MATTHEWS INTERNATIONAL CORP
For the period ended Sep 30, 2025. Filed Nov 21, 2025.
View on SEC.govAbout this filing
A company's yearly report to the SEC, with audited financial statements. It is the fullest account a company gives of its business, its finances and the risks it sees.
FY2025 · Filed Nov 21, 2025
MATW$19.33-2.4%Stored close · as of Nov 6, 2026
What changed in Risk Factors?
Read the current filingPrevious report: 10-K
Period ended 2024-09-30; filed 2024-11-22.
0000063296-24-000094
Item 1A. RISK FACTORSCurrent report: 10-K
Period ended 2025-09-30; filed 2025-11-21.
0000063296-25-000070
Item 1A. RISK FACTORSThe baseline is this issuer’s latest earlier reporting period of the same form that was filed before the current report. A previous 10-Q is a different quarter, not a year-over-year comparison. Amendments are excluded.
Compared 54 previous paragraphs and 71 current paragraphs.
36 unchanged; 15 reworded; 20 added; 0 removed; 3 previous and 0 current paragraphs rearranged.
Tables are not compared: 0 previous and 0 current tables excluded. Dates, whitespace, punctuation and numbering changes are ignored; changes to financial figures remain significant.
A changed paragraph is not evidence that risk increased or decreased. An unchanged paragraph does not establish that risk stayed the same.
Added paragraphs (20)
Current report
•competition from foreign businesses that do not have access to U.S. markets; and
Current report
Changes to U.S. trade policy, including new or increased tariffs and changing import/export regulations, could have a material adverse effect on the Company's operating results. Changes in U.S. or international social, political, regulatory or economic conditions or in laws and policies governing foreign trade, and any potential negative sentiment toward the U.S. as a result of such changes, could materially and adversely affect the Company's business. The U.S. has instituted certain changes, and has proposed additional changes, in trade policies that include the negotiation or termination of trade agreements, the imposition of higher tariffs on imports into the U.S., and other government regulations affecting trade between the U.S. and other countries (such as the European Union, China, Canada and Mexico) where the Company conducts its business. For example, on April 2, 2025, the U.S. government announced a 10% tariff on product imports from almost all countries and individualized higher tariffs on certain other countries. While several tariff announcements have been followed by announcements of limited exemptions and temporary pauses, global trade disruption, significant introductions of trade barriers and bilateral trade frictions, together with any future downturns in the global economy resulting therefrom, could further materially and adversely affect the Company's financial performance.
Current report
As a result of policy changes and government proposals, there may be greater restrictions and economic deterrents on international trade. New tariffs and other changes in U.S. trade policy have triggered retaliatory actions by affected countries and may trigger additional retaliatory actions in the future, and foreign governments have instituted or are considering imposing trade sanctions on U.S. goods. Such changes have the potential to adversely impact the U.S. economy, the industries in which the Company operates, and the global demand for its products, and as a result, could have a negative impact on its business, financial condition and results of operations.
Current report
The Company's results of operations could be impacted if its investment in Propelis fails to perform as expected. On May 1, 2025, the Company contributed the vast majority of its Brand Solutions segment to a newly-formed entity, Propelis, in exchange for (i) 40% of the common equity of Propelis, (ii) certain preferred equity interests in Propelis, and (iii) cash consideration. Propelis is unconsolidated with the Company, and the Company is a minority owner therein; as such, the Company is not the ultimate decision-maker with respect to the operations of Propelis or distributions of cash or other property to its unitholders. Propelis’ business is subject to significant risks, including competition from other brand solution providers on the basis of price, requirements from global customers that their suppliers, including Propelis, be global in scope, fluctuations in demand for brand solutions and concentration of product solutions offerings to a single vertical. Should some or all of these risks, or other risksthe Company has not yet identified come to fruition, the Company may realize losses related to its investment in Propelis, which could have a material negative effect on its business, financial condition and results of operations and cause the Company’s financial results to differ from expectations in any given period or over the long-term.
Current report
In addition, like all joint ventures, this one involves a number of specific risks and challenges, including but not limited to the following:
Current report
•Joint ventures require significant managerial attention, which may be diverted from the Company’s other operations
Current report
•The Company is subject to customary restrictions on the transfer of its equity interests, limiting the Company's ability to dispose of its equity interests in Propelis.
Current report
•If there is a change in ownership, a change of control, a change in management or management philosophy, a change in business strategy or another event with respect to the Company’s joint venture partner, it could adversely impact the joint venture and, therefore, adversely impact the Company.
Current report
•The Company’s joint venture partner may fail to satisfy contractual obligations.
Current report
•Conflicts may arise with the Company’s joint venture partner, related to, for example, the scope of the respective rights, responsibilities and obligations of each party in the joint venture.
Current report
•The Company’s joint venture partner may be unable or unwilling to support actions that the Company believes are in the best interests of the joint venture or may have economic or business interests or goals that are inconsistent with the Company’s interests. These risks are of particular importance given that the Company holds a minority interest in the joint venture.
Current report
•The Company’s joint venture partner may take actions that cause harm to the Company’s reputation.
Current report
If the Company is unable to manage its interest in Propelis and realize the strategic and financial benefits that it expects, such inability may lead to a material adverse impact on its results of operations.
Current report
The equity incomethe Company reports from Propelis is reported on a three-month lag basis, which impacts the quarterly and fiscal year timing of when Propelis’ results and synergies are reflected inthe Company's financial statements. The Company accounts forthe Company's 40% interest in Propelis using the equity method of accounting on a three-month lag basis, which impacts the quarterly and fiscal year timing of when Propelis' results and synergies are reflected in the equity income from Propelis included inthe Company's financial statements. Propelis' quarterly results are not reflected in the equity income reported inthe Company's consolidated financial statements untilthe Company's quarterly period ending three months after the end of the related Propelis three-month period.
