Lowe's Companies Inc.

08/29/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 08/29/2024 14:33

Quarterly Report for Quarter Ending August 2, 2024 (Form 10-Q)

low-20240802
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-Q
(Mark One)
☒ QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the quarterly period ended August 2, 2024
or
☐ TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from ______ to ______
Commission File Number 1-7898
LOWE'S COMPANIES, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
North Carolina 56-0578072
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization) (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
1000 Lowes Blvd., Mooresville, North Carolina
28117
(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)
Registrant's telephone number, including area code:
(704) 758-1000
Former name, former address and former fiscal year, if changed since last report: Not Applicable
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Title of each class Trading Symbol(s) Name of each exchange on which registered
Common Stock, par value $0.50 per share LOW New York Stock Exchange
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. ☒ Yes ☐No
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted 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 such files). ☒ Yes ☐No
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of "large accelerated filer," "accelerated filer," "smaller reporting company," and "emerging growth company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large accelerated filer ☒ Accelerated filer ☐
Non-accelerated filer ☐ Smaller reporting company ☐
Emerging growth company ☐
If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ☐
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). ☐ Yes ☒ No
Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer's classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date.
CLASS OUTSTANDING AT 8/27/2024
Common Stock, $0.50 par value 567,294,169
LOWE'S COMPANIES, INC.
- TABLE OF CONTENTS -
Page No.
Forward-Looking Statements
ii
PART I - Financial Information
1
Item 1.
Financial Statements
1
Consolidated Statements of Earnings
1
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income
1
Consolidated Balance Sheets
2
Consolidated Statements of Shareholders' Deficit
3
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
5
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
6
Note 1: Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
6
Note 2: Revenue
6
Note 3: Restricted Investments
7
Note 4: Fair Value Measurements
8
Note 5: Accounts Payable
9
Note 6: Debt
9
Note 7: Derivative Instruments
10
Note 8: Shareholders' Deficit
10
Note 9: Earnings Per Share
11
Note 10: Supplemental Disclosure
12
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
13
Item 2.
Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
14
Item 3.
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk
20
Item 4.
Controls and Procedures
20
PART II - Other Information
21
Item 1.
Legal Proceedings
21
Item 1A.
Risk Factors
21
Item 2.
Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds
21
Item 5.
Other Information
21
Item 6.
Exhibits
22
Signature
23
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FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This Form 10-Q includes "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Statements including words such as "believe", "expect", "anticipate", "plan", "desire", "project", "estimate", "intend", "will", "should", "could", "would", "may", "strategy", "potential", "opportunity", "outlook", "scenario", "guidance", and similar expressions are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve, among other things, expectations, projections, and assumptions about future financial and operating results, objectives (including objectives related to environmental and social matters), business outlook, priorities, sales growth, shareholder value, capital expenditures, cash flows, the housing market, the home improvement industry, demand for products and services including customer acceptance of new offerings and initiatives, macroeconomic conditions and consumer spending, share repurchases, and Lowe's strategic initiatives, including those relating to acquisitions and dispositions and the impact of such transactions on our strategic and operational plans and financial results. Such statements involve risks and uncertainties and we can give no assurance that they will prove to be correct. Actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied in such statements.
A wide variety of potential risks, uncertainties, and other factors could materially affect our ability to achieve the results either expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements including, but not limited to, changes in general economic conditions, such as volatility and/or lack of liquidity from time to time in U.S. and world financial markets and the consequent reduced availability and/or higher cost of borrowing to Lowe's and its customers, slower rates of growth in real disposable personal income that could affect the rate of growth in consumer spending, inflation and its impacts on discretionary spending and on our costs, shortages, and other disruptions in the labor supply, interest rate and currency fluctuations, home price appreciation or decreasing housing turnover, age of housing stock, the availability of consumer credit and of mortgage financing, trade policy changes or additional tariffs, outbreaks of pandemics, fluctuations in fuel and energy costs, inflation or deflation of commodity prices, natural disasters, geopolitical or armed conflicts, acts of both domestic and international terrorism, and other factors that can negatively affect our customers.
Investors and others should carefully consider the foregoing factors and other uncertainties, risks and potential events including, but not limited to, those described in "Item 1A - Risk Factors" and "Item 7 - Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates" in our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and as may be updated from time to time in our quarterly reports on Form 10-Q or other subsequent filings with the SEC. All such forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, and we do not undertake any obligation to update these statements other than as required by law.
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Part I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item 1. Financial Statements
Lowe's Companies, Inc.
Consolidated Statements of Earnings (Unaudited)
In Millions, Except Per Share and Percentage Data
Three Months Ended Six Months Ended
August 2, 2024 August 4, 2023 August 2, 2024 August 4, 2023
Current Earnings Amount % Sales Amount % Sales Amount % Sales Amount % Sales
Net sales $ 23,586 100.00 % $ 24,956 100.00 % $ 44,950 100.00 % $ 47,304 100.00 %
Cost of sales 15,691 66.53 16,557 66.34 29,965 66.66 31,378 66.33
Gross margin 7,895 33.47 8,399 33.66 14,985 33.34 15,926 33.67
Expenses:
Selling, general and administrative 4,025 17.07 4,086 16.38 8,034 17.88 7,912 16.73
Depreciation and amortization 423 1.79 427 1.71 851 1.89 841 1.78
Operating income 3,447 14.61 3,886 15.57 6,100 13.57 7,173 15.16
Interest - net 317 1.34 341 1.36 669 1.49 689 1.45
Pre-tax earnings 3,130 13.27 3,545 14.21 5,431 12.08 6,484 13.71
Income tax provision 747 3.17 872 3.50 1,294 2.88 1,551 3.28
Net earnings $ 2,383 10.10 % $ 2,673 10.71 % $ 4,137 9.20 % $ 4,933 10.43 %
Weighted average common shares outstanding - basic 568 584 570 590
Basic earnings per common share $ 4.18 $ 4.56 $ 7.24 $ 8.34
Weighted average common shares outstanding - diluted 570 585 571 591
Diluted earnings per common share $ 4.17 $ 4.56 $ 7.23 $ 8.32
See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements (unaudited).
Lowe's Companies, Inc.
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Unaudited)
In Millions, Except Percentage Data
Three Months Ended Six Months Ended
August 2, 2024 August 4, 2023 August 2, 2024 August 4, 2023
Amount % Sales Amount % Sales Amount % Sales Amount % Sales
Net earnings $ 2,383 10.10 % $ 2,673 10.71 % $ 4,137 9.20 % $ 4,933 10.43 %
Foreign currency translation adjustments - net of tax - - 5 0.01 - - 5 0.01
Cash flow hedges - net of tax (3) (0.01) (3) (0.01) (6) (0.01) (6) (0.02)
Other 2 0.01 - - 1 - - -
Other comprehensive (loss)/income (1) - 2 - (5) (0.01) (1) (0.01)
Comprehensive income $ 2,382 10.10 % $ 2,675 10.71 % $ 4,132 9.19 % $ 4,932 10.42 %
See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements (unaudited).
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Lowe's Companies, Inc.
