inflation
rates impact of $160 compared to the same period in 2002. Other year-to-date
increases include retail interLATA long distance growth of $94 and installation
expense increase of $97, reflecting decreased deferrals as compared to the prior
period.
These year-to-date cost increases were partially offset by work force
reductions, primarily as a result of reduced business volumes, that resulted in
decreased salary and wage related expenses of $91 in the year-to-date period
compared to the same period in 2002. Costs associated with the sale of wholesale
long distance and data networking and paging equipment were $144 lower due to
the decision to de-emphasize sales of these products, and contract services
decreases of $20 reflecting lower demand.
Selling, general, and administrative expenses
Selling, general, and administrative expenses of $768 in second quarter 2003 and
$1,532 in the year-to-date period increased $20 and $58, respectively, when
compared to the same periods in 2002. The periods presented were impacted by
increases in advertising of $34 in the second quarter and $60 in the
year-to-date period compared to the same periods in 2002, and outside sales
commission increases of $18 in the second quarter and $28 in the year-to-date
period compared to the same periods in 2002. Insurance costs and SEEM payments
also increased $20 in the second quarter and $53 in the year-to-date period
compared to the same period in 2002. The periods presented were also impacted by
increases in expenses attributable to pension and postretirement benefits plans
driven by rising health care costs, unfavorable returns on pension assets due to
weak capital markets and changes to plan assumptions regarding expected asset
returns and health care inflation rates of $9 in the second quarter and $18 in
the year-to-date periods compared to the same period in 2002.
These increases were somewhat offset by decreases in uncollectible expenses of
$72 in the second quarter 2003 and $77 in the year-to-date period when compared
to the same period in 2002. Prior year periods included the impact of higher
bankruptcies and non-pay accounts driving the decrease in the current year.
Salary and wage related expense decreased $36 in the second quarter 2003 and $44
in the year-to-date period compared to the corresponding periods in 2002
reflecting headcount reductions due to workforce reductions.
Depreciation and amortization
Depreciation and amortization expense decreased $98 during second quarter 2003
and $193 in the year-to-date period as compared to same periods in 2002. The
primary driver of the year-over-year decline in depreciation expense relates to
lower depreciation rates under the group life method of depreciation. The lower
depreciation rates were precipitated primarily by the significant reductions in
capital expenditures over the past several years. In addition, depreciation
expense was lower due to the adoption of SFAS No. 143. In connection with the
adoption of this standard, we no longer accrue for net cost of removal in our
depreciation rates causing lower depreciation expense. Amortization expense
slightly increased due to higher levels of capitalized software.
Unusual items excluded from segment net income
Unusual items that were excluded from this segment's net income consisted of the
following: for second quarter 2003, special items of $(23) related to severance
costs and pension settlement losses and costs associated with the early
extinguishment of debt; for year-to-date 2003, special items of $719 in income
for the cumulative effect of change in accounting principle related to the
adoption of FAS 143 offset by restructuring charges and costs associated with
the early extinguishment of debt; for second quarter and year-to-date 2002,
special items of $(152) related to restructuring costs.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Domestic Wireless
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
We own an approximate 40% economic interest in Cingular, a joint venture with
SBC Communications (SBC). Because we exercise influence over the financial and
operating policies of Cingular, we use the equity method of accounting for this
investment. Under the equity method of accounting, we record our proportionate
share of Cingular's earnings in our consolidated statements of income. These
earnings are included in the caption "Net earnings (losses) of equity
affiliates." For management purposes, we evaluate our Domestic wireless segment
based on our proportionate share of Cingular's results. Accordingly, results for
our Domestic wireless segment reflect the proportional consolidation of
approximately 40% of Cingular's results.
For the Three Months For the Six Months
Ended June 30, % Ended June 30, %
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2002 2003 Change 2002 2003 Change
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Segment operating revenues:
Service revenues $1,398 $1,412 1.0% $2,724 $2,750 1.0%
Equipment revenues 102 102 0.0% 193 200 3.6%
Total segment operating revenues 1,500 1,514 0.9% 2,917 2,950 1.1%
Segment operating expenses:
Cost of services and products 478 501 4.8% 929 969 4.3%
Selling, general, and administrative expenses 550 507 -7.8% 1,070 994 -7.1%
Depreciation and amortization 182 203 11.5% 362 398 9.9%
Total segment operating expenses 1,210 1,211 0.1% 2,361 2,361 0.0%
Segment operating income 290 303 4.5% 556 589 5.9%
Segment net income $ 99 $104 5.1% $ 191 $205 7.3%
Segment net income including unusual items $ 99 $104 5.1% $ 183 $205 12.0%
Key Indicators:
Cellular/PCS Customers (000s) 8,873 9,056 2.1%
Wireless service average monthly revenue per customer
- Cellular/PCS $ 52.11 $51.80 -0.6% $51.28 $50.93 -0.7%
Segment operating revenues
Cingular's cellular/PCS customers increased 2.1% compared to June 30, 2002. Net
cellular/PCS additions in the second quarter 2003 increased 52.7% compared to
second quarter 2002 and increased 24.1% in the year-to-date period 2003 as
compared to 2002. Cingular's net cellular/PCS additions for the quarter
represented the largest net customer additions in two years. Improvement in
customer additions are partly attributable to several business initiatives
Cingular implemented earlier in 2003: (1) reorganization of Cingular's
marketing, sales and operations activities from a national to a regional basis
to more effectively address local market needs; (2) introduction of a more
meaningful brand message - "Cingular Fits You Best" - to tie in with the more
focused local market strategy; and (3) increased emphasis on Cingular's
affiliation with us and SBC and co-branding and more effectively utilizing our
and SBC's sales channels in those areas where Cingular's wireless markets
overlap with our and SBC's wireline markets. During the three months ended June
30, 2003, Cingular's postpaid, prepaid and reseller subscriber bases increased.
Prepaid subscriber growth was impacted positively by the KIC (Keep in Contact)
prepaid plan launched in the fourth quarter of 2002, and the reseller subscriber
base increased largely due to the loss of WorldCom reseller customers in the
second quarter of 2002, which resulted from its decision to exit the reseller
business, and aggressive growth by Cingular's primary reseller.
