WORLD KINECT CORP

Previous wording

You should carefully consider each of the following risks and all the other information contained in this 2023 10-K Report in evaluating us and our common stock. Although the risks are organized by headings, and each risk is discussed separately, many are interrelated. Our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows could be materially and adversely affected by these risks, and, as a result, the trading price of our common stock could decline. We have in the past been adversely affected by certain of, and may in the future be affected by, these risks. You should not interpret the disclosure of any risk factor to imply that the risk has not already materialized.

Current wording

You should carefully consider each of the following risks and all the other information contained in this 2024 10-K Report in evaluating us and our common stock. Although the risks are organized by headings, and each risk is discussed separately, many are interrelated. Our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows could be materially and adversely affected by these risks, and, as a result, the trading price of our common stock could decline. We have in the past been adversely affected by certain of, and may in the future be affected by, these risks.

Previous wording

Our exposure to credit losses depends primarily on the financial condition of our customers and other factors beyond our control. Such factors include decreased demand for travel and other transportation services, weakness in the world economy or in the industries we serve, significant changes in oil prices and political instability, among others. Sudden and unexpected negative changes in the financial condition of our customers, including insolvency or bankruptcy, could have a negative impact on our sales, make it more difficult to collect on receivables, and may cause us to incur bad debt expense at levels higher than we have historically experienced.

Current wording

Our exposure to credit losses depends primarily on the financial condition of our customers and other factors beyond our control. Such factors include decreased demand for travel and other transportation services, weakness in the world economy or in the industries we serve, significant changes in oil prices and political instability, among others. Sudden or unexpected negative changes in the financial condition of our customers, including insolvency or bankruptcy, can have a negative impact on our sales, make it more difficult to collect on receivables, and cause us to incur bad debt expense at levels higher than we have historically experienced.

Previous wording

Energy and commodity prices are volatile and can be impacted by many factors beyond our control, including: expectations about future supply and demand for petroleum products; oil and gas production levels set and maintained by the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries ("OPEC") as well as non-OPEC countries; global economic and political conditions that impact or create uncertainty in the global energy markets, such as the ongoing military conflicts in Eastern Europe and the Middle East, threatened or actual acts of terrorism, war or civil unrest; laws, regulations or taxes related to environmental matters, including those mandating or incentivizing alternative energy sources or otherwise addressing global climate change; energy conservation efforts and technological advances affecting energy consumption or supply; regulatory changes in commodities markets; and extreme weather and other natural disasters.

Current wording

Energy and commodity prices are volatile and can be impacted by many factors beyond our control, including: expectations about future supply and demand for petroleum products; oil production levels set and maintained by the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries ("OPEC") as well as non-OPEC countries; global economic and political conditions that impact or create uncertainty in the global energy markets, such as the ongoing military conflicts in Eastern Europe and the Middle East, and threatened or actual acts of terrorism, war or civil unrest; the imposition of tariffs in connection with the new administration in the U.S. and retaliatory tariffs in response thereto; laws, regulations or taxes related to environmental matters, including those mandating or incentivizing alternative energy sources or otherwise addressing global climate change; energy conservation efforts and technological advances affecting energy consumption or supply; regulatory changes in commodities markets; and extreme weather and other natural disasters.

Previous wording

Conversely, extended periods of low fuel prices, particularly when coupled with low price volatility, can also have an adverse effect on our results of operations and overall profitability. This can occur due to many factors, such as reduced demand for our price risk management products and decreased sales to our customers involved in the oil exploration sector. Low fuel prices also facilitate increased competition by reducing financial barriers to entry and enabling existing, lower-capitalized competitors to conduct more business because of the lower working capital requirements.

Current wording

Conversely, extended periods of low fuel prices, particularly when coupled with low price volatility, can also have an adverse effect on us. This can occur due to many factors, such as reduced demand for our price risk management products and decreased sales to our customers involved in the oil exploration sector. Low fuel prices also facilitate increased competition by reducing financial barriers to entry and enabling existing, lower-capitalized competitors to conduct more business because of the lower working capital requirements.

Previous wording

We may also experience negative results in volatile market pricing environments experiencing severe disruption. For example, in the first six months of 2022, our aviation segment was significantly and adversely affected by severe backwardation, a market condition in which oil futures forward prices trade at lower levels than the current market price. Our efforts to limit our exposure to this type of market risk may not be fully effective in the future.

Current wording

We may also experience negative results in volatile market pricing environments experiencing severe disruption. For example, in the first six months of 2022, our aviation segment was significantly and adversely affected by severe backwardation, a market condition in which oil futures forward prices trade at lower levels than the current market price. Our efforts to limit our exposure to this type of market risk may not be fully effective.

Previous wording

Finally, we maintain fuel inventories for competitive and logistical reasons. Significant variations in the market prices of products held in our inventories may require us to record inventory valuation charges. Our inventory is principally valued using the weighted average cost methodology and is stated at the lower of average cost or net realizable value. The hedging transactions we undertake to limit the financial effects of commodity price fluctuations may not be fully effective. Accordingly, if the market value of our inventory is less than our average cost and to the extent our hedges are not effective at mitigating fluctuations in prices, we may be required to record a write-down of inventory on hand and incur a non-cash charge or suffer losses as fuel is sold, which could adversely impact our earnings.

Current wording

Finally, we maintain fuel inventories for competitive and logistical reasons. Significant variations in the market prices of products held in our inventories may require us to record inventory valuation charges. Our inventory is principally valued using the weighted average cost methodology and is stated at the lower of average cost or net realizable value. Hedging transactions we undertake to limit the financial effects of commodity price fluctuations may not be fully effective. Accordingly, if the market value of our inventory is less than our average cost and to the extent our hedges are not effective at mitigating the impacts of price fluctuations, we may be required to record a write-down of inventory on hand and incur a non-cash charge or suffer losses as fuel is sold, which can adversely impact our earnings.

