BAXTER INTERNATIONAL INC
For the period ended Dec 31, 2024. Filed Feb 21, 2025.
View on SEC.govAbout this filing
A company's yearly report to the SEC, with audited financial statements. It is the fullest account a company gives of its business, its finances and the risks it sees.
FY2024 · Filed Feb 21, 2025
What changed in Risk Factors?
Read the current filingPrevious report: 10-K
Period ended 2023-12-31; filed 2024-02-08.
0001628280-24-003932
Item 1A. Risk FactorsCurrent report: 10-K
Period ended 2024-12-31; filed 2025-02-21.
0001628280-25-007201
Item 1A. Risk FactorsThe baseline is this issuer’s latest earlier reporting period of the same form that was filed before the current report. A previous 10-Q is a different quarter, not a year-over-year comparison. Amendments are excluded.
Compared 172 previous paragraphs and 182 current paragraphs.
75 unchanged; 70 reworded; 32 added; 23 removed; 4 previous and 5 current paragraphs rearranged.
Tables are not compared: 0 previous and 0 current tables excluded. Dates, whitespace, punctuation and numbering changes are ignored; changes to financial figures remain significant.
A changed paragraph is not evidence that risk increased or decreased. An unchanged paragraph does not establish that risk stayed the same.
Added paragraphs (32)
Current report
•We are exposed to risks as a result of our strategic actions, including the recent sale of our Kidney Care business.
Current report
•Our significant indebtedness requires us to use a substantial amount of our cash flow for debt service and could constrain our flexibility in responding to unanticipated or adverse business conditions and adversely affect our business, results of operations, financial condition and cash flows.
Current report
•Changes in foreign currency exchange rates and interest rates have had, and may in the future have, an adverse effect on our results of operations, financial condition, cash flows and liquidity.
Current report
•We cannot guarantee that in the future we will not further reduce the amount of dividends we pay.
Current report
•Breaches and breakdowns affecting our information technology systems or protected information, including from obsolescence, cyber security breaches and data leakage, could have a material adverse effect on us.
Current report
•Incorporating artificial intelligence, machine learning and other emerging technologies into our products, services and operations exposes us to legal and regulatory risks and could result in reputational harm or have other adverse consequences to our business, financial condition or results of operations.
Current report
•Our commitments, goals and disclosures related to corporate responsibility matters, and the perception of our activities in these areas, may adversely impact the company, including through reputational harm.
Current report
Risks Relating to Our Recent and Ongoing Strategic Actions
Current report
We are exposed to risks as a result of our strategic actions, including the recent sale of our Kidney Care business.
Current report
Our businesses have begun to face, and will continue to face, material challenges in connection with the sale of our Kidney Care business and the other strategic actions we have undertaken (including the implementation of a simplified operating model and the ongoing simplification of our manufacturing footprint). The success of the sale of our Kidney Care business depends on, among other things, our ability to effectively transition the Kidney Care business to Carlyle in a manner that: minimizes disruption to our customers, employees, other personnel and operations; realizes the expected tax benefits; avoids potential liabilities or claims; and enables us to achieve related cost savings initiatives. The Kidney Care sale may result in challenges such as: the diversion of management’s attention from our ongoing business concerns and any newly identified strategic initiatives; attracting, retaining and motivating key management and other employees; retaining existing, or attracting new, business and operational relationships, including with customers, suppliers, employees and other counterparties; maintaining our relationships with regulators; the potential for disputes or litigation with Carlyle or Vantive, as applicable, arising from the transaction, the EPA or the various agreements (including a transition services agreement and a manufacturing and supply agreement) that we entered into with Vantive in connection with the Kidney Care closing (as further described below) and liabilities and obligations otherwise related to the transaction, the EPA or the other agreements described in this paragraph; the potential for exposure related to certain pre-closing Kidney Care liabilities we retained; the potential for adverse tax consequences or changes in tax laws or regulations that could affect our remaining businesses; the potential for regulatory actions or investigations related to the transaction or the businesses involved; and potential negative reactions from the financial markets, ratings agencies, customers, employees, other personnel or other stakeholders.
Current report
In connection with the closing of the Kidney Care sale, we entered into certain agreements as described above (including a transition services agreement and a manufacturing and supply agreement). These agreements provide for the performance of services, and the provision of certain dialysis-related products, other products and product components, by each company for the benefit of the other for a period of time. If Vantive is unable to satisfy its obligations under these agreements, including its supply and indemnification obligations, we could incur losses. Additionally, in the event that Vantive asserts claims for breaches of any of these agreements, our indemnity obligations and other liabilities to Vantive under these agreements could be significant. These arrangements could also lead to disputes over rights to certain shared property and rights and over the allocation of costs and revenues for products and operations. Our inability to effectively manage these activities and related events could adversely affect our business, financial condition or results of operations.
Current report
Our operating results and financial condition have fluctuated and may in the future continue to fluctuate.
Current report
Our significant indebtedness requires us to use a substantial amount of our cash flow for debt service and could constrain our flexibility in responding to unanticipated or adverse business conditions and adversely affect our business, results of operations, financial condition and cash flows.
Current report
Changes in foreign currency exchange rates and interest rates have had, and may in the future have, an adverse effect on our results of operations, financial condition, cash flows and liquidity.
Current report
We cannot guarantee that in the future we will not further reduce the amount of dividends we pay.
Current report
The timing, declaration, amount and payment of any future dividends fall within the discretion of our Board of Directors and will depend on many factors, including our available cash, estimated cash needs, earnings, financial condition, operating results, capital requirements, limitations in our contractual agreements, applicable law, regulatory constraints, industry practice and other business considerations that our Board of Directors considers relevant. In November 2024, we announced a reduction in our quarterly dividend in anticipation of the sale of our Kidney Care business and the corresponding reduction to our earnings and cash flows. Any further change in our dividend program could have an adverse effect on the market price of our common stock.
Current report
In addition, the loss of services of our senior management or other key employees could delay or prevent the achievement of our financial, operating or strategic objectives. In February 2025, we announced that José Almeida had ceased serving as Chair, President and CEO and the appointment of Brent Shafer, the former lead independent director of our Board of Directors, as Chair and interim CEO. We also announced the Board’s initiation of a search for a permanent CEO. The timeline for identifying, retaining and integrating a new CEO is currently unknown. Any failure to timely identify and hire a new CEO and successfully integrate and transition that person into their new role within our company could adversely impact our ability to achieve our long-term financial, operating or strategic objectives. We have also experienced, and may continue to experience, attrition among our senior management team and key employees in recent years, including during the CEO search process. These leadership changes may be difficult to manage and may result in additional costs, uncertainty concerning our future direction, changes to our corporate culture, lower employee morale or the loss of personnel with deep institutional knowledge and industry relationships. Further, we have increased our dependency on the remaining members of our executive management team during the transition process. Our executive officers could terminate their employment with us at any time, and any such departure could be particularly disruptive in light of the recent leadership changes. The replacement of any of our senior management or other key employees involves significant time and costs, and any loss of services of any such key employee for any reason could significantly delay or prevent the achievement of our financial, operating or strategic objectives. If we are unable to mitigate these or other similar risks, our business, results of operations and financial condition may be adversely affected.
Current report
Further, while efforts are made to diversify certain of our sources of components and raw materials, in certain instances we have made a strategic determination to use a single source or supplier or there is only a sole source or supplier with no acceptable alternatives yet identified and, as applicable, qualified. This reliance on sole or limited source suppliers exposes us to several risks that could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. The disruption or termination of the supply of these components could cause significant production interruptions, delays and inefficiencies. In the event of a disruption, establishing additional or replacement suppliers for such materials or components may not be timely or cost-effective due to market constraints or regulatory requirements. The process of qualifying new suppliers may be lengthy and complex, requiring approval of materials and components prior to their use in our products from governmental agencies, such as FDA and other worldwide regulatory agencies. As a result, we may experience lengthy delays in resuming production of affected products, which could lead to lost sales, loss of market share and harm to our reputation. Our reliance on sole source suppliers may also lead to increased costs. If we are unable to pass these cost increases on to our customers, our business and results of operations could be adversely impacted.
Current report
Incorporating artificial intelligence, machine learning and other emerging technologies into our products, services and operations may result in legal and regulatory risks, reputational harm or have other adverse consequences to our business, financial condition or results of operations.
Current report
We use AI and machine learning (ML) technologies to support our operations and anticipate integrating such technology in select products and services in the future. We further anticipate that AI and ML will become increasingly important to our innovation and competitiveness in the future. However, we face risks and uncertainties related to the development, adoption and use of AI, ML and other emerging technologies, including complying with an increasingly large amount of complex global regulations related specifically to AI and ML.
