Monday, October 28, 2013

ADP Takes Part in the EFQM Forum

ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates - Friday, October 25th 2013 [ME NewsWire]

In pursuance of its commitment to communicate with local and international partners in the various areas related to the development of police work, the Abu Dhabi Police took part in the annual European Foundation on Quality Management (EFQM) Forum, recently held in Austria’s capital Vienna.

This participation reflects the Abu Dhabi Police’s keenness to observe the best practices in the field of organizational excellence. It also comes in line with the police leadership’s instructions to acquaint the international community with the achievements of the Abu Dhabi Police General Headquarters, and share both its experience and cultural role in maintaining security and stability.

Major General Mohammed bin Al Awadhi Al Menhali, Director General of Human Resources, Head of the Quality and Excellence team, lauded the Forum as the most prominent event in the field of excellence on the European level. He also emphasized the importance of acquainting the more than 350 participants in this annual forum with the myriad achievements of Abu Dhabi Police.

Colonel Thani Butti Al Shamesi, Head of the Training Department at Abu Dhabi Police, indicated that this annual Forum is a platform for international institutions, bodies, departments and companies implementing the EFQM Excellence Model worldwide. The Abu Dhabi Police GHQ’s participation strengthens its presence on the international scene, and enables it to review the best practices introduced by participants and winners of the EFQM Excellence Award for 2013.

Al Shamesi lauded the sponsorship role of the Abu Dhabi Police General Headquarters as a Gold Sponsor. As part of this sponsorship, it dedicated a full page in English for the event, to highlight the Abu Dhabi Police excellence in all areas of work to worldwide participants. It also showcases the Abu Dhabi Police’s achievements as the leading entity implementing the EFQM Excellence Model in its operations.

The Abu Dhabi Police delegation to the Conference included Colonel Thani Butti Al Shamsi, Head of the Training Department; Lt. Colonel Mohammed Ali Al Muhairi, Head of the Employees Performance Appraisal Department; and Major Khalfan Al Mansouri from the Education Department. The delegation also included Major Rashid Al Dosari, Chief of Organizational Excellence Secretariat at the Strategy and Performance Development Department; Captain Taghrid Al Sayyed;   Captain Samira Al Otaibi; and a number of individuals working in the field of excellence.

For more information about:

The Ministry of Interior, please click HERE

Abu Dhabi Police, please click HERE

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Photo Captions:

Photo 1:  Major General Mohammed bin Al Awadhi Al Menhali

The Arabic-language text of this announcement is the official, authoritative version. Translations are provided as an accommodation only, and should be cross-referenced with the Arabic-language text, which is the only version of the text intended to have legal effect.

Contacts

The UAE Minister of Interior's General Secretariat, Tactical Affairs and Security Media Department

Abu Dhabi Police GHQ - Security Media

Chris Cron +971-(0)-50-987-1317

E-mail: cron.media@hotmail.com

Permalink: http://me-newswire.net/news/8958/en

ZTE and China Telecom Set World Record in Real-Time Terabit Optical Transmission

Real-time data transmission completed over 3,200 kilometers; strengthens ZTE’s global leadership in terabit optical network systems

SHENZHEN, China - Monday, October 28th 2013 [ME NewsWire]

(BUSINESS WIRE)-- ZTE Corporation (“ZTE”) (H share stock code: 0763.HK / A share stock code: 000063.SZ), a publicly-listed global provider of telecommunications equipment, network solutions and mobile devices, is pleased to announce that the company set a world record in real-time terabit optical transmission in collaboration with China Telecom Corporation Ltd. Beijing Research Institute.

Deploying a terabit Wavelength-division multiplexing (WDM) real-time transmission system based on ZTE’s ZXONE 8700 platform, ZTE and China Telecom completed real-time data transmission over a distance of 3,200 kilometers on G.652 optical fiber without Raman amplification that was error-free for 24 hours, achieving a world record. The real-time nature of the successful test by ZTE and China Telecom marked a major advance from past experiments that were based on offline systems.

ZTE and China Telecom built the fastest and longest-distance real-time optical transport system by using advanced Nyquist WDM Terabit PM-QPSK optical modulation and optical coherent detection technologies, in addition to ultra-high-speed signal processing and soft-decision forward error correction algorithms, achieving spectral efficiency of 4bit/Hz/s.

The latest advance by ZTE further strengthened the company’s global leadership in terabit optical transport systems. As demand for bandwidth explodes globally, research into data transport systems capable of support data transmission of over 100 Gigabit per second is becoming a priority for operators and technology vendors globally. Long-haul transmission capability and spectral efficiency are two of the biggest hurdles that must be overcome to drive the successful deployment of Beyond 100G systems. ZTE’s industry leadership in long-haul and high-speed optical transport systems will help operators sustainably increase the bandwidth of their networks, and reduce the total cost of ownership.

In 2012, ZTE and Deutsche Telekom successfully completed 100G/400G/1T long-haul transmission over 2,450 kilometers, setting a record in long-distance multi-rate mixed transmission. ZTE has successfully deployed more than 50 100G trial and commercial networks globally.

ZTE posted record revenue in optical network products in the second-quarter of 2013, achieving the industry’s fastest growth rate in the preceding 12-month period, according to data from research company Ovum. ZTE was the world’s No. 2 vendor in optical network products, scoring a higher ranking than vendors including Alcatel Lucent. ZTE also ranked second in market share in the optical transport network product segment.

About ZTE

ZTE is a publicly-listed global provider of telecommunications equipment and network solutions with the most comprehensive product range covering virtually every telecommunications sector, including wireless, access & bearer, VAS, terminals and professional services. The company delivers innovative, custom-made products and services to over 500 operators in more than 160 countries, helping them to meet the changing needs of their customers while growing revenue. ZTE commits 10 per cent of its annual revenue to research and development and has leadership roles in several international bodies devoted to developing telecommunications industry standards. ZTE is committed to corporate social responsibility and is a member of the UN Global Compact. The company is China’s only listed telecom manufacturer that is publicly traded on both the Hong Kong and Shenzhen Stock Exchanges (H share stock code: 0763.HK / A share stock code: 000063.SZ). For more information, please visit www.zte.com.cn.

