Adobe
ADBE
#170
Rank
$122.75 B
Marketcap
$293.25
Share price
0.55%
Change (1 day)
-32.96%
Change (1 year)

Adobe Inc. is an American software company registered in the state of Delaware. It was founded in 1982 by John Warnock and Charles Geschke, the inventors of the PostScript page description language.

Adobe - 10-Q quarterly report FY


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UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

----------------------
FORM 10-Q
(MARK ONE)

[X] QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE
SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

FOR THE QUARTERLY PERIOD ENDED AUGUST 28, 1998

OR

[ ] TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE
SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

FOR THE TRANSITION PERIOD FROM_____________ TO______________

COMMISSION FILE NUMBER: 0-15175

ADOBE SYSTEMS INCORPORATED
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

DELAWARE 77-0019522
(State or other jurisdiction of (I.R.S. Employer
incorporation or organization) Identification No.)

345 PARK AVENUE, SAN JOSE, CALIFORNIA 95110-2704
(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)

Registrant's telephone number, including area code: (408) 536-6000

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports
required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of
1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the
registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such
filing requirements for the past 90 days. YES X NO
--- ---

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer's classes
of common stock, as of the latest practicable date:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Shares Outstanding
Class September 25, 1998
----- ------------------
<S> <C>
Common stock, $0.0001 par value 65,710,336
</TABLE>

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page No.
PART I -- FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1. Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income
Three Months Ended August 28, 1998 and August 29, 1997
and Nine Months Ended August 28, 1998 and August 29, 1997 3

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets
August 28, 1998 and November 28, 1997 4

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
Nine Months Ended August 28, 1998 and August 29, 1997 5

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements 7

Item 2. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial
Condition and Results of Operations 13

Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market
Risk 28

PART II -- OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1. Legal Proceedings 29

Item 2. Changes in Securities and Use of Proceeds 29

Item 6. Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K 30

Signatures 33

Summary of Trademarks 34



2
PART I -- FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

ADOBE SYSTEMS INCORPORATED
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
(IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)
(UNAUDITED)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

THREE MONTHS ENDED NINE MONTHS ENDED
------------------------ ------------------------
AUGUST 28 AUGUST 29 AUGUST 28 AUGUST 29
1998 1997 1998 1997
--------- --------- --------- ---------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Revenue:
Licensing $ 40,825 $ 45,159 $125,132 $149,880
Applications products 182,107 184,880 522,923 534,882
--------- --------- -------- --------
Total revenue 222,932 230,039 648,055 684,762
Direct costs 26,781 32,689 84,059 99,636
--------- --------- -------- --------
Gross margin 196,151 197,350 563,996 585,126
--------- --------- -------- --------
Operating expenses:
Research and development 53,598 43,876 153,335 123,326
Sales and marketing 84,126 78,392 242,787 225,609
General and administrative 24,587 18,917 69,555 57,519
Acquired in-process
technology 2,000 2,812 6,998 5,969
Restructuring and other
charges 37,940 1,769 38,505 (590)
--------- --------- -------- --------
Total operating expenses 202,251 145,766 511,180 411,833
--------- --------- -------- --------
Operating income (loss) (6,100) 51,584 52,816 173,293
--------- --------- -------- --------
Nonoperating income, net:
Investment gain 215 25,526 12,489 24,936
Interest and other income 6,127 8,418 22,217 23,670
--------- --------- -------- --------

Total nonoperating income, net 6,342 33,944 34,706 48,606
--------- --------- -------- --------
Income before income taxes 242 85,528 87,522 221,899
Provision for income taxes 90 32,100 32,646 81,881
--------- --------- -------- --------
Net income $ 152 $ 53,428 $ 54,876 $140,018
--------- --------- -------- --------
--------- --------- -------- --------
Basic net income per share $ -- $ .73 $ .82 $ 1.94
--------- --------- -------- --------
--------- --------- -------- --------
Shares used in computing basic
net income per share 67,278 72,766 67,271 72,103
--------- --------- -------- --------
--------- --------- -------- --------
Diluted net income per share $ -- $ .72 $ .80 $ 1.88
--------- --------- -------- --------
--------- --------- -------- --------
Shares used in computing diluted
net income per share 68,412 74,528 68,850 74,305
--------- --------- -------- --------
--------- --------- -------- --------

</TABLE>
SEE ACCOMPANYING NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.

3
ADOBE SYSTEMS INCORPORATED
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)
(UNAUDITED)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
AUGUST 28 NOVEMBER 28
1998 1997
--------- -----------
<S> <C> <C>
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents $183,795 $267,576
Short-term investments 259,471 235,380
Receivables, net of allowances of $5,260 and $3,634,
respectively 113,722 130,974
Other current assets 38,926 45,016
-------- --------
Total current assets 595,914 678,946

Property and equipment, net 95,244 80,978
Other assets 192,067 163,148
Deferred income taxes 19,742 16,999
-------- --------
$902,967 $940,071
-------- --------
-------- --------

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Trade and other payables $46,690 $57,857
Accrued expenses 96,392 94,358
Accrued restructuring charges 24,542 8,383
Income taxes payable 43,402 48,343
Deferred revenue 12,957 15,706
-------- --------
Total current liabilities 223,983 224,647
-------- --------
Stockholders' equity:
Common stock, $0.0001 par value 7 7
Additional paid-in capital 354,172 291,274
Retained earnings 708,780 663,861
Unrealized gains on investments, net 875 3,590
Cumulative translation adjustment (4,753) (4,620)
Treasury stock, at cost (380,097) (238,688)
-------- --------
Total stockholders' equity 678,984 715,424
-------- --------
$902,967 $940,071
-------- --------
-------- --------
</TABLE>

SEE ACCOMPANYING NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

4
ADOBE SYSTEMS INCORPORATED
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(IN THOUSANDS)
(UNAUDITED)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

NINE MONTHS ENDED
------------------------
AUGUST 28 AUGUST 29
1998 1997
--------- ---------
<S> <C> <C>
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income $ 54,876 $ 140,018
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash
provided by operating activities:
Stock compensation expense 2,094 4,021
Depreciation and amortization 41,430 34,732
Deferred income taxes (2,811) (16,155)
Provision for losses on accounts receivable 2,010 881
Tax benefit from employee stock plans 8,955 18,427
Equity in net income of Adobe Ventures 640 956
Gain on sale and distribution of equity investments (12,967) (27,645)
Write-off of acquired in-process technology 6,998 5,969
Non-cash restructuring and other charges 9,337 --
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Receivables 14,394 (7,654)
Other current assets 4,041 (64)
Trade and other payables (10,452) 3,934
Accrued expenses 14,448 6,077
Accrued restructuring costs 19,329 (2,125)
Income taxes payable (4,941) (3,497)
Deferred revenue (2,682) 749
--------- -----------
Net cash provided by operating activities 144,699 $ 158,624
--------- -----------
Cash flows from investing activities:
Purchases of short-term investments (871,465) (2,187,336)
Maturities and sales of short-term investments 845,905 2,136,511
Acquisitions of property and equipment (52,713) (25,348)
Additions to other assets (47,516) 3,599
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired -- (6,121)
--------- -----------
Net cash used for investing activities (125,789) (78,695)
--------- -----------
</TABLE>

(Continued)

SEE ACCOMPANYING NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

5
ADOBE SYSTEMS INCORPORATED
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(IN THOUSANDS)
(CONTINUED)
(UNAUDITED)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
NINE MONTHS ENDED
------------------------
AUGUST 28 AUGUST 29
1998 1997
--------- ---------
<S> <C> <C>
Cash flows from financing activities:
Proceeds from issuance of common stock $ 51,849 $ 58,128
Repurchase of common stock (141,409) (53,255)
Payment of dividends (12,998) (17,338)
---------- ----------
Net cash used by financing activities (102,558) (12,465)
---------- ----------
Effect of foreign currency exchange rates on
cash and cash equivalents (133) (1,298)
---------- ----------
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents (83,781) 66,166

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period 267,576 110,745
---------- ----------
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period $ 183,795 $ 176,911
---------- ----------
---------- ----------

Supplemental disclosures:
Cash paid during the period for income taxes $ 19,579 $ 54,986
---------- ----------
---------- ----------
Noncash investing and financing activities:
Cash dividends declared but not paid $ 3,351 $ 3,606
---------- ----------
---------- ----------

Dividend in-kind declared but not issued $ -- $ 8,728
---------- ----------
---------- ----------

Dividend in-kind distributed $ 7,197 $ 21,593
---------- ----------
---------- ----------
</TABLE>

SEE ACCOMPANYING NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.