Current report
The Company's business could be negatively affected as a result of actions of activist shareholders. Activist shareholders have previously nominated candidates for election tothe Company's Board of Directors, resulting in a proxy contest, and may do so again in the future. Ifthe Company becomes engaged in a proxy contest with an activist shareholder in the future, the Company's business could be adversely affected because: responding to public proposals and director nominations, special meeting requests and other actions by activist shareholders can disruptthe Company's operations, be costly and time-consuming, and divert the attention ofthe Company's management and employees; perceived uncertainties as tothe Company's future direction may result in the loss of potential business opportunities, and may make it more difficult to attract and retain qualified personnel and business partners; cause an event of default underthe Company's credit facilities or other agreements due to a change in control (i) if eitherthe Company sustains a series of successful proxy contests or, (ii) ifthe Company's shareholders approve an amendment tothe Company's Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation to declassifythe Company's Board of Directors and following such amendment a shareholder successfully engages in a proxy contest; and claims made by activist shareholders in connection with a proxy contest or otherwise may harmthe Company's reputation, damagethe Company's relations with customers, employees and business relations such as suppliers, or otherwise impairthe Company's business. In addition, pursuit of an activist shareholder’s agenda may adversely affectthe Company's ability to effectively implementthe Company's business strategy and create additional value forthe Company's shareholders. Activist investors may seek to influencethe Company's corporate strategy, governance, capital allocation, or structure through public campaigns, proxy contests, or direct engagement withthe Company's Board of Directors. Whilethe Company values constructive input from shareholders, actions by activist investors could result in significant disruption tothe Company's operations, divert management attention, and lead to short-term decision-making that may not align withthe Company's long-term strategic goals. In particular, activist investors may advocate for a breakup of the Company through spin-offs, divestitures, or other structural changes. While such proposals may be positioned as enhancing shareholder value, there is no assurance that any resulting transactions would be successful or in the best interests of all shareholders. A breakup could result in: Loss of operational synergies and scale efficiencies; Increased costs associated with separation, including legal, tax, and restructuring expenses; Reduced strategic flexibility and competitive positioning; Potential adverse impacts on employee morale, retention, and recruitment; Market uncertainty and volatility inth…
Excerpt shortened here; the source contains the full paragraph.
Current report
The market price forthe Company's common stock has experienced significant price and volume volatility and is likely to continue to experience significant volatility in the future. This volatility may impair the ability to finance strategic transactions withthe Company's stock and otherwise harmthe Company's business. The Company's stock price has experienced significant price and volume volatility for the past several years, andthe Company's stock price is likely to experience significant volatility in the future. The trading price ofthe Company's common stock may be influenced by factors beyondthe Company's control, such as the volatility of the financial markets, uncertainty surrounding domestic and foreign economies, conditions and trends in the marketsthe Company serves, changes in the estimation of the future size and growth rate ofthe Company's markets, publication of research reports, and recommendations by financial analysts relating tothe Company's business, the business of competitors, or the industries in whichthe Company operates and compete, changes in market valuation or earnings of competitors, legislation or regulatory policies, practices, or actions, sales ofthe Company's common stock by principal shareholders, actions or other announcements by activist shareholders regardingthe Company's business or the trading price ofthe Company's common stock, and the trading volume ofthe Company's common stock. The historical market prices ofthe Company's common stock may not be indicative of future market prices andthe Company may be unable to sustain or increase the value ofthe Company's common stock. The Company has historically used equity incentive compensation as part ofthe Company's overall compensation arrangements. The effectiveness of equity incentive compensation in retaining key employees may be adversely impacted by volatility inthe Company's stock price. Significant declines inthe Company's stock price may also interfere with the ability, if needed, to raise additional funds through equity financing or to finance strategic transactions withthe Company's stock. In addition, there may be increased risk of securities litigation following periods of fluctuations inthe Company's stock price. Securities class action lawsuits are often brought against companies after periods of volatility in the market price of their securities. These and other consequences of volatility inthe Company's stock price which could be exacerbated by macroeconomic conditions that affect the market generally, orthe Company's industries in particular, could have the effect of diverting management’s attention and could materially harmthe Company's business.
Current report
The Company's Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation grantsthe Company's board of directors the power to designate and issue additional shares of common and/or preferred stock. The Company's authorized capital consists of 70,000,000 shares of common stock and 10,000 shares of preferred stock. In addition, there are authorized 30,000,000 shares of Class B Common Stock, none of which are outstanding and all of which have previously converted into shares of Class A Common Stock and may not be reissued. The Company's preferred stock may be designated into series pursuant to authority granted bythe Company's Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation (the “Articles of Incorporation”), and on approval fromthe Company's board of directors (the “Board of Directors” or “Board”). The Board of Directors, without any action bythe Company's common shareholders, may designate and issue additional shares of preferred stock in such classes or series as it deems appropriate and establish the rights, preferences and privileges of such shares, including dividends, liquidation and voting rights. The rights of holders of other classes or series of stock that may be issued could be superior to the rights of holders ofthe Company's common stock. The designation and issuance of shares of capital stock having preferential rights could adversely affect other rights appurtenant to shares ofthe Company's common stock.