Contacts

ZTE Corporation

Margrete Ma, +86 755 26775207

ma.gaili@zte.com.cn



ZTE Corporation

Margrete Ma, +86 755 26775207

ma.gaili@zte.com.cn



Edelman PR

Mark Lee, +852 2837 4756

mark.lee@edelman.com



Edelman PR

Mark Lee, +852 2837 4756

mark.lee@edelman.com

Andres Vejarano, +852 2837 4735

andres.vejarano@edelman.com



Permalink: http://www.me-newswire.net/news/8982/en

Coca-Cola Continues Strong Investment in China with Opening of 43rd Production Facility

New Bottling Plant in Hebei Part of Planned US$4 Billion Investment in China Over Three Years

ME NewsWire / Business Wire

SHIJIAZHUANG, HEBEI, China - Saturday, October 26th 2013

Muhtar Kent, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of The Coca-Cola Company, today inaugurated Coca-Cola China’s 43rd plant in China and its first in Shijiazhuang, Hebei. The new plant represents a US$106 million (RMB 650 million) investment and is part of a greater three-year, US$4 billion current investment plan for 2012-2014 that underscores Coca-Cola’s continued confidence in and commitment to China.

“Coca-Cola’s investment in China is strategically important in achieving our 2020 Vision goals, and largely possible due to our partnerships with COFCO and our other bottling partners,” said Kent. “This new plant in Shijiazhuang will help Coca-Cola create a lasting positive impact in the community and contribute to a sustainable future for the people of Hebei.”

The 170,000-square-meter (42 acres) plant begins bottling with both sparkling and still beverage lines producing Coca-Cola, Sprite, Fanta, and Minute Maid. Three additional lines will be installed over the next few years. With a population of more than 72 million and a per capita GDP of US$5,259, Hebei province has become one of the country’s most important growth markets.

The capital investment provides 2,000 jobs and generates 20,000 indirect job opportunities in the local community. The new Hebei plant implements Coca-Cola’s stringent conservation and source water protection plans and efficiently manages water use by reusing treated wastewater and replenishing water used back to the community. These efforts are part of the Company’s commitment to accelerate business growth in a responsible and sustainable manner.

“Coca-Cola’s bottling business is of strategic importance to the COFCO Group as it provides consumers with a full range of beverage choices,” said Zhang Jixiang, President and Chief Operation Officer of COFCO Coca-Cola. “Today’s inauguration of this world-class plant is a major milestone. Upon completion, it will become the largest of our 12 Coca-Cola bottling plants in China.”

With bottling plants in all five provinces of North China, this latest addition underpins Coca-Cola’s ability to deliver a robust portfolio of products that meet the increasingly diversified needs of consumers in China’s fast-growing beverage market. Hebei has generated more than 2.4 billion servings annually and delivered double-digit cumulative average annual growth since 2008.

About The Coca-Cola Company

The Coca-Cola Company (NYSE: KO) is the world's largest beverage company, refreshing consumers with more than 500 sparkling and still brands. Led by Coca-Cola, one of the world's most valuable and recognizable brands, our Company's portfolio features 16 billion-dollar brands including Diet Coke, Fanta, Sprite, Coca-Cola Zero, vitaminwater, Powerade, Minute Maid, Simply, Georgia and Del Valle. Globally, we are the No. 1 provider of sparkling beverages, ready-to-drink coffees, and juices and juice drinks. Through the world's largest beverage distribution system, consumers in more than 200 countries enjoy our beverages at a rate of more than 1.8 billion servings a day. With an enduring commitment to building sustainable communities, our Company is focused on initiatives that reduce our environmental footprint, support active, healthy living, create a safe, inclusive work environment for our associates, and enhance the economic development of the communities where we operate. Together with our bottling partners, we rank among the world's top 10 private employers with more than 700,000 system associates. For more information, visit Coca-Cola Journey at www.coca-colacompany.com, follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/CocaColaCo, visit our blog, Coca-Cola Unbottled, at www.coca-colablog.com or find us on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/company/the-coca-cola-company.

About Coca-Cola China

Coca-Cola is one of the most well-known international brands in China, with a leading position in the soft drinks market. Since re-entering China in 1979, Coca-Cola has invested more than US$5 billion in the local market, including US$ 3 billion investments from 2009 to 2011. Coca-Cola has established a total of 43 plants in China. The Coca-Cola system employs more than 50,000 people, virtually 99 percent of whom are local hires. Coca-Cola and its bottlers have always been active corporate citizens in China, promoting sustainable environmental projects and development of local communities through education and cooperative public-private endeavors with a total contribution of over RMB 200 million in China. Coca-Cola is also the only corporation that has sponsored Special Olympics, Olympic Games, Paralympic Games, EXPO and Universiade in China. For more information about our company, please visit our Website at www.coca-cola.com.cn or follow our corporate micro-blog at weibo.com/cokechina.

Contacts

The Coca-Cola Company

China:

Yanhong Zhao, +86.138.0292.6910



Atlanta:

Petro Kacur, +01 404.676.2683







Permalink: http://www.me-newswire.net/news/8951/en

Sunday, October 27, 2013

Media and entertainment business forecast to outperform major stock market indices in 2013, according to new EY report

LOS ANGELES - Saturday, October 26th 2013 [ME NewsWire]

    Cable operators expected to be most profitable media and entertainment sector with 41% profit margin
    Interactive media sector boasts highest EBITDA dollar growth rate of 22%
    Film and television sector lowers production costs by releasing less product, sees increasing revenue from digital streaming platforms, resulting in 11% annual compound growth

(BUSINESS WIRE)-- For the first time in five years, the media and entertainment industry is expected to outperform the major stock market indices in 2013, according to Spotlight on Profitable Growth: Media and Entertainment, Vol. VI, a new report just released by EY. Overall revenue and EBITDA dollars have continued to climb steadily for media and entertainment companies while many other industries are continuing to struggle through a difficult economic period.

The report provides a performance comparison of the overall media and entertainment business to major stock market indices as well as a ranking of 10 media and entertainment industry sectors on both their profitability and profitability growth rate.

In 2013, it is estimated that the media and entertainment industry will outperform the major cross-industry stock market indices (figure 1). The 10 sectors of the media and entertainment industry measured by EY are expected to have a 2013 estimated profit margin of 26% followed by the S&P 500 Index, 24%; FTSE 100 Index, 23%; CAC 40 Index, 18%; DAX 30 Index, 16%; and the Nikkei Index, 12%.