Current report
We may not be able to successfully develop, integrate or deploy AI or ML technologies in our products and services, or we may face delays, increased costs or technical difficulties in doing so. We may also encounter difficulties in obtaining or maintaining the necessary regulatory approvals or clearances for these products and services, or face increased scrutiny or liability from regulators, customers, or other stakeholders regarding the safety, effectiveness, accuracy, reliability, security or ethical implications of such technology. We also may have more difficulty protecting or enforcing our data and intellectual property rights as a result of these technologies, and there may be a risk of infringing on the intellectual property rights of others which could lead to litigation, arbitration or other disputes over the ownership, validity, scope or enforcement of our or others’ patents, trademarks, copyrights, trade secrets or other proprietary rights related to AI and ML technologies. Such disputes could be costly, time-consuming and disruptive to our business. See “Risks Relating to Legal and Regulatory Matters – If we are unable to protect or enforce our patents or other proprietary rights, or if we become subject to claims or litigation alleging infringement of the patents or other proprietary rights of others, our competitiveness and business prospects may be materially damaged”
Current report
We may experience breaches, failures or disruptions of information technology systems or products (whether ours or those of third parties on which we rely) that use or rely on AI, ML or emerging technologies We have also experienced and may experience in the future unauthorized or unlawful access, use, disclosure, alteration or destruction of the data or information that we collect, store, process or transmit for our applications, including data or information provided to us by third parties. These events could result from cyber attacks, human error, natural disasters, power outages, sabotage or other causes, and could compromise the confidentiality, integrity or availability of our or our customers' data or information, or the functionality or performance of our AI and ML-enabled products and services. These events could result in loss of customer confidence, reputational harm, regulatory investigations or actions, legal claims or liabilities, remediation costs or other negative consequences.
Current report
Furthermore, companies across all industries are facing increasing scrutiny from investors, regulators, and other stakeholders related to their CR commitments, performance, and disclosures, including those related to climate change, social matters, and governance standards. See “Risks Relating to Our Operations – Our commitments, goals and disclosures related to corporate responsibility matters, and the perception of our activities in these areas, may adversely impact the company, including reputational harm.”
Current report
Our commitments, goals and disclosures related to corporate responsibility matters, and the perception of our activities in these areas, may adversely impact us, including through reputational harm.
Current report
Governmental authorities, investors, customers, employees, certain institutional investors, lenders and other stakeholders are increasingly focused on CR commitments, practices, performance and disclosures, and in recent years have placed increasing importance on social costs and related implications of their investments. Our CR goals, some of which may be reset or reframed or reset in connection with the issuance of our 2024 Corporate Responsibility Report or otherwise, reflect our current plans and aspirations and are not guarantees that we will be able to achieve them.
Current report
We risk negative stockholder reaction, as well as damage to our brand and reputation and other potential costs, if we fail to meet our goals and initiatives, if we fail to accurately measure or report our progress with respect to our goals and initiatives or if we are perceived to not be acting responsibly in key CR areas, including product quality and safety, environmental stewardship, support for local communities, corporate governance and transparency, and addressing human capital factors in our operations. Responding to these CR considerations and implementation of our CR goals and initiatives involves risks and uncertainties, requires investments (some of which still need to be funded or identified), and depends in part on our relative performance (or perceived performance) against third-parties that is beyond our control.
Current report
In addition, some stakeholders may disagree with our CR goals and initiatives. If we do not meet the evolving and varied CR expectations of our investors, customers, employees and other stakeholders, we could experience reduced demand for our products, loss of customers and employees and suffer other negative impacts to our business and results of operations.
Current report
Our business is also subject to risks associated with U.S. and foreign legislation, regulations and trade agreements (including those resulting from the transition to new political administrations) relating to the materials we import, including quotas, duties, tariffs or taxes, and other charges or restrictions on imports and the nature of materials that can be used in our products, which could adversely affect our operations and our ability to import materials used in our products at current or increased levels. For example, the United States has recently enacted and proposed to enact significant new tariffs, including a 25% tariff on imports from Mexico and Canada into the United States. While these tariffs are currently suspended while negotiations take place for a long-term agreement, there continues to exist significant uncertainty about the future relationship between the U.S. and other countries (including China) with respect to trade policies, treaties and tariffs. These developments, or the perception that they could occur, may have a material adverse effect on global economic conditions and the stability of global financial markets, and may significantly reduce global trade and, in particular, trade between the impacted countries. Additionally, as we currently have manufacturing operations in Mexico in support of our Healthcare Systems & Technologies and Medical Products & Therapies businesses, a 25% tariff on all imports from Mexico would increase the cost of our products manufactured in Mexico and adversely impact our business, results of operations, financial condition and cash flows.
Removed paragraphs (23)
Previous report
•The proposed spinoff of our Kidney Care business may not be completed on the terms, structure or timeline we have announced, if at all.
Previous report
•We are exposed to new risks as a result of the proposed spinoff and other strategic actions we are undertaking.
Previous report
•We incurred a substantial amount of debt in connection with the Hillrom acquisition, which could adversely affect our business, results of operations, financial condition and cash flows.
Previous report
•Changes in foreign currency exchange rates and interest rates have, and may in the future have, an adverse effect on our results of operations, financial condition, cash flows and liquidity.
Previous report
•Breaches and breakdowns affecting our information technology systems or protected information could have a material adverse effect on us.
Previous report
•Our Amended and Restated By-Laws designate certain courts in the State of Delaware or the federal district courts of the United States will be the sole and exclusive forum for substantially all disputes between us and our stockholders.
Previous report
The proposed spinoff of our Kidney Care business may not be completed on the terms, structure or timeline we have announced, if at all.
Previous report
In January 2023, we announced a series of strategic actions, including, among other things, the proposed spinoff of our Kidney Care business into an independent company (the proposed spinoff) and plans to implement a simplified operating model and manufacturing footprint. While we have completed implementation of the new operating model, we may encounter challenges to executing the proposed spinoff on the terms, structure and within the timeframe we have announced, or at all. The proposed spinoff will be subject to the satisfaction of a number of customary conditions, including final approval from Baxter’s Board of Directors. The failure to satisfy any of the required conditions could delay the completion of the proposed spinoff for a significant period of time or prevent it from occurring at all. Additionally, the proposed spinoff is complex in nature, and unanticipated developments or changes, including disruptions in general market conditions, changes in law, challenges or complexities in executing the spinoff of the two businesses or developments of viable medical, pharmacological and technological advances (as further discussed in “Other Risks Relating to Our Business If we are unable to successfully introduce or monetize new and existing products or services, or fail to keep pace with changing consumer preferences and needs or advances in technology, our business, results of operations, financial condition and cash flows could be adversely affected”) may affect our ability to complete the proposed spinoff on the terms or on the timeline we have announced, or at all. The terms and conditions of the required regulatory authorizations and consents that are granted, if any, may also impose requirements, limitations or costs, or place restrictions on the conduct of the independent companies or impact our ability to complete the proposed spinoff on the terms or timeline we have announced, or at all.
Previous report
Although we intend for the proposed spinoff to be tax-free to Baxter’s stockholders for U.S. federal income tax purposes, we have initiated the preparatory restructuring, which has generated, and we expect to continue to generate, non-U.S. tax liabilities and may also generate potential impairments of deferred tax assets. Moreover, there can be no assurance that the proposed spinoff will qualify as tax-free for U.S. federal income tax purposes. The IRS ruling and tax opinion mentioned above will be based upon various factual representations and assumptions, as well as certain undertakings made by Baxter and the new independent company. If any of these factual representations or assumptions are, or become, untrue or incomplete in any material respect, an undertaking is not complied with, or the facts upon which the opinion or ruling are based are materially different from the actual facts relating to the proposed spinoff, reliance on the opinion or ruling may be jeopardized. If the proposed spinoff were ultimately determined to be taxable for U.S. federal income tax purposes, we would incur a significant tax liability, while the distributions to Baxter’s stockholders would become taxable and the new company could incur income tax liabilities as well.
Previous report
We are exposed to new risks as a result of the proposed spinoff and other strategic actions we are undertaking. Our strategic actions may not achieve their anticipated benefits, or our costs may exceed our estimates.
Previous report
We incurred a substantial amount of debt in connection with the Hillrom acquisition, which could adversely affect our business, results of operations, financial condition and cash flows.
Previous report
Changes in foreign currency exchange rates and interest rates have, and may in the future have, an adverse effect on our results of operations, financial condition, cash flows and liquidity.
Previous report
A pandemic or other public health emergency has adversely affected, and many continue to adversely affect, our business in many ways, including, but not limited to, the following:
Previous report
•During the COVID-19 pandemic, we experienced significant and unpredictable reductions and increases in demand for certain of our products as healthcare customers re-prioritized the treatment of patients. Some of our products are particularly sensitive to reductions in elective medical procedures. For example, many elective procedures were suspended or postponed in our principal markets as hospital systems prioritized treatment of COVID-19 patients or otherwise were required to comply with changing government guidelines. If patients and hospital systems de-prioritize, delay or cancel elective procedures in the future, our business, financial condition and results of operations may be negatively affected. Additionally, through the pandemic, certain portions of our patient populations (including End Stage Renal Disease patients) have experienced heightened mortality levels. Demand for related products and services may not rebound to pre-pandemic levels in light of these increased mortality rates.
Previous report
•A significant number of our customers, suppliers, manufacturers, distributors and vendors were adversely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, including obstacles relating to their ability to maintain the continuity of their on-site operations, which impacted demand for certain of our products and services. These impacts caused interruptions and delays in our supply chain, and may do so in the future, resulting in more expensive alternative sources of labor and materials and heightened supply chain costs. Any delay or shortage in the supply of components or materials or other operational or logistical challenges may impact our ability to satisfy consumer demand for our products in a timely manner or at all, which could harm our reputation, future sales and profitability. For example, we have experienced supply constraints for amino acid raw materials used in our parenteral nutrition products, as such materials are being used to produce
Previous report
COVID-19 vaccines. These constraints have resulted in certain product backorders and may do so in the future.
