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PITNEY BOWES INC DE

For the period ended Dec 31, 2024. Filed Feb 21, 2025.

View on SEC.gov

About 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.

FY2024 · Filed Feb 21, 2025

PBI$15.55-0.6%Stored close · as of Nov 6, 2026

What changed in Management’s Discussion and Analysis?

Read the current filing

Previous report: 10-K

Period ended 2023-12-31; filed 2024-02-20.

0000078814-24-000004

Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

Current report: 10-K

Period ended 2024-12-31; filed 2025-02-21.

0000078814-25-000015

Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

The 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 111 previous paragraphs and 123 current paragraphs.

42 unchanged; 35 reworded; 42 added; 34 removed; 0 previous and 4 current paragraphs rearranged.

Tables are not compared: 7 previous and 10 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 (42)

Current report

We have been undergoing a strategic transformation over the past year, which focused on four strategic initiatives: the Ecommerce Restructuring (described in Recent Developments below); cost rationalization including identifying certain cost reductions (described in Results of Operations below) and cash optimization to reduce go-forward cash needs and balance sheet deleveraging (described in Liquidity and Capital Resources below).

Current report

On August 8, 2024, we entered into a series of transactions designed to facilitate an orderly wind-down of a majority the Company’s Global Ecommerce reporting segment. In connection with the wind-down, an affiliate of Hilco Commercial Industrial, LLC (“Hilco”) subscribed for 81% of the voting interests in the subsidiary, DRF Logistics, LLC owning a majority of the Global Ecommerce segment’s net assets and operations (DRF Logistics, LLC and its subsidiary, DRF LLC, the “Ecommerce Debtors”) for de minimis consideration (the “GEC Sale”), with a subsidiary of Pitney Bowes retaining 19% of the voting interests and 100% of the economic interests. Subsequent to the GEC Sale, the Ecommerce Debtors, at the direction of their own governing bodies, filed petitions to commence Chapter 11 bankruptcy cases and conduct an orderly wind down of the Ecommerce Debtors (the “GEC Chapter 11 Cases”). We refer to the GEC Sale, the GEC Chapter 11 Cases and any associated transactions as the “Ecommerce Restructuring”.

Current report

In connection with the GEC Chapter 11 Cases, we entered into a Restructuring Support Agreement (the “RSA”) with the Ecommerce Debtors to provide for, among other things, an orderly wind-down of the Ecommerce Debtors, shared services between the Company and the Ecommerce Debtors for a period of time, a global settlement between the Company and the Ecommerce Debtors, and a senior secured, super-priority debtor-in-possession term loan (the “DIP Facility”) in an aggregate principal amount of up to $47 million.

Current report

In addition, the Company and the Ecommerce Debtors entered into a master settlement agreement (the “Settlement Agreement”), which contemplates the separation of the relationship and transactions among the Company and its subsidiaries and the Ecommerce Debtors, including the settlement and release of claims the Ecommerce Debtors may have against the Company.

Current report

On November 25, 2024, the Bankruptcy Court confirmed the Ecommerce Debtors' Third Amended Joint Plan of Liquidation (the "Plan") which incorporated the terms of the RSA and approved the Settlement Agreement. On December 9, 2024, the Plan became effective in accordance with its terms, substantially consummating the separation of the Company from the Ecommerce Debtors. As of the end of 2024, approximately $120 million of cash costs related to the Ecommerce Restructuring have been paid.

Current report

As a result of the Ecommerce Restructuring, certain revenues, expenses, assets and liabilities are now reported as discontinued operations in our Consolidated Financial Statements. Amounts of the former Global Ecommerce segment that did not qualify for discontinued operations treatment primarily relate to operations that were dissolved or sold, certain shared services functions and a cross-border services contract. Prior periods have been recast to conform to the current period presentation. For segment reporting purposes, the remaining portion of Global Ecommerce in continuing operations is now reported as "Other." See Note 4 for further information.

Current report

Within SendTech Solutions, mailing-related revenues are expected to decline driven by lower meter populations and a higher mix of lease extensions versus new lease sales. We expect this decline to be partially offset by growth in our shipping offerings, particularly our SaaS solutions. The shift to lease extensions versus new lease sales will result in declining equipment sales in the near term; however, lease extensions will provide more stable and continued cash flows over the lease term.

Current report

Within Presort Services, we expect revenue and margin improvements due to higher revenue-per-piece and lower costs driven by the investments made in automation and technology to drive efficiencies and improve productivity.

Current report

Revenue decreased $52 million in 2024 compared to 2023 primarily due to lower support services revenue of $36 million and lower equipment sales of $36 million, partially offset by higher business services revenue of $28 million.

Current report

Total costs and expenses decreased $44 million compared to the prior year period primarily due to the following:

Current report

•SG&A expense decreased $64 million compared to the prior year primarily driven by lower employee-related costs of $10 million, due to lower salary expense of $40 million from headcount reductions partially offset by higher variable compensation of $33 million and a favorable impact of $16 million from the revaluation of intercompany loans. SG&A expense also benefited from overall cost savings initiatives that resulted in expense savings of approximately $38 million from savings in areas such as marketing, travel, real estate and insurance.

Current report

•A $124 million goodwill impairment charge in the prior year related to certain operations of the former Global Ecommerce segment that were sold or dissolved prior to 2024 and did not qualify for discontinued operations treatment.

Current report

•Other components of net pension and postretirement cost increased $97 million compared to the prior year, and includes a settlement charge of $91 million from a targeted campaign to offer lump sum settlements to vested participants.

Current report

•Other expense (income) increased $92 million due to $67 million of charges related to the Ecommerce Restructuring, a $14 million increase in debt redemption/refinancing costs and a $10 million asset impairment charge.

Current report

The benefit for income taxes for 2024 includes a tax benefit of $164 million primarily due to an affiliate reorganization. See Note 15 for more information.

