15Q2_10Q_12.31.14_Form 10-Q
 
 

 
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
Form 10-Q
þ
QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the quarterly period ended December 31, 2014
or
o
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: 1-11373
Cardinal Health, Inc.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
Ohio
31-0958666
(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)
(IRS Employer
Identification No.)
 
 
7000 Cardinal Place, Dublin, Ohio
43017
(Address of principal executive offices)
(Zip Code)
 
 
(614) 757-5000
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)
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  þ    No  o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Website, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).    Yes  þ    No  o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large accelerated filer  þ
Accelerated filer  o
Non-accelerated filer  o (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)
Smaller reporting company  o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).    Yes  o    No  þ
The number of the registrant’s common shares, without par value, outstanding as of January 27, 2015, was the following: 330,130,751.
 


 
 
Cardinal Health, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Table of Contents

Item
Index*
Page
 
 
1
 
 
 
 
 
2
3
4
 
 
 
 
 
1
1A
2
5
6
 
 
 
 
*
Items not listed are inapplicable.
 



 
Cardinal Health, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Part I. Financial Information



Item 1: Financial Statements
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Earnings (Unaudited)
 
Three Months Ended December 31
 
Six Months Ended December 31
(in millions, except per common share amounts)
2014
 
2013
 
2014
 
2013
Revenue
$
25,537

 
$
22,240

 
$
49,607

 
$
46,763

Cost of products sold
24,083

 
20,895

 
46,813

 
44,155

Gross margin
1,454

 
1,345

 
2,794


2,608

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating expenses:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Distribution, selling, general and administrative expenses
815

 
766

 
1,590


1,497

Restructuring and employee severance
7

 
10

 
26


20

Amortization and other acquisition-related costs
60

 
56

 
112


105

Impairments and (gain)/loss on disposal of assets, net
(18
)
 
9

 
(18
)

9

Litigation (recoveries)/charges, net
44

 
(15
)
 
72


(13
)
Operating earnings
546

 
519

 
1,012

 
990

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Other income, net
(1
)
 
(6
)
 
(4
)

(10
)
Interest expense, net
36

 
33

 
70


66

Loss on extinguishment of debt
60

 

 
60

 

Earnings before income taxes and discontinued operations
451

 
492

 
886

 
934

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Provision for income taxes
162

 
217

 
331

 
320

Earnings from continuing operations
289

 
275

 
555

 
614

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Earnings from discontinued operations, net of tax

 
3

 

 
3

Net earnings
$
289

 
$
278

 
$
555

 
$
617

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Basic earnings per common share:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Continuing operations
$
0.87

 
$
0.80

 
$
1.66

 
$
1.80

Discontinued operations

 
0.01

 

 
0.01

Net basic earnings per common share
$
0.87

 
$
0.81

 
$
1.66

 
$
1.81

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Diluted earnings per common share:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Continuing operations
$
0.86

 
$
0.79

 
$
1.65

 
$
1.78

Discontinued operations

 
0.01

 

 
0.01

Net diluted earnings per common share
$
0.86

 
$
0.80

 
$
1.65

 
$
1.79

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Weighted-average number of common shares outstanding:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Basic
331

 
342

 
333

 
341

Diluted
334

 
346

 
337

 
345

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash dividends declared per common share
$
0.3425

 
$
0.3025

 
$
0.6850

 
$
0.6050

See notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

3

 
Cardinal Health, Inc. and Subsidiaries
 
 
 


Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Unaudited)
 
Three Months Ended December 31
 
Six Months Ended December 31
(in millions)
2014
 
2013
 
2014
 
2013
Net earnings
$
289

 
$
278

 
$
555

 
$
617

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Other comprehensive income/(loss):
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net change in foreign currency translation adjustments
(40
)
 
4

 
(64
)
 
28

Net unrealized gain/(loss) on derivative instruments, net of tax
(9
)
 
3

 
(9
)
 
3

Total other comprehensive income/(loss), net of tax
(49
)
 
7

 
(73
)
 
31

Total comprehensive income
$
240

 
$
285

 
$
482

 
$
648

See notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.


4

 
Cardinal Health, Inc. and Subsidiaries
 
 
 


Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets
(in millions)
December 31,
2014
 
June 30,
2014
 
(Unaudited)
 
 
Assets
 
 
 
Current assets:
 
 
 
Cash and equivalents
$
2,881

 
$
2,865

Trade receivables, net
5,653

 
5,380

Inventories, net
9,408

 
8,266

Prepaid expenses and other
1,213

 
1,428

Total current assets
19,155

 
17,939

 
 
 
 
Property and equipment, net
1,415

 
1,459

Goodwill and other intangibles, net
5,876

 
5,870

Other assets
802

 
765

Total assets
$
27,248

 
$
26,033

 
 
 
 
Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity
 
 
 
Current liabilities:
 
 
 
Accounts payable
$
13,602

 
$
12,149

Current portion of long-term obligations and other short-term borrowings
270

 
801

Other accrued liabilities
2,158

 
2,165

Total current liabilities
16,030

 
15,115

 
 
 
 
Long-term obligations, less current portion
3,706

 
3,171

Deferred income taxes and other liabilities
1,412

 
1,346

 
 
 
 
Shareholders’ equity:
 
 
 
Preferred shares, without par value:
 
 
 
Authorized—500 thousand shares, Issued—none

 

Common shares, without par value:
 
 
 
Authorized—755 million shares, Issued—364 million shares at December 31, 2014 and June 30, 2014
2,973

 
2,980

Retained earnings
5,100

 
4,774

Common shares in treasury, at cost: 34 million shares and 27 million shares at December 31, 2014 and June 30, 2014, respectively
(1,970
)
 
(1,423
)
Accumulated other comprehensive income/(loss)
(3
)
 
70

Total shareholders’ equity
6,100

 
6,401

Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity
$
27,248

 
$
26,033

See notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

5

 
Cardinal Health, Inc. and Subsidiaries
 
 
 


Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Unaudited)
 
Six Months Ended December 31
(in millions)
2014
 
2013
Cash flows from operating activities:
 
 
 
Net earnings
$
555

 
$
617

Earnings from discontinued operations, net of tax

 
(3
)
Earnings from continuing operations
555

 
614

 
 
 
 
Adjustments to reconcile earnings from continuing operations to net cash provided by operating activities:
 
 
 
Depreciation and amortization
220

 
234

Loss on extinguishment of debt
60

 

Gain on sale of other investments
(5
)
 

Impairments and (gain)/loss on disposal of assets, net
(18
)
 
9

Share-based compensation
53

 
48

Provision for bad debts
26

 
29

Change in operating assets and liabilities, net of effects from acquisitions:
 
 
 
Decrease/(increase) in trade receivables
(291
)
 
1,420

Increase in inventories
(1,137
)
 
(100
)
Increase/(decrease) in accounts payable
1,438

 
(1,088
)
Other accrued liabilities and operating items, net
113

 
(178
)
Net cash provided by operating activities
1,014

 
988

 
 
 
 
Cash flows from investing activities:
 
 
 
Acquisition of subsidiaries, net of cash acquired
(86
)
 
(50
)
Additions to property and equipment
(83
)
 
(90
)
Purchase of available-for-sale securities and other investments
(107
)
 

Proceeds from sale of available-for-sale securities and other investments
107

 

Proceeds from maturities of available-for-sale securities
16

 

Proceeds from divestitures and disposal of held for sale assets
53

 

Net cash used in investing activities
(100
)
 
(140
)
 
 
 
 
Cash flows from financing activities:
 
 
 
Net change in short-term borrowings
(18
)
 
73

Reduction of long-term obligations
(1,220
)
 
(1
)
Proceeds from long-term obligations, net of issuance costs
1,182

 

Net proceeds from issuance of common shares
35

 
139

Tax proceeds from share-based compensation
42

 
39

Dividends on common shares
(233
)
 
(208
)
Purchase of treasury shares
(686
)
 
(50
)
Net cash used in financing activities
(898
)
 
(8
)
 
 
 
 
Net increase in cash and equivalents
16

 
840

Cash and equivalents at beginning of period
2,865

 
1,901

Cash and equivalents at end of period
$
2,881

 
$
2,741

See notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.


