United States

Securities and Exchange Commission

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

FORM 10-Q

 

x

QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

 

For the quarterly period ended September 29, 2012

 

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 0-31983

________________

GARMIN LTD.

(Exact name of Company as specified in its charter)

 

Switzerland

(State or other jurisdiction

of incorporation or organization)

98-0229227

(I.R.S. Employer identification no.)

Mühlentalstrasse 2

8200 Schaffhausen

Switzerland

(Address of principal executive offices)

N/A

(Zip Code)

 

Company's telephone number, including area code: +41 52 630 1600

 

Indicate by check mark whether the Company (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 Company was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. YES þ NO ¨

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). YES þ         NO ¨

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, or a non-accelerated filer. See definition of “accelerated filer and large accelerated filer” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

Large Accelerated Filer þ Accelerated Filer ¨ Non-accelerated Filer ¨ (Do not check if a smaller reporting company) Smaller reporting company ¨

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). YES ¨            NO þ

 

Number of shares outstanding of the registrant’s common shares as of November 5, 2012

CHF 10.00 par value:  208,077,418 (including treasury shares)

 

 
 

 

Garmin Ltd.

Form 10-Q

Quarter Ended September 29, 2012

 

Table of Contents

 

Page
     
Part I - Financial Information  
     
Item 1. Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements 3
     
  Introductory Comments 3
   
  Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets at September 29, 2012 (Unaudited) and December 31, 2011 4
   
  Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income for the 13-weeks and 39-weeks ended September 29, 2012 and September 24, 2011 (Unaudited) 5
   
  Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for the 13-weeks and 39-weeks ended September 29, 2012 and September 24, 2011 (Unaudited) 6
   
  Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the 39-weeks ended September 29, 2012 and September 24, 2011 (Unaudited) 7
     
  Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) 8
     
Item 2. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations 15
     
Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk 26
     
Item 4. Controls and Procedures 27
     
Part II - Other Information  
     
Item 1. Legal Proceedings 28
     
Item 1A. Risk Factors 32
     
Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds 32
     
Item 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities 32
     
Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures 32
     
Item 5. Other Information 32
     
Item 6. Exhibits 33
     
Signature Page   34
     
Index to Exhibits   35

 

2
 

 

Garmin Ltd.

Form 10-Q

Quarter Ended September 29, 2012

 

Part I – Financial Information

 

Item 1. Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

 

Introductory Comments

 

The Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements of Garmin Ltd. ("Garmin" or the "Company") included herein have been prepared by the Company, without audit, pursuant to the rules and regulations of the United States Securities and Exchange Commission. Certain information and note disclosures normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles have been condensed or omitted pursuant to such rules and regulations, although the Company believes that the disclosures are adequate to enable a reasonable understanding of the information presented. These Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements should be read in conjunction with the audited financial statements and the notes thereto for the year ended December 31, 2011. Additionally, the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements should be read in conjunction with Item 2 of Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, included in this Form 10-Q.

 

The results of operations for the 13-week and 39-week periods ended September 29, 2012 are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the full year 2012.

 

3
 

 

Garmin Ltd. And Subsidiaries

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets

(In thousands, except share information)

 

   (Unaudited)     
   Sept 29,   December 31, 
   2012   2011 
Assets          
Current assets:          
Cash and cash equivalents  $1,247,073   $1,287,160 
Marketable securities   122,448    111,153 
Accounts receivable, net   508,725    607,450 
Inventories, net   443,416    397,741 
Deferred income taxes   50,457    42,957 
Deferred costs   50,047    40,033 
Prepaid expenses and other current assets   50,882    69,790 
Total current assets   2,473,048    2,556,284 
           
Property and equipment, net   407,853    417,105 
           
Marketable securities   1,349,176    1,097,002 
Restricted cash   830    771 
Licensing fees, net   11,882    5,517 
Noncurrent deferred income tax   107,190    107,190 
Noncurrent deferred costs   39,750    40,823 
Other intangible assets, net   241,013    246,646 
Total assets  $4,630,742   $4,471,338 
           
Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity          
Current liabilities:          
Accounts payable  $147,866   $164,010 
Salaries and benefits payable   56,533    45,964 
Accrued warranty costs   39,147    46,773 
Accrued sales program costs   31,952    52,262 
Deferred revenue   232,715    188,987 
Accrued license fees   60,521    99,025 
Accrued advertising expense   19,190    31,915 
Other accrued expenses   63,841    67,912 
Deferred income taxes   6,382    5,782 
Income taxes payable   50,076    77,784 
Dividend payable   175,331    77,865 
Total current liabilities   883,554    858,279 
           
Deferred income taxes   7,120    4,951 
Non-current income taxes   171,614    161,904 
Non-current deferred revenue   179,672    188,132 
Other liabilities   1,035    1,491 
           
Stockholders' equity:          
Shares, CHF 10 par value, 208,077,418 shares authorized and issued; 194,970,003 shares outstanding at September 29, 2012; and 194,662,617 shares outstanding at December 31, 2011;   1,797,435    1,797,435 
Additional paid-in capital   86,513    61,869 
Treasury stock   (95,322)   (103,498)
Retained earnings   1,477,504    1,413,582 
Accumulated other comprehensive income   121,617    87,193 
Total stockholders' equity   3,387,747    3,256,581 
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity  $4,630,742   $4,471,338 

 

See accompanying notes.

 

4
 

 

Garmin Ltd. And Subsidiaries

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income (Unaudited)

(In thousands, except per share information)

 

   13-Weeks Ended   39-Weeks Ended 
   Sept 29,   Sept 24,   Sept 29,   Sept 24, 
   2012   2011   2012   2011 
Net sales  $672,376   $666,993   $1,947,127   $1,848,925 
                     
Cost  of goods sold   313,321    322,662    882,501    944,120 
                     
Gross profit   359,055    344,331    1,064,626    904,805 
                     
Advertising expense   30,102    35,310    91,952    89,364 
Selling, general and administrative expense   86,402    88,751    275,763    247,833 
Research and development expense   82,489    72,936    242,510    213,930 
Total operating expense   198,993    196,997    610,225    551,127 
                     
Operating income   160,062    147,334    454,401    353,678 
                     
Other income (expense):                    
Interest income   7,987    8,464    26,278    23,318 
Foreign currency gains (losses)   (6,364)   14,893    (16,124)   12,422 
Other   942    4,345    5,064    9,616 
Total other income (expense)   2,565    27,702    15,218    45,356 
                     
Income before income taxes   162,627    175,036    469,619    399,034 
                     
Income tax provision   22,279    24,655    56,510    43,694 
                     
Net income  $140,348   $150,381   $413,109   $355,340 
                     
Net income per share:                    
Basic  $0.72   $0.77   $2.12   $1.83 
Diluted  $0.72   $0.77   $2.11   $1.82 
                     
Weighted average common                    
shares outstanding:                    
Basic   194,912    194,112    194,834    194,028 
Diluted   196,161    194,828    196,171    194,809 
                     
Dividends declared per share            $1.80   $2.00 

 

See accompanying notes.

 

5
 

 

Garmin Ltd. And Subsidiaries

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Unaudited)

(In thousands)

 

   13-Weeks Ended   39-Weeks Ended 
   Sept 29,   Sept 24,   Sept 29,   Sept 24, 
   2012   2011   2012   2011 
Net income  $140,348   $150,381   $413,109   $355,340 
Translation adjustment   22,591    (53,367)   31,881    785 
Change in fair value of available-for-sale marketable securities, net of deferred taxes   3,844    (1,628)   2,543    17,897 
Comprehensive income  $166,783   $95,386   $447,533   $374,022 

 

See accompanying notes.

 

6
 

 

Garmin Ltd. And Subsidiaries

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Unaudited)

(In thousands)

 

   39-Weeks Ended 
   Sept 29,   Sept 24, 
   2012   2011 
Operating Activities:          
Net income  $413,109   $355,340 
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:          
Depreciation   40,025    40,558 
Amortization   22,905    19,772 
Gain on sale of property and equipment   (17)   (2,407)
Provision for doubtful accounts   2,786    6,227 
Deferred income taxes   (7,384)   12,429 
Unrealized foreign currency losses/(gains)   24,974    (5,366)
Provision for obsolete and slow moving inventories   3,795    2,590 
Stock compensation expense   26,364    27,258 
Realized gains on marketable securities   (1,647)   (5,633)
Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of acquisitions:          
Accounts receivable   103,039    256,656 
Inventories   (44,761)   (58,655)
Other current assets   21,007    (36,713)
Accounts payable   (20,271)   (5,603)
Other current and non-current liabilities   (63,839)   (72,349)
Deferred revenue   35,277    115,096 
Deferred cost   (8,561)   (23,175)
Income taxes payable   (28,098)   (21,987)
License fees   (8,669)   (6,562)
Net cash provided by operating activities   510,034    597,476 
           
Investing activities:          
Purchases of property and equipment   (26,881)   (26,523)
Proceeds from sale of property and equipment   25    - 
Purchase of intangible assets   (5,174)   (8,611)
Purchase of marketable securities   (1,004,021)   (835,965)
Redemption of marketable securities   735,521    599,740 
Change in restricted cash   (59)   (122)
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired   (4,010)   (52,688)
Net cash used in investing activities   (304,599)   (324,169)
           
Financing activities:          
Dividends paid   (253,386)   (154,835)
Issuance of treasury stock related to equity awards   10,971    16,919 
Tax benefit from issuance of equity awards   1,810    1,542 
Purchase of treasury stock   (6,542)   (11,675)
Net cash used in financing activities   (247,147)   (148,049)
           
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents   1,625    3,212 
           
Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents   (40,087)   128,470 
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period   1,287,160    1,260,936 
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period  $1,247,073   $1,389,406 

 

See accompanying notes.

