-----BEGIN PRIVACY-ENHANCED MESSAGE----- Proc-Type: 2001,MIC-CLEAR Originator-Name: webmaster@www.sec.gov Originator-Key-Asymmetric: MFgwCgYEVQgBAQICAf8DSgAwRwJAW2sNKK9AVtBzYZmr6aGjlWyK3XmZv3dTINen TWSM7vrzLADbmYQaionwg5sDW3P6oaM5D3tdezXMm7z1T+B+twIDAQAB MIC-Info: RSA-MD5,RSA, Dmw5e/i4H5lno1TDwWuiZQu4uLGLFTCEeXBb39noC1IUJ9j/yCcCxqj73lTmKTZz shHP7AfYMcQhsLJbQk4UNA== 0001021408-03-000743.txt : 20030129 0001021408-03-000743.hdr.sgml : 20030129 20030129125037 ACCESSION NUMBER: 0001021408-03-000743 CONFORMED SUBMISSION TYPE: 6-K PUBLIC DOCUMENT COUNT: 1 CONFORMED PERIOD OF REPORT: 20030129 FILED AS OF DATE: 20030129 FILER: COMPANY DATA: COMPANY CONFORMED NAME: SONY CORP CENTRAL INDEX KEY: 0000313838 STANDARD INDUSTRIAL CLASSIFICATION: HOUSEHOLD AUDIO & VIDEO EQUIPMENT [3651] IRS NUMBER: 000000000 STATE OF INCORPORATION: M0 FISCAL YEAR END: 0331 FILING VALUES: FORM TYPE: 6-K SEC ACT: 1934 Act SEC FILE NUMBER: 001-06439 FILM NUMBER: 03529454 BUSINESS ADDRESS: STREET 1: 7-35 KITASHINAGAWA STREET 2: 6-CHOME SHINAGAWA-KU CITY: TOKYO 141 JAPAN STATE: M0 BUSINESS PHONE: 0354482180 MAIL ADDRESS: STREET 1: 7-35 KITASHINAGAWA STREET 2: 6-CHOME, SHINAGAWA-KU CITY: TOKYO 141 JAPAN STATE: M0 6-K 1 d6k.htm FORM 6-K Form 6-K
Table of Contents
 

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D. C. 20549
 

 
FORM 6-K
 
REPORT OF FOREIGN PRIVATE ISSUER
Pursuant to Rule 13a-16 or 15d-16 of
the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
 
For the month of January 2003
 

 
SONY CORPORATION
(Translation of registrant’s name into English)
7-35 KITASHINAGAWA 6-CHOME, SHINAGAWA-KU, TOKYO, JAPAN
(Address of principal executive offices)
 
The registrant files annual reports under cover of Form 20-F.
 

 


Table of Contents
 
SIGNATURE
 
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.
 
SONY CORPORATION
(Registrant)
 
By:
 
/s/    Teruhisa Tokunaka

   
(Signature)
   
Teruhisa Tokunaka
   
Executive Deputy
President and Chief
Financial Officer
 
Date: January 29th, 2003


Table of Contents
 
List of materials
 
The following documents attached hereto, relating to Sony Communication Network Corporation, were not filed at the end of their respective periods.
 
 
i)
 
 
 
ii)
 
 
 
iii)
 


Table of Contents
 
SONY
    
6-7-35 Kita-shinagawa
News & Information
    
Shinagawa-ku
Tokyo, 141-0001 Japan

 
No: 02-014E
Date: April 25, 2002
 
Subsidiary Tracking Stock
Sony Communication Network Corporation
Financial Results For the Fiscal Year Ended March 31, 2002
 
Sony Communication Network Corporation (hereinafter, the “SCN Group”), a subsidiary the performance of which is linked to a tracking stock issued by Sony Corporation, announced today its consolidated results for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2002 (the period from April 1, 2001 to March 31, 2002).
 
Summary of Consolidated Results
 
The following is a summary of the SCN Group’s consolidated results for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2002. These results are based on the generally accepted accounting standards of Japan.
 
Consolidated Results for the Fiscal Year
 
           
(Millions of Yen)
 
    
Year ended March 31
 
    
2001

    
2002

    
Change (%)

 
Sales
  
¥
34,688
 
  
¥
33,151
 
  
(4.4
)
[Excluding Sales of AIBO]
  
 
[27,474
]
  
 
[33,151
]
  
[+20.7
]
Operating income (loss)
  
 
100
 
  
 
(1,707
)
  
—  
 
Ordinary loss
  
 
244
 
  
 
2,559
 
  
—  
 
Net loss
  
 
499
 
  
 
2,101
 
  
—  
 
 

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Summary of Consolidated Operations
 
As of February 2002, the number of Internet users in Japan had passed 22 million, according to the Ministry of Public Management, Home Affairs, Posts and Telecommunications. Also, the number of broadband users with dedicated connections had sharply increased, with the number of ADSL lines as of the end of March 2002 being 2.3 million.
 
Under these conditions, due to factors such as new competitors entering the market for ADSL connection services in the first half of the fiscal year, price competition was fierce as providers aimed to expand their ADSL subscriber bases.
 
The SCN Group started offering ADSL services with the new “So-net ADSL” 1.5M service from August 2001 and the 8M service from September 2001. Thanks to aggressive measures including marketing such as television campaigns and sales promotions at volume retailers, the number of broadband So-net users at the end of March 2002 was approximately 250,000. (This included users of such services as “Flets” which is operated by NTT East and NTT West Companies.) The total number of SCN Group subscribers was 2.24 million as of March 2002, including “JustNet” members of WebOnline Networks, Ltd. (hereinafter “WON”), which became a 100% subsidiary in October 2001.
 
Furthermore, in the areas of content and e-commerce, subsidiaries, which were mainly established during the previous fiscal year, and affiliated companies, began full-scale operations.
 
At So-net Sports.com Corp. and So-net Be Media Corp., the SCN Group undertook to offer content across platforms. This included offering CS (communication satellite) broadcast programming as broadband content for the Internet and mobile phones.
 
Drivegate Inc., which operates a website related to used cars, worked to establish a business model that focuses on revenue generated from used car advertisements. In an environment of tough competition with other used car websites and paper media such as magazines, Drivegate Inc. aimed to raise its brand-name recognition through expenditures for marketing and advertising such as television commercials. This resulted in greater losses.
 
So-net M3 Inc., which offers a platform in the area of medical health care, achieved profitability during the year under review. While working to expand its operations through the acquisition of business from WebMD Corporation, which operates a medical-related website, So-net M3 Inc. smoothly increased its results through such offerings as “MR kun,” which 8 companies had adopted as of March 31, 2002.
 
Label Gate Co., Ltd., which offers a platform for digital distribution of music and in which 17 record labels have invested, is steadily adapting for an environment in which music is digitally distributed. With the expansion of a broadband environment such as ADSL, the number of downloads has been steadily increasing. However, from a profitability viewpoint, because conditions have continued to be severe, Label Gate Co., Ltd. will strive towards business expansion.
 
DeNA Co., Ltd., which has developed a web-based auction business, has tied up with various portal site companies and ISPs and is aggressively expanding its business by increasing the number of users and exhibited products.
 
Skygate Co., Ltd., which offers web-based sales of traditional discount airline tickets has been impacted by the moderation in overseas travel since the terrorist attacks in the United States in September 2001.
 
Under these conditions, consolidated sales of the SCN Group in the fiscal year ended March 31, 2002 decreased by 4.4% compared with the previous year to 33,151 million yen, including the sales of WON which became a 100% subsidiary in October 2001. (Excluding sales of the entertainment robot “AIBO” sold under contract to Sony Corp. during the previous year, sales of the SCN Group increased 20.7%.)
 
Regarding profit performance, for the year under review, an operating loss of 1,707 million yen was recorded, compared with an operating profit of 100 million yen in the year earlier period.

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This was due to such factors as the impact of falling connection prices due to price competition; sales promotion costs for “So-net ADSL;” higher business outsourcing expenses related to increases in call center operators who respond to customer inquiries; increased personnel expenses for internal systems; and the influence of such things as increased costs at subsidiaries.
 
In addition, equity losses of 633 million yen were recorded for affiliated companies accounted for by the equity method, including Label Gate Co., Ltd., Skygate Co., Ltd.; and DeNA Co., Ltd.; compared with equity losses of 312 million yen in the previous year. This resulted in an ordinary loss of 2,559 million yen, compared with an ordinary loss of 244 million yen in the previous year. Furthermore, extraordinary depreciation of fixed assets of 60 million yen was recorded as an extraordinary loss, and minority interest in loss of consolidated subsidiaries amounted to 302 million yen, compared with 60 million yen in the previous year.
 
As a result, a net loss of 2,101 million yen was recorded during year under review, compared with a net loss of 499 million yen in the previous year.
 
Sales by Category
 
The year ended March 31, 2002
 
           
Year ended March 31, 2001 (millions of yen)

  
Percentage of total (%)

    
Year ended March 31, 2002 (millions of yen)

  
Percentage of total (%)

    
Year-on-year change
(%)

 
Operating revenue
  
Internet
provider
services
    
22,889
  
66.0
    
27,306
  
82.4
    
+19.3
 
    
Internet-
related
services
    
3,577
  
10.3
    
5,242
  
15.8
    
+46.6
 
Merchandise sales
    
8,222
  
23.7
    
604
  
1.8
    
(92.7
)
Total
    
34,688
  
100.0
    
33,151
  
100.0
    
(4.4
)
Sales ex-AIBO, and
year-on-year comparisons
(see note)
    
27,474
  
—  
    
33,151
  
—  
    
+20.7
 
 
(note)
 
Sales of the entertainment robot “AIBO” sold to domestic customers under contract to Sony Corp. amounted to 7,214 million yen in the year ended March 31, 2001.
 
