SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549


FORM 8-K

CURRENT REPORT
PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE
SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

Date of report (Date of earliest event reported):
July 20, 2017

ALLIANCE DATA SYSTEMS CORPORATION
(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Charter)



DELAWARE
 
001-15749
 
31-1429215
(State or Other Jurisdiction
 
(Commission
 
(IRS Employer
of Incorporation)
 
File Number)
 
Identification No.)



7500 DALLAS PARKWAY, SUITE 700
PLANO, TEXAS  75024
(Address and Zip Code of Principal Executive Offices)
   
(214) 494-3000
(Registrant's Telephone Number, including Area Code)

NOT APPLICABLE
(Former name or former address, if changed since last report)

Check the appropriate box below if the Form 8-K is intended to simultaneously satisfy the filing obligation of the Registrant under any of the following provisions:

[  ]
 
Written communications pursuant to Rule 425 under the Securities Act
     
[  ]
 
Soliciting material pursuant to Rule 14a-12 under the Exchange Act
     
[  ]
 
Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 14d-2(b) under the Exchange Act
     
[  ]
 
Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 13e-4(c) under the Exchange Act

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is an emerging growth company as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act of 1933 (§230.405 of this chapter) or Rule 12b-2 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (§240.12b-2 of this chapter).

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.    [  ]



ITEM 2.02. Results of Operations and Financial Condition

On July 20, 2017, Alliance Data Systems Corporation (the "Company") issued a press release regarding its results of operations for the second quarter ended June 30, 2017.  A copy of this press release is furnished as Exhibit 99.1.


ITEM 7.01. Regulation FD Disclosure

On July 20, 2017, the Company issued a press release regarding its results of operations for the second quarter ended June 30, 2017.  A copy of this press release is furnished as Exhibit 99.1.

Attached as Exhibit 99.2 is a presentation to be given to investors and others by senior officers of the Company.


ITEM 9.01. Financial Statements and Exhibits

(d) Exhibits

Exhibit No.
 
Document Description
     
99.1
 
Press Release dated July 20, 2017 announcing the results of operations for the second quarter ended June 30, 2017.
     
99.2
 
Investor Presentation Materials.

 
Note: The information contained in this report (including Exhibits 99.1 and 99.2) shall not be deemed "filed" for purposes of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, or otherwise subject to the liabilities of that section, nor shall it be deemed incorporated by reference in any filing under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, except as expressly set forth by specific reference in such a filing.




SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned hereunto duly authorized.



 
Alliance Data Systems Corporation
       
Date: July 20, 2017
By:
 
/s/ Charles L. Horn
     
Charles L. Horn
     
Executive Vice President and
     
Chief Financial Officer





EXHIBIT INDEX



Exhibit No.
 
Document Description
     
99.1
 
Press Release dated July 20, 2017 announcing the results of operations for the second quarter ended June 30, 2017.
     
99.2
 
Investor Presentation Materials.


 

 

Exhibit 99.1




Contacts:
 
Investors/Analysts
   
Tiffany Louder
   
Alliance Data
   
214-494-3048
   
Tiffany.Louder@alliancedata.com
     
   
Media
   
Shelley Whiddon
   
Alliance Data
   
214-494-3811
   
Shelley.Whiddon@alliancedata.com


Alliance Data Reports Second Quarter 2017 Results
 
·
Revenue Increases 4 Percent to $1.82 Billion
·
EPS Increases 99 Percent to $2.47
·
Core EPS Increases 4 Percent to $3.84
·
Full-Year 2017 Guidance Updated; Initial 2018 Guidance Provided
 
Dallas, TX, July 20, 2017 – Alliance Data Systems Corporation (NYSE: ADS), a leading global provider of data-driven marketing and loyalty solutions, today announced results for the quarter ended June 30, 2017.

SUMMARY
   
Quarter Ended June 30,
 
(in millions, except per share amounts)
   
2017
   
2016
   
% Change
 
Revenue
   
$
1,822
   
$
1,749
     
+4
%
Net income
   
$
138
   
$
141
     
-2
%
Net income attributable to Alliance Data
stockholders per diluted share ("EPS") (a)
   
$
2.47
   
$
1.24
     
+99
%
Diluted shares outstanding
     
55.8
     
59.0
     
-5
%
 ******************************* 
 
 
                       
Supplemental Non-GAAP Metrics (b):
                         
Adjusted EBITDA
   
$
499
   
$
472
     
+6
%
Adjusted EBITDA, net of funding costs and non-
controlling interest ("adjusted EBITDA, net") (a)
   
$
433
   
$
422
     
+3
%
Core earnings attributable to Alliance Data
stockholders per diluted share ("core EPS") (a)
   
$
3.84
   
$
3.68
     
+4
%

(a)
Profitability measures shown above for 2016 are net of amounts attributable to the minority interest in
Netherlands-based BrandLoyalty, referred to as 'non-controlling interest'.
(b)
See "Financial Measures" below for a discussion of non-GAAP financial measures.

 


Alliance Data Systems Corporation
July 20, 2017


Ed Heffernan, president and chief executive officer of Alliance Data, commented, "It was a solid second quarter as revenue increased 4 percent to $1.8 billion, consistent with guidance, while core EPS also increased 4 percent to $3.84, ahead of guidance of flat growth.

