BEYOND INC
For the period ended Dec 31, 2024. Filed Feb 25, 2025.
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A company's yearly report to the SEC, with audited financial statements. It is the fullest account a company gives of its business, its finances and the risks it sees.
FY2024 · Filed Feb 25, 2025
NXH$1.66-0.6%Stored close · as of Nov 6, 2026
What changed in Management’s Discussion and Analysis?
Read the current filingPrevious report: 10-K
Period ended 2023-12-31; filed 2024-02-23.
0001130713-24-000013
Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of OperationsCurrent report: 10-K
Period ended 2024-12-31; filed 2025-02-25.
0001130713-25-000024
Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of OperationsThe baseline is this issuer’s latest earlier reporting period of the same form that was filed before the current report. A previous 10-Q is a different quarter, not a year-over-year comparison. Amendments are excluded.
Compared 82 previous paragraphs and 96 current paragraphs.
43 unchanged; 26 reworded; 26 added; 12 removed; 1 previous and 1 current paragraphs rearranged.
Tables are not compared: 8 previous and 9 current tables excluded. Dates, whitespace, punctuation and numbering changes are ignored; changes to financial figures remain significant.
A changed paragraph is not evidence that risk increased or decreased. An unchanged paragraph does not establish that risk stayed the same.
Added paragraphs (26)
Current report
We are an e-commerce affinity marketing company that owns or has ownership interests in various retail brands with the aim of offering a comprehensive array of products and services that enable its customers to unlock their homes' potential through its vast data cooperative. In addition, we also offer an increasing number of add-on services across our platforms, including warranties, shipping insurance, installation services, and access to home loans. We will also be expanding our global loyalty program, Beyond +, to encompass all affiliated entities across our cooperative in order to incentivize customer retention within our growing ecosystem. We currently own Overstock, Bed Bath & Beyond, and Zulily. As used herein, "Beyond," "the Company," "we," "our" and similar terms include Beyond, Inc. and its controlled subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.
Current report
Through our Bed Bath & Beyond brand, we aim to provide an extensive array of home-related products tailored specifically for our target customers - consumers who seek comprehensive support throughout their shopping journey, aspiring to discover quality, stylish products at competitive prices that align with their budget requirements. We regularly refresh our product assortment to reflect the evolving preferences of our customers and aim to stay aligned with current trends. The mission of this brand is to achieve category-leading ownership of four distinct rooms of the home: the bedroom, the bathroom, the kitchen, and the patio, and our goal is for our assortment to include not only core legacy categories like bedding and kitchenware, but also adjacent categories like bedroom and outdoor furniture and rugs. Leveraging an asset-light supply chain, we offer direct shipping to customers from both our suppliers and our leased warehouse.
Current report
Bed Bath & Beyond's strategic priorities include assortment curation to elevate product quality levels and improve ease of selection, as well as the addition of aspirational brands to elevate the curated shopping experience. Our goal is to elevate our website and customer engagement by fostering emotional connections, building trust, and delivering compelling, value-driven experiences.
Current report
Through our Overstock brand, we aim to provide a wide array of quality goods at discounted prices, and a treasure hunt-like experience for our target customers - consumers who are highly engaged, very accustomed to purchasing online, and actively seeking great deals. The mission of this brand is to delight our customers by offering them deals on products they will love. Our product assortment includes home categories such as indoor and outdoor furniture, rugs, décor, and lighting, as well as lifestyle categories such as jewelry and watches, apparel and accessories, sports and outdoor, and beauty and wellness.
Current report
Zulily's primary focus is attracting a loyal customer base with flash sales on women's, children's, and men's apparel, footwear, beauty, and wellness. The Zulily acquisition has provided the opportunity to expand our customer base with a younger demographic that shops more frequently with us than our other Beyond brands. Our marketing mix is also diversified and favors a social-first approach that is less reliant on search engine marketing.
Current report
Our cash and cash equivalents balance decreased from $302.6 million as of December 31, 2023 to $159.2 million as of December 31, 2024, a decrease of $143.4 million, primarily as the result of net cash outflows from operating activities of $174.3 million, payments on long-term debt of $34.8 million, disbursement for Kirkland's notes receivable of $17.0 million, and expenditures for property and equipment of $14.3 million; offset by $51.4 million in proceeds from the sale of our corporate headquarters and $43.0 million in net proceeds from the sales of our common stock pursuant to our "at-the-market" public offering, net of offering costs.