Current report

As a result of the above, net income from continuing operations for 2024 was $103 million compared to a net loss from continuing operations of $61 million in 2023.

Current report

Net loss for 2024 and 2023 was $204 million and $386 million, respectively, and includes a net loss from discontinued operations of $306 million and $324 million, respectively. See Note 4 for more information.

Current report

Total costs and expenses decreased $171 million compared to the prior year primarily due to the following:

Current report

•Costs of revenue (excluding financing interest expense) decreased $345 million primarily due to lower cost of business services of $297 million and lower cost of equipment sales of $30 million. The significant decline in cost of business services is primarily due to the sale or dissolution of certain Global Ecommerce operations that did not qualify for discontinued operations reporting.

Current report

•A goodwill impairment charge of $124 million associated with certain operations of the former Global Ecommerce segment that were sold or dissolved prior to 2024 and did not qualify for discontinued operations treatment.

Current report

Net loss for 2023 was $386 million compared to net income in 2022 of $37 million. These amounts include a net loss from discontinued operations of $324 million and $109 million, respectively. See Note 4 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for more information.

Current report

Effective January 1, 2024, we moved the digital delivery services offering from the former Global Ecommerce segment to the SendTech Solutions segment in order to leverage our technology and innovation capabilities to better serve our clients. Prior periods have been recast to conform to the current segment presentation.

Current report

Gross margin declined $18 million primarily due to the decline in revenue; however, gross margin percentage increased to 66.8% from 65.8% compared to the prior year. The increase in gross margin percentage was primarily driven by improvements in business services gross margin due to growth in enterprise shipping subscriptions and digital delivery services. Gross profit margin for support services, supplies and rentals was comparable to the prior year as we reduced costs in response to lower revenues.

Current report

SG&A expense declined $12 million, primarily driven by lower employee-related expenses of $16 million due to savings from the 2023 and 2024 Plans, lower credit loss provision of $4 million and lower expenses driven by overall cost savings initiatives, partially offset by higher professional and outsourcing fees of $13 million.

Current report

Adjusted segment EBIT was $402 million in 2024 compared to $408 million in 2023.

Current report

Revenue increased $45 million in 2024 compared to 2023 primarily due to pricing actions and product mix. The processing of First Class Mail and Marketing Mail Flats/Bound Printed Matter contributed revenue increases of $40 million and $7 million, respectively, which was partially offset by a revenue decrease from Marketing Mail of $2 million. The revenue increase includes a $5 million favorable adjustment related to prior periods. Refer to Note 1 Basis of Presentation for further information.

Current report

SG&A expense increased $5 million compared to 2023 primarily due to higher credit loss provision of $3 million.

Current report

Adjusted segment EBIT was $166 million in 2024, including the $5 million benefit from the favorable revenue adjustment, compared to $111 million in 2023.

Current report

Corporate expenses for 2024 decreased $33 million compared to the prior year primarily due to lower salary expense of $22 million due to savings from the 2023 and 2024 Plans, lower professional and outsourcing fees of $12 million, non-cash foreign currency revaluation gains on intercompany loans of $8 million, lower marketing expenses of $5 million, lower insurance costs of $3 million and various other expense savings totaling approximately $20 million from cost savings initiatives. These cost savings were partially offset by higher variable compensation expense of $37 million.

Current report

In connection with the GEC Chapter 11 Cases, the Company, through one of its wholly owned subsidiaries, agreed to provide funding to the Ecommerce Debtors through the DIP Facility up to a maximum amount of $47 million. The DIP Facility bears interest at 10%, and had an initial maturity date of November 29, 2024, which the parties subsequently extended to December 9, 2024. We provided initial funding of $28 million and in December 2024, received $11 million as a partial repayment of the DIP Facility. The remaining balance on the DIP Facility is fully reserved and any future distributions will be recorded as income in the period received.

Current report

Immediately prior to the GEC Sale, we had various intercompany receivables with the Ecommerce Debtors with an aggregate value of $116 million. After the GEC Sale, those intercompany receivables were converted to third party receivables, for which we have ascribed a fair value of zero. Subsequent collections, if any, will be recorded when received or collection is assured.

Current report

Cash flows from operating activities in 2024 improved $149 million compared to the prior year period driven primarily by a decline in finance receivables and lower payments of accounts payable and accrued liabilities. Cash flow from operations also benefited from lower cash outflows from discontinued operations of $107 million.

Current report

Cash flows from investing activities for 2024 improved $75 million compared to the prior year primarily due to higher cash from investment activities of $40 million, lower investments in loan receivables of $20 million, lower cash outflows from discontinued operations of $17 million, and lower capital expenditures of $6 million, partially offset by net DIP Facility funding of $17 million.

Current report

Cash flows from financing activities for 2024 declined $275 million compared to the prior year primarily due to higher net debt repayments of $178 million and lower cash from changes in customer account deposits at the Bank of $97 million.

Current report

During 2024, we repaid $178 million of the Notes due March 2028 and made scheduled principal repayments of $56 million. In January 2025, we repaid the remaining outstanding balance of the Notes due March 2028.

Current report

In August 2024, we amended the credit agreement that governs our secured revolving credit facility and the term loan due March 2026 (the "Credit Agreement") and the note purchase agreement that governs our $275 million notes due March 2028. The amendments, among other things, permitted the Ecommerce Restructuring, including funding under the DIP Facility, amended certain covenants, including relief for expenses incurred pursuant to the Ecommerce Restructuring, released the guarantees provided by the Ecommerce Debtors, released the liens on the assets of the Ecommerce Debtors and reduced the amount of permitted borrowings under the revolving credit facility from $500 million to $400 million. The Credit Agreement contains certain financial covenants. At December 31, 2024, we were in compliance with these financial covenants and there were no outstanding borrowings under the revolving credit facility. Borrowings under our Credit Agreement are secured by assets of the company.

