MKS INSTRUMENTS INC

Previous wording

The Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (“MD&A”) describes principal factors affecting the results of our operations, financial condition, cash flows and liquidity, as well as our critical accounting policies and estimates that require significant judgment and thus have the most significant potential impact on our Consolidated Financial Statements, and is intended to better allow investors to view the Company from management’s perspective. This section focuses on material events and uncertainties known to management that are reasonably likely to cause reported financial information not to be necessarily indicative of our future operating results or of our future financial condition. This section provides an analysis of our financial results for the year ended December 31, 2023 compared to the year ended December 31, 2022. For the discussion and analysis covering the year ended December 31, 2022 compared to the year ended December 31, 2021, please refer to “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” in Part II, Item 7 of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022, as filed with the SEC on March 14, 2023.

Current wording

The Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (“MD&A”) describes principal factors affecting the results of operations, financial condition, cash flows and liquidity, as well as our critical accounting policies and estimates that require significant judgment and thus have the most significant potential impact on our consolidated financial statements, and is intended to better allow investors to view the Company from management’s perspective. This section focuses on material events and uncertainties known to management that are reasonably likely to cause reported financial information not to be necessarily indicative of our future operating results or of our future financial condition. This section provides an analysis of our financial results for the year ended December 31, 2024 compared to the year ended December 31, 2023. For the discussion and analysis covering the year ended December 31, 2023 compared to the year ended December 31, 2022, please refer to “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” in Part II, Item 7 of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023, as filed with the SEC on February 27, 2024. As a result of rounding, there may be immaterial differences in amounts presented and certain calculations may not sum to the total number expressed in each category or tie to a corresponding schedule.

Previous wording

We have three divisions, which are our reportable segments, known as VSD, PSD and MSD.

Current wording

We have three divisions, which are our reportable segments: Vacuum Solutions Division (“VSD”), Photonics Solutions Division (“PSD”) and Materials Solutions Division (“MSD”).

Previous wording

VSD delivers foundational technology solutions to leading edge semiconductor manufacturing, electronics and packaging and specialty industrial applications. VSD products are derived from our core competencies in pressure measurement and control, flow measurement and control, gas and vapor delivery, gas composition analysis, electronic control technology, reactive gas generation and delivery, power generation and delivery, and vacuum technology.

Current wording

VSD delivers foundational technology solutions to semiconductor manufacturing, electronics and packaging and specialty industrial applications. VSD products are derived from our core competencies in vacuum technologies, including pressure measurement and control, flow measurement and control, gas and vapor delivery, gas composition analysis, electronic control technology, reactive gas generation and delivery, power generation and delivery, and fiber optic temperature and position sensing.

Previous wording

MSD develops leading process and manufacturing technologies for advanced surface modification, electroless and electrolytic plating, and surface finishing. Applying a comprehensive systems-and-solutions approach, MSD's portfolio includes chemistry, equipment, software, and services for innovative and high-technology applications in our electronics and packaging and specialty industrial markets.

Current wording

MSD develops leading process and manufacturing technologies for advanced surface modification, electroless and electrolytic plating, and surface finishing. Applying a comprehensive systems-and-solutions approach, MSD’s portfolio includes chemistry, equipment and services for innovative and high-technology applications in our electronics and packaging and specialty industrial markets.

Previous wording

MKS is a critical solutions provider for semiconductor manufacturing. Our products are used in major semiconductor processing steps, such as deposition, etching, cleaning, lithography, metrology, and inspection. The semiconductor industry continually faces new challenges as products become smaller, more powerful and highly mobile. Ultra-thin layers, smaller critical dimensions, new materials, 3D structures, and the ongoing need for higher yield and productivity drive the need for tighter process measurement and control, all of which MKS supports. We believe we are the broadest critical subsystem provider in the wafer fabrication equipment (“WFE”) ecosystem and address over 85% of the market. We have characterized our broad and unique offering as Surround the Wafer to reflect the technology enablement we provide across almost every major process in semiconductor manufacturing today.

Current wording

MKS is a critical solutions provider for semiconductor manufacturing. Our products are used in major semiconductor processing steps, such as deposition, etching, cleaning, lithography, metrology, and inspection. The semiconductor industry continually faces new challenges, as products become smaller, more powerful and highly mobile. Ultra-thin layers, smaller critical dimensions, new materials, 3D structures, and the ongoing need for higher yield and productivity drive the need for tighter process measurement and control, all of which MKS supports. We believe we are the broadest critical subsystem provider in the wafer fabrication equipment (“WFE”) ecosystem and address over 85% of the market. We characterize our broad and unique offering as Surround the Wafer® to reflect the technology enablement we provide across almost every major process in semiconductor manufacturing today.

