EXPEDITORS INTERNATIONAL OF WASHINGTON INC

Previous wording

Certain portions of this report on Form 10-Q including the sections entitled "Overview," "Summary of Third Quarter 2024," "Industry Trends, Trade Conditions and Competition," "Seasonality," "Critical Accounting Estimates," "Results of Operations," "Income tax expense," "Currency and Other Risk Factors" and "Liquidity and Capital Resources" contain forward-looking statements. Words such as "will likely result," "expects", "are expected to," "would expect," "would not expect," "will continue," "is anticipated," "estimate," "project," "plan," "believe," "probable," "reasonably possible," "may," "could," "should," "would," "intends," "foreseeable future" or similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. In addition, any statements that refer to projections of future financial performance, our anticipated growth and trends in the Company's businesses, signs of a slowing economy and drop in demand, future supply chain and transportation disruptions and other characterizations of disruptive events or circumstances are forward-looking statements. In addition, forward-looking statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties, including risks associated with tax audits and other contingencies, that could cause actual results to differ materially from our historical experience and our present expectations or projections. These statements must be considered in connection with the discussion of the important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements. Attention should be given to the risk factors identified and discussed in Part I, Item 1A in the Company’s annual report on Form 10-K filed on February 23, 2024 and in Part II, Item 1A in this report. Management believes that these forward-looking statements are reasonable as of this filing date and we do not assume any obligations to update these statements except as required by law.

Current wording

Certain portions of this report on Form 10-Q including the sections entitled "Overview," "Summary of First Quarter 2025," "Industry Trends, Trade Conditions and Competition," "Seasonality," "Critical Accounting Estimates," "Results of Operations," "Income tax expense," "Currency and Other Risk Factors" and "Liquidity and Capital Resources" contain forward-looking statements. Words such as "will likely result," "expects", "are expected to," "would expect," "would not expect," "will continue," "is anticipated," "estimate," "project," "plan," "believe," "probable," "reasonably possible," "may," "could," "should," "would," "intends," "foreseeable future" or similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. In addition, any statements that refer to projections of future financial performance, our anticipated growth and trends in the Company's businesses, signs of a slowing economy and drop in demand, future supply chain and transportation disruptions and other characterizations of disruptive events or circumstances are forward-looking statements. In addition, forward-looking statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties, including risks associated with the impact of tariffs or other government actions on global trade volumes and economies, and tax audits and other contingencies that could cause actual results to differ materially from our historical experience and our present expectations or projections. These statements must be considered in connection with the discussion of the important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements. Attention should be given to the risk factors identified and discussed in Part I, Item 1A in the Company’s annual report on Form 10-K filed on February 21, 2025 and in Part II, Item 1A in this report. Management believes that these forward-looking statements are reasonable as of this filing date and we do not assume any obligations to update these statements except as required by law.

Previous wording

In most cases, we act as an indirect carrier. When acting as an indirect carrier, we issue a House Airway Bill (HAWB), a House Ocean Bill of Lading (HOBL) or a House Sea Waybill to customers as the contract of carriage. In turn, when the freight is physically tendered to a direct carrier, we receive a contract of carriage known as a Master Airway Bill for airfreight shipments and a Master Ocean Bill of Lading for ocean shipments.

Current wording

In most cases, we act as an indirect carrier. When acting as an indirect carrier, we issue a House Air Waybill (HAWB), a House Ocean Bill of Lading (HOBL) or a House Sea Waybill to customers as the contract of carriage. In turn, when the freight is physically tendered to a direct carrier, we receive a contract of carriage known as a Master Air Waybill for airfreight shipments and a Master Ocean Bill of Lading for ocean shipments.

Previous wording

We manage our company along five geographic areas of responsibility: Americas; North Asia; South Asia; Europe; and Middle East, Africa and India (MAIR). Each area is divided into sub-regions that are composed of operating units with individual profit and loss responsibility. Our business involves shipments between operating units and typically touches more than one geographic area. The nature of the international logistics business necessitates a high degree of communication and cooperation among operating units. Because of this inter-relationship between operating units, it is very difficult to examine any one geographic area and draw meaningful conclusions as to its contribution to our overall success on a stand-alone basis.

Current wording

We manage our company along geographic areas of responsibility: Americas; North Asia; South Asia; Europe; and Middle East, Africa and India (MAIR). Each area is divided into sub-regions that are composed of operating units with individual profit and loss responsibility. Our business involves shipments between operating units and typically touches more than one geographic area. The nature of the international logistics business necessitates a high degree of communication and cooperation among operating units. Because of this inter-relationship between operating units, it is very difficult to examine any one geographic area and draw meaningful conclusions as to its contribution to our overall success on a stand-alone basis.