Current report

In February 2025, we entered into a new senior secured credit agreement (the "New Credit Agreement"), which provides for a $265 million revolving credit facility maturing March 2028, a $160 million term loan maturing March 2028 and a $615 million term loan maturing March 2032. The proceeds were used to repay the outstanding balances of the Term loan due March 2026 and Term loan due March 2028 and for general corporate purposes. Borrowings under our New Credit Agreement are secured by assets of the Company.

Showing the first 40 of 42 passages. Open the source sections for the rest.

Removed paragraphs (34)

Previous report

A discussion of our financial condition and results of operations for the year ended December 31, 2021, can be found under Item 7 “Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2022, filed with the SEC on February 17, 2023.

Previous report

We expect consolidated revenue to be flat to a low single-digit decline and EBIT margins to be relatively flat in 2024 compared to 2023. Within SendTech Solutions, we expect revenue and EBIT declines due in part to lower equipment sales as initial lease terms of prior equipment sales expire and customers are expected to renew these leases for a fixed term rather than purchase new equipment. We also expect revenue to decline due to lower meter populations due to the migration to cloud-based solutions. These declines will be partially offset by higher shipping revenues.

Previous report

Within Presort Services, we anticipate total volumes to be relatively flat in 2024 compared to 2023, but revenue to benefit slightly from increased workshare discounts. We expect margin and profit to remain relatively flat to slightly higher compared to the prior year.

Previous report

Within Global Ecommerce, we expect revenue growth in domestic parcel services driven by increased volumes, partially offset by lower revenue from cross-border services. We anticipate margin and profit improvements compared to 2023.

Previous report

We continue to make progress on our worldwide restructuring program and expect to realize annualized cost savings of $75-$85 million by the end of 2024, a portion of which was realized in 2023. However, we also expect higher interest costs and the restoration of variable compensation costs in 2024 to significantly offset these savings.

Previous report

See our Forward-Looking Statements under Part I on page 3 and Risk Factors under Item 1A for certain factors, some beyond our control, which could adversely impact our 2024 results.

Previous report

Certain transactions and changes occurred in 2022 that impact the comparability to our 2023 financial results. These transactions and changes include:

Previous report

•the sale of our Borderfree cross-border ecommerce solutions business (Borderfree) in July 2022. Accordingly, reported revenue and costs for the twelve months ended December 31, 2022 include six months of revenue and costs for Borderfree. Net income of Borderfree for these periods was not significant.

Previous report

•a change in the presentation of revenue for digital delivery services effective October 1, 2022, from a gross basis to a net basis. Accordingly, in 2023, revenue and costs of revenue for certain digital delivery services are reported on a net basis as business services revenue; whereas in 2022, revenue and cost of revenue for these services through September 30 were reported as business services revenue and cost of business services, respectively. The change primarily impacts our Global Ecommerce segment.

Previous report

Total costs and expenses increased $175 million compared to the prior year primarily due to:

Previous report

•Aggregate non-cash goodwill impairment charges totaling $339 million associated with our Global Ecommerce reporting unit. See Note 8 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for more information.

Previous report

Global Ecommerce includes the revenue and related expenses from business to consumer logistics services for domestic and cross-border delivery, returns and fulfillment. Our domestic parcel services provide retailers domestic parcel delivery and returns services for its end consumers through our nationwide parcel sortation centers and transportation network. Our cross-border services offers our clients a range of services to manage their international shopping and parcel shipping experience. Using our digital delivery services, clients can purchase postage, print shipping labels and access shipping and tracking services from multiple carriers. Delivery and return parcels using our digital delivery services are not physically processed through our network.

Previous report

Financial performance for the Global Ecommerce segment was as follows:

Previous report

Global Ecommerce revenue decreased $221 million in 2023 compared to the prior year. The change in revenue presentation for digital delivery services and the sale of Borderfree accounted for $139 million of the decrease. Cross-border revenue declined $190 million due to lower volumes, primarily driven by changes in how two of our largest clients access our services, digital delivery services revenue declined $26 million due to a decrease in the number of shipping labels printed and fulfillment services revenue declined $23 million due to lower volumes. These declines were partially offset by domestic parcel delivery revenue growth of $158 million, driven by an increase in domestic parcel volumes.

Previous report

Gross margin decreased $74 million and gross margin percentage decreased to 4.6% from 8.6% compared to the prior year. Cross-border services gross margin declined $52 million, primarily due to the decline in volumes. Digital delivery services gross margin declined $9 million primarily due to the decline in the number of shipping labels printed. The sale of Borderfree contributed a decline in gross margin of $8 million. Domestic parcel delivery services gross margin increased $3 million compared to the prior year primarily due to higher domestic parcel volumes, which was partially offset by $4 million of one-time costs in the third quarter related to facility consolidation.

Previous report

SG&A expenses declined $41 million compared to the prior year period, primarily due to lower employee-related expenses of $16 million, lower amortization expense of $9 million and lower credit card fees of $8 million.

Previous report

Adjusted segment EBIT was a loss of $134 million in 2023 compared to a loss of $100 million in the prior year.

Previous report

During 2023, we issued an aggregate $275 million of senior secured notes. The notes mature in March 2028 and bear interest at the Secured Overnight Financing Rate (SOFR) plus 6.9%, payable quarterly. The net proceeds (net of original issue discount of 3%) were used to redeem the March 2024 notes and repay $30 million of the term loan due March 2026. Also, during 2023, we purchased an aggregate $39 million of the March 2024 notes and March 2027 notes, recognizing a gain of $3 million, and made scheduled principal repayments of $42 million on our term loans.