Previous wording

In general, the semiconductor capital equipment industry is subject to rapid demand shifts, which are difficult to predict, and we cannot be certain as to the timing or extent of future demand or any future softening in the semiconductor capital equipment industry. In addition to these rapid demand shifts, the semiconductor capital equipment industry is subject to significant trade restrictions.

Current wording

The semiconductor market is subject to rapid demand shifts, which are difficult to predict, and we cannot be certain as to the timing or extent of future demand or any future softening in the semiconductor capital equipment industry. In addition to these rapid demand shifts, the semiconductor capital equipment industry is subject to significant trade restrictions, especially in China.

Previous wording

Net revenues from customers in our semiconductor market decreased by $562 million, or 28%, in 2023, compared to 2022, due primarily to a decrease of $541 million in VSD given decreased industry spending on deposition and etch equipment for memory applications, particularly NAND, where MKS is a critical solutions provider.

Current wording

Net revenues from customers in our semiconductor market increased by $19 million, or 1%, in 2024, compared to 2023, due primarily to an increase in sales of our lithography, metrology and inspection products, which we refer to as our World Class Optics portfolio, partially offset by decreased industry spending on deposition and etch equipment for memory applications, particularly NAND, where MKS is a critical solutions provider.

Previous wording

PCB, package substrate and WLP industries demand smaller features, greater density, and better performance. In addition, the electronics and packaging market also includes sales of our vacuum and photonics solutions for display manufacturing applications. We characterize our complementary offering of laser systems and chemistry solutions as Optimize the Interconnect, to reflect the unique technology enablement we provide at the Interconnect level within PCBs, package substrates and WLPs.

Current wording

MKS is a foundational solutions provider for the electronics and packaging market. Our portfolio includes photonics components, laser drilling systems, electronics chemistries and plating equipment that are critical for the manufacturing of PCBs and package substrates, and critical to wafer level packaging (“WLP”) applications. Similar to the semiconductor industry, the PCB, package substrate and WLP industries demand smaller features, greater density, and better performance. In addition, the electronics and packaging market also includes sales of our vacuum and photonics solutions for display manufacturing applications. We characterize our complementary offering of laser systems and chemistry solutions as Optimize the Interconnect®, to reflect the unique technology enablement we provide at the Interconnect level within PCBs, package substrates and WLPs.

Previous wording

MKS’ strategy in specialty industrial is to leverage our domain expertise and proprietary technologies across a broad array of applications in industrial technologies, life and health sciences, and research and defense markets.

Current wording

MKS’ strategy in the specialty industrial market is to leverage our domain expertise and proprietary technologies across a broad array of applications in industrial, life and health sciences, and research and defense markets.

Previous wording

Industrial technologies encompasses a wide range of diverse applications, including chemistries for functional coatings, surface finishing and wear resistance in the automobile industry, vacuum solutions for synthetic diamond manufacturing and photonics for solar manufacturing. Other applications include vacuum and photonics solutions for light emitting diode and laser diode manufacturing.

Current wording

Industrial encompasses a wide range of diverse applications, including chemistries for functional coatings, surface finishing and wear resistance in the automobile industry, vacuum solutions for synthetic diamond manufacturing and photonics for solar manufacturing. Other applications include vacuum and photonics solutions for light emitting diode and laser diode manufacturing.

Previous wording

A significant portion of our net revenues is from sales to customers in international markets. International net revenues accounted for approximately 66% and 58% of our total net revenues in 2023 and 2022, respectively. A significant portion of our international net revenues was from customers in China, Germany, Japan and South Korea. We expect that international revenues will continue to account for a significant percentage of total net revenues for the foreseeable future. Long-lived assets located outside of the United States accounted for approximately 58% and 57% of our total long-lived assets as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. Long-lived assets include property, plant and equipment, net, right-of-use assets, and certain other assets.

Current wording

A significant portion of our net revenues is from sales to customers in international markets. International net revenues accounted for approximately 78% and 75% of our total net revenues in 2024 and 2023, respectively. A significant portion of our international net revenues was from customers in China, South Korea, Japan, Taiwan and Singapore. We expect international net revenues will continue to account for a significant percentage of total net revenues for the foreseeable future.

