Equifax Delivers Fourth Quarter 2024 Revenue Growth of 7% Despite Weak U.S. Hiring and Mortgage Markets
Rhea-AI Summary
Equifax (EFX) reported strong Q4 2024 performance with revenue reaching $1.419 billion, up 7% (9% in local currency) despite challenging U.S. hiring and mortgage markets. The company saw impressive 29% growth in U.S. Mortgage revenue and achieved a 12% new product Vitality Index through EFX Cloud innovation.
Key segment performances include: Workforce Solutions revenue up 7% with 10% growth in Verification Services; USIS revenue increased 10% driven by 47% Mortgage revenue growth; International revenue grew 11% in local currency. The company has successfully migrated nearly 85% of revenue to the EFX Cloud.
For full-year 2024, Equifax reported revenue of $5.681 billion, up 8% from 2023, with net income of $604.1 million. Looking ahead, 2025 guidance projects revenue of $5.950 billion (4.7% growth) and Adjusted EPS of $7.45, despite an expected 12% decline in U.S. mortgage credit inquiries.
Positive
- Q4 revenue increased 7% to $1.419 billion
- U.S. Mortgage revenue grew 29% in Q4
- Net income up 31% to $174.0 million in Q4
- Free cash flow increased 58% to $813 million in 2024
- 85% of revenue now in EFX Cloud
- Adjusted EBITDA margin improved to 35.4% from 33.7% YoY
Negative
- Employer Services revenue declined 9% in Q4
- Expected 12% decline in U.S. mortgage credit inquiries for 2025
- Modest 2025 guidance with only 4.7% revenue growth projected
- International operating margin decreased to 17.4% from 17.9% YoY
News Market Reaction – EFX
On the day this news was published, EFX declined 8.42%, reflecting a notable negative market reaction.
Data tracked by StockTitan Argus on the day of publication.
- Fourth quarter 2024 revenue of
up$1.41 9 billion7% , with9% local currency revenue growth, despite weakerU.S. hiring and mortgage markets. - Fourth quarter
U.S. Mortgage revenue up very strong29% . - New Product Innovation leveraging new EFX Cloud delivered
12% new product Vitality Index. - Workforce Solutions fourth quarter revenue grew
7% , with10% Verification Services revenue growth led by Government and Mortgage, despite weakerU.S. hiring and mortgage markets. Employer Services revenue declined9% in the quarter. - USIS fourth quarter revenue grew over
10% from47% Mortgage revenue growth. - International fourth quarter revenue grew
11% on a local currency basis with3% on a reported basis. - Nearing EFX Cloud completion with close to
85% of revenue in the Cloud. - Strong cash flow and balance sheet positioning Equifax well to grow our dividend and to return cash to shareholders through share repurchases in 2025.
- Issuing full-year 2025 guidance midpoint expectation for revenue of
, up$5.95 0 billion4.7% , with constant currency organic revenue growth of about6% and Adjusted EPS of per share. This reflects an expected about$7.45 12% decline in our outlook for 2025 U.S. mortgage hard credit inquiries.
"Equifax delivered fourth quarter revenue of
"We are issuing our full-year 2025 guidance midpoint expectation for revenue of
We executed very well against our EFX2027 Strategic Priorities in 2024, despite market headwinds, with close to
Financial Results Summary
The Company reported revenue of
Fourth quarter 2024 diluted EPS attributable to Equifax was
Net income attributable to Equifax of
For the full year 2024, revenue was
Workforce Solutions fourth quarter results
- Total revenue was
in the fourth quarter of 2024, up$598.1 million 7% compared to the fourth quarter of 2023. Operating margin for Workforce Solutions was43.1% in the fourth quarter of 2024 compared to41.9% in the fourth quarter of 2023. Adjusted EBITDA margin for Workforce Solutions was51.9% in the fourth quarter of 2024 compared to51.2% in the fourth quarter of 2023. - Verification Services revenue was
, up$504.7 million 10% compared to the fourth quarter of 2023. - Employer Services revenue was
, down$93.4 million 9% compared to the fourth quarter of 2023.
USIS fourth quarter results
- Total revenue was
in the fourth quarter of 2024, up$472.5 million 10% compared to the fourth quarter of 2023. Operating margin for USIS was24.4% in the fourth quarter of 2024 compared to22.0% in the fourth quarter of 2023. Adjusted EBITDA margin for USIS was38.3% in the fourth quarter of 2024 compared to35.1% in the fourth quarter of 2023. - Online Information Solutions revenue was
, up$362.1 million 11% compared to the fourth quarter of 2023. - Mortgage Solutions revenue was
, up$32.9 million 44% compared to the fourth quarter of 2023. - Financial Marketing Services revenue was
, flat compared to the fourth quarter of 2023.$77.5 million
International fourth quarter results
- Total revenue was
in the fourth quarter of 2024, up$348.8 million 3% and up11% compared to the fourth quarter of 2023 on a reported and local currency basis, respectively. Operating margin for International was17.4% in the fourth quarter of 2024 compared to17.9% in the fourth quarter of 2023. Adjusted EBITDA margin for International was32.5% in the fourth quarter of 2024 compared to31.2% in the fourth quarter of 2023. Latin America revenue was , up$99.9 million 1% compared to the fourth quarter of 2023 on a reported basis and up29% on a local currency basis.Europe revenue was , up$99.8 million 7% compared to the fourth quarter of 2023 on a reported basis and up4% on a local currency basis.Asia Pacific revenue was , up$84.0 million 2% compared to the fourth quarter of 2023 on both a reported and local currency basis.Canada revenue was , flat compared to the fourth quarter of 2023 on a reported basis and up$65.1 million 3% on a local currency basis.