The three months ended March 31, 2002
           
Three months ended March 31, 2001 (millions of yen)

  
Percentage of total (%)

    
Three months ended March 31, 2002 (millions of yen)

  
Percentage of total (%)

  
Year-on- year change
(%)

 
Operating revenue
  
Internet
provider
services
    
5,908
  
83.2
    
7,603
  
84.4
  
+28.7
 
    
Internet-
related
services
    
1,031
  
14.5
    
1,251
  
13.9
  
+21.4
 
Merchandise sales
    
161
  
2.3
    
156
  
1.7
  
(2.8
)
Total
    
7,100
  
100.0
    
9,010
  
100.0
  
+26.9
 

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«Operating revenue»
 
ISP services
 
In this category, the number of broadband Internet users with dedicated connections rapidly increased due to price competition among providers, especially for ADSL services. As of the end of March 2002, the number of broadband users had passed 2.3 million according to the Ministry of Public Management, Home Affairs, Posts and Telecommunications.
 
Among these, the number of So-net subscribers who used dedicated broadband connections such as “So-net ADSL” had reached approximately 250,000 in March 2002.
 
Also, the SCN Group began offering fixed-price high speed connection services over fiber optic access lines using the “B-Flets” service offered by NTT East and NTT West Companies. For “So-net ADSL” courses, the SCN Group worked to expand its subscriber base by offering a variety of services such as “Family Pack,” which utilizes two IDs, and “Student Discount Course,” which offers the largest discount of approximately 50%.
 
As a result, sales of ISP services for the year ended March 31, 2002 were 27,306 million yen, an increase of 19.3% compared with the previous year. Such sales accounted for 82.4% of total sales.
 
Internet-related services
 
In this category, as a major initiative, the SCN Group released “So-net Town,” a “communication and entertainment” contents service aimed at broadband users with dedicated connections. By offering a new style of communication where users have web “residences” from which they can exchange information with other residents, “So-net Town” has created a new business platform aimed at businesses, including e-commerce, marketing, and sales promotion capabilities.
 
Furthermore, the SCN Group is striving to offer video services such as music, movies, sports, shopping, and live broadcasts. “So-net Mega-Channel,” launched in February 2002, integrates Sony’s “Mega-Channel” and So-net video contents.
 
Also, the sales of 5 consolidated subsidiaries are included in this category (excluding sales of ISP services). As a result, compared with previous year, sales in this category increased 46.6% to 5,242 million yen, and such sales accounted for 15.8% of total sales.
 
«Merchandise sales»
 
In this category, PlayStation.Com (Japan) Inc. (hereinafter “PS.com”) established the PS.com shopping site “PlayStation.com@So-net,” which is operated by the SCN Group over the “So-net” homepage. In addition to sales of PlayStation 2 consoles and related goods, the two companies began sales of jointly planned original products.
 
Although there were contributions to this category from sales of ADSL modems for using “So-net ADSL” and “e-Mart,” a shopping portal site, sales of such items as PostPet-related goods and software declined, and sales of the entertainment robot “AIBO” sold under contract to Sony Corp. ended during the previous year. As a result, during the year ended March 31, 2002, merchandise sales decreased by 92.7%, to 604 million yen compared to the previous year (excluding “AIBO” sales, merchandise sales decreased by 40.2%). Such sales accounted for 1.8% of total sales.

4


Table of Contents
 
Cash Flow
 
Cash and cash equivalents were 4,641 million yen at March 31, 2002, which was an increase of 4,157 million yen compared with the end of previous fiscal year. This was a result of such factors as a capital increase financed by Sony Corp. through the issuance by Sony Corp. of the Subsidiary Tracking Stock linked to the SCN Group.
 
<Cash flow from operating activities>
 
During the year ended March 31, 2002, regarding cash flows from operating activities, the SCN Group used 368 million yen, while during the year ended March 31, 2001, the SCN Group generated 79 million yen. This was due to such factors as the recording of a loss before income taxes of 2,554 million yen, compared with a loss of 113 million yen in previous year, and an increase in accounts receivable, trade of 314 million yen compared with 260 million yen in the previous year, although these factors were partially offset by such factors as an increase in accounts payable, trade of 590 million yen, compared with 153 million yen in the year earlier period. Also, included in the loss before income taxes was depreciation and extraordinary depreciation of fixed assets of 952 million yen and equity in net loss of affiliated companies of 633 million yen.
 
<Cash flow from investing activities>
 
During the year ended March 31, 2002, regarding cash flows from investing activities, the SCN Group used 3,127 million yen, while during the year ended March 31, 2001; the SCN Group used 1,503 million yen. This reflected expenditures of 1,496 million yen connected with the acquisition of WebOnline Networks, Ltd.; payment for the acquisition of intangible fixed assets such as systems for connection services, e-commerce, and web site development of 792 million yen; 203 million yen for acquisition of investment securities, including a 134 million-yen disbursement for the establishment of Sony Network Taiwan Ltd.; and payment for loan for affiliated companies of 394 million yen.
 
<Cash flow from financing activities>
 
During the year ended March 31, 2002, regarding cash flows from financing activities, the SCN Group generated 7,676 million yen, while during the year ended March 31, 2002; the SCN Group generated 1,636 million yen. This reflected a capital increase financed by Sony Corp. through the issuance by Sony Corp. of the Subsidiary Tracking Stock linked to the SCN Group which resulted in an increase in cash of 9,529 million yen. Of such amount, 1,872 million yen was used to repay short-term debt, including 1,472 million yen to repay short-term debt to Sony Corp.
 

For inquiries, please contact:
   
Sony Corp, IR Department
   
7-35, Kita-Shinagawa 6-chome Shinagawa-ku,
Tokyo 141-0001
 
Tel: (03) 5448-2180

5


Table of Contents
 
Segment Information
 
<Operating segment information>
 
4th quarter ended March 31, 2002
Year ended March 31, 2002
 
The SCN Group is involved solely in network service-related operations; thus, as it operates a single business segment, information in this section has been omitted.
 
<Geographic segment information>
 
4th quarter ended March 31, 2002
Year ended March 31, 2002
 
Disclosures relating to geographic segment are not applicable because the group does not operate outside of Japan.
 
<Overseas sales>
 
4th quarter ended March 31, 2002
Year ended March 31, 2002
 
Because overseas sales accounted for less than 10 percent of overall sales, disclosures relating to overseas sales have been omitted.

6


Table of Contents
 
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income (Unaudited)
 
For the year ended March 31, 2002
 
                                
(Millions of yen)

 
    
Year ended March 31
 
    
2001

  
2002

      
Change

 
Sales
         
34,688
         
33,151
 
    
(4.4
)%
Cost of sales
         
21,584
         
19,753
 
        
Gross profit
         
13,104
         
13,398
 
        
Selling, general and administrative expenses
         
13,004
         
15,105
 
        
Operating income (loss)
         
100
         
(1,707
)
    
%
Non-operating income
         
33
         
69
 
        
Non-operating expenses
                                  
Equity in net loss of affiliated companies
  
312
 
       
633
 
               
Other
  
64
 
  
376
  
287
 
  
920
 
        
Ordinary loss
         
244
         
2559
 
    
%
Extraordinary gain
                                  
Gain from forgiveness of debt
  
416
 
       
—  
 
               
Gain on issuances of stock by consolidated subsidiary and equity investee
  
110
 
       
97
 
               
Gain on sales of telephone rights
  
95
 
       
—  
 
               
Reversal of allowance for bad debt
  
—  
 
  
621
  
9
 
  
106
 
        
Extraordinary loss
                                  
Write-off of goodwill
  
400
 
       
—  
 
               
Write-off of software development costs
  
77
 
       
—  
 
               
Cancellation charge
  
13
 
       
—  
 
               
Extraordinary depreciation of fixed assets
  
—  
 
       
60
 
               
Loss on issuance of stock by equity investee
  
—  
 
       
2
 
               
Devaluation of investments in other securities
  
—  
 
  
490
  
39
 
  
101
 
        
Loss before income taxes
         
113
         
2,554
 
    
%
Income tax current
  
562
 
       
104
 
               
Income tax deferred
  
(116
)
  
446
  
(256
)
  
(152
)
        
Minority interest in loss of consolidated subsidiaries
         
60
         
302
 
        
Net loss
         
499
         
2,101
 
    
%

7


Table of Contents
 
For the three months ended March 31, 2002
 
                                
(Millions of yen)

 
    
Three-months ended March 31
 
    
2001

  
2002

      
Change

 
Sales
         
7,100
         
9,010
 
    
26.9
%
Cost of sales
         
4,175
         
5,461
 
        
Gross profit
         
2,924
         
3,549
 
        
Selling, general and administrative expenses
         
2,890
         
3,901
 
        
Operating income (loss)
         
34
         
(351
)
    
%
Non-operating income
         
17
         
22
 
        
Non-operating expenses
                                  
Equity in net loss of affiliated companies
  
75
 
       
143
 
               
Other
  
12
 
  
87
  
227
 
  
369
 
        
Ordinary loss
         
36
         
698
 
    
%
Extraordinary gain
                                  
Gain on issuances of stock by consolidated subsidiary and equity investee
  
110
 
       
—  
 
               
Gain on sales of telephone rights
  
49
 
       
—  
 
               
Reversal of allowance for bad debt
  
—  
 
  
159
  
9
 
  
9
 
        
Extraordinary loss
                                  
Write-off of software development costs
  
77
 
       
—  
 
               
Loss on issuance of stock by equity investee
  
—  
 
       
2
 
               
Devaluation of investments in other securities
  
—  
 
  
77
  
39
 
  
41
 
        
Income (loss) before income taxes
         
46
         
(731
)
    
