Getty Images Holdings, Inc.
For the period ended Dec 31, 2024. Filed Mar 17, 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 Mar 17, 2025
What changed in Risk Factors?
Read the current filingPrevious report: 10-K
Period ended 2023-12-31; filed 2024-03-15.
0001628280-24-011316
Item 1A. Risk FactorsCurrent report: 10-K
Period ended 2024-12-31; filed 2025-03-17.
0001628280-25-013103
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 288 previous paragraphs and 339 current paragraphs.
245 unchanged; 40 reworded; 52 added; 1 removed; 2 previous and 2 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 (52)
Current report
•Risks Related to the Proposed Merger (the “Merger”) with Shutterstock
Current report
◦Our inability to complete the Merger, or to complete the Merger in a timely manner, including as a result of the failure to obtain required regulatory approvals or the failure to satisfy the other conditions to the consummation of the Merger could negatively affect our business, financial condition and results of operations;
Current report
◦Failure to complete the Merger could trigger the payment of a termination fee, and, whether or not the Merger is consummated, we have incurred and will continue to incur significant costs, fees and expenses relating to professional services and transaction fees;
Current report
◦Uncertainties associated with the Merger may cause us to lose key customers or suppliers and make it more difficult to retain and hire key personnel, and the Merger may disrupt our current plans and operations or divert management’s attention from our ongoing business;
Current report
◦The proposed Merger and the integration of both companies may be more difficult, costly or time-consuming than expected, and we may fail to realize the anticipated benefits of the Merger;
Current report
◦The market price of the combined company's common stock following the anticipated closing of the Merger may be affected by factors different from those that historically have affected or currently affect our common stock;
Current report
◦We may be unable to retain personnel successfully while the Merger is pending or after the Merger is completed;
Current report
◦We may become subject to lawsuits relating to the Merger, which could adversely affect our business, financial condition and operating results;
Current report
◦Because the exchange ratio in the Merger Agreement is fixed and because the market price of Shutterstock and our Class A common stock will fluctuate prior to the completion of the Merger, we cannot be sure of the market value of our Class A common stock that will be paid to Shutterstock stockholders as consideration in the Merger; and
Current report
◦Our stockholders will have a reduced ownership and voting interest in Getty Images following the merger as compared to their ownership and voting interest in us and will exercise less influence over management.
Current report
•software as a service solutions that package visual content into creative and design services; and
Current report
On February 21, 2025, subsidiaries of Getty Images entered into the Second Incremental Commitment Amendment and Third Amendment to Credit Agreement (the “Refinancing Amendment”), which amended their Existing Credit Agreement. (See “Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial and Results of Operations – Refinancing Amendment”). The Refinancing Amendment refinanced only our existing term loans and not our senior notes and failure to refinance our senior notes on a timely basis, including as a result of future market conditions, could trigger Shutterstock’s termination right under the Merger Agreement.
Current report
In addition, while the long-term effects of climate change are unclear, we recognize that there are inherent climate-related risks wherever business is conducted. Any of our locations may be vulnerable to the adverse effects of climate change, natural disasters, pandemics, global health issues and other unforeseen environmental events. Climate-related events, natural disasters, pandemics, global health issues and other unforeseen environmental events, including the increasing frequency of extreme weather events and their impact on critical infrastructure in the United States and elsewhere, have the potential to disrupt our business, our third-party service providers or partners, and/or the business of our customers, and may cause us to experience higher attrition, losses and additional costs to maintain and resume operations.
Current report
•the development of generative AI models, including training data;
Current report
•The FDBR regulates the collection and processing of personal data of Florida residents, and grants residents certain rights in connection with such collection and processing.
Current report
•The MTCDPA regulates the collection and processing of personal data of Montana residents, and grants residents certain rights in connection with such collection and processing.
Current report
•The OCPA regulates the collection and processing of personal data of Oregon residents, and grants residents certain rights in connection with such processing.
Current report
•The TDPSA regulates the collection and processing of personal data of Texas residents, and grants residents certain rights in connection with such processing.
Current report
Recently, the E.U. has introduced a new regulation applicable to certain types of AI and the data used to train, test and deploy AI (the “E.U. AI Act”). The E.U. AI Act entered into force in August 2024, and its requirements will become effective on a staggered basis, with the majority of its provisions being implemented by August 2, 2026. The E.U. AI Act will impose material requirements on both the providers and deployers of AI, with infringement punishable by sanctions of up to 7% of annual worldwide turnover or €35 million (whichever is higher) for the most serious breaches.
Current report
Further, if our ESG practices do not meet evolving investor or other stakeholder expectations and standards, then our reputation, ability to attract or retain employees, and attractiveness as an investment, business partner, acquiror or service provider could be negatively impacted. For example, “anti-ESG” sentiment has gained momentum across the United States in recent years, with several states and policymakers having proposed or enacted anti-ESG policies, legislation or initiatives. These or other similar policies, legislation, initiatives, legal decisions and scrutiny could result in investigations, litigation or enforcement actions against us by governments, regulators or others. Responding to and resolving such actions may require significant time and resources, regardless of their merit, and may result in us sustaining reputational harm.
Current report
Our stock price may also be exposed to additional risks because of uncertainties related to the pendency of the proposed merger with Shutterstock or our inability to complete the Merger, or to complete the Merger in a timely manner.
Current report
Risks Related to the Proposed Merger with Shutterstock
Current report
Our inability to complete the Merger, or to complete the Merger in a timely manner, including as a result of the failure to obtain required regulatory approvals or the failure to satisfy the other conditions to the consummation of the Merger, could negatively affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Current report
The Merger is subject to various closing conditions, such as receipt of required regulatory approval and the approval of Shutterstock’s stockholders, among other customary closing conditions. It is possible that the regulators may prohibit, enjoin or refuse to grant approval for the consummation of the Merger. If any condition to the closing of the Merger is not satisfied or, if permissible, not waived, the Merger will not be completed. In addition, satisfying the conditions to the closing of the Merger may take longer than we expect. There can be no assurance that the remaining conditions to closing will be satisfied or waived or that other events will not intervene to delay or result in the failure to consummate the Merger.