"For the first time since 2015, Epsilon® delivered a second-consecutive quarter of solid revenue and adjusted EBITDA growth, while Card Services continued to deliver double-digit revenue growth. Perhaps more noteworthy was Card Services' ability to drive double-digit adjusted EBITDA, net growth, despite having to absorb the costs of higher principal loss rates. Within LoyaltyOne®, our retooling efforts of the Canadian business model are working as adjusted EBITDA margins returned to our mid-20 percent objective. However, our BrandLoyalty business produced soft results.

"Current trends suggest that both Epsilon and Card Services will produce stronger revenue growth than originally expected, but incremental costs associated with the on-boarding of two new significant clients at Epsilon and moving all collection activities back in-house at Card Services will reduce the flow-through of this incremental revenue to core EPS. As a result, we are only raising top-line guidance for these two segments.

"On the other hand, BrandLoyalty's third quarter is not developing as we originally expected due to timing issues. This leaves us with about a $0.40 hole to 2017 core earnings. Notably, the fourth quarter of 2017 is developing as expected and the first quarter of 2018 is shaping up nicely, so it is essentially a shift of profitability into 2018."

Heffernan continued, "Based on these developments, we are increasing 2017 revenue guidance from $7.7 billion to $7.8 billion, but lowering 2017 core EPS guidance from $18.50 to $18.10, about a 2 percent decrease to reflect the timing issue at BrandLoyalty.  Based upon expectations of flat to lower principal loss rates in 2018 and accelerating trends across the majority of the Company, we are comfortable providing initial 2018 guidance of $8.7 billion in revenue, up 12 percent, and $21.50 in core EPS, up 19 percent, consistent with the 'slingshot' we have discussed all year."

CONSOLIDATED RESULTS

Revenue increased 4 percent to $1.82 billion and EPS increased 99 percent to $2.47 for the second quarter of 2017. Excluding $1.14 in accretion charges related to the purchase of the remaining 20 percent interest in BrandLoyalty from the second quarter of 2016, EPS increased 4 percent. Adjusted EBITDA, net increased 3 percent to $433 million, while core EPS increased 4 percent to $3.84 for the second quarter of 2017.
2


Alliance Data Systems Corporation
July 20, 2017


SEGMENT REVIEW

LoyaltyOne: Revenue decreased 21 percent to $280 million while adjusted EBITDA decreased 28 percent to $57 million for the second quarter of 2017, largely due to both the breakage estimate reset in the fourth quarter of 2016 for AIR MILES® and timing of client programs at BrandLoyalty. Further, unfavorable foreign exchange rates reduced revenue and adjusted EBITDA by approximately $11 million and $2 million, respectively.

AIR MILES revenue decreased 12 percent to $179 million for the second quarter of 2017 primarily due to a 13 percent decrease in AIR MILES reward miles redeemed. AIR MILES reward miles issued also decreased 1 percent, primarily due to the timing of promotional activity by certain sponsors. Sponsor and collector engagement has been steadily improving since the negative media attention surrounding the then-planned expiration of AIR MILES reward miles at the end of 2016, and the outlook is for issuance growth in the back-half of 2017.

BrandLoyalty revenue decreased 32 percent to $101 million for the second quarter of 2017. Quarterly results for BrandLoyalty can be uneven due to the nature of its offering - short-term loyalty solutions generally 12 to 20 weeks in duration - and clients may shift the timing of programs between quarters. This occurred during the quarter as several programs executed in the second quarter of 2016 are scheduled for the fourth quarter of 2017.

Epsilon: Revenue increased 5 percent to $544 million, and adjusted EBITDA increased 4 percent to $107 million for the second quarter of 2017. Cost controls implemented last year held the increase in payroll and benefits expense during the quarter to approximately 1 percent.

The Automotive, Agency and digital CRM offerings contributed double-digit revenue growth in the second quarter of 2017, a result of both new wins and strength in existing client relationships. Importantly, the Technology Platform offering, which is approximately 25 percent of Epsilon's revenue, stabilized appreciably with revenue down 3 percent for the second quarter of 2017 compared to down 13 percent in the fourth quarter of 2016. The building backlog in this product category through new client wins is expected to support growth in coming quarters.

Card Services: Revenue increased 13 percent to $1.0 billion and adjusted EBITDA, net increased 11 percent to $306 million for the second quarter of 2017.

Gross yields were 25.0 percent for the second quarter of 2017, down approximately 40 basis points from the prior comparable period, due to an increase in the reserve for uncollectible, unpaid finance charges billed. Operating expenses increased 4 percent to $346 million, or 8.6 percent of average receivables, an improvement of 90 basis points compared to the second quarter of 2016. The loan loss provision increased 26 percent to $288 million for the second quarter of 2017, driven by strong growth in average card receivables and higher principal loss rates. Portfolio funding costs were $65 million for the second quarter of 2017, or 1.6 percent of average credit card receivables, up 18 basis points from the second quarter of 2016.
3


Alliance Data Systems Corporation
July 20, 2017


Credit sales increased 6 percent to $7.5 billion for the second quarter of 2017, bolstered by a modest increase in tender share. Average credit card receivables, excluding amounts reclassified as assets held for sale, increased 17 percent to $15.7 billion compared to the second quarter of 2016, while net principal loss rates for the second quarter of 2017 were 6.2 percent, up 110 basis points from last year, primarily due to lower recovery rates. The delinquency rate was 5.05 percent at June 30, 2017, up 46 basis points from the same time last year, and on track with the forecast provided in 2016.

