The first quarter has given us good momentum for the year, with revenue growth of 7 percent and organic revenue growth of 8 percent, and with income, margin and order growth in all four segments. Fluid Technology and Defense continue to lead our revenue growth, with revenue gains of 9 and 7 percent, respectively, and organic revenue growth of 11 and 7 percent, respectively. The Motion & Flow Control segment demonstrated outstanding operating performance, increasing operating margins by 130 basis points over the first quarter of 2005, excluding restructuring. Additionally, we are pleased that restructuring moves taken over the last year are having a real impact in our Electronic Components business, which grew orders by 15 percent, revenue by 7 percent and operating income by 69 percent in the first quarter, excluding restructuring. |
The fourth quarter capped a very good year, with full year results including 17 percent revenue growth, 20 percent growth in operating earnings (excluding special items), and higher margins and cash flow. The year's performance reflects the strength of our portfolio and attractiveness of our core businesses. |
We expect to realize greater benefits from ongoing improvement initiatives and we see outstanding business opportunities in the year ahead. We remain confident in our full year 2006 EPS outlook of $5.78-$5.92, including the estimated ($0.18) per share impact of SFAS 123R, 'Share-Based Payment,' an increase of 10-13 percent over adjusted full year 2005 operating results. Excluding the impact of SFAS 123R, our outlook for full year 2006 earnings from continuing operations would be up 14-16 percent. We expect Q1 2006 EPS of $1.18-$1.22. |
With this transaction behind us, we can sharpen our focus on our other improvement priorities, such as streamlining our operations and expanding our core businesses in advanced water treatment, water and wastewater solutions, space, defense electronics and leisure marine in order to provide greater potential for growth and profitability. We will continue operating our portfolio toward achieving premier multi-industry performance, with an improved growth profile, increased margins and a more efficient use of capital. |