Previous report
•We have experienced, and may continue to experience, a loss of sales or profitability due to delayed payments, reduced demand or capital constraints (including potential insolvency) of healthcare professionals, hospitals and other customers, as well as suppliers and vendors facing liquidity or other financial issues. These liquidity issues, as well as other financial issues, could be exacerbated if prolonged high levels of unemployment or loss of insurance coverage impact patients’ ability to access treatments that use our products and services.
Previous report
•COVID-19 adversely impacted the continued service and availability of skilled personnel necessary to run our operations (and those of our customers).
Previous report
In 2019, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services launched a new kidney health initiative. The CMS published the final ESRD Treatment Choices (ETC) mandatory payment model in 2020. The ETC launched in 30% of dialysis clinics across the country on January 1, 2021 and creates payment incentives for the greater use of home dialysis and kidney transplants for those new to and already on dialysis. CMS also announced the implementation of four voluntary payment models with the stated goal of helping healthcare providers reduce the cost and improve the quality of care for patients with late-stage chronic kidney disease and ESRD. In addition, the 2022 Physician Fee Schedule issued by CMS has extended coverage of certain Medicare telehealth services through December 31, 2023 and the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2023 further extended such coverage through December 31, 2024. While the availability of telehealth services can improve access to medical care, increased reliance on, and utilization of, telemedicine for delivery of healthcare services increases the risk of privacy and data breaches and cyberattacks. These proposed regulatory changes in kidney health policy and reimbursement may substantially change the U.S. end stage renal disease market and could increase demand for our peritoneal dialysis products, necessitating significant multi-year capital expenditures in order to meet that demand. However, the impact of such changes and related expenses are difficult to estimate in advance.
Reworded paragraphs (70)
Previous wording
•We may continue to experience difficulties with our integration of Hillrom or fail to realize the anticipated benefits of the Hillrom acquisition.
Current wording
•We may continue to experience difficulties with our ongoing integration of Hillrom or fail to realize the anticipated benefits of the Hillrom acquisition.
Previous wording
•Our operating results and financial condition have, and may in the future, fluctuate.
Current wording
•Our operating results and financial condition have fluctuated and may in the future continue to fluctuate.
Previous wording
•Issues with product quality could, among other things, have an adverse effect on our business or cause a loss of customer confidence in us or our products.
Current wording
•Issues with quality management or product quality could, among other things, have an adverse effect on our business or cause a loss of customer confidence in us or our products.
Previous wording
If we fail to attract, develop, retain and engage key employees, our business may suffer.
Current wording
•If we fail to attract, develop, retain and engage key employees, including a permanent Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and other members of our senior management, our business may suffer.
Previous wording
•We may not be successful in achieving expected operating efficiencies and sustaining or improving operating expense reductions, and might experience business disruptions and adverse tax consequences associated with restructuring, realignment and cost reduction activities.
Current wording
•We may not be successful in achieving expected operating efficiencies and sustaining or improving operating expense reductions and may experience business disruptions and adverse tax consequences associated with restructuring, realignment and cost reduction activities.
Previous wording
Increasing regulatory focus on privacy and cybersecurity issues and expanding laws could impact our business and expose us to increased liability.
Current wording
•Increasing regulatory focus on, and expanding laws relating to, privacy, artificial intelligence and cybersecurity could impact our business and expose us to increased liability.
Previous wording
Our Amended and Restated Bylaws designate certain courts in the State of Delaware or the federal district courts of the United States will be the sole and exclusive forum for substantially all disputes between us and our stockholders, which could limit our stockholders’ ability to obtain a favorable judicial forum for disputes with us or our directors, officers, or employees.
Current wording
•Our Amended and Restated By-Laws could limit our stockholders’ ability to choose their preferred judicial forum for disputes with us or our directors, officers, or employees.
Previous wording
Our businesses have begun to face, and will continue to face, material challenges in connection with the proposed spinoff and the other strategic actions we are undertaking (including the recent implementation of a simplified operating model and the ongoing simplification of our manufacturing footprint). These challenges include, without limitation, the diversion of management’s attention from ongoing business concerns; appropriately allocating assets and liabilities among the companies to be separated in the proposed spinoff, particularly given the complex nature of the proposed spinoff; attracting, retaining and motivating key management and other employees; retaining existing, or attracting new, business and operational relationships, including with customers, suppliers, employees and other counterparties; maintaining our relationships with regulators; assigning customer contracts and intellectual property to each of the businesses; and potential negative reactions from the financial markets. In particular, in the last few years, we have undertaken other strategic and business transformation actions (including the recent divestiture of our BPS business, the acquisition of Hillrom and cost reduction initiatives) that have entailed changes across our organizational structure, senior leadership, culture, functional alignment, outsourcing and other areas. This poses risks in the form of personnel capacity constraints and institutional knowledge loss that has led to, and could in the future lead to, missed performance or financial targets and harm to our reputation, and these risks are heightened with the additional interdependent actions that will be needed to complete the proposed spinoff and other strategic actions we are currently implementing and pursing or which we may pursue in the future.
Current wording
In addition, in the last few years, we have undertaken other strategic and business transformation actions (including the divestiture of our BPS business, the acquisition of Hillrom and cost reduction initiatives) that have entailed changes across our organizational structure, senior leadership, culture, functional alignment, outsourcing and other areas. These actions pose risks in the form of personnel capacity constraints and institutional knowledge loss that has led to, and could in the future lead to, missed performance of financial targets (including those related to cost savings initiatives) and harm to our reputation.
Previous wording
We have incurred, and will continue to incur, significant expenses in connection with the proposed spinoff and other strategic actions we are undertaking. These expenses have been significant, and may continue to grow, and may not yield a discernible benefit if the actions are not completed on schedule or at all. In addition, the anticipated benefits of these actions are based on a number of assumptions, some of which may prove incorrect, and we cannot predict with certainty when the expected benefits will occur, or the extent to which they will be achieved. As a result, even if the proposed spinoff or other strategic actions are completed, they may not achieve some or all of the anticipated strategic, financial, operational or other benefits in the expected timeframe, or at all, which could adversely impact our business, results of operations, financial condition and cash flows.
Current wording
We have incurred, and will continue to incur, significant expenses in connection with the sale of our Kidney Care business. For example, we will continue to incur the costs of providing transition services, products and product components to Vantive under the agreements described above and other stranded costs that we will no longer be able to share with the Kidney Care business and which we may not be able to fully offset. Such expenses have been significant, and may continue to grow. In addition, the anticipated benefits of the sale are based on a number of assumptions, some of which may prove incorrect, and we cannot predict with certainty when the expected benefits will occur, or the extent to which they will be achieved. As a result, even with the completed sale of the Kidney Care business, we may not achieve some or all of the anticipated strategic, financial, operational or other benefits in the expected timeframe, or at all, which could adversely impact our business, results of operations, financial condition and cash flows. Further, the sale of the Kidney Care business results in a smaller, less diversified company, with more limited and concentrated businesses than before the transaction, which may leave us more vulnerable to changing market conditions.
Previous wording
Further, even if the proposed spinoff is completed, we cannot assure you that each separate company will be successful. Completion of the proposed spinoff will result in independent companies that are smaller, less diversified companies, with more limited businesses concentrated in their respective industries than Baxter. As a result, each company will be more vulnerable to changing market conditions, which could have a material adverse effect on its business, results of operations, financial conditions and cash flows. In addition, the diversification of revenues, costs and cash flows will diminish, such that each company’s results of operations, cash flows, working capital, effective tax rate and financing requirements may be subject to increased volatility, and each company’s ability to fund capital expenditures and investments, pay dividends and meet debt obligations and other liabilities may be diminished. Following completion of the proposed spinoff, each company will also incur one-time and ongoing costs, including the costs of operating as independent companies, that the separated businesses will no longer be able to share. In addition, until the market has fully analyzed the values of the separate companies, the price of our common stock and common stock of the new company may experience volatility. Our common stock or the common stock of the new company may not match some holders’ investment strategies or meet minimum criteria for inclusion in stock market indices or portfolios, which could cause certain investors to sell their shares, which could in turn lead to declines in the trading price of such stock. As a result of any of the foregoing or other risks, the combined value of the common stock of the two publicly traded companies may be less than what the value of our common stock would have been absent the proposed spinoff.
Current wording
Additionally, until the market has fully analyzed our valuation following the sale of the Kidney Care business, the price of our common stock may continue to fluctuate even after a sufficient amount of time has passed for the market to fully analyze our valuation following the sale of the Kidney Care business. Our common stock may not match some holders’ investment strategies or meet minimum criteria for inclusion in stock market indices or portfolios, causing certain investors to sell their shares, which could in turn lead to declines in the trading price of such stock. Furthermore, with the sale having decreased the diversification of our revenues, costs and cash flows, our operations, cash flows, working capital, effective tax rate and financing requirements may be subject to increased volatility, and our ability to fund capital expenditures and investments, pay dividends and meet debt obligations and other liabilities may be diminished.