Previous wording

MD&A discusses our Consolidated Financial Statements, which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“U.S. GAAP”). The preparation of these financial statements requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. On an ongoing basis, we evaluate our estimates and judgments, including those related to revenue recognition, inventory, warranty costs, pension plan valuations, stock-based compensation expense, intangible assets, goodwill and other long-lived assets and income taxes. We base our estimates and judgments on historical experience and on various other factors that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions.

Current wording

MD&A discusses our Consolidated Financial Statements, which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“U.S. GAAP”). The preparation of these financial statements requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. On an ongoing basis, we evaluate our estimates and judgments, including those related to revenue recognition, inventory valuation, warranty costs, pension plan valuations, stock-based compensation expense, intangible assets, goodwill and long-lived assets, income taxes and derivatives. We base our estimates and judgments on historical experience and on various other factors that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions.

Previous wording

We believe the following critical accounting policies affect the most significant judgments, assumptions and estimates we use in preparing our Consolidated Financial Statements:

Current wording

For a complete description of our significant accounting policies, see Part II—Item 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data, Note 3, “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies”. We believe the following critical accounting policies affect the most significant judgments, assumptions and estimates we use in preparing our Consolidated Financial Statements:

Previous wording

Revenue is recognized when or as obligations under the terms of a contract with our customer have been satisfied and control has transferred to the customer. The majority of our performance obligations, and associated revenue, are transferred to customers at a point in time, generally upon shipment of a product to the customer or receipt of the product by the customer and without significant judgments. We recognize revenue over time for contracts relating to the manufacturing, modifications and retrofits of our plating equipment, as the equipment is built to customer specification, and we have an enforceable right to payment for the performance completed to date. For these sales, we use the cost-to-cost input method to measure progress. In cases, where cost-to-cost is not proportionate to our progress in satisfying the performance obligation because of uninstalled materials, we adjust the measure of progress and recognize revenue to the extent of cost incurred to satisfy the performance obligation under the contract. Revenue from customized products with no alternative future use to us, and that have an enforceable right to payment for performance completed to date, is also recorded over time. We consider this to be a faithful depiction of the transfer to the customer of revenue over time as the work is performed or service is delivered. Adjustments for custom products were not material for 2023, 2022 or 2021.

Current wording

Revenue is recognized when or as obligations under the terms of a contract with our customer have been satisfied and control has transferred to the customer. The majority of our performance obligations, and associated revenue, are transferred to customers at a point in time, generally upon shipment of a product to the customer or receipt of the product by the customer and without significant judgments. We recognize revenue over time for contracts relating to the manufacturing, modifications and retrofits of our plating equipment, as the equipment is built to customer specification, and we have an enforceable right to payment for the performance completed to date. For these sales, we use the cost-to-cost input method to measure progress. In cases, where cost-to-cost is not proportionate to our progress in satisfying the performance obligation because of uninstalled materials, we adjust the measure of progress and recognize revenue to the extent of cost incurred to satisfy the performance obligation under the contract. Revenue from customized products with no alternative future use to us, and that have an enforceable right to payment for performance completed to date, is also recorded over time. We consider this to be a faithful depiction of the transfer to the customer of revenue over time as the work is performed or service is delivered. Adjustments for custom products were immaterial in each of the periods presented.

Previous wording

While we maintain a credit approval process, significant judgments are made by management in connection with assessing our customers' ability to pay at the time of shipment. Despite this assessment, from time to time, our customers are unable to meet their payment obligations. We continuously monitor our customers' creditworthiness and use our judgment in establishing a provision for estimated credit losses based upon our historical experience and any specific customer collection issues that we have identified. While such credit losses have historically been within our expectations and the provisions established, there is no assurance that we will continue to experience the same credit loss rates that we have in the past. A significant change in the liquidity or financial position of our customers could have a material adverse impact on the collectability of accounts receivable and our future operating results. Bad debt expense was immaterial in 2023, 2022 and 2021.

Current wording

While we maintain a credit approval process, significant judgments are made by management in connection with assessing our customers' ability to pay at the time of shipment. Despite this assessment, from time to time, our customers are unable to meet their payment obligations. We continuously monitor our customers' creditworthiness and use our judgment in establishing a provision for estimated credit losses based upon our historical experience and any specific customer collection issues that we have identified. While such credit losses have historically been within our expectations and the provisions established, there is no assurance that we will continue to experience the same credit loss rates that we have in the past. A significant change in the liquidity or financial position of our customers could have a material adverse impact on the collectability of accounts receivable and our future operating results. Bad debt expense was immaterial in each period presented.