Current report
Provisions ofthe Company's charter documents or Pennsylvania law could discourage, delay or prevent the Company from being acquired even if being acquired would be beneficial tothe Company's shareholders and could make it more difficult to change management. The Articles and the Amended and Restated Bylaws contain a number of provisions relating to corporate governance and to the rights of the Company’s shareholders. Certain of these provisions may have a potential “anti-takeover” effect by delaying, deferring or preventing a change of control of the Company. In addition, certain provisions of Pennsylvania law may have a similar effect. See “Anti-takeover Effect of the Company’s Governing Documents and Pennsylvania Business Corporation Law” included in the Description of Securities filed as Exhibit 4.4 to this Annual Report on Form 10-K for a description of such provisions. Such provisions may have the effect of delaying or preventing a change in control of the Company, even if such transaction would be beneficial to most or all of the shareholders.
Current report
The Company is subject to various risks related to the local and international nature ofthe Company's business, including domestic and foreign laws, regulations and standards. In recent years, there have been significant shifts in governments’ priorities with respect to enforcing such laws, regulations and standards. Notwithstanding such shifts, failure to comply with such laws and regulations or the occurrence of unforeseen developments such as litigation, investigations, governmental proceedings or enforcement actions could adversely affectthe Company's business. In recent years, a number of new laws and regulations have been adopted, new executive orders have been announced, and there has been expanded enforcement of certain existing laws and regulations by federal, state and local agencies. These laws and regulations, and related interpretations and enforcement activity, may change as a result of a variety of factors, including political, economic or social events. For example, since taking office, the current administration of the U.S. government has sought to adopt new regulations and policies and to suspend, revise or rescind prior policies that are identified as conflicting with the administration’s position, which has resulted in increased regulatory uncertainty. Any changes in, expanded enforcement of, or adoption of new federal, state or local laws and regulations could increasethe Company's costs of doing business or impactthe Company's operations. Failure to comply with any of these laws, regulations and standards has in the past and may in the future result in civil, criminal, monetary and non-monetary penalties as well as potential damage tothe Company's reputation. Furthermore, whilethe Company has implemented policies and procedures designed to facilitate compliance with these laws, regulations and standards, there can be no assurance that associates, contractors or agents will not violate such laws, regulations and standards orthe Company's policies. Any failure to comply with or violation of the various laws, regulations and standards to whichthe Company is subject could individually or in the aggregate have a material adverse effect onthe Company's business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
Reworded paragraphs (15)
Previous wording
The Company's international sales and operations expose the Company to significant risks and failure to manage those risks could materially adversely impact the Company's business. The Company conducts business in more than 30 countries around the world, and in fiscal 2024 approximately 36% of the Company's sales were made from locations outside the United States. In addition, the Company's manufacturing operations, suppliers and employees are located in many places around the world. As such, the Company's future success depends in part on its ability to grow sales in non-U.S. markets. Sales and operations outside of the United States are subject to certain inherent risks. The Company anticipates that future sales to international customers will continue to account for a significant percentage of its revenues. Risks associated with the Company’s international sales and operations include, but are not limited to:
Current wording
The Company's international sales and operations expose the Company to significant risks and failure to manage those risks could materially adversely impact the Company's business. The Company conducts business in more than 18 countries around the world, and in fiscal 2025 approximately 30% of the Company's sales were made from locations outside the United States. In addition, the Company's manufacturing operations, suppliers and employees are located in many places around the world. As such, the Company's future success depends in part on its ability to grow sales in non-U.S. markets. Sales and operations outside of the United States are subject to certain inherent risks. The Company anticipates that future sales to international customers will continue to account for a significant percentage of its revenues. Risks associated with the Company’s international sales and operations include, but are not limited to:
Previous wording
•transportation, including piracy in international waters; and
Current wording
•transportation, including piracy in international waters;
Previous wording
The Company's balance sheet includes a significant amount of goodwill and intangible assets. An impairment in the carrying value of goodwill could negatively impact the Company's consolidated results of operations and total assets. The Company has recorded a significant amount of goodwill and intangible assets in its consolidated financial statements resulting from acquisition activities and has in the past recorded, and may in the future record, significant charges for impairment of goodwill and intangible assets. The Company tests, at least annually, the carrying value of goodwill for impairment. The estimates and assumptions about future results of operations and cash flows made in connection with the impairment testing could differ from future actual results of operations and cash flows. For example, during the fiscal years ended September 30, 2024 and 2022, Matthews recorded a $16.7 million goodwill write-down with respect to its Surfaces and Engineering reporting unit and an $82.5 million goodwill write-down with respect to its SGK Brand Solutions reporting unit, respectively. See Note 23, "Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets" in Item 8 - “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” for further details. If Matthews concludes that any further goodwill or intangible asset values are impaired, for reasons that may include, but are not limited to, underperformance in one or more reporting segments against forecast levels; changes in the Company’s business strategy, structure, and/or the allocation of resources; the inability of acquisitions to achieve expected operating results; a decline in the Company’s stock price for a sustained period; a potential recession or other disruption; or interest rate increases or other factors, any resulting non-cash impairment charge could have a material adverse effect on Matthews’ business, results of operations and financial condition.
