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UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549 
FORM 10-Q
QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the quarterly period ended February 12,May 7, 2023
or
TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
Commission file number 0-20355
Costco Wholesale Corporation
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
Washington 91-1223280
(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)
 (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
999 Lake Drive, Issaquah, WA 98027
(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code): (425) 313-8100

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Title of each classTrading symbol(s)Name of each exchange on which registered
Common Stock, $.005 Par ValueCOSTThe Nasdaq Global Select Market
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes   No 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files).
Yes    No

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” “smaller reporting company,” and “emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large accelerated filerAccelerated filer
Non-accelerated filerSmaller reporting company
Emerging growth company

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act.

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes    No 

The number of shares outstanding of the issuer's common stock as of March 1,May 24, 2023 was 443,483,205.443,148,481.
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COSTCO WHOLESALE CORPORATION
INDEX TO FORM 10-Q
  Page
PART I
Item 1.
Item 2.
Item 3.
Item 4.
PART II
Item 1.
Item 1A.
Item 2.
Item 3.
Item 4.
Item 5.
Item 6.

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PART I—FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item 1—Financial Statements
COSTCO WHOLESALE CORPORATION
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
(amounts in millions, except per share data) (unaudited)
12 Weeks Ended24 Weeks Ended12 Weeks Ended36 Weeks Ended
February 12,
2023
February 13,
2022
February 12,
2023
February 13,
2022
May 7,
2023
May 8,
2022
May 7,
2023
May 8,
2022
REVENUEREVENUEREVENUE
Net salesNet sales$54,239 $50,937 $107,676 $100,354 Net sales$52,604 $51,612 $160,280 $151,966 
Membership feesMembership fees1,027 967 2,027 1,913 Membership fees1,044 984 3,071 2,897 
Total revenueTotal revenue55,266 51,904 109,703 102,267 Total revenue53,648 52,596 163,351 154,863 
OPERATING EXPENSESOPERATING EXPENSESOPERATING EXPENSES
Merchandise costsMerchandise costs48,423 45,517 96,192 89,469 Merchandise costs47,175 46,355 143,367 135,824 
Selling, general and administrativeSelling, general and administrative4,940 4,575 9,857 9,293 Selling, general and administrative4,794 4,450 14,651 13,743 
Operating incomeOperating income1,903 1,812 3,654 3,505 Operating income1,679 1,791 5,333 5,296 
OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE)OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE)OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE)
Interest expenseInterest expense(34)(36)(68)(75)Interest expense(36)(35)(104)(110)
Interest income and other, netInterest income and other, net114 25 167 67 Interest income and other, net128 71 295 138 
INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAXESINCOME BEFORE INCOME TAXES1,983 1,801 3,753 3,497 INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAXES1,771 1,827 5,524 5,324 
Provision for income taxesProvision for income taxes517 481 923 832 Provision for income taxes469 455 1,392 1,287 
Net income including noncontrolling interestsNet income including noncontrolling interests1,466 1,320 2,830 2,665 Net income including noncontrolling interests1,302 1,372 4,132 4,037 
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interestsNet income attributable to noncontrolling interests— (21)— (42)Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests— (19)— (61)
NET INCOME ATTRIBUTABLE TO COSTCONET INCOME ATTRIBUTABLE TO COSTCO$1,466 $1,299 $2,830 $2,623 NET INCOME ATTRIBUTABLE TO COSTCO$1,302 $1,353 $4,132 $3,976 
NET INCOME PER COMMON SHARE ATTRIBUTABLE TO COSTCO:NET INCOME PER COMMON SHARE ATTRIBUTABLE TO COSTCO:NET INCOME PER COMMON SHARE ATTRIBUTABLE TO COSTCO:
BasicBasic$3.30 $2.93 $6.37 $5.91 Basic$2.94 $3.05 $9.31 $8.96 
DilutedDiluted$3.30 $2.92 $6.37 $5.90 Diluted$2.93 $3.04 $9.30 $8.94 
Shares used in calculation (000s):Shares used in calculation (000s):Shares used in calculation (000s):
BasicBasic443,877 443,623 443,857 443,500 Basic443,814 443,700 443,843 443,567 
DilutedDiluted444,475 444,916 444,503 444,760 Diluted444,360 444,886 444,455 444,802 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.


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COSTCO WHOLESALE CORPORATION
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
(amounts in millions) (unaudited)
12 Weeks Ended24 Weeks Ended 12 Weeks Ended36 Weeks Ended
February 12,
2023
February 13,
2022
February 12,
2023
February 13,
2022
May 7,
2023
May 8,
2022
May 7,
2023
May 8,
2022
NET INCOME INCLUDING NONCONTROLLING INTERESTSNET INCOME INCLUDING NONCONTROLLING INTERESTS$1,466 $1,320 $2,830 $2,665 NET INCOME INCLUDING NONCONTROLLING INTERESTS$1,302 $1,372 $4,132 $4,037 
Foreign-currency translation adjustment and other, netForeign-currency translation adjustment and other, net253 (35)157 (107)Foreign-currency translation adjustment and other, net(8)(388)149 (495)
Comprehensive incomeComprehensive income1,719 1,285 2,987 2,558 Comprehensive income1,294 984 4,281 3,542 
Less: Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests— 21 — 44 
Less: Comprehensive (loss) income attributable to noncontrolling interestsLess: Comprehensive (loss) income attributable to noncontrolling interests— (13)— 31 
COMPREHENSIVE INCOME ATTRIBUTABLE TO COSTCOCOMPREHENSIVE INCOME ATTRIBUTABLE TO COSTCO$1,719 $1,264 $2,987 $2,514 COMPREHENSIVE INCOME ATTRIBUTABLE TO COSTCO$1,294 $997 $4,281 $3,511 



The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

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COSTCO WHOLESALE CORPORATION
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(amounts in millions, except par value and share data) (unaudited)




February 12,
2023
August 28,
2022


May 7,
2023
August 28,
2022
ASSETSASSETSASSETS
CURRENT ASSETSCURRENT ASSETSCURRENT ASSETS
Cash and cash equivalentsCash and cash equivalents$12,970 $10,203 Cash and cash equivalents$12,493 $10,203 
Short-term investmentsShort-term investments735 846 Short-term investments1,215 846 
Receivables, netReceivables, net2,714 2,241 Receivables, net2,502 2,241 
Merchandise inventoriesMerchandise inventories16,081 17,907 Merchandise inventories16,324 17,907 
Other current assetsOther current assets1,830 1,499 Other current assets1,755 1,499 
Total current assetsTotal current assets34,330 32,696 Total current assets34,289 32,696 
OTHER ASSETSOTHER ASSETSOTHER ASSETS
Property and equipment, netProperty and equipment, net25,724 24,646 Property and equipment, net25,931 24,646 
Operating lease right-of-use assetsOperating lease right-of-use assets2,859 2,774 Operating lease right-of-use assets2,806 2,774 
Other long-term assetsOther long-term assets3,935 4,050 Other long-term assets3,726 4,050 
TOTAL ASSETSTOTAL ASSETS$66,848 $64,166 TOTAL ASSETS$66,752 $64,166 
LIABILITIES AND EQUITYLIABILITIES AND EQUITYLIABILITIES AND EQUITY
CURRENT LIABILITIESCURRENT LIABILITIESCURRENT LIABILITIES
Accounts payableAccounts payable$16,407 $17,848 Accounts payable$16,853 $17,848 
Accrued salaries and benefitsAccrued salaries and benefits4,483 4,381 Accrued salaries and benefits4,117 4,381 
Accrued member rewardsAccrued member rewards2,016 1,911 Accrued member rewards2,076 1,911 
Deferred membership feesDeferred membership fees2,412 2,174 Deferred membership fees2,436 2,174 
Current portion of long-term debtCurrent portion of long-term debt76 73 Current portion of long-term debt— 73 
Other current liabilitiesOther current liabilities7,122 5,611 Other current liabilities6,226 5,611 
Total current liabilitiesTotal current liabilities32,516 31,998 Total current liabilities31,708 31,998 
OTHER LIABILITIESOTHER LIABILITIESOTHER LIABILITIES
Long-term debt, excluding current portionLong-term debt, excluding current portion6,506 6,484 Long-term debt, excluding current portion6,497 6,484 
Long-term operating lease liabilitiesLong-term operating lease liabilities2,557 2,482 Long-term operating lease liabilities2,507 2,482 
Other long-term liabilitiesOther long-term liabilities2,470 2,555 Other long-term liabilities2,467 2,555 
TOTAL LIABILITIESTOTAL LIABILITIES44,049 43,519 TOTAL LIABILITIES43,179 43,519 
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIESCOMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIESCOMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
EQUITYEQUITYEQUITY
Preferred stock $0.005 par value; 100,000,000 shares authorized; no shares issued and outstandingPreferred stock $0.005 par value; 100,000,000 shares authorized; no shares issued and outstanding— — Preferred stock $0.005 par value; 100,000,000 shares authorized; no shares issued and outstanding— — 
Common stock $0.005 par value; 900,000,000 shares authorized; 443,550,000 and 442,664,000 shares issued and outstanding
Common stock $0.005 par value; 900,000,000 shares authorized; 443,222,000 and 442,664,000 shares issued and outstandingCommon stock $0.005 par value; 900,000,000 shares authorized; 443,222,000 and 442,664,000 shares issued and outstanding
Additional paid-in capitalAdditional paid-in capital7,123 6,884 Additional paid-in capital7,211 6,884 
Accumulated other comprehensive lossAccumulated other comprehensive loss(1,672)(1,829)Accumulated other comprehensive loss(1,680)(1,829)
Retained earningsRetained earnings17,341 15,585 Retained earnings18,035 15,585 
Total Costco stockholders’ equityTotal Costco stockholders’ equity22,794 20,642 Total Costco stockholders’ equity23,568 20,642 
Noncontrolling interestsNoncontrolling interestsNoncontrolling interests
TOTAL EQUITYTOTAL EQUITY22,799 20,647 TOTAL EQUITY23,573 20,647 
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND EQUITYTOTAL LIABILITIES AND EQUITY$66,848 $64,166 TOTAL LIABILITIES AND EQUITY$66,752 $64,166 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