Current report
If the Merger is not completed or is delayed for any reason, there may be adverse consequences, and we may experience negative reactions from investors, the financial markets, our customers, our vendors and/or our employees. For example, depending on the circumstances that would have caused the Merger not to be completed, the price of our Class A common stock may decline materially. If that were to occur, it is uncertain when, if ever, our Class A common stock would return to the price levels at which the shares currently trade.
Current report
Failure to complete the Merger could trigger the payment of a termination fee, and, whether or not the Merger is consummated, we have incurred and will continue to incur significant costs, fees and expenses relating to professional services and transaction fees.
Current report
Under the Merger Agreement, we may be required to pay a termination fee if the Merger Agreement is terminated under specified circumstances in an amount of $32.7 million or $40.0 million, depending on the circumstances surrounding such termination. There can be no assurance that the Merger Agreement will not be terminated under the circumstances triggering these termination fee obligations. Furthermore, whether or not the Merger is consummated, we have incurred, and will continue to incur, significant costs, fees and expenses relating to professional services and transaction fees in connection with the proposed Merger. Payment of these costs, fees and expenses could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Current report
Uncertainties associated with the Merger may cause us to lose key customers or suppliers and make it more difficult to retain and hire key personnel, and the Merger may disrupt our current plans and operations or divert management’s attention from our ongoing business.
Current report
As a result of the uncertainty surrounding the conduct of our business while the Merger is pending, our relationships with customers, suppliers and other parties may be adversely affected. Due to uncertainty about our future while the Merger is pending, we may lose customers or suppliers, or customers, suppliers and other parties may alter their business relationships with us.
Current report
In addition, our employees, including key personnel, may be uncertain about their future roles and relationships with us following the completion of the Merger, which may adversely affect our ability to retain and motivate them or to hire new employees. Moreover, while the Merger is pending, the potential disruption of plans or diversion of management’s attention from our ongoing business operations could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Current report
The Merger Agreement subjects us to restrictions on our business activities prior to the closing of the Merger. For example, the Merger Agreement obligates us to generally conduct our business in the ordinary course until the closing and to use our reasonable best efforts to (i) preserve intact our current business organizations, (ii) preserve our assets and properties in good repair and condition and (iii) keep available the services of our current officers and other key employees and preserve our relationships with those having business dealings with us. These restrictions could prevent us from pursuing certain business opportunities that arise prior to the closing and are outside the ordinary course of business.
Current report
The proposed Merger and the integration of both companies may be more difficult, costly or time-consuming than expected, and we may fail to realize the anticipated benefits of the Merger.
Current report
The success of the Merger will depend in part on our ability to realize anticipated revenue and cost synergies and on our ability to successfully integrate the businesses. If we are not able to successfully achieve these objectives, the anticipated benefits of the Merger may not be realized fully, or at all, or may take longer to realize than expected. In addition, our ability to achieve the goals for the proposed Merger may be affected by future prospects, execution of business strategies, and our ability to manage the various factors discussed within this Annual Report on Form 10-K, including within the forward-looking statements. The actual benefits of the proposed Merger also could be less than anticipated if, for example, completion of the Merger and/or integration of the businesses are more difficult, costly or time-consuming than we expect.
Current report
The market price of the combined company’s common stock following the anticipated closing of the Merger may be affected by factors different from those that historically have affected or currently affect our common stock.
Current report
Upon completion of the Merger, the combined company’s financial position may differ from our financial positions before the completion of the Merger, and the results of operations of the combined company may be affected by factors that are different from those currently affecting our results of operations. Accordingly, the market price and performance of the combined company’s common stock is likely to be different from the performance of our common stock prior to the closing of the Merger.
Current report
We may be unable to retain personnel successfully while the Merger is pending or after the Merger is completed.
Current report
The success of the Merger will depend in part on our ability to retain key employees while the Merger is pending or after the Merger is consummated. If we are unable to retain key employees, including management, who are critical to the successful completion, integration and future operation of the combined company, we could face disruption in our operations, loss of key information, expertise or know-how, or unanticipated recruiting costs, which may impact our ability to achieve our goals related to the transaction.
Showing the first 40 of 52 passages. Open the source sections for the rest.
Removed paragraphs (1)
Previous report
•President Biden issued an Executive Order on the Safe, Secure, and Trustworthy Development and Use of Artificial Intelligence, and several U.S. states have adopted or proposed regulations governing the use of AI.
Reworded paragraphs (40)
Previous wording
◦Our inability to obtain additional capital on commercially reasonable terms; and
Current wording
◦Our inability to obtain additional capital on commercially reasonable terms;
Previous wording
◦Our incurrence of debt, which could have a negative impact on our financing options and liquidity position.
Current wording
◦Our incurrence of debt, including related interest rate volatility and rising interest costs, which could have a negative impact on our financing options and liquidity position;
Previous wording
◦Complaints or litigation that may adversely affect our business and reputation;
Current wording
◦Complaints, judgments or litigation that may adversely affect our business and reputation;
Previous wording
◦Our inability to pay dividends for the foreseeable future; and
Current wording
◦Our inability to pay dividends for the foreseeable future;
Previous wording
More than a majority of our revenue is derived from customers who have licensed content from us in the past. We are also increasingly seeing the mix of revenue shift to committed revenues from annual subscription products. We must ensure that existing customers remain active customers and that we are successful in renewing our committed content agreements, including Premium Access agreements and iStock annual subscriptions. Our future performance largely depends on our ability to attract new and retain existing customers. We employ various customer experience, content, marketing and pricing strategies to incentivize customers to seek and use our content. Our customer experience strategies may be unsuccessful, due to lack of available and desirable content, the depth and breadth of our current and future product offerings, lack of differentiated content, a decline or failure in the quality and accuracy of our search algorithms, the features and functionality of our websites, payment systems and effectiveness of our sales support. As new and emerging platforms and content distribution systems emerge, including but not limited to generative AI generated content and services powered by generative AI, our customers may no longer want to source content from distributors such as us. In addition, our marketing strategies may not attract new customers, our content strategies may not attract relevant content from a suitably diverse network of suppliers and our pricing strategies may discourage purchases. To the extent that we are unable to attract new customers, our costs to acquire and retain customers increase, or our existing customers do not continue to license content from us for these or any other reasons, our results of operations and financial condition could be materially and adversely affected.