Previous report

The credit agreement that governs our $500 million secured revolving credit facility and the term loan due March 2026 contains certain financial covenants. These covenants require us to maintain, on a quarterly basis, a maximum leverage ratio and a minimum interest coverage ratio, both of which are defined and calculated in accordance with the credit agreement. The maximum leverage ratio decreases from 4.25x to 4.0x as of June 30, 2024 and the minimum interest coverage ratio increases from 1.75x to 2.0x as of March 31, 2025. At December 31, 2023, we were in compliance with these financial covenants. Additionally, management expects that we will remain in compliance with these financial covenants over the next twelve months. However, events and circumstances could occur, some beyond our control, that could adversely impact our compliance with these covenants and require us to seek to obtain a waiver from our lenders, modify our existing covenants or refinance certain debt to cure the noncompliance. If we are unable to cure the noncompliance, amounts due under our revolving credit facility and term loan due March 2026 could be called by our lenders. At December 31, 2023, there were no outstanding borrowings under the revolving credit facility. Borrowings under our secured debt are secured by assets of the company.

Previous report

In addition to the above known and contractually committed cash payments, we anticipate using cash for the following items:

Previous report

Capital expenditures are evaluated and approved by senior leadership based on several factors, including expected impacts on revenue growth, productivity enhancements, service improvements and cost savings. Capital expenditures totaled $103 million and $125 million for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.

Previous report

Assuming the current $0.05 per quarter dividend payment, we estimate that dividend payments will be approximately $35 million in 2024. Under the terms of the March 2028 note purchase agreement, the annual amount of permitted dividend payments is capped at the lesser of $36 million or a maximum dividend yield of 6.25%. In addition, share repurchases would further limit this amount.

Previous report

We may repurchase shares of our common stock to manage the dilution created by shares issued under employee stock plans and for other purposes. We did not repurchase any additional shares of our common stock in 2023.

Previous report

Goodwill is tested annually for impairment at the reporting unit level at the beginning of the fourth quarter or sooner if circumstances indicate an impairment may exist. The impairment test for goodwill determines the fair value of each reporting unit and compares it to the reporting unit's carrying value, including goodwill. If the fair value of a reporting unit exceeds the carrying value of the net assets assigned to that reporting unit, goodwill is not impaired, If the fair value of the reporting unit is less than the carrying value of the net assets assigned to the reporting unit, a goodwill impairment loss is calculated as the difference between these amounts, limited to the amount of goodwill allocated to the reporting unit.

Previous report

Testing goodwill for impairment requires us to identify our reporting units and assign assets and liabilities, including goodwill, to each reporting unit. The fair value of a reporting unit is based on one or a combination of techniques, including a discounted cash flow model, multiples of competitors, and/or multiples from sales of like businesses.

Previous report

The performance of our Global Ecommerce reporting unit, continuing changes in macroeconomic conditions and our long-term outlook for this business were triggering events that caused us to evaluate the Global Ecommerce goodwill for impairment during the second and fourth quarters. To assess Global Ecommerce goodwill for impairment, we determined the fair value of the reporting unit and compared it to the unit's carrying value, including goodwill. We engaged a third party to assist in the determination of the fair value of the reporting unit. The fair value was estimated using a discounted cash flow model based on management developed cash flow projections, which included judgements and assumptions related to revenue growth rates, operating margins, operating income, and a discount rate. The estimates and assumptions are considered Level 3 inputs under the fair value hierarchy. We assessed Global Ecommerce goodwill for impairment in the second and fourth quarters, and based on the results of our assessments, recorded non-cash, pre-tax goodwill impairment charges of $119 million and $220 million, respectively.

Previous report

The results of our annual impairment test as of the beginning of the fourth quarter for our other reporting units indicated that the fair value of these reporting units exceeded their carrying values and no impairment existed.

Previous report

Long-lived and finite-lived intangible assets are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be fully recoverable. The estimated future undiscounted cash flows expected to result from the use and eventual disposition of the assets is compared to the carrying value. If the sum of the undiscounted cash flows is less than the asset's carrying value, an impairment charge is recorded for an amount by which the carrying value exceeds its fair value. The fair value of the impaired asset is determined using probability weighted expected cash flow estimates, quoted market prices when available and appraisals, as appropriate. We derive the cash flow estimates from our long-term business plans and historical experience. Changes in the estimates and assumptions incorporated in our impairment assessment could materially affect the determination of fair value and the associated impairment charge.
Reworded paragraphs (35)

Previous wording

In the tables below, we report the change in revenue on a reported basis and a constant currency basis. Constant currency measures exclude the impact of changes in currency exchange rates from the prior period under comparison. We believe that excluding the impacts of currency exchange rates provides investors with a better understanding of the underlying revenue performance. Constant currency change is calculated by converting the current period non-U.S. dollar denominated revenue using the prior year’s exchange rate.

Current wording

In the tables below, we report the change in revenue on a reported basis and a constant currency basis. Constant currency measures exclude the impact of changes in currency exchange rates from the prior period under comparison. We believe that excluding the impacts of currency exchange rates provides a better understanding of the underlying revenue performance. Constant currency change is calculated by converting the current period non-U.S. dollar denominated revenue using the prior year’s exchange rate.

Previous wording

•Costs of revenue (excluding financing interest expense) decreased $225 million primarily due to lower cost of business services of $178 million (see Factors Affecting Comparability above) and lower cost of equipment sales of $30 million.

Current wording

•Costs of revenue (excluding financing interest expense) decreased $84 million primarily due to lower cost of business services of $45 million, lower cost of equipment sales of $20 million and lower cost of support services of $14 million.

Previous wording

•Interest expense, net, including financing interest expense, increased $22 million in 2023 compared to the prior year primarily due to higher interest rates. We allocate a portion of gross interest expense to financing interest expense based on our effective interest rate and average finance receivables for the period.