6
ADOBE SYSTEMS INCORPORATED
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)

NOTE 1. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

BASIS OF PRESENTATION

The accompanying interim condensed consolidated financial statements of
Adobe Systems Incorporated ("Adobe" or the "Company") have been prepared in
conformity with generally accepted accounting principles, consistent in all
material respects with those applied in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K
for the year ended November 28, 1997. The interim financial information is
unaudited but reflects all normal adjustments which are, in the opinion of
management, necessary to provide fair condensed consolidated balance sheets and
condensed consolidated statements of income and cash flows for the interim
periods presented. The interim financial statements should be read in
conjunction with the financial statements in the Company's Annual Report on Form
10-K for the year ended November 28, 1997.

The results of operations for the interim period ended August 28, 1998, are
not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the full year.

REVENUE RECOGNITION

In October 1997, the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants
issued Statement of Position ("SOP") 97-2, "Software Revenue Recognition." SOP
97-2 establishes standards relating to the recognition of all aspects of
software revenue. Based on the Company's ongoing assessment of the impact SOP
97-2 may have on its consolidated results of operations, the Company is
modifying certain aspects of its business model such that any impact will not be
significant. The Company will adopt SOP 97-2 for its fiscal year 1999.

COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

In June 1997, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued SFAS
No. 130, "Reporting Comprehensive Income." SFAS No. 130 establishes standards
for reporting and displaying comprehensive income and its components in the
financial statements. It does not, however, require a specific format for the
disclosure but requires the Company to display an amount representing total
comprehensive income for the periods presented in its financial statements. The
Company will be required to implement SFAS No. 130 for its first quarter of
fiscal year 1999.

SEGMENT REPORTING

In June 1997, the FASB issued SFAS No. 131, "Disclosures about Segments of
an Enterprise and Related Information." SFAS No. 131 establishes standards for
the manner in which public companies report information about operating segments
in annual and interim financial statements. The Company is currently evaluating
the operating segment information to determine whether this will have an impact
on its financial statement reporting. The Company will be required to implement
SFAS No. 131 for its fiscal year 1999.

7
ADOBE SYSTEMS INCORPORATED
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(IN THOUSANDS)
(CONTINUED)

NOTE 1. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)

DERIVATIVES AND HEDGING

In June 1998, the FASB issued SFAS No. 133 "Accounting for Derivative
Instruments and Hedging Activities." SFAS No. 133 establishes accounting and
reporting standards for derivative financial instruments and hedging activities
and requires the Company to recognize all derivatives as either assets or
liabilities on the balance sheet and measure them at fair value. Gains and
losses resulting from changes in fair value would be accounted for depending on
the use of the derivative and whether it is designated and qualifies for hedge
accounting. The Company will be required to implement SFAS No. 133 for its
fiscal year 2000. The Company has not determined the impact that SFAS No. 133
will have on its financial statements and believes that such determination will
not be meaningful until closer to the date of initial adoption.

RECLASSIFICATIONS

Certain amounts in the 1997 Condensed Consolidated Statement of Cash
Flows have been reclassified to conform to the 1998 presentation.

NOTE 2. OTHER ASSETS

Other assets consisted of the following:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
AUGUST 28 NOVEMBER 28
1998 1997
--------- -----------
<S> <C> <C>
Equity investments $ 49,414 $ 35,689
Purchased technology and licensing
agreements 3,463 5,043
Restricted funds and security deposits 130,260 102,962
Miscellaneous other assets 23,139 45,097
--------- -----------
206,276 188,791

Less accumulated amortization 14,209 25,643
--------- -----------
$ 192,067 $ 163,148
--------- -----------
--------- -----------

</TABLE>

8
ADOBE SYSTEMS INCORPORATED
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)
(CONTINUED)

NOTE 3. ACCRUED EXPENSES

Accrued expenses consisted of the following:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
AUGUST 28 NOVEMBER 28
1998 1997
----------- -----------
<S> <C> <C>
Accrued compensation and benefits $ 26,274 $ 37,833
Sales and marketing allowances 15,096 13,028
Other 55,022 43,497
----------- -----------
$ 96,392 $ 94,358
----------- -----------
----------- -----------
</TABLE>

NOTE 4. RESTRUCTURING AND OTHER CHARGES

In the third quarter of fiscal 1998, the Company implemented a
restructuring program aimed at streamlining its underlying cost structure to
better position the Company for growth and profitability. As part of the
restructuring program, the Company implemented a reduction in force of
approximately 350 positions, for the most part in its North American operations.
The reductions came primarily from overhead areas, divested business units and
redundant marketing activities, and as of August 31, 1998, the majority of these
terminations were completed. In addition to severance and related charges
associated with the reduction in force, the restructuring program includes
charges for divesting two business units, vacating leased facilities and
canceling certain contracts. These actions and other non-recurring items
resulted in charges of $37.9 million, of which approximately $9.3 million were
non-cash charges. Of the $28.6 million in anticipated cash charges, $20.4
million remains accrued at August 28, 1998, and will be paid over the next
twelve months and financed through current working capital.

9
ADOBE SYSTEMS INCORPORATED
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)
(CONTINUED)

NOTE 4. RESTRUCTURING AND OTHER CHARGES (CONTINUED)

The following table depicts the restructuring and other activity through
August 28, 1998:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

ACCRUED ACCRUED
BALANCE AT TOTAL BALANCE AT
NOVEMBER 28 CHARGES CASH AUGUST 28
1997 (CREDITS) PAYMENTS WRITE-DOWNS 1998
----------- --------- -------- ----------- ----------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Severance and
related charges $ -- $13,699 $(3,124) $ -- $ 10,575
Lease termination
costs -- 4,526 -- -- 4,526
Impairment of
leasehold
improvements at
vacated facilities -- 6,382 -- (6,382) --
Divestiture of
business units -- 5,958 -- (5,958) --
Canceled contracts -- 6,178 (1,296) -- 4,882
Other nonrecurring
charges -- 4,367 -- (3,964) 403
----------- --------- -------- ----------- ----------
-- 41,110 (4,420) (16,304) 20,386
Accrual related
to previous
restructuring 8,383 (3,170) (1,057) -- 4,156
----------- --------- -------- ----------- ----------
$8,383 $37,940 $(5,477) $ (16,304) $ 24,542
----------- --------- -------- ----------- ----------
----------- --------- -------- ----------- ----------
</TABLE>

The Company divested two business units with aggregate net assets of
approximately $6.0 million, including cash of $3.8 million, in exchange for
$2.5 million in notes receivable and future royalties. The Company fully
offset the notes receivable with an allowance for doubtful accounts due to
uncertainties in collection. The two business units generated combined annual
revenues of approximately $25 million. Operating losses associated with these
two business units were not material.

Canceled contracts relate primarily to the divestiture of the two business
units and the termination of certain corporate marketing programs.

Other non-recurring charges primarily include the write-off of fixed assets
as a result of a book-to-physical inventory adjustment and goodwill relating to
a business in Japan that is in the process of restructuring its business
function.

Approximately $8.4 million in accrued restructuring costs remained as of
November 28, 1997 in connection with the mergers with Aldus and Frame in
fiscal 1994 and fiscal 1995, respectively. During fiscal 1998 lease payments
of $1.1 million were made against the accrual and, as a result of the
renegotiation of certain facility leases and the sublease of certain
facilities in fiscal 1998, $3.2 million of the restructuring accrual related
to the Aldus and Frame acquisitions was reversed in the third quarter of
fiscal 1998. The remaining accrual of $4.2 million at August 28, 1998 relates
to lease termination costs primarily in Europe.