Current report
General and administrative expenses decreased $16.0 million in 2024 compared to 2023, primarily due to a reduction in staff-related and third-party expenses, partially offset by one-time restructuring costs.
Current report
Customer service and merchant fees increased $1.6 million in 2024 compared to 2023, primarily due to normalized service capacity in 2024 after understaffing in the second half of 2023, partially offset by decreased credit card costs driven by a decrease in order volume.
Current report
Our future capital requirements will depend on many factors, including, but not limited to, our growth, our ability to execute on our business strategy, our ability to realize the benefits of any investment in new business strategies, acquisitions, or other transactions, and consumer sentiment towards our offerings. In the event that additional liquidity is required from outside sources, we may not be able to raise the capital on terms acceptable to us or at all. If we are unable to raise additional capital when desired, our business, financial condition, and results of operations could be adversely affected.
Current report
On June 10, 2024, we entered into a Capital on Demand TMSales Agreement (the "Sales Agreement") with JonesTrading Institutional Services LLC ("JonesTrading"), under which we from time to time conduct "at the market" public offerings of our common stock. Under the Sales Agreement, JonesTrading, acting as our agent, may offer our common stock in the market on a daily basis or otherwise as we request from time to time. As of December 31, 2024, we had $156.1 million remaining available under our "at the market" sales program. We have no obligation to sell additional shares under the Sales Agreement, but we may do so from time to time. Under the agreement, we will pay JonesTrading up to a 2% sales commission on all sales. For the year ended December 31, 2024, we sold 7,002,375 shares of our common stock pursuant to the Sales Agreement and have recognized $43.0 million in proceeds, net of $879,000 of offering costs, including commissions paid to JonesTrading.
Current report
Future liquidity commitments
Current report
In October 2024, we entered into a strategic business relationship with Kirkland's Stores, Inc. in which we provided $17.0 million in debt financing, including an $8.5 million convertible promissory note and an $8.5 million non-convertible promissory note. On February 5, 2025, Kirkland's stockholders approved and we funded our additional commitment of $8.0 million in exchange for Kirkland's common stock.
Current report
In January 2025, we entered into an asset purchase agreement with BBBY Acquisition Co. LLC to acquire the rights of the Buy Buy Baby brand, as well as assets, information and content related to the associated Buy Buy Baby website for a total purchase price of $5.0 million payable at the closing of the transaction following a due diligence period. We funded the transaction in February 2025.
Current report
The $24.9 million of net cash provided by investing activities during the year ended December 31, 2024 was primarily due to proceeds from the sale of our corporate headquarters of $51.4 million and proceeds received from the sale of the Wamsutta trademark of $10.3 million, offset by disbursement for Kirkland's notes receivable of $17.0 million, expenditures for property and equipment of $14.3 million, and purchases of intangible assets of $6.0 million.
Current report
The $32.7 million of net cash provided by financing activities during the year ended December 31, 2024 was primarily due to net proceeds from the sales of our common stock pursuant to our "at the market" public offering, net of offering costs of $43.0 million and proceeds from our revolving line of credit of $25.0 million, offset by payments on our long-term debt in conjunction with the sale of our corporate headquarters of $34.8 million and payment of taxes withheld upon vesting of employee stock awards of $3.3 million.
Current report
Borrowings
Current report
In March 2020, we entered into two loan agreements. The loan agreements provided for a $34.5 million Senior Note and a $13.0 million Mezzanine Note. In January 2024, we repaid the entire balance under the Mezzanine Note, and in December 2024, in connection with the sale of our corporate headquarters, repaid the remaining $34.5 million balance under the Senior Note. For additional information, please see Item 8 of Part II, "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data"—Note 12—Borrowings contained in the "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements" of this Annual Report on Form 10-K
Current report
In October 2024, we entered into a Loan and Security Agreement (the "Loan Agreement") with BMO Bank N.A. (in such capacity, "BMO"), pursuant to which BMO agreed to lend us up to $25.0 million on a one-year revolving line of credit to aid us in securing strategic ventures. In connection with the Loan Agreement, BMO issued a revolving line of credit promissory note (the "Revolving Note") and granted a lien on the cash collateral account specified in the Loan Agreement (the "Cash Collateral Account"). The revolving line of credit bears interest on the unpaid principal balance at an annual rate equal to the Secured Overnight Financing Rate, or SOFR rate, for a one-month interest period plus 1.00%, established by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York. We are obligated to pay certain commitment fees on undrawn amounts under the Loan Agreement in amounts specified in the Loan Agreement. The Loan Agreement and Revolving Note will terminate on October 18, 2025 and loans thereunder may be borrowed, repaid, and reborrowed up to such date.