2017 Guidance

Annual guidance for revenue is increasing from $7.7 billion to $7.8 billion, a 9 percent increase over 2016. Core EPS is being reduced from $18.50 to $18.10, a 7 percent increase over 2016.

2018 Initial Guidance

The initial guidance for 2018 is revenue of $8.7 billion, representing a 12 percent growth rate and core EPS of $21.50, representing 19 percent growth over 2017.

Forward-Looking Statements

This release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Forward-looking statements give our expectations or forecasts of future events and can generally be identified by the use of words such as "believe," "expect," "anticipate," "estimate," "intend," "project," "plan," "likely," "may," "should" or other words or phrases of similar import. Similarly, statements that describe our business strategy, outlook, objectives, plans, intentions or goals also are forward-looking statements.  Examples of forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements we make regarding our expected operating results, future economic conditions including currency exchange rates, future dividend declarations and the guidance we give with respect to our anticipated financial performance.

We believe that our expectations are based on reasonable assumptions. Forward-looking statements, however, are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from the projections, anticipated results or other expectations expressed in this release, and no assurances can be given that our expectations will prove to have been correct. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, factors set forth in the Risk Factors section in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the most recently ended fiscal year, which may be updated in Item 1A of, or elsewhere in, our Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q filed for periods subsequent to such Form 10-K.

Our forward-looking statements speak only as of the date made, and we undertake no obligation, other than as required by applicable law, to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, subsequent events, anticipated or unanticipated circumstances or otherwise.
4


Alliance Data Systems Corporation
July 20, 2017


Financial Measures

In addition to the results presented in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, or GAAP, the Company may present financial measures that are non-GAAP measures, such as constant currency financial measures, adjusted EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA margin, adjusted EBITDA, net of funding costs and non-controlling interest, core earnings and core earnings per diluted share (core EPS). Constant currency excludes the impact of fluctuations in foreign exchange rates. The Company calculates constant currency by converting our current period local currency financial results using the prior period exchange rates. The Company uses adjusted EBITDA and adjusted EBITDA, net as an integral part of internal reporting to measure the performance and operational strength of reportable segments and to evaluate the performance of senior management. Adjusted EBITDA eliminates the uneven effect across all reportable segments of non-cash depreciation of tangible assets and amortization of intangible assets, including certain intangible assets that were recognized in business combinations, and the non-cash effect of stock compensation expense. Similarly, core earnings and core EPS eliminate non-cash or non-operating items, including, but not limited to, stock compensation expense, amortization of purchased intangibles, amortization of debt issuance and hedging costs, mark-to-market gains or losses on interest rate derivatives, changes to the expiry policy and regulatory settlements. The Company believes that these non-GAAP financial measures, viewed in addition to and not in lieu of the Company's reported GAAP results, provide useful information to investors regarding the Company's performance and overall results of operations.

Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures

Reconciliations to comparable GAAP financial measures are available in the accompanying schedules, which are posted as part of this earnings release in both the News and Investors sections on the Company's website (www.alliancedata.com). No reconciliation is provided with respect to forward-looking annual guidance for 2017 or 2018 core EPS as the Company cannot reliably predict all necessary components or their impact to reconcile core EPS to GAAP EPS without unreasonable effort. The events necessitating a non-GAAP adjustment are inherently unpredictable and may have a material impact on the Company's future results.

The financial measures presented are consistent with the Company's historical financial reporting practices. Core earnings and core EPS represent performance measures and are not intended to represent liquidity measures. The non-GAAP financial measures presented herein may not be comparable to similarly titled measures presented by other companies, and are not identical to corresponding measures used in other various agreements or public filings.

5


Alliance Data Systems Corporation
July 20, 2017


Conference Call

Alliance Data will host a conference call on Thursday, July 20, 2017 at 8:30 a.m. (Eastern Time) to discuss the Company's second-quarter 2017 results. The conference call will be available via the Internet at www.alliancedata.com. There will be several slides accompanying the webcast. Please go to the website at least 15 minutes prior to the call to register, download and install any necessary software. The recorded webcast will also be available on the Company's website.

If you are unable to participate in the conference call, a replay will be available. To access the replay, please dial (855) 859-2056 or (404) 537-3406 and enter "77386550". The replay will be available at approximately 11:45 a.m. (Eastern Time) on Thursday, July 20, 2017.

About Alliance Data

Alliance Data® (NYSE: ADS) is a leading global provider of data-driven marketing and loyalty solutions serving large, consumer-based industries. The Company creates and deploys customized solutions, enhancing the critical customer marketing experience; the result is measurably changing consumer behavior while driving business growth and profitability for some of today's most recognizable brands. Alliance Data helps its clients create and increase customer loyalty through solutions that engage millions of customers each day across multiple touch points using traditional, digital, mobile and emerging technologies. An S&P 500 and Fortune 500 company headquartered in Plano, Texas, Alliance Data consists of three businesses that together employ more than 17,000 associates at approximately 100 locations worldwide.

Alliance Data's card services business is a leading provider of marketing-driven branded credit card programs. Epsilon® is a leading provider of multichannel, data-driven technologies and marketing services, and also includes Conversant®, a leader in personalized digital marketing. LoyaltyOne® owns and operates the AIR MILES® Reward Program, Canada's premier coalition loyalty program, and Netherlands-based BrandLoyalty, a global provider of tailor-made loyalty programs for grocers.

Investor information about Alliance Data's businesses may be found here.