Previous wording

Ocean containers shipped increased 12% and airfreight tonnage was up 19% compared to a slow third quarter in 2023.

Current wording

Ocean containers shipped increased 8% and airfreight tonnage was up 9% compared to a relatively weak first quarter in 2024.

Previous wording

As a result of the rates and volumes noted above, revenues and expenses in all our services performed well. Operating income increased 40% from the third quarter of 2023 and 35% from the second quarter of 2024.

Current wording

As a result of the rates and volumes noted above, revenues and expenses in all our services performed well. Operating income increased 24% and net earnings to shareholders increased 20%, from the first quarter of 2024.

Previous wording

We returned $140 million to shareholders in common stock repurchases.

Current wording

We returned $177 million to shareholders in common stock repurchases.

Previous wording

We operate in over 60 countries in the competitive global logistics industry and our activities are closely tied to the global economy. International trade is influenced by many factors, including economic and political conditions in the United States and abroad, currency exchange rates, laws and policies relating to tariffs, trade restrictions, foreign investment and taxation. Periodically, governments consider a variety of changes to tariffs and impose trade restrictions and accords. Currently, the United States and China have increased concerns affecting certain imports and exports and are considering additional tariffs. We cannot predict the outcome of changes in tariffs, or interpretations, and trade restrictions and accords and the effects they will have on our business. As governments implement restrictions on imports and exports, manufacturers may change sourcing patterns, to the extent possible, and, over time, may shift manufacturing to other countries. Doing business in foreign locations also subjects us to a variety of risks and considerations not normally encountered by domestic enterprises. In addition to being influenced by governmental policies and inter-governmental disputes concerning international trade, our business may also be negatively affected by political developments and changes in government personnel or policies in the United States and other countries, as well as economic turbulence, political unrest and security concerns in the nations and on the trade shipping lanes in which we conduct business and the future impact that these events may have on international trade, oil prices and security costs. We do not have employees, assets, or operations in Russia, Ukraine, Israel, the Gaza Strip or the West Bank. While limited, any shipment activity is conducted with independent agents in those countries in compliance with all applicable trade sanctions, laws and regulations. We have a branch and employees in Lebanon but no significant assets.

Current wording

Doing business in foreign locations also subjects us to a variety of risks and considerations not normally encountered by domestic enterprises. In addition to being influenced by governmental policies and inter-governmental disputes concerning international trade, our business may also be negatively affected by political developments and changes in government personnel or policies in the United States and other countries, as well as economic turbulence, political unrest and security concerns in the nations and on the trade shipping lanes in which we conduct business. The future impact that these events may have on international trade, oil prices and security costs is uncertain. We do not have employees, assets, or operations in Russia, Ukraine, Israel, the Gaza Strip or the West Bank. While limited, any shipment activity is conducted with independent agents in those countries in compliance with all applicable trade sanctions, laws and regulations. We have a branch and employees in Lebanon but no significant assets.

Previous wording

Our ability to provide services to our customers is highly dependent on good working relationships with a variety of entities, including airlines, ocean carrier lines and ground transportation providers, as well as governmental agencies. We select and engage with best-in-class, compliance-focused, efficiently run, growth-oriented partners, based upon defined value elements and are intentional in our relationship and performance management activity, reinforcing success by awarding service providers who consistently achieve at the highest levels with additional business. We consider our current working relationships with these entities to be satisfactory. However, changes in the financial stability and operating capabilities and capacity of asset-based carriers, capacity allotments available from carriers, governmental regulation or deregulation efforts, modernization of the regulations governing customs brokerage, and/or changes in governmental restrictions, quota restrictions or trade accords could affect our business in unpredictable ways. When the market experiences seasonal peaks or any sort of disruption, the carriers often increase their pricing suddenly. This carrier behavior creates pricing volatility that could impact Expeditors' ability to maintain historical unitary profitability.

Current wording

Our ability to provide services to our customers is highly dependent on good working relationships with a variety of entities, including airlines, ocean carrier lines and ground transportation providers, as well as governmental agencies. We select and engage with best-in-class, compliance-focused, efficiently run, growth-oriented partners, based upon defined value elements and are intentional in our relationship and performance management activity. We consider our current working relationships with these entities to be satisfactory. However, changes in the financial stability; operating capabilities, and the capacity of asset-based carriers; capacity allotments available from carriers; governmental regulation or deregulation efforts; modernization of the regulations governing customs brokerage; and/or changes in governmental restrictions, quota restrictions or trade accords could affect our business in unpredictable ways. When the market experiences seasonal peaks or any sort of disruption, the carriers often increase their pricing suddenly. This carrier behavior creates pricing volatility that could impact Expeditors' ability to maintain historical unitary profitability.