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COSTCO WHOLESALE CORPORATION
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EQUITY
(amounts in millions) (unaudited)
12 Weeks Ended February 12, 202312 Weeks Ended May 7, 2023
Common StockAdditional
Paid-in
Capital
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income (Loss)
Retained
Earnings
Total Costco
Stockholders’
Equity
Noncontrolling
Interests
Total
Equity
Common StockAdditional
Paid-in
Capital
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income (Loss)
Retained
Earnings
Total Costco
Stockholders’
Equity
Noncontrolling
Interests
Total
Equity
Shares (000s)Amount Shares (000s)Amount
BALANCE AT NOVEMBER 20, 2022443,841 $$6,982 $(1,925)$16,412 $21,471 $$21,476 
BALANCE AT FEBRUARY 12, 2023BALANCE AT FEBRUARY 12, 2023443,550 $$7,123 $(1,672)$17,341 $22,794 $$22,799 
Net incomeNet income— — — — 1,466 1,466 — 1,466 Net income— — — — 1,302 1,302 — 1,302 
Foreign-currency translation adjustment and other, netForeign-currency translation adjustment and other, net— — — 253 — 253 — 253 Foreign-currency translation adjustment and other, net— — — (8)— (8)— (8)
Stock-based compensationStock-based compensation— — 148 — — 148 — 148 Stock-based compensation— — 94 — — 94 — 94 
Release of vested restricted stock units (RSUs), including tax effectsRelease of vested restricted stock units (RSUs), including tax effects— (1)— — (1)— (1)Release of vested restricted stock units (RSUs), including tax effects— — — — — — — 
Repurchases of common stockRepurchases of common stock(294)— (6)— (138)(144)— (144)Repurchases of common stock(329)— (6)— (156)(162)— (162)
Cash dividend declaredCash dividend declared— — — — (399)(399)— (399)Cash dividend declared— — — — (452)(452)— (452)
BALANCE AT FEBRUARY 12, 2023443,550 $$7,123 $(1,672)$17,341 $22,794 $$22,799 
BALANCE AT MAY 7, 2023BALANCE AT MAY 7, 2023443,222 $$7,211 $(1,680)$18,035 $23,568 $$23,573 





12 Weeks Ended February 13, 2022

12 Weeks Ended May 8, 2022
Common StockAdditional
Paid-in
Capital
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income (Loss)
Retained
Earnings
Total Costco
Stockholders’
Equity
Noncontrolling
Interests
Total
Equity
Common StockAdditional
Paid-in
Capital
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income (Loss)
Retained
Earnings
Total Costco
Stockholders’
Equity
Noncontrolling
Interests
Total
Equity
Shares (000s)Amount Shares (000s)Amount
BALANCE AT NOVEMBER 21, 2021443,434 $$7,064 $(1,211)$12,606 $18,463 $537 $19,000 
BALANCE AT FEBRUARY 13, 2022BALANCE AT FEBRUARY 13, 2022443,279 $$7,186 $(1,246)$13,474 $19,418 $558 $19,976 
Net incomeNet income— — — — 1,299 1,299 21 1,320 Net income— — — — 1,353 1,353 19 1,372 
Foreign-currency translation adjustment and other, netForeign-currency translation adjustment and other, net— — — (35)— (35)— (35)Foreign-currency translation adjustment and other, net— — — (356)— (356)(32)(388)
Stock-based compensationStock-based compensation— — 129 — — 129 — 129 Stock-based compensation— — 91 — — 91 — 91 
Release of vested RSUs, including tax effectsRelease of vested RSUs, including tax effects— (4)— — (4)— (4)Release of vested RSUs, including tax effects— (1)— — (1)— (1)
Repurchases of common stockRepurchases of common stock(159)— (3)— (80)(83)— (83)Repurchases of common stock(254)— (4)— (135)(139)— (139)
Cash dividend declaredCash dividend declared— — — — (351)(351)— (351)Cash dividend declared— — — — (398)(398)— (398)
BALANCE AT FEBRUARY 13, 2022443,279 $$7,186 $(1,246)$13,474 $19,418 $558 $19,976 
BALANCE AT MAY 8, 2022BALANCE AT MAY 8, 2022443,029 $$7,272 $(1,602)$14,294 $19,968 $545 $20,513 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

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COSTCO WHOLESALE CORPORATION
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EQUITY
(amounts in millions) (unaudited)
24 Weeks Ended February 12, 202336 Weeks Ended May 7, 2023
Common StockAdditional
Paid-in
Capital
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income (Loss)
Retained
Earnings
Total Costco
Stockholders’
Equity
Noncontrolling
Interests
Total
Equity
Common StockAdditional
Paid-in
Capital
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income (Loss)
Retained
Earnings
Total Costco
Stockholders’
Equity
Noncontrolling
Interests
Total
Equity
Shares (000s)Amount Shares (000s)Amount
BALANCE AT AUGUST 28, 2022BALANCE AT AUGUST 28, 2022442,664 $$6,884 $(1,829)$15,585 $20,642 $$20,647 BALANCE AT AUGUST 28, 2022442,664 $$6,884 $(1,829)$15,585 $20,642 $$20,647 
Net incomeNet income— — — — 2,830 2,830 — 2,830 Net income— — — — 4,132 4,132 — 4,132 
Foreign-currency translation adjustment and other, netForeign-currency translation adjustment and other, net— — — 157 — 157 — 157 Foreign-currency translation adjustment and other, net— — — 149 — 149 — 149 
Stock-based compensationStock-based compensation— — 551 — — 551 — 551 Stock-based compensation— — 645 — — 645 — 645 
Release of vested restricted stock units (RSUs), including tax effectsRelease of vested restricted stock units (RSUs), including tax effects1,465 — (302)— — (302)— (302)Release of vested restricted stock units (RSUs), including tax effects1,466 — (302)— — (302)— (302)
Repurchases of common stockRepurchases of common stock(579)— (10)— (275)(285)— (285)Repurchases of common stock(908)— (16)— (431)(447)— (447)
Cash dividends declaredCash dividends declared— — — — (799)(799)— (799)Cash dividends declared— — — — (1,251)(1,251)— (1,251)
BALANCE AT FEBRUARY 12, 2023443,550 $$7,123 $(1,672)$17,341 $22,794 $$22,799 
BALANCE AT MAY 7, 2023BALANCE AT MAY 7, 2023443,222 $$7,211 $(1,680)$18,035 $23,568 $$23,573 





24 Weeks Ended February 13, 2022

36 Weeks Ended May 8, 2022
Common StockAdditional
Paid-in
Capital
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income (Loss)
Retained
Earnings
Total Costco
Stockholders’
Equity
Noncontrolling
Interests
Total
Equity
Common StockAdditional
Paid-in
Capital
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income (Loss)
Retained
Earnings
Total Costco
Stockholders’
Equity
Noncontrolling
Interests
Total
Equity
Shares (000s)Amount Shares (000s)Amount
BALANCE AT AUGUST 29, 2021BALANCE AT AUGUST 29, 2021441,825 $$7,031 $(1,137)$11,666 $17,564 $514 $18,078 BALANCE AT AUGUST 29, 2021441,825 $$7,031 $(1,137)$11,666 $17,564 $514 $18,078 
Net incomeNet income— — — — 2,623 2,623 42 2,665 Net income— — — — 3,976 3,976 61 4,037 
Foreign-currency translation adjustment and other, netForeign-currency translation adjustment and other, net— — — (109)— (109)(107)Foreign-currency translation adjustment and other, net— — — (465)— (465)(30)(495)
Stock-based compensationStock-based compensation— — 518 — — 518 — 518 Stock-based compensation— — 609 — — 609 — 609 
Release of vested RSUs, including tax effectsRelease of vested RSUs, including tax effects1,690 — (359)— — (359)— (359)Release of vested RSUs, including tax effects1,694 — (360)— — (360)— (360)
Repurchases of common stockRepurchases of common stock(236)— (4)— (114)(118)— (118)Repurchases of common stock(490)— (8)— (249)(257)— (257)
Cash dividends declaredCash dividends declared— — — — (701)(701)— (701)Cash dividends declared— — — — (1,099)(1,099)— (1,099)
BALANCE AT FEBRUARY 13, 2022443,279 $$7,186 $(1,246)$13,474 $19,418 $558 $19,976 
BALANCE AT MAY 8, 2022BALANCE AT MAY 8, 2022443,029 $$7,272 $(1,602)$14,294 $19,968 $545 $20,513 


The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

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COSTCO WHOLESALE CORPORATION
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(amounts in millions) (unaudited)
24 Weeks Ended36 Weeks Ended
February 12,
2023
February 13,
2022
May 7,
2023
May 8,
2022
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIESCASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIESCASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Net income including noncontrolling interestsNet income including noncontrolling interests$2,830 $2,665 Net income including noncontrolling interests$4,132 $4,037 
Adjustments to reconcile net income including noncontrolling interests to net cash provided by operating activities:Adjustments to reconcile net income including noncontrolling interests to net cash provided by operating activities:Adjustments to reconcile net income including noncontrolling interests to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortizationDepreciation and amortization917 868 Depreciation and amortization1,389 1,299 
Non-cash lease expenseNon-cash lease expense216 145 Non-cash lease expense300 240 
Stock-based compensationStock-based compensation549 516 Stock-based compensation643 606 
Other non-cash operating activities, netOther non-cash operating activities, net163 104 Other non-cash operating activities, net72 (62)
Impairment of assetsImpairment of assets391 118 
Deferred income taxesDeferred income taxes(18)(15)Deferred income taxes(22)(2)
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:Changes in operating assets and liabilities:Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Merchandise inventoriesMerchandise inventories1,849 (2,322)Merchandise inventories1,596 (3,633)
Accounts payableAccounts payable(1,417)970 Accounts payable(872)1,766 
Other operating assets and liabilities, netOther operating assets and liabilities, net713 728 Other operating assets and liabilities, net(286)517 
Net cash provided by operating activitiesNet cash provided by operating activities5,802 3,659 Net cash provided by operating activities7,343 4,886 
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIESCASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIESCASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Purchases of short-term investmentsPurchases of short-term investments(396)(325)Purchases of short-term investments(947)(588)
Maturities of short-term investmentsMaturities of short-term investments512 753 Maturities of short-term investments594 840 
Additions to property and equipmentAdditions to property and equipment(1,947)(1,778)Additions to property and equipment(2,767)(2,632)
Other investing activities, netOther investing activities, net(34)(43)Other investing activities, net(27)(48)
Net cash used in investing activitiesNet cash used in investing activities(1,865)(1,393)Net cash used in investing activities(3,147)(2,428)
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIESCASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIESCASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Repayments of short-term borrowingsRepayments of short-term borrowings(520)(87)Repayments of short-term borrowings(698)(195)
Proceeds from short-term borrowingsProceeds from short-term borrowings479 80 Proceeds from short-term borrowings667 175 
Repayments of long-term borrowingsRepayments of long-term borrowings— (800)Repayments of long-term borrowings(75)(800)
Tax withholdings on stock-based awardsTax withholdings on stock-based awards(302)(359)Tax withholdings on stock-based awards(302)(360)
Repurchases of common stockRepurchases of common stock(284)(115)Repurchases of common stock(446)(254)
Cash dividend paymentsCash dividend payments(400)(350)Cash dividend payments(799)(701)
Other financing activities, netOther financing activities, net(188)(36)Other financing activities, net(297)(208)
Net cash used in financing activitiesNet cash used in financing activities(1,215)(1,667)Net cash used in financing activities(1,950)(2,343)
EFFECT OF EXCHANGE RATE CHANGES ON CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTSEFFECT OF EXCHANGE RATE CHANGES ON CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS45 (38)EFFECT OF EXCHANGE RATE CHANGES ON CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS44 (180)
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents2,767 561 
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalentsNet increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents2,290 (65)
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS BEGINNING OF YEARCASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS BEGINNING OF YEAR10,203 11,258 CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS BEGINNING OF YEAR10,203 11,258 
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS END OF PERIODCASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS END OF PERIOD$12,970 $11,819 CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS END OF PERIOD$12,493 $11,193 
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION:SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION:SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION:
Cash paid during the first half of the year for:
Cash paid during the first thirty-six weeks of the year for:Cash paid during the first thirty-six weeks of the year for:
InterestInterest$62 $76 Interest$86 $102 
Income taxes, netIncome taxes, net$636 $469 Income taxes, net$1,443 $1,121 
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF NON-CASH ACTIVITIES:SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF NON-CASH ACTIVITIES:SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF NON-CASH ACTIVITIES:
Cash dividend declared, but not yet paidCash dividend declared, but not yet paid$399 $351 Cash dividend declared, but not yet paid$452 $398 
Financing lease assets obtained in exchange for new or modified leasesFinancing lease assets obtained in exchange for new or modified leases$47 $172 Financing lease assets obtained in exchange for new or modified leases$101 $631 
Operating lease assets obtained in exchange for new or modified leasesOperating lease assets obtained in exchange for new or modified leases$131 $60 Operating lease assets obtained in exchange for new or modified leases$160 $67 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