Previous wording

Inventory. We value our inventory at the lower of cost or net realizable value, cost being determined using a standard costing system that approximates actual costs, based on a first-in, first-out method. We regularly review inventory quantities on hand and record a provision to write-down excess and obsolete inventory to its estimated net realizable value, if less than cost, based primarily on our estimated forecast of product demand. Once our inventory value is written-down and a new cost basis has been established, the inventory value is not increased due to demand increases. Demand for our products can fluctuate significantly. A significant increase in the demand for our products could result in a short-term increase in the cost of inventory purchases as a result of supply shortages or a decrease in the cost of inventory purchases as a result of volume discounts, while a significant decrease in demand could result in an increase in the charges for excess inventory quantities on hand. In addition, our industry is subject to technological change, new product development and product technological obsolescence that could result in an increase in the amount of obsolete inventory quantities on hand. Therefore, any significant unanticipated changes in demand or technological developments could have a significant impact on the value of our inventory and our reported operating results. Excess and obsolete expense was $64 million, $21 million and $16 million for 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively. The higher excess and obsolete charge in 2023 was partially the result of an inventory write-off related to the discontinuation of a product line and partially the result of reduced forecasted usage.

Current wording

Inventory Valuation. We value our inventory at the lower of cost or net realizable value, cost being determined using a standard costing system that approximates actual costs, based on a first-in, first-out method. We regularly review inventory quantities on hand and record a provision to write-down excess and obsolete inventory to its estimated net realizable value, if less than cost, based primarily on our estimated forecast of product demand. Once our inventory value is written-down and a new cost basis has been established, the inventory value is not increased due to demand increases. Demand for our products can fluctuate significantly. A significant increase in the demand for our products could result in a short-term increase in the cost of inventory purchases as a result of supply shortages or a decrease in the cost of inventory purchases as a result of volume discounts, while a significant decrease in demand could result in an increase in the charges for excess inventory quantities on hand. In addition, our industry is subject to technological change, new product development and product technological obsolescence that could result in an increase in the amount of obsolete inventory quantities on hand. Therefore, any significant unanticipated changes in demand or technological developments could have a significant impact on the value of our inventory and our reported operating results. Excess and obsolete expense was $56 million, $64 million and $21 million for 2024, 2023 and 2022, respectively. The higher excess and obsolete charge in 2023 was partially the result of an inventory write-off related to the discontinuation of a product line in 2023 and partially the result of reduced forecasted usage. The higher excess and obsolete charge in 2024 was the result of reduced forecasted usage.

Previous wording

Pension Plans. Several of our non-U.S. subsidiaries have defined benefit pension plans covering employees of those subsidiaries. Some of the plans are unfunded, as permitted under the plans and applicable laws. For financial reporting purposes, we obtained actuarial reports supporting the calculation of net periodic pension costs that used a number of actuarial assumptions, including a discount rate for plan obligations, an assumed rate of return on pension plan assets and an assumed rate of compensation increase for employees covered by the various plans. We reviewed these actuarial assumptions and concluded they were reasonable based upon our judgment, considering known trends and uncertainties. Actual results that differ from these assumptions would impact future expense recognition and the cash funding requirements of our pension plans.

Current wording

Pension Plan Valuations. Several of our non-U.S. subsidiaries have defined benefit pension plans covering employees of those subsidiaries. The majority of these defined benefit plans are frozen and do not allow new employees to join the plans. Some of the plans are unfunded, as permitted under the plans and applicable laws. For financial reporting purposes, we obtained actuarial reports supporting the calculation of net periodic pension costs that used a number of actuarial assumptions, including a discount rate for plan obligations, an assumed rate of return on pension plan assets, and an assumed rate of compensation increase for employees covered by the various plans. We reviewed these actuarial assumptions and concluded they were reasonable based upon our judgment, considering known trends and uncertainties. Actual results that differ from these assumptions would impact future expense recognition and the cash funding requirements of our pension plans.

Previous wording

Stock-Based Compensation Expense. We record compensation expense for all stock-based compensation awards to employees and directors based upon the estimated fair market value of the underlying instrument. Accordingly, stock-based compensation cost is measured at the grant date, based upon the fair value of the award.