Current wording
The Company's balance sheet includes a significant amount of goodwill and intangible assets. An impairment in the carrying value of goodwill could negatively impact the Company's consolidated results of operations and total assets. The Company has recorded a significant amount of goodwill and intangible assets in its consolidated financial statements resulting from acquisition activities and has in the past recorded, and may in the future record, significant charges for impairment of goodwill and intangible assets. The Company tests, at least annually, the carrying value of goodwill for impairment. The estimates and assumptions about future results of operations and cash flows made in connection with the impairment testing could differ from future actual results of operations and cash flows. For example, during the fiscal year ended September 30, 2024, Matthews recorded a $16.7 million goodwill write-down with respect to its Surfaces and Engineering reporting unit. See Note 24, "Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets" in Item 8 - “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” for further details. If Matthews concludes that any further goodwill or intangible asset values are impaired, for reasons that may include, but are not limited to, underperformance in one or more reporting segments against forecast levels; changes in the Company’s business strategy, structure, and/or the allocation of resources; the inability of acquisitions to achieve expected operating results; a decline in the Company’s stock price for a sustained period; a potential recession or other disruption; or interest rate increases or other factors, any resulting non-cash impairment charge could have a material adverse effect on Matthews’ business, results of operations and financial condition.
Previous wording
The Company is subject to competitive pressures, including with respect to product demand and pricing. The Company's businesses have and will continue to operate in competitive markets. Changes in product demand or pricing are affected by domestic and foreign competition and an increase in consolidated purchasing by large customers operating in both domestic and global markets. The Memorialization businesses generally operate in markets with ample supply capacity and demand which is correlated to death rates. The SGK Brand Solutions businesses serve global customers that are requiring their suppliers to be global in scope and price-competitive. Additionally, in recent years the Company has witnessed an increase in products manufactured offshore, primarily in China, and imported into the Company's U.S. markets. It is expected that these trends will continue and may affect the Company's future results of operations.
Current wording
The Company is subject to competitive pressures, including with respect to product demand and pricing. The Company's businesses have and will continue to operate in competitive markets. Changes in product demand or pricing are affected by domestic and foreign competition and an increase in consolidated purchasing by large customers operating in both domestic and global markets. The Memorialization businesses generally operate in markets with ample supply capacity and demand which is correlated to death rates. Additionally, in recent years the Company has witnessed an increase in products manufactured offshore, primarily in China, and imported into the Company's U.S. markets. It is expected that these trends will continue and may affect the Company's future results of operations.
Previous wording
Global conflicts may impact the Company's business and the markets in which the Company operates. Global conflicts, such as the war in Ukraine, could impact the Company and its operations in a number of different ways, which are yet to be fully assessed and are therefore uncertain. The Company’s principal concern is for the safety of its employees and other personnel, specifically those who are based in the affected region. The Company has employees who are based in Eastern Europe, including Russia and Ukraine, who may be affected by the ongoing hostilities. The Company additionally has property, plant and equipment in or around the affected region. The continuing impact of this war and the response of the United States and other countries to it by means of trade and economic sanctions, or other actions, is still evolving and unknown; however it could disrupt the Company’s ability to work with certain parties. Similarly, the Company has employees based in the affected region and works with third-party providers from other parts of the world that may be affected by hostilities.
Current wording
Global conflicts may impact the Company's business and the markets in which the Company operates. Global conflicts, such as the war in Ukraine, could impact the Company and its operations in a number of different ways, which are yet to be fully assessed and are therefore uncertain. The Company’s principal concern is for the safety of its employees and other personnel, specifically those who are based in the affected region. The Company has employees who are based in Eastern Europe, including Russia, who may be affected by the ongoing hostilities. The Company additionally has property, plant and equipment in or around the affected region. The continuing impact of this war and the response of the United States and other countries to it by means of trade and economic sanctions, or other actions, is still evolving and unknown; however it could disrupt the Company’s ability to work with certain parties. Similarly, the Company has employees based in the affected region and works with third-party providers from other parts of the world that may be affected by hostilities.
Previous wording
Due to the uncertainty relating to war or similar conflicts, the current war between Russia and Ukraine may adversely affect the Company's business, of which could materially and adversely affect the Company's results of operations. Such risks include, but are not limited to, adverse effects on macroeconomic conditions, including inflation and business and consumer spending; disruptions to the Company's global technology infrastructure, including through cyberattack, ransom attack, or cyber-intrusion; adverse changes in international trade policies and relations; disruptions in global supply chains; exposure to foreign currency fluctuations; and constraints, volatility, or disruption in the capital markets. Similar uncertainties may arise in connection with other ongoing hostilities or future hostilities.
Current wording
Uncertainty relating to war or similar conflicts, including the current war between Russia and Ukraine, may adversely affect the Company's business, which could materially and adversely affect the Company's results of operations. Such risks include, but are not limited to, adverse effects on macroeconomic conditions, including inflation and business and consumer spending; disruptions to the Company's global technology infrastructure, including through cyberattack, ransom attack, or cyber-intrusion; adverse changes in international trade policies and relations; disruptions in global supply chains; exposure to foreign currency fluctuations; and constraints, volatility, or disruption in the capital markets. Similar uncertainties may arise in connection with other ongoing hostilities or future hostilities.
Previous wording
For so long as the hostilities continue, and perhaps even thereafter as the situation unfolds, the Company may see increased volatility in financial markets, which may impact equity markets generally, including the Company’s stock price, and make it more difficult for the Company to raise additional capital at a strategically advantageous time, or for financing to be available upon acceptable terms. All or any of these risks separately, or in combination could have a material adverse effect on the Company's business, financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows.
Current wording
While the hostilities continue, and perhaps even thereafter, the Company may see increased volatility in financial markets, which may impact equity markets generally, including the Company’s stock price, and make it more difficult for the Company to raise additional capital at a strategically advantageous time or to obtain financing upon acceptable terms. All or any of these risks, separately or in combination, could have a material adverse effect on the Company's business, financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows.
