KAISER ALUMINUM CORP

Previous wording

Recent macroeconomic factors including labor shortages, supply chain disruptions, inflation and recession risks have adversely affected our business, and could cause additional downturns in the aerospace, packaging, automotive, and ground transportation industries, which would further adversely affect our business and the business of our customers.

Current wording

Macroeconomic factors including labor shortages, supply chain disruptions, inflation and recession risks have adversely affected our business, and could cause additional downturns in the aerospace, packaging, automotive, and ground transportation industries, which would further adversely affect our business and the business of our customers.

Previous wording

We derive a significant portion of our revenue from products sold to the aerospace, packaging, automotive and ground transportation industries. Macroeconomic factors include, but not limited to: (i) labor shortages or disputes; (ii) disruptions to supply chains; (iii) other interruptions of international and regional commerce; (iv) inflation; (v) higher interest rates; and (vi) recession risks. Moreover, because new automotive vehicle demand is tied closely to overall economic strength, economic uncertainty, increasing interest rates and/or increased unemployment could lead to weak demand for, or lower production of, new cars, light trucks, SUVs, and heavy-duty vehicles and trailers, which could adversely affect demand for our products. Additional adverse macroeconomic developments may lead to reduced demand for our products, which could adversely affect our financial position, results of operations, and cash flows.

Current wording

We derive a significant portion of our revenue from products sold to the aerospace, defense, packaging, automotive, semi-conductor and ground transportation industries. Macroeconomic factors include, but are not limited to: (i) labor shortages or disputes; (ii) disruptions to supply chains; (iii) other interruptions of international and regional commerce; (iv) inflation; (v) higher interest rates; and (vi) recession risks. Moreover, because new automotive vehicle demand is tied closely to overall economic strength, economic uncertainty, increasing interest rates and/or increased unemployment could lead to weak demand for, or lower production of, new cars, light trucks, SUVs, and heavy-duty vehicles and trailers, which could adversely affect demand for our products. Additional adverse macroeconomic developments may lead to reduced demand for our products, which could adversely affect our financial position, results of operations, and cash flows.

Previous wording

We compete with others in the semi-fabricated products segment of the aluminum industry based upon quality, availability, price, customer service, and delivery performance. Some of our competitors are substantially larger than we are, have greater financial resources than we do, operate more facilities than we do, are geographically closer to our customers than we are, employ more efficient or advanced technologies than we do, or have other strategic advantages. New parties may become capable of manufacturing similar products and qualifying them with our customers, which could lead to further competitive pressure. Competitors’ facilities located in certain other countries may have a manufacturing cost advantage compared to our facilities, which are located in the United States and Canada. Such foreign competitors may sell products similar to our products at lower prices as a result of having lower manufacturing costs or due to currency exchange rates that periodically favor foreign competition. Some foreign competitors may also dump their products in the United States and Canada in violation of existing trade laws. We may not be able to compete by differentiating ourselves based on the quality, availability and delivery of our products or our customer service. Additionally, we may not be able to reduce our cost structure and our selling prices to be competitive with others, and tariffs introduced to protect manufacturers in the United States from foreign price competition may not be fully effective or increase our costs. Increased competition could cause a reduction in demand for our products and our shipment volumes, our product pricing, or both shipment volumes and product pricing, which could have an adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations, and cash flows.

Current wording

We compete with others in the semi-fabricated products segment of the aluminum industry based upon quality, availability, price, customer service, and delivery performance. Some of our competitors are substantially larger than we are, have greater financial resources than we do, operate more facilities than we do, are geographically closer to our customers than we are, employ more efficient or advanced technologies than we do, or have other strategic advantages. New parties may become capable of manufacturing similar products and qualifying them with our customers, which could lead to further competitive pressure. Competitors’ facilities located in certain other countries may have a manufacturing cost advantage compared to our facilities, which are located in the United States and Canada. Such foreign competitors may sell products similar to our products at lower prices as a result of having lower manufacturing costs or due to currency exchange rates that periodically favor foreign competition. Some foreign competitors may also dump their products in the United States and Canada in violation of existing trade laws, and new or expanded antidumping and countervailing duty orders on aluminum products may alter competitive dynamics, supply availability, and input costs. We may not be able to compete by differentiating ourselves based on the quality, availability and delivery of our products or our customer service. Additionally, we may not be able to reduce our cost structure and our selling prices to be competitive with others, and tariffs introduced to protect manufacturers in the United States from foreign price competition may not be fully effective or could disrupt supply chains or otherwise increase our costs. Increased competition could cause a reduction in demand for our products and our shipment volumes, our product pricing, or both shipment volumes and product pricing, which could have an adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations, and cash flows.

Previous wording

Most of our products undergo further fabrication by other parties before being deployed in their end uses. In particular, our Aero/HS products undergo numerous stages of further fabrication or assembly by a number of parties in the supply chain, often over the course of many months. The lead time from when we sell our Aero/HS product to when the finished product is installed on an aircraft often exceeds a year. Due to this long lead time, demand for our products may increase prior to demand for our customers’ products or may decrease when our customers experience or anticipate softening demand for their products. Our customers typically respond to reduced demand for their products by depleting their inventory until their inventory falls to a new desired level. This causes a greater reduction in demand for our products than our customers experience for their products. Further, the reduction in demand for our products can be exacerbated if our customers’ inventory levels had been higher than normal, if production is delayed for specific commercial airframe models, if our customers previously had purchased products from us at committed sales contract volumes that exceeded their actual need or for other reasons. The amplified reduction in demand for our products while our customers consume their inventory to meet their business needs (destocking) may adversely affect our financial position, results of operations, and cash flows.

Current wording

Most of our products undergo further fabrication by other parties before being deployed in their end uses. In particular, our Aero/HS Products undergo numerous stages of further fabrication or assembly by a number of parties in the supply chain, often over the course of many months. The lead time from when we sell our Aero/HS Products to when the finished products are installed on an aircraft often exceed a year. Due to this long lead time, demand for our products may increase prior to demand for our customers’ products or may decrease when our customers experience or anticipate softening demand for their products. Our customers typically respond to reduced demand for their products by depleting their inventory until their inventory falls to a new desired level. This causes a greater reduction in demand for our products than our customers experience for their products. Further, the reduction in demand for our products can be exacerbated if our customers’ inventory levels had been higher than normal, if production is delayed for specific commercial airframe models or subject to production caps, if our customers previously had purchased products from us at committed sales contract volumes that exceeded their actual need or for other reasons. The amplified reduction in demand for our products while our customers consume their inventory to meet their business needs (destocking) may adversely affect our financial position, results of operations, and cash flows.