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COSTCO WHOLESALE CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(amounts in millions, except share, per share, and warehouse count data)
(unaudited)
Note 1—Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Description of Business
Costco Wholesale Corporation (Costco or the Company), a Washington corporation, and its subsidiaries operate membership warehouses based on the concept that offering members low prices on a limited selection of nationally-branded and private-label products in a wide range of merchandise categories will produce high sales volumes and rapid inventory turnover. At February 12,May 7, 2023, Costco operated 848852 warehouses worldwide: 584586 in the United States (U.S.) located in 46 states, Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico, 107 in Canada, 40 in Mexico, 3132 in Japan, 29 in the United Kingdom (U.K.), 18 in Korea, 14 in Taiwan, 14 in Australia, four in Spain, three in China, two each in France, and China, and one each in Iceland, New Zealand, and Sweden. The Company operates e-commerce websites in the U.S., Canada, U.K., Mexico, Korea, Taiwan, Japan, and Australia.
Basis of Presentation
The condensed consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Costco, its wholly-owned subsidiaries, and a subsidiary in which it has a controlling interest. All material inter-company transactions among the Company and its consolidated subsidiaries have been eliminated in consolidation. Unless otherwise noted, references to net income relate to net income attributable to Costco.
These unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the instructions to Form 10-Q for interim financial reporting pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). While these statements reflect all normal recurring adjustments that are, in the opinion of management, necessary for fair presentation of the results of the interim period, they do not include all of the information and footnotes required by U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (U.S. GAAP) for complete financial statements. Therefore, the interim condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and notes included in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended August 28, 2022.
Fiscal Year End
The Company operates on a 52/53 week fiscal year basis, with the fiscal year ending on the Sunday closest to August 31. Fiscal 2023 is a 53-week year ending on September 3, 2023. References to the secondthird quarter of 2023 and 2022 relate to the 12-week fiscal quarters ended February 12,May 7, 2023, and February 13,May 8, 2022. References to the first halfthirty-six weeks of 2023 and 2022 relate to the 2436 weeks ended February 12,May 7, 2023, and February 13,May 8, 2022.
Use of Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. These estimates and assumptions take into account historical and forward-looking factors that the Company believes are reasonable. Actual results could differ from those estimates and assumptions.

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Reclassification
Reclassifications were made to the condensed consolidated statement of cash flows for the first halfthirty-six weeks of 2022 to conform with current year presentation.
Leases
The Company leases land, buildings, equipment, and other assets at warehouses, offices, or within the operations that support supply chain and distribution channels. The Company reviews lease right-of-use assets for impairment when events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the asset group may not be fully recoverable. The Company also occasionally revisits and modifies the terms of its leasing arrangements. During the first quarter and third quarter of 2023, the Company recognized a chargecharges of $93 and $298, primarily related to the termination costs and impairment of certain leased assets associated with charter shipping activities. This charge is included in merchandise costs.
Note 2—Investments
The Company's investments were as follows:
February 12, 2023:Cost
Basis
Unrealized
Losses, Net
Recorded
Basis
May 7, 2023:May 7, 2023:Cost
Basis
Unrealized
Losses, Net
Recorded
Basis
Available-for-sale:Available-for-sale:Available-for-sale:
Government and agency securitiesGovernment and agency securities$595 $(11)$584 Government and agency securities$602 $(2)$600 
Held-to-maturity:Held-to-maturity:Held-to-maturity:
Certificates of depositCertificates of deposit151 — 151 Certificates of deposit615 — 615 
Total short-term investmentsTotal short-term investments$746 $(11)$735 Total short-term investments$1,217 $(2)$1,215 
August 28, 2022:Cost
Basis
Unrealized
Losses, Net
Recorded
Basis
Available-for-sale:
Government and agency securities$534 $(5)$529 
Held-to-maturity:
Certificates of deposit317 — 317 
Total short-term investments$851 $(5)$846 
Gross unrecognized holding gains and losses on available-for-sale securities were not material for the periods ended February 12,May 7, 2023, and August 28, 2022. At those dates, there were no available-for-sale securities in a material continuous unrealized-loss position. There were no sales of available-for-sale securities during the first halfthirty-six weeks of 2023 or 2022.
The maturities of available-for-sale and held-to-maturity securities at February 12,May 7, 2023 are as follows:
Available-For-SaleHeld-To-Maturity Available-For-SaleHeld-To-Maturity
Cost BasisFair Value Cost BasisFair Value
Due in one year or lessDue in one year or less$177 $175 $151 Due in one year or less$126 $125 $615 
Due after one year through five yearsDue after one year through five years287 282 — Due after one year through five years324 324 — 
Due after five yearsDue after five years131 127 — Due after five years152 151 — 
TotalTotal$595 $584 $151 Total$602 $600 $615 