Current wording

Stock-Based Compensation Expense. Stock-based awards include (i) time-based restricted stock units (“RSUs”), (ii) performance-based RSUs based on the achievement of adjusted EBITDA targets (the “Adjusted EBITDA RSUs”), (iii) performance-based RSUs based on the Company’s total shareholder return relative to a group of peers over a three-year performance period (the “rTSR RSUs”) and (iv) employee stock purchase plan rights. We record compensation expense for all stock-based compensation awards to employees and directors based upon the estimated fair market value of the underlying instrument. Accordingly, stock-based compensation cost is measured at the grant date, based upon the fair value of the award.

Previous wording

Certain RSUs involve stock to be issued upon the achievement of performance conditions (“performance shares”) under our stock incentive plan. Such performance shares become available, subject to time-based vesting conditions if, and to the extent that, financial performance criteria for the applicable period are achieved. Accordingly, the number of performance shares earned will vary based on the level of achievement of financial performance objectives for the applicable period. For each quarter until such time that our financial performance can ultimately be determined, we estimate the number of performance shares to be earned based on an evaluation of the probability of achieving the financial performance objectives. Such estimates are revised, if necessary, in subsequent periods when the underlying factors change our evaluation of the probability of achieving the financial performance objectives. Accordingly, share-based compensation expense associated with performance shares may differ significantly from the amount recorded in the current period.

Current wording

We determine the fair value of time-based RSUs based on the closing market price of our common stock on the date of the award. We determine the original fair value of Adjusted EBITDA RSUs based upon the closing market price of our stock on the date of the award and adjust the fair value quarterly during the first year based upon actual and forecasted results against Adjusted EBITDA targets. Accordingly, the number of performance shares earned will vary based on the level of achievement of financial performance objectives for the applicable period. For each quarter until such time that our financial performance can ultimately be determined, we estimate the number of performance shares to be earned based on an evaluation of the probability of achieving the financial performance objectives. Such estimates are revised, if necessary, in subsequent periods when the underlying factors change our evaluation of the probability of achieving the financial performance objectives. Accordingly, share-based compensation expense associated with performance shares may differ significantly from the amount recorded in the current period. Such values are recognized as expense using the accelerated graded vesting method for Adjusted EBITDA RSUs, all over the requisite service periods. We estimate the fair value of rTSR RSUs using the Monte Carlo simulation model, which requires the use of highly subjective and complex assumptions, including the price volatility of the underlying stock. For the rTSR RSUs, the expense computed for the total shareholder return shares is fixed and recognized on a straight-line basis over the vesting period.

Previous wording

We typically issue restricted stock units (“RSUs”) as stock-based compensation. We also provide certain employees the opportunity to purchase our shares through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan (“ESPP”). For RSUs, the fair value is the closing market price of the stock on the date of grant. We estimate the fair value of shares issued under our ESPP using the Black-Scholes pricing model, which incorporates a number of complex and subjective variables, including expected stock price volatility over the term of the awards, expected life, risk-free interest rate and expected dividends. Management determined that blended stock-based compensation, a combination of historical and implied volatility, is more reflective of market conditions and a better indicator of expected volatility than historical or implied volatility alone.

Current wording

We provide certain employees the opportunity to purchase our shares through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan (“ESPP”). We estimate the fair value of shares issued under our ESPP using the Black-Scholes model, which incorporates a number of complex and subjective variables, including expected stock price volatility over the term of the awards, expected life, risk-free interest rate and expected dividends. Management determined that blended stock-based compensation, a combination of historical and implied volatility, is more reflective of market conditions and a better indicator of expected volatility than historical or implied volatility alone.

Previous wording

Intangible Assets, Goodwill and Other Long-Lived Assets. As a result of our acquisitions, we have identified intangible assets and generated significant goodwill. Definite-lived intangible assets are valued based on estimates of future cash flows and amortized over their estimated useful life. Determining fair value requires the exercise of significant judgment, including assumptions about appropriate discount rates as well as forecasted revenue, terminal growth rate, gross profit and operating expenses.

Current wording

Intangible Assets, Goodwill and Long-Lived Assets. As a result of our acquisitions, we have identified intangible assets and generated significant goodwill. Definite-lived intangible assets are valued based on estimates of future cash flows and amortized over their estimated useful life. Determining fair value requires the exercise of significant judgment, including assumptions about appropriate discount rates as well as forecasted revenue, terminal growth rate, gross profit and operating expenses.