10
ADOBE SYSTEMS INCORPORATED
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)
(CONTINUED)

NOTE 5. NET INCOME PER SHARE

Basic net income per share is computed using the weighted average number of
common shares outstanding for the period. Diluted net income per share is based
upon the weighted average common shares outstanding for the period plus dilutive
common equivalent shares including unvested restricted common stock, stock
options using the treasury stock method, and put warrants using the reverse
treasury stock method.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

THREE MONTHS ENDED NINE MONTHS ENDED
------------------------- ------------------------
AUGUST 28 AUGUST 29 AUGUST 28 AUGUST 29
1998 1997 1998 1997
---------- --------- --------- ---------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Net income $ 152 $ 53,428 $ 54,876 $ 140,018
---------- --------- --------- ---------
---------- --------- --------- ---------
Shares used to compute basic net
income per share (weighted
average shares outstanding
during the period) 67,278 72,766 67,271 72,103

Dilutive common equivalent
shares:
Unvested restricted stock 67 179 67 179
Stock options 868 1,583 1,483 2,023
Put warrants 199 -- 29 --
---------- --------- --------- ---------
Shares used to compute diluted
net income per share 68,412 74,528 68,850 74,305
---------- --------- --------- ---------
---------- --------- --------- ---------
Basic net income per share $ -- $ .73 $ .82 $ 1.94
---------- --------- --------- ---------
---------- --------- --------- ---------
Diluted net income per share $ -- $ .72 $ .80 $ 1.88
---------- --------- --------- ---------
---------- --------- --------- ---------

</TABLE>

NOTE 6. STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY

STOCK REPURCHASE PROGRAMS

In September 1997, the Company's Board of Directors authorized, subject to
certain business and market conditions, the purchase of up to an additional 15
million shares of the Company's common stock over a two-year period. This new
stock repurchase program was in addition to an existing program, whereby the
Company has been authorized to repurchase shares to offset issuances under
employee stock option and stock purchase plans. During the fourth quarter of
fiscal 1997 and the first nine months of fiscal 1998, the Company repurchased
approximately 4.7 and 3.7 million shares of its common stock, respectively. As
of August 28, 1998, management is authorized to repurchase an additional 7.7
million shares under the 15 million share repurchase program.

PUT WARRANTS AND CALL OPTIONS

To facilitate the Company's stock repurchase programs, the Company sold put
warrants to independent third parties. Each warrant entitles the holder to sell
one share of Adobe's common stock to the Company at a specified price. On August
28, 1998, put warrants to sell

11
ADOBE SYSTEMS INCORPORATED
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)
(CONTINUED)

NOTE 6. STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY (CONTINUED)

approximately 1.4 million shares of the Company's common stock were
outstanding that expire on various dates through February 1999 with an
average exercise price of $40.67 per share. Under these put warrant
arrangements, the Company, at its option, can settle with physical delivery
or net shares equal to the difference between the exercise price and market
value at the date of exercise.

In addition, the Company purchased call options from independent third
parties that entitle the Company to buy its common stock on certain dates at
specified prices. On August 28, 1998, call options to purchase approximately
128,000 shares of the Company's common stock were outstanding that expire on
various dates through February 1999 with an average exercise price of $29.79
per share.

NOTE 7. COMMITMENTS

During the third quarter of fiscal 1998, the Company engaged two
investment banking firms to assist with responding to an unsolicited
acquisition proposal. As part of the agreement, the Company is required to
pay advisory fees of approximately $13.0 million, of which approximately
$12.0 million remains to be paid over the next two years. In the event that
the Company terminates either of the firms' services, the Company is still
committed to pay advisory fees until its obligation is fulfilled.

NOTE 8. SUBSEQUENT EVENT

STOCK OPTION REPRICING

In order to address concerns regarding employee retention, on September
23, 1998, the Board of Directors approved a stock option repricing program
whereby each eligible underwater stock option was automatically amended to
have an exercise price equal to the Company's closing stock price on that
day. All other terms of the options, including expiration dates, remain
substantially the same. Approximately 5 million options were amended under
this repricing program.

12
ITEM 2.   MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

THE FOLLOWING DISCUSSION (PRESENTED IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT SHARE AND PER SHARE
AMOUNTS) SHOULD BE READ IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL
STATEMENTS AND NOTES THERETO.

IN ADDITION TO HISTORICAL INFORMATION, THIS QUARTERLY REPORT ON FORM
10-Q CONTAINS FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS THAT INVOLVE RISKS AND UNCERTAINTIES
THAT COULD CAUSE ACTUAL RESULTS TO DIFFER MATERIALLY. FACTORS THAT MIGHT
CAUSE OR CONTRIBUTE TO SUCH DIFFERENCES INCLUDE, BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO,
THOSE DISCUSSED IN THE SECTION ENTITLED "MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - FACTORS THAT MAY AFFECT
FUTURE RESULTS OF OPERATIONS." READERS SHOULD CAREFULLY REVIEW THE RISKS
DESCRIBED IN OTHER DOCUMENTS THE COMPANY FILES FROM TIME TO TIME WITH THE
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION. READERS ARE CAUTIONED NOT TO PLACE UNDUE
RELIANCE ON THE FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS, WHICH SPEAK ONLY AS OF THE DATE
OF THIS QUARTERLY REPORT ON FORM 10-Q. THE COMPANY UNDERTAKES NO OBLIGATION
TO PUBLICLY RELEASE ANY REVISIONS TO THE FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS OR
REFLECT EVENTS OR CIRCUMSTANCES AFTER THE DATE OF THIS DOCUMENT.

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS


OVERVIEW

Adobe Systems Incorporated ("Adobe" or the "Company") develops, markets,
and supports computer software products and technologies that enable users to
express and use information across both print and electronic media. The Company
offers a market-leading line of applications software and type products for
creating and distributing visually rich communication materials; licenses its
industry-standard technologies to major hardware manufacturers, software
developers, and service providers; and offers integrated software solutions to
businesses of all sizes. The Company distributes its products through a network
of original equipment manufacturer ("OEM") customers, distributors and dealers,
value-added resellers ("VARs"), and system integrators and has operations in
North America, Europe, Japan, and Asia, Pacific and Latin America.

13
The following table sets forth for the three and nine month periods
ended August 28, 1998 and August 29, 1997, the Company's condensed
consolidated statements of income expressed as a percentage of total revenue:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
THREE MONTHS ENDED NINE MONTHS ENDED
------------------------ ------------------------
AUGUST 28 AUGUST 29 AUGUST 28 AUGUST 29
1998 1997 1998 1997
--------- --------- --------- ---------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Revenue:
Licensing 18.3% 19.6% 19.3% 21.9%
Applications products 81.7 80.4 80.7 78.1
--------- --------- --------- ---------
Total revenue 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0

Direct costs 12.0 14.2 13.0 14.6
--------- --------- --------- ---------
Gross margin 88.0 85.8 87.0 85.4
--------- --------- --------- ---------
Operating expenses:
Research and development 24.0 19.1 23.7 18.0
Sales and marketing 37.8 34.1 37.5 32.9
General and administrative 11.0 8.2 10.7 8.4
Acquired in-process
technology 0.9 1.2 1.1 0.9
Restructuring and other
charges 17.0 0.8 5.9 (0.1)
--------- --------- --------- ---------
Total operating expenses 90.7 63.4 78.9 60.1
--------- --------- --------- ---------
Operating income (loss) (2.7) 22.4 8.1 25.3
--------- --------- --------- ---------
Nonoperating income, net:
Investment gain 0.1 11.1 1.9 3.6
Interest and other income 2.7 3.7 3.5 3.5
--------- --------- --------- ---------
Total nonoperating income, net 2.8 14.8 5.4 7.1
--------- --------- --------- ---------
Income before income taxes 0.1 37.2 13.5 32.4

Provision for income taxes -- 14.0 5.0 12.0
--------- --------- --------- ---------
Net income 0.1% 23.2% 8.5% 20.4%
--------- --------- --------- ---------
--------- --------- --------- ---------
</TABLE>

14
REVENUE
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
AUGUST 28 AUGUST 29
1998 1997 CHANGE
--------- --------- ------
(Dollars in millions)
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Three months ended:
Total revenue $222.9 $230.0 (3.1)%

Nine months ended:

Total revenue $648.1 $684.8 (5.4)%
</TABLE>

Total revenue decreased 3.1% and 5.4% in the third quarter and first nine
months of fiscal 1998, respectively, as compared to the corresponding periods in
fiscal 1997. The weakness in the Japanese economy and a decrease in licensing
revenue were the principal factors in the Company's revenue decline.

As part of the Company's restructuring program announced and implemented in
the third quarter of fiscal 1998, two business units were divested which
generated combined annual revenues of approximately $25 million. The Company has
targeted annual revenue growth from its ongoing businesses of approximately 15%
as compared to fiscal 1998 reported revenue.

