VAIL RESORTS INC

Previous wording

Skiing, travel and tourism are discretionary recreational activities that can entail a relatively high cost of participation and may be adversely affected by economic slowdown or recession. Economic conditions in North America, Europe and parts of the rest of the world, including inflationary pressures, elevated interest rates, supply chain disruption, fluctuating commodity pricing, geopolitical conflicts and uncertainties, increased labor costs and shortages, increased fuel prices, high unemployment, erosion of consumer confidence, health pandemics, sovereign debt issues and financial instability in the global markets, among other factors, could have negative effects on the travel and leisure industry and on our results of operations. As a result of these and other economic uncertainties, we have experienced and may continue to experience changes in booking trends including guest reservations made much closer to the actual date of stay, a decrease in the length of stay, a decrease in consumer spending and/or a decrease in group bookings. We cannot predict what further impact these uncertainties may continue to have on overall travel and leisure or more specifically, on our guest visitation, guest spending or other related trends and the ultimate impact it will have on our results of operations. Additionally, the actual or perceived fear of weakness in the economy could also lead to decreased spending by our guests. This could be further exacerbated by the fact that we charge some of the highest prices for single day lift tickets and ancillary services in the ski industry; however, we offer pass products, including the Epic Day Pass, which are available at a discount to the single day lift ticket prices. In the event of a decrease in visitation and overall guest spending we may decide we need to offer a higher amount of discounts and incentives than we have historically, which would adversely impact our operating results. Our Resorts also serve as a destination for international guests. To the extent there are material changes in exchange rates relative to the U.S. dollar or travel restrictions in place due to inflation, geopolitical conflicts or uncertainties, health pandemics or other factors, it could impact the volume of international visitation, which could have a significant impact on our operating results.

Current wording

Skiing, travel and tourism are discretionary recreational activities that can entail a relatively high cost of participation and may be adversely affected by economic slowdown or recession. Economic conditions in North America, Europe and parts of the rest of the world, including inflationary pressures, elevated interest rates, supply chain disruption, tariff and trade disputes, fluctuating commodity pricing, geopolitical conflicts and uncertainties, increased labor costs and shortages, increased fuel prices, high unemployment, erosion of consumer confidence, health pandemics, sovereign debt issues and financial instability in the global markets, among other factors, could have negative effects on the travel and leisure industry and on our results of operations. As a result of these and other economic uncertainties, we have experienced and may continue to experience changes in booking trends including guest reservations made much closer to the actual date of stay, a decrease in the length of stay, a decrease in consumer spending and/or a decrease in group bookings. We cannot predict what further impact these uncertainties may continue to have on overall travel and leisure or more specifically, on our guest visitation, guest spending or other related trends and the ultimate impact it will have on our results of operations. Additionally, the actual or perceived fear of weakness in the economy could also lead to decreased spending by our guests. This could be further exacerbated by the fact that we charge some of the highest prices for single day lift tickets and ancillary services in the ski industry; however, we offer pass products, including the Epic Day Pass, which are available at a discount to the single day lift ticket prices. In the event of a decrease in visitation and overall guest spending we may decide we need to offer a higher amount of discounts and incentives than we have historically, which would adversely impact our operating results. Our Resorts also serve as a destination for international guests. To the extent there are material changes in exchange rates relative to the U.S. dollar or travel restrictions in place due to inflation, geopolitical conflicts or uncertainties, health pandemics or other factors, it could impact the volume of international visitation, which could have a significant impact on our operating results.

Previous wording

Inflation increases the cost of goods we purchase and services we buy, the cost of capital projects and wages and benefits for our workforce. Although we may take measures to mitigate the impact of inflation through pricing actions or cost reduction measures, if we are not able to offset inflationary costs, our results of operations will be negatively impacted and possibly in a material manner. As a result, the impact of high and prolonged inflation could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, or results of operations. Inflationary pressures also increase the cost of living and cost of travel, which decreases consumers’ disposable income and could impact our guests’ discretionary spending habits or willingness to visit our Resorts, which could reduce customer demand for the products and services that we offer and negatively impact our financial condition or our results of operations. In addition, the existence of inflation in certain economies has resulted in, and may continue to result in, elevated interest rates. Our business could be adversely impacted by increases in the cost of borrowing from elevated interest rates. Elevated interest rates increase the borrowing costs on new debt, including debt we may refinance, as well as any existing variable rate indebtedness, and could affect the fair value of our investments.

Current wording

Inflation increases the cost of goods we purchase and services we buy, the cost of capital projects and wages and benefits for our workforce. Although we may take measures to mitigate the impact of inflation through pricing actions or cost reduction measures, if we are not able to offset inflationary costs, our results of operations will be negatively impacted and possibly in a material manner. As a result, the impact of high and prolonged inflation could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, or results of operations. Inflationary pressures also increase the cost of living and cost of travel, which decreases consumers’ disposable income and could impact our guests’ discretionary spending habits or willingness to visit our Resorts, which could reduce customer demand for the products and services that we offer and negatively impact our financial condition or our results of operations. In addition, the existence of inflation in certain economies has resulted in, and may continue to result in, elevated interest rates. For example, while the U.S. Federal Reserve cut the federal funds rate three times in 2024 by a total of 100 basis points, the U.S. Federal Reserve held rates steady following their January 2025 meeting. As a result, it remains to be seen whether interest rates will stabilize, increase or decrease, either globally or in the United States specifically. Our business could be adversely impacted by increases in the cost of borrowing from elevated interest rates. Elevated interest rates increase the borrowing costs on new debt, including debt we may refinance, as well as any existing variable rate indebtedness, and could affect the fair value of our investments.