Follow Alliance Data on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and YouTube.
6


Alliance Data Systems Corporation
July 20, 2017


ALLIANCE DATA SYSTEMS CORPORATION
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
(In millions, except per share amounts)
(Unaudited)

 
 
Three Months Ended
June 30,
   
Six Months Ended
June 30,
 
 
 
2017
   
2016
   
2017
   
2016
 
Revenue
 
$
1,821.8
   
$
1,748.8
   
$
3,700.8
   
$
3,425.0
 
Operating expenses:
                               
Cost of operations
   
1,056.8
     
1,070.8
     
2,143.5
     
2,102.4
 
Provision for loan loss
   
288.1
     
227.8
     
603.2
     
399.7
 
Depreciation and amortization
   
125.5
     
129.6
     
250.3
     
258.0
 
Total operating expenses
   
1,470.4
     
1,428.2
     
2,997.0
     
2,760.1
 
Operating income
   
351.4
     
320.6
     
703.8
     
664.9
 
Interest expense, net:
                               
Securitization funding costs
   
36.6
     
30.0
     
71.8
     
60.4
 
Interest expense on deposits
   
28.6
     
20.2
     
54.6
     
37.4
 
Interest expense on long-term and other debt, net
   
72.3
     
53.5
     
136.3
     
104.7
 
Total interest expense, net
   
137.5
     
103.7
     
262.7
     
202.5
 
Income before income tax
 
$
213.9
   
$
216.9
   
$
441.1
   
$
462.4
 
Income tax expense
   
76.2
     
76.2
     
157.0
     
162.8
 
Net income
 
$
137.7
   
$
140.7
   
$
284.1
   
$
299.6
 
Less: Net income attributable to non-controlling
interest
   
     
     
     
1.8
 
Net income attributable to common stockholders
 
$
137.7
   
$
140.7
   
$
284.1
   
$
297.8
 
                                 
Per share data:
                               
                                 
Numerator
                               
Net income attributable to common stockholders
 
$
137.7
   
$
140.7
   
$
284.1
   
$
297.8
 
Less: Accretion of redeemable non-controlling
interest
   
     
67.6
     
     
83.5
 
Net income attributable to common stockholders
after accretion of redeemable non-controlling
interest
 
$
137.7
   
$
73.1
   
$
284.1
   
$
214.3
 
                                 
Denominator
                               
Weighted average shares outstanding – basic
   
55.6
     
58.8
     
56.0
     
59.3
 
Weighted average shares outstanding – diluted
   
55.8
     
59.0
     
56.3
     
59.6
 
                                 
Basic – Net income attributable to common
stockholders
 
$
2.48
   
$
1.24
   
$
5.07
   
$
3.61
 
Diluted – Net income attributable to common
stockholders
 
$
2.47
   
$
1.24
   
$
5.05
   
$
3.60
 
                                 

7


Alliance Data Systems Corporation
July 20, 2017


ALLIANCE DATA SYSTEMS CORPORATION
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(In millions)
(Unaudited)

   
June 30,
2017
   
December 31,
2016
 
             
Assets
           
Cash and cash equivalents
 
$
1,945.9
   
$
1,859.2
 
Credit card and loan receivables:
               
Credit card and loan receivables
   
16,321.9
     
16,543.9
 
Allowance for loan loss
   
(1,069.3
)
   
(948.0
)
Credit card and loan receivables, net
   
15,252.6
     
15,595.9
 
Credit card and loan receivables held for sale
   
384.0
     
417.3
 
Redemption settlement assets, restricted
   
547.2
     
324.4
 
Intangible assets, net
   
875.9
     
1,003.3
 
Goodwill
   
3,848.4
     
3,800.7
 
Other assets
   
2,874.3
     
2,513.3
 
Total assets
 
$
25,728.3
   
$
25,514.1
 
                 
Liabilities and Equity
               
Deferred revenue
 
$
935.9
   
$
931.5
 
Deposits
   
8,722.5
     
8,391.9
 
Non-recourse borrowings of consolidated securitization entities
   
6,561.4
     
6,955.4
 
Long-term and other debt
   
6,422.9
     
5,601.4
 
Other liabilities
   
1,660.8
     
1,975.7
 
Total liabilities
   
24,303.5
     
23,855.9
 
Stockholders' equity
   
1,424.8
     
1,658.2
 
Total liabilities and equity
 
$
25,728.3
   
$
25,514.1
 
                 


8


Alliance Data Systems Corporation
July 20, 2017


ALLIANCE DATA SYSTEMS CORPORATION
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(In millions)
(Unaudited)
 
 
Six Months Ended
June 30,
 
 
 
2017
   
2016 (1)
 
 
     
Cash Flows from Operating Activities:
 
Net income
 
$
284.1
   
$
299.6
 
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
 
Depreciation and amortization
   
250.3
     
258.0
 
Deferred income taxes
   
(61.0
)
   
(14.0
)
Provision for loan loss
   
603.2
     
399.7
 
Non-cash stock compensation
   
45.2
     
41.4
 
Amortization of deferred financing costs
   
21.2
     
16.8
 
Change in operating assets and liabilities
   
(179.3
)
   
(328.3
)
Originations of loan receivables held for sale
   
(3,923.1
)
   
(3,386.5
)
Sales of loan receivables held for sale
   
3,920.7
     
3,393.9
 
Other
   
73.1
     
74.3
 
Net cash provided by operating activities
   
1,034.4
     
754.9
 
   
Cash Flows from Investing Activities:
 
