CURTISS WRIGHT CORP

Previous wording

We store sensitive data, including intellectual property, proprietary business information, and confidential employee information on our servers and databases. As a result, we are increasingly dependent upon our information systems to operate our business. Our ability to effectively manage our business depends on the security, reliability, and adequacy of our information systems. In addition, various privacy and cybersecurity laws and regulations, both in the U.S. and globally, require us to manage and protect sensitive and confidential information, including personal data of our employees, from disclosure. For example, the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation, which became effective in May 2018, extends the scope of the European Union data protection laws to all companies processing data of European Union residents, regardless of the company’s location. Additionally, we have incurred, and expect to continue to incur, additional costs to comply with increased cybersecurity protections for our customers, including the U.S. government. Despite our implementation of firewalls, switchgear, and other network security measures, our servers, databases, and other systems may be vulnerable tovarious cyber and other security threats, including those caused bycomputer hackers, physical or electronic break-ins, sabotage, computer viruses, malware, worms, and similar disruptions from unauthorized access and tampering with our computer systems, including through social engineering such as phishing attacks, coordinated denial-of-service attacks, and similar incidents. The occurrence of some of these risks may be increased due to the work-from-home arrangements that we have implemented for many of our office-based employees. We continue to review and enhance our computer systems as well as provide training to our employees in an attempt to prevent unauthorized and unlawful intrusions. However, it is possible that we may not be able to prevent all intrusions. Such intrusions could result in our network security or computer systems being compromised and possibly result in the misappropriation or corruption of sensitive information, including intellectual property, or cause disruptions in our services. While we carry cyber insurance, we still may be required to expend significant capital and resources to protect against, remediate, or alleviate problems caused by such intrusions. Any such intrusion could cause us to be non-compliant with applicable laws or regulations, subject us to legal claims or proceedings, disrupt our operations, damage our reputation, and cause a loss of confidence in our products and services, any of which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and results of operations.

Current wording

We store sensitive data, including intellectual property, proprietary business information, and confidential employee information on our servers and databases. As a result, we are increasingly dependent upon our information systems to operate our business. Our ability to effectively manage our business depends on the security, reliability, and adequacy of our information systems. In addition, various privacy and cybersecurity laws and regulations, both in the U.S. and globally, require us to manage and protect sensitive and confidential information, including personal data of our employees, from disclosure. For example, the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation, which became effective in May 2018, extends the scope of the European Union data protection laws to all companies processing data of European Union residents, regardless of the company’s location. Additionally, we have incurred, and expect to continue to incur, additional costs to comply with increased cybersecurity protections for our customers, including the U.S. government. Despite our implementation of firewalls, switchgear, and other network security measures, our servers, databases, and other systems may be vulnerable tovarious cyber and other security threats, including those caused bycomputer hackers, physical or electronic break-ins, sabotage, computer viruses, malware, worms, and similar disruptions from unauthorized access and tampering with our computer systems, including through social engineering such as phishing attacks, coordinated denial-of-service attacks, and similar incidents. To the extent artificial intelligence capabilities improve and are increasingly adopted, they may be used to identify vulnerabilities and produce advanced cybersecurity attacks, and vulnerabilities may be introduced from the use of artificial intelligence by us, our customers, suppliers and other business partners and third-party providers. The occurrence of some of these risks may be increased due to the work-from-home arrangements that we have implemented for many of our office-based employees. We continue to review and enhance our computer systems as well as provide training to our employees in an attempt to prevent unauthorized and unlawful intrusions. However, it is possible that we may not be able to prevent all intrusions. Such intrusions could result in our network security or computer systems being compromised and possibly result in the misappropriation or corruption of sensitive information, including intellectual property, or cause disruptions in our services. While we carry cyber insurance, we still may be required to expend significant capital and resources to protect against, remediate, or alleviate problems caused by such intrusions. Any such intrusion could cause us to be non-compliant with applicable laws or regulations, subject us to legal claims or proceedings, disrupt our operations, damage our reputation, and cause a loss of confidence in our products and servic…

Excerpt shortened here; the source contains the full paragraph.