Current report
(1) In the first quarter of fiscal 2024, we changed our presentation for merchant fees associated with customer payments made by credit cards and other payment methods and customer service costs. Under the new presentation, we include such expenses in a separate line in operating expenses, labeled, "Customer service and merchant fees," whereas previously, these expenses were included in "Merchant fees, customer service, and other" as a component of Cost of goods sold. All periods presented have been adjusted to reflect this change in presentation. See Note 2—Accounting Policies and Supplemental Disclosures in the "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements" included in Item 8 of Part II, "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data" of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Current report
In the first quarter of fiscal 2024, we changed our presentation for merchant fees associated with customer payments made by credit cards and other payment methods and customer service costs. Under the new presentation, we include such expenses in a separate line in operating expenses, labeled, "Customer service and merchant fees," whereas previously, these expenses were included in "Merchant fees, customer service, and other" as a component of Cost of goods sold. All periods presented have been adjusted to reflect this change in presentation. See Note 2—Accounting Policies and Supplemental Disclosures in the "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements" included in Item 8 of Part II, "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data" of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Current report
Customer service and merchant fees
Current report
In the first quarter of fiscal 2024, we changed our presentation for merchant fees associated with customer payments made by credit cards and other payment methods and customer service costs. Under the new presentation, we include such expenses in a separate line in operating expenses, labeled, "Customer service and merchant fees," whereas previously, these expenses were included in "Merchant fees, customer service, and other" as a component of Cost of goods sold. All periods presented have been adjusted to reflect this change in presentation. See Note 2—Accounting Policies and Supplemental Disclosures in the "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements" included in Item 8 of Part II, "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data" of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Current report
The following table summarizes our customer service and merchant fees for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023 (in thousands):
Current report
The $1.6 million increase in customer service and merchant fees for the year ended December 31, 2024 as compared to the same period in 2023, was primarily due to normalized service capacity in 2024 after understaffing in the second half of 2023, partially offset by decreased credit card costs driven by a decrease in order volume.
Current report
Interest income, net
Current report
Other expense, net
Removed paragraphs (12)
Previous report
Beyond is dedicated to providing, through our Bed Bath & Beyond brand and other brands, an extensive array of furniture and home furnishings and related services, tailored especially for our target customers—consumers who seek comprehensive support throughout their shopping journey, aspiring to discover quality, stylish products at competitive prices that align with their budget requirements. We anticipate a continued shift of the furniture and home furnishings market away from traditional brick-and-mortar stores and toward online sales as consumers increasingly embrace the convenience of online shopping.
Previous report
We regularly refresh our product assortment to reflect the evolving preferences of our customers and stay aligned with current trends. Our range of products includes furniture, bedding and bath essentials, patio and outdoor gear, area rugs, tabletop and cookware, décor, storage and organization solutions, small appliances, home improvement items, and more. In addition, we seek to provide customers with relevant home financial products and services. Leveraging an asset-light supply chain, we offer direct shipping to customers from both our suppliers and warehouses.
Previous report
Key drivers fueling our growth strategy include expanding our home assortment, including products and services, enhancing the findability of our products for customers, boosting mobile app adoption to drive higher customer retention and brand loyalty, optimizing marketing efforts to elevate consumer's consideration of our brands for shopping, expanding our customer base in Canada, and growing market share by fortifying our brand pillars of "Selection," "Findability," "Value," and "Support." For a comprehensive overview of our business, refer to Item 1—"Business—Our Business."