Previous wording

Income Taxes. We evaluate the realizability of our net deferred tax assets and assess the need for a valuation allowance on a quarterly basis. The future benefit to be derived from our deferred tax assets is dependent upon our ability to generate sufficient future taxable income in each jurisdiction of the right type to realize the assets. We record a valuation allowance to reduce our net deferred tax assets to the amount that is expected to be realized. To the extent we establish a valuation allowance, an expense is recorded within the provision for income taxes line in the consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive (loss) income.

Current wording

Income Taxes. We evaluate the realizability of our net deferred tax assets and assess the need for a valuation allowance on a quarterly basis. The future benefit to be derived from our deferred tax assets is dependent upon our ability to generate sufficient future taxable income in each jurisdiction of the right type to realize the assets. We record a valuation allowance to reduce our net deferred tax assets to the amount that is expected to be realized. To the extent we establish a valuation allowance, or determine that a valuation allowance is no longer needed, an expense or benefit is recorded within the provision for income taxes line in the consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive (loss) income.

Previous wording

Accounting for income taxes requires a two-step approach to recognize and measure uncertain tax positions. The first step is to evaluate the tax position for recognition by determining if, based on the technical merits, it is more likely than not that the position will be sustained upon audit, including resolutions of related appeals or litigation processes, if any. The second step is to measure the tax benefit as the largest amount that is more than 50% likely of being realized upon ultimate settlement. We re-evaluate these uncertain tax positions on a quarterly basis. This evaluation is based on factors including, but not limited to, changes in facts or circumstances, changes in tax law, effectively settled issues under audit and new audit activity. Any change in these factors could result in the recognition of a tax benefit or an additional charge to the tax provision.

Current wording

We are subject to the income tax laws and regulations of the many jurisdictions in which we operate. These tax laws and regulations are complex and involve uncertainties in the application to our facts and circumstances that may be open to interpretation. Accounting for income taxes requires a two-step approach to recognize and measure uncertain tax positions. The first step is to evaluate the tax position for recognition by determining if, based on the technical merits, it is more likely than not that the position will be sustained upon audit, including resolutions of related appeals or litigation processes, if any. The second step is to measure the tax benefit as the largest amount that is more than 50% likely of being realized upon ultimate settlement. This process is inherently subjective since it requires our assessment of the probability of future outcomes. We re-evaluate these uncertain tax positions on a quarterly basis based on factors including, but not limited to, changes in facts or circumstances, changes in tax law, effectively settled issues under audit and new audit activity. Any change in these factors could result in the recognition of a tax benefit or an additional charge to the tax provision.

Previous wording

We have used derivative instruments, such as foreign exchange forward contracts and options, to manage certain foreign currency exposure, and interest rate swaps and interest rate caps to manage certain interest rate exposure. Changes in fair value of derivative instruments are recognized in the consolidated statement of operations or, if hedge accounting is applied, in Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income (“OCI”) for the effective portion of the changes in fair value. The cash flows resulting from foreign exchange forward contracts are classified in the consolidated statements of cash flows as part of cash flows from operating activities. All derivatives are stated at fair value in the consolidated balance sheets.

Current wording

We have used derivative instruments, such as foreign exchange forward contracts, options and net investment hedges, to manage certain foreign currency exposure, and interest rate swaps and interest rate caps to manage certain interest rate exposure. Changes in fair value of derivative instruments are recognized in the consolidated statement of operations or, if hedge accounting is applied, in Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income (“OCI”) for the effective portion of the changes in fair value. The cash flows resulting from foreign exchange forward contracts are classified in the consolidated statements of cash flows as part of cash flows from operating activities. All derivatives are stated at fair value in the consolidated balance sheets.

Previous wording

The following table sets forth, for the periods indicated, the percentage of total net revenues of certain line items included in our consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive (loss) income data:

Current wording

The following table sets forth, for the periods indicated, the percentage of total net revenues of certain line items included in our consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss) data:

Previous wording

Net service revenues consisted mainly of fees for services related to the maintenance and repair of our products, sales of spare parts, and installation and training. Net service revenues decreased $6 million in 2023, compared to 2022, primarily due to a decrease in VSD net service revenues of $28 million partially offset by the full-year impact of the Atotech Acquisition with MSD net service revenues increasing by $22 million. The decrease in VSD net service revenues was a result of decreases in sales to customers in our semiconductor market.

Current wording

Net service revenues consisted mainly of fees for services related to the maintenance and repair of our products, sales of spare parts, and installation and training. Net service revenues increased $40 million in 2024, compared to 2023, primarily due to an increase in net service revenues in our semiconductor market, mainly at VSD, and an increase of net service revenues in our electronics and packaging market, mainly at PSD and MSD.