LICENSING REVENUE:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

AUGUST 28 AUGUST 29
1998 1997 CHANGE
--------- --------- ------
(Dollars in millions)
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Three months ended:

Licensing revenue $40.8 $45.2 (9.6)%

Percentage of total revenue 18.3% 19.6%

Nine months ended:

Licensing revenue $125.1 $149.9 (16.5)%

Percentage of total revenue 19.3% 21.9%
</TABLE>

Licensing revenue is derived from shipments by OEM customers of products
containing Adobe PostScript technology. Adobe PostScript is a software
language for describing to a printer the appearance of a page, including
text, graphics, and images. Products that contain PostScript technology
include: (1) black-and-white printers; (2) color printers; (3) slide
recorders; (4) imagesetters; (5) screen displays; and (6) digital copiers.
Adobe PostScript technology includes Adobe PostScript, Adobe PostScript Level
2, Adobe PostScript 3, and Adobe PostScript Extreme, all of which serve the
enterprise, graphic arts, production printing, small office/home office
markets, and high-volume production printing markets.

Licensing revenue decreased $4.4 million or 9.6% in the third
quarter of fiscal 1998 compared to the same quarter last year and $24.8
million or 16.5% in the first nine months of fiscal 1998 compared to the same
period in 1997 primarily due to weakness in the Japanese personal computer
and printer markets and a reduction in royalty revenue from Hewlett-Packard
Company's ("HP") desktop monochrome laser printer division which is now
incorporating a non-Adobe clone version of Adobe PostScript into some of its
products.

15
The Company continues to be cautious about licensing revenue in the
short term due to weak Japanese market conditions and uncertain timing of OEM
customer introductions of products incorporating Adobe's latest technologies.
Based on a strategic review of the Company's printing systems business, the
Company is now focusing its resources on high growth revenue opportunities in
digital color, color inkjet, short-run on-demand digital printing, and
digital copiers. This strategic focus is intended to increase licensing
revenue growth in the long term, although the Company anticipates that its
licensing revenue in the remainder of fiscal 1998 will continue to be below
fiscal 1997 levels.

APPLICATIONS PRODUCTS REVENUE:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
AUGUST 28 AUGUST 29
1998 1997 CHANGE
--------- --------- ------
(Dollars in millions)
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Three months ended:

Applications products revenue $182.1 $184.9 (1.5)%

Percentage of total revenue 81.7% 80.4%

Nine months ended:

Applications products revenue $522.9 $534.9 (2.2)%

Percentage of total revenue 80.7% 78.1%

</TABLE>

Applications products revenue is derived predominantly from shipments of
application software programs marketed through distribution channels, with the
exception of Adobe PhotoDeluxe, which is primarily distributed through OEM
bundling agreements with digital camera, scanner, and personal computer
manufacturers.

Applications products revenue decreased $2.8 million or 1.5% in the
third quarter of fiscal 1998 compared to the same period last year due to a
decline in Adobe Illustrator and PageMaker revenues as the market
anticipates new releases of these products and due to ongoing weakness in the
Japanese economy. The decline in revenue was partially offset by increased
sales of Photoshop and revenue growth from the Company's video products,
Acrobat products, and ImageReady, the Company's new product for designing
images on the Internet.

For the first nine months of fiscal 1998, applications products revenue
decreased $12.0 million or 2.2% compared to the same period last year
primarily due to weakness in the Japanese economy and a continuing decline in
applications product revenue from the Macintosh platform.

DIRECT COSTS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

AUGUST 28 AUGUST 29
1998 1997 CHANGE
--------- --------- ------
(Dollars in millions)
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Three months ended:

Direct costs $26.8 $32.7 (18.1)%

Percentage of total revenue 12.0% 14.2%

Nine months ended:

Direct costs $84.1 $99.6 (15.6)%

Percentage of total revenue 13.0% 14.6%

</TABLE>

16
Direct costs include product packaging, third party royalties, amortization
of localization costs and acquired technologies, and reserves for excess and
obsolete inventory. Direct costs were lower in the third quarter and first nine
months of fiscal 1998 compared with the same periods last year due to lower
royalty expenses and less product inventory requiring reserves for obsolescence.

Gross margin (expressed as a percentage of revenue), in general, is
affected by the mix of licensing revenue versus applications products revenue as
well as the product mix within application products and the mix of full and
upgrade products sold.

OPERATING EXPENSES

RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

AUGUST 28 AUGUST 29
1998 1997 CHANGE
--------- --------- ------
(Dollars in millions)
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Three months ended:

Research and development $53.6 $43.9 22.2%

Percentage of total revenue 24.0% 19.1%

Nine months ended:

Research and development $153.3 $123.3 24.3%

Percentage of total revenue 23.7% 18.0%
</TABLE>

Research and development expenses consist principally of salaries and
benefits for software developers, contracted development efforts, related
facilities costs, and expenses associated with computer equipment used in
software development.

Research and development expenses increased in the third quarter and first
nine months of fiscal 1998 compared with the same periods last year due to
increased investment in new technologies, new product development, and the
infrastructure to support such activities. The increase reflects the expansion
of the Company's engineering staff and related costs required to support its
continued emphasis on developing new products and enhancing existing products.
The Company continues to make significant investments in development of its
software products, including those targeted for the growing Internet market.

Research and development expenses in the fourth quarter of fiscal 1998
are expected to decrease in absolute dollars from the third quarter of fiscal
1998 as a result of the Company's restructuring program. Research and
development expenses beyond the fourth quarter of fiscal 1998 are expected to
increase in absolute dollars as the Company believes that continued
investments in research and development, including the recruiting and hiring
of software developers, are necessary to remain competitive in the
marketplace and are directly related to continued, timely development of new
and enhanced products.

17
SALES AND MARKETING:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

AUGUST 28 AUGUST 29
1998 1997 CHANGE
--------- --------- ------
(Dollars in millions)
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Three months ended:

Sales and marketing $84.1 $78.4 7.3%

Percentage of total revenue 37.8% 34.1%


Nine months ended:

Sales and marketing $242.8 $225.6 7.6%

Percentage of total revenue 37.5% 32.9%
</TABLE>

Sales and marketing expenses include salaries and benefits, sales
commissions, travel expenses, and related facility costs for the Company's
sales, marketing, customer support, and distribution personnel. Sales and
marketing expenses also include the costs of programs aimed at increasing
revenue, such as advertising, trade shows and other market development programs.

Sales and marketing expenses increased in the third quarter of fiscal 1998
compared to the same period last year due to higher employee costs, trade show
expenses and customer support costs.

For the first nine months of fiscal 1998 compared with the same period last
year, sales and marketing expenses increased due to advertising and promotional
expenditures in connection with new product releases and sales and marketing
staff to support a growing number of products and customers.

Sales and marketing expenses in the fourth quarter of fiscal 1998 are
expected to decrease in absolute dollars from the third quarter of fiscal 1998
as a result of the Company's restructuring program. Sales and marketing expenses
beyond the fourth quarter of fiscal 1998 are expected to increase in absolute
dollars to support future revenue growth.



GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

AUGUST 28 AUGUST 29
1998 1997 CHANGE
--------- --------- ------
(Dollars in millions)
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Three months ended:

General and administrative $24.6 $18.9 30.0%

Percentage of total revenue 11.0% 8.2%

Nine months ended:

General and administrative $69.6 $57.5 20.9%

Percentage of total revenue 10.7% 8.4%

</TABLE>

General and administrative expenses consist principally of salaries and
benefits, travel expenses, and related facility expenses for finance, human
resources, legal, information services, and administrative personnel of the
Company. General and administrative expenses also include outside legal and
accounting fees, bad debts, and expenses associated with computer equipment and
software used in the administration of the business.

18
General and administrative expenses increased $5.7 million or 30% for the
third quarter of fiscal 1998 compared with the same period last year due to
increased expenses for outside legal and investment banking services in
connection with responding to an unsolicited acquisition proposal, increased
employee costs, and higher depreciation and building expenses associated with
increased staff and a more comprehensive administrative infrastructure. In
addition, the provision for losses on accounts receivable increased to reserve
for accounts receivable from certain customers which were deemed potentially
uncollectible.