Previous wording

Our products compete with other materials for use in various customer applications. For instance, the commercial aerospace industry has used and continues to evaluate the further use of titanium, composites, and carbon fiber materials as alternatives to aluminum to reduce aircraft weight and increase fuel efficiency. Additionally, while the automotive industry has continued to increase the use of aluminum in vehicle production to reduce vehicle weight and increase fuel efficiency, manufacturers may revert to steel or other materials for certain applications and rely on improved drivetrain technology, more efficient engines, aerodynamics, or other measures to achieve fuel efficiency goals. Finally, the packaging industry has used and continues to use steel, tin, plastics, glass, and paperboard as alternatives to aluminum for packaging and delivery of food and beverages. The packaging industry is heavily influenced by cost and recyclability of the packaging material. The willingness of customers to use materials other than aluminum could adversely affect the demand for our products, particularly our Aero/HS products, Packaging, and Automotive Extrusions, and thus could adversely affect our financial position, results of operations, and cash flows.

Current wording

Our products compete with other materials for use in various customer applications. For instance, the commercial aerospace industry has used and continues to evaluate the further use of titanium, composites, and carbon fiber materials as alternatives to aluminum to reduce aircraft weight and increase fuel efficiency. Additionally, while the automotive industry has continued to increase the use of aluminum in vehicle production to reduce vehicle weight and increase fuel efficiency, manufacturers may revert to steel or other materials for certain applications and rely on improved drivetrain technology, more efficient engines, aerodynamics, or other measures to achieve fuel efficiency goals.

Previous wording

Aluminum coil produced for demanding end market applications in the beverage and food packaging industry in North America are subject to substantial competition from producers of alternative packaging made from glass, paper, flexible materials, plastic and organic or compostable materials, which may compare favorably to aluminum with respect to preservation of food and beverage quality, cost, and/or sustainability. Changes in the volume of sales by our customers in the food and beverage markets and preferences for products and packaging by consumers of prepackaged food and beverage cans may significantly influence our sales. Changes in packaging preferences by our customers may require us to re-tool manufacturing operations, which could require material expenditures. In addition, a decrease in the costs of, or a further increase in consumer demand for, alternative packaging could result in lower profits and reduced cash flows for us. For example, increases in the price of aluminum and decreases in the price of plastic resin, which is a petrochemical product and may fluctuate with prices in the oil and gas market, may increase substitution of plastic food and beverage containers for metal containers. Moreover, due to the associated high percentage of fixed costs, we may be unable to maintain the gross margin of aluminum packaging products at past levels if we are not able to achieve high-capacity utilization rates for our production equipment. In periods of low demand for aluminum packaging products or in situations where industry expansion created excess capacity, we may experience relatively low-capacity utilization rates, which can lead to reduced margins during that period and can have an adverse effect on our business.

Current wording

Furthermore, aluminum coil produced for demanding end market applications in the beverage and food packaging industry in North America is subject to substantial competition from producers of alternative packaging made from glass, paper, flexible materials, plastic and organic or compostable materials, which may compare favorably to aluminum with respect to preservation of food and beverage quality, cost, and/or sustainability. Changes in the volume of sales by our customers in the food and beverage markets and preferences for products and packaging by consumers of prepackaged food and beverage cans may significantly influence our sales. Changes in packaging preferences by our customers may require us to re-tool manufacturing operations, which could require material expenditures. In addition, a decrease in the costs of, or a further increase in consumer demand for, alternative packaging could result in lower profits and reduced cash flows for us. For example, increases in the price of aluminum and decreases in the price of plastic resin, which is a petrochemical product and may fluctuate with prices in the oil and gas market, may increase substitution of plastic food and beverage containers for metal containers. Moreover, due to the associated high percentage of fixed costs, we may be unable to maintain the gross margin of aluminum packaging products at past levels if we are not able to achieve high-capacity utilization rates for our production equipment. In periods of low demand for aluminum packaging products or in situations where industry expansion created excess capacity, we may experience relatively low-capacity utilization rates, which can lead to reduced margins during that period and can have an adverse effect on our business. The willingness of customers to use materials other than aluminum could adversely affect the demand for our products, particularly our Aero/HS Products, Packaging, and Automotive Extrusions, and thus could adversely affect our financial position, results of operations, and cash flows.

Previous wording

Our customers may reduce their demand for our products if the government relaxes fuel efficiency standards or if oil prices remain low for a protracted period of time.

Current wording

Our customers may reduce their demand for our products as a result of the government relaxing or delaying fuel efficiency or emissions standards or if oil prices remain low for a protracted period of time.

Previous wording

Efficient use of fossil fuels partially drives demand for aluminum in transportation applications. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, other federal regulatory agencies, and regulatory agencies of certain states have generally sought to limit growth of fossil fuel usage by establishing stricter fuel efficiency standards. In addition, newly elected and/or changing administrations could accelerate efforts to not only limit, but reduce, fossil fuel usage and carbon emissions beyond what may be technologically possible for certain products and manufacturing processes and/or revisit or reverse the environmental agendas of previous administrations with respect to previously established fuel efficiency standards. A relaxation of fuel efficiency standards by the regulatory agencies or an extended period of moderate oil prices could reduce demand for new more efficient aircraft and automobiles, which could adversely affect the demand for our products and have an adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations, and cash flows.

Current wording

Efficient use of fossil fuels partially drives demand for aluminum in transportation applications. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, other federal regulatory agencies, and regulatory agencies of certain states have in the past sought to limit fossil fuel usage by establishing stricter fuel efficiency and greenhouse-gas emissions standards. Changing administrations have in the past and could in the future revisit or reverse the environmental agendas of previous administrations with respect to previously established fuel efficiency and emissions standards. Any relaxations or delays of these standards or an extended period of low or moderate oil prices could reduce demand for new, more efficient aircraft and automobiles, which could adversely affect the demand for our products and have an adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations, and cash flows. Conversely, changing administrations could accelerate efforts to not only limit, but reduce, fossil fuel usage and carbon emissions beyond what may be technologically possible for certain products and manufacturing processes, which may also reduce demand for our products or our ability to manufacture them.