Previous wording

Any of the foregoing can result in distribution difficulties and disruptions, environmental pollution, government-imposed fines or clean-up obligations, personal injury or wrongful death claims, or damage to our properties or the properties of others. The occurrence of any of these events could also damage our reputation, which could adversely affect our business, whether or not we are ultimately held financially liable for such event. While we keep business continuity plans to address these types of contingencies, our failure to timely or properly implement these plans could exacerbate the impact on the business. Certain losses may exceed our insurance coverage limits or be outside the scope of our coverage. If we are held liable for any material damages, and the liability is not adequately covered by insurance, our financial position and results of operations would likely be adversely affected.

Current wording

Any of the foregoing can result in distribution difficulties and disruptions, environmental pollution, government-imposed fines or clean-up obligations, personal injury or wrongful death claims, or damage to our properties or the properties of others. The occurrence of any of these events could also damage our reputation, which could adversely affect our business, whether or not we are ultimately held financially liable for such event. While we keep business continuity plans to address these and other types of contingencies, our failure to timely or properly implement our business continuity plans could exacerbate the impact on the business. Certain losses may exceed our insurance coverage limits or be outside the scope of our coverage. If any of our third-party insurers fail, become insolvent, cancel our coverage or otherwise are unable to provide us with adequate insurance coverage, or we are unable to renew our insurance coverage on reasonable terms, then our overall risk exposure and our operational expenses would increase. If we are held liable for any material damages, and the liability is not adequately covered by insurance, our financial position and results of operations would be adversely affected.

Previous wording

We rely heavily on the proper functioning and availability of both internal and third-party information technology systems, including network infrastructure and cloud applications and services, to support a variety of business processes and activities across our global operations. All information technology systems are subject to disruptions, outages, failures, and security breaches or incidents. Cybersecurity incidents may arise from employee or contractor error or misuse or unauthorized use of information technology systems or confidential information, to individual attempts to gain unauthorized access to these information systems, to sophisticated cybersecurity attacks, known as advanced persistent threats, any of which may target us directly or indirectly through our customers, suppliers or third-party service providers.

Current wording

We rely heavily on the proper functioning and availability of both internal and third-party information technology systems, including network infrastructure and cloud applications and services, to support a variety of business processes and activities across our global operations. All information technology systems are subject to disruptions, outages, failures, and security breaches or incidents. Cybersecurity incidents may arise from employee or contractor error or misuse or unauthorized use of information technology systems or confidential information, individual attempts to gain unauthorized access to these information systems, and sophisticated cybersecurity attacks, known as advanced persistent threats, any of which may impact us directly or indirectly through our customers, suppliers or third-party service providers.

Previous wording

Cybersecurity attacks are increasing in number, attackers are increasingly organized and well-financed, and at times supported by state-sponsored actors, and attacks often target critical infrastructure. Cybersecurity incidents can remain undetected for a period of time despite efforts to detect and respond to them in a timely manner. Cybersecurity incidents can also affect third-party networks outside of our control that are required to operate trading platforms, pipelines, and other infrastructure we rely on to conduct our business. For example, in 2021, Colonial Pipeline Company temporarily shut down its pipeline system following a ransomware attack on its systems. While this shutdown did not have a material adverse impact on us or our operations, future cyberattacks affecting pipelines or other critical fuel delivery infrastructure could significantly impact our ability to procure supply or deliver our fuel products to customers.

Current wording

Cybersecurity incidents and attacks are increasing in number, attackers are increasingly organized and well-financed, and at times supported by state-sponsored actors, and attacks often target critical infrastructure. Additionally, the use of artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies, such as generative artificial intelligence, may enable more automated and effective attacks. Cybersecurity incidents can remain undetected for a period of time despite efforts to detect and respond to them in a timely manner. Cybersecurity incidents and similar attacks vary in their form and can include the deployment of harmful malware or ransomware, denial-of-services attacks, and other attacks, which may affect business continuity and threaten the availability, confidentiality and integrity of our systems and information. Cybersecurity incidents can also affect third-party networks outside of our control that are required to operate trading platforms, pipelines, and other infrastructure we rely on to conduct our business, together with the financial systems we rely upon to send and receive funds throughout the world. For example, in 2021, a U.S. pipeline company temporarily shut down its pipeline system following a ransomware attack on its systems. Cybersecurity incidents and other technology failures can also affect the sectors in which our customers operate. In 2024, a well-publicized incident involving a major cybersecurity company resulted in widespread crashes of information technology systems into which the cybersecurity company’s products were integrated, causing significant impacts to the banking, transportation and other industries. While these incidents did not have a material adverse impact on us, future cyberattacks, incidents and disruptions affecting the banking, transportation, or other industries, or pipelines and other critical fuel delivery infrastructure, could significantly impact us

Previous wording

Our reliance on email transmissions over public networks also exposes us to risks associated with the failure of our employees, customers, business partners and other third parties to use appropriate controls to protect sensitive information, due to risks associated with social engineering (e.g., phishing and impersonation), fraud and email scams. External parties may attempt to fraudulently induce employees, customers, suppliers or other users of our systems to disclose sensitive information to gain access to our data or use electronic means to induce us to enter into fraudulent transactions. We may also face increased cybersecurity risk for a period of time after acquisitions as we transition the acquired entity’s historical systems and networks to our standards.