Previous wording
The Company faces risks in connection with acquisitions, divestitures and business combinations, including the Company's ability to identify or successfully complete any such acquisitions, divestitures or business combinations, to effectively integrate acquired businesses or to effectively manage the remaining business or the combined business. The Company has grown, in part, through acquisitions and continues to evaluate acquisition, divestiture and business combination opportunities that have the potential to support and strengthen its businesses, and any such future acquisitions, divestitures or business combinations may be material. There is no assurance, however, that future acquisition, divestiture or business combination opportunities will arise, or that if they do, that they will be consummated. In addition, acquisition, divestitures and business combinations involve inherent risks that the businesses acquired, or the combined or remaining business, will not perform in accordance with expectations, or that synergies expected from an acquisition, divestiture or business combination will not be achieved as rapidly as expected, or at all. The Company's pre-transaction diligence review may not discover or accurately quantify certain undisclosed liabilities, and the Company may not be indemnified for such liabilities which could have an adverse effect on the acquired business, the remaining business or the combined business. Failure to effectively integrate acquired businesses or effectively manage the remaining business or the combined business could prevent the realization of expected rates of return on the investment, including the achievement of cost-reduction objectives, and could have a negative effect on the Company's results of operations and financial condition.
Current wording
The Company faces risks in connection with acquisitions, divestitures and business combinations, including the Company's ability to identify or successfully complete any such acquisitions, divestitures or business combinations, to effectively integrate acquired businesses or to effectively manage the remaining business or the combined business. The Company has evolved, in part, through acquisitions and continues to evaluate acquisition, divestiture and business combination opportunities that have the potential to support and strengthen its businesses, and any such future acquisitions, divestitures or business combinations may be material. There is no assurance, however, that future acquisition, divestiture or business combination opportunities will arise, or that if they do, that they will be consummated. In addition, acquisition, divestitures and business combinations involve inherent risks that the businesses acquired, or the combined or remaining business, will not perform in accordance with expectations, or that synergies expected from an acquisition, divestiture or business combination will not be achieved as rapidly as expected, or at all. The Company's pre-transaction diligence review may not discover or accurately quantify certain undisclosed liabilities, and the Company may not be indemnified for such liabilities, which could have an adverse effect on the acquired business, the remaining business or the combined business. Failure to effectively integrate acquired businesses or effectively manage the remaining business or the combined business could prevent the realization of expected rates of return on the investment, including the achievement of cost-reduction objectives, and could have a negative effect on the Company's results of operations and financial condition.
Previous wording
If the Company is unable to adequately protect the Company's intellectual property, the Company's business, financial condition or results of operations could be materially and adversely affected. Certain of the Company's businesses rely on various intellectual property rights, including patents, copyrights, trademarks and trade secrets, as well as confidentiality provisions and licensing arrangements, to establish proprietary rights. If the Company does not enforce, or is unsuccessful in enforcing, its intellectual property rights successfully, its competitive position may suffer, which could harm the Company's operating results and have a material adverse effect on the Company's business. In addition, the Company's patents, copyrights, trademarks and other intellectual property rights, including its trade secrets, may not provide a significant competitive advantage. The Company may need to spend significant resources monitoring its intellectual property rights and may or may not be able to detect infringement by third parties. The Company's competitive position may be harmed if it cannot detect infringement and enforce its intellectual property rights quickly or at all. In some circumstances, the Company may choose to not pursue enforcement because an infringer has a dominant intellectual property position or for other business reasons, such as the expense of litigation against a well-resourced adversary. In addition, competitors might avoid infringement by designing around the Company's intellectual property rights or by developing non-infringing competing technologies. Intellectual property rights and the Company's ability to enforce them may be unavailable or limited in some countries which could make it easier for competitors to capture market share and could result in lost revenues.
Current wording
If the Company is unable to adequately protect the Company's intellectual property, the Company's business, financial condition or results of operations could be materially and adversely affected. Certain of the Company's businesses rely on various intellectual property rights, including patents, copyrights, trademarks and trade secrets, as well as confidentiality provisions and licensing arrangements, to establish proprietary rights. If the Company does not enforce, or is unsuccessful in enforcing, its intellectual property rights, its competitive position may suffer, which could harm the Company's operating results and have a material adverse effect on the Company's business. In addition, the Company's patents, copyrights, trademarks and other intellectual property rights, including its trade secrets, may not provide a significant competitive advantage. The Company may need to spend significant resources monitoring its intellectual property rights and may or may not be able to detect infringement by third parties. The Company's competitive position may be harmed if it cannot detect infringement and enforce its intellectual property rights quickly or at all. In some circumstances, the Company may choose to not pursue enforcement because an infringer has a dominant intellectual property position or for other business reasons, such as the expense of litigation against a well-resourced adversary. In addition, competitors might avoid infringement by designing around the Company's intellectual property rights or by developing non-infringing competing technologies. Intellectual property rights and the Company's ability to enforce them may be unavailable or limited in some countries which could make it easier for competitors to capture market share and could result in lost revenues.