Consolidated Balance Sheets (Unaudited)
In Millions, Except Par Value Data
August 2,
2024 		August 4,
2023 		February 2,
2024
Assets
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents $ 4,360 $ 3,494 $ 921
Short-term investments 330 374 307
Merchandise inventory - net 16,841 17,422 16,894
Other current assets 806 946 949
Total current assets 22,337 22,236 19,071
Property, less accumulated depreciation 17,515 17,373 17,653
Operating lease right-of-use assets 3,819 3,650 3,733
Long-term investments 292 182 252
Deferred income taxes - net 184 230 248
Other assets 787 850 838
Total assets $ 44,934 $ 44,521 $ 41,795
Liabilities and shareholders' deficit
Current liabilities:
Current maturities of long-term debt $ 1,290 $ 592 $ 537
Current operating lease liabilities 552 534 487
Accounts payable 10,336 10,333 8,704
Accrued compensation and employee benefits 1,055 1,026 954
Deferred revenue 1,417 1,566 1,408
Other current liabilities 3,596 3,561 3,478
Total current liabilities 18,246 17,612 15,568
Long-term debt, excluding current maturities 34,659 35,839 35,384
Noncurrent operating lease liabilities 3,738 3,611 3,737
Deferred revenue - Lowe's protection plans 1,256 1,231 1,225
Other liabilities 798 960 931
Total liabilities 58,697 59,253 56,845
Shareholders' deficit:
Preferred stock, $5 par value: Authorized - 5.0 million shares; Issued and outstanding - none
- - -
Common stock, $0.50 par value: Authorized - 5.6 billion shares; Issued and outstanding - 568 million, 582 million, and 574 million shares, respectively
284 291 287
Capital in excess of par value - 12 -
Accumulated deficit (14,342) (15,341) (15,637)
Accumulated other comprehensive income 295 306 300
Total shareholders' deficit (13,763) (14,732) (15,050)
Total liabilities and shareholders' deficit $ 44,934 $ 44,521 $ 41,795
See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements (unaudited).
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Lowe's Companies, Inc.
Consolidated Statements of Shareholders' Deficit (Unaudited)
In Millions
Three Months Ended August 2, 2024
Common Stock Capital in Excess
of Par Value 		Accumulated Deficit Accumulated Other
Comprehensive Income 		Total
Shares Amount
Balance May 3, 2024 572 $ 286 $ - $ (15,188) $ 296 $ (14,606)
Net earnings - - - 2,383 - 2,383
Other comprehensive loss - - - - (1) (1)
Cash dividends declared, $1.15 per share
- - - (654) - (654)
Share-based payment expense - - 60 - - 60
Repurchases of common stock (4) (2) (129) (883) - (1,014)
Issuance of common stock under share-based payment plans - - 69 - - 69
Balance August 2, 2024 568 $ 284 $ - $ (14,342) $ 295 $ (13,763)
Six Months Ended August 2, 2024
Common Stock Capital in Excess
of Par Value 		Accumulated Deficit Accumulated Other
Comprehensive Income 		Total
Shares Amount
Balance February 2, 2024 574 $ 287 $ - $ (15,637) $ 300 $ (15,050)
Net earnings - - - 4,137 - 4,137
Other comprehensive loss - - - - (5) (5)
Cash dividends declared, $2.25 per share
- - - (1,283) - (1,283)
Share-based payment expense - - 110 - - 110
Repurchases of common stock (7) (4) (193) (1,559) - (1,756)
Issuance of common stock under share-based payment plans 1 1 83 - - 84
Balance August 2, 2024 568 $ 284 $ - $ (14,342) $ 295 $ (13,763)
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Three Months Ended August 4, 2023
Common Stock Capital in Excess
of Par Value 		Accumulated Deficit Accumulated Other
Comprehensive Income 		Total
Shares Amount
Balance May 5, 2023 592 $ 296 $ - $ (15,310) $ 304 $ (14,710)
Net earnings - - - 2,673 - 2,673
Other comprehensive income - - - - 2 2
Cash dividends declared, $1.10 per share
- - - (641) - (641)
Share-based payment expense - - 58 - - 58
Repurchases of common stock (10) (5) (117) (2,063) - (2,185)
Issuance of common stock under share-based payment plans - - 71 - - 71
Balance August 4, 2023 582 $ 291 $ 12 $ (15,341) $ 306 $ (14,732)
Six Months Ended August 4, 2023
Common Stock Capital in Excess
of Par Value 		Accumulated Deficit Accumulated Other
Comprehensive Income 		Total
Shares Amount
Balance February 3, 2023 601 $ 301 $ - $ (14,862) $ 307 $ (14,254)
Net earnings - - - 4,933 - 4,933
Other comprehensive loss - - - - (1) (1)
Cash dividends declared, $2.15 per share
- - - (1,266) - (1,266)
Share-based payment expense - - 113 - - 113
Repurchases of common stock (21) (11) (176) (4,146) - (4,333)
Issuance of common stock under share-based payment plans 2 1 75 - - 76
Balance August 4, 2023 582 $ 291 $ 12 $ (15,341) $ 306 $ (14,732)
See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements (unaudited).
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Lowe's Companies, Inc.
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Unaudited)
In Millions
Six Months Ended
August 2, 2024 August 4, 2023
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net earnings $ 4,137 $ 4,933
Adjustments to reconcile net earnings to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization 967 941
Noncash lease expense 260 241
Deferred income taxes 66 23
(Gain)/loss on property and other assets - net (4) 23
Gain on sale of business (43) (67)
Share-based payment expense 110 113
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Merchandise inventory - net 53 1,109
Other operating assets 129 224
Accounts payable 1,679 (191)
Other operating liabilities 61 (1,381)
Net cash provided by operating activities 7,415 5,968
Cash flows from investing activities:
Purchases of investments (628) (878)
Proceeds from sale/maturity of investments 571 811
Capital expenditures (808) (765)
Proceeds from sale of property and other long-term assets 22 17
Proceeds from sale of business 43 123
Other - net - (23)
Net cash used in investing activities (800) (715)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Net change in commercial paper - (499)
Net proceeds from issuance of debt - 2,983
Repayment of debt (47) (45)
Proceeds from issuance of common stock under share-based payment plans 84 76
Cash dividend payments (1,262) (1,257)
Repurchases of common stock (1,930) (4,356)
Other - net (21) (9)
Net cash used in financing activities (3,176) (3,107)
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents 3,439 2,146
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period 921 1,348
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period $ 4,360 $ 3,494
See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements (unaudited).
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Lowe's Companies, Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)
Note 1: Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Basis of Presentation
The accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements (unaudited) and notes to the condensed consolidated financial statements (unaudited) are presented in accordance with the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and do not include all the disclosures normally required in annual consolidated financial statements prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (GAAP). The condensed consolidated financial statements (unaudited), in the opinion of management, contain all normal recurring adjustments necessary to present fairly the consolidated balance sheets as of August 2, 2024, and August 4, 2023, and the statements of earnings, comprehensive income, and shareholders' deficit for the three and six months ended August 2, 2024, and August 4, 2023, and cash flows for the six months ended August 2, 2024, and August 4, 2023. The February 2, 2024, consolidated balance sheet was derived from the audited financial statements.