Previous wording

We derive a significant portion of our revenue from products sold to the aerospace industry. Notwithstanding a secular growth trend spanning nearly two decades, the aerospace industry is highly cyclical and furthermore, is subject to disruption. Numerous factors, including those that influence demand for new commercial aircraft, could result in cancellations or deferrals of aircraft orders and a global decrease in new commercial aircraft deliveries. These factors include but are not limited to: (i) declines or reduced growth trends in global travel and airline passenger traffic; (ii) the rate of replacement of older aircraft with more fuel efficient aircraft; (iii) changing airline strategies affecting preferences for single-aisle aircraft models as opposed to twin-aisle or jumbo aircraft models; (iv) airline industry profitability; (v) the state of regional and global economies; (vi) concerns regarding terrorism or the threat of terrorism; (vii) concerns regarding new pandemics of infectious disease; (viii) labor disputes involving airline or aerospace manufacturers; and (ix) safety concerns with newly introduced and existing aircraft. Despite existing backlogs, adverse developments in any one or more of these influencing factors may lead to reduced demand for new aircraft that utilize our products, which could adversely affect our financial position, results of operations, and cash flows.

Current wording

We derive a significant portion of our revenue from products sold to the aerospace industry. Notwithstanding a secular growth trend spanning nearly two decades or more, the aerospace industry is highly cyclical and also is subject to disruption. Numerous factors, including those that influence demand for new commercial aircraft, could result in cancellations or deferrals of aircraft orders and a global decrease in new commercial aircraft deliveries. These factors include but are not limited to: (i) declines or reduced growth trends in global travel and airline passenger traffic; (ii) the rate of replacement of older aircraft with more fuel efficient aircraft; (iii) changing airline strategies affecting preferences for single-aisle aircraft models as opposed to twin-aisle or jumbo aircraft models; (iv) airline industry profitability; (v) the state of regional and global economies; (vi) concerns regarding terrorism or the threat of terrorism; (vii) concerns regarding new pandemics of infectious disease; (viii) labor disputes involving airline or aerospace manufacturers; (ix) regulatory actions impacting production rates at certain airframe manufacturers; and (x) safety concerns with newly introduced and existing aircraft. Despite existing backlogs, adverse developments in any one or more of these influencing factors may lead to reduced demand for new aircraft that utilize our products, which could adversely affect our financial position, results of operations, and cash flows.

Previous wording

Our products are used in a wide variety of military applications, including military aircraft, armored vehicles, and ordnance. Certain military programs are used by the U.S. armed forces, as well as by the defense forces of our allied foreign powers. Military programs that currently use or in the future could use our products may be subject to changes in military strategy and government priorities. Further, while many of the U.S. government programs span several years, they are often funded annually, and funding is generally subject to congressional appropriations and may be subject to other reduction efforts. When U.S. and foreign allied governments are faced with competing national priorities, such as addressing financial or spending crises or public health emergencies, there can be significant pressure to reduce defense spending, which could reduce the demand for our products and adversely affect our financial position, results of operations, and cash flows.

Current wording

Our products are used in a wide variety of military applications, including military aircraft, armored vehicles, and ordnance. Certain military programs are used by the U.S. armed forces, as well as by the defense forces of our allied foreign powers. Military programs that currently use or in the future could use our products may be subject to changes in military strategy and government priorities. Further, while many of the U.S. government programs span several years, they are often funded annually, and funding is generally subject to congressional appropriations and may be subject to delays or other reduction efforts. When U.S. and foreign allied governments are faced with competing national priorities, such as addressing financial or spending crises or public health emergencies, there can be significant pressure to reduce defense spending, which could reduce the demand for our products and adversely affect our financial position, results of operations, and cash flows.

Previous wording

The demand for our Automotive Extrusions and many of our general engineering and other industrial products is dependent on the production of cars, light trucks, SUVs, and heavy-duty vehicles and trailers in North America. The automotive industry is highly cyclical, as new vehicle demand is dependent on consumer spending and is tied closely to the overall strength of the North American economy. Even with the automotive industry’s growing use of aluminum to reduce vehicle weight, weak demand for, or lower production of, new cars, light trucks, SUVs, and heavy duty vehicles and trailers could adversely affect the demand for our products and have an adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations, and cash flows.

Current wording

The demand for our Automotive Extrusions and many of our GE Products and other industrial products is dependent on the production of cars, light trucks, SUVs, and heavy-duty vehicles and trailers in North America. The automotive industry is highly cyclical, as new vehicle demand is dependent on consumer spending and is tied closely to the overall strength of the North American economy. Even with the automotive industry’s growing use of aluminum to reduce vehicle weight, weak demand for, or lower production of, new cars, light trucks, SUVs, and heavy duty vehicles and trailers, as well as pricing pressures or changing consumer attitudes, supply change disruptions or model mix shifts could adversely affect the demand for our products and have an adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations, and cash flows.

Previous wording

Sensitivity to fuel prices, an increased preference for environmentally friendly alternatives and other consumer preferences can influence consumer demand for motor vehicles that have a higher content of the aluminum Automotive Extrusions that we supply. The loss of business with respect to, or a lack of commercial success of, one or more particular vehicle models for which we are a significant supplier could have an adverse impact on our financial position, results of operations, and cash flows.

Current wording

Sensitivity to fuel prices, an increased preference for environmentally friendly alternatives and other consumer preferences can influence consumer demand for motor vehicles that have a higher content of the aluminum Automotive Extrusions that we supply. The loss of business with respect to, or a lack of commercial success of, one or more particular vehicle models or brands for which we are a significant supplier could have an adverse impact on our financial position, results of operations, and cash flows.

Previous wording

Our five largest customers in total accounted for approximately 55% of our 2024 net sales. Most of these customers have one or more sizable sales agreements with us. If one or more of these customers experienced a prolonged period of adverse demand, depressed business activity or financial distress, if any of these customers breached or sought relief from its contractual obligations under its sales agreements with us or if any of these customer relationships otherwise ended or materially deteriorated and such lost business was not successfully replaced, our financial position, results of operations, and cash flows could be adversely affected.