 

7
 

 

Garmin Ltd. and Subsidiaries

 

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

 

September 29, 2012

(In thousands, except share and per share information)

 

1.Basis of Presentation

 

The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and footnotes required by generally accepted accounting principles for complete financial statements. In the opinion of management, all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring accruals) considered necessary for a fair presentation have been included. Operating results for the 13-week and 39-week periods ended September 29, 2012 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the year ending December 29, 2012.

 

The condensed consolidated balance sheet at December 31, 2011 has been derived from the audited financial statements at that date but does not include all of the information and footnotes required by generally accepted accounting principles for complete financial statements. For further information, refer to the consolidated financial statements and footnotes thereto included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2011.

 

The Company’s fiscal year is based on a 52-53 week period ending on the last Saturday of the calendar year. Therefore the financial results of certain fiscal years, and the associated 14-week quarters, will not be exactly comparable to the prior and subsequent 52-week fiscal years and the associated quarters having only 13 weeks. The quarters ended September 29, 2012 and September 24, 2011 both contain operating results for 13 weeks.

 

2.Inventories

 

The components of inventories consist of the following:

 

   September 29, 2012   December 31, 2011 
         
Raw materials  $132,665   $129,211 
Work-in-process   53,794    52,176 
Finished goods   279,003    245,724 
Inventory reserves   (22,046)   (29,370)
Inventory, net of reserves  $443,416   $397,741 

 

8
 

 

3.Earnings Per Share

 

The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted net income per share:

 

   13-Weeks Ended 
   Sept 29,   Sept 24, 
   2012   2011 
Numerator:          
Numerator for basic and diluted net income per share - net income  $140,348   $150,381 
           
Denominator:          
Denominator for basic net income per share – weighted-average common shares   194,912    194,112 
           
Effect of dilutive securities – stock options, stock appreciation rights and restricted stock units   1,249    716 
           
Denominator for diluted net income per share – adjusted weighted-average common shares   196,161    194,828 
           
Basic net income per share  $0.72   $0.77 
           
Diluted net income per share  $0.72   $0.77 

 

   39-Weeks Ended 
   Sept 29,   Sept 24, 
   2012   2011 
Numerator:          
Numerator for basic and diluted net income per share - net income  $413,109   $355,340 
           
Denominator:          
Denominator for basic net income per share – weighted-average common shares   194,834    194,028 
           
Effect of dilutive securities – stock options, stock appreciation rights and restricted stock units   1,337    781 
           
Denominator for diluted net income per share – adjusted weighted-average common shares   196,171    194,809 
           
Basic net income per share  $2.12   $1.83 
           
Diluted net income per share  $2.11   $1.82 

 

There were 5,599,936 and 5,880,506 anti-dilutive stock options, stock appreciation rights and restricted stock units (collectively “equity awards”) for the 13-week periods ended September 29, 2012 and September 24, 2011, respectively.

 

There were 5,667,000 and 5,966,364 anti-dilutive equity awards for the 39-week periods ended September 29, 2012 and September 24, 2011, respectively.

 

9
 

 

There were 94,668 and 84,328 shares issued as a result of exercises of equity awards for the 13-week periods ended September 29, 2012 and September 24, 2011, respectively.

 

There were 307,386 and 366,244 shares issued as a result of exercises of equity awards for the 39-week periods ended September 29, 2012 and September 24, 2011, respectively.

 

4.Segment Information

 

The Company has identified five operating segments – Auto/Mobile, Aviation, Marine, Outdoor and Fitness. Each operating segment is individually reviewed and evaluated by our Chief Operating Decision Maker, who allocates resources and assesses performance of each segment individually.

 

Net sales, operating income, and income before taxes for each of the Company’s reportable segments are presented below:

  

   Reportable Segments 
               Auto/         
   Outdoor   Fitness   Marine   Mobile   Aviation   Total 
13-Weeks Ended September 29, 2012                              
                               
Net sales  $105,572   $64,788   $44,766   $384,393   $72,857   $672,376 
Operating income  $48,384   $21,219   $8,378   $65,165   $16,916   $160,062 
Income before taxes  $48,953   $21,853   $8,705   $65,399   $17,717   $162,627 
                               
13-Weeks Ended September 24, 2011                              
                               
Net sales  $94,720   $69,030   $48,055   $384,150   $71,038   $666,993 
Operating income  $41,331   $20,452   $9,870   $56,215   $19,466   $147,334 
Income before taxes  $44,149   $22,619   $11,373   $77,566   $19,329   $175,036 
                               
                               
39-Weeks Ended September 29, 2012                              
                               
Net sales  $283,230   $217,815   $168,620   $1,055,786   $221,676   $1,947,127 
Operating income  $118,032   $76,016   $35,584   $170,208   $54,561   $454,401 
Income before taxes  $119,971   $77,916   $36,596   $178,978   $56,158   $469,619 
                               
39-Weeks Ended September 24, 2011                              
                               
Net sales  $242,178   $203,411   $178,479   $1,011,405   $213,452   $1,848,925 
Operating income  $101,805   $61,293   $48,360   $83,087   $59,133   $353,678 
Income before taxes  $107,258   $65,686   $51,896   $112,449   $61,745   $399,034 

 

Allocation of certain research and development expenses, and selling, general, and administrative expenses are made to each segment on a percent of revenue basis.

 

10
 

 

Net sales and property and equipment, net by geographic area are as follows as of and for the 39-week periods ended September 29, 2012 and September 24, 2011. Note that APAC includes Asia Pacific and EMEA includes Europe, the Middle East and Africa:

 

   Americas   APAC   EMEA   Total 
September 29, 2012                    
Net sales to external customers  $1,068,289   $186,165   $692,673   $1,947,127 
Property and equipment, net  $221,085   $135,227   $51,541   $407,853 
                     
September 24, 2011                    
Net sales to external customers  $990,155   $176,379   $682,391   $1,848,925 
Property and equipment, net  $227,894   $145,741   $49,406   $423,041 

 

5.Warranty Reserves

 

The Company’s products sold are generally covered by a warranty for periods ranging from one to three years. The Company’s estimate of costs to service its warranty obligations are based on historical experience and expectation of future conditions and are recorded as a liability on the balance sheet. The following reconciliation provides an illustration of changes in the aggregate warranty reserve.

 

   13-Weeks Ended 
   Sept 29,   Sept 24, 
   2012   2011 
         
Balance - beginning of the period  $40,797   $41,691 
Accrual for products sold   9,009    12,737 
Expenditures   (10,659)   (10,955)
Balance - end of the period  $39,147   $43,473 

 

   39-Weeks Ended 
   Sept 29,   Sept 24, 
   2012   2011 
         
Balance - beginning of the period  $46,773   $49,885 
Accrual for products sold   24,863    37,070 
Expenditures   (32,489)   (43,482)
Balance - end of the period  $39,147   $43,473 

 

6.Commitments and Contingencies

 

The Company is party to certain commitments, which includes raw materials, advertising and other indirect purchases in connection with conducting our business. Pursuant to these agreements, the Company is contractually committed to make purchases of approximately $175,016 over the next five years.

 

In the normal course of business, the Company and its subsidiaries are parties to various legal claims, actions, and complaints, including matters involving patent infringement and other intellectual property claims and various other risks. It is not possible to predict with certainty whether or not the Company and its subsidiaries will ultimately be successful in any of these legal matters, or if not, what the impact might be. However, the Company’s management does not expect that the results in any of these legal proceedings will have a material adverse effect on the Company’s results of operations, financial position or cash flows.

 

11
 

 

7.Income Taxes

 

The Company’s income before taxes decreased 7% when compared to the same quarter in 2011, while income tax expense decreased by $2,376, to $22,279 for the 13-week period ended September 29, 2012, from $24,655 for the 13-week period ended September 24, 2011. The effective tax rate was 13.7% in the third quarter of 2012 and 14.1% in the third quarter of 2011. The decrease in the effective tax rate was primarily driven by the mix of income by tax jurisdiction. The effective tax rate was 12.0% in the first three quarters of 2012 and 10.9% in the first three quarters of 2011. The lower effective tax rate in 2011 was primarily driven by the release of reserves related to the expiration of certain statutes of limitations for Garmin Europe.  This was partially offset by the release of income tax reserves due to the expiration of a statute of limitations in Taiwan during the second quarter of 2012. The remaining difference relates to the mix of income by tax jurisdiction.

 

8.Marketable Securities

 

The Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) defines fair value as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date (exit price). The ASC classifies the inputs used to measure fair value into the following hierarchy:

 

Level 1 Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liability
   
Level 2 Inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly
   
Level 3 Unobservable inputs for the asset or liability

 

The Company endeavors to utilize the best available information in measuring fair value. Financial assets and liabilities are classified in their entirety based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. All financial assets were valued using active markets (Level 1 inputs) at September 29, 2012 and December 31, 2011.

 

The following is a summary of the Company’s marketable securities classified as available-for-sale securities at September 29, 2012:

 

   Amortized Cost   Gross Unrealized
Gains
   Gross
Unrealized
Losses
   Other Than
Temporary
Impairment
   Estimated Fair
Value (Net
Carrying
Amount)
 
Mortgage-backed securities  $591,569   $10,481   $(1,217)  $-   $600,833 
Obligations of states and political subdivisions   541,151    3,231    (1,018)   -    543,364 
U.S. corporate bonds   237,192    2,479    (1,795)   (1,274)   236,602 
Other   88,280    3,280    (735)   -    90,825 
Total  $1,458,192   $19,471   $(4,765)  $(1,274)  $1,471,624 

 

 

12
 

 

The following is a summary of the Company’s marketable securities classified as available-for-sale securities at December 31, 2011:

 

   Amortized Cost   Gross Unrealized
Gains
   Gross
Unrealized
Losses
   Other Than
Temporary
Impairment
   Estimated Fair
Value (Net
Carrying
Amount)
 
Mortgage-backed securities  $626,776   $12,936   $(1,086)  $-   $638,626 
Obligations of states and political subdivisions   358,314    2,339    (1,090)   -    359,563 
U.S. corporate bonds   134,763    815    (2,260)   (1,274)   132,044 
Other   78,031    113    (222)   -    77,922 
Total  $1,197,884   $16,203   $(4,658)  $(1,274)  $1,208,155 

  

The cost of securities sold is based on the specific identification method.