“Media and entertainment companies are maintaining and growing their businesses primarily by growing their digital revenues and scaling back overhead associated with traditional media,” said John Nendick, Global Media and Entertainment Leader at EY. “In emerging markets, increases in advertising, as well as rising incomes and media consumption, have also helped drive revenue and fuel long-term growth as consumers in mature markets continue to migrate toward digital.”

When looking at overall profitability of 10 media and entertainment sectors during the five years covered by the report, 2009-2013e, (figure 2), cable operators have the highest average profitability at 41%, followed by cable networks, 37%, interactive media, 35%; satellite television, 26%; electronic games, 25%; conglomerates, 23%; content and information services, 19%; television broadcast, 17%; film and television production, 10%; and music, 10%.

For estimated profitability in 2013, media and entertainment sector rankings shifted from the five-year average with cable operators placing first at 41%; cable networks, 38%; interactive media, 33%; electronic games, 26%; satellite television, 25%; conglomerates, 25%; television broadcast, 19%; content and information services, 19%; film and television production, 12%; and music, 10%.

A review of the 2009-2013e compound annual growth rate (figure 2) shows that in terms of EBITDA dollars, interactive media is the fastest growing media and entertainment sector at 22%, followed by electronic games, 14%; film and television production, 11%; cable networks, 10%; conglomerates, 9%; TV broadcast, 9%; satellite television, 8%; cable operators, 6%; content and information services, 2%; and music, 1%.

The report also provides specific insight into each of the 10 media and entertainment sectors, identifying opportunities, challenges and outlook for future growth. Highlights include:

    Interactive media companies are seeing strong growth from an increase in online advertising.
    EBITDA dollars for electronic gaming companies are increasing due to rising consumption on social and casual gaming platforms.
    Despite rising programming costs, satellite television companies show steady growth from cost controls and increasing revenue.
    Advertisers still value the ability of television broadcast to reach large audiences despite the rise of competing platforms.
    In 2012, global music revenues increased for the first time since 1999 due to the growth of licensed digital music services and paid digital downloads.
    Newspaper and magazine companies continue to face challenging times from declining advertising and subscription revenues. However, business information services companies are reporting stable revenues and margins.

About EY’s Global Media & Entertainment Center

In an industry synonymous with creativity and innovation, the bar for business excellence is set high. You need to embrace new technology, develop new distribution models and satisfy the demands of a voracious and outspoken consumer. At the same time it’s important to manage costs, exceed stakeholder expectations and comply with new regulations. There’s always another challenge just around the corner. EY’s Global Media & Entertainment Center can help. We bring together a high-performance, worldwide team of media and entertainment professionals with deep technical experience in providing assurance, tax, transaction and advisory services to the industry’s leaders. Our network of professionals collaborate and share knowledge around the world, to provide exceptional client service and leverage our leading market share position to provide you with actionable information, quickly and reliably.

About EY

EY is a global leader in assurance, tax, transaction and advisory services. The insights and quality services we deliver help build trust and confidence in the capital markets and in economies the world over. We develop outstanding leaders who team to deliver on our promises to all of our stakeholders. In so doing, we play a critical role in building a better working world for our people, for our clients and for our communities.

EY refers to the global organization and may refer to one or more, of the member firms of Ernst & Young Global Limited, each of which is a separate legal entity. Ernst & Young Global Limited, a UK company limited by guarantee, does not provide services to clients. For more information about our organization, please visit ey.com.

This news release has been issued by EYGM Limited, a member of the global EY organization that also does not provide any services to clients.

Contacts

EY Global Media Relations

Bijal Tanna

+44-20-7951-8837

btanna@uk.ey.com



The Honig Company, LLC

Steve Honig

818-986-4300

press@honigcompany.com



 

Cendrine Montousse Appointed General Manager (EMEA) for InnerWorkings France

Former Reckitt & Benckiser Director joins brand delivery giant to oversee international operations in continental Europe and Africa

ME NewsWire / Business Wire

CHICAGO & ZURICH. - Thursday, October 24th 2013

InnerWorkings, Inc. (NASDAQ: INWK), a leading global marketing supply chain company, today announced the appointment of Cendrine Montousse as General Manager for the continental EMEA region.

In her position, Montousse will supervise the operations of 16 InnerWorkings offices across continental Europe and Africa.

Stated Yves Rogivue, regional president of InnerWorkings EMEA and APAC: “Cendrine brings vast experience in international brand procurement to InnerWorkings and a track record for success. Under her leadership, InnerWorkings will continue to set the standard for brands looking to drive breakthrough experiences worldwide – while simultaneously managing complexities and costs across a global marketing supply chain.”

Prior to joining InnerWorkings, Montousse served as the Head of Indirect Purchasing for Reckitt & Benckiser’s Europe operations, as well as a marketing category procurement manager for Novartis Pharma (France).

Montousse began her new role on Monday, October 21 and is based in Paris, France.

About InnerWorkings, Inc.

InnerWorkings, Inc. (NASDAQ: INWK) is a leading global marketing supply chain company servicing corporate clients across a wide range of industries. With proprietary technology, an extensive supplier network and deep domain expertise, the Company procures, manages and delivers printed materials and promotional products as part of a comprehensive outsourced enterprise solution. InnerWorkings is based in Chicago, IL, employs approximately 1,550 individuals, and maintains 60 global offices in 41 countries. Among the many industries InnerWorkings services are: retail, financial services, hospitality, non-profits, healthcare, food & beverage, broadcasting & cable, education, transportation and utilities.

For more information visit www.inwk.com.

Contacts

InnerWorkings, Inc.

Yves Rogivue

Regional President EMEA/APAC

+41 44 252 01 02

yrogivue@inwk.com









Permalink: http://www.me-newswire.net/news/8936/en

Schlumberger Announces Third-Quarter 2013 Results

Schlumberger Limited

HOUSTON - Wednesday, October 23rd 2013 [ME NewsWire]

(BUSINESS WIRE) Schlumberger Limited (NYSE:SLB) today reported third-quarter 2013 revenue of $11.61 billion versus $11.18 billion in the second quarter of 2013, and $10.50 billion in the third quarter of 2012.

Income from continuing operations attributable to Schlumberger, excluding charges and credits, was $1.71 billion—an increase of 12% sequentially and an increase of 24% year-on-year. Diluted earnings-per-share from continuing operations, excluding charges and credits, was $1.29 versus $1.15 in the previous quarter, and $1.04 in the third quarter of 2012.