Previous wording
We may continue to experience difficulties with our integration of Hillrom or fail to realize the anticipated benefits of the Hillrom acquisition.
Current wording
We may continue to experience difficulties with our ongoing integration of Hillrom or fail to realize the anticipated benefits of the Hillrom acquisition.
Previous wording
During 2021, we completed the acquisition of Hillrom. The success of this acquisition depends on, among other things, our ability to integrate Hillrom in a manner that facilitates growth opportunities, realizes anticipated cost and revenue synergies and achieves certain previously communicated net leverage targets without adversely affecting current revenues and investments in future growth. If we are not able to successfully achieve these objectives, the anticipated benefits of the Hillrom acquisition may not be realized fully or at all or may take longer to realize than expected.
Current wording
During 2021, we completed the acquisition of Hillrom. The success of this acquisition depends on, among other things, our ability to complete the integration of Hillrom in a manner that facilitates growth opportunities, realizes anticipated cost and revenue synergies and achieves certain previously communicated net leverage targets without adversely affecting current revenues and investments in future growth. If we are not able to successfully achieve these objectives (including completing the ongoing integration), the anticipated benefits of the Hillrom acquisition may not be realized fully, or at all, or may take longer to realize than expected.
Previous wording
There is a significant degree of difficulty and management distraction inherent in the process of integrating an acquisition. The integration of Hillrom into our operations is complex and time-consuming and certain aspects have taken longer than originally anticipated and have required more effort than was originally planned. Challenges associated with our integration efforts are also heightened due to the other strategic actions we are pursuing. This has resulted in, and may continue to result in, additional expenses and other difficulties as we work to complete our ongoing strategic initiatives, including challenges consolidating certain operations and functions (including regulatory and other corporate functions), integrating technologies (including differing information technology systems and processes), organizations, procedures, policies and operations, addressing differences in the business cultures of the two companies, and retaining key personnel, any of which could adversely affect our ability to achieve the anticipated benefits of the acquisition. The integration process and other disruptions resulting from the Hillrom acquisition and our ongoing strategic initiatives also disrupt our ongoing businesses and could cause inconsistencies in standards, controls, procedures and policies that adversely affect our relationships with market participants, employees, regulators and others with whom we have business or other dealings. Any failure to successfully or cost-effectively integrate Hillrom could have a material adverse effect on our business and cause reputational harm.
Current wording
(including differing information technology systems and processes), organizations, procedures, policies and operations and addressing differences in the business cultures of the two companies, any of which could adversely affect our ability to achieve the anticipated benefits of the acquisition. The integration process and other disruptions resulting from the Hillrom acquisition and our recently completed strategic initiatives also disrupt our ongoing businesses and could cause inconsistencies in standards, controls, procedures and policies that adversely affect our relationships with market participants, employees, regulators and others with whom we have business or other dealings. Any failure to successfully or cost-effectively integrate Hillrom could have a material adverse effect on our business and cause reputational harm.
Previous wording
While we remain committed to deleveraging, we expect to engage in significant business development activities over the longer term (once we have satisfied our net leverage targets), including evaluating acquisitions, joint development opportunities, technology licensing arrangements and other opportunities, such as potential divestitures and targeted market exits as we look to optimize our product portfolio and improve our operating margins. These activities may result in substantial investment of our resources (including resources currently focused on our ongoing strategic initiatives, such as the proposed spinoff). Our success developing products, expanding into new markets and optimizing our market presence from such activities will depend on a number of factors, including our ability to find suitable opportunities or partners for acquisition, investment, alliance or divestiture; competition from other companies in the industries in which we operate that are seeking similar opportunities; whether we are able to complete an acquisition, investment, alliance or divestiture on terms that are satisfactory to us or at all; the strength of the underlying technology and products of any of the other parties involved in a transaction, as well as their ability to execute their business strategies; any intellectual property and litigation related to any other party’s products or technology; and our ability to successfully integrate the acquired company, business, product, technology or research into our existing operations (or to divest such company, business, product, technology or research from our existing operations), including the ability to adequately fund acquired in-process R&D projects and to maintain adequate controls over the combined operations. Certain of these activities are subject to antitrust and competition laws, which could impact our ability to pursue strategic transactions and could result in mandated divestitures in the context of proposed acquisitions. Additionally, certain divestitures could result in negative market or regulatory reactions. If we are unsuccessful in our business development activities, we may not realize the intended benefits of such activities, including that acquisition and integration or divestiture costs may be greater than expected or the possibility that the expected return on investment, synergies and accretion will not be realized or will not be realized within the expected timeframes. For more information, see Note 3 in Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Current wording
While we remain committed to deleveraging, we expect to engage in significant business development activities over the longer term in a manner that is consistent with our net leverage targets, including evaluating acquisitions, joint development opportunities, technology licensing arrangements and other opportunities, such as potential divestitures and targeted market exits as we look to optimize our product portfolio and improve our operating margins. These activities may result in substantial investment of our resources. Our success developing products, expanding into new markets and optimizing our market presence from such activities will depend on a number of factors, including our ability to find suitable opportunities or partners for acquisition, investment, alliance or divestiture; competition from other companies in the industries in which we operate that are seeking similar opportunities; whether we are able to complete an acquisition, investment, alliance or divestiture on terms that are satisfactory to us or at all; the strength of the underlying technology and products of any of the other parties involved in a transaction, as well as their ability to execute their business strategies; any intellectual property and litigation related to any other party’s products or technology; and our ability to successfully integrate the acquired company, business, product, technology or research into our existing operations (or to divest such company, business, product, technology or research from our existing operations), including the ability to adequately fund acquired in-process R&D projects and to maintain adequate controls over the combined operations. Certain of these activities are subject to antitrust and competition laws, which could impact our ability to pursue strategic transactions and could result in mandated divestitures in the context of proposed acquisitions. Additionally, certain divestitures could result in negative market or regulatory reactions. If we are unsuccessful in our business development activities, we may not realize the intended benefits of such activities, including that acquisition and integration or divestiture costs may be greater than expected or the possibility that the expected return on investment, synergies and accretion will not be realized or will not be realized within the expected timeframes. For more information, see Note 3 in Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Previous wording
General global economic downturns and macroeconomic trends, including heightened inflation, capital markets volatility, interest rate and currency rate fluctuations, and economic slowdown or recession, have resulted in, and may continue to result in, unfavorable conditions that negatively affect demand for our products and exacerbate other risks described in this “Risk Factors” section that affect our business, results of operations, financial condition and cash flows. Both domestic and international markets have been experiencing significant inflationary pressures in recent years and inflation rates in the U.S., as well as in other countries in which we operate, are currently expected to continue at elevated levels for the near term. In addition, the Federal Reserve in the U.S. and other central banks in various countries have raised, and may again raise, interest rates in response to concerns about inflation, which, coupled with reduced government spending and volatility in financial markets, has had, and may continue to have, the effect of further increasing economic uncertainty and heightening these risks. Interest rate increases or other government actions taken to reduce inflation have resulted in, and may continue to result in, recessionary pressures in many parts of the world. Furthermore, currency exchange rates have been especially volatile in the recent past, and these currency fluctuations have affected, and may continue to affect, the reported value of our assets and liabilities, as well as our cash flows.
Current wording
General global economic downturns and macroeconomic trends, including heightened inflation, capital markets volatility, interest rate and currency rate fluctuations, changes in monetary policy and economic slowdown or recession, have resulted in, and may continue to result in, unfavorable conditions that negatively affect demand for our products and exacerbate other risks described in this “Risk Factors” section that affect our business, results of operations, financial condition and cash flows. Both domestic and international markets have been experiencing significant inflationary pressures in recent years and inflation rates in the U.S., as well as in other countries in which we operate, are currently expected to continue at elevated levels for the near term. In addition, increases in interest rates and volatility in currency exchange rates have negatively impacted, and may continue to negatively impact, our results of operations. See “Risks Relating to Our Financial Performance and Our Common Stock – Changes in foreign currency exchange rates and interest rates have had, and may in the future have, an adverse effect on our results of operations, financial condition, cash flows and liquidity”.
Previous wording
We have experienced significant challenges to our global supply chain in recent periods, including production delays and interruptions, increased costs and shortages of raw materials and component parts (including resins and electromechanical devices), heightened inventory levels to reduce the risk of patient supply disruption and higher transportation and labor costs, resulting from COVID-19 and other exogenous factors including significant weather events, elevated inflation levels, disruptions to certain ports of call around the world, the war in Ukraine, the conflict in the Middle East (including recent attacks on merchant ships in the Red Sea), tensions between China and Taiwan and other geopolitical events. Due to the nature of our products, which include dense consumable medical products such as IV fluids, and the geographic locations of our manufacturing, storage and distribution facilities, which often require us to transport our products long distances and which are being further consolidated in anticipation of the proposed spinoff, we may be more susceptible to increases in freight costs and other supply chain challenges than certain of our industry peers. We expect to experience some of these and other challenges related to our supply chain in future periods. These challenges, including the unavailability of certain raw materials and component parts, have also had a negative impact on our sales for certain product categories due to our inability to fully satisfy demand and may continue to have a negative impact on our sales in the future. They have also made it increasingly difficult to model accurately our short-term and long-term financial objectives and may continue to do so in the future.