Previous wording

The global economic and trade environments remain uncertain, including inflation remaining higher than historical levels, greater volatility in oil prices, high interest rates and the conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine. Starting in the second quarter of 2024, we saw capacity constraints on exports out of Asia resulting in increases in average buy and sell rates. However, if demand softens or safe passage through the Red Sea resumes, then additional ocean transportation capacity will become available. These conditions could result in declines in average sell and buy rates. We also expect that pricing volatility will continue as carriers adapt to lower demand, changing fuel prices, security risks and react to governmental trade policies and other regulations. Additionally, we cannot predict the direct or indirect impact that further changes in purchasing behavior, such as the evolution of international direct e-commerce platforms, could have on our business. Some customers have begun shifting manufacturing to other countries in response to governments implementing higher tariffs on imports, to reduce their supply chain risks, and in response to pandemic disruptions or geopolitical risks, which could negatively impact us.

Current wording

The global economic and trade environments remain highly uncertain; including inflation remaining higher than historical levels, volatility in oil prices, high interest rates and the conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine. In the first quarter of 2025, we saw high demand on exports out of Asia resulting in high average buy and sell rates. However, we believe additional ocean and air transportation capacity will become available if demand softens due to uncertainty in economic and trade regulations, safe passage through the Red Sea resumes, and the revocation of the de minimis tariff exemption for low-value goods made in China and Hong Kong. These conditions could result in declines in average sell and buy rates. We also expect that pricing volatility will continue as carriers adapt to changes in demand, changing fuel prices, available capacity, security risks and react to governmental trade policies and other regulations. Additionally, we cannot predict the direct or indirect impact that further changes in purchasing behavior, such as the evolution of international direct e-commerce platforms, could have on our business. Some customers are relocating manufacturing to other countries to mitigate the impact of higher tariffs on imports, reduce their supply chain risks, address disruptions caused by pandemics and geopolitical issues. These changes could negatively affect our business.

Previous wording

Historically, our operating results have been subject to seasonal demand trends with the first quarter being the weakest and the third and fourth quarters being the strongest; however, there is no assurance that this seasonal trend will occur in the future or to what degree it will be impacted by an uncertain economy. This historical pattern has been the result of, or influenced by, numerous factors, including weather patterns, national holidays, consumer demand, new product launches, just-in-time inventory models, economic conditions, pandemics, governmental policies and inter-governmental disputes and a myriad of other similar and subtle forces.

Current wording

Historically, our operating results have been subject to seasonal demand trends with the first quarter being the weakest and the third and fourth quarters being the strongest; however, there is no assurance that this seasonal trend will occur in the future or to what degree it will be impacted by an uncertain economy. This historical pattern has been the result of, or influenced by, numerous factors, including weather patterns, national holidays, consumer demand, new product launches, just-in-time inventory models, economic conditions, pandemics, governmental policies, inter-governmental disputes and a myriad of other similar and subtle forces.

Previous wording

The following table shows the revenues, the directly related cost of transportation and other expenses for our principal services and our overhead expenses for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, including the respective percentage changes comparing 2024 and 2023.

Current wording

The following table shows the revenues, the directly related cost of transportation and other expenses for our principal services and our overhead expenses for the three months ended March 31, 2025 and 2024, including the respective percentage changes comparing 2025 and 2024.

Previous wording

Airfreight services revenues and expenses increased 36% and 43%, respectively, during the three months ended September 30, 2024, as compared with the same period in 2023, due to 20% and 25% increases in average sell and buy rates, respectively, and a 19% increase in tonnage.

Current wording

Airfreight services revenues and expenses increased 19% and 21%, respectively, during the three months ended March 31, 2025, as compared with the same period in 2024, due to 11% and 12% increases in average sell and buy rates, respectively, and a 9% increase in tonnage.

Previous wording

Seasonal changes in demand, impact from disruptions in the ocean market due to security and port congestion concerns and variable demand for airfreight capacity from direct e-commerce business cause volatility in average buy rates on certain lanes. Additionally, continued uncertainty in the economy including the impacts of geopolitical concerns could negatively affect demand for airfreight services which could reduce our volumes and average sell rates. These conditions could result in decreases in our revenues, expenses and operating income. We are unable to predict how these uncertainties and any future disruptions will affect our operations or financial results prospectively.