Current wording
More than a majority of our revenue is derived from customers who have licensed content from us in the past. We are also increasingly seeing the mix of revenue shift to committed revenues from annual subscription products. We must ensure that existing customers remain active customers and that we are successful in renewing our committed content agreements, including Premium Access agreements and iStock annual subscriptions. Our future performance largely depends on our ability to attract new and retain existing customers. We employ various customer experience, content, marketing and pricing strategies to incentivize customers to seek and use our content. Our customer experience strategies may be unsuccessful, due to lack of available and desirable content, the depth and breadth of our current and future product offerings, lack of differentiated content, a decline or failure in the quality and accuracy of our search algorithms, the features and functionality of our websites, payment systems and effectiveness of our sales support. As new and emerging platforms and content distribution systems emerge, including but not limited to generative AI generated content and services powered by generative AI, including open-source generative AI, our customers may no longer want to source content from distributors such as us. In addition, our marketing strategies may not attract new customers, our content strategies may not attract relevant content from a suitably diverse network of suppliers and our pricing strategies may discourage purchases. To the extent that we are unable to attract new customers, our costs to acquire and retain customers increase, or our existing customers do not continue to license content from us for these or any other reasons, our results of operations and financial condition could be materially and adversely affected.
Previous wording
We compete with a wide array of entities, including large media companies, individual content creators and newly emerging generative AI technologies. These competitors include:
Current wording
We compete with a wide array of entities, including large media companies, individual content creators and generative AI technologies. These competitors include:
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•crowd-sourced distribution platforms, social networking and image hosting services; and
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•crowd-sourced distribution platforms, social networking and image hosting services;
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•emerging products and services powered by generative AI.
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•products and services powered by generative AI, including open-source generative AI.
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Many of our competitors have or may obtain significantly greater financial, marketing or other resources or greater brand awareness than we have. Some of these competitors may be able to respond more quickly to new or expanding technology, such as newly emerging generative AI technologies, and devote more resources to product development, marketing or content acquisition than we can. Industry consolidation could result in stronger competitors that are better able to compete for customers. This could lead to more variability in results of operations as we compete with larger competitors and could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, and financial condition.
Current wording
Many of our competitors have or may obtain significantly greater financial, marketing or other resources or greater brand awareness than we have. Some of these competitors may be able to respond more quickly to new or expanding technology, such as generative AI technologies, and devote more resources to product development, marketing or content acquisition than we can. Industry consolidation could result in stronger competitors that are better able to compete for customers. This could lead to more variability in results of operations as we compete with larger competitors and could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, and financial condition.
Previous wording
In addition, new competitors may enter our market, including those that rely on generative AI technologies. They and existing competitors could focus investment in creating, sourcing, archiving, indexing, reviewing, searching, purchasing or delivering content more easily or more affordably. The barriers to creating a website platform that allows for the license of digital content are low, which could result in greater competition. New entrants, as well as existing competitors, may raise significant amounts of capital (or leverage relationships with other competitors or investors) and they may choose to prioritize increasing their market share and brand awareness over profitability, including, for example, by investing more in content offerings, marketing or pricing strategies such as delivering AI generated content, offering higher royalties for exclusivity or lowering content prices. Some of these new competitors may also invest in other existing competitors, increasing market pressure on our offerings.
Current wording
In addition, new competitors may enter our market, including those that rely on generative AI technologies. They and existing competitors could focus investment in creating, sourcing, archiving, indexing, reviewing, searching, purchasing or delivering content more easily or more affordably. The barriers to creating a website platform that allows for the license of digital content are low, especially when considering open-source generative AI that requires minimal resources to produce, which could result in greater competition. New entrants, as well as existing competitors, may raise significant amounts of capital (or leverage relationships with other competitors or investors) and they may choose to prioritize increasing their market share and brand awareness over profitability, including, for example, by investing more in content offerings, marketing or pricing strategies such as delivering AI generated content, offering higher royalties for exclusivity or lowering content prices. Some of these new competitors may also invest in other existing competitors, increasing market pressure on our offerings.
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As a public company, we required by the Sarbanes-Oxley Act to establish and maintain corporate oversight and adequate internal control over financial reporting and disclosure controls and procedures. Effective internal control is necessary for us to provide reliable, timely financial reports and prevent fraud.
Current wording
As a public company, we are required by the Sarbanes-Oxley Act to establish and maintain corporate oversight and adequate internal control over financial reporting and disclosure controls and procedures. Effective internal control is necessary for us to provide reliable, timely financial reports and prevent fraud.
Previous wording
There is a growing concern that third parties may engage in the scraping of our intellectual property without consent, utilizing this content to train their generative AI models. Such unauthorized use infringes on our intellectual property rights and undermines the value proposition of our licensing business. Despite our efforts to monitor and enforce these rights, the volume of digital content and the sophistication of scraping technologies may limit our ability to fully prevent unauthorized use. We are actively monitoring these developments and exploring strategies to mitigate their impact, including technological solutions to prevent unauthorized scraping and participating in industry and legislative efforts to address the challenges posed by generative AI. However, there is no guarantee that these measures will be fully effective in protecting our interests, and our failure to adapt to these changes could adversely affect our business, financial condition, and operational results.
Current wording
Third parties do and may continue to engage in the scraping of our intellectual property without consent, utilizing this content to train their generative AI models. Such unauthorized use infringes on our intellectual property rights and undermines the value proposition of our licensing business. Despite our efforts to monitor and enforce these rights, the volume of digital content and the sophistication of scraping technologies may limit our ability to fully prevent unauthorized use. We are actively monitoring these developments and exploring strategies to mitigate their impact, including technological solutions to prevent unauthorized scraping and participating in industry and legislative efforts to address the challenges posed by generative AI. However, there is no guarantee that these measures will be fully effective in protecting our interests, and our failure to adapt to these changes could adversely affect our business, financial condition, and operational results.