Current wording
We have experienced significant challenges to our global supply chain in recent periods, including production delays and interruptions, increased costs and shortages of raw materials and component parts (including resins and electromechanical devices), heightened inventory levels to reduce the risk of patient supply disruption and higher transportation and labor costs, resulting from significant weather events (including Hurricane Helene), elevated inflation levels, disruptions to certain ports of call around the world, the war in Ukraine, the conflict in the Middle East and other geopolitical events. Due to the nature of our products, which include dense consumable medical products such as IV fluids, and the geographic locations of our manufacturing, storage and distribution facilities, which were further consolidated in anticipation of the recent Kidney Care sale and which often require us to transport our products long distances, we may be more susceptible to increases in freight costs and other supply chain challenges than certain of our industry peers. We expect to experience some of these and other challenges related to our supply chain in future periods. These challenges, including the unavailability of certain raw materials and component parts, have also had a negative impact on our sales for certain product categories due to our inability to fully satisfy demand and may continue to have a negative impact on our sales in the future. They have also made it increasingly difficult to model accurately our short-term and long-term financial objectives and may continue to do so in the future.
Previous wording
Our operating results and financial condition have, and may in the future, fluctuate from quarter-to-quarter and year-to-year for a number of reasons. Events, such as changes to our expectations, strategy or forecasts (including as a result of evolving global macroeconomic conditions and updated expectations regarding the timing of new regulatory approvals) or even a relatively small revenue shortfall or increase in supply chain or other costs which we are unable to offset have, and may in the future, cause financial results for a period to be below our expectations or projections. As a result, we believe that period-to-period comparisons of our results of operations are not necessarily meaningful, nor should they be relied upon as an indication of future performance. Our operating results and financial condition are also subject to fluctuation from all of the risks described throughout this section. These fluctuations may adversely affect our results of operations and financial condition and our stock price.
Current wording
Our operating results and financial condition have, and may in the future, fluctuate from quarter-to-quarter and year-to-year for a number of reasons. Events, such as changes to our expectations, strategy or forecasts (including as a result of evolving global macroeconomic conditions, updated expectations regarding the timing of new regulatory approvals or the impact or timing of our cost savings initiatives) or even a relatively small revenue shortfall or increase in supply chain or other costs which we are unable to offset have, and may in the future, cause financial results for a period to be below our expectations or projections. As a result, we believe that period-to-period comparisons of our results of operations are not necessarily meaningful, nor should they be relied upon as an indication of future performance. Our operating results and financial condition are also subject to fluctuation from all of the risks described throughout this section. These fluctuations may adversely affect our results of operations and financial condition and our stock price.
Previous wording
We continue to evaluate and refine both our short-term and long-term financial objectives, including our stated commitment to achieve certain net leverage targets. Our ability to achieve these targets depends, in part, on our ability to realize the anticipated benefits of the Hillrom acquisition (and related cost and revenue synergy targets) while working to execute on our stated portfolio management and other ongoing strategic initiatives including the proposed spinoff. We may fail to achieve our targeted financial results if we are unsuccessful in implementing our strategies, our estimates or assumptions change or for any other reason. Our failure to achieve our financial goals could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, financial condition and cash flows.
Current wording
We continue to evaluate and refine both our short-term and long-term financial objectives, including our stated commitment to achieve certain net leverage targets and to fully offset the stranded costs related to the recent sale of our Kidney Care business. Our ability to achieve these anticipated benefits depends, in part, on our ability to realize the anticipated benefits of the Hillrom acquisition and Kidney Care sale (and related cost and revenue synergy targets) while working to execute on our stated portfolio management initiatives. We may fail to achieve our targeted financial results if we are unsuccessful in implementing our strategies or if our estimates or assumptions change or for any other reason. Our failure to achieve our financial goals could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, financial condition and cash flows.
Previous wording
The price of our common stock has fluctuated significantly and may continue to do so in the future for a number of reasons, including, but not limited to:
Current wording
The price of our common stock has fluctuated significantly and may continue to do so in the future for a number of reasons, including the following:
Previous wording
•market perceptions of any strategic actions or other developments related to our business including, for example, the proposed spinoff;
Current wording
•market perceptions of any strategic actions or other developments related to our business including, for example, the Kidney Care sale;
Previous wording
In addition, prices in the stock market have generally been volatile in recent years. In certain cases, the fluctuations have been unrelated to the operating performance of the affected companies. As a result, the price of our common stock could also fluctuate in the future without regard to our operating performance.
Current wording
In addition, prices in the stock market have generally been volatile in recent years, and may continue to be volatile. In certain cases, the fluctuations have been unrelated to the operating performance of the affected companies. As a result, the price of our common stock could also fluctuate in the future without regard to our operating performance.
Previous wording
We incurred acquisition-related debt financing of $11.80 billion to fund the cash consideration for the Hillrom acquisition, refinance certain indebtedness of Hillrom and pay related fees and expenses. Our substantially increased indebtedness and higher debt-to-equity ratio following the acquisition has the effect, among other things, of reducing our flexibility to respond to changing business and economic conditions and has increased our borrowing costs (including as a result of the downgrades in our senior debt credit ratings since 2021). The increased level of indebtedness and our future financial performance could also reduce funds available (under our credit facilities or otherwise) for investments in product development, capital expenditures, dividend payments, acquisitions, share repurchases and other activities and may create competitive disadvantages for us relative to other companies with lower debt levels. In addition, until we achieve our commitment to reduce our indebtedness following the Hillrom acquisition, our capital allocation activities and operational flexibility is limited. There can be no assurance that we will be successful in doing so on a timely basis or at all.
Current wording
As of December 31, 2024, we had approximately $13.13 billion of indebtedness outstanding and, as of February 21, 2025 have paid down approximately $3.13 billion. Our significant level of indebtedness and our future financial performance requires us to use a substantial amount of our cash flow for debt service and reduces funds available (under our credit facilities or otherwise) for investments in product development, capital expenditures, dividend payments, acquisitions, share repurchases and other activities and may create competitive disadvantages for us relative to other companies with lower debt levels. Our level of indebtedness can also constrain our flexibility in responding to unanticipated or adverse business conditions. If we are unable to repay our indebtedness in accordance with our stated objectives, or at all, or if credit ratings agencies do not believe we are repaying our indebtedness promptly, they may further reduce our senior debt credit ratings. In addition, until we achieve our stated commitment regarding the reduction of our indebtedness, our capital allocation activities and operational flexibility is limited. There can be no assurance that we will be successful in achieving that commitment on a timely basis or at all. Further, difficulties in, or the inability to, refinance our indebtedness, or to do so upon attractive terms, could materially and adversely affect our business, prospects, results of operations, financial condition and cash flows, and make us vulnerable to adverse industry and general economic conditions.
Previous wording
We generate the majority of our net sales and profit outside the United States. As a result, our results of operations have been, and may in the future be, adversely affected by fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates. We cannot predict with any certainty changes in foreign currency exchange rates or our ability to mitigate these risks. We have experienced, and may continue to experience, additional volatility as a result of inflation and other macroeconomic factors, including in emerging market countries. We are also exposed to changes in interest rates, and our ability to access the money markets and capital markets on terms that are favorable to us, or at all, could be impeded if market conditions are not favorable. For more information see “Financial Instrument Market Risk” in Item 7. Management's Discussion of Analysis and Financial Condition and Results of Operations of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Current wording
We generate a meaningful portion of our net sales and profit outside the United States and currency exchange rates have been especially volatile in recent years. As a result, currency fluctuations have affected, and may continue to affect, the reported value of our assets and liabilities, as well as our cash flows and results of operations We cannot predict with any certainty changes in foreign currency exchange rates or our ability to mitigate these risks. We have experienced, and may continue to experience, additional volatility as a result of inflation and other macroeconomic factors, including in emerging market countries. We are also exposed to changes in interest rates, and our ability to access the money markets and capital markets on terms that are favorable to us, or at all, could be impeded if market conditions are not favorable. For example, the Federal Reserve in the U.S. and other central banks in various countries have raised, and may again raise, interest rates in response to concerns about inflation, which, coupled with reduced government spending and volatility in financial markets, has had, and may continue to have, the effect of further increasing economic uncertainty and heightening these risks. Interest rate increases or other government actions taken to reduce inflation have resulted in, and may continue to result in, recessionary pressures in many parts of the world. For more information see “Financial Instrument Market Risk” in Item 7. Management's Discussion of Analysis and Financial Condition and Results of Operations of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Previous wording
We regularly review our goodwill, intangible assets and property, plant and equipment for potential impairment. Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets are subject to impairment reviews on an annual basis and whenever potential impairment indicators are present. Intangible assets subject to amortization and property, plant and equipment are reviewed for potential impairment when there is an indication that an impairment may have occurred. Adverse changes to macroeconomic conditions or our earnings forecasts, as well as changes in our strategic goals or business direction, could lead to impairment charges. In addition, we may from time to time pursue the sale of assets that we determine are not critical to our strategy, including in connection with strategic exits, such as the proposed spinoff. Such transactions could result in impairment charges if the estimated fair value of the assets, less costs to sell, is less than their related carrying amount. Material impairment charges would negatively affect our results of operations.