6

 
Cardinal Health, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements



1. Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Basis of Presentation
Our condensed consolidated financial statements include the accounts of all majority-owned or controlled subsidiaries, and all significant intercompany transactions and amounts have been eliminated. To conform to the current year presentation, certain prior year amounts have been reclassified. References to "we," "our" and similar pronouns in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended December 31, 2014 (this "Form 10-Q") refer to Cardinal Health, Inc. and its majority-owned or controlled subsidiaries unless the context requires otherwise. The results of businesses acquired or disposed of are included in the condensed consolidated financial statements from the effective date of the acquisition or up to the date of disposal, respectively.
Our condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") instructions to Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and include all of the information and disclosures required by accounting principles generally accepted in the United States ("GAAP") for interim financial reporting. The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect amounts reported in the condensed consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual amounts may differ from these estimated amounts. In addition, operating results presented for this fiscal 2015 interim period are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the full fiscal year ending June 30, 2015.
These condensed consolidated financial statements are unaudited and are presented pursuant to the rules and regulations of the SEC. Accordingly, the condensed consolidated financial statements included in this Form 10-Q should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements and related notes contained in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2014 (the "2014 Form 10-K"). In our opinion, all adjustments necessary for a fair presentation of the condensed consolidated financial statements have been included. Except as disclosed elsewhere in this Form 10-Q, all such adjustments are of a normal and recurring nature.
Recent Financial Accounting Standards
In August 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued amended accounting guidance related to uncertainties about an entity’s ability to continue as a going concern. This guidance requires management to evaluate whether there is substantial doubt about a company’s ability to continue as a going concern. This amendment will be effective for us in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2017, with early adoption
 
permitted. We do not expect the adoption of this guidance to impact our financial statement disclosures.
In May 2014, the FASB issued amended accounting guidance related to revenue recognition. This guidance is based on the principle that revenue is recognized in an amount that reflects the consideration to which an entity expects to be entitled in exchange for the transfer of goods or services to customers. The guidance also requires additional disclosure about the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from customer contracts, including significant judgments and changes in judgments and assets recognized from costs incurred to obtain or fulfill a contract. This amendment will be effective for us in the first quarter of fiscal 2018. We are continuing to evaluate the options for adoption and the impact on our financial position and results of operations.
In July 2013, the FASB issued amended accounting guidance related to the presentation of an unrecognized tax benefit when a net operating loss carryforward, a similar tax loss, or a tax credit carryforward exists. This guidance requires an entity to present an unrecognized tax benefit, or a portion of an unrecognized tax benefit, as a reduction to a deferred tax asset for a net operating loss carryforward, a similar tax loss, or a tax credit carryforward, unless certain conditions exists. We adopted this guidance in the first quarter of fiscal 2015. The adoption of this guidance did not impact our financial position or results of operations.
In March 2013, the FASB issued amended accounting guidance related to a parent company's accounting for the cumulative translation adjustment upon derecognition of certain subsidiaries or group of assets within a foreign entity or of an investment in a foreign entity. The amended guidance requires the release of any cumulative translation adjustment into net income only upon complete or substantially complete liquidation of a controlling interest in a subsidiary or a group of assets within a foreign entity. Also, it requires the release of all or a pro rata portion of the cumulative translation adjustment to net income in the case of sale of an equity method investment that is a foreign entity. We adopted this amended guidance in the first quarter of fiscal 2015. The adoption of this guidance did not impact our financial position or results of operations.
2. Acquisitions
While we have completed acquisitions during the six months ended December 31, 2014, the pro forma results of operations and the results of operations for acquired businesses since the acquisition dates have not been separately disclosed because the effects were not significant compared to the consolidated financial statements, individually or in the aggregate.
AccessClosure
On May 9, 2014, we completed the acquisition of Access Closure, Inc. ("AccessClosure") for $320 million in an all-cash transaction. We funded the acquisition with cash on hand. The


7

 
Cardinal Health, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)


acquisition of AccessClosure, a manufacturer and distributor of extravascular closure devices, expands the Medical segment's portfolio of self-manufactured products. The assessment of fair value for AccessClosure is preliminary and is based on information that was available at the time the condensed consolidated financial statements were prepared.
3. Restructuring and Employee Severance
The following tables summarize restructuring and employee severance costs related to our restructuring activities:
 
Three Months Ended December 31
(in millions)
2014
 
2013
Employee-related costs (1)
$
5

 
$
4

Facility exit and other costs (2)
2

 
6

Total restructuring and employee severance
$
7

 
$
10

 
Six Months Ended December 31
(in millions)
2014
 
2013
Employee-related costs (1)
$
21

 
$
8

Facility exit and other costs (2)
5

 
12

Total restructuring and employee severance
$
26

 
$
20

(1)
Employee-related costs primarily consist of termination benefits provided to employees who have been involuntarily terminated and duplicate payroll costs during transition periods.
(2)
Facility exit and other costs primarily consist of lease termination costs, accelerated depreciation, equipment relocation costs, project consulting fees and costs associated with restructuring our delivery of information technology infrastructure services.
The majority of restructuring costs incurred during the three and six months ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 related to restructuring activities within our Medical segment.
In connection with a restructuring plan within our Medical segment announced on January 30, 2013, we completed the sale of our property in Waukegan, Illinois during the three months ended December 31, 2014, which resulted in a $1 million loss on disposal of held for sale assets.
The following table summarizes activity related to liabilities associated with restructuring and employee severance:
(in millions)
Employee-
Related Costs
 
Facility Exit
and Other Costs
 
Total
Balance at June 30, 2014
$
24

 
$

 
$
24

Additions
18

 
1

 
19

Payments and other adjustments
(18
)
 

 
(18
)
Balance at December 31, 2014
$
24

 
$
1

 
$
25

 
4. Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets
Goodwill
The following table summarizes the changes in the carrying amount of goodwill, by segment and in total:
(in millions)
Pharmaceutical
 
Medical
 
Total
Balance at June 30, 2014
$
2,158

 
$
2,720

 
$
4,878

Goodwill acquired, net of purchase price adjustments
21

 
50

 
71

Foreign currency translation adjustments and other

 
(20
)
 
(20
)
Balance at December 31, 2014
$
2,179

 
$
2,750

 
$
4,929

Other Intangible Assets
Other intangible assets are amortized over periods ranging from one to twenty years. The following tables summarize other intangible assets by class at:
 
December 31, 2014
(in millions)
Gross
Intangible
 
Accumulated
Amortization
 
Net
Intangible
Indefinite-life intangibles:
 
 
 
 
 
Trademarks and other
$
14

 
$

 
$
14

Total indefinite-life intangibles
14

 

 
14

 
 
 
 
 
 
Definite-life intangibles:
 
 
 
 
 
Customer relationships
1,041

 
434

 
607

Trademarks, trade names and patents
225

 
79

 
146

Developed technology and other
295

 
115

 
180

Total definite-life intangibles
1,561

 
628

 
933

Total other intangible assets
$
1,575

 
$
628

 
$
947


 
June 30, 2014
(in millions)
Gross
Intangible
 
Accumulated
Amortization
 
Net
Intangible
Indefinite-life intangibles:
 
 
 
 
 
Trademarks and other
$
14

 
$

 
$
14

Total indefinite-life intangibles
14

 

 
14

 
 
 
 
 
 
Definite-life intangibles:
 
 
 
 
 
Customer relationships
1,043

 
388

 
655

Trademarks, trade names and patents
213

 
69

 
144

Developed technology and other
258

 
79

 
179

Total definite-life intangibles
1,514

 
536

 
978

Total other intangible assets
$
1,528

 
$
536

 
$
992




8

 
Cardinal Health, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)


Total amortization of intangible assets was $47 million and $46 million for the three months ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, and $92 million for both the six months ended December 31, 2014 and 2013. Estimated annual amortization of intangible assets for the remainder of fiscal 2015 through 2019 is as follows: $94 million, $176 million, $167 million, $124 million and $76 million.
5. Available-for-Sale Securities
We invest in marketable securities, which are classified as available-for-sale and are carried at fair value in the condensed consolidated balance sheets. We held the following investments in marketable securities at fair value at:
(in millions)
December 31, 2014
 
June 30, 2014
Current available-for-sale securities:
 
 
 
Commercial paper
$
14

 
$
4

Treasury bills

 
85

International bonds
1

 
1

Corporate bonds
5

 
3

U.S. agency bonds
25

 

U.S. agency mortgage-backed securities

6

 

Total current available-for-sale securities
51

 
93

 
 
 
 
Long-term available-for-sale securities:
 
 
 
Corporate bonds
9

 
5

U.S. agency bonds
7

 
2

U.S. agency mortgage-backed securities
21

 

Total long-term available-for-sale securities
37

 
7

Total available-for-sale securities
$
88

 
$
100

Gross unrealized gains and losses were immaterial at December 31, 2014. During the three and six months ended December 31, 2014, gross realized gains and losses were immaterial and we did not recognize any other-than-temporary impairments. At December 31, 2014, the weighted-average effective maturity of our current and long-term investments was approximately 9 months and 16 months, respectively.
6. Long-Term Obligations and Other Short-Term Borrowings
Long-Term Debt
In a registered debt offering in November 2014, we sold $450 million aggregate principal amount of 2.4% Notes that mature on November 15, 2019, $400 million aggregate principal amount of 3.5% Notes that mature on November 15, 2024 and $350 million aggregate principal amount of 4.5% Notes that mature on November 15, 2044 (collectively, the "Notes"). The Notes are unsecured obligations and rank equally in right of payment with all of our existing and future unsecured and unsubordinated indebtedness.
 