The cellular/PCS churn rate was 2.5% in second quarter 2003 and 2.6% in the
year-to-date period 2003 compared with a 2.7% churn rate second quarter 2002 and
2.8% for the year-to-date period 2002. Although, for the six months ended June
30, 2003, total gross cellular/PCS customer additions were 4.0% lower than for
the same period in 2002, the lower churn rate contributed to the 24.1% increase
in net cellular/PCS customer additions.
Segment operating revenues grew $14 during second quarter 2003 and $33 in the
year-to-date period as compared to the same periods in 2002. Service revenues
increased $14 in the second quarter 2003 and $26 in the year-to-date period,
driven by the increase in the average subscriber base for both periods. Other
increases were a result of an increase in data revenues from the second quarter
of 2002 and from the year-to-date period 2002, reflective of higher penetration
and usage of SMS short messaging data services with Cingular's cellular/PCS
customers as well as increased revenue per customer related to its Mobitex data
business. Partially offsetting these increases were declines in roaming and long
distance revenues reflecting the migration of customers to regional and national
rate plans and a reduction in roaming rates with major roaming partners to
support all-inclusive rate plans, and the formation of a venture to share
infrastructure with T-Mobile USA, Inc., which reduced roaming charges to both
carriers' customers. Average revenue per user (ARPU) for cellular/PCS customers
declined $0.31 to $51.80 in the second quarter 2003 from $52.11 in the second
quarter 2002 and declined $0.35 to $50.93 in the year-to-date period 2003 from
$51.28 in the year-to-date period 2002. Continued competitive pricing pressure
in combination with a higher percentage of lower ARPU reseller and prepaid
customers in Cingular's customer base in 2003 negatively impacted ARPU when
compared with the same periods in 2002. An increase in ARPU related to local
service revenues was more than offset by reductions in revenues from roaming and
long distance, thereby reducing overall service ARPU when compared to second
quarter 2002 and the year-to-date period 2002.
Equipment revenues remained flat in second quarter 2003 and increased $7 in the
year-to-date period as compared to the same periods in 2002 due to increased
handset revenues driven by higher per unit handset pricing, partially offset by
lower accessory revenues.
Segment operating expenses
Cost of services and products
Cost of services and products increased $23 during second quarter 2003 and $40
in the year-to-date period as compared to the same periods in 2002. Cingular's
expense growth was driven by increases in minutes of use on the network, system
expansion and the increased costs of redundant networks required during the
current system overlay. These increases were partially offset by lower third
party system costs due to a decrease in roaming costs. An increase in equipment
costs was due to increased per unit handset costs driven by a shift to
higher-end handsets such as the dual-system TDMA/GSM handset in use during the
GSM system conversion and newly introduced GSM-only handsets.
Selling, general, and administrative expenses
Selling, general, and administrative expenses of $507 in second quarter 2003
decreased $43 and expenses of $994 in the year-to-date period decreased $76,
when compared to same periods in 2002, due to reduced employee-related costs as
a result of the sales operation reorganization in 2002, lower commissions
expense as a result of fewer gross additions, lower billing expenses as a result
of billing system conversions and related consolidations, lower provision for
uncollectibles, lower customer service expenses, and reduced advertising and
promotion costs on a year-to-date basis. Advertising costs increased for the
second quarter of 2003.
Depreciation and amortization
Depreciation and amortization increased $21 in second quarter 2003 and $36 in
the year-to-date period when compared to the same periods in 2002. The increase
in depreciation expense of $25 for second quarter 2003 and $45 for the
year-to-date period 2003 was attributable to higher levels of gross property,
plant and equipment plus accelerated depreciation on TDMA assets that began in
2003. Amortization expense declined $4 during second quarter 2003 and $9 in the
year-to-date period as compared to the same periods in 2002 due to certain
finite-lived intangibles becoming fully amortized during 2002.
Unusual items excluded from segment net income
Unusual items that were excluded from this segment's net income consisted of the
following: in second quarters 2003 and 2002 and year-to-date 2003, there were no
special items excluded from this segment's results; in year-to-date 2002,
special items of $(8) related to the cumulative effect of change in accounting
principle for the adoption of FAS 142.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Latin America
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Latin America segment is comprised of our investments in wireless businesses
in eleven countries in Latin America. Consolidated operations include our
businesses in Argentina, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Nicaragua, Peru and
Venezuela. All other businesses are accounted for under the equity method and
accordingly their results are reported as Net earnings (losses) of equity
affiliates.
For the Three Months For the Six Months
Ended June 30, % Ended June 30, %
2002 2003 Change 2002 2003 Change
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Segment operating revenues:
Service revenues $ 501 $471 -6.0% $ 1,063 $903 -15.1%
Equipment and other revenues 78 94 20.5% 172 171 -0.6%
Advertising and publishing revenues 19 - -100.0% 22 - -100.0%
--- --- --- ---
Total segment operating revenues 598 565 -5.5% 1,257 1,074 -14.6%
Segment operating expenses:
Cost of services and products 230 243 5.7% 496 501 1.0%
Selling, general, and administrative expenses 174 154 -11.5% 390 290 -25.6%
Depreciation and amortization 118 93 -21.2% 236 183 -22.5%
--- --- --- ---
Total segment operating expenses 522 490 -6.1% 1,122 974 -13.2%
Segment operating income 76 75 -1.3% 135 100 -25.9%
Net earnings (losses) of equity affiliates (2) 2 * (8) 8 *
Segment net income 12 41 * 15 51 *
Segment net income (loss) including unusual items
(409) 48 * (2,083) 105 *
Key Indicators:
Customers (a) (000s) 7,840 8,921 13.8%
Average monthly revenue per customer (a) $ 20 $ 18 -10.0% $ 22 $18 -18.2%
* Not meaningful
(a)The amounts shown are for our consolidated properties and do not include
customer data for our unconsolidated properties.
