Analysis of Short-term (Operating) Activity Ratios
Quarterly Data
Activity ratios measure how efficiently a company performs day-to-day tasks, such us the collection of receivables and management of inventory.
Short-term Activity Ratios (Summary)
First Solar Inc., short-term (operating) activity ratios (quarterly data)
Based on: 10-Q (reporting date: 2024-09-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2024-06-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2024-03-31), 10-K (reporting date: 2023-12-31), 10-Q (reporting date: 2023-09-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2023-06-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2023-03-31), 10-K (reporting date: 2022-12-31), 10-Q (reporting date: 2022-09-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2022-06-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2022-03-31), 10-K (reporting date: 2021-12-31), 10-Q (reporting date: 2021-09-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2021-06-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2021-03-31), 10-K (reporting date: 2020-12-31), 10-Q (reporting date: 2020-09-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2020-06-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2020-03-31).
- Inventory Turnover
- The inventory turnover ratio has experienced a general decline over the observed period. Starting from a high near 5.05 in early 2020, the ratio decreased steadily to a low point around 1.65 by late 2024. This indicates a slower rate of inventory being sold or used, implying increased inventory levels or reduced sales velocity.
- Receivables Turnover
- The receivables turnover ratio shows significant volatility. It started relatively strong around 10.55 and peaked at 16 in Q3 2020. However, it plummeted sharply to about 3.77 in early 2021, after which there were fluctuations, including a modest recovery to near 10.57 in late 2021 but settling consistently in the mid-5 to mid-6 range by 2024. This pattern indicates periods of slower collections from customers, which could reflect extended credit terms or collection difficulties.
- Payables Turnover
- The payables turnover ratio demonstrates variability, with values mostly ranging between 7.5 and 20.8. Initially high turnover ratios above 13 were observed but have included fluctuations with some spikes, notably reaching 20.79 in late 2022 before declining. This suggests irregular timing in payments to suppliers, alternating between faster and slower payments across quarters.
- Working Capital Turnover
- Working capital turnover generally remained around a low base between 1.0 and 1.7. There is no strong trend upward or downward, but a slight increase can be noted towards the end of the period, reaching 1.89. This implies modest improvements in the efficiency of using working capital to generate sales over time.
- Average Inventory Processing Period
- The average inventory processing period lengthened substantially, increasing from roughly 72 days in early 2020 to over 220 days by late 2024. This reflects slower inventory movement and possibly higher stock levels, which may affect liquidity and operational efficiency negatively.
- Average Receivable Collection Period
- There is considerable fluctuation in the average receivable collection period. Starting at around 35 days, it surged notably at times, especially reaching near 97 days in early 2021, indicating delayed collections. Although it shortened later, it remained elevated around 60-70 days on average toward 2024, suggesting ongoing collection challenges.
- Operating Cycle
- The operating cycle duration increased significantly, from about 107 days in early 2020 to nearly 294 days by late 2024. This reflects longer combined periods of inventory holding and receivables collection, which could indicate operational inefficiencies or changes in business conditions affecting the speed of throughput.
- Average Payables Payment Period
- The average payables payment period fluctuated moderately between approximately 18 and 50 days. Notably, it shortened sharply at times, such as in late 2022, but tended to lengthen again toward late 2024. This suggests variable payment terms or cash management strategies shifting over time.
- Cash Conversion Cycle
- The cash conversion cycle extended markedly over the period analyzed, moving from about 81 days in early 2020 to 247 days by late 2024. This is consistent with lengthened inventory processing and receivables collection periods outpacing payables payment timing, indicating a substantial increase in the time between cash outflows and inflows, which could strain liquidity.
Turnover Ratios
Average No. Days
Inventory Turnover
First Solar Inc., inventory turnover calculation (quarterly data)
| Sep 30, 2024 | Jun 30, 2024 | Mar 31, 2024 | Dec 31, 2023 | Sep 30, 2023 | Jun 30, 2023 | Mar 31, 2023 | Dec 31, 2022 | Sep 30, 2022 | Jun 30, 2022 | Mar 31, 2022 | Dec 31, 2021 | Sep 30, 2021 | Jun 30, 2021 | Mar 31, 2021 | Dec 31, 2020 | Sep 30, 2020 | Jun 30, 2020 | Mar 31, 2020 | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Selected Financial Data (US$ in thousands) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Cost of sales | 442,357) | 511,593) | 448,105) | 656,520) | 424,915) | 500,253) | 436,235) | 941,778) | 607,951) | 644,155) | 355,577) | 660,830) | 458,924) | 455,062) | 618,607) | 449,372) | 634,550) | 504,951) | 441,786) | ||||||
| Inventories | 1,250,629) | 1,027,872) | 970,871) | 819,899) | 882,787) | 756,173) | 751,407) | 621,376) | 810,660) | 810,461) | 840,750) | 666,299) | 647,439) | 603,057) | 550,270) | 567,587) | 567,785) | 518,242) | 479,792) | ||||||
| Short-term Activity Ratio | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Inventory turnover1 | 1.65 | 1.99 | 2.09 | 2.46 | 2.61 | 3.29 | 3.50 | 4.10 | 2.80 | 2.62 | 2.30 | 3.29 | 3.06 | 3.58 | 4.01 | 3.58 | 4.66 | 4.67 | 5.05 | ||||||
| Benchmarks | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Inventory Turnover, Competitors2 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Advanced Micro Devices Inc. | 2.33 | 2.44 | 2.61 | 2.81 | 2.74 | 2.70 | 3.05 | 3.45 | 3.62 | 4.24 | 4.00 | 4.35 | 4.15 | 4.10 | 3.81 | — | — | — | — | ||||||
| Analog Devices Inc. | 2.86 | 2.84 | 2.80 | 2.70 | 2.61 | 2.68 | 2.84 | 3.20 | 3.82 | 3.78 | 3.66 | 2.33 | 3.16 | 3.16 | 3.18 | 3.14 | 3.12 | 3.23 | 3.28 | ||||||
| Applied Materials Inc. | 2.54 | 2.46 | 2.49 | 2.47 | 2.45 | 2.41 | 2.32 | 2.33 | 2.42 | 2.60 | 2.79 | 2.82 | 2.80 | 2.65 | 2.55 | 2.44 | 2.30 | 2.32 | 2.43 | ||||||
| Broadcom Inc. | 8.92 | 8.09 | 6.67 | 5.86 | 6.10 | 6.00 | 5.98 | 5.77 | 5.92 | 6.40 | 6.95 | 8.18 | 9.10 | 10.44 | 11.01 | 10.34 | 9.51 | 10.76 | 10.73 | ||||||
| Intel Corp. | 2.94 | 2.87 | 2.81 | 2.92 | 2.85 | 2.78 | 2.68 | 2.74 | 2.90 | 3.02 | 2.97 | 3.27 | 3.50 | 3.91 | 4.15 | — | — | — | — | ||||||
| KLA Corp. | 1.29 | 1.28 | 1.37 | 1.47 | 1.54 | 1.63 | 1.59 | 1.67 | 1.71 | 1.75 | 1.73 | 1.76 | 1.81 | 1.76 | 1.77 | — | — | — | — | ||||||
| Lam Research Corp. | 1.75 | 1.77 | 1.84 | 2.00 | 2.14 | 2.16 | 2.24 | 2.36 | 2.60 | 2.89 | 2.95 | 2.91 | 2.78 | 2.71 | 2.77 | — | — | — | — | ||||||
| Micron Technology Inc. | 2.22 | 2.18 | 2.24 | 2.02 | 2.01 | 2.06 | 1.91 | 2.53 | 3.06 | 3.14 | 3.60 | 3.85 | 3.73 | 3.43 | 2.74 | — | — | — | — | ||||||
| NVIDIA Corp. | 2.83 | 2.68 | 2.45 | 2.25 | 2.70 | 3.02 | 3.25 | 3.62 | 3.87 | 3.75 | 3.63 | 3.44 | 3.69 | 3.47 | 3.81 | — | — | — | — | ||||||
| Qualcomm Inc. | 2.74 | 2.64 | 2.58 | 2.47 | 2.54 | 2.61 | 2.65 | 2.94 | 3.27 | 3.58 | 3.90 | 4.42 | 4.18 | 4.41 | 4.17 | — | — | — | — | ||||||
| Texas Instruments Inc. | 1.51 | 1.59 | 1.60 | 1.63 | 1.65 | 1.70 | 1.92 | 2.27 | 2.56 | 2.74 | 2.88 | 3.12 | 3.18 | 3.12 | 2.88 | — | — | — | — | ||||||
Based on: 10-Q (reporting date: 2024-09-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2024-06-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2024-03-31), 10-K (reporting date: 2023-12-31), 10-Q (reporting date: 2023-09-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2023-06-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2023-03-31), 10-K (reporting date: 2022-12-31), 10-Q (reporting date: 2022-09-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2022-06-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2022-03-31), 10-K (reporting date: 2021-12-31), 10-Q (reporting date: 2021-09-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2021-06-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2021-03-31), 10-K (reporting date: 2020-12-31), 10-Q (reporting date: 2020-09-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2020-06-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2020-03-31).