The Notes require us to offer to purchase the Notes at 101% of the principal amount plus accrued and unpaid interest if we undergo a change of control, as defined in the Notes, and if the Notes receive specified ratings below investment grade by each of Standard & Poor's Ratings Services, Moody's Investors Service, Inc. and Fitch Ratings.
In December 2014, we used the net proceeds from the offering, together with cash on hand, to redeem all of the outstanding 4.0% Notes due 2015, 5.8% Notes due 2016, 5.85% Notes due 2017 and 6.0% Notes due 2017 at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount and any accrued but unpaid interest, plus the make-whole premium applicable to each series of notes. As a result of the redemption, we incurred a loss on the extinguishment of debt of $60 million ($37 million, net of tax), which included a make-whole premium of $80 million, write-off of $2 million of unamortized debt issuance costs and an offsetting $22 million fair value adjustment to the respective debt related to previously terminated interest rate swaps.
The following table summarizes long-term obligations and other short-term borrowings:
(in millions)
December 31, 2014
 
June 30, 2014
1.7% Notes due 2018
$
401

 
$
401

1.9% Notes due 2017
250

 
251

2.4% Notes due 2019
449

 

3.2% Notes due 2022
249

 
248

3.2% Notes due 2023
549

 
549

3.5% Notes due 2024
398

 

4.0% Notes due 2015

 
513

4.5% Notes due 2044
345

 

4.6% Notes due 2043
349

 
349

4.625% Notes due 2020
525

 
525

5.8% Notes due 2016

 
301

5.85% Notes due 2017

 
158

6.0% Notes due 2017

 
197

7.0% Debentures due 2026
124

 
124

7.8% Debentures due 2016
37

 
37

Other obligations
300

 
319

Total
$
3,976

 
$
3,972

Less: current portion of long-term obligations and other short-term borrowings
270

 
801

Long-term obligations, less current portion
$
3,706

 
$
3,171

Maturities of long-term obligations and other short-term borrowings for the remainder of fiscal 2015 through 2019 and thereafter are as follows: $270 million, $22 million, $289 million, $402 million, $1 million, and $2,992 million.
Other Financing Arrangements
On November 3, 2014, we renewed our committed receivables sales facility program through Cardinal Health Funding, LLC


9

 
Cardinal Health, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)


("CHF") until November 3, 2017 and increased the size of the facility from $700 million to $950 million. CHF was organized for the sole purpose of buying receivables and selling undivided interests in those receivables to third-party purchasers. Although consolidated in accordance with GAAP, CHF is a separate legal entity from Cardinal Health and from our subsidiary that sells receivables to CHF. CHF is designed to be a special purpose, bankruptcy-remote entity whose assets are available solely to satisfy the claims of its creditors. We had no outstanding balance under the committed receivable sales facility program at December 31, 2014 and June 30, 2014, except for standby letters of credit of $41 million at both December 31, 2014 and June 30, 2014.
7. Income Taxes
Fluctuations in our provision for income taxes as a percentage of pretax earnings (“effective tax rate”) are due to changes in international and U.S. state effective tax rates resulting from our business mix and discrete items.
During the three months ended December 31, 2014, the effective tax rate of 36.0 percent was unfavorably impacted by 3.0 percentage points ($13 million) due to nondeductibility of litigation charges and favorably impacted by 3.1 percentage points ($14 million) related to a previously unrecognized tax benefit for a loss carryback from fiscal 2007.
During the six months ended December 31, 2014, the effective tax rate of 37.4 percent was unfavorably impacted by 1.4 percentage points ($12 million) due to the remeasurement of unrecognized tax benefits and 2.7 percentage points ($24 million) due to nondeductibility of litigation charges, partially offset by 1.6 percentage points ($14 million) due to adjusting deferred tax assets and related valuation allowances for the impact of Puerto Rico tax law changes enacted during the period and 1.6 percentage points ($14 million) related to a previously unrecognized tax benefit for a loss carryback from fiscal 2007.
During the three months ended December 31, 2013, the effective tax rate of 44.1 percent was impacted by net unfavorable discrete items of $38 million, which increased the rate by 7.7 percentage points. The discrete items include the unfavorable impact of remeasurement of unrecognized tax benefits ($56 million) as a result of proposed assessments of additional tax.
During the six months ended December 31, 2013, the effective tax rate of 34.2 percent was impacted by net favorable discrete items of $23 million, which reduced the rate by 2.4 percentage points. The discrete items include the favorable impact of the settlement of federal and state tax controversies ($67 million) and the unfavorable impact of remeasurement of unrecognized tax benefits ($56 million).
We had $525 million and $510 million of unrecognized tax benefits at December 31, 2014 and June 30, 2014, respectively. The December 31, 2014 and June 30, 2014 balances include
 
$333 million and $322 million, respectively, of unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would have an impact on the effective tax rate. The remaining unrecognized tax benefits relate to tax positions for which ultimate deductibility is highly certain but for which there is uncertainty as to the timing of such deductibility. Recognition of these tax benefits would not affect our effective tax rate. We include the full amount of unrecognized tax benefits in deferred income taxes and other liabilities in the condensed consolidated balance sheets.
We recognize accrued interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in the provision for income taxes. At December 31, 2014 and June 30, 2014, we had $155 million and $143 million, respectively, accrued for the payment of interest and penalties. These balances are gross amounts before any tax benefits and are included in deferred income taxes and other liabilities in the condensed consolidated balance sheets.
It is reasonably possible that there could be a change in the amount of unrecognized tax benefits within the next 12 months due to activities of the U.S. Internal Revenue Service ("IRS") or other taxing authorities, including proposed assessments of additional tax, possible settlement of audit issues, reassessment of existing unrecognized tax benefits or the expiration of applicable statutes of limitations. We estimate that the range of the possible change in unrecognized tax benefits within the next 12 months is a net decrease of approximately zero to $180 million, exclusive of penalties and interest.
We file income tax returns in the U.S. federal jurisdiction, various U.S. state jurisdictions and various foreign jurisdictions. We are subject to audit by the IRS for fiscal years 2006 through the current fiscal year. We are generally subject to audit by taxing authorities in various U.S. state and foreign jurisdictions for fiscal years 2003 through the current fiscal year.
The IRS is currently conducting audits of fiscal years 2006 through 2010, and our transfer pricing arrangements continue to be under consideration as part of these audits. While the IRS has made and could make proposed adjustments to our transfer pricing arrangements or other matters, we are defending our reported tax positions, and have accounted for the unrecognized tax benefits associated with our tax positions.
We are a party to a tax matters agreement with CareFusion Corporation ("CareFusion"), under which CareFusion is obligated to indemnify us for certain tax exposures and transaction taxes prior to our fiscal 2010 spin-off of CareFusion. The indemnification receivable was $214 million and $210 million at December 31, 2014 and June 30, 2014, respectively, and is included in other assets in the condensed consolidated balance sheets.