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Note 3—Fair Value Measurement
Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis
The table below presents information regarding financial assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis and indicates the level within the fair-value hierarchy reflecting the valuation techniques utilized.
Level 2Level 2
February 12,
2023
August 28,
2022
May 7,
2023
August 28,
2022
Investment in government and agency securitiesInvestment in government and agency securities$584 $529 Investment in government and agency securities$600 $529 
Forward foreign-exchange contracts, in asset position(1)
Forward foreign-exchange contracts, in asset position(1)
34 
Forward foreign-exchange contracts, in asset position(1)
34 
Forward foreign-exchange contracts, in (liability) position(1)
Forward foreign-exchange contracts, in (liability) position(1)
(18)(2)
Forward foreign-exchange contracts, in (liability) position(1)
(11)(2)
TotalTotal$572 $561 Total$595 $561 
 _______________
(1)The asset and liability values are included in other current assets and other current liabilities, respectively, in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets.
At February 12,May 7, 2023, and August 28, 2022, the Company did not hold any Level 1 or 3 financial assets or liabilities that were measured at fair value on a recurring basis. There were no transfers between levels during the first halfthirty-six weeks of 2023 or 2022.
Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Nonrecurring Basis
Assets and liabilities recognized and disclosed at fair value on a nonrecurring basis include items such as financial assets measured at amortized cost and long-lived nonfinancial assets. These assets are measured at fair value if determined to be impaired. Please see Note 1 for additional information.
Note 4—Debt
The carrying value of the Company’s long-term debt consisted of the following:
February 12,
2023
August 28,
2022
May 7,
2023
August 28,
2022
2.750% Senior Notes due May 20242.750% Senior Notes due May 2024$1,000 $1,000 2.750% Senior Notes due May 2024$1,000 $1,000 
3.000% Senior Notes due May 20273.000% Senior Notes due May 20271,000 1,000 3.000% Senior Notes due May 20271,000 1,000 
1.375% Senior Notes due June 20271.375% Senior Notes due June 20271,250 1,250 1.375% Senior Notes due June 20271,250 1,250 
1.600% Senior Notes due April 20301.600% Senior Notes due April 20301,750 1,750 1.600% Senior Notes due April 20301,750 1,750 
1.750% Senior Notes due April 20321.750% Senior Notes due April 20321,000 1,000 1.750% Senior Notes due April 20321,000 1,000 
Other long-term debtOther long-term debt612 590 Other long-term debt525 590 
Total long-term debtTotal long-term debt6,612 6,590 Total long-term debt6,525 6,590 
Less unamortized debt discounts and issuance costsLess unamortized debt discounts and issuance costs30 33 Less unamortized debt discounts and issuance costs28 33 
Less current portion(1)
Less current portion(1)
76 73 
Less current portion(1)
— 73 
Long-term debt, excluding current portionLong-term debt, excluding current portion$6,506 $6,484 Long-term debt, excluding current portion$6,497 $6,484 
 _______________
(1)Net of unamortized debt discounts and issuance costs.
The fair value of the Senior Notes is estimated using Level 2 inputs. Other long-term debt consists of Guaranteed Senior Notes issued by the Company's Japan subsidiary, valued using Level 3 inputs. The fair value of the Company's long-term debt, including the current portion, was approximately $5,895$5,907 and $6,033 at February 12,May 7, 2023, and August 28, 2022.
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Note 5—Equity
Dividends
A quarterly cash dividend of $0.90$1.02 per share was declared on JanuaryApril 19, 2023 and paid on February 17,May 19, 2023. The Company's quarterly dividend was $0.79$0.90 per share in the secondthird quarter of 2022 and dividends totaled $1.80$2.82 and $1.58$2.48 per share in the first halfthirty-six weeks of 2023 and 2022.
Share Repurchase Program
On January 19, 2023,The Company's share repurchase program is conducted under a $4,000 authorization by the Board of Directors, authorized a new share repurchase program in the amount of $4,000, which expires in January 2027. This authorization revoked previously authorized but unused amounts, totaling $2,568. At February 12,May 7, 2023, the remaining amount available under the program was $3,955.$3,793. The following table summarizes the Company's stock repurchase activity:
Shares Repurchased (000s)Average Price per ShareTotal Cost
Second quarter of 2023294 $488.30 $144 
First half of 2023579 $492.06 $285 
Second quarter of 2022159 $518.73 $83 
First half of 2022236 $498.00 $118 
Shares Repurchased (000s)Average Price per ShareTotal Cost
Third quarter of 2023329 $492.71 $162 
First thirty-six weeks of 2023908 $492.30 $447 
Third quarter of 2022254 $547.38 $139 
First thirty-six weeks of 2022490 $523.61 $257 
These amounts may differ from the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of cash flows due to changes in unsettled stock repurchases at the end of each quarter. Purchases are made from time to time, as conditions warrant, in the open market or in block purchases and pursuant to plans under SEC Rule 10b5-1.
Note 6—Stock-Based Compensation
The 2019 Incentive Plan authorized the issuance of 17,500,000 shares (10,000,000 RSUs) of common stock for future grants, plus the remaining shares that were available for grant and the future forfeited shares from grants under the previous plan, up to a maximum of 27,800,000 shares (15,885,000 RSUs). The Company issues new shares of common stock upon vesting of RSUs. Shares for vested RSUs are generally delivered to participants annually, net of shares withheld for taxes.
Summary of Restricted Stock Unit Activity
At February 12,May 7, 2023, 8,703,0008,724,000 shares were available to be granted as RSUs, and the following awards were outstanding:
2,921,0002,898,000 time-based RSUs, which vest upon continued employment over specified periods and accelerate upon achievement of a long-service term;
41,000 performance-based RSUs granted to executive officers of the Company, for which the performance targets have been met. The awards vest upon continued employment over specified periods of time and upon achievement of a long-service term; and
135,000 performance-based RSUs granted to executive officers of the Company, subject to achievement of performance targets for fiscal 2023, as determined by the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors after the end of the fiscal year. These awards are included in the table below. The Company recognized compensation expense for these awards in the secondthird quarter of 2023, as it is currently deemed probable that the targets will be achieved.
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The following table summarizes RSU transactions during the first halfthirty-six weeks of 2023:
Number of
Units (in 000s)
Weighted-Average
Grant Date Fair Value
Number of
Units (in 000s)
Weighted-Average
Grant Date Fair Value
Outstanding at August 28, 2022Outstanding at August 28, 20223,449 $338.41 Outstanding at August 28, 20223,449 $338.41 
GrantedGranted1,814 471.47 Granted1,814 471.47 
Vested and deliveredVested and delivered(2,094)352.57 Vested and delivered(2,096)352.56 
ForfeitedForfeited(72)394.40 Forfeited(93)396.50 
Outstanding at February 12, 20233,097 $405.46 
Outstanding at May 7, 2023Outstanding at May 7, 20233,074 $405.51 
The remaining unrecognized compensation cost related to RSUs unvested at February 12,May 7, 2023, was $1,031,$930, and the weighted-average period over which this cost will be recognized is 1.81.7 years.
Summary of Stock-Based Compensation
The following table summarizes stock-based compensation expense and the related tax benefits:
12 Weeks Ended24 Weeks Ended12 Weeks Ended36 Weeks Ended
February 12,
2023
February 13,
2022
February 12,
2023
February 13,
2022
May 7,
2023
May 8,
2022
May 7,
2023
May 8,
2022
Stock-based compensation expenseStock-based compensation expense$147 $128 $549 $516 Stock-based compensation expense$94 $90 $643 $606 
Less recognized income tax benefitsLess recognized income tax benefits24 23 113 108 Less recognized income tax benefits21 20 134 128 
Stock-based compensation expense, netStock-based compensation expense, net$123 $105 $436 $408 Stock-based compensation expense, net$73 $70 $509 $478 
Note 7—Net Income per Common and Common Equivalent Share
The following table shows the amounts used in computing net income per share and the weighted average number of shares of basic and of potentially dilutive common shares outstanding (shares in 000s):
12 Weeks Ended24 Weeks Ended
February 12,
2023
February 13,
2022
February 12,
2023
February 13,
2022
Net income attributable to Costco$1,466 $1,299 $2,830 $2,623 
Weighted average basic shares443,877 443,623 443,857 443,500 
RSUs598 1,293 646 1,260 
Weighted average diluted shares444,475 444,916 444,503 444,760 
Anti-dilutive RSUs— — — 
Anti-dilutive shares are excluded from the calculation of diluted shares and earnings per diluted share because their impact would increase earnings per diluted shares.
12 Weeks Ended36 Weeks Ended
May 7,
2023
May 8,
2022
May 7,
2023
May 8,
2022
Net income attributable to Costco$1,302 $1,353 $4,132 $3,976 
Weighted average basic shares443,814 443,700 443,843 443,567 
RSUs546 1,186 612 1,235 
Weighted average diluted shares444,360 444,886 444,455 444,802 
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Note 8—Commitments and Contingencies
Legal Proceedings
The Company is involved in a number of claims, proceedings and litigations arising from its business and property ownership. In accordance with applicable accounting guidance, the Company establishes an accrual for legal proceedings if and when those matters present loss contingencies that are both probable and reasonably estimable. There may be exposure to loss in excess of amounts accrued. The Company monitors those matters for developments that would affect the likelihood of a loss (taking into account where applicable indemnification arrangements concerning suppliers and insurers) and the accrued amount, if any, thereof, and adjusts the amount as appropriate. The Company has recorded immaterial accruals with respect to certain matters described below, in addition to other immaterial accruals for matters not described below. If the loss contingency at issue is not both probable and reasonably estimable, the Company does not establish an accrual, but will monitor the matter for developments that will make the contingency both probable and reasonably estimable. In each case, there is a reasonable possibility that a loss may be incurred, including a loss in excess of the applicable accrual. For matters where no accrual has been recorded, the possible loss or range of loss (including any loss in excess of the accrual) cannot, in the Company's view, be reasonably estimated because, among other things: (i) the remedies or penalties sought are indeterminate or unspecified; (ii) the legal and/or factual theories are not well developed; and/or (iii) the matters involve complex or novel legal theories or a large number of parties.
The Company is a defendant in an action commenced in July 2013 under the California Labor Code Private Attorneys General Act (PAGA) alleging violation of California Wage Order 7-2001 for failing to provide seating to employees who work at entrance and exit doors in California warehouses. Canela v. Costco Wholesale Corp. (Case No. 2013-1-CV-248813; Santa Clara Superior Court). The complaint seeks relief under the California Labor Code, including civil penalties and attorneys’ fees. The Company filed an answer denying the material allegations of the complaint. On January 19,April 26, 2023, the court issuedentered a Proposed/Tentative Statement of Decision Following Court Trial findingfinal judgment in favor of Costco. The plaintiff filed a request for further statement of decision and objections to the tentative decision. The parties are awaiting the court's review of plaintiff's filings and Costco's response thereto, after which the court will decide if it requires a hearing before a final decision issues.Company.
In December 2018, a depot employee raised similar claims, alleging that depot employees in California did not receive suitable seating or reasonably comfortable workplace temperature conditions. Lane v. Costco Wholesale Corp. (Case No. CIVDS 1908816; San Bernardino Superior Court). In October 2019, the parties settled for an immaterial amount the seating claims on a representative basis, which received court approval in February 2020. The parties settled the temperature claims for an immaterial amount in April 2022, and court approval was received in May 2022.
In June 2022, a business center employee raised similar claims, alleging failure to provide seating to employees who work at membership refund desks in California warehouses and business centers. Rodriguez v. Costco Wholesale Corp. (Case No. 22CV012847; Alameda Superior Court). The complaint seeks relief under the California Labor Code, including civil penalties and attorneys' fees. The Company filed an answer denying the material allegations of the complaint.
