Empire State Realty Trust Inc

Previous wording

Our properties are geographically concentrated in New York and Connecticut, and adverse state or local economic or regulatory developments could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, cash flow and financial condition.

Current wording

Our properties are geographically concentrated in New York and Connecticut, and adverse state or local economic or regulatory developments could have a material adverse effect on our business and financial condition.

Previous wording

For the year ended December 31, 2023, three of our properties together accounted for approximately 53.2% of our portfolio’s rental revenues, with the Empire State Building individually accounting for approximately 29.6%. Our revenue and cash available for distribution would be materially and adversely affected if any of these three properties were materially damaged or a significant number of their tenants experienced financial strain leading to lease default or bankruptcy filing. Additionally, for fiscal years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, we derived revenue of approximately $41.5 million, $106.0 million and $129.4 million, respectively from the Empire State Building’s Observatory operations. Loss of revenue from the Observatory has in the past and may in the future have a material adverse impact on our results of operations and financial condition.

Current wording

For the year ended December 31, 2024, three of our properties together accounted for approximately 55.5% of our portfolio’s rental revenues, with the Empire State Building individually accounting for approximately 31.9%. Our revenue and cash available for distribution would be materially and adversely affected if any of these three properties were materially damaged or a significant number of their tenants experienced financial strain leading to lease default or bankruptcy filing. Additionally, for fiscal years ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022, we derived revenue of approximately $136.4 million, $129.4 million and $106.0 million, respectively, from the Empire State Building’s Observatory operations. Loss of revenue from the Observatory has in the past and may in the future have a material adverse impact on our results of operations and financial condition.

Previous wording

Our five largest tenants represented approximately 15.9% of our total commercial portfolio’s annualized rent as of December 31, 2023.

Current wording

Our five largest tenants represented approximately 16.5% of our total commercial portfolio’s annualized rent as of December 31, 2024.

Previous wording

As of December 31, 2023, our five largest tenants together represented approximately 15.9% of our total commercial portfolio’s annualized rent, with our largest tenant leasing an aggregate of 0.5 million rentable square feet of office space at one of our office properties, representing approximately 5.4% of our total commercial portfolio rentable square feet and approximately 6.2% of our total commercial portfolio annualized rent. Our significant tenants have in the past, and may in the future, experience financial strain leading to lease default or bankruptcy. In such cases, we may not recover our upfront investments in tenant improvement allowances, concessions, and transaction costs like professional fees and commissions. Upon tenant default, we may experience delays and substantial costs in enforcing our rights and protecting our investment. Our business, results of operations, cash flow and financial condition could be materially adversely affected if any of our significant tenants were to suffer a downturn in their business, become insolvent, default under their leases, and/or fail to renew on favorable terms or at all.

Current wording

As of December 31, 2024, our five largest tenants together represented approximately 16.5% of our total commercial portfolio’s annualized rent, with our largest tenant leasing an aggregate of 0.5 million rentable square feet of office space at one of our office properties, representing approximately 5.4% of our total commercial portfolio rentable square feet and approximately 6.1% of our total commercial portfolio annualized rent. Our significant tenants have in the past, and may in the future, experience financial strain leading to lease default or bankruptcy. In such cases, we may not recover our upfront investments in tenant improvement allowances, concessions, and transaction costs like professional fees and commissions. Upon tenant default, we may experience delays and substantial costs in enforcing our rights and protecting our investment. Our business and financial condition could be materially adversely affected if any of our significant tenants were to suffer a downturn in their business, become insolvent, default under their leases, and/or fail to renew on favorable terms or at all.

Previous wording

The threat or occurrence of a terrorist event may cause people to relocate from New York City and Stamford, Connecticut to less populated, lower-profile areas. This could trigger a decrease in the demand, occupancy and rental rates for, and materially affect the value of, our properties and our cash flow. Such negative consequences may be even more likely in a high-profile property like the Empire State Building and its Observatory. Additionally, a terrorist event could cause insurance premiums at certain of our properties to increase significantly.

Current wording

A terrorist event could cause insurance premiums at certain of our properties to increase significantly. Additionally, the threat or occurrence of a terrorist event may cause people to relocate from New York City and Stamford, Connecticut to less populated, lower-profile areas. This could trigger a decrease in the demand, occupancy and rental rates for, and materially affect the value of, our properties and our cash flow. Such negative consequences may be even more likely in a high-profile property like the Empire State Building and its Observatory.

Previous wording

Adverse economic and geopolitical conditions impacting the industries of our tenants, in particular the retail industry, could cause reduced demand, rental rates and occupancy for our retail and office space.

Current wording

Adverse economic and geopolitical conditions impacting the industries of our tenants could cause reduced demand, rental rates and occupancy for our office, multifamily, and retail space.

Previous wording

Certain remote work practices implemented in reaction to the pandemic are still in place and have shifted employers and employees away from fully in-person work environments, and a more permanent shift of this type could have an adverse effect on the overall demand for our office space. Additionally, with increased employer flexibility to work from home, current and prospective residents may be less likely to live in dense urban centers or multifamily housing like the properties we own. If these trends continue, it could impair demand and value at our properties.

Current wording

Downturn in global, national and/or local economies that decreases prospects, demand, occupancy and rental rates for our office, multifamily and retail space can have an adverse impact on the value or price of our assets. For example, the COVID-19 pandemic impacted the entire U.S., including New York and Connecticut where our properties are located. Any future public health crisis or economic downturn could have significant impacts on how people live, work, and travel in ways that have affected and may in the future affect our properties. Such events can also cause delays, cost increases and/or cancellations of planned capital projects. Certain remote work practices implemented in reaction to the pandemic are still in place and have shifted employers and employees away from fully in-person work environments, and a more permanent shift of this type could have an adverse effect on the overall demand for our office space. Additionally, with increased employer flexibility to work from home, current and prospective residents may be less likely to live in dense urban centers or multifamily housing like the properties we own. These trends have impacted our results of operations since the pandemic. If these trends continue, it could impair demand and value at our properties.