For the first nine months of fiscal 1998 compared to the same period
last year, general and administrative expenses increased due to higher legal
and investment banking expenses, employee expenses and related depreciation
and building expenses associated with increased staff. Additionally, general
and administrative expenses in the first nine months of fiscal 1998 include
the write-off of $2.4 million of goodwill associated with an acquisition that
took place in fiscal 1997. These increased expenses were partially offset by
the reversal of an executive incentive bonus program accrual that was based
on various revenue and operating margin targets that were not attained.

General and administrative expenses in the fourth quarter of fiscal 1998
are expected to decrease in absolute dollars from the third quarter of fiscal
1998 as a result of the Company's restructuring program. General and
administrative expenses beyond the fourth quarter of fiscal 1998 are expected to
increase in absolute dollars to support future infrastructure needs and also due
to continuing commitments resulting from the Company's response to an
unsolicited acquisition proposal during the third quarter of fiscal 1998.

ACQUIRED IN-PROCESS TECHNOLOGY:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

AUGUST 28 AUGUST 29
1998 1997 CHANGE
--------- --------- ------
(Dollars in millions)
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Three months ended:

Acquired in-process technology $2.0 $2.8 (28.9)%

Percentage of total revenue 0.9% 1.2%

Nine months ended:

Acquired in-process technology $7.0 $6.0 17.2%

Percentage of total revenue 1.1% 0.9%
</TABLE>

For the third quarter and first nine months of fiscal 1998, acquired
in-process technology includes several acquired technologies associated with
Adobe products that have yet to reach technological feasibility as defined
within SFAS No. 86, "Accounting for the Costs of Computer Software to Be
Sold, Leased, or Otherwise Marketed," and for which no alternative uses have
been established by the Company.

The Company acquired two software companies during the first nine months
of fiscal 1997 and accounted for the transactions using the purchase method.
The aggregate purchase price of the companies was principally allocated to
in-process research and development, and was therefore expensed at the time
of the acquisitions.

19
RESTRUCTURING AND OTHER CHARGES:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

AUGUST 28 AUGUST 29
1998 1997 CHANGE
--------- --------- ------
(Dollars in millions)
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Three months ended:

Restructuring and other charges $37.9 $1.8 2044.7%

Percentage of total revenue 17.0% 0.8%

Nine months ended:

Restructuring and other charges $38.5 $(0.6) --

Percentage of total revenue 5.9% (0.1)%
</TABLE>

In the third quarter of fiscal 1998, the Company implemented a
restructuring program aimed at streamlining its underlying cost structure to
better position the Company for growth and profitability. As part of the
restructuring program, the Company implemented a reduction in force of
approximately 350 positions, for the most part in its North American operations.
The reductions came primarily from overhead areas, divested business units and
redundant marketing activities, and as of August 31, 1998, the majority of these
terminations were completed. In addition to severance and related charges
associated with the reduction in force, the restructuring program includes
charges for divesting two business units, vacating leased facilities and
canceling certain contracts. These actions and other non-recurring items
resulted in charges of $37.9 million, of which approximately $9.3 million were
non-cash charges. For further information regarding the Company's restructuring
program, see Note 4 of the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
(Unaudited) included in Part I of this Quarterly Report. In the third quarter of
fiscal 1997, restructuring and other charges included a charge related to the
acquisition of intellectual property.

In addition to the aforementioned items, included in restructuring and
other charges for the first nine months of fiscal 1998 are expenses
associated with the reduction in force in the Company's Printing and Systems
business as part of the Company's initiative to refocus resources on
high-growth opportunities in the printing and digital copier markets. The
first nine months of fiscal 1997 also include a net gain on the divestiture
of a product line.

The Company currently does not anticipate further restructuring charges
during the remainder of fiscal 1998 as it completes its restructuring
program. As a result of the restructuring program, the Company's expense base
was reduced by approximately $60 million on an annualized basis. The majority
of cost savings are expected to be realized as a result of lower headcount,
reduced facility costs and terminated marketing programs. Beyond the fourth
quarter of fiscal 1998, these cost savings are expected to be offset by
increased operating expenses to support future revenue growth.

20
NONOPERATING INCOME, NET

INVESTMENT GAIN :
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
AUGUST 28 AUGUST 29
1998 1997 CHANGE
--------- --------- ------
(Dollars in millions)
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Three months ended:

Investment gain $ 0.2 $25.5 (99.2)%

Percentage of total revenue 0.1% 11.1%

Nine months ended:

Investment gain $12.5 $24.9 (49.9)%

Percentage of total revenue 1.9% 3.6%

</TABLE>

Investment gain consists principally of realized gains or losses from
direct investments as well as mark-to-market valuation adjustments for Adobe
Ventures L.P. investments.

During the third quarter of fiscal 1998, gains and losses resulting from
investment activity were minimal. In the third quarter of fiscal 1997,
investment gain included a $20.3 million gain for the distribution to
stockholders of 554,553 shares of Netscape Communications Corporation
("Netscape") stock as a stock dividend, and a gain of $7.3 million for the sale
of 200,000 shares of Netscape stock, both of which were partially offset by
losses from direct investments.

For the first nine months of fiscal 1998, the investment gain consists
principally of two transactions. McQueen International Limited ("McQueen"), a
former investee of the Company, was acquired by Sykes Enterprises, Incorporated
("Sykes"), a publicly traded company. In connection with the acquisition, the
Company exchanged its shares of McQueen for approximately 487,000 shares of
Sykes' restricted common stock and recorded a gain on the exchange of $6.7
million. In the third quarter of 1998, these shares were sold and an additional
minimal gain was recorded. In addition, the Company liquidated its investment in
Siebel Systems, Incorporated ("Siebel") through the distribution to its
stockholders of approximately 165,000 shares of Siebel as a dividend-in-kind and
the sale of its remaining Siebel shares. A gain was recognized on the
transaction of approximately $5.7 million.

INTEREST AND OTHER INCOME:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

AUGUST 28 AUGUST 29
1998 1997 CHANGE
--------- --------- ------
(Dollars in millions)
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Three months ended:

Interest and other income $6.1 $8.4 (27.2)%

Percentage of total revenue 2.7% 3.7%

Nine months ended:

Interest and other income $22.2 $23.7 (6.1)%

Percentage of total revenue 3.5% 3.5%

</TABLE>

Interest and other income consists principally of interest earned on
cash, cash equivalents, and short-term investments.


21
The decrease in interest and other income in the third quarter and the
first nine months of fiscal 1998 compared with the same periods last year is
due to lower average cash and short-term investment balances in 1998,
primarily as a result of stock repurchases in the fourth quarter of fiscal
1997 and the first nine months of fiscal 1998.

PROVISION FOR INCOME TAXES
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

AUGUST 28 AUGUST 29
1998 1997 CHANGE
--------- --------- ------
(Dollars in millions)
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Three months ended:

Provision for income taxes $0.1 $32.1 (99.7)%

Percentage of total revenue 0.0% 14.0%

Effective tax rate 37.3% 37.5%


Nine months ended:

Provision for income taxes $32.6 $81.9 (60.1)%

Percentage of total revenue 5.0% 12.0%

Effective tax rate 37.3% 36.9%

</TABLE>

The Company's effective tax rate for the third quarter of fiscal 1998
was lower than the same period in fiscal 1997 primarily as a result of the
non-deductible in-process research and development charges incurred in the
third quarter of fiscal 1997.

In the first nine months of fiscal 1998, the Company's effective tax rate
increased primarily due to the non-deductible write-off of goodwill relating
to a fiscal 1997 acquisition, a decrease in research and experimentation tax
credits (the federal credit expired on June 30, 1998), and lower tax-exempt
interest income.

The Company expects that the effective tax rate for the remainder of
fiscal 1998 will be between 37% and 38% due to lower tax-exempt interest
income as a result of cash requirements for the Company's stock repurchase
programs and due to the expiration of the federal research and
experimentation tax credit on June 30, 1998.

FACTORS THAT MAY AFFECT FUTURE RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

The Company believes that in the future its results of operations could
be affected by various factors, such as delays in shipment of the Company's
new products and major new versions of existing products, lack of market
acceptance of new products and upgrades, weakness in demand for Macintosh
application software and Macintosh-related printers, renegotiation of royalty
arrangements, growth in worldwide personal computer and printer sales and
sales price adjustments, consolidation in the OEM printer business, ongoing
weakness in the color copier business due to product transitions, industry
transitions to new business and information delivery models, ongoing weakness
in the Japanese and other Asian economies, "Year 2000" issues, and adverse
changes in general economic conditions in any of the countries in which the
Company does business.