In March 2019, employees filed a class action against the Company alleging claims under California law for failure to pay overtime, to provide meal and rest periods and itemized wage statements, to timely pay wages due to terminating employees, to pay minimum wages, and for unfair business practices. Relief is sought under the California Labor Code, including civil penalties and attorneys' fees. Nevarez v. Costco Wholesale Corp. (Case No. 2:19-cv-03454; C.D. Cal.). The Company filed an answer denying the material allegations of the complaint. In December 2019, the court issued an order denying class certification. In January 2020, the plaintiffs dismissed their Labor Code claims without prejudice, and the court remanded the action to state court. Settlement for an immaterial amount was agreed upon in
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February 2021. Final court approval of the settlement was granted on May 3, 2022. A proposed intervenor appealed the denial of her motion to intervene. Her appeal was dismissed on February 15, 2023.
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In May 2019, an employee filed a class action against the Company alleging claims under California law for failure to pay overtime, to provide itemized wage statements, to timely pay wages due to terminating employees, to pay minimum wages, and for unfair business practices. Rough v. Costco Wholesale Corp. (Case No. 2:19-cv-01340; E.D. Cal.). Relief is sought under the California Labor Code, including civil penalties and attorneys' fees. In September 2021, the court granted Costco’s motion for partial summary judgment and denied class certification. In August 2019, the plaintiff filed a companion case in state court seeking penalties under PAGA. Rough v. Costco Wholesale Corp. (Case No. FCS053454; Sonoma County Superior Court). Relief is sought under the California Labor Code, including civil penalties and attorneys' fees. The state court action has been stayed pending resolution of the federal action.
In December 2020, a former employee filed suit against the Company asserting collective and class claims on behalf of non-exempt employees under the Fair Labor Standards Act and New York Labor Law for failure to pay for all hours worked, failure to pay certain non-exempt employees on a weekly basis, and failure to provide proper wage statements and notices. The plaintiff also asserted individual retaliation claims. Cappadora v. Costco Wholesale Corp. (Case No. 1:20-cv-06067; E.D.N.Y.). An amended complaint was filed, and the Company denied the material allegations of the amended complaint. Based on an agreement in principle concerning settlement of the matter, involving a proposed payment by the Company of an immaterial amount, the federal action has been dismissed. In April 2022, Cappadora and a second plaintiff filed an action against the Company in New York state court, asserting the same class claims asserted in the federal action under the New York Labor Law and seeking preliminary approval of the class settlement. Cappadora and Sancho v. Costco Wholesale Corp. (Index No. 604757/2022; Nassau County Supreme Court). The state court granted preliminaryFollowing final approval of the settlement, in October 2022. A final approval hearing is set for March 27,the case was dismissed on April 14, 2023.
In August 2021, a former employee filed a similar suit, asserting class claims on behalf of certain non-exempt employees under New York Labor Law for failure to pay on a weekly basis. Umadat v. Costco Wholesale Corp. (Case No. 2:21-cv-4814; E.D.N.Y.). The Company filed an answer, denying the material allegations of the complaint. In April 2022, a former employee filed a similar suit, asserting class claims on behalf of certain non-exempt employees under New York Labor Law, as well as under the Fair Labor Standards Act, for failure to pay on a weekly basis and failure to pay overtime. Burian v. Costco Wholesale Corp. (Case No. 2:22-cv-02108; E.D.N.Y.). In September 2022, an amended complaint was filed, asserting class claims on behalf of certain non-exempt employees under New York Labor Law for failure to pay on a weekly basis. The Company responded by requesting permission to file a motion to dismiss. The court stayedIn April 2023 the action pending the class settlement in the Cappadora matter noted above.case was settled on an individual basis for an immaterial amount.
In February 2021, a former employee filed a class action against the Company alleging violations of California Labor Code regarding payment of wages, meal and rest periods, wage statements, reimbursement of expenses, payment of final wages to terminated employees, and for unfair business practices. Edwards v. Costco Wholesale Corp. (Case No. 5:21-cv-00716: C.D. Cal.). In May 2021, the Company filed a motion to dismiss the complaint, which was granted with leave to amend. In June 2021, the plaintiff filed an amended complaint, which the Company moved to dismiss. The court granted the motion in part in July 2021 with leave to amend. In August 2021, the plaintiff filed a second amended complaint and filed a separate representative action under PAGA asserting the same Labor Code claims and seeking civil penalties and attorneys' fees. The Company filed an answer to the second amended class action complaint, denying the material allegations. The Company also filed an answer to the PAGA representative action, denying the material allegations. On September 27, 2022, the parties reached a settlement for an immaterial amount. The settlement requiresA hearing for final court approval.approval is set for September 11, 2023.
In July 2021, a former temporary staffing employee filed a class action against the Company and a staffing company alleging violations of the California Labor Code regarding payment of wages, meal and rest periods, wage statements, the timeliness of wages and final wages, and for unfair business practices. Dimas v. Costco Wholesale Corp. (Case No. STK-CV-UOE-2021-0006024; San Joaquin Superior Court).
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The Company has moved to compel arbitration of the plaintiff's individual claims and to dismiss the class action complaint. On September 7, 2021, the same former employeeplaintiff filed a separate representative action under
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PAGA, asserting the same Labor Code violations and seeking civil penalties and attorneys' fees. The case has been stayed pending resolutionarbitration of the motion to compel in the related case.plaintiff’s individual claims.
In September 2021, an employee filed a class action against the Company alleging violations of the California Labor Code regarding failure to provide sick pay, failure to timely pay wages due at separation from employment, and for violations of California's unfair competition law. De Benning v. Costco Wholesale Corp. (Case No. 34-2021-00309030-CU-OE-GDS; Sacramento Superior Court). The Company answered the complaint in January 2022, denying its material allegations. In April 2022, a settlement for an immaterial amount was agreed upon, subject to court approval. Final approval of the settlement was granted on February 10, 2023.
In March 2022, an employee filed a class action against the Company alleging violations of the California Labor Code regarding the failure to: pay wages, provide meal and rest periods, provide accurate wage statements, timely pay final wages, and reimburse business expenses. Diaz v. Costco Wholesale Corp. (Case No. 22STCV09513; Los Angeles Superior Court). The Company filed an answer denying the material allegations. In December 2022, the case was settled for an immaterial amount.
In May 2022, an employee filed a PAGA-only representative action against the Company alleging claims under the California Labor Code regarding the payment of wages, meal and rest periods, the timeliness of wages and final wages, wage statements, accurate records and business expenses. Gonzalez v. Costco Wholesale Corp. (Case No. 22AHCV00255; Los Angeles Superior Court). The Company filed an answer denying the allegations.
Beginning in December 2017, the United States Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation consolidated numerous cases concerning the impacts of opioid abuses filed against various defendants by counties, cities, hospitals, Native American tribes, third-party payors, and others. In re National Prescription Opiate Litigation (MDL No. 2804) (N.D. Ohio). Included are cases that namefiled against the Company including actions filed by counties and cities in Michigan, New Jersey, Oregon, Virginia and South Carolina, a third-party payor in Ohio, and a hospital in Texas, class actions filed on behalf of infants born with opioid-related medical conditions in 40 states, and class actions and individual actions filed on behalf of individuals seeking to recover alleged increased insurance costs associated with opioid abuse in 43 states and American Samoa. Claims against the Company filed in federal court outside the MDL have been asserted by certain counties and cities in Florida and Georgia; claims filed by certain cities and counties in New York are pending in state court. Claims against the Company in state courts in New Jersey, Oklahoma, Utah, and Arizona have been dismissed. The Company is defending all of the pending matters.
Members of the Board of Directors, six corporate officers and the Company are defendants in a shareholder derivative action filed in June 2022 related to chicken welfare and alleged breaches of fiduciary duties. Smith, et ano. v. Vachris, et al., Superior Court of the State of Washington, County of King, No, 22-2-08937-7SEA. The complaint seeks from the individual defendants damages, injunctive relief, costs, and attorneys' fees. AOn March 28, 2023, the court granted the defendants’ motion to dismiss the amended complaint has been filed.action.
The Company does not believe that any pending claim, proceeding or litigation, either alone or in the aggregate, will have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows; it is possible that an unfavorable outcome of some or all of the matters, however unlikely, could result in a charge that might be material to the results of an individual fiscal quarter or year.
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Note 9—Segment Reporting
The Company is principally engaged in the operation of membership warehouses through wholly owned subsidiaries in the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Japan, U.K., Korea, Taiwan, Australia, Spain, France, China, Iceland, New Zealand, and Sweden. Reportable segments are largely based on management’s organization of the operating segments for operational decisions and assessments of financial performance, which considers geographic locations. The material accounting policies of the segments are as described in the notes to the consolidated financial statements included in the Company's Annual Report filed on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended August 28, 2022, and Note 1 above. Inter-segment net sales and expenses have been eliminated in computing total revenue and operating income.
The following table provides information for the Company's reportable segments:
United States
Operations
Canadian
Operations
Other
International
Operations
TotalUnited States
Operations
Canadian
Operations
Other
International
Operations
Total
12 Weeks Ended February 12, 2023
12 Weeks Ended May 7, 202312 Weeks Ended May 7, 2023
Total revenueTotal revenue$40,145 $7,299 $7,822 $55,266 Total revenue$39,049 $7,268 $7,331 $53,648 
Operating incomeOperating income1,295 284 324 1,903 Operating income1,027 327 325 1,679 
12 Weeks Ended February 13, 2022
12 Weeks Ended May 8, 202212 Weeks Ended May 8, 2022
Total revenueTotal revenue$37,567 $7,017 $7,320 $51,904 Total revenue$38,534 $7,268 $6,794 $52,596 
Operating incomeOperating income1,179 301 332 1,812 Operating income1,205 324 262 1,791 
24 Weeks Ended February 12, 2023
36 Weeks Ended May 7, 202336 Weeks Ended May 7, 2023
Total revenueTotal revenue$80,290 $14,655 $14,758 $109,703 Total revenue$119,339 $21,923 $22,089 $163,351 
Operating incomeOperating income2,531 572 551 3,654 Operating income3,558 899 876 5,333 
24 Weeks Ended February 13, 2022
36 Weeks Ended May 8, 202236 Weeks Ended May 8, 2022
Total revenueTotal revenue$73,884 $14,138 $14,245 $102,267 Total revenue$112,418 $21,406 $21,039 $154,863 
Operating incomeOperating income2,297 594 614 3,505 Operating income3,502 918 876 5,296 
52 Weeks Ended August 28, 202252 Weeks Ended August 28, 202252 Weeks Ended August 28, 2022
Total revenueTotal revenue$165,294 $31,675 $29,985 $226,954 Total revenue$165,294 $31,675 $29,985 $226,954 
Operating incomeOperating income5,268 1,346 1,179 7,793 Operating income5,268 1,346 1,179 7,793 
Disaggregated Revenue
The following table summarizes net sales by merchandise category; sales from e-commerce websites and business centers have been allocated to the applicable merchandise categories:
12 Weeks Ended24 Weeks Ended12 Weeks Ended36 Weeks Ended
February 12,
2023
February 13,
2022
February 12,
2023
February 13,
2022
May 7,
2023
May 8,
2022
May 7,
2023
May 8,
2022
Foods and SundriesFoods and Sundries$21,926 $19,489 $43,374 $39,052 Foods and Sundries$21,298 $19,594 $64,672 $58,646 
Non-FoodsNon-Foods14,741 15,105 28,773 29,267 Non-Foods13,087 13,810 41,860 43,077 
Fresh FoodsFresh Foods7,376 6,959 14,093 13,398 Fresh Foods7,194 6,813 21,287 20,211 
Warehouse Ancillary and Other BusinessesWarehouse Ancillary and Other Businesses10,196 9,384 21,436 18,637 Warehouse Ancillary and Other Businesses11,025 11,395 32,461 30,032 
Total net salesTotal net sales$54,239 $50,937 $107,676 $100,354 Total net sales$52,604 $51,612 $160,280 $151,966 


