Common Stock Repurchase Program

9 Months Ended

Oct. 31, 2012

Class of Stock Disclosures [Abstract]

Common Stock Repurchase Program [Text Block]

Common Stock Repurchase Program

Autodesk has a stock repurchase program that is used to offset dilution from the issuance of stock under the Company’s employee stock plans and for such other purposes as may be in the interests of Autodesk and its stockholders, which has the effect of returning excess cash generated from the Company’s business to stockholders. During the three and nine months ended October 31, 2012, Autodesk repurchased and retired 4.0 million and 9.9 million shares at an average repurchase price of $32.53 per share and $34.25 per share, respectively. Common stock and additional paid-in capital and retained earnings were reduced by $92.8 million and $37.4 million, respectively, during the three months ended October 31, 2012. Common stock and additional paid-in capital and retained earnings were reduced by $241.4 million and $99.1 million, respectively, during the nine months ended October 31, 2012.

At October 31, 2012, 34.8 million shares remained available for repurchase under the repurchase plans approved by the Board of Directors. This amount includes the 30.0 million share increase approved by the Board of Directors in June 2012. During the three and nine months ended October 31, 2012, Autodesk repurchased its common stock through open market purchases. The number of shares acquired and the timing of the purchases are based on several factors, including general market and economic conditions, the number of employee stock option exercises and stock issuances, the trading price of Autodesk common stock, cash on hand and available in the United States, cash requirements for acquisitions, and company defined trading windows.