%
Income tax current
  
159
 
       
29
 
               
Income tax deferred
  
(28
)
  
131
  
(92
)
  
(62
)
        
Minority interest in loss of consolidated subsidiaries
         
22
         
74
 
        
Net loss
         
62
         
594
 
    
%

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Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (Unaudited)
 
                    
(Millions of yen)

 
      
March 31 2001

    
March 31 2002

    
Change

 
ASSETS
                      
Current assets
    
4,077
 
  
9,408
 
  
5,331
 
      

  

  

Cash and bank deposits
    
483
 
  
523
 
  
39
 
Notes and accounts receivable, trade
    
2,966
 
  
3,962
 
  
996
 
Inventories
    
177
 
  
64
 
  
(113
)
Deposit in parent company
    
—  
 
  
4,118
 
  
4,118
 
Deferred tax assets
    
188
 
  
401
 
  
213
 
Other
    
286
 
  
369
 
  
83
 
Allowance for bad debt
    
(23
)
  
(28
)
  
(5
)
Noncurrent assets
    
3,409
 
  
4,789
 
  
1,380
 
      

  

  

Property, plant and equipment
    
603
 
  
456
 
  
(147
)
      

  

  

Furniture and fixtures
    
403
 
  
325
 
  
(78
)
Other
    
200
 
  
131
 
  
(69
)
Intangible assets
    
1,359
 
  
2,724
 
  
1,364
 
      

  

  

Software
    
956
 
  
1,108
 
  
152
 
Goodwill
    
43
 
  
1,275
 
  
1,232
 
Other
    
360
 
  
341
 
  
(20
)
Investments and other assets
    
1,446
 
  
1,609
 
  
163
 
      

  

  

Investments in affiliates and others
    
838
 
  
833
 
  
(5
)
Deferred tax assets
    
167
 
  
222
 
  
55
 
Other
    
440
 
  
554
 
  
114
 
      

  

  

Total assets
    
7,486
 
  
14,197
 
  
6,711
 
      

  

  

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
                      
Current liabilities
    
4,673
 
  
5,460
 
  
787
 
      

  

  

Accounts payable, trade
    
1,152
 
  
1,963
 
  
812
 
Short-term borrowing from parent company
    
1,472
 
  
—  
 
  
(1,472
)
Current portion of long-term borrowing from parent company
    
—  
 
  
1,200
 
  
1,200
 
Accrued expenses
    
1,291
 
  
1,693
 
  
403
 
Accrued income taxes
    
375
 
  
130
 
  
(245
)
Accrued bonuses
    
176
 
  
242
 
  
66
 
Other
    
207
 
  
232
 
  
24
 
Long-term liabilities
    
2,080
 
  
869
 
  
(1,210
)
      

  

  

Long-term borrowing from parent company
    
2,000
 
  
800
 
  
(1,200
)
Accrued severance costs for employees
    
19
 
  
41
 
  
23
 
Accrued severance indemnities for directors
    
—  
 
  
16
 
  
16
 
Other
    
61
 
  
12
 
  
(49
)
Total liabilities
    
6,752
 
  
6,329
 
  
(423
)
      

  

  

Minority interest
    
100
 
  
(213
)
  
(314
)
      

  

  

Common stock
    
481
 
  
5,246
 
  
4,765
 
Additional paid-in capital
    
—  
 
  
4,765
 
  
4,765
 
Retained earnings (accumulated deficit)
    
156
 
  
(1,945
)
  
(2,101
)
Unrealized exchange gains (losses) of investment securities
    
(3
)
  
16
 
  
19
 
Total stockholders’ equity
    
634
 
  
8,081
 
  
7,448
 
      

  

  

Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity
    
7,486
 
  
14,197
 
  
6,711
 
      

  

  

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Table of Contents
 
Consolidated statements of retained earnings and
accumulated deficit (Unaudited)
  
(Millions of yen)
 
    
Year ended March 31
 
    
2001
  
2002
 
Retained earnings at beginning of year
  
655
  
156
 
Net loss
  
499
  
2,101
 
Retained earnings (accumulated deficit) at end of year
  
156
  
(1,945
)

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Table of Contents
 
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flow (Unaudited)
 
             
(Millions of yen)

 
    
Year ended March 31
 
    
2001

      
2002

 
I. Cash flows from operating activities
               
Loss before income taxes
  
(113
)
    
(2,554
)
Depreciation and amortization
  
768
 
    
892
 
Extraordinary depreciation of fixed assets
  
—  
 
    
60
 
Write-off of goodwill
  
400
 
    
—  
 
Amortization for goodwill
  
3
 
    
189
 
Gain on issuances of stock by consolidated subsidiary and equity investee
  
(110
)
    
(97
)
Loss on issuance of stock by equity investee
  
—  
 
    
2
 
Gain from forgiveness of debt
  
(416
)
    
—  
 
Equity in net loss of affiliated companies
  
312
 
    
633
 
Devaluation of investments in other securities
  
—  
 
    
39
 
Increase in accrued bonuses
  
57
 
    
38
 
Decrease in retirement allowance
  
(8
)
    
—  
 
Increase in accrued severance costs for employees
  
19
 
    
18
 
Increase in accrued severance indemnities for directors
  
—  
 
    
16
 
Increase (decrease) in allowance for bad debt
  
8
 
    
(8
)
Interest and dividend income
  
(6
)
    
(8
)
Interest expenses
  
19
 
    
8
 
Loss on disposal of tangible fixed assets
  
92
 
    
83
 
Gain on sales of tangible fixed assets
  
(95
)
    
—  
 
Loss on sales of tangible fixed assets
  
—  
 
    
17
 
Increase in accounts receivable, trade
  
(260
)
    
(314
)
(Increase) decrease in inventories
  
(113
)
    
120
 
(Increase) decrease in other current assets
  
(146
)
    
54
 
Increase in accounts payable, trade
  
153
 
    
590
 
Increase in accrued expenses
  
252
 
    
260
 
Decrease in other current liabilities
  
(125
)
    
(20
)
    

    

Sub Total
  
693
 
    
16
 
    

    

Receipt of interest and dividends
  
6
 
    
8
 
Payments for interest
  
(19
)
    
(8
)
Payments for income taxes
  
(601
)
    
(384
)
    

    

Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities
  
79
 
    
(368
)
    

    

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Table of Contents
 
                 
(Millions of yen)

 
        
Year ended March 31
 
        
2001

      
2002

 
II. Cash flows from investing activities
               
   
Payments for securities investment
  
(505
)
    
(203
)
   
Payments for acquisition of fixed assets
  
(406
)
    
(124
)
   
Proceeds from sales of fixed assets
  
2
 
    
3
 
   
Payments for acquisition of intangible assets
  
(766
)
    
(792
)
   
Proceeds from sales of intangible assets
  
223
 
    
1
 
   
Payments for deposits
  
(5
)
    
(20
)
   
Payments for long term prepaid expenses
  
(3
)
    
(86
)
   
Net cash increase (decrease) resulting from acquiring subsidiaries
  
9
 
    
(1,496
)
   
Payments for acquisition of subsidiaries’ stock held by minority shareholders
  
(53
)
    
(16
)
   
Payments for loan
  
—  
 
    
(394
)
        

    

   
Net cash used in investing activities
  
(1,503
)
    
(3,127
)
        

    

III. Cash flows from financing activities
               
   
Increase (decrease) in short-term borrowing
  
1,401
 
    
(1,872
)
   
Proceeds from issuances of stocks to minority shareholders
  
234
 
    
19
 
   
Proceeds from issuances of stocks
  
1
 
    
9,529
 
        

    

   
Net cash provided by financing activities
  
1,636
 
    
7,676
 
        

    

IV. Effect of exchange rate difference on cash and cash equivalents
  
—  
 
    
—  
 
V.     Increase in cash and cash equivalents
  
212
 
    
4,181
 
VI.   Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year
  
221
 
    
483
 
VII.  Cash and cash equivalents of newly consolidated subsidiary
  
50
 
    
—  
 
VIII. Decrease in cash and cash equivalents resulting from deconsolidation
  
—  
 
    
(24
)
        

    

IX.  Cash and cash equivalents at end of year
  
483
 
    
4,641
 
        

    

 
(Note)
 
1.
 
Consolidated financial statements of SCN Group are prepared based on the Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in Japan.
 
(For reference)
 
                    
(Millions of yen)
 
      
Year ended
March 31, 2001
    
Year ended
March 31, 2002
    
Change
(%)
 
Increase in fixed assets
    
438
    
161
    
(63.3
)
Increase in intangible assets
    
892
    
963
    
8.0
 
Depreciation of fixed assets*
    
197
    
253
    
28.3
 
Amortization of intangible assets
    
556
    
676
    
21.5
 
R&D expenses
    
91
    
—  
    
—  
 
      
Three-months ended
March 31, 2001
    
Three-months ended
March 31, 2002
    
Change
(%)
 
Increase in fixed assets
    
57
    
33
    
(43.1
)
Increase in intangible assets
    
230
    
239
    
3.7
 
Depreciation of fixed assets*
    
57
    
50
    
(11.1
)
Amortization of intangible assets
    
148
    
173
    
17.1
 
R&D expenses
    
4
    
—  
    
—  
 
 
* Including extraordinary depreciation of fixed assets

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Table of Contents
 
Strategies and Outlook
 
Corporate strategy
 
Since starting Internet connection services under the name of “So-net” in January of 1996, the SCN Group has strived to build a new style of network services. The SCN Group offers various services including an optimal communications environment and uniquely appealing contents.
 