1 Q3 2024 Calculation
Inventory turnover
= (Cost of salesQ3 2024
+ Cost of salesQ2 2024
+ Cost of salesQ1 2024
+ Cost of salesQ4 2023)
÷ Inventories
= (442,357 + 511,593 + 448,105 + 656,520)
÷ 1,250,629 = 1.65
2 Click competitor name to see calculations.
The analysis of quarterly financial data reveals several notable trends in the cost of sales, inventories, and inventory turnover ratios over the observed periods.
- Cost of Sales
- The cost of sales demonstrates considerable fluctuation across the quarters, with no consistent upward or downward trend. Initial values in early 2020 show moderate levels which then peak notably in the fourth quarter of 2020. This is followed by alternating increases and decreases, with a significant peak recorded in the last quarter of 2022. The data from 2023 and early 2024 indicate moderate fluctuations, generally maintaining a lower range compared to some of the peak quarters, suggesting variability in production expenses or sales volume during this period.
- Inventories
- Inventories exhibit a generally increasing pattern over the timeline. Starting from a base in early 2020, inventory levels progressively grow, with certain periods reflecting more pronounced increases, particularly from 2021 through 2024. The inventory value almost doubles from the early months of 2020 to the later quarters of 2024. This rising trend could indicate accretion of stock possibly due to increased production, anticipation of demand, or delayed sales. Certain quarterly dips are observed, but the overall trajectory remains upward.
- Inventory Turnover Ratio
- The inventory turnover ratio shows a clear declining trend over the quarters. Beginning at a relatively high ratio above 5 in early 2020, it decreases steadily through the years, reaching levels below 2 by late 2024. This downward trend signals that inventory is being sold and replenished less frequently over time, which may suggest slower sales, accumulation of stock, or changes in market dynamics affecting how quickly inventory moves.
Overall, the data indicates a scenario where inventory levels are growing significantly while cost of sales experience volatility, and inventory turnover declines progressively. This combination may raise considerations regarding inventory management efficiency, potential overstock risks, or shifts in demand patterns requiring strategic attention to optimize working capital and operational performance.
Receivables Turnover
First Solar Inc., receivables turnover calculation (quarterly data)
| Sep 30, 2024 | Jun 30, 2024 | Mar 31, 2024 | Dec 31, 2023 | Sep 30, 2023 | Jun 30, 2023 | Mar 31, 2023 | Dec 31, 2022 | Sep 30, 2022 | Jun 30, 2022 | Mar 31, 2022 | Dec 31, 2021 | Sep 30, 2021 | Jun 30, 2021 | Mar 31, 2021 | Dec 31, 2020 | Sep 30, 2020 | Jun 30, 2020 | Mar 31, 2020 | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Selected Financial Data (US$ in thousands) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net sales | 887,668) | 1,010,482) | 794,108) | 1,158,553) | 801,090) | 810,673) | 548,286) | 1,002,391) | 628,933) | 620,955) | 367,040) | 907,319) | 583,504) | 629,180) | 803,374) | 609,232) | 927,565) | 642,411) | 532,124) | ||||||
| Accounts receivable trade, net | 762,138) | 647,565) | 669,745) | 660,776) | 753,520) | 631,335) | 298,620) | 324,337) | 325,421) | 454,431) | 293,357) | 429,436) | 248,341) | 583,028) | 790,096) | 266,086) | 218,783) | 287,684) | 290,281) | ||||||
| Short-term Activity Ratio | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Receivables turnover1 | 5.05 | 5.81 | 5.32 | 5.02 | 4.20 | 4.74 | 9.38 | 8.08 | 7.76 | 5.45 | 8.48 | 6.81 | 10.57 | 5.09 | 3.77 | 10.19 | 16.00 | 10.85 | 10.55 | ||||||
| Benchmarks | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Receivables Turnover, Competitors2 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Advanced Micro Devices Inc. | 3.36 | 4.05 | 4.53 | 4.22 | 4.37 | 5.07 | 5.71 | 5.72 | 5.26 | 5.33 | 5.13 | 6.07 | 6.68 | 6.60 | 5.24 | — | — | — | — | ||||||
| Analog Devices Inc. | 8.61 | 10.42 | 9.67 | 8.37 | 7.94 | 7.96 | 7.72 | 6.67 | 6.37 | 6.07 | 5.16 | 5.02 | 7.90 | 7.62 | 7.08 | 7.60 | 8.10 | 9.42 | 9.85 | ||||||
| Applied Materials Inc. | 5.40 | 5.55 | 5.64 | 5.13 | 5.08 | 4.83 | 4.88 | 4.25 | 5.08 | 5.09 | 5.49 | 4.66 | 5.66 | 5.87 | 5.98 | 5.81 | 5.80 | 5.88 | 5.61 | ||||||
| Broadcom Inc. | 10.04 | 7.75 | 7.82 | 11.36 | 12.17 | 11.56 | 10.64 | 11.22 | 11.70 | 9.73 | 11.23 | 13.25 | 11.87 | 10.54 | 9.78 | 10.40 | 8.64 | 7.13 | 6.21 | ||||||
| Intel Corp. | 17.38 | 17.60 | 16.62 | 15.94 | 18.59 | 18.04 | 14.66 | 15.26 | 9.31 | 12.11 | 10.98 | 8.36 | 9.34 | 10.40 | 10.78 | — | — | — | — | ||||||
| KLA Corp. | 5.91 | 5.25 | 6.24 | 5.99 | 5.48 | 4.59 | 5.30 | 5.08 | 5.34 | 4.72 | 5.10 | 5.30 | 5.37 | 4.98 | 5.77 | — | — | — | — | ||||||
| Lam Research Corp. | 6.46 | 5.29 | 5.63 | 6.17 | 5.78 | 4.68 | 3.94 | 3.99 | 4.52 | 4.86 | 4.64 | 4.83 | 4.72 | 4.11 | 4.77 | — | — | — | — | ||||||
| Micron Technology Inc. | 4.17 | 4.26 | 5.50 | 6.36 | 7.48 | 10.12 | 8.18 | 6.00 | 5.20 | 5.79 | 5.64 | 5.22 | 6.02 | 7.01 | 5.98 | — | — | — | — | ||||||
| NVIDIA Corp. | 5.40 | 4.63 | 6.34 | 7.05 | 5.82 | 5.59 | 5.43 | 5.79 | 6.14 | 6.11 | 6.37 | 6.86 | 5.80 | 6.27 | 6.18 | — | — | — | — | ||||||
| Texas Instruments Inc. | 8.44 | 9.41 | 10.05 | 9.80 | 9.17 | 9.62 | 10.39 | 10.57 | 9.90 | 8.95 | 10.56 | 10.78 | 10.64 | 10.54 | 9.74 | — | — | — | — | ||||||
Based on: 10-Q (reporting date: 2024-09-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2024-06-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2024-03-31), 10-K (reporting date: 2023-12-31), 10-Q (reporting date: 2023-09-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2023-06-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2023-03-31), 10-K (reporting date: 2022-12-31), 10-Q (reporting date: 2022-09-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2022-06-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2022-03-31), 10-K (reporting date: 2021-12-31), 10-Q (reporting date: 2021-09-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2021-06-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2021-03-31), 10-K (reporting date: 2020-12-31), 10-Q (reporting date: 2020-09-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2020-06-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2020-03-31).