Current wording

Seasonal changes in demand, impact from disruptions in the ocean market due to security and port congestion concerns, variable demand for airfreight capacity from direct e-commerce business, including the elimination of low-value de minimis exemption on shipments from China could cause volatility in average buy rates on certain lanes. Additionally, geopolitical concerns, inter-governmental trade disputes, new tariffs on imports into the US and retaliatory actions from other countries create uncertainty in the economy and the trade environment. As shippers and carriers react to these volatile conditions, it may negatively affect demand for airfreight services, which could significantly reduce our volumes and average sell and buy rates in the coming quarters. Though we are unable to predict how these uncertainties and any future disruptions will affect our operations or financial results prospectively, these conditions could result in significant decreases in our revenues and operating income.

Previous wording

Ocean freight consolidation, direct ocean forwarding, and order management are the three basic services that constitute and are collectively referred to as ocean freight and ocean services. Ocean freight and ocean services revenues and expense increased 82% and 102%, respectively, for the three months ended September 30, 2024 as compared with the same period in 2023. Ocean freight and ocean services revenues and expense increased 21% and 31%, respectively, for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 as compared with the same period in 2023.The largest component of our ocean freight and ocean services revenue is derived from ocean freight consolidation, which represented 70% and 66% of ocean freight and ocean services revenue for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, respectively.

Current wording

Ocean freight consolidation, direct ocean forwarding, and order management are the three basic services that constitute and are collectively referred to as ocean freight and ocean services. Ocean freight and ocean services revenues and expense increased 37% and 39%, respectively, for the three months ended March 31, 2025 as compared with the same period in 2024. The largest component of our ocean freight and ocean services revenue is derived from ocean freight consolidation, which represented 71% and 65% of ocean freight and ocean services revenue for the three month ended March 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively.

Previous wording

Ocean freight consolidation revenues and expenses increased 125% and 142%, respectively, for the three months ended September 30, 2024, as compared with the same period in 2023, primarily due to 101% and 115% increases in average sell and buy rates, and a 12% increase in containers shipped. Average buy rates per container increased due to strong demand and longer transit times, congestion and capacity issues caused by the disruptions in the Red Sea. Importers front loaded shipments creating a peak in demand starting in June 2024 in anticipation of potential US East and Gulf Coast ports disruptions and factoring in longer transit times. These conditions boosted volumes and caused sharp increases in buy rates in the third quarter of 2024.

Current wording

Ocean freight consolidation revenues and expenses increased 50% and 48%, respectively, for the three months ended March 31, 2025, as compared with the same period in 2024, primarily due to 39% and 38% increases in average sell and buy rates, and an 8% increase in containers shipped. Average buy rates per container increased due to strong demand compared to the first quarter of 2024, as importers front loaded deliveries in anticipation of higher tariffs. Rate declines that started in the fourth quarter of 2024 may continue throughout 2025 as demand softens and capacity increases when additional vessels are brought into service.

Previous wording

North Asia and South Asia ocean freight and ocean services revenues increased 135% and 164% and expenses increased 161% and 210%, respectively, for the three months ended September 30, 2024, compared to the same period in 2023. North Asia and South Asia ocean freight and ocean services revenues increased 55% and 68% and expenses increased 68% and 91%, respectively, for the nine months ended September 30, 2024, compared to the same periods in 2023. Increases were primarily due to higher average sell and buy rates due to the factors above.

Current wording

Containers shipped were higher, most significantly on exports out of North and South Asia. North and South Asia ocean freight and ocean services revenues increased 43% and 73%, and expenses increased 44% and 80%, respectively, for the three months ended March 31, 2025, compared to a relatively weak first quarter in 2024. Increases were primarily due to higher average sell and buy rates and containers shipped due to the factors above. For the three months ended March 31, 2025, North America ocean freight and ocean services revenues increased 22%, compared to the same period in 2024, primarily due to higher revenues on imports driven by higher buy rates on exports while expenses only increased 7%.

Previous wording

Order management revenues increased 35% and 25%, respectively, and expenses increased 40% and 27%, respectively, for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024, due to increases in volumes from new and existing customers. Direct ocean freight forwarding revenues and expenses increased 2% and 6%, respectively, for the three months ended September 30, 2024. Direct ocean freight forwarding revenues and expenses decreased 5% and 2%, respectively, for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 principally due to lower volumes and lower rates for ancillary services in the United States.