 

The amortized cost and estimated fair value of marketable securities at September 29, 2012, by contractual maturity, are shown below. Expected maturities will differ from contractual maturities because the issuers of the securities may have the right to prepay obligations without prepayment penalties.

 

       Estimated 
   Cost   Fair Value 
Due in one year or less  $122,796   $122,448 
Due after one year through five years   522,481    525,151 
Due after five years through ten years   275,689    277,771 
Due after ten years   477,856    484,369 
Other (No contractual maturity dates)   59,370    61,885 
   $1,458,192   $1,471,624 

 

9.Change in Accounting Estimate

 

During 2011, sales of products bundled with lifetime map updates (LMUs) and premium traffic service increased significantly as a percentage of total product sales. Concurrently, market conditions caused decreases in the average selling price (ASP) and margins of comparable models year over year, new bundled products were introduced at lower ASPs, and the difference in pricing of bundled units and comparable unbundled models decreased considerably. Due to these changes, the Company determined it was appropriate to change its estimate of the per unit revenue and cost deferrals during the third quarter of 2011. Additional details are available in the consolidated financial statements and footnotes thereto included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2011.

 

The change in the per unit revenue deferral discussed above and increased amortization of previously deferred revenues are the principal factors which led to net deferred revenue of $20.0 million and $23.8 million during the 13-week periods ended September 29, 2012 and September 24, 2011, respectively, and $35.3 million and $107.4 million during the 39-week periods ended September 29, 2012 and September 24, 2011, respectively.

 

10.License Fees

 

During the second quarter of 2012, the Company determined certain license fee payments to one of its suppliers had exceeded contractual requirements since the third quarter of 2010.  The periodic royalty audit by the supplier, which was already underway, was completed in June 2012, resulting in a net overpayment of such license fees of $20.8 million. This credit is reflected in cost of goods sold for the 39-week period ended September 29, 2012 and is included in accounts receivable on the September 29, 2012 condensed consolidated balance sheet.

 

13
 

 

11.Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements

 

In July 2012, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update (ASU) No. 2012-02 “Testing Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets for Impairment” (ASU 2012-02), which is included in ASC Topic 350 (Intangibles—Goodwill and Other). ASU 2012-02 provides an option for companies to use a qualitative approach to test indefinite-lived intangible assets for impairment if certain conditions are met. The amendments are effective for annual and interim impairment tests performed for fiscal years beginning after September 15, 2012 (early adoption is permitted). The implementation of the amended accounting guidance is not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s financial statements.

 

14
 

 

Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

 

The discussion set forth below, as well as other portions of this Quarterly Report, contains statements concerning potential future events. Such forward-looking statements are based upon assumptions by our management, as of the date of this Quarterly Report, including assumptions about risks and uncertainties faced by the Company. Readers can identify these forward-looking statements by their use of such verbs as expects, anticipates, believes or similar verbs or conjugations of such verbs. If any of our assumptions prove incorrect or should unanticipated circumstances arise, our actual results could materially differ from those anticipated by such forward-looking statements. The differences could be caused by a number of factors or combination of factors including, but not limited to, those factors identified in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2011. This report has been filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC" or the "Commission") in Washington, D.C. and can be obtained by contacting the SEC's public reference operations or obtaining it through the SEC's web site on the World Wide Web at http://www.sec.gov. Readers are strongly encouraged to consider those factors when evaluating any forward-looking statement concerning the Company. The Company will not update any forward-looking statements in this Quarterly Report to reflect future events or developments.

 

The information contained in this Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations should be read in conjunction with the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements and Notes thereto included in this Form 10-Q and the audited financial statements and notes thereto in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2011.

 

The Company is a leading worldwide provider of navigation, communications and information devices, most of which are enabled by Global Positioning System, or GPS, technology. We operate in five business segments, the outdoor, fitness, marine, automotive/mobile and aviation markets. Our segments offer products through our network of independent dealers and distributors. However, the nature of products and types of customers for the five segments may vary significantly. As such, the segments are managed separately.

 

15
 

 

Results of Operations

 

The following table sets forth our results of operations as a percentage of net sales during the periods shown:

 

   13-Weeks Ended 
   September 29, 2012   September 24, 2011 
         
Net sales   100%   100%
Cost of goods sold   47%   48%
Gross profit   53%   52%
Advertising   4%   5%
Selling, general and administrative   13%   14%
Research and development   12%   11%
Total operating expenses   29%   30%
Operating income   24%   22%
Other income (expense), net   0%   4%
Income before income taxes   24%   26%
Provision for/(Benefit from) income taxes   3%   3%
Net income   21%   23%

 

   39-Weeks Ended 
   September 29, 2012   September 24, 2011 
         
Net sales   100%   100%
Cost of goods sold   45%   51%
Gross profit   55%   49%
Advertising   5%   5%
Selling, general and administrative   14%   13%
Research and development   13%   12%
Total operating expenses   32%   30%
Operating income   23%   19%
Other income (expense), net   1%   3%
Income before income taxes   24%   22%
Provision for/(Benefit from) income taxes   3%   3%
Net income   21%   19%

 

Each of the Company’s segments employs the same accounting policies. Allocation of certain research and development expenses, and selling, general, and administrative expenses are made to each segment on a percent of revenue basis. The following table sets forth our results of operations (in thousands) including revenue (net sales), operating income, and income before taxes for each of our five segments during the periods shown. For each line item in the table, the total of the outdoor, fitness, marine, automotive/mobile, and aviation segments' amounts equals the amount in the condensed consolidated statements of income included in Item 1.

 

16
 

 

Garmin Ltd. And Subsidiaries

Revenue, Gross Profit, and Operating Income by Segment

 

   Reportable Segments 
               Auto/         
   Outdoor   Fitness   Marine   Mobile   Aviation   Total 
13-Weeks Ended September 29, 2012                              
                               
Net sales  $105,572   $64,788   $44,766   $384,393   $72,857   $672,376 
Operating income  $48,384   $21,219   $8,378   $65,165   $16,916   $160,062 
Income before taxes  $48,953   $21,853   $8,705   $65,399   $17,717   $162,627 
                               
13-Weeks Ended September 24, 2011                              
                               
Net sales  $94,720   $69,030   $48,055   $384,150   $71,038   $666,993 
Operating income  $41,331   $20,452   $9,870   $56,215   $19,466   $147,334 
Income before taxes  $44,149   $22,619   $11,373   $77,566   $19,329   $175,036 
                               
39-Weeks Ended September 29, 2012                              
                               
Net sales  $283,230   $217,815   $168,620   $1,055,786   $221,676   $1,947,127 
Operating income  $118,032   $76,016   $35,584   $170,208   $54,561   $454,401 
Income before taxes  $119,971   $77,916   $36,596   $178,978   $56,158   $469,619 
                               
39-Weeks Ended September 24, 2011                              
                               
Net sales  $242,178   $203,411   $178,479   $1,011,405   $213,452   $1,848,925 
Operating income  $101,805   $61,293   $48,360   $83,087   $59,133   $353,678 
Income before taxes  $107,258   $65,686   $51,896   $112,449   $61,745   $399,034 

 

17
 

 

Comparison of 13-Weeks Ended September 29, 2012 and September 24, 2011

(Amounts included in the following discussion are stated in thousands unless otherwise indicated)

 

Net Sales

 

   13-weeks ended Sept 29, 2012   13-weeks ended Sept 24, 2011   Quarter over Quarter 
   Net Sales   % of Revenues   Net Sales   % of Revenues   $ Change   % Change 
Outdoor  $105,572    16%  $94,720    14%  $10,852    11%
Fitness   64,788    9%   69,030    10%   (4,242)   -6%
Marine   44,766    7%   48,055    7%   (3,289)   -7%
Automotive/Mobile   384,393    57%   384,150    58%   243    0%
Aviation   72,857    11%   71,038    11%   1,819    3%
Total  $672,376    100%  $666,993    100%  $5,383    1%

 

Net sales increased 1% for the 13-week period ended September 29, 2012 when compared to the year-ago quarter. The increase occurred primarily in the outdoor and aviation segments. Automotive/mobile revenue remains the largest portion of our revenue mix at 57% in the third quarter of 2012 compared to 58% in the third quarter of 2011.

 

Total unit sales increased 7% to 3,689 in the third quarter of 2012 from 3,457 in the same period of 2011. The increase in unit sales volume in the third quarter of fiscal 2012 was primarily attributable to increasing volumes in the outdoor and automotive/mobile segments.

 

Automotive/mobile segment revenue was flat from the year-ago quarter, as volumes increased 7% and the average selling price (ASP) decreased 7%.  The volume gains were primarily related to increasing volumes with our new and existing OEM partners, as well as slight growth in PNDs.  The ASP decline was driven by product mix and some comparable model pricing declines due to product life cycle. Company-wide revenue deferrals net of amortization of previously recorded deferrals were $20 million and $24 million for the third quarter of 2012 and 2011, respectively. Outdoor revenues increased 11% from the year-ago quarter as the Company gained market share in the GPS-enabled golf category and experienced strong sell-through of the dog tracking and training product portfolio. Revenues declined in our fitness segment by 6% from the year-ago quarter as 2011 promotional activity drove strong results in the year-ago quarter leading to a decline in running product sales which was only partially offset by growth in the cycling and multi-sport categories. Marine revenues declined 7% from the year-ago quarter as the Company experienced a difficult international marine environment, which was only partially offset by growth in the Americas.