Adjusted EPS and Adjusted EBITDA Margin
- Adjusted EPS attributable to Equifax was
in the fourth quarter of 2024, up$2.12 17% compared to the fourth quarter of 2023. Adjusted EBITDA margin was35.4% in the fourth quarter of 2024 compared to33.7% in the fourth quarter of 2023. - Full year adjusted EPS attributable to Equifax was
, up$7.29 9% compared to the prior year period. Full year adjusted EBITDA margin was32.3% compared to32.2% in 2023. - These financial measures exclude certain items as described further in the Non-GAAP Financial Measures section below.
2025 First Quarter and Full Year Guidance | |||||||
Q1 2025 | FY 2025 | ||||||
Low-End | High-End | Low-End | High-End | ||||
Reported Revenue | |||||||
Reported Revenue Growth | — % | 2.2 % | 3.7 % | 5.8 % | |||
Local Currency Growth (1) | 1.6 % | 3.8 % | 5.0 % | 7.1 % | |||
Organic Local Currency Growth (1) | 1.6 % | 3.8 % | 5.0 % | 7.1 % | |||
Adjusted Earnings Per Share | |||||||
(1) Refer to page 9 for definitions. Additionally, the definitions can be found in the Non-GAAP Financial Measures below. |
About Equifax
At Equifax (NYSE: EFX), we believe knowledge drives progress. As a global data, analytics, and technology company, we play an essential role in the global economy by helping financial institutions, companies, employers, and government agencies make critical decisions with greater confidence. Our unique blend of differentiated data, analytics, and cloud technology drives insights to power decisions to move people forward. Headquartered in
Earnings Conference Call and Audio Webcast
In conjunction with this release, Equifax will host a conference call on February 6, 2025 at 8:30 a.m. (ET) via a live audio webcast. To access the webcast and related presentation materials, go to the Investor Relations section of our website at www.equifax.com. The discussion will be available via replay at the same site shortly after the conclusion of the webcast. This press release is also available at that website.
Non-GAAP Financial Measures
This earnings release presents adjusted EPS attributable to Equifax which is diluted EPS attributable to Equifax adjusted (to the extent noted above for different periods) for acquisition-related amortization expense, accrual for legal and regulatory matters related to the 2017 cybersecurity incident, fair market value adjustment and gain on sale of equity investment, pension mark-to-market fair value adjustment, foreign currency impact of certain intercompany loans, acquisition-related costs other than acquisition amortization, realignment of resources and other costs, income tax effect of stock awards recognized upon vesting or settlement,
These non-GAAP financial measures should be reviewed in conjunction with the relevant GAAP financial measures and are not presented as an alternative measure of net income or EPS as determined in accordance with GAAP.
Reconciliations of these non-GAAP financial measures to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measures and related notes are presented in the Q&A. This information can also be found under "Investor Relations/Financial Information/Non-GAAP Financial Measures" on our website at www.equifax.com.
Forward-Looking Statements
This release contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. These statements can be identified by expressions of belief, expectation or intention, as well as statements that are not historical fact. These statements are based on certain factors and assumptions including with respect to foreign exchange rates, revenue growth, results of operations and financial performance, strategic initiatives, business plans, prospects and opportunities, the
While Equifax believes these factors and assumptions to be reasonable based on information currently available, they may prove to be incorrect. Several factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements. These factors relate to (i) actions taken by us, including, but not limited to, restructuring actions, strategic initiatives (such as our cloud technology transformation), capital investments and asset acquisitions or dispositions, as well as (ii) developments beyond our control, including, but not limited to, changes in the