These interim condensed consolidated financial statements (unaudited) should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included in the Lowe's Companies, Inc. (the Company) Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 2, 2024 (the Annual Report). The financial results for the interim periods may not be indicative of the financial results for the entire fiscal year.
Accounting Pronouncements Not Yet Adopted
There have been no significant changes in the accounting pronouncements not yet adopted from those disclosed in the Annual Report. Accounting pronouncements not disclosed in this Form 10-Q or in the Annual Report are either not applicable to the Company or are not expected to have a material impact to the Company.
Note 2: Revenue
Net sales consists primarily of revenue, net of sales tax, associated with contracts with customers for the sale of goods and services in amounts that reflect consideration the Company is entitled to in exchange for those goods and services.
The following table presents the Company's sources of revenue:
(In millions) Three Months Ended Six Months Ended
August 2, 2024 August 4, 2023 August 2, 2024 August 4, 2023
Products $ 22,709 $ 24,035 $ 43,396 $ 45,605
Services 548 578 1,080 1,107
Other 329 343 474 592
Net sales $ 23,586 $ 24,956 $ 44,950 $ 47,304
A provision for anticipated merchandise returns is provided through a reduction of sales and cost of sales in the period that the related sales are recorded. The merchandise return reserve is presented on a gross basis, with a separate asset and liability included in the consolidated balance sheets. The balances and classification within the consolidated balance sheets for anticipated sales returns and the associated right of return assets are as follows:
(In millions) Classification August 2,
2024 		August 4,
2023 		February 2,
2024
Anticipated sales returns Other current liabilities $ 207 $ 256 $ 191
Right of return assets Other current assets 119 149 111
Deferred revenue - retail and stored-value cards
Retail deferred revenue consists of amounts received for which customers have not yet taken possession of the merchandise or for which installation has not yet been completed. The majority of revenue for goods and services is recognized in the quarter following revenue deferral. Stored-value cards deferred revenue includes outstanding stored-value cards such as gift cards and
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returned merchandise credits that have not yet been redeemed. Deferred revenue for retail and stored-value cards are as follows:
(In millions) August 2,
2024 		August 4,
2023 		February 2,
2024
Retail deferred revenue $ 922 $ 1,006 $ 796
Stored-value cards deferred revenue 495 560 612
Deferred revenue $ 1,417 $ 1,566 $ 1,408
Deferred revenue - Lowe's protection plans
The Company defers revenues for its separately-priced long-term extended protection plan contracts (Lowe's protection plans) and recognizes revenue on a straight-line basis over the respective contract term. Expenses for claims are recognized in cost of sales when incurred.
(In millions) August 2,
2024 		August 4,
2023 		February 2,
2024
Deferred revenue - Lowe's protection plans $ 1,256 $ 1,231 $ 1,225
Three Months Ended Six Months Ended
(In millions) August 2, 2024 August 4, 2023 August 2, 2024 August 4, 2023
Lowe's protection plans deferred revenue recognized into sales $ 140 $ 136 $ 279 $ 272
Lowe's protection plans claim expenses 50 54 104 107
Disaggregation of Revenues
The following table presents the Company's net sales disaggregated by merchandise division:
Three Months Ended Six Months Ended
August 2, 2024 August 4, 2023 August 2, 2024 August 4, 2023
(In millions) Net Sales % Net Sales % Net Sales % Net Sales %
Home Décor1
$ 8,182 34.7 % $ 8,688 34.8 % $ 15,848 35.3 % $ 16,903 35.7 %
Hardlines2
7,709 32.7 8,297 33.2 14,344 31.9 15,022 31.8
Building Products3
7,085 30.0 7,336 29.4 13,740 30.6 14,239 30.1
Other 610 2.6 635 2.6 1,018 2.2 1,140 2.4
Total $ 23,586 100.0 % $ 24,956 100.0 % $ 44,950 100.0 % $ 47,304 100.0 %
Note: Merchandise division net sales for the prior period have been reclassified to conform to the current period presentation.
1 Home Décor includes the following product categories: Appliances, Décor, Flooring, Kitchens & Bath, and Paint.
2 Hardlines includes the following product categories: Hardware, Lawn & Garden, Seasonal & Outdoor Living, and Tools.
3 Building Products includes the following product categories: Building Materials, Electrical, Lumber, Millwork, and Rough Plumbing.
Note 3: Restricted Investments
Short-term and long-term investments include restricted balances pledged as collateral primarily for the Lowe's protection plans program and are as follows:
(In millions) August 2, 2024 August 4, 2023 February 2, 2024
Short-term restricted investments $ 330 $ 374 $ 307
Long-term restricted investments 292 182 252
Total restricted investments $ 622 $ 556 $ 559
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Note 4: Fair Value Measurements
Fair value is defined 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. The authoritative guidance for fair value measurements establishes a three-level hierarchy, which encourages an entity to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs when measuring fair value. The three levels of the hierarchy are defined as follows:
•Level 1 -inputs to the valuation techniques that are quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities
•Level 2 -inputs to the valuation techniques that are other than quoted prices but are observable for the assets or liabilities, either directly or indirectly
•Level 3 -inputs to the valuation techniques that are unobservable for the assets or liabilities
Assets and Liabilities that are Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis
The following table presents the Company's financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of August 2, 2024, August 4, 2023, and February 2, 2024:
Fair Value Measurements at
(In millions) Classification Measurement Level August 2,
2024 		August 4,
2023 		February 2,
2024
Available-for-sale debt securities:
U.S. Treasury securities Short-term investments Level 1 $ 184 $ 138 $ 152
Money market funds Short-term investments Level 1 81 85 56
Commercial paper Short-term investments Level 2 29 17 5
Corporate debt securities Short-term investments Level 2 21 62 50
Certificates of deposit Short-term investments Level 1 13 72 42
Municipal obligations Short-term investments Level 2 2 - 2
U.S. Treasury securities Long-term investments Level 1 188 166 213
Corporate debt securities Long-term investments Level 2 79 14 35
Foreign government debt securities Long-term investments Level 2 22 - 4
Municipal obligations Long-term investments Level 2 3 2 -
Derivative instruments:
Fixed-to-floating interest rate swaps Other liabilities Level 2 $ 57 $ 92 $ 76
There were no transfers between Levels 1, 2, or 3 during any of the periods presented.
When available, quoted prices were used to determine fair value. When quoted prices in active markets were available, financial assets were classified within Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. When quoted prices in active markets were not available, fair values for financial assets and liabilities classified within Level 2 were determined using pricing models, and the inputs to those pricing models were based on observable market inputs. The inputs to the pricing models were typically benchmark yields, reported trades, broker-dealer quotes, issuer spreads and benchmark securities, among others.
The Company has performance-based contingent consideration related to the fiscal 2022 sale of the Canadian retail business which is classified as a Level 3 long-term investment and such contingent consideration had an estimated fair value of zero as of August 2, 2024, August 4, 2023, and February 2, 2024. The Company's measurements of fair value of the contingent consideration are based on an income approach, which requires certain assumptions considering operating performance of the business and a risk-adjusted discount rate. Changes in the estimated fair value of the contingent consideration are recognized within selling, general and administrative expenses (SG&A) in the consolidated statements of earnings.