10

 
Cardinal Health, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)


8. Commitments, Contingent Liabilities and Litigation
Commitments
Generic Sourcing Venture With CVS Health Corporation
In July 2014, we established Red Oak Sourcing, LLC ("Red Oak Sourcing"), a U.S.-based generic pharmaceutical sourcing entity with CVS Health Corporation (“CVS”) with an initial term of 10 years. Both companies have contributed sourcing and supply chain expertise to the 50/50 generic sourcing venture and have committed to source generic pharmaceuticals through arrangements negotiated by it. Red Oak Sourcing negotiates generic pharmaceutical supply contracts on behalf of both companies, but does not own products or hold inventory on behalf of either company. We are required to pay 39 quarterly payments of $25.6 million to CVS which commenced in October 2014. In addition, only if certain milestones are achieved, we are required to pay additional predetermined amounts to CVS beginning in fiscal 2016. Beginning in the three months ended December 31, 2014, the $25.6 million payment is being expensed quarterly over the remaining term of the sourcing venture.
Legal Proceedings
We become involved from time to time in disputes, litigation and regulatory matters incidental to our business.
We may be named from time to time in qui tam actions, which are initiated by private third parties purporting to act on behalf of federal or state governments, that allege that false claims have been submitted or have been caused to be submitted for payment by the government. After a private party has filed a qui tam action, the government must investigate the private party's claim and determine whether to intervene in and take control over the litigation. These actions may remain under seal while the government makes this determination. If the government declines to intervene, the private party may nonetheless continue to pursue the litigation on his or her own on behalf of the government.
From time to time, we receive subpoenas or requests for information from various government agencies relating to our business or to the business of a customer, supplier or other industry participant. The responses to these subpoenas and requests for information sometimes require considerable time and effort, and can result in us incurring considerable costs. Such subpoenas and requests also can lead to the assertion of claims or the commencement of legal proceedings against us, which can result in substantial settlements.
In addition, we occasionally may suspect that products we manufacture, market or distribute do not meet product specifications, published standards or regulatory requirements. In such circumstances, we investigate and take appropriate corrective action. Such actions can lead to product recalls, costs
 
to repair or replace affected products, temporary interruptions in product sales and action by regulators.
We accrue for contingencies related to disputes, litigation and regulatory matters if it is probable that a liability has been incurred and the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated. Because these matters are inherently unpredictable and unfavorable developments or resolutions can occur, assessing contingencies is highly subjective and requires judgments about future events. We regularly review contingencies to determine whether our accruals and related disclosures are adequate. While we have accrued for certain matters as described below at our best estimate of the amount of possible loss, the amount of ultimate loss may differ from these estimates.
With respect to the matters described below, we are unable to estimate a range of reasonably possible loss for matters for which there is no accrual, since damages or fines have not been specified or the proceedings are at stages where significant uncertainty exists as to legal or factual issues and as to whether such matters will proceed to trial. We do not believe, based on currently available information, that the outcomes of these matters will have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows, though the outcome of one or more of these matters could be material to our results of operations for a particular period.
We recognize income from the favorable outcome of litigation when we receive the associated cash or assets.
We recognize estimated loss contingencies for litigation and regulatory matters and income from favorable resolution of litigation in litigation (recoveries)/charges, net in our condensed consolidated statements of earnings.
DEA Investigation and Related Matters
In February 2012, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (the "DEA") issued an order to show cause and immediate suspension of our Lakeland, Florida distribution center's registration to distribute controlled substances, asserting that we failed to maintain required controls against the diversion of controlled substances. In May 2012, we entered into a settlement agreement with the DEA that resolved the administrative aspects of the DEA's action but did not resolve potential liability for civil fines in Florida or elsewhere for the conduct covered by the settlement agreement. In that regard, we are continuing to engage in discussions with several offices of the U.S. Department of Justice (the "DOJ"), including discussions regarding a possible settlement. We incurred litigation charges of $7 million and $34 million for this matter during the three and six months ended December 31, 2014, respectively. Our total accrual for this matter at December 31, 2014 is $34 million and is included in other accrued liabilities in the condensed consolidated balance sheet.


11

 
Cardinal Health, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)


State of West Virginia vs. Cardinal Health, Inc.
In June 2012, the West Virginia Attorney General filed complaints, which have been amended, against 13 pharmaceutical wholesale distributors, including us, in the Circuit Court of Boone County, West Virginia alleging, among other things, that the distributors failed to maintain effective controls to guard against diversion of controlled substances in West Virginia, failed to report suspicious orders of controlled substances in accordance with the West Virginia Uniform Controlled Substances Act and were negligent in distributing controlled substances to pharmacies that serve individuals who abuse controlled substances. In addition to injunctive and other equitable relief, the complaints seek monetary damages and the creation of a court-supervised fund, to be financed by the defendants in these actions, for a medical monitoring program focused on prescription drug abuse. We are vigorously defending ourselves in this matter.
FTC Investigation
The Federal Trade Commission (“FTC”) has been investigating supplier arrangements involving our Nuclear Pharmacy Services division primarily focused on the period between 2003 and 2008. We have been providing information to and cooperating with the FTC on this matter. Additionally, we have begun discussions with the FTC staff regarding a possible settlement of this matter, which would include, among other things, a payment to the government. We incurred a litigation charge of $27 million for this matter during the three months ended December 31, 2014, which represents the amount we believe we will pay if we are able to settle this matter and is included in other accrued liabilities in the condensed consolidated balance sheet.
Qui Tam Action
Our Cardinal Health at Home division was named as a defendant in an amended qui tam complaint that was filed in November 2014 in the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts against several manufacturers and distributors of ostomy and continence care products. The complaint seeks damages and penalties on behalf of the United States for alleged violations of the federal healthcare fraud and abuse laws, Medicare regulations and the federal False Claims Act in connection with the marketing and sale of these products. The DOJ has not yet determined whether to intervene in this qui tam action and is currently conducting an investigation of this matter. We are providing information to the DOJ in connection with its investigation.
Antitrust Litigation Proceeds
We recognized income resulting from settlements of class action antitrust claims in which we were a class member of $16 million during both the three and six months ended December 31, 2013.
 
9. Fair Value Measurements
The following tables present the fair values for assets measured on a recurring basis at:
 
December 31, 2014
(in millions)
Level 1
 
Level 2
 
Level 3
 
Total
Cash equivalents (1)
$
212

 
$

 
$

 
$
212

Forward contracts (2)

 

 

 

Available-for-sale securities (3)

 
88

 

 
88

Other investments (4)
112

 

 

 
112

Total
$
324

 
$
88

 
$

 
$
412

 
June 30, 2014
(in millions)
Level 1
 
Level 2
 
Level 3
 
Total
Cash equivalents (1)
$
740

 
$

 
$

 
$
740

Forward contracts (2)

 
10

 

 
10

Available-for-sale securities (3)

 
100

 

 
100

Other investments (4)
106

 

 

 
106

Total
$
846

 
$
110

 
$

 
$
956

(1)
Cash equivalents are comprised of highly liquid investments purchased with a maturity of three months or less. The carrying value of these cash equivalents approximates fair value due to their short-term maturities.
(2)
The fair value of interest rate swaps, foreign currency contracts and commodity contracts is determined based on the present value of expected future cash flows considering the risks involved, including non-performance risk, and using discount rates appropriate for the respective maturities. Observable Level 2 inputs are used to determine the present value of expected future cash flows. The fair value of these derivative contracts, which are subject to master netting arrangements under certain circumstances, is presented on a gross basis in the condensed consolidated balance sheets.
(3)
We invest in marketable securities, which are classified as available-for-sale and are carried at fair value in the condensed consolidated balance sheets. Observable Level 2 inputs such as quoted prices for similar securities, interest rate spreads, yield curves and credit risk are used to determine the fair value. See Note 5 for additional information regarding available-for-sale securities.
(4)
The other investments balance includes investments in mutual funds, which are used to offset fluctuations in deferred compensation liabilities. These mutual funds primarily invest in the equity securities of companies with large market capitalization and high quality fixed income debt securities. The fair value of these investments is determined using quoted market prices.
10. Financial Instruments
We utilize derivative financial instruments to manage exposure to certain risks related to our ongoing operations. The primary risks managed through the use of derivative instruments include interest rate risk, currency exchange risk and commodity price risk. We do not use derivative instruments for trading or speculative purposes. While the majority of our derivative instruments are designated as hedging instruments, we also enter into derivative instruments that are designed to hedge a risk, but are not designated as hedging instruments. These derivative instruments are adjusted to current fair value through earnings at the end of each period. Our derivative and hedging programs are consistent with those described in the 2014 Form 10-K.


12

 
Cardinal Health, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)


During the three months ended September 30, 2014, we entered into forward interest rate swaps with a total notional amount of $50 million to hedge probable, but not firmly committed, future transactions associated with our debt.
During the three months ended December 31, 2014, we entered into pay-floating interest rate swaps with total notional amounts of $450 million in connection with the debt issuance described in Note 6. These swaps have been designated fair value hedges of our fixed rate date and are included in other assets in the condensed consolidated balance sheet.
In December 2014, we terminated notional amounts of $875 million of pay-floating interest rate swaps in connection with the debt redemption described in Note 6. These swaps were previously designated as fair value hedges.
During the six months ended December 31, 2013, we entered into pay-floating interest rate swaps with total notional amounts of $300 million. These swaps have been designated as fair value hedges of our fixed rate debt and are included in other assets in the condensed consolidated balance sheets.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
The carrying amounts of cash and equivalents, trade receivables, net, accounts payable and other accrued liabilities at December 31, 2014 and June 30, 2014 approximate fair value due to their short-term maturities.
The following table summarizes the estimated fair value of our long-term obligations and other short-term borrowings compared to the respective carrying amounts at:
(in millions)
December 31,
2014
 
June 30,
2014
Estimated fair value
$
4,089

 
$
4,115

Carrying amount
3,976

 
3,972

The estimated fair value of our long-term obligations and other short-term borrowings is estimated based on either the quoted market prices for the same or similar issues or other inputs derived from available market information, which represents a Level 2 measurement.
11. Shareholders' Equity
Share Repurchases
During the six months ended December 31, 2014, we repurchased 9.1 million common shares having an aggregate cost of $684 million. The average price paid per common share was $75.00.
During the six months ended December 31, 2013, we repurchased 1.0 million common shares having an aggregate cost of $50 million. The average price paid per common share was $51.65.
 