Schlumberger recorded net credits of $0.51 per share in the second quarter of 2013 and charges of $0.02 per share in the third quarter of 2012. Schlumberger did not record any charges or credits in the third quarter of 2013.

Oilfield Services revenue of $11.61 billion was up 4% sequentially and increased 11% year-on-year. Oilfield Services pretax operating income of $2.50 billion was up 10% sequentially and increased 20% year-on-year.

Schlumberger CEO Paal Kibsgaard commented: “Schlumberger third-quarter results reached new highs in both revenue and pretax operating income driven by consistent performance across all geographic Areas through strong execution based on integration, quality and efficiency. The international business grew further, with leading margins expanding in spite of some operational delays. Performance in North America was particularly strong despite continued pricing weakness in the land market. Operating margins exceeded 20% in all Areas and expanded in all Product Groups.

Results were led by North America with a new high in overall revenue, supported by solid offshore activity and the seasonal rebound of activity in Western Canada. US land operations showed impressive resilience through improved efficiency, new technology penetration and market share gains in a highly competitive market with largely constant rig count. International results were led by the Middle East & Asia with growth in key markets in Saudi Arabia and Iraq, while offshore activity strengthened in Asia, and land drilling and stimulation activity improved in China. Europe/CIS/Africa saw strong summer activity in Russia and Central Asia and a seasonal increase in WesternGeco marine activity in the Area. Latin America activity was driven by Integrated Project Management and Schlumberger Production Management operations.

The global economic outlook remains largely unchanged as relatively encouraging news among OECD countries and in China has offset lower growth expectations in some of the major emerging economies. In the US, the underlying trends are positive and the level of macroeconomic uncertainty was reduced in the near term following the temporary resolution of the fiscal debate. Demand for oil in 2013 has again been revised upward and current estimates for 2014 point to even stronger growth in demand. Overall, the market continues to support Brent prices at current levels while international natural gas prices remain steady. The upward E&P spend revision made in June continues to be confirmed by rig count improvement and increased customer activity. Within this landscape, we remain positive on the outlook for the industry.

Last month I shared a view of the internal transformation initiatives that we are pursuing together with the potential they hold in terms of enhanced financial performance. We believe that the size of our operations and the breadth of our offering represent significant competitive advantages, and our entire organization is now focusing on executing these initiatives in parallel with maintaining just as clear a focus on our operational execution through integration, quality and efficiency.”

Other Event

    During the quarter, Schlumberger repurchased 10.1 million shares of its common stock at an average price of $82.61 for a total purchase price of $833.3 million.

Oilfield Services

Third-quarter revenue of $11.61 billion was up 4% sequentially and increased 11% year-on-year. International Area revenue of $7.91 billion grew $209 million, or 3% sequentially, while North America Area revenue of $3.60 billion increased $245 million, or 7% sequentially. Third-quarter revenue set a new high for both North America and International Areas.

Sequentially by segment, Reservoir Characterization Group revenue of $3.23 billion grew 7% while Drilling Group revenue of $4.41 billion increased 3%. These increases were due to strong exploration and drilling activity, both offshore and in key international land markets that benefited Wireline, Testing Services, Drilling & Measurements and M-I SWACO Technologies. WesternGeco revenue also increased from improved global marine vessel activity leading to high asset utilization during the quarter. Production Group revenue of $4.02 billion grew 3% despite the transfer of the Schlumberger subsea business at the end of the second quarter to OneSubsea™, a Cameron/Schlumberger joint venture. Excluding this effect, the Production Group grew 6% sequentially mainly from strong results in Well Services, Completions & Artificial Lift Technologies and Schlumberger Production Management (SPM) projects. The seasonal rebound in Western Canada following the spring break-up accounted for the majority of the sequential increase in Well Services activity with a significant amount also coming from improved efficiency in US land hydraulic fracturing services that enabled deployment of four additional fleets from existing equipment despite continued pricing weakness.

Sequentially by Area, North America led the increase with revenue of $3.60 billion growing 7%. The performance in North America was driven with the offshore business setting a new high for quarterly revenue, Western Canada land rebounding from the seasonal spring break-up in the previous quarter, and US land being up from improved efficiency, growing new technology penetration, and market share gains. Middle East & Asia revenue of $2.80 billion increased 5%, mainly from continued growth across a diversified portfolio of projects and activities in Saudi Arabia and Iraq, while high growth rates were posted in the United Arab Emirates and Qatar. Strong WesternGeco marine vessel activity in the Brunei, Malaysia & Philippines and Indonesia GeoMarkets, and increased land drilling and stimulation activities in China also contributed to the strong results. Europe/CIS/Africa revenue of $3.18 billion increased 2% from high WesternGeco marine vessel activity in the North Sea and Equatorial Guinea and peak summer drilling and exploration activity in Russia and Central Asia, while Angola and North Africa activity continued to be subdued by project delays. The Area revenue for the third quarter reflects the absence of the results of the subsea business that was transferred to the OneSubsea joint venture in the second quarter of 2013. Excluding the effect of this business transfer, the revenue for the Area grew 5% sequentially. Latin America revenue of $1.93 billion grew 1% with strong sequential growth posted in Venezuela and Argentina. Higher incremental production results from the SPM project in Ecuador also contributed to growth. These increases, however, were partially offset by a decrease in Brazil due to lower rig count, both on land and in deepwater.

Third-quarter pretax operating income of $2.50 billion was up 10% sequentially, and increased 20% year-on-year. International pretax operating income of $1.84 billion increased 9% sequentially, while North America pretax operating income of $730 million increased 10% sequentially. Third-quarter pretax operating income also set a new high, driven by the International Areas.

Sequentially, pretax operating margin of 21.5% increased 114 basis points (bps), as International pretax operating margin expanded 134 bps to 23.3%. Middle East & Asia posted a 151-bps sequential margin improvement to reach 26.1%, Europe/CIS/Africa increased by 189 bps to 22.5%, while Latin America was steady at 20.6%. The expansion in International margins was due to strong results in Russia & Central Asia resulting from deployment of higher-margin technologies during the peak summer drilling and exploration campaigns. Increased high-margin wireline and seismic activities also helped boost international margins further in Middle East & Asia as exploration work increased. North America pretax operating margin increased 57 bps sequentially to 20.3% as Western Canada recovered following the previous quarter’s seasonal spring break-up. US land margin continued to expand on improving efficiency, better utilization, and lower raw material costs in pressure pumping stimulation services. North America offshore operating margin continued to grow on increasing activity and technology deployment but overall results decreased sequentially due to lower multiclient sales during the quarter.