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The rollforward of the fair value of contingent consideration for the three and six months ended August 2, 2024 and August 4, 2023, is as follows:
Three Months Ended Six Months Ended
(In millions) August 2, 2024 August 4, 2023 August 2, 2024 August 4, 2023
Beginning balance $ - $ - $ - $ 21
Change in fair value 43 - 43 102
Proceeds received (43) - (43) (123)
Ending balance $ - $ - $ - $ -
Assets and Liabilities that are Measured at Fair Value on a Nonrecurring Basis
During the three and six months ended August 2, 2024, and August 4, 2023, the Company had no material measurements of assets and liabilities at fair value on a nonrecurring basis subsequent to their initial recognition.
Other Fair Value Disclosures
The Company's financial assets and liabilities not measured at fair value on a recurring basis include cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, short-term borrowings, accounts payable, and long-term debt and are reflected in the financial statements at cost. With the exception of long-term debt, cost approximates fair value for these items due to their short-term nature. As further described in Note 7, certain long-term debt is associated with a fair value hedge and the changes in fair value of the hedged debt is included in the carrying value of long-term debt in the consolidated balance sheets. The fair values of the Company's unsecured notes were estimated using quoted market prices. The fair values of the Company's mortgage notes were estimated using discounted cash flow analyses, based on the future cash outflows associated with these arrangements and discounted using the applicable incremental borrowing rate.
Carrying amounts and the related estimated fair value of the Company's long-term debt, excluding finance lease obligations, are as follows:
August 2, 2024 August 4, 2023 February 2, 2024
(In millions) Carrying Amount Fair Value Carrying Amount Fair Value Carrying Amount Fair Value
Unsecured notes (Level 1) $ 35,440 $ 32,748 $ 35,881 $ 31,898 $ 35,409 $ 32,757
Mortgage notes (Level 2) 1 1 2 2 2 2
Long-term debt (excluding finance lease obligations)
$ 35,441 $ 32,749 $ 35,883 $ 31,900 $ 35,411 $ 32,759
Note 5: Accounts Payable
The Company has an agreement with a third party to provide a supplier finance program which facilitates participating suppliers' ability to finance payment obligations from the Company with designated third-party financial institutions. Participating suppliers may, at their sole discretion, make offers to finance one or more payment obligations of the Company prior to their scheduled due dates at a discounted price to participating financial institutions. The Company's outstanding payment obligations that suppliers financed to participating financial institutions, which are included in accounts payable on the consolidated balance sheets, are as follows:
(In millions) August 2, 2024 August 4, 2023 February 2, 2024
Financed payment obligations $ 1,447 $ 1,475 $ 1,356
Note 6: Debt
The Company's commercial paper program is supported by the $2.0 billion five-year unsecured revolving credit agreement entered into in September 2023 (2023 Credit Agreement), which amended and restated the Company's $2.0 billion five-year unsecured revolving credit agreement entered into in March 2020, and as amended (2020 Credit Agreement), and the $2.0 billion five-year unsecured third amended and restated credit agreement entered into in December 2021, and as amended (Third Amended and Restated Credit Agreement). The amounts available to be drawn under the 2023 Credit Agreement and the Third Amended and Restated Credit Agreement are reduced by the amount of borrowings under the commercial paper program. As
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of August 2, 2024, August 4, 2023, and February 2, 2024, there were no outstanding borrowings under the Company's commercial paper program, the 2023 Credit Agreement, or the Third Amended and Restated Credit Agreement. Total combined availability under the 2023 Credit Agreement and the Third Amended and Restated Credit Agreement was $4.0 billion as of August 2, 2024.
Note 7: Derivative Instruments
The Company utilizes fixed-to-floating interest rate swap agreements as fair value hedges on certain debt. The notional amounts for the Company's material derivative instruments are as follows:
(In millions) August 2,
2024 		August 4,
2023 		February 2,
2024
Fair value hedges:
Fixed-to-floating interest rate swap agreements $ 850 $ 850 $ 850
See Note 4for the gross fair values of the Company's outstanding derivative financial instruments and corresponding fair value classifications. The cash flows related to settlement of the Company's hedging derivative financial instruments are classified in the consolidated statements of cash flows based on the nature of the underlying hedged items.
The Company accounts for the fixed-to-floating interest rate swap agreements as fair value hedges using the shortcut method of accounting under which the hedges are assumed to be perfectly effective. Thus, the change in fair value of the derivative instruments offsets the change in fair value on the hedged debt, and there is no net impact in the consolidated statements of earnings from the fair value of the derivatives.
Note 8: Shareholders' Deficit
The Company has a share repurchase program that is executed through purchases made from time to time either in the open market, which may be made under pre-set trading plans meeting the requirements of Rule 10b5-1(c) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, or through private off-market transactions. Shares purchased under the repurchase program are returned to authorized and unissued status. Any excess of cost over par value is charged to additional paid-in capital to the extent that a balance is present. Once additional paid-in capital is fully depleted, remaining excess of cost over par value is charged to accumulated deficit. As of August 2, 2024, the Company had $12.9 billion remaining in its share repurchase program.
During the six months ended August 2, 2024, the Company entered into Accelerated Share Repurchase (ASR) agreements with third-party financial institutions to repurchase a total of 3.0 million shares of the Company's common stock for $700 million. The terms of the ASR agreements entered into during the six months ended August 2, 2024, are as follows (in millions):
Agreement Execution
Date 		Agreement Settlement
Date 		ASR
Agreement Amount 		Initial Shares Delivered at Inception Additional Shares Delivered at Settlement Total Shares Delivered
Q1 2024 Q1 2024 $ 325 1.1 0.2 1.3
Q2 2024 Q2 2024 375 1.4 0.3 1.7
In addition, the Company repurchased shares of its common stock through the open market as follows:
Three Months Ended Six Months Ended
August 2, 2024 August 2, 2024
(In millions) Shares Cost Shares Cost
Open market share repurchases 2.7 $ 637 4.1 $ 964
The Company also withholds shares from employees to satisfy either the exercise price of stock options exercised or the statutory withholding tax liability resulting from the vesting of share-based awards.