Previous wording

As of December 31, 2023, approximately 18.2% of our commercial portfolio’s annualized rent was comprised of retail tenants. In recent years, the retail industry has faced reductions in sales revenues and increase in bankruptcies throughout the United States, due to a consumer shift to online shopping. This has reduced demand for physical retail space especially at street level, which typically commanded the highest rental rates per square foot in office properties.

Current wording

As of December 31, 2024, approximately 19.4% of our commercial portfolio’s annualized rent was comprised of retail tenants. In the past, the retail industry has faced reductions in sales revenues and increase in bankruptcies throughout the United States, due to changes in consumer behavior and shift to online shopping. This has reduced rents and demand for physical retail space at street level, which typically commanded the highest rental rates per square foot in office properties. This has also reduced rents and demand for physical retail space located above or below street level. Continued reduced demand, rental rates and occupancy rates for our retail space could have a material adverse effect on our business and financial condition.

Previous wording

Upon expiration of leases at our properties and with respect to our current vacant space, we may be required to make rent or other concessions to tenants, accommodate increased requests for renovations, build-to-suit remodeling and other improvements or provide additional services to our tenants. In addition, eight of our existing properties are pre-war office properties, which may require more frequent and costly maintenance to retain existing tenants or attract new tenants than newer properties. As a result, and due to the increased competition from lessors in the greater New York City area, we have made, and may have to make, significant capital or other expenditures in order to maintain the competitiveness of our properties. There can be no assurances that any such expenditure would result in higher occupancy, higher rental rates or deter existing tenants from relocating to properties owned by our competitors. If we are unable to match the competition for lack of capital or other reasons, we may fail to attract new tenants or to renew existing tenants.

Current wording

The leasing of real estate in New York City and its surrounding metropolitan area is highly competitive in rental rates, location, services and property condition. We have seen increased competition from lessors in offering concessions, short term, amenities, indoor environmental quality and sustainability certifications. See Part I, ITEM 1, “Business— Competition” for more information. Increased competition challenges our ability to lease space and maximize our effective rents. Upon expiration of leases at our properties and with respect to our current vacant space, we may be required to make rent or other concessions to tenants, accommodate increased requests for renovations, build-to-suit remodeling and other improvements or provide additional services to our tenants. In addition, eight of our existing properties are pre-war office properties, which may require more frequent and costly maintenance to retain existing tenants or attract new tenants than newer properties. As a result, and due to the increased competition from lessors in the greater New York City area, we have made, and may have to make, significant capital or other expenditures in order to maintain the competitiveness of our properties. There can be no assurances that any such expenditure would result in higher occupancy, higher rental rates or deter existing tenants from relocating to properties owned by our competitors. If we are unable to match the competition for lack of capital or other reasons, we may fail to attract new tenants or to renew existing tenants.

Previous wording

As of December 31, 2023, we had approximately 0.9 million rentable square feet of vacant space in our office and retail properties. In addition, leases representing 5.4% and 6.4% of the square footage of the office and retail properties in our commercial portfolio will expire in 2024 and 2025, respectively. We cannot be assured that leases scheduled to expire will be renewed or that our properties will be re-leased at net effective rental rates at or above the current average. If the terms of the renewal or re-leasing are less favorable than current terms, or we fail to re-lease such spaces at all, our business, results of operations, cash flow and financial condition will be negatively affected.

Current wording

As of December 31, 2024, we had approximately 0.6 million rentable square feet of vacant space in our office and retail properties. In addition, leases representing 6.5% and 8.2% of the square footage of the office and retail properties in our commercial portfolio will expire in 2025 and 2026, respectively. We cannot be assured that leases scheduled to expire will be renewed or that our properties will be re-leased at net effective rental rates at or above the current average. If the terms of the renewal or re-leasing are less favorable than current terms, or we fail to re-lease such spaces at all, our business, results of operations, cash flow and financial condition will be negatively affected.

Previous wording

We have engaged, continue to engage, and may in the future engage in development activities with respect to our properties (including our Metro Tower potential development site). See Part I, ITEM 1, “Business – Overview” for more information. Development subjects us to risks beyond our control, which could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, including, without limitation, the availability and pricing of financing; availability and timing of zoning and other approvals; occupancy rates and rents; construction costs and delays, whether due to weather, labor conditions, material shortages or otherwise, and timely lease-up. We will fail to recover expenses and management time already incurred if we abandon any then pending development.

Current wording

We have engaged, continue to engage, and may in the future engage in development activities with respect to our properties. See Part I, ITEM 1, “Business— Overview” for more information. Development subjects us to risks beyond our control, which could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, including, without limitation, the availability and pricing of financing; availability and timing of zoning and other approvals; occupancy rates and rents; construction costs and delays, whether due to weather, labor conditions, material shortages, tariffs or otherwise, and timely lease-up. We will fail to recover expenses and management time already incurred if we abandon any then pending development.

Previous wording

Increased inflation has and may in the future adversely affect us by increasing costs of properties, development and renovation. In a highly inflationary environment, we may be unable to raise rental rates at or above the rate of inflation, which could reduce our profit margins. In addition, our cost of labor and materials has and may in the future further increase. While increases in most operating expenses at our properties can be passed on to our office and retail tenants, the terms of some of our leases may limit our ability to charge our tenants for all or a portion of such increased expenses. Our inability to pass on such increased operating expenses may reduce cash flow available to service our debt and make distributions.