Previous wording

There has been a rise in the number of sophisticated cyberattacks on network and information systems, including ransomware attacks that prevent the target from accessing its own data and/or systems until a ransom is paid. As a result, the risks associated with such an event continue to increase. We have experienced cybersecurity threats and incidents, none of which have been material. We have taken, and continue to take, steps to address these concerns by implementing various cybersecurity risk management strategies, initiatives, and internal controls, with the goal of enhancing cybersecurity. However, there can be no assurance that our internal controls or cybersecurity risk management practices will be effective, and that a system interruption, security breach or unauthorized access will not occur. Cyber threats and attacks are constantly evolving and becoming more sophisticated, which increases the difficulty and cost of detecting and defending against them. In addition, despite our efforts to proactively institute cybersecurity defense mechanisms, such as regular cybersecurity tabletop exercises, control gap analyses, threat modeling, impact analyses, internal and external cybersecurity audits, vulnerability scans, penetration tests, third party analyses, and other cybersecurity threat defense strategies, such strategies may ultimately prove ineffective, as they are, by their nature, largely reactive, and cybersecurity threats are constantly evolving as threat actors become more sophisticated. For additional information regarding our cybersecurity processes, policies and programs, refer to Item 1C. “Cybersecurity.” Cyber threats and attacks can have cascading impacts across networks, systems and operations. Any such interruption, breach or unauthorized access to our network or systems, or the networks or systems of our vendors, could adversely affect our business operations and result in the loss of critical or sensitive confidential information or intellectual property, as well as impact our ability to meet regulatory or compliance obligations, and could result in financial, legal, business and reputational harm to us. These events also could result in large expenditures to repair or replace the damaged properties, products, services, networks or information systems to protect them from similar events in the future.

Current wording

There has been a rise in the number of sophisticated cyberattacks on network and information systems, including ransomware attacks that prevent the target from accessing its own data and/or systems until a ransom is paid. The rapid evolution and increased adoption of artificial intelligence technologies have also intensified cybersecurity risks. As a result, the risks associated with such an event continue to increase. We have experienced cybersecurity threats and incidents, none of which have been material. We have taken, and continue to take, steps to address these concerns by implementing various cybersecurity risk management strategies, initiatives, and internal controls, with the goal of enhancing cybersecurity. However, there can be no assurance that our internal controls or cybersecurity risk management practices will be effective, and that a system interruption, security breach or unauthorized access will not occur. Cyber threats and attacks are constantly evolving and becoming more sophisticated, which increases the difficulty and cost of detecting and defending against them. In addition, despite our efforts to proactively institute cybersecurity defense mechanisms, such as regular cybersecurity tabletop exercises, control gap analyses, threat modeling, impact analyses, internal and external cybersecurity audits, vulnerability scans, penetration tests, third party analyses, and other cybersecurity threat defense strategies, such strategies may ultimately prove ineffective, as they are, by their nature, largely reactive, and cybersecurity threats are constantly evolving as threat actors become more sophisticated. For additional information regarding our cybersecurity processes, policies and programs, refer to Item 1C. “Cybersecurity.” Cyber threats and attacks can have cascading impacts across networks, systems and operations. Any such interruption, breach or unauthorized access to our network or systems, or the networks or systems of our vendors, could adversely affect our business operations and result in the loss of critical or sensitive confidential information or intellectual property, as well as impact our ability to meet regulatory or compliance obligations, and could result in financial, legal, business and reputational harm to us. These events also could result in large expenditures to repair or replace the damaged properties, products, services, networks or information systems to protect them from similar events in the future.

Previous wording

Our business relies on the use of large volumes of data. We collect and retain guest data, including credit card numbers and other sensitive personal information, for various business purposes, such as processing transactions, marketing and other promotional purposes. We also maintain personal information about our employees. We could make faulty decisions if data is inaccurate or incomplete. Maintaining the integrity and security of data can be costly and is critical to our business, and our guests and employees have a high expectation that we will adequately protect their personal information. A significant theft, loss, loss of access to, or fraudulent use of customer, employee, or company data held by us or our service providers could adversely impact our reputation, and could result in significant remedial and other expenses, fines, and/or litigation.

Current wording

Our business relies on the use of large volumes of data. We collect and retain guest data, including sensitive personal information, for various business purposes, such as processing transactions, marketing and other promotional purposes. While we handle payment information to complete transactions, we do not store credit card numbers, ensuring sensitive data remains secure through our payment processors. We also maintain personal information about our employees. We could make faulty decisions if data is inaccurate or incomplete. Maintaining the integrity and security of data can be costly and is critical to our business, and our guests and employees have a high expectation that we will adequately protect their personal information. A significant theft, loss, loss of access to, or fraudulent use of customer, employee, or company data held by us or our service providers could adversely impact our reputation, and could result in significant remedial and other expenses, fines, and/or litigation.

Previous wording

The ski resort and lodging industries are highly competitive. There are approximately 770 ski areas in North America, including approximately 485 in the U.S. that serve local and destination guests, and these ski areas can be more or less impacted by weather conditions based on their location and snowmaking capabilities. The factors that we believe are important to customers include:

Current wording

The ski resort and lodging industries are highly competitive. There are approximately 780 ski areas in North America, including approximately 490 in the U.S. that serve local and destination guests, and these ski areas can be more or less impacted by weather conditions based on their location and snowmaking capabilities. The factors that we believe are important to customers include:

Previous wording

The cost structure of our mountain Resort operations has a significant fixed component with variable expenses including, but not limited to, land use permit or lease fees and other resort related fees, credit card fees, retail/rental cost of sales, labor, and resort, dining and ski school operations. Any material declines in the economy, elevated geopolitical uncertainties and/or significant changes in historical snowfall patterns, as well as other risk factors discussed herein, could adversely affect revenue. As such, our margins, profits and cash flows may be materially reduced due to declines in revenue given our relatively high fixed cost structure. In addition, inflation has accelerated in the U.S. and globally in recent years due in part to global supply chain issues, the Ukraine-Russia war, a rise in energy prices and strong consumer demand. Increases in expenses as a result of this inflationary environment and other economic factors may adversely impact wages and other labor costs, energy, healthcare, insurance, transportation and fuel, cost of goods, property taxes, minimum lease payments and other expenses and operating costs included in our fixed cost structure, which may also reduce our margin, profits and cash flows.