Change in redemption settlement assets
   
(207.9
)
   
18.4
 
Change in restricted cash
   
(433.8
)
   
(0.3
)
Change in credit card and loan receivables
   
(286.4
)
   
(352.6
)
Purchase of credit card portfolios
   
     
(749.1
)
Capital expenditures
   
(116.8
)
   
(107.6
)
Other
   
23.9
     
22.4
 
Net cash used in investing activities
   
(1,021.0
)
   
(1,168.8
)
   
Cash Flows from Financing Activities:
 
Borrowings under debt agreements
   
5,856.9
     
2,449.9
 
Repayments of borrowings
   
(5,103.8
)
   
(1,766.2
)
Issuances of deposits
   
1,801.4
     
2,431.8
 
Repayments of deposits
   
(1,469.3
)
   
(1,168.3
)
Non-recourse borrowings of consolidated securitization entities
   
1,465.0
     
1,205.0
 
Repayments/maturities of non-recourse borrowings of consolidated securitization entities
   
(1,860.0
)
   
(1,690.0
)
Acquisition of non-controlling interest
   
     
(360.7
)
Payment of deferred financing costs
   
(44.1
)
   
(11.1
)
Purchase of treasury shares
   
(499.9
)
   
(522.6
)
Dividends paid
   
(58.0
)
   
 
Other
   
(15.1
)
   
(11.3
)
Net cash provided by financing activities
   
73.1
     
556.5
 
   
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents
   
0.2
     
5.9
 
Change in cash and cash equivalents
   
86.7
     
148.5
 
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
   
1,859.2
     
1,168.0
 
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
 
$
1,945.9
   
$
1,316.5
 

(1)
Adjusted to reflect the adoption of Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") 2016-09, "Improvements to Employee Share-Based
Payment Accounting." The effect of the adoption of the standard was to increase cash flows from operating activities by $23.8
million and to decrease cash flows from financing activities by $23.8 million for the six months ended June 30, 2016.
9


Alliance Data Systems Corporation
July 20, 2017


ALLIANCE DATA SYSTEMS CORPORATION
SUMMARY FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
(In millions)
(Unaudited)

   
Three Months Ended
June 30,
         
Six Months Ended
June 30,
       
   
2017
   
2016
   
Change
   
2017
   
2016
   
Change
 
Segment Revenue:
                       
LoyaltyOne
 
$
280.0
   
$
352.3
     
(21
)%
 
$
613.0
   
$
706.9
     
(13
)%
Epsilon
   
543.8
     
518.8
     
5
     
1,073.1
     
1,012.1
     
6
 
Card Services
   
1,005.0
     
885.8
     
13
     
2,028.2
     
1,721.3
     
18
 
Corporate/Other
0.1
nm*
     
     
0.2
   
nm*
 
Intersegment Eliminations
(7.0
)
(8.2
)
nm*
(13.5
)
(15.5
)
nm*
 
Total
 
$
1,821.8
   
$
1,748.8
     
4
%
 
$
3,700.8
   
$
3,425.0
     
8
%
                               
Segment Adjusted EBITDA, net:
                             
LoyaltyOne
 
$
56.7
   
$
79.3
     
(28
)%
 
$
115.4
   
$
153.0
     
(25
)%
Epsilon
   
106.8
     
102.6
     
4
     
191.8
     
183.4
     
5
 
Card Services
   
305.5
     
276.4
     
11
     
636.2
     
583.9
     
9
 
Corporate/Other
   
(35.6
)
   
(36.8
)
   
(3
)
   
(70.5
)
   
(59.3
)
   
19
 
Total
 
$
433.4
   
$
421.5
     
3
%
 
$
872.9
   
$
861.0
     
1
%
                               
Key Performance Indicators:
                             
Credit card statements generated
   
71.4
     
69.7
     
2
%
   
143.6
     
135.3
     
6
%
Credit sales
 
$
7,515.4
   
$
7,098.8
     
6
%
 
$
14,094.6
   
$
13,277.0
     
6
%
Average receivables
 
$
15,739.9
   
$
13,505.3
     
17
%
 
$
15,712.7
   
$
13,521.0
     
16
%
AIR MILES reward miles issued
   
1,422.6
     
1,432.5
     
(1
)%
   
2,658.6
     
2,718.7
     
(2
)%
AIR MILES reward miles redeemed
   
1,076.5
     
1,232.2
     
(13
)%
   
2,302.8
     
2,516.1
     
(8
)%
                                                 

* nm-not meaningful


10


Alliance Data Systems Corporation
July 20, 2017


ALLIANCE DATA SYSTEMS CORPORATION
RECONCILIATION OF NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES
(In millions, except per share amounts)
(Unaudited)


 
 
Three Months Ended
June 30,
   
Six Months Ended
June 30,
 
 
 
2017
   
2016
   
2017
   
2016
 
Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA, net:
                       
Net income
 
$
137.7
   
$
140.7
   
$
284.1
   
$
299.6
 
Income tax expense
   
76.2
     
76.2
     
157.0
     
162.8
 
Total interest expense, net
   
137.5
     
103.7
     
262.7
     
202.5
 
Depreciation and other amortization
   
45.2
     
41.1
     
89.9
     
80.9
 
Amortization of purchased intangibles
   
80.3
     
88.5
     
160.4
     
177.1
 
Stock compensation expense
   
21.7
     
21.5
     
45.2
     
41.4
 
Adjusted EBITDA
 
$
498.6
   
$
471.7
   
$
999.3
   
$
964.3
 
Less: Funding costs (1)
   