Current wording

We are also exposed to risks associated with the failure of our employees, customers, business partners and other third parties to use appropriate controls to protect sensitive information, due to risks associated with social engineering (e.g., phishing and impersonation), fraud and email scams. External parties may attempt to fraudulently induce employees, customers, suppliers or other users of our systems to disclose sensitive information to gain access to our data or use electronic means to induce us to enter into fraudulent transactions. We may also face increased cybersecurity risk and threats for a period of time after acquisitions as we transition the acquired entity’s historical systems and networks to our standards.

Previous wording

In addition, due to the large number of transactions that run through our systems each day, significant system downtime or disruption could have a material impact on our, and in the case of our technology offerings, our customers', ability to conduct business, process and record transactions, make operational and financial decisions or damage our reputation with customers or suppliers, particularly in the event of billing errors or payment delays. Similarly, if ours or any of our cloud service providers' access to cloud-based platforms and services is disrupted for any reason and leads to disruptions in our critical systems, our operations and ability to manage our business could be adversely impacted. While we seek to obtain contractual protections in our agreements with these providers, we may not have sufficient recourse against these parties in the event they experience a significant cybersecurity attack or other security breach affecting our or our customers' data.

Current wording

In addition, due to the large number of transactions that run through our systems each day, significant system downtime or disruption could have a material impact on our, and in the case of our technology offerings, our customers', ability to conduct business, process and record transactions, make operational and financial decisions or damage our reputation with customers or suppliers, particularly in the event of billing errors or payment delays. Similarly, if ours or any of our business partners' or cloud service providers' access to cloud-based or similar platforms and services is disrupted for any reason and leads to disruptions in our critical systems, our operations and ability to manage our business could be adversely impacted. We may not have sufficient recourse against these parties in the event they experience a significant cybersecurity incident or similar attack or other security breach affecting our or our customers' data.

Previous wording

Our cybersecurity and infrastructure protection technologies, disaster recovery plans and systems, employee training and vendor risk management that we use to mitigate cybersecurity threats may not be sufficient to defend us against all unauthorized attempts to access our information or impact our systems. As cybersecurity threats continue to evolve, we may be required to dedicate significant additional resources and incur substantial costs to modify or enhance our security measures or to investigate and remediate any vulnerabilities. Despite these efforts, we may be unable to fully anticipate or implement adequate preventive measures or mitigate potential harm. We and our third party providers have experienced, and expect to continue to experience, cybersecurity incidents. To our knowledge, we have not experienced any material losses relating to cybersecurity attacks. However, there can be no assurance that we will not suffer material losses in the future. We currently maintain insurance to protect us from certain losses arising as a result of cybersecurity incidents, but this insurance may not be sufficient to cover the financial, legal, business or reputational losses that may result from such incidents. Any of the adverse effects described above could damage our brand, competitiveness and ability to conduct our business, impact our credit and risk exposure decisions, cause us to lose customers or revenues, subject us to significant remediation costs, litigation or regulatory actions, fines and penalties, or otherwise have a material adverse effect on our cash flows, financial condition or results of operations.

Current wording

Our cybersecurity and infrastructure protection technologies, disaster recovery plans and systems, employee training and vendor risk management that we use to mitigate cybersecurity threats may not be sufficient to defend us against all unauthorized attempts to access our information or impact our systems. As cybersecurity threats continue to evolve, we may be required to dedicate significant additional resources and incur substantial costs to modify or enhance our security measures or to investigate and remediate any vulnerabilities. Despite these efforts, we may be unable to fully anticipate or implement adequate preventive measures or mitigate potential harm. We and our third party providers have experienced, and expect to continue to experience, cybersecurity incidents. To our knowledge, we have not experienced any material losses relating to cybersecurity attacks. However, there can be no assurance that we will not suffer material losses in the future. We currently maintain insurance to protect us from certain losses arising as a result of cybersecurity incidents, but this insurance may not be sufficient to cover the financial, legal, business or reputational losses that may result from such incidents and there is no guarantee that such coverage will continue to be available on commercially reasonable terms or at all. Any of the adverse effects described above could damage our brand, competitiveness and ability to conduct our business, impact our credit and risk exposure decisions, cause us to lose customers or revenues, subject us to significant remediation costs, litigation or regulatory actions, loss or corruption of data, costs related to remediation or the payment of ransom, fines and penalties, or otherwise have a material and adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

Previous wording

We enter into financial derivative contracts to mitigate the risk of market price fluctuations in energy products, to offer our customers energy pricing alternatives to meet their needs, to manage price exposures associated with our inventories, and to mitigate the risk of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates. Despite our efforts to mitigate risks associated with these transactions, we remain subject to substantial energy price and exchange rate risks.

Current wording

We enter into financial derivative contracts to mitigate the risk of market price fluctuations in energy products and currency exchange rates, to offer our customers energy pricing alternatives to meet their needs, and to manage price exposures associated with our inventories. Despite our efforts to mitigate risks associated with these transactions, we remain subject to substantial energy price and exchange rate risks.

Previous wording

Our efforts to hedge our exposure to fluctuations in energy prices and exchange rates may also be ineffective when the prices of historically correlated commodities diverge from their historical correlations. For example, we hedge jet fuel prices with derivatives tied to other petroleum products that have historically been correlated to aviation jet fuel (e.g., heating oil in the U.S. or gasoil in Europe or Asia). If the price of aviation jet fuel at a specific location diverges from historical correlations, our attempts to mitigate price risk associated with our aviation business may not be effective. Moreover, there may be times where the change in the price of jet fuel at a specific location is disrupted (e.g., hurricanes) and is not correlated to the underlying hedges when compared to historical prices. We may, as a component of our overall business strategy, increase or decrease from time to time our use of such derivative financial instruments in the future.