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Total shares repurchased for the three and six months ended August 2, 2024, and August 4, 2023, were as follows:
Three Months Ended
August 2, 2024 August 4, 2023
(In millions) Shares Cost Shares Cost
Share repurchase program1
4.4 $ 1,012 10.1 $ 2,182
Shares withheld from employees - 2 - 3
Total share repurchases 4.4 $ 1,014 10.1 $ 2,185
Six Months Ended
August 2, 2024 August 4, 2023
(In millions) Shares Cost Shares Cost
Share repurchase program1
7.1 $ 1,664 20.0 $ 4,200
Shares withheld from employees 0.4 92 0.7 133
Total share repurchases 7.5 $ 1,756 20.7 $ 4,333
1 Includes excise tax on share repurchases in excess of issuances as part of the cost basis of the shares acquired.
Note 9: Earnings Per Share
The Company calculates basic and diluted earnings per common share using the two-class method. The following table reconciles earnings per common share for the three and six months ended August 2, 2024, and August 4, 2023:
Three Months Ended Six Months Ended
(In millions, except per share data) August 2, 2024 August 4, 2023 August 2, 2024 August 4, 2023
Basic earnings per common share:
Net earnings
$ 2,383 $ 2,673 $ 4,137 $ 4,933
Less: Net earnings allocable to participating securities
(6) (7) (10) (13)
Net earnings allocable to common shares, basic
$ 2,377 $ 2,666 $ 4,127 $ 4,920
Weighted-average common shares outstanding
568 584 570 590
Basic earnings per common share
$ 4.18 $ 4.56 $ 7.24 $ 8.34
Diluted earnings per common share:
Net earnings
$ 2,383 $ 2,673 $ 4,137 $ 4,933
Less: Net earnings allocable to participating securities
(6) (7) (10) (13)
Net earnings allocable to common shares, diluted
$ 2,377 $ 2,666 $ 4,127 $ 4,920
Weighted-average common shares outstanding
568 584 570 590
Dilutive effect of non-participating share-based awards
2 1 1 1
Weighted-average common shares, as adjusted
570 585 571 591
Diluted earnings per common share $ 4.17 $ 4.56 $ 7.23 $ 8.32
Anti-dilutive securities excluded from diluted weighted-average common shares 0.5 0.5 0.4 0.5
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Note 10: Supplemental Disclosure
Net interest expense is comprised of the following:
Three Months Ended Six Months Ended
(In millions) August 2, 2024 August 4, 2023 August 2, 2024 August 4, 2023
Long-term debt $ 364 $ 368 $ 729 $ 711
Short-term borrowings - 1 - 15
Lease obligations 6 6 12 12
Interest income (52) (35) (74) (51)
Interest capitalized (1) (1) (2) (2)
Interest on tax uncertainties - - 3 -
Other - 2 1 4
Interest - net $ 317 $ 341 $ 669 $ 689
Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information:
Six Months Ended
(In millions) August 2, 2024 August 4, 2023
Cash paid for interest, net of amount capitalized $ 735 $ 716
Cash paid for income taxes - net1,2
1,004 2,565
Non-cash investing and financing activities:
Leased assets obtained in exchange for new finance lease liabilities $ 33 $ 22
Leased assets obtained in exchange for new operating lease liabilities3
353 379
Cash dividends declared but not paid 654 641
1 Cash paid for income taxes - net for the six months ended August 2, 2024 includes $541 million of cash paid for the purchase of federal transferable tax credits.
2Cash paid for income taxes - net for the six months ended August 4, 2023 includes $1.2 billion of estimated income tax payments for the third and fourth quarter of fiscal 2022 that were deferred under the Internal Revenue Service's income tax relief for businesses located in states affected by Hurricane Ian.
3 Excludes $20 million of leases signed but not yet commenced as of August 2, 2024.
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REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the Board of Directors and Shareholders of Lowe's Companies, Inc.
Results of Review of Interim Financial Information
We have reviewed the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Lowe's Companies, Inc. and subsidiaries (the "Company") as of August 2, 2024 and August 4, 2023, the related consolidated statements of earnings, comprehensive income, and shareholders' deficit for the fiscal three-month and six-month periods ended August 2, 2024 and August 4, 2023, and cash flows for the fiscal six-month periods ended August 2, 2024 and August 4, 2023, and the related notes (collectively referred to as the "interim financial information"). Based on our reviews, we are not aware of any material modifications that should be made to the accompanying interim financial information for it to be in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
We have previously audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), the consolidated balance sheet of the Company as of February 2, 2024, and the related consolidated statements of earnings, comprehensive income, shareholders' deficit, and cash flows for the fiscal year then ended (not presented herein); and in our report dated March 25, 2024, we expressed an unqualified opinion on those consolidated financial statements. In our opinion, the information set forth in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet as of February 2, 2024, is fairly stated, in all material respects, in relation to the consolidated balance sheet from which it has been derived.
Basis for Review Results
This interim financial information is the responsibility of the Company's management. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our review in accordance with standards of the PCAOB. A review of interim financial information consists principally of applying analytical procedures and making inquiries of persons responsible for financial and accounting matters. It is substantially less in scope than an audit conducted in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB, the objective of which is the expression of an opinion regarding the financial statements taken as a whole. Accordingly, we do not express such an opinion.
/s/ DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP
Charlotte, North Carolina
August 29, 2024
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Item 2.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
This discussion and analysis summarizes the significant factors affecting our consolidated operating results, liquidity and capital resources during the three and six months ended August 2, 2024, and August 4, 2023. This discussion and analysis should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and notes to the consolidated financial statements that are included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 2, 2024 (the Annual Report), as well as the consolidated financial statements (unaudited) and notes to the consolidated financial statements (unaudited) contained in this report. Unless otherwise specified, all comparisons made are to the corresponding period of fiscal 2023. This discussion and analysis is presented in four sections:
•Executive Overview
•Operations
•Financial Condition, Liquidity and Capital Resources
•Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates
EXECUTIVE OVERVIEW
The following table highlights our financial results:
Three Months Ended Six Months Ended
(in millions, except per share data)
August 2, 2024 August 4, 2023 August 2, 2024 August 4, 2023
Net sales
$ 23,586 $ 24,956 $ 44,950 $ 47,304
Net earnings
2,383 2,673 4,137 4,933
Diluted earnings per share
4.17 4.56 7.23 8.32
Net cash provided by operating activities
$ 7,415 $ 5,968
Capital expenditures
808 765
Repurchases of common stock1
1,756 4,333
Cash dividend payments
1,262 1,257
1 Repurchases of common stock on a trade-date basis.
Net sales in the second quarter of fiscal 2024 declined 5.5% to $23.6 billion compared to net sales of $25.0 billion in the second quarter of fiscal 2023. Comparable sales for the second quarter of fiscal 2024 decreased 5.1%, consisting of a 5.9% decrease in comparable customer transactions, partially offset by an increase of 0.8% in comparable average ticket. Net earnings in the second quarter of fiscal 2024 were $2.4 billion, compared to net earnings of $2.7 billion in the second quarter of fiscal 2023. Diluted earnings per common share were $4.17 in the second quarter of fiscal 2024 compared to $4.56 in the second quarter of fiscal 2023. Included in the second quarter of 2024 results was pre-tax income of $43 million consisting of a realized gain on the contingent consideration associated with the fiscal 2022 sale of the Canadian retail business, which increased diluted earnings per common share by $0.07. Excluding the impact of this item, adjusted diluted earnings per common share was $4.10 in the second quarter of 2024 (see the non-GAAP financial measuresdiscussion).
For the first six months of fiscal 2024, cash flows from operating activities were approximately $7.4 billion, with $808 million used for capital expenditures. Continuing to deliver on our commitment to return excess cash to shareholders, during the three months ended August 2, 2024, we repurchased $1.0 billion of common stock and paid $629 million in dividends.
Second quarter fiscal 2024 comparable sales declined 5.1% driven by continued softness in Do-It-Yourself (DIY) demand and unfavorable weather adversely impacting sales in seasonal and other outdoor categories. These pressures were partially offset by positive comparable sales with our Pro customers and online, demonstrating the importance of our ongoing investments in our Total Home strategy and the success of our expanded omnichannel fulfillment offerings.