Current wording

Increased inflation has and may in the future adversely affect us by increasing costs of properties, development and renovation. In a highly inflationary environment, we may be unable to raise rental rates at or above the rate of inflation, which could reduce our profit margins. In addition, our cost of labor and materials has and may in the future increase. The terms of some of our leases may limit our ability to charge our tenants for all or a portion of such increased expenses. Our inability to pass on such increased operating expenses may reduce cash flow available to service our debt and make distributions.

Previous wording

While we perform property management services for the majority of our properties, we use a third-party property management company to service our multifamily properties. If such third-party property management company does not perform in accordance with our contractual agreements and desired standards, we could be exposed to additional risks, such as costs and reputational harm.

Current wording

While we perform property management services for the majority of our properties, we use a third-party property management company to service our multifamily properties. If such third-party property management company does not perform in accordance with our contractual agreements and desired standards, we could be exposed to risks such as costs and reputational harm.

Previous wording

The Observatory operations at the Empire State Building are not traditional real estate operations, and may be negatively impacted by competition, adverse weather, and changes in tourist trends.

Current wording

The Observatory operations at the Empire State Building may be negatively impacted by geopolitical factors, competition, adverse weather, and changes in tourist trends.

Previous wording

For fiscal years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, we derived revenues of approximately $41.5 million, $106.0 million and $129.4 million from our Observatory operations. Our revenues declined significantly in 2020, 2021 and 2022, compared to 2019, as a result of the pandemic and government mandated closures and a slow ramp-up in visitor volume after reopening in July 2020, in large part due to travel restrictions. Any future health or other economic crises, geopolitical events (including global hostilities) or currency exchange rate fluctuations could negatively impact tourist trends and visitor demand for our Observatory, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, cash flow and financial condition. We are also susceptible to reductions in visitor demand due to adverse weather. We compete against existing observatories in New York City at the World Trade Center, Rockefeller Center, Hudson Yards, and One Vanderbilt, all of which may divert visitors and negatively impact our revenue.

Current wording

For fiscal years ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022, we derived revenue of approximately $136.4 million, $129.4 million and $106.0 million, respectively, from the Observatory operations. Our revenues declined significantly in 2020, 2021 and 2022, compared to 2019, as a result of the pandemic and government mandated closures and a slow ramp-up in visitor volume after reopening in July 2020, in large part due to travel restrictions. Our visitor volume has not yet fully returned to 2019 levels. During 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024, visitor volume was 0.5 million, 0.8 million, 2.2 million, 2.6 million, and 2.6 million, respectively, compared to 3.5 million in 2019. Our change in operations of the Observatory to focus on capacity controls to maximize the customer experience, require reservations to control overcrowding and staffing costs, and our increase of per visitor pricing may cause our future Observatory results to differ from previous Observatory results. Any future health or other economic crises, geopolitical events (including global hostilities) or currency exchange rate fluctuations could negatively impact tourist trends and visitor demand for our Observatory, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, cash flow and financial condition. We are also susceptible to reductions in visitor demand due to adverse weather. We compete against other observatories in New York City at the World Trade Center, Rockefeller Center, Hudson Yards, and One Vanderbilt, all of which may divert visitors and negatively impact our revenue.

Previous wording

We license the use of the Empire State Building broadcasting mast to third-party television and radio broadcasters. During the year ended December 31, 2023, we derived approximately $14.7 million of revenue (excluding tenant reimbursement income) from such broadcasting licenses and related leases, as compared with about $21 million at its peak. Competition from other broadcasting operations has had a negative impact on revenues from our broadcasting operations, and lease renewals have yielded reduced revenue, and higher operating expenses and capital expenditures. Our broadcast licensees also face a range of competition from advances in technologies and alternative methods of content delivery in their respective industries, as well as changes in consumer behavior, which may reduce the demand for over-the-air broadcast licenses. Recent government regulations may materially and adversely affect our broadcast revenue by reducing the demand for broadcast licenses through making more spectrum available for wireless broadband service providers.

Current wording

We license the use of the Empire State Building broadcasting mast to third-party television and radio broadcasters. During the year ended December 31, 2024, we derived approximately $15.2 million of revenue (excluding tenant reimbursement income) from such broadcasting licenses and related leases, as compared with about $21 million at its peak. Competition from other broadcasting operations has had a negative impact on revenues, and lease renewals have yielded reduced revenue, and higher operating expenses and capital expenditures. Our broadcast licensees also face a range of competition from advances in technologies and alternative methods of content delivery in their respective industries, as well as changes in consumer behavior, which may reduce the demand for over-the-air broadcast licenses. Government regulations may materially and adversely affect our broadcast revenue by reducing the demand for broadcast licenses by making more spectrum available for wireless broadband service providers.

Previous wording

We may be unable to identify and successfully complete acquisitions, and even if acquisitions are identified and completed, they may expose us to additional risks.

Current wording

We may be unable to identify and successfully complete acquisitions, and completed acquisitions may expose us to additional risks.

Previous wording

We plan to acquire new properties as we are presented with attractive opportunities, but we may face significant competition from other investors, particularly private investors who can incur more leverage. We may incur significant costs and divert management attention in connection with potential acquisitions, including ones that we are unable to complete. If we successfully identify an acquisition target and close the transaction, we may spend more than budgeted to make necessary improvements to the relevant properties and be exposed to unknown liabilities, such as environmental contamination or claims from former tenants, vendors or employees.