Going forward, the SCN Group will make maximum efforts to take advantage of the world of dedicated broadband connections and to offer an even broader range of services.
 
Basic strategy for distribution of earnings
 
The SCN Group wiped away during the year ended March 2000 its accumulated losses since its establishment. However, in order to strengthen the corporate foundation and in response to quickly expanding Internet markets, the SCN Group has aggressively developed its businesses, including the establishment of subsidiaries, corporate investment, and alliances.
 
Looking forward, it is expected that dedicated-line broadband Internet access will further spread. The SCN Group is working to manage its businesses by readying businesses that respond to these trends, by expanding cash flow, and by fully solidifying its financial base and retained earnings. For these reasons, for the time being, the SCN Group does not plan to distribute earnings to SCN shareholders.
 
Current challenges
 
a) ISP services
 
The SCN Group has offered as its primary service dial-up Internet connection services, but going forward, in addition to such services, the Group is working to strengthen its services by offering a variety of courses in response to a world of dedicated broadband connections focused on ADSL and FTTH, and to expand its call center staffing to respond to customer inquiries. Furthermore, the SCN Group is planning to increase its subscriber base by offering a range of services that take advantage of a mixture of Internet connections, such as making use of mobile and fiber optic connections, thus offering network services that are highly satisfying for subscribers.
 
Also, as the Internet continues to spread, it is necessary to recognize the extreme importance of measures that offer an environment secure against spam mail and viruses. Thus, the SCN Group is always striving to offer suitable services to its members.
 
b) Content, community, e-commerce
 
The SCN Group aims in the direction of abundant services that are useful and entertaining by integrating high quality content and community. The SCN Group intends to offer high-value added services and content that takes advantage of the dedicated-connection broadband environment. The SCN Group aims to increase its profitability by constructing a business model that integrates content, e-commerce, and advertising in a way that fully takes into account both profitability and page views.

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Table of Contents
 
c) Cooperating with the Sony Group
 
The SCN Group is working to cooperate on network devices and terminals offered by the Sony Group, “So-net” connection services, and a platform that includes payment and settlement systems and to develop the most secure technologies and services.
 
In the area of content, corresponding to the rise of an environment of dedicated broadband connections, the SCN Group is cooperating with Sony Music Entertainment (Japan) Inc., Sony Pictures Entertainment (Japan) Inc., and Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. (hereinafter, “SCEI”) to offer music, video, and games. Already, in the area of digital music distribution, the SCN Group offers a distribution platform through Label Gate Co., Ltd., an affiliated company. Also, in cooperation with SCEI, the SCN Group is working to offer PlayStation 2 broadband connection services and units, as well as services such as a portal site for PlayStation 2.
 
d) Investment
 
To offer a variety of appealing content and services, the SCN Group aims to carry out investments that entail their planning and development, whether internally, by subsidiaries, or by affiliated companies; their procurement and aggregation; and the acquisition of their distribution rights.
 
At the same time, the SCN Group is focusing on investing in content and services that take advantage of the era of dedicated broadband connections in line with a policy of “selection and concentration.” Furthermore, in regards to the multiplicity of network devices, the SCN Group intends to respond to the circumstances of its subscribers and access lines by offering an optimum connection environment.
 
Other topics
 
Sony Corporation listed Subsidiary Tracking Stocks (stock code: 6758-5) on the Tokyo Stock Exchange in June 2001, the value of which is linked to the SCN Group, and the SCN Group received long term capital for the purpose of increasing its enterprise value.
 
Furthermore, in order to expand its subscriber base, the SCN Group agreed with Justsystem Corporation on September 5, 2001 to acquire all the outstanding shares of WON on October 1, 2001 for 1,800 million yen. Subsequently, in connection with integrating WON’s business on January 22, 2002, the SCN Group signed a merger agreement with WON and on April 1, 2002, carried out the merger.
 
Regarding Compulsory Retirement of the subsidiary tracking stock or the compulsory conversion into common stock of the parent company (Sony Corporation)
 
At the present time, unless there are significant changes in the direction of the corporate strategy of the entire Sony Group or in the way that the SCN Group is defined within the Sony Group, or unless there are significant changes in a business environment which includes a variety of factors such as the growth of the SCN Group, there are no plans to carry out compulsory retirement or conversion into common stock three years after the issuance of the subsidiary tracking stock, that is to say, on June 20, 2004.

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Table of Contents
 
Forecast of Consolidated Results
 
Regarding the forecast of the consolidated results for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2003, the SCN Group announces the following:
 
          
(millions of yen)
Consolidated Results

        
Change from previous year

Sales
 
40,000
    
+20.7%    
Operating income (loss)
 
  (400)
    
—%
Ordinary income (loss)
 
  (800)
    
—%
Net income (loss)
 
(1000)
    
—%
 
The above forecast takes into account the following factors:
 
 
 
At the end of the year ending March 31, 2003, there are expected to be 2.56 million So-net subscribers.
 
 
At the end of the year ending March 31, 2003, there are expected to be 500,000 and more subscribers to broadband courses including “So-net ADSL.”
 
 
Cautionary statement:
 
Statements made in this release with respect to Sony Communication Network’s (“SCN”) current plans, estimates, strategies and beliefs and other statements that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements about the future performance of SCN. These statements are based on management’s assumptions and beliefs in light of the information currently available to it. Therefore, SCN cautions you that a number of important risks and uncertainties could cause actual results to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements, and therefore you should not place undue reliance on them.

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Table of Contents
 
SONY
         
6-7-35 Kita-shinagawa
           
Shinagawa-ku
Tokyo, 141-0001 Japan
News & Information
     

 
No: 02-032E
Date: July 24, 2002
 
Subsidiary Tracking Stock
Sony Communication Network Corporation
Financial Results For the First Quarter Ended June 30, 2002
 
Sony Communication Network Corporation (hereinafter, the “SCN Group”), a subsidiary the performance of which is linked to a tracking stock issued by Sony Corporation, announced today its consolidated results for the first quarter ended June 30, 2002 (the period from April 1, 2002 to June 30, 2002).
 
Summary of Consolidated Results
 
The following is a summary of the SCN Group’s consolidated results for the first quarter ended June 30, 2002. These results are based on the generally accepted accounting standards of Japan.
 
Consolidated Results for the First Quarter
 
                    
(Millions of Yen)
    
Quarter ended June 30
    
2001

    
2002

      
Change (%)

Sales
  
¥
7,534
 
  
¥
9,656
 
    
28.2
Operating income (loss)
  
 
(414
)
  
 
191
 
    
—  
Ordinary income (loss)
  
 
(621
)
  
 
122
 
    
—  
Net income (loss)
  
 
(491
)
  
 
(80
)
    
—  
 
Summary of Consolidated Operations
 
During the first quarter ended June 30, 2002, the outlook for the Japanese economy remained unclear as during the previous fiscal year, and signs of economic recovery could not be seen clearly.
 
In this economic environment, in the area of Internet services, although dedicated-line broadband connections continue to spread, demand for personal computers has fallen and on the whole, growth has slowed down. Furthermore, with price competition among providers of dedicated-line broadband connections intensifying, the transition from dial-up connections to dedicated-line broadband connections (ADSL, fiber optic, cable) is unambiguously occurring. In particular, the number of ADSL subscribers in Japan continues to expand and passed 3.3 million at the end of June 2002, according to the Ministry of Public Management, Home Affairs, Posts and Telecommunications.
 
Under these conditions, as of the end of the quarter under review, the number of So-net subscribers had increased by 580,000 over the year earlier period, to 2.27 million, of which 270,000, or 12%, were dedicated-line broadband subscribers.
 

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Table of Contents
 
As a result, due to factors such as the increase in subscribers and new businesses at consolidated subsidiaries, sales increased 28.2% during the quarter under review to 9,656 million yen.
 
Regarding profit performance, operating income of 191 million yen was recorded, compared with an operating loss of 414 million yen in the year earlier period. Business expansion costs such as personnel expenses for strengthening internal employees and call center outsourcing costs aimed at better responses to inquiries by existing and potential subscribers increased. However, overall profit performance improved due to higher numbers of subscribers, improved profitability at subsidiaries’ start-up businesses, and reductions in marketing and sales promotion costs.
 
Furthermore, because Skygate Co., Ltd. became a consolidated subsidiary from the quarter under review, there were only two affiliated companies accounted for by the equity method, compared with three in the year earlier period. During the quarter, equity losses of 88 million yen were recorded, compared with equity losses of 177 million yen in the year earlier period. As a result, ordinary income of 122 million yen was recorded, compared with a loss of 621 million yen.
 
Although deferred income taxes of 220 million yen were recorded, net income improved by 411 million yen over the year earlier period, and a net loss of 80 million yen was recorded, compared with a net loss of 491 million yen.
 