Previous wording
Operating internationally and continuing to expand our business to attract new customers and content suppliers in geographies other than North America and Western Europe is important to our continued success and growth. For each of the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, approximately 50% of our revenue was derived from customers located outside of the United States. We expect to continue to devote resources to international expansion through exploring acquisition and foreign distributor partnership opportunities, as well as through expanding our foreign language marketing of offerings and further localizing our content library and user experience for foreign markets. Our ability to expand our business and to attract talented employees, customers and content suppliers in an increasing number of international markets requires considerable management attention and resources and is subject to the particular challenges of supporting a growing business in an environment of multiple languages, cultures, customs, political regimes, legal systems, alternative dispute systems, regulatory systems and commercial infrastructures. Moreover, as the wars in the Ukraine and the Middle East continue, there can be no certainty regarding whether such governments or other governments will impose additional sanctions or other economic or military measures against Russia, Hamas or others. We cannot provide assurance that current sanctions or potential future changes in sanctions will not have an adverse impact on our operations. Expanding our international focus may subject us to risks that we have not faced before or increase risks that we currently face, certain of which are described elsewhere in these “Item 1A. Risk factors,” including risks associated with:
Current wording
Operating internationally and continuing to expand our business to attract new customers and content suppliers in geographies other than North America and Western Europe is important to our continued success and growth. For each of the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022, approximately 50% of our revenue was derived from customers located outside of the United States. We expect to continue to devote resources to international expansion through exploring acquisition and foreign distributor partnership opportunities, as well as through expanding our foreign language marketing of offerings and further localizing our content library and user experience for foreign markets. Our ability to expand our business and to attract talented employees, customers and content suppliers in an increasing number of international markets requires considerable management attention and resources and is subject to the particular challenges of supporting a growing business in an environment of multiple languages, cultures, customs, political regimes, legal systems, alternative dispute systems, regulatory systems and commercial infrastructures. Moreover, as the wars in the
Previous wording
Our foreign operations are exposed to foreign exchange rate fluctuations as our financial results are translated from the local currency into U.S. dollars upon consolidation. If the U.S. dollar weakens against foreign currencies, the translation of these foreign currency denominated transactions will result in increased revenue, operating expenses and net income. Similarly, if the U.S. dollar strengthens against foreign currencies (which occurred in 2022), the translation of these foreign currency denominated transactions will result in decreased revenue, operating expenses and net income. As exchange rates vary, sales and other results of operations, when translated, may differ materially from expectations. For the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, 49%, 44% and 47% of our revenue was denominated in foreign currencies, respectively. In addition, approximately 34%, 35% and 34% of our SG&A (as defined below) and capital expenditures for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021 were denominated in foreign currencies, respectively.
Current wording
Our foreign operations are exposed to foreign exchange rate fluctuations as our financial results are translated from the local currency into U.S. Dollars upon consolidation. If the U.S. Dollar weakens against foreign currencies, the translation of these foreign currency denominated transactions will result in increased revenue, operating expenses and net income. Similarly, if the U.S. Dollar strengthens against foreign currencies (which occurred in 2022), the translation of these foreign currency denominated transactions will result in decreased revenue, operating expenses and net income. As exchange rates vary, sales and other results of operations, when translated, may differ materially from expectations. For the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022,44%, 45% and 44%of our revenue was denominated in foreign currencies, respectively. In addition, approximately 38%, 36% and 35%of our SG&A (as defined below) and capital expenditures for the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022 were denominated in foreign currencies, respectively.
Previous wording
We currently, and may in the future, enter into certain derivatives or other financial instruments to hedge against this foreign exchange risk. It is difficult to predict the impact hedging activities have on our results of operations and any actions we have and will take with respect to hedging our foreign currency exchange risk may be unsuccessful.
Current wording
We have previously and may in the future, enter into certain derivatives or other financial instruments to hedge against this foreign exchange risk. It is difficult to predict the impact hedging activities have on our results of operations and any actions we have and will take with respect to hedging our foreign currency exchange risk may be unsuccessful.
Previous wording
Additionally, some of the computer and communications hardware necessary to operate our corporate functions are located in metropolitan areas worldwide, which systems and operations could be damaged or interrupted by fire, flood, power loss, telecommunications failure, earthquake and similar events. We do not have redundancy for all of our systems, many of our critical applications reside in only one of our data centers or in the cloud, and our disaster recovery planning may not account for all eventualities. In addition, we may have inadequate insurance coverage to compensate for any related loss.
Current wording
Additionally, some of the computer and communications hardware necessary to operate our corporate functions are located in metropolitan areas worldwide, which systems and operations could be damaged or interrupted by fire, flood, power loss, telecommunications failure, earthquake and similar events. We do not have redundancy for all of our systems, many of our critical applications reside in only one of our data centers or in the cloud, and our disaster recovery planning may not account for all eventualities. In addition, we may have inadequate insurance coverage to compensate for any related loss. In addition, while the long-term effects of climate change are unclear, we recognize that there are inherent climate-related risks wherever business is conducted. Any of our locations may be vulnerable to the adverse effects of climate change. Climate-related events, including the increasing frequency of extreme weather events and their impact on critical infrastructure in the United States and elsewhere, have the potential to disrupt our business, our third-party service providers or partners, and/or the business of our customers, and may cause us to experience higher attrition, losses and additional costs to maintain and resume operations.
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We have incurred debt, which could have a negative impact on our financing options and liquidity position, which could in turn adversely affect our business.
Current wording
We have incurred debt, which could have a negative impact on our financing options and liquidity position, which could in turn adversely affect our business, or which if not refinanced could result in termination of the Merger Agreement .