Segment operating revenues
Although the customer base in Latin America increased 13.8% over the prior year,
segment operating service revenues decreased $30 in second quarter 2003 as
compared to same period in 2002. During the second quarter we added 377 thousand
customers with over 300 thousand in Ecuador, Colombia, and Chile combined. The
impact of a larger customer base from prior year was more than offset by the
effect of the weakening of the Venezuelan Bolivar against the U.S. Dollar and
the resulting effect on translating those revenues to our reporting currency,
the U.S. Dollar. The Venezuelan Bolivar devalued over 40% since second quarter
2002, resulting in a $45 decrease in revenue in Venezuela in the second quarter
2003 compared to the same period in 2002. Partially offsetting the second
quarter decline were increases of $20 related to favorable interconnect billing
true-ups in one of our operations. The decrease in the second quarter 2003
compared to second quarter 2002 was also partially offset by increased revenues
in Ecuador due to strong customer growth and revenue increases in Argentina
reflecting increased business volumes.
Year-to-date service revenues in Latin America of $1,063 decreased $160 compared
to the same period in 2002. This decrease includes the second quarter activity
above and additional devaluation in Argentina in the first half of 2003 compared
to the first half of 2002. Argentina and Venezuela combined service revenues
decreased $165 in the year-to-date period as compared to the same periods in
2002. The declines in service revenue were partially offset by an increase at
Ecuador of $45 for the year-to-date period 2003 as compared to the same periods
in 2002, reflecting a 63% increase in its customer base as well as a $18
increase in the first half of 2003 associated with a settlement reached with
another wireless carrier over disputed interconnect fees. The settlement also
resulted in recording $26 in cost of services resulting in a net reduction to
operating income of $8 for the year-to-date period.
Equipment and other revenues increased $16 in second quarter 2003 primarily due
to the 38.7% increase in gross customer additions over the same period last
year. These revenues decreased $1 in the year-to-date period as compared to same
period in 2002 due to the impact of the previously discussed currency
devaluations, offset by the 16.6% increase in gross customer additions from the
prior year-to-date amounts.
Segment operating expenses
Cost of services and products
Cost of services and products increased $13 in second quarter 2003 and $5 in the
year-to-date period as compared to the same periods in 2002. The second quarter
increase was primarily caused by cost of equipment increases from higher
gross additions. The year-to-date period of 2003 also includes $26 of additional
expense recorded in Ecuador associated with an interconnect settlement
previously described. Currency devaluations in Venezuela and Argentina that have
the effect of lowering the expense in the U.S. Dollar significantly offset these
year-to-date increases.
Additionally, year-to-date costs increased due to a $34 contingency accrual
recorded in the first half of 2003. Recent administrative regulations in one of
the countries in which we operate, regarding the inclusion of interconnection
income in the taxable revenue base, contradicted the method of calculation used
by our subsidiary in computing and paying its liability for taxes on
telecommunications services. We believe we have a valid argument under existing
law for our method of calculating the tax. However, because of uncertainty in
the outcome of this issue, our subsidiary has recorded a contingency accrual for
prior unpaid taxes based on the new regulations and it intends to calculate
taxes in future periods in conformity with these regulations until the legal
issues are resolved. We plan to defend our position, in the courts if necessary.
We cannot predict how long it will take to resolve this issue, however we do not
expect the impact, if any, to be material to our results of operations,
financial position or cash flows.
The cost of services change also was impacted by a $10 decrease in the second
quarter 2003 and $12 year-to-date 2003 compared to the same periods last year
due to the exit of advertising and publishing business in 2002.
Selling, general, and administrative expenses
Selling, general, and administrative expenses decreased $20 in second quarter
2003 and $100 in the year-to-date period as compared to the same periods in
2002. The significant decrease in the year-to-date period was caused primarily
by currency devaluations in Argentina and Venezuela, which recorded declines of
$27 and $43, respectively, and by cost containment efforts. The year-to-date
period 2003 also reflects a $12 benefit in Ecuador associated with cumulative
future deductions to be used to calculate employee profit-sharing expense.
During second quarter 2003, the Argentinean Peso strengthened to a level
comparable to the second quarter 2002, resulting in relatively flat expenses in
that operation. The second quarter decrease of $20 was caused primarily by the
currency devaluation in Venezuela, where expenses decreased $14 compared to
second quarter 2002, as well as by cost containment efforts. Selling, general,
and administrative expenses were also impacted by a $10 decrease in the second
quarter 2003 and $17 year-to-date 2003 compared to the same periods last year
due to the exit of advertising and publishing business in 2002.
Depreciation and amortization
Depreciation and amortization expense decreased $25 in second quarter 2003 and
$53 in the year-to-date period as compared to the same periods in 2002. The
decline reflects the impact of currency devaluations on the amortizable basis of
tangible and intangible assets.
Net losses of equity affiliates
Net losses from our Latin America equity affiliates improved $4 to $2 in second
quarter 2003 and $16 to $8 in the year-to-date period as compared to the same
periods in 2002, primarily as a result of the cessation of recording losses from
our equity investments in Brazil.
Provision for income taxes
The provision for taxes in the year-to-date period 2003 includes benefits
related to inflation adjustments deductible for Venezuelan tax purposes and
benefits related to the reversals of deferred tax valuation allowances on net
operating losses in Ecuador and Argentina.
Unusual items excluded from segment net income
Unusual items that were excluded from this segment's net income consisted of the
following: in second quarter 2003, special items of $7 related to foreign
currency transaction gains offset by the loss on the sale of BSE and by
restructuring charges; in year-to-date 2003, special items of $54 related to
foreign currency transaction gains offset by the loss on sale of BSE and by
restructuring charges; in second quarter 2002, special items of $(421) related
to foreign currency transaction losses, asset impairments and severance costs;
in year-to-date 2002, special items of $(2,158) related to impairment losses
under SFAS No. 142, foreign currency transaction losses, Brazil loan
impairments, asset impairments and severance costs, partially offset by gain on
sale of stock.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Advertising and Publishing
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Our Advertising and publishing segment is comprised of companies in the U.S.
that publish, print, sell advertising in and perform related services concerning
alphabetical and classified telephone directories and electronic product
offerings.