Despite prolonged sales pressure this quarter, we delivered strong operating performance and disciplined expense management across the Company due to our continued progress of our Perpetual Productivity Improvement (PPI) initiatives. These PPI initiatives give us the agility to adapt and manage expenses in line with sales trends.
While the near-term macroeconomic environment remains uncertain, the core medium-to-long-term drivers of our business are strong: home price appreciation, disposable personal income, and aging housing stock. We also expect that current generational
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trends will be supportive of home improvement demand over the long-term. Wee believe we are well-positioned for market share growth when the home improvement market recovers. In the meantime, we plan to invest in technology and innovation as part of our Total Home strategy, while maintaining operational discipline.
OPERATIONS
The following table sets forth the percentage relationship to net sales of each line item of the consolidated statements of earnings (unaudited), as well as the percentage change in dollar amounts from the prior period. This table should be read in conjunction with the following discussion and analysis and the consolidated financial statements (unaudited), including the related notes to the consolidated financial statements (unaudited).
Three Months Ended Basis Point Increase/(Decrease) in Percentage of Net Sales Six Months Ended Basis Point Increase/(Decrease) in Percentage of Net Sales
August 2, 2024 August 4, 2023 August 2, 2024 August 4, 2023
Net sales 100.00 % 100.00 % N/A 100.00 % 100.00 % N/A
Gross margin 33.47 33.66 (19) 33.34 33.67 (33)
Expenses:
Selling, general and administrative 17.07 16.38 69 17.88 16.73 115
Depreciation and amortization 1.79 1.71 8 1.89 1.78 11
Operating income 14.61 15.57 (96) 13.57 15.16 (159)
Interest - net 1.34 1.36 (2) 1.49 1.45 4
Pre-tax earnings 13.27 14.21 (94) 12.08 13.71 (163)
Income tax provision 3.17 3.50 (33) 2.88 3.28 (40)
Net earnings 10.10 % 10.71 % (61) 9.20 % 10.43 % (123)
The following table sets forth key metrics utilized by management in assessing business performance. This table should be read in conjunction with the following discussion and analysis and the consolidated financial statements (unaudited), including the related notes to the consolidated financial statements (unaudited).
Three Months Ended Six Months Ended
Other Metrics August 2, 2024 August 4, 2023 August 2, 2024 August 4, 2023
Comparable sales decrease 1
(5.1) % (1.6) % (4.6) % (2.9) %
Total customer transactions (in millions)
230 244 437 458
Average ticket 2
$ 102.71 $ 102.35 $ 102.82 $ 103.33
At end of period:
Number of stores 1,746 1,742
Sales floor square feet (in millions) 195 195
Average store size selling square feet (in thousands) 3
112 112
Net earnings to average debt and shareholders' deficit 26.5 % 23.7 %
Return on invested capital 4
30.9 % 27.8 %
1A comparable location is defined as a retail location that has been open longer than 13 months. A location that is identified for relocation is no longer considered comparable in the month of its relocation. The relocated location must then remain open longer than 13 months to be considered comparable. A location we decide to close is no longer considered comparable as of the beginning of the month in which we announce its closing. Operating locations which are sold are included in comparable sales until the date of sale. Comparable sales are presented on a transacted basis when tender is accepted from a customer. Comparable sales include online sales, which positively impacted second quarter fiscal 2024 and fiscal 2023 comparable sales by approximately 30 basis points and 70 basis points, respectively, and year-to-date fiscal 2024 and fiscal 2023 sales by approximately 20 basis points and 65 basis points, respectively. The comparable store sales calculation included in the preceding table was calculated using comparable 13-week and 26-week periods.
2Average ticket is defined as net sales divided by the total number of customer transactions.
3Average store size selling square feet is defined as sales floor square feet divided by the number of stores open at the end of the period.
4Return on invested capital is calculated using a non-GAAP financial measure. See below for additional information and reconciliations of non-GAAP measures.
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Non-GAAP Financial Measures
Adjusted Diluted Earnings Per Share
Adjusted diluted earnings per share is considered a non-GAAP financial measure. The Company believes this non-GAAP financial measure provides useful insight for analysts and investors in understanding the comparison of operational performance for fiscal 2024. Adjusted diluted earnings per share excludes the impact of a certain item, further described below, not contemplated in the Company's business outlook for fiscal 2024. There were no non-GAAP adjustments to diluted earnings per share for the three months ended August 4, 2023.
Fiscal 2024 Impacts
•In the second quarter of fiscal 2024, the Company recognized pre-tax income of $43 million consisting of a realized gain on the contingent consideration associated with the fiscal 2022 sale of the Canadian retail business (Canadian retail business transaction).
Adjusted diluted earnings per share should not be considered an alternative to, or more meaningful indicator of, the Company's diluted earnings per common share as prepared in accordance with GAAP. The Company's methods of determining non-GAAP financial measures may differ from the method used by other companies and may not be comparable.
Three Months Ended
August 2, 2024
Pre-Tax Earnings
Tax1
Net Earnings
Diluted earnings per share, as reported $ 4.17
Non-GAAP adjustments - per share impacts
Canadian retail business transaction (0.07) - (0.07)
Adjusted diluted earnings per share $ 4.10
1 Represents the corresponding tax benefit or expense specifically related to the item excluded from adjusted diluted earnings per share.
Return on Invested Capital
Return on Invested Capital (ROIC) is calculated using a non-GAAP financial measure. Management believes ROIC is a meaningful metric for analysts and investors as a measure of how effectively the Company is using capital to generate financial returns. Although ROIC is a common financial metric, numerous methods exist for calculating ROIC. Accordingly, the method used by our management may differ from the methods used by other companies. We encourage you to understand the methods used by another company to calculate ROIC before comparing its ROIC to ours.
We define ROIC as the rolling 12 months' lease adjusted net operating profit after tax (Lease adjusted NOPAT) divided by the average of current year and prior year ending debt and shareholders' deficit. Lease adjusted NOPAT is a non-GAAP financial measure, and net earnings is considered to be the most comparable GAAP financial measure. The calculation of ROIC, together with a reconciliation of net earnings to Lease adjusted NOPAT, is as follows:
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For the Periods Ended
(In millions, except percentage data) August 2, 2024 August 4, 2023
Calculation of Return on Invested Capital
Numerator
Net Earnings $ 6,931 $ 6,044
Plus:
Interest expense - net 1,361 1,305
Operating lease interest 169 158
Provision for income taxes 2,191 2,452
Lease adjusted net operating profit 10,652 9,959
Less:
Income tax adjustment1
2,559 2,874
Lease adjusted net operating profit after tax $ 8,093 $ 7,085
Denominator
Average debt and shareholders' deficit2
$ 26,160 $ 25,504
Net earnings to average debt and shareholders' deficit 26.5 % 23.7 %
Return on invested capital3
30.9 % 27.8 %
1 Income tax adjustment is defined as lease adjusted net operating profit multiplied by the effective tax rate, which was 24.0% and 28.9% for the periods ended August 2, 2024, and August 4, 2023, respectively.