Previous wording

Our businesses depend on suppliers and subcontractors for raw materials and components. At times subcontractors perform services that we provide to our customers. Our supply chain has been and may continue to be impacted by a wide variety of factors, including labor and material shortages as well as geopolitical events, such as China’s relationship with the United States and Taiwan. Because we strive to limit the volume of raw materials and component parts on hand, our business could be adversely affected if we were unable to obtain these raw materials and components from our suppliers in the quantities that we require. We also depend on subcontractors and suppliers to meet their contractual obligations in full compliance with customer requirements. Nonperformance or underperformance by subcontractors and suppliers could materially impact our ability to perform obligations to our customers, which could result in a customer terminating our contract for default, expose us to liability, and substantially impair our ability to compete for future contracts and orders. Generally, raw materials and purchased components are available from a number of different suppliers, though several suppliers are our sole source of certain components. If a sole-source supplier is delayed or should cease or otherwise be unable to deliver such components, we may not be able to produce the related product in a timely manner or in sufficient quantities, if at all, which could adversely affect our operating results. A sole-source supplier of a key component could also potentially exert significant bargaining power over price, quality, warranty claims, or other terms relating tothese materials, which could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows. In addition, supply chain constraints and improving economic conditions have resulted in sustained increases in the prices we pay for many of the components and raw materials used in our products. Furthermore, we are experiencing higher labor costs due to increased competition for personnel in many regions in which we operate as well as general inflationary conditions, including higher shipping costs, labor shortages, and rising energy prices. Our ability to perform our obligations as a prime contractor may be adversely affected if one or more of these suppliers is unable to provide the agreed-upon supplies or perform the agreed-upon services in a timely and cost-effective manner. While we have attempted to mitigate the effects of increased costs through price increases, there are no assurances that higher prices can effectively be passed through to our customers, or that we will be able to fully offset the effects of higher raw materials costs through price increases on a timely basis.

Current wording

Our businesses depend on suppliers and subcontractors for raw materials and components. At times subcontractors perform services that we provide to our customers. Our supply chain has been and may continue to be impacted by a wide variety of factors, including labor and material shortages as well as geopolitical events, such as the Russia-Ukraine war, and China’s relationship with the United States and Taiwan. Because we strive to limit the volume of raw materials and component parts on hand, our business could be adversely affected if we were unable to obtain these raw materials and components from our suppliers in the quantities that we require. We also depend on subcontractors and suppliers to meet their contractual obligations in full compliance with customer requirements. Nonperformance or underperformance by subcontractors and suppliers could materially impact our ability to perform obligations to our customers, which could result in a customer terminating our contract for default, expose us to liability, and substantially impair our ability to compete for future contracts and orders. Generally, raw materials and purchased components are available from a number of different suppliers, though several suppliers are our sole source of certain components. If a sole-source supplier is delayed or should cease or otherwise be unable to deliver such components, we may not be able to produce the related product in a timely manner or in sufficient quantities, if at all, which could adversely affect our operating results. A sole-source supplier of a key component could also potentially exert significant bargaining power over price, quality, warranty claims, or other terms relating tothese materials, which could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows. In addition, supply chain constraints and improving economic conditions have resulted in sustained increases in the prices we pay for many of the components and raw materials used in our products. Furthermore, we are experiencing higher labor costs due to increased competition for personnel in many regions in which we operate as well as general inflationary conditions, including higher shipping costs, labor shortages, and rising energy prices. Our ability to perform our obligations as a prime contractor may be adversely affected if one or more of these suppliers is unable to provide the agreed-upon supplies or perform the agreed-upon services in a timely and cost-effective manner. While we have attempted to mitigate the effects of increased costs through price increases, there are no assurances that higher prices can effectively be passed through to our customers, or that we will be able to fully offset the effects of higher raw materials costs through price increases on a timely basis.

Previous wording

Many of our products and services are sold in highly competitive markets, and are affected by varying degrees of competition, including competition for hiring and retaining skilled labor. We compete against companies that often have higher sales volumes and greater financial, technological, research and development, human, and marketing resources than we have. These companies may also price their products and services below our selling prices, which could exert downward pressure on our product pricing and margins. As a result, they may be better able to withstand the effects of periodic economic downturns. In addition, some of our largest customers could develop the capability to manufacture products or provide services similar to products that we manufacture or services that we provide. This would result in these customers supplying their own products or services and competing directly with us for sales of these products or services, all of which could significantly reduce our revenues. Furthermore, we are facing increased international competition and cross-border consolidation of competition. If consolidation of our competition continues to occur, we would expect the competitive pressures we face to increase. Our management believes that the principal points of competition in our markets are technology, price, product quality, product performance, sufficient supply of necessary components, technical expertise, timeliness of delivery, superior customer service and support, and continued certification under customer quality requirements and assurance programs. If we are unable to compete successfully with existing or new competitors in these areas, we may experience a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and results of operations.