65.2
     
50.2
     
126.4
     
97.8
 
Less: Adjusted EBITDA attributable to non-
controlling interest
   
     
     
     
5.5
 
Adjusted EBITDA, net of funding costs and non-
controlling interest
 
$
433.4
   
$
421.5
   
$
872.9
   
$
861.0
 
                                 
Core Earnings:
                               
Net income
 
$
137.7
   
$
140.7
   
$
284.1
   
$
299.6
 
Add back: non-cash/ non-operating items:
                               
Stock compensation expense
   
21.7
     
21.5
     
45.2
     
41.4
 
Amortization of purchased intangibles
   
80.3
     
88.5
     
160.4
     
177.1
 
Non-cash interest (2)
   
14.0
     
6.3
     
24.3
     
12.7
 
Income tax effect (3)
   
(39.5
)
   
(39.6
)
   
(77.9
)
   
(78.5
)
Core earnings
   
214.2
     
217.4
     
436.1
     
452.3
 
Less: Core earnings attributable to non-
controlling interest
   
     
     
     
4.0
 
Core earnings attributable to common stockholders
 
$
214.2
   
$
217.4
   
$
436.1
   
$
448.3
 
                                 
Weighted average shares outstanding – diluted
   
55.8
     
59.0
     
56.3
     
59.6
 
Core earnings attributable to common stockholders
per share - diluted
 
$
3.84
   
$
3.68
   
$
7.75
   
$
7.52
 
                                 

 
(1)
Represents interest expense on deposits and securitization funding costs.
(2)
Represents amortization of debt issuance and hedging costs.
(3)
Represents the tax effect for the related non-GAAP measure adjustments using the expected effective tax rate.

11


Alliance Data Systems Corporation
July 20, 2017



   
Three Months Ended June 30, 2017
 
 
 
LoyaltyOne
   
Epsilon
   
Card
Services
   
Corporate/
Other
   
Total
 
Operating income (loss)
 
$
34.5
   
$
20.0
   
$
341.3
   
$
(44.4
)
 
$
351.4
 
Depreciation and amortization
   
19.5
     
77.9
     
26.1
     
2.0
     
125.5
 
Stock compensation expense
   
2.7
     
8.9
     
3.3
     
6.8
     
21.7
 
Adjusted EBITDA
   
56.7
     
106.8
     
370.7
     
(35.6
)
   
498.6
 
Less: Funding costs
   
     
     
65.2
     
     
65.2
 
Less: Adjusted EBITDA attributable to
non‑controlling interest
   
     
     
     
     
 
Adjusted EBITDA, net
 
$
56.7
   
$
106.8
   
$
305.5
   
$
(35.6
)
 
$
433.4
 


   
Three Months Ended June 30, 2016
 
 
 
LoyaltyOne
   
Epsilon
   
Card
Services
   
Corporate/
Other
   
Total
 
Operating income (loss)
 
$
54.2
   
$
10.8
   
$
300.7
   
$
(45.1
)
 
$
320.6
 
Depreciation and amortization
   
22.5
     
82.4
     
22.4
     
2.3
     
129.6
 
Stock compensation expense
   
2.6
     
9.4
     
3.5
     
6.0
     
21.5
 
Adjusted EBITDA
   
79.3
     
102.6
     
326.6
     
(36.8
)
   
471.7
 
Less: Funding costs
   
     
     
50.2
     
     
50.2
 
Less: Adjusted EBITDA attributable to
non‑controlling interest
   
     
     
     
     
 
Adjusted EBITDA, net
 
$
79.3
   
$
102.6
   
$
276.4
   
$
(36.8
)
 
$
421.5
 


   
Six Months Ended June 30, 2017
 
 
 
LoyaltyOne
   
Epsilon
   
Card
Services
   
Corporate/
Other
   
Total
 
Operating income (loss)
 
$
72.0
   
$
18.4
   
$
704.3
   
$
(90.9
)
 
$
703.8
 
Depreciation and amortization
   
38.6
     
155.8
     
51.9
     
4.0
     
250.3
 
Stock compensation expense
   
4.8
     
17.6
     
6.4
     
16.4
     
45.2
 
Adjusted EBITDA
   
115.4
     
191.8
     
762.6
     
(70.5
)
   
999.3
 
Less: Funding costs
   
     
     
126.4
     
     
126.4
 
Less: Adjusted EBITDA attributable to
non‑controlling interest
   
     
     
     
     
 
Adjusted EBITDA, net
 
$
115.4
   
$
191.8
   
$
636.2
   
$
(70.5
)
 
$
872.9
 


   
Six Months Ended June 30, 2016
 
 
 
LoyaltyOne
   
Epsilon
   
Card
Services
   
Corporate/
Other
   
Total
 
Operating income (loss)
 
$
109.9
   
$
(1.7
)
 
$
632.1
   
$
(75.4
)
 
$
664.9
 
Depreciation and amortization
   
43.4
     
167.1
     
42.4
     
5.1
     
258.0
 
Stock compensation expense
   
5.2
     
18.0
     
7.2
     
11.0
     
41.4
 
Adjusted EBITDA
   
158.5
     
183.4
     
681.7
     
(59.3
)
   