Current wording

•Interest expense, net, including financing interest expense, increased $12 million compared to the prior year period primarily due to higher interest rates. We allocate a portion of gross interest expense to financing interest expense based on our effective interest rate and average finance receivables for the period.

Previous wording

Revenue decreased $272 million in 2023 compared to the prior year primarily due to a decrease in business services revenue of $205 million (see Factors Affecting Comparability above), lower equipment sales of $31 million and lower support services revenue of $27 million.

Current wording

Revenue decreased $404 million in 2023 compared to the prior year primarily due to a decrease in business services revenue of $337 million, lower equipment sales of $31 million and lower support services revenue of $27 million. The significant decline in business services revenue is primarily due to the sale or dissolution of certain Global Ecommerce operations that did not qualify for discontinued operations treatment.

Previous wording

•SG&A expense declined $8 million compared to the prior year. This decrease was primarily driven by lower professional fees of $10 million, salaries of $8 million, credit cards fees of $8 million, amortization expense of $8 million and stock based compensation expense of $7 million, partially offset by proxy solicitation fees of $11 million, higher variable compensation expense of $9 million, higher credit loss provision of $8 million and non-cash foreign currency revaluation losses on intercompany loans of $6 million.

Current wording

•SG&A expense declined $4 million compared to the prior year. This decrease was primarily driven by lower credit card fees of $10 million, lower professional and outsourcing fees of $8 million, lower salary expense of $5 million and lower marketing expenses of $5 million, partially offset by proxy solicitation fees of $11 million, higher credit loss provision of $7 million and non-cash foreign currency revaluation losses on intercompany loans of $6 million.

Previous wording

•Restructuring charges increased $43 million compared to the prior year driven by actions taken under the 2023 Plan.

Current wording

•Restructuring charges increased $35 million compared to the prior year driven by actions taken under the 2023 Plan.

Previous wording

•Other (income) expense declined $19 million compared to the prior year primarily driven by prior year gains of $27 million from the sale of assets and businesses, partially offset by a favorable year-over-year impact of $8 million associated with the redemption of debt.

Current wording

•Other income declined $14 million compared to the prior year primarily driven by prior year gains of $22 million from the sale of assets and businesses, partially offset by a favorable year-over-year impact of $8 million associated with the redemption of debt.

Previous wording

The effective tax rate for the year ended December 31, 2023 was 5.1%, primarily due to the nondeductibility of the aggregate goodwill impairment charge. See Note 14 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for more information.

Current wording

In 2023, we recorded a tax provision on a net loss from continuing operations of $44 million primarily due to the non-deductibility of the goodwill impairment charge. See Note 15 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for more information.

Previous wording

Net loss for 2023 was $386 million compared to net income of $37 million in the prior year.

Current wording

As a result of the above, net loss from continuing operations for 2023 was $61 million compared to net income from continuing operations of $146 million in the prior year.

Previous wording

Management measures segment profitability and performance by deducting from segment revenue the related costs and expenses attributable to the segment. Segment results exclude interest, taxes, unallocated corporate expenses, restructuring charges, and other items not allocated to a business segment.

Current wording

Management measures segment profitability and performance by deducting from segment revenue the related costs and expenses attributable to the segment. Segment results exclude interest, taxes, corporate expenses, restructuring charges, and other items not allocated to a business segment.

Previous wording

SendTech Solutions provides clients with physical and digital mailing and shipping technology solutions and other applications to help simplify and save on the sending, tracking and receiving of letters, parcels and flats, as well as supplies and maintenance services for these offerings. We offer financing alternatives that enable clients to finance equipment and product purchases, a revolving credit solution that enables clients to make meter rental payments and purchase postage, services and supplies, and an interest-bearing deposit solution to clients who prefer to prepay postage. We also offer financing alternatives that enable clients to finance or lease other manufacturers’ equipment and provide working capital.

Current wording

SendTech Solutions provides clients with physical and digital shipping and mailing technology solutions and other applications to help simplify and save on the sending, tracking and receiving of letters, parcels and flats, as well as supplies and maintenance services for these offerings. We offer financing alternatives that enable clients to finance equipment and product purchases, a revolving credit solution that enables clients to make meter rental payments and purchase postage, services and supplies, and an interest-bearing deposit solution to clients who prefer to prepay postage. We also offer financing alternatives that enable clients to finance or lease other manufacturers’ equipment and provide working capital.

Previous wording

SendTech Solutions revenue decreased $66 million in 2023 compared to the prior year. Equipment sales declined $31 million primarily due to customers opting to extend leases of their existing advanced-technology equipment rather than purchase new equipment. Support services revenue declined $27 million primarily due to the declining meter population and continuing shift to cloud-enabled products. Supplies revenue declined $6 million primarily driven by a declining meter population. Financing revenue declined $3 million primarily due to $6 million of lower lease extensions and lower late fees of $1 million, partially offset by higher investment income of $7 million. Business services revenue increased $14 million primarily driven by growth in enterprise shipping subscriptions, which was partially offset by a $13 million reduction in revenue due to the change in revenue presentation for digital delivery services.

Current wording

SendTech Solutions revenue decreased $191 million in 2023 compared to the prior year. Business services revenue declined $124 million primarily driven by a $128 million reduction in revenue due to the change in revenue presentation for digital delivery services, which was partially offset by growth in enterprise shipping subscriptions. Equipment sales declined $31 million primarily due to customers opting to extend leases of their existing advanced-technology equipment rather than purchase new equipment. Support services revenue declined $27 million primarily due to the declining meter population and continuing shift to cloud-enabled products. Supplies revenue declined $6 million primarily driven by a declining meter population. Financing revenue declined $3 million primarily due to $6 million of lower lease extensions and lower late fees of $1 million, partially offset by higher investment income of $7 million.