Current wording

Order management revenues and expenses increased 29%, and 32%, respectively, for the three months ended March 31, 2025, compared to the same period in 2024 due to increases in volumes from new customers. Direct ocean freight forwarding revenues and expenses increased 3% and 4%, respectively, for the three months ended March 31, 2025, principally due to higher volumes for ancillary services in the United States.

Previous wording

Customs brokerage and other services revenues increased 10% and expenses increased 14% for the three months ended September 30, 2024, respectively, as compared with the same period in 2023, primarily due to increases in customs clearances, import services and road freight from higher shipment volumes, principally in North America.

Current wording

Customs brokerage and other services revenues and expenses increased 12% and 15% for the three months ended March 31, 2025, respectively, as compared with the same period in 2024, primarily due to increases in customs clearances, import services, road freight and warehousing and distribution from higher shipment volumes, principally in North America and Europe. North America and Europe revenues increased 14% and 7%, respectively and expenses increased 16% and 10%, respectively, for the three months ended March 31, 2025, respectively, as compared with the same period in 2024.

Previous wording

Customs brokerage and other services revenues remained flat while expenses increased 1% for the nine months ended September 30, 2024, respectively, as compared with the same period in 2023, primarily as increases in customs clearances and road freight shipments were offset by lower volumes for local drayage and storage and warehouse and distribution services, principally in North America. Import services, including charges at ports such as detention, drayage, terminal charges and delivery, decreased significantly in the first quarter 2024 as compared to the first quarter of 2023 that still had residual effects from the supply chain congestion. Road freight, warehousing and distribution services also declined in the first quarter of 2024 due to lower volumes and decreased trucking, storage and labor costs.

Current wording

Import services, including charges at ports such as detention, drayage, terminal charges and delivery, and road freight services increased significantly in the first quarter of 2025 because of higher volumes from shippers front loading deliveries in anticipation of higher tariffs.

Previous wording

While customers continue to value our brokerage services due to changing tariffs and increasing complexity in the declaration process, some customers are opting to use back up customs brokerage service providers as a risk reduction strategy. Customers continue to seek knowledgeable customs brokers with sophisticated computerized capabilities critical to an overall logistics management program that are necessary to rapidly respond to changes in the regulatory and security environment. Should international trade slow, volumes shipped and pricing could negatively impact our revenues and expenses.

Current wording

Customers value our brokerage services due to an increasingly dynamic and complex trade environment, and its impact on the declaration process. They seek knowledgeable customs brokers with sophisticated computerized capabilities critical to an overall logistics management program that are necessary to rapidly respond to changes in the regulatory and security environment. Should international trade slow, lower volumes and pricing could significantly reduce our revenues and operating income.

Previous wording

Salaries and related costs increased 9% for the three months ended September 30, 2024 as compared with the same period in 2023 principally due to increases in commissions and bonuses earned from higher revenues and operating income while headcount remained flat. During the nine months ended September 30, 2024, salaries and related costs remained flat, consistent with operating income and headcount.

Current wording

Salaries and related costs increased 11% for the three months ended March 31, 2025 as compared with the same period in 2024, principally due to increased incentive compensation from improved operating results. Base salaries & benefits and headcount both increased 4% in the three months ended March 31, 2025 compared to 2024.

Previous wording

Our management compensation programs have always been incentive-based and performance driven. Total bonuses to field and executive management for the nine months ended September 30, 2024, decreased 1% when compared to the same periods in 2023, primarily due tooperating income remaining flat.

Current wording

Our management compensation programs have always been incentive-based and performance driven. Total bonuses to field and executive management for the three months ended March 31, 2025, increased 31% when compared to the same periods in 2024, primarily due to higher operating income.

Previous wording

Because our management incentive compensation programs are also cumulative, generally no management bonuses can be paid unless the relevant business unit is, from inception, cumulatively profitable. Any operating losses must be offset in their entirety by operating profits before management is eligible for a bonus. Executive management, in limited circumstances, makes exceptions at the branch operating unit level. Since the most significant portion of management compensation comes from the incentive bonus programs, we believe that this cumulative feature is a disincentive to excessive risk taking by our managers. The outcome of any higher risk transactions, such as overriding established credit limits, would be known in a relatively short time frame. Management believes that when the potential and certain impact on the bonus is fully considered in light of the short operating cycle of our services, the potential for short-term gains that could be generated by engaging in risky business practices is sufficiently mitigated to discourage excessive and inappropriate risk taking. Management believes that both the stability and the long-term growth in revenues, operating income and net earnings are a result of the incentives inherent in our compensation programs.

