Tue, Oct 15, 8:04 PM (79 days ago)
**Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc. (WBA) - Fiscal Year 2024 Summary** Walgreens Boots Alliance (WBA) reported total sales of $147.7 billion for FY 2024, up 6.2% from FY 2023. However, the company experienced a net loss of $8.6 billion, largely due to a $12.7 billion impairment of goodwill related to VillageMD and $2.2 billion in opioid-related liabilities. Operating loss was $14.1 billion, reflecting increased selling, general, and administrative expenses, which reached $28.1 billion. The U.S. Retail Pharmacy segment generated $115.8 billion in sales, primarily driven by an 8.2% increase in pharmacy sales, while retail sales declined. The International segment saw a 6.1% rise in sales to $23.6 billion, aided by favorable currency translation. The U.S. Healthcare segment's sales rose to $8.3 billion, bolstered by VillageMD's growth. WBA is undergoing a strategic review, including a Footprint Optimization Program aimed at closing 900-1,000 underperforming stores by FY 2027. The company has suspended its stock repurchase program and reduced its quarterly dividend by 48% to strengthen its balance sheet amid rising debt, which stood at $9.5 billion as of August 31, 2024. WBA's future outlook remains cautious, influenced by regulatory pressures, competitive dynamics, and macroeconomic challenges.