 

Cost of Goods Sold

 

   13-weeks ended Sept 29, 2012   13-weeks ended Sept 24, 2011   Quarter over Quarter 
   COGS   % of Revenues   COGS   % of Revenues   $ Change   % Change 
Outdoor  $33,152    31%  $32,333    34%  $819    3%
Fitness   22,903    35%   27,554    40%   (4,651)   -17%
Marine   16,194    36%   21,677    45%   (5,483)   -25%
Automotive/Mobile   218,386    57%   217,209    57%   1,177    1%
Aviation   22,686    31%   23,889    34%   (1,203)   -5%
Total  $313,321    47%  $322,662    48%  $(9,341)   -3%

 

Cost of goods sold decreased 3% for the 13-weeks period ended September 29, 2012 when compared to the year ago quarter. The decrease was primarily driven by the fitness and marine segments as cost of goods sold as a percentage of revenues decreased by 460 and 890 basis points, respectively. The significant declines in cost of goods sold are primarily related to product mix moving toward newer products with increased features and functionality and higher per unit margins and decreased promotional activities in the current year. Cost of goods sold in the automotive/mobile segment was basically flat both in absolute dollars and as a percentage of sales. The year-over-year impact of deferred revenue and costs was not material to margins. Cost of goods sold per unit declined due to component pricing and product mix. The reduced impact of deferred revenue and costs is related to increased amortization of prior deferrals.

 

18
 

 

Gross Profit

 

   13-weeks ended Sept 29, 2012   13-weeks ended Sept 24, 2011   Quarter over Quarter 
   Gross Profit   % of Revenues   Gross Profit   % of Revenues   $ Change   % Change 
Outdoor  $72,420    69%  $62,387    66%  $10,033    16%
Fitness   41,885    65%   41,476    60%   409    1%
Marine   28,572    64%   26,378    55%   2,194    8%
Automotive/Mobile   166,007    43%   166,941    43%   (934)   -1%
Aviation   50,171    69%   47,149    66%   3,022    6%
Total  $359,055    53%  $344,331    52%  $14,724    4%

 

Gross profit dollars in the third quarter of 2012 increased 4% while gross profit margin increased 180 basis points compared to the third quarter of 2011 driven by margin improvement in all segments excluding the automotive/mobile segment. Marine and fitness gross profit margin percentage increased most significantly at 890 basis points and 460 basis points, respectively, from the year-ago quarter driven primarily by product mix shifting toward new products and less promotional activity in the current year as discussed above. The outdoor segment provided the largest increase in gross profit dollars due primarily to strong revenue growth and new product introductions.

 

Advertising Expense

 

   13-weeks ended Sept 29, 2012   13-weeks ended Sept 24, 2011   Quarter over Quarter 
   Advertising   % of Revenues   Advertising   % of Revenues   $ Change   % Change 
Outdoor  $5,120    5%  $4,395    5%  $725    16%
Fitness   5,985    9%   5,063    7%   922    18%
Marine   2,454    5%   2,451    5%   3    0%
Automotive/Mobile   15,467    4%   22,414    6%   (6,947)   -31%
Aviation   1,076    1%   987    1%   89    9%
Total  $30,102    4%  $35,310    5%  $(5,208)   -15%

 

 

Advertising expense decreased 15% in absolute dollars. The decrease in absolute dollars occurred in the automotive/mobile segment and was driven primarily by a reduction in cooperative advertising paid to our retail partners in the PND category. As a percentage of revenues, advertising expenses were 4% in the third quarter of 2012 and 5% in the third quarter of 2011 driven by the decrease in the automotive/mobile segment.

 

Selling, General and Administrative Expense

 

   13-weeks ended Sept 29, 2012   13-weeks ended Sept 24, 2011     
   Selling, General &       Selling, General &       Quarter over Quarter 
   Admin. Expenses   % of Revenues   Admin. Expenses   % of Revenues   $ Change   % Change 
Outdoor  $13,842    13%  $12,331    13%  $1,511    12%
Fitness   8,721    13%   10,442    15%   (1,721)   -16%
Marine   6,713    15%   7,209    15%   (496)   -7%
Automotive/Mobile   52,846    14%   56,030    15%   (3,184)   -6%
Aviation   4,280    6%   2,739    4%   1,541    56%
Total  $86,402    13%  $88,751    13%  $(2,349)   -3%

 

Selling, general and administrative expense decreased 3% in absolute dollars while decreasing 50 basis points as a percentage of revenues compared to the year-ago quarter. The absolute dollar decrease is primarily related to reduced commissions expense associated with web-based sales. Aviation expense increased in the third quarter of 2012 due to a reduction in bad debt expense recorded in the third quarter of 2011.

 

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Research and Development Expense

 

   13-weeks ended Sept 29, 2012   13-weeks ended Sept 24, 2011     
   Research &       Research &       Quarter over Quarter 
   Development   % of Revenues   Development   % of Revenues   $ Change   % Change 
Outdoor  $5,074    5%  $4,330    5%  $744    17%
Fitness   5,960    9%   5,519    8%   441    8%
Marine   11,027    25%   6,848    14%   4,179    61%
Automotive/Mobile   32,529    8%   32,282    8%   247    1%
Aviation   27,899    38%   23,957    34%   3,942    16%
Total  $82,489    12%  $72,936    11%  $9,553    13%

 

Research and development expense increased 13% due to ongoing development activities for new products and the addition of over 275 new engineering personnel to our staff since the year-ago quarter. In absolute dollars, research and development costs increased $9.6 million when compared with the year-ago quarter representing a 130 basis point increase as a percent of revenue with the largest increases in marine and aviation where we are investing heavily for future growth opportunities.

 

Operating Income

 

   13-weeks ended Sept 29, 2012   13-weeks ended Sept 24, 2011   Quarter over Quarter 
   Operating Income   % of Revenues   Operating Income   % of Revenues   $ Change   % Change 
Outdoor  $48,384    46%  $41,331    44%  $7,053    17%
Fitness   21,219    33%   20,452    30%   767    4%
Marine   8,378    19%   9,870    21%   (1,492)   -15%
Automotive/Mobile   65,165    17%   56,215    15%   8,950    16%
Aviation   16,916    23%   19,466    27%   (2,550)   -13%
Total  $160,062    24%  $147,334    22%  $12,728    9%

 

Operating income increased 9% in absolute dollars and 170 basis points as a percent of revenue when compared to the third quarter of 2011. Revenue growth and improving gross margin percentage, as discussed above, were only slightly offset by increased operating expenses.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

   13-weeks ended   13-weeks ended 
   Sept 29, 2012   Sept 24, 2011 
Interest Income  $7,987   $8,464 
Foreign Currency Exchange   (6,364)   14,893 
Other   942    4,345 
Total  $2,565   $27,702 

 

The average return on cash and investments during the third quarter of 2012 was 1.2% compared to 1.1% for the third quarter of 2011 with a slight decline in interest income offset by capital gains on investments.

 

Foreign currency gains and losses for the Company are primarily tied to movements by the Taiwan Dollar, the Euro, and the British Pound Sterling. The Taiwan Dollar is the functional currency of Garmin Corporation. The U.S. Dollar remains the functional currency of Garmin (Europe) Ltd. The Euro is the functional currency of most European subsidiaries. As these entities have grown, currency fluctuations can generate material gains and losses. Additionally, Euro-based inter-company transactions can also generate currency gains and losses. Due to the relative size of the entities using a functional currency other than the Taiwan Dollar, the Euro and the British Pound Sterling, currency fluctuations related to these entities are not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s financial statements.

 

20
 

 

The majority of the $6.4 million currency loss in the third quarter of 2012 was due to the weakening of the U.S. Dollar against the Taiwan Dollar. The weakening of the U.S. Dollar compared to the Euro and the British Pound Sterling contributed a partially offsetting gain. The movements of the Taiwan Dollar and Euro/British Pound Sterling have offsetting impacts due to the use of the Taiwan Dollar for manufacturing costs and cash held in non-functional currency while the Euro and British Pound Sterling transactions relate to revenue and related accounts receivable. During the third quarter of 2012, the U.S. Dollar weakened 2.1% compared to the Taiwan Dollar resulting in a loss of $17.4 million. Offsetting this loss, the U.S. Dollar weakened 2.6% and 3.8% against the Euro and the British Pound Sterling, respectively, resulting in a $10.9 million gain. The remaining net currency gain of $0.1 million is related to other currencies and timing of transactions.

 

The majority of the $14.9 million currency gain in the third quarter of 2011 was due to the strengthening of the U.S. Dollar compared to the Taiwan Dollar offset by losses associated with the U.S. Dollar strengthening against the Euro and the British Pound Sterling. During the third quarter of 2011, the U.S. Dollar strengthened 4.8% compared to the Taiwan Dollar resulting in a gain of $43.2 million. Offsetting this gain in the third quarter of 2011, the U.S. Dollar strengthened 5.1% and 3.6%, respectively, compared to the Euro and the British Pound Sterling, resulting in a loss of $27.4 million. The remaining net currency loss of $0.9 million related to other currencies and timing of transactions.

 

Income Tax Provision

 

Our earnings before taxes decreased 7% when compared to the same quarter in 2011, while our income tax expense decreased 10%, to $22.3 million for the 13-week period ended September 29, 2012, from $24.7 million for the 13-week period ended September 24,2011. The effective tax rate was 13.7% in the third quarter of 2012 and 14.1% in the third quarter of 2011. The decrease in the effective tax rate was primarily driven by the mix of income by tax jurisdiction.