Previous report
We acquired the Bed Bath & Beyond brand and certain related intellectual property in July 2023. In November 2023, we changed our corporate name from Overstock.com, Inc. to Beyond, Inc., and transferred the principal listing of our common stock from the Nasdaq Global Market to the New York Stock Exchange.
Previous report
Our consolidated cash and cash equivalents balance decreased from $371.3 million as of December 31, 2022 to $302.6 million as of December 31, 2023, a decrease of $68.7 million, primarily as the result of purchases of intangible assets of $25.8 million relating to our acquisition of the Bed Bath & Beyond brand, expenditures of property and equipment of $19.2 million, and net cash outflows from operating activities of $18.6 million during the year ended December 31, 2023.
Previous report
General and administrative expenses increased $10.7 million in 2023 compared to 2022, primarily due to increased legal fees, Bed Bath & Beyond brand integration expenses, and severance.
Previous report
The $33.0 million of net cash used in investing activities during the year ended December 31, 2022 was primarily due to purchases of equity securities of $18.9 million and expenditures for property and equipment of $14.9 million.
Previous report
(2) Represents future interest and principal payments on our financing agreements. For information regarding our financing agreements, see Item 8 of Part II, "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data"—Note 13—Borrowings contained in the "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements" of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Previous report
We cannot estimate the impact that macroeconomic conditions, such as supply chain challenges, inflation, rising interest rates, or geopolitical events will have on consumer sentiment and our business in the future due to the unpredictable nature of the ultimate development and duration of these conditions.
Previous report
International net revenues were less than 3% of total net revenues for 2023 and 2022.
Previous report
Interest income (expense), net
Previous report
Other income (expense), net
Reworded paragraphs (26)
Previous wording
Revenue decreased 19% in 2023 compared to 2022. This decrease was primarily due to a decrease in average order value of 16% and a 4% decrease in the number of customer orders delivered. The decrease in average order value was largely driven by orders mixing into categories with lower average unit retail price. The decrease in orders delivered was largely driven by the impact of macroeconomic factors and uncertainty impacting consumer sentiment, a shift in consumer spending preferences, and our strategy to exit non-home categories, partially offset by an increase in orders delivered following the launch of the Bed Bath & Beyond brand in August.
Current wording
Revenue decreased 11% in 2024 compared to 2023. This decrease was primarily due to an 8% decrease in orders delivered and a 3% decrease in average order value. The decrease in orders delivered was driven by a decline in website visits and conversion influenced in part by a shift in consumer spending preferences and macroeconomic factors impacting consumer sentiment. The decrease in average order value was largely driven by orders mixing into categories with lower average unit retail price.
Previous wording
Gross profit decreased 29% in 2023 compared to 2022 primarily due to lower sales and a decrease in gross margin. Gross margin decreased to 20.1% in 2023, compared to 23.0% in 2022, primarily due to increased promotional discounting and carrier costs. The decrease was partially offset by operational efficiencies.
Current wording
Gross profit decreased 21% in 2024 compared to 2023 primarily due to a decrease in gross margin. Gross margin decreased to 20.8% in 2024, compared to 23.4% in 2023, primarily due to increased promotional discounting, increased carrier costs, and decreased marketing allowance.
Previous wording
Sales and marketing expenses as a percentage of revenue increased to 14.4% in 2023 compared to 11.2% in 2022, primarily due to increased performance marketing expense, partially offset by lower brand advertising.
Current wording
Sales and marketing expenses as a percentage of revenue increased to 17.1% in 2024 compared to 14.4% in 2023, primarily due to increased performance marketing expense and brand advertising.
Previous wording
Technology expenses decreased $4.0 million in 2023 compared to 2022, primarily due to a reduction in staff-related expenses.
Current wording
Technology expenses decreased $2.6 million in 2024 compared to 2023, primarily due to a reduction in staff-related expenses, partially offset by one-time restructuring costs.
Previous wording
We continue to monitor recent macroeconomic trends, including, but not limited to, geopolitical events, fluctuating interest rates, and inflation. These events have and may continue to negatively impact consumer confidence and consumer spending which have and may continue to adversely affect our business and our results of operations. Due to the uncertain and constantly evolving nature and volatility created by these disruptions to global economic activities, we cannot currently predict the long-term impact of these events on our operations and financial results. Nevertheless, as of December 31, 2023, the challenges arising from these events have not adversely affected our liquidity or capacity to service our debt, nor have these conditions required us to reduce our capital expenditures.