Current wording

Our five largest customers in total accounted for approximately 56% of our 2025 net sales. Most of these customers have one or more sizable sales agreements with us. If one or more of these customers experienced a prolonged period of adverse demand, depressed business activity or financial distress, if any of these customers breached or sought relief from its contractual obligations under its sales agreements with us or if any of these customer relationships otherwise ended or materially deteriorated and such lost business was not successfully replaced, our financial position, results of operations, and cash flows could be adversely affected.

Previous wording

We import primary aluminum and certain alloy metals from, and manufacture fabricated products used in, foreign countries. Our financial position, results of operations and cash flows could be adversely affected by numerous factors in the politically and economically diverse jurisdictions: (i) from which our input materials are sourced; (ii) in which we operate; (iii) in which our customers operate; or (iv) in which our products are consumed or further fabricated. Such factors include but are not limited to:

Current wording

We import primary aluminum and certain alloy metals from, and manufacture semi-fabricated products used in, foreign countries. Our financial position, results of operations and cash flows could be adversely affected by numerous factors in the politically and economically diverse jurisdictions: (i) from which our input materials are sourced; (ii) in which we operate; (iii) in which our customers operate; or (iv) in which our products are consumed or further fabricated. Such factors include but are not limited to:

Previous wording

the implementation of other restrictions on supply chains in connection with global health pandemics;

Current wording

the implementation of other restrictions on supply chains in connection with global health pandemics or geopolitical disruptions to major shipping routes;

Previous wording

acts or threats of war or terrorism;

Current wording

acts or threats of war, terrorism or violent suppression;

Previous wording

sanctions, including those in response to acts or threats of war or terrorism;

Current wording

sanctions, including those in response to acts or threats of war, terrorism or violent suppression;

Previous wording

The production of aluminum products is subject to unplanned events such as explosions, fires, inclement weather, natural disasters, accidents, equipment failures, labor disruptions, transportation interruptions, public utilities interruptions, and supply chain interruptions. Operational interruptions could significantly curtail the production capacity of a facility for a period of time. We have redundant capacity and capability to produce many of our extruded products within our manufacturing platform to mitigate our business risk from such interruptions, but interruptions at Trentwood where our production of plate and sheet is concentrated or at Warrick where our production of packaging material is concentrated, could significantly compromise our ability to meet the needs of our customers. Delayed delivery of our products to customers who require on-time delivery from us may cause customers to purchase alternative products at a higher cost, reschedule their own production, or incur other incremental costs. Customers may be able to pursue financial claims against us for their incremental costs, and we may incur costs to correct such problems in addition to any liability resulting from such claims. Interruptions may also harm our reputation among actual and potential customers, potentially resulting in a loss of business. To the extent these losses are not covered by insurance, our financial position, results of operations, and cash flows could be adversely affected by such events.

Current wording

The production of aluminum products is subject to unplanned events such as explosions, fires, inclement weather, natural disasters, accidents, equipment failures, labor disruptions, transportation interruptions, public utilities interruptions, cyber incidents affecting operational technology, and supply chain interruptions. Operational interruptions could significantly curtail the production capacity of a facility for a period of time. Although we have redundant capacity and capability to produce many of our extruded products within our manufacturing platform to mitigate our business risk from such interruptions, interruptions at Trentwood where our production of plate and sheet is concentrated or at Warrick where our production of packaging material is concentrated, could significantly compromise our ability to meet the needs of our customers. Delayed delivery of our products to customers who require on-time delivery from us may cause customers to purchase alternative products at a higher cost, reschedule their own production, or incur other incremental costs. Customers may be able to pursue financial claims against us for their incremental costs, and we may incur costs to correct such problems in addition to any liability resulting from such claims. Interruptions may also harm our reputation among actual and potential customers, potentially resulting in a loss of business. To the extent these losses are not covered by insurance, our financial position, results of operations, and cash flows could be adversely affected by such events.

Previous wording

We are dependent upon Alcoa for certain resources essential to the day-to-day operation of our business at Warrick.

Current wording

We rely on Alcoa Corporation (“Alcoa”) for certain resources essential to the day-to-day operation of our business at Warrick.

Previous wording

We are dependent upon Alcoa for certain resources required for the day-to-day operation of our business at Warrick, which include “support services” such as the provision of potable water and certain environmental services. In order to transition Warrick from dependence upon the support services to independence as a facility with its own self-sufficient infrastructure, Alcoa has agreed to pay for the development of infrastructure necessary for Warrick to obtain electricity from a third-party power supplier, subject to certain conditions. Although some of these assets have been developed and the Company has taken possession of certain assets from Alcoa, a failure by Alcoa to provide support services or transition services upon the terms agreed to, including quality and performance standards, could cause us to incur substantial costs to keep the Warrick rolling mill operational or result in the temporary or permanent shutdown of Warrick’s operations. In the event that production of Warrick is negatively impacted by Alcoa’s failure to provide support or transition services, our operations, business, financial condition, and results of operations could be adversely affected.

Current wording

We rely on Alcoa for certain resources required to support daily operations at Warrick, including potable water. If Alcoa were to fail to provide these resources, we could incur substantial costs to keep the Warrick rolling mill operational or result in the temporary or permanent shutdown of Warrick’s operations. In the event that Warrick’s operations are negatively impacted by Alcoa’s failure to provide certain essential resources, our operations, business, financial condition, and results of operations could be adversely affected.

Previous wording

Our largest inputs to produce fabricated aluminum products are primary aluminum and recycled scrap aluminum. Primary aluminum pricing fluctuates in response to global supply and demand and also reflects the impact of duties and tariffs imposed by the United States and certain other countries. The timing and magnitude of changes in market pricing for primary aluminum are largely unpredictable. Our pricing structures for fabricated aluminum products generally allow us to pass fluctuations in the price of primary aluminum through to our customers so that we can minimize our exposure to metal price risk. However, competitive dynamics for certain of our high margin products may limit the amount or delay the timing of selling price increases on our products to recover our increased aluminum costs, resulting in a time lag during which we may be partially exposed to metal price risk. If these events were to occur, they could have an adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations and cash flows. In addition, if the market price for primary aluminum were to remain high for an extended period of time, the corresponding increase in our selling price for our fabricated products may cause some of our customers to switch to other materials in lieu of our products, causing sales of our fabricated aluminum products to decrease, which could adversely affect our financial position, results of operations, and cash flows.