 

Net Income

 

As a result of the above, net income decreased 7% for the 13-week period ended September 29, 2012 to $140.3 million compared to $150.4 million for the 13-week period ended September 24, 2011.

 

 

Comparison of 39-Weeks Ended September 29, 2012 and September 24, 2011

(Amounts included in the following discussion are stated in thousands unless otherwise indicated)

 

Net Sales

 

   39-weeks ended Sept 29, 2012   39-weeks ended Sept 24, 2011   Year over Year 
   Net Sales   % of Revenues   Net Sales   % of Revenues   $ Change   % Change 
Outdoor  $283,230    15%  $242,178    13%  $41,052    17%
Fitness   217,815    11%   203,411    11%   14,404    7%
Marine   168,620    9%   178,479    10%   (9,859)   -6%
Automotive/Mobile   1,055,786    54%   1,011,405    55%   44,381    4%
Aviation   221,676    11%   213,452    11%   8,224    4%
Total  $1,947,127    100%  $1,848,925    100%  $98,202    5%

 

Net sales increased 5% for the 39-weeks period ended September 29, 2012 when compared to the year-ago period. The increase occurred across all segments excluding marine with the greatest increase in the outdoor segment. Automotive/mobile revenue remains the largest portion of our revenue mix, but declined from 55% in the 39-week period of 2011 compared to 54% in the 39-week period of 2012.

 

Total unit sales increased 6% to 10,317 for the 39-weeks ended September 29, 2012 compared to 9,738 in the same period of 2011. The unit sales volume increase in the first three quarters of fiscal 2012 was primarily attributable to increasing volumes in the outdoor and automotive/mobile segments.

 

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Automotive/mobile segment revenue increased 4% from the year-ago period, as volumes increased 5% and the average selling price (ASP) decreased slightly. The volume gains were related to global market share gains, increasing volumes with our OEM partners and our acquisition of Navigon in July 2011.  Company-wide revenue deferrals net of amortization of previously recorded deferrals were $35 million and $107 million for the 39-week periods ended September 29, 2012 and September 24, 2011, respectively. The reduced impact of deferred revenue is related to a reduced per unit revenue deferral rate due to a change in accounting estimate in the third quarter of 2011, as discussed in the Company’s Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2011, and increased amortization of previously deferred revenues and costs. Outdoor revenues increased 17% from the year-ago period as the Company gained market share in the GPS-enabled golf category, experienced strong sell-through of the dog tracking and training product portfolio and recognized the benefit of an acquisition completed in the second half of 2011. Revenue growth in our fitness segment was 7% compared to the year-ago period as strong first quarter results related to the launch of new products were muted in the second and third quarters as we compared against strong performance in 2011 driven by promotional activity on discontinued products and the launch of new products. Marine revenues declined 6% from the year-ago period as the Company experienced a difficult international marine environment, which was only partially offset by growth in the Americas.

 

Cost of Goods Sold

 

   39-weeks ended Sept 29, 2012   39-weeks ended Sept 24, 2011   Year over Year 
   Cost of Goods   % of Revenues   Cost of Goods   % of Revenues   $ Change   % Change 
Outdoor  $96,656    34%  $85,489    35%  $11,167    13%
Fitness   75,770    35%   82,641    41%   (6,871)   -8%
Marine   63,415    38%   74,695    42%   (11,280)   -15%
Automotive/Mobile   579,025    55%   633,125    63%   (54,100)   -9%
Aviation   67,635    31%   68,170    32%   (535)   -1%
Total  $882,501    45%  $944,120    51%  $(61,619)   -7%

 

Cost of goods sold decreased 7% for the 39-week period ended September 29, 2012 when compared to the year ago period. The decrease was primarily driven by the automotive/mobile segment as cost of goods sold as a percentage of revenues decreased by 780 basis points. The decline principally resulted from the $21 million one-time royalty fee benefit recorded in second quarter (200 basis points), a $64 million reduction in the year-over-year impact of deferred revenue and costs (340 basis points), and product mix shifting toward more recently introduced products carrying a higher margin profile. Marine and fitness also posted significant declines in cost of goods sold as a percentage of revenue due to product mix moving toward newer products with increased features and functionality and higher per unit margins and decreased promotional activities.

 

Gross Profit

 

   39-weeks ended Sept 29, 2012   39-weeks ended Sept 24, 2011   Year over Year 
   Gross Profit   % of Revenues   Gross Profit   % of Revenues   $ Change   % Change 
Outdoor  $186,574    66%  $156,689    65%  $29,885    19%
Fitness   142,045    65%   120,770    59%   21,275    18%
Marine   105,205    62%   103,784    58%   1,421    1%
Automotive/Mobile   476,761    45%   378,280    37%   98,481    26%
Aviation   154,041    69%   145,282    68%   8,759    6%
Total  $1,064,626    55%  $904,805    49%  $159,821    18%

 

Gross profit dollars in the first three quarters of 2012 increased 18% while gross profit margin increased 570 basis points compared to the first three quarters of 2011 driven largely by the automotive/mobile, outdoor and fitness segments. The automotive/mobile segment gross profit margin percentage improved by 780 basis points from the year ago period driven primarily by the one-time royalty fee adjustment, increased amortization of previously deferred high margin revenue, a reduced per unit deferral and improved product mix, as discussed above. Fitness gross profit margin percentage increased 580 basis points from the year-ago period driven primarily by product mix improvement and less promotional activity in the current year, as discussed above. Outdoor gross profit margin percentage increased 120 basis points, but when combined with 17% revenue growth, this yielded a $29.9 million increase in gross profit dollars, or 19%.

 

22
 

 

Advertising Expense

 

 

   39-weeks ended Sept 29, 2012   39-weeks ended Sept 24, 2011     
   Advertising       Advertising       Year over Year 
   Expense   % of Revenues   Expense   % of Revenues   $ Change   % Change 
Outdoor  $13,885    5%  $11,598    5%  $2,287    20%
Fitness   17,086    8%   13,306    7%   3,780    28%
Marine   11,801    7%   8,678    5%   3,123    36%
Automotive/Mobile   45,153    4%   52,548    5%   (7,395)   -14%
Aviation   4,027    2%   3,234    2%   793    25%
Total  $91,952    5%  $89,364    5%  $2,588    3%

 

Advertising expense increased 3% in absolute dollars. The increase in absolute dollars occurred in all segments, excluding automotive/mobile, and was driven primarily by cooperative advertising paid to our retail partners in the outdoor, fitness, and marine segments, as well as increased media placement in the same segments. This was partially offset by a decrease in cooperative advertising within the PND category. As a percentage of revenues, advertising expenses were 5% for both the 2011 and 2012 periods. Marine experienced a 210 basis point increase due to promotional advertising with specific dealers.

 

Selling, General and Administrative Expenses

 

   39-weeks ended Sept 29, 2012   39-weeks ended Sept 24, 2011     
   Selling, General &       Selling, General &       Year over Year 
   Admin. Expenses   % of Revenues   Admin. Expenses   % of Revenues   $ Change   % Change 
Outdoor  $39,505    14%  $31,113    13%  $8,392    27%
Fitness   31,738    15%   29,703    15%   2,035    7%
Marine   26,828    16%   25,380    14%   1,448    6%
Automotive/Mobile   165,116    16%   150,676    15%   14,440    10%
Aviation   12,576    6%   10,961    5%   1,615    15%
Total  $275,763    14%  $247,833    13%  $27,930    11%

 

Selling, general and administrative expense increased in both absolute dollars and as a percentage of revenues compared to the year-ago period. As a percent of sales, selling, general and administrative expenses increased from 13% of sales in the first three quarters of 2011 to 14% of sales in the first three quarters of 2012. The absolute dollar increase is primarily related to acquisitions in the second half of 2011, which added almost $20 million, and increased legal costs and reserves partially offset by a reduction in bad debt expense and commissions expense.

 

Research and Development Expense

 

   39-weeks ended Sept 29, 2012   39-weeks ended Sept 24, 2011     
   Research &       Research &       Year over Year 
   Development   % of Revenues   Development   % of Revenues   $ Change   % Change 
Outdoor  $15,152    5%  $12,173    5%  $2,979    24%
Fitness   17,205    8%   16,468    8%   737    4%
Marine   30,992    18%   21,366    12%   9,626    45%
Automotive/Mobile   96,284    9%   91,969    9%   4,315    5%
Aviation   82,877    37%   71,954    34%   10,923    15%
Total  $242,510    12%  $213,930    12%  $28,580    13%

 

Research and development expense increased 13% due to ongoing development activities for new products and the addition of over 275 new engineering personnel to our staff since the same period of 2011, with over 200 engineers from recent acquisitions. Research and development costs increased $28.6 million when compared with the year-ago period representing a 90 basis point increase as a percent of revenue as research and development growth slightly outpaced revenue growth. Marine and aviation research and development increased significantly as a percent of revenue due to investments in long design cycle OEM business.