Current wording
We continue to monitor recent macroeconomic trends and geopolitical events, including, without limitation, tariffs, bans, or other measures or events that increase the effective price of products, higher interest rates, inflation, and existing and future laws and regulations, directives (including executive orders). These events have and may continue to negatively impact consumer confidence and consumer spending which have and may continue to adversely affect our business and our results of operations. Due to the uncertain and constantly evolving nature and volatility of these trends and events, we cannot currently predict their long-term impact on our operations and financial results. Nevertheless, as of December 31, 2024, the challenges arising from these events have not adversely affected our liquidity or capacity to service our debt, nor have these conditions required us to reduce our capital expenditures.
Previous wording
We believe that our cash and cash equivalents currently on hand and expected cash flows from future operations will be sufficient to continue operations for at least the next twelve months. We continue to monitor, evaluate, and manage our operating plans, forecasts, and liquidity considering the most recent developments driven by macroeconomic conditions, such as supply chain challenges, inflation, rising interest rates, and geopolitical events. We proactively seek opportunities to improve the efficiency of our operations and have in the past and may in the future take steps to realize internal cost savings, including aligning our staffing needs, creating a more variable cost structure to better support our current and expected future levels of operations and process streamlining.
Current wording
We believe that our cash and cash equivalents currently on hand and expected cash flows from future operations will be sufficient to continue operations for at least the next twelve months. We continue to monitor, evaluate, and manage our operating plans, forecasts, and liquidity considering the most recent developments driven by macroeconomic conditions, such as supply chain challenges, inflation, rising interest rates, tariffs, bans, or other measures or events that increase the effective price of products, and other geopolitical events. We proactively seek opportunities to improve the efficiency of our operations and have in the past and may in the future take steps to realize internal cost savings, including aligning our staffing needs, creating a more variable cost structure to better support our current and expected future levels of operations and process streamlining.
Previous wording
We periodically evaluate opportunities to repurchase our equity securities, obtain credit facilities, or issue additional debt or equity securities, which may impact our future operations and liquidity. In addition, we may, from time to time, consider the investment in, or acquisition of, complementary businesses, products, services, or technologies to expand our business, any of which might affect our liquidity requirements or cause us to issue additional debt or equity securities that would be dilutive to shareholders.
Current wording
We periodically evaluate opportunities to repurchase our equity securities, obtain credit facilities, or issue additional debt or equity securities, which may impact our future operations and liquidity. In addition, we may, from time to time, consider the investment in, or acquisition of, complementary businesses, products, services, or technologies to expand our business, any of which might affect our liquidity requirements or cause us to issue additional debt or equity securities that would be dilutive to stockholders.
Previous wording
Our principal sources of liquidity are existing cash and cash equivalents, and accounts receivable, net. At December 31, 2023, we had cash and cash equivalents of $302.6 million and accounts receivable, net of $19.4 million.
Current wording
Our principal sources of liquidity are existing cash and cash equivalents, and accounts receivable, net. At December 31, 2024, we had cash and cash equivalents of $159.2 million and accounts receivable, net of allowance for credit losses of $15.8 million.
Previous wording
Cash received from customers generally corresponds to our net revenue as our customers primarily use credit cards to buy from us, causing our receivables from these sales transactions to settle quickly. We have payment terms with our partners that generally extend beyond the amount of time necessary to collect proceeds from our customers.
Current wording
Cash received from customers generally corresponds to our net revenue as our customers primarily use credit cards to buy from us, causing our receivables from these sales transactions to settle quickly. Our payment terms with our partners generally extend beyond the amount of time necessary to collect proceeds from our customers.
Previous wording
The $12.5 million of net cash used by operating activities during the year ended December 31, 2022 was primarily due to income from continuing operations, adjusted for non-cash items, of $67.8 million, offset by cash used by changes in operating assets and liabilities of $80.3 million.
Current wording
The $174.3 million of net cash used by operating activities during the year ended December 31, 2024 was primarily due to loss from operating activities, adjusted for non-cash items of $143.5 million and cash used by changes in operating assets and liabilities of $30.8 million.