Current wording
We regularly review our goodwill, intangible assets and property, plant and equipment for potential impairment. Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets are subject to impairment reviews on an annual basis or whenever potential impairment indicators are present. Intangible assets subject to amortization and property, plant and equipment are reviewed for potential impairment when there is an indication that an impairment may have occurred. Adverse changes to macroeconomic conditions or our earnings forecasts, as well as changes in our strategic goals or business direction, could lead to impairment charges. In addition, we may, from time to time, pursue the sale of assets that we determine are not critical to our strategy, including in connection with strategic exits, such as the Kidney Care sale. Such transactions could result in impairment charges if the estimated fair value of the assets, less costs to sell, is less than their related carrying amount. Material impairment charges would negatively affect our results of operations.
Previous wording
For example, as described in more detail in Note 4 of Item 8 of this Annual Report, we recognized $510 million of long-lived asset impairment charges related to the HD business within our Kidney Care segment during 2023. Additionally, as described in more detail in Note 5 of Item 8 of this Annual Report, we recognized $2.81 billion of goodwill impairments and $332 million of indefinite-lived intangible asset impairments during 2022, both related to assets acquired in connection with our December 2021 acquisition of Hillrom. Further adverse changes to macroeconomic conditions or our earnings forecasts could lead to additional goodwill or intangible asset impairment charges in future periods and such charges could be material to our results of operations. For more information on the valuation of goodwill and intangible assets, see “Critical Accounting Policies” in Item 7. Management's Discussion of Analysis and Financial Condition and Results of Operations of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Current wording
For example, as described in more detail in Note 5 of Item 8 of this Annual Report, we recorded a $425 million goodwill impairment related to our Front Line Care reporting unit within our Healthcare Systems & Technologies segment and an impairment charge of $50 million to reduce the carrying amount of an in-process research & development (IPR&D) asset to its fair value during 2024. Previously, as described in more detail in Note 3 of Item 8 of this Annual Report, we recognized $2.81 billion of goodwill impairments and $332 million of indefinite-lived intangible asset impairments during 2022, both related to Healthcare Systems & Technologies assets acquired in connection with our December 2021 acquisition of Hillrom. Further adverse changes to macroeconomic conditions or our earnings forecasts could lead to additional goodwill or intangible asset impairment charges in future periods and such charges could be material to our results of operations. For more information on the valuation of goodwill and intangible assets, see “Critical Accounting Policies” in Item 7. Management's Discussion of Analysis and Financial Condition and Results of Operations of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Previous wording
We need to successfully introduce or monetize new and existing products and services to achieve our strategic business objectives. We can provide no assurances that our new products will achieve commercial acceptance in the marketplace, or that we will be able to separately bill for new or existing services. In addition, difficulties in manufacturing or in obtaining regulatory approvals have delayed, and may in the future delay or prohibit, the introduction of new products into the marketplace. We may not be able to obtain patent protection on our new products or be able to defend our intellectual property rights globally. Warranty claims and service costs relating to our new products might be greater than anticipated, and we might be required to devote significant resources to address any quality issues associated with our new products, which could reduce the resources available for further new product development and other matters. In addition, the introduction of new products and services might also cause customers to defer purchases of existing products or services. Our future financial performance will also depend in part on our ability to influence, anticipate, identify and respond to changing consumer preferences and needs. We might not correctly anticipate or identify trends in customer preferences or needs or might identify or react to them later than competitors do.
Current wording
We need to successfully introduce or monetize new and existing products and services to achieve our strategic business objectives. We can provide no assurances that we will be able to develop new products and services, that our new products and services will achieve commercial acceptance in the marketplace, or that we will be able to separately bill for new or existing services. In addition, difficulties in manufacturing or in obtaining or maintaining regulatory approvals have delayed, and may in the future delay or prohibit, the introduction of new or maintenance of existing products into the marketplace. We may not be able to obtain patent protection on our new products or be able to defend our intellectual property rights globally. See “Risks Relating to Legal and Regulatory Matters – If we are unable to protect or enforce our patents or other proprietary rights, or if we become subject to claims or litigation alleging infringement of the patents or other proprietary rights of others, our competitiveness and business prospects may be materially damaged.” Warranty claims and service costs relating to our new products might be greater than anticipated, and we might be required to devote significant resources to address any quality issues associated with our new products, which could reduce the resources available for further new product development and other matters. In addition, the introduction of new products and services might also cause customers to defer purchases of existing products or services. Our future financial performance will also depend in part on our ability to influence, anticipate, identify and respond to changing consumer preferences and needs. We might not correctly anticipate or identify trends in customer preferences or needs or might identify or react to them later than competitors do.
Previous wording
In order to successfully introduce or monetize new and existing products and services, we must commit, and continue to commit, substantial funds, and other resources to R&D. Failure to successfully introduce new products or services in a cost-effective manner, or delays in customer purchasing decisions related to the evaluation of new products or services, could cause us to lose market share and could materially adversely affect our business. Furthermore, product development requires substantial investment and there is inherent risk in the R&D process. A successful product development process further depends on many other factors, including our ability to adapt to new technologies, demonstrate satisfactory clinical results and differentiate our products from those of our competitors. If we cannot successfully introduce new competitive products or adapt to changing technologies, our products may become obsolete and our net sales and profitability could suffer.
Current wording
In order to successfully introduce or monetize new and existing products and services, we must commit, and continue to commit, substantial funds and other resources to R&D and innovation initiatives. Failure to successfully introduce new products or services in a cost-effective manner, or delays in customer purchasing decisions related to the evaluation of new products or services, could cause us to lose market share and could materially adversely affect our business. Furthermore, product development requires substantial investment and there is inherent risk in the R&D process. A successful product development process further depends on many other factors, including our ability to adapt to new technologies, demonstrate satisfactory clinical results and differentiate our products from those of our competitors. If we cannot successfully introduce new competitive products or adapt to changing technologies, our products may become obsolete and our net sales and profitability could suffer.
Previous wording
Issues with product quality could have an adverse effect on our business or cause a loss of customer confidence in us or our products, among other negative consequences.
Current wording
Issues with quality management or product quality could have an adverse effect on our business or cause a loss of customer confidence in us or our products, among other negative consequences.
Previous wording
Our success also depends on our ability to maintain and routinely improve product quality and our quality management program. Quality management plays an essential role in meeting customer requirements, preventing defects, improving our products and services and assuring the safety and efficacy of our products. While we have a quality system that covers the lifecycle of our products, quality and safety issues have occurred, and may in the future occur, with respect to our products. For example, we have experienced certain Class I recalls related to our Novum IQ Syringe and infusion systems, SIGMA Spectrum pump and Life2000 Ventilator. New or unintended uses of our products (for example, in response to changing clinical practice) may also raise quality or safety issues. A quality or safety issue may result in negative publicity, product recalls (either voluntary or required by the FDA or similar governmental authorities in other countries), adverse regulatory site inspection reports, voluntary or official action indicated classifications, warning letters, import bans or seizures, monetary sanctions, injunctions to halt manufacture and distribution of products, civil or criminal sanctions (which may include corporate integrity agreements), costly litigation, refusal of a government to grant approvals and licenses, restrictions on operations or withdrawal of existing approvals and licenses. See “—Risks Relating to Legal and Regulatory Matters.” An inability to address a quality or safety issue in an effective and timely manner may also cause negative publicity, potentially leading to a loss of customer confidence in us or our current or future products, which may result in the loss of sales and difficulty in successfully launching new products. Additionally, we have made, and could in the future make, significant investments in assets, including inventory and property, plant and equipment, which relate to potential new products or modifications to existing products. Product quality or safety issues may restrict us from being able to realize the expected returns from these investments, potentially resulting in asset impairments in the future.
Current wording
Our success also depends on our ability to maintain and routinely improve product quality and our quality management program. Quality management plays an essential role in meeting customer requirements, preventing defects, improving our products and services and assuring the safety and efficacy of our products. While we have a quality system that covers the lifecycle of our products, quality and safety issues have occurred, and may in the future occur, with respect to our products. For example, we have experienced certain recalls, including related to our Novum IQ Syringe and infusion systems, SIGMA Spectrum pump and Life2000 Ventilator. New or unintended uses of our products (for example, in response to changing clinical practice) may also raise quality or safety issues. In addition, our customers’ use of third parties to service or repair our products has caused, and may in the future cause, quality or safety issues, including due to such third parties’ lack of knowledge of or training on our products. A quality or safety issue may result in negative publicity, product recalls (either voluntary or required by FDA or similar governmental authorities in other countries), adverse regulatory site inspection reports, voluntary or official action indicated classifications, warning letters, import bans or seizures, monetary sanctions, injunctions to halt manufacture and distribution of products, civil or criminal sanctions (which may include corporate integrity agreements), costly litigation, refusal of a government to grant approvals and licenses, restrictions on operations or withdrawal of existing approvals and licenses. See “Risks Relating to Legal and Regulatory Matters.” An inability to address a quality or safety issue in an effective and timely manner may also cause negative publicity, potentially leading to a loss of customer confidence in us or our current or future products, which may result in the loss of sales and difficulty in successfully launching new products. Additionally, we have made, and could in the future make, significant investments in assets, including inventory and property, plant and equipment, which relate to potential new products or modifications to existing products. Product quality or safety issues may restrict us from being able to realize the expected returns from these investments, potentially resulting in asset impairments in the future.
