Mattel, Inc., designs, manufactures, and markets toy products worldwide. Mattel’s toys include Barbie® fashion dolls and accessories, Hot Wheels®, and Fisher-Price brands. For a recent year, Mattel reported the following net cash flows from operating activities (in thousands):
First quarter ending March 31 $ (53,110)
Second quarter ending June 30 (187,663)
Third quarter ending September 3018,435
Fourth quarter ending December 31956,895
Explain why Mattel reported negative net cash flows from operating activities during the first and second quarters and a large positive cash flow for the fourth quarter, with overall net positive cash flow for the year.
Answer:
Toy manufacturers and retailers experience a seasonal trend in cash flows from operating activities. Mattel, Inc., experiences negative cash flows during the periods when merchandise is ordered and produced for the holiday season. Mattel, Inc., generates large positive cash flows during the holiday season, November–December. As a result, Mattel, Inc., reports overall positive net cash flows from operating activities for the year.