Current wording

Our efforts to hedge our exposure to fluctuations in energy prices and exchange rates may also be ineffective when the prices of historically correlated commodities diverge from their historical correlations. For example, we hedge jet fuel prices with derivatives tied to other petroleum products that have historically been correlated to aviation jet fuel (e.g., heating oil in the U.S. or gasoil in Europe or Asia). If the price of aviation jet fuel at a specific location diverges from historical correlations, our attempts to mitigate price risk associated with our aviation business may not be effective. We may, as a component of our overall business strategy, increase or decrease from time to time our use of such hedging transactions.

Previous wording

In addition, derivative and other trading transactions, including our energy trading transactions, are subject to employee and system risks. For example, our employees may fail to comply with our policies and procedures, may engage in unauthorized trading activity, may fail to comply with our internal limits on exposure or any applicable statutory or regulatory requirements, or may otherwise make errors in connection with the trading process. These and other risks may result in substantial losses. For example, as previously disclosed in a Form 8-K filed with the SEC on November 27, 2023, in November 2023, one of our subsidiaries submitted an erroneous bid in the Finnish power market. During the fourth quarter of 2023, the Company recognized related extraordinary losses totaling $48.8 million. See Note 11. Commitments and Contingencies for additional information.

Current wording

In addition, derivative and other trading transactions, including our energy trading transactions, are subject to employee and system risks. Our employees may fail to comply with our policies and procedures, may engage in unauthorized trading activity, may fail to comply with our internal limits on exposure or any applicable statutory or regulatory requirements, or may otherwise make errors in connection with the trading process. These and other risks may result in substantial losses. For example, as previously disclosed in a Form 8-K filed with the SEC on November 27, 2023, in November 2023, one of our subsidiaries submitted an erroneous bid in the Finnish power market. During the fourth quarter of 2023, the Company recognized related extraordinary losses totaling $48.8 million in connection with such bid. See Note 12. Commitments and Contingencies for additional information.

Previous wording

Finally, many of our derivative transactions are not designated as hedges for accounting purposes. Therefore, changes in the fair market value of these derivatives are reflected as a component of revenue or cost of revenue (based on the underlying transaction type) in our Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income. Since the fair market value of these derivatives is marked to market at the end of each quarter, changes in the value of our derivative instruments because of gains or losses may cause our earnings to fluctuate from period to period.

Current wording

Finally, many of our derivative transactions are not designated as hedges for accounting purposes. Therefore, changes in the fair market value of these derivatives are reflected as a component of revenue or cost of revenue (based on the underlying transaction type) in our Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income. Since the fair market value of these derivatives is marked to market at the end of each quarter, changes in the value of our derivative instruments because of gains or losses may cause our earnings to fluctuate from period to period, and such fluctuation may be significant.

Previous wording

Although most of our agreements with suppliers provide that we have recourse against them for products that fail to meet contractual specifications, such recourse may be time-barred or otherwise insufficient to adequately cover the liability we may incur and our ability to enforce such recourse may be limited or costly. For example, several of our supply agreements are with foreign entities, including foreign governments, and are governed by the laws of foreign jurisdictions. We may incur substantial costs in seeking to enforce our rights against a local supplier in a foreign jurisdiction and the ultimate outcome can be unpredictable. In certain markets, we also rely on a single or limited number of suppliers to sell us fuel or provide services on our behalf. We may have limited alternatives if such supplier fails to meet applicable standards or requirements. Any of the foregoing can result in material liabilities that may exceed any applicable insurance coverage or other form of recourse and ultimately, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

Current wording

Although our agreements with suppliers generally provide that we have recourse against them for products that fail to meet contractual specifications, such recourse may be time-barred or otherwise insufficient to adequately cover the liability we may incur and our ability to enforce such recourse may be limited or costly. For example, we may enter into supply agreements with foreign entities, including foreign governments, that are subject to the laws of foreign jurisdictions. We may incur substantial costs in seeking to enforce our rights against a local supplier in a foreign jurisdiction and the ultimate outcome can be unpredictable. In certain markets, we also rely on a single or limited number of suppliers to sell us fuel or provide services on our behalf. We may have limited alternatives if such supplier fails to meet applicable standards or requirements. Any of the foregoing can result in material liabilities that may exceed any applicable insurance coverage or other form of recourse and ultimately, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

Previous wording

As part of our business strategy, we may pursue acquisition and other strategic transactions. The integration of acquired businesses with our existing business can be complex, costly and time-consuming. We have incurred, and expect to continue incurring, expenses related to the integration of businesses we acquire. The success of our acquisitions depends on our ability to successfully combine our existing business with acquired businesses and realize the anticipated benefits from such acquisitions, including synergies, cost savings, earnings growth, and operational efficiencies.

Current wording

From time to time, we may pursue acquisitions and other strategic transactions. The integration of acquired businesses with our existing business can be complex, costly and time-consuming. We have incurred, and expect to continue incurring, expenses related to the integration of businesses we acquire. The success of our acquisitions depends on our ability to successfully combine our existing business with acquired businesses and realize the anticipated benefits from such acquisitions, including synergies, cost savings, earnings growth, and operational efficiencies.

Previous wording

Acquiring and integrating businesses may place a strain on our management, operational and financial resources, and expose us to additional risks and unexpected expenses, some of which we have experienced in the past and which we may experience in the future, including:

Current wording

Acquiring and integrating businesses may place a strain on our management, operations and financial resources, and expose us to additional risks and unexpected expenses, some of which we have experienced in the past and which we may experience in the future, including:

Previous wording

•challenges managing acquired businesses while maintaining uniform standards, controls and risk management processes appropriate for a public company;

Current wording

•challenges managing acquired businesses while maintaining consistent standards, controls and risk management processes appropriate for a public company;

Previous wording

We supply fuel and provide equipment and services to U.S. and foreign government and military customers. Government sales can be materially impacted by factors such as administration policy changes, supply disruptions, inventory shortages and other logistical difficulties that can arise when conducting business in areas with active military conflicts, natural disasters or other severe circumstances. Moreover, there can be a risk of serious injury or loss of life for our employees or subcontractors when operating in high-risk locations. We may therefore incur substantial operating costs as a result of, among other things, hostility-related product losses, utilizing alternate supply routes or increased security requirements, particularly where our facilities are likely to be subject to terrorist activity or extreme weather-related impacts.