As discussed more fully in Note D to the interim financial statements, effective
January 1, 2003, we changed our method for recognizing revenues and expenses
related to our directory publishing business. This was treated as a cumulative
effect of accounting change and therefore prior year results were not restated.
However, to align with internal reporting, the 2002 segment results for the
Advertising and publishing segment have been recast to reflect the change.
For the Three Months For the Six Months
Ended June 30, % Ended June 30, %
2002 2003 Change 2002 2003 Change
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Segment operating revenues $ 570 $525 -7.9% $1,080 $1,023 -5.3%
Segment operating expenses:
Cost of services and products 91 82 -9.9% 182 160 -12.1%
Selling, general, and administrative expenses 224 184 -17.9% 394 354 -10.2%
Depreciation and amortization 8 7 -12.5% 14 14 0.0%
--- --- --- ---
Total segment operating expenses 323 273 -15.5% 590 528 -10.5%
Segment operating income 247 252 2.0% 490 495 1.0%
Segment net income $ 151 $157 4.0% $ 299 $306 2.3%
Segment net income (loss) including unusual items $ 152 $156 * $ 199 $ (199) *
* Not meaningful
Segment operating revenues
Segment operating revenues decreased $45 from the second quarter of 2002 to the
second quarter of 2003, and decreased $57 on a year-to-date basis. The overall
industry environment continues to reflect weak economic conditions and resulted
in a reduction in publishing revenues of $22 for the quarter and $44 for the
year-to-date period. The decreases in both periods also reflect the favorable
impact of $24 recorded in the second quarter of last year related predominately
to billing and claims related true-ups. Absent these items, the decline in
revenues would have been 3.8% for the quarter and 3.1% for the year-to-date
period. The 2003 period declines were primarily driven by the amortization of
revenues from directories issued in 2002, and to a lesser extent from those
issued in 2003. When compared to their previous issues, the total revenues on
directories issued during second quarter 2003 declined 2.5%; total revenues for
all directories issued during 2003 have also declined 2.5%. The declines in both
periods were partially offset by increases in revenues from electronic media
offerings.
Segment operating expenses
Cost of services and products decreased $9 for the quarter and $22 on a
year-to-date basis. The decreases primarily reflect the impact of manufacturing
cost reduction efforts that were made during the latter half of 2002.
Selling, general, and administrative expenses decreased $40 compared to the
corresponding periods in 2002. The provision for uncollectible expense decreased
$43 for the quarter and $25 for the year-to-date period. These decreases reflect
the impact of increased collection performance in the 2003 periods.
Administrative expenses, which were flat quarter-over-quarter, decreased on a
year-to-date basis as the result of cost-control efforts. The decreases in both
the quarter- and year-to-date periods were partially offset by increases
attributable to pension and postretirement benefits plans driven by rising
health care costs, unfavorable returns on pension assets due to weak capital
markets and changes to plan assumptions regarding expected asset returns and
health care inflation rates.
Depreciation and amortization was relatively flat for both the quarter and
year-to-date periods.
Unusual items excluded from segment net income
Unusual items that were excluded from this segment's net income consisted of the
following: in second quarter 2003, special items of $(1) related to severance
costs and pension settlement losses; in year-to-date 2003, special items of
$(505) included the cumulative effect of change in accounting principle and
severance and pension costs; in second quarter 2002, special items of $1 related
to severance costs and employee benefits related to workforce reduction; and in
year-to-date 2002, special items of $(100) related to an unbilled receivable
adjustment, severance costs and employee benefits related to workforce
reduction.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
All Other Businesses
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
All other businesses primarily consist of a captive insurance subsidiary and
equity investments in wireless operations in Israel and Denmark and our former
operations in Germany.
For the Three Months For the Six Months
Ended June 30, % Ended June 30, %
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2002 2003 Change 2002 2003 Change
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Segment operating revenues $25 $25 * $ 50 $ 52 4.0 %
Segment operating expenses 15 13 -13.3 % 30 29 -3.3 %
-- -- -- --
Segment operating income 10 12 20.0 % 20 23 15.0 %
Net earnings of equity affiliates 15 11 -26.7 % 28 20 -28.6 %
Segment net income $ 21 $19 -9.5 % $ 41 $ 36 -12.2 %
Segment net income including unusual items $ 21 $19 * $ 898 $ 36 *
* Not meaningful.
Segment operating results
Revenues and expenses were derived primarily from the sale of insurance on
customer premises equipment and amortization of deferred revenues related to a
transaction with Crown Castle to monetize wireless towers in 1999. While
revenues increased slightly, operating expenses remained flat, resulting in an
improved segment operating income.
Net earnings of equity affiliates decreased $4 and $8 in the second quarter 2003
and year-to-date period 2003 as compared to the same periods in 2002,
attributable to lower income from the operations in Israel, offset in the
year-to-date period by the cessation of recording losses related to our former
German operation subsequent to its sale during the first quarter of 2002.
Unusual items excluded from segment net income
Unusual items that were excluded from this segment's results consisted of the
following: in second quarter and year-to-date 2003 and second quarter 2002,
there were no special items excluded from this segment's results; in
year-to-date 2002, special items of $857 related to a gain on the conversion of
E-Plus, a loss on the sale of KPN stock, and a gain on the settlement of forward
contracts associated with advances to E-Plus.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Liquidity and Financial Condition
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net cash provided by (used for):
For the Six Months
Ended June 30,
2002 2003 Change
----------------------- ----------- ----------- --------------------
----------------------- ----------- ----------- ---------- ---------
Operating activities.. $ 4,193 $ 4,426 233 5.6 %
Investing activities.. $ (90) $ 239 329 *
Financing activities.. $ (2,853) $ (3,025) (172) 6.0 %
----------------------- ----------- ----------- ---------- ---------
* Not meaningful
Net cash provided by operating activities
Cash generated by operations increased $233 during 2003 compared to the prior
year. The increase was driven primarily by working capital changes partially
offset by lower operating cash flow in the Communications group driven primarily
by revenue decreases.