Previous wording

Gross margin decreased $12 million primarily due to the decline in revenue. However, gross margin percentage increased to 65.1% from 62.8% compared to the prior year driven by improvements in business services gross margin due to growth in enterprise shipping subscriptions, rentals gross margin due in part to a $2 million prior year unfavorable scrap adjustment and a current year favorable adjustment and equipment sales gross margin due to cost management.

Current wording

Gross margin decreased $19 million primarily due to the decline in revenue. However, gross margin percentage increased to 65.8% from 58.8% compared to the prior year driven by improvements in business services gross margin due to growth in enterprise shipping subscriptions, rentals gross margin due in part to a $2 million prior year unfavorable scrap adjustment and a current year favorable adjustment and equipment sales gross margin due to cost management.

Previous wording

SG&A expenses declined $13 million primarily driven by lower outsourcing and professional fees of $5 million, lower rent expense of $3 million and lower marketing expenses of $1 million.

Current wording

SG&A expenses declined $21 million primarily driven by lower credit card fees of $8 million, lower outsourcing and professional fees of $5 million, lower rent expense of $3 million and lower marketing expenses of $1 million.

Previous wording

Adjusted segment EBIT was $405 million in 2023 compared to $401 million for the prior year.

Current wording

Adjusted segment EBIT was $408 million in 2023 compared to $402 million for the prior year.

Previous wording

We are the largest workshare partner of the USPS and national outsource provider of mail sortation services that allow clients to qualify large volumes of First Class Mail, Marketing Mail, and Marketing Mail Flats and Bound Printed Matter for postal worksharing discounts.

Current wording

Presort Services is the largest workshare partner of the USPS and national outsource provider of mail sortation services that allow clients to qualify large volumes of First Class Mail, Marketing Mail, and Marketing Mail Flats/Bound Printed Matter for postal worksharing discounts.

Previous wording

Gross margin increased $38 million and gross margin percentage increased from 24.4% to 30.0% compared to the prior year primarily due to the increase in revenue, lower transportation costs of $15 million, driven by improvements in network management, and the benefits from investments made in automation and higher-throughput sortation equipment.

Current wording

Gross margin increased $38 million and gross margin percentage increased to 30.0% from 24.4% compared to the prior year primarily due to the increase in revenue, lower transportation costs of $15 million, driven by improvements in network management, and the benefits from investments made in automation and higher-throughput sortation equipment.

Previous wording

The majority of operating expenses are recorded directly or allocated to our reportable segments. Operating expenses not recorded directly or allocated to our reportable segments are reported as unallocated corporate expenses. Unallocated corporate expenses primarily represents corporate administrative functions such as finance, marketing, human resources, legal, information technology, and research and development.

Current wording

The majority of operating expenses are recorded directly or allocated to our reportable segments. Operating expenses not recorded directly or allocated to our reportable segments are reported as corporate expenses. Corporate expenses primarily represents corporate administrative functions such as finance, marketing, human resources, legal, information technology, and research and development.

Previous wording

Unallocated corporate expenses for 2023 increased $7 million compared to the prior year primarily due to higher variable compensation expense of $4 million and higher depreciation expense of $2 million.

Current wording

Corporate expenses for 2023 increased $7 million compared to the prior year primarily due to higher variable compensation expense of $4 million and higher depreciation expense of $2 million.

Previous wording

At December 31, 2023 we had cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments of $623 million, which includes $136 million held at our foreign subsidiaries used to support the liquidity needs of those subsidiaries. Our ability to maintain adequate liquidity for our operations is dependent upon a number of factors, including revenue and earnings, our ability to manage costs and improve productivity, our clients' ability to pay their balances on a timely basis and the impacts of changing macroeconomic and geopolitical conditions. We believe that existing cash and investments, cash generated from operations and borrowing capacity under our $500 million revolving credit facility will be sufficient to fund our cash needs for the next 12 months.

Current wording

Our ability to maintain adequate liquidity for our operations is dependent upon a number of factors, including our revenue and earnings, our ability to manage costs and improve productivity, our clients' ability to pay their balances on a timely basis and the impacts of changing macroeconomic and geopolitical conditions. At December 31, 2024 we had cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments of $486 million, which includes $47 million held at our foreign subsidiaries used to support the liquidity needs of those subsidiaries. At this time, we believe that existing cash and investments, cash generated from operations and borrowing capacity under our revolving credit facility will be sufficient to fund our cash needs for the next 12 months.

Previous wording

Cash flows from operating activities in 2023 declined $97 million compared to the prior year. This decline was driven by lower earnings, higher interest payments of $30 million, higher restructuring payments of $19 million and higher pension contributions of $7 million, partially offset by higher collections of accounts receivables and finance receivables of $33 million, lower inventory purchases of $19 million and changes in other working capital items.

Current wording

Cash flows from operating activities in 2023 declined $95 million compared to the prior year. This decline was driven by lower earnings, higher interest payments of $30 million, higher restructuring payments of $19 million and higher pension contributions of $7 million, partially offset by changes in other working capital items.

Previous wording

Cash flows from investing activities for 2023 declined $99 million compared to the prior year primarily due to prior year proceeds of $162 million from the sale of businesses and our Shelton, Connecticut office building, partially offset by lower payments of $28 million to settle foreign exchange derivative contracts, lower capital expenditures of $22 million and lower net investment activity of $10 million.

Current wording

Cash flows from investing activities for 2023 declined $100 million compared to the prior year primarily due to prior year proceeds of $162 million from the sale of businesses and our Shelton, Connecticut office building, lower cash from investment activities of $13 million, partially offset by lower cash payments of $28 million to settle foreign exchange derivative contracts, lower investments in loan receivables of $23 million and lower capital expenditures of $5 million and lower outflows from discontinued operations of $17 million.