Current wording

The cost structure of our mountain Resort operations has a significant fixed component with variable expenses including, but not limited to, land use permit or lease fees and other resort related fees, credit card fees, retail/rental cost of sales, labor, and resort, dining and ski school operations. Any material declines in the economy, elevated geopolitical uncertainties and/or significant changes in historical snowfall patterns, as well as other risk factors discussed herein, could adversely affect revenue. As such, our margins, profits and cash flows may be materially reduced due to declines in revenue given our relatively high fixed cost structure. In addition, although inflation has shown recent signs of moderation in the U.S., it has remained persistent in the U.S. and globally in recent years due in part to global supply chain issues, the Ukraine-Russia war, escalating conflicts in the Middle East, elevated energy prices and strong consumer demand, among other factors. Increases in expenses as a result of this inflationary environment and other economic factors may adversely impact wages and other labor costs, energy, healthcare, insurance, transportation and fuel, cost of goods, property taxes, minimum lease payments and other expenses and operating costs included in our fixed cost structure, which may also reduce our margin, profits and cash flows.

Previous wording

We regularly expend capital to construct, maintain and renovate our mountain Resorts and properties in order to remain competitive, maintain the value and brand standards of our mountain Resorts and properties and comply with applicable laws and regulations. We cannot always predict where and when capital will need to be expended in a given fiscal year and capital expenditures can increase due to circumstances beyond our control. We currently anticipate that we will spend approximately $216 million to $221 million on capital projects in calendar year 2024.

Current wording

We regularly expend capital to construct, maintain and renovate our mountain Resorts and properties in order to remain competitive, maintain the value and brand standards of our mountain Resorts and properties and comply with applicable laws and regulations. We cannot always predict where and when capital will need to be expended in a given fiscal year and capital expenditures can increase due to circumstances beyond our control, including due to the impact of tariff and trade disputes. We currently anticipate that we will spend approximately $198 million to $203 million on capital projects in calendar year 2025.

Previous wording

Our U.S. Resort operations require permits and approvals from certain federal, state and local authorities, including the Forest Service, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the States of Vermont, New Hampshire and Pennsylvania and the NPS. Virtually all of our ski trails and related activities, including our summer activities, at Vail Mountain, Breckenridge, Keystone, Crested Butte, Stevens Pass, Heavenly, Kirkwood, Mount Snow, Wildcat, a majority of Beaver Creek and portions of Attitash are located on National Forest land. The Forest Service has granted us permits to use these lands, but maintains the right to review and approve many operational matters, as well as the location, design and construction of improvements in these areas. The expiration dates for our permits are set forth in the Business section of this Form 10-K under the heading “Contracts with Governmental Authorities for Resort Operations”.

Current wording

Our U.S. Resort operations require permits and approvals from certain federal, state and local authorities, including the Forest Service, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the States of Vermont, New Hampshire and Pennsylvania and the NPS. Virtually all of our ski trails and related activities, including our summer activities, at Vail Mountain, Breckenridge, Keystone, Crested Butte, Stevens Pass, Heavenly, Kirkwood, Mount Snow, Wildcat, a majority of Beaver Creek and portions of Attitash are located on National Forest System lands. The Forest Service has granted us permits to use these lands, but maintains the right to review and approve many operational matters, as well as the location, design and construction of improvements in these areas. The expiration dates for our permits are set forth in the Business section of this Form 10-K under the heading “Contracts with Governmental Authorities for Resort Operations”.

Previous wording

The Forest Service can terminate or amend these permits if, in its opinion, such termination is required in the public interest. A termination or amendment of any of our permits could have a materially adverse effect on our business and operations. In order to undertake improvements and new development, we must apply for permits and other approvals. These efforts, if unsuccessful, could impact our expansion efforts. Furthermore, Congress may materially increase the fees we pay to the Forest Service for use of these National Forest lands.

Current wording

The Forest Service can terminate these permits if it determines that such termination is required in the public interest. A termination of any of our permits could have a materially adverse effect on our business and operations. In order to undertake improvements and new development, we must apply for and obtain permits and other approvals from the Forest Service. These efforts, if unsuccessful, could impact some of our expansion efforts. Furthermore, Congress may materially increase the fees we pay to the Forest Service for use of these National Forest System lands.

Previous wording

Stowe and Okemo are partially located on land we lease from the State of Vermont, Mount Sunapee is located on land we lease from the State of New Hampshire and Laurel Mountain is located on land we lease from the State of Pennsylvania. We are required to seek approval from such states for certain developments and improvements made to the resort. Certain other resorts are operated on land under long-term leases with third parties. For example, operations at our Northstar, Park City and Mad River Mountain Resorts are conducted pursuant to long-term leases with third parties who require us to operate the Resorts in accordance with the terms of the leases and seek certain approvals from the respective landlords for improvements made to the Resorts. The initial lease term for Northstar with affiliates of EPR Properties expires in January 2027 and allows for three 10-year renewal options. We entered into a transaction agreement, master lease agreement and ancillary transaction documents with affiliate companies of Talisker Corporation (“Talisker”), and the initial lease term for our Park City resort with Talisker expires in May 2063. Following the initial lease term expiration, we have six 50-year renewal options. Additionally, GTLC and Flagg Ranch operate under concession agreements with the NPS that expire on December 31, 2024 (which we currently expect will be extended in the fall of 2024 for an additional year through December 31, 2025 due to the time needed for solicitation, preparation, review and award of a new contract) and October 31, 2028, respectively. There is no guarantee that at the end of the lease/license or agreements under which we operate our Resorts we will renew or, if desired, be able to negotiate new terms that are favorable to us. Additionally, our Resorts that operate on privately-owned land are subject to local land use regulation and oversight by county and/or town governments, and we may not be able to obtain the requisite approvals needed for resort improvements or expansions. Failure to comply with the provisions, obligations and terms (including renewal requirements and deadlines) of our material permits and leases could adversely impact our operating results.