Previous wording
As of December 31, 2023, we had $1.401 billion in aggregate principal amount of total debt. Additionally, our Credit Facility has remaining borrowing capacity of $150.0 million as of December 31, 2023. Our overall leverage and the terms of our financing arrangements could:
Current wording
As of December 31, 2024, we had $1.314 billion in aggregate principal amount of total debt. Additionally, our Credit Facility has remaining borrowing capacity of $150.0 million as of December 31, 2024. Our overall leverage and the terms of our financing arrangements could:
Previous wording
Our ability to meet expenses and debt service obligations will depend on our future performance, which could be affected by financial, business, economic and other factors. In addition, a breach of any of the covenants in our outstanding debt agreements or our inability to comply with the required financial ratios could result in a default under our debt instruments, including the Credit Facility. If an event of default occurs, our creditors could elect to declare all borrowings outstanding, together with accrued and unpaid interest, to be immediately due and payable and/or require us to apply all of our available cash to repay borrowings. If we are not able to pay our debt service obligations we may be required to refinance all or part of our debt, sell assets, borrow more money or raise additional equity capital.
Current wording
Our ability to meet expenses and debt service obligations, including related interest rate volatility and rising interest costs, will depend on our future performance, which could be affected by financial, business, economic and other factors. In addition, a breach of any of the covenants in our outstanding debt agreements or our inability to comply with the required financial ratios could result in a default under our debt instruments, including the Credit Facility (as amended). If an event of default occurs, our creditors could elect to declare all borrowings outstanding, together with accrued and unpaid interest, to be immediately due and payable and/or require us to apply all of our available cash to repay borrowings. If we are not able to pay our debt service obligations we may be required to refinance all or part of our debt, sell assets, borrow more money or raise additional equity capital. In addition, under the terms of the Merger Agreement, Shutterstock’s may terminate the Merger Agreement if we fail to amend or otherwise refinance our existing term loans and senior notes to extend the maturity of each to no earlier than February 19, 2028.
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The impact of worldwide economic, political and social conditions may adversely affect our business and results of operations.
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The impact of worldwide economic, political, social and other conditions may adversely affect our business and results of operations.
Previous wording
Global economic, political and social conditions can affect the business of our customers and the markets they serve, as well as disrupt the business of our vendors, third-party resellers and strategic partners. Numerous external forces beyond our control, including generally weak or uncertain economic conditions, supply chain disruptions, rising interest rates, inflation, negative or uncertain political climates, changes in government, global health epidemics (such as COVID-19), geopolitical conflicts and wars such as the Russia-Ukraine and Israel-Hamas wars, government shutdowns and/or the financial stability of the banking industry could adversely affect our financial condition. Particularly, our financial condition is affected by worldwide economic conditions and their impact on content generation and marketing and advertising spending. Expenditures by our customers generally tend to reflect overall economic conditions, and to the extent that the economy stagnates as a result of macroeconomic conditions, companies may reduce their spending with us. To the extent that overall economic conditions reduce spending on digital content, our ability to retain current and obtain new customers could be hindered, which could reduce our revenue and negatively impact our business.
Current wording
Global economic, political and social conditions can affect the business of our customers and the markets they serve, as well as disrupt the business of our vendors, third-party resellers and strategic partners. Numerous external forces beyond our control, including generally weak or uncertain economic conditions, supply chain disruptions, rising interest rates, inflation, tariffs and trade restrictions, negative or uncertain political climates, changes in government, global health epidemics (such as COVID-19), natural disasters and the impact from climate change, geopolitical conflicts and wars such as the Russia-Ukraine and Israel-Hamas wars, government shutdowns and/or the financial stability of the banking industry could adversely affect our financial condition. Particularly, our financial condition is affected by worldwide economic conditions and their impact on content generation and marketing and advertising spending. Expenditures by our customers generally tend to reflect overall economic conditions, and to the extent that the economy stagnates as a result of macroeconomic conditions, companies may reduce their spending with us. To the extent that overall economic conditions reduce spending on digital content, our ability to retain current and obtain new customers could be hindered, which could reduce our revenue and negatively impact our business.
Previous wording
Further, economic, political and social macro developments in the United States, Europe, and Asia could negatively affect our ability to conduct business in those territories. Financial difficulties experienced by our customers, third-party resellers, vendors and strategic partners due to economic volatility, rising interest rates, supply chain disruptions, inflation or other unfavorable changes could result in these companies scaling back operations, exiting businesses, merging with other businesses or filing for bankruptcy protection and potentially ceasing operations, all of which could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Current wording
Further, economic, political and social macro developments in the United States, Europe, and Asia could negatively affect our ability to conduct business in those territories. Financial difficulties experienced by our customers, third-party resellers, vendors and strategic partners due to economic volatility, rising interest rates, supply chain disruptions, inflation, tariffs and trade restrictions or other unfavorable changes could result in these companies scaling back operations, exiting businesses, merging with other businesses or filing for bankruptcy protection and potentially ceasing operations, all of which could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Previous wording
We rely on independent third parties to provide certain services for our Company. The state of the law regarding independent contractor status varies from jurisdiction to jurisdiction and is subject to change based on court decisions and regulation. For example, on April 30, 2018, the California Supreme Court adopted a new standard for determining whether a company “employs” or is the “employer” for purposes of the California Wage Orders in its decision in the Dynamex Operations West, Inc. v. Superior Court case. This standard was expanded and codified in California via Assembly Bill 5, which was signed into law in September 2019 and became effective as of January 1, 2020. The Dynamex decision and Assembly Bill 5 altered the analysis of whether an individual, who is classified by a hiring entity as an independent contractor in California, has been properly classified as an independent contractor. Assembly Bill 5 was amended to include exclusions for photographers, videographers and editors where specific requirements are met. In addition, independent workers have been the subject of widespread national discussion and it is possible that other jurisdictions may enact laws similar to Assembly Bill 5 or that otherwise impact our business and our relationships with independent third parties. As a result, there is significant uncertainty regarding the future of the worker classification regulatory landscape.
Current wording
We rely on independent third parties to provide certain services for our Company. The state of the law regarding independent contractor status varies from jurisdiction to jurisdiction and is subject to change based on court decisions and regulation. For example, on April 30, 2018, the California Supreme Court adopted a new standard for determining whether a company “employs” or is the “employer” for purposes of the California Wage Orders in its decision in the Dynamex Operations West, Inc. v. Superior Court case. This standard was expanded and codified in California via Assembly Bill 5, and became effective as of January 1, 2020. The Dynamex decision and Assembly Bill 5 altered the analysis of whether an individual, who is classified by a hiring entity as an independent contractor in California, has been properly classified as an independent contractor. Assembly Bill 5 was amended to include exclusions for photographers, videographers and editors where specific requirements are met. In addition, independent workers have been the subject of widespread national discussion and it is possible that other jurisdictions may enact laws similar to Assembly Bill 5 or that otherwise impact our business and our relationships with independent third parties. As a result, there is significant uncertainty regarding the future of the worker classification regulatory landscape.
