PALO ALTO, Calif. — HP (NYSE:HPQ) today announced financial results for its first fiscal quarter ended January 31, 2011. Net revenue of $32.3 billion was up 4% from the prior-year period both as reported and in constant currency.

GAAP diluted earnings per share (EPS) was $1.17, up 26% from $0.93 in the prior-year period. Non-GAAP diluted EPS was $1.36, up 27% from $1.07 in the prior-year period. Non-GAAP financial information excludes after-tax costs of approximately $0.19 per share and $0.14 per share in the first quarter of fiscal 2011 and 2010, respectively, related primarily to the amortization of purchased intangibles, restructuring charges and acquisition-related charges. Information about HP's use of non-GAAP financial information is provided under “Use of non-GAAP financial information” below.

“I'm pleased with our EPS and margin expansion during the quarter. Going forward, we have the opportunity to further capitalize on our customers' demands for higher value-added solutions,” said Léo Apotheker, HP president and chief executive officer. “HP has a powerful portfolio, including exciting, recently announced cloud and connectivity offerings. We are focused on leveraging these strengths to extend our leadership and accelerate growth.”

“HP's financial strength and discipline helped generate $3.1 billion in cash flow from operations, up 28% year over year,” said Cathie Lesjak, HP executive vice president and chief financial officer.

Trends and regional performance
HP saw balanced growth in the first quarter across all regions in local currency, with accelerated growth in BRIC countries (Brazil, Russia, India and China). Results were largely driven by momentum in the commercial sector as businesses continued to spend on technology. HP experienced uneven consumer performance across its geographies and product categories during the quarter.

First quarter revenue was up 6% in the Americas to $14.4 billion. Revenue was flat in Europe, the Middle East and Africa and up 7% in Asia Pacific to $12.1 billion and $5.8 billion, respectively. When adjusted for the effects of currency, revenue was up 5% in the Americas, up 4% in Europe, the Middle East and Africa and up 2% in Asia Pacific. Revenue from outside of the United States in the first quarter accounted for 65% of total HP revenue, with revenue in the BRIC countries increasing 11% while accounting for 11% of total HP revenue.

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