Current wording

Stowe and Okemo are partially located on land we lease from the State of Vermont, Mount Sunapee is located on land we lease from the State of New Hampshire and Laurel Mountain is located on land we lease from the State of Pennsylvania. We are required to seek approval from such states for certain developments and improvements made to these resorts. Certain other resorts are operated on land under long-term leases with third parties. For example, operations at our Northstar, Park City, Mad River Mountain Resorts and Paoli Peaks are conducted pursuant to long-term leases with third parties who require us to operate the Resorts in accordance with the terms of the leases and seek certain approvals from the respective landlords for certain improvements made to the Resorts. The initial lease term for Northstar with affiliates of EPR Properties expires in January 2027 and allows for three 10-year renewal options. We entered into a transaction agreement, master lease agreement and ancillary transaction documents with affiliate companies of Talisker Corporation (“Talisker”), and the initial lease term for our Park City resort with Talisker expires in May 2063. Following the initial lease term expiration, we have six 50-year renewal options. Additionally, GTLC and Flagg Ranch are operated under concession agreements with the NPS that expire on December 31, 2025 and October 31, 2028, respectively. The NPS has released a contract solicitation for the services offered by GTLC, and we intend to timely submit a bid on behalf of the Company. We currently expect that our existing agreement will be extended for an additional one year through December 31, 2026 due to the time needed for solicitation, preparation, review and award of a new contract. We expect the NPS to confirm this extension in the fall of 2025. There is no guarantee that at the end of the lease, license, concession or other agreement under which we operate our Resorts, the agreement will be renewed, if desired, or that we will be able to negotiate new terms that are favorable to us. Additionally, our Resorts that operate entirely or partially on privately-owned land are subject to local land use regulation and oversight by state, county and/or town governments, and we may not be able to obtain the requisite approvals needed for resort improvements or expansions. Failure to comply with the provisions, obligations and terms (including renewal requirements and deadlines) of our material permits and leases could adversely impact our operating results.

Previous wording

Our international Resort operations require permits and approvals from certain foreign authorities, including, but not limited to, the (i) Province of British Columbia; (ii) the New South Wales and Victoria, Australia governments; and (iii) the DDPS, the municipalities of Tujetsch, Crans-Montana, and Lens, regional civic communities, such as Bourgeoisie de Montana and Consortage de l’Alpage de Mer-dechon, and the FOT in Switzerland. Our operations at Whistler Blackcomb are located on Crown Land within the traditional territory of the Squamish and Lil’wat Nations, and the operations and future development of both Whistler Mountain and Blackcomb Mountain are governed by Master Development Agreements, which expire on February 23, 2077. We have a lease and a license for Perisher within the Kosciusko National Park which expires in June 2048, with an option to renew for an additional period of 20 years. Perisher relies on a suite of planning approvals (and existing use rights) granted under the Australian EPA Act to operate the resort. Strategic planning documents have been adopted to provide a framework for the assessment and approval of future development at the resort. Perisher also holds a number of environmental approvals to regulate its operations, including an environment protection license and a suite of dangerous goods licenses related to the storage of diesel, heating oil and propane in storage tanks across the resort. Each of Falls Creek and a majority of Hotham is located in the Alpine National Park in Victoria, Australia that is permanently reserved under the Crown Land Act and subject to the ARM Act. The ARM Act established the Falls Creek RMB and the Hotham RMB, which is responsible for the management and collection of fees from Falls Creek and Hotham, respectively, and the ARM Regulations give each of the Falls Creek RMB and the Hotham RMB certain discretion over the operations of Falls Creek and Hotham, respectively, including the authority to (i) declare the snow season, (ii) temporarily close the applicable resort if entry would be a significant danger to public safety and (iii) determine which portions of the applicable resort are open to the public and the activities that are permitted on those portions of such resort. Portions of our operations at Andermatt-Sedrun are located on land owned by (i) the DDPS and subject to two leasehold agreements with ASA, each with a term of 50 years expiring on April 10, 2067 and March 13, 2068; and (ii) the municipality of Tujetsch by means of a personal easement agreement which expires on October 12, 2032 with an option to apply for renewal. We also hold a passenger transport concessions from the FOT, for a total of 12 cableway installations by means of a plan approval dated May 3, 2014. Each passenger transport concession has a separate expiration date between 2026 and 2042, and we will then be able to apply for an extension or new concession. Portions of our operations at Crans-Montana are loc…

Excerpt shortened here; the source contains the full paragraph.

Current wording

Crown Land within the traditional territory of the Squamish and Lil’wat Nations, and the operations and future development of both Whistler Mountain and Blackcomb Mountain are governed by Master Development Agreements, which expire on February 23, 2077. We have a lease and a license for Perisher within the Kosciusko National Park which expires in June 2048, with an option to renew for an additional period of 20 years. Perisher relies on a suite of planning approvals (and existing use rights) granted under the Australian EPA Act to operate the resort. Strategic planning documents have been adopted to provide a framework for the assessment and approval of future development at the resort. Perisher also holds a number of environmental approvals to regulate its operations, including an environment protection license and a suite of dangerous goods licenses related to the storage of diesel, heating oil and propane in storage tanks across the resort. Each of Falls Creek and a majority of Hotham is located in the Alpine National Park in Victoria, Australia that is permanently reserved under the Crown Land Act and subject to the ARM Act. The ARM Act established the Falls Creek RMB and the Hotham RMB, which is responsible for the management and collection of fees from Falls Creek and Hotham, respectively, and the ARM Regulations give each of the Falls Creek RMB and the Hotham RMB certain discretion over the operations of Falls Creek and Hotham, respectively, including the authority to (i) declare the snow season, (ii) temporarily close the applicable resort if entry would be a significant danger to public safety and (iii) determine which portions of the applicable resort are open to the public and the activities that are permitted on those portions of such resort. Portions of our operations at Andermatt-Sedrun are located on land owned by (i) the DDPS and subject to two leasehold agreements with ASA, each with a term of 50 years expiring on April 10, 2067 and March 13, 2068; and (ii) the municipality of Tujetsch by means of a personal easement agreement which expires on October 12, 2032 with an option to apply for renewal. We also hold a passenger transport concessions from the FOT, for a total of 12 cableway installations by means of a plan approval dated May 3, 2014. Each passenger transport concession has a separate expiration date between 2026 and 2042, and we will then be able to apply for an extension or new concession. Portions of our operations at Crans-Montana are located on land owned by regional Bourgeoisies, the municipality of Crans-Montana and private property owners, whereby the owners have granted building rights and/or easements for the operations. Such leasehold property rights expire between 2027 and 2094, and we will then be able to negotiate for an extension. These leasehold properties primarily relate to forest and agricultural zones for which usage is needed for the operation of the ski lifts (e.g. passing through of ski lifts or in …

Excerpt shortened here; the source contains the full paragraph.