Net cash used for investing activities
Capital expenditures
Capital expenditures consist primarily of (a) gross additions to property, plant
and equipment having an estimated service life of one year or more, plus
incidental costs of preparing the asset for its intended use, and (b) gross
additions to capitalized software. Our capital expenditures during 2003 of
$1,360 were incurred to support our wireline and wireless networks, to promote
the introduction of new products and services and to increase operating
efficiency and productivity. The decline in capital expenditures compared to the
prior period relates primarily to targeted capital management and lower demand
levels.
Other investing activities
In 2003, we received proceeds of $35 from the exercise of a put in a loan
agreement with our Colombian partner and proceeds of $20 related to the sale of
an equity investment in Brazil. In June 2003, we sold our entire interest in two
real estate partnerships for net proceeds of $26. In conjunction with the sale,
we received proceeds of $97 for the repayment of loans we had extended to the
partnerships. In addition, we received $1,458 in net proceeds resulting from an
early repayment by KPN of the entire outstanding balance of the loan we had
extended to them and the settlement of related currency swaps.
Net cash used for financing activities
During the six months ended June 30, 2003 we utilized cash from operations to
reduce long-term borrowings by $1,586 and short-term borrowings by $381. In
addition, we paid dividends of 41 cents per share totaling $759. During 2003, we
purchased 14.8 million shares of our common stock for an aggregate of $322. Our
debt to total capitalization ratio of 44.6% at June 30, 2003 decreased from
49.2% at December 31, 2002. The six months ended June 30, 2002 included
substantial reductions in commercial paper as well as dividend payments of 38
cents per share totaling $713.
Anticipated sources and uses of funds
Cash flows from operations are our primary source of cash for funding existing
operations, capital expenditures, debt interest and principal payments, and
dividend payments to shareholders. Should the need arise, however, we believe we
are well positioned to raise capital in the public debt markets. At June 30,
2003, our corporate debt rating was A1 from Moody's Investor Service and A+ from
Standard and Poor's. Our short-term credit rating at June 30, 2003 was P-1 from
Moody's and A-1 from Standard and Poor's. Our authorized commercial paper
program as of June 30, 2003 was $8.0 billion, with $1.5 billion outstanding. We
believe that we have ready access to the commercial paper market in the event
funding in excess of our operating cash flows is needed. We also have a
syndicated line of credit in the amount of $1.5 billion that we would use in the
event we are unable to access the commercial paper market. The line of credit
contains no significant financial covenants or requirements for compensating
balances. We do not have any balances outstanding under the line of credit. We
also have a registration statement on file with the SEC under which $2.3 billion
of long-term debt securities could be issued. While current liabilities exceed
current assets, our sources of funds -- primarily from operations and, to the
extent necessary, from readily available external financing arrangements -- are
sufficient to meet all current obligations on a timely basis. We believe that
these sources of funds will be sufficient to meet the needs of our business for
at least the next twelve months.
The majority of our operating cash flow is generated by our Communications group
and Advertising and publishing segments. These segments generate sufficient cash
flow to both cover their operating, investing and financing needs and provide
excess cash to the corporate parent for corporate uses. The Latin America group
is expected to generate sufficient cash to meet its operating needs. The
Domestic Wireless segment, which consists entirely of our equity investment in
Cingular, does not rely on BellSouth for funding; Cingular generates sufficient
cash flow to meet its operating, investing and financing needs through its own
operations or through its own financing activities.
Venezuelan Put-Call Provision
We own approximately 78% of Telcel, our Venezuelan operation. Telcel's other
major shareholder holds an indirect 21% interest in Telcel. Under a Stock
Purchase Agreement, that shareholder has the right to initiate a process that
could require us to purchase (the puts), and we have the right to initiate a
process that could require that shareholder to sell (the calls) to us, the
shareholder's interest in Telcel with notice of the initiation of the process
with respect to approximately half of that shareholder's interest to be given in
2000 and notice with respect to the remaining balance to be given in 2002. If we
exercise our call right, we would purchase that shareholder's interest at
between 100% and 120% of its appraised fair value. If we are required to
purchase the interest, we would do so at between 80% and 100% of its appraised
fair value.
In 2000, the shareholder initiated a process for appraising the value of
approximately half of its interest in Telcel, but the process was not completed.
The shareholder also has sent a letter purporting to exercise the balance of the
Buy-back Rights under the Stock Purchase Agreement. We are currently in
arbitration with our partner over alleged breaches by BellSouth and the
shareholder of the Stock Purchase Agreement, including the timing of the
valuation and whether the process was properly initiated in 2000. The
arbitration does not directly involve the valuation of the balance of the
Buy-back Rights. The shareholder is seeking damages and specific performance,
and BellSouth is seeking, among other things, unspecified damages and a ruling
that it has not breached the Stock Purchase Agreement in any respect. We expect
the hearing on this matter to take place later this year. If the arbitration
panel rules against BellSouth, it is possible that the appraised fair value of
the shareholder's interest in Telcel could be substantially in excess of current
value. At this time, the likely outcome of this arbitration cannot be predicted,
nor can a reasonable estimate of the amount of loss, if any, be made.
Colombia Put-Call Provision
We own approximately 66% of BellSouth Colombia. Our partner holds the remaining
34% interest. We have agreed with our partner to a series of related put and
call agreements whereby we can acquire, or could be compelled by our partner to
acquire, additional shares of the company, up to the partner's entire interest,
at a price approximately equal to appraised fair value. Our partner currently
has the right to put to us approximately one-half of his 34% interest in the
Colombian operations. The put expires in June 2005. The remaining balance can be
put to us beginning in 2006 until 2009. Our first call option for up to a number
of shares currently equal to approximately 10.5% of BellSouth Colombia's
outstanding common stock is first exercisable beginning in December 2003. We
cannot determine who will exercise their rights under the agreement, or the
amount if exercised.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Market Risk
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
For a complete discussion of our market risks, you should refer to the caption
"Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosure About Market Risk" in our 2002 annual
report on Form 10-K as modified by the current report on Form 8-K, dated May 30,
2003. Our primary exposure to market risks relates to unfavorable movements in
interest rates and foreign currency exchange rates. We do not anticipate any
significant changes in our objectives and strategies with respect to managing
such exposures.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements and Aggregate Contractual Obligations
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Other than reductions in debt maturing within one year associated with debt
retirements, there are no material changes with respect to off-balance sheet
arrangements and aggregate contractual obligations as presented in our 2002 Form
10-K, as modified by the current report on Form 8-K dated May 30, 2003.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Operating Environment and Trends of the Business
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Domestic Economic Trends
On average, the economy of the nine-state region tends to closely track the U.S.
economy. Economic activity during the second quarter of 2003 remained sluggish,
hampered by geopolitical concerns. The pace of economic growth is expected to
improve during the latter half of 2003. Real gross domestic product is projected
to grow at an average annual rate of 2.5 percent, slightly better than 2002's
growth.