 

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Operating Income

 

   39-weeks ended Sept 29, 2012   39-weeks ended Sept 24, 2011   Year over Year 
   Operating Income   % of Revenues   Operating Income   % of Revenues   $ Change   % Change 
Outdoor  $118,032    42%  $101,805    42%  $16,227    16%
Fitness   76,016    35%   61,293    30%   14,723    24%
Marine   35,584    21%   48,360    27%   (12,776)   -26%
Automotive/Mobile   170,208    16%   83,087    8%   87,121    105%
Aviation   54,561    25%   59,133    28%   (4,572)   -8%
Total  $454,401    23%  $353,678    19%  $100,723    28%

 

Operating income increased 420 basis points as a percent of revenue and 28% in absolute dollars when compared to the year-ago period as revenue growth and improved gross margins, as discussed above, were only partially offset by increased operating expenses.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

   39-weeks ended   39-weeks ended 
   Sept 29, 2012   Sept 24, 2011 
Interest Income  $26,278   $23,318 
Foreign Currency Exchange   (16,124)   12,422 
Other   5,064    9,616 
Total  $15,218   $45,356 

 

The average return on cash and investments during the first three quarters of 2012 was 1.4% compared to 1.6% during the same period of 2011. The increase in interest income is attributable to increasing cash balances.

 

The majority of the $16.1 million currency loss in the first three quarters of 2012 was due to the strengthening of the U.S. Dollar compared to the Euro and the weakening of the U.S. Dollar compared to the Taiwan Dollar. The movements of the Taiwan Dollar and Euro/British Pound Sterling have offsetting impacts due to the use of the Taiwan Dollar for manufacturing costs and cash held in non-functional currency while the Euro and British Pound Sterling transactions relate to revenue and related accounts receivable. During the first three quarters of 2012, the U.S. Dollar strengthened 0.3% against the Euro and weakened 4.9% against the British Pound Sterling. Due to the timing of the currency fluctuations, these offsetting currency movements resulted in a $6.5 million gain. The U.S. Dollar weakened 2.8% compared to the Taiwan Dollar resulting in a loss of $23.1 million. The remaining net currency gain of $0.5 million is related to other currencies and timing of transactions.

 

The majority of the $12.4 million currency gain in the first three quarters of 2011 was due to the weakening of the U.S. Dollar compared to the Euro and Taiwan Dollar. During the first three quarters of 2011, the U.S. Dollar weakened 2.9% compared to the Euro resulting in a gain of $5.6 million. In addition, although the U.S. Dollar weakened 0.5% against the Taiwan Dollar over the nine month period, it strengthened significantly late in this period when net asset balances were larger, leading to a $6.5 million gain during the period. The remaining net currency gain of $0.3 million related to other currencies and timing of transactions.

 

Income Tax Provision

 

Our earnings before taxes increased 18% when compared to the same period in 2011, while our income tax expense increased by 29%, to $56.5 million, for the 39-week period ended September 29, 2012, from $43.7 million for the 39-week period ended September 24, 2011. The effective tax rate was 12.0% in the first three quarters of 2012 and 10.9% in the first three quarters of 2011. The lower effective tax rate in 2011 was primarily driven by the release of reserves related to the expiration of certain statutes of limitations for Garmin Europe. This was partially offset by the release of income tax reserves due to the expiration of a statute of limitations in Taiwan during the third quarter of 2012. The remaining difference relates to the mix of income by tax jurisdiction.

 

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Net Income

 

As a result of the above, net income increased 16% for the 39-week period ended September 29, 2012 to $413.1 million compared to $355.3 million for the 39-week period ended September 24, 2011.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

Net cash generated by operating activities was $510.0 million for the 39-week period ended September 29, 2012 compared to $597.5 million for the 39-week period ended September 24, 2011. The year-over-year decline in cash provided by operating activities was driven by working capital changes partially offset by improved net income. The largest change was a decrease in cash provided by accounts receivable collections in the first half of 2012 as we experienced better collections in the fourth quarter of 2011 due to a 53-week fiscal year and improved payment terms compared to the fourth quarter of 2010. Primary drivers of the cash generation in 2012 included $413.1 million of net income with non-cash adjustments for depreciation/amortization of $62.9 million, unrealized foreign currency losses of $25.0 million and stock compensation expense of $26.4 million, $103.0 million related to accounts receivable collections, and $30.6 million of net deferred revenue and cost as required by our revenue recognition policies. This cash generation was partially offset by uses of cash including a $67.7 million reduction in other current and noncurrent liabilities related primarily to payments of royalties, payroll, advertising and sales program accruals, which are normally higher at year end, a $44.8 million increase in inventories, as we prepare for the seasonally strong fourth quarter, and a $28.1 million reduction in income taxes payable due to timing of payments.

 

Cash flow used in investing activities during the 39-week period ending September 29, 2012 was $304.6 million compared to $324.2 million in the 39-week period ended September 24, 2011. Cash flow used in investing activities in 2012 principally related to the net purchase of $268.5 million of fixed income securities associated with the investment of our on-hand cash balances, $26.9 million in capital expenditures primarily to support our engineering, manufacturing and general business operations, $5.2 million for purchases of intangible assets and $4.0 million for acquisitions, net of cash acquired. It is management’s goal to invest the on-hand cash in accordance with the Company’s investment policy, which has been approved by the Board of Directors. The investment policy’s primary purpose is to preserve capital, maintain an acceptable degree of liquidity, and maximize yield within the constraint of maximum safety. The average return on cash and investments during the 39-weeks ended September 29, 2012 was 1.4%

 

Net cash used in financing activities during the period was $247.1 million resulting from the use of $253.4 million for payment of our declared dividend offset by the net impact of transactions related to our Company stock option plans and stock based compensation tax benefits. For the 39-weeks ended September 24, 2011, net cash used in financing activities was $148.0 million due to a $154.8 million payment of our declared dividend offset by the net impact of transactions related to our Company stock option plans and stock based compensation tax benefits.

 

We believe that our existing cash balances and cash flow from operations will be sufficient to meet our projected capital expenditures, working capital, payment of dividends, and other cash requirements at least through the end of fiscal 2012.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

We do not have any off-balance sheet arrangements.

 

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Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

Market Sensitivity

 

We have market risk primarily in connection with the pricing of our products and services and the purchase of raw materials. Product pricing and raw material costs are both significantly influenced by semiconductor market conditions. Historically, during cyclical economic downturns, we have been able to offset pricing declines for our products through a combination of improved product mix and success in obtaining price reductions in raw material costs.

 

Inflation

 

We do not believe that inflation has had a material effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations. If our costs were to become subject to significant inflationary pressures, we may not be able to fully offset such higher costs through price increases. Our inability or failure to do so could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

 

Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Risk

 

The operation of the Company’s subsidiaries in international markets results in exposure to movements in currency exchange rates. The potential of volatile foreign exchange rate fluctuations in the future could have a significant effect on our results of operations. In accordance with the Accounting Standards Code, the financial statements of all Company entities with functional currencies that are not United States dollars (USD) are translated for consolidation purposes into USD, the reporting currency of Garmin Ltd. Sales, costs, and expenses are translated at rates prevailing during the reporting periods and at end-of-period rates for all assets and liabilities. The effect of this translation is recorded in a separate component of stockholders’ equity and has been included in accumulated other comprehensive income in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets and condensed consolidated statements of comprehensive income.

 

Foreign currency gains and losses for the Company are primarily tied to movements by the Taiwan Dollar (TD), the Euro, and the British Pound Sterling. The U.S. Dollar (USD) remains the functional currency of Garmin (Europe) Ltd. The Euro is the functional currency of most other European subsidiaries, and as a result, Euro currency movement may generate material gains and losses. Additionally, Euro-based inter-company transactions in Garmin Ltd. can also generate currency gains and losses. Due to the relative size of entities using a functional currency other than the Taiwan Dollar, the Euro and the British Pound Sterling, currency fluctuations within these entities are not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s financial statements.

 

Interest Rate Risk

 

As of September 29, 2012, we are exposed to interest rate risk in connection with our investments in marketable securities. As interest rates change, the unrealized gains and losses associated with those securities will fluctuate accordingly. As we have no outstanding long term debt, we have no meaningful debt-related interest rate risk.

 

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Item 4. Controls and Procedures

 

(a) Evaluation of disclosure controls and procedures. The Company maintains a system of disclosure controls and procedures that are designed to provide reasonable assurance that information, which is required to be timely disclosed, is accumulated and communicated to management in a timely fashion.  A control system, no matter how well conceived and operated, can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance that the objectives of the control system are met. As of September 29, 2012, the Company carried out an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of the Company’s management, including the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures.  Based upon that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded as of September 29, 2012 that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective such that the information relating to the Company, required to be disclosed in our Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") reports (i) is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in SEC rules and forms, and (ii) is accumulated and communicated to the Company's management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

(b) Changes in internal control over financial reporting. There has been no change in the Company’s internal controls over financial reporting that occurred during the Company’s fiscal quarter ended September 29, 2012 that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

 

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Part II - Other Information

 

Item 1. Legal Proceedings

 

Ambato Media, LLC v. Clarion Co., Ltd., Clarion Corporation of America, Delphi Corporation, Fujitsu Limited, Fujitsu Ten Corporation of America, Garmin Ltd., Garmin International, Inc., Victor Company of Japan Ltd., JVC Americas Corporation, JVC Kenwood Holdings, Inc., J&K Car Electronics Corporation, LG Electronics, Inc., LG Electronics USA, Inc., MiTAC International Corporation, MiTAC Digital Corporation, Mio Technology USA Ltd., Navigon, Inc. Nextar Inc.,Panasonic Corporation, Panasonic Corporation of North America, Pioneer Corporation, Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc.,Sanyo Electric Co., Ltd., Sanyo North America Corporation, Sanyo Electronic Device (U.S.A.) Corporation,TomTom N.V., TomTom International B.V., and TomTom, Inc.

 

On August 14, 2009, Ambato Media, LLC (“Ambato”) filed suit in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Texas against Garmin Ltd. and Garmin International, Inc. along with several codefendants alleging infringement of U.S. Patent No. 5,432,542 (“the ’542 patent”). On September 28, 2009, Garmin filed its answer and counterclaims asserting that each asserted claim of the ’542 patent is invalid and/or not infringed. Following a trial, the jury issued a verdict on July 18, 2012 finding that the ‘542 patent was infringed and awarding damages of $500,000 to Ambato. On September 18, 2012, the court awarded Ambato $133,950 in pre-judgment interest. On September 28, 2012 Garmin filed a motion for judgment to be entered for Garmin as a matter of law. This motion is currently pending before the court.