Current wording

Many of our products and services are sold in highly competitive markets, and are affected by varying degrees of competition, including competition for hiring and retaining skilled labor. We compete against companies that often have higher sales volumes and greater financial, technological, research and development, human, and marketing resources, and larger customer bases than we have. These companies may also price their products and services below our selling prices, which could exert downward pressure on our product pricing and margins. As a result, they may be better able to withstand the effects of periodic economic downturns. In addition, some of our largest customers could develop the capability to manufacture products or provide services similar to products that we manufacture or services that we provide. This would result in these customers supplying their own products or services and competing directly with us for sales of these products or services, all of which could significantly reduce our revenues. Furthermore, we are facing increased international competition and cross-border consolidation of competition. If consolidation of our competition continues to occur, we would expect the competitive pressures we face to increase. Our management believes that the principal points of competition in our markets are technology, price, product quality, product performance, sufficient supply of necessary components, technical expertise, timeliness of delivery, superior customer service and support, and continued certification under customer quality requirements and assurance programs. If we are unable to compete successfully with existing or new competitors in these areas, we may experience a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and results of operations.

Previous wording

U.S. lawmakers on several occasions have passed legislation to raise the federal debt ceiling, including the most recent suspension to the federal debt ceiling in June 2023, which is expected to allow the U.S. government to cover its debt obligations until at least January 1, 2025. Failure by Congress to further suspend or increase the debt ceiling could delay or result in the loss of contracts for the procurement of our products and services, and we may be asked or required to continue to perform for some period of time on certain of our U.S. government contracts, even if the U.S. government is unable to make timely payments.

Current wording

U.S. lawmakers on several occasions have passed legislation to raise the federal debt ceiling, including the suspension to the federal debt ceiling in June 2023, which allowed the U.S. government to cover its debt obligations until January 1, 2025. Because Congress failed to further suspend or increase the debt ceiling, the debt ceiling was reinstated on January 1, 2025. The U.S. Department of the Treasury has announced that, since then, it has been using extraordinary measures to prevent the U.S. government’s default on its payment obligations, and to extend the time that the U.S. government has to raise its statutory debt limit, reinstate a suspension or otherwise resolve its funding situation. If extraordinary measures are exhausted prior to legislation being enacted to resolve the funding situation, the U.S. government may not be able to fulfill its funding obligations. This could delay or result in the loss of contracts for the procurement of our products and services, and we may be asked or required to continue to perform for some period of time on certain of our U.S. government contracts, even if the U.S. government is unable to make timely payments.

Previous wording

Our sales to large commercial aircraft manufacturers are cyclical in nature, and can be adversely affected by a number of factors, including current and future passenger traffic levels, increasing fuel and labor costs, environmental concerns (inclusive of climate change), intense price competition, the retirement of older aircraft, regulatory changes, outbreak of infectious disease such as COVID-19, terrorist attacks, geopolitical events, conflicts and wars (including the Russia-Ukraine war and the Hamas-Israel war), general economic conditions (including cost inflation), worldwide airline profits, and backlog levels, all of which can be unpredictable and are outside our control. For example, the COVID-19 pandemic drastically reduced air traffic as travel restrictions and social distancing measures were implemented to help control the spread of the virus. The reduced air traffic applied financial pressures on airlines, who, in order to preserve cash and liquidity, dramatically reduced flight hours and delayed the purchases of new aircraft. Furthermore, as companies and employees become accustomed to working remotely, there is a risk that business travel and the associated flight hours may not fully reach pre-pandemic levels. Any decrease in demand resulting from a downturn in the aerospace market could adversely affect our business, financial condition, and results of operations.

Current wording

Our sales to large commercial aircraft manufacturers, such as Boeing, Airbus, and related OEM suppliers, as well as manufacturers of business jets, are cyclical in nature, and can be adversely affected by a number of factors, including current and future passenger traffic levels, increasing fuel and labor costs, environmental concerns (inclusive of climate change), intense price competition, high interest rates, the retirement of older aircraft, regulatory changes, outbreak of infectious disease such as COVID-19, terrorist attacks, labor strikes such as the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace workers union work stoppage at Boeing, geopolitical events, conflicts and wars (including the Russia-Ukraine war), general economic conditions (including cost inflation), worldwide airline profits, and backlog levels, all of which can be unpredictable and are outside our control. For example, the COVID-19 pandemic drastically reduced air traffic as travel restrictions and social distancing measures were implemented to help control the spread of the virus. The reduced air traffic applied financial pressures on airlines, who, in order to preserve cash and liquidity, dramatically reduced flight hours and cancelled or delayed the purchases of new aircraft. Furthermore, as companies and employees become accustomed to working remotely, there is a risk that business travel and the associated flight hours may not fully reach pre-pandemic levels. Any decrease in demand resulting from a downturn in the aerospace market could adversely affect our business, financial condition, and results of operations.

