Net operating earnings is among the most basic definitions of performance for a publicly-traded company, but it turns out that just betting on businesses that grow that metric the fastest is not the safest or most lucrative way to approach the market.

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The change in net earnings and operating cash flows is primarily due to a 36% increase in the number of silver equivalent ounces sold, which was partially offset by a 24% decrease in the realized price per silver equivalent ounce, the company said in its quarterly statement Thursday.

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None of these changes impacts Dell's previously reported consolidated net revenue, gross margin, operating income, net income, or earnings per share.

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