We funded the repurchases with available cash. The common shares repurchased are held in treasury to be used for general corporate purposes.
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income
The following table summarizes the changes in the balance of accumulated other comprehensive income by component and in total:
(in millions)
Foreign
Currency
Translation
Adjustments
 
Unrealized
Gain/(Loss) on
Derivatives,
net of tax
 
Accumulated Other
Comprehensive
Income/(Loss)
Balance at June 30, 2014
$
63

 
$
7

 
$
70

 
 
 
 
 
 
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax before reclassifications
(64
)
 
(9
)
 
(73
)
Amounts reclassified to earnings

 

 

Total other comprehensive loss, net of tax of $5 million
(64
)
 
(9
)
 
(73
)
Balance at December 31, 2014
$
(1
)
 
$
(2
)
 
$
(3
)
Activity related to realized and unrealized gains and losses on available-for-sale securities as described in Note 5, was immaterial during the three and six months ended December 31, 2014.
12. Earnings Per Share
The following tables reconcile the number of common shares used to compute basic and diluted earnings per share:
 
Three Months Ended December 31
(in millions)
2014
 
2013
Weighted-average common shares–basic
331

 
342

 
 
 
 
Effect of dilutive securities:
 
 
 
Employee stock options, restricted share units and performance share units
3

 
4

Weighted-average common shares–diluted
334

 
346

 
Six Months Ended December 31
(in millions)
2014
 
2013
Weighted-average common shares–basic
333

 
341

 
 
 
 
Effect of dilutive securities:
 
 
 
Employee stock options, restricted share units and performance share units
4

 
4

Weighted-average common shares–diluted
337

 
345

The potentially dilutive employee stock options, restricted share units and performance share units that were antidilutive were 1 million and zero for the three months ended December 31, 2014


13

 
Cardinal Health, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)


and 2013, respectively, and 1 million and 2 million for the six months ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
13. Segment Information
Our operations are principally managed on a products and services basis and are comprised of two operating segments, which are the same as our reportable segments: Pharmaceutical and Medical. The factors for determining the reportable segments include the manner in which management evaluates our performance for purposes of allocating resources and assessing performance combined with the nature of the individual business activities.
The following tables present revenue for each reportable segment and Corporate:
 
Three Months Ended December 31
(in millions)
2014
 
2013
Pharmaceutical
$
22,627

 
$
19,443

Medical
2,914

 
2,799

Total segment revenue
25,541

 
22,242

Corporate (1)
(4
)
 
(2
)
Total revenue
$
25,537

 
$
22,240

 
Six Months Ended December 31
(in millions)
2014
 
2013
Pharmaceutical (2)
$
43,836


$
41,256

Medical
5,766


5,511

Total segment revenue
49,602


46,767

Corporate (1)
5


(4
)
Total revenue
$
49,607


$
46,763

(1)
Corporate revenue consists of the elimination of inter-segment revenue and other revenue not allocated to the segments.
(2)
Our pharmaceutical distribution contract with Walgreen Co. expired on August 31, 2013.
We evaluate segment performance based upon segment profit, among other measures. Segment profit is segment revenue, less segment cost of products sold, less segment SG&A expenses. Segment SG&A expenses include share-based compensation expense as well as allocated corporate expenses for shared functions, including corporate management, corporate finance, financial and customer care shared services, human resources, information technology and legal. Corporate expenses are allocated to the segments based upon headcount, level of benefit provided and other ratable allocation methodologies.
We do not allocate the following items to our segments: restructuring and employee severance; amortization and other acquisition-related costs; impairments and (gain)/loss on disposal of assets; litigation (recoveries)/charges; other income, net; interest expense, net; loss on extinguishment of debt; and,
 
provision for income taxes. In addition, certain investment and other spending are not allocated to the segments. Investment spending generally includes the first-year spend for certain projects that require incremental investments in the form of additional operating expenses. We encourage our segments and corporate functions to identify investment projects that will promote innovation and provide future returns. As approval decisions for such projects are dependent upon executive management, the expenses for such projects are often retained at Corporate. Investment spending within Corporate was $4 million and $6 million for the three months ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, and $6 million and $10 million for the six months ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
The following tables present segment profit by reportable segment and Corporate:
 
Three Months Ended December 31
(in millions)
2014
 
2013
Pharmaceutical
$
542

 
$
482

Medical
115

 
131

Total segment profit
657

 
613

Corporate
(111
)
 
(94
)
Total operating earnings
$
546

 
$
519

 
Six Months Ended December 31
(in millions)
2014
 
2013
Pharmaceutical
$
992


$
916

Medical
229


238

Total segment profit
1,221


1,154

Corporate
(209
)

(164
)
Total operating earnings
$
1,012


$
990

14. Share-Based Compensation
Share-Based Compensation Plans
We maintain stock incentive plans (collectively, the “Plans”) for the benefit of certain of our officers, directors and employees.
The following tables provide total share-based compensation expense by type of award:
 
Three Months Ended December 31
(in millions)
2014
 
2013
Restricted share unit expense
$
18

 
$
15

Employee stock option expense
5

 
5

Performance share unit expense
5

 
4

Total share-based compensation
$
28

 
$
24



14

 
Cardinal Health, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)


 
Six Months Ended December 31
(in millions)
2014
 
2013
Restricted share unit expense
$
34

 
$
31

Employee stock option expense
10

 
10

Performance share unit expense
9

 
7

Total share-based compensation
$
53

 
$
48

The total tax benefit related to share-based compensation was $9 million and $8 million for the three months ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, and $18 million and $17 million for the six months ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
Stock Options
Employee stock options granted under the Plans generally vest in equal annual installments over three years and are exercisable for periods ranging from seven to ten years from the grant date. All stock options are exercisable at a price equal to the market value of the common shares underlying the option on the grant date.
The following table summarizes all stock option transactions under the Plans:
(in millions, except per share amounts)
Stock
Options
 
Weighted-Average
Exercise Price per
Common Share
Outstanding at June 30, 2014
10

 
$
39.16

Granted
1

 
71.57

Exercised
(2
)
 
39.05

Canceled and forfeited

 

Outstanding at December 31, 2014
9

 
$
44.28

Exercisable at December 31, 2014
5

 
$
35.91

At December 31, 2014, the total pre-tax compensation cost, net of estimated forfeitures, related to nonvested stock options not yet recognized was $33 million, which is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of two years. The following table provides additional data related to stock option activity:
(in millions, except contractual lives)
December 31, 2014
 
June 30, 2014
Aggregate intrinsic value of outstanding options at period end
$
329

 
$
282

Aggregate intrinsic value of exercisable options at period end
$
246

 
$
185

Weighted-average remaining contractual life of outstanding options (in years)

6

 
6

Weighted-average remaining contractual life of exercisable options (in years)

5

 
4

Restricted Share Units
Restricted share units granted under the Plans generally vest in equal annual installments over three years. Restricted share units accrue cash dividend equivalents that are payable upon vesting of the awards.
 
The following table summarizes all transactions related to restricted share units under the Plans:
(in millions, except per share amounts)
Restricted Share Units
 
Weighted-Average
Grant Date Fair
Value per Share
Nonvested at June 30, 2014
3

 
$
45.65

Granted
1

 
71.89

Vested
(1
)
 
44.41

Canceled and forfeited

 

Nonvested at December 31, 2014
3

 
$
56.83

At December 31, 2014, the total pre-tax compensation cost, net of estimated forfeitures, related to nonvested restricted share units not yet recognized was $112 million, which is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of two years.
Performance Share Units
Performance share units vest over a three-year performance period based on achievement of specific performance goals. Based on the extent to which the targets are achieved, vested shares may range from zero to 200 percent of the target award amount. Performance share units accrue cash dividend equivalents that are payable upon vesting of the awards.
The following table summarizes all transactions related to performance share units under the Plans (based on target award amounts):
(in millions, except per share amounts)
Performance
Share Units
 
Weighted-Average
Grant Date Fair
Value per Share
Nonvested at June 30, 2014
0.9

 
$
44.41

Granted
0.2

 
66.78

Vested (1)
(0.2
)
 
41.59

Canceled and forfeited

 

Nonvested at December 31, 2014
0.9

 
$
50.61

(1)
Vested based on achievement of 120 percent of the target performance goal.
At December 31, 2014, the total pre-tax compensation cost, net of estimated forfeitures, related to nonvested performance share units not yet recognized was $21 million, which is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of two years.