Previous wording
Intellectual property infringement assertions by third parties, including those of Tesla, could result in significant costs and adversely affect the Company's business, financial condition, operating results and reputation. The Company actively manages its businesses to ensure compliance under contractual commitments with its customers, including matters related to intellectual property rights. While the Company believes it has complied with its obligations in this regard and has not infringed on the intellectual property of third parties, the Company cannot assure that third parties will not assert claims, meritorious or otherwise. For example, while the Company has attempted to work under the terms of its existing contracts with Tesla to affirm the ownership of its intellectual property, in June 2024, Tesla filed a complaint against the Company (the “Tesla Complaint”) alleging trade secret misappropriations under the Defend Trade Secrets Act (the “DTSA”) and California’s Uniform Trade Secrets Act (the “CUTSA”), breach of contract and unfair business practices relating to the Company’s dry battery electrode solutions. The Company cannot predict whether the assertions in the Tesla Complaint or other assertions of third-party intellectual property rights or claims arising from such assertions would substantially adversely affect the Company's business, financial condition and operating results. The defense of these claims, including the Tesla Complaint, and any future infringement claims, whether they are with or without merit or are determined in the Company's favor, may result in costly litigation and diversion of technical and management personnel. Further, an adverse outcome of a dispute, including the dispute with Tesla, may require the Company to pay damages, cease making, licensing, or using products or offering services that are alleged to incorporate the intellectual property of others, expend additional development resources to redesign the Company's offerings, or enter into potentially unfavorable royalty or license agreements in order to obtain the right to use necessary intellectual property, which may be unavailable on terms acceptable to the Company, or at all. Even if these matters do not result in litigation or are resolved in the Company's favor or without significant cash settlements, the time and resources necessary to resolve them could adversely affect the Company's business, reputation, financial condition and operating results.
Current wording
Intellectual property infringement assertions by third parties, including those of Tesla, Inc. ("Tesla"), could result in significant costs and adversely affect the Company's business, financial condition, operating results and reputation. The Company actively manages its businesses to ensure compliance under contractual commitments with its customers, including matters related to intellectual property rights. While the Company believes it has complied with its obligations in this regard and has not infringed on the intellectual property of third parties, the Company cannot ensure that third parties will not assert claims, meritorious or otherwise. For example, while the Company has attempted to work under the terms of its existing contracts with Tesla to affirm the ownership of its intellectual property, in June 2024, Tesla filed a complaint against the Company (the “Tesla Complaint”) alleging trade secret misappropriations under the Defend Trade Secrets Act (the “DTSA”) and the California Uniform Trade Secrets Act (the “CUTSA”), for breach of contract and unfair business practices relating to the dry battery electrode solutions arising from the Company's advanced rotary processing and calendering technologies. In addition, on February 13, 2025, Tesla filed an additional complaint against the Company in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California alleging, in part, claims related to correction of inventorship, breach of contract, promissory estoppel and quasi-contract/restitution arising from and/or related to various U.S. patents and provisional patents, including but not limited to U.S. Patent No. 12,136,727. The Company cannot predict whether the assertions in the Tesla Complaint or other assertions of third-party intellectual property rights or claims arising from such assertions would substantially adversely affect the Company's business, financial condition and operating results. The defense of these claims, including the Tesla Complaint, and any future infringement claims, whether they are with or without merit or are determined in the Company's favor, may result in costly litigation and diversion of technical and management personnel. Further, an adverse outcome of a dispute, including the dispute with Tesla, may require the Company to pay damages; cease making, licensing, or using products or offering services that are alleged to incorporate the intellectual property of others; expend additional development resources to redesign the Company's offerings; or enter into potentially unfavorable royalty or license agreements in order to obtain the right to use necessary intellectual property, which may be unavailable on terms acceptable to the Company, or at all. Even if these matters do not result in litigation or are resolved in the Company's favor or without significant cash settlements, the time and resources necessary to resolve them could adversely affect the Company's business, reputation, financial condit…
Excerpt shortened here; the source contains the full paragraph.
Previous wording
The Company is subject to environmental laws and regulations, as well as environmental remediation and compliance that may lead to significant unforeseen expenses. The Company is subject to the risk of environmental liability and limitations on its operations due to environmental laws and regulations. The Company is subject to extensive federal, state, local and foreign environmental, health and safety laws and regulations concerning matters such as air emissions, wastewater discharges, solid and hazardous waste handling and disposal and the investigation and remediation of contamination. The risks of potentially substantial costs and liabilities related to compliance with these laws and regulations are an inherent part of the Company's business, and future conditions may develop, arise or be discovered that create substantial environmental compliance or remediation liabilities and costs. Compliance with environmental, health and safety legislation and regulatory requirements may prove to be more limiting and costly than the Company anticipates, and there is no assurance that significant expenditures related to such compliance may not be required in the future.
Current wording
The Company is subject to environmental laws and regulations, as well as environmental remediation and compliance that may lead to significant unforeseen expenses. The Company is subject to the risk of environmental liability and limitations on its operations due to environmental laws and regulations. The Company is subject to extensive federal, state, local and foreign environmental, health and safety laws and regulations concerning matters such as air emissions, wastewater discharges, solid and hazardous waste handling and disposal, and the investigation and remediation of contamination. The risks of potentially substantial costs and liabilities related to compliance with these laws and regulations are an inherent part of the Company's business, and future conditions may develop, arise or be discovered that create substantial environmental compliance or remediation liabilities and costs. Compliance with environmental, health and safety legislation and regulatory requirements may prove to be more limiting and costly than the Company anticipates, and there is no assurance that significant expenditures related to such compliance will not be required in the future.