Sequentially by segment, Reservoir Characterization Group pretax operating margin expanded 27 bps to 30.4% due to strong exploration activities that benefited Wireline and Testing Services Technologies. The pretax operating margin of the Drilling Group increased 154 bps to 20.3% through improved Drilling & Measurements operational performance and increased profitability on Integrated Project Management (IPM) projects in the Latin America and Middle East & Asia Areas. Production Group pretax operating margin increased 165 bps to 17.6% on improved profitability in Well Services as Western Canada recovered from the previous quarter’s spring break-up and as US land margin continued to expand on improving efficiency, better utilization, and lower raw material costs. SPM projects in Latin America and Asia also continued to be accretive to the group’s expanding margins.

A number of technology innovation and integration highlights contributed to the third-quarter results.

In Turkmenistan, Schlumberger has been awarded a contract by Turkmengeology State Corporation for Drilling Group technologies and Well Services cementing services to accelerate the development of Galkynysh, one of the country’s largest gas fields. The contract includes Schlumberger drilling motors, Smith drill bits, M-I SWACO drilling fluids and Well Services cementing services for a development well campaign, with the objective of increasing operational efficiency and meeting aggressive gas production goals.

In South Texas, Schlumberger technologies were deployed for the Eagle Ford Completions Optimization Consortium of BHP Billiton, Lewis Energy, Marathon Oil and Swift Energy in several horizontal wells in the unconventional Eagle Ford formation. Openhole data were acquired with SureLog* Thrubit wireline triple-combo and Wireline Sonic Scanner* acoustic scanning services conveyed by TuffTRAC* technology, and used to generate optimized completions designs with Well Services Mangrove* stimulation design software. The production from each well was evaluated using data from the Wireline Flow Scanner* well production logging system conveyed by MaxTRAC* downhole wireline tractor technology, and analysis was performed using Schlumberger Information Solutions (SIS) Petrel* E&P software and Techlog* wellbore software platforms to evaluate the impact of reservoir and completion quality. As a result, Schlumberger technologies and workflows enabled the optimized completions to increase the number of perforation clusters contributing to production by 28%, which elevated all the Consortium wells to the top quartile in performance compared to their peers.

Statoil has awarded Schlumberger three multiyear contracts for the provision of drilling and completion fluids, offshore waste management and cementing services in the Norwegian continental shelf. The three-year contracts, with options for three times two additional years, cover drilling and completion fluids for multiple drilling rigs and cementing services on up to nine platforms and six deepwater rigs. The award was based on commercial terms, QHSE, and the Schlumberger proven track record in product and service quality, reliable execution, and technology deployment.

Reservoir Characterization Group

Third-quarter revenue of $3.23 billion increased 7% sequentially and grew 14% year-on-year. Pretax operating income of $983 million was 8% higher sequentially, and increased 23% year-on-year.

Sequentially, the increase in revenue was driven primarily by higher use of Wireline and Testing Services technologies as a result of strong exploration activity in the Middle East & Asia and Europe/CIS/Africa Areas. This was particularly marked in Russia & Central Asia where drilling & exploration activity increased during the summer. WesternGeco revenue also increased sequentially from improved global marine vessel activity leading to high asset utilization during the quarter, although the effect of this was partially offset by sequentially lower multiclient sales.

Pretax operating margin of 30.4% increased 27 bps sequentially from robust higher-margin exploration activity for Wireline in Russia and the Middle East & Asia Area, while Testing Services across all Areas also contributed to the group’s expanding margin.

A number of technology highlights across the Reservoir Characterization Group contributed to the third-quarter results.

In Kazakhstan, a combination of Wireline technologies was deployed for Zhaikmunai LLP to acquire production logging data in two horizontal production wells, one highly deviated production well, and one horizontal injector well located on Chinarevskoe field. Wireline Flow Scanner horizontal and deviated well production logging and PS Platform* production services technologies were used for logging data acquisition in the production and injector wells, respectively. The tool strings were conveyed efficiently with the MaxTRAC downhole wireline tractor system that allows data acquisition while tractoring down. The flow profile in the producing wells was successfully quantified. Results of the production logging data analysis were used for time-lapse production monitoring, updating the dynamic reservoir model, and locating the source of water production in some wells.

In Libya, Wireline MDT* modular formation dynamics tester and Quicksilver Probe* technologies in combination with the InSitu Fluid Analyzer* system were introduced for Akakus Oil Operations to obtain high-quality water samples from a well drilled with water-based mud. In order to accurately estimate the resistivity and ionic concentrations of the formation water, it was essential to acquire a water sample free of contamination from water-based mud filtrate. The Quicksilver Probe technology was effective in separating filtrate from formation water, while the InSitu Fluid Analyzer downhole sensors enabled real-time measurement of contamination levels prior to taking samples. As a result, two sample chambers were filled with pure formation water, free of any filtrate contamination, enabling the operator to carry out the analysis required to optimize the field’s water injection process.

In West Texas, Schlumberger PetroTechnical Services developed a mechanical earth model for ExL Petroleum, LP to mitigate risk and reduce horizontal well construction costs in a field known for its challenging drilling conditions. The formation evaluation used Wireline ECS* elemental capture spectroscopy and Sonic Scanner acoustic scanning technologies, which were conveyed in the horizontal section using the TuffTRAC cased hole services tractor. The combination of these technologies and the resulting workflow allowed the operator to reposition the wells’ lateral sections and eliminate an intermediate casing string for a 10% completions cost savings of $200,000 per well.

Woodside has awarded WesternGeco the acquisition of the Fortuna 4,000-km2 3D seismic survey on the offshore North West Shelf of Australia using IsoMetrix* marine isometric seismic technology. Scheduled to begin in December 2013, this will be the first survey in Australia using IsoMetrix technology, and will provide the foundation for future exploration and appraisal programs for Woodside in the region. With this contract, IsoMetrix technology will have been deployed offshore across four continents in 2013.

