Dell reports on first year as private firm

'Solid progress' made since leaving the stock exchange, partly down to its channel, vendor claims in report

Dell has issued a report outlining its financial performance over the past year – its first full one as a private firm.

Since exiting the stock market a year ago, Dell has not had to report to shareholders and as such has kept quiet on its financial and business progress.

To mark its anniversary as a private firm, the company lifted the lid on its performance in the form of an online report, including videos, figures and video addresses from key execs.

In his video to partners and customers, Dell's chief financial officer Tom Sweet said things have been going well.

"We're incredibly excited about the solid progress we made during our first full year as a private company," he said. "Your growing appreciation for Dell solutions last year was a key in strengthening our financial performance. We were able to accelerate our debt pay-down and close the year with a strong balance sheet and saw an uptick in our credit rating. That's important because it enhances our ability to make the investments in innovation that provide you more value.

"We're committed to delivering the IT solutions to help you achieve your goals, whether you're an individual or part of a larger organisation. From investing in open networking and channel relationships to investing in research and development and customer-support capabilities, we're working for your long-term success and ours."

In the report document, Dell claims to have committed an extra $125m (£81.87m) in "enhanced incentives and investments" for the channel over the past year.

"Dell has deep relationships with millions of customers worldwide," the report reads. "This reach is extended through a network of highly skilled partners that deliver Dell solutions and services."

In a personal letter to customers and partners, Michael Dell (pictured) said the Internet of Things, technology services and devices were key priorities for his firm, as well as security.

"Security from device to datacentre to cloud has never been more important for you and your organisation, and that's why our integrated approach is such an important differentiator," he said.

"We give a common DNA to solutions like identity and access management, network security, email and web security, end-point management and secure remote access – so they can be managed together, end to end. From your perspective, that makes Dell IT security better, easier to use and less expensive."