Previous wording

Cash flows from financing activities for 2023 improved $167 million compared to the prior year primarily due to lower net cash outflows from debt activity of $68 million, an increase in customer account deposits at the Bank of $90 million and $13 million of common stock repurchases in the prior year.

Current wording

Cash flows from financing activities for 2023 improved $168 million compared to the prior year primarily due to lower net debt repayments of $68 million, higher cash from changes in customer account deposits at the Bank of $90 million and $13 million of common stock repurchases in the prior year.

Previous wording

The following table summarizes our known and contractually committed cash requirements at December 31, 2023 (in millions):

Current wording

The following table summarizes our known and contractually committed cash requirements at December 31, 2024, with the exception of debt maturities, which is reflective of the debt refinancing completed in February 2025.

Previous wording

At December 31, 2023, we have outstanding principal debt of $2.2 billion. Approximately 64% of this debt is at fixed rates, including the effect of interest rate swaps, and the remaining 36% is at variable rates. The weighted average interest rate of our variable rate debt at December 31, 2023 was 9.7%. We estimate that cash interest payments for the next 12 months will be $190 - $200 million. Required debt repayments over the next 12 months are $59 million, which we anticipate satisfying through available cash on hand and cash generated from operations. See Note 12 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for information regarding our debt.

Current wording

Required debt repayments over the next 12 months are $11 million, which we anticipate satisfying through available cash on hand and cash generated from operations. We estimate that cash interest payments for the next 12 months will be $140 - $150 million. See Note 13 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for information regarding our debt.

Previous wording

We lease real estate and equipment under operating and capital lease arrangements. These leases have terms of up to 15 years and include renewal options. Lease obligations in the table above do not include $17 million of payments for leases signed but not yet commenced at December 31, 2023. See Note 6 and Note 16 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for further information.

Current wording

We lease real estate and equipment under operating and capital lease arrangements. These leases have terms of up to 15 years and include renewal options. See Note 7 and Note 17 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for further information.

Previous wording

At December 31, 2023, we had approximately $28 million outstanding letters of credit guarantees with financial institutions that are primarily issued as security for insurance, leases, customs and other performance obligations. In general, we would only be liable for the amount of these guarantees in the event of default in the performance of our obligations, the probability of which we believe is remote.

Current wording

At December 31, 2024, we had approximately $30 million outstanding letters of credit guarantees with financial institutions that are primarily issued as security for insurance, leases, customs and other performance obligations. In general, we would only be liable for the amount of these guarantees in the event of default in the performance of our obligations, the probability of which we believe is remote. Outstanding letters of credit reduce the amount we can borrow under our revolving credit facility.

Previous wording

Finance receivables are comprised of sales-type leases, secured loans and unsecured revolving loans. We provide an allowance for probable credit losses based on historical loss experience, the nature of our portfolios, adverse situations that may affect a client's ability to pay and current economic conditions and outlook based on reasonable and supportable forecasts. Total allowance for credit losses as a percentage of finance receivables was 2% at both December 31, 2023 and 2022. Holding all other assumptions constant, a 0.25% increase in the allowance rate at December 31, 2023 would have reduced pre-tax income by $3 million.

Current wording

Finance receivables are comprised of sales-type leases, secured loans and unsecured revolving loans. We provide an allowance for expected credit losses based on historical loss experience, the nature of our portfolios, adverse situations that may affect a client's ability to pay and current economic conditions and outlook based on reasonable and supportable forecasts. Total allowance for credit losses as a percentage of finance receivables was 2% at both December 31, 2024 and 2023. Holding all other assumptions constant, a 0.25% increase in the allowance rate at December 31, 2024 would have reduced pre-tax income by $3 million.

Previous wording

Trade accounts receivable are generally due within 30 days after the invoice date. We provide an allowance for credit losses based on historical loss experience, the age of the receivables, specific troubled accounts and other currently available information. Accounts deemed uncollectible are written off against the allowance after all collection efforts have been exhausted and management deems the account to be uncollectible, or when they are 365 days past due, if sooner. The allowance for credit losses as a percentage of trade accounts receivables was 2% at both December 31, 2023 and 2022. Holding all other assumptions constant, a 0.25% increase in the allowance rate at December 31, 2023 would have reduced pre-tax income by $1 million.

Current wording

Trade accounts receivable are generally due within 30 days after the invoice date. We provide an allowance for expected credit losses based on historical loss experience, the age of the receivables, specific troubled accounts and other currently available information. Accounts deemed uncollectible are written off against the allowance after all collection efforts have been exhausted and management deems the account to be uncollectible, or when they are 365 days past due, if sooner. The allowance for credit losses as a percentage of trade accounts receivables was 5% and 3% at December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. Holding all other assumptions constant, a 0.25% increase in the allowance rate at December 31, 2024 would have reduced pre-tax income by less than $1 million.

Previous wording

Significant judgment is also required in determining the amount of deferred tax assets that will ultimately be realized and corresponding deferred tax asset valuation allowance. When estimating the necessary valuation allowance, we consider all available evidence for each jurisdiction including historical operating results, estimates of future taxable income and the feasibility of ongoing tax planning strategies. If new information becomes available that would alter our estimate of the amount of deferred tax assets that will ultimately be realized, we adjust the valuation allowance through income tax expense. Changes in the deferred tax asset valuation allowance could have a material impact on our financial condition or results of operations.

Current wording

Significant judgment is also required in determining the amount of deferred tax assets that will ultimately be realized and corresponding deferred tax asset valuation allowance. When estimating the necessary valuation allowance, we consider all available evidence for each jurisdiction including historical operating results, estimates of future taxable income and the feasibility of tax planning strategies. If new information becomes available that would alter our estimate of the amount of deferred tax assets that will ultimately be realized, we adjust the valuation allowance through income tax expense. Changes in the deferred tax asset valuation allowance could have a material impact on our financial condition or results of operations.

