Hamilton Lane INC

Previous wording

As we expand the scope of our business, we increasingly confront potential and actual conflicts of interest relating to our advisory and investment management businesses. For example, we may recommend that various advisory clients invest in specialized funds managed by us. Additionally, allocating investment opportunities appropriately frequently involves significant and subjective judgements, and the risk that allocation decisions could be challenged as inconsistent with our obligations under applicable law, governing fund agreements or our own policies cannot be eliminated. It is possible that actual, potential or perceived conflicts could give rise to investor dissatisfaction, litigation or regulatory enforcement actions. As a registered investment advisor, we owe our clients a fiduciary duty and are required to provide disinterested advice. Appropriately dealing with conflicts of interest is complex and difficult and our reputation could be damaged if we fail, or appear to fail, to deal appropriately with one or more potential or actual conflicts of interest. Regulatory scrutiny of, or litigation in connection with, conflicts of interest could have a material adverse effect on our reputation, which could materially and adversely affect our business in a number of ways, including an inability to raise additional funds, attract new clients or retain existing clients.

Current wording

As we expand the scope of our business, we increasingly confront potential and actual conflicts of interest relating to our advisory and investment management businesses. For example, we may recommend that various advisory clients invest in specialized funds managed by us. Additionally, allocating investment opportunities appropriately frequently involves significant and subjective judgments, and the risk that allocation decisions could be challenged as inconsistent with our obligations under applicable law, governing fund agreements or our own policies cannot be eliminated. It is possible that actual, potential or perceived conflicts could give rise to investor dissatisfaction, litigation or regulatory enforcement actions. As a registered investment adviser, we owe our clients a fiduciary duty and are required to provide disinterested advice. Furthermore, as we form and launch more registered investment companies under the Investment Company Act, the risk of triggering potential issues under Section 17 of the Investment Company Act, which prohibits certain transactions between registered investment companies and their affiliates, increases. Identification of the affiliates affected by Section 17 is complex, and at times, subject to interpretive judgment. The SEC may disagree with our interpretation of these prohibitions, heightening our regulatory risks and the risk that an investor and/or a regulator could claim that a transaction violated these rules.

Previous wording

Our success depends on our ability to retain our senior management team and to recruit additional qualified investment, sales and other professionals. The individuals that comprise our senior management team possess substantial experience and expertise and, in many cases, have significant relationships with certain of our clients. Accordingly, the loss or prolonged absence of any one of our senior management team or other key personnel could adversely affect certain client relationships, reduce our productivity or limit our ability to successfully execute our investment strategies, which, in turn, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. Senior managing directors have left the firm in the past and others may do so in the future, and we cannot predict the impact that the departure of any senior managing director will have on our ability to achieve our investment objectives. In addition, given recent regulatory developments, we may be unable to enforce the non-competition agreements we have in place with the majority of our employees, and there is no guarantee that our other arrangements with our employees, such as our non-solicitation agreements, will be enforceable or will prevent our employees from leaving, joining our competitors or otherwise competing with us. In order to retain and attract qualified investment professionals, we expect to continue to experience a general rise in compensation and benefits expense commensurate with expected growth in headcount and with the need to maintain competitive compensation levels, which could cause our total employee compensation and benefits expense as a percentage of our total revenue to increase and adversely affect our profitability. However, we may not be successful in our efforts, as the market for investment professionals is extremely competitive. In addition, the governing agreements of our specialized funds typically require the suspension of the investment period if, depending on the fund, between two and ten designated members of our senior management team cease to devote sufficient professional time to or cease to be employed by HLA, often called a “key person event,” or in connection with certain other events. Any change to our senior management team could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Current wording

Our success depends on our ability to retain our senior management team and to recruit and retain additional qualified investment, sales and other professionals. However, we may not be successful in our efforts, as the market for investment professionals is extremely competitive. The individuals that comprise our senior management team possess substantial experience and expertise and, in many cases, have significant relationships with certain of our clients. Accordingly, the loss or prolonged absence of any one of our senior management team or other key personnel could adversely affect certain client relationships, reduce our productivity or limit our ability to successfully execute our investment strategies, which, in turn, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. In addition, the governing agreements of our specialized funds typically require the suspension of the investment period if, depending on the fund, between two and ten designated members of our senior management team either cease to devote sufficient professional time to or cease to be employed by HLA, often called a “key person event,” or in connection with certain other events. Senior managing directors have left the firm in the past and others may do so in the future. While we cannot predict the impact that the departure of any single senior managing director will have on our ability to achieve our investment objectives, any change to our senior management team could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Previous wording

We currently generate substantially all of our revenue from asset management and advisory services. However, we have and intend to continue to grow our business by offering additional products and services, by formulating new business strategies, by entering into, or expanding our presence in, new geographic markets and by entering into selected strategic partnerships and corporate investments. These activities have and could continue to increase our operational costs and subject us to new laws and regulations with which we are not familiar, or from which we are currently exempt, which may lead to increased litigation and regulatory risk. For example, we have recently undertaken business initiatives to reach an increasing number of retail investors in the United States and around the world, which exposes us to greater levels of risk, including heightened litigation, regulatory enforcement and reputational risks. The distribution of retail products, including through new channels (such as tokenization and digital securities exchanges), whether directly or through market intermediaries, can be complex and could expose us to allegations of improper conduct and/or actions by regulators within and outside the United States with respect to, among other things, product suitability, investor classification, compliance with securities laws, conflicts of interest and the adequacy of disclosure to customers to whom our products are distributed through those channels. To the extent distribution of our retail or other products is through third-party distributors with whom we engage, we may not be able to effectively monitor or control the manner of their distribution, which could result in claims that products distributed through such channels are distributed to customers for whom they are unsuitable or that they are distributed in an otherwise inappropriate manner. We are exposed to the risks of reputational damage and legal liability to the extent such third parties we engage, whom we do not control, improperly sell our products to investors. This risk increases as the number of third-party distributors increases.

Current wording

We currently generate substantially all of our revenue from asset management and advisory services. However, we have and intend to continue to grow our business by offering additional products and services, by formulating new business strategies, by entering into, or expanding our presence in, new geographic markets and by entering into selected strategic partnerships and corporate investments. These activities have and could continue to increase our operational costs and subject us to new laws and regulations with which we are not familiar, or from which we are currently exempt, which may lead to increased litigation and regulatory risk. For example, we have recently undertaken business initiatives to reach an increasing number of retail investors in the United States and around the world, including seeking to tokenize certain of our funds, which exposes us to greater levels of risk, including heightened litigation, regulatory enforcement and reputational risks. The distribution of retail products, including through tokenization and digital securities exchanges, whether directly or through market intermediaries, can be complex and could expose us to allegations of improper conduct and/or actions by regulators within and outside the United States with respect to, among other things, product suitability, investor classification, compliance with securities laws, conflicts of interest and the adequacy of disclosure to customers to whom our products are distributed through those channels. To the extent distribution of our retail or other products is through third-party distributors with whom we engage, we may not be able to effectively monitor or control the manner of their distribution, which could result in claims that products distributed through such channels are distributed to customers for whom they are unsuitable or that they are distributed in an otherwise inappropriate manner. We are exposed to the risks of reputational damage and legal liability to the extent such third parties we engage, whom we do not control, improperly sell our products to investors. This risk increases as the number of third-party distributors increases.