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Item 2—Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
(amounts in millions, except per share, share, percentages and warehouse count data)
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
Certain statements contained in this document constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. For these purposes, forward-looking statements are statements that address activities, events, conditions or developments that the Company expects or anticipates may occur in the future and may relate to such matters as net sales growth, changes in comparable sales, cannibalization of existing locations by new openings, price or fee changes, earnings performance, earnings per share, stock-based compensation expense, warehouse openings and closures, capital spending, the effect of adopting certain accounting standards, future financial reporting, financing, margins, return on invested capital, strategic direction, expense controls, membership renewal rates, shopping frequency, litigation, and the demand for our products and services. In some cases, forward-looking statements can be identified because they contain words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “continue,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “likely,” “may,” “might,” “plan,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “seek,” “should,” “target,” “will,” “would,” or similar expressions and the negatives of those terms. Such forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that may cause actual events, results or performance to differ materially from those indicated by such statements. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, domestic and international economic conditions, including exchange rates, inflation or deflation, the effects of competition and regulation, uncertainties in the financial markets, consumer and small business spending patterns and debt levels, breaches of security or privacy of member or business information, conditions affecting the acquisition, development, ownership or use of real estate, capital spending, actions of vendors, rising costs associated with employees (generally including health-care costs), energy and certain commodities, geopolitical conditions (including tariffs and the Ukraine conflict), the ability to maintain effective internal control over financial reporting, regulatory and other impacts related to climate change, public-health related factors, and other risks identified from time to time in the Company's public statements and reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, and the Company does not undertake to update these statements, except as required by law.
OVERVIEW
The following Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (MD&A) is intended to promote understanding of the results of operations and financial condition. MD&A is provided as a supplement to, and should be read in conjunction with, our condensed consolidated financial statements and the accompanying Notes to Financial Statements (Part I, Item 1 of this Form 10-Q), as well as our consolidated financial statements, the accompanying Notes to Financial Statements, and the related Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations in our fiscal year 2022 Form 10-K, filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission on October 5, 2022.
We operate membership warehouses and e-commerce websites based on the concept that offering our members low prices on a limited selection of nationally-branded and private-label products in a wide range of categories will produce high sales volumes and rapid inventory turnover. When combined with the operating efficiencies achieved by volume purchasing, efficient distribution and reduced handling of merchandise in no-frills, self-service warehouse facilities, these volumes and turnover enable us to operate profitably at significantly lower gross margins (net sales less merchandise costs) than most other retailers. We often sell inventory before we are required to pay for it, even while taking advantage of early payment discounts.
We believe that the most important driver of our profitability is increasing net sales, particularly comparable sales. Net sales includes our core merchandise categories (foods and sundries, non-foods, and fresh foods), warehouse ancillary (gasoline, pharmacy, optical, food court, hearing aids, and tire installation) and other businesses (e-commerce, business centers, travel and other). We define
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comparable sales as net sales from warehouses open for more than one year, including remodels, relocations and expansions, and sales related to e-commerce websites operating for more than one year. Comparable sales growth is achieved through increasing shopping frequency from new and existing members and the amount they spend on each visit (average ticket). Sales comparisons can also be particularly influenced by certain factors that are beyond our control: fluctuations in currency exchange rates (with respect to our international operations); inflation and changes in the cost of gasoline and associated competitive conditions. The higher our comparable sales exclusive of these items, the more we can leverage our SG&A expenses, reducing them as a percentage of sales and enhancing profitability. Generating comparable sales growth is foremost a question of making available to our members the right merchandise at the right prices, a skill that we believe we have repeatedly demonstrated over the long-term. Another substantial factor in net sales growth is the health of the economies in which we do business, including the effects of inflation or deflation, especially the United States. Net sales growth and gross margins are also impacted by our competition, which is vigorous and widespread, across a wide range of global, national and regional wholesalers and retailers, including those with e-commerce operations. While we cannot control or reliably predict general economic health or changes in competition, we believe that we have been successful historically in adapting our business to these changes, such as through adjustments to our pricing and merchandise mix, including increasing the penetration of our private-label items, and through online offerings.
Our philosophy is to provide our members with quality goods and services at competitive prices. We do not focus in the short-term on maximizing prices charged, but instead seek to maintain what we believe is a perception among our members of our “pricing authority” – consistently providing the most competitive values. Merchandise costs in the secondthird quarter of 2023 continued to be impacted by inflation. The impact to our net sales and gross margin is influenced in part by our merchandising and pricing strategies in response to cost increases. Those strategies can include, but are not limited to, working with our suppliers to share in absorbing cost increases, earlier-than-usual purchasing and in greater volumes, offering seasonal merchandise outside its season, as well as passing cost increases on to our members. Our investments in merchandise pricing may include reducing prices on merchandise to drive sales or meet competition and holding prices steady despite cost increases instead of passing the increases on to our members, all negatively impacting gross margin and gross margin as a percentage of net sales (gross margin percentage).
We believe our gasoline business enhances traffic in our warehouses, but it generally has a lower gross margin percentage relative to our non-gasoline businesses. It also has lower SG&A expenses as a percent of net sales compared to our non-gasoline businesses. A higher penetration of gasoline sales will generally lower our gross margin percentage. Rapidly changing gasoline prices may significantly impact our near-term net sales growth. Generally, rising gasoline prices benefit net sales growth which, given the higher sales base, negatively impacts our gross margin percentage but decreases our SG&A expenses as a percentage of net sales. A decline in gasoline prices has the inverse effect. Additionally, government actions in various countries relating to tariffs, particularly China and the United States, have affected the costs of some of our merchandise. The degree of our exposure is dependent on (among other things) the type of goods, rates imposed, and timing of the tariffs. Higher tariffs could adversely impact our results.
We also achieve net sales growth by opening new warehouses. As our warehouse base grows, available and desirable sites become more difficult to secure, and square footage growth becomes a comparatively less substantial component of growth. The negative aspects of such growth, however, including lower initial operating profitability relative to existing warehouses and cannibalization of sales at existing warehouses when openings occur in existing markets, are continuing to decline in significance as they relate to the results of our total operations. Our rate of square footage growth is generally higher in foreign markets, due to the smaller base in those markets, and we expect that to continue. Our e-commerce business, domestically and internationally, generally has a lower gross margin percentage than our warehouse operations.
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The membership format is an integral part of our business and has a significant effect on our profitability. This format is designed to reinforce member loyalty and provide continuing fee revenue. The extent to which we achieve growth in our membership base, increase the penetration of our Executive members,
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and sustain high renewal rates materially influences our profitability. Our paid-membership growth rate may be adversely impacted when warehouse openings occur in existing markets as compared to new markets.
Our financial performance depends heavily on controlling costs. While we believe that we have achieved successes in this area, some significant costs are partially outside our control, particularly health care and utility expenses. With respect to the compensation of our employees, our philosophy is not to seek to minimize their wages and benefits. Rather, we believe that achieving our longer-term objectives of reducing employee turnover and enhancing employee satisfaction require maintaining compensation levels that are better than the industry average for much of our workforce. This may cause us, for example, to absorb costs that other employers might seek to pass through to their workforces. Because our business operates on very low margins, modest changes in various items in the consolidated statements of income, particularly merchandise costs and SG&A expenses, can have substantial impacts on net income.
Our operating model is generally the same across our U.S., Canadian, and Other International operating segments (see Note 9 to the condensed consolidated financial statements included in Part I, Item 1, of this Report). Certain operations in the Other International segment have relatively higher rates of square footage growth, lower wage and benefit costs as a percentage of sales, less or no direct membership warehouse competition, or lack e-commerce or business delivery.
In discussions of our consolidated operating results, we refer to the impact of changes in foreign currencies relative to the U.S. dollar, which are differences between the foreign-exchange rates we use to convert the financial results of our international operations from local currencies into U.S. dollars. This impact of foreign-exchange rate changes is calculated based on the difference between the current and prior period's currency exchange rates. The impact of changes in gasoline prices on net sales is calculated based on the difference between the current and prior period's average price per gallon sold.
Our fiscal year ends on the Sunday closest to August 31. References to the secondthird quarter of 2023 and 2022 relate to the 12-week fiscal quarters ended February 12,May 7, 2023, and February 13,May 8, 2022. References to the first halfthirty-six weeks of 2023 and 2022 relate to the 2436 weeks ended February 12,May 7, 2023, and February 13,May 8, 2022. Certain percentages presented are calculated using actual results prior to rounding. Unless otherwise noted, references to net income relate to net income attributable to Costco.
Highlights for the secondthird quarter of 2023 versus 2022 include:
Net sales increased 6%2% to $54,239,$52,604, driven by an increase in comparable sales of 5% and sales at 2023 net new warehouses opened since the end of the secondthird quarter of 2022;
Membership fee revenue increased 6% to $1,027,$1,044, driven by new member sign-ups, upgrades to Executive Membership, and a higher renewal rate;
Gross margin percentage increased eight13 basis points, driven primarily by our core merchandise categories and the absence of a LIFO charge as was recorded in the secondthird quarter of 2022. This was partially offset by decreases in core merchandise categories;a charge of $298, $0.50 per diluted share, predominantly related to the discontinuation of our charter shipping activities;
SG&A expenses as a percentage of net sales increased 1349 basis points, primarily due to central operating costs;increased costs in warehouse operations and other businesses, primarily wages and benefits, driven by various wage increases effective in March and July 2022, and March 2023, as well as slower sales growth;
In the third quarter of 2022 we incurred a one-time $77 pretax charge, $0.13 per diluted share, related to granting our employees additional vacation;
Net income was $1,466, $3.30$1,302, $2.93 per diluted share, compared to $1,299, $2.92$1,353, $3.04 per diluted share in 2022; and
A quarterly cash dividend of $0.90$1.02 per share was declared on JanuaryApril 19, 2023 and paid on February 17,May 19, 2023.
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RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Net Sales
12 Weeks Ended24 Weeks Ended12 Weeks Ended36 Weeks Ended
February 12,
2023
February 13,
2022
February 12,
2023
February 13,
2022
May 7,
2023
May 8,
2022
May 7,
2023
May 8,
2022
Net SalesNet Sales$54,239 $50,937 $107,676 $100,354 Net Sales$52,604 $51,612 $160,280 $151,966 
Changes in net sales:Changes in net sales:Changes in net sales:
U.S%17 %%17 %
U.S.U.S.%18 %%17 %
CanadaCanada%17 %%18 %Canada— %16 %%17 %
Other InternationalOther International%10 %%14 %Other International%%%12 %
Total CompanyTotal Company%16 %%16 %Total Company%16 %%16 %
Changes in comparable sales:Changes in comparable sales:Changes in comparable sales:
U.S%16 %%15 %
U.S.U.S.— %17 %%16 %
CanadaCanada%16 %%17 %Canada(1)%15 %%16 %
Other InternationalOther International%%— %10 %Other International%%%%
Total CompanyTotal Company%14 %%15 %Total Company— %15 %%15 %
E-commerceE-commerce(10)%13 %(7)%13 %E-commerce(10)%%(8)%11 %
Changes in comparable sales excluding the impact of changes in foreign-currency and gasoline prices:Changes in comparable sales excluding the impact of changes in foreign-currency and gasoline prices:Changes in comparable sales excluding the impact of changes in foreign-currency and gasoline prices:
U.S%11 %%11 %
U.S.U.S.%11 %%11 %
CanadaCanada10 %12 %%10 %Canada%13 %%11 %
Other InternationalOther International10 %%%10 %Other International%%%10 %
Total CompanyTotal Company%11 %%11 %Total Company%11 %%11 %
E-commerceE-commerce(9)%13 %(6)%13 %E-commerce(9)%%(7)%11 %
Net Sales