Current wording

Generally, no management bonuses can be paid unless the relevant business unit is profitable. Any operating losses must be offset in their entirety by operating profits before management is eligible for a bonus. Executive management, in limited circumstances, makes exceptions at the branch operating unit level. Since the most significant portion of management compensation comes from the incentive bonus programs, we believe that this cumulative feature is a disincentive to excessive risk taking by our managers. The outcome of any higher risk transactions, such as overriding established credit limits, would be known in a relatively short time frame. Management believes that when the potential and certain impact on the bonus is fully considered in light of the short operating cycle of our services, the potential for short-term gains that could be generated by engaging in risky business practices is sufficiently mitigated to discourage excessive and inappropriate risk taking. Management believes that both the stability and the long-term growth in revenues, operating income and net earnings are a result of the incentives inherent in our compensation programs.

Previous wording

So long as the economic environment remains uncertain, we will be focused on aligning operational headcount and our overhead expenses commensurate with our transactional volumes. We expect to continue to enhance security and internal controls over our technology and systems and plan to deploy additional solutions which will result in increased expenses in the future. We will also continue to make important investments in people, processes and technology, as well as to invest in our strategic efforts to explore new areas for profitable growth.

Current wording

We expect to continue to enhance security and internal controls over our technology and systems and plan to deploy additional solutions which will result in increased expenses in the future. We will also continue to make important investments in people, processes and technology, as well as to invest in our strategic efforts to drive organic growth.

Previous wording

Our consolidated effective income tax rate was 26.4% for both the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024, as compared to 26.3% and 25.8% in the comparable periods of 2023. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024, and 2023, there was no BEAT expense and GILTI expense was insignificant. All periods benefited from U.S. income tax deductions for FDII as well as available U.S. Federal foreign tax credits principally from withholding taxes related to our foreign operations. We have no liability as of September 30, 2024, for the 15% corporate alternative minimum tax based on financial statement income (BMT), which became effective in 2023 in the U.S., under the Inflation Reduction Act. Some elements of the recorded impacts of the Inflation Reduction Act could be impacted by further legislative action as well as additional interpretations and guidance issued by the Internal Revenue Service or Treasury which could impact the estimates of the amounts the Company would be required to record for BMT in the future.

Current wording

Our consolidated effective income tax rate was 26.0% for the three months ended March 31, 2025, as compared to 26.9% in the comparable period of 2024. For the three months ended March 31, 2025, and 2024, there was no BEAT expense and GILTI expense was insignificant. All periods benefited from U.S. income tax deductions for FDII as well as available U.S. Federal foreign tax credits principally from withholding taxes related to our foreign operations. We have no liability as of March 31, 2025, for the 15% corporate alternative minimum tax based on financial statement income (BMT), which became effective in 2023 in the U.S., under the Inflation Reduction Act. Some elements of the recorded impacts of the Inflation Reduction Act could be impacted by further legislative action as well as additional interpretations and guidance issued by the Internal Revenue Service or Treasury which could impact the estimates of the amounts the Company would be required to record for BMT in the future.

Previous wording

The nature of our worldwide operations necessitates transacting in a multitude of currencies other than the U.S. dollar. That exposes us to the inherent risks of volatile international currency markets and governmental interference. Some of the countries where we maintain offices and/or have agency relationships maintain strict currency control regulations that influence our ability to hedge foreign currency exposure. We try to compensate for these exposures by accelerating international currency settlements among our offices and agents. We may enter into foreign currency hedging transactions where there are regulatory or commercial limitations on our ability to move money freely around the world or the short-term financial outlook in any country is such that hedging is the most time-sensitive way to mitigate short-term exchange losses. Any such hedging activity during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023 was insignificant. We had no foreign currency derivatives outstanding at September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023. For the three months ended September 30, 2024, net foreign currency losses were approximately $11 million compared to net foreign currency losses of less than $1 million in the same period in 2023. During the nine months ended September 30, 2024, net foreign currency gains were less than $1 million compared to net foreign currency losses of approximately $6 million in the same period in 2023.

Current wording

The nature of our worldwide operations necessitates transacting in a multitude of currencies other than the U.S. dollar. That exposes us to the inherent risks of volatile international currency markets and governmental interference. Some of the countries where we maintain offices and/or have agency relationships maintain strict currency control regulations that influence our ability to hedge foreign currency exposure. Historically, derivative financial instruments have not been used to manage foreign currency risk. In lieu of the use of foreign currency derivatives we instead try to compensate for these exposures by accelerating international currency settlements among our offices and agents. In the future, we may enter into foreign currency hedging transactions to manage our foreign currency risk. There are also regulatory or commercial limitations on our ability to move money freely, which could be impacted by inter-governmental disputes or new trade restrictions. We had no foreign currency derivatives outstanding at March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024. For the three months ended March 31, 2025, net foreign currency losses were approximately $5 million compared to net foreign currency gains of approximately $7 million in the same period in 2024.