Previous wording

We have and will continue to provide resources to foster the development of new product offerings and business strategies by our investment professionals and launch successor and related products, such that our new strategies seek to achieve a level of scale and profitability. To raise new funds and pursue new strategies, we have and expect to continue to use our balance sheet capital to warehouse seed investments, which may decrease the liquidity available for other parts of our business. If a new strategy or fund does not develop as anticipated or our balance sheet assets cease to provide adequate liquidity, we may be forced to realize losses or become limited in our ability to seed new funds or strategies or support existing ones as currently contemplated. Further, we have from time to time and intend to continue to explore opportunities to grow our business via acquisitions, partnerships, investments or other strategic transactions and have and may continue to use our balance sheet capital to do so. There can be no assurance that we will successfully identify, negotiate or complete such transactions, that any completed transactions will produce favorable financial results or that we will be able to successfully integrate an acquired business with ours. Further, our strategic initiatives include the acquisition of minority interests in third parties, in which case we will be subject to additional risks and uncertainties in that we may be dependent upon, and subject to liability for, losses or reputational damage relating to, systems, controls and personnel that are not under our control.

Current wording

We have and will continue to provide resources to foster the development of new product offerings and business strategies by our investment professionals and launch successor and related products, such that our new strategies seek to achieve a level of scale and profitability. To raise new funds and pursue new strategies, we have and expect to continue to use our balance sheet capital to warehouse seed investments, which may decrease the liquidity available for other parts of our business. In the past, we have supplemented our balance sheet capital for this purpose with proceeds of privately placed debt, and we may choose to issue additional debt in the future to further supplement our capital. If a new strategy or fund does not develop as anticipated or our balance sheet assets cease to provide adequate liquidity, we may be forced to realize losses or become limited in our ability to seed new funds or strategies or support existing ones as currently contemplated. Further, we have from time to time and intend to continue to explore opportunities to grow our business via acquisitions, partnerships, investments or other strategic transactions and have and may continue to use our balance sheet capital or issue shares of Class A common stock to do so. There can be no assurance that we will successfully identify, negotiate or complete such transactions, that any completed transactions will produce favorable financial results or that we will be able to successfully integrate an acquired business with ours. Further, our strategic initiatives include the acquisition of minority interests in third parties, in which case we will be subject to additional risks and uncertainties in that we may be dependent upon, and subject to liability for, losses or reputational damage relating to, systems, controls and personnel that are not under our control. In addition, if we choose to issue equity to fund an acquisition, our stockholders may experience dilution.

Previous wording

The revenues that we earn are driven in part by the amount of capital committed by our clients for investment, our fundraising efforts and the pace at which we make investments on behalf of our specialized funds and customized separate accounts. Declines in the pace or the size of fundraising efforts or investments reduce our revenues. The private markets investing environment continues to see increased competition, which can make fundraising and the deployment of capital more difficult. In addition, many other factors cause declines in the pace of investment, including a market environment characterized by high prices, the inability of our investment professionals to identify attractive investment opportunities and decreased availability of financing on attractive terms or decreased availability of investor capital, including potentially as a result of a challenging fundraising environment or heightened requests for redemptions or repurchases in our evergreen funds. Further, we may fail to consummate identified investment opportunities because of business, regulatory or legal complexities or uncertainty and adverse developments in the U.S. or global economy, financial markets or geopolitical conditions, and our ability to deploy capital in certain countries may be adversely impacted by U.S. and foreign government policy changes and regulations. In addition, if we are unable to deploy capital at a pace that is sufficient to offset the pace of realizations, our fee revenues could decrease.

Current wording

The revenues that we earn are driven in part by the amount of capital committed by our clients for investment, our fundraising efforts and the pace at which we make investments on behalf of our specialized funds and customized separate accounts. Declines in the pace or the size of fundraising efforts or investments reduce our revenues. The private markets investing environment continues to see increased competition, which can make fundraising and the deployment of capital more difficult. In addition, many other factors cause declines in the pace of investment, including a market environment characterized by high prices or uncertainty, the unavailability of suitable opportunities for investors and clients to exit existing investments and redeploy realized capital into new investments, the inability of our investment professionals to identify attractive investment opportunities and decreased availability of financing on attractive terms or decreased availability of investor capital, including potentially as a result of a challenging fundraising environment or heightened requests for redemptions or repurchases in our evergreen funds. Further, we may fail to consummate identified investment opportunities because of business, regulatory or legal complexities or uncertainty and adverse developments in the U.S. or global economy, financial markets or geopolitical conditions, and our ability to deploy capital in certain countries may be adversely impacted by U.S. and foreign government policy changes and regulations. In addition, if we are unable to deploy capital at a pace that is sufficient to offset the pace of realizations, our fee revenues could decrease.

Previous wording

We maintain a Term Loan and Security Agreement (as amended, the “Term Loan Agreement”), a 2020 Multi-Draw Term Loan and Security Agreement (as amended, the “2020 Multi-Draw Term Loan Agreement”), a 2022 Multi-Draw Term Loan and Security Agreement (the “2022 Multi-Draw Term Loan Agreement”) and a Revolving Loan and Security Agreement (as amended, the “Revolving Loan Agreement” and, together with the Term Loan Agreement, the 2020 Multi-Draw Term Loan Agreement and the 2022 Multi-Draw Term Loan Agreement, the “Loan Agreements”) with JPMorgan Chase & Co. (“JPMorgan”), as successor to First Republic Bank (“First Republic”). In early May 2023, JPMorgan announced its purchase of

Current wording

We maintain a Term Loan and Security Agreement (as amended, the “Term Loan Agreement”), a 2020 Multi-Draw Term Loan and Security Agreement (as amended, the “2020 Multi-Draw Term Loan Agreement”), a 2022 Multi-Draw Term Loan and Security Agreement (the “2022 Multi-Draw Term Loan Agreement”) and a Revolving Loan and Security Agreement (as amended, the “Revolving Loan Agreement” and, together with the Term Loan Agreement, the 2020 Multi-Draw Term Loan Agreement and the 2022 Multi-Draw Term Loan Agreement, the “Loan Agreements”) with JPMorgan Chase & Co. (“JPMorgan”), as successor to First Republic Bank. On October 8, 2024, we issued $100,000,000 aggregate principal amount of 5.28% senior notes due October 15, 2029 (the “Senior Notes”), pursuant to a note purchase agreement (the “Note Purchase Agreement”) in a private placement among HLA and the purchasers party thereto.

Previous wording

First Republic after that bank’s failure. The purchase included our Loan Agreements. The Term Loan Agreement matures on January 1, 2030, the 2020 Multi-Draw Term Loan Agreement matures on July 1, 2030, the 2022 Multi-Draw Term Loan Agreement matures on October 1, 2029 and the Revolving Loan Agreement matures on March 24, 2025. For more information on our Loan Agreements, see “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Liquidity and Capital Resources—Loan Agreements”.

Current wording

The Term Loan Agreement matures on July 1, 2029, the 2020 Multi-Draw Term Loan Agreement matures on April 1, 2030, the 2022 Multi-Draw Term Loan Agreement matures on October 1, 2029 and the Revolving Loan Agreement matures on October 7, 2027. For more information on our Loan Agreements and Senior Notes, see “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Liquidity and Capital Resources—Senior Notes and Loan Agreements”.

Previous wording

In addition, the availability of capital from our Loan Agreements and our cash balances are exposed to the credit risks of the financial institutions at which they are held. Events involving limited liquidity, defaults, non-performance or other adverse developments that affect financial institutions, transactional counterparties or the financial services industry generally, or concerns or rumors about any such events or other similar risks, have in the past and may in the future lead to market-wide liquidity problems or the fear of market-wide liquidity problems. Our material credit facility consists of our Loan Agreements, which are now held at JPMorgan since its purchase of First Republic after that bank’s failure. While the balances and liquidity of the accounts we maintain at First Republic have not been materially adversely affected by that bank’s failure, if any of the financial institutions at which we maintain account balances or upon which we rely for credit were to become unstable or insolvent, our ability to access existing cash, cash equivalents and investments, or to access existing or enter into new banking arrangements or facilities to pay operational and other costs, could be threatened or lost, which could have a material adverse effect on our business and financial condition. Our account balances at each institution typically exceed Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC”) insurance coverage of $250,000 per depositor, and, as a result, there is a concentration of credit risk related to amounts on deposit in excess of FDIC insurance coverage. In some cases, we have transferred uninsured cash balances to money market mutual funds.