Current wording

We supply fuel and provide equipment and services to U.S. and foreign government and military customers. Government sales can be materially impacted by factors such as administration policy changes, supply disruptions, inventory shortages and other logistical difficulties that can arise when conducting business in areas with active military conflicts, natural disasters or other severe circumstances. Moreover, there can be a risk of serious injury or loss of life for our employees or subcontractors when operating in high-risk locations. We may therefore incur substantial operating costs as a result of, among other things, hostility-related product losses, the need to use alternate supply routes, and increased security requirements, particularly where our facilities are likely to be subject to terrorist activity or extreme weather-related impacts.

Previous wording

Because we offer fuel products and services on a worldwide basis, our business is subject to risks associated with doing business internationally, such as:

Current wording

Our business is subject to risks associated with doing business internationally, such as:

Previous wording

•changes in multilateral conventions, treaties, tariffs or other arrangements between or among sovereign nations, including, for example, the U.K.'s exit from the E.U., which can increase costs and lead to legal uncertainties and potentially divergent national laws and regulations with regard to tax, licensing and other regulatory rights and obligations; and

Current wording

•changes in multilateral conventions, treaties, tariffs or other arrangements between or among sovereign nations, including, for example, the United Kingdom's ("U.K.") exit from the E.U., which can increase costs and lead to legal uncertainties and potentially divergent national laws and regulations with regard to tax, licensing and other regulatory rights and obligations; and

Previous wording

Certain of the agreements governing our credit arrangements impose certain operating and/or financial covenants on us, which, among other things, restrict our ability to pay dividends or make certain other restricted payments, incur additional debt, create liens and sell a material amount of assets. Our failure or inability to comply with these requirements, including financial ratios or other covenants, could limit the availability under our Credit Facility or result in an event of default. An event of default, if not cured or waived, would permit acceleration of any outstanding indebtedness under these facilities, could trigger cross-defaults under other agreements to which we are a party (such as certain derivative contracts), and would impair our ability to obtain working capital advances and letters of credit, any of which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

Current wording

Certain of the agreements governing our credit arrangements impose certain operating and/or financial covenants on us, which, among other things, restrict our ability to pay dividends or make certain other restricted payments, incur additional debt, create liens and sell a material amount of assets. Our failure or inability to comply with these requirements, including financial ratios or other covenants, could limit the availability under our Credit Facility, as defined under "Liquidity and Capital Resources" in Part II, Item 7 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K, or result in an event of default. An event of default, if not cured or waived, would permit acceleration of any outstanding indebtedness under these facilities, could trigger cross-defaults under other agreements to which we are a party (such as certain derivative contracts), and would impair our ability to obtain working capital advances and letters of credit, any of which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

Previous wording

Inflation in the United States and other jurisdictions in which we do business increased significantly in late 2021 into 2022, driven in part by supply chain disruptions, labor shortages and increased commodity prices, which has generally resulted in higher costs in 2022 and 2023. A significant or prolonged period of high inflation, particularly when combined with rising interest rates due to actions taken by governments to attempt to control inflation, could adversely impact our results if costs, including employee compensation driven by competitive job market conditions, were to increase at a rate greater than the increase in the revenues we generate. Higher interest rates also typically increase the interest expense associated with our credit arrangements with banks and other parties that serve as important sources of liquidity for us, which can therefore negatively impact our results of operations for a particular period. For additional information on the effects of inflation on our business, see Item 7. – Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.

Current wording

Inflation in the United States and other jurisdictions in which we do business increased significantly in late 2021 into 2022, driven in part by supply chain disruptions, labor shortages and increased commodity prices, which has generally resulted in higher costs. A significant or prolonged period of high inflation, particularly when combined with rising interest rates due to actions taken by governments to attempt to control inflation, could adversely impact our results if costs, including employee compensation driven by competitive job market conditions, were to increase at a rate greater than the increase in the revenues we generate. Higher interest rates also typically increase the interest expense associated with our credit arrangements with banks and other parties that serve as important sources of liquidity for us, which can therefore negatively impact our results of operations for a particular period. For additional information on the effects of inflation on our business, see Item 7. – Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.

Previous wording

In addition to competing with resellers, we also compete with the major oil producers that market fuel and other energy products directly to large commercial airlines, shipping companies, petroleum distributors operating in the land transportation market, fuel resellers, and other commercial and industrial customers. In recent years, a lower fuel price environment caused many major oil companies to remain in or re-enter the downstream markets. Our business could be adversely affected and subject to the risk of disintermediation if our suppliers choose to increase their direct marketing to our customers to compete with us or provide less advantageous price and credit terms to us than to our other competitors.

Current wording

In addition to competing with resellers, we also compete with major oil companies that market fuel and other energy products directly to large commercial airlines, shipping companies, petroleum distributors operating in the land transportation market, fuel resellers, and other commercial and industrial customers. Our business could be adversely affected and subject to the risk of disintermediation if our suppliers choose to enter or increase their operations in markets in which we compete, increase their direct marketing to our customers to compete with us or provide less advantageous price and credit terms to us than to our other competitors.

