The Sun Is the Same, in a Relative Way: Fool by Numbers

On Monday, Nov. 5, data center conqueror Sun Microsystems (NASDAQ:JAVA) released first-quarter 2008 earnings for the period ended Oct. 1, 2007.

• This was the fourth consecutive quarter of positive net income for Sun -- the first such streak since mid-2001. The company has been consistently cash flow-positive for years, though.
• Let's talk some more history. Gross margins haven't been this wide since June 2000, but operating margins are suffering from restructuritis. Sun spent $113 million on restructuring charges this quarter, which was more than the $97 million spent all of last year.
• The numbers are nice, but they don't tell the whole story. Check out what else Sun is doing over here.

(Figures in millions, except per-share data)

Income Statement Highlights

Get back to basics with the income statement.

Margin Checkup

Margins are the earnings engine.

Balance Sheet Highlights

The balance sheet reflects the company's health.

Cash Flow Highlights

Free cash flow is a Fool's best friend.

Competitive Context

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