Current wording

In addition, the availability of capital from our Loan Agreements and our cash balances are exposed to the credit risks of the financial institutions at which they are held. Events involving limited liquidity, defaults, non-performance or other adverse developments that affect financial institutions, transactional counterparties or the financial services industry generally, or concerns or rumors about any such events or other similar risks, have in the past and may in the future lead to market-wide liquidity problems or the fear of market-wide liquidity problems. Our material credit facility consists of our Loan Agreements, which are now held at JPMorgan since its purchase of First Republic after that bank’s failure. While the balances and liquidity of the accounts we maintained at First Republic were not materially adversely affected by that bank’s failure, if any of the financial institutions at which we maintain account balances or upon which we rely for credit were to become unstable or insolvent, our ability to access existing cash, cash equivalents and investments, or to access existing or enter into new banking arrangements or facilities to pay operational and other costs, could be threatened or lost, which could have a material adverse effect on our business and financial condition. Our account balances at each institution typically exceed Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC”)

Previous wording

We may be unable to remain in compliance with the financial or other covenants contained in the Loan Agreements.

Current wording

We may be unable to remain in compliance with the financial or other covenants contained in our Loan Agreements and the Note Purchase Agreement.

Previous wording

The Loan Agreements contain, and any future debt instruments may contain, financial and other covenants that impose requirements on us and limit our and our subsidiaries’ ability to engage in certain transactions or activities, such as:

Current wording

The Loan Agreements and the Note Purchase Agreement contain, and any future debt instruments may contain, financial and other covenants that impose requirements on us and limit our and our subsidiaries’ ability to engage in certain transactions or activities, such as:

Previous wording

• make certain modifications to certain other debt documents; and

Current wording

• make certain modifications to certain other debt documents;

Previous wording

• enter into certain agreements with respect to the repayment of indebtedness, the making of loans or advances, or the transfer of assets.

Current wording

• enter into certain agreements with respect to the repayment of indebtedness, the making of loans or advances, or the transfer of assets; and

Previous wording

There can be no assurance that we will be able to maintain leverage levels in compliance with the financial covenants included in the Loan Agreements. These restrictions may limit our flexibility in operating our business, and any failure to comply with these financial and other covenants, if not waived, would cause a default or event of default. Our obligations under the Loan Agreements are secured by substantially all of our assets. In the case of an event of default, creditors may exercise rights and remedies, including the rights and remedies of a secured party, under such agreements and applicable law, which could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. For more information on our Loan Agreements, see “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Liquidity and Capital Resources—Loan Agreements”.

Current wording

There can be no assurance that we will be able to comply with the financial covenants contained in our Loan Agreements and the Note Purchase Agreement, including requirements that we maintain a consolidated leverage ratio within a specified range, specified amounts of management fees, a specified amount of adjusted EBITDA, and a specified minimum tangible net worth (as defined in those agreements). These restrictions may limit our flexibility in operating our business, and any failure to comply with these financial and other covenants, if not waived, would cause a default or event of default. Our obligations under the Loan Agreements are secured by substantially all of our assets. In the case of an event of default, creditors may exercise rights and remedies, including the rights and remedies of a secured party, under such agreements and applicable law, which could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. For more information on our Senior Notes and Loan Agreements, see “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Liquidity and Capital Resources—Senior Notes and Loan Agreements”.

Previous wording

Similarly, private markets funds’ portfolio companies regularly utilize the corporate debt markets to obtain additional financing for their operations. The leveraged capital structure of such businesses increases the exposure of the funds’ portfolio companies to adverse economic factors such as rising interest rates, financial institution risks discussed above, downturns in the economy or deterioration in the condition of such business or its industry. Any adverse impact caused by the use of leverage by portfolio companies in which we directly or indirectly invest could in turn adversely affect the returns of our specialized funds, customized separate accounts and advisory accounts.

Current wording

Similarly, private markets funds’ portfolio companies regularly utilize the corporate debt markets to obtain additional financing for their operations. The leveraged capital structure of such businesses increases the exposure of the funds’ portfolio companies to adverse economic factors such as rising interest rates, financial institution risks discussed above, downturns in the economy or deterioration in the condition of such business or its industry. If the portfolio companies in our funds default on their indebtedness, or otherwise seek or are forced to restructure their obligations or declare bankruptcy, we could lose some or all of our investment and suffer reputational harm. Any adverse impact caused by the use of leverage by portfolio companies in which we directly or indirectly invest could in turn adversely affect the returns of our specialized funds, customized separate accounts and advisory accounts.

Previous wording

Our business is exposed to the risk that clients that owe us money for our services may not pay us, and investors may default on their obligations to fund their commitments. We believe that these risks increase during periods of economic uncertainty, such as in the case of difficult or volatile market and geopolitical conditions, and if the financial institutions holding cash to be used for funding commitments are in financial distress. If investors in our specialized funds and certain customized separate accounts default on their obligations to fund commitments, there may be adverse consequences on the investment process, and we could incur losses and be unable to meet underlying capital calls. For example, investors in most of our specialized funds make capital commitments to those funds that we are entitled to call from those investors at any time during prescribed periods. We depend on investors fulfilling and honoring their commitments when we call capital from them for those funds to consummate investments and otherwise pay their obligations when due. In addition, certain of our funds and customized separate accounts may utilize lines of credit to fund investments. Because interest expense and other costs of borrowings under lines of credit are an expense of the fund or account, the fund’s or account’s net multiple of invested capital may be reduced, as well as the amount of carried interest generated. Any material reduction in the amount of carried interest generated may adversely affect our revenues. We have not had clients or investors fail to honor capital calls to any meaningful extent.

Current wording

Our business is exposed to the risk that clients that owe us money for our services may not pay us, and investors may default on their obligations to fund their commitments. We believe that these risks increase during periods of economic uncertainty, such as in the case of difficult or volatile market and geopolitical conditions, and if the financial institutions holding cash to be used for funding commitments are in financial distress. If investors in our specialized funds and certain customized separate accounts default on their obligations to fund commitments, there may be adverse consequences on the investment process, and we could incur losses and be unable to meet underlying capital calls. For example, investors in most of our specialized funds make capital commitments to those funds that we are entitled to call from those investors at any time during prescribed periods. We depend on investors fulfilling and honoring their commitments when we call capital from them for those funds to consummate investments and otherwise pay their obligations when due. In addition, certain of our funds and customized separate accounts utilize lines of credit to fund investments. Because interest expense and other costs of borrowings under lines of credit are an expense of the fund or account, the fund’s or account’s net multiple of invested capital may be reduced, as well as the amount of carried interest generated. Any material reduction in the amount of carried interest generated may adversely affect our revenues. We have not had clients or investors fail to honor capital calls to any meaningful extent.

Previous wording

Our revenue from our investment management business is derived from fees earned for our management of our specialized funds, customized separate accounts and advisory accounts, incentive fees, or carried interest, with respect to certain of our specialized funds and customized separate accounts, and monitoring and reporting fees. In the event that our specialized funds, customized separate accounts or individual investments perform poorly, our revenues and earnings derived from incentive fees will decline, and it will be more difficult for us to raise capital for new specialized funds or gain new or retain current customized separate account clients in the future. Furthermore, underlying investments within our specialized funds and customized separate accounts reflect valuations reported elsewhere in this Form 10-K that are determined as of December 31, 2023. Decreases in public markets and credit indices as well as decreases in current or future estimated performance of underlying portfolio companies in quarters ending after that date may result in negative valuation adjustments that will be reported on a three-month lag in accordance with our accounting policy. Adverse investment valuations directly impact our investments, equity in income of investees, unrealized carried interest, AUM and AUA for the period. In addition, if carried interest that was previously distributed to us exceeds the amounts to which we are ultimately entitled, we may be required to repay that amount under a “clawback” obligation. The risk of clawback can occur as a result of diminished investment performance. If we are unable to repay the amount of the clawback, we would be subject to liability for a breach of our contractual obligations. If we are unable to raise or are required to repay capital, our business, financial condition and results of operations would be materially and adversely affected.