The Company has stated that in fiscal 1999 its annual revenue growth
target is 15% and its operating margin target is 25% of total revenue. These
targets are used to assist the Company's management in making decisions about
the allocation of resources and investments, not as predictions of future
results. The targets reflect a number of assumptions, including assumptions

22
about the Company's pricing, manufacturing costs and volumes, and the mix of
application products and licensing revenue, full and upgrade products,
distribution channels and geographic distribution. These and many other
factors described herein affect the Company's financial performance and may
cause the Company's future results, including results for the current
quarter, to vary materially from these targets.

The Company's ability to develop and market products, including upgrades
of current products that successfully adapt to changing customer needs, may
also have an impact on the results of operations. The Company's ability to
extend its core technologies into new applications and to anticipate or
respond to technological changes could affect its ability to develop these
products. A portion of the Company's future revenue will come from these new
applications. Delays in product or upgrade introductions, whether by the
Company or its OEM customers, could have an adverse effect on the Company's
revenue, earnings, or stock price. The Company cannot determine the ultimate
effect that these new products or upgrades will have on its revenue or
results of operations.

The market for the Company's graphics applications, particularly the
consumer products, is intensely and increasingly competitive and is
significantly affected by product introductions and market activities of
industry competitors. Additionally, Microsoft Corporation has stated its
intention to increase its presence in the digital imaging/graphics market by
mid-1999; the Company believes that, due to Microsoft's market dominance, any
new Microsoft digital imaging products will be highly competitive with the
Company's products. If competing new products achieve widespread acceptance,
it would have a significant adverse impact on the Company's operating results.

Although the Company generally offers its application products on
Macintosh, Windows, and UNIX platforms, a majority of the overall revenue
from these products prior to fiscal 1997 has been from the Macintosh
platform, particularly for the higher end Macintosh computers. In fiscal
1997, Windows-based application revenue exceeded that from the Macintosh
platform for the first time, and for the past several quarters, Macintosh
platform sales of application products have continued to decline year over
year while Windows platform sales have continued to rise. If there is a
continuing slowdown of customer purchases in the higher end Macintosh market,
or if the Company is unable to continue to increase its revenue from Windows
customers commensurate with such a slowdown, the Company's operating results
could be materially adversely affected. In addition, to the extent that there
is a slowdown of customer purchases of personal computers in general, the
Company's operating results could be materially adversely affected. Also, as
the Company seeks to further broaden its customer base to achieve greater
penetration in the corporate business and consumer markets, the Company may
not successfully adapt its application software distribution channels, which
could materially adversely affect the Company's operating results. The
Company could experience decreases in average selling prices and some
transitions in its distribution channels that could materially adversely
affect its operating results.

The Company continues to expand into third-party distribution channels,
including value-added resellers and systems integrators, in its effort to
further broaden its customer base. As a result, the financial health of
these third parties, and the Company's continuing relationships with them,
are becoming more important to the Company's success. Some of these companies
are thinly capitalized and may be unable to withstand changes in business
conditions. The Company's financial results could be adversely affected if
the financial condition of certain of these third parties substantially
weakens or if the Company's relationships with them deteriorate.

The Company's OEM customers on occasion seek to renegotiate their
royalty arrangements. The Company evaluates these requests on a case-by-case
basis. If an agreement is not reached, a customer may decide to pursue other
options, which could result in lower licensing revenue for

23
the Company. In the fall of fiscal 1997, HP began to ship non-Adobe
PostScript clone software in some printers, resulting in lower licensing
revenue to the Company in fiscal 1998, even though the Company continues to
work with HP printer operations to incorporate Adobe PostScript and other
technologies in other HP products. The Company expects lower licensing
revenue from HP during the remainder of fiscal 1998.

During late fiscal 1997 and the first nine months of fiscal 1998, the
Company experienced a decline in both application and licensing revenue from
the Japanese market due to a weak Japanese computer market and general
economic conditions in Japan. In addition, at the end of fiscal 1997,
inventory levels for applications products at the Company's Japanese
distributors remained higher than what the Company considers normal. During
fiscal 1998, the Company worked with its major distributors in Japan to
reduce channel inventory to what the Company considers a reasonable level.
The Company expects these adverse economic conditions to continue in the
short term, and they may continue to adversely affect the Company's revenue
and earnings. Although there are also adverse conditions in other Asian
economies, the countries affected represent a much smaller portion of the
Company's revenue and thus have less impact on the Company's operational
results.

The Company has recently implemented a restructuring of its business and
reduced its workforce by more than ten percent. However, the Company plans to
continue to invest in certain areas, which will require it to hire additional
employees. Competition for high quality personnel, especially highly skilled
engineers, is extremely intense. The Company's ability to effectively manage
its growth will require it to continue to improve its operational and
financial controls and information management systems, and to attract,
retain, motivate, and manage employees effectively. The failure of the
Company to effectively manage growth and transition in multiple areas of its
business could have a material adverse effect on its results of operations.

The Internet market is rapidly evolving and is characterized by an
increasing number of market entrants that have introduced or developed
products addressing authoring and communications over the Internet. As is
typical in the case of a new and evolving industry, demand and market
acceptance for recently introduced products and services are subject to a
high level of uncertainty. The software industry addressing authoring and
communications over the Internet is young and has few proven products. In
addition, new models for licensing software will be needed to accommodate new
information delivery practices. Moreover, critical issues concerning the
commercial use of the Internet (including security, reliability, ease of use
and access, cost, and quality of service) remain unresolved and may affect
the growth of Internet use, together with the software standards and
electronic media employed in such markets.

The Company derives a significant portion of its revenue and operating
income from its subsidiaries located in Europe, Japan, and Asia, Pacific, and
Latin America. The Company generally experiences lower revenue from its
European operations in the third quarter because many customers reduce their
purchasing activities in the summer months. Additionally, the Company is
uncertain whether the recent weakness experienced in the Japan and Asia,
Pacific and Latin America markets will continue in the foreseeable future due
to extreme currency devaluation and liquidity problems in these regions.
While most of the revenue of the European subsidiaries is denominated in U.S.
dollars, the majority of revenue derived from Japan is denominated in yen and
the majority of all subsidiaries' operating expenses are denominated in their
local currencies. As a result, the Company's operating results are subject to
fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates. To date, the accounting
impact of such fluctuations has been insignificant. The Company's hedging
policy attempts to mitigate some of these risks, based on management's best
judgment of the appropriate trade-offs among risk, opportunity, and expense.
The Company has established a hedging program to hedge its exposure to
foreign currency

24
exchange rate fluctuations, primarily of the Japanese yen. The Company's
hedging program is not comprehensive, and there can be no assurance that the
program will offset more than a portion of the adverse financial impact
resulting from unfavorable movement in foreign currency exchange rates.

On January 1, 1999, eleven of the fifteen member countries of the
European Union are scheduled to adopt the euro as their common legal currency
and to establish fixed conversion rates between their existing sovereign
currencies and the euro. The euro will then trade on currency exchanges and
be available for non-cash transactions. Based on its preliminary assessment,
the Company does not believe the conversion will have a material impact on
the competitiveness of its products in Europe, where there already exists
substantial price transparency, or increase the likelihood of contract
cancellations. Further, the Company expects that modifications to comply with
euro requirements will be made to its business operations and systems on a
timely basis and does not believe that the cost of such modifications will
have a material adverse impact on the Company's results of operations or
financial condition. There can be no assurance, however, that the Company
will be able to complete such modifications on a timely basis; any failure to
do so could have a material adverse effect on the Company's results of
operations or financial condition. In addition, the Company faces risks to
the extent that suppliers, manufacturers, distributors and other vendors upon
whom the Company relies and their suppliers are unable to make appropriate
modifications to support euro transactions. The inability of such third
parties to support euro transactions could have a material adverse effect on
the Company's results of operations or financial condition.

Due to the factors noted above, the Company's future earnings and stock
price may be subject to significant volatility, particularly on a quarterly
basis. Any shortfall in revenue or earnings from levels expected by
securities analysts could have, and has had in the past, an immediate and
significant adverse effect on the trading price of the Company's common stock
in any given period. Additionally, the Company may not learn of such
shortfalls until late in the fiscal quarter, which could result in an even
more immediate and adverse effect on the trading price of the Company's
common stock. Finally, the Company participates in a highly dynamic industry.
In addition to factors specific to the Company, changes in analysts' earnings
estimates for the Company or its industry and factors affecting the corporate
environment, the Company's industry or the securities markets in general will
often result in significant volatility of the Company's common stock price.