Previous wording

To create organizational effectiveness and scale for operating leverage as we grow globally, we announced a multi-year resource efficiency transformation plan to achieve $100 million in annualized savings by the end of 2026. Our ability to realize anticipated benefits from these plans is subject to many estimates and assumptions, including business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies, and accordingly there can be no assurance that the anticipated savings, operating efficiencies or other benefits will be achieved, within the anticipated timeframes or at all, or that they will not be significantly and materially less than anticipated.

Current wording

To create organizational effectiveness and scale for operating leverage as we grow globally, we announced a multi-year resource efficiency transformation plan to achieve $100 million in annualized savings by the end of Fiscal 2026. Our ability to realize anticipated benefits from these plans is subject to many estimates and assumptions, including business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies, and accordingly there can be no assurance that the anticipated savings, operating efficiencies or other benefits will be achieved, within the anticipated timeframes or at all, or that they will not be significantly and materially less than anticipated.

Previous wording

Our operations are subject to a variety of federal, state, local and foreign environmental laws and regulations including those relating to air emissions, discharges to water, storage, treatment and disposal of wastes and other liquids, land use, remediation of contaminated sites, protection of natural resources such as wetlands and sustainable visitor or tourist use and enjoyment. For example, future expansions of certain of our mountain facilities must comply with applicable forest plans approved under the National Forest Management Act, federal, state and foreign wildlife protection laws or local zoning requirements, and in Vermont, our operations must comply with Act 250, which regulates the impacts of development to, among other things, waterways, air, wildlife and earth resources, and any projects must be completed pursuant to a Master Plan. In addition, most projects to improve, upgrade or expand our ski areas are subject to environmental review under the NEPA, FRPA, Act 250, the CEQA, the Australian NPW Act, the Australian EPA Act or the Australian EP Act, as applicable. Our ski area improvement proposals may not be approved or may be approved with modifications that substantially increase the cost or decrease the desirability of implementing the project. From time to time our operations are subject to inspections by environmental regulators or other regulatory agencies. We are also subject to worker health and safety requirements as well as various state and local public health laws, rules, regulations and orders. We believe our operations are in substantial compliance with applicable material environmental, health and safety requirements. However, our efforts to comply do not eliminate the risk that we may be held liable, incur fines or be subject to claims for damages, and that the amount of any liability, fines, damages or remediation costs may be material for, among other things, the presence or release of regulated materials at, on or emanating from properties we now or formerly owned or operated, newly discovered environmental impacts or contamination at or from any of our properties, or changes in environmental laws and regulations or their enforcement.

Current wording

Our operations are subject to a variety of federal, state, local and foreign environmental laws and regulations including those relating to air emissions, discharges to water, storage, treatment and disposal of wastes and other liquids, land use, remediation of contaminated sites, protection of natural resources such as wetlands and sustainable visitor or tourist use and enjoyment. For example, future expansions of certain of our mountain facilities must comply with applicable forest plans approved under the National Forest Management Act, federal, state and foreign wildlife protection laws or local zoning requirements, and in Vermont, our operations must comply with Act 250, which regulates the impacts of development to, among other things, waterways, air, wildlife and earth resources, and any projects must be completed pursuant to a Master Plan. In addition, most projects to improve, upgrade or expand our ski areas are subject to environmental review under the NEPA, FRPA, Act 250, the CEQA, the Australian NPW Act, the Australian EPA Act or the Australian EP Act, the Swiss Environmental Protection Act, the Swiss Waters Protection Act, the Swiss Act on the Protection of Nature and Cultural Heritage, the Swiss Forest Act, the Swiss Act on Hunting and the Protection of Wild Mammals and Birds, and the Swiss Spatial Planning Act, as applicable. Our ski area improvement proposals may not be approved or may be approved with modifications that substantially increase the cost or decrease the desirability of implementing the project. From time to time our operations are subject to inspections by environmental regulators or other regulatory agencies. We are also subject to worker health and safety requirements as well as various state and local public health laws, rules, regulations and orders. We believe our operations are in substantial compliance with applicable material environmental, health and safety requirements. However, our efforts to comply do not eliminate the risk that we may be held liable, incur fines or be subject to claims for damages, and that the amount of any liability, fines, damages or remediation costs may be material for, among other things, the presence or release of regulated materials at, on or emanating from properties we now or formerly owned or operated, newly discovered environmental impacts or contamination at or from any of our properties, or changes in environmental laws and regulations or their enforcement.

Previous wording

Changes in immigration laws could also impact our workforce because we typically recruit and hire foreign nationals as part of our seasonal workforce. A shortage of international workers, failure to adequately recruit and retain new domestic employees, higher than expected attrition levels, or increased wages all could affect our ability to open and operate parts of our Resorts, deliver guest service at traditional margins or achieve our labor cost objectives.

Current wording

Changes in immigration laws, including changes to the manner in which the laws and regulations are interpreted or enforced, could also impact our workforce because we typically recruit and hire foreign nationals as part of our seasonal workforce. A shortage of international workers, failure to adequately recruit and retain new domestic employees, higher than expected attrition levels, or increased wages all could affect our ability to open and operate parts of our Resorts, deliver guest service at traditional margins or achieve our labor cost objectives.