Current wording

Our revenue from our investment management business is derived from fees earned for our management of our specialized funds, customized separate accounts and advisory accounts, incentive fees, including carried interest and performance fees, with respect to certain of our specialized funds and customized separate accounts, and monitoring and reporting fees. In the event that our specialized funds, customized separate accounts or individual investments perform poorly, our revenues and earnings derived from incentive fees will decline, and it will be more difficult for us to raise capital for new specialized funds or gain new or retain current customized separate account clients in the future. Furthermore, underlying investments within our specialized funds and customized separate accounts reflect valuations reported elsewhere in this Form 10-K that are determined as of December 31, 2024. Decreases in public markets and credit indices as well as decreases in current or future estimated performance of underlying portfolio companies in quarters ending after that date may result in negative valuation adjustments that will be reported on a three-month lag in accordance with our accounting policy. Adverse investment valuations directly impact our investments, equity in income of investees, unrealized carried interest, AUM and AUA for the period. In addition, if carried interest that was previously distributed to us exceeds the amounts to which we are ultimately entitled, we may be required to repay that amount under a “clawback” obligation. The risk of clawback can occur as a result of diminished investment performance. If we are unable to repay the amount of the clawback, we would be subject to liability for a breach of our contractual obligations. If we are unable to raise or are required to repay capital, our business, financial condition and results of operations would be materially and adversely affected.

Previous wording

Our cash flow may fluctuate significantly due to the fact that we receive carried interest distributions only when investments are realized and achieve a certain preferred return based on performance. It takes a substantial period of time to identify attractive investment opportunities, raise all funds needed to make an investment and then realize the cash value (or other proceeds) of an investment. Even if an investment proves to be profitable, it may be a number of years before any profits can be realized in cash (or other proceeds). In addition, carried interest distributions have in the past and may in the future decrease in difficult, volatile or uncertain economic environments as the ability of general partners to exit and realize value from existing investments may be even more limited than in more stable economic environments. We cannot predict when, or if, any realization of investments will occur, and thus, we cannot predict the timing or amounts of carried interest distributions to us. If we were to receive a distribution of carried interest in a particular quarter, it may have a significant impact on our results for that particular quarter, which may not be replicated in subsequent quarters. As a result, achieving steady growth in net income and cash flow on a quarterly basis may be difficult, which could in turn lead to large adverse movements or general increased volatility in the price of our Class A common stock.

Current wording

Our cash flow may fluctuate significantly due to the fact that we typically receive carried interest distributions only when investments are realized and achieve a certain preferred return based on performance. It takes a substantial period of time to identify attractive investment opportunities, raise all funds needed to make an investment and then realize the cash value (or other proceeds) of an investment. Even if an investment proves to be profitable, it may be a number of years before any profits can be realized in cash (or other proceeds). In addition, carried interest distributions have in the past and may in the future decrease in difficult, volatile or uncertain economic environments as the ability of general partners to exit and realize value from existing investments may be even more limited than in more stable economic environments. We cannot predict when, or if, any realization of investments will occur, and thus, we cannot predict the timing or amounts of carried interest distributions to us. If we were to receive a distribution of carried interest in a particular quarter, it may have a significant impact on our results for that particular quarter, which may not be replicated in subsequent quarters. As a result, achieving steady growth in net income and cash flow on a quarterly basis may be difficult, which could in turn lead to large adverse movements or general increased volatility in the price of our Class A common stock.

Previous wording

Because there is significant uncertainty in the valuation of, or in the stability of the value of, illiquid investments, the fair values of such investments as reflected in a fund’s NAV do not necessarily reflect the prices that would actually be obtained if such investments were sold. Realizations at values significantly lower than the values at which investments have been reflected in fund NAVs could result in losses for the applicable fund and the loss of potential incentive fees by the fund’s manager and us. Also, a situation in which asset values turn out to be materially different from values reflected in fund NAVs, whether due to error or otherwise, could cause investors to lose confidence in us and may, in turn, result in difficulties in our ability to raise additional capital, retain clients or attract new clients. Further, we often engage third-party valuation agents to assist us with the valuations. It is possible that a material fact related to the target of the valuation might be inadvertently omitted from our communications with them, resulting in an inaccurate valuation.

Current wording

Because there is significant uncertainty in the valuation of, or in the stability of the value of, illiquid investments, the fair values of such investments as reflected in a fund’s NAV do not necessarily reflect the prices that would actually be obtained if such investments were sold. Realizations at values significantly lower than the values at which investments have been reflected in fund NAVs could result in losses for the applicable fund and the loss of potential incentive fees by the fund’s manager and us. Also, a situation in which asset values turn out to be materially different from values reflected in fund NAVs, whether due to error or otherwise, could cause investors to lose confidence in us and may, in turn, result in difficulties in our ability to raise additional capital, retain clients or attract new clients. Further, it is possible that a material fact related to the target of the valuation might be inadvertently omitted from our analysis, resulting in an inaccurate valuation.

Previous wording

Further, the SEC has instituted enforcement actions against advisors for misleading investors about valuation. If the SEC were to investigate and find errors in our methodologies or procedures, we and/or members of our management could be subject to penalties and fines, which could harm our reputation and our business, financial condition and results of operations could be materially and adversely affected.

Current wording

The SEC has instituted enforcement actions against advisors for misleading investors about valuation. If the SEC were to investigate and find errors in our methodologies or procedures, we and/or members of our management could be subject to penalties and fines, which could harm our reputation and our business, financial condition and results of operations could be materially and adversely affected.

Previous wording

The investments made by our specialized funds and customized separate accounts and recommended by our advisory services may include high-risk, illiquid assets. We generally have made and expect to continue to make principal investments alongside our investors, as the general partner, in our existing private markets funds and certain customized separate accounts and in any new private markets funds we may establish in the future. The private markets funds in which we invest capital generally invest in securities that are not publicly traded. Even if such securities are publicly traded, many of these funds may be prohibited by contract or applicable securities laws from selling such securities for a period of time. Such funds will generally not be able to sell these securities publicly unless their sale is registered under applicable securities laws, or unless an exemption from such registration requirements is available. Accordingly, the private markets funds in which we invest our clients’ capital may not be able to sell securities when they desire and therefore may not be able to realize the full value of such securities. The ability of private markets funds to dispose of investments is dependent in part on the public equity and debt markets, to the extent that the ability to dispose of an investment may depend upon the ability to complete an IPO of the portfolio company in which such investment is held or the ability of a prospective buyer of the portfolio company to raise debt financing to fund its purchase. Furthermore, large holdings of publicly traded equity securities can often be disposed of only over a substantial period of time, exposing the investment returns to risks of downward movement in market prices during the disposition period. Contributing capital to these funds is risky, and we may lose some or the entire amount of our specialized funds’ and our clients’ investments.