Current wording

We seek to acquire new properties as we are presented with attractive opportunities, but we may face significant competition from other investors, particularly private investors who can incur more leverage. We may incur significant costs and divert management attention in connection with potential acquisitions, including ones that we are unable to complete. If we successfully identify an acquisition target and close the transaction, we may spend more than budgeted to make necessary improvements to the relevant properties and be exposed to unknown liabilities, such as environmental contamination or claims from former tenants, vendors or employees.

Previous wording

We may incur taxable capital gain on the disposition of assets due to the failure of use or compliance with a Section 1031 exchange program.

Current wording

We may incur taxable capital gain on the disposition of assets due to the failure to comply with Section 1031 of the Code.

Previous wording

From time to time we may dispose of properties in transactions that are intended to qualify as “like kind exchanges” under Section 1031 of the Code. It is possible that the qualification of a transaction as a like-kind exchange could be successfully challenged and determined to be currently taxable. In such case, our taxable income and earnings and profits would increase. In some circumstances, we may be required to pay additional dividends or, in lieu of that, corporate income tax, possibly including interest and penalties. As a result, we may be required to borrow funds to pay additional dividends or taxes, and any payment of taxes could cause us to have less cash available to distribute to our shareholders. In addition, if a like-kind exchange was later to be determined to be taxable, we may be required to amend our tax returns for the applicable year in question, including any information reports we sent our shareholders. We could also be subject to significant indemnity obligations if the applicable property was subject to a tax protection agreement.

Current wording

We may dispose of properties in transactions that are intended to qualify as “like kind exchanges” under Section 1031 of the Code. It is possible that the qualification of a transaction as a like-kind exchange could be successfully challenged and determined to be currently taxable. In such case, our taxable income and earnings and profits would increase. In some circumstances, we may be required to pay additional dividends or, in lieu of that, corporate income tax, possibly including interest and penalties. As a result, we may be required to borrow funds to pay additional dividends or taxes, and any payment of taxes could cause us to have less cash available to distribute to our shareholders. In addition, if a like-kind exchange was later determined to be taxable, we may be required to amend our tax returns for the applicable year in question, including any information reports we sent our shareholders. We could also be subject to significant indemnity obligations if the applicable property was subject to a tax protection agreement.

Previous wording

As of December 31, 2023, we had total debt outstanding of approximately $2.2 billion inclusive of total mortgages of approximately $877.4 million with no maturity before November 2024. See “Financial Statements – Note 5 Debt” in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for further information. Our organizational documents do not limit the debt we may incur, and we may incur significant additional debt to finance future acquisition and development activities. Our current and potential levels of debt, and the limitations in our loan documents could have significant adverse consequences to our cash flow and our ability to service and refinance our debt. We may be forced to dispose of one or more of our properties, possibly on disadvantageous terms. We may default on our debt obligations, in which case the lenders may accelerate our debt obligations and foreclose on any mortgaged properties. Our default on one debt with cross-default provisions could result in a default on other debt. In addition, our revolving credit facility and related term loan bear interest at a variable rate. We may incur indebtedness in the future that also bears interest at a variable rate or may be required to refinance our debt at higher rates. If any one of these events were to occur, our results of operations, cash flow, financial condition, and ability to service debt and to make distributions could be adversely affected.

Current wording

As of December 31, 2024, we had total debt outstanding of approximately $2.3 billion inclusive of total mortgages of approximately $704.3 million. See “Financial Statements— Note 5 Debt” in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for further information. Our organizational documents do not limit the debt we may incur, and we may incur significant additional debt to finance future acquisition and development activities. Our current and potential levels of debt, and the limitations in our loan documents could have significant adverse consequences to our cash flow and our ability to service and refinance our debt. We may be forced to dispose of one or more of our properties, possibly on disadvantageous terms. We may default on our debt obligations, in which case the lenders may accelerate our debt obligations and foreclose on any mortgaged properties. Our default on one debt with cross-default provisions could result in a default on other debt. In addition, our revolving credit facility and related term loan bear interest at a variable rate. We may incur indebtedness in the future that also bears interest at a variable rate or may be required to refinance our debt at higher rates. If any one of these events were to occur, our results of operations, cash flow, financial condition, and ability to service debt and to make distributions could be adversely affected.

Previous wording

High mortgage rates and/or unavailability of mortgage debt may make it difficult for us to finance or refinance properties, which could reduce the number of properties we can acquire, our net income and the amount of cash distributions we can make.

Current wording

High mortgage rates and/or unavailability of mortgage debt may make it difficult for us to finance or refinance properties, which could reduce the number of properties we can acquire, our net income and the amount of cash distributions.

Previous wording

If mortgage debt is unavailable at reasonable rates, we may not be able to finance the purchase of properties. If we place mortgage debt on properties, we may be unable to refinance the properties when the loans become due at comparable terms. This may result in reduced cash flows and hinder our ability to make distributions, and to raise more capital by issuing more stock or by borrowing more money. In addition, to the extent we are unable to refinance loans, we will have fewer debt guarantee opportunities available to offer under our tax protection agreements, which could trigger our related indemnification obligation.

Current wording

If mortgage debt is unavailable at reasonable rates, we may not be able to finance the purchase of properties. If we place mortgage debt on properties, we may be unable to refinance the properties when the loans become due at comparable terms, which may result in reduced cash flows and hinder our ability to make distributions, and to raise more capital by issuing stock or borrowing money. In addition, to the extent we are unable to refinance loans, we will have fewer debt guarantee opportunities available to offer under our tax protection agreements, which could trigger our indemnification obligation.