Previous wording

Backlog represents products or services that our customers have contractually committed to purchase from us. Total backlog includes both funded (unfilled orders for which funding is authorized, appropriated, and contractually obligated by the customer) and unfunded backlog (firm orders for which funding has not been appropriated and/or contractually obligated by the customer). We are a subcontractor to prime contractors for the vast majority of our government business. As such, substantially all amounts in backlog are funded. Backlog excludes unexercised contract options and potential orders under ordering type contracts (e.g. Indefinite Delivery / Indefinite Quantity). Backlog is adjusted for changes in foreign exchange rates and is reduced for contract cancellations and terminations in the period in which they occur. Backlog as of December 31, 2023 was $2.9 billion. Backlog is subject to fluctuations and is not necessarily indicative of future sales. The timing of backlog may be impacted by project delays. The U.S. Government may unilaterally modify or cancel its contracts. In addition, under certain of our commercial contracts, our customers may unilaterally modify or terminate their orders at any time for their convenience. Accordingly, certain portions of our backlog can be cancelled or reduced at the option of the U.S. Government and commercial customers. Our failure to replace cancelled or reduced backlog could negatively impact our results of operations.

Current wording

Backlog represents products or services that our customers have contractually committed to purchase from us. Total backlog includes both funded (unfilled orders for which funding is authorized, appropriated, and contractually obligated by the customer) and unfunded backlog (firm orders for which funding has not been appropriated and/or contractually obligated by the customer). We are a subcontractor to prime contractors for the vast majority of our government business. As such, substantially all amounts in backlog are funded. Backlog excludes unexercised contract options and potential orders under ordering type contracts (e.g. Indefinite Delivery / Indefinite Quantity). Backlog is adjusted for changes in foreign exchange rates and is reduced for contract cancellations and terminations in the period in which they occur. Backlog as of December 31, 2024 was $3.4 billion. Backlog is subject to fluctuations and is not necessarily indicative of future sales. The timing of backlog may be impacted by project delays. The U.S. Government may unilaterally modify or cancel its contracts. In addition, under certain of our commercial contracts, our customers may unilaterally modify or terminate their orders at any time for their convenience. Accordingly, certain portions of our backlog can be cancelled or reduced at the option of the U.S. Government and commercial customers. Our failure to replace cancelled or reduced backlog could negatively impact our results of operations.

Previous wording

We must comply with and are affected by laws and regulations relating to the award, administration, and performance of U.S. Government contracts. Government contract laws and regulations affect how we do business with our customers and, in some instances, impose added costs on our business. These regulations and other requirements regularly evolve, and new laws, regulations or procurement requirements or changes to current ones could significantly increase our costs and risks and reduce our profitability. For example, changes to the FAR requirements for federal contractors proposed in November 2022 would require companies to make disclosure of annual greenhouse gas emissions and other disclosures to be deemed a responsible bidder on future government contracts. Such additional requirements could result in additional expense. A violation of specific laws and regulations could also result in the imposition of fines and penalties, the termination of our contracts, or debarment from bidding on contracts. These fines and penalties could be imposed for example, by failing to follow procurement integrity and bidding rules, employing improper billing practices or otherwise failing to follow cost accounting standards, receiving or paying kickbacks, or filing false claims. We have been, and expect to continue to be, subjected to audits, reviews, and investigations by government agencies. The failure to comply with the terms of our government contracts could harm our business reputation. It could also result in our progress payments being withheld. In some instances, these laws and regulations impose terms or rights that are more favorable to the government than those typically available to commercial parties in negotiated transactions. For example, the U.S. Government may terminate any of our government contracts and, in general, subcontracts, at its convenience as well as for default based on performance. Upon termination for convenience of a fixed-price type contract, we normally are entitled to receive the purchase price for delivered items, reimbursement for allowable costs for work-in-process, and an allowance for profit on work actually completed on the contract or adjustment for loss if completion of performance would have resulted in a loss. Upon termination for convenience of a cost reimbursement contract, we normally are entitled to reimbursement of allowable costs plus a portion of the fee. Such allowable costs would normally include our cost to terminate agreements with our suppliers and subcontractors. The amount of the fee recovered, if any, is related to the portion of the work accomplished prior to termination and is determined by negotiation.

Current wording

We must comply with and are affected by laws and regulations relating to the award, administration, and performance of U.S. Government contracts. Government contract laws and regulations affect how we do business with our customers and, in some instances, impose added costs on our business. These regulations and other requirements regularly evolve, and new laws, regulations or procurement requirements or changes to current ones could significantly increase our costs and risks and reduce our profitability. A violation of specific laws and regulations could also result in the imposition of fines and penalties, the termination of our contracts, or debarment from bidding on contracts. These fines and penalties could be imposed for example, by failing to follow procurement integrity and bidding rules, employing improper billing practices or otherwise failing to follow cost accounting standards, receiving or paying kickbacks, or filing false claims. We have been, and expect to continue to be, subjected to audits, reviews, and investigations by government agencies. The failure to comply with the terms of our government contracts could harm our business reputation. It could also result in our progress payments being withheld. In some instances, these laws and regulations impose terms or rights that are more favorable to the government than those typically available to commercial parties in negotiated transactions. For example, the U.S. Government may terminate any of our government contracts and, in general, subcontracts, at its convenience as well as for default based on performance. Upon termination for convenience of a fixed-price type contract, we normally are entitled to receive the purchase price for delivered items, reimbursement for allowable costs for work-in-process, and an allowance for profit on work actually completed on the contract or adjustment for loss if completion of performance would have resulted in a loss. Upon termination for convenience of a cost reimbursement contract, we normally are entitled to reimbursement of allowable costs plus a portion of the fee. Such allowable costs would normally include our cost to terminate agreements with our suppliers and subcontractors. The amount of the fee recovered, if any, is related to the portion of the work accomplished prior to termination and is determined by negotiation.