"YEAR 2000" ISSUES

The Company is aware of and is addressing a broad range of issues
associated with the programming code in existing computer systems as the year
2000 approaches. The "Year 2000" problem is complex, as many computer systems
will be affected in some way by the rollover of the two-digit year value to
00. Systems that do not properly recognize such information could generate
erroneous data or cause a system to fail. The "Year 2000" issue creates risk
for the Company from unforeseen problems in its own computer and embedded
systems and from third parties with whom the Company deals on financial and
other transactions worldwide. Failure of the Company's and/or third parties'
computer systems could have a material impact on the Company's ability to
conduct its business.

The Company's financial information systems include an SAP system
recently implemented in the United States, Japan and Asia, Pacific and Latin
America, and an Oracle system in Europe which was upgraded to the most recent
version in fiscal 1998. These systems are believed to be "Year 2000"
compliant. The Company has substantially completed inventorying and analyzing
its remaining centralized computer and embedded systems to identify any
potential Year 2000 issues and will take appropriate corrective action based
on the results of such analysis. The Company has a number of projects
underway to replace or upgrade hardware and software that

25
are known to be Year 2000 non-compliant.  For the Year 2000 non-compliance
issues identified to date, the cost of remediation is currently not expected
to be material to the Company's operating results. The Company currently
expects to substantially complete remediation and validation of its internal
systems, as well as to develop contingency plans for certain internal
systems, by mid-1999. However, if implementation of replacement upgraded
systems or software is delayed, if significant new non-compliance issues are
identified, or if contingency plans fail, the Company's results of operations
or financial condition could be materially adversely affected.

The Company is also in the process of contacting its critical suppliers,
manufacturers, distributors, and other vendors to determine if their
operations and the products and services that they provide to the Company are
Year 2000 compliant. Where practicable, the Company will attempt to mitigate
its risks with respect to the failure of third parties to be Year 2000 ready,
including developing contingency plans where practicable. However, such
failures, including failures of any contingency plans, remain a possibility and
could have a materially adverse impact on the Company's results of operations or
financial condition.

In addition, the "Year 2000" issue could affect the products that the
Company sells. The Company believes that the current versions of its products
are "Year 2000" compliant. However there can be no assurance that the Company's
current products do not contain undetected errors or defects associated with
Year 2000 that may result in material costs to the Company. Some commentators
have stated that a significant amount of litigation will arise out of Year 2000
compliance issues, and the Company is aware of a growing number of lawsuits
against other software vendors. Because of the unprecedented nature of such
litigation, it is uncertain whether and to what extent the Company may be
affected by it.

RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

In October 1997, the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants
issued Statement of Position ("SOP") 97-2, "Software Revenue Recognition." SOP
97-2 establishes standards relating to the recognition of all aspects of
software revenue. Based on the Company's ongoing assessment of the impact SOP
97-2 may have on its consolidated results of operations, the Company is
modifying certain aspects of its business model such that any impact will not be
significant. The Company intends to adopt SOP 97-2 for its fiscal year 1999.

In June 1997, the FASB issued SFAS No. 130, "Reporting Comprehensive
Income." SFAS No. 130 establishes standards for reporting and displaying
comprehensive income and its components in the financial statements. It does
not, however, require a specific format for the disclosure, but requires the
Company to display an amount representing total comprehensive income for the
periods presented in its financial statements. The Company will be required to
implement SFAS No. 130 for its fiscal year 1999.

Also in June 1997, the FASB issued SFAS No. 131, "Disclosures About
Segments of an Enterprise and Related Information." SFAS No. 131 establishes
standards for the manner in which public companies report information about
operating segments in annual and interim financial statements. The Company is
currently evaluating the operating segment information to determine whether this
will have an impact on its financial statement reporting. The Company will be
required to implement SFAS No. 131 for its fiscal year 1999.

In June 1998, the FASB issued SFAS No. 133 "Accounting for Derivative
Instruments and Hedging Activities." SFAS No. 133 establishes accounting and
reporting standards for derivative financial instruments and for hedging
activities and requires the Company to recognize all derivatives as either
assets or liabilities on the balance sheet and measure them at fair value.
Gains and losses resulting from changes in fair value would be accounted for
depending on the

26
use of the derivative and whether it is designated and qualifies for hedge
accounting. The Company will be required to implement SFAS No. 133 for its
fiscal year 2000. The Company has not determined the impact that SFAS No. 133
will have on its financial statements and believes that such determination
will not be meaningful until closer to the date of initial adoption.




LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
AUGUST 28 NOVEMBER 28
1998 1997 CHANGE
--------- ----------- --------
(Dollars in millions)
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Cash, cash equivalents and
short-term investments $443.3 $503.0 (11.9)%

Working capital $371.9 $454.3 (18.1)%

Stockholders' equity $679.0 $715.4 (5.1)%
</TABLE>

The Company's cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments,
consisting principally of municipal bonds, auction rate securities, and
United States government and government agency securities, decreased $59.7
million or 11.9% during the first nine months of fiscal 1998. All of the
Company's short-term investments are classified as available-for-sale under
the provisions of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 115,
"Accounting for Certain Investments in Debt and Equity Securities." The
securities are carried at fair value with the unrealized gains and losses,
net of tax, reported as a separate component of stockholders' equity.

Major sources of cash during the first nine months of fiscal 1998
included cash generated from operations of $144.7 million and proceeds from
the issuance of common stock primarily related to the exercise of stock
options and sale of stock under the Employee Stock Purchase Program of $51.8
million. Major uses of cash during the period included $138.2 million to
repurchase Adobe common stock (net of put premiums received), net purchases
of short-term investments of $25.6 million, additions to other assets of
$47.5 million, capital expenditures totaling $52.7 million, and the payment
of dividends of $13.0 million.

During the third quarter of fiscal 1998, the Company engaged two
investment banking firms to assist with responding to an unsolicited
acquisition proposal. As part of these agreements, the Company is required to
pay advisory fees of approximately $13.0 million, of which $12.0 million
remains to be paid over the next two years. In the event that the Company
terminates either of the firms' services, the Company is still committed to
pay advisory fees until its obligation is fulfilled.

In September 1997, the Company's Board of Directors authorized, subject to
certain business and market conditions, the purchase of up to an additional 15
million shares of the Company's common stock over a two-year period. This new
stock repurchase program was in addition to an existing program, whereby the
Company has been authorized to repurchase shares to offset issuances under
employee stock option and stock purchase plans. During the fourth quarter of
fiscal 1997 and the first nine months of fiscal 1998, the Company repurchased
approximately 4.7 and 3.7 million shares of its common stock, respectively. As
of August 28, 1998, management is authorized to repurchase an additional 7.7
million shares under the 15 million share repurchase program. These stock
repurchase programs are intended to enhance


27
stockholder value by reducing the number of outstanding shares net of
offsetting increases due to employee stock purchases and stock option
exercises. The timing and size of any future stock repurchases are subject to
market conditions, stock prices and Adobe's cash position and other cash
requirements going forward.

To facilitate the Company's stock repurchase programs, the Company sold put
warrants to independent third parties. Each warrant entitles the holder to sell
one share of Adobe's common stock to the Company at a specified price. On August
28, 1998, put warrants to sell approximately 1.4 million shares of the Company's
common stock were outstanding that expire on various dates through February 1999
with an average exercise price of $40.67 per share. Under these put warrant
arrangements, the Company, at its option, can settle with physical delivery or
net shares equal to the difference between the exercise price and market value
at the date of exercise.

In addition, the Company purchased call options from independent third
parties that entitle the Company to buy its common stock on certain dates at
specified prices. On August 28, 1998, call options to purchase approximately
128,000 shares of the Company's common stock were outstanding that expire on
various dates through February 1999 with an average exercise price of $29.79 per
share.