Previous wording

The discount rate for our largest plan, the U.S. Qualified Pension Plan (the U.S. Plan) and our largest foreign plan, the U.K. Qualified Pension Plan (the U.K. Plan) used to determine net periodic pension expense for 2023 was 5.55% and 4.80%, respectively. The discount rate used to determine 2024 net periodic pension expense for the U.S. Plan and the U.K. Plan was 5.15% and 4.5%, respectively. A 0.25% change in the discount rate would not materially impact annual pension expense for the U.S. Plan or the U.K. Plan. A 0.25% change in the discount rate would impact the projected benefit obligation of the U.S. Plan and U.K. Plan by $24 million and $13 million, respectively.

Current wording

The discount rate for our largest plan, the U.S. Qualified Pension Plan (the U.S. Plan) and our largest foreign plan, the U.K. Qualified Pension Plan (the U.K. Plan) used to determine net periodic pension expense for 2024 was 5.15% and 4.50%, respectively. The discount rate used to determine 2025 net periodic pension expense for the U.S. Plan and the U.K. Plan was 5.65% and 5.45%, respectively. A 0.25% change in the discount rate would not materially impact annual pension expense for the U.S. Plan or the U.K. Plan. A 0.25% change in the discount rate would impact the projected benefit obligation of the U.S. Plan and U.K. Plan by $16 million and $10 million, respectively.

Previous wording

The expected rate of return on plan assets used to determine net periodic pension expense for 2023 was 6.5% for the U.S. Plan and 5.26% for the U.K. Plan. The expected rate of return on plan assets used to determine 2024 net periodic pension expense was 6.7% and 5.5% for the U.S. Plan and the U.K. Plan, respectively. A 0.25% change in the expected rate of return on plan assets would impact annual pension expense for the U.S. Plan by $3 million and the U.K. Plan by $1 million.

Current wording

The expected rate of return on plan assets used to determine net periodic pension expense for 2024 was 6.7% for the U.S. Plan and 5.5% for the U.K. Plan. The expected rate of return on plan assets used to determine 2025 net periodic pension expense was 6.9% and 6.09% for the U.S. Plan and the U.K. Plan, respectively. A 0.25% change in the expected rate of return on plan assets would impact annual pension expense for the U.S. Plan by $3 million and the U.K. Plan by $1 million.

Previous wording

Actual pension plan results that differ from our assumptions and estimates are accumulated and amortized primarily over the life expectancy of plan participants and affect future pension expense. Net pension expense is also based on a market-related valuation of plan assets where differences between the actual and expected return on plan assets are recognized over a five-year period. Plan benefits for participants in a majority of our U.S. and foreign pension plans are frozen.

Current wording

Actual pension plan results that differ from our assumptions and estimates are accumulated and amortized primarily over the life expectancy of plan participants and affect future pension expense. Net pension expense is also based on a market-related valuation of plan assets where differences between the actual and expected return on plan assets are recognized over a five-year period in the U.S. and a two-year period in the U.K. Plan benefits for participants in a majority of our U.S. and foreign pension plans are frozen.

Previous wording

We evaluate residual values on an annual basis or sooner if circumstances warrant. Declines in estimated residual values considered "other-than-temporary" are recognized immediately. Increases in estimated future residual values are not recognized until the equipment is remarketed. If the actual residual value of leased assets were 10% lower than management's current estimates and considered "other-than-temporary", pre-tax income would be $5 million lower.

Current wording

We evaluate residual values on an annual basis or sooner if circumstances warrant. Declines in estimated residual values considered "other-than-temporary" are recognized immediately. Increases in estimated future residual values are not recognized until the equipment is remarketed. If the actual residual value of leased assets were 10% lower than management's current estimates and considered "other-than-temporary", pre-tax income would be $4 million lower.

Previous wording

The functional currency for most of our foreign operations is the local currency. Changes in the value of the U.S. dollar relative to the currencies of countries in which we operate impact our reported assets, liabilities, revenue and expenses. Exchange rate fluctuations can also impact the settlement of intercompany receivables and payables between our subsidiaries in different countries. During 2023, 11% of our consolidated revenue was from operations outside the United States and the translation of foreign currencies to the U.S. dollar did not have a material impact on revenues or operating results for the year ended December 31, 2023.

Current wording

The functional currency for most of our foreign operations is the local currency. Changes in the value of the U.S. dollar relative to the currencies of countries in which we operate impact our reported assets, liabilities, revenue and expenses. Exchange rate fluctuations can also impact the settlement of intercompany receivables and payables between our subsidiaries in different countries. During 2024, 16% of our consolidated revenue was from operations outside the United States.
Rearranged current paragraphs (4)

Current report — wording carried from elsewhere

•Restructuring charges increased $25 million compared to the prior year period primarily driven by actions taken under the 2023 and 2024 Plans.

Current report — wording carried from elsewhere

•Interest expense, net, including financing interest expense, increased $23 million in 2023 compared to the prior year primarily due to higher interest rates.

Current report — wording carried from elsewhere

SendTech Solutions revenue decreased $48 million in 2024 compared to 2023. Support services revenue declined $36 million primarily due to the declining meter population and continuing shift to cloud-enabled products. Equipment sales declined $36 million primarily due to customers opting to extend leases of their existing advanced-technology equipment rather than purchase new equipment. These revenue declines were partially offset by an increase in business services revenue of $33 million primarily driven by growth in our shipping subscriptions, including enterprise subscriptions and growth in digital delivery services due to client mix.

Current report — wording carried from elsewhere

Gross margin increased $59 million and gross margin percentage increased to 37.0% from 30.0% in the prior year primarily due to the increase in revenue, lower transportation costs of $5 million driven by lane optimization, cost savings as a result of the 2023 Plan, and the benefits from investments made in automation and higher-throughput sortation equipment.