Net sales increased $3,302$992 or 6%2%, and $7,322$8,314 or 7%5% during the secondthird quarter and first halfthirty-six weeks of 2023. ThisThe improvement in the third quarter of 2023 was attributable to an increase in comparable sales of 5% and 6% in the secondquarter and first half of 2023, and sales at the 2023 net new warehouses opened since the end of the secondthird quarter of 2022. The increase in net sales for the first thirty-six weeks of 2023 was driven primarily by a 4% increase in comparable sales. Sales increased $2,490,$1,362, or 6%3% and $4,523,$5,885, or 6%5% in core merchandise categories during the secondthird quarter and first halfthirty-six weeks of 2023, led by foods and sundries and fresh foods; while non-foods decreased. Sales in warehouse ancillary and other businesses decreased $370, or 3% during the third quarter of 2023, due to lower gasoline prices, partially offset by increases in pharmacy, travel, food court and optical. Sales increased $812,$2,429, or 9% and $2,799, or 15%8% in warehouse ancillary and other businesses during the secondquarter and first halfthirty-six weeks of 2023, led by gasoline, pharmacy and travel.
During the secondthird quarter of 2023, clower gasoline prices negatively impacted net sales by $862, 167 basis points, compared to 2022, with a 12% decrease in the average price per gallon. The volume of gasoline sold increased approximately 1%, positively impacting net sales by $86, 17 basis points. Changes in foreign currencies relative to the U.S. dollar negatively impacted net sales by approximately $937, 184$782, 152 basis points, compared to the secondthird quarter of 2022, attributable to our Canadian and Other International operations. The volume of gasoline sold increased approximately 9%, positively impacting net sales by $565, 111 basis points. Changes in gasoline prices did not materially impact net sales for the current quarter.
During the first half of 2023, changes in foreign currencies relative to the U.S. dollar negatively impacted net sales by approximately $2,471, 246 basis points, compared to the first half of 2022, attributable to our Canadian and Other International Operations. Higher gasoline prices positively impacted net sales by $1,254, 125 basis points, compared to 2022, with a 9% increase in the average price per gallon. The volume of gasoline sold increased approximately 10%, positively impacting net sales by $1,215, 121 basis points.
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During the first thirty-six weeks of 2023, higher gasoline prices positively impacted net sales by $392, 26 basis points, compared to 2022, with a slight increase in the average price per gallon. The volume of gasoline sold increased approximately 7%, positively impacting net sales by $1,301, 86 basis points. Changes in foreign currencies relative to the U.S. dollar negatively impacted net sales by approximately $3,253, 214 basis points, compared to the first thirty-six weeks of 2022, attributable to our Canadian and Other International operations.
Comparable Sales
Comparable sales increased 5% and 6% in the second quarter and first half of 2023 and were positively impacted by increasesan increase in shopping frequency, and thelargely offset by a decrease in average ticket which includesin the effectsthird quarter of inflation and changes2023. Comparable sales increased 4% in foreign currency.the first thirty-six weeks of 2023, driven by an increase in shopping frequency.
Membership Fees
12 Weeks Ended24 Weeks Ended12 Weeks Ended36 Weeks Ended
February 12,
2023
February 13,
2022
February 12,
2023
February 13,
2022
May 7,
2023
May 8,
2022
May 7,
2023
May 8,
2022
Membership feesMembership fees$1,027 $967 $2,027 $1,913 Membership fees$1,044 $984 $3,071 $2,897 
Membership fees increaseMembership fees increase%10 %%10 %Membership fees increase%%%10 %
Total paid members (000s)Total paid members (000s)68,100 63,400 — — Total paid members (000s)69,100 64,400 — — 
Total cardholders (000s)Total cardholders (000s)123,000 114,800 — — Total cardholders (000s)124,700 116,600 — — 
Membership fee revenue increased 6% in both the secondthird quarter and first halfthirty-six weeks of 2023, driven by new member sign-ups, upgrades to Executive Membership, and a higher renewal rate. Changes in foreign currencies relative to the U.S. dollar negatively impacted membership fees by $20$17 and $52$70 in the secondthird quarter and first halfthirty-six weeks of 2023. At the end of the secondthird quarter of 2023, our renewal rates were 92.6% in the U.S. and Canada and 90.5% worldwide. Renewal rates continue to benefit from more members auto renewing and increased penetration of Executive members, who on average renew at a higher rate. Our renewal rate, which excludes affiliates of Business members, is a trailing calculation that captures renewals during the period seven to eighteen months prior to the reporting date.
We account for membership fee revenue on a deferred basis, recognized ratably over the one-year membership period. Our membership counts include active memberships and memberships that have not renewed within the 12 months prior to the reporting date.
Gross Margin
12 Weeks Ended24 Weeks Ended12 Weeks Ended36 Weeks Ended
February 12,
2023
February 13,
2022
February 12,
2023
February 13,
2022
May 7,
2023
May 8,
2022
May 7,
2023
May 8,
2022
Net salesNet sales$54,239 $50,937 $107,676 $100,354 Net sales$52,604 $51,612 $160,280 $151,966 
Less merchandise costsLess merchandise costs48,423 45,517 96,192 89,469 Less merchandise costs47,175 46,355 143,367 135,824 
Gross marginGross margin$5,816 $5,420 $11,484 $10,885 Gross margin$5,429 $5,257 $16,913 $16,142 
Gross margin percentageGross margin percentage10.72 %10.64 %10.67 %10.85 %Gross margin percentage10.32 %10.19 %10.55 %10.62 %
Quarterly Results
Total gross margin percentage increased eight13 basis points compared to the secondthird quarter of 2022. Excluding the impact of gasoline price inflationdeflation on net sales, gross margin percentage was 10.73%10.16%, an increasea decrease of ninethree basis points. This was driven primarily by a 14net 52 basis-point increasedecrease due to a LIFO charge, primarily for the discontinuation of our charter shipping activities and the benefit from the absence of a charge related to granting employees additional vacation as was recorded in the secondthird quarter of 2022. Warehouse ancillary and other business alsoIncreased 2% rewards negatively impacted gross margin by nine basis points. Gross margin was positively impacted by 25 basis points due to the absence of a LIFO charge as was recorded in the third quarter of 2022. Core merchandise categories positively impacted gross margin by three24 basis points, predominantly gasoline, due to foods and sundries,
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partially offset by e-commercenon-foods. Warehouse ancillary and pharmacy. Core merchandise categories negativelyother businesses positively impacted gross margin by sixnine basis points, predominantly in non-foods and fresh foods, partially offset by foods and sundries. Gross margin was negatively impacted by two basis points due to increased 2% rewards.points. Changes in foreign currencies relative to the U.S. dollar negatively impacted gross margin by approximately $91,$81, compared to the secondthird quarter of 2022, attributable to our Canadian and Other International operations.
The gross margin in core merchandise categories, when expressed as a percentage of core merchandise sales (rather than total net sales), decreased 26increased 17 basis points. The decreaseincrease was across all categories, most significantly inprimarily due to foods and sundries and non-foods, partially offset by fresh foods. This measure eliminates the impact of changes in sales penetration and gross margins from our warehouse ancillary and other businesses.
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Gross margin on a segment basis, when expressed as a percentage of the segment's own sales and excluding the impact of changes in gasoline prices on net sales (segment gross margin percentage), increasedperformed similarly to the consolidated results above in our U.S. segment, largely due to the LIFO charge discussed above and an increase in our warehouse ancillary and other businesses, predominantly gasoline, partially offset by e-commerce.segment. Gross margin percentage decreasedincreased in our Canadian and Other International segment due to decreasesincreases in core merchandise categories and increased 2% rewards, partially offset by warehouse ancillary and other businesses. All segments were negatively impacted by increased 2% rewards.
Year-to-date Results
Total gross margin percentage decreased 18seven basis points compared to the first halfthirty-six weeks of 2022. Excluding the impact of gasoline price inflation on net sales, gross margin percentage was 10.79%10.58%, a decrease of sixfour basis points. This was primarilydriven by charges in the first and third quarters of 2023 related to the downsizing and then discontinuation of our charter shipping activities, totaling 24 basis points. Gross margin was also negatively impacted by five basis points due to an 18 basis-point decreaseincreased 2% rewards and three basis points due to decreases in core merchandise categories, predominantly in non-foods and fresh foods, partially offset by foods and sundries, and a nine basis-point charge primarily related to downsizing our charter shipping activities during the first quarter of 2023. Gross margin was also negatively impacted by three basis points due to increased 2% rewards.sundries. Warehouse ancillary and other businesses, positively impacted gross margin by 1614 basis points, predominantly gasoline, partially offset by e-commerce. A smaller LIFO charge in the first halfthirty-six weeks of 2023 compared to the first halfthirty-six weeks of 2022 also positively contributed eightimpacted gross margin by 14 basis points. Changes in foreign currencies relative to the U.S. dollar negatively impacted gross margin by approximately $244,$325, compared to the first halfthirty-six weeks of 2022, attributable to our Canadian and Other International operations.
The gross margin in core merchandise categories, when expressed as a percentage of core merchandise sales (rather than total net sales), decreased 2914 basis points. The decrease was primarily due to fresh foods and non-foods. This measure eliminates the impact of changes in sales penetrationnon-foods, partially offset by foods and gross margins from our warehouse ancillary and other businesses.sundries.
Segment grossGross margin percentage increasedwas flat in our U.S. segment due to the charge related to the discontinuation of our charter shipping activities discussed above, offset by a smaller LIFO charge and increases in warehouse ancillary and other businesses, and a smaller LIFO charge, partially offset by the charge related to downsizing our charter shipping activities and decreases in certain core merchandise categories, non-foods and fresh foods, partially offset by foods and sundries.primarily gasoline. Gross margin percentage decreased in our Canadian and Other International segment due to decreases in core merchandise categories, partially offset by warehouse ancillary and other businesses. All segments were negatively impacted by increased 2% rewards.
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses
12 Weeks Ended24 Weeks Ended
February 12,
2023
February 13,
2022
February 12,
2023
February 13,
2022
SG&A expenses$4,940 $4,575 $9,857 $9,293 
SG&A expenses as a percentage of net sales9.11 %8.98 %9.15 %9.26 %
Quarterly Results
SG&A expenses as a percentage of net sales increased 13 basis points. The effect of gasoline price inflation had no impact on SG&A expenses as a percentage of sales. The comparison to last year was negatively impacted by nine basis points in central operating costs partially attributable to a charge related to a tax audit covering multiple years. Warehouse operations and other businesses and stock compensation were both higher by two basis points. Changes in foreign currencies relative to the U.S. dollar decreased SG&A expenses by approximately $75 compared to the second quarter of 2022.
12 Weeks Ended36 Weeks Ended
May 7,
2023
May 8,
2022
May 7,
2023
May 8,
2022
SG&A expenses$4,794 $4,450 $14,651 $13,743 
SG&A expenses as a percentage of net sales9.11 %8.62 %9.14 %9.04 %
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Quarterly Results
SG&A expenses as a percentage of net sales increased 49 basis points. SG&A expenses as a percentage of net sales excluding the impact of gasoline price deflation was 8.96%, an increase of 34 basis points. The comparison to last year was negatively impacted by 35 basis points in warehouse operations and other businesses, largely attributable to the increased wages and benefits that were effective in March and July 2022, and March 2023 and slower sales growth. Central operating costs were also higher by nine basis points, and preopening costs were higher by one basis point. SG&A was positively impacted by 11 basis points due to the absence of a charge related to granting our employees additional vacation as was recorded in the prior year. Changes in foreign currencies relative to the U.S. dollar decreased SG&A expenses by approximately $65 compared to the third quarter of 2022.
Year-to-date Results
SG&A expenses as a percentage of net sales decreased 11increased 10 basis points. SG&A expenses as a percentage of net sales excluding the impact of gasoline price inflation was flat compared to the first half9.16%, an increase of 2022.12 basis points. The comparison to last year was favorablynegatively impacted by 1216 basis points fromin warehouse operations and other businesses, largely attributable to the increased wages and benefits that were effective in March and July 2022, and March 2023 and slower sales growth. Central operating costs were also higher by seven basis points. SG&A was positively impacted by 11 basis points due to the absence of a write-off of certain information technology assets and a charge related to granting our employees additional vacation as were recorded in the prior year. Warehouse operations and other businesses were higher by six basis points, largely attributable to the wage increases we instituted in 2022. Central operating costs were also higher by six basis points. Changes in foreign currencies relative to the U.S. dollar decreased SG&A expenses by approximately $196$261 compared to the first halfthirty-six weeks of 2022.
Interest Expense
12 Weeks Ended24 Weeks Ended
February 12,
2023
February 13,
2022
February 12,
2023
February 13,
2022
Interest expense$34 $36 $68 $75 
12 Weeks Ended36 Weeks Ended
May 7,
2023
May 8,
2022
May 7,
2023
May 8,
2022
Interest expense$36 $35 $104 $110 
Interest expense is primarily related to Senior Notes and financing leases. The decrease in interest expense for the first halfthirty-six weeks of 2023 was due to repayment of the 2.300% Senior Notes on December 1, 2021.
Interest Income and Other, Net
12 Weeks Ended24 Weeks Ended12 Weeks Ended36 Weeks Ended
February 12,
2023
February 13,
2022
February 12,
2023
February 13,
2022
May 7,
2023
May 8,
2022
May 7,
2023
May 8,
2022
Interest incomeInterest income$105 $$159 $15 Interest income$110 $$269 $21 
Foreign-currency transaction gains (losses), netForeign-currency transaction gains (losses), net12 (6)38 Foreign-currency transaction gains (losses), net56 94 
Other, netOther, net14 14 Other, net23 23 
Interest income and other, netInterest income and other, net$114 $25 $167 $67 Interest income and other, net$128 $71 $295 $138 