WesternGeco has been awarded a major contract by Abu Dhabi Marine Operating Company (ADMA-OPCO) for an 800-km2 Ocean-Bottom Cable (OBC) survey on the Umm Shaif field offshore Abu Dhabi, using Q-Seabed* technology and the SimSource* simultaneous seismic source acquisition technique. Two source vessels will be used for the survey, with the goal of providing the customer with a current, state-of-the-art dataset to enable decisions regarding field development and secondary recovery.

Onshore Brazil, Agencia Nacional de Petroleo (ANP) has awarded WesternGeco a contract for the processing and interpretation of a 2D electromagnetics survey in the Parecis basin, one of the frontier basins being evaluated by the ANP to define future bidding blocks for exploration and production. The project will be managed by the WesternGeco Integrated Electromagnetics Center of Excellence and includes survey design, data acquisition, infield processing, and advanced interpretation.

In Mexico, Pemex has awarded WesternGeco GeoSolutions a multiyear contract in the dedicated processing center in Poza Rica, enabling access to leading WesternGeco technologies including full waveform inversion, reverse-time migration, seismic-guided drilling, and rock physics-guided migration. These state-of-the-art technologies will support Pemex with an unprecedented level of integrated solutions for enhanced imaging, reservoir characterization, and drilling support.

In Angola, Testing Services deployed the Quartet* downhole reservoir testing system with Muzic* downhole wireless telemetry for Maersk Oil in the deepwater Block 16. The services forming part of the Quartet system included the CERTIS* high-integrity reservoir test isolation system, IRDV* intelligent remote dual valve technology, SCAR* inline reservoir fluid sampling, and Signature* high-resolution quartz gauges. The single-trip Quartet system’s flexible design eliminated the need for multiple runs, and the wireless transmission and monitoring of downhole pressure facilitated real-time transient analysis, which optimized decision-making and enabled the operator to save four days of costly rig time.

Tanzania Petroleum Development Corporation (TPDC) has awarded SIS a multiyear software licensing agreement for their oil and gas exploration activities. The agreement includes the Petrel E&P software platform to better understand the country’s unexplored subsurface potential and accurately select the right plays that enhance exploration success while reducing operational risks and uncertainties. The agreement also includes Techlog wellbore software for assurance that wells to be drilled intercept the targeted sweet spots and collect all the well data required to quantify reservoir potential. The strategic decision to adopt the Schlumberger technology platforms supports TPDC’s commitment to refocus on core oil and gas activities and fast track their evolution as an independent operating company.

In Brazil, Perenco has awarded Schlumberger PetroTechnical Services an integrated exploration study in the deepwater blocks 39, 40, and 41 of the Espirito Santo basin. The comprehensive study includes seismic processing, seismic inversion, multiclient data, a mechanical earth model and 3D pore pressure predictions. The results of the study will support plans for Perenco’s exploratory drilling campaign in 2013 where deepwater wells will target post-salt reservoirs by drilling through sedimentary sequences with uncertainties and complexities related to challenging subsalt and salt tectonics.

Drilling Group

Third-quarter revenue of $4.41 billion was up 3% sequentially and grew 9% year-on-year. Pretax operating income of $894 million was 11% higher sequentially, and increased 23% year-on-year.

Sequentially, revenue increased primarily on strong M-I SWACO performance from the rebound of Western Canada land activity, increased deepwater work in North America, and increased activity in Mexico and Russia. Strong Drilling & Measurements activity in the Middle East & Asia Area, in Russia, and offshore North America also contributed to growth.

Sequentially, pretax operating margin grew 154 bps to 20.3% from improved profitability in Drilling & Measurements from stronger activity and a more favorable geographical and technology mix. Improved profitability on IPM projects in the Middle East & Asia and Latin America Areas continued to contribute to the group’s expanding margins.

A number of Drilling Group technologies contributed to the third-quarter results.

In Kurdistan, Drilling & Measurements deployed, for the first time, the PowerDrive Xceed* rotary steerable system for HKN, Inc. on a deviated well in the Mangesh field. The PowerDrive Xceed technology helped improve drilling performance in the 17 1/2-in deviated section by 65%, drilled the section five days ahead of plan, and kicked off the well successfully from vertical to a 55° inclination at shallow depth, meeting all the directional well plan objectives.

In China, Drilling & Measurements established a new drilling record in the Bohai Bay for CNOOC while drilling eight directional wells in the Qikou field. In the 8-in well sections, PowerDrive vorteX* powered rotary steerable technology helped increase the rate of penetration by 114% compared to previous conventional drilling systems. As a result of deploying Drilling & Measurements technologies, the well construction time for wells with total depths between 3,500 m and 4,000 m was significantly reduced, enabling the operator to save approximately 26 days of rig time compared to the well construction plan.

In Algeria, M-I SWACO WELL COMMANDER* ball-activated drilling valve technology was deployed in a Schlumberger integrated bottom hole assembly for Sonatrach to drill a 6-in reservoir section with expected fluid losses. The WELL COMMANDER technology allowed the controlled pumping of numerous lost circulation material pills through the drill string, with reduced risks of plugging the directional and measurement-while-drilling tools. As a result, the total depth for the well was reached according to plan, with zero downtime.

Offshore Ivory Coast, Drilling & Measurements deployed a formation evaluation technology suite for Foxtrot International which featured the acquisition of a high-quality set of nuclear measurements without the need for chemical sources. The combination of NeoScope*† sourceless formation evaluation while drilling, proVISION* nuclear magnetic resonance, StethoScope* formation pressure-while-drilling, and SonicVISION* sonic-while-drilling technologies, a first worldwide, helped the customer identify reservoir fluid contents in a complex reservoir and enabled the design of a horizontal drain.

In Russia, Schlumberger Drilling Group Technologies and Petrotechnical Engineering Center expertise helped ERIELL successfully drill the first horizontal well through the complex Achimov formation in the Urengoyskoe field in northwest Siberia. A geomechanical model was developed to overcome the main challenges of drilling through the Achimov formation with its high overpressure, narrow equivalent circulating density window, and unstable formations lying between the productive layers. Drilling & Measurements SonicScope* multipole sonic-while-drilling technology was used to update the geomechanical model in real time to prevent costly wellbore stability issues. In addition, the combination of PowerDrive X6* rotary steerable technology with a customized Smith polycrystalline diamond compact (PDC) bit and the M-I SWACO Megadril* drilling fluid system drilled the well 15 days ahead of plan, which led to a significant cost saving for the operator.