964.3
 
Less: Funding costs
   
     
     
97.8
     
     
97.8
 
Less: Adjusted EBITDA attributable to
non‑controlling interest
   
5.5
     
     
     
     
5.5
 
Adjusted EBITDA, net
 
$
153.0
   
$
183.4
   
$
583.9
   
$
(59.3
)
 
$
861.0
 

12
 


 Alliance Data NYSE: ADS  Q2, 2017 ResultsJuly 20, 2017  Exhibit 99.2 
 

 Forward-Looking StatementsThis presentation contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Forward-looking statements give our expectations or forecasts of future events and can generally be identified by the use of words such as “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “intend,” “project,” “plan,” “likely,” “may,” “should” or other words or phrases of similar import. Similarly, statements that describe our business strategy, outlook, objectives, plans, intentions or goals also are forward-looking statements.  Examples of forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements we make regarding our expected operating results, future economic conditions including currency exchange rates, future dividend declarations and the guidance we give with respect to our anticipated financial performance. We believe that our expectations are based on reasonable assumptions. Forward-looking statements, however, are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from the projections, anticipated results or other expectations expressed in this presentation, and no assurances can be given that our expectations will prove to have been correct. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, factors set forth in the Risk Factors section in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the most recently ended fiscal year, which may be updated in Item 1A of, or elsewhere in, our Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q filed for periods subsequent to such Form 10-K. Our forward-looking statements speak only as of the date made, and we undertake no obligation, other than as required by applicable law, to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, subsequent events, anticipated or unanticipated circumstances or otherwise.  1 
 

 Agenda  Speakers: Ed Heffernan President and CEO Charles Horn EVP and CFO Second Quarter 2017 Consolidated ResultsSegment ResultsFull Year 2017 Outlook and Initial 2018 Guidance  1  2 
 

 Second Quarter 2017 Consolidated Results(MM, except per share)    Quarter Ended June 30,          2017  2016  % Change    Revenue  $ 1,822  $ 1,749  +4%    Net Income  $ 138  $ 141  -2%    EPS   $ 2.47   $ 1.24  +99%    Core EPS  $ 3.84  $ 3.68  +4%              Adjusted EBITDA  $ 499  $ 472  +6%    Adjusted EBITDA, net  $ 433  $ 422  +3%              Diluted shares  55.8  59.0  -5%                2  3  Revenue in-line, core EPS slightly better than guidance.Continued strength at Epsilon and Card Services. 
 

 LoyaltyOne® (MM)  Unfavorable foreign exchange rates reduced revenue and adjusted EBITDA by approximately $11 million and $2 million, respectively.Adjustments to AIR MILES program are on track. Collector activity and engagement are improving. BrandLoyalty’s results down due to program timing differences between years.    Quarter Ended June 30,          2017  2016  % Change    Revenue  $ 280  $ 352  -21%              Adjusted EBITDA  $ 57  $ 79  -28%    Non-controlling interest  —  —  nm    Adjusted EBITDA, net  $ 57  $ 79  -28%    Adjusted EBITDA %  20%  23%  -3%              3    4 
 

 Epsilon® (MM)  Continued strength in Agency, Auto and Digital Media offerings.Technology Platform stabilizing : revenue -13 percent in Q4, 2016 → -7 percent in Q1, 2017 → -3 percent in Q2, 2017.Cost controls working. Salary and wage expense up 1 percent for the quarter.    Quarter Ended June 30,          2017  2016  % Change     Revenue  $ 544  $ 519  +5%              Adjusted EBITDA  $ 107  $ 103  +4%    Adjusted EBITDA %  20%  20%  —%              4    5 
 

 Card Services (MM)    Quarter Ended June 30,          2017  2016  % Change    Revenue  $ 1,005  $ 886  +13%              Operating expenses  346  332  +4%    Provision for loan losses  288  228  +26%    Funding costs  65   50  +30%    Adjusted EBITDA, net  $ 306  $ 276  +11%    Adjusted EBITDA, net %  30%  31%  -1%    5    Strong operating expense control. 90 basis points improvement over last year.Gross principal loss rates tracking to ‘wedge’. Net principal loss rates slightly higher than expectations due to lower recoveries. Delinquency rate of 5.05 percent, 46 basis points above last year. Year-over-year gap closing.   6 
 

 Card Services (MM)  Gross yields are down slightly due to increase in reserve for uncollectible, unpaid billed finance charges. Loss rates go up, reserve goes up; loss rates come down, reserve comes down. Allowance for loan loss reserve is 6.6 percent of $16.1 billion in reservable card receivables at June 30.Equivalent to 12 months forward coverage    Quarter Ended June 30,        Key metrics:  2017  2016  Change    Credit sales  $ 7,515  $ 7,099  +6%    Average card receivables  $ 15,740  $ 13,505  +17%    Total gross yield  25.0%  25.4%  -0.4%    Operating expenses as % of average card receivables   8.6%  9.5%  -0.9%    Principal loss rates  6.2%  5.1%  +1.1%    Delinquency rate  5.05%  4.59%  +0.46%    6    7 
 

 Delinquency Wedge  8 
 

 9  Second Quarter 2017  Consolidated: +4 percent revenue and +4 percent core EPS growthGuidance was for mid-single-digit topline/flat core EPS growthCard Services: growth continues to be strongEpsilon: second consecutive quarter of repeatable growthLoyaltyOne:Canada: adjusted EBITDA margins improved during the second quarter, consistent with our expectations of mid-twenties for full year 2017 BrandLoyalty: soft  9 
 