Previous wording

Historically, our business has not been adversely affected by inflation. Beginning in 2021 and continuing through 2024, many countries including the United States experienced increasing levels of inflation. As a result, our business continues to experience rising labor costs, service provider rate increases, higher rent and occupancy and other expenses. While buy rates for freight transportation capacity started declining in the second half of 2022, purchase prices for labor and other expenditures have continued to increase. Due to the high degree of competition in the marketplace we may not be able to increase our prices to our customers to offset this inflationary pressure, which could lead to an erosion in our margins and operating income in the future. Conversely, raising our prices to keep pace with inflationary pressure may result in a decrease in volume and customer demand for our services. As we are not required to purchase or maintain extensive property and equipment and have not otherwise incurred substantial interest rate-sensitive indebtedness, we currently have limited direct exposure to increased costs resulting from increases in interest rates.

Current wording

Historically, our business has not been adversely affected by inflation. Beginning in 2021 and continuing through 2024, many countries including the United States experienced increasing levels of inflation. As a result, our business continues to experience rising labor costs, service provider rate increases, higher rent and occupancy and other expenses. Due to the high degree of competition in the marketplace we may not be able to increase our prices to our customers to offset this inflationary pressure, which could lead to an erosion in our margins and operating income in the future. Conversely, raising our prices to keep pace with inflationary pressure may result in a decrease in volume and customer demand for our services. As we are not required to purchase or maintain extensive property and equipment and have not otherwise incurred substantial interest rate-sensitive indebtedness, we currently have limited direct exposure to increased interest expense resulting from increases in interest rates.

Previous wording

Our principal source of liquidity is cash and cash equivalents and cash generated from operating activities. Net cash provided by operating activities for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 was $90 million and $474 million as compared with $190 million and $895 million for the same period in 2023. The decreases of $100 million and $421 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024, were primarily due to changes in working capital. At September 30, 2024, working capital was $1,707 million, including cash and cash equivalents of $1,293 million. Other than our recorded lease liabilities, we had no long-term obligations or debt at September 30, 2024. Management believes that our current cash position and operating cash flows will be sufficient to meet our capital and liquidity requirements for at least the next 12 months and thereafter for the foreseeable future, including meeting any contingent liabilities related to standby letters of credit and other obligations.

Current wording

Our principal source of liquidity is cash and cash equivalents and cash generated from operating activities. Net cash provided by operating activities for the three months ended March 31, 2025 was $343 million as compared with $257 million for the same period in 2024. The increase of $86 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025, was primarily due to the collection of accounts receivable and higher net earnings. At March 31, 2025, working capital was $1,650 million, including cash and cash equivalents of $1,319 million. Other than our recorded lease liabilities, we had no long-term obligations or debt at March 31, 2025. Management believes that our current cash position and operating cash flows will be sufficient to meet our capital and liquidity requirements for at least the next 12 months and thereafter for the foreseeable future, including meeting any contingent liabilities related to standby letters of credit and other obligations.

Previous wording

As a customs broker, we make significant cash advances for a select group of our credit-worthy customers. These cash advances are for customer obligations such as the payment of duties and taxes to customs authorities in various countries throughout the world. Increases in duty rates could result in increases in the amounts we advance on behalf of our customers. Cash advances are a “pass through” and are not recorded as a component of revenue and expense. The billings of such advances to customers are accounted for as a direct increase in accounts receivable from the customer and a corresponding increase in accounts payable to governmental customs authorities. As a result of these “pass through” billings, the conventional Days Sales Outstanding or DSO calculation does not directly measure collection efficiency. For customers that meet certain criteria, we have agreed to extend payment terms beyond our customary terms. Management believes that it has established effective credit control procedures, and historically has experienced relatively insignificant collection problems.

Current wording

As a customs broker, we make significant short-term cash advances for a select group of our credit-worthy customers. These cash advances are for customer obligations such as the payment of duties and taxes to customs authorities in various countries throughout the world. Increases in duty rates have resulted in increases in the amounts we advance on behalf of our customers. Given the short time frame until we are reimbursed, we do not expect these outlays to have a significant effect on our liquidity. Cash advances are a “pass through” and are not recorded as a component of revenue and expense, except for fees associated with this service charged to customers. The billings of such advances to customers are accounted for as a direct increase in accounts receivable from the customer and a corresponding increase in accounts payable to governmental customs authorities. As a result of these “pass through” billings, the conventional Days Sales Outstanding or DSO calculation does not directly measure collection efficiency.