15

 
Cardinal Health, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Financial Review


Item 2: Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
The discussion and analysis presented below is concerned with material changes in financial condition and results of operations for our condensed consolidated balance sheets at December 31, 2014 and June 30, 2014, and for our condensed consolidated statements of earnings for the three and six months ended December 31, 2014 and 2013. This discussion and analysis should be read in conjunction with "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" included in our 2014 Form 10-K.
Portions of this Form 10-Q (including any information incorporated by reference) include "forward-looking statements." The words "expect," "anticipate," "intend," "plan," "believe," "will," "should," "could," "would," "project," "continue," "likely," and similar expressions, among others, generally identify "forward-looking statements," which speak only as of the date the statements were made. The matters discussed in these forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those made, projected or implied in the forward-looking statements. The most significant of these risks, uncertainties and other factors are described in Exhibit 99.1 to this Form 10-Q and in "Item 1A: Risk Factors" of our 2014 Form 10-K. Except to the extent required by applicable law, we undertake no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.
Overview
We are a healthcare services company providing pharmaceutical and medical products and services that help pharmacies, hospitals and other healthcare providers focus on patient care while reducing costs, enhancing efficiency and improving quality. We also provide medical products to patients in the home.
We report our financial results in two segments: Pharmaceutical and Medical.
Revenue for the three and six months ended December 31, 2014 was $25.5 billion and $49.6 billion, a 15 percent and 6 percent increase, respectively, from the prior-year periods due primarily to sales growth from existing and new pharmaceutical distribution customers. Revenue was negatively impacted for the six months ended December 31, 2014 due to the previously disclosed expiration of our pharmaceutical distribution contract with Walgreen Co. ("Walgreens") on August 31, 2013.
Gross margin increased 8 percent to $1.5 billion and 7 percent to $2.8 billion for the three and six months ended December 31, 2014, respectively, reflecting sales growth from existing and new customers and strong performance from our Pharmaceutical segment generic programs, offset in part by customer pricing
 
changes. The increase for the six months ended December 31, 2014 was partially offset by the Walgreens contract expiration in the prior-year period.
Operating earnings increased 5 percent to $546 million and 2 percent to $1.0 billion for the three and six months ended December 31, 2014, respectively, primarily due to the gross margin increase, partially offset by increased litigation charges.
Earnings from continuing operations increased 5 percent to $289 million for the three months ended December 31, 2014, and decreased 10 percent to $555 million for the six months ended December 31, 2014. Both periods were impacted by the factors discussed above, a current-year loss on extinguishment of debt ($60 million) and a prior-year tax charge ($56 million). The decrease for the six months ended December 31, 2014 also reflects a $67 million favorable impact in the prior-year period from the settlement of tax controversies.
Our cash and equivalents balance was $2.9 billion at both December 31, 2014 and June 30, 2014. For the six months ended December 31, 2014, net cash provided by operating activities of $1.0 billion was largely offset by share repurchases of $684 million and cash dividends of $233 million. In addition, we refinanced $1.2 billion of long-term debt at lower interest rates and longer maturities.
Generic Sourcing Venture With CVS Health Corporation
In July 2014, we established Red Oak Sourcing, LLC (“Red Oak Sourcing”), a U.S.-based generic pharmaceutical sourcing entity with CVS Health Corporation (“CVS”) with an initial term of 10 years. Both companies have contributed sourcing and supply chain expertise to the generic sourcing venture and have committed to source generic pharmaceuticals through arrangements negotiated by it. Red Oak Sourcing negotiates generic pharmaceutical supply contracts on behalf of both companies, but does not own products or hold inventory on behalf of either company. We are required to pay 39 quarterly payments of $25.6 million to CVS which commenced in October 2014. In addition, only if certain milestones are achieved, we are required to pay additional predetermined amounts to CVS beginning in fiscal 2016. Beginning in the three months ended December 31, 2014, the $25.6 million payment is being expensed quarterly over the remaining term of the sourcing venture.


16

 
Cardinal Health, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Financial Review (continued)


Results of Operations
Revenue
 
Three Months Ended December 31
 

(in millions)
2014
 
2013
 
Change
Pharmaceutical
$
22,627

 
$
19,443

 
16
%
Medical
2,914

 
2,799

 
4
%
Total segment revenue
25,541

 
22,242

 
15
%
Corporate
(4
)
 
(2
)
 
N.M.

Total revenue
$
25,537

 
$
22,240

 
15
%
 
Six Months Ended December 31
 
 
(in millions)
2014
 
2013
 
Change
Pharmaceutical
$
43,836

 
$
41,256

 
6
%
Medical
5,766

 
5,511

 
5
%
Total segment revenue
49,602

 
46,767

 
6
%
Corporate
5

 
(4
)
 
N.M.

Total revenue
$
49,607

 
$
46,763

 
6
%
Pharmaceutical Segment
Compared to the prior-year periods, revenue was positively impacted by sales growth from both existing and new pharmaceutical distribution customers, which had a combined impact of $3.2 billion and $5.8 billion during the three and six months ended December 31, 2014, respectively. The increase for the six months ended December 31, 2014 was partially offset by the Walgreens contract expiration in the prior-year period ($3.3 billion).
Medical Segment
Revenue growth for the three and six months ended December 31, 2014 compared to the prior-year periods was due to acquisitions ($92 million and $189 million, respectively) and modest growth from existing customers.
Cost of Products Sold
As a result of the same factors affecting the change in revenue, cost of products sold increased $3.2 billion (15 percent) and $2.7 billion (6 percent) compared to the prior-year periods. See the gross margin discussion below for additional drivers impacting cost of products sold.
Gross Margin
 
Three Months Ended December 31
 
 
(in millions)
2014
 
2013
 
Change
Gross margin
$
1,454

 
$
1,345

 
8
%
 
Six Months Ended December 31
 
 
(in millions)
2014
 
2013
 
Change
Gross margin
$
2,794

 
$
2,608

 
7
%
 
Consolidated gross margin increased during the three and six months ended December 31, 2014 compared to the prior-year periods by $109 million and $186 million, respectively.
Consolidated gross margin during the three and six months ended December 31, 2014 was positively impacted by sales growth from existing and new pharmaceutical distribution customers, and for the six months ending December 31, 2014 was negatively impacted by the Walgreens contract expiration. The net impact of these factors increased consolidated gross margin by $137 million and $191 million, respectively.
Consolidated gross margin rate contracted during the three months ended December 31, 2014, which had an adverse impact on consolidated gross margin of $50 million for the period. Apart from the Walgreens contract expiration, consolidated gross margin rate also contracted during the six months ended December 31, 2014, which had an adverse impact on consolidated gross margin of $51 million for the period. Consolidated gross margin rate was adversely impacted by customer pricing changes, newly launched hepatitis C pharmaceutical products, and new customer mix. These were partially offset by strong performance from generic programs, which includes benefits from Red Oak Sourcing.
Consolidated gross margin during the three and six months ended December 31, 2014 was positively impacted by acquisitions ($24 million and $48 million, respectively).
Distribution, Selling, General and Administrative ("SG&A") Expenses
 
Three Months Ended December 31
 

(in millions)
2014
 
2013
 
Change
SG&A expenses
$
815

 
$
766

 
6
%
 
Six Months Ended December 31
 
 
(in millions)
2014
 
2013
 
Change
SG&A expenses
$
1,590

 
$
1,497

 
6
%
The increase in SG&A expenses during the three and six months ended December 31, 2014 compared to the prior-year period reflected acquisitions ($24 million and $51 million, respectively).
Segment Profit and Consolidated Operating Earnings
 
Three Months Ended December 31
 

(in millions)
2014
 
2013
 
Change
Pharmaceutical
$
542

 
$
482

 
12
 %
Medical
115

 
131

 
(12
)%
Total segment profit
657

 
613

 
7
 %
Corporate
(111
)
 
(94
)
 
N.M.

Total operating earnings
$
546

 
$
519

 
5
 %


17

 
Cardinal Health, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Financial Review (continued)


 
Six Months Ended December 31
 
 
(in millions)
2014
 
2013
 
Change
Pharmaceutical
$
992

 
$
916

 
8
 %
Medical
229

 
238

 
(4
)%
Total segment profit
1,221

 
1,154

 
6
 %
Corporate
(209
)
 
(164
)
 
N.M.