Previous wording

We are also subject to various federal, state and foreign laws governing matters such as minimum wage requirements, sick leave pay, overtime compensation and other working conditions, work authorization requirements, discrimination and family and medical leave. Cost of labor and labor-related benefits are primary components in the cost of our operations. Labor shortages, affordable employee housing shortages, increased employee turnover and health care mandates can increase our labor costs. We are subject to mandated minimum wage rates and we also experience market-driven pressures to pay wages even higher than mandated minimum wages. This can result in increases not only to the wages of our minimum wage employees but also to the wages paid to employees at wage rates that are above the minimum wage. During Fiscal 2023, we increased our minimum wage for North American employees to $20 per hour and announced a substantial investment in our human resource department to support more normalized staffing and operations at our Resorts. From time to time, we have experienced non-union employees attempting to unionize. While only a very small portion of our employees are unionized at present, we may experience additional union activity in the future, which could lead to disruptions in our business, increases in our operating costs and/or constraints on our operating flexibility. These potential labor impacts could adversely impact our results of operations. For additional details, see “Business—Human Capital Management.”

Current wording

We are also subject to various federal, state and foreign laws governing matters such as minimum wage requirements, sick leave pay, overtime compensation and other working conditions, work authorization requirements, discrimination and family and medical leave. Cost of labor and labor-related benefits are primary components in the cost of our operations. Labor shortages, affordable employee housing shortages, increased employee turnover and health care mandates can increase our labor costs. We are subject to mandated minimum wage rates and we also experience market-driven pressures to pay wages even higher than mandated minimum wages. This can result in increases not only to the wages of our minimum wage employees but also to the wages paid to employees at wage rates that are above the minimum wage. During Fiscal 2023, we increased our minimum wage for North American employees to $20 per hour and announced a substantial investment in our human resource department to support more normalized staffing and operations at our Resorts.

Previous wording

Increased scrutiny and changing expectations from investors, consumers, employees, regulators, and others regarding our environmental, social and governance practices and reporting could cause us to incur additional costs, devote additional resources and expose us to additional risks, which could adversely impact our reputation, customer attraction, access to capital and employee recruitment and retention.

Current wording

Increased scrutiny and changing expectations from investors, consumers, employees, regulators, and others regarding our sustainability practices and reporting could cause us to incur additional costs, devote additional resources and expose us to additional risks, which could adversely impact our reputation, guest attraction, access to capital and employee recruitment and retention.

Previous wording

Companies across all industries are facing increasing scrutiny related to their environmental, social and governance (“ESG”) practices and reporting. Investors, consumers, employees and other stakeholders have focused increasingly on ESG practices and have placed increasing importance on the implications and social cost of their investments, purchases and other interactions with companies. In 2017, we launched an ambitious Commitment to Zero pledge to have a zero net operating footprint by 2030, which includes commitments to (i) achieving zero net emissions, (ii) zero waste to landfill, and (iii) zero net operating impact to forests. Additionally, we were awarded the NSAA’s Golden Eagle Climate Change award at the 2023 NSAA annual conference and we were a finalist for the NSAA Golden Eagle Overall Environmental Excellence Award at the 2024 NSAA annual conference; however we may not be able to sustain such recognition for our ESG efforts. If our ESG practices do not meet investor, consumer or employee expectations related to our Commitment to Zero or any other ESG initiative, which continue to evolve, or if we do not maintain recognition for our ESG efforts, our brand, reputation and customer retention may be negatively impacted.

Current wording

Companies across all industries are facing scrutiny related to their sustainability practices and reporting. Investors, consumers, employees and other stakeholders have focused increasingly on sustainability practices and have placed increasing importance on the implications and social cost of their investments, purchases and other interactions with companies. We have launched numerous sustainability initiatives in recent years, including commitments to achieve various sustainability targets.

Previous wording

•the evolving regulatory requirements affecting ESG practices;

Current wording

•the evolving regulatory requirements affecting sustainability practices;

Previous wording

If we fail, or are perceived to be failing, to meet the standards included in any sustainability disclosure (including our Commitment to Zero pledge included in our annual EpicPromise Progress Report) or the expectations of our various stakeholders, it could negatively impact our reputation, customer attraction and retention, access to capital, and employee retention. In addition, new sustainability rules and regulations have been adopted and may continue to be introduced. Our failure to comply with any applicable rules or regulations could lead to penalties and adversely impact our reputation, customer attraction and retention, access to capital, and employee retention.

Current wording

If we fail, or are perceived to be failing, to meet the standards included in any sustainability disclosure, or fail to achieve our sustainability targets or complete previously announced sustainability initiatives, or otherwise fail to meet the expectations of our various stakeholders, it could negatively impact our reputation, customer attraction and retention, access to capital, and employee retention. In addition, new sustainability rules and regulations have been adopted and may continue to be introduced. Our failure to comply with any applicable rules or regulations could lead to penalties and adversely impact our reputation, customer attraction and retention, access to capital, and employee retention.

Previous wording

In addition, the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development reached agreement among various countries to implement a minimum 15% tax rate on certain multinational enterprises, commonly referred to as Pillar Two. Many countries continue to announce changes in their tax laws and regulations based on the Pillar Two proposals. We are continuing to evaluate the impact of these proposed and enacted legislative changes as new guidance becomes available. Some of these legislative changes could impact our effective tax rate and tax liabilities. Given the numerous proposed tax law changes and the uncertainty regarding such proposed legislative changes, the impact of Pillar Two cannot be determined at this time.

Current wording

In addition, the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development reached agreement among various countries to implement a minimum 15% tax rate on certain multinational enterprises, commonly referred to as Pillar Two. Many countries continue to announce changes in their tax laws and regulations based on the Pillar Two proposals and have enacted legislation to implement the core elements of the Pillar Two model rules. We are continuing to evaluate the impact of these proposed and enacted legislative changes as new guidance becomes available. Some of these legislative changes could impact our effective tax rate and tax liabilities. Given the numerous proposed tax law changes and the uncertainty regarding such proposed legislative changes, the impact of Pillar Two cannot be determined at this time.