2 Average debt and shareholders' deficit is defined as average current year and prior year ending debt, including current maturities, short-term borrowings, and operating lease liabilities, plus the average current year and prior year ending total shareholders' deficit.
3 For the period ended August 4, 2023, return on invested capital was negatively impacted 750 basis points as a result of the sale of the Canadian retail business.
Results of Operations
Net Sales -Net sales in the second quarter of 2024 decreased 5.5% to $23.6 billion. Comparable sales declined 5.1%, consisting of a 5.9% decline in comparable customer transactions, partially offset by a 0.8% increase in comparable average ticket.
During the second quarter of 2024, we experienced growth in Building Materials and performance above company average in Rough Plumbing, Electrical, and Millwork which reflect continued strong demand with the Pro customer. Comparable sales in Appliances also exceeded the company average as we continue to be an industry leader in this category.
Net sales decreased 5.0% to $45.0 billion for the first six months of 2024 compared to 2023. Comparable sales also declined 4.6% over the same period, driven by a 4.6% decline in comparable customer transactions, while comparable average ticket was flat.
Gross Margin -For the second quarter of 2024, gross margin as a percentage of sales decreased 19 basis points. The gross margin contraction for the quarter is driven by higher costs associated with investments in our supply chain, partially offset by lower transportation costs and ongoing PPI initiatives.
Gross margin as a percentage of sales decreased 33 basis points in the first six months of 2024 compared to 2023, primarily due to the same factors that impacted gross margin for the second quarter, as well as a decline in credit revenue.
SG&A -For the second quarter of 2024, SG&A expense deleveraged 69 basis points as a percentage of sales compared to the second quarter of 2023, primarily due to cycling the prior year favorable legal settlement and lower sales, partially offset by the current year gain on contingent consideration associated with the fiscal 2022 sale of the Canadian retail business and our ongoing PPI initiatives to manage expenses in-line with sales trends.
SG&A expense as a percentage of sales deleveraged 115 basis points as a percentage of sales for the first six months of 2024 compared to 2023, primarily due to the same factors that impacted gross margin for the second quarter.
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Depreciation and Amortization -Depreciation and amortization deleveraged eight basis points as a percentage of sales for the second quarter of 2024 compared to 2023.
Depreciation and amortization deleveraged 11 basis points as a percentage of sales for the first six months of 2024 compared to 2023.
Interest - Net- Net interest expense for the second quarter of 2024 leveraged two basis points as a percentage of sales.
Net interest expense for the first six months of 2024 deleveraged four basis points as a percentage of sales.
Income Tax Provision -Our effective income tax rates were 23.9% and 24.6% for the three months ended August 2, 2024 and August 4, 2023, respectively, and 23.8% and 23.9% for the six months ended August 2, 2024 and August 4, 2023, respectively.
FINANCIAL CONDITION, LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
Sources of Liquidity
Cash flows from operations, combined with our continued access to capital markets on both a short-term and long-term basis, as needed, remain adequate to fund our operations, make strategic investments to support long-term growth, return excess cash to shareholders in the form of dividends and share repurchases, and repay debt maturities as they become due. We believe these sources of liquidity will continue to support our business for the next twelve months. As of August 2, 2024, we held $4.4 billion of cash and cash equivalents, as well as$4.0 billion in undrawn capacityon our revolving credit facilities.
Cash Flows Provided by Operating Activities
Six Months Ended
(In millions) August 2, 2024 August 4, 2023
Net cash provided by operating activities $ 7,415 $ 5,968
Cash flows from operating activities continued to provide the primary source of our liquidity. The increase in net cash provided by operating activities for the six months ended August 2, 2024, compared to the six months ended August 4, 2023, was primarily driven by timing of prior year income tax payments and other changes in working capital, partially offset by lower net earnings. Cash flows relating to changes in other operating liabilities improved $1.4 billion driven by the first quarter of fiscal 2023 payment of our third and fourth quarter fiscal 2022 estimated federal tax payments that were deferred under the income tax relief announced by the Internal Revenue Service for businesses located in states impacted by Hurricane Ian. In addition, cash flows relating to changes in inventory and accounts payable increased $819 million primarily due to timing of purchases as we managed inventory replenishment in line with sales trends.
Cash Flows Used in Investing Activities
Six Months Ended
(In millions) August 2, 2024 August 4, 2023
Net cash used in investing activities $ (800) $ (715)
Net cash used in investing activities primarily consists of transactions related to capital expenditures. Our capital expenditures generally consist of investments in our strategic initiatives to enhance our ability to serve customers, improve existing stores, and support expansion plans. Capital expenditures were $808 million and $765 million for the six months ended August 2, 2024, and August 4, 2023, respectively. For fiscal 2024, our guidance for capital expenditures is approximately $2.0 billion.
Cash Flows Used in Financing Activities
Six Months Ended
(In millions) August 2, 2024 August 4, 2023
Net cash used in financing activities $ (3,176) $ (3,107)
Net cash used in financing activities primarily consists of transactions related to our debt, share repurchases, and cash dividend payments.
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Debt
Our commercial paper program is supported by the 2023 Credit Agreement and the Third Amended and Restated Credit Agreement. The amounts available to be drawn under the 2023 Credit Agreement and the Third Amended and Restated Credit Agreement are reduced by the amount of borrowings under our commercial paper program. There were no outstanding borrowings under our commercial paper program, 2023 Credit Agreement, or the Third Amended and Restated Credit Agreement as of August 2, 2024. Total combined availability under the 2023 Credit Agreement and the Third Amended and Restated Credit Agreement as of August 2, 2024, was $4.0 billion.
The 2023 Credit Agreement and the Third Amended and Restated Credit Agreement contain customary representations, warranties, and covenants. We were in compliance with those covenants at August 2, 2024.
The following table includes additional information related to our debt for the six months ended August 2, 2024, and August 4, 2023:
Six Months Ended
(In millions) August 2, 2024 August 4, 2023
Net proceeds from issuance of debt $ - $ 2,983
Repayment of debt (47) (45)
Net change in commercial paper - (499)
Maximum commercial paper outstanding at any period 250 2,195
Share Repurchases
We have an ongoing share repurchase program, authorized by the Company's Board of Directors, that is executed through purchases made from time to time either in the open market or through private off-market transactions. We also withhold shares from employees to satisfy tax withholding liabilities. Shares repurchased are retired and returned to authorized and unissued status. The following table provides, on a settlement date basis, the total number of shares repurchased, average price paid per share, and the total cash used to repurchase shares for the six months ended August 2, 2024, and August 4, 2023:
Six Months Ended
(In millions, except per share data) August 2, 2024 August 4, 2023
Total amount paid for share repurchases1
$ 1,930 $ 4,356
Total number of shares repurchased 8.4 21.0
Average price paid per share $ 230.91 $ 207.60
1 Excludes unsettled share repurchases and unpaid excise taxes.
As of August 2, 2024, we had $12.9 billion remaining available under our share repurchase program with no expiration date. The Company determines the timing and amount of repurchases based on its assessment of various factors including prevailing market conditions, alternate uses of capital, liquidity, and the economic environment, among others. The timing and amount of these share repurchases are subject to change at any time.