Previous wording

Because of the distribution requirements to maintain our status as a REIT (See Part I, ITEM 1, “Business - Our Tax Status”), we may not be able to fund future capital needs, including any acquisition financing, from operating cash flow and may need to rely on third-party sources. Our access to third-party sources of capital depends, in part, on general economic and market conditions, including the cost and availability of credit, government action or inaction and its effect on the state of the capital markets, the market’s perception of our growth potential, as well as our then current financial condition. Absent needed capital, we may not be able to acquire or develop properties when opportunities exist, satisfy our debt obligations or make cash distributions to our securityholders necessary to maintain our qualification as a REIT.

Current wording

Because of the distribution requirements to maintain our status as a REIT (See Part I, ITEM 1, “Business— Our Tax Status”), we may not be able to fund future capital needs, including any acquisition financing, from operating cash flow and may need to rely on third-party sources. Additionally, our access to third-party sources of capital depends, in part, on general economic and market conditions, including the cost and availability of credit, government action or inaction and its effect on the state of the capital markets, the market’s perception of our growth potential, as well as our then current financial condition. Absent needed capital, we may not be able to acquire or develop properties when opportunities exist, satisfy our debt obligations or make cash distributions to our securityholders necessary to maintain our qualification as a REIT.

Previous wording

Our properties are concentrated in the New York metropolitan area. Natural disasters and physical climate risk including earthquakes, storms, storm surges, tornados, floods, extreme temperatures, and hurricanes, could cause significant damage or limit access to our properties and the surrounding area. Physical climate risk, including rising sea levels, storm surges, and extreme temperature fluctuations, could adversely impact the coastal metropolitan areas in which we operate. These conditions could result in declining demand for our commercial and multifamily properties, compromise our ability to operate the buildings, make insurance less affordable or available, and increase the cost of energy and utilities at our properties. Also, certain of our properties could not be rebuilt to their existing height or size under current land use laws. In that event, we may have to upgrade such property to meet code requirements. Our disaster recovery and business continuity plans may not be adequate to address these risks.

Current wording

Our properties are concentrated in the New York metropolitan area. Natural disasters and physical climate risk including earthquakes, storms, storm surges, tornados, floods, extreme temperatures, hurricanes and rising sea levels, could cause significant damage or limit access to our properties and adversely impact the areas in which we operate. These conditions could result in declining demand for our commercial and multifamily properties, compromise our ability to operate the buildings to the requirements and parameters set forth in our leases, make insurance less affordable or available, and increase the cost of energy and utilities at our properties. Also, certain of our properties could not be rebuilt to their existing height or size under current land use laws. In that event, we may have to upgrade such property to meet code requirements. Our disaster recovery and business continuity plans may not be adequate to address these risks.

Previous wording

Under various federal, state and/or local laws, ordinances and regulations, as a current or former owner or operator of real property, we may be liable for costs and damages resulting from the presence or release of hazardous substances, waste, or petroleum products at, on, in, under or from such property, including costs for investigation or remediation, natural resource damages, or third-party liability for personal injury or property damage. These laws often impose liability without regard to whether the owner or operator knew of, or was responsible for, the presence or release of such materials, and the liability may be joint and several. Some of our properties have been or may be impacted by contamination arising from current or prior uses of the property or adjacent properties for commercial, industrial or other purposes. Such contamination may arise from spills of petroleum or hazardous substances or releases from tanks used to store such materials. For example, a portion of the Metro Tower site is currently used for automobile parking and was formerly leased to a fueling facility, and we have post-closing obligations related to our Westport properties sold in 2023 related to remediation of storage tank and soil contamination. See Part I, ITEM 1, "Business - Environmental Matters" for further information.

Current wording

Under various federal, state and/or local laws, ordinances and regulations, as a current or former owner or operator of real property, we may be liable for costs and damages resulting from the presence or release of hazardous substances, waste, or petroleum products at, on, in, under or from such property, including costs for investigation or remediation, natural resource damages, or third-party liability for personal injury or property damage. We also may be liable for the costs of remediating contamination at off-site disposal or treatment facilities when we arrange for disposal or treatment of hazardous substances at such facilities, without regard to whether we comply with environmental laws in doing so. Some of our properties have been or may be impacted by contamination arising from current or prior uses of the property or adjacent properties for commercial, industrial or other purposes. Such contamination may arise from spills of petroleum or hazardous substances or releases from tanks used to store such materials. For example, a portion of the Metro Tower site is currently used for automobile parking and was formerly leased to a fueling facility, and we have post-closing obligations related to our Westport properties sold in 2023 related to remediation of storage tank and soil contamination. See Part I, ITEM 1, "Business— Environmental Matters" for further information. The presence of contamination or the failure to remediate contamination on our properties may adversely affect our ability to attract and/or retain tenants, and our ability to develop or sell or borrow against those properties. In addition to potential liability for cleanup costs, private plaintiffs may bring claims for personal injury, property damage or for similar reasons. Environmental laws also may create liens on contaminated sites in favor of the government for damages and costs it incurs to address such contamination. Moreover, if contamination is discovered on our properties, environmental laws may impose restrictions on the manner in which that property may be used or how businesses may be operated on that property.

Previous wording

In addition, our properties are subject to various federal, state and local environmental and health and safety laws and regulations. Noncompliance with these laws and regulations could subject us or our tenants to liability. These liabilities could affect a tenant’s ability to make rental payments to us. Moreover, changes in laws could increase the potential costs of compliance with such laws and regulations or increase liability for noncompliance. This may result in significant unanticipated expenditures. We sometimes require our tenants to comply with environmental and health and safety laws and regulations and to indemnify us for any related liabilities in our leases with them. But in the event of the bankruptcy or inability of any of our tenants to satisfy such obligations, we may be required to satisfy such obligations.