 10  Epsilon:Second consecutive quarter of solid top/bottom line growthLast occurred in 2015Technology Platform (~25 percent of Epsilon revenue)Revenue -13 percent in Q4, 2016 → -7 percent in Q1, 2017 → -3 percent in Q2, 2017→ expected to be flat by year-endMajor growth drivers: Agency, Auto and Digital Media (Conversant CRM) offeringsFull Year Guidance: comfortably on-track for mid-single digit revenue and adjusted EBITDA growthUpside expected on topline; 7 percent growth expected in back-half  Full Year 2017 Outlook  10 
 

 Full Year 2017 Outlook  Loyalty One:Canada: no change to guidance$760 million in revenue, $180 million in adjusted EBITDASolid progress on re-tooling modelAdjusted EBITDA margin improved during Q2, consistent with mid-20’s expectation for full yearSolid progress on sponsor/collector engagement; no sponsor attrition seenIssuance: -4 percent in Q1→-1 percent in Q2→+5 percent run-rate expected by year-endBrandLoyalty: soft135 clients across 40 countries→ 225 to 230 programs per yearShort term programsHeavily influenced by major events 2016: Rio Olympics/Euro Cup 2017: No major events 2018: World CupQ3, 2017/Q4, 2017 ramp-up has shifted to Q4, 2017/Q1, 2018Visibility on 25 percent + revenue/40 percent + adjusted EBITDA growth in Q4Disney EMEA agreement signed later than anticipatedContracts signed year-to-date suggest strong start to 2018Timing issue on earnings ($0.40); shifted to early 2018   11 
 

 Full Year 2017 Outlook  Card Services:Card receivables growth of 15 percent or morePipeline robust: tracking to another $2 billion vintageTraditional, hybrid and pure on-lineGross yields stable; ~40 bps of operating leverage (operating expenses/average receivables) Credit normalization nearing completionDelinquencies:Q1: 50 bps over last year - doneQ2: 46 bps over last year – doneQ3: expect ~20 bps over last yearQ4: expect flat to prior yearFlat delinquencies → flat to lower loss rate in 2018Principal loss rates:Gross loss rates tracking up 50 bps – as expectedNet loss rates will fluctuate as we move recoveries in-house (market sales – short term gain, lower benefit vs in-house – longer term gain, higher benefit)Full Year Guidance: Mid-teens revenue growth; 10 percent + adjusted EBITDA, net growth (considers shift to 100 percent in-house collection)  12 
 

 2017 Outlook  Consolidated Guidance  Old  New  Revenue   $7.7 bn, +8 percent  $7.8 bn, +9 percent        Core EPS  $18.50, +9 percent  $18.10, +7 percent  Growth rates to 2016 actual      2017 Quarterly  Q1    Q2    Q3  Q4    Guidance  Actual  Guidance  Actual  Guidance    Revenue  High-single  +12%  Mid-single  +4%  Mid-single  Mid-teens  Core EPS  Flat  +2%  Flat  +4%  Mid-single  Mid-teens                              2018 “Slingshot” on-track    Revenue  $8.7bn  +12%          Core EPS  $21.50  +19%      Initial 2018 guidance; further detail will be provided as part of Q3 earnings call                13 
 

 13  14  Financial MeasuresIn addition to the results presented in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, or GAAP, the Company may present financial measures that are non-GAAP measures, such as constant currency financial measures, adjusted EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA margin, adjusted EBITDA, net of funding costs and non-controlling interest, core earnings and core earnings per diluted share (core EPS). Constant currency excludes the impact of fluctuations in foreign exchange rates. The Company calculates constant currency by converting our current period local currency financial results using the prior period exchange rates. The Company uses adjusted EBITDA and adjusted EBITDA, net as an integral part of internal reporting to measure the performance and operational strength of reportable segments and to evaluate the performance of senior management. Adjusted EBITDA eliminates the uneven effect across all reportable segments of non-cash depreciation of tangible assets and amortization of intangible assets, including certain intangible assets that were recognized in business combinations, and the non-cash effect of stock compensation expense. Similarly, core earnings and core EPS eliminate non-cash or non-operating items, including, but not limited to, stock compensation expense, amortization of purchased intangibles, amortization of debt issuance and hedging costs, mark-to-market gains or losses on interest rate derivatives, changes to the expiry policy and regulatory settlements. The Company believes that these non-GAAP financial measures, viewed in addition to and not in lieu of the Company’s reported GAAP results, provide useful information to investors regarding the Company’s performance and overall results of operations. Reconciliations to comparable GAAP financial measures are available in the Company’s earnings release, which is posted in both the News and Investors sections on the Company’s website (www.alliancedata.com). No reconciliation is provided with respect to forward-looking annual guidance for 2017 or 2018 core EPS as the Company cannot reliably predict all necessary components or their impact to reconcile core EPS to GAAP EPS without unreasonable effort. The events necessitating a non-GAAP adjustment are inherently unpredictable and may have a material impact on the Company’s future results. The financial measures presented are consistent with the Company’s historical financial reporting practices. Core earnings and core EPS represent performance measures and are not intended to represent liquidity measures. The non-GAAP financial measures presented herein may not be comparable to similarly titled measures presented by other companies, and are not identical to corresponding measures used in other various agreements or public filings.  
 

 Q & A  15