Total operating earnings
$
1,012

 
$
990

 
2
 %
Pharmaceutical Segment Profit
The increase in Pharmaceutical segment profit during the three and six months ended December 31, 2014 compared to the prior-year periods was positively impacted by sales growth from existing and new pharmaceutical distribution customers and strong performance from generic programs, partially offset by the adverse impact of customer pricing changes. Segment profit for the six months ended December 31, 2014 was negatively impacted by the Walgreens contract expiration in the prior-year period.
Medical Segment Profit
The principal drivers for the decrease in Medical segment profit during the three months ended December 31, 2014 compared to the prior-year period were an increase in enterprise-wide incentive compensation and a decrease in earnings from our Canadian business. Medical segment profit for the six months ended December 31, 2014 compared to the prior-year period benefited from our Cardinal Health brand products, and was reduced by national brand products.
Consolidated Operating Earnings
In addition to revenue, gross margin and SG&A expenses discussed above, operating earnings were impacted by the following:
 
Three Months Ended December 31
 
 
(in millions)
2014
 
2013
 
Change
Restructuring and employee severance
$
7

 
$
10

 
N.M.
Amortization and other acquisition-related costs
60

 
56

 
N.M.
Impairments and (gain)/loss on disposal of assets, net
(18
)
 
9

 
N.M.
Litigation (recoveries)/charges, net
44

 
(15
)
 
N.M.
 
 
Six Months Ended December 31
 
 
(in millions)
2014
 
2013
 
Change
Restructuring and employee severance
$
26

 
$
20

 
N.M.
Amortization and other acquisition-related costs
112

 
105

 
N.M.
Impairments and (gain)/loss on disposal of assets, net
(18
)
 
9

 
N.M.
Litigation (recoveries)/charges, net
72

 
(13
)
 
N.M.
Restructuring and Employee Severance
The majority of restructuring costs incurred during the three and six months ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 related to restructuring activities within our Medical segment.
Amortization and Other Acquisition-Related Costs
Amortization of acquisition-related intangible assets was $47 million and $46 million for the three months ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, and $91 million for both the six months ended December 31, 2014 and 2013.
Litigation (Recoveries)/Charges, Net
During the three and six months ended December 31, 2014, we incurred litigation charges of $7 million and $34 million, respectively, related to the DEA investigation and related matters. During the three months ended December 31, 2014, we also incurred litigation charges of $27 million related to the FTC investigation. These matters are discussed further in Note 8 of the "Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements."
Earnings Before Income Taxes and Discontinued Operations
In addition to the items discussed above, earnings before income taxes and discontinued operations were impacted by the following:
 
Three Months Ended December 31
 
 
(in millions)
2014
 
2013
 
Change
Other income, net
$
(1
)
 
$
(6
)
 
N.M.

Interest expense, net
36

 
33

 
10
%
Loss on extinguishment of debt
60

 

 
N.M.

 
Six Months Ended December 31
 
 
(in millions)
2014
 
2013
 
Change
Other income, net
$
(4
)
 
$
(10
)
 
N.M.

Interest expense, net
70

 
66

 
6
%
Loss on extinguishment of debt
60

 

 
N.M.



18

 
Cardinal Health, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Financial Review (continued)


Loss on Extinguishment of Debt
In December 2014 we redeemed certain debt resulting in a loss on the extinguishment of debt of $60 million ($37 million, net of tax). See Note 6 of "Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements" for additional information.
Provision for Income Taxes
Fluctuations in the effective tax rate are due to changes within international and U.S. state effective tax rates resulting from our business mix and discrete items.
During the three months ended December 31, 2014, the effective tax rate of 36.0 percent was unfavorably impacted by 3.0 percentage points ($13 million) due to nondeductibility of litigation charges and favorably impacted by 3.1 percentage points ($14 million) related to a previously unrecognized tax benefit for a loss carryback from fiscal 2007.
During the six months ended December 31, 2014, the effective tax rate of 37.4 percent was unfavorably impacted by 1.4 percentage points ($12 million) due to the remeasurement of unrecognized tax benefits and 2.7 percentage points ($24 million) due to nondeductibility of litigation charges, partially offset by 1.6 percentage points ($14 million) due to adjusting deferred tax assets and related valuation allowances for the impact of Puerto Rico tax law changes enacted during the period and 1.6 percentage points ($14 million) related to a previously unrecognized tax benefit for a loss carryback from fiscal 2007.
During the three months ended December 31, 2013, the effective tax rate of 44.1 percent was impacted by net unfavorable discrete items of $38 million, which increased the rate by 7.7 percentage points. The discrete items include the unfavorable impact of remeasurement of unrecognized tax benefits ($56 million) as a result of proposed assessments of additional tax.
During the six months ended December 31, 2013, the effective tax rate of 34.2 percent was impacted by net favorable discrete items of $23 million which reduced the rate by 2.4 percentage points. The discrete items include the favorable impact of the settlement of federal and state tax controversies ($67 million) and the unfavorable impact of remeasurement of unrecognized tax benefits ($56 million).
Liquidity and Capital Resources
We currently believe that, based upon available capital resources (cash on hand and access to committed credit facilities) and projected operating cash flow, we have adequate capital resources to fund working capital needs; currently anticipated capital expenditures, business growth and expansion; contractual obligations; tax payments; and current and projected debt service requirements, dividends and share repurchases. If we decide to engage in one or more additional acquisitions, depending on the size and timing of such transactions, we may need to access capital in addition to cash on hand and our existing committed credit facilities.
 
Cash and Equivalents
Our cash and equivalents balance was $2.9 billion at December 31, 2014 and June 30, 2014. At December 31, 2014, our cash and equivalents were held in cash depository accounts with major banks or invested in high quality, short-term liquid investments. For the six months ended December 31, 2014, net cash provided by operating activities of $1.0 billion was largely offset by share repurchases of $684 million and cash dividends of $233 million. In addition, we refinanced $1.2 billion of long-term debt at lower interest rates and longer maturities.
Changes in working capital, which impact operating cash flow, can vary significantly depending on factors such as the timing of customer payments, inventory purchases and payments to vendors in the regular course of business.
The cash and equivalents balance at December 31, 2014 included $448 million of cash held by subsidiaries outside of the United States. Although the vast majority of this cash is available for repatriation, permanently bringing the money into the United States could trigger U.S. federal, state and local income tax obligations. As a U.S. parent company, we may temporarily access cash held by our foreign subsidiaries through intercompany loans without becoming subject to U.S. federal income tax.
Credit Facilities and Commercial Paper
On November 3, 2014, we renewed our committed receivables sales facility program through Cardinal Health Funding, LLC until November 3, 2017 and increased the size of the facility from $700 million to $950 million with the inclusion of certain receivables from the Medical segment. Other sources of liquidity include a $1.5 billion revolving credit facility and a commercial paper program of up to $1.5 billion, backed by the revolving credit facility. At December 31, 2014, we had no outstanding balances or borrowings under these facilities, except for standby letters of credit of $41 million under the committed receivables sales facility program.
Our revolving credit facility and committed receivables sales facility program require us to maintain, as of any fiscal quarter end, a consolidated interest coverage ratio of at least 4-to-1 and a consolidated leverage ratio of no more than 3.25-to-1. As of December 31, 2014, we were in compliance with these financial covenants.
Long-Term Obligations
In November 2014, we sold $450 million aggregate principal amount of 2.4% Notes that mature on November 15, 2019, $400 million aggregate principal amount of 3.5% Notes that mature on November 15, 2024, and $350 million aggregate principal amount of 4.5% Notes that mature on November 15, 2044 in a registered offering.
In December 2014, we used the net proceeds from the offering, together with cash on hand, to redeem all of the outstanding 4.0% Notes due 2015, 5.8% Notes due 2016, 5.85% Notes due


19

 
Cardinal Health, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Financial Review (continued)


2017 and 6.0% Notes due 2017 at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount and accrued but unpaid interest, plus the make-whole premium applicable to each series of notes. As a result of this redemption, during the three months ended December 31, 2014, we recorded a loss on the extinguishment of debt of $60 million ($37 million, net of tax).
Available-for-Sale Securities
At December 31, 2014, we held $88 million of marketable securities, which are classified as available-for-sale.
Capital Expenditures
Capital expenditures were $83 million and $90 million during the six months ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
Dividends
On November 5, 2014 our Board of Directors approved a quarterly dividend of $0.3425 per share, or $1.37 on an annualized basis, which was paid on January 15, 2015 to shareholders of record on January 2, 2015.
Share Repurchases
During the six months ended December 31, 2014, we repurchased $684 million of our common shares.
Our Board of Directors has approved a $2.0 billion share repurchase program, which expires on December 31, 2016. At December 31, 2014, we had $1.0 billion remaining under our repurchase authorization.
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
We had no significant off-balance sheet arrangements at December 31, 2014.
Contractual Obligations
Except for the registered debt offering and debt redemption described above under “Liquidity and Capital Resources” and in Note 6 of the “Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements”, as of December 31, 2014 there have been no other material changes, outside of the ordinary course of business, in our outstanding contractual obligations disclosed in our 2014 Form 10-K.
At December 31, 2014, our long-term debt and short-term borrowings and interest on long-term debt for the remainder of fiscal 2015 and fiscal periods thereafter are as follows:
(in millions)
2015
 