Current wording

The investments made by our specialized funds and customized separate accounts and recommended by our advisory services may include high-risk, illiquid assets. We generally have made and expect to continue to make principal investments alongside our investors, as the general partner, in our existing private markets funds and certain customized separate accounts and in any new private markets funds we may establish in the future. The private markets funds in which we invest capital generally invest in securities that are not publicly traded. Even if such securities are publicly traded, many of these funds may be prohibited by contract or applicable securities laws from selling such securities for a period of time. Such funds will generally not be able to sell these securities publicly unless their sale is registered under applicable securities laws, or unless an exemption from such registration requirements is available. Accordingly, the private markets funds in which we invest our clients’ capital may not be able to sell securities when they desire and therefore may not be able to realize the full value of such securities. This risk is magnified during times of volatile market conditions and economic and geopolitical uncertainty. The ability of private markets funds to dispose of investments is dependent in part on the public equity and debt markets, to the extent that the ability to dispose of an investment may depend upon the ability to complete an IPO of the portfolio company in which such investment is held or the ability of a prospective buyer of the portfolio company to raise debt financing to fund its purchase. In the current market environment, we have experienced a decrease in attractive opportunities to dispose of investments compared to a year ago. Furthermore, large holdings of publicly traded equity securities can often be disposed of only over a substantial period of time, exposing the investment returns to risks of downward movement in market prices during the disposition period. Contributing capital to these funds is risky, and we may lose some or the entire amount of our specialized funds’ and our clients’ investments.

Previous wording

The portfolio companies in which private markets funds have invested or may invest will sometimes involve a high degree of business and financial risk. These companies may be in an early stage of development, may not have a proven operating history, may be operating at a loss or have significant variations in operating results, may be engaged in a rapidly changing business with products subject to a substantial risk of obsolescence, may be subject to extensive regulatory oversight, may require substantial additional capital to support their operations, to finance expansion or to maintain their competitive position, may have a high level of leverage, or may otherwise have a weak financial condition. See “—Dependence on leverage by certain funds, customized separate accounts and portfolio companies subjects us to volatility and contractions in the debt financing markets and could adversely affect the ability of our specialized funds and customized separate accounts to achieve attractive rates of return on those investments, and cash balances maintained for investments are exposed to the credit risks of the financial institutions at which they are held.”

Current wording

The portfolio companies in which private markets funds have invested or may invest will sometimes involve a high degree of business and financial risk. These companies may be in an early stage of development, may not have a proven operating history, may be operating at a loss or have significant variations in operating results, may be engaged in a rapidly changing business with products subject to a substantial risk of obsolescence, may be subject to extensive regulatory oversight, may require substantial additional capital to support their operations, to finance expansion or to maintain their competitive position, may have a high level of leverage, or may otherwise have a weak financial condition. See “—Dependence on leverage by certain funds, customized separate accounts and portfolio companies subjects us to volatility and contractions in the debt financing markets and could adversely affect the ability of our specialized funds and customized separate accounts to achieve attractive rates of return on those investments, and cash balances maintained for investments are exposed to the credit risks of the financial institutions at which they are held.” In addition, these portfolio companies may face intense competition, including competition from companies with greater financial resources, more extensive development, manufacturing, marketing, and other capabilities, and a larger number of qualified managerial and technical personnel. Portfolio companies in non-U.S. jurisdictions may be subject to additional risks, including tariffs and trade barriers, changes in currency exchange rates, exchange control regulations, risks associated with different types (and lower quality) of available information, expropriation or confiscatory taxation and adverse political and regulatory developments.

Previous wording

In addition, these portfolio companies may face intense competition, including competition from companies with greater financial resources, more extensive development, manufacturing, marketing, and other capabilities, and a larger number of qualified managerial and technical personnel. Portfolio companies in non-U.S. jurisdictions may be subject to additional risks, including changes in currency exchange rates, exchange control regulations, risks associated with different types (and lower quality) of available information, expropriation or confiscatory taxation and adverse political and regulatory developments. In addition, during periods of difficult market conditions or slowdowns in a particular investment category, industry or region, portfolio companies may experience decreased revenues, financial losses, difficulty in obtaining access to financing and increased costs. During these periods, these companies may also have difficulty in expanding their businesses and operations and may be unable to pay their expenses as they become due. A general market downturn or a specific market dislocation may result in lower investment returns for the private markets funds or portfolio companies in which our specialized funds and customized separate accounts invest, which consequently would materially and adversely affect investment returns for our specialized funds and customized separate accounts. Furthermore, if the portfolio companies default on their indebtedness, or otherwise seek or are forced to restructure their obligations or declare bankruptcy, we could lose some or all of our investment and suffer reputational harm.

Current wording

In addition, during periods of difficult market conditions or slowdowns in a particular investment category, industry or region, portfolio companies may experience decreased revenues, financial losses, difficulty in obtaining access to financing and increased costs. During these periods, these companies may also have difficulty in expanding their businesses and operations and may be unable to pay their expenses as they become due. A general market downturn or a specific market dislocation may result in lower investment returns for the private markets funds or portfolio companies in which our specialized funds and customized separate accounts invest, which consequently would materially and adversely affect investment returns for our specialized funds and customized separate accounts. Furthermore, if the portfolio companies default on their indebtedness, or otherwise seek or are forced to restructure their obligations or declare bankruptcy, we could lose some or all of our investment and suffer reputational harm.

Previous wording

We cannot give assurance as to the degree of diversification that will be achieved in any of our specialized funds or customized separate accounts. Difficult market conditions or slowdowns affecting a particular asset class, industry, geographic region or other category of investment could have a significant adverse impact on a given specialized fund or customized separate account if its investments are concentrated in that area, which could result in lower investment returns. Accordingly, a lack of diversification on the part of a specialized fund or customized separate account could adversely affect its investment performance and, as a result, our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Current wording

We cannot give assurance as to the degree of diversification that will be achieved in any of our specialized funds or customized separate accounts. Difficult market conditions or slowdowns affecting a particular asset class, industry, geographic region or other category of investment could have a significant adverse impact on a given specialized fund or customized separate account if its investments are concentrated in that area, which could result in lower investment returns. Accordingly, a lack of diversification on the part of a specialized fund or customized separate account could adversely affect its investment performance and affect our ability to raise new funds. All of these factors could, as a result, affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Previous wording

The substantial growth of our business in recent years may be difficult to sustain, as it may place significant demands on our resources and employees and will increase our expenses.

Current wording

The substantial growth of our business in recent years may be difficult to sustain, and it may place significant demands on our resources and employees and will increase our expenses.

Previous wording

In addition, we are required to develop continuously our infrastructure in response to the increasingly complex investment management industry and increasing sophistication of investors. Legal and regulatory developments also contribute to the level of our expenses. The future growth of our business will depend, among other things, on our ability to maintain the appropriate infrastructure and staffing levels to sufficiently address our growth and will require us to incur significant additional expenses and commit additional senior management and operational resources. We may face significant challenges in maintaining adequate financial and operational controls as well as implementing new or updated information and financial systems and procedures. Training, managing and appropriately sizing our work force and other components of our business on a timely and cost-effective basis may also pose challenges. In addition, our efforts to retain or attract qualified investment professionals is expected to result in significant additional expenses. There can be no assurance that we will be able to manage our growing business effectively or that we will be able to continue to grow, and any failure to do so could adversely affect our ability to generate revenue and control our expenses.

Current wording

In addition, we are required to develop our infrastructure continuously in response to the increasingly complex investment management industry and increasing sophistication of investors. Legal and regulatory developments also contribute to the level of our expenses. The future growth of our business will depend, among other things, on our ability to maintain the appropriate infrastructure and staffing levels to sufficiently address our growth and will require us to incur significant additional expenses and commit additional senior management and operational resources. We may face significant challenges in maintaining adequate financial and operational controls as well as implementing new or updated information and financial systems and procedures. Training, managing and appropriately sizing our work force and other components of our business on a timely and cost-effective basis may also pose challenges. In addition, our efforts to retain and attract qualified investment professionals are expected to result in significant additional expenses. There can be no assurance that we will be able to manage our growing business effectively or that we will be able to continue to grow, and any failure to do so could adversely affect our ability to generate revenue and control our expenses.