Offshore Mexico, integration of Drilling & Measurement technologies with Schlumberger PetroTechnical Services helped Pemex drill a highly challenging section in an exploration well in the Chac field. The use of SonicScope multipole sonic-while-drilling technology and real-time geomechanics enabled accurate prediction of formation pore pressures so that mud weight could be maintained below the forecasted value. This operation marked the first time Pemex has used logging-while-drilling and sonic-while-drilling technologies for shallow-water exploration wells and, as a result, the customer saved one casing run by drilling 300 m deeper than originally planned.

In Russia, Schlumberger was earlier this year awarded a contract by GazpromNeft Orenburg, one of the largest operators in the country, for the supply and service of Smith drill bits on the Kapitonovskoe, Tsarichanskoe and Orenburgskoe fields in the Orenburg region. This contract award was based on the broad experience and solid track record achieved by Smith drill bits with some of the large operators in the region.

In Canada, Smith drillbit technology helped Sinopec Daylight Energy drill a horizontal well in the highly abrasive Rock Creek formation in central Alberta. A 6 ¼-in customized Smith PDC bit with ONYX 360* cutter technology enabled the operator to improve efficiency by drilling longer well sections and by reducing the number of bit trips. In one application, fully rotating ONYX 360 cutters contributed to the drilling of a continuous well section that was 80% longer than the average of three previous wells drilled using conventional PDC bits in the same type of formation. In the well’s horizontal section, the ONYX 360 cutter technology also enabled a single bit run to be drilled 18% faster than subsequent runs in the same horizontal section using conventional drill bits.

In US land, Schlumberger deployed Stinger* conical diamond element technology for Apache Corporation in over 10 wells in the Anadarko Basin. In the 8 3/4-in vertical section of these wells, Smith customized PDC bits with Stinger technology increased the rate of penetration over 59%, and drilled the sections 36% faster compared to offset wells. This performance led to significant drilling cost savings for the customer.

In the US Gulf of Mexico, a Drilling Tools & Remedial Services Rhino RHE* dual-reamer system was deployed for Noble Energy in a deepwater exploration well in the Troubadour prospect. The Rhino RHE technology eliminated the need to conduct a dedicated cleanout operation which led to a 30-hour reduction in drilling time and a cost saving for the operator of approximately $1.3 million.

Production Group

Third-quarter revenue of $4.02 billion increased 3% sequentially, and grew 10% year-on-year. Pretax operating income of $707 million was 13% higher sequentially and increased 32% year-on-year.

The group’s revenue increased 3% despite the transfer of the subsea business to the OneSubsea joint venture. Excluding the effect of the transfer of this business, the Group grew 6% mainly from strong results in Well Services, Completions, Artificial Lift and SPM. The rebound from the seasonal spring break-up in Western Canada accounted for the majority of the sequential increase in Well Services while a significant proportion came through improved efficiency in the US land hydraulic fracturing market with the deployment of additional fleets and crews from existing assets despite continued pricing weakness. Strong sales of Completions and Artificial Lift products in the Latin America and Middle East & Asia Areas also contributed to growth.

Pretax operating margin of 17.6% increased 165 bps sequentially on improved profitability in Well Services as Western Canada recovered from the previous quarter’s seasonal spring break-up and as US land margin continued to expand on improving efficiency, better utilization, and lower raw material costs. SPM projects in Latin America and Asia also continued to be accretive to the group’s expanding margins.

Highlights during the quarter included successes for a number of Production Group technologies.

In Russia, PetroStim, a Schlumberger joint venture, conducted its first fracturing treatment in the Domanic shale formation of DirectNeft’s Kashaev block in the Orenburg region. The exploration well was stimulated with conventional crosslinked fluid with reduced polymer loading and intermediate-strength proppant. The job was executed as per plan, and the initial production test showed significant potential.

In North Dakota, a combination of Schlumberger technologies was used for Whiting Petroleum to optimize the completion design on wells in the Bakken shale play. An extensive set of measurements was taken from a neighboring well, including Wireline Sonic Scanner acoustic scanning, ECS elemental capture spectroscopy, CMR-Plus* magnetic resonance, and Rt Scanner* triaxial induction logging data. These datasets were used in a model which allowed Well Services engineers to recommend improvements to the fracturing fluid system, stage count, pumping schedule, and proppant type. The wells that underwent this optimized completion design are currently performing in the top quartile for the particular Whiting Petroleum areas studied.

HiWAY* hydraulic fracturing technology continues to gain momentum and add value for customers worldwide. Since its commercialization, Schlumberger Well Services has used the HiWAY technique in over 20,000 fracturing treatments in 19 countries. At the end of the third quarter, the number of HiWAY fracturing treatments worldwide had already exceeded the total number in 2012 by over 21%. The key benefits leading the expansion of HiWAY technology include significant production gains from both oil- and gas-bearing reservoirs, savings associated with reduced water and proppant use, elimination of premature treatment termination, and new viability of marginal or mature targets not possible with conventional fracturing treatments.

In Argentina, Well Services Mangrove reservoir-centric stimulation design software enabled Panamerican Energy to optimize multistage completions on two exploratory wells in the Lindero Atravesado field in the Neuquén basin. By using an integrated workflow including the selection of payzones, the application of specific petrophysics for tight gas formations, and a methodology to complete the zones efficiently based on an anisotropic model and the Mangrove fracturing simulator, the best completion approach was adopted. Following successful completion of the two wells, the results enabled Panamerican Energy to secure the required budget for starting a development phase in the area.

In Egypt, Schlumberger Well Intervention performed a workover operation for PHPC-BP to restore productivity in the Ha’py 10 subsea gas well. ACTive* family live downhole coiled tubing technology enabled the controlled placement of the treatment fluid in the well’s upper zone, consisting of two producing intervals. ACTive distributed temperature sensing, acquired while the well was flowing, delivered a quantitative production log for the producing zone and confirmed the contribution from both intervals. The combination of Schlumberger technologies delivered the real-time data that enabled the operator to make timely decisions and reduce operational risk. As a result of this intervention, the upper zone’s productivity index was increased more than threefold, and the well’s overall production was restored.