Previous wording

Total international net revenues, including product and service, were $2.4 billion in 2023, compared to $2.1 billion in 2022. The increase in 2023 was primarily driven by the full-year impact of the Atotech Acquisition. The increase in international net revenues was primarily from increases in sales to customers in China, India and Japan.

Current wording

Total international net revenues, including product and service, were $2.8 billion in 2024, compared to $2.7 billion in 2023.

Previous wording

Gross profit as a percentage of net product revenues increased by 2.3 percentage points in 2023, compared to 2022, primarily due to the full-year impact of the Atotech Acquisition, as MSD had higher gross margins than VSD and PSD, as well as favorable product mix, including contributions from MSD and lower warranty costs. These increases in gross margin were partially offset by lower factory absorption at VSD and higher excess and obsolete inventory charges, mainly related to the discontinuation of a product line.

Current wording

Gross profit as a percentage of net product revenues increased by 1.4 percentage points in 2024, compared to 2023, primarily due to favorable product mix, higher factory utilization and lower excess and obsolete inventory charges, partially offset by higher warranty costs.

Previous wording

Gross profit as a percentage of net service revenues decreased by 2.4 percentage points in 2023, compared to 2022, primarily due to unfavorable product mix and unfavorable overhead absorption partially offset by lower freight and duty costs.

Current wording

Gross profit as a percentage of net service revenues increased by 8.3 percentage points in 2024, compared to 2023, primarily due to favorable product mix and lower direct labor and overhead cost on repairs.

Previous wording

Gross profit as a percentage of net revenues for PSD decreased in 2023, primarily due to higher excess and obsolete inventory charges, mainly related to the discontinuation of a product line, lower revenue volumes and unfavorable product mix.

Current wording

Gross profit as a percentage of net revenues for PSD increased in 2024, compared to 2023, primarily due to higher revenue volumes, lower excess and obsolete inventory charges and lower freight and duty costs, partially offset by unfavorable product mix.

Previous wording

We continue to make product advancements to meet our customers' evolving needs. We have developed, and continue to develop, new products to address industry trends, such as the shrinking of integrated circuit critical dimensions and technology inflections, and, in the flat panel display and solar markets, the transition to larger substrate sizes, which require more advanced processing and process control technology, the continuing drive toward more complex and accurate components and devices within the handset and tablet market, the transition to 5G for both devices and infrastructure, the growth in units and via counts in the high-density interconnect PCB drilling market, and the industry transition to electric cars in the automotive market. In addition, we have developed, and continue to develop, products that support the migration to new classes of materials, ultra-thin layers, and 3D structures that are used in small geometry manufacturing. In our chemistry and equipment plating businesses, a majority of our research and development investment supports existing customers' product improvement needs and their short-term research and development goals, which enables us to pioneer new high-value solutions while limiting commercial risk. Research and development expenses consist primarily of salaries and related expenses for personnel engaged in research and development, fees paid to consultants, material costs for prototypes and other expenses related to the design, development, testing and enhancement of our products.

Current wording

We continue to make product advancements designed to meet our customers’ evolving needs. We have developed, and continue to develop, new products designed to address industry trends, such as the rising demand for more complex hardware architecture related to increasing investments in artificial intelligence, the shrinking of integrated circuit critical dimensions and technology inflections, and, in the flat panel display and solar markets, the transition to larger substrate sizes, which require more advanced processing and process control technology, the continuing drive toward more complex and accurate components and devices within the handset and tablet market, the transition to 5G for both devices and infrastructure, the growth in units and via counts in the high density interconnect PCB drilling market, and the transition from internal combustion to electric vehicles. In addition, we have developed, and continue to develop, products that support the migration to new classes of materials, ultra-thin layers, and 3D structures that are used in small geometry manufacturing. In our chemistry and equipment plating businesses, a majority of our research and development investment supports existing customers’ product improvement needs and their short-term research and development goals, which enables us to pioneer new high-value solutions while limiting commercial risk. Research and development expenses consist primarily of salaries and related expenses for personnel engaged in research and development, fees paid to consultants, material costs for prototypes and other expenses related to the design, development, testing and enhancement of our products.