1 Q3 2024 Calculation
Receivables turnover
= (Net salesQ3 2024
+ Net salesQ2 2024
+ Net salesQ1 2024
+ Net salesQ4 2023)
÷ Accounts receivable trade, net
= (887,668 + 1,010,482 + 794,108 + 1,158,553)
÷ 762,138 = 5.05
2 Click competitor name to see calculations.
The analysis of the quarterly financial data reveals several noteworthy trends in the company's sales performance, accounts receivable, and receivables turnover over the observed periods.
- Net Sales
- Net sales demonstrate considerable volatility across quarters, with a general upward trajectory from early 2020 through the end of 2023. There is a notable peak in sales during the fourth quarters of multiple years, reflecting seasonal or cyclical influences. For example, net sales rose sharply in December 2020, December 2021, and December 2023. However, the first quarter of 2022 experienced a significant drop compared to the prior quarter, which was followed by recovery and growth in subsequent quarters. The most recent data from 2024 continues to show robust sales, with particularly strong performance in the second quarter.
- Accounts Receivable Trade, Net
- The accounts receivable balances fluctuate substantially across the periods without a consistent linear trend. The data indicates peaks at various points, such as March 2021 and September 2023, which likely correspond with high sales periods or changes in credit terms. The sharp increase in accounts receivable in some quarters, notably in early 2021 and mid-2023, suggests extended collection periods or increased credit sales, potentially impacting liquidity. Conversely, reductions in receivable levels at certain intervals, such as from June to September 2021 and from September to December 2022, imply effective collection or tighter credit controls during those times.
- Receivables Turnover
- The receivables turnover ratio exhibits marked fluctuations, reflecting variable efficiency in collecting receivables relative to sales. Early 2020 shows high turnover ratios exceeding 10, indicating rapid collection cycles during that period. However, this efficiency deteriorates significantly in the first half of 2021, with the turnover dropping to as low as 3.77, implying slower collections. Subsequent quarters show partial recovery in turnover ratios, though they remain lower and more volatile than in 2020, hovering mostly between 4 and 9. This pattern suggests challenges in maintaining consistent accounts receivable management, with the possibility of increased credit risk or altered customer payment behaviors in recent periods.
Overall, the data reflects strong but fluctuating sales growth, accompanied by variable management of accounts receivable. The growing sales volumes put pressure on receivables collections, as evidenced by declining turnover ratios in certain periods. The company may benefit from focused strategies to stabilize receivables management and improve collection efficiency, especially during quarters with elevated sales activity.
Payables Turnover
First Solar Inc., payables turnover calculation (quarterly data)
| Sep 30, 2024 | Jun 30, 2024 | Mar 31, 2024 | Dec 31, 2023 | Sep 30, 2023 | Jun 30, 2023 | Mar 31, 2023 | Dec 31, 2022 | Sep 30, 2022 | Jun 30, 2022 | Mar 31, 2022 | Dec 31, 2021 | Sep 30, 2021 | Jun 30, 2021 | Mar 31, 2021 | Dec 31, 2020 | Sep 30, 2020 | Jun 30, 2020 | Mar 31, 2020 | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Selected Financial Data (US$ in thousands) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Cost of sales | 442,357) | 511,593) | 448,105) | 656,520) | 424,915) | 500,253) | 436,235) | 941,778) | 607,951) | 644,155) | 355,577) | 660,830) | 458,924) | 455,062) | 618,607) | 449,372) | 634,550) | 504,951) | 441,786) | ||||||
| Accounts payable | 265,320) | 230,894) | 239,237) | 207,178) | 110,795) | 245,834) | 285,760) | 341,409) | 188,280) | 160,963) | 146,233) | 193,374) | 170,041) | 148,326) | 186,087) | 183,349) | 153,925) | 158,800) | 173,762) | ||||||
| Short-term Activity Ratio | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Payables turnover1 | 7.76 | 8.84 | 8.48 | 9.74 | 20.79 | 10.11 | 9.20 | 7.47 | 12.05 | 13.17 | 13.20 | 11.34 | 11.66 | 14.55 | 11.86 | 11.08 | 17.20 | 15.25 | 13.95 | ||||||
| Benchmarks | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Payables Turnover, Competitors2 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Advanced Micro Devices Inc. | 4.19 | 5.75 | 6.54 | 5.05 | 4.73 | 3.98 | 4.50 | 4.40 | 4.46 | 5.97 | 5.78 | 6.05 | 7.29 | 8.31 | 6.38 | — | — | — | — | ||||||
| Analog Devices Inc. | 9.63 | 9.94 | 10.91 | 8.98 | 7.62 | 7.76 | 8.09 | 7.70 | 8.43 | 9.01 | 8.17 | 6.30 | 7.82 | 7.25 | 8.66 | 8.42 | 8.85 | 9.83 | 9.12 | ||||||
| Broadcom Inc. | 9.62 | 10.34 | 8.56 | 9.20 | 11.34 | 13.62 | 12.31 | 11.13 | 15.27 | 9.98 | 9.80 | 9.77 | 10.91 | 12.63 | 11.67 | 12.41 | 9.41 | 8.33 | 10.28 | ||||||
| Intel Corp. | 3.20 | 3.36 | 3.78 | 3.79 | 3.77 | 3.81 | 4.30 | 3.77 | 5.21 | 4.63 | 4.92 | 6.13 | 5.05 | 5.82 | 6.49 | — | — | — | — | ||||||
| KLA Corp. | 10.94 | 10.33 | 11.34 | 11.37 | 10.30 | 7.77 | 7.96 | 8.10 | 7.98 | 8.43 | 7.79 | 8.10 | 8.88 | 9.53 | 9.69 | — | — | — | — | ||||||
| Lam Research Corp. | 14.24 | 15.69 | 16.55 | 20.50 | 17.34 | 11.33 | 8.52 | 9.25 | 8.99 | 9.31 | 10.12 | 9.43 | 9.33 | 8.82 | 8.94 | — | — | — | — | ||||||
| NVIDIA Corp. | 5.68 | 5.99 | 9.91 | 9.74 | 8.08 | 4.86 | 5.13 | 5.29 | 5.19 | 5.38 | 5.94 | 5.23 | 5.03 | 5.44 | 5.65 | — | — | — | — | ||||||
| Qualcomm Inc. | 6.37 | 6.95 | 7.52 | 8.30 | 9.67 | 12.50 | 7.17 | 4.91 | 4.72 | 4.37 | 4.28 | 5.19 | 4.83 | 4.62 | 4.38 | — | — | — | — | ||||||
| Texas Instruments Inc. | 8.19 | 7.62 | 11.89 | 8.10 | 9.03 | 6.87 | 6.63 | 7.35 | 7.89 | 8.46 | 9.27 | 9.14 | 9.93 | 9.86 | 9.60 | — | — | — | — | ||||||
Based on: 10-Q (reporting date: 2024-09-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2024-06-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2024-03-31), 10-K (reporting date: 2023-12-31), 10-Q (reporting date: 2023-09-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2023-06-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2023-03-31), 10-K (reporting date: 2022-12-31), 10-Q (reporting date: 2022-09-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2022-06-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2022-03-31), 10-K (reporting date: 2021-12-31), 10-Q (reporting date: 2021-09-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2021-06-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2021-03-31), 10-K (reporting date: 2020-12-31), 10-Q (reporting date: 2020-09-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2020-06-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2020-03-31).
1 Q3 2024 Calculation
Payables turnover
= (Cost of salesQ3 2024
+ Cost of salesQ2 2024
+ Cost of salesQ1 2024
+ Cost of salesQ4 2023)
÷ Accounts payable
= (442,357 + 511,593 + 448,105 + 656,520)
÷ 265,320 = 7.76
2 Click competitor name to see calculations.
The cost of sales exhibits considerable volatility over the periods analyzed. Initially, there is a rising trend from March 2020 through September 2020, followed by a decline at the end of 2020. Throughout 2021, fluctuations occur without a clear directional trend, with peaks in March and December. The cost of sales falls significantly in the first quarter of 2022 but then spikes sharply by the end of that year. In 2023, the costs again fluctuate, showing a mixture of decreases and increases, before settling at moderate levels in early 2024.
