Business Context and Reporting Period
This Form 8-K Current Report is filed by Applied Materials, Inc. for the reporting period ending June 15, 2004. The filing primarily addresses a change in the company's independent registered public accounting firm.
Key Financial Metrics
The filing text does not provide specific values for revenue, profit, cash flow, margins, debt, or liquidity. This report focuses exclusively on corporate governance regarding the audit firm.
Material Changes
- Dismissal of Former Accountant: On June 15, 2004, the Audit Committee dismissed PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP as the independent registered public accounting firm.
- Engagement of New Accountant: On June 16, 2004, the Audit Committee engaged KPMG LLP as the new independent registered public accounting firm.
- Audit History: PricewaterhouseCoopers' reports for the fiscal years ended October 27, 2002, and October 26, 2003, contained no adverse opinions, disclaimers, or qualifications.
- Disagreements: There were no disagreements with PricewaterhouseCoopers regarding accounting principles, practices, financial statement disclosures, or auditing scope/procedures during the relevant periods.
- Reportable Events: No "reportable events" as defined in Item 304(a)(1)(v) of Regulation S-K occurred during the relevant periods.
- Consultations: Neither the company nor its representatives consulted KPMG regarding accounting principles or audit opinions prior to their engagement.
Guidance, Outlook, and Risks
The filing does not contain financial guidance, outlook, management commentary on operations, or specific risk factors beyond the standard disclosure of the accounting firm change. The company has provided PricewaterhouseCoopers with a copy of this report and requested a letter confirming agreement with the statements made, which is filed as Exhibit 16.1.
Investor Verification Checklist
- Verify the content of Exhibit 16.1 (Letter from PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP) to confirm their agreement with the company's statements regarding the dismissal.
- Review subsequent filings to confirm the transition of audit responsibilities to KPMG LLP.
- Monitor future earnings reports for any restatements or changes in accounting treatment following the firm change.