Real personal income growth in our region, estimated at 2.2 percent in 2002, is
expected to reach 2.3 percent in 2003. Employment in the region, which has
historically been closely correlated with various measures of BellSouth's
business performance, is projected to rise 0.3 percent in 2003 after falling an
estimated 0.6 percent in 2002. With 492,000 housing starts in the region in
2002, residential construction activity was at its strongest level since
1985-1986. Although it is unlikely to maintain that pace, residential
construction in the region was still strong in the first quarter and 490,000
starts are projected for 2003. Historically, our business has generally followed
the timing of the cycle in the overall economy, so we expect to see signs of
recovery in our operations as the pace of economic activity improves during
2003.
Domestic Telecommunications Industry Trends
The domestic telecommunications industry continues to be negatively affected by
the combination of excess capacity, reduced capital spending, technology
migration and diminished investor confidence. These issues translate to reduced
revenues and earnings and widespread layoffs and bankruptcies. The convergence
of these factors has the potential to adversely affect the overall economy's
growth and productivity in both the short and long-term.
Specifically, the regional Bell operating companies continue to be adversely
affected by economic weakness, technology substitution, competition and
regulatory burdens. In addition, smaller telecommunications competitors are in
bankruptcy proceedings, raising questions about the ability of these companies
to pay their obligations and their business models if they re-emerge from
bankruptcy with significantly less leverage. Technology substitution from
wireless services, DSL and cable telephony is expected to continue for the
foreseeable future. Further, CLECs continue to use UNE-P as an alternative to
facilities deployment, significantly reducing their costs. The widespread use of
UNE-P enables competitive local exchange carriers to offer lower priced
services, enabling them to gain market share. Meanwhile, the obligation to
provide competitors with access to facilities under UNE-P significantly reduces
the revenue and margins of the regional Bell operating companies. The FCC is
considering the effects of UNE-P pricing and availability in the triennial
review of its policies on unbundled network elements. The FCC announced
decisions in that proceeding on February 20, 2003, but has not yet issued the
required order and rules that provide the legal content of the decisions. We
believe the ability to offer long distance services gives us product parity to
influence customer retention and reacquisition but will do little to offset the
reduced margin effects of current UNE-P pricing.
Over the next 12 to 24 months, we expect to see continued growth in our
wholesale and retail DSL subscribers and a significant increase in our
long-distance subscriber base.
In the domestic wireless area, increasing competition, market saturation and a
weak economy will likely cause continued pricing pressures and the increase in
subscribers to continue at a moderate level in comparison to historical growth
rates.
Other Matters in the Domestic Business
We have contractual arrangements with WorldCom, Inc. (which now calls itself
MCI) and/or its subsidiaries related to interconnection of our networks,
provision of telecommunication services and purchase of WorldCom's accounts
receivables in connection with a billing and collection agreement. Monthly
billings to WorldCom are approximately $50 while monthly payables under the
billing and collection agreement are approximately $35.
On July 21, 2002, WorldCom and certain of its subsidiary corporations filed
voluntary petitions for relief under Chapter 11 of the United States Bankruptcy
Code. A plan of reorganization was filed in April 2003 and is scheduled for a
confirmation hearing in early September 2003. On July 25, 2003, WorldCom filed a
motion with the Bankruptcy court requesting approval of a settlement with us
regarding pre-petition and post-petition claims through April 30, 2003. As of
April 30, 2003, we had not paid certain pre-petition amounts due WorldCom
primarily related to a billing and collection agreement pending this settlement.
In addition, WorldCom had not paid us a lesser amount they owed us for purchases
of telecommunications services. As a result of the settlement, we will make a
net payment of $81 to WorldCom representing the negotiated difference between
the amounts owed. The income statement impact of the settlement is
insignificant. The settlement also resolves numerous business issues that
existed between the parties and with certain exceptions, releases all claims
arising on or before April 30, 2003. The settlement will be final upon the
effective date of the plan of reorganization.
Latin America Economic Trends
Latin American economies were generally very weak entering 2003. Venezuela's
economy has contracted sharply as a result of currency devaluation and a general
strike. Low business confidence amid political uncertainty will likely keep that
economy in a deep recession in 2003. A slow recovery appears to be underway in
Argentina following four years of recession. Real gross domestic product growth
in Colombia, which was below 2 percent in 2002, is likely to remain sluggish in
2003.
We are restricting new investment in the region and have expectations that the
Latin America group can fund its financial needs from the group's operating cash
flows. In addition, we do not expect to enter into additional, or increase
existing, debt guarantees.
Foreign Risks
Our reporting currency is the U.S. Dollar. However, most of our revenues are
generated in the currencies of the countries in which we operate. In addition,
many of our operations and equity investees hold U.S. Dollar-denominated short
and long-term debt. The currencies of many Latin America countries have
experienced substantial volatility and depreciation in the past. Declines in the
value of the local currencies in which we are paid relative to the U.S. Dollar
will cause local currency-denominated revenues and expenses in U.S. Dollar terms
to decrease and U.S. Dollar-denominated assets and liabilities to increase in
local currency terms. Where we consider it to be economically feasible, we
attempt to limit our exposure to exchange rate fluctuations by using foreign
currency forward exchange contracts or similar instruments as a vehicle for
hedging; however, a substantial amount of our exposure is unhedged.