Previous wording
The Company relies on third parties and their systems for a variety of services, including significant information technology services, and the failure of these third parties to provide these services could disrupt the Company's business. The Company has entered into agreements with a variety of third-party providers for information technology services, including telecommunications, network server maintenance, cloud computing and transaction processing services. In addition, Matthews has agreements through which it has outsourced certain activities related to the operations of the Company’s business segments. A provider’s ability to provide services could be disrupted for a variety of reasons, including, among others, software errors or design faults, human error, security breaches, power loss, telecommunications failures, equipment failures, electrical disruptions, labor issues, vandalism, fire, flood, extreme weather, terrorism and other events beyond their control. If one or more of Matthews’ providers is unable to provide adequate or timely services, the Company’s ability to deliver products and services to customers could be adversely affected. Matthews cannot completely eliminate the risk of such disruptions, many of which are impacted by events outside of the Company’s control. Any significant disruption could harm the Company’s business, including damage to brands and loss of customers. Additionally, although Matthews believes that most of these services are available from numerous sources, a failure to perform by one or more of the providers could cause a material disruption in the Company’s business and an increase in expense while it works to obtain alternative services. Additionally, while the Company has policies and procedures for managing these relationships, they inherently involve a lesser degree of control over business operations, governance and compliance, thereby potentially increasing the profiles of Matthews’ financial, legal, reputational and operational risks.
Current wording
The Company relies on third parties and their systems for a variety of services, including significant information technology services, and the failure of these third parties to provide these services could disrupt the Company's business. The Company has entered into agreements with a variety of third-party providers for information technology services, including telecommunications, network server maintenance, cloud computing and transaction processing services. In addition, Matthews has agreements through which it has outsourced certain activities related to the operations of the Company’s business segments. A provider’s ability to provide services could be disrupted for a variety of reasons, including, among others, software errors or design faults, human error, security breaches, power loss, telecommunications failures, equipment failures, electrical disruptions, labor issues, vandalism, fire, flood, extreme weather, terrorism and other events beyond their control. If one or more of Matthews’ providers is unable to provide adequate or timely services, the Company’s ability to deliver products and services to customers could be adversely affected. Matthews cannot completely eliminate the risk of such disruptions, many of which are impacted by events outside of the Company’s control. Any significant disruption could harm the Company’s business, including damage to brands and loss of customers. Additionally, although Matthews believes that most of these services are available from numerous sources, a failure to perform by one or more of the providers could cause a material disruption in the Company’s business and an increase in expense while it works to obtain alternative services. Additionally, while the Company has policies and procedures for managing these relationships, they inherently involve a lesser degree of control over business operations, governance and compliance, thereby potentially increasing Matthews’ financial, legal, reputational and operational risks.
Previous wording
The Company operates in a regulated environment that requires the Company's compliance with laws and regulations. Non-compliance could subject the Company to sanctions and materially adversely affect the Company's business. Due to the international scope of the Company's operations, Matthews is subject to a complex system of commercial and trade regulations around the world, and the Company's foreign operations are governed by laws, rules and business practices that often differ from those of the United States. The Company cannot predict the nature, scope or effect of future regulatory requirements to which the Company's operations might be subject or the manner in which existing laws might be administered or interpreted, which could have a material and negative impact on the Company's business and results of operation. For example, recent years have seen an increase in the development and enforcement of laws and regulations regarding trade compliance, economic sanctions, anti-money laundering, and anti-corruption, such as the FCPA and similar laws in other countries. While Matthews maintains a variety of internal policies and controls and takes steps, including periodic training and internal audits, that the Company believes are reasonably calculated to discourage, prevent and detect violations of such laws, the Company cannot guarantee that such actions will be effective or that individual employees will not engage in inappropriate behavior in contravention of the Company's policies and instructions. Such conduct, or even the allegation thereof, could result in costly investigations and the imposition of severe criminal or civil sanctions, could disrupt the Company's business, and could materially and adversely affect the Company's reputation, business and results of operations or financial condition.
Current wording
The Company operates in a regulated environment that requires the Company's compliance with laws and regulations. Non-compliance could subject the Company to sanctions and materially adversely affect the Company's business. Due to the international scope of the Company's operations, Matthews is subject to a complex system of commercial and trade regulations around the world, and the Company's foreign operations are governed by laws, rules and business practices that often differ from those of the United States. The Company cannot predict the nature, scope or effect of future regulatory requirements to which the Company's operations might be subject or the manner in which existing laws might be administered or interpreted, which could have a material and negative impact on the Company's business and results of operation. For example, recent years have seen an increase in the development and enforcement of laws and regulations regarding trade compliance, economic sanctions, anti-money laundering, and anti-corruption, such as the FCPA and similar laws in other countries. While Matthews maintains a variety of internal policies and controls and takes steps, including periodic training and internal audits, that the Company believes are reasonably calculated to discourage, prevent and detect violations of such laws, the Company cannot guarantee that such actions will be effective or that individual employees will not engage in inappropriate behavior in contravention of the Company's policies and instructions. Such conduct, or even the allegation thereof, could result in costly investigations and the imposition of severe criminal or civil sanctions, could disrupt the Company's business, and could materially and adversely affect the Company's reputation, business and results of operations or financial condition. Further, the Company is subject to laws and regulations, worldwide, affecting its operations outside the United States in areas including, but not limited to, intellectual property ownership and infringement, tax, customs, import and export requirements, economic sanctions, anti-money laundering, anti-corruption and anti-bribery, foreign exchange controls and cash repatriation restrictions, foreign investment, data privacy requirements, anti-competition, pensions and social insurance, employment, and environment, health, and safety. Compliance with these laws and regulations may be onerous and expensive and requirements may differ across jurisdictions. Further, the promulgation of new laws, changes in existing laws and abrogation of local regulations by national laws may have a negative impact on the Company's business and prospects. In addition, certain laws and regulations are relatively new and their interpretation and enforcement involve significant uncertainties. There can be no assurance that any of these factors will not have a material adverse effect on the Company's business, results of operations or financial condition.