Previous wording

In connection with our offering of Convertible Notes in June 2023, we entered into bond hedge transactions with multiple financial institutions, which increased the effective conversion price of the Convertible Notes to approximately $40.14 (from the nominal conversion price of $28.43). Consequently, the bond hedge transaction is expected to reduce the potential dilution upon conversion of the Convertible Notes and/or offset any cash payments we are required to make in excess of the principal amount of the Convertible Notes upon their conversion. We also entered into warrant transactions with the bond hedge counterparties, which could have a dilutive effect on our common stock to the extent that the market price per share of our common stock exceeds the strike price of the warrants.

Current wording

In connection with our offering of Convertible Notes in June 2023, we entered into bond hedge transactions with multiple financial institutions, which increased the effective conversion price of the Convertible Notes. Consequently, the bond hedge transaction is expected to reduce the potential dilution upon conversion of the Convertible Notes and/or offset any cash payments we are required to make in excess of the principal amount of the Convertible Notes upon their conversion. We also entered into warrant transactions with the bond hedge counterparties, which could have a dilutive effect on our common stock to the extent that the market price per share of our common stock exceeds the strike price of the warrants.

Previous wording

Climate change continues to attract considerable public and scientific attention in the U.S. and in foreign countries. As a result, numerous proposals have been adopted and will likely continue to be made at various levels of governments globally to monitor and limit GHG emissions, reduce the use of hydrocarbon-based fuels or require substantial additional and costly disclosure relating to emissions. These include the adoption of cap-and-trade regimes, carbon taxes, trade tariffs, minimum renewable usage requirements, restrictive permitting, increased efficiency standards, and incentives or mandates for renewable energy.

Current wording

Climate change continues to attract considerable public and scientific attention throughout the world. As a result, numerous proposals have been adopted and will likely continue to be made at various levels of governments globally to monitor and limit GHG emissions, reduce the use of hydrocarbon-based fuels or require substantial additional and costly disclosure relating to emissions. These efforts have included consideration of cap-and-trade regimes, carbon taxes, trade tariffs, minimum renewable usage requirements, restrictive permitting, increased efficiency standards, and incentives or mandates for renewable energy.

Previous wording

In the U.S., various federal, state and local laws and regulations have been enacted relating to GHG emissions. However, the direction of future U.S. climate change regulations is difficult to predict given the potential for policy changes under different Presidential administrations and Congressional leadership. President Biden has signed executive orders recommitting the U.S. to the Paris Agreement and calling for the federal government to begin formulating emissions reduction goals and increasing the emphasis on climate-related risk across governmental agencies and economic sectors.

Current wording

In the U.S., various federal, state and local laws and regulations have been enacted relating to GHG emissions. However, the direction of future U.S. climate change regulations is difficult to predict given the potential for policy changes under different Presidential administrations and changing Congressional leadership. It is unclear the extent to which any new environmental laws or regulations, or any repeal of existing environmental laws or regulations, will impact our business or that of our customers.

Previous wording

Additionally, in August 2022 the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 was signed into law, which appropriates significant federal funding for renewable energy initiatives and, for the first time, imposes a fee on GHG emissions from certain facilities in the oil and natural gas sector. The emissions fee and renewable and low carbon energy funding provisions of the law could accelerate the transition away from fossil fuels or otherwise adversely impact the use of petroleum-based motor fuels, which could in turn have an indirect adverse effect on our business and results of operations. Under the Biden Administration, it is anticipated that efforts by the EPA or other federal agencies to restrict GHG emissions will continue. It is unclear the extent to which any new environmental laws or regulations, or any repeal of existing environmental laws or regulations, will impact our business or that of our customers.

Current wording

Additionally, in August 2022 the IRA was signed into law, which appropriates significant federal funding for renewable energy initiatives and, for the first time, imposes a fee on GHG emissions from certain facilities in the oil and natural gas sector. The emissions fee and renewable and low carbon energy funding provisions of the law could accelerate the transition away from fossil fuels or otherwise adversely impact the use of petroleum-based motor fuels, which could in turn have an indirect adverse effect on our business and results of operations.

Previous wording

There have also been significant governmental incentives and consumer pressures to increase the use of alternative fuels in the U.S. and throughout the world. Automotive, industrial and power generation manufacturers are developing more fuel-efficient engines, hybrid engines and alternative clean power systems. Several automobile manufacturers have announced goals to substantially increase the proportion of their new vehicle sales from battery electric, fuel cell and plug-in hybrid vehicles. Further, in August 2022, the California Air Resources Board finalized its Advanced Clean Cars II (ACC II) program, including requiring an increasing percentage of new passenger vehicles sold in the state to be zero emission vehicles for the 2026-2035 model years, ending with a 100% sales target in the 2035 model year. Additional U.S. jurisdictions could adopt similar requirements. The more prevalent these vehicles become as a result of governmental incentives or regulations, technological advances, consumer demand, improved pricing or otherwise, the greater the potential negative impact on pricing and demand for our fuel products and accordingly, our profitability.

Current wording

There have also been significant governmental incentives and consumer pressures to increase the use of alternative fuels. Automotive, industrial and power generation manufacturers are developing more fuel-efficient engines, hybrid engines and alternative clean power systems. Several automobile manufacturers have announced goals to substantially increase the proportion of their new vehicle sales from battery electric, fuel cell and plug-in hybrid vehicles. Further, in August 2022, the California Air Resources Board finalized its Advanced Clean Cars II (ACC II) program, including requiring an increasing percentage of new passenger vehicles sold in the state to be zero emission vehicles for the 2026-2035 model years, ending with a 100% sales target in the 2035 model year. Additional U.S. jurisdictions could adopt similar requirements. The more prevalent these vehicles become as a result of governmental incentives or regulations, technological advances, consumer demand, improved pricing or otherwise, the greater the potential negative impact on pricing and demand for our fuel products and accordingly, our profitability.