The impact of a devaluation or depreciating currency on an entity depends on the
residual effect on the local economy and the ability of an entity to raise
prices and/or reduce expenses. Our ability to raise prices is limited in many
instances by government regulation of tariff rates and competitive constraints.
Due to our constantly changing currency exposure and the potential substantial
volatility of currency exchange rates, we cannot quantify the anticipated effect
of exchange rate fluctuations on our business.
Economic, social and political conditions in Latin America are, in some
countries, unfavorable and volatile, which have adversely affected our
operations. These conditions are making it difficult for us to continue
development of our business, generate revenues or achieve or sustain
profitability in some countries, and could have this effect throughout the
region. Historically, recessions and volatility have been primarily caused by:
monetary, exchange rate and/or fiscal policies; currency devaluations;
significant governmental influence over many aspects of local economies;
political and economic instability; unexpected changes in regulatory
requirements; social unrest or violence; slow or negative economic growth;
imposition of trade barriers; and wage and price controls. Our Latin America
business has been materially and adversely affected by the recent political and
economic crises in Argentina, Brazil and Venezuela. Other operations in the
region could be materially adversely affected if these crises spread to other
Latin America countries.
Most or all of these factors have occurred at various times in the last two
decades in our core Latin America markets. We have no control over these
matters. Economic conditions in Latin America are generally less attractive than
those in the U.S., and poor social, political and economic conditions may limit
use of our services, which may adversely impact our business.
Legal Matters
We are involved in numerous legal proceedings associated with state and federal
regulatory matters. While complete assurance cannot be given as to the outcome
of these matters, we believe that any financial impact would not be material,
individually or in the aggregate, to our results of operations, financial
position or cash flows. See Note L to our consolidated interim financial
statements.
Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements
See Note C to our consolidated interim financial statements.
Item 3. Qualitative and Quantitative Disclosures About Market Risk
See the caption labeled "Market Risk" in Management's Discussion and Analysis of
Financial Condition and Results of Operations.
Item 4. Controls and Procedures
We maintain disclosure controls and procedures that are designed to ensure that
information required to be disclosed in our Exchange Act reports is recorded,
processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the
SEC's rules and forms, and that such information is accumulated and communicated
to the management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial
Officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required
disclosure. Management necessarily applied its judgment in assessing the costs
and benefits of such controls and procedures, which, by their nature, can
provide only reasonable assurance regarding management's control objectives. We
also have investments in certain unconsolidated entities. As we do not control
or manage these entities, the disclosure controls and procedures with respect to
such entities are necessarily more limited than those we maintain with respect
to our consolidated subsidiaries.
As of the end of the period covered by this report, we carried out an
evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of management,
including the Chief Executive Officer along with the Chief Financial Officer, of
the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and
procedures pursuant to Exchange Act Rule 13a-14. Based upon the foregoing, the
Chief Executive Officer along with the Chief Financial Officer concluded that
our disclosure controls and procedures are effective, in all material respects,
in timely alerting them to material information relating to BellSouth (including
consolidated subsidiaries) required to be included in our Exchange Act reports.
There have been no significant changes in our internal controls or in other
factors that could significantly affect internal controls subsequent to the date
we carried out the evaluation.
Cautionary Language Concerning Forward-Looking Statements
In addition to historical information, this document contains forward-looking
statements regarding events and financial trends that may affect our future
operating results, financial position and cash flows. These statements are based
on our assumptions and estimates and are subject to risks and uncertainties. For
these statements, we claim the protection of the safe harbor for forward-looking
statements provided by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.
There are possible developments that could cause our actual results to differ
materially from those forecast or implied in the forward-looking statements. You
are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements,
which are current only as of the date of this filing. We disclaim any intention
or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a
result of new information, future events or otherwise. While the below list of
cautionary statements is not exhaustive, some factors, in addition to those
contained throughout this document, that could affect future operating results,
financial position and cash flows and could cause actual results to differ
materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements are:
o a change in economic conditions in domestic or international markets
where we operate or have material investments which could affect demand
for our services;
o changes in U.S. or foreign laws or regulations, or in their
interpretations, which could result in the loss, or reduction in value,
of our licenses, concessions or markets, or in an increase in
competition, compliance costs or capital expenditures;
o continued pressure on the telecommunications industry from a financial,
competitive and regulatory perspective;
o a continued decrease in the growth rate of demand for, and the success
of our efforts to market, our services;
o the intensity of competitive activity and its resulting impact on
pricing strategies and new product offerings;
o changes in the federal and state regulations governing the terms on
which we offer wholesale services to our competitors;
o our ability to successfully penetrate the interLATA long distance
market;
o significant deterioration in foreign currencies relative to the U.S.
Dollar in foreign countries in which we operate, particularly in Latin
America;
o the unwillingness or inability of our partners to fund their obligations
to our international joint ventures due to deteriorating economic
conditions or other factors;
o the unwillingness of banks or other lenders to lend to our international
joint ventures due to deteriorating economic conditions and tightening
credit standards or to restructure existing debt, particularly in Latin
America;
o higher than anticipated start-up costs or significant up-front
investments associated with new business initiatives;
o the outcome of pending litigation;
o unanticipated higher capital spending from, or delays in, the deployment
of new technologies;
o the impact of terrorist attacks on our business; and
o the impact and the success of the wireless joint venture with SBC
Communications, known as Cingular Wireless, including marketing and
product development efforts, technological change and financial
capacity.
PART II -- OTHER INFORMATION
Item 1. Legal Proceedings
As previously disclosed, from August through October 2002 several individual
shareholders filed substantially identical class action lawsuits against
BellSouth and three of its senior officers alleging violations of the federal
securities laws. The cases have been consolidated in the United States District
Court for the Northern District of Georgia and are captioned In re BellSouth
Securities Litigation. Pursuant to the provisions of the Private Securities
Litigation Reform Act of 1995, the court has appointed a Lead Plaintiff. The
Lead Plaintiff filed a Consolidated and Amended Class Action Complaint on or
about July 15, 2003 and named four outside directors as additional defendants.