Accounts payable demonstrate a somewhat cyclical pattern with noticeable peaks and troughs aligned roughly with the quarters. From early 2020 through the end of 2021, payables show moderate fluctuations, with a general tendency to rise and fall within a range. A significant spike appears at the end of 2022, followed by a decline throughout the first three quarters of 2023. In 2024, accounts payable resume an upward trajectory, reaching their highest levels at the end of the current data set.
The payables turnover ratio varies substantially over the periods and appears inversely related at times to the fluctuations in accounts payable. Early periods reflect relatively higher turnover ratios, indicating quicker payment cycles or reduced payables balances relative to cost of sales. By the end of 2022, this ratio declines noticeably, hitting the lowest values, which could suggest lengthened payment terms or slower turnover of payables. The ratio recovers somewhat in 2023, with a significant spike in the third quarter before decreasing again. In 2024, the trend shows a gradual decline, indicating a continued lengthening in payables turnover or increasing payables relative to cost of sales.
- Cost of Sales Trend
- Displayed high volatility without a consistent upward or downward trajectory, marked by sharp increases and declines across quarters with the highest spikes occurring in late 2022.
- Accounts Payable Trend
- Characterized by cyclical movements with notable peaks at the end of 2022 and a rising trend in 2024, suggesting fluctuating payment obligations but an overall increase in recent periods.
- Payables Turnover Ratio
- Varies widely, evidencing periods of both rapid and slow turnover. The lower ratios towards the end of 2022 and during 2024 imply extended payment periods or higher relative payables, whereas mid-period spikes indicate quicker turnover.
- Relationship between Metrics
- The inverse relationship observed between accounts payable and payables turnover ratio suggests that increases in payables tend to coincide with slower payments, reflecting changes in working capital management or supplier terms.
Working Capital Turnover
First Solar Inc., working capital turnover calculation (quarterly data)
| Sep 30, 2024 | Jun 30, 2024 | Mar 31, 2024 | Dec 31, 2023 | Sep 30, 2023 | Jun 30, 2023 | Mar 31, 2023 | Dec 31, 2022 | Sep 30, 2022 | Jun 30, 2022 | Mar 31, 2022 | Dec 31, 2021 | Sep 30, 2021 | Jun 30, 2021 | Mar 31, 2021 | Dec 31, 2020 | Sep 30, 2020 | Jun 30, 2020 | Mar 31, 2020 | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Selected Financial Data (US$ in thousands) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Current assets | 3,818,103) | 3,948,923) | 4,241,393) | 4,634,809) | 3,824,002) | 3,660,730) | 3,619,864) | 3,791,421) | 3,338,750) | 3,383,417) | 2,994,993) | 3,191,243) | 3,046,325) | 3,155,476) | 3,136,890) | 3,014,535) | 2,800,493) | 2,731,176) | 2,747,843) | ||||||
| Less: Current liabilities | 1,782,165) | 1,772,629) | 1,758,717) | 1,306,158) | 1,199,105) | 1,090,614) | 1,174,173) | 1,038,048) | 816,268) | 803,554) | 734,990) | 726,878) | 715,236) | 660,923) | 669,341) | 847,398) | 731,091) | 747,036) | 732,435) | ||||||
| Working capital | 2,035,938) | 2,176,294) | 2,482,676) | 3,328,651) | 2,624,897) | 2,570,116) | 2,445,691) | 2,753,373) | 2,522,482) | 2,579,863) | 2,260,003) | 2,464,365) | 2,331,089) | 2,494,553) | 2,467,549) | 2,167,137) | 2,069,402) | 1,984,140) | 2,015,408) | ||||||
| Net sales | 887,668) | 1,010,482) | 794,108) | 1,158,553) | 801,090) | 810,673) | 548,286) | 1,002,391) | 628,933) | 620,955) | 367,040) | 907,319) | 583,504) | 629,180) | 803,374) | 609,232) | 927,565) | 642,411) | 532,124) | ||||||
| Short-term Activity Ratio | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Working capital turnover1 | 1.89 | 1.73 | 1.44 | 1.00 | 1.20 | 1.16 | 1.15 | 0.95 | 1.00 | 0.96 | 1.10 | 1.19 | 1.13 | 1.19 | 1.21 | 1.25 | 1.69 | 1.57 | 1.52 | ||||||
| Benchmarks | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Working Capital Turnover, Competitors2 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Advanced Micro Devices Inc. | 2.16 | 2.07 | 2.15 | 2.25 | 2.44 | 2.45 | 2.54 | 2.73 | 2.95 | 2.72 | 2.42 | 3.78 | 3.36 | 2.71 | 2.64 | — | — | — | — | ||||||
| Analog Devices Inc. | 4.38 | 5.52 | 7.75 | 10.40 | 6.41 | 6.13 | 4.61 | 4.81 | 4.94 | 4.23 | 3.50 | 2.81 | 21.89 | 49.24 | 6.18 | 4.86 | 6.92 | 11.81 | 40.91 | ||||||
| Applied Materials Inc. | 2.00 | 2.14 | 2.19 | 2.25 | 2.49 | 2.69 | 2.77 | 3.02 | 2.93 | 2.89 | 2.56 | 2.36 | 2.14 | 1.95 | 1.86 | 1.93 | 2.04 | 1.94 | 2.42 | ||||||
| Broadcom Inc. | 64.48 | 8.31 | 5.70 | 2.66 | 3.23 | 3.38 | 3.03 | 2.90 | 3.58 | 3.80 | 3.15 | 2.66 | 2.90 | 3.27 | 3.25 | 4.32 | 3.32 | 3.00 | 5.19 | ||||||
| Intel Corp. | 4.94 | 2.93 | 3.59 | 3.56 | 3.48 | 3.34 | 2.70 | 3.45 | 3.24 | 3.14 | 2.34 | 2.61 | 2.47 | 3.16 | 3.59 | — | — | — | — | ||||||
| KLA Corp. | 1.89 | 2.31 | 2.20 | 2.27 | 2.31 | 2.25 | 2.19 | 2.14 | 2.30 | 2.08 | 2.06 | 1.93 | 1.91 | 1.90 | 1.97 | — | — | — | — | ||||||
| Lam Research Corp. | 1.77 | 1.63 | 1.81 | 1.93 | 2.03 | 2.08 | 2.10 | 2.23 | 2.18 | 2.01 | 2.04 | 1.80 | 1.72 | 1.51 | 1.41 | — | — | — | — | ||||||
| Micron Technology Inc. | 1.30 | 1.07 | 1.07 | 0.94 | 1.09 | 1.39 | 1.66 | 2.16 | 2.06 | 2.14 | 2.17 | 2.05 | 1.95 | 1.98 | 2.04 | — | — | — | — | ||||||
| NVIDIA Corp. | 1.90 | 1.77 | 1.47 | 1.63 | 1.75 | 1.50 | 1.23 | 1.10 | 1.09 | 1.03 | 1.36 | 1.37 | 1.38 | 1.06 | 0.67 | — | — | — | — | ||||||
| Qualcomm Inc. | 2.75 | 2.41 | 2.54 | 2.79 | 3.21 | 3.66 | 3.90 | 4.99 | 5.88 | 4.80 | 4.53 | 4.13 | 3.96 | 3.19 | 2.53 | — | — | — | — | ||||||
| Texas Instruments Inc. | 1.29 | 1.22 | 1.21 | 1.48 | 1.46 | 1.47 | 1.61 | 1.81 | 1.84 | 1.87 | 1.65 | 1.65 | 1.57 | 1.87 | 1.77 | — | — | — | — | ||||||
Based on: 10-Q (reporting date: 2024-09-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2024-06-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2024-03-31), 10-K (reporting date: 2023-12-31), 10-Q (reporting date: 2023-09-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2023-06-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2023-03-31), 10-K (reporting date: 2022-12-31), 10-Q (reporting date: 2022-09-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2022-06-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2022-03-31), 10-K (reporting date: 2021-12-31), 10-Q (reporting date: 2021-09-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2021-06-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2021-03-31), 10-K (reporting date: 2020-12-31), 10-Q (reporting date: 2020-09-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2020-06-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2020-03-31).