Current wording

In addition, our properties are subject to various federal, state and local environmental and health and safety laws and regulations, and noncompliance could subject us or our tenants to liability. These liabilities could affect a tenant’s ability to make rental payments to us. Moreover, changes in laws could increase the potential costs of compliance or increase liability for noncompliance. We sometimes require our tenants to comply with environmental and health and safety laws and regulations and to indemnify us for any related liabilities in our leases with them. But in the event of the bankruptcy or inability of any of our tenants to satisfy such obligations, we may be required to satisfy such obligations. In addition, we may become subject to new compliance requirements and/or new costs or taxes associated with natural resource or energy usage and related emissions (such as a carbon tax), which could increase our operating costs. See "We may incur significant costs to comply with environmental laws, in particular New York City’s Local Law 97"in this section.

Previous wording

As the owner or operator of real property, we may also incur liability based on various building conditions. For example, environmental site assessments and investigations have identified asbestos or asbestos-containing material (“ACM”) in certain of our properties, and it is possible that other properties that we currently own or operate or those we acquire or operate in the future contain, may contain, or may have contained, ACM. See “Financial Statements – Note 9 Commitments and Contingencies – Asset Retirement Obligations” in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for more information. Environmental and health and safety laws require that ACM be properly managed and maintained and may impose fines or penalties on owners, operators or employers for non-compliance with those requirements. These requirements include special precautions, such as removal, abatement or air monitoring, if ACM would be disturbed during maintenance, redevelopment or demolition of a building, potentially resulting in substantial costs. In addition, we may be subject to liability for personal injury or property damage sustained as a result of releases of ACM into the environment. Additionally, our properties may contain or develop harmful mold or suffer from other indoor air quality issue, such as inadequate ventilation and contamination, which could lead to liability for adverse health effects or property damage or costs for remediation. Any liability or increased cost from the environmental risks mentioned in this section could materially and adversely affect our operations.

Current wording

As the owner or operator of real property, we may also incur liability based on various building conditions. For example, environmental site assessments have identified asbestos or asbestos-containing material (“ACM”) in certain of our properties, and it is possible that other properties that we currently own or operate or acquire in the future contain ACM. See “Financial Statements— Note 9 Commitments and Contingencies – Asset Retirement Obligations” in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for more information. Environmental and health and safety laws require that ACM be properly managed and maintained and may impose fines or penalties on owners, operators or employers for non-compliance with those requirements. In addition, we may be subject to liability for personal injury or property damage sustained as a result of releases of ACM into the environment. Additionally, our current properties, or properties we acquire in the future, may contain or develop harmful mold or suffer from other indoor air quality issues, such as inadequate ventilation and contamination, which could lead to liability for adverse health effects from our tenants, employees of our tenants or others, or property damage or costs for remediation. Any liability or increased cost from the environmental risks mentioned in this section could materially and adversely affect our operations.

Previous wording

We may incur significant costs to comply with environmental laws, in particular New York City’s Local Law 97.

Current wording

We may incur significant costs to comply with environmental laws, for example New York City’s Local Law 97.

Previous wording

We may become subject to new compliance requirements and/or new costs or taxes associated with natural resource or energy or utility usage and related emissions (such as a “carbon tax”), which could increase our operating costs. In particular, as the owner of large commercial and multifamily buildings in New York City, we are subject to Local Law 97 passed by the New York City Council in April 2019, which for each such building establishes annual limits for greenhouse gas emissions, requires yearly emissions reports beginning in May 2025 for full calendar year 2024, and imposes penalties for emissions above such limits. While we are actively working to reduce our carbon emissions, there can be no assurance that we will be able to operate within the limits of Local Law 97, or that the costs of compliance and/or penalties will not be material. Based upon our present understanding of the law and calculations related thereto, we expect to pay no fine on any building in our commercial portfolio in the 2024-2029 first period of enforcement.

Current wording

We may become subject to new compliance requirements and/or new costs or taxes associated with natural resource or energy or utility usage and related emissions (such as a “carbon tax”), which could increase our operating costs. In particular, as the owner of large covered commercial and multifamily buildings in New York City, we are subject to Local Law 97 passed by the New York City Council in April 2019, which for each such covered building establishes annual limits for greenhouse gas emissions, requires yearly compliance reports beginning in May 2025 for calendar year 2024 performance, and imposes penalties for emissions above such limits. While we are actively working to reduce our carbon emissions, there can be no assurance that we will be able to operate within the limits of Local Law 97, or that the costs of compliance and/or penalties will not be material. Based upon our present understanding of the law and calculations related thereto, we expect to pay no Local Law 97 fine on any covered building in our portfolio in the 2024-2029 period of enforcement.

Previous wording

Risks Related to the COVID-19 Pandemic

Current wording

We are required under Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act to maintain internal control over financial reporting that meets applicable standards. As of December 31, 2024, we remediated the material weakness that was identified in our internal control over financial reporting for the periods ended December 31, 2023 and 2022 related to the design of certain of our information technology general controls for information systems and applications used in the preparation of our financial statements. See Part II, ITEM 9A, “Controls and Procedures— Remediation of the Material Weakness in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting” for more information. We may not be successful in maintaining our effective internal control over financial reporting or in developing other internal controls. Any failure by us to maintain effective internal control over financial reporting could adversely affect our ability to record, process or report financial information accurately and to prepare financial statements in a timely manner, which could subject us to litigation or investigations requiring management resources and payment of legal and other expenses, negatively affect investor confidence in our financial statements and adversely impact our stock price.

Previous wording

Increasing attention to sustainability matters, including those related to climate change, and increasing societal, investor and legislative pressure on companies to address sustainability matters may result in increased costs, greater litigation risks, negative impacts on our access to capital markets, and damage to our reputation. For example, policy and other responses to climate change, such as climate and energy legislation and carbon mandates, enhanced environmental reporting requirements, increasingly stringent building and energy codes, as well as technology and market changes from the transition to a low-carbon economy has and may continue to impact our business and results of operations.