Previous wording

We have generally paid quarterly dividends since fiscal 2011 (with the exception of several quarters in Fiscal 2020 and Fiscal 2021 to maintain short-term liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic), which are funded through cash flow from operations, available cash on hand and borrowings under our Credit Facilities. The declaration of dividends is subject to the discretion of our Board of Directors, and is limited by applicable state law concepts of available funds for distribution, as well as contractual restrictions. As a result, the amount, if any, of the dividends to be paid in the future will depend upon a number of factors, including our available cash on hand, anticipated cash needs, overall financial condition, restrictions contained in our Ninth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement (the “Vail Holdings Credit Agreement”), any future contractual restrictions, future prospects for earnings and cash flows, as well as other factors considered relevant by our Board of Directors. In addition, our Board of Directors may also suspend the payment of dividends at any time if it deems such action to be in the best interests of the Company and its stockholders. If we do not pay dividends, the price of our common stock must appreciate for investors to realize a gain on their investment in Vail Resorts, Inc. This appreciation may not occur and our stock may in fact depreciate in value. On September 25, 2024, our Board of Directors approved a cash dividend of $2.22 per share payable on October 24, 2024 to stockholders of record as of October 8, 2024.

Current wording

We have generally paid quarterly dividends since fiscal 2011 (with the exception of several quarters in Fiscal 2020 and Fiscal 2021 to maintain short-term liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic), which are funded through cash flow from operations, available cash on hand and borrowings under our Credit Facilities. The declaration of dividends is subject to the discretion of our Board of Directors (the “Board”), and is limited by applicable state law concepts of available funds for distribution, as well as contractual restrictions. As a result, the amount, if any, of the dividends to be paid in the future will depend upon a number of factors, including our available cash on hand, anticipated cash needs, overall financial condition, restrictions contained in our Ninth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement (the “Vail Holdings Credit Agreement”), any future contractual restrictions, future prospects for earnings and cash flows, as well as other factors considered relevant by our Board. In addition, our Board may also suspend the payment of dividends at any time if it deems such action to be in the best interests of the Company and its stockholders. If we do not pay dividends, the price of our common stock must appreciate for investors to realize a gain on their investment in Vail Resorts, Inc. This appreciation may not occur and our stock may in fact depreciate in value. On September 26, 2025, our Board approved a cash dividend of $2.22 per share payable on October 27, 2025 to stockholders of record as of October 9, 2025.

Previous wording

We have a substantial amount of debt, which requires significant interest and principal payments. As of July 31, 2024, we had $2.8 billion in total indebtedness outstanding. This amount includes (i) $959.8 million of indebtedness pursuant to the term loan facility under the Vail Holdings Credit Agreement that matures in 2029, (ii) $600.0 million aggregate principal amount of our unsecured senior notes due 2032 (the “6.50% Notes”), (iii) $575.0 million in aggregate principal amount of 0.0% convertible notes due 2026 (the “0.0% Convertible Notes”), (iv) $369.1 million with respect to our obligation associated with the Canyons long-term lease, (v) $114.2 million with respect to the EPR Secured Notes under the master credit and security agreements and other related agreements with EPT Ski Properties, Inc. and its affiliates (“EPR”), as amended (collectively, the “EPR Agreements”), (vi) $52.6 million with respect to our obligations associated with outstanding debt of certain employee housing entities, (vii) $37.1 million with respect to the New Regional Policy loan between Andermatt-Sedrun and the Canton of Uri and Canton of Graubünden (the “NRP Loan”), and (viii) $27.9 million with respect to our obligations associated with Whistler Blackcomb employee housing leases. We also have a credit agreement at Whistler Blackcomb that matures in 2028 (the “Whistler Credit Agreement”), which had no amounts outstanding as of July 31, 2024. Collectively, the Vail Holdings Credit Agreement, the Whistler Credit Agreement, the EPR Agreements and the NRP Loan are referred to herein as the “Credit Agreements,” and such facilities, the “Credit Facilities.” Our borrowings under the Vail Holdings Credit Agreement are subject to interest rate changes substantially increasing our risk to changes in interest rates. Under the Vail Holdings Credit Agreement, borrowings under the Vail Holdings Credit Agreement, including the term loan facility, bear interest annually at a rate of SOFR plus 1.60%. As of July 31, 2024 we also have, on a cumulative basis, minimum lease payment obligations under operating leases of approximately $371.1 million over the term of the leases. Our level of indebtedness and minimum lease payment obligations could have important consequences. For example, it could:

Current wording

We have a substantial amount of debt, which requires significant interest and principal payments. As of July 31, 2025, we had $3.2 billion in total indebtedness outstanding. This amount includes (i) $910.5 million of indebtedness pursuant to the term loan facility under the Vail Holdings Credit Agreement that matures in 2029, (ii) $600.0 million aggregate principal amount of our unsecured senior notes due 2032 (the “6.50% Notes”), (iii) $525.0 million in aggregate principal amount of 0.0% convertible notes due 2026 (the “0.0% Convertible Notes”), (iv) $500 million in aggregate principal amount of our unsecured senior notes due 2030 (the “5.625% Notes”), and (v) $374.9 million with respect to our obligation associated with the Canyons long-term lease, (vi) $114.2 million with respect to the EPR Secured Notes under the master credit and security agreements and other related agreements with EPT Ski Properties, Inc. and its affiliates (“EPR”), as amended (collectively, the “EPR Agreements”), (vii) $52.6 million with respect to our obligations associated with outstanding debt of certain employee housing entities, (viii) $37.1 million with respect to the New Regional Policy loan between Andermatt-Sedrun and the Canton of Uri and Canton of Graubünden (the “NRP Loan”), and (xi) $27.4 million with respect to our obligations associated with Whistler Blackcomb employee housing leases. We also have a credit agreement at Whistler Blackcomb that matures in 2028 (the “Whistler Credit Agreement”), which had no amounts outstanding as of July 31, 2025. Collectively, the Vail Holdings Credit Agreement, the Whistler Credit Agreement, the EPR Agreements and the NRP Loan are referred to herein as the “Credit Agreements,” and such facilities, the “Credit Facilities.” Our borrowings under the Vail Holdings Credit Agreement are subject to interest rate changes substantially increasing our risk to changes in interest rates. Under the Vail Holdings Credit Agreement, borrowings under the Vail Holdings Credit Agreement, including the term loan facility, bear interest annually at a rate of SOFR plus 1.60%. As of July 31, 2025 we also have, on a cumulative basis, minimum lease payment obligations under operating leases of approximately $342.6 million over the term of the leases. Our level of indebtedness and minimum lease payment obligations could have important consequences. For example, it could:

Previous wording

Furthermore, our debt under our Credit Facilities bears interest at variable rates, which may be impacted by potential future changes in interest rates due to reference rate reform. We may be able to incur additional indebtedness in the future. The terms of our Credit Facilities, the 0.0% Convertible Notes and the 6.50% Notes do not fully prohibit us from doing so. If we incur additional debt, the related risks that we face could intensify.