Other risk factors relevant to our business include: (i) any compromise of Equifax, customer or consumer information due to security breaches and other disruptions to our information technology infrastructure; (ii) the failure to achieve and maintain key industry or technical certifications; (iii) the failure to realize the anticipated benefits of our cloud technology transformation strategy; (iv) operational disruptions and strain on our resources caused by our transition to cloud-based technologies; (v) our ability to meet customer requirements for high system availability and response time performance; (vi) effects on our business if we provide inaccurate or unreliable data to customers; (vii) our ability to maintain access to credit, employment, financial and other data from external sources; (viii) the impact of competition; (ix) our ability to maintain relationships with key customers and business partners; (x) our ability to successfully introduce new products, services and analytical capabilities; (xi) the impact on the demand for some of our products and services due to the availability of free or less expensive consumer information; (xii) our ability to comply with our obligations under settlement agreements arising out of a material cybersecurity incident in 2017; (xiii) potential adverse developments in new and pending legal proceedings, government investigations and regulatory enforcement actions; (xiv) changes in, and the effects of, laws, regulations and government policies governing our business, including oversight by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau in the
A summary of additional risks and uncertainties can be found in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023 including without limitation under the captions "Item 1. Business -- Governmental Regulation," "-- Forward-Looking Statements" and "Item 1A. Risk Factors" and in our other filings with the
EQUIFAX INC. | ||||
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME | ||||
Three Months Ended December 31, | ||||
2024 | 2023 | |||
(In millions, except per share amounts) | (Unaudited) | |||
Operating revenue | $ 1,419.4 | $ 1,326.5 | ||
Operating expenses: | ||||
Cost of services (exclusive of depreciation and amortization below) | 615.0 | 581.6 | ||
Selling, general and administrative expenses | 344.7 | 343.4 | ||
Depreciation and amortization | 171.6 | 156.4 | ||
Total operating expenses | 1,131.3 | 1,081.4 | ||
Operating income | 288.1 | 245.1 | ||
Interest expense | (55.8) | (60.3) | ||
Other expense, net | (6.7) | (2.0) | ||
Consolidated income before income taxes | 225.6 | 182.8 | ||
Provision for income taxes | (52.2) | (48.3) | ||
Consolidated net income | 173.4 | 134.5 | ||
Less: Net loss (income) attributable to noncontrolling interests including redeemable | 0.6 | (2.1) | ||
Net income attributable to Equifax | $ 174.0 | $ 132.4 | ||
Basic earnings per common share: | ||||
Net income attributable to Equifax | $ 1.40 | $ 1.07 | ||
Weighted-average shares used in computing basic earnings per share | 124.0 | 123.3 | ||
Diluted earnings per common share: | ||||
Net income attributable to Equifax | $ 1.39 | $ 1.06 | ||
Weighted-average shares used in computing diluted earnings per share | 125.1 | 124.4 | ||
Dividends per common share | $ 0.39 | $ 0.39 | ||
EQUIFAX INC. | ||||
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME | ||||
Twelve Months Ended December 31, | ||||
2024 | 2023 | |||
(In millions, except per share amounts) | (Unaudited) | |||
Operating revenue | $ 5,681.1 | $ 5,265.2 | ||
Operating expenses: | ||||
Cost of services (exclusive of depreciation and amortization below) | 2,518.7 | 2,335.1 | ||
Selling, general and administrative expenses | 1,450.5 | 1,385.7 | ||
Depreciation and amortization | 669.8 | 610.8 | ||
Total operating expenses | 4,639.0 | 4,331.6 | ||
Operating income | 1,042.1 | 933.6 | ||
Interest expense | (229.1) | (241.4) | ||
Other (expense) income, net | (2.5) | 25.7 | ||
Consolidated income before income taxes | 810.5 | 717.9 | ||
Provision for income taxes | (203.2) | (166.2) | ||
Consolidated income from continuing operations | 607.3 | 551.7 | ||
Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests including redeemable noncontrolling | (3.2) | (6.4) | ||
Net income attributable to Equifax | $ 604.1 | $ 545.3 | ||
Basic earnings per common share: | ||||
Net income attributable to Equifax | $ 4.88 | $ 4.44 | ||
Weighted-average shares used in computing basic earnings per share | 123.8 | 122.9 | ||
Diluted earnings per common share: | ||||
Net income attributable to Equifax | $ 4.84 | $ 4.40 | ||
Weighted-average shares used in computing diluted earnings per share | 124.9 | 123.9 | ||
Dividends per common share | $ 1.56 | $ 1.56 | ||
EQUIFAX INC. | ||||
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS | ||||
December 31, | ||||
2024 | 2023 | |||
(In millions, except par values) | (Unaudited) | |||
ASSETS | ||||
Current assets: | ||||
Cash and cash equivalents | $ 169.9 | $ 216.8 | ||
Trade accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of | 957.6 | 908.2 | ||
Prepaid expenses | 134.9 | 142.5 | ||
Other current assets | 98.2 | 88.8 | ||
Total current assets | 1,360.6 | 1,356.3 | ||
Property and equipment: | ||||
Capitalized internal-use software and system costs | 2,817.5 | 2,541.0 | ||
Data processing equipment and furniture | 229.6 | 247.9 | ||
Land, buildings and improvements | 285.0 | 272.9 | ||
Total property and equipment | 3,332.1 | 3,061.8 | ||
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization | (1,440.2) | (1,227.8) | ||