The Board of Directors of the Company declared three cash dividends on the
Company's common stock of $.05 per common share, one for each of the first,
second and third quarters of 1998. Also, on December 1, 1997, the Company
dividended one share of Siebel Systems, Incorporated ("Siebel") common stock for
each 300 shares of Adobe common stock held by stockholders of record on October
31, 1997. An equivalent cash dividend was paid for holdings of less than 7,500
Adobe shares and for odd-lot and fractional Siebel shares. The declaration of
future dividends is within the discretion of the Board of Directors of the
Company and will depend upon business conditions, results of operations, the
financial condition of the Company and other factors.

Expenditures for property and equipment are expected to continue as staff
increases and as the Company continues the construction of a facility in Europe.
Furthermore, additional cash may be used to acquire software products or
technologies complementary to the Company's business.

In addition to commitments related to an unsolicited acquisition proposal,
the Company's principal commitments as of August 28, 1998 consisted of
obligations under operating leases, venture investing activities, real estate
development agreements, and various service agreements. These arrangements are
discussed in more detail in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the
year ended November 28, 1997.

The Company believes that existing cash, cash equivalents and short-term
investments, together with cash generated from operations, will provide
sufficient funds for the Company to meet its operating cash requirements in the
foreseeable future, including planned capital expenditure programs, working
capital requirements, the potential put warrant obligation, the dividend
program, and obligations under the restructuring program announced and
implemented during the third quarter of fiscal 1998.

ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

The Company's market risk disclosures set forth in Item 7a of its Annual
Report on Form 10-K for the year ended November 28, 1997 have not changed
significantly.

28
PART II -- OTHER INFORMATION

ITEM 1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

On April 17, 1997, a derivative action was filed in the Superior Court
of the State of California, County of Santa Clara, against the current
members of Adobe's Board of Directors and Paul Brainerd, a former member of
the Board. The suit was filed by a stockholder purporting to assert on behalf
of the Company claims for alleged breach of the Directors' fiduciary duty and
mismanagement related to the Company's acquisition of Frame in October 1995.
The Court granted Adobe's demurrer to the suit, with leave to amend for the
plaintiff. In January 1998, the plaintiff filed an amended complaint making
substantially the same claims but not including Mr. Brainerd. In March 1998,
Adobe filed a demurrer to the amended complaint, which was overruled by the
trial court in May 1998. In June 1998, Adobe filed a writ petition with the
California Court of Appeals for review of the trial court's decision, which
was denied. In July 1998, Adobe filed a petition for review of the Court of
Appeals' refusal to grant the writ with the Supreme Court of California,
which was denied in September 1998. The Company intends to continue
vigorously defending the action.

Quantel Limited, a U.K. corporation, filed and served on the Company in
January 1996 a complaint alleging that the Adobe Photoshop program infringed
five U.S. patents held by Quantel. The complaint was filed in the United
States District Court for the District of Delaware. In September 1997, a jury
in federal court in Delaware found in favor of Adobe, finding that Adobe
Photoshop did not infringe the five patents held by Quantel Limited, and that
the five patents are invalid. The judge thereafter entered a decision in
favor of Adobe on the infringement and invalidity issues, but determined that
Quantel had not committed inequitable conduct in dealing with the U.S. Patent
Office. In mid-1998, both parties filed notices of appeal as to various
aspects of the trial court's decision. In August 1998, both parties decided
not to continue their appeals and in September 1998, the court entered an
order accepting the parties' resolution of the case. Neither party has paid
any money in connection with the resolution of the case.

Management believes that the ultimate resolution of these matters and
other matters discussed in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the
year ended November 28, 1997, and the Company's Quarterly Reports on Form
10-Q since then, will not have a material impact on the Company's financial
position or results of operations.

ITEM 2. CHANGES IN SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS

On September 3, 1998, the Company's Board of Directors approved certain
amendments to the Company's Amended and Restated Bylaws related to (i) the
advance notice requirements for stockholder proposals to be brought before
meetings of stockholders, (ii) the requirements for stockholder nominations
of persons for election as directors and (iii) fixing record dates.

29
ITEM 6.   EXHIBITS AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K

(a) Index to Exhibits

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
EXHIBIT INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE FILED
-------------------------------
NUMBER EXHIBIT DESCRIPTION FORM DATE NUMBER HEREWITH
-------- --------------------------- ---- ---- ----- --------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
3.1 The Registrant's (as suc- 10-Q 05/30/97 3.1
cessor in-interest to Adobe
Systems (Delaware)
Incorporated by
virtue of a reincorporation
effective 5/30/97) Certif-
icate of Incorporation, as
filed with the Secretary of
State of the State of
Delaware on 5/9/97.

3.2.10 Amended and Restated 8-K 9/3/98 3.2
Bylaws as currently
in effect.

3.3 Certificate of Designation 10-K 11/28/97 3.3
of the Series A Preferred
Stock
3.4 Agreement and Plan of 10-Q 05/30/97 2.1
Merger effective 5/30/97
(by virtue of a reincorp-
oration), by and between
Adobe Systems Incorpor-
ated, a California corp-
oration and Adobe Systems
(Delaware) Incorporated,
a Delaware corporation.
4.1 Second Amended and 8-K 08/29/97 4
Restated Rights
Agreement between the
Company and Harris
Trust Company of
California
10.1.6 1984 Stock Option Plan, 10-Q 07/02/93 10.1.6
as amended*
10.21.3 Revised Bonus Plan* 10-Q 02/28/97 10.21.3
10.24.1 Amended 1994 Performance 10-Q 05/29/98 10.24.1
and Restricted Stock Plan*
10.25.0 Form of Indemnity 10-K 11/30/90 10.17.2
Agreement*
10.25.1 Form of Indemnity 10-Q 05/30/97 10.25.1
Agreement*
</TABLE>
(Continued)

30
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
EXHIBIT INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE FILED
-------------------------------
NUMBER EXHIBIT DESCRIPTION FORM DATE NUMBER HEREWITH
-------- --------------------------- ---- ---- ----- --------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
10.32 Sublease of the Land and 10-K 11/25/94 10.32
Lease of the Improvements
By and Between
Sumitomo Bank Leasing
and Finance Inc. and
Adobe Systems Incorporated
(Phase 1)

10.36 1996 Outside Directors 10-Q 05/31/96 10.36
Stock Option Plan*

10.37 Confidential Resignation 10-Q 05/31/96 10.37
Agreement*

10.38 Sublease of the Land and 10-Q 08/30/96 10.38
Lease of the Improvements
By and Between
Sumitomo Bank Leasing
and Finance Inc. and
Adobe Systems Incorporated
(Phase 2)

10.39 1997 Employee Stock S-8 05/30/97 10.39
Purchase Plan, as amended*

10.40 1994 Stock Option S-8 05/30/97 10.40
Plan, as amended*
10.42 Amended and Restated X
Limited Partnership
Agreement of Adobe
Incentive Partners, L.P.*
10.43 Resignation Agreement* 10-K 11/28/97 10.43

10.44 Forms of Retention 10-K 11/28/97 10.44
Agreement*

10.45 Confidential Executive
Resignation Agreement
And General Release of
Claims* X

10.46 Confidential Executive
Resignation Agreement
And General Release of
Claims* X

10.47 Confidential Executive
Resignation Agreement
And General Release of
Claims* X
</TABLE>
(Continued)

31
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

INCORPORATED BY REFEREBCE
EXHIBIT ------------------------- FILED
NUMBER EXHIBIT DESCRIPTION FORM DATE NUMBER HEREWITH
-------- --------------------------- ---- ---- ----- --------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
21 Subsidiaries of the 10-K 11/28/97 21
Registrant
27.1 Financial Data Schedule X
27.2 Financial Data Schedule X
</TABLE>
--------------------------------------------
*Compensatory plan or arrangement

(b) Reports on Form 8-K

No reports on Form 8-K were filed during the quarter ended August 28, 1998.


32
SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the
registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.



ADOBE SYSTEMS INCORPORATED



By /s/ Harold L. Covert
--------------------------
Harold L. Covert,
Senior Vice President,
Chief Financial Officer
(Principal Financial Officer)




Date: October 13, 1998


33
SUMMARY OF TRADEMARKS

The following trademarks of Adobe Systems Incorporated, which may be registered
in certain jurisdictions, are referenced in this Form 10-Q:

Adobe
Acrobat
Adobe Illustrator
FrameMaker
ImageReady
PageMaker
PhotoDeluxe
Photoshop
PostScript


All other brand or product names are trademarks or registered trademarks
of their respective holders.


34