1 Q3 2024 Calculation
Working capital turnover
= (Net salesQ3 2024
+ Net salesQ2 2024
+ Net salesQ1 2024
+ Net salesQ4 2023)
÷ Working capital
= (887,668 + 1,010,482 + 794,108 + 1,158,553)
÷ 2,035,938 = 1.89
2 Click competitor name to see calculations.
The financial data reveals several notable trends with respect to working capital, net sales, and the working capital turnover ratio over the observed periods.
- Working Capital
- The working capital figures exhibit fluctuations throughout the timeline. Starting from around 2.02 billion US dollars in early 2020, the working capital generally increased toward the end of 2020 and early 2021, peaking near 2.49 billion US dollars. This peak was followed by a decline in mid to late 2022 and early 2023, reaching approximately 2.44 billion US dollars in March 2023. Subsequently, there was a significant increase to over 3.3 billion US dollars by the end of 2023, before declining again to below 2.04 billion US dollars by the third quarter of 2024. The pattern reflects periods of both strengthening and weakening liquidity positions.
- Net Sales
- Net sales demonstrate a highly variable pattern with notable volatility. Initial sales in early 2020 were moderate, increasing sharply in the third quarter of 2020. Sales then declined in the subsequent quarters before rising again by the end of 2021. The first quarter of 2022 saw a pronounced decrease in net sales, followed by a gradual recovery trend through 2022 and a marked increase through 2023, reaching a peak of nearly 1.16 billion US dollars in the last quarter of 2023. The subsequent quarters saw some fluctuations but maintained relatively high sales volumes compared to earlier periods. This volatility indicates fluctuations in market demand or operational capacity over the quarters.
- Working Capital Turnover
- The ratio of working capital turnover has mostly trended downward from 1.52 in the first quarter of 2020 to lows near 0.95 in late 2022, reflecting decreasing efficiency in using working capital to generate sales during that period. However, from 2023 onwards, this metric shows a recovery and an increasing trajectory, peaking near 1.89 by the third quarter of 2024. The improvement in turnover ratio during the most recent periods suggests enhanced operational efficiency or better management of working capital relative to net sales.
Overall, the data presents a complex picture characterized by volatile sales performance and corresponding shifts in working capital levels. Despite some periods of underperformance or lower efficiency, recent quarters indicate a trend toward improved working capital utilization and recovery in sales, signaling potential operational improvements and better resource management.
Average Inventory Processing Period
First Solar Inc., average inventory processing period calculation (quarterly data)
| Sep 30, 2024 | Jun 30, 2024 | Mar 31, 2024 | Dec 31, 2023 | Sep 30, 2023 | Jun 30, 2023 | Mar 31, 2023 | Dec 31, 2022 | Sep 30, 2022 | Jun 30, 2022 | Mar 31, 2022 | Dec 31, 2021 | Sep 30, 2021 | Jun 30, 2021 | Mar 31, 2021 | Dec 31, 2020 | Sep 30, 2020 | Jun 30, 2020 | Mar 31, 2020 | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Selected Financial Data | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Inventory turnover | 1.65 | 1.99 | 2.09 | 2.46 | 2.61 | 3.29 | 3.50 | 4.10 | 2.80 | 2.62 | 2.30 | 3.29 | 3.06 | 3.58 | 4.01 | 3.58 | 4.66 | 4.67 | 5.05 | ||||||
| Short-term Activity Ratio (no. days) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Average inventory processing period1 | 222 | 184 | 175 | 148 | 140 | 111 | 104 | 89 | 130 | 140 | 159 | 111 | 119 | 102 | 91 | 102 | 78 | 78 | 72 | ||||||
| Benchmarks (no. days) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Average Inventory Processing Period, Competitors2 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Advanced Micro Devices Inc. | 156 | 149 | 140 | 130 | 133 | 135 | 120 | 106 | 101 | 86 | 91 | 84 | 88 | 89 | 96 | — | — | — | — | ||||||
| Analog Devices Inc. | 127 | 128 | 131 | 135 | 140 | 136 | 129 | 114 | 96 | 97 | 100 | 157 | 115 | 116 | 115 | 116 | 117 | 113 | 111 | ||||||
| Applied Materials Inc. | 144 | 148 | 147 | 148 | 149 | 152 | 157 | 157 | 151 | 140 | 131 | 129 | 130 | 138 | 143 | 150 | 159 | 157 | 150 | ||||||
| Broadcom Inc. | 41 | 45 | 55 | 62 | 60 | 61 | 61 | 63 | 62 | 57 | 53 | 45 | 40 | 35 | 33 | 35 | 38 | 34 | 34 | ||||||
| Intel Corp. | 124 | 127 | 130 | 125 | 128 | 131 | 136 | 133 | 126 | 121 | 123 | 112 | 104 | 93 | 88 | — | — | — | — | ||||||
| KLA Corp. | 283 | 285 | 266 | 249 | 237 | 225 | 230 | 218 | 214 | 208 | 211 | 207 | 202 | 207 | 206 | — | — | — | — | ||||||
| Lam Research Corp. | 208 | 206 | 198 | 182 | 171 | 169 | 163 | 155 | 140 | 126 | 124 | 126 | 131 | 135 | 132 | — | — | — | — | ||||||
| Micron Technology Inc. | 164 | 168 | 163 | 181 | 182 | 177 | 192 | 144 | 119 | 116 | 101 | 95 | 98 | 106 | 133 | — | — | — | — | ||||||
| NVIDIA Corp. | 129 | 136 | 149 | 162 | 135 | 121 | 112 | 101 | 94 | 97 | 100 | 106 | 99 | 105 | 96 | — | — | — | — | ||||||
| Qualcomm Inc. | 133 | 138 | 141 | 148 | 144 | 140 | 138 | 124 | 112 | 102 | 93 | 83 | 87 | 83 | 88 | — | — | — | — | ||||||
| Texas Instruments Inc. | 241 | 229 | 228 | 225 | 222 | 215 | 190 | 161 | 143 | 133 | 127 | 117 | 115 | 117 | 127 | — | — | — | — | ||||||
Based on: 10-Q (reporting date: 2024-09-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2024-06-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2024-03-31), 10-K (reporting date: 2023-12-31), 10-Q (reporting date: 2023-09-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2023-06-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2023-03-31), 10-K (reporting date: 2022-12-31), 10-Q (reporting date: 2022-09-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2022-06-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2022-03-31), 10-K (reporting date: 2021-12-31), 10-Q (reporting date: 2021-09-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2021-06-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2021-03-31), 10-K (reporting date: 2020-12-31), 10-Q (reporting date: 2020-09-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2020-06-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2020-03-31).
1 Q3 2024 Calculation
Average inventory processing period = 365 ÷ Inventory turnover
= 365 ÷ 1.65 = 222
2 Click competitor name to see calculations.
The analysis of inventory metrics over the reported periods reveals notable trends in inventory management efficiency. Inventory turnover ratio and average inventory processing period exhibit inverse movements, reflecting changes in how rapidly inventory is being sold and replenished.
- Inventory Turnover Ratio Trends
- The inventory turnover ratio declined from 5.05 at the end of March 2020 to a low of 1.65 by September 2024. This steady decrease indicates that the frequency with which inventory is sold and replaced has slowed down significantly over the time horizon. Notable decreases occur particularly after the end of 2021, where the ratio falls below 3.0 consistently, signaling a reduction in inventory liquidity.
- Average Inventory Processing Period Trends
- Correlating inversely with the turnover ratio, the average inventory processing period increased substantially from 72 days at the end of March 2020 to 222 days by September 2024. This represents a marked lengthening in the time inventory remains on hand before being sold. The increase is gradual but becomes pronounced starting in early 2022, climbing from around 130 days to over 220 days by the end of the analyzed period.