 

Avocet Sports Technology, Inc. v. Garmin International, Inc., Implus Footcare, LLC d/b/a Highgear, Polar Electro, Inc., Brunton d/b/a Brunton Outdoor Group, and Casio America, Inc.

 

On August 18, 2011, Avocet Sports Technology, Inc. (“Avocet”) filed suit in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California against five companies, including Garmin International, Inc., alleging infringement of U.S. Patent No. 5,058,427 (“the ‘427 patent”). On November 16, 2011, Garmin filed its answer asserting that each asserted claim of the ‘427 patent is not infringed and/or invalid. On November 16, 2011, Garmin filed a motion to dismiss this lawsuit for failure to state a claim on which relief can be granted. On March 22, 2012, this lawsuit was dismissed without prejudice by the court. On April 16, 2012 Avocet re-filed the lawsuit. Although there can be no assurance that an unfavorable outcome of this litigation would not have a material adverse effect on our operating results, liquidity, or financial position, Garmin believes the claims in this lawsuit are without merit and intends to vigorously defend this action.

 

Bandspeed, Inc. v. Acer, Inc., Acer American Corporation, Belkin International, Inc., Belkin,Inc., Casio Computer Co., Ltd., Xasio Hitachi Mobile CommunicationsCo. Ltd., Xasio America, Inc., Dell Inc., Garmin International, Inc., Garmin USA, Inc., GN Netcom A/S, GN U.S. Inc. a/k/a GN Netcom Inc., Hewlett-Packard Company, Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P., HTC Corporation, HTC America, Inc., Huawei Technologies Co. Ltd., Kyocera Corporation, Kyocera International, Inc., Kyocera Communications, Inc., Kyocera Wireless Corporation, Lenovo (United States), Inc.,LG Electronics, Inc., LG Electronics U.S.A. Inc., LG Electronics Mobilecomm U.S.A. Inc., Motorola, Inc., Nokia Corporation, Nokia Inc., Pantech Wireless, Inc. Plantronics, inc., Research in Motion Ltd., Research in Motion Corporation, Samsung Telecommunications America, LLC, TomTom International B.V., TomTom, Inc., Toshiba Corporation, Toshiba America information Systems, Inc., and Toshiba America, Inc.

 

On June 30, 2010, Bandspeed, Inc. filed suit in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Texas against 38 companies, including Garmin International, Inc. and Garmin USA, Inc. alleging infringement of U.S. Patent No 7,027,418 (“the ‘418 patent”) and U.S. Patent No 7,670,614 (“the ‘614 patent”). On January 21, 2011, Bandspeed, Inc. filed an amended complaint adding additional claims against several of the codefendants, but not against Garmin. On February 22, 2011, Garmin filed its answer to the amended complaint with counterclaims asserting that the asserted claims of the ’418 and ’614 patents are invalid and not infringed. On August 15, 2011, the court granted Garmin’s motion to transfer venue and transferred the case to the Western District of Texas. On December 23, 2011, Bandspeed, Inc. filed a second amended complaint adding additional claims against Garmin. On January 24, 2012, Garmin filed a motion to dismiss these additional claims. Although there can be no assurance that an unfavorable outcome of this litigation would not have a material adverse effect on our operating results, liquidity or financial position, Garmin believes the claims in this lawsuit are without merit and intends to vigorously defend this action.

 

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Cuozzo Speed Technologies, LLC, v Garmin International Inc,. Garmin USA, INC., and Chrysler Group LLC.

 

On June 19, 2012, Cuozzo Speed Technologies, LLC filed suit in the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey against Garmin International, Inc., Garmin USA, INC., (collectively “Garmin”) and Chrysler Group LLC, alleging infringement of U.S. Patent No. 6,778,074. On July 16, 2012, Garmin filed its answer asserting that each asserted claim of the patent-in-suit is invalid and/or not infringed. On September 17, 2012 Garmin filed with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office a petition for inter partes review of the ’074 patent as being anticipated and obvious in view of the prior art. Although there can be no assurance that an unfavorable outcome of this litigation would not have a material adverse effect on our operating results, liquidity, or financial position, Garmin believes the claims in this lawsuit are without merit and intends to vigorously defend this action

 

Data Carriers, LLC v. Garmin USA, Inc.

 

On March 16, 2012, Data Carriers, LLC filed suit in the United States District Court for the District of Delaware against Garmin USA, Inc. alleging infringement of U.S. Patent No. 5,388,198. On April 10, 2012, Garmin filed a motion to dismiss this lawsuit for failure to state a claim on which relief can be granted. Although there can be no assurance that an unfavorable outcome of this litigation would not have a material adverse effect on our operating results, liquidity, or financial position, Garmin believes the claims in this lawsuit are without merit and intends to vigorously defend this action

 

ICON Health & Fitness, Inc. v. Garmin Ltd., Garmin International, Inc., and Garmin USA, Inc.

 

On November 18, 2011, ICON Health & Fitness, Inc. filed suit in the United States District Court for the District of Utah against Garmin Ltd., Garmin International, Inc., and Garmin USA, Inc. (collectively “Garmin”), alleging infringement of U.S. Patent Nos. 7,789,800 and 6,701,271. On June 25, 2012, Garmin filed its answer asserting that each asserted claim of the patents-in-suit is invalid and/or not infringed. Although there can be no assurance that an unfavorable outcome of this litigation would not have a material adverse effect on our operating results, liquidity, or financial position, Garmin believes the claims in this lawsuit are without merit and intends to vigorously defend this action.

 

In the Matter of Certain Semiconductor Chips and Products Containing Same

 

On December 1, 2010, Rambus Inc. filed a complaint with the United States International Trade Commission (the “ITC”) against 33 companies, including Garmin International, Inc., alleging a violation of Section 337 of the Tariff Act of 1930, as amended, through alleged infringement by Garmin and the other respondents of U.S. Patent No. 6,470,405 (“the ’405 patent”), U.S. Patent No. 6,591,353 (“the ’353 patent”), U.S. Patent No. 7,287,109 (“the ’109 patent”), U.S. Patent No. 7,602,857 (“the ’857 patent”), U.S. Patent No. 7,602,858 (“the ’858 patent”), and U.S. Patent No. 7,715,494 (“the ’494 patent”). Garmin’s semiconductor chip suppliers are also named in the complaint and Garmin believes these suppliers have indemnification obligations to defend Garmin in this matter. On February 1, 2011, Garmin filed its answer asserting that the asserted claims of the ’405, ’353, ’109, ’857, ’858, and the ’494 patents are invalid and/or not infringed. On September 1, 2011, the Board of Patent Appeals and Interferences issued a decision following reexamination of the ‘109 patent affirming that all claims of the ‘109 patent are invalid. The ITC’s hearing was held on October 12-20, 2011. On March 2, 2012 the Administrative Law Judge issued an initial determination finding no violation of Section 337. On July 25, 2012, the ITC issued a final determination finding no violation of Section 337. The ITC’s final determination is subject to appeal by Rambus. Although there can be no assurance that an unfavorable outcome of Rambus’ appeal would not have a material adverse effect on our operating results, liquidity or financial position, Garmin believes these claims are without merit and intends to vigorously defend any appeal.

 

29
 

 

In the Matter of Certain Wireless Consumer Electronics Devices and Components Thereof

 

On July 24, 2012, Technology Properties Limited LLC, Phoenix Digital Solutions LLC, and Patriot Scientific Corporation filed a complaint with the United States International Trade Commission against 24 companies, including Garmin Ltd., Garmin International, Inc., and Garmin USA, Inc. (collectively “Garmin”) alleging a violation of Section 337 of the Tariff Act of 1930, as amended, through alleged infringement by Garmin and the other respondents of U.S. Patent No. 5,809,336. On August 21, 2012 the ITC instituted an investigation under Section 337 of the Tariff Act pursuant to this complaint. Although there can be no assurance that an unfavorable outcome of this litigation would not have a material adverse effect on our operating results, liquidity, or financial position, Garmin believes these claims are without merit and intends to vigorously defend this action.

 

Norman IP Holdings, LLC v. Lexmark International, Inc., Ricoh Americas Corporation, Belkin International, Inc., BMW of North America, LLC, Daimler North America Corporation, Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC, D-Link Systems, Inc., Dish Network Corporation, Ford Motor Company, Garmin International, Inc., Garmin USA, Inc., General Electric Company, General Motors Company, JVC Americas Corporation, Novatel Wireless, Inc., Novatel Wireless Solutions, Inc., Novatel Wireless Technology, Inc., TomTom, Inc., Viewsonic Corporation, Vizio, Inc., Volkswagen Group of America, Inc., Xerox Corporation, ZTE (USA) Inc., and ZTE Solutions Inc.

 

On January 27, 2012, Norman IP Holdings, LLC filed an amended complaint in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Texas naming 23 companies, including Garmin International, Inc. and Garmin USA, Inc. (collectively “Garmin”) and alleging infringement of U.S. Patent Nos. 5,530,597, 5,502,689, 5,592,555, 5,608,873, and 5,771,394. On February 27, 2012 Garmin filed a motion to dismiss this lawsuit or, alternatively, for severance due to misjoinder. On August 10, 2012, Garmin’s motion to sever was granted by the court but the litigation was consolidated for all pretrial issues with the original litigation. Although there can be no assurance that an unfavorable outcome of this litigation would not have a material adverse effect on our operating results, liquidity, or financial position, Garmin believes the claims of this lawsuit are without merit and intends to vigorously defend this action. 