Previous wording
We or one of our affiliates have registered “Getty Images,” “iStock,” “Unsplash” and other marks and logos as trademarks in the United States and other jurisdictions. Nevertheless, competitors may adopt trademarks similar to ours, or purchase keywords in internet search engine marketing programs that are confusingly similar to our trademarks, thereby impeding our ability to build brand identity and possibly leading to confusion among existing and potential new customers. In addition, there could be infringement claims by third parties regarding any of our trademarks or our use of other intellectual property that could damage our reputation and brand, prove costly to defend irrespective of their validity, and, if such claims are ultimately validated, materially and adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations.
Current wording
We or one of our affiliates have registered “Getty Images,” “iStock,” “Unsplash” and other marks and logos as trademarks in the United States and other jurisdictions. Nevertheless, competitors may adopt trademarks similar to ours, or purchase keywords in internet search engine marketing programs that are confusingly similar to our trademarks, thereby impeding our ability to build brand identity and possibly leading to confusion among existing and potential new customers.
Previous wording
•Several foreign jurisdictions have adopted, and other jurisdictions are expected to enact legislation or regulation, that governs AI and the development and use of AI, including the E.U. AI Act.
Current wording
•Several jurisdictions have adopted, and other jurisdictions are expected to enact legislation or regulation, that governs AI and the development and use of AI, including the E.U. adopting the E.U. AI Act and U.S. states, including Colorado and California, adopting laws, rules and regulations directly relating to the use of AI or extending the application of existing laws, rules and regulations to AI systems and outputs.
Previous wording
We are subject to changing rules and regulations promulgated by a number of governmental and self-regulatory organizations, including the SEC, NYSE and the Financial Accounting Standards Board. These rules and regulations continue to evolve in scope and complexity and many new requirements have been created in response to laws enacted by Congress, making compliance more difficult and uncertain. In addition, increasingly regulators, customers, investors, employees and other stakeholders are focusing on environmental, social and governance (“ESG”) matters and related disclosures. These changing rules, regulations and stakeholder expectations have resulted in, and are likely to continue to result in, increased general and administrative expenses and increased management time and attention spent complying with or meeting such regulations and expectations. For example, the collection, measurement and reporting of ESG-related information and metrics can be costly, difficult and time consuming and is subject to evolving reporting standards, including the SEC’s recently proposed climate-related reporting requirements, and similar proposals by other international regulatory bodies. We may also communicate certain initiatives and goals, regarding environmental matters, diversity, responsible sourcing and social investments and other ESG related matters, in our SEC filings or in other public disclosures. These ESG-related initiatives and goals could be difficult and expensive to implement, the technologies needed to implement them may not be cost effective and may not advance at a sufficient pace, and we could be criticized for the accuracy, adequacy or completeness of the disclosure. Further, statements about our ESG-related initiatives and goals, and progress against those goals, may be based on standards for measuring progress that are still developing, internal controls and processes that continue to evolve, and assumptions that are subject to change in the future. In addition, we could be criticized for the scope or nature of such initiatives or goals, or for any revisions to these goals. If our ESG-related data, processes and reporting are incomplete or inaccurate, or if we fail to achieve progress with respect to our goals within the scope of ESG on a timely basis, or at all, our reputation, business, financial performance and growth could be adversely affected.
Current wording
We are subject to changing rules and regulations promulgated by a number of governmental and self-regulatory organizations, including the SEC, NYSE and the Financial Accounting Standards Board. These rules and regulations continue to evolve in scope and complexity and many new requirements have been created in response to laws enacted by Congress, making compliance more difficult and uncertain. In addition, regulators, customers, investors, employees and other stakeholders have focused on environmental, social and governance (“ESG”) matters and related disclosures. These changing rules, regulations and stakeholder expectations have resulted in, and may continue to result in, increased general and administrative expenses and increased management time and attention spent complying with or meeting such regulations and expectations. For example, the collection, measurement and reporting of ESG-related information and metrics can be costly, difficult and time consuming and is subject to evolving reporting standards, both in the United States and internationally. We may also communicate certain initiatives and goals, regarding environmental matters, human capital, responsible sourcing and social investments and other ESG related matters, in our SEC filings or in other public disclosures. These ESG-related initiatives and goals could be difficult and expensive to implement, the technologies needed to implement them may not be cost effective and may not advance at a sufficient pace, and we could be criticized for the accuracy, adequacy or completeness of the disclosure. Further, statements about our ESG-related initiatives and goals, and progress against those goals, may be based on standards for measuring progress that are still developing, internal controls and processes that continue to evolve, and assumptions that are subject to change in the future. In addition, we could be criticized for the scope or nature of such initiatives or goals, or for any revisions to these goals. If our ESG-related data, processes and reporting are incomplete or inaccurate, or if we fail to achieve progress with respect to our goals within the scope of ESG on a timely basis, or at all, our reputation, business, financial performance and growth could be adversely affected.
Previous wording
For example, the U.S. federal tax legislation commonly referred to as the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (the “TCJA”), enacted in December 2017, resulted in fundamental changes to the Code, including, among many other things, a reduction to the federal corporate income tax rate, a partial limitation on the deductibility of business interest expense, a limitation on the deductibility of certain director and officer compensation expense, limitations on net operating loss carrybacks and carryovers and changes relating to the scope and timing of U.S. taxation on earnings from international business operations. Subsequent legislation, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (the “CARES Act”) enacted on March 27, 2020, relaxed certain of the limitations imposed by the TCJA for certain taxable years, including the limitation on the use and carryback of net operating losses and the limitation on the deductibility of business interest expense. The exact impact of the TCJA and the CARES Act for future years is difficult to quantify, but these changes could materially affect our effective tax rate in future periods. In addition, we are subject to the Inflation Reduction Act, which imposes a 1% excise tax on certain stock repurchases and a 15% alternative minimum tax on certain adjusted financial statement income. Several other legislative proposals have been set forth that would, if enacted, make significant changes to U.S. tax laws. Congress may consider, and could include, some or all of these proposals in connection with tax reform that may be undertaken. It is unclear whether these or similar changes will be enacted and, if enacted, how soon any such changes could take effect. The passage of any legislation as a result of these proposals and other similar changes in U.S. federal income tax laws could have an adverse impact on our effective rate of tax in future periods.