Previous wording
The $18.6 million of net cash used by operating activities during the year ended December 31, 2023 was primarily due to loss from continuing operations, adjusted for non-cash items, of $60.1 million, offset by cash provided by changes in operating assets and liabilities of $41.5 million.
Current wording
The $18.6 million of net cash used by operating activities during the year ended December 31, 2023 was primarily due to loss from operating activities, adjusted for non-cash items, of $60.1 million, offset by cash provided by changes in operating assets and liabilities of $41.5 million.
Previous wording
We are involved in various tax matters, the outcomes of which are uncertain. As of December 31, 2023, and 2022, tax contingencies were $3.7 million and $3.5 million, respectively, which are included in our reconciliation of unrecognized tax benefits (see Item 8 of Part II, "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data"—Note 24—Income Taxes contained in the "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements" of this Annual Report on Form 10-K). Changes in federal, foreign, state, and local tax laws may increase our tax contingencies. The timing of the resolution of income tax contingencies is highly uncertain, and the amounts ultimately paid, if any, upon resolution of issues raised by the taxing authorities may differ from the amounts accrued. It is reasonably possible that within the next 12 months we will receive additional assessments by various tax authorities. These assessments may or may not result in changes to our contingencies related to positions on prior years' tax filings.
Current wording
We are involved in various tax matters, the outcomes of which are uncertain. As of December 31, 2024, and 2023, tax contingencies were $3.7 million for both periods presented, which are included in our reconciliation of unrecognized tax benefits (see Item 8 of Part II, "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data"—Note 23—Income Taxes contained in the "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements" of this Annual Report on Form 10-K). Changes in federal, foreign, state, and local tax laws may increase our tax contingencies. The timing of the resolution of income tax contingencies is highly uncertain, and the amounts ultimately paid, if any, upon resolution of issues raised by the taxing authorities may differ from the amounts accrued. It is reasonably possible that within the next 12 months we will receive additional assessments by various tax authorities. These assessments may or may not result in changes to our contingencies related to positions on prior years' tax filings.
Previous wording
Our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022, filed February 24, 2023, includes a discussion and analysis of our year-over-year changes, financial condition, and results of operations for the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021 in Item 7 of Part II, "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations."
Current wording
Our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023, filed on February 23, 2024, includes a discussion and analysis of our year-over-year changes, financial condition, and results of operations for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022 in Item 7 of Part II, "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations."
Previous wording
The 19% decrease in net revenue for the year ended December 31, 2023, as compared to the same period in 2022, was primarily due to a decrease in average order value of 16% and a 4% decrease in the number of customer orders delivered. The decrease in average order value was largely driven by orders mixing into categories with lower average unit retail price. The decrease in orders delivered was largely driven by the impact of macroeconomic factors and uncertainty impacting consumer sentiment, a shift in consumer spending preferences, and our strategy to exit non-home categories, partially offset by an increase in orders delivered following the launch of the Bed Bath & Beyond brand in August.
Current wording
The 11% decrease in net revenue for the year ended December 31, 2024, as compared to the same period in 2023, was primarily due to an 8% decrease in orders delivered and a 3% decrease in average order value. The decrease in orders delivered was driven by a decline in website visits and conversion influenced in part by a shift in consumer spending preferences and macroeconomic factors impacting consumer sentiment. The decrease in average order value was largely driven by orders mixing into categories with lower average unit retail price.
Previous wording
Our revenue related to merchandise sales is recognized upon delivery to our customers. As we ship high volumes of packages through multiple carriers, it is not practical for us to track the actual delivery date of each shipment. Therefore, we use estimates to determine which shipments are delivered and, therefore, recognized as revenue at the end of the period. Our delivery date estimates are based on average shipping transit times. We review and update our estimates on a quarterly basis based on our actual transit time experience. However, actual shipping times may differ from our estimates, which can be further impacted by uncertainty, volatility, and any disruption to our carriers caused by certain macroeconomic conditions, such as supply chain challenges, inflation, rising interest rates, or geopolitical events.