Sales by Category
 
           
1st Quarter ended June
30, 2001 (millions of yen)

  
Percentage of total (%)

    
1st Quarter ended June
30, 2002 (millions of yen)

  
Percentage of total (%)

  
Year-on- year change
(%)

 
Operating revenue
  
Internet
provider
services
    
6,194
  
82.2
    
8,117
  
84.1
  
+31.0
 
    
Internet-
related
services
    
1,184
  
15.7
    
1,150
  
11.9
  
(2.9
)
Merchandise sales
    
156
  
2.1
    
389
  
4.0
  
+149.6
 
Total
    
7,534
  
100.0
    
9,656
  
100.0
  
+28.2
 
 
«Operating revenue»
 
ISP services
 
In this category, the market environment has become one where responding to the spread of dedicated-line broadband connections is the top priority and where it is necessary to enrich basic services and increase service quality. Thus, the SCN Group has worked to respond with competitive pricing, including sales campaigns, and to augment its call centers in order to increase customer support and to offer such services as virus-checking and spam-blocking. Furthermore, in May, SCN began offering “So-net Hikari” through the FTTH network of Tokyo Electric Power Company, a new service that makes the Internet even more enjoyable.
 
As a result of these activities, and with the increase in subscribers, sales of ISP services for the quarter ended June 30, 2002 were 8,117 million yen, an increase of 31.0% compared with 1st quarter of the previous year. Such sales accounted for 84.1% of total sales.
 
Internet-related services
 
In this category, since the second half of the year ended March 31, 2002, the SCN Group has been carrying out a policy of “selection and concentration” of each of its contents and services. At the same time, the SCN Group regards contents aimed at the dedicated-line broadband world as an important area and during the quarter under review continued to make efforts in this area. With PostPet related sales (such as royalties) showing little growth during the quarter, sales in this category decreased 2.9% compared with 1st quarter of the previous year to 1,150 million yen, and such sales accounted for 11.9% of total sales.

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Table of Contents
 
«Merchandise sales»
 
In this category, there were contributions from sales of ADSL modems and PlayStation 2 broadband units, which went on sale in April. As a result, merchandise sales during the quarter under review increased by 149.6% to 389 million yen. Such sales accounted for 4.0% of total sales.
 
Cash Flow
 
Cash and cash equivalents were 4,123 million yen at the end of quarter ended June 30, 2002, which was a decrease of 518 million yen compared with the end of the year ended March 31, 2002, and a decrease of 3,779 million yen compared with the year earlier period. During the quarter under review, the SCN Group generated 65 million yen of cash from operating activities, used 143 million yen of cash in investing activities, and used 440 million yen of cash in financing activities.
 
<Cash flow from operating activities>
 
During the quarter ended June 30, 2002, regarding cash flows from operating activities, the SCN Group generated 65 million yen, while during the quarter ended June 30, 2001, the SCN Group used 182 million yen. This was due to such factors as the recording of net income before income taxes of 122 million yen; an increase in account payable, trade of 146 million yen, compared with 31 million yen in the year earlier period; and an increase in account receivable, trade of 157 million yen, compared with 217 million yen in the year earlier period. Also, included in the net income before income taxes was depreciation of 202 million yen and equity in net losses of affiliated companies of 88 million yen.
 
<Cash flow from investing activities>
 
During the quarter ended June 30, 2002, regarding cash flows from investing activities, the SCN Group used 143 million yen, while during the quarter ended June 30, 2001, the SCN Group used 451 million yen. This reflected such items as outlays of 151 million yen for acquisition of intangible assets such as connection service and e-commerce systems and homepage development.
 
<Cash flow from financing activities>
 
During the quarter ended June 30, 2002, regarding cash flows from financing activities, the SCN Group used 440 million yen, while during the quarter ended June 30, 2001, the SCN Group generated 8,076 million yen. This reflected the repayment of debt to Sony Corp.
 

 
For inquiries, please contact:
        
Sony Corp, IR Department
        
7-35, Kita-Shinagawa 6-chome Shinagawa-ku,
    
Tel: 
(03) 5448-2180

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Table of Contents
 
Segment Information
 
<Operating segment information>
 
1st quarter ended June 30, 2002
 
The SCN Group is involved solely in network service-related operations; thus, as it operates a single business segment, information in this section has been omitted.
 
<Geographic segment information>
 
1st quarter ended June 30, 2002
 
Disclosures relating to geographic segment are not applicable because the group does not operate outside of Japan.
 
<Overseas sales>
 
1st quarter ended June 30, 2002
 
Because overseas sales accounted for less than 10 percent of overall sales, disclosures relating to overseas sales have been omitted.

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Table of Contents
 
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income (Unaudited)
 
For the three months ended June 30, 2002
 
                       
(Millions of yen)

 
    
Three-months ended June 30
 
    
2001

    
2002

    
Change

 
Sales
         
7,534
 
       
9,656
 
  
28.2
%
Cost of sales
         
4,472
 
       
5,698
 
      
Gross profit
         
3,062
 
       
3,958
 
      
Selling, general and administrative expenses
         
3,477
 
       
3,767
 
      
Operating income (loss)
         
(414
)
       
191
 
  
—  
%
Non-operating income
         
15
 
       
30
 
      
Non-operating expenses
                                
Equity in net loss of affiliated companies
  
177
 
         
88
             
Other
  
45
 
  
222
 
  
10
  
99
 
      
Ordinary income (loss)
         
(621
)
       
122
 
  
—  
%
Extraordinary gain
                                
Gain on issuances of stock by consolidated subsidiary and equity investee
         
19
 
  
—  
             
Net income (loss) before income taxes
         
(602
)
       
122
 
  
—  
%
Income tax current
  
1
 
         
4
             
Income tax deferred
  
(47
)
  
(47
)
  
220
  
224
 
      
Minority interest loss
         
65
 
       
22
 
      
Net income (loss)
         
(491
)
       
(80
)
  
—  
%

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Table of Contents
 
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (Unaudited)
 
                    
(Millions of yen)

 
    
June 30
2001

    
March 31
2002

      
June 30
2002

 
ASSETS
                      
Current asset
  
11,627
 
  
9,408
 
    
8,965
 
    

  

    

Cash and bank deposit
  
357
 
  
523
 
    
415
 
Notes and account receivable, trade
  
3,179
 
  
3,962
 
    
4,144
 
Inventories
  
113
 
  
64
 
    
77
 
Deposit in parent company
  
7,545
 
  
4,118
 
    
3,708
 
Deferred tax assets
  
217
 
  
401
 
    
182
 
Other
  
239
 
  
369
 
    
470
 
Allowance for bad debt
  
(23
)
  
(28
)
    
(30
)
Noncurrent asset
  
3,366
 
  
4,789
 
    
4,773
 
    

  

    

Property, plant and equipment
  
598
 
  
456
 
    
423
 
    

  

    

Intangible assets
  
1,264
 
  
2,724
 
    
2,789
 
    

  

    

Software
  
914
 
  
1,108
 
    
1,079
 
Goodwill
  
41
 
  
1,275
 
    
1,337
 
Other
  
308
 
  
341
 
    
373
 
Investment and other assets
  
1,504
 
  
1,609
 
    
1,561
 
    

  

    

Investment in affiliates and others
  
888
 
  
833
 
    
786
 
Deferred tax assets
  
177
 
  
222
 
    
231
 
Other
  
439
 
  
554
 
    
544
 
    

  

    

Total assets
  
14,993
 
  
14,197
 
    
13,738
 
    

  

    

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
                      
Current liabilities
  
3,552
 
  
5,460
 
    
5,411
 
    

  

    

Account payable, trade
  
1,182
 
  
1,963
 
    
2,114
 
Current portion of long-term borrowing from parent company
  
300
 
  
1,200
 
    
1,200
 
Accrued expense
  
1,902
 
  
1,693
 
    
1,727
 
Other
  
168
 
  
603
 
    
369
 
Long-term liabilities
  
1,723
 
  
869
 
    
574
 
    

  

    

Long-term borrowing from parent company
  
1,700
 
  
800
 
    
500
 
Other
  
23
 
  
69
 
    
74
 
    

  

    

Total liabilities
  
5,275
 
  
6,329
 
    
5,985
 
    

  

    

Minority interest
  
35
 
  
(213
)
    
(236
)
    

  

    

Common stock
  
5,246
 
  
5,246
 
    
5,246
 
Additional paid-in capital
  
4,765
 
  
4,765
 
    
4,765
 
Retained earnings (accumulated losses)
  
(335
)
  
(1,945
)
    
(2,025
)
Unrealized exchange gains (losses) of investment securities
  
8
 
  
16
 
    
3
 
    

  

    

Total stockholders’ equity
  
9,683
 
  
8,081
 
    
7,989
 
    

  

    

Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity
  
14,993
 
  
14,197
 
    
13,738
 
    

  

    

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Table of Contents
 
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flow (Unaudited)
 
               
(Millions of yen)

 
      
Three-months ended June 30
 
      
    2001    

      
2002

 
I. Cash flows from operating activities
                 
Net Income (loss) before income taxes
    
(602
)
    
122
 
Depreciation and amortization
    
209
 
    
202
 
Amortization for goodwill
    
2
 
    
78
 
Equity in net losses of affiliated companies
    
177
 
    
88
 
Gain on issuances of stock by consolidated subsidiary and equity investee
    
(19
)
    
—  
 
Decrease in accrued bonuses
    
(122
)
    
(184
)
Increase in accrued severance costs for employees
    
1
 
    
6
 
Increase in accrued severance indemnities for directors
    
1
 
    
1
 
Increase (decrease) in allowance for bad debt
    
(0
)
    
2
 
Interest income
    
(0
)
    