- Implications and Insights
- The divergent trends suggest deteriorating inventory management efficiency or possibly changes in market demand or supply chain dynamics. The increasing days inventory remains on hand and decreasing turnover ratio could indicate excess inventory levels, slower sales, or operational challenges in moving products efficiently. This pattern sustained over multiple quarters underlines a potential area of concern regarding working capital utilization and operational responsiveness. Additionally, the temporary rise in turnover ratio and reduction in processing period around late 2022 hint at short-term improvements, but these gains were not maintained in subsequent quarters.
Average Receivable Collection Period
First Solar Inc., average receivable collection period calculation (quarterly data)
| Sep 30, 2024 | Jun 30, 2024 | Mar 31, 2024 | Dec 31, 2023 | Sep 30, 2023 | Jun 30, 2023 | Mar 31, 2023 | Dec 31, 2022 | Sep 30, 2022 | Jun 30, 2022 | Mar 31, 2022 | Dec 31, 2021 | Sep 30, 2021 | Jun 30, 2021 | Mar 31, 2021 | Dec 31, 2020 | Sep 30, 2020 | Jun 30, 2020 | Mar 31, 2020 | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Selected Financial Data | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Receivables turnover | 5.05 | 5.81 | 5.32 | 5.02 | 4.20 | 4.74 | 9.38 | 8.08 | 7.76 | 5.45 | 8.48 | 6.81 | 10.57 | 5.09 | 3.77 | 10.19 | 16.00 | 10.85 | 10.55 | ||||||
| Short-term Activity Ratio (no. days) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Average receivable collection period1 | 72 | 63 | 69 | 73 | 87 | 77 | 39 | 45 | 47 | 67 | 43 | 54 | 35 | 72 | 97 | 36 | 23 | 34 | 35 | ||||||
| Benchmarks (no. days) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Average Receivable Collection Period, Competitors2 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Advanced Micro Devices Inc. | 109 | 90 | 81 | 87 | 83 | 72 | 64 | 64 | 69 | 69 | 71 | 60 | 55 | 55 | 70 | — | — | — | — | ||||||
| Analog Devices Inc. | 42 | 35 | 38 | 44 | 46 | 46 | 47 | 55 | 57 | 60 | 71 | 73 | 46 | 48 | 52 | 48 | 45 | 39 | 37 | ||||||
| Applied Materials Inc. | 68 | 66 | 65 | 71 | 72 | 76 | 75 | 86 | 72 | 72 | 67 | 78 | 65 | 62 | 61 | 63 | 63 | 62 | 65 | ||||||
| Broadcom Inc. | 36 | 47 | 47 | 32 | 30 | 32 | 34 | 33 | 31 | 38 | 33 | 28 | 31 | 35 | 37 | 35 | 42 | 51 | 59 | ||||||
| Intel Corp. | 21 | 21 | 22 | 23 | 20 | 20 | 25 | 24 | 39 | 30 | 33 | 44 | 39 | 35 | 34 | — | — | — | — | ||||||
| KLA Corp. | 62 | 70 | 59 | 61 | 67 | 79 | 69 | 72 | 68 | 77 | 72 | 69 | 68 | 73 | 63 | — | — | — | — | ||||||
| Lam Research Corp. | 56 | 69 | 65 | 59 | 63 | 78 | 93 | 91 | 81 | 75 | 79 | 76 | 77 | 89 | 77 | — | — | — | — | ||||||
| Micron Technology Inc. | 88 | 86 | 66 | 57 | 49 | 36 | 45 | 61 | 70 | 63 | 65 | 70 | 61 | 52 | 61 | — | — | — | — | ||||||
| NVIDIA Corp. | 68 | 79 | 58 | 52 | 63 | 65 | 67 | 63 | 59 | 60 | 57 | 53 | 63 | 58 | 59 | — | — | — | — | ||||||
| Texas Instruments Inc. | 43 | 39 | 36 | 37 | 40 | 38 | 35 | 35 | 37 | 41 | 35 | 34 | 34 | 35 | 37 | — | — | — | — | ||||||
Based on: 10-Q (reporting date: 2024-09-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2024-06-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2024-03-31), 10-K (reporting date: 2023-12-31), 10-Q (reporting date: 2023-09-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2023-06-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2023-03-31), 10-K (reporting date: 2022-12-31), 10-Q (reporting date: 2022-09-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2022-06-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2022-03-31), 10-K (reporting date: 2021-12-31), 10-Q (reporting date: 2021-09-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2021-06-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2021-03-31), 10-K (reporting date: 2020-12-31), 10-Q (reporting date: 2020-09-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2020-06-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2020-03-31).
1 Q3 2024 Calculation
Average receivable collection period = 365 ÷ Receivables turnover
= 365 ÷ 5.05 = 72
2 Click competitor name to see calculations.
The analysis of the receivables turnover ratio and the average receivable collection period over the presented quarters reveals notable fluctuations and some emerging patterns in the company's credit management efficiency and cash conversion cycle.
- Receivables Turnover Ratio
- The receivables turnover ratio exhibits significant variability with an initial moderately high level around 10.55 to 10.85 in early 2020, followed by a peak at 16 in the third quarter of 2020. This peak suggests a period of faster collection from customers during that quarter. However, there is a marked decline starting in the first quarter of 2021, dropping sharply to 3.77, indicating slower collections or possibly increased credit sales. Subsequent quarters show recovery and oscillation between 4.2 and around 10.57, with no consistent upward or downward trend but a general tendency to stabilize around the mid-single digits in recent quarters. The ratio in the last three reported quarters remains relatively stable around 5 to 6, indicating moderate efficiency in receivable collections compared to the early quarters.
- Average Receivable Collection Period
- This metric inversely mirrors the receivables turnover ratio, as expected. Initially, it is low, around 23 to 36 days in 2020, suggesting efficient collection practices. From the first quarter of 2021, there is a sharp increase to 97 days, indicating much longer customer payment periods and potentially reflecting changes in credit policy, customer base, or market conditions. Although the collection period decreases from that peak, it remains elevated relative to 2020 levels, fluctuating between approximately 39 and 87 days in subsequent quarters. Notably, the collection period remains mostly above 60 days in recent quarters, suggesting consistent delays or relaxed credit terms.
- Overall Insights
- The early 2020 period reflects efficient receivables management with quick turnover and low collection days. Starting in 2021, a significant shift occurred, reflected by a lower turnover ratio and a substantially longer collection period, implying potential challenges in cash flow or strategic changes in credit management. Although some recovery in turnover ratio occurs, the average collection period does not return to earlier low levels, indicating continued elongated collection cycles. The persistence of these trends through 2023 and into 2024 implies a sustained impact on liquidity that warrants further attention.