Current wording
For example, the U.S. federal tax legislation commonly referred to as the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (the “TCJA”), enacted in December 2017, resulted in fundamental changes to the Code, including, among many other things, a reduction to the federal corporate income tax rate, a partial limitation on the deductibility of business interest expense, a limitation on the deductibility of certain director and officer compensation expense, limitations on net operating loss carrybacks and carryovers and changes relating to the scope and timing of U.S. taxation on earnings from international business operations. The exact impact of the TCJA for future years is difficult to quantify, but these changes could materially affect our effective tax rate in future periods. In addition, we are subject to the Inflation Reduction Act, which imposes a 1% excise tax on certain stock repurchases and a 15% alternative minimum tax on certain adjusted financial statement income. Several other legislative proposals have been set forth that would, if enacted, make significant changes to U.S. tax laws. Congress may consider, and could include, some or all of these proposals in connection with tax reform that may be undertaken. It is unclear whether these or similar changes will be enacted and, if enacted, how soon any such changes could take effect. The passage of any legislation as a result of these proposals and other similar changes in U.S. federal income tax laws could have an adverse impact on our effective rate of tax in future periods.
Previous wording
It is not always clear how existing laws governing issues such as property ownership, sales and other taxes, and personal privacy apply to the internet and e-commerce, as the vast majority of these laws were adopted prior to the advent of the internet and do not contemplate or address the unique issues raised by the internet or e-commerce. Regulatory scrutiny of privacy, data collection, use of data and data protection continues to intensify both within the United States and globally. The personal information and other data we collect, store, process and use are increasingly subject to legislation and regulations in numerous jurisdictions around the world, especially in the U.K. and Europe. These laws often develop in ways we cannot predict and some laws may be in conflict with one another. This may significantly increase our cost of doing business, particularly as we expand our localization efforts. In addition, we may not be readily able to achieve compliance with the requirements of certain privacy and data security laws and regulations within the required periods for compliance.
Current wording
It is not always clear how existing laws governing issues such as property ownership, sales and other taxes, and personal privacy apply to the internet and e-commerce, as the vast majority of these laws were adopted prior to the advent of the internet and do not contemplate or address the unique issues raised by the internet or e-commerce. Regulatory scrutiny of privacy, data collection, use of data and data protection continues to intensify globally. The personal information and other data we collect, store, process and use are increasingly subject to legislation and regulations in numerous jurisdictions around the world, especially in the U.K. and Europe. These laws often develop in ways we cannot predict and some laws may be in conflict with one another. This may significantly increase our cost of doing business, particularly as we expand our localization efforts. In addition, we may not be readily able to achieve compliance with the requirements of certain privacy and data security laws and regulations within the required periods for compliance.
Previous wording
For example, we are subject to the General Data Protection Regulation (the “GDPR”), which imposes stringent operational requirements for controllers and processors of personal information of individuals in the U.K. and European Economic Area (the “EEA”), and noncompliance can trigger fines of up to the greater of €20 million or 4% of global annual revenues. Further, following the U.K.’s formal exit from the E.U. in January 2020, we became subject to the GDPR as incorporated into U.K. law. In June 2021, the European Commission formally approved an adequacy decision for the U.K. on data protection in which they deemed the U.K.’s data protection regime sufficient to protect E.U. personal data, but the U.K. is considering changes to the Data Protection Act and there is no guarantee that the European Commission will continue to retain its adequacy decision with respect to U.K. data protection law in the future. Additionally, although we are making use of the E.U. Standard Contractual Clauses with regard to the transfer of certain personal data to countries outside the EEA, recent legal developments in Europe have created complexity and regulatory compliance uncertainty regarding certain transfers of personal information from the EEA to the United States. For example, on July 10, 2023, the European Commission adopted a new adequacy decision on the E.U.-U.S. Data Privacy Framework (“Data Privacy Framework”), following the invalidation of the E.U.-U.S. Data Privacy Shield by the Court of Justice of the European Union in July 2020. The Data Privacy Framework create new privacy obligations allowing personal information to be transferred from the E.U. to U.S. entities who have self-certified under the framework. We currently rely on a mixture of mechanisms to transfer personal data from our U.K. and E.U. businesses to the U.S. and we are an active participant in we are an active participant in the Data Privacy Framework (list available at https://www.dataprivacyframework.gov/). As supervisory authorities issue further guidance on personal information export mechanisms, including circumstances where the standard contractual clauses cannot be used and/or start taking enforcement action, we could suffer additional costs, complaints, and/or regulatory investigations or fines. Moreover, if we are otherwise unable to transfer personal information between and among countries and regions in which we operate, it could affect the manner in which we provide our services and could adversely affect our financial results.