(1
)
Interest expenses
    
3
 
    
2
 
Loss on disposal of tangible fixed assets
    
2
 
    
6
 
Loss on sales of tangible fixed assets
    
1
 
    
—  
 
Increase in account receivable, trade
    
(217
)
    
(157
)
(Increase) decrease in inventories
    
64
 
    
(13
)
(Increase) decrease in other current assets
    
72
 
    
(135
)
Increase in accounts payable, trade
    
31
 
    
146
 
Increase in accrued expenses
    
631
 
    
14
 
Increase (decrease) in other current liabilities
    
(48
)
    
16
 
      

    

Sub Total
    
185
 
    
194
 
      

    

Receipt of interest
    
0
 
    
1
 
Payments for interest
    
(3
)
    
(2
)
Payments for income taxes
    
(365
)
    
(128
)
      

    

Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities
    
(182
)
    
65
 
      

    

II. Cash flows from investing activities
                 
Payment for securities investment
    
(154
)
    
—  
 
Payment for acquisition of fixed assets
    
(54
)
    
(17
)
Proceeds from sales of fixed assets
    
0
 
    
6
 
Payment for acquisition of intangible assets
    
(197
)
    
(151
)
Proceeds from sales of intangible assets
    
—  
 
    
20
 
Payment for deposits
    
(0
)
    
—  
 
Proceeds from deposits
    
—  
 
    
42
 
Net cash increase resulting from acquiring subsidiaries
    
—  
 
    
30
 
Payments for loan
    
(46
)
    
(73
)
      

    

Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities
    
(451
)
    
(143
)
      

    

7


Table of Contents
 
             
(Millions of yen)

 
      
Three-months ended June 30
 
      
    2001    

    
2002

 
III. Cash flows from financing activities
               
Decrease in short-term borrowing
    
(1,472
)
  
(140
)
Payments of long term debt
    
—  
 
  
(300
)
Proceeds from issuances of stock to minority shareholders
    
19
 
  
—  
 
Proceeds from issuances of stocks
    
9,529
 
  
—  
 
      

  

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities
    
8,076
 
  
(440
)
      

  

IV. Effect of exchange rate difference on cash and cash equivalents
    
—  
 
  
—  
 
V. Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
    
7,442
 
  
(518
)
VI. Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year
    
483
 
  
4,641
 
VII. Decrease in cash and cash equivalents resulting from deconsolidation
    
(24
)
  
—  
 
      

  

VIII. Cash and cash equivalents at end of the period
    
7,902
 
  
4,123
 
      

  

 
(Notes)
 
 
1.
 
As of 3June 30, 2002, there were 5 consolidated subsidiaries and 2 affiliated companies accounted for by the equity method.
 
2.
 
Financial statements of SCN Group are based on the standards conforming with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in Japan.
 
(For reference)
 
                    
(millions of yen)
      
Three-months ended
June 30, 2001
    
Three-months ended
June 30, 2002
    
Change
(%)
Increase in fixed assets
    
42
    
6
    
(85.0)  
Increase in intangible assets
    
177  
    
187    
    
5.9
Depreciation of fixed assets*
    
43
    
32  
    
(26.7)  
Amortization of intangible assets
    
164  
    
160    
    
(2.5)

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Forecast of Consolidated Results
 
Regarding the forecast of the consolidated results for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2003, on April 25, 2002, the SCN Group announced the following:
 
 
          
(millions of yen)
Consolidated Results

        
Change from previous year

Sales
 
40,000
    
+20.7%
Operating income (loss)
 
(400)
    
—%
Ordinary income (loss)
 
(800)
    
—%
Net income (loss)
 
(1000)
    
—%
 
(For reference)
 
   
(millions of yen)
Consolidated Results for the year ending March 31, 2002:

 
Change from previous year

Sales
 
33,151
 
(4.4%)
Operating income (loss)
 
(1,707)
 
—%
Ordinary income (loss)
 
(2,559)
 
—%
Net income (loss)
 
(2,101)
 
—%
 
Cautionary statement:
 
Statements made in this release with respect to Sony Communication Network’s (“SCN”) current plans, estimates, strategies and beliefs and other statements that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements about the future performance of SCN. These statements are based on management’s assumptions and beliefs in light of the information currently available to it. Therefore, SCN cautions you that a number of important risks and uncertainties could cause actual results to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements, and therefore you should not place undue reliance on them.

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Table of Contents
 
SONY
         
6-7-35 Kita-shinagawa
           
Shinagawa-ku
Tokyo, 141-0001 Japan
News & Information
     

 
No: 02-048E
Date: October 25, 2002
 
Subsidiary Tracking Stock
Sony Communication Network Corporation
Financial Results For the Second Quarter
and the Six-Month Period Ended September 30, 2002
 
Sony Communication Network Corporation (hereinafter, the “SCN Group”), a subsidiary the performance of which is linked to a tracking stock issued by Sony Corporation, announced today its consolidated results for both the second quarter ended September 30, 2002 (the period from July 1, 2002 to September 30, 2002) and the six-month period ended September 30, 2002 (the period from April 1, 2002 to September 30, 2002).
 
Summary of Consolidated Results
 
The following is a summary of the SCN Group’s consolidated results for both the second quarter and the six-month period ended September 30, 2002. These results are based on the generally accepted accounting standards of Japan.
 
Consolidated Results for the Second Quarter
 
                  
(Millions of Yen)
    
Quarter ended September 30
    
2001

    
2002

    
Change (%)

Sales
  
¥
7,982
 
  
¥
9,719
    
21.8
Operating income (loss)
  
 
(423
)
  
 
706
    
—  
Ordinary income (loss)
  
 
(552
)
  
 
591
    
—  
Net income (loss)
  
 
(558
)
  
 
155
    
—  
 
Consolidated Results for the Six-Month Period
 
           
(Millions of Yen)
    
Six months ended September 30
    
2001

    
2002

    
Change (%)

Sales
  
¥
15,516
 
  
¥
19,375
    
24.9
Operating income (loss)
  
 
(837
)
  
 
896
    
—  
Ordinary income (loss)
  
 
(1,174
)
  
 
713
    
—  
Net income (loss)
  
 
(1,049
)
  
 
76
    
—  
 

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Table of Contents
 
Summary of Consolidated Operations     (July 1, 2002 to September 30, 2002)
 
During the second quarter ended September 30, 2002, the Japanese economy was buffeted by uncertain factors including anxiety concerning the U.S. economic outlook and deflationary pressures, as well as continuing downward tendencies in global consumption and investment triggered by depressed stock markets.
 
In this economic environment, in the area of Internet services, dedicated-line broadband services, and in particular ADSL, continued to spread. As of the end of September, the number of ADSL subscribers in Japan had passed 4.2 million according to the Ministry of Public Management, Home Affairs, Posts and Telecommunications, and this strong market is seen to be continuing for the time being.
 
In this business environment, the SCN Group is working both to enrich its services aimed at dedicated-line high-speed connections and to strengthen its content services aimed at broadband environments. At the same time, the SCN Group is moving forward with the establishment of subsidiary and related company businesses. The SCN Group has also moved to strengthen cooperation with the Sony Group in regards to the Ubiquitous Value Network which Sony Corp. is working towards.
 
As a result, sales during the quarter under review were 9,719 million yen, an increase of 21.8% over the year earlier period. Furthermore, with the completion of last year’s acquisition and the increase in subscribers to broadband services, centered around “So-net ADSL,” the number of So-net subscribers increased by 540,000 over the year earlier period, to 2.29 million. Of those, 320,000 were broadband subscribers, an increase of 270,000 over the year earlier period.
 
Regarding profit performance, operating income of 706 million yen was recorded, compared with an operating loss of 423 million yen in the year earlier period. Although this was negatively impacted by factors such as increases in outsourcing costs connected with the strengthening of customer support call centers and the amortization of goodwill related to acquisition, , the SCN Group worked to control expenses for marketing and sales promotion activities, and the SCN Group implemented reductions in other fixed costs compared to the previous year. Furthermore, the SCN Group worked to improve profitability connected with subsidiary start-ups.
 
Also, equity losses of 117 million yen were recorded for affiliated companies accounted for by the equity method, including DeNA Co., Ltd. and Label Gate Co., Ltd. Ordinary income of 591 million yen was recorded, compared with an ordinary loss of 552 million yen in the year earlier period. With current and deferred income taxes of 427 million yen being recorded, net income for the quarter under review was 155 million yen, compared with a net loss of 558 million yen in the year earlier period.

2


Table of Contents
 
Sales by Category
 
The second quarter ended September 30, 2002
 
         
2nd Quarter
ended September 30, 2001
(millions of yen)

  
Percentage
of total
(%)

  
2nd Quarter
ended September 30, 2002
(millions of yen)

  
Percentage
of total
(%)

  
Year-on-
year change
(%)

Operating
revenue
  
Internet
provider
services
  
6,329
  
79.3
  
8,146
  
83.8
  
+28.7 
    
Internet-
related
services
  
1,488
  
18.6
  
1,339
  
13.8
  
(10.0)
Merchandise sales
  
166
  
2.1
  
233
  
2.4
  
+41.0 
Total
  
7,982
  
100.0
  
9,719
  
100.0
  
+21.8 
 
The six-month period ended September 30, 2002
 
         
Six-months
ended September 30, 2001
(millions of yen)

  
Percentage
of total
(%)

  
Six-months
ended September 30, 2002
(millions of yen)

  
Percentage
of total
(%)

  
Year-on-
year change
(%)

Operating
revenue
  
Internet
provider
services
  
12,517
  
80.7
  
16,263
  
83.9
  
+29.9 
    
Internet-
related
services
  
2,769
  
17.8
  
2,490
  
12.9
  
(10.1)
Merchandise sales
  
230
  
1.5
  
622
  
3.2
  
+170.2 
Total
  
15,516
  
100.0
  
19,375
  
100.0
  
+24.9 
 
«Operating revenue»
 
ISP services
 
In this category, the transition from dial-up connection services to dedicated-line broadband services centered around ADSL has been rapidly progressing, and the competition to attract subscribers has been intense. Thus, the SCN Group has developed the ADSL 12M service, has offered a competitive price through new subscriber campaigns and has worked to enrich the basic service through such features as virus checking. At the same time, the SCN Group has strived to reinforce its call centers in order to strengthen customer support.
 