Operating Cycle
First Solar Inc., operating cycle calculation (quarterly data)
No. days
| Sep 30, 2024 | Jun 30, 2024 | Mar 31, 2024 | Dec 31, 2023 | Sep 30, 2023 | Jun 30, 2023 | Mar 31, 2023 | Dec 31, 2022 | Sep 30, 2022 | Jun 30, 2022 | Mar 31, 2022 | Dec 31, 2021 | Sep 30, 2021 | Jun 30, 2021 | Mar 31, 2021 | Dec 31, 2020 | Sep 30, 2020 | Jun 30, 2020 | Mar 31, 2020 | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Selected Financial Data | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Average inventory processing period | 222 | 184 | 175 | 148 | 140 | 111 | 104 | 89 | 130 | 140 | 159 | 111 | 119 | 102 | 91 | 102 | 78 | 78 | 72 | ||||||
| Average receivable collection period | 72 | 63 | 69 | 73 | 87 | 77 | 39 | 45 | 47 | 67 | 43 | 54 | 35 | 72 | 97 | 36 | 23 | 34 | 35 | ||||||
| Short-term Activity Ratio | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Operating cycle1 | 294 | 247 | 244 | 221 | 227 | 188 | 143 | 134 | 177 | 207 | 202 | 165 | 154 | 174 | 188 | 138 | 101 | 112 | 107 | ||||||
| Benchmarks | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Operating Cycle, Competitors2 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Advanced Micro Devices Inc. | 265 | 239 | 221 | 217 | 216 | 207 | 184 | 170 | 170 | 155 | 162 | 144 | 143 | 144 | 166 | — | — | — | — | ||||||
| Analog Devices Inc. | 169 | 163 | 169 | 179 | 186 | 182 | 176 | 169 | 153 | 157 | 171 | 230 | 161 | 164 | 167 | 164 | 162 | 152 | 148 | ||||||
| Applied Materials Inc. | 212 | 214 | 212 | 219 | 221 | 228 | 232 | 243 | 223 | 212 | 198 | 207 | 195 | 200 | 204 | 213 | 222 | 219 | 215 | ||||||
| Broadcom Inc. | 77 | 92 | 102 | 94 | 90 | 93 | 95 | 96 | 93 | 95 | 86 | 73 | 71 | 70 | 70 | 70 | 80 | 85 | 93 | ||||||
| Intel Corp. | 145 | 148 | 152 | 148 | 148 | 151 | 161 | 157 | 165 | 151 | 156 | 156 | 143 | 128 | 122 | — | — | — | — | ||||||
| KLA Corp. | 345 | 355 | 325 | 310 | 304 | 304 | 299 | 290 | 282 | 285 | 283 | 276 | 270 | 280 | 269 | — | — | — | — | ||||||
| Lam Research Corp. | 264 | 275 | 263 | 241 | 234 | 247 | 256 | 246 | 221 | 201 | 203 | 202 | 208 | 224 | 209 | — | — | — | — | ||||||
| Micron Technology Inc. | 252 | 254 | 229 | 238 | 231 | 213 | 237 | 205 | 189 | 179 | 166 | 165 | 159 | 158 | 194 | — | — | — | — | ||||||
| NVIDIA Corp. | 197 | 215 | 207 | 214 | 198 | 186 | 179 | 164 | 153 | 157 | 157 | 159 | 162 | 163 | 155 | — | — | — | — | ||||||
| Texas Instruments Inc. | 284 | 268 | 264 | 262 | 262 | 253 | 225 | 196 | 180 | 174 | 162 | 151 | 149 | 152 | 164 | — | — | — | — | ||||||
Based on: 10-Q (reporting date: 2024-09-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2024-06-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2024-03-31), 10-K (reporting date: 2023-12-31), 10-Q (reporting date: 2023-09-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2023-06-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2023-03-31), 10-K (reporting date: 2022-12-31), 10-Q (reporting date: 2022-09-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2022-06-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2022-03-31), 10-K (reporting date: 2021-12-31), 10-Q (reporting date: 2021-09-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2021-06-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2021-03-31), 10-K (reporting date: 2020-12-31), 10-Q (reporting date: 2020-09-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2020-06-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2020-03-31).
1 Q3 2024 Calculation
Operating cycle = Average inventory processing period + Average receivable collection period
= 222 + 72 = 294
2 Click competitor name to see calculations.
The company’s operational metrics over the observed periods exhibit notable fluctuations and distinct trends in inventory management, receivable collection, and overall operating cycle length.
- Average Inventory Processing Period
- The inventory processing period shows a general upward trend from early 2020 through mid-2024. Starting at 72 days in the first quarter of 2020, the metric increased steadily, peaking at 222 days by the third quarter of 2024. There are noticeable spikes in late 2020 and early 2022, where the period reached over 150 days before temporarily moderating. The recent quarters show some volatility with a shorter period in late 2022, but the overall trajectory continues upward, indicating a lengthening time to convert inventory into sales or production completion over time.
- Average Receivable Collection Period
- The receivable collection period exhibits more variability with less clear directional movement. Initially ranging between 23 and 36 days in 2020, this period spikes sharply in early 2021, reaching 97 days, suggesting delayed cash collections during that phase. Subsequently, the metric fluctuates between 35 and 87 days without a consistent pattern, indicating irregularities or changing credit policies and customer payment behavior. The period remains elevated compared to early 2020 levels, with recent values around the 60-70 day range.
- Operating Cycle
- The operating cycle, which combines the inventory processing and receivable collection periods, reflects the aggregated effect of the two underlying metrics. From approximately 100 days in the first quarter of 2020, it increases sharply, peaking at 294 days by the third quarter of 2024. The operating cycle period mirrors the fluctuations observed in inventory and receivables; significant increases around early 2021 and sustained lengthening thereafter suggest a slowdown in the overall cash conversion process. Recent quarters maintain a high operating cycle, indicating longer durations to convert inputs into cash inflows.
Overall, the data indicates that the company is experiencing longer durations in both inventory turnover and receivable collection processes, leading to an extended operating cycle. This trend may highlight potential inefficiencies or challenges in working capital management that could impact liquidity and operational effectiveness if not addressed. Continuous monitoring and strategic interventions may be necessary to optimize working capital and shorten the cash conversion period.
Average Payables Payment Period
First Solar Inc., average payables payment period calculation (quarterly data)
| Sep 30, 2024 | Jun 30, 2024 | Mar 31, 2024 | Dec 31, 2023 | Sep 30, 2023 | Jun 30, 2023 | Mar 31, 2023 | Dec 31, 2022 | Sep 30, 2022 | Jun 30, 2022 | Mar 31, 2022 | Dec 31, 2021 | Sep 30, 2021 | Jun 30, 2021 | Mar 31, 2021 | Dec 31, 2020 | Sep 30, 2020 | Jun 30, 2020 | Mar 31, 2020 | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Selected Financial Data | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Payables turnover | 7.76 | 8.84 | 8.48 | 9.74 | 20.79 | 10.11 | 9.20 | 7.47 | 12.05 | 13.17 | 13.20 | 11.34 | 11.66 | 14.55 | 11.86 | 11.08 | 17.20 | 15.25 | 13.95 | ||||||
| Short-term Activity Ratio (no. days) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Average payables payment period1 | 47 | 41 | 43 | 37 | 18 | 36 | 40 | 49 | 30 | 28 | 28 | 32 | 31 | 25 | 31 | 33 | 21 | 24 | 26 | ||||||
| Benchmarks (no. days) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Average Payables Payment Period, Competitors2 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Advanced Micro Devices Inc. | 87 | 63 | 56 | 72 | 77 | 92 | 81 | 83 | 82 | 61 | 63 | 60 | 50 | 44 | 57 | — | — | — | — | ||||||
| Analog Devices Inc. | 38 | 37 | 33 | 41 | 48 | 47 | 45 | 47 | 43 | 41 | 45 | 58 | 47 | 50 | 42 | 43 | 41 | 37 | 40 | ||||||
| Broadcom Inc. | 38 | 35 | 43 | 40 | 32 | 27 | 30 | 33 | 24 | 37 | 37 | 37 | 33 | 29 | 31 | 29 | 39 | 44 | 36 | ||||||
| Intel Corp. | 114 | 109 | 97 | 96 | 97 | 96 | 85 | 97 | 70 | 79 | 74 | 60 | 72 | 63 | 56 | — | — | — | — | ||||||
| KLA Corp. | 33 | 35 | 32 | 32 | 35 | 47 | 46 | 45 | 46 | 43 | 47 | 45 | 41 | 38 | 38 | — | — | — | — | ||||||
| Lam Research Corp. | 26 | 23 | 22 | 18 | 21 | 32 | 43 | 39 | 41 | 39 | 36 | 39 | 39 | 41 | 41 | — | — | — | — | ||||||
| NVIDIA Corp. | 64 | 61 | 37 | 37 | 45 | 75 | 71 | 69 | 70 | 68 | 61 | 70 | 72 | 67 | 65 | — | — | — | — | ||||||
| Qualcomm Inc. | 57 | 52 | 49 | 44 | 38 | 29 | 51 | 74 | 77 | 83 | 85 | 70 | 76 | 79 | 83 | — | — | — | — | ||||||
| Texas Instruments Inc. | 45 | 48 | 31 | 45 | 40 | 53 | 55 | 50 | 46 | 43 | 39 | 40 | 37 | 37 | 38 | — | — | — | — | ||||||
Based on: 10-Q (reporting date: 2024-09-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2024-06-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2024-03-31), 10-K (reporting date: 2023-12-31), 10-Q (reporting date: 2023-09-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2023-06-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2023-03-31), 10-K (reporting date: 2022-12-31), 10-Q (reporting date: 2022-09-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2022-06-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2022-03-31), 10-K (reporting date: 2021-12-31), 10-Q (reporting date: 2021-09-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2021-06-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2021-03-31), 10-K (reporting date: 2020-12-31), 10-Q (reporting date: 2020-09-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2020-06-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2020-03-31).