Previous wording

From time to time, we are involved in lawsuits and regulatory actions brought or threatened against us in the ordinary course of business. These actions and proceedings may involve claims for, among other things, compensation for alleged personal injury, workers’ compensation, employment discrimination, or breach of contract. Due to the inherent uncertainties of litigation, we cannot accurately predict the ultimate outcome of any such actions or proceedings. The outcome of litigation, particularly class action lawsuits and regulatory actions, is difficult to assess or quantify, as plaintiffs may seek recovery of very large or indeterminate amounts in these types of lawsuits, and the magnitude of the potential loss may remain unknown for substantial periods of time. In addition, plaintiffs in many types of actions may seek punitive damages, civil penalties, consequential damages or other losses, or injunctive or declaratory relief. These proceedings could result in substantial cost and may require us to devote substantial resources to defend ourselves and distract our management from the operation of our business. Moreover, any insurance or indemnification rights that we may have may be insufficient or unavailable to protect us against such losses. The ultimate resolution of these matters through settlement, mediation, or court judgment could have a material impact on our financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows.

Current wording

From time to time, we are involved in lawsuits and regulatory actions brought or threatened against us in the ordinary course of business. These actions and proceedings may involve claims for, among other things, compensation for alleged personal injury, workers’ compensation, employment discrimination, or breach of contract. We also may be subject to class action lawsuits, such as those involving allegations of violations of the Fair Labor Standards Act and state wage and hour laws. Due to the inherent uncertainties of litigation, we cannot accurately predict the ultimate outcome of any such actions or proceedings. The outcome of litigation, particularly class action lawsuits and regulatory actions, is difficult to assess or quantify, as plaintiffs may seek recovery of very large or indeterminate amounts in these types of lawsuits, and the magnitude of the potential loss may remain unknown for substantial periods of time. In addition, plaintiffs in many types of actions may seek punitive damages, civil penalties, consequential damages or other losses, or injunctive or declaratory relief. These proceedings could result in substantial cost and may require us to devote substantial resources to defend ourselves and distract our management from the operation of our business. Moreover, any insurance or indemnification rights that we may have may be insufficient or unavailable to protect us against such losses. The ultimate resolution of these matters through settlement, mediation, or court judgment could have a material impact on our financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows.

Previous wording

During 2023, approximately 28% of our total net sales were to customers outside of the United States. Additionally, we also have operating facilities located in foreign countries. Doing business in foreign countries is subject to numerous risks, including without limitation: (a) political and economic instability and potential for social unrest; (b) the uncertainty of the ability of non-U.S. customers to finance purchases; (c) restrictions on the repatriation of funds; (d) restrictive trade policies; (e) tariff regulations; (f) difficulties in obtaining export and import licenses; (g) government financed competition; (h) changes in the local labor-relations climate; (i) economic conditions in local markets, including changes in inflation; (j) health concerns (including COVID-19 or any of its variants); (k) complying with foreign regulatory and tax requirements that are subject to change; and (l) limitations on our ability to enforce legal rights and remedies. For example, in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the United States, along with the European Union, have imposed restrictive sanctions on Russia, Russian entities, and Russian citizens. We are subject to these governmental sanctions and export controls, which may subject us to liability if we are not in full compliance with applicable laws. Further, implementation of new tariff schemes by various governments, such as those implemented by the United States and China in recent years, could potentially increase the costs of our materials, increase our cost of production, and ultimately increase the landed cost of our products sold from one country into another country. While these factors or the impact of these factors are difficult to predict, any one or more of these factors could adversely affect our operations.

Current wording

(including COVID-19 or any of its variants); (k) complying with foreign regulatory and tax requirements that are subject to change; and (l) limitations on our ability to enforce legal rights and remedies. For example, in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the United States, along with the European Union, have imposed restrictive sanctions on Russia, Russian entities, and Russian citizens. We are subject to these governmental sanctions and export controls, which may subject us to liability if we are not in full compliance with applicable laws. Further, implementation of new tariff schemes by various governments, such as those implemented by the United States and China in recent years, could potentially increase the costs of our materials, increase our cost of production, and ultimately increase the landed cost of our products sold from one country into another country. While these factors or the impact of these factors are difficult to predict, any one or more of these factors could adversely affect our operations.