As a result of these activities, sales of ISP services for the quarter ended September 30, 2002 were 8,146 million yen, an increase of 28.7% compared with year earlier period. Such sales accounted for 83.8% of total sales.
 
Internet-related services
 
In this category, although content subscription fees and the sales of subsidiaries increased, compared to the year earlier period, sales stemming from the construction of authentication and settlement systems as well as content sales related to “PostPet” decreased. As a result, sales in this category decreased 10.0% compared with year earlier period to 1,339 million yen. Such sales accounted for 13.8% of total sales.

3


Table of Contents
 
«Merchandise sales»
 
In this category, there were contributions from sales of ADSL modems and PlayStation 2 broadband units, as well as related outsourced goods for the Japanese market. During the quarter under review sales in this category increased by 41.0% to 233 million yen. Such sales accounted for 2.4% of total sales.
 
Results of Consolidated Subsidiaries and of Affiliated Companies Accounted for by the Equity Method
 
The SCN Group includes the following five subsidiaries: Skygate, Co., Ltd., So-net Sports.com Corp., So-net Be Media Corp., So-net M3 Inc., and Drivegate Inc., and two affiliated companies accounted for by the equity method: DeNA Co., Ltd., and Label Gate Co., Ltd. During the quarter under review, equity in net losses of affiliated companies of 117 million yen was recorded, compared with 134 million yen in the year earlier period.
 
Furthermore, during the quarter under review, So-net M3 Inc. absorbed its accumulated deficit from its establishment. The other six companies continued to record operating losses as in the first quarter, but thanks to sales increases and improving profitability, the losses were becoming smaller.
 
Cash Flow
 
Cash and cash equivalents were 4,442 million yen at the end of the six-month period ended September 30, 2002, which was a decrease of 2,609 million yen compared with the end of the year earlier period. During the six-month period under review, the SCN Group generated 928 million yen of cash from operating activities, used 387 million yen of cash in investing activities, and used 740 million yen of cash in financing activities.
 
<Cash flow from operating activities>
 
During the six-month period ended September 30, 2002, regarding cash flows from operating activities, the SCN Group generated 928 million yen, dramatically being improved compared to that the SCN Group used 609 million yen during the year earlier period. This was due to such factors as the recording of net income before income taxes of 713 million yen, compared with a loss of 1,215 million yen in the year earlier period; an increase in account receivable, trade of only 57 million yen, compared with an increase of 519 million yen in the year earlier period; while accounts payable, trade increased by only 130 million yen, compared with an increase of 477 million yen in the year earlier period and accrued expenses decreased by 533 million yen, compared with an increase of 124 million yen in the year earlier period
 
<Cash flow from investing activities>
 
During the six-month period ended September 30, 2002, regarding cash flows from investing activities, the SCN Group used 387 million yen, while during the six-month period ended September 30, 2001, the SCN Group used 876 million yen. This reflected such items as outlays of 365 million yen for acquisition of intangible assets such as connection services, and e-commerce systems.
 
<Cash flow from financing activities>
 
During the six-month period ended September 30, 2002, regarding cash flows from financing activities, the SCN Group used 740 million yen, while during the six-month period ended September 30, 2001, the SCN Group generated 8,076 million yen. This reflected the repayment of short and long-term debt to Sony Corp.
 

 
For inquiries, please contact:
   
Sony Corp, IR Department
   
7-35, Kita-Shinagawa 6-chome Shinagawa-ku,
Tokyo 141-0001
 
Tel: (03) 5448-2180

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Table of Contents
 
Segment Information
 
<Operating segment information>
 
Second quarter ended September 30, 2002
Six-month period ended September 30, 2002
 
The SCN Group is involved solely in network service-related operations; thus, as it operates a single business segment, information in this section has been omitted.
 
<Geographic segment information>
 
Second quarter ended September 30, 2002
Six-month period ended September 30, 2002
 
Disclosures relating to geographic segment are not applicable because the group does not operate outside of Japan.
 
<Overseas sales>
 
Second quarter ended September 30, 2002
Six-month period ended September 30, 2002
 
Because overseas sales accounted for less than 10 percent of overall sales, disclosures relating to overseas sales have been omitted.

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Table of Contents
 
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income (Unaudited)
 
For the three months ended September 30, 2002
 
                         
(Millions of yen)

 
    
Three-months ended September 30
 
    
2001

    
2002

    
Change

 
Sales
         
7,982
 
       
9,719
    
21.8
%
Cost of sales
         
4,859
 
       
5,563
        
Gross profit
         
3,122
 
       
4,156
        
Selling, general and administrative expenses
         
3,546
 
       
3,451
        
Operating income (loss)
         
(423
)
       
706
    
%
Non-operating income
         
16
 
       
13
        
Non-operating expenses
                                
Equity in net loss of affiliated companies
  
134
 
         
117
             
Other
  
11
 
  
145
 
  
11
  
128
        
Ordinary income (loss)
         
(552
)
       
591
    
%
Extraordinary gain
                                
Gain on issuances of stock by equity investee
         
—  
 
       
0
        
Extraordinary loss
                                
Extraordinary depreciation of fixed assets
         
60
 
       
—  
        
Net income (loss) before income taxes
         
(612
)
       
591
    
%
Income tax current
  
147
 
         
368
             
Income tax deferred
  
(192
)
  
(45
)
  
59
  
427
        
Minority interest loss
         
(9
)
       
8
        
Net income (loss)
         
(558
)
       
155
    
%
 
For the six-months ended September 30, 2002
 
                                
(Millions of yen)

 
    
Six-months ended September 30
 
    
2001

    
2002

      
Change

 
Sales
         
15,516
 
       
19,375
 
    
24.9
%
Cost of sales
         
9,331
 
       
11,260
 
        
Gross profit
         
6,185
 
       
8,114
 
        
Selling, general and administrative expenses
         
7,022
 
       
7,218
 
        
Operating income (loss)
         
(837
)
       
896
 
    
%
Non-operating income
         
29
 
       
43
 
        
Non-operating expenses
                                  
Equity in net loss of affiliated companies
  
312
 
         
205
               
Other
  
54
 
  
365
 
  
21
  
227
 
        
Ordinary income (loss)
         
(1,174
)
       
713
 
    
%
Extraordinary gain
                                  
Gain on issuances of stock by consolidated subsidiary and equity investee
         
19
 
       
0
 
        
Extraordinary loss
                                  
Extraordinary depreciation of fixed assets
         
60
 
       
—  
 
        
Net income (loss) before income taxes
         
(1,215
)
       
713
 
    
%
Income tax current
  
148
 
         
372
               
Income tax deferred
  
(240
)
  
(92
)
  
279
  
651
 
        
Minority interest loss
         
(74
)
       
(14
)
        
Net income (loss)
         
(1,049
)
       
76
 
    
%

6


Table of Contents
 
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (Unaudited)
 
                    
(Millions of yen)

 
    
September 30
2001

    
March 31
2002

      
September 30
2002

 
ASSETS
                      
Current asset
  
11,323
 
  
9,408
 
    
9,094
 
    

  

    

Cash and bank deposit
  
318
 
  
523
 
    
384
 
Notes and account receivable, trade
  
3,481
 
  
3,962
 
    
4,044
 
Inventories
  
113
 
  
64
 
    
121
 
Deposit in parent company
  
6,733
 
  
4,118
 
    
4,057
 
Other
  
705
 
  
770
 
    
515
 
Allowance for bad debt
  
(28
)
  
(28
)
    
(28
)
Noncurrent asset
  
3,427
 
  
4,789
 
    
4,535
 
    

  

    

Property, plant and equipment
  
518
 
  
456
 
    
406
 
    

  

    

Furniture and fixtures
  
369
 
  
325
 
    
279
 
Other
  
149
 
  
131
 
    
127
 
Intangible assets
  
1,416
 
  
2,724
 
    
2,674
 
    

  

    

Software
  
981
 
  
1,108
 
    
1,118
 
Goodwill
  
39
 
  
1,275
 
    
1,259
 
Other
  
395
 
  
341
 
    
296
 
Investment and other assets
  
1,494
 
  
1,609
 
    
1,455
 
    

  

    

Investment in affiliates and others
  
809
 
  
833
 
    
756
 
Other
  
685
 
  
776
 
    
700
 
    

  

    

Total assets
  
14,750
 
  
14,197
 
    
13,629
 
    

  

    

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
                      
Current liabilities
  
4,182
 
  
5,460
 
    
5,439
 
    

  

    

Account payable, trade
  
1,628
 
  
1,963
 
    
2,098
 
Current portion of long-term borrowing from parent company
  
600
 
  
1,200
 
    
1,200
 
Accrued expense
  
1,396
 
  
1,693
 
    
1,180
 
Accrued income taxes
  
158
 
  
130
 
    
374
 
Accrued bonuses
  
213
 
  
242
 
    
225
 
Other
  
188
 
  
232
 
    
363
 
Long-term liabilities
  
1,430
 
  
869
 
    
275
 
    