Total property and equipment, net | 1,891.9 | 1,834.0 | ||
Goodwill | 6,547.8 | 6,829.9 | ||
Indefinite-lived intangible assets | 94.7 | 94.8 | ||
Purchased intangible assets, net | 1,521.0 | 1,858.8 | ||
Other assets, net | 343.4 | 306.2 | ||
Total assets | $ 11,759.4 | $ 12,280.0 | ||
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY | ||||
Current liabilities: | ||||
Short-term debt and current maturities of long-term debt | $ 687.7 | $ 963.4 | ||
Accounts payable | 138.2 | 197.6 | ||
Accrued expenses | 251.1 | 245.1 | ||
Accrued salaries and bonuses | 215.8 | 168.7 | ||
Deferred revenue | 115.5 | 109.5 | ||
Other current liabilities | 403.2 | 334.7 | ||
Total current liabilities | 1,811.5 | 2,019.0 | ||
Long-term debt | 4,322.8 | 4,747.8 | ||
Deferred income tax liabilities, net | 351.6 | 474.9 | ||
Long-term pension and other postretirement benefit liabilities | 106.7 | 100.1 | ||
Other long-term liabilities | 247.2 | 250.7 | ||
Total liabilities | 6,839.8 | 7,592.5 | ||
Redeemable noncontrolling interests | 105.2 | 135.1 | ||
Equifax shareholders' equity: | ||||
Preferred stock, | — | — | ||
Common stock, Issued shares - 189.3 at December 31, 2024 and 2023; Outstanding shares - 124.0 and 123.3 at December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively | 236.6 | 236.6 | ||
Paid-in capital | 1,915.2 | 1,761.3 | ||
Retained earnings | 6,018.6 | 5,608.6 | ||
Accumulated other comprehensive loss | (722.7) | (431.2) | ||
Treasury stock, at cost, 64.7 shares and 65.4 shares at December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively | (2,644.9) | (2,635.3) | ||
Stock held by employee benefits trusts, at cost, 0.6 shares at December 31, 2024 and 2023 | (5.9) | (5.9) | ||
Total Equifax shareholders' equity | 4,796.9 | 4,534.1 | ||
Noncontrolling interests | 17.5 | 18.3 | ||
Total shareholders' equity | 4,814.4 | 4,552.4 | ||
Total liabilities, redeemable noncontrolling interests, and shareholders' equity | $ 11,759.4 | $ 12,280.0 | ||
EQUIFAX INC. | ||||
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS | ||||
Twelve Months Ended December 31, | ||||
2024 | 2023 | |||
(In millions) | (Unaudited) | |||
Operating activities: | ||||
Consolidated net income | $ 607.3 | $ 551.7 | ||
Adjustments to reconcile consolidated net income to net cash provided by operating activities: | ||||
Depreciation and amortization | 680.6 | 619.8 | ||
Stock-based compensation expense | 81.6 | 71.8 | ||
Deferred income taxes | (66.9) | (70.2) | ||
Gain on fair market value adjustment and gain on sale of equity investment | — | (13.8) | ||
Changes in assets and liabilities, excluding effects of acquisitions: | ||||
Accounts receivable, net | (66.3) | (23.3) | ||
Other assets, current and long-term | (29.5) | (13.0) | ||
Current and long-term liabilities, excluding debt | 117.7 | (6.2) | ||
Cash provided by operating activities | 1,324.5 | 1,116.8 | ||
Investing activities: | ||||
Capital expenditures | (511.5) | (601.3) | ||
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired | — | (283.8) | ||
Cash received from divestitures | — | 6.9 | ||
Cash used in investing activities | (511.5) | (878.2) | ||
Financing activities: | ||||
Net short-term borrowings (payments) | 91.2 | (371.2) | ||
Payments on long-term debt | (1,445.6) | (579.3) | ||
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt | 649.8 | 872.9 | ||
Dividends paid to Equifax shareholders | (193.2) | (191.8) | ||
Distributions paid to noncontrolling interests | (4.6) | (45.6) | ||
Proceeds from exercise of stock options and employee stock purchase plan | 78.2 | 32.3 | ||
Payment of taxes related to settlement of equity awards | (16.8) | (17.3) | ||
Debt issuance costs | (5.4) | (6.2) | ||
Cash used in financing activities | (846.4) | (306.2) | ||
Effect of foreign currency exchange rates on cash and cash equivalents | (13.5) | (0.8) | ||
Decrease in cash and cash equivalents | (46.9) | (68.4) | ||
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period | 216.8 | 285.2 | ||
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period | $ 169.9 | $ 216.8 | ||
Common Questions & Answers (Unaudited)
(Dollars in millions)
1. Can you provide a further analysis of operating revenue for the fourth quarter and the full year by operating segment?
Operating revenue consists of the following components:
(In millions) | Three Months Ended | |||||||||||
Local Currency | Organic Local | |||||||||||
Operating revenue: | 2024 | 2023 | $ Change | % Change | % Change (1) | % Change (2) | ||||||
Verification Services | $ 504.7 | $ 457.1 | $ 47.6 | 10 % | 10 % | |||||||
Employer Services | 93.4 | 102.4 | (9.0) | (9) % | (9) % | |||||||
Total Workforce Solutions | 598.1 | 559.5 | 38.6 | 7 % | 7 % | |||||||
Online Information Solutions | 362.1 | 327.5 | 34.6 | 11 % | 11 % | |||||||
Mortgage Solutions | 32.9 | 22.9 | 10.0 | 44 % | 44 % | |||||||