Previous wording

Our business operates in many locations under government jurisdictions that impose income taxes. Changes in domestic or foreign income tax laws and regulations, or their interpretation, could result in higher or lower income tax rates assessed or changes in the taxability of certain revenues or the deductibility of certain expenses, thereby affecting our income tax expense and profitability. In both 2021 and 2022, the Biden administration announced, and in certain cases has enacted, several tax proposals to fund new government investments in infrastructure, healthcare, and education, among others. Certain of these proposals involve an increase in the domestic corporate tax rate, which if implemented could have a material impact on our future results of operations and cash flows. On August 16, 2022, the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 (IRA) was signed into law, with tax provisions primarily focused on implementing a 15% minimum tax on global adjusted financial statement income and a 1% excise tax on share repurchases. Certain provisions of the IRA became effective in the beginning of fiscal 2023. We have evaluated the impact of the IRA on our business and deem it to be immaterial. Further, changes in the tax laws of foreign jurisdictions where we operate could arise as a result of the base erosion and profit shifting project undertaken by the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). In December 2022, the European Union (EU) member states reached an agreement to implement the minimum tax component (Pillar Two) of the OECD’s tax reform initiative with certain aspects effective January 1, 2024, and other aspects effective January 1, 2025. While it is uncertain whether the U.S. will enact legislation to adopt Pillar Two, legislative changes to address Pillar Two are being adopted by taxing authorities in other countries where we do business. Based on the Corporation’s preliminary assessments, it does not expect Pillar Two to have a material impact on its effective tax rate nor on its consolidated results of operation, financial position, and cash flows.

Current wording

Our business operates in many locations under government jurisdictions that impose income taxes. Changes in domestic or foreign income tax laws and regulations, or their interpretation, could result in higher or lower income tax rates assessed or changes in the taxability of certain revenues or the deductibility of certain expenses, thereby affecting our income tax expense and profitability. In both 2021 and 2022, the Biden administration announced, and in certain cases has enacted, several tax proposals to fund new government investments in infrastructure, healthcare, and education, among others. Certain of these proposals involve an increase in the domestic corporate tax rate, which if implemented could have a material impact on our future results of operations and cash flows. On August 16, 2022, the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 (IRA) was signed into law, with tax provisions primarily focused on implementing a 15% minimum corporate tax on global adjusted financial statement income and a 1% excise tax on share repurchases. Certain provisions of the IRA became effective in the beginning of fiscal 2023. We have evaluated the impact of the IRA on our business and deem it to be immaterial. Further, changes in the tax laws of foreign jurisdictions where we operate could arise as a result of the base erosion and profit shifting project undertaken by the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). In December 2022, the European Union (EU) member states reached an agreement to implement the 15% minimum corporate tax component (Pillar Two) of the OECD’s tax reform initiative with certain aspects effective January 1, 2024, and other aspects effective January 1, 2025. Legislative changes to address Pillar Two are being adopted by taxing authorities in countries where we do business. Based on the Corporation’s preliminary assessments, it does not expect Pillar Two to have a material impact on its effective tax rate nor on its consolidated results of operation, financial position, and cash flows.

Previous wording

As of December 31, 2023, we had goodwill and other intangible assets, net of accumulated amortization, of approximately $2.1 billion, which represented approximately 46% of our total assets. Our goodwill is subject to an impairment test on an annual basis, or more frequently, whenever events and circumstances indicate that goodwill may be impaired. Intangible assets (other than goodwill) are generally amortized over the useful life of such assets. In addition, from time to time, we may acquire or make an investment in a business that will require us to record goodwill based on the difference between the purchase price and the fair value of the acquired assets. We may subsequently experience unforeseen issues with such business that adversely affect the anticipated returns of the business or value of the intangible assets and trigger an evaluation of the recoverability of the recorded goodwill and intangible assets for such business. For example, if the financial performance of such business was to decline significantly, we could incur a material non-cash charge to our income statement for the impairment of goodwill and other intangible assets. Future determinations of significant write-offs of goodwill or intangible assets as a result of an impairment test or any accelerated amortization of other intangible assets could have a material adverse impact on our financial condition and results of operations.