Previous wording

We believe that the continued investment in research and development and ongoing development of new products are essential to the expansion of our markets. We expect to continue to make significant investment in research and development activities. We are subject to risks from products not being developed in a timely manner, as well as from rapidly changing customer requirements and competitive threats from other companies and technologies. Our success depends on many of our products being designed into new generations of equipment for the semiconductor, electronics and packaging, and specialty industrial markets. We seek to develop products that are technologically advanced so that they are positioned to be chosen for use in each successive generation of semiconductor, electronics and packaging, and specialty industrial markets applications. If our products are not chosen to be designed into our customers’ products, our net revenues may be reduced during the lifespan of those products.

Current wording

We believe that the continued investment in research and development and ongoing development of new products are essential to the expansion of our markets. We expect to continue to make significant investment in research and development activities. We are subject to risks from products not being developed in a timely manner, as well as from rapidly changing customer requirements and competitive threats from other companies and technologies. Our success depends on many of our products being designed into new generations of equipment for the semiconductor, electronics and packaging, and specialty industrial markets. We seek to develop products that are technologically advanced so that they are positioned to be chosen for use in each successive generation of semiconductor capital equipment and advanced markets applications. If our products are not chosen to be designed into our customers’ products, our net revenues may be reduced during the lifespan of those products.

Previous wording

Acquisition and integration costs incurred during 2023 and 2022 were primarily related to consulting and professional fees related to the Atotech Acquisition.

Current wording

Acquisition and integration costs incurred during 2024 and 2023 were related to consulting and professional fees related to the acquisition of Atotech Limited (“Atotech”) in August 2022 (the “Atotech Acquisition”).

Previous wording

Restructuring charges incurred in 2023 were related to severance costs as a result of various global cost savings initiatives implemented during the year. Restructuring charges in 2022 primarily related to executive payments related to the Atotech Acquisition, severance costs due to a global cost-saving initiative, the closure of two facilities in Europe and movement of certain products to low-cost regions.

Current wording

Restructuring and other charges incurred in 2024 and 2023 were primarily related to severance costs as a result of global cost-saving initiatives.

Previous wording

For the EL, GMF and ESB reporting units, we performed a quantitative assessment of goodwill using a combination of a market approach and income approach. Fair value estimates are based on complex series of judgments about future events and uncertainties and rely heavily on estimates and assumptions that have been deemed reasonable by our management. There are inherent uncertainties and management judgment required in these determinations.

Current wording

For the EL, GMF and ESB reporting units, we performed a quantitative assessment of goodwill using a combination of a market approach and income approach. Fair value estimates are based on a complex series of judgments about future events and uncertainties and rely heavily on estimates and assumptions that have been deemed reasonable by our management.

Previous wording

$48 million and $13 million at our EL and ESB reporting units, respectively. In addition, we recorded a $14 million impairment of IPR&D allocated to the EL reporting unit. There were no impairments at any of our other reporting units.

Current wording

On October 31, 2023, we performed our annual goodwill and intangible asset impairment assessment. As a result of higher WACC mainly caused by overall higher market interest rates, we recorded additional non-cash goodwill impairment charges of $48 million and $13 million at our EL and ESB reporting units, respectively. In addition, we recorded a $14 million impairment of IPR&D allocated to the EL reporting unit. There were no impairments at any of our other reporting units.

Previous wording

In 2023 and 2022, we recorded gains as a result of receiving cash from the sale of a minority interest investment in a private company.

Current wording

In 2023, we recorded a gain as a result of receiving cash from the sale of a minority interest investment in a private company.

Previous wording

Other expense, net, for 2023 and 2022 primarily related to changes in foreign exchange rates.

Current wording

Other (income) expense, net, for 2024 and 2023 primarily relate to net foreign exchange and fair value gains and losses.

Previous wording

Our effective tax rates for 2023 and 2022 were 4.5% and 23.1%, respectively. Our effective tax rate for 2023 was lower than the U.S. statutory tax rate, mainly due to the impairment of goodwill and intangible assets.

Current wording

Our effective tax rate for 2023 was lower than the U.S. statutory tax rate, mainly due to the impairment of goodwill and intangible assets.

Previous wording

As of December 31, 2023, total gross unrecognized tax benefits, which excludes interest and penalties, was $86 million. As of December 31, 2022, total gross unrecognized tax benefits, which excludes interest and penalties, was $83 million. The net increase was primarily attributable to the addition of unrecognized U.S. federal tax credits.

Current wording

As of December 31, 2024 and 2023, total gross unrecognized tax benefits, which excludes interest and penalties, was $94 million and $86 million, respectively. The net increase was primarily due to the addition of income tax reserves related to intercompany transactions.