Financial Marketing Services | 77.5 | 77.3 | 0.2 | — % | — % | |||||||
Total | 472.5 | 427.7 | 44.8 | 10 % | 10 % | |||||||
99.9 | 98.6 | 1.3 | 1 % | 29 % | 29 % | |||||||
99.8 | 93.6 | 6.2 | 7 % | 4 % | 4 % | |||||||
84.0 | 82.2 | 1.8 | 2 % | 2 % | 2 % | |||||||
65.1 | 64.9 | 0.2 | — % | 3 % | 3 % | |||||||
Total International | 348.8 | 339.3 | 9.5 | 3 % | 11 % | 11 % | ||||||
Total operating revenue | $ 1,419.4 | $ 1,326.5 | $ 92.9 | 7 % | 9 % | 9 % | ||||||
(In millions) | Twelve Months Ended | |||||||||||
Local Currency | Organic Local | |||||||||||
Operating revenue: | 2024 | 2023 | $ Change | % Change | % Change (1) | % Change (2) | ||||||
Verification Services | $ 2,021.9 | $ 1,846.2 | $ 175.7 | 10 % | 10 % | |||||||
Employer Services | 411.9 | 469.6 | (57.7) | (12) % | (12) % | |||||||
Total Workforce Solutions | 2,433.8 | 2,315.8 | 118.0 | 5 % | 5 % | |||||||
Online Information Solutions | 1,501.2 | 1,375.2 | 126.0 | 9 % | 9 % | |||||||
Mortgage Solutions | 149.4 | 113.7 | 35.7 | 31 % | 31 % | |||||||
Financial Marketing Services | 242.4 | 231.5 | 10.9 | 5 % | 5 % | |||||||
Total | 1,893.0 | 1,720.4 | 172.6 | 10 % | 10 % | |||||||
384.9 | 290.9 | 94.0 | 32 % | 69 % | 27 % | |||||||
369.2 | 333.2 | 36.0 | 11 % | 8 % | 8 % | |||||||
335.4 | 345.3 | (9.9) | (3) % | (2) % | (2) % | |||||||
264.8 | 259.6 | 5.2 | 2 % | 4 % | 4 % | |||||||
Total International | 1,354.3 | 1,229.0 | 125.3 | 10 % | 19 % | 10 % | ||||||
Total operating revenue | $ 5,681.1 | $ 5,265.2 | $ 415.9 | 8 % | 10 % | 8 % | ||||||
(1) | Local currency revenue change is calculated by conforming 2024 results using 2023 exchange rates. |
(2) | Organic local currency revenue growth is defined as local currency revenue growth, adjusted to reflect an increase in prior year Equifax revenue from the revenue of acquired companies in the prior year period. This adjustment is made for 12 months following the acquisition. |
2. What is the estimate of the change in overall
The change year over year in total
Reconciliations of Non-GAAP Financial Measures to the Comparable GAAP Financial Measures (Unaudited)
(Dollars in millions, except per share amounts)
A. Reconciliation of net income attributable to Equifax to adjusted net income attributable to Equifax and adjusted diluted EPS attributable to Equifax, defined as net income and EPS, respectively, each adjusted for acquisition-related amortization expense, accrual for legal and regulatory matters related to the 2017 cybersecurity incident, fair market value adjustment and gain on sale of equity investments, pension mark-to-market fair value adjustment, foreign currency impact of certain intercompany loans, acquisition-related costs other than acquisition amortization, realignment of resources and other costs, income tax effect of stock awards recognized upon vesting or settlement,
Three Months Ended December 31, | ||||||||
(In millions, except per share amounts) | 2024 | 2023 | $ Change | % Change | ||||
Net income attributable to Equifax | $ 174.0 | $ 132.4 | $ 41.6 | 31 % | ||||
Acquisition-related amortization expense of certain acquired intangibles (1) | 64.1 | 65.4 | (1.3) | (2) % | ||||
Accrual for legal and regulatory matters related to the 2017 cybersecurity incident (2) | 0.1 | 1.9 | (1.8) | (95) % | ||||
Pension mark-to-market fair value adjustment (4) | 11.6 | 0.1 | 11.5 | nm | ||||
Foreign currency impact of certain intercompany loans (5) | 0.3 | 1.3 | (1.0) | (77) % | ||||
Acquisition-related costs other than acquisition amortization (6) | 20.0 | 27.2 | (7.2) | (26) % | ||||
Realignment of resources and other costs (7) | 6.4 | 19.4 | (13.0) | (67) % | ||||
Income tax effects of stock awards that are recognized upon vesting or settlement (8) | (0.6) | (0.6) | — | — % | ||||
0.6 | 3.2 | (2.6) | (81) % | |||||
Adjustments to deferred tax balances (10) | — | 1.0 | (1.0) | nm | ||||
Reversal of valuation allowance for certain deferred tax assets (11) | (4.6) | — | (4.6) | nm | ||||
Legal Settlement (12) | 15.0 | — | 15.0 | nm | ||||
Tax impact of adjustments (13) | (22.0) | (25.9) | 3.9 | (15) % | ||||
Adjusted net income attributable to Equifax | $ 264.9 | $ 225.4 | $ 39.5 | 18 % | ||||
Adjusted diluted EPS attributable to Equifax | $ 2.12 | $ 1.81 | $ 0.31 | 17 % | ||||
Weighted-average shares used in computing diluted EPS | 125.1 | 124.4 | ||||||
Twelve Months Ended December 31, | ||||||||
(In millions, except per share amounts) | 2024 | 2023 | $ Change | % Change | ||||
Net income attributable to Equifax | $ 604.1 | $ 545.3 | $ 58.8 | 11 % | ||||
Acquisition-related amortization expense of certain acquired intangibles (1) | 261.1 | 250.7 | 10.4 | 4 % | ||||
Accrual for legal and regulatory matters related to the 2017 cybersecurity incident (2) | 0.3 | 16.8 | (16.5) | (98) % | ||||
Fair market value adjustment and gain on sale of equity investments (3) | — | (13.4) | 13.4 | nm | ||||
Pension mark-to-market fair value adjustment (4) | 11.6 | 0.1 | 11.5 | nm | ||||