Current wording
Our revenue related to merchandise sales is recognized upon delivery to our customers. As we ship high volumes of packages through multiple carriers, it is not practical for us to track the actual delivery date of each shipment. Therefore, we use estimates to determine which shipments are delivered and, therefore, recognized as revenue at the end of the period. Our delivery date estimates are based on average shipping transit times. We review and update our estimates on a quarterly basis based on our actual transit time experience. However, actual shipping times may differ from our estimates, which can be further impacted by uncertainty, volatility, and any disruption to our carriers caused by certain macroeconomic conditions, such as supply chain challenges, inflation, rising interest rates, climate and weather events, or geopolitical events.
Previous wording
The following table shows the effect that hypothetical changes in the estimate of average shipping transit times would have on the reported amount of revenue and income before taxes (in thousands):
Current wording
The following table shows the effect that hypothetical changes in the estimate of average shipping transit times would have had on the reported amount of revenue and income before taxes (in thousands):
Previous wording
Our overall gross margins fluctuate based on competitive pricing; inventory management decisions; sales coupons and promotions, including our loyalty program; product mix of sales; advertising revenue and our marketing allowance program; and operational and fulfillment costs. Merchant fees, customer service, and other include merchant processing fees associated with customer payments made by credit cards and other payment methods and other variable fees, customer service costs, costs incurred to operate and staff our warehouses, including rent and depreciation expense associated with these facilities, costs to receive, inspect, pick, and prepare customer order for delivery, and direct and indirect labor costs including payroll, payroll-related benefits, and stock-based compensation, all of which we include as costs in calculating gross margin. Merchant fees, customer service, and other as a percentage of sales may vary due to several factors, such as our ability to effectively manage merchant fees, customer service costs, and warehouse costs. We believe that some companies in our industry, including some of our competitors, account for merchant fees, customer service, and other costs within operating expenses, and therefore exclude merchant fees, customer service, and other costs from gross margin. As a result, our gross margin may not be directly comparable to others in our industry.
Current wording
Our overall gross margins fluctuate based on factors such as competitive pricing; discounting; product mix of sales; advertising revenue and our marketing allowance program; and operational and fulfillment costs which include costs incurred to operate and staff our warehouses, including rent and depreciation expense associated with these facilities, costs to receive, inspect, pick, and prepare customer order for delivery, and direct and indirect labor costs including payroll, payroll-related benefits, and stock-based compensation, all of which we include as costs in calculating gross margin.
Previous wording
Gross profit for the year ended December 31, 2023 decreased 29% compared to the same period in 2022, primarily due to lower sales and a decrease in gross margin. Gross margin decreased to 20.1% for the year ended December 31, 2023, compared to 23.0% for the same period in 2022, primarily due to increased promotional discounting and carrier costs. The decrease was partially offset by operational efficiencies.
Current wording
Gross profit for the year ended December 31, 2024 decreased 21% compared to the same period in 2023, primarily due to a decrease in gross margin. Gross margin decreased to 20.8% for the year ended December 31, 2024, compared to 23.4% for the same period in 2023, primarily due to increased promotional discounting, increased carrier costs, and decreased marketing allowance.
Previous wording
We use a variety of online advertising channels to attract new and repeat customers, including search engine marketing, personalized emails, mobile app, loyalty program, affiliate marketing, display banners, and social media. We also build our brand awareness through linear and streaming TV.
Current wording
We use a variety of online advertising channels to attract new and repeat customers, including search engine marketing, personalized emails, mobile app, loyalty program, affiliate marketing, display banners, and social media. We also build our brand awareness through linear and streaming TV advertising.
Previous wording
Costs associated with our loyalty program, discounted shipping, and other promotions, such as coupons, are not included in sales and marketing expense. Rather, they are accounted for as a reduction in revenue as they reduce the amount of consideration we expect to receive in exchange for goods or services and therefore affect net revenues and gross margin. We consider discounted shipping and other promotions, such as our policy for free shipping on certain orders, as an effective marketing tool.
Current wording
Costs associated with our discounted shipping and other promotions, such as coupons, are not included in sales and marketing expense. Rather, they are accounted for as a reduction in revenue as they reduce the amount of consideration we expect to receive in exchange for goods or services and therefore affect net revenues and gross margin. We consider these promotions to be an effective marketing tool.