Previous wording
Although no single company competes with us in all of our businesses, we face substantial competition in all of our markets from international and domestic healthcare medical products and pharmaceutical companies and providers of all sizes, and these competitors often differ across our businesses. Competition is primarily focused on cost-effectiveness, price, service, product performance and technological innovation.
Current wording
We face substantial competition in all of our markets from international and domestic healthcare medical products and pharmaceutical companies and providers of all sizes, and these competitors often differ across our businesses. Competition is primarily focused on cost-effectiveness, price, service, product performance and technological innovation.
Previous wording
Competition may increase further as additional companies begin to enter our markets, launch new products or modify their existing products to compete directly with ours. If our competitors respond more quickly to new or emerging technologies and changes in customer requirements or we do not introduce new versions or upgrades to our product portfolio in response to those requirements, our products may be rendered obsolete or non-competitive. If our competitors develop more effective or affordable products or achieve earlier patent protection or product commercialization than we do, our business, results of operations, financial condition and cash flows will likely be negatively affected. For example, new developments such as pharmaceuticals that reduce the progression of chronic kidney disease into ESRD or reduce its incidence (including through weight loss), as well as innovations in technology and care delivery models, could materially adversely affect the demand for and future pricing and sale of our products and services. Furthermore, if we are forced to reduce our prices due to increased competition, our business could become less profitable.
Current wording
Competition may increase further as additional companies begin to enter our markets, launch new products or modify their existing products to compete directly with ours. If our competitors respond more quickly to new or emerging technologies and changes in customer requirements, or we do not introduce new versions or upgrades to our product portfolio in response to those requirements, our products may be rendered obsolete or non-competitive. If our competitors develop more effective or affordable products or achieve earlier patent protection or product commercialization than we do, our business, results of operations, financial condition and cash flows will likely be negatively affected. For example, innovations in technology and care delivery models could materially adversely affect the demand for and future pricing and sale of our products and services. Furthermore, if we are forced to reduce our prices due to increased competition, our business could become less profitable.
Previous wording
Demand for our products and services depends in large part on overall demand in the healthcare market. With the healthcare market’s increased focus on asset and resource efficiency, as well as reimbursement constraints and competitive dynamics, we have seen margins for some of our products decline and they may continue to do so over time. Further, the competitive pressures in our industry could cause us to lose market share unless we increase our commercial investments or reduce our prices, which could adversely impact our operating results. These factors, along with possible legislative, regulatory and other developments, might result in significant shifts in market share among the industry’s major participants, which includes us. Accordingly, if we are unable to effectively differentiate ourselves from our competitors in terms of new products and diversification of our product portfolio, then our market share, sales and profitability could be adversely impacted through lower volume or decreased prices.
Current wording
Demand for our products and services, and our overall growth, depend in large part on overall demand and growth in the healthcare market. With the healthcare market’s increased focus on asset and resource efficiency, as well as reimbursement constraints and competitive dynamics, we have seen margins for some of our products decline and they may continue to do so over time. Any decline or lower-than-expected growth in the markets (or portions thereof) in which we operate or intend to operate could diminish demand for our products and services, which may adversely affect our financial performance. Further, the competitive pressures in our industry could cause us to lose market share unless we increase our commercial investments or reduce our prices, which could adversely impact our operating results. These factors, along with possible legislative, regulatory, macroeconomic and other developments, might result in significant shifts in market share among the industry’s major participants, which includes us. Accordingly, if we are unable to effectively differentiate ourselves from our competitors in terms of new products and diversification of our product portfolio, then our market share, sales and profitability could be adversely impacted through lower volume or decreased prices.
Previous wording
•If we fail to attract, develop, retain and engage key employees, our business may suffer.
Current wording
If we fail to attract, develop, retain and engage key employees, including a permanent CEO and other members of our senior management, our business may suffer.
Previous wording
Our ability to compete effectively depends on our ability to attract, develop, retain and engage key employees, including people in senior management, sales, marketing, information technology and R&D positions, as well as our ability to transfer the knowledge and expertise of our workforce to new employees as our employees retire or we otherwise experience employee turnover (including in connection with the completion of acquisitions or divestitures or the proposed spinoff). Competition for top talent in the healthcare industry can be intense, especially for experienced management and technical and professional employees, which could increase costs associated with identifying, attracting and retaining such individuals. Our ability to recruit, develop, retain and engage such talent will depend on a number of factors, including hiring practices of our competitors, compensation and benefits (as may be impacted by any financial performance challenges), work location, work environment (including our competitors’ policies regarding remote or hybrid work arrangements), the market’s perception of our ongoing strategic initiatives, including the proposed spinoff, and industry economic conditions. Further, a lack of employee engagement could lead to loss of productivity and increased employee burnout, turnover, absenteeism, product quality incidents and decreased customer and patient satisfaction. If we cannot effectively recruit, develop, retain and engage qualified employees, our business and results of operations could be adversely impacted.
Current wording
Our ability to compete effectively depends on our ability to attract, develop, retain and engage key employees, including people in senior management, sales, marketing, information technology and R&D positions. Competition for top talent in the healthcare industry can be intense, especially for experienced management and technical and professional employees, which could increase costs associated with identifying, attracting and retaining such individuals. Our ability to recruit, develop, retain and engage such talent depends on a number of factors, including hiring practices of our competitors, compensation and benefits (as may be impacted by any financial performance challenges, including any related impact on outstanding equity awards), work location, work environment (including our competitors’ policies regarding remote or hybrid work arrangements), the market’s perception of our strategic initiatives, including the recently completed Kidney Care sale, and industry economic conditions. Further, a lack of employee engagement could lead to loss of productivity and increased employee burnout, turnover, absenteeism, product quality incidents and decreased customer and patient satisfaction.
Previous wording
Any of these and other impacts have had, and could in the future have, a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, financial condition and cash flows. The scope and duration of any future public health emergency will depend on a number of factors, including the potential emergence of a new pandemic, new variants of COVID-19, the pace at which government restrictions are imposed and lifted and the extent of such restrictions, the scope of additional actions taken to mitigate the spread of disease and the availability and effectiveness and acceptance of vaccines. The effect of such a health emergency on our business will also vary based on the speed with and extent to which global markets and utilization rates for our products fully recover from the disruptions caused by such a public health emergency. The impact of these and other factors on our business, results of operations, financial condition and cash flows will depend on future developments that are highly uncertain and cannot be predicted with confidence. Finally, to the extent COVID-19 or any future public health emergency adversely affects our operations and global economic conditions more generally, many of the other risks described in this “Risk Factors” section may be heightened.
Current wording
The COVID-19 pandemic adversely affected our business in many ways, including significant reductions and increases in demand for certain products, increased difficulty in serving customers, disruptions to manufacturing and supply chains, and negative effects on certain of the company’s operations as well as the operations of its suppliers, distributors, customers, manufacturers and other third-party vendors. Further, pandemics or other public health emergencies may impact, and during COVID-19 impacted, the global economy, including negatively impacting economic growth, financial and capital markets, inflation rates, foreign currency exchange rates, interest rates, and the global supply chain. Any of these and other impacts have had, and could in the future have, a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, financial condition and cash flows. The scope and duration of any future public health emergency will depend on a number of factors, including the potential emergence of a new or extended pandemic, the pace at which government restrictions are imposed and lifted and the extent of such restrictions, the scope of additional actions taken to mitigate the spread of disease and the availability and effectiveness and acceptance of vaccines. The effect of such a health emergency on our business will also vary based on the speed with and extent to which global markets and utilization rates for our products fully recover from the disruptions caused by such a public health emergency. The impact of these and other factors on our business, results of operations, financial condition and cash flows will depend on future developments that are highly uncertain and cannot be predicted with confidence.
Previous wording
A portion of our U.S. hospital sales and rentals are made pursuant to contracts with hospital GPOs. At any given time, we are typically at various stages of responding to bids, negotiating and renewing expiring GPO agreements. Failure to be awarded certain of these agreements could have a material adverse effect on our business, including product sales and service and rental revenue. In addition, we have faced and continue to face challenges related to increasing costs associated with these agreements (associated with ongoing supply chain challenges and inflation), which have negatively impacted our revenues and may continue to do so in the future.
Current wording
A portion of our U.S. hospital sales and rentals are made pursuant to contracts with hospital GPOs. At any given time, we are typically at various stages of responding to bids, negotiating and renewing expiring GPO agreements, some of which contain failure to supply clauses with varying remedies, inclusive of limited termination rights. Failure to be awarded or to maintain certain of these agreements could have a material adverse effect on our business, including product sales and service and rental revenue. In addition, we have faced and continue to face challenges related to increasing costs associated with these agreements (associated with ongoing supply chain challenges and inflation), which have negatively impacted our revenues and may continue to do so in the future.
Previous wording
We may not be successful in achieving expected operating efficiencies and sustaining or improving operating expense reductions, and might experience business disruptions and adverse tax consequences associated with restructuring, realignment and cost reduction activities.
Current wording
We may not be successful in achieving expected operating efficiencies and sustaining or improving operating expense reductions and may experience business disruptions and adverse tax consequences associated with restructuring, realignment and cost reduction activities.