Foreign currency impact of certain intercompany loans (5) | 0.4 | (1.0) | 1.4 | nm | ||||
Acquisition-related costs other than acquisition amortization (6) | 68.4 | 103.2 | (34.8) | (34) % | ||||
Realignment of resources and other costs (7) | 48.0 | 34.6 | 13.4 | 39 % | ||||
Income tax effects of stock awards that are recognized upon vesting or settlement (8) | (8.2) | (3.4) | (4.8) | 141 % | ||||
1.1 | 3.8 | (2.7) | (71) % | |||||
Adjustments to deferred tax balances (10) | — | (27.2) | 27.2 | nm | ||||
Reversal of valuation allowance for certain deferred tax assets (11) | (4.6) | — | (4.6) | nm | ||||
Legal Settlement (12) | 15.0 | — | 15.0 | nm | ||||
Tax impact of adjustments (13) | (87.1) | (78.0) | (9.1) | 12 % | ||||
Adjusted net income attributable to Equifax | $ 910.1 | $ 831.5 | $ 78.6 | 9 % | ||||
Adjusted diluted EPS attributable to Equifax | $ 7.29 | $ 6.71 | $ 0.58 | 9 % | ||||
Weighted-average shares used in computing diluted EPS | 124.9 | 123.9 | ||||||
nm - not meaningful | |
(1) | During the fourth quarter of 2024, we recorded acquisition-related amortization expense of certain acquired intangibles of |
For the year ended December 31, 2024, we recorded acquisition-related amortization expense of certain acquired intangibles of | |
(2) | During the fourth quarter of 2024, we recorded an accrual for legal and regulatory matters related to the 2017 cybersecurity incident of |
(3) | For the year ended December 31, 2023, we recorded a |
(4) | During the fourth quarter of 2024 and for the year ended December 31, 2024, we recorded an |
(5) | During the fourth quarter of 2024 and for the year ended December 31, 2024, we recorded a foreign currency loss on certain intercompany loans of |
(6) | During the fourth quarter of 2024 and for the year ended December 31, 2024, we recorded |
(7) | During the fourth quarter of 2024, we recorded |
(8) | During the fourth quarter of 2024 and for the year ended December 31, 2024, we recorded a tax benefit of |
(9) | |
(10) | During the fourth quarter of 2023 and the year ended December 31, 2023, we recorded a tax expense of |
(11) | During the fourth quarter of 2024 and for the year ended December 31, 2024, we recorded a full reversal of a valuation allowance for certain deferred tax assets of |
(12) | During the fourth quarter of 2024 and for the year ended December 31, 2024, we recorded a |
(13) | During the fourth quarter of 2024, we recorded the tax impact of adjustments of |
For the year ended December 31, 2024, we recorded the tax impact of adjustments of | |
Reconciliations of Non-GAAP Financial Measures to the Comparable GAAP Financial Measures (Unaudited)
(Dollars in millions, except per share amounts)
B. Reconciliation of net income attributable to Equifax to adjusted EBITDA, defined as net income excluding income taxes, interest expense, net, depreciation and amortization expense, accrual for legal and regulatory matters related to the 2017 cybersecurity incident, fair market value adjustment and gain on sale of equity investments, pension mark-to-market fair value adjustment, foreign currency impact of certain intercompany loans, acquisition-related costs other than acquisition amortization, realignment of resources and other costs,
Three Months Ended December 31, | |||||||||
(In millions) | 2024 | 2023 | $ Change | % Change | |||||
Revenue | $ 1,419.4 | $ 1,326.5 | $ 92.9 | 7 % | |||||
Net income attributable to Equifax | $ 174.0 | $ 132.4 | $ 41.6 | 31 % | |||||
Income taxes | 52.2 | 48.3 | 3.9 | 8 % | |||||
Interest expense, net* | 50.1 | 56.4 | (6.3) | (11) % | |||||
Depreciation and amortization | 171.6 | 156.4 | 15.2 | 10 % | |||||
Accrual for legal and regulatory matters related to 2017 cybersecurity incident (1) | 0.1 | 1.9 | (1.8) | (95) % | |||||
Pension mark-to-market fair value adjustment (3) | 11.6 | 0.1 | 11.5 | nm | |||||
Foreign currency impact of certain intercompany loans (4) | 0.3 | 1.3 | (1.0) | (77) % | |||||
Acquisition-related costs other than acquisition amortization (5) | 20.0 | 27.2 | (7.2) | (26) % | |||||
Realignment of resources and other costs (6) | 6.4 | 19.4 | (13.0) | (67) % | |||||
0.6 | 3.2 | (2.6) | (81) % | ||||||
Legal Settlement (8) | 15.0 | — | 15.0 | nm | |||||
Adjusted EBITDA, excluding the items listed above | $ 501.9 | $ 446.6 | $ 55.3 | 12 % | |||||
Adjusted EBITDA margin | 35.4 % | 33.7 % | |||||||
Twelve Months Ended December 31, | |||||||||
(In millions) | 2024 | 2023 | $ Change | % Change | |||||
Revenue | $ 5,681.1 | $ 5,265.2 | $ 415.9 | 8 % | |||||
Net income attributable to Equifax | $ 604.1 | $ 545.3 | $ 58.8 | 11 % | |||||
Income taxes | 203.2 | 166.2 | 37.0 | 22 % | |||||
Interest expense, net* | 214.2 | 227.2 | (13.0) | (6) % | |||||
Depreciation and amortization | 669.8 | 610.8 | 59.0 | 10 % | |||||
Accrual for legal and regulatory matters related to 2017 cybersecurity incident (1) | 0.3 | 16.8 | (16.5) | (98) % | |||||