 

Pacing Technologies, LLC v. Garmin International, Inc., Garmin USA, Inc. and Garmin Ltd.

 

On May 1, 2012, Pacing Technologies, LLC filed suit in the United States District Court for the Southern District of California against Garmin International, Inc., Garmin USA, Inc. and Garmin Ltd alleging infringement of U.S. Patent No. 8,101,843. On July 6, 2012, Garmin filed its answer asserting that each asserted claim of the patent-in-suit is invalid and/or not infringed. Although there can be no assurance that an unfavorable outcome of this litigation would not have a material adverse effect on our operating results, liquidity, or financial position, Garmin believes the claims in this lawsuit are without merit and intends to vigorously defend this action.

 

Silver State Intellectual Technologies, Inc. v. Garmin International, Inc. and Garmin USA, Inc.

 

On September 29, 2011, Silver State Intellectual Technologies, Inc. filed suit in the United States District Court for the District of Nevada against Garmin International, Inc. and Garmin USA, Inc. (collectively “Garmin”), alleging infringement of U.S. Patent Nos. 6,525,768; 6,529,824; 6,542,812; 7,343,165; 7,522,992; 7,593,812; 7,650,234; 7,702,455 and 7,739,039. On December 8, 2011, Garmin filed its answer asserting that each asserted claim of the patents-in-suit is invalid and/or not infringed. Although there can be no assurance that an unfavorable outcome of this litigation would not have a material adverse effect on our operating results, liquidity, or financial position, Garmin believes the claims in this lawsuit are without merit and intends to vigorously defend this action.

 

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Taranis IP LLC v. Garmin International, Inc., Universal Avionics Systems Corporation, Johnson Outdoors Marine Electronics, Inc., Johnson Outdoors Inc., Raymarine Inc., Raymarine UK Ltd., Navico, Inc., and Navico Holdings A.S.

 

On November 22, 2010, Taranis IP LLC filed suit in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois against eight companies, including Garmin International, Inc., alleging infringement of U.S. Patent No. 5,995,903 (“the ’903 patent”). On February 1, 2011, Garmin filed its answer and counterclaims asserting that each asserted claim of the ’903 patent is invalid and/or not infringed. On August 31, 2011, the court granted Garmin’s motion and stayed this case pending the conclusion of the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office’s reexamination of the ‘903 patent. On June 29, 2012, the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office issued a second rejection of certain claims of the ‘903 patent. On September 13, 2012, the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office issued a final rejection of the reviewed claims of the ‘903 patent. Although there can be no assurance that an unfavorable outcome of this litigation would not have a material adverse effect on our operating results, liquidity, or financial position, Garmin believes the claims in this lawsuit are without merit and intends to vigorously defend this action.

 

Technology Properties Limited, LLC et al v. Garmin Ltd., Garmin International, Inc. and Garmin USA, Inc.

 

On July 24, 2012 Technology Properties Limited LLC, Phoenix Digital Solutions LLC, and Patriot Scientific Corporation filed suit in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California against Garmin Ltd., Garmin International, Inc., and Garmin USA, Inc. (collectively “Garmin”) alleging infringement by Garmin of one or more of the following patents: U.S. Patent No. 5,809,336, U.S. Patent 5,440,749 and U.S. Patent No. 5,530,890. Although there can be no assurance that an unfavorable outcome of this litigation would not have a material adverse effect on our operating results, liquidity, or financial position, Garmin believes the claims in this action are without merit and intends to vigorously defend this action.

 

Triangle Software, LLC v. Garmin International, Inc., TomTom Inc., Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. and Westwood One, Inc.

 

On December 28, 2010, Triangle Software, LLC filed suit in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia against four companies, including Garmin International, Inc., alleging infringement of U.S. Patent No. 7,557,730 (“the ’730 patent”), U.S. Patent No. 7,221,287 (“the ’287 patent”), U.S. Patent No. 7,375,649 (“the ’649 patent”), U.S. Patent No. 7,508,321 (“the ’321 patent”), and U.S. Patent No. 7,702,452 (“the ’452 patent”). On March 16, 2011, Garmin filed its amended answer asserting that the patents-in-suit are unenforceable because of the inequitable conduct committed by the inventors before the Patent Office and filed counterclaims asserting that each asserted claim of the ’730, ’287, ’649, ’321, and ’452 patents is not infringed and/or invalid. On July 27, 2011, the court issued its claim construction order. Trial was held beginning on November 1, 2011. On November 9, 2011, the jury returned a partial verdict finding the patents-in-suit were valid and finding the ‘730, ‘287, and ‘321 patents were not infringed. The jury did not return a verdict regarding infringement of the ‘649 and ‘452 patents. On November 23, 2011, the parties filed motions with the court to resolve the remaining issues left unresolved by the jury’s partial verdict. On February 16, 2012, the court issued an order entering the jury’s verdict of non-infringement of the ‘730, ‘287, and ‘321 patents, granting Garmin’s motion for summary judgment of non-infringement of the ‘649 and ‘452 patents, and dismissing the case. On March 13, 2012 Triangle Software filed a motion to alter or amend judgment and a motion for a new trial. These motions were denied by the District Court on April 2, 2012. Triangle has filed an appeal to the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit. On August 16, 2012 Garmin filed its responsive brief to the appeal. On September 4, 2012, Triangle filed a reply brief to Garmin’s responsive brief. Although there can be no assurance that an unfavorable outcome of Triangle Software’s appeal would not have a material adverse effect on our operating results, liquidity, or financial position, Garmin believes the claims in this lawsuit are without merit and intends to vigorously defend the appeal.

 

Visteon Global Technologies, Inc. and Visteon Technologies LLC v. Garmin International, Inc.

 

On February 10, 2010, Visteon Global Technologies, Inc. and Visteon Technologies LLC filed suit in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan, Southern Division, against Garmin International, Inc. alleging infringement of U.S. Patent No. 5,544,060 (“the ‘060 patent”), U.S. Patent No. 5,654,892 (“the ‘892 patent”), U.S. Patent No. 5,832, 408 (“the ‘408 patent”), U.S. Patent No 5,987,375 (“the ‘375 patent”) and U.S. Patent No 6,097,316 (“the ‘316 patent”). On May 17, 2010, Garmin filed its answer asserting that each claim of the ‘060 patent, the ‘892 patent, the ‘408 patent and the ‘375 patent is invalid and/or not infringed. On April 12, 2011, the special master appointed by the court held a claim construction hearing. On December 12, 2011, the court issued an order adopting the special master’s report construing the claims of the patents-in-suit. On September 14, 2012, Garmin filed with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office petitions for ex parte reexamination of the ‘408 patent and the ‘060 patent as being anticipated and obvious in view of the prior art. Although there can be no assurance that an unfavorable outcome of this litigation would not have a material adverse effect on our operating results, liquidity or financial position, Garmin believes that the claims in this lawsuit are without merit and intends to vigorously defend this action.

 

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In the normal course of business, the Company and its subsidiaries are parties to various legal claims, actions, and complaints, including matters involving patent infringement and other intellectual property claims and various other risks. It is not possible to predict with certainty whether or not the Company and its subsidiaries will ultimately be successful in any of these legal matters, or if not, what the impact might be. However, the Company’s management does not expect that the results in any of these legal proceedings will have a material adverse effect on the Company’s results of operations, financial position or cash flows.

 

Item 1A.Risk Factors

 

There are many risks and uncertainties that can affect our future business, financial performance or share price. In addition to the other information set forth in this report, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part I, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2011. There have been no material changes during the 13-week period ended September 29, 2012 in the risks described in our Annual Report on Form 10-K. These risks, however, are not the only risks facing our Company. Additional risks and uncertainties not currently known to us or that we currently deem to be immaterial also may materially adversely affect our business, financial condition and/or operating results.

 

Item 2.Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Items (a) and (b) are not applicable.

 

(c) Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

The Board of Directors approved a share repurchase program on February 12, 2010, authorizing the Company to purchase up to $300,000 of its common shares as market and business conditions warrant. The share repurchase authorization expired on December 31, 2011.

 

Item 3.Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None

 

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not applicable

 

Item 5.Other Information

 

Not applicable

 

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Item 6.Exhibits

 

Exhibit 31.1       Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Exchange Act Rule 13a-14(a) or 15d-14(a).

 

Exhibit 31.2       Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Exchange Act Rule 13a-14(a) or 15d-14(a).

 

Exhibit 32.1       Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

Exhibit 32.2       Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

Exhibit 101.INS   XBRL Instance Document
     
Exhibit 101.SCH   XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema
     
Exhibit 101.CAL   XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase
     
Exhibit 101.LAB   XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase
     
Exhibit 101.PRE   XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase
     
Exhibit 101.DEF   XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase

 

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SIGNATURES

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Company has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

 

  GARMIN LTD.
     
  By /s/ Kevin Rauckman
    Kevin Rauckman
    Chief Financial Officer
    (Principal Financial Officer and
    Principal Accounting Officer)

 

Dated: November 7, 2012

 

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INDEX TO EXHIBITS

 

Exhibit No.   Description
     
Exhibit 31.1   Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Exchange Act Rule 13a-14(a) or 15d-14(a).
     
Exhibit 31.2   Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Exchange Act Rule 13a-14(a) or 15d-14(a).
     
Exhibit 32.1   Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
     
Exhibit 32.2   Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

 

Exhibit 101.INS   XBRL Instance Document
     
Exhibit 101.SCH   XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema
     
Exhibit 101.CAL   XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase
     
Exhibit 101.LAB   XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase
     
Exhibit 101.PRE   XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase
     
Exhibit 101.DEF   XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase

 

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