Previous wording

Finally, some matters covered by our due diligence process, such as ESG, are continuously evolving and we may not accurately or fully anticipate such evolution. With respect to ESG, the nature and scope of our due diligence will vary based on the investment, but may include a review of, among other things: energy management, air and water pollution, land contamination, diversity, human rights, employee health and safety, accounting standards and bribery and corruption. Selecting and evaluating ESG factors is subjective by nature, and there is no guarantee that the criteria utilized or judgment exercised by us or a third-party ESG specialist we may engage will reflect the beliefs, values, internal policies or preferred practices of any particular client or market trends. For instance, our ESG framework does not represent a universally recognized standard for assessing ESG considerations, as there are different frameworks and methodologies being implemented by others in the industry, in addition to numerous international initiatives on the subject. The materiality of ESG risks and impacts on an individual potential investment or portfolio as a whole depend on many factors, including the relevant industry, country, asset class and investment style.

Current wording

Finally, some matters covered by our due diligence process, such as ESG, are subject to evolving market and regulatory standards, which we may not accurately or fully anticipate. Our ESG framework does not represent a universally recognized standard, because we continue to observe strategy, asset class, geographic, and regulatory differences in approaches implemented across private markets. Additionally, determining the relative financial materiality of ESG factors within a due diligence process can be subjective. The materiality of ESG risks and impacts on an individual potential investment or portfolio depend on many factors, including the relevant industry, country, asset class and investment strategy and can be amplified or mitigated to varying degrees based on other factors within the investment diligence. There is no guarantee that the criteria utilized, or judgment exercised by us or a third-party ESG specialist we may engage will always reflect the beliefs, values, internal policies or preferred practices of any particular client or stakeholder. Further, the nature and scope of our due diligence with respect to ESG will vary based on the investment, which may present challenges in complying with a globally recognized standard, if one emerges in the future.

Previous wording

Our database of private markets investments includes funds and direct investments that we monitor and report on for our specialized funds, customized separate accounts and advisory accounts. We rely on our database to provide regular reports to our clients, to research developments and trends in private markets and to support our investment processes. We depend on the continuation of our relationships with the general partners and sponsors of the underlying funds and investments in order to maintain current data on these investments and private markets activity. The termination of such relationships or the imposition of restrictions on our ability to use the data we obtain for our reporting and monitoring services could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. We are also highly dependent upon the technology platforms within which our data is stored and analyzed, and any disruption in the services provided by such platforms, whether temporary or permanent, could have a material adverse effect on our ability to effectively continue to operate our business without interruption. See “—Operational risks may disrupt our business, damage our reputation, result in financial losses or limit our growth.”

Current wording

Our database of private markets investments includes funds and direct investments that we monitor and report on for our specialized funds, customized separate accounts and advisory accounts. We rely on our database to provide regular reports to our clients, to research developments and trends in private markets and to support our investment processes. We depend on the continuation of our relationships with the general partners and sponsors of the underlying funds and investments in order to maintain current data on these investments and private markets activity. We also rely on the strength of our relationships to encourage voluntary data sharing and engagement on evolving topics, such as ESG. The termination of such relationships or the imposition of restrictions on our ability to use the data we obtain for our reporting and monitoring services could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. We are also highly dependent upon the technology platforms within which our data is stored and analyzed, and any disruption in the services provided by such platforms, whether temporary or permanent, could have a material adverse effect on our ability to effectively continue to operate our business without interruption. See “—Operational risks may disrupt our business, damage our reputation, result in financial losses or limit our growth.”

Previous wording

We rely on the reasonably secure processing, storage and transmission of confidential and other sensitive information in our computer systems, hardware, software, technology infrastructure, online sites and networks, and those of our third-party service providers and their vendors. In the ordinary course of our business, we collect and store a range of data, including our proprietary business information and intellectual property, and personally identifiable information of our employees, our clients and other third parties, in our cloud applications and on our networks, as well as our third-party service providers’ systems. The secure processing, maintenance and transmission of this information are critical to our operations. We, our service providers and their vendors face various security threats on a regular basis, including ongoing cybersecurity threats and attacks that are intended to gain unauthorized access to our sensitive or proprietary information, destroy data or disable, degrade or sabotage our systems. Cyber-attack techniques are continually evolving, may not immediately be recognized and can originate from a wide variety of sources. There has been an increase in the frequency, sophistication and ingenuity of the data security threats we and our service providers face. Any interruption or deterioration in performance, cybersecurity breaches or failures of information systems and technology could impair the quality of our or our funds’ operations, result in significant costs to us, liability to our clients, affect our reputation and adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Current wording

We rely on the reasonably secure processing, storage and transmission of confidential and other sensitive information in our computer systems, hardware, software, technology infrastructure, online sites and networks, and those of our third-party service providers and their vendors. In the ordinary course of our business, we collect and store a range of data, including our proprietary business information and intellectual property, and personally identifiable information of our employees, our clients and other third parties, in our cloud applications and on our networks, as well as our third-party service providers’ systems. The secure processing, maintenance and transmission of this information are critical to our operations. We, our service providers and their vendors face various security threats on a regular basis, including ongoing cybersecurity threats and attacks that are intended to gain unauthorized access to our sensitive or proprietary information, destroy data or disable, degrade or sabotage our systems. Cyber-attack techniques are continually evolving, may not immediately be recognized and can originate from a wide variety of sources. For example, threat actors could impersonate Hamilton Lane or its employees through the use of artificial intelligence technologies. Such technologies make such impersonation more likely to occur or appear more credible. There has been an increase in the frequency, sophistication and ingenuity of the data security threats we and our service providers face. Any interruption or deterioration in performance, cybersecurity breaches or failures of information systems and technology could impair the quality of our or our funds’ operations, result in significant costs to us, liability to our clients, affect our reputation and adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Previous wording

We are dependent on the effectiveness of our and our service providers’ information security policies, procedures and capabilities designed to protect our and their computer, network and telecommunications systems and the data such systems contain or transmit. Measures taken to ensure the integrity of our or our third-party service providers’ systems may not provide adequate protection. A cyberattack could persist undetected over extended periods of time and may not be mitigated in a timely manner to prevent or minimize the impact on us. Attacks on our or our service providers’ information technology infrastructure could enable the attackers to gain unauthorized access to and steal our sensitive or proprietary information, destroy data or disable, degrade or sabotage our systems or divert or otherwise steal funds, and attackers have in the past gained unauthorized access to sensitive information about us, our clients and investors by attacking the systems of certain of our service providers. Such prior events, to date, have not had a material impact on our operations, results of operations or financial condition. Attacks range from those common to businesses generally to those that are more advanced and persistent, which may target us because members of our senior management team may have public profiles or because, as an alternative investment management firm, we hold a significant amount of confidential and sensitive information about our clients and potential investments.

Current wording

We are dependent on the effectiveness of our and our service providers’ information security policies, procedures and capabilities designed to protect our and their computer, network and telecommunications systems and the data such systems contain or transmit. Measures taken to ensure the integrity of our or our third-party service providers’ systems may not provide adequate protection. A cyberattack could persist undetected over an extended period of time and may not be mitigated in a timely manner to prevent or minimize the impact on us. Attacks on our or our service providers’ information technology infrastructure could enable the attackers to gain unauthorized access to and steal our sensitive or proprietary information, destroy data or disable, degrade or sabotage our systems or divert or otherwise steal funds, and attackers have in the past gained unauthorized access to sensitive information about us, our clients and investors by attacking our systems and the systems of certain of our service providers. Such prior events, to date, have not had a material impact on our operations, results of operations or financial condition. Attacks range from those common to businesses generally to those that are more advanced and persistent, which may target us because members of our senior management team may have public profiles or because, as an alternative investment management firm, we hold a significant amount of confidential and sensitive information about our clients and potential investments.