Current wording

Our largest inputs to produce fabricated aluminum products are primary aluminum and recycled scrap aluminum. Primary aluminum pricing fluctuates in response to global supply and demand and also reflects the impact of duties, tariffs, and sanctions imposed by the United States and certain other countries. The timing and magnitude of changes in market pricing for primary aluminum are largely unpredictable. Our pricing structures for fabricated aluminum products generally allow us to pass fluctuations in the price of primary aluminum through to our customers so that we can minimize our exposure to metal price risk. Metal Price Lag resulting from decreases in the price of primary aluminum could have an adverse effect on our financial position and results of operations. In addition, competitive dynamics for certain of our high margin products may limit the amount or delay the timing of selling price increases on our products to recover our increased aluminum costs, resulting in a time lag during which we may be partially exposed to metal price risk. Changes in trading restrictions for certain origins may also increase volatility in regional premiums and physical availability. If these events were to occur, they could have an adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations and cash flows. In addition, if the market price for primary aluminum were to remain high for an extended period of time, the corresponding increase in our selling price for our fabricated products may cause some of our customers to switch to other materials in lieu of our products, causing sales of our fabricated aluminum products to decrease, which could adversely affect our financial position, results of operations, and cash flows.

Previous wording

We use certain alloying metals, such as copper, zinc, magnesium, and silicon, in our operations in order to achieve the required performance properties in our products. The availability of these alloys in some cases has been and, in the future, may be restricted due to limited suppliers, government regulations, energy, supply chain disruptions, and/or general demand dynamics. When sudden restrictions of these materials occur, we have been and in the future may be subject to rapid price increases and limited supplies, either of which could have an adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

Current wording

We use certain alloying metals, such as copper, zinc, magnesium, and silicon, in our operations in order to achieve the required performance properties in our products. The availability of these alloys in some cases has been and, in the future, may be restricted due to limited suppliers, government regulations, import and export controls, energy, supply chain disruptions, and/or general demand dynamics. When sudden restrictions of these materials occur, we have been and in the future may be subject to rapid price increases and limited supplies, either of which could have an adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

Previous wording

Reduced pricing for aluminum can reduce our borrowing availability and cause our liquidity to decline.

Current wording

Volatility in aluminum prices can impact our borrowing availability and cause our liquidity to decline.

Previous wording

Lower aluminum prices reduce the market value of our inventory and generally cause a reduction in our accounts receivable as we pass through a lower underlying aluminum price to our customers. Because the amount we can borrow under our Revolving Credit Facility is determined by the value of our receivables and inventory, which serve as collateral for the facility, a reduction in aluminum prices can reduce our borrowing availability and our liquidity, which could have an adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations, and cash flows.

Current wording

Lower aluminum prices reduce the market value of our inventory and generally cause a reduction in our accounts receivable as we pass through a lower underlying aluminum price to our customers. Because the amount we can borrow under our Revolving Credit Facility is determined by the value of our receivables and inventory, which serve as collateral for the facility, a reduction in aluminum prices can reduce our borrowing availability and our liquidity, which could have an adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations, and cash flows. Conversely, rapid increases in aluminum prices can create short-term liquidity pressure as working capital needs rise before related customer collections. During these periods, borrowing availability may not increase at the same pace, which can temporarily constrain liquidity.

Previous wording

We use forward contracts to protect against fluctuations in commodity prices and currency exchange rate risks. The effectiveness of these hedges depends, in part, on our ability to accurately forecast future product demand and related cash flow. Due to the impacts of supply chain disruptions, geopolitical activity, general economic conditions, and other factors, the businesses of our customers are subject to many uncertainties and, as a result, we have experienced, and may continue to experience, unanticipated volatility in product demand and related cash flows. When we experience such volatility or are otherwise unable to make accurate predictions with respect to our forward swaps designated as cash flow hedges, such hedging activities may become ineffective. The early settlement, reclassification of cumulative losses and/or the periodic adjustment to fair value through Net income (loss) associated with ineffective hedging activities could have a material negative impact on our financial position, results of operations, and cash flows.

Current wording

We use forward contracts to protect against fluctuations in commodity prices and currency exchange rate risks. The effectiveness of these hedges depends, in part, on our ability to accurately forecast future product demand and related cash flow. Due to the impacts of supply chain disruptions, geopolitical activity, general economic conditions, exchange trading restrictions and sanctions affecting metals markets, and other factors, the businesses of our customers are subject to many uncertainties and, as a result, we have experienced, and may continue to experience, unanticipated volatility in product demand and related cash flows. When we experience such volatility or are otherwise unable to make accurate predictions with respect to our forward swaps designated as cash flow hedges, such hedging activities may become ineffective. The early settlement, reclassification of cumulative losses and/or the periodic adjustment to fair value through Net income associated with ineffective hedging activities could have a material negative impact on our financial position, results of operations, and cash flows.

Previous wording

Our Revolving Credit Facility and the indentures governing our Senior Notes contain a number of restrictive covenants that impose operating and financial restrictions on us and may limit our ability to engage in acts that may be in our long-term best interest, including restrictions on our ability to:

Current wording

Our Revolving Credit Facility and the indentures governing our outstanding Senior Notes contain a number of restrictive covenants that impose operating and financial restrictions on us and may limit our ability to engage in acts that may be in our long-term best interest, including restrictions on our ability to:

Previous wording

A breach of the covenants or restrictions under our Revolving Credit Facility or under the indentures governing the Senior Notes could result in an event of default under the applicable indebtedness. Such a default may allow the creditors to accelerate the related debt. A payment default or an acceleration following an event of default under our Revolving Credit Facility or our indentures for our Senior Notes could trigger an event of default under the other indebtedness obligation, as well as any other debt to which a cross-acceleration or cross-default provision applies, which could result in the principal of and the accrued and unpaid interest on all such debt becoming due and payable. In addition, an event of default under our Revolving Credit Facility could permit the lenders under our Revolving Credit Facility to terminate all commitments to extend further credit under that facility. Furthermore, if we were unable to repay any amounts due and payable under our Revolving Credit Facility, those lenders could proceed against the collateral granted to them to secure that indebtedness. In the event our lenders or noteholders accelerate the repayment of our borrowings, we and our subsidiaries may not have sufficient assets to repay that indebtedness.