  

    

Long-term borrowing from parent company
  
1,400
 
  
800
 
    
200
 
Accrued severance cost for employees
  
24
 
  
41
 
    
53
 
Accrued severance indemnities for directors
  
5
 
  
16
 
    
21
 
Other
  
1
 
  
12
 
    
—  
 
Total liabilities
  
5,612
 
  
6,329
 
    
5,714
 
    

  

    

Minority interest
  
27
 
  
(213
)
    
(227
)
    

  

    

Common stock
  
5,246
 
  
5,246
 
    
5,246
 
Additional paid-in capital
  
4,765
 
  
4,765
 
    
4,765
 
Retained earnings (accumulated losses)
  
(893
)
  
(1,945
)
    
(1,869
)
Unrealized exchange gains (losses) of investment securities
  
(7
)
  
16
 
    
2
 
    

  

    

Total stockholders’ equity
  
9,111
 
  
8,081
 
    
8,143
 
    

  

    

Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity
  
14,750
 
  
14,197
 
    
13,629
 
    

  

    

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Table of Contents
 
Consolidated Statements of Additional Paid-in Capital and Retained Earnings and Accumulated Losses (Unaudited)
 
               
(millions of yen)

 
Item

    
Six-months ended September 30, 2001

      
Six-months ended September 30, 2002

 
Additional Paid-in Capital
                 
Balance at the beginning of year
    
—  
 
    
4,765
 
Increase
                 
New share issuance
    
4,765
 
    
—  
 
      

    

Balance at the end of year
    
4,765
 
    
4,765
 
      

    

Retained Earnings (Accumulated Losses)
                 
Balance at the beginning of year
    
156
 
    
(1,945
)
Increase
                 
Net Income (Loss)
    
(1,049
)
    
76
 
      

    

Balance at the end of year
    
(893
)
    
(1,869
)
      

    

8


Table of Contents
 
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flow (Unaudited)
 
               
(Millions of yen)

 
      
Six-months ended September 30
 
      
2001

      
2002

 
I. Cash flows from operating activities
                 
Net Income (loss) before income taxes
    
(1,215
)
    
713
 
Depreciation and amortization
    
426
 
    
402
 
Extraordinary depreciation of fixed assets
    
60
 
    
—  
 
Amortization for goodwill
    
5
 
    
156
 
Equity in net losses of affiliated companies
    
312
 
    
205
 
Gain on issuances of stock by consolidated subsidiary and equity investee
    
(19
)
    
(0
)
Increase (decrease) in accrued bonuses
    
37
 
    
(17
)
Increase in accrued severance costs for employees
    
5
 
    
12
 
Increase in accrued severance indemnities for directors
    
5
 
    
5
 
Increase (decrease) in allowance for bad debt
    
5
 
    
(0
)
Interest income
    
(1
)
    
(2
)
Interest expenses
    
4
 
    
4
 
Loss on disposal of tangible fixed assets
    
2
 
    
13
 
Loss on sales of tangible fixed assets
    
1
 
    
—  
 
Increase in account receivable, trade
    
(519
)
    
(57
)
(Increase) decrease in inventories
    
63
 
    
(57
)
(Increase) decrease in other current assets
    
30
 
    
(61
)
Increase in accounts payable, trade
    
477
 
    
130
 
Increase (decrease) in accrued expenses
    
124
 
    
(533
)
Increase (decrease) in other current liabilities
    
(44
)
    
147
 
      

    

Sub Total
    
(241
)
    
1,059
 
      

    

Receipt of interest
    
1
 
    
2
 
Payments for interest
    
(4
)
    
(4
)
Payments for income taxes
    
(364
)
    
(128
)
      

    

Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities
    
(609
)
    
928
 
      

    

II. Cash flows from investing activities
                 
Payment for securities investment
    
(154
)
    
(16
)
Payment for acquisition of fixed assets
    
(70
)
    
(29
)
Proceeds from sales of fixed assets
    
2
 
    
6
 
Payment for acquisition of intangible assets
    
(452
)
    
(365
)
Proceeds from sales of intangible assets
    
1
 
    
20
 
Payment for deposits
    
(0
)
    
—  
 
Proceeds from deposits
    
—  
 
    
101
 
Payments for long term prepaid expenses
    
(20
)
    
—  
 
Net cash increase resulting from acquiring subsidiary
    
—  
 
    
30
 
Payments for loan
    
(183
)
    
(134
)
      

    

Net cash used in investing activities
    
(876
)
    
(387
)
      

    

9


Table of Contents
 
               
(millions of yen)

 
      
Six-months ended September 30
 
      
2001

      
2002

 
III. Cash flows from financing activities
                 
Decrease in short-term borrowing
    
(1,472
)
    
(140
)
Payments of long term debt
    
—  
 
    
(600
)
Proceeds from issuances of stock to minority shareholders
    
19
 
    
—  
 
Proceeds from issuances of stocks
    
9,529
 
    
—  
 
      

    

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities
    
8,076
 
    
(740
)
      

    

IV. Effect of exchange rate difference on cash and cash equivalents
    
—  
 
    
—  
 
V. Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
    
6,592
 
    
(199
)
VI. Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year
    
  483
 
    
4,641
 
VII. Decrease in cash and cash equivalents resulting from deconsolidation
    
(24
)
    
—  
 
      

    

VIII. Cash and cash equivalents at end of the period
    
7,051
 
    
4,442
 
      

    

 
(Note)
Financial statements of the SCN Group are based on the standards conforming with the Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in Japan.
 
(For reference)
 
                    
(millions of yen)
      
Three-months ended
September 30, 2001
    
Three-months ended
September 30, 2002
    
Change
(%)
Increase in fixed assets
    
  27
    
  16
    
(40.0)
Increase in intangible assets
    
322
    
126
    
(61.0)
Depreciation of fixed assets*
    
106
    
  33
    
(69.0)
Amortization of intangible assets
    
168
    
156
    
  (6.7)
R&D expenses
    
—  
    
—  
    
—  
      
Six-months ended
September 30, 2001
    
Six-months ended
September 30, 2002
    
Change
(%)
Increase in fixed assets
    
  69
    
  23
    
(67.3)
Increase in intangible assets
    
499
    
313
    
(37.3)
Depreciation of fixed assets*
    
149
    
  65
    
(56.7)
Amortization of intangible assets
    
331
    
316
    
  (4.6)
R&D expenses
    
—  
    
—  
    
—  
 
*Including extraordinary depreciation of fixed assets

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Table of Contents
 
Strategy and Outlook
 
Review of the first half and areas of focus for the second half
 
During the current fiscal year, the SCN Group is working to fully offer services in response to the trend towards dedicated-line broadband, including basic connection services, value-added connection services and contents. Also, the SCN Group aims to focus on strengthening subsidiaries and related companies and on reinforcing cooperation with the Sony Group.
 
During the six-month period under review, the SCN Group steadily prepared to implement measures towards each of these goals.
 
The SCN Group offered services for ADSL 12M and FTTH, offered virus checking and e-mail blocking, and upgraded capacity and homepage functionality.
 
In content related areas, the SCN Group released PostPet Version 3 Beta edition and “Monchat” instant messenger. The SCN Group also carried out broadband content production including “Happy Store” Internet radio and Ken Hirai Live Internet.
 
In the area of cooperation with the Sony Group, the SCN Group was selling the PlayStation 2 broadband unit and offered a connection environment for it.
 
Furthermore, in regards to subsidiaries and related companies, the SCN Group worked to steadily increase sales and improve profitability. However, market trends have shown a more-than-expected intensification of competition, and the battle to acquire new members has been tough.
 
During the second half of the year ending March 31, 2003, the SCN Group will work to use the results of the first half as a basis for efforts that emphasize the acquisition of members.
 
Parent company aims regarding the conversion of subsidiary tracking stock
 
For the present time, as long as there are no major changes in the business environment, including various factors such as the business strategy and direction of the whole Sony Group, how the SCN Group is defined within the Sony Group, and the growth course of the SCN Group, from the issuance of the tracking stock for a period of three years, in other words, until June 20, 2004, there are no immediate plans for the full absorption of the subsidiary tracking stock or the full conversion to regular shares.

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Table of Contents
 
Forecast of Consolidated Results
 
Regarding the forecast of the consolidated results for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2003, there have not been any changes to the figures announced on April 25, 2002. For reference, that forecast was as follows:
 
          
(millions of yen)
Consolidated Results

        
Change from previous year

Sales
 
40,000
    
+20.7%    
Operating income (loss)
 
     (400)
    
—%
Ordinary income (loss)
 
     (800)
    
—%
Net income (loss)
 
   (1000)
    
—%
 
(For reference)
 
   
(millions of yen)
Consolidated Results for the year ending March 31, 2002:

 
Change from previous year

Sales
 
33,151
 
(4.4%)
Operating income (loss)
 
  (1,707)
 
—%
Ordinary income (loss)
 
  (2,559)
 
—%
Net income (loss)
 
  (2,101)
 
—%
 
 
Cautionary statement:
 
Statements made in this release with respect to Sony Communication Network’s (“SCN”) current plans, estimates, strategies and beliefs and other statements that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements about the future performance of SCN. These statements are based on management’s assumptions and beliefs in light of the information currently available to it. Therefore, SCN cautions you that a number of important risks and uncertainties could cause actual results to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements, and therefore you should not place undue reliance on them.

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