Previous wording
The 320 basis point increase in sales and marketing expenses as a percent of net revenues for the year ended December 31, 2023, as compared to the same period in 2022, was primarily due to increased performance marketing expense, partially offset by lower brand advertising.
Current wording
The 270 basis point increase in sales and marketing expenses as a percent of net revenues for the year ended December 31, 2024, as compared to the same period in 2023, was primarily due to increased performance marketing expense and brand advertising.
Previous wording
The $4.0 million decrease in technology expenses for the year ended December 31, 2023, as compared to the same period in 2022, was primarily due to a reduction in staff-related expenses.
Current wording
The $2.6 million decrease in technology expenses for the year ended December 31, 2024, as compared to the same period in 2023, was primarily due to a reduction in staff-related expenses, partially offset by one-time restructuring costs.
Previous wording
The $10.7 million increase in general and administrative expenses for the year ended December 31, 2023, as compared to the same period in 2022, was primarily due to increased legal fees, Bed Bath & Beyond brand integration expenses, and severance.
Current wording
The $16.0 million decrease in general and administrative expenses for the year ended December 31, 2024, as compared to the same period in 2023, was primarily due to a reduction in staff-related and third-party expenses, partially offset by one-time restructuring costs.
Previous wording
The $9.0 million increase in interest income (expense), net for the year ended December 31, 2023, as compared to the same period in 2022, was primarily due to increased interest income on our cash equivalents.
Current wording
The $5.2 million decrease in interest income, net for the year ended December 31, 2024, as compared to the same period in 2023, was primarily due to a decrease in balance in our cash equivalents which resulted in less interest income earned.
Previous wording
The $96.2 million decrease in other income (expense), net for the year ended December 31, 2023, as compared to the same period in 2022, was primarily due to a $76.5 million increase in loss recognized from our equity method securities and a $25.9 million write-down of assets held for sale, partially offset by a $6.4 million realized gain on the disposal of cryptocurrencies.
Current wording
The $86.1 million decrease in other expense, net for the year ended December 31, 2024, as compared to the same period in 2023, was primarily due to a $62.7 million decrease in loss recognized from our equity method securities and a $22.5 million decrease in write-down of assets held for sale.
Previous wording
Our effective tax rate for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022 was (15.7)% and (4.1%), respectively. Our effective tax rate is affected by recurring items such as research tax credits and non-recurring items such as changes in valuation allowances. In addition, relative changes in expenses or losses for which tax benefits are limited or not recognized, fluctuations in our stock price, changes in laws, regulations, and administrative practices can impact our rate. Our effective tax rate is also affected to a lesser extent by tax rates in foreign jurisdictions and the relative amount of income we earn in those jurisdictions, which we expect to be fairly consistent in the near term. Our effective tax rate differs from the statutory federal income tax rate of 21% primarily due to the impacts of changes in the valuation allowance against our deferred tax assets, net of deferred tax liabilities.
Current wording
Our effective tax rate for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023 was (0.3)% and (15.7%), respectively. Our effective tax rate is affected by recurring items such as research tax credits and non-recurring items such as changes in valuation allowances. In addition, relative changes in expenses or losses for which tax benefits are limited or not recognized, fluctuations in our stock price, changes in laws, regulations, and administrative practices can impact our rate. Our effective tax rate is also affected to a lesser extent by tax rates in foreign jurisdictions and the relative amount of income we earn in those jurisdictions, which we expect to be fairly consistent in the near term. Our effective tax rate differs from the statutory federal income tax rate of 21% primarily due to the impacts of the valuation allowance against our deferred tax assets, net of deferred tax liabilities.
Rearranged current paragraphs (1)
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
Customer service and merchant fees include customer service costs and merchant processing fees associated with customer payments made by credit cards and other payment methods and other variable fees. Customer service and merchant fees as a percent of revenue may vary due to several factors, such as our ability to effectively manage customer service and merchant fees.
Rearranged previous paragraphs (1)
Previous report — wording carried elsewhere
The $86.3 million of net cash used in financing activities during the year ended December 31, 2022 was primarily due to repurchases of our common stock and Series A-1 preferred stock under the Repurchase Program of $80.1 million, payments of taxes withheld upon vesting of employee stock awards of $3.7 million, and payments on long-term debt of $3.4 million.