Current wording

Increasing societal, investor and legislative pressure on companies to address sustainability matters may result in increased costs, greater litigation risks, negative impacts on our access to capital markets, and damage to our reputation. For example, policy and other responses to climate change, such as climate and energy legislation and carbon mandates, enhanced environmental reporting requirements, increasingly stringent building and energy codes, as well as technology and market changes from the transition to a low-carbon economy has and may continue to impact our business and results of operations. In addition, certain organizations have developed ratings processes for evaluating companies on their approach to sustainability matters, and such ratings are used by some investors to inform their investment and voting decisions. Unfavorable sustainability ratings may lead to negative investor sentiment toward us and to the diversion of investment to other industries, which could have a negative impact on our stock price and our access to and costs of capital.

Previous wording

The standards for tracking, rating, and reporting on sustainability matters are relatively new, have not been harmonized and continue to evolve rapidly at a global scale. Our selection of disclosure frameworks that seek to align with various voluntary reporting standards may change from time to time and may result in a lack of comparative data from period to period. In addition, our processes and controls may not always align with evolving voluntary standards for identifying, measuring, and reporting sustainability metrics, our interpretation of reporting standards may differ from those of others, and such standards may change over time, any of which could result in significant revisions to our goals or reported progress in achieving such goals. Our failure or perceived failure to pursue or fulfill our announced aspirations and targets or to satisfy various reporting standards within the timelines we announce, or at all, could have a negative impact on investor sentiment, ratings outcomes for evaluating our approach to sustainability matters, stock price, and cost of capital and expose us to government enforcement actions and private litigation, among other possible material adverse impacts.

Current wording

We publicly announced certain energy, emissions, water and waste reduction targets. These targets and objectives reflect our current plans and goals and are not guarantees that we will be able to achieve them. In addition, these efforts are impacted by our tenants’ willingness and ability to collaborate in reporting sustainability metrics and integrating measures to achieve sustainability performance goals, the ability of the New York grid to meet emissions reduction targets and timing set forth in New York State's Climate Leadership & Community Protection Act legislation, and replacement of equipment at the end of its useful life cycle. Our efforts to accomplish and accurately report on these goals and objectives present operational, regulatory, reputational, financial, legal, and other risks, any of which could have a material negative impact on us, including on our reputation and stock price. The standards for tracking, rating, and reporting on sustainability matters have not been harmonized and continue to evolve. Our selection of disclosure frameworks that seek to align with various voluntary reporting standards may change from time to time and may result in a lack of comparative data from period to period. In addition, our processes and controls may not always align with evolving standards, our interpretation of reporting standards may differ from those of others, and such standards may change over time, any of which could result in significant revisions to our goals or reported progress in achieving such goals. Our failure or perceived failure to pursue or fulfill our announced aspirations and targets or to satisfy various reporting standards within the timelines we announce, or at all, could have a negative impact on investor sentiment, ratings outcomes for evaluating our approach to sustainability matters, stock price, and cost of capital and expose us to government enforcement actions and private litigation, among other possible material adverse impacts.

Previous wording

We rely extensively on technology, both internal and outsourced, to process transactions and manage our business, making our business increasingly at risk from cyberattacks. These threats, which continue to increase in number, intensity and sophistication, include malware, ransomware, computer viruses, phishing, unauthorized access, and other vectors used by hackers, terrorists, foreign governments, and other actors. Cyber threats and attacks on our Company have included and could in the future include internal and external attempts to gain unauthorized access to our data and computer systems to disrupt our operations or the operations of our tenants and residents, destroy property, or steal confidential information. There is no guarantee that our controls or measures to prevent or mitigate such attacks will be successful. A cyberattack could compromise the confidential information of our employees, tenants, residents, customers, and vendors, and disrupt our business operations and relationships. Such a security breach could require us to expend significant resources to remediate any damage that result. Additionally, such a breach may subject us to litigation, damages, penalties, fines, governmental investigations and enforcement actions or termination of leases. These consequences could damage our reputation with tenants, residents, customers, and investors, any of which could have a material adverse effect on our business. Any compromise of our security could also result in a violation of applicable privacy laws (e.g., Observatory customer data, Company employee data, or residential data at multifamily properties), which could result in negative legal consequences as well as significant damage to our financial condition, reputation, business, records, and confidence of our business partners in our business relationships. New laws and regulations related to data privacy and security pose increasingly complex compliance challenges and costs across multiple jurisdictions, which could negatively impact our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Current wording

We rely extensively on technology, both internal and outsourced, to process transactions and manage our business, making our business increasingly at risk from cyberattacks. These threats, which continue to increase in number, intensity and sophistication, include malware, ransomware, computer viruses, phishing, unauthorized access, and other vectors used by hackers, terrorists, foreign governments, and other actors. Cyber threats and attacks on our Company have included and could in the future include internal and external attempts to gain unauthorized access to our data and computer systems to disrupt our operations or the operations of our tenants and residents, destroy property, or steal confidential information. There is no guarantee that our controls or measures to prevent or mitigate such attacks will be successful. A cyberattack could compromise the confidential information of our employees, tenants, residents, customers, and vendors, and disrupt our business operations and relationships. A security breach could require us to expend significant resources to remediate and may subject us to litigation, damages, penalties, fines, governmental investigations and enforcement actions or termination of leases. Any compromise of our security could also result in a violation of applicable privacy laws (e.g., Observatory customer data, Company employee data, or residential data at multifamily properties). These consequences could result in negative legal consequences as well as significant damage to our business and financial condition and reputation. New laws and regulations related to data privacy and security pose increasingly complex compliance challenges and costs across multiple jurisdictions, which could negatively impact our business and financial condition.