Previous wording
The Company's business is affected by general economic conditions, and any economic decline or other circumstances that result in reductions in the Company's customers’ spending could negatively impact the Company's sales volume and revenues. Generally, changes in domestic and international economic conditions affect the industries in which the Company and its customers and suppliers operate. These changes include changes in the rate of consumption or use of the Company's products due to economic downturns, volatility in currency exchange rates, and changes in raw material prices resulting from supply and/or demand conditions.
Current wording
The Company's business is affected by general economic conditions, and any economic decline or other circumstances that result in reductions in the Company's customers’ spending could negatively impact the Company's sales volume and revenues. Generally, changes in domestic and international economic conditions affect the industries in which the Company and its customers and suppliers operate. These changes include changes in the rate of consumption or use of the Company's products due to economic downturns, volatility in currency exchange rates, and changes in raw material prices resulting from supply and/or demand conditions. Uncertainty about current global economic conditions poses a risk, as consumers and businesses may continue to postpone or cancel spending. Other factors that could influence customer spending include energy costs, conditions in the credit markets, consumer confidence, global pandemics, and other factors affecting consumer spending behavior. These and other economic factors could have an effect on demand for the Company's products and services and negatively impact the Company's financial condition and results of operations.
Previous wording
The Company relies on information technology to operate the Company's business. Security breach incidents and breakdowns of information technologies, or failure to comply with laws governing data privacy and data protection, could disrupt the Company's operations, subject the Company to legal claims, and impact the Company's financial results. In the course of business, the Company collects and stores sensitive data and proprietary business information. The Company could be subject to service outages or breaches of security systems which may result in disruption, unauthorized access, misappropriation, or corruption of this information. Security breaches of the Company's network or data including physical or electronic break-ins, vendor service outages, computer viruses, attacks by hackers or similar breaches can create system disruptions, shutdowns, or unauthorized disclosure of confidential information. Although the Company is not aware of any significant incidents to date, if it is unable to prevent, detect and timely remediate such security or privacy breaches, its operations could be disrupted or the Company may suffer legal claims, loss of reputation, financial loss, property damage, or regulatory penalties because of lost or misappropriated information.
Current wording
The Company relies on information technology to operate the Company's business. Security breach incidents and breakdowns of information technologies, or failure to comply with laws governing data privacy and data protection, could disrupt the Company's operations, subject the Company to legal claims, and impact the Company's financial results. In the course of business, the Company collects and stores sensitive data and proprietary business information. The Company could be subject to service outages or breaches of security systems which may result in disruption, unauthorized access, misappropriation, or corruption of this information. Security breaches of the Company's network or data, including physical or electronic break-ins, vendor service outages, computer viruses, attacks by hackers or similar breaches, can create system disruptions, shutdowns, or unauthorized disclosure of confidential information. Although the Company is not aware of any significant incidents to date, if it is unable to prevent, detect and timely remediate such security or privacy breaches, its operations could be disrupted or the Company may suffer legal claims, reputational damage, financial loss, property damage, or regulatory penalties because of lost or misappropriated information. The Company expects that compliance with laws governing data privacy and data protection will require ongoing investment in systems, policies and personnel and will continue to impact Matthews’ business in the future by increasing legal, operational and compliance costs. There can be no assurance that the Company’s efforts will meet the evolving standards imposed by governmental and regulatory agencies, including data protection authorities, with respect to standards that may be adopted in the future. If the Company is found or suspected to have violated data privacy or data protection laws, it may be subject to potential private consumer, business partner or securities litigation, regulatory inquiries, governmental investigations and proceedings, and may incur damage to its reputation. Any such developments may subject Matthews to material fines and other monetary penalties and damages, divert management’s time and attention, and lead to enhanced regulatory oversight, all of which could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business and results of operations.
Rearranged previous paragraphs (3)
Previous report — wording carried elsewhere
Further, the Company is subject to laws and regulations worldwide affecting its operations outside the United States in areas including, but not limited to, intellectual property ownership and infringement, tax, customs, import and export requirements, economic sanctions, anti-money laundering, anti-corruption and anti-bribery, foreign exchange controls and cash repatriation restrictions, foreign investment, data privacy requirements, anti-competition, pensions and social insurance, employment, and environment, health, and safety. Compliance with these laws and regulations may be onerous and expensive and requirements may differ among jurisdictions. Further, the promulgation of new laws, changes in existing laws and abrogation of local regulations by national laws may have a negative impact on the Company's business and prospects. In addition, certain laws and regulations are relatively new and their interpretation and enforcement involve significant uncertainties. There can be no assurance that any of these factors will not have a material adverse effect on the Company's business, results of operations or financial condition.
Previous report — wording carried elsewhere
Uncertainty about current global economic conditions poses a risk, as consumers and businesses may continue to postpone or cancel spending. Other factors that could influence customer spending include energy costs, conditions in the credit markets, consumer confidence, global pandemics, and other factors affecting consumer spending behavior. These and other economic factors could have an effect on demand for the Company's products and services and negatively impact the Company's financial condition and results of operations.
Previous report — wording carried elsewhere
The Company expects that compliance with laws governing data privacy and data protection will require ongoing investment in systems, policies and personnel and will continue to impact Matthews’ business in the future by increasing legal, operational and compliance costs. There can be no assurance that the Company’s efforts will meet the evolving standards imposed by governmental and regulatory agencies, including data protection authorities, with respect to standards that may be adopted in the future. If the Company is found or suspected to have violated data privacy or data protection laws, it may be subject to potential private consumer, business partner or securities litigation, regulatory inquiries, governmental investigations and proceedings, and may incur damage to its reputation. Any such developments may subject Matthews to material fines and other monetary penalties and damages, divert management’s time and attention, and lead to enhanced regulatory oversight, all of which could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business and results of operations.