Previous wording

Additional changes in regulatory policies or any adverse publicity in the global marketplace about our potential impact on climate change or the impact of other companies in our industry could also lead to a reduction in the demand for products that are deemed to contribute to GHGs, harm our reputation and adversely impact our sales of fuel products. Finally, the potential physical impacts of climate change on our operations are highly uncertain and vary amongst the geographic areas in which we operate. These may include changes in rainfall and storm patterns and intensities, hurricanes, changing sea levels, and changing temperatures that may impact the seasonality of our business, such as our heating oil business in the U.K. The occurrence of any of the foregoing factors could increase our costs and the prices we charge our customers, reduce the demand for our products, and therefore adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

Current wording

Additional changes in regulatory policies or any adverse publicity in the global marketplace about our potential impact on climate change or the impact of other companies in our industry could also lead to a reduction in the demand for products that are deemed to contribute to GHGs, harm our reputation and adversely impact our sales of fuel products. Finally, the potential physical impacts of climate change on our operations are highly uncertain and vary amongst the geographic areas in which we operate. These may include changes in rainfall and storm patterns and intensities, hurricanes, changing sea levels, and changing temperatures that may impact the seasonality of our businesses, such as our natural gas business in North America and our heating oil business in the U.K. The occurrence of any of the foregoing factors could increase our costs and the prices we charge our customers, reduce the demand for our products, and therefore adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

Previous wording

Our effective tax rate is subject to significant variation due to numerous factors, including variability in our pre-tax and taxable income and loss, changes to our corporate structure, changes in the mix of earnings in countries with differing statutory tax rates, foreign currency fluctuations, intercompany transactions, changes in the valuation of deferred tax assets and liabilities, changes in tax laws or in their interpretation or enforcement, and the applicability of tax concessions. For example, we have benefited from an income tax concession in Singapore since 2008, which reduces the income tax rate on qualified sales and derivative gains and losses. We renewed the concession for an additional five-year period beginning January 1, 2023. The concession remains conditioned upon our meeting certain employment and investment thresholds which, if not met, may eliminate the benefit beginning with the first year in which the conditions are not satisfied. Our effective tax rate can be volatile based on the amount of pre-tax income or loss. For example, the impact of discrete items and non-deductible expenses on our effective tax rate is greater when our pre-tax income is lower.

Current wording

Our effective tax rate is subject to significant variation due to numerous factors, including variability in our pre-tax income and loss, the impact of discrete items and non-deductible expenses, changes to our corporate structure, changes in the mix of earnings in countries with differing statutory tax rates, foreign currency fluctuations, intercompany transactions, changes in the valuation of deferred tax assets and liabilities, changes in tax laws or in their interpretation or enforcement, and the applicability of tax concessions. For example, we currently benefit from an income tax concession in Singapore, which reduces the income tax rate on qualified sales and derivative gains and losses. We renewed the concession for an additional five-year period beginning January 1, 2023. The concession remains conditioned upon our meeting certain employment and investment thresholds which, if not met, may eliminate the benefit.

Previous wording

We are regularly audited by various domestic and foreign tax authorities and are involved in various inquiries, audits, challenges and litigation in a number of countries, including Brazil, Denmark, South Korea and the U.S., where the amounts under controversy may be material. In some jurisdictions, these challenges require the posting of collateral or payment of the contested amount, which may affect our flexibility in operating our business or our liquidity.

Current wording

We are regularly audited by various domestic and foreign tax authorities and are involved in various inquiries, audits, challenges and litigation in a number of countries, including Denmark, South Korea and the U.S., where the amounts under controversy may be material. In some jurisdictions, these challenges require the posting of collateral or payment of the contested amount, which may affect our flexibility in operating our business or our liquidity.

Previous wording

Although we believe our tax estimates are reasonable, the final determination of tax audits and any related litigation could be materially different than what is reflected in our income tax provisions and accruals. If these challenges are ultimately determined unfavorably to us, these proceedings may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. Furthermore, any failure to comply with applicable laws and regulations or appropriately resolve these challenges could subject us to administrative, civil or criminal penalties, including fines, penalties, disgorgement, injunctions and damage to our reputation. See Notes 10. Income Taxes and 11. Commitments and Contingencies for additional details regarding certain tax matters.

Current wording

Although we believe our tax estimates are reasonable, the final determination of tax audits and any related litigation could be materially different than what is reflected in our income tax provisions and accruals. If these challenges are ultimately determined unfavorably to us, these proceedings may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. Furthermore, any failure to comply with applicable laws and regulations or appropriately resolve these challenges could subject us to administrative, civil or criminal penalties, including fines, penalties, disgorgement, injunctions and damage to our reputation. See Notes 11. Income Taxes and 12. Commitments and Contingencies for additional details regarding certain tax matters.

Previous wording

We, along with many of our customers and suppliers, are seeking to reduce carbon emissions throughout our supply chains. The achievement of initiatives we may undertake relating to the reduction of GHG emissions or other ESG matters, however, may increase our costs, particularly if they require significant changes to our operations, infrastructure or businesses. If our ESG initiatives fail to satisfy our investors, customers, suppliers, or other stakeholders, our reputation, ability to sell products and services to customers, our ability to attract or retain employees, and our attractiveness as an investment or business partner could be negatively impacted.

Current wording

If our ESG initiatives fail to satisfy our investors, customers, suppliers, or other stakeholders, our reputation, ability to sell products and services to customers, our ability to attract or retain employees, and our attractiveness as an investment or business partner could be negatively impacted. In addition, various governmental authorities, as well as voluntary sustainability initiatives and organizations, have promulgated different environmental and social responsibility laws, regulations, policies, and initiatives, which are under active development, can be unpredictable and conflicting, and may change rapidly in future periods. Additionally, the SEC has recently expressed its intent to scrutinize climate-change related disclosures in public filings, increasing the potential for enforcement if the SEC were to allege that our existing climate disclosures are misleading or deficient.