Previous wording

In addition, cybersecurity has become a top priority for regulators around the world. Many jurisdictions in which we operate have laws and regulations relating to privacy, data protection and cybersecurity, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (“GDPR”) in the EU and U.K., the Personal Information Protection Law (“PIPL”) in China and the California Privacy Rights Act (“CPRA”). In addition, the SEC proposed new rules related to cybersecurity risk management for registered investment advisers and funds. If this proposal is adopted, it could increase our compliance costs and potential regulatory liability related to cybersecurity. See “—Rapidly developing and changing data security and privacy laws and regulations could increase compliance costs and subject us to enforcement risks and reputational damage.” Some jurisdictions have also enacted laws requiring companies to notify individuals and governmental agencies of data security breaches involving certain types of personal data. If we fail to comply with relevant laws and regulations or fail to provide the appropriate regulatory or other notifications of breach in a timely manner, it could result in regulatory investigations and material penalties, which could lead to negative publicity and may cause our clients to lose confidence in the effectiveness of our security measures and us more generally.

Current wording

Cybersecurity, privacy and data protection are a top priority for regulators around the world. Many jurisdictions in which we operate have laws and regulations relating to privacy, data protection and cybersecurity, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (“GDPR”) in the EU and U.K., the Personal Information Protection Law (“PIPL”) in China and the California Privacy Rights Act (“CPRA”). Other jurisdictions have also enacted laws requiring companies to notify individuals and governmental agencies of data security breaches involving certain types of personal data. These rules could increase our compliance costs and potential regulatory liability. If we fail to comply with relevant laws and regulations or fail to provide the appropriate regulatory or other notifications of breach in a timely manner, it could result in regulatory investigations and material penalties, which could lead to negative publicity and may cause our clients to lose confidence in the effectiveness of our security measures and us more generally. See “—Rapidly developing and changing data security and privacy laws and regulations could increase compliance costs and subject us to enforcement risks and reputational damage.”

Previous wording

Finally, our technology platforms, data and intellectual property are also subject to a heightened risk of theft or compromise to the extent we engage in operations outside the United States, in particular in those jurisdictions that do not have comparable levels of protection of proprietary information and assets such as intellectual property, trademarks, trade secrets, know-how and customer information and records. In addition, we may be required to compromise protections or forego rights to technology, data and intellectual property in order to operate in or access markets in a foreign jurisdiction. Any such direct or indirect compromise of these assets could have a material adverse impact on us.

Current wording

Finally, our technology platforms, data and intellectual property are also subject to a heightened risk of theft or compromise to the extent we engage in operations outside the United States, in particular in those jurisdictions that do not have comparable levels of protection of proprietary information and assets such as intellectual property, trademarks, trade secrets, know-how and customer information and records. In addition, we may be required to compromise protections or forego rights to technology, data and intellectual property in order to operate in or access markets in a foreign jurisdiction. We have seen limited instances of fraudulent actors in foreign jurisdictions seeking to mimic or impersonate us through software applications or the like; these actions, to date, have not had a material impact on our financial condition or results of operations. Any such direct or indirect compromise of these assets could have a material adverse impact on us.

Previous wording

We are subject to various risks and costs associated with the collection, processing, storage and transmission of personal data and other sensitive and confidential information. Personal data is information that can be used to identify a natural person, including names, photos, email addresses, or computer IP addresses. This data is wide ranging and relates to our clients, employees, counterparties and other third parties. Any actual or perceived inability by us to adequately address privacy concerns, or comply with applicable privacy laws, regulations, policies, industry standards and guidance, contractual obligations, or other legal obligations, even if unfounded, could result in significant regulatory and third-party liability, increased costs, disruption of our business and operations, and a loss of client confidence and other reputational damage.

Current wording

We are subject to various risks and costs associated with the collection, processing, storage and transmission of personal data and other sensitive and confidential information. Personal data is wide ranging and relates to our clients, employees, counterparties and other third parties. Any actual or perceived inability by us to adequately address privacy concerns, or comply with applicable privacy laws, regulations, policies, industry standards and guidance, contractual obligations, or other legal obligations, even if unfounded, could result in significant regulatory and third-party liability, increased costs, disruptions to our business and operations, and a loss of client confidence and other reputational damage.

Previous wording

As new privacy-related laws and regulations are implemented, the time and resources needed for us to seek compliance with such laws and regulations continues to increase. Many jurisdictions in which we operate have laws and regulations relating to data privacy, cybersecurity and protection of personal information, including the GDPR in the EU and U.K., China’s PIPL and the CPRA in California. Some jurisdictions have also enacted laws requiring companies to notify individuals of data security breaches involving certain types of personal data. Our compliance obligations include those relating to U.S. state laws and regulations, including, without limitation the CPRA, which provides for enhanced privacy protections for

Current wording

As new privacy and data protection laws and regulations are implemented, the time and resources needed for us to seek compliance with such laws and regulations continues to increase. Our compliance obligations include those relating to U.S. state laws and regulations, including, without limitation the CPRA, which provides for enhanced privacy protections for California residents, a private right of action for data breaches and statutory fines and damages for data breaches or other CPRA violations, as well as a requirement of “reasonable” cybersecurity. Further, the SEC has adopted amendments to Regulation S-P that require notification to clients and customers in the event of privacy breaches and impose deadlines to implement policies for oversight of service providers.

Previous wording

California residents, a private right of action for data breaches and statutory fines and damages for data breaches or other CPRA violations, as well as a requirement of “reasonable” cybersecurity. We are also required to comply with foreign data collection and privacy laws in various non-U.S. jurisdictions in which we have offices or conduct business, including the GDPR, which applies to all organizations processing or holding personal data of EU and U.K. data subjects (regardless of the organization’s location) as well as to organizations outside the EU and U.K. that offer goods or services in the EU or U.K., or that monitor the behavior of EU or U.K. data subjects. Compliance with the GDPR requires us to analyze and evaluate how we handle data in the ordinary course of business, from processes to technology. EU and U.K. data subjects need to be given full disclosure about how their personal data will be used and stored. In that connection, consent must be explicit and companies must be in a position to delete information from their global systems permanently if consent were withdrawn. Financial regulators and data protection authorities throughout the EU and U.K. have broad audit and investigatory powers under the GDPR to probe how personal data is being used and processed. Penalties for non-compliance can be material. Our business is subject to many privacy laws in many other jurisdictions globally, including Switzerland, Japan, Hong Kong, Singapore, Australia and Canada. In addition, other countries and states are considering or have passed legislation implementing data protection requirements or requiring local storage and processing of data or similar requirements that could increase the cost, complexity and regulatory enforcement risk of delivering our services. Global laws in this area are rapidly increasing in the scale and depth of their requirements, and are also often extra-territorial in nature. In addition, many regulators have indicated an intention to take more aggressive enforcement actions regarding data privacy and private actors are seeking to enforce these laws across regions and borders. Furthermore, we frequently have privacy compliance requirements set forth in our contractual arrangements with counterparties. These legal, regulatory and contractual obligations heighten our privacy obligations in the ordinary course of conducting our business in the United States and globally.

Current wording

We are also required to comply with foreign data collection and privacy laws, including the GDPR in the EU and U.K., the PIPL in China, and laws in various other jurisdictions in which we have offices or conduct business, including Switzerland, Japan, Hong Kong, Singapore, Australia, Canada, the United Arab Emirates, Chile and Mexico. Financial regulators and data protection authorities throughout the EU and U.K. have broad audit and investigatory powers under the GDPR to probe how personal data is being used and processed. Penalties for non-compliance can be material. Global laws in this area are rapidly increasing in the scale and depth of their requirements, and are also often extra-territorial in nature. In addition, many regulators have indicated an intention to take more aggressive enforcement actions regarding data privacy and private actors are seeking to enforce these laws across regions and borders. Furthermore, we frequently have privacy compliance requirements set forth in our contractual arrangements with counterparties. These legal, regulatory and contractual obligations heighten our privacy obligations in the ordinary course of conducting our business in the United States and globally.