Fair market value adjustment and gain on sale of equity investments (2) | — | (13.4) | 13.4 | nm | |||||
Pension mark-to-market fair value adjustment (3) | 11.6 | 0.1 | 11.5 | nm | |||||
Foreign currency impact of certain intercompany loans (4) | 0.4 | (1.0) | 1.4 | nm | |||||
Acquisition-related costs other than acquisition amortization (5) | 68.4 | 103.2 | (34.8) | (34) % | |||||
Realignment of resources and other costs (6) | 48.0 | 34.6 | 13.4 | 39 % | |||||
1.1 | 3.8 | (2.7) | (71) % | ||||||
Legal Settlement (8) | 15.0 | — | 15.0 | nm | |||||
Adjusted EBITDA, excluding the items listed above | $ 1,836.1 | $ 1,693.6 | $ 142.5 | 8 % | |||||
Adjusted EBITDA margin | 32.3 % | 32.2 % | |||||||
nm - not meaningful | |
*Excludes interest income of | |
(1) | During the fourth quarter of 2024, we recorded an accrual for legal and regulatory matters related to the 2017 cybersecurity incident of |
(2) | For the year ended December 31, 2023, we recorded a |
(3) | During the fourth quarter of 2024 and for the year ended December 31, 2024, we recorded an |
(4) | During the fourth quarter of 2024 and for the year ended December 31, 2024, we recorded a foreign currency loss on certain intercompany loans of |
(5) | During the fourth quarter of 2024 and for the year ended December 31, 2024, we recorded |
(6) | During the fourth quarter of 2024, we recorded |
(7) | |
(8) | During the fourth quarter of 2024 and for the year ended December 31, 2024, we recorded a |
C. Reconciliation of operating income by segment to Adjusted EBITDA, excluding depreciation and amortization expense, other income, net, noncontrolling interest, accrual for legal and regulatory matters related to the 2017 cybersecurity incident, fair market value adjustment and gain on sale of equity investments, pension mark-to-market fair value adjustment, foreign currency impact of certain intercompany loans, acquisition-related costs other than acquisition amortization, realignment of resources and other costs,
(In millions) | Three Months Ended December 31, 2024 | |||||||||
Workforce |
| International | General Corporate | Total | ||||||
Revenue | $ 598.1 | $ 472.5 | $ 348.8 | — | $ 1,419.4 | |||||
Operating Income | 257.9 | 115.1 | 60.8 | (145.7) | 288.1 | |||||
Depreciation and Amortization | 44.8 | 62.7 | 44.6 | 19.5 | 171.6 | |||||
Other expense, net* | — | — | (0.1) | (12.3) | (12.4) | |||||
Noncontrolling interest | — | — | 0.6 | — | 0.6 | |||||
Adjustments (1) | 7.6 | 3.0 | 7.6 | 35.8 | 54.0 | |||||
Adjusted EBITDA | $ 310.3 | $ 180.8 | $ 113.5 | $ (102.7) | $ 501.9 | |||||
Operating Margin | 43.1 % | 24.4 % | 17.4 % | nm | 20.3 % | |||||
Adjusted EBITDA Margin | 51.9 % | 38.3 % | 32.5 % | nm | 35.4 % | |||||
(In millions) | Twelve Months Ended December 31, 2024 | |||||||||
Workforce |
| International | General Corporate | Total | ||||||
Revenue | $ 2,433.8 | $ 1,893.0 | $ 1,354.3 | — | $ 5,681.1 | |||||
Operating Income | 1,053.3 | 404.4 | 181.2 | (596.8) | 1,042.1 | |||||
Depreciation and Amortization | 178.4 | 237.3 | 176.0 | 78.1 | 669.8 | |||||
Other income (expense), net* | — | 0.2 | 2.0 | (19.6) | (17.4) | |||||
Noncontrolling interest | — | — | (3.2) | — | (3.2) | |||||
Adjustments (1) | 30.0 | 11.5 | 18.2 | 85.1 | 144.8 | |||||
Adjusted EBITDA | $ 1,261.7 | $ 653.4 | $ 374.2 | $ (453.2) | $ 1,836.1 | |||||
Operating Margin | 43.3 % | 21.4 % | 13.4 % | nm | 18.3 % | |||||
Adjusted EBITDA Margin | 51.8 % | 34.5 % | 27.6 % | nm | 32.3 % | |||||
*Excludes interest income of | ||||||||||
(In millions) | Three Months Ended December 31, 2023 | |||||||||
Workforce |
| International | General Corporate | Total | ||||||
Revenue | $ 559.5 | $ 427.7 | $ 339.3 | — | $ 1,326.5 | |||||
Operating Income | 234.7 | 93.9 | 60.6 | (144.1) | 245.1 | |||||
Depreciation and Amortization | 44.4 | 52.6 | 41.7 | 17.7 | 156.4 | |||||
Other expense, net* | (0.1) | (0.1) | (3.1) | (2.6) | (5.9) | |||||
Noncontrolling interest | — | — | (2.1) | — | (2.1) | |||||
Adjustments (2) | 7.5 | 3.7 | 8.7 | 33.2 | 53.1 | |||||
Adjusted EBITDA | $ 286.5 | $ 150.1 | $ 105.8 | $ (95.8) | $ 446.6 | |||||
Operating Margin | 41.9 % | 22.0 % | 17.9 % | nm | 18.5 % | |||||
Adjusted EBITDA Margin | 51.2 % | 35.1 % | 31.2 % | nm | 33.7 % | |||||
(In millions) | Twelve Months Ended December 31, 2023 | |||||||||
Workforce |
| International | General Corporate | Total | ||||||
Revenue | $ 2,315.8 | $ 1,720.4 | $ 1,229.0 | — | $ 5,265.2 | |||||
Operating Income | 969.3 | 365.0 | 167.8 | (568.5) | 933.6 | |||||
Depreciation and Amortization | 176.4 | 205.8 | 147.6 | 81.0 | 610.8 | |||||
Other (expense) income, net* | (0.2) | 0.3 | 15.7 | (4.3) | 11.5 | |||||
Noncontrolling interest | — | — | (6.4) | — | (6.4) | |||||
Adjustments (2) | 35.5 | 22.1 | 1.1 | 85.4 | 144.1 | |||||
Adjusted EBITDA | $ 1,181.0 | $ 593.2 | $ 325.8 | $ (406.4) | $ 1,693.6 | |||||