In Kazakhstan, Schlumberger Well Intervention and AMS Co., a service division of CNPC, performed their first joint operation consisting of a complex carbonate stimulation treatment for CNPC in an oil-producing well in the Kenkiyak field. Schlumberger provided the technical design, stimulation fluids and well site job supervision. The stimulation treatment was completed as per design and the well was returned to a production level which exceeded the customer’s expectations.

Offshore Mexico, Well Intervention deployed combined ACTive profiling in-well live performance and Jet Blaster* jetting scale removal technologies for the first time in the matrix stimulation of a high-temperature well in the Taratunich field for Pemex. Data interpretation from the ACTive distributed temperature sensing (DTS) measurements enabled Pemex to optimize the stimulation treatment in a carbonate formation with highly contrasted permeability profiles.

In Oman, Schlumberger Completions has been awarded a $30-million contract by PDO for the provision of gaslift and completion products and associated services. The five-year contract, with an option for a two-year extension, was granted based on a strong technical submission and competitive commercial offering while maximizing national Omani content and in-country value that included setting up infrastructure, developing nationals, and creating local employment.

In Norway, Schlumberger Completions has been awarded a four-year contract by Marathon Oil for the lower completions in their upcoming developments on the continental shelf. Key to the award was the combination of ResCheck* technology with ResFlow* inflow control devices and LineSlot* single wire-wrapped sand screen technologies that enabled efficient standalone screen installation in long, highly deviated wells, resulting in substantial rig-time savings.

Onshore India, Schlumberger Artificial Lift has been awarded an electric submersible pump (ESP) contract worth $15 million by Cairn India Limited. The three-year sales and services contract covers the supply of ESPs to lift produced oil and injection water on 63 wells in the Mangala, Aishwarya and Thumbli fields. This is the first ESP contract awarded to Schlumberger in India by this customer, and the offering includes technologies such as new pump-stage designs and low-line harmonic variable speed drives.

In Malaysia, Schlumberger has been awarded a five-year contract for the supply of cementing services for all six production sharing contract (PSC) operators who participated in the joint Pan-Malaysian Cementing Tender, including Petronas Carigali Sdn. Bhd. (PCSB), Murphy Sarawak Oil Co., Ltd. and Murphy Sabah Oil Co., Ltd. The contract includes the provision of Well Services DeepCRETE* deepwater cementing solution, FUTUR* self-healing cement system, EverCRETE* CO2-resistant cement system, Losseal* reinforced composite mat pills, and FlexSTONE* advanced flexible cement technology. The contract scope covers conventional and deepwater wells.

To view the full release including the table, please click here

Contacts

Schlumberger Limited

Malcolm Theobald – Schlumberger Limited, Vice President of Investor Relations

Joy V. Domingo – Schlumberger Limited, Manager of Investor Relations

Office +1 (713) 375-3535

investor-relations@slb.com









Permalink: http://www.me-newswire.net/news/8918/en

Gemalto Third Quarter 2013 Revenue

AMSTERDAM - Thursday, October 24th 2013 [ME NewsWire]

    Double-digit revenue expansion, with growth in all main segments and all regions.
    Platforms & Services revenue up +37%, representing more than half of total revenue growth.
    Secure Transactions up +18%, driven by large digital payment deployments.

Revenue figures above and in this document are for ongoing operations1 and variations are at constant exchange rates except where otherwise noted. Revenue figures including contribution of assets held for sale and variations at historical rates are provided in the appendices of this document. All figures presented in this press release are unaudited.

(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Regulatory News:

Gemalto (Euronext NL0000400653 - GTO), the world leader in digital security today announces its revenue for the third quarter of 2013.

Third quarter 2013 Ongoing operations (€ in millions)
                     

Mobile Communication
                     

Machine-to- Machine
                     

Secure Transactions
                     

Security
                     

Patents
                     

Total third quarter 2013
                     

Total third quarter 2012

Revenue
                     

287
                     

49
                     

162
                     

98
                     

0
                     

596
                     

575

Year-on-year variations at constant exchange rates
                     

+9%
                     

+9%
                     

+18%
                     

+5%
                     

n.m.
                     

+10%
                     
                                                                                                                                                                       

Olivier Piou, Chief Executive Officer, commented: “Gemalto’s diversified businesses and geographic footprint led to another quarter of strong revenue growth. A key component of our new multi-year plan is the development of our Platforms & Services activity, and its performance, expanding nearly +30% since the beginning of the year, evidences the trust our customers place in us. Our Embedded software & Products activity also develops rapidly, as expected, with +8% in year-to-date revenue growth. With this progress and despite the adverse currency environment we are on track to deliver on our outlook for 2013, which remains unchanged.”

1 See basis of preparation on page 2, and appendix 3 of this document for more information on ongoing operations.

Basis of preparation of financial information

Ongoing operations

For a better understanding of the current and future year-on-year evolution of the business, the Company provides revenue from “ongoing operations” for both 2013 and 2012 reporting periods.

The adjusted income statement for ongoing operations excludes, as per the IFRS income statement, the contribution from discontinued operations to the income statement, and also the contribution from assets classified as held for sale and from other items not related to ongoing operations.

In this publication reported figures for ongoing operations only differ from figures for all operations by the contribution from assets held for sale.

Appendix 3 bridges the revenue for ongoing operations to the revenue for all operations.

Historical exchange rates and constant exchange rates figures

Revenue variations are at constant exchange rates except where otherwise noted.

The Company sells its products and services in a very large number of countries and is commonly remunerated in currencies other than the Euro. Fluctuations in exchange rates of these other currencies against the Euro have a translation impact on the reported Euro value of the Company revenues. Comparisons at constant exchange rates aim at eliminating the effect of currencies translation movements on the analysis of the Group revenue by translating prior year revenues at the same average exchange rate as applied in the current year.

To view the full release including the table, please click here

Contacts
Gemalto
Investor Relations
Gabriel Rangoni, +33 6 1426 6956
gabriel.rangoni@gemalto.com



John Lineberger, +33 6 1243 6304
john.lineberger@gemalto.com



Corporate Communication
Isabelle Marand, +33 6 1489 1817
isabelle.marand@gemalto.com



Citigate FF
Media Relations Agency
Suzanne Bakker, +31 6 1136 8659
suzanne.bakker@citigateff.nl
or
Edi Cohen, +31 6 2151 7820
edi.cohen@citigateff.nl



Permalink: http://www.me-newswire.net/news/8937/en