Current wording

As of December 31, 2024, we had goodwill and other intangible assets, net of accumulated amortization, of approximately $2.3 billion, which represented approximately 46% of our total assets. Our goodwill is subject to an impairment test on an annual basis, or more frequently, whenever events and circumstances indicate that goodwill may be impaired. Intangible assets (other than goodwill) are generally amortized over the useful life of such assets. In addition, from time to time, we may acquire or make an investment in a business that will require us to record goodwill based on the difference between the purchase price and the fair value of the acquired assets. We may subsequently experience unforeseen issues with such business that adversely affect the anticipated returns of the business or value of the intangible assets and trigger an evaluation of the recoverability of the recorded goodwill and intangible assets for such business. For example, if the financial performance of such business was to decline significantly, we could incur a material non-cash charge to our income statement for the impairment of goodwill and other intangible assets. Future determinations of significant write-offs of goodwill or intangible assets as a result of an impairment test or any accelerated amortization of other intangible assets could have a material adverse impact on our financial condition and results of operations.

Previous wording

The United States and other countries have levied tariffs and taxes on certain goods (such as those implemented by the United States and China in recent years). Some of our products are included in these tariffs. All of this could lead to increased costs and diminished sales opportunities in the U.S. and abroad. Media and political reactions in the affected countries could potentially exacerbate the impact on our operations in those countries. The imposition of new or increased tariffs, duties, border adjustment taxes or other trade restrictions by the United States could also result in the adoption of new or increased tariffs or other trade restrictions by other countries. The tariffs may in the future increase our cost of materials and may cause us to increase prices to our customers which we believe may reduce demand for our products. Our price increases may not be sufficient to fully offset the impact of the tariffs and result in lowering our margin on products sold. If the U.S. government increases or implements additional tariffs, or if additional tariffs or trade restrictions are implemented by other countries, the resulting trade barriers could have a significant adverse impact on our suppliers, our customers and on our business. We are not able to predict future trade policy of the U.S. or of any foreign countries in which we operate or purchase goods, or the terms of any renegotiated trade agreements, or their impact on our business.

Current wording

The United States and other countries have levied tariffs and taxes on certain goods, such as those implemented by the United States and China in recent years. Some of our products are included in these tariffs. The imposition of new or increased tariffs, duties, border adjustment taxes or other trade restrictions by the United States could also result in the adoption of new or increased tariffs or other trade restrictions by other countries. The tariffs may in the future increase our cost of materials and may cause us to increase prices to our customers which we believe may reduce demand for our products in the U.S. and abroad. Media and political reactions in the affected countries could potentially exacerbate the impact on our operations in those countries. Our price increases may not be sufficient to fully offset the impact of the tariffs and result in lowering our margin on products sold. If the U.S. government increases or implements additional tariffs, or if additional tariffs or trade restrictions are implemented by other countries, the resulting trade barriers could have a significant adverse impact on our suppliers, our customers and on our business. We are not able to predict future trade policy of the U.S. or of any foreign countries in which we operate or purchase goods, or the terms of any renegotiated trade agreements, or their impact on our business.

Previous wording

Although we currently generate significant operating cash flows, which combined with access to the credit markets provides us with significant discretionary funding capacity, global macroeconomic uncertainty, the ongoing trade disputes between the United States and China, the United Kingdom’s withdrawal from the European Union, armed conflicts around the world, such as those in Ukraine and Israel, and any conflict or threatened conflict between China and Taiwan (including the imposition of related sanctions by the United States and other countries as well as measures taken in response to such sanctions), inflationary pressures, rising interest rates, labor shortages, global supply chain disruptions, and uncertainty regarding the stability of global credit and financial markets could affect our ability to fund our operations. In addition, certain of our customers and suppliers could be affected directly by an economic downturn and could face credit issues or cash flow problems that could give rise to payment delays, increased credit risk, bankruptcies, and other financial hardships, which could impact customer demand for our products as well as our ability to manage normal commercial relationships with our customers and suppliers. Depending on their severity and duration, the effects and consequences of a global economic downturn could have an adverse impact on our results of operations and financial condition.

Current wording

Although we currently generate significant operating cash flows, which combined with access to the credit markets provides us with significant discretionary funding capacity, global macroeconomic uncertainty, the ongoing trade disputes between the United States and China, armed conflicts around the world, such as those in Ukraine and Israel, and any conflict or threatened conflict between China and Taiwan (including the imposition of related sanctions by the United States and other countries as well as measures taken in response to such sanctions), inflationary pressures, rising interest rates, labor shortages, global supply chain disruptions, and uncertainty regarding the stability of global credit and financial markets could affect our ability to fund our operations. In addition, certain of our customers and suppliers could be affected directly by an economic downturn and could face credit issues or cash flow problems that could give rise to payment delays, increased credit risk, bankruptcies, and other financial hardships, which could impact customer demand for our products as well as our ability to manage normal commercial relationships with our customers and suppliers. Depending on their severity and duration, the effects and consequences of a global economic downturn could have an adverse impact on our results of operations and financial condition.