Previous wording

Technological developments in artificial intelligence, including machine learning technology and generative artificial intelligence, and their current and potential future applications, including in the private investment and financial sectors, as well as the legal and regulatory frameworks within which they operate, are rapidly evolving. The full extent of current or future risks related thereto is not possible to predict. Artificial intelligence could significantly disrupt the markets in which we operate and subject us to increased competition, legal and regulatory risks and compliance costs, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Current wording

Artificial intelligence, including machine learning technology and generative artificial intelligence (“AI”), is rapidly evolving. While the full extent of current or future risks related thereto is not possible to predict, AI could significantly disrupt the business models and markets in which we operate and subject us to increased competition, legal and regulatory risks and compliance costs, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Previous wording

We intend to seek to avail ourselves of the potential benefits that are available through artificial technologies, which present a number of potential risks. Data that artificial intelligence applications utilize are likely to contain a degree of inaccuracy and error, which could result in flawed algorithms. This could reduce the effectiveness of artificial intelligence technologies and adversely impact us and our operations to the extent we rely on the work product of such technology in our operations. There is also a risk that artificial intelligence tools or applications may be misused or misappropriated by our employees and/or third parties engaged by us. For example, a user may input confidential information, including material non-public information or personal identifiable information, into artificial intelligence technologies, resulting in such information becoming part of a dataset that is accessible by third-party artificial intelligence applications and users, including our competitors. Such actions could subject us to legal and regulatory investigations and/or actions. Further, we may not be able to control how third-party artificial intelligence technologies that we choose to use are developed or maintained, or how data we input is used or disclosed, even where we have sought contractual protections with respect to these matters. The misuse or misappropriation of our data could have an adverse impact on our reputation and could subject us to legal and regulatory investigations and/or actions. In addition, we have and may continue to communicate externally regarding artificial technology- related initiatives, including our development and use of artificial intelligence technologies, which subjects us to the risk of being accused of making inaccurate or misleading statements regarding our ability to avail ourselves of the potential benefits of artificial intelligence.

Current wording

We use and plan to expand our use of AI tools and technologies in the operation of our business. These uses come with potential risks, including, but not limited to, generation of inaccurate results, misappropriation of our confidential information, potential cybersecurity vulnerabilities and regulatory burdens. Data in models that AI technologies use are likely to contain a degree of inaccuracy and error, which could result in flawed algorithms and the generation of incomplete, inaccurate or biased results. This could adversely impact our operations to the extent we rely on such technologies. Further if the data we, or the third parties whose services we rely on, use in connection with the application of AI technologies is incomplete, inaccurate or biased in some way, our products, services, and businesses could suffer. There is also a risk that AI tools or applications may be misused or misappropriated by our employees and/or third parties engaged by us. For example, an employee may input confidential information, including material non-public information, trade secrets, or personal identifiable information, into AI technologies, resulting in such information becoming part of a dataset that is accessible by third-party AI applications and users, including our competitors. Such actions could subject us to legal and regulatory investigations and/or actions. Further, we may not be able to control how third-party AI technologies that we choose to use are developed or maintained, or how data we input is used or disclosed, even where we have sought contractual protections with respect to these matters. The misuse or misappropriation of our data could have an adverse impact on our reputation and could subject us to legal and regulatory investigations and/or actions.

Previous wording

Regulations related to artificial intelligence may also impose on us certain obligations and costs related to monitoring and compliance.

Current wording

Finally, regulations related to AI may also impose on us certain obligations and costs related to monitoring and compliance, and we could be subject to regulatory actions if we are deemed not to have complied.

Previous wording

We own or have rights to trademarks, service marks or trade names that we use in connection with the operation of our business. In addition, our names, logos and website names and addresses are owned by us or licensed by us. We also own or have the rights to copyrights that protect the content of our solutions. Despite our efforts to obtain, maintain, protect and enforce our trademarks, service marks, trade names and other intellectual property rights in the United States and other jurisdictions, there can be no assurance that these protections will be available in all cases, and our trademarks, service marks, trade names or other intellectual property rights could be challenged, invalidated, declared generic, circumvented, infringed or otherwise violated. We may be unable to successfully resolve conflicts to our satisfaction. In the event that our trademarks, service marks or trade names are successfully challenged, we could be forced to rebrand our products, services or business, which could result in loss of brand recognition and could require us to devote resources towards advertising and marketing new brands. Over the long term, if we are unable to establish name recognition based on our trademarks, service marks and trade names, then we may not be able to compete effectively. Any claims or customer confusion related to our trademarks, service marks or trade names could damage our reputation and brand and substantially harm our business, liquidity, financial condition and results of operations.

Current wording

We own or have a license to the trademarks, service marks or trade names that we use in connection with the operation of our business. In addition, our trade names, logos and website names and URL addresses are owned by us or have been licensed to us. We also own or have a license to the rights to copyrights that protect the content of our solutions. Despite our efforts to obtain, maintain, protect and enforce our trademarks, service marks, trade names and other intellectual property rights in the United States and other jurisdictions, there can be no assurance that these protections will be available in all cases, and our trademarks, service marks, trade names or other intellectual property rights could be challenged, invalidated, declared generic, circumvented, infringed or otherwise violated. We may be unable to successfully resolve conflicts to our satisfaction. In some cases, there may be trademark owners who have prior rights to trademarks similar to ours. During trademark registration proceedings, we may receive and have in some cases received rejections of our applications. Additionally, opposition, invalidation or cancellation proceedings have been and may in the future be filed against our trademark applications or registrations, and our trademarks may not survive such proceedings. In the event that our trademarks, service marks or trade names are successfully challenged, we could be forced to rebrand our products, services or business, which could result in loss of brand recognition and could require us to devote resources towards advertising and marketing new brands. Over the long term, if we are unable to establish name recognition based on our trademarks, service marks and trade names, then we may not be able to compete effectively. Any claims or customer confusion related to our trademarks, service marks or trade names could damage our reputation and brand and substantially harm our business, liquidity, financial condition and results of operations.

Previous wording

The laws of some foreign countries do not protect intellectual property rights to the same extent as the laws of the United States. Accordingly, we may choose not to seek protection in certain countries, and we will not have the benefit of protection in such countries. Moreover, any changes in, or unexpected interpretations of, intellectual property laws in any jurisdiction may compromise our ability to obtain, maintain, protect and enforce our intellectual property rights. Policing and enforcing our intellectual property rights is difficult, costly and may not always be effective.

Current wording

We may be required to protect our trademarks, service marks and other intellectual property rights in an increasing number of jurisdictions. The laws of some foreign countries do not protect intellectual property rights to the same extent as the laws of the United States. Accordingly, we may choose not to seek protection in certain countries, and we will not have the benefit of protection in such countries. Moreover, any changes in, or unexpected interpretations of, intellectual property laws in any jurisdiction may compromise our ability to obtain, maintain, protect and enforce our intellectual property rights. Policing and enforcing our intellectual property rights is difficult, costly and may not always be effective.

Previous wording

• terrorism, political hostilities, war, public health crises and other civil disturbances or other catastrophic events, which may reduce business activity, threaten the safety of our international offices, employees and clients, and affect our plans to expand in particular regions;

Current wording

• tariffs, terrorism, political hostilities, war, public health crises and other civil disturbances or other catastrophic events, which may reduce business activity, threaten the safety of our international offices, employees and clients, and affect our plans to expand in particular regions;