Operating Margin | 41.9 % | 21.2 % | 13.7 % | nm | 17.7 % | |||||
Adjusted EBITDA Margin | 51.0 % | 34.5 % | 26.5 % | nm | 32.2 % | |||||
*Excludes interest income | |
(1) | During the fourth quarter of 2024, we recorded pre-tax expenses of |
For the year ended December 31, 2024, we recorded | |
(2) | During the fourth quarter of 2023, we recorded pre-tax expenses of |
For the year ended December 31, 2023, we recorded | |
Notes to Reconciliations of Non-GAAP Financial Measures to the Comparable GAAP Financial Measures
Diluted EPS attributable to Equifax is adjusted for the following items:
Acquisition-related amortization expense - During the fourth quarter of 2024 and 2023, we recorded acquisition-related amortization expense of certain acquired intangibles of
We calculate this financial measure by excluding the impact of acquisition-related amortization expense and including a benefit to reflect the material cash income tax savings resulting from the income tax deductibility of amortization for certain acquired intangibles. These financial measures are not prepared in conformity with GAAP. Management believes excluding the impact of amortization expense is useful because excluding acquisition-related amortization, and other items that are not comparable allows investors to evaluate our performance for different periods on a more comparable basis. Certain acquired intangibles result in material cash income tax savings which are not reflected in earnings. Management believes that including a benefit to reflect the cash income tax savings is useful as it allows investors to better value Equifax. Management makes these adjustments to earnings when measuring profitability, evaluating performance trends, setting performance objectives and calculating our return on invested capital.
Accrual for legal and regulatory matters related to the 2017 cybersecurity incident - Accrual for legal and regulatory matters related to the 2017 cybersecurity incident includes legal fees to respond to subsequent litigation and government investigations for the periods presented. During the fourth quarter of 2024 and for the year ended December 31, 2024, we recorded an accrual for legal and regulatory matters related to the 2017 cybersecurity incident of
Fair market value adjustment and gain on sale of equity investments - For the year ended December 31, 2023, we recorded a
Pension mark-to-market fair value adjustment - We utilize a mark-to-market method of accounting for recognizing actuarial gains and losses and expected return on plan assets for our defined benefit pension and other postretirement benefit plans. Under our accounting methodology for recognizing actuarial gains and losses and expected return on plan assets for our defined benefit pension and other postretirement benefit plans, remeasurement of projected benefit obligation and plan assets are immediately recognized in earnings through net periodic benefit cost within Other Income (Expense) on the Consolidated Statements of Income, with pension and postretirement plans to be remeasured annually in the fourth quarter, or on an interim basis as triggering events require remeasurement. During the fourth quarter of 2024 and for the year ended December 31, 2024, we recorded an
Foreign currency impact of certain intercompany loans - During the fourth quarter of 2024 and for the year ended December 31, 2024, we recorded a foreign currency loss related to certain intercompany loans of
Acquisition-related costs other than acquisition amortization - During the fourth quarter of 2024 and for the year ended December 31, 2024, we recorded
Charge related to the realignment of resources and other costs - During the fourth quarter of 2024, we recorded
Income tax effects of stock awards that are recognized upon vesting or settlement - During the fourth quarter of 2024 and for the year ended December 31, 2024, we recorded a tax benefit of
Adjustments to deferred tax balances - During the fourth quarter of 2023, we recorded a tax expense of
Reversal of a valuation allowance for certain deferred tax assets - During the fourth quarter of 2024 and for the year ended December 31, 2024, we recorded a full reversal of a valuation allowance for certain deferred tax assets of
Legal settlement - During the fourth quarter of 2024 and for the year ended December 31, 2024, we recorded a
Adjusted EBITDA and EBITDA margin - Management defines adjusted EBITDA as consolidated net income attributable to Equifax plus net interest expense, income taxes, depreciation and amortization, and also excludes certain one-time items. Management believes the use of adjusted EBITDA and adjusted EBITDA margin allows investors to evaluate our performance for different periods on a more comparable basis.
Contact: | |
Trevor Burns | Kate Walker |
Investor Relations | Media Relations |
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SOURCE Equifax Inc.