Previous wording

Future terror attacks, war (including the Russia-Ukraine war and Israel-Hamas war), natural disasters, climate change-related events, pandemic diseases (such as COVID-19), or other events beyond our control could adversely impact our businesses.

Current wording

Future terror attacks, war (including the Russia-Ukraine war), natural disasters, climate change-related events, or other events beyond our control could adversely impact our businesses.

Previous wording

Despite our concerted effort to minimize risk to our production capabilities and corporate information systems and to reduce the effect of unforeseen interruptions through insurance or other risk transfer mechanisms, such as our business continuity planning and disaster recovery plans, we could be adversely impacted by terror attacks, war (including the Russia-Ukraine war and Israel-Hamas war), natural disasters such as earthquakes, hurricanes, floods, tornadoes, ice storms, climate change-related events, pandemic diseases such as COVID-19, or other events such as strikes by the workforce of a significant customer or supplier. Several of our facilities, because of their locations, could be subject tocatastrophic loss caused by the aforementioned natural disasters. Global climate change may aggravate natural disasters and increase severe weather events that affect our business operations. These risks could negatively impact demand for or supply of our products and could also cause disruption to our facilities or systems, which could also interrupt operational processes and adversely impact our ability to manufacture our products and provide services and support to our customers. The insurance we maintain may be insufficient to cover our losses, and any incidents may result in loss of, or increased costs of, such insurance. In addition, while our existing disaster recovery and business continuity plans, including those relating to our information technology systems are well designed, they may not be fully responsive to, or minimize losses associated with, catastrophic events. As a result, any business disruption could negatively affect our business, operating results, or financial condition.

Current wording

Despite our concerted effort to minimize risk to our production capabilities and corporate information systems and to reduce the effect of unforeseen interruptions through insurance or other risk transfer mechanisms, such as our business continuity planning and disaster recovery plans, we could be adversely impacted by terror attacks, war (including the Russia-Ukraine war), natural disasters such as earthquakes, hurricanes, floods, tornadoes, ice storms, climate change-related events, or other events such as strikes by the workforce of a significant customer or supplier (e.g., the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace workers union work stoppage at Boeing). Several of our facilities, because of their locations, could be subject tocatastrophic loss caused by the above mentioned natural disasters. Global climate change may aggravate natural disasters and increase severe weather events that affect our business operations. These risks could negatively impact demand for or supply of our products and could also cause disruption to our facilities or systems, which could also interrupt operational processes and adversely impact our ability to manufacture our products and provide services and support to our customers. The insurance we maintain may be insufficient to cover our losses, and any incidents may result in loss of, or increased costs of, such insurance. In addition, while our existing disaster recovery and business continuity plans, including those relating to our information technology systems are well designed, they may not be fully responsive to, or minimize losses associated with, catastrophic events. As a result, any business disruption could negatively affect our business, operating results, or financial condition.

Previous wording

The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the global economy and adversely impacted certain elements of our business, including our supply chain, transportation networks, and production levels. Although the World Health Organization and the U.S. federal government declared an end to COVID-19 as a global and national health emergency in May 2023, any future resurgence or development of new strains or variants of COVID-19, together with preventative measures taken to contain or mitigate such crises, could impact our business, operations and financial condition in a variety of ways, such as: (i) impact our customers such that the demand for our products and services could change; (ii) disrupt our supply chain and impact the ability of our suppliers to provide products or services as required; (iii) disrupt our ability to sell and provide our products and services and otherwise operate effectively; (iv) increase incremental costs resulting from the adoption of preventative measures and compliance with regulatory requirements; (v) create financial hardship on customers, including by creating restrictions on their ability to pay for our products and services; and (vi) result in closures of our facilities or the facilities of our customers or suppliers.

Current wording

A pandemic, including COVID-19 or other epidemic or public health emergency, together with preventative measures taken to contain or mitigate such crises, could impact our business, operations and financial condition in a variety of ways, such as: (i) impact our customers such that the demand for our products and services could change; (ii) disrupt our supply chain and impact the ability of our suppliers to provide products or services as required; (iii) disrupt our ability to sell and provide our products and services and otherwise operate effectively; (iv) increase incremental costs resulting from the adoption of preventative measures and compliance with regulatory requirements; (v) create financial hardship on customers, including by creating restrictions on their ability to pay for our products and services; and (vi) result in closures of our facilities or the facilities of our customers or suppliers. Even after a public health crisis subsides, there may be long-term effects on our business practices and customers in economies in which we operate that could severely disrupt our operations and could have a material adverse effect on our business, operations, and financial results. As we cannot predict the duration, scope or severity of future public health crises, the negative financial impact to our results cannot be reasonably estimated and could be material.