The Consolidated and Amended Class Action Complaint alleges that during the
period November 7, 2000 through February 19, 2003, the Company (1) overstated
the unbilled receivables balance of its advertising and publishing subsidiary;
(2) failed to properly implement SAB 101 with regard to its recognition of
advertising and publishing revenues; (3) improperly billed competitive local
exchange carriers (CLEC) to inflate revenues, (4) failed to take a reserve for
refunds that ultimately came due following litigation over late payment charges
and (5) failed to properly write down goodwill of its Latin American operations.
The plaintiffs are seeking an unspecified amount of damages, as well as
attorneys' fees and costs. At this early stage of the litigation, the likely
outcome of the case cannot be predicted, nor can a reasonable estimate of loss,
if any, be made.
In February 2003, a similar complaint was filed in the Superior Court of Fulton
County, Georgia on behalf of participants in BellSouth's Direct Investment Plan
alleging violations of Section 11 of the Securities Act. Defendants removed this
action to federal court pursuant to the provisions of the Securities Litigation
Uniform Standards Act of 1998. On or about July 3, 2003, the federal court
issued a ruling that the case should be remanded to Fulton County Superior
Court. Defendants are seeking permission to appeal this determination. The
plaintiffs are seeking an unspecified amount of damages, as well as attorneys'
fees and costs. At this early stage of the litigation, the likely outcome of the
case cannot be predicted, nor can a reasonable estimate of loss, if any, be
made.
As previously disclosed, in September and October 2002 three substantially
identical class action lawsuits were filed in the United States District Court
for the Northern District of Georgia against BellSouth, its directors, three of
its senior officers, and other individuals, alleging violations of the Employee
Retirement Income Security Act ("ERISA"). The cases have been consolidated and
on April 21, 2003, a Consolidated Complaint was filed. The plaintiffs, who seek
to represent a putative class of participants and beneficiaries of BellSouth's
401(k) plan (the "Plan"), allege in the Consolidated Complaint that the company
and the individual defendants breached their fiduciary duties in violation of
ERISA, by among other things, (1) failing to provide accurate information to the
Plan participants and beneficiaries; (2) failing to ensure that the Plan's
assets were invested properly; (3) failing to monitor the Plan's fiduciaries;
(4) failing to disregard Plan directives that the defendants knew or should have
known were imprudent and (5) failing to avoid conflicts of interest by hiring
independent fiduciaries to make investment decisions. The plaintiffs are seeking
an unspecified amount of damages, injunctive relief, attorneys' fees and costs.
Certain underlying factual allegations regarding BellSouth's advertising and
publishing subsidiary and it's Latin American operation are substantially
similar to the allegations in the putative securities class action captioned In
re BellSouth Securities Litigation, which is described above. At this early
stage of the litigation, the likely outcome of the cases cannot be predicted,
nor can a reasonable estimate of loss, if any, be made.
Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders
Our annual meeting of shareholders was held on April 28, 2003. The voting
results were as follows:
Number of Shares Outstanding as of Record Date: 1,897,161,787
Number of Shares Present: 1,548,230,291
Percent of Shares Present: 81.61%
Proposal 1: Election of Directors
For Withheld
-------------------- --------------------
-------------------- --------------------
J. Hyatt Brown 1,500,724,775 47,505,516
James P. Kelly 1,496,912,105 51,318,186
Eugene F. Murphy 1,447,051,035 101,179,256
Robin B. Smith 1,444,605,780 103,624,511
William S. Stravropoulos 1,501,415,709 46,814,582
The term of the following directors continued after the meeting:
F. Duane Ackerman
Reuben V. Anderson
James H. Blanchard
Armando Codina
Kathleen F. Feldstein
Joseph M. Magliochetti
Leo F. Mullin
Proposal 2: Ratification of Independent Accountants
For Against Abstain
----------------- --------------- --------------
----------------- --------------- --------------
1,421,411,398 109,556,476 17,262,417
Proposal 3: Shareholder Proposal re: Indexing Stock Options
For Against Abstain Broker Non-Votes
----------------- --------------- -------------- ----------------
----------------- --------------- -------------- ----------------
300,053,592 949,374,136 38,565,593 260,236,970
Item 6. Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K
(a) Exhibits:
Exhibit
Number
4a No instrument which defines the rights of holders of our
long- and intermediate-term debt is filed herewith pursuant
to Regulation S-K, Item 601(b)(4)(iii)(A). Pursuant to this
regulation, we agree to furnish a copy of any such
instrument to the SEC upon request.
10hh-4 Agreement dated May 19, 2003 with Ronald M. Dykes
10jj-2 The Amended and Restated BellSouth Officer Compensation
Deferral Plan Effective April 1, 2003 As Amended
11 Computation of Earnings Per Common Share
12 Computation of Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges
31-a Section 302 Certification of F. Duane Ackerman
31-b Section 302 Certification of Ronald M. Dykes
32 Statement Required by 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted
pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
(b) Reports on Form 8-K:
Date of Event Subject
May 30, 2003 Restatement of Financial Statements to reflect the
adoption of the fair value expense recognition
provisions of SFAS No. 123, "Accounting for
Stock-Based Compensation."
SIGNATURE
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the
registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
BELLSOUTH CORPORATION
By /s/ W. Patrick Shannon
----------------------
W. PATRICK SHANNON
Vice President - Finance
(Principal Accounting Officer)
August 4, 2003
EXHIBIT INDEX
Exhibit
Number
4a No instrument which defines the rights of holders of our long-
and intermediate-term debt is filed herewith pursuant to
Regulation S-K, Item 601(b)(4)(iii)(A). Pursuant to this
regulation, we agree to furnish a copy of any such instrument
to the SEC upon request.
10hh-4 Agreement dated May 19, 2003 with Ronald M. Dykes
10jj-2 The Amended and Restated BellSouth Officer Compensation
Deferral Plan Effective April 1, 2003 As Amended
11 Computation of Earnings Per Common Share
12 Computation of Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges
31-a Section 302 Certification of F. Duane Ackerman
31-b Section 302 Certification of Ronald M. Dykes
32 Statement Required by 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted
pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002