Previous wording

In addition, various governmental authorities, as well as voluntary sustainability initiatives and organizations, have promulgated different environmental and social responsibility laws, regulations, policies, and initiatives, which are under active development, can be unpredictable and conflicting, and may change rapidly in future periods. For example, the EU Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive became effective in 2023 and applies to both EU and certain non-EU entities. In October 2023, California enacted the Climate Corporate Data Accountability Act and the Climate Related Financial Risk Act that will require large public and private companies that do business within the state to disclose their Scopes 1, 2 and 3 greenhouse gas ("GHG") emissions, with third party assurance of GHG emissions information for certain entities, and issue public reports on their climate-related financial risk and related mitigation measures. In 2023, California also enacted the Voluntary Carbon Market Disclosures Act, which requires companies that operate within the state and make certain climate-related claims to provide enhanced disclosures around the achievement of such claims. Unfavorable ratings under or non-compliance with these evolving laws, standards and benchmarks could adversely impact our reputation, business, stock price or access to capital. Non-compliance with any applicable laws, regulations or standards may also result in potential cost increases, litigation, fines, penalties, sales restrictions or loss of customers.

Current wording

Some of our operations are in jurisdictions that have or are developing regulatory regimes governing disclosure of GHG emissions, such as the E.U.’s Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive, and California’s Climate Corporate Data Accountability Act and Climate Related Financial Risk Act. In 2023, California also enacted the Voluntary Carbon Market Disclosures Act, which requires companies that operate within the state and make certain climate-related claims to provide enhanced disclosures around the achievement of such claims. Unfavorable ratings under or non-compliance with these evolving laws, standards and benchmarks could adversely impact our reputation, business, stock price or access to capital. Non-compliance with any applicable laws, regulations or standards may also result in potential cost increases, litigation, fines, penalties, sales restrictions or loss of customers.

Previous wording

We are required to comply with extensive and complex laws and other regulations at the international, federal, state/provincial and local government levels in the countries in which we operate. See Part I. Item 1. – Business for additional information about laws and regulations applicable to our business. Laws and regulations relating to environmental protection and occupational safety and health can be particularly complex and can impose strict liability on us for remediation of spills and releases of oil and hazardous substances without regard to whether we were negligent or at fault. Violations of these laws and regulations, or any future environmental law or regulation, could result in significant liability, including administrative, civil or criminal penalties, fines, injunctions, or the suspension or termination of our operations at an affected area. We may also be held responsible for remediation costs for natural resource damages as well as third-party damages. In our marine segment, we utilize fuel delivery barges and store refined products adjacent to water, thereby potentially subjecting us to strict, joint, and potentially unlimited liability for removal costs and other consequences of where a spill is into navigable waters, along shorelines or in the exclusive economic zone of the U.S. Any of these occurrences and any resulting negative media coverage could have a material adverse effect on our stock price and on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

Current wording

We are required to comply with extensive and complex laws and other regulations at the international, federal, state/provincial and local government levels in the countries in which we operate. See Part I. Item 1. – Business for additional information about laws and regulations applicable to our business. Laws and regulations relating to environmental protection and occupational safety and health can be particularly complex and can impose strict liability on us for remediation of spills and releases of oil and hazardous substances without regard to whether we were negligent or at fault. Violations of these laws and regulations, or any future environmental law or regulation, could result in significant liability, including administrative, civil or criminal penalties, fines, injunctions, or the suspension or termination of our operations at an affected area. We may also be held responsible for remediation costs for natural resource damages as well as third-party damages. In our marine segment, we utilize fuel delivery barges and store and transfer refined products adjacent to water, thereby potentially subjecting us to strict, joint, and potentially unlimited liability for removal costs and other consequences of where a spill is into navigable or inland waters, along shorelines or in the exclusive economic zone of the U.S. Any of these occurrences and any resulting negative media coverage could have a material adverse effect on our stock price and on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

Previous wording

The data that we collect may be vulnerable to breach, loss or misuse, and our handling of such data may be impacted by changes in data privacy and protection laws and regulations, which could increase operational costs or result in regulatory penalties or litigation.

Current wording

The data that we collect may be vulnerable to cybersecurity incidents, breach, loss or misuse, and our handling of such data may be impacted by changes in data privacy and protection laws and regulations, which could increase operational costs or result in regulatory penalties or litigation.

Previous wording

We have access to sensitive, confidential or personal data from our employees, customers (both corporate and individual consumers), suppliers and other third parties, some of which is subject to privacy, security or residency laws, regulations and customer-imposed controls. In the ordinary course of business, we collect, retain, process, and transmit such data across national boundaries. Despite our efforts to properly handle and protect this information in compliance with such requirements, our facilities and systems and those of our third-party service providers may be vulnerable to security breaches, theft, misplaced or lost data, and programming, procedural or human errors that may lead to such information being compromised or handled improperly.

Current wording

We have access to sensitive, confidential or personal data from our employees, customers (both corporate and individual consumers), suppliers and other third parties, some of which is subject to privacy, security or residency or localization laws, regulations and customer-imposed controls. In the ordinary course of business, we collect, retain, process, and transmit such data across national boundaries. Despite our efforts to properly handle and protect this information in compliance with such requirements, our facilities and systems and those of our third-party service providers and business partners may be vulnerable to cybersecurity incidents, security breaches, theft, misplaced or lost data, and programming, technical failures or disruptions, and procedural or human errors that may lead to such information being compromised or handled improperly.