Current wording

Furthermore, our debt under our Credit Facilities bears interest at variable rates, which may be impacted by potential future changes in interest rates due to reference rate reform. We may be able to incur additional indebtedness in the future. The terms of our Credit Facilities, the 5.625% Notes, the 0.0% Convertible Notes and the 6.50% Notes do not fully prohibit us from doing so. If we incur additional debt, the related risks that we face could intensify.

Previous wording

The indenture governing the 6.50% Notes contains a number of significant restrictions and covenants that limit our ability to:

Current wording

The indentures governing the 5.625% Notes and the 6.50% Notes contains a number of significant restrictions and covenants that limit our ability to:

Previous wording

On March 9, 2006, the Company’s Board of Directors approved a share repurchase program, authorizing the Company to repurchase up to 3,000,000 Vail Shares. On July 16, 2008, December 4, 2015 and March 7, 2023, the Company’s Board of Directors increased the authorization by an additional 3,000,000, 1,500,000 and 2,500,000 Vail Shares, respectively, for a total authorization to repurchase up to 10,000,000 Vail Shares. Since inception of this stock repurchase program through July 31, 2024, the Company has repurchased 9,369,680 shares at a cost of approximately $1,129.4 million, excluding accrued excise tax. As of July 31, 2024, 630,320 Vail Shares remained available to repurchase under the existing share repurchase program, which has no expiration date.

Current wording

On March 9, 2006, the Company’s Board approved a share repurchase program, authorizing the Company to repurchase up to 3,000,000 Vail Shares. On July 16, 2008, December 4, 2015, March 7, 2023, September 25, 2024, and June 4, 2025 the Company’s Board increased the authorization by an additional 3,000,000, 1,500,000, 2,500,000, 1,100,000 and 1,500,000 Vail Shares, respectively, for a total authorization to repurchase up to 12,600,000 Vail Shares. Since inception of this stock repurchase program through July 31, 2025, the Company has repurchased 11,060,183 shares at a cost of approximately $1,399.4 million, excluding accrued excise tax. As of July 31, 2025, 1,539,817 Vail Shares remained available to repurchase under the existing share repurchase program, which has no expiration date.

Previous wording

Although our Board of Directors has approved a share repurchase program, the share repurchase program does not obligate us to repurchase any specific dollar amount or to acquire any specific number of shares. The timing and amount of repurchases, if any, will depend upon several factors, including market and business conditions, our liquidity and capital resources, the trading price of our common stock and the nature of other investment opportunities. The repurchase program may be limited, suspended or discontinued at any time without prior notice. In addition, repurchases of our common stock pursuant to our share repurchase program could cause our stock price to be higher than it would be in the absence of such a program and could potentially reduce the market liquidity for our stock. Additionally, our share repurchase program could reduce our available liquidity, which may impact our ability to finance future growth and to pursue possible future strategic opportunities and acquisitions. Further, the Internal Revenue Service recently implemented a nondeductible excise tax equal to 1% of the fair market value of certain corporate share repurchases. There can be no assurance that any share repurchases will enhance stockholder value because the market price of our common stock may decline below levels at which we repurchased shares of stock. Although our share repurchase program is intended to enhance long-term stockholder value, there is no assurance that it will do so and short-term stock price fluctuations could reduce the program’s effectiveness.

Current wording

Although our Board has approved a share repurchase program, the share repurchase program does not obligate us to repurchase any specific dollar amount or to acquire any specific number of shares. The timing and amount of repurchases, if any, will depend upon several factors, including market and business conditions, our liquidity and capital resources, the trading price of our common stock and the nature of other investment opportunities. The repurchase program may be limited, suspended or discontinued at any time without prior notice. In addition, repurchases of our common stock pursuant to our share repurchase program could cause our stock price to be higher than it would be in the absence of such a program and could potentially reduce the market liquidity for our stock. Additionally, our share repurchase program could reduce our available liquidity, which may impact our ability to finance future growth and to pursue possible future strategic opportunities and acquisitions. Further, the Internal Revenue Service recently implemented a nondeductible excise tax equal to 1% of the fair market value of certain corporate share repurchases. There can be no assurance that any share repurchases will enhance stockholder value because the market price of our common stock may decline below levels at which we repurchased shares of stock. Although our share repurchase program is intended to enhance long-term stockholder value, there is no assurance that it will do so and short-term stock price fluctuations could reduce the program’s effectiveness.

Previous wording

We use many methods, estimates and judgments in applying our accounting policies (see “Critical Accounting Policies” in Item 7 of this Form 10-K). Such methods, estimates and judgments are, by their nature, subject to substantial risks, uncertainties and assumptions, and factors may arise over time that lead us to change our methods, estimates and judgments. Changes in those methods, estimates and judgments could significantly affect our results of operations.

Current wording

We use many methods, estimates and judgments in applying our accounting policies (see “Critical Accounting Policies” in Item 7 of this Form 10-K), including in connection with acquisitions. Such methods, estimates and judgments are, by their nature, subject to substantial risks, uncertainties and assumptions, and factors may arise over time that lead us to change our methods, estimates and judgments. Changes in those methods, estimates and judgments could significantly affect our results of operations.