Previous wording

A growing number of state and local governments have enacted and may continue to consider enacting and/or expanding rent control or rent stabilization regulations, which have limited and could continue to limit in broadening ways our ability to raise rents or charge certain fees, either of which could have a retroactive effect. We continue to see increases in governments considering or being urged by advocacy groups to consider rent forgiveness, rent control or rent stabilization regulations or expand coverage of existing regulations in our markets. These regulations may also make changes to and/or expand eviction and other tenants’ rights regulations that may limit our ability to enforce residents’ or tenants’ contractual rental obligations (such as eviction moratoriums), pursue collections or charge certain fees, which could have an adverse impact on our operations and property values.

Current wording

New York, where our properties are located, has enacted and may continue to enact and/or expand rent control and eviction regulations (such as Good Cause Eviction), which have limited and could continue to limit our ability to raise rents, enforce residents’ or tenants’ contractual rental obligations (such as eviction moratoriums), pursue collections or charge certain fees, all of which could have an adverse impact on our operations and property values.

Previous wording

Government housing regulations may limit opportunities at the multifamily properties in which we invest, and failure to comply with resident qualification requirements may result in financial penalties or loss of benefits.

Current wording

Government housing regulations may limit opportunities at the multifamily properties in which we invest, and failure to comply with resident qualification requirements or to extend such programs upon expiration may result in financial penalties or loss of benefits.

Previous wording

We own, and may acquire additional equity interests in properties that benefit from governmental programs intended to provide housing to individuals with low or moderate incomes. These governmental programs typically provide mortgage insurance, favorable financing terms, tax credits or rental assistance payments to property owners. As a condition of the initial receipt and potential extensions of assistance under these programs, the properties must comply with various requirements, which typically limit rents to pre-approved amounts and impose restrictions on resident incomes. Failure to comply with these requirements and restrictions may result in financial penalties or loss of benefits. In addition, we will typically need to obtain the approval of the applicable government agency in order to acquire or dispose of a significant interest in or manage such property. We may not always receive such approval.

Current wording

We own, and may acquire additional equity interests in properties that benefit from governmental programs intended to provide housing to individuals with low or moderate incomes. These governmental programs typically provide mortgage insurance, favorable financing terms, tax credits or rental assistance payments to property owners. As a condition of the initial receipt and potential extensions of assistance under these programs, the properties must comply with various requirements, which typically limit rents to pre-approved amounts and impose restrictions on resident incomes. Failure to comply with these requirements and restrictions may result in financial penalties or loss of benefits. In addition, we will typically need to obtain the approval of the applicable government agency in order to acquire or dispose of a significant interest in or manage such property. We may not always receive such approval. Upon expiration of such programs, we may choose not to seek an extension, which will result in loss of benefits and could result in negative financial impact, in particular if we cannot raise rents for such units due to other regulations related to rent control and eviction, among others.

Previous wording

While we intend to continue to qualify as a “domestically controlled” REIT for purposes of the Foreign Investment in Real Property Tax Act of 1980, we cannot assure that result, as our Class A common stock is publicly traded, QIA (a non-U.S. holder) owns approximately 18.45% of our common stock and other non-U.S. holders may now or in the future hold additional shares. If we were to fail to qualify, gain realized by a foreign investor (other than a “qualified shareholder,” a “qualified foreign pension fund” or a “qualified controlled entity”) on a sale of our common stock would be subject to FIRPTA unless (a) our common stock was traded on an established securities market and the foreign investor did not at any time during a specific testing period directly or indirectly own more than 10% of the value of our outstanding common stock, or (b) another exemption from FIRPTA were applicable.

Current wording

While we intend to continue to qualify as a “domestically controlled” REIT for purposes of the Foreign Investment in Real Property Tax Act of 1980, we cannot assure that result, as our Class A common stock is publicly traded, QIA (a non-U.S. holder) owns approximately 17.97% of our common stock and other non-U.S. holders may now or in the future hold additional shares. If we were to fail to qualify, gains realized by a foreign investor (other than a “qualified shareholder,” a “qualified foreign pension fund” or a “qualified controlled entity”) on a sale of our common stock would be subject to FIRPTA unless (a) our common stock was traded on an established securities market and the foreign investor did not at any time during a specific testing period directly or indirectly own more than 10% of the value of our outstanding common stock, or (b) another exemption from FIRPTA were applicable.

Previous wording

Complying with the REIT requirements may cause us to forego and/or liquidate otherwise attractive investments.

Current wording

Complying with the REIT requirements may cause us to forego and/or liquidate otherwise attractive investments or borrow funds and we may be subject to tax.

Previous wording

If we fail to comply with the income and asset requirements for a REIT at the end of any calendar quarter, we must correct the failure within 30 days after the end of the calendar quarter or qualify for certain other statutory relief provisions to avoid losing our REIT qualification and suffering adverse tax consequences. Refer to Part I, ITEM 1, “Business – Our Tax Status” for more information. In order to satisfy the gross income or asset tests applicable to REITs under the Code, we may be required to forego investments that we otherwise would make or liquidate otherwise attractive investments. This could have the effect of reducing our income and amounts available for distribution.

Current wording

If we fail to comply with the income and asset requirements for a REIT at the end of any calendar quarter, we must correct the failure within 30 days after the end of the calendar quarter or qualify for certain other statutory relief provisions to avoid losing our REIT qualification and suffering adverse tax consequences. Refer to Part I, ITEM 1, “Business – Our Tax