1 Q3 2024 Calculation
Average payables payment period = 365 ÷ Payables turnover
= 365 ÷ 7.76 = 47
2 Click competitor name to see calculations.
The payables turnover ratio demonstrates notable variability across the observed periods, indicating fluctuations in the efficiency with which the company manages its payables. Initially, the ratio shows an increasing trend, moving from 13.95 in early 2020 to a peak of 17.2 by the third quarter of 2020. This suggests an improvement in the speed of payments during this timeframe. However, following this peak, the ratio generally declines, reaching a low point of 7.47 at the end of 2022. This decline points to a slowdown in payable turnover, reflecting extended payment cycles or a potential build-up of payables.
Starting from early 2023, there is evidence of volatility in the payables turnover, with fluctuations between higher and lower values. A sharp increase is observed in the third quarter of 2023 (20.79), followed by a reduction to 9.74 in the subsequent quarter, and then a continued downward pattern into mid and late 2024. This irregular pattern may indicate changing payment policies or variability in vendor terms and purchasing activity.
The average payables payment period, expressed in number of days, inversely correlates with the payables turnover ratio, as expected. The payment period begins near 26 days in early 2020, decreases to as low as 21 days by the third quarter of 2020, and then increases substantially to 33 days by year-end 2020. Throughout 2021, the payment days fluctuate between roughly 25 and 32 days. A pronounced increase is seen in late 2022, reaching a maximum value of 49 days, implying slower payments to suppliers and potentially extended credit terms or cash management strategies that lengthen payment cycles.
In 2023, the average payment period shows a downward trend initially, dropping to as low as 18 days in the third quarter, indicating faster payments during this quarter. Yet, from late 2023 into 2024, the payment period again extends beyond 40 days, suggesting a return to elongated payable durations. Overall, the payment period data reveals a trend toward longer payment cycles in more recent periods, particularly in 2022 and again in 2024, which could impact supplier relations or reflect strategic cash flow management.
In summary, the financial data indicates alternating periods of efficient and slower management of payables, with a general movement toward prolonged payment periods and reduced payables turnover in the latter part of the timeline. These fluctuations suggest shifts in operational or financial strategies influencing accounts payable management, with potential implications for liquidity and supplier dynamics.
Cash Conversion Cycle
First Solar Inc., cash conversion cycle calculation (quarterly data)
No. days
| Sep 30, 2024 | Jun 30, 2024 | Mar 31, 2024 | Dec 31, 2023 | Sep 30, 2023 | Jun 30, 2023 | Mar 31, 2023 | Dec 31, 2022 | Sep 30, 2022 | Jun 30, 2022 | Mar 31, 2022 | Dec 31, 2021 | Sep 30, 2021 | Jun 30, 2021 | Mar 31, 2021 | Dec 31, 2020 | Sep 30, 2020 | Jun 30, 2020 | Mar 31, 2020 | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Selected Financial Data | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Average inventory processing period | 222 | 184 | 175 | 148 | 140 | 111 | 104 | 89 | 130 | 140 | 159 | 111 | 119 | 102 | 91 | 102 | 78 | 78 | 72 | ||||||
| Average receivable collection period | 72 | 63 | 69 | 73 | 87 | 77 | 39 | 45 | 47 | 67 | 43 | 54 | 35 | 72 | 97 | 36 | 23 | 34 | 35 | ||||||
| Average payables payment period | 47 | 41 | 43 | 37 | 18 | 36 | 40 | 49 | 30 | 28 | 28 | 32 | 31 | 25 | 31 | 33 | 21 | 24 | 26 | ||||||
| Short-term Activity Ratio | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Cash conversion cycle1 | 247 | 206 | 201 | 184 | 209 | 152 | 103 | 85 | 147 | 179 | 174 | 133 | 123 | 149 | 157 | 105 | 80 | 88 | 81 | ||||||
| Benchmarks | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Cash Conversion Cycle, Competitors2 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Advanced Micro Devices Inc. | 178 | 176 | 165 | 145 | 139 | 115 | 103 | 87 | 88 | 94 | 99 | 84 | 93 | 100 | 109 | — | — | — | — | ||||||
| Analog Devices Inc. | 131 | 126 | 136 | 138 | 138 | 135 | 131 | 122 | 110 | 116 | 126 | 172 | 114 | 114 | 125 | 121 | 121 | 115 | 108 | ||||||
| Broadcom Inc. | 39 | 57 | 59 | 54 | 58 | 66 | 65 | 63 | 69 | 58 | 49 | 36 | 38 | 41 | 39 | 41 | 41 | 41 | 57 | ||||||
| Intel Corp. | 31 | 39 | 55 | 52 | 51 | 55 | 76 | 60 | 95 | 72 | 82 | 96 | 71 | 65 | 66 | — | — | — | — | ||||||
| KLA Corp. | 312 | 320 | 293 | 278 | 269 | 257 | 253 | 245 | 236 | 242 | 236 | 231 | 229 | 242 | 231 | — | — | — | — | ||||||
| Lam Research Corp. | 238 | 252 | 241 | 223 | 213 | 215 | 213 | 207 | 180 | 162 | 167 | 163 | 169 | 183 | 168 | — | — | — | — | ||||||
| NVIDIA Corp. | 133 | 154 | 170 | 177 | 153 | 111 | 108 | 95 | 83 | 89 | 96 | 89 | 90 | 96 | 90 | — | — | — | — | ||||||
| Texas Instruments Inc. | 239 | 220 | 233 | 217 | 222 | 200 | 170 | 146 | 134 | 131 | 123 | 111 | 112 | 115 | 126 | — | — | — | — | ||||||
Based on: 10-Q (reporting date: 2024-09-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2024-06-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2024-03-31), 10-K (reporting date: 2023-12-31), 10-Q (reporting date: 2023-09-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2023-06-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2023-03-31), 10-K (reporting date: 2022-12-31), 10-Q (reporting date: 2022-09-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2022-06-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2022-03-31), 10-K (reporting date: 2021-12-31), 10-Q (reporting date: 2021-09-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2021-06-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2021-03-31), 10-K (reporting date: 2020-12-31), 10-Q (reporting date: 2020-09-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2020-06-30), 10-Q (reporting date: 2020-03-31).
1 Q3 2024 Calculation
Cash conversion cycle = Average inventory processing period + Average receivable collection period – Average payables payment period
= 222 + 72 – 47 = 247
2 Click competitor name to see calculations.
The financial data reveals notable trends in the company's working capital management metrics over the examined periods. The average inventory processing period shows a general upward trajectory, increasing from 72 days at the beginning of 2020 to 222 days by the third quarter of 2024. This indicates a lengthening period for inventory turnover, suggesting potential challenges in inventory management or shifts in demand and supply dynamics.
The average receivable collection period exhibits considerable volatility, with values oscillating between a low of 23 days and a high peak of 97 days. In particular, a significant spike occurs around the first quarter of 2021, reaching 97 days, followed by fluctuations within the 30-80 day range thereafter. This pattern points to inconsistent efficiency in collecting receivables, which may impact liquidity.
The average payables payment period remains relatively stable but with a slight upward trend, moving from 26 days in early 2020 to 47 days by the third quarter of 2024. The figures generally stay between 18 and 49 days, reflecting a cautious approach to managing payment obligations without extreme fluctuations.
The cash conversion cycle, which synthesizes these components, demonstrates a clear increasing trend over the observed period. Starting at 81 days in the first quarter of 2020, the cycle lengthens to 247 days by late 2024. This elongation is primarily driven by the expanding inventory processing period and fluctuating receivable collection period, partially offset by the moderate increase in the payables payment period. The lengthening cash conversion cycle implies that the company requires more time to convert investments in inventory and receivables into cash, potentially affecting operational liquidity and financial flexibility.