Previous wording
Portions of our business have been, and may in the future be, the subject of restructuring, realignment and cost reduction initiatives. For example, we recently divested our BPS business and have implemented a simplified operating model and we continue to work toward simplifying our manufacturing footprint and completing the proposed spinoff. While we are undertaking these actions, as well as any future initiatives, with the goal of realizing potential efficiencies, we may not be successful in achieving efficiencies and cost reduction benefits we expect in full or at all. Further, such benefits might be realized later than expected, and the ongoing costs of implementing these measures might be greater than anticipated. If these measures are not successful or sustainable, we might undertake additional realignment and cost reduction efforts, which could result in future charges. Moreover, our ability to achieve our other strategic goals and business plans might be adversely affected, and we could experience business disruptions, if our restructuring and realignment efforts and our cost reduction activities prove ineffective. These actions, the resulting costs, and potential delays or potential lower than anticipated benefits might also impact our foreign tax positions and might require us to record tax reserves against certain deferred tax assets in our international business.
Current wording
Portions of our business have been, and may in the future be, the subject of restructuring, realignment and cost reduction initiatives. For example, we recently divested our BPS and Kidney Care businesses and have implemented a simplified operating model. While we are undertaking these actions, as well as any future initiatives, with the goal of realizing potential efficiencies, we may not be successful in achieving efficiencies and cost reduction benefits we expect in full or at all. Further, such benefits might be realized later than expected, and the ongoing costs of implementing these measures might be greater than anticipated. If these measures are not successful or sustainable, we might undertake additional realignment and cost reduction efforts, which could result in future charges. Moreover, our ability to achieve our other business plans might be adversely affected, and we could experience business disruptions, if our restructuring and realignment efforts and our cost reduction activities prove ineffective. These actions, the resulting costs, and potential delays or potential lower than anticipated benefits might also impact our foreign tax positions and might require us to record tax reserves against certain deferred tax assets in our international business.
Previous wording
The manufacture of our products requires, among other things, the timely supply or delivery of sufficient amounts of quality components and raw materials. We manufacture our products in approximately 60 principal manufacturing locations. We acquire our components, raw materials and other requirements for manufacturing from many suppliers and vendors in various countries, including sometimes from ourselves for self-supplied requirements. We endeavor, either alone or working closely with our suppliers, to ensure the continuity of our inputs and supplies, but we cannot guarantee these efforts will always be successful. Further, while efforts are made to diversify certain of our sources of components and raw materials, in certain instances there is only a sole source or supplier with no acceptable alternatives yet identified and, as applicable, qualified. Additionally, we obtain certain components and materials on a spot basis from third party suppliers with whom we do not have contractual arrangements. For most of our components and raw materials for which a single source or supplier is used, alternative sources or suppliers may exist, but we have made a strategic determination to use the single source or supplier. Although we carry strategic inventory and maintain insurance to help mitigate the potential risk related to supply disruption, such measures may not be sufficient or effective. A reduction, interruption or suspension in supply, other supply chain issues, including those due to the revocation of distribution facilities’ licenses or as a result of our ongoing strategic initiatives, and our inability to quickly develop acceptable alternative sources for such supply could adversely affect our ability to manufacture, distribute and sell our products in a timely or cost-effective manner and could prevent us from satisfying obligations under one or more of our customer contracts or arrangements, which could result in significant failure to supply penalties. We have faced, and may in the future face, difficulties obtaining supplies of key materials, such as electromechanical components, active ingredients for pharmaceuticals and resins, due to supply chain disruptions and global pandemics. Moreover, changes in regulation, world trade policies, international taxes and government-to-government relations and issues with export and import activities could negatively impact our ability to distribute products within a country and across countries. See “—Risks Relating to Legal and Regulatory Matters.”
Current wording
Additionally, we obtain certain components and materials on a spot basis from third-party suppliers with whom we do not have contractual arrangements. A reduction, interruption or suspension in supply, other supply chain issues, including those due to the revocation of distribution facilities’ licenses or as a result of our recently completed strategic initiatives (including the recent sale of our Kidney Care business), and our inability to quickly develop acceptable alternative sources for such supply could adversely affect our ability to manufacture, distribute and sell our products in a timely or cost-effective manner. Such supply chain issues could also prevent us from satisfying obligations under one or more of our customer contracts or arrangements, which could result in significant failure to supply penalties, which in some instances include contract termination rights or may prevent us from participating in future tenders. We have faced, and may in the future face, difficulties obtaining supplies of key materials, such as electromechanical components, active ingredients for pharmaceuticals and resins, due to supply chain disruptions and global pandemics. Moreover, changes in regulation, world trade policies, international taxes and government-to-government relations and issues with export and import activities could negatively impact our ability to distribute products within a country and across countries. See “Risks Relating to Legal and Regulatory Matters.”
Previous wording
Some of our products are manufactured at a single manufacturing facility or stored at a single storage site. Additionally, some of our manufacturing facilities are located in the same geographic area. Loss or damage to, or closure of, a manufacturing facility or storage site due to a natural disaster, such as we experienced as a result of Hurricane Maria, a pandemic, such as COVID-19, war or acts of terrorism or otherwise could adversely affect our ability to manufacture sufficient quantities of key products or deliver products to meet customer demand or contractual requirements, which may result in a loss of revenue and other adverse business consequences, including those identified in the paragraphs above. We may be unable to transfer manufacturing of the relevant products to another facility or location in a cost-effective or timely manner, if at all. This potential inability to transfer production could occur for several reasons, including, but not limited to, a lack of necessary relevant manufacturing capability at another facility, or the regulatory requirements of FDA or other governmental regulatory bodies. Such an event could materially negatively impact our business, results of operations, financial condition and cash flows.
Current wording
Some of our products are manufactured at a single manufacturing facility or stored at a single storage site. Additionally, some of our manufacturing facilities are located in the same geographic area. Loss or damage to, or closure of, a manufacturing facility or storage site due to a natural disaster, such as we experienced as a result of Hurricane Helene, war, acts of terrorism or otherwise has adversely affected, and could in the future adversely affect, our ability to manufacture sufficient quantities of key products or deliver products to meet customer demand or contractual requirements, which has resulted, and may in the future result, in a loss of revenue and other adverse business consequences, including those identified in the paragraphs above. We may be unable to transfer manufacturing of the relevant products to another facility or location in a cost-effective or timely manner, if at all. This potential inability to transfer production could occur for several reasons, including a lack of necessary relevant manufacturing capability at another facility, or the regulatory requirements of FDA or other governmental regulatory bodies. Such an event could materially negatively impact our business, results of operations, financial condition and cash flows.
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Rearranged current paragraphs (5)
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
There is a significant degree of difficulty and management distraction inherent in the process of integrating an acquisition. The integration of Hillrom into our operations is complex and time-consuming and certain aspects have taken longer than originally anticipated and have required more effort than was originally planned. Challenges associated with our integration efforts are also heightened due to the other strategic actions we have recently completed (including the sale of our Kidney Care business). This has resulted in, and may continue to result in, additional expenses and other difficulties as we work to complete the integration, including challenges consolidating certain operations and functions (including regulatory and other corporate functions), integrating technologies
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
The manufacture of our products requires, among other things, the timely supply or delivery of sufficient amounts of quality components and raw materials. We manufacture our products in approximately 40 principal manufacturing locations. We acquire our components, raw materials and other requirements for manufacturing from many suppliers and vendors in various countries, including sometimes from ourselves for self-supplied requirements. We endeavor, either alone or working closely with our suppliers, to ensure the continuity of our inputs and supplies, but these efforts may not always be successful.
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
In addition, Technology management issues arise from time-to-time as we continue to consolidate and outsource certain information technology support activities and certain computer operations and application support activities as a result of our ongoing business transformation activities and cost saving initiatives.
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
The Healthcare Reform Act reduces Medicare and Medicaid payments to hospitals and other providers, which may cause us to experience downward pricing pressure. Certain portions of the Healthcare Reform Act could negatively impact the demand for our products, and therefore our results of operations, financial position and cash flows.
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
Our Amended and Restated Bylaws could limit our stockholders’ ability to choose their preferred judicial forum for disputes with us or our directors, officers, or employees.
Rearranged previous paragraphs (4)
Previous report — wording carried elsewhere
Risks Relating to Our Strategic Actions
Previous report — wording carried elsewhere
Our operating results and financial condition have, and may in the future, fluctuate.
Previous report — wording carried elsewhere
Phthalate. These regulatory changes could adversely impact our ability to manufacture or supply certain products in the EEA. Other environmental laws may have similar consequences for us or our suppliers, or result in liability to us.
Previous report — wording carried elsewhere
Bylaws, as either may be amended from time to time, or (iv) any action to interpret, apply, enforce or determine the validity of the Certificate of Incorporation or Bylaws or (v) any other action asserting a claim governed by the internal affairs doctrine or that is otherwise an “internal corporate claim” as defined in Section 115 of the Delaware General Corporation Law. The exclusive forum provisions of our Bylaws are not a waiver of, and do not relieve person or entity of duties to comply with, federal securities laws including those specifying the exclusive jurisdiction of federal courts under the Exchange Act and concurrent jurisdiction of federal and state courts under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.