Dividends
Dividends are paid in the quarter immediately following the quarter in which they are declared. Dividends paid per share increased from $2.10 per share for the six months ended August 4, 2023, to $2.20 per share for the six months ended August 2, 2024.
Capital Resources
We expect to continue to have access to the capital markets on both a short-term and long-term basis when needed for liquidity purposes by issuing commercial paper or new long-term debt. The availability and the borrowing costs of these funds could be adversely affected, however, by a downgrade of our debt ratings or a deterioration of certain financial ratios. The table below reflects our debt ratings by Standard & Poor's (S&P) and Moody's as of August 29, 2024, which we are disclosing to enhance understanding of our sources of liquidity and the effect of our ratings on our cost of funds. Our commercial paper and senior debt ratings may be subject to revision or withdrawal at any time by the assigning rating organization, and each rating should be evaluated independently of any other rating.
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Debt Ratings S&P Moody's
Commercial Paper A-2 P-2
Senior Debt BBB+ Baa1
Senior Debt Outlook Stable Stable
There are no provisions in any agreements that would require early cash settlement of existing debt or leases as a result of a downgrade in our debt rating or a decrease in our stock price.
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES
Our significant accounting policies are described in Note 1 to the consolidated financial statements presented in the Annual Report. Our critical accounting policies and estimates are described in "Item 7 - Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" in the Annual Report. Our significant and critical accounting policies and estimates have not changed significantly since the filing of the Annual Report.
Item 3. - Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk
The Company is exposed to certain market risks, including changes in interest rates and commodity prices. The Company's market risks have not changed materially from those disclosed in the Annual Report for the fiscal year ended February 2, 2024.
Item 4. - Controls and Procedures
The Company's management, with the participation of the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer, has evaluated the effectiveness of the Company's "disclosure controls and procedures," (as such term is defined in Rule 13a-15(e) promulgated under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the Exchange Act)). Based upon their evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer concluded that, as of August 2, 2024, the Company's disclosure controls and procedures were effective for the purpose of ensuring that the information required to be disclosed in the reports that the Company files or submits under the Exchange Act with the SEC (1) is recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC's rules and forms, and (2) is accumulated and communicated to the Company's management, including its principal executive and principal financial officers, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.
The Company is undergoing a multi-year technology transformation which includes updating and modernizing our merchandise selling system, as well as certain accounting and finance systems. These updates are expected to continue for the next few years, and management will continue to evaluate the design and implementation of the Company's internal controls over financial reporting as the transformation continues. No change in the Company's internal control over financial reporting occurred during the quarter ended August 2, 2024, 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
In addition to the matter referenced in our annual report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 2, 2024, the Company is from time to time a party to various lawsuits, claims and other legal proceedings that arise in the ordinary course of business. With respect to such lawsuits, claims and proceedings, the Company records reserves when it is probable a liability has been incurred and the amount of loss can be reasonably estimated. The Company applies a threshold of $1,000,000 for purposes of disclosing environmental proceedings involving a governmental authority, if any, under this Item 1. The Company does not believe that any of these proceedings, individually or in the aggregate, would be expected to have a material adverse effect on its results of operations, financial position or cash flows. The Company maintains liability insurance for certain risks that are subject to certain self-insurance limits.
Item 1A. - Risk Factors
There have been no material changes in the Company's risk factors from those disclosed in Part I, "Item 1A. Risk Factors" in our Annual Report filed with the SEC on March 25, 2024.
Item 2.- Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds
Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
The following table sets forth information with respect to purchases of the Company's common stock on a trade date basis made during the three months ended August 2, 2024:
Total Number of Shares Purchased1
Average Price Paid per Share
Total Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Plans or Programs2
Approximate Dollar Value of Shares that May Yet Be Purchased Under the Plans or Programs2, 3
May 4, 2024 - May 31, 20244
2,028,121 $ 224.67 2,028,067 $ 13,412,015,422
June 1, 2024 - July 5, 2024 1,079,207 220.38 1,070,999 13,176,012,771
July 6, 2024 - August 2, 20244
1,340,272 232.33 1,340,132 12,936,012,781
As of August 2, 2024 4,447,600 $ 225.94 4,439,198 $ 12,936,012,781
1The total number of shares repurchased includes shares withheld from employees to satisfy either the exercise price of stock options or the statutory withholding tax liability upon the vesting of share-based awards.
2On December 7, 2022, the Company announced that its Board of Directors authorized an additional $15.0 billion of share repurchases with no expiration.
3Excludes excise tax on share repurchases in excess of issuances, which is recognized as part of the cost basis of the shares acquired in the consolidated statements of shareholders' deficit.
4In May 2024, the Company entered into an Accelerated Share Repurchase (ASR) agreement with a third-party financial institution to repurchase the Company's common stock. At inception, pursuant to the agreement, the Company paid $375 million to the financial institution and received an initial delivery of 1.4 million shares. In August 2024, prior to the end of the second quarter, the Company finalized the transaction and received an additional 0.3 million shares. The average price paid per share in settlement of the ASR agreement included in the table above was determined with reference to the volume-weighted average price of the Company's common stock over the term of the ASR agreement. See Note 8to the consolidated financial statements included herein for additional information regarding share repurchases.
Item 5. - Other Information
During the three months ended August 2, 2024, none of the Company's directors or executive officers adopted or terminated any contract, instruction, or written plan for the purchase or sale of Company securities that was intended to satisfy the affirmative defense conditions of Rule 10b5-1(c) or any "non-Rule 10b5-1 trading arrangement" (as those terms are defined in Regulation S-K, Item 408).
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Item 6. - Exhibits
Exhibit
Number 		Incorporated by Reference
Exhibit Description Form File No. Exhibit Filing Date
3.1 10-Q 001-07898 3.1 September 1, 2009
3.2 8-K 001-07898 3.1 November 16, 2022
15.1
Deloitte & Touche LLP Letter re Unaudited Interim Financial Information.‡
31.1
Certification of Principal Executive Officer Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a), as Adopted Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.‡
31.2
Certification of Principal Financial Officer Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a), as Adopted Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.‡
32.1
Certification of Principal Executive Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.†
32.2
Certification of Principal Financial Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.†
99.1
Lowe's 401(k) Plan, as amended and restated, executed on July 15, 2024 (filed to include this amendment as an exhibit to the Registration Statement on Form S-8, Registration No. 033-29772).‡
101.INS Inline XBRL Instance Document - the XBRL Instance Document does not appear in the Interactive Data File because its XBRL tags are embedded within the Inline XBRL document.‡
101.SCH Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.‡
101.CAL Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.‡
101.DEF Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.‡
101.LAB Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.‡
101.PRE Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.‡
104 Cover Page Interactive Data File (formatted as Inline XBRL document and included in Exhibit 101).‡
* Indicates a management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement.
‡ Filed herewith.
† Furnished herewith.
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SIGNATURE
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
LOWE'S COMPANIES, INC.
(Registrant)
August 29, 2024 By: /s/ Dan C. Griggs, Jr.
Date Dan C. Griggs, Jr.
Senior Vice President, Tax and Chief Accounting Officer
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