The increase in interest income in the secondthird quarter and first halfthirty-six weeks of 2023 was due to higher global interest rates. Foreign-currency transaction gains (losses), net, include mark-to-market adjustments for forward foreign-exchange contracts and the revaluation or settlement of monetary assets and liabilities by our Canadian and Other International operations. See Derivatives and Foreign Currency sections in Item 8, Note 1 of our Annual Report on Form 10-K, for the fiscal year ended August 28, 2022.
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Provision for Income Taxes
12 Weeks Ended24 Weeks Ended 12 Weeks Ended36 Weeks Ended
February 12,
2023
February 13,
2022
February 12,
2023
February 13,
2022
May 7,
2023
May 8,
2022
May 7,
2023
May 8,
2022
Provision for income taxesProvision for income taxes$517 $481 $923 $832 Provision for income taxes$469 $455 $1,392 $1,287 
Effective tax rateEffective tax rate26.1 %26.7 %24.6 %23.8 %Effective tax rate26.5 %24.9 %25.2 %24.2 %
The effective tax rate for the first halfthirty-six weeks of 2023 was impacted by net discrete tax benefits of $57, primarily due to excess tax benefits related to stock compensation. Excluding discrete net tax benefits, the tax rate was 26.1% for the first half of 2023.26.2%.
The effective tax rate for the first halfthirty-six weeks of 2022 was impacted by net discrete tax benefits of $91,$114, primarily due to excess tax benefits related to stock compensation. Excluding discrete net tax benefits, the tax rate was 26.4% for the first half of 2022.
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LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
The following table summarizes our significant sources and uses of cash and cash equivalents:
24 Weeks Ended36 Weeks Ended
February 12,
2023
February 13,
2022
May 7,
2023
May 8,
2022
Net cash provided by operating activitiesNet cash provided by operating activities$5,802 $3,659 Net cash provided by operating activities$7,343 $4,886 
Net cash used in investing activitiesNet cash used in investing activities(1,865)(1,393)Net cash used in investing activities(3,147)(2,428)
Net cash used in financing activitiesNet cash used in financing activities(1,215)(1,667)Net cash used in financing activities(1,950)(2,343)
Our primary sources of liquidity are cash flows from operations, cash and cash equivalents, and short-term investments. Cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments were $13,705$13,708 and $11,049 at February 12,May 7, 2023, and August 28, 2022. Of these balances, unsettled credit and debit card receivables represented approximately $2,083$2,236 and $2,010 at February 12,May 7, 2023, and August 28, 2022. These receivables generally settle within four days.
Material contractual obligations arising in the normal course of business primarily consist of purchase obligations, long-term debt and related interest payments, leases, and construction and land purchase obligations.
Purchase obligations consist of contracts primarily related to merchandise, equipment, and third-party services, the majority of which are due in the next 12 months. Construction and land purchase obligations consist of contracts primarily related to the development and opening of new and relocated warehouses, the majority of which (other than leases) are due in the next 12 months.
Management believes that our cash and investment position and operating cash flows with capacity under existing and available credit agreements will be sufficient to meet our liquidity and capital requirements for the foreseeable future. We believe that our U.S. current and projected asset position is sufficient to meet our U.S. liquidity requirements.
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Cash Flows from Operating Activities
Net cash provided by operating activities totaled $5,802$7,343 in the first halfthirty-six weeks of 2023, compared to $3,659$4,886 in the first halfthirty-six weeks of 2022. Our cash flow provided by operations is primarily from net sales and membership fees. Cash flow used in operations generally consists of payments to merchandise suppliers, warehouse operating costs, including payroll and employee benefits, utilities, and credit and debit card processing fees. Cash used in operations also includes payments for income taxes. Changes in our net investment in merchandise inventories (the difference between merchandise inventories and accounts payable) is impacted by several factors, including inventory turnover, the forward deployment of inventory to accelerate delivery times, payment terms with suppliers, and early payments to obtain discounts.
Cash Flows from Investing Activities
Net cash used in investing activities totaled $1,865$3,147 in the first halfthirty-six weeks of 2023, compared to $1,393$2,428 in the first halfthirty-six weeks of 2022, and is primarily related to capital expenditures. Net cash from investing activities also includes purchases and maturities of short-term investments.
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Capital Expenditure Plans
Our primary requirements for capital are acquiring land, buildings, and equipment for new and remodeled warehouses. Capital is also required for information systems, manufacturing and distribution facilities, initial warehouse operations, and working capital. In the first halfthirty-six weeks of 2023, we spent $1,947$2,767 on capital expenditures, and it is our current intention to spend approximately $3,800 to $4,200 during fiscal 2023. These expenditures are expected to be financed with cash from operations, existing cash and cash equivalents, and short-term investments. We opened 1217 new warehouses, including twothree relocations, in the first halfthirty-six weeks of 2023 and plan to open 15nine additional new warehouses including one relocation, in the remainder of fiscal 2023. There can be no assurance that current expectations will be realized, and plans are subject to change upon further review of our capital expenditure needs and the economic environment.
Cash Flows from Financing Activities
Net cash used in financing activities totaled $1,215$1,950 in the first halfthirty-six weeks of 2023, compared to $1,667$2,343 in the first halfthirty-six weeks of 2022. Cash flow used in financing activities during the first halfthirty-six weeks of 2023 was primarily related to the payment of dividends, repurchases of common stock, and withholding taxes on stock-based awards, and repurchases of common stock.awards. In the first halfthirty-six weeks of 2022, cash flow used in financing activities was primarily due toincluded the repayment of our 2.300% Senior Notes.Notes and the payment of dividends.
Dividends
A quarterly cash dividend of $0.90$1.02 per share was declared on JanuaryApril 19, 2023, payable to shareholders of record on February 3,May 5, 2023, which was paid on February 17,May 19, 2023.
Share Repurchase Program
On January 19, 2023, the Board of Directors authorized a new share repurchase program in the amount of $4,000, which expires in January 2027. During the first halfthirty-six weeks of 2023 and 2022, we repurchased 579,000908,000 and 236,000490,000 shares of common stock, at an average price per share of $492.06$492.30 and $498.00,$523.61, totaling approximately $285$447 and $118.$257. These amounts may differ from the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of cash flows due to changes in unsettled repurchases at the end of a quarter. Purchases are made from time to time, as conditions warrant, in the open market or in block purchases, pursuant to plans under SEC Rule 10b5-1. Repurchased shares are retired, in accordance with the Washington Business Corporation Act. The remaining amount available to be purchased under our approved plan was $3,955$3,793 at the end of the secondthird quarter.
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Bank Credit Facilities and Commercial Paper Programs
We maintain bank credit facilities for working capital and general corporate purposes. At February 12,May 7, 2023, we had borrowing capacity under these facilities of $1,269.$1,312. Our international operations maintain $781$824 of this capacity under bank credit facilities, of which $177$174 is guaranteed by the Company. Short-term borrowings outstanding under the bank credit facilities, which are included in other current liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets, were $45$54 and $88 at the end of the secondthird quarter of 2023 and at the end of fiscal 2022.
The Company has letter of credit facilities, for commercial and standby letters of credit, totaling $231.$226. The outstanding commitments under these facilities at the end of the secondthird quarter of 2023 totaled $191,$189, most of which were standby letters of credit that do not expire or have expiration dates within one year. The bank credit facilities have various expiration dates, most within one year, and we generally intend to renew these facilities. The amount of borrowings available at any time under our bank credit facilities is reduced by the amount of standby and commercial letters of credit outstanding.
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Critical Accounting Estimates
The preparation of our consolidated financial statements in accordance with U.S. GAAP requires that we make estimates and judgments. We base these on historical experience and on assumptions that we believe to be reasonable. Our critical accounting policies are discussed in Part II, Item 7, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” section of our Annual Report on Form 10-K, for the fiscal year ended August 28, 2022. There have been no material changes to the critical accounting estimates previously disclosed in that Report.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
There have been no material changes in recently issued or adopted accounting standards from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K, for the fiscal year ended August 28, 2022.
Item 3—Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk
Our direct exposure to financial market risk results from fluctuations in foreign-currency exchange rates and interest rates. There have been no material changes to our market risks as disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K, for the fiscal year ended August 28, 2022.
Item 4—Controls and Procedures
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures
Our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) or 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended) are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in the reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the rules and forms of the Securities and Exchange Commission and to ensure that information required to be disclosed is accumulated and communicated to management, including our principal executive and financial officers, to allow timely decisions regarding disclosure. The Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer, with assistance from other members of management, have reviewed the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures as of February 12,May 7, 2023 and, based on their evaluation, have concluded the disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of such date.
Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting
There have been no changes in our internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) or 15d-15(f) of the Exchange Act) that occurred during the secondthird quarter of fiscal 2023 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.
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PART II—OTHER INFORMATION
Item 1—Legal Proceedings
See discussion of Legal Proceedings in Note 8 to the condensed consolidated financial statements included in Part I, Item 1 of this Report.
Item 1A—Risk Factors
In addition to the other information set forth in the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part I, Item 1A, “Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K, for the fiscal year ended August 28, 2022. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K.
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Item 2—Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds
The following table sets forth information on our common stock repurchase program activity for the secondthird quarter of 2023 (amounts in millions, except share and per share data):
PeriodTotal Number of Shares PurchasedAverage Price Paid Per Share
Total Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Programs(1)
Maximum Dollar Value of Shares that May Yet be Purchased Under the Programs(1)
November 21, 2022 — December 18, 202291,000 $499.57 91,000 $2,621 
December 19, 2022 — January 15, 202396,000 465.99 96,000 2,576 
January 16, 2023 — February 12, 2023107,000 498.61 107,000 3,955 
Total second quarter294,000 $488.30 294,000 
PeriodTotal Number of Shares PurchasedAverage Price Paid Per Share
Total Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Programs(1)
Maximum Dollar Value of Shares that May Yet be Purchased Under the Programs(1)
February 13, 2022 — March 12, 2023108,000 $490.87 108,000 $3,902 
March 13, 2023 — April 9, 2023109,000 489.45 109,000 3,849 
April 10, 2023 — May 7, 2023112,000 497.64 112,000 3,793 
Total third quarter329,000 $492.71 329,000 
 _______________
(1)Our share repurchase program is conducted under a $4,000 authorization approved by our Board of Directors in January 2023, which expires in January 2027. This authorization revoked previously authorized but unused amounts, totaling $2,568.
Item 3—Defaults Upon Senior Securities
None.
Item 4—Mine Safety Disclosures
Not applicable.
Item 5—Other Information (amounts in whole dollars)
Disclosure pursuant to Section 2019 of the Iran Threat Reduction and Syria Human Rights Act of 2012 and Section 13(r) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.
During the second quarter of 2023, we had two individual cardholders under a business membership in the name of the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran at our subsidiary in Mexico. Gross revenue in the second quarter of 2023 attributable to the membership was approximately $145, and our estimated profit on these transactions was less than $10. The membership was canceled during the second quarter of 2023. The Company does not intend to continue these activities.None.
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Item 6—Exhibits
The following exhibits are filed as part of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q or are incorporated herein by reference.
  Incorporated by Reference
Exhibit
Number
Exhibit DescriptionFiled
Herewith
FormPeriod 
Ending
Filing Date
3.110-K8/28/202210/5/2022
3.210-Q5/8/20226/2/2022
10.1x
31.1x
32.1x
101.INSInline XBRL Instance Documentx
101.SCHInline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Documentx
101.CALInline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Documentx
101.DEFInline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Documentx
101.LABInline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Documentx
101.PREInline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Documentx
104Cover Page Interactive Data File (formatted as inline XBRL and contained in Exhibit 101)x
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SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this Report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
COSTCO WHOLESALE CORPORATION
(Registrant)
March 8,May 31, 2023By
/s/ W. CRAIG JELINEK
Date
W. Craig Jelinek
Chief Executive Officer and Director
March 8,May 31, 2023By
/s/ RICHARD A. GALANTI
Date
Richard A. Galanti
Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Director

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