Previous wording

Cash used in investing activities for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 was $13 million and $30 million as compared with $8 million and $29 million for the same periods in 2023, primarily for capital expenditures. Capital expenditures in the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 were primarily related to continuing investments in building and leasehold improvements and technology and facilities equipment. Total anticipated capital expenditures in 2024 are currently estimated to be $50 million. This includes routine capital expenditures, leasehold and building improvements and investments in technology.

Current wording

Cash used in investing activities for the three months ended March 31, 2025 was $13 million as compared with $10 million for the same periods in 2024, primarily for capital expenditures. Capital expenditures in the three months ended March 31, 2025 were primarily related to continuing investments in building and leasehold improvements and technology and facilities equipment. Total anticipated capital expenditures in 2025 are currently estimated to be $50 million. This includes routine capital expenditures, leasehold and building improvements and investments in technology.

Previous wording

Cash used in financing activities during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 was $76 million and $659 million as compared with $229 million and $1,247 million for the same period in 2023. We use the proceeds from stock option exercises, employee stock purchases and available cash to repurchase our common stock on the open market to reduce outstanding shares. During both the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024, we used cash to repurchase 1.2 million and 5.1 million shares of common stock, compared to 2.6 million and 10.5 million shares of common stock during the same periods in 2023.

Current wording

Cash used in financing activities during the three months ended March 31, 2025 was $166 million as compared with $375 million for the same period in 2024. We use the proceeds from stock option exercises, employee stock purchases and available cash to repurchase our common stock on the open market to reduce outstanding shares. During the three months ended March 31, 2025, we used cash to repurchase 1.5 million shares of common stock, compared to 3.0 million shares of common stock during the same periods in 2024.

Previous wording

We maintain international unsecured bank lines of credit for short-term working capital purposes. A few of these credit lines are supported by standby letters of credit issued by a United States bank or guarantees issued by the Company to the foreign banks issuing the credit line. At September 30, 2024, borrowings under these credit lines were $48 million and we were contingently liable for $87 million from standby letters of credit and guarantees. The standby letters of credit and guarantees primarily relate to obligations of our foreign subsidiaries for credit extended in the ordinary course of business by direct carriers, primarily airlines, and for duty and tax deferrals available from governmental entities responsible for customs and value-added-tax (VAT) taxation. The total underlying amounts due and payable for transportation and governmental excises are properly recorded as obligations in the accounting records of the respective foreign subsidiaries, and there would be no need to record additional expense in the unlikely event the parent company is required to perform.

Current wording

We maintain international unsecured bank lines of credit for short-term working capital purposes. A few of these credit lines are supported by standby letters of credit issued by a United States bank or guarantees issued by the Company to the foreign banks issuing the credit line. At March 31, 2025, borrowings under these credit lines were $32 million and we were contingently liable for $72 million from standby letters of credit and guarantees. The standby letters of credit and guarantees primarily relate to obligations of our foreign subsidiaries for credit extended in the ordinary course of business by direct carriers, primarily airlines, and for duty and tax deferrals available from governmental entities responsible for customs and value-added-tax (VAT) taxation. The total underlying amounts due and payable for transportation and governmental excises are properly recorded as obligations in the accounting records of the respective foreign subsidiaries, and there would be no need to record additional expense in the unlikely event the parent company is required to perform.

Previous wording

Our foreign subsidiaries regularly remit dividends to the U.S. parent company after evaluating their working capital requirements and funds necessary to finance local capital expenditures. In some cases, our ability to repatriate funds from foreign operations may be subject to foreign exchange controls. At September 30, 2024, cash and cash equivalent balances of $635 million were held by our non-United States subsidiaries, of which $4 million was held in banks in the United States. Earnings of our foreign subsidiaries are not considered to be indefinitely reinvested outside of the United States.

Current wording

Our foreign subsidiaries regularly remit dividends to the U.S. parent company after evaluating their working capital requirements and funds necessary to finance local capital expenditures. In some cases, our ability to repatriate funds from foreign operations may be subject to foreign exchange controls,or could be impacted by inter-governmental disputes or new trade restrictions. At March 31, 2025, cash and cash equivalent balances of $561 million were held by our non-United States subsidiaries, of which $11 million was held in banks in the United States. Earnings of our foreign subsidiaries are not considered to be indefinitely reinvested outside of the United States.