2016 to
2017
 
2018 to
2019
 
There-after
 
Total
Long-term debt and short-term borrowings (1)
$
270

 
$
311

 
$
403

 
$
2,992

 
$
3,976

Interest on long-term debt
70

 
262

 
226

 
1,042

 
1,600

Total long-term and short-term obligations
$
340

 
$
573

 
$
629

 
$
4,034

 
$
5,576

 
 
(1)
Represents maturities of our long-term debt obligations and other short-term borrowings. See Note 6 of the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” for further information.
Recent Financial Accounting Standards
See Note 1 of the “Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements” for a discussion of recent financial accounting standards.
Critical Accounting Policies and Sensitive Accounting Estimates
Refer to the Critical Accounting Policies and Sensitive Accounting Estimates section of "Item 7: Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" in our 2014 Form 10-K. There have been no material changes to our critical accounting policies and sensitive accounting estimates since the end of fiscal 2014 through December 31, 2014.


20

 
Cardinal Health, Inc. and Subsidiaries
 
 
 


Item 3: Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
There have been no material changes in the quantitative and qualitative market risks since the end of fiscal 2014 through December 31, 2014 from those reported in our 2014 Form 10-K.
Item 4: Controls and Procedures
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures
We evaluated, with the participation of our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the "Exchange Act")) as of December 31, 2014. Based on this evaluation, our principal executive officer and principal financial officer have concluded that as of December 31, 2014, our disclosure controls and procedures were effective to provide reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed in our reports under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC rules and forms and that such information is accumulated and communicated to management as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.
Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting during the quarter ended December 31, 2014 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.


21

 
Cardinal Health, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Part II. Other Information




Item 1: Legal Proceedings
In addition to the proceedings described below, the legal proceedings described in Note 8 of the "Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements" are incorporated in this "Item 1: Legal Proceedings" by reference.
On January 23, 2015, Erste-Sparinvest Kapitalanlagegesellschaft m.b.H., a purported shareholder, filed a derivative action in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Ohio against the current and certain former members of our Board of Directors alleging that the defendants breached their fiduciary duties by failing to implement and maintain a system to prevent diversion of controlled substances in connection with, among other things, the DEA’s past suspensions of our distribution centers’ registrations. The derivative complaint seeks, among other things, unspecified money damages against the defendants and an award of attorney's fees. This same plaintiff had made demand on our Board of Directors in May 2014 to take action against current and certain former directors based on allegations similar to those made in the derivative complaint. A special committee of independent directors investigated the allegations made in the demand, and after receiving and evaluating the special committee's findings and recommendations with respect to the demand, our Board of Directors determined in November 2014 that pursuing the claims set forth in the demand was not in the best interest of the company. In the derivative complaint, the plaintiff also alleges that the Board of Directors wrongfully rejected the demand.
Item 1A: Risk Factors
You should carefully consider the information in this Form 10-Q and the risk factors discussed in "Part I, Item 1A: Risk Factors" and other risks discussed in our 2014 Form 10-K and our filings with the SEC since June 30, 2014. These risks could materially
 
and adversely affect our results of operations, financial condition, liquidity and cash flows. Our business also could be affected by risks that we are not presently aware of or that we currently consider immaterial to our operations.
Item 2: Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds
The following table provides information about purchases we made of our common shares during the three months ended December 31, 2014:
Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Period
Total Number
of Shares
Purchased (1)
 
Average Price Paid per Share
 
Total Number of Shares
Purchased
as Part of Publicly Announced Program (2)
 
Approximate
Dollar Value of
Shares That May
Yet be Purchased
Under the Program (2)
(in millions)
October 1-31, 2014
3,124,188

 
$
74.12

 
3,121,186

 
$
1,136

November 1-30, 2014
1,158,561

 
80.05

 
1,158,458

 
1,043

December 1-31, 2014
114

 
82.00

 

 
1,043

Total
4,282,863

 
$
75.72

 
4,279,644

 
$
1,043

(1)
Includes 181, 103 and 114 common shares purchased in October, November and December 2014, respectively, through a rabbi trust as investments of participants in our Deferred Compensation Plan and 2,821 common shares tendered in October 2014 to satisfy tax withholding and pay the exercise price upon exercise of outstanding stock options.
(2)
On October 29, 2013, our Board of Directors approved a $1.0 billion share repurchase program, which expires on December 31, 2016. On August 6, 2014, our Board of Directors authorized an additional $1.0 billion under this share repurchase program. During the three months ended December 31, 2014, we repurchased $324 million of our common shares under this program.







22

 
Cardinal Health, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Part II. Other Information


Item 5: Other Information
Barrett Trading Plan
On November 6, 2014, George S. Barrett, our Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, adopted a pre-arranged trading plan that provides for the potential exercise of stock options and the sale of the resulting shares during the period beginning February 2015 and ending as late as December 2015. The plan covers up to 954,658 stock options that were granted in 2009 and are scheduled to expire in 2016. Under the plan, shares may potentially be sold on the open market at prevailing market prices, subject to minimum price thresholds specified in the plan.
Mr. Barrett indicated that the plan is being established to help diversify his personal investment holdings. The plan does not impact Mr. Barrett's compliance with his required ownership level under our share ownership guidelines of six times his base salary, which he substantially exceeds.
The plan was established under Rule 10b5-1 under the Exchange Act and our policies regarding stock transactions. The transactions will be disclosed publicly in Form 144 and Form 4 filings with the SEC.




23

 
Cardinal Health, Inc. and Subsidiaries
 
 
 


Item 6: Exhibits
Exhibit
Number
Exhibit Description
3.1
Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation of Cardinal Health, Inc., as amended (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to Cardinal Health’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2008, File No. 1-11373)
3.2
Cardinal Health, Inc. Restated Code of Regulations (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to Cardinal Health’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on August 10, 2012, File No. 1-11373)
4.1
2.400% Notes due 2019 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to Cardinal Health's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on November 19, 2014, File No. 1-11373)
4.2
3.500% Notes due 2024 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to Cardinal Health's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on November 19, 2014, File No. 1-11373)
4.3
4.500% Notes due 2044 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.3 to Cardinal Health's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on November 19, 2014, File No. 1-11373)
10.1
Restricted Share Units Agreement, dated November 4, 2014, between Cardinal Health, Inc. and Jeffrey W. Henderson (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to Cardinal Health’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2014, File No. 1-11373)
10.2
First Amendment and Joinder, dated as of November 3, 2014, to the Fourth Amended and Restated Receivables Purchase Agreement, dated as of November 1, 2013 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to Cardinal Health’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2014, File No. 1-11373)
10.3
Sixth Amended and Restated Performance Guaranty, dated as of November 3, 2014, executed by Cardinal Health, Inc. in favor of Cardinal Health Funding, LLC (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to Cardinal Health's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2014, File No. 1-11373)
10.4
Cardinal Health, Inc. Management Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of Cardinal Health's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on November 10, 2014, File No. 1-11373)
12.1
Computation of Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges
31.1
Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
31.2
Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
32.1
Certification of the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief 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
Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information
101.INS
XBRL Instance Document
101.SCH
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document
101.CAL
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document
101.DEF
XBRL Taxonomy Definition Linkbase Document
101.LAB
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document
101.PRE
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document

Cardinal Health Website
We use our website as a channel of distribution for material information about us. Important information, including news releases, earnings and analyst presentations and financial information is routinely posted and accessible on the Investors page at www.cardinalhealth.com. In addition, our website allows investors and other interested persons to sign up to automatically receive email alerts when we post news releases, SEC filings and certain other information on our website.


24

 
 

Signatures
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) 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.
 
 
Cardinal Health, Inc.
 
 
 
Date:
February 3, 2015
/s/    GEORGE S. BARRETT
 
 
George S. Barrett
 
 
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer
 
 
 
 
 
/s/    MICHAEL C. KAUFMANN
 
 
Michael C. Kaufmann
 
 
Chief Financial Officer

25