Current wording

A breach of the covenants or restrictions under our Revolving Credit Facility or under the indentures governing the outstanding Senior Notes could result in an event of default under the applicable indebtedness. Such a default may allow the creditors to accelerate the related debt. A payment default or an acceleration following an event of default under our Revolving Credit Facility or our indentures for our outstanding Senior Notes could trigger an event of default under the other indebtedness obligation, as well as any other debt to which a cross-acceleration or cross-default provision applies, which could result in the principal of and the accrued and unpaid interest on all such debt becoming due and payable. In addition, an event of default under our Revolving Credit Facility could permit the lenders under our Revolving Credit Facility to terminate all commitments to extend further credit under that facility. Furthermore, if we were unable to repay any amounts due and payable under our Revolving Credit Facility, those lenders could proceed against the collateral granted to them to secure that indebtedness. In the event our lenders or noteholders accelerate the repayment of our borrowings, we and our subsidiaries may not have sufficient assets to repay that indebtedness.

Previous wording

More detailed descriptions of our Revolving Credit Facility and the indentures governing our Senior Notes are included in filings made by us with the SEC, along with the documents themselves, which provide the full text of these covenants.

Current wording

More detailed descriptions of our Revolving Credit Facility and the indentures governing our outstanding Senior Notes are included in filings made by us with the SEC, along with the documents themselves, which provide the full text of these covenants.

Previous wording

While our Revolving Credit Facility and the indentures governing the Senior Notes place limitations on our ability to pay dividends or make other distributions, repurchase or redeem capital stock, make loans and investments, and incur additional indebtedness, investors should be aware that these limitations are subject to significant qualifications and exceptions. The aggregate amount of payments made or incremental debt incurred in compliance with these limitations could be substantial.

Current wording

While our Revolving Credit Facility and the indentures governing the outstanding Senior Notes place limitations on our ability to pay dividends or make other distributions, repurchase or redeem capital stock, make loans and investments, and incur additional indebtedness, among other things, investors should be aware that these limitations are subject to significant qualifications and exceptions. The aggregate amount of payments made, incremental debt incurred or other transactions or business pursued in compliance with these limitations could be substantial.

Previous wording

As indicated above, more detailed descriptions of our Revolving Credit Facility and the indentures governing our Senior Notes are included in filings made by us with the SEC, along with the documents themselves, which provide the full text of these covenants.

Current wording

As indicated above, more detailed descriptions of our Revolving Credit Facility and the indentures governing our outstanding Senior Notes are included in filings made by us with the SEC, along with the documents themselves, which provide the full text of these covenants.

Previous wording

If our cash flows and capital resources are insufficient to fund our debt service obligations, we could face substantial liquidity challenges and could be forced to reduce or delay investments and capital expenditures, dispose of material assets or operations, restructure or refinance our indebtedness or seek additional debt or equity capital. We may not be able to effect any such alternative measures, if necessary, on commercially reasonable terms or at all and, even if successful, those alternative actions may not allow us to meet our scheduled debt service obligations. Our Revolving Credit Facility and the indentures governing the Senior Notes restrict our ability to dispose of assets and use the proceeds from those dispositions and may also restrict our ability to raise debt or certain forms of equity capital to be used to repay other indebtedness when it becomes due. We may not be able to consummate asset dispositions or to obtain proceeds in an amount sufficient to meet any debt service obligations then due.

Current wording

If our cash flows and capital resources are insufficient to fund our debt service obligations, we could face substantial liquidity challenges and could be forced to reduce or delay investments and capital expenditures, dispose of material assets or operations, restructure or refinance our indebtedness or seek additional debt or equity capital. We may not be able to effect any such alternative measures, if necessary, on commercially reasonable terms or at all and, even if successful, those alternative actions may not allow us to meet our scheduled debt service obligations. Our Revolving Credit Facility and the indentures governing the outstanding Senior Notes restrict our ability to dispose of assets and use the proceeds from those dispositions and may also restrict our ability to raise debt or certain forms of equity capital to be used to repay other indebtedness when it becomes due. We may not be able to consummate asset dispositions or to obtain proceeds in an amount sufficient to meet any debt service obligations then due.

Previous wording

If we cannot make scheduled payments on our debt, we will be in default and holders of the Senior Notes could declare all outstanding principal and interest to be due and payable, the lenders under our Revolving Credit Facility could terminate their commitments to loan money, the lenders could foreclose against the assets securing their borrowings and we could be forced into bankruptcy or liquidation.

Current wording

If we cannot make scheduled payments on our debt, we will be in default and holders of the outstanding Senior Notes could declare all outstanding principal and interest to be due and payable, the lenders under our Revolving Credit Facility could terminate their commitments to loan money, the lenders could foreclose against the assets securing their borrowings and we could be forced into bankruptcy or liquidation.

Previous wording

At December 31, 2024, approximately 65% of our employees were represented by labor unions under labor contracts with varying durations and expiration dates. Employees at our Trentwood and Newark facilities are represented by the USW under a single contract that extends through September 2025, with a separate agreement with the USW for another operation related to Trentwood. The collective bargaining agreements were renewed in February 2025 (see Note 18 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Form 10-K for additional information). The USW also represents employees at six other facilities. As part of any labor negotiation, the future wages, healthcare benefits, and excise taxes that may result therefrom, and other benefits that we agree to, could adversely affect our future financial position, results of operations, and cash flows. In addition, negotiations could divert management attention, result in unsatisfactory terms and conditions, fail in coming to any agreement at all, or result in strikes, work stoppages, or other union-initiated work actions, any of which could have an adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations, and cash flows. Moreover, the existence of labor agreements may not prevent such union-initiated work actions.

Current wording

At December 31, 2025, approximately 65% of our employees were represented by labor unions under labor contracts and 26% of those employees were covered by collective bargaining agreement with expiration dates occurring within one year from December 31, 2025. Employees at our Trentwood and Newark facilities are represented by the USW under a single contract that extends through September 2030, with a separate agreement with the USW for another operation related to Trentwood. The USW also represents employees at six other facilities. As part of any labor negotiation, the future wages, healthcare benefits, and excise taxes that may result therefrom, and other benefits that we agree to, could adversely affect our future financial position, results of operations, and cash flows. In addition, negotiations could divert management attention, result in unsatisfactory terms and conditions, fail in coming to any agreement at all, or result in strikes, work stoppages, or other union-initiated work actions, any of which could have an adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations, and cash flows. Moreover, the existence of labor agreements may not prevent such union-initiated work actions.

Previous wording

We have accrued and will accrue for costs that are reasonably expected to be incurred based on available information with respect to permits, fines, penalties and expenses for alleged breaches of, and compliance activities associated with, environmental laws and regulations in connection with our existing operations and investigations and environmental cleanup activities with respect to certain of our former operations. However, actual costs could exceed accrued amounts, perhaps significantly, and such expenditures could occur sooner than anticipated, which could adversely affect our financial position, results of operations, and cash flows.

Current wording

We have accrued and expect to continue to accrue for costs that are reasonably expected to be incurred based on available information with respect to permits, fines, penalties and expenses for alleged breaches of, and compliance activities associated with, environmental laws and regulations in connection with our existing operations and investigations and environmental cleanup activities with respect to certain of our former operations. However, actual costs could exceed accrued amounts, perhaps significantly, and such expenditures could occur sooner than anticipated, which could adversely affect our financial position, results of operations, and cash flows. For more information, see Part II, Item 7. “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition” under caption “Critical Accounting Estimates and Policies – Environmental Commitments and Contingencies” included in this Form 10-K, as well as Note 10 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Form 10-K.

Previous wording

Additionally, we may be subject to new claims from governmental authorities or third parties related to alleged injuries to the environment, human health or natural resources, including claims with respect to waste disposal sites, the cleanup of sites currently or formerly used by us or exposure of individuals to hazardous materials. New laws or regulations or changes to existing laws and regulations may also be enacted that increase the cost or complexity of compliance. Costs related to any new investigation, cleanup or other remediation, fines or penalties, resolution of third-party claims or compliance with new or amended laws and regulations, including enhanced permitting requirements, may be significant and could have an adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations, and cash flows.

Current wording

Additionally, we may be subject to new claims from governmental authorities or third parties related to alleged injuries to the environment, human health or natural resources, including claims with respect to waste disposal sites, the cleanup of sites currently or formerly used by us or exposure of individuals to hazardous materials. New laws or regulations or changes to existing laws and regulations may also be enacted that increase the cost or complexity of compliance, including evolving federal securities disclosure requirements, state‑level climate disclosure and packaging laws, and non‑U.S. reporting regimes applicable to our supply chain or customers. Costs related to any new investigation, cleanup or other remediation, fines or penalties, resolution of third-party claims or compliance with new or amended laws and regulations, including enhanced permitting requirements, may be significant and could have an adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations, and cash flows.

Previous wording

Laws enacted by government agencies, or policies of regulators, including the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the SEC, could regulate greenhouse gas emissions through cap-and-trade systems, carbon taxes, or other programs under which emitters would be required to buy allowances to offset emissions of greenhouse gas, pay carbon based taxes, make certain disclosures about emissions, which may be extensive, make significant capital investments, alter manufacturing practices or curtail production. In addition, several states, including the state of Washington, in which we have manufacturing operations, have implemented and continue to consider various greenhouse gas regulation and reduction programs through legislative proposals, executive orders and ballot initiatives. Certain of our manufacturing plants use significant amounts of electricity and natural gas and certain of our plants emit amounts of greenhouse gas above certain minimum thresholds that have or may be imposed. While certain of our operations, including the melting of aluminum, require the use of natural gas to achieve the required temperatures, greenhouse gas regulations could restrict our access to natural gas and limit our ability to use natural gas and increase the price we pay for natural gas and electricity, any one of which could significantly increase our costs, reduce our competitiveness in the global economy or otherwise adversely affect our business, operations, or financial results.

Current wording

U.S. and non-U.S. governments and agencies, including the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, have in the past regulated and could in the future seek to regulate further direct and indirect greenhouse gas emissions through cap-and-trade systems, carbon taxes, or other programs under which emitters would be required to buy allowances to offset emissions of greenhouse gas, pay carbon based taxes, and make certain disclosures, which requirements may be extensive and expensive to comply with, make significant capital investments, alter manufacturing practices or reduce direct or indirect emissions, which could result in curtailed production. In addition, several states, including the state of Washington, in which we have manufacturing operations, have enacted and continue to consider legislation and ballot initiatives, as well as executive orders, that would implement various greenhouse gas regulation and reduction programs. Certain of our manufacturing plants use significant amounts of electricity and natural gas and certain of our plants emit amounts of greenhouse gas, including above minimum thresholds that have been imposed or that are under consideration. Because certain of our operations, including the melting of aluminum, require the use of natural gas to achieve the required temperatures, and because greenhouse gas regulations could restrict our access to natural gas and limit our ability to use natural gas and increase the price we pay for natural gas and electricity, we could experience significant increased costs, reduced competitiveness in the global economy or other adverse effects our business, operations, or financial results.

Previous wording

Furthermore, regulations or other targets for greenhouse gas emissions reductions in the United States as well as other jurisdictions could impact the availability and price of energy and raw materials, which could ultimately lead to supply demand imbalances, higher costs and supply chain disruptions. Prolonged shortages or slowdowns could negatively impact our cost of goods and result in delays or non-delivery of shipments of our products. The future impact of these or other changes could be regulatory or voluntary and could impact our operations directly or indirectly through our customers or our supply chain. These potential impacts could have an adverse effect on our operations, financial position, results of operations, and cash flows.

Current wording

Furthermore, regulations or other targets for greenhouse gas emissions reductions in the United States as well as other jurisdictions could impact the availability and price of energy and raw materials, which could ultimately lead to supply demand imbalances, higher costs and supply chain disruptions, including increased electricity and natural gas costs and potential curtailments during periods of grid stress. Prolonged shortages or slowdowns could negatively impact our cost of goods and result in delays or non-delivery of shipments of our products. These or other related changes could impact our operations directly or indirectly through our customers or our supply chain. These and other potential impacts could have an adverse effect on our operations, financial position, results of operations, and cash flows.

Previous wording

Many governments, regulators, investors, employees, customers, and other stakeholders are increasingly focused on sustainability considerations relating to businesses, including climate change and greenhouse gas emissions, data privacy, artificial intelligence, human capital and diversity, equity and inclusion. We make statements about our sustainability goals and initiatives through information provided on our website, press statements, and other communications, including through our Corporate Sustainability Report. Responding to these sustainability considerations and implementation of these goals and initiatives involves risks and uncertainties, including those described under “Forward-Looking Statements,” requires investments and is impacted by factors that may be outside our control. In addition, some of these parties may disagree with our goals and initiatives and their focus may change and evolve over time. We may also change our goals and initiatives due to a change in strategy, reduced relevance, or changing market conditions and we may take actions company parties view as contrary to such goals and initiatives. Parties also may have very different views on where sustainability focus should be placed, including differing views of regulators in various jurisdictions in which we operate. Any failure, or perceived failure, by us to achieve our goals, further our initiatives, adhere to our public statements, comply with federal, state or international sustainability laws and regulations or meet evolving and varied stakeholder expectations and standards could result in legal and regulatory proceedings against us that could materially adversely affect our business, reputation, results of operations, financial condition, and stock price.

Current wording

Many governments, regulators, investors, employees, customers, and other stakeholders continue to focus on sustainability considerations relating to businesses, including climate change and greenhouse gas emissions, data privacy, artificial intelligence, human capital and diversity and inclusion. We make statements about our sustainability goals and initiatives through information provided on our website, press statements, and other communications, including through our Corporate Sustainability Report. Responding to these sustainability considerations and implementation of these goals and initiatives involves risks and uncertainties, including those described under “Forward-Looking Statements,” requires investments and is impacted by factors that may be outside our control. In addition, some of these parties may disagree with our goals and initiatives and their focus may change and evolve, and in some cases has changed or evolved, over time. We may also change our goals and initiatives due to a change in strategy, reduced relevance, or changing market conditions and we may take actions parties view as contrary to such goals and initiatives. Parties also may have very different views on where sustainability focus should be placed, including differing views of regulators in various jurisdictions in which we operate. Any failure, or perceived failure, by us to achieve our goals, further our initiatives, adhere to our public statements, comply with federal, state or international sustainability laws and regulations or meet evolving and varied stakeholder expectations and standards could result in legal and regulatory proceedings against us, including greenwashing or consumer protection claims, that could materially adversely affect our business, reputation, results of operations, financial condition, and stock price.

Previous wording

We rely on information technology networks and systems to process, transmit and store electronic information, operate our business and communicate among our locations and with our customers, suppliers, and other interested parties. Many of these systems are provided to us and/or maintained on our behalf by third-party service providers pursuant to agreements that specify to varying degrees certain security and service level standards. Our information technology systems are dependent upon these providers. Such information technology systems are subject to: (i) interruption or damage from power outages; (ii) cybersecurity breaches and other types of unauthorized access and/or use; and (iii) cyberattacks in the form of computer viruses, worms, malicious computer programs, denial‑of‑service attacks and other illegal or illicit means. Cyberattack and security breach strategies and methods continue to evolve and become more sophisticated. In addition, due to the industry we serve, there is an increased risk of cyberattacks, phishing attacks, and other forms of information technology threats. Accordingly, preventing intrusions and detecting successful intrusions and defending against them continues to be more difficult and requires ever-increasing vigilance.

Current wording

We rely on information technology networks and systems to process, transmit and store electronic information, operate our business and communicate among our locations and with our customers, suppliers, and other interested parties. Many of these systems are provided to us and/or maintained on our behalf by third-party service providers pursuant to agreements that specify to varying degrees certain security and service level standards. Our information technology systems are dependent upon these providers. Such information technology systems are subject to: (i) interruption or damage from power outages; (ii) cybersecurity breaches and other types of unauthorized access and/or use; and (iii) cyberattacks in the form of computer viruses, worms, malicious computer programs, denial‑of‑service attacks and other illegal or illicit means. Cyberattack and security breach strategies and methods continue to evolve and become more sophisticated, including thorough increasing utilization of artificial intelligence technologies. In addition, because we serve the defense industry, there is an increased risk of cyberattacks, phishing attacks, and other forms of information technology threats. Accordingly, preventing intrusions and detecting successful intrusions and defending against them continues to be more difficult and requires ever-increasing vigilance.

Previous wording

A breach in cybersecurity on our systems or any of our third-party service providers could result in manipulation and destruction of sensitive data, cause critical systems to malfunction, be damaged or shut down and lead to disruption of our operations and production downtimes, potentially for lengthy periods of time. Theft of personal or other confidential data and sensitive proprietary information could also occur as a result of a breach in cybersecurity, exposing us to costs and liabilities associated with privacy and data security laws in the jurisdictions in which we operate. Additionally, a breach could expose us, our customers, our suppliers, and our employees to risks of misuse of such information. Such negative consequences of cyberattacks or security breaches could adversely affect our reputation, competitive position, business, or results of operations. The lost profits and increased costs related to cyber or other security threats or disruptions may not be fully insured against or indemnified by other means.

Current wording

A breach in cybersecurity on our systems or any of our third-party service providers could result in manipulation and destruction of sensitive data, cause critical systems to malfunction, be damaged or shut down and lead to disruption of our operations and production downtimes, potentially for lengthy periods of time. Theft of personal or other confidential data and sensitive proprietary information could also occur as a result of a breach in cybersecurity, exposing us to costs and liabilities associated with privacy and data security laws in the jurisdictions in which we operate. Additionally, a breach could expose us, our customers, our suppliers, and our employees to risks of misuse of such information and increase our regulatory reporting obligations. Such negative consequences of cyberattacks or security breaches could adversely affect our reputation, competitive position, business, or results of operations. The lost profits and increased costs related to cyber or other security threats or disruptions may not be fully insured against or indemnified by other means.