Current wording
For example, we are subject to the General Data Protection Regulation (the “GDPR”), which imposes stringent operational requirements for controllers and processors of personal information of individuals in the U.K. and European Economic Area (the “EEA”), and noncompliance can trigger fines of up to the greater of €20 million or 4% of global annual revenues. Further, following the U.K.’s formal exit from the E.U. in January 2020, we became subject to the GDPR as incorporated into U.K. law. In June 2021, the European Commission formally approved an adequacy decision for the U.K. on data protection in which they deemed the U.K.’s data protection regime sufficient to protect E.U. personal data, but the U.K. is considering changes to the Data Protection Act and there is no guarantee that the European Commission will continue to retain its adequacy decision, which is set to expire on June 27, 2025, with respect to U.K. data protection law in the future. Additionally, although we are making use of the E.U. Standard Contractual Clauses with regard to the transfer of certain personal data to countries outside the EEA, recent legal developments in Europe have created complexity and regulatory compliance uncertainty regarding certain transfers of personal information from the EEA to the United States. For example, on July 10, 2023, the European Commission adopted a new adequacy decision on the E.U.-U.S. Data Privacy Framework (“Data Privacy Framework”), following the invalidation of the E.U.-U.S. Data Privacy Shield by the Court of Justice of the European Union in July 2020. The Data Privacy Framework create new privacy obligations allowing personal information to be transferred from the E.U. to U.S. entities who have self-certified under the framework. We currently rely on a mixture of mechanisms to transfer personal data from our U.K. and E.U. businesses to the U.S. and we are an active participant in we are an active participant in the Data Privacy Framework (list available at https://www.dataprivacyframework.gov/). As supervisory authorities issue further guidance on personal information export mechanisms, including circumstances where the standard contractual clauses cannot be used and/or start taking enforcement action, we could suffer additional costs, complaints, and/or regulatory investigations or fines. Moreover, if we are otherwise unable to transfer personal information between and among countries and regions in which we operate, it could affect the manner in which we provide our services and could adversely affect our financial results.
Previous wording
Several other foreign jurisdictions have adopted or are considering adopting new or updated comprehensive privacy legislation to offer additional data privacy for individuals, such as: Brazil, where its General Data Protection Law that imposes detailed rules for the collection, use, processing and storage of personal data in Brazil took effect on September 18, 2020, and became enforceable on August 1, 2021; and India, where on August 9, 2023 the Digital Personal Data Protection Act was passed and comes into effect in June 2024, which imposes rules regarding the collection, use, processing and storage of personal data in India. Additionally, data privacy laws have been enacted in a number of jurisdictions, including, but not limited to, the European Union and certain U.S. states such as Illinois, Texas and Washington (in addition to U.S. cities, such as New York City), which regulate the collection and use of certain biometric data regarding individuals, including their facial images, and the use of such data, including in facial recognition systems. Similar laws have also been introduced in several additional states, but have not yet been enacted. We have entered into certain contractual agreements that may implicate or make use of such technology. Such laws may have the effect of adversely impacting our ability to grow our business in that area. Although we are closely monitoring regulatory developments in this area, any actual or perceived failure by us to comply with any regulatory requirements or orders or other domestic or international privacy or consumer protection-related laws and regulations could result in proceedings or actions against us by governmental entities or others (e.g., class action litigation), subject us to significant penalties and negative publicity, require us to change our business practices, increase our costs and/or adversely affect our business.
Current wording
Several other foreign jurisdictions have adopted or are considering adopting new or updated comprehensive privacy legislation to offer additional data privacy for individuals, such as: Brazil, where its General Data Protection Law that imposes detailed rules for the collection, use, processing and storage of personal data in Brazil took effect on September 18, 2020, and became enforceable on August 1, 2021; and India, where on August 9, 2023 the Digital Personal Data Protection Act was passed and came into effect in June 2024, which imposes rules regarding the collection, use, processing and storage of personal data in India. Additionally, data privacy laws have been enacted in a number of jurisdictions, including, but not limited to, the European Union and certain U.S. states such as Illinois, Texas and Washington (in addition to U.S. cities, such as New York City), which regulate the collection and use of certain biometric data regarding individuals, including their facial images, and the use of such data, including in facial recognition systems. Similar laws have also been introduced in several additional states, but have not yet been enacted. We have entered into certain contractual agreements that may implicate or make use of such technology. Such laws may have the effect of adversely impacting our ability to grow our business in that area. Although we are closely monitoring regulatory developments in this area, any actual or perceived failure by us to comply with any regulatory requirements or orders or other domestic or international privacy or consumer protection-related laws and regulations could result in proceedings or actions against us by governmental entities or others (e.g., class action litigation), subject us to significant penalties and negative publicity, require us to change our business practices, increase our costs and/or adversely affect our business.
Previous wording
Security Act are expected to become effective by the end of 2024. Each of these laws carry similar consumer rights to those provided under the GDPR and California’s privacy laws, and require companies to make detailed disclosures to residents of those states about their data collection, use and sharing practices. Other states have also considered or are considering similar privacy laws. Additionally, the Federal Trade Commission and many state attorneys general are interpreting federal and state consumer protection laws to impose standards for the online collection, use, dissemination and security of data. The scope and interpretation of data privacy and cybersecurity regulations continues to evolve, and we believe that the adoption of increasingly restrictive regulations in this area is likely in the near future within the U.S. at both state and federal levels. The burdens imposed by the U.S. State Privacy Laws and other similar laws that may be enacted at the federal and state level may require us to modify our data processing practices and policies and to incur substantial costs in order to comply with these laws and to investigate, and defend against potential private class-action litigation or litigation brought by regulatory authorities.
Current wording
Further, the New York SHIELD Act became effective on March 21, 2020, the VACDPA became effective on January 1, 2023; the CPA and CTDPA both became effective on July 1, 2023; the UCPA became effective on December 31, 2023; the FDBR became effective on January 1, 2024; the OCPA and TDPSA both became effective on July 1, 2024, and the MTCDPA became effective on October 1, 2024 (MTCDPA, together with the CCPA, CPRA, VACDPA, CTDPA, FDBR, OCPA and TDPSA, the “U.S. State Privacy Laws”). The Delaware Personal Data Privacy Act, Iowa Consumer Data Protection Act, Maryland Online Data Privacy Act, Minnesota Consumer Data Privacy Act, Nebraska Data Privacy Act, New Hampshire Privacy Act, New Jersey Privacy Act, and Tennessee Information Protection Act are expected to become effective by the end of 2025. Each of these laws carry similar consumer rights to those provided under the GDPR and California’s privacy laws, and require companies to make detailed disclosures to residents of those states about their data collection, use and sharing practices. Other states have also considered or are considering similar privacy laws. Additionally, the Federal Trade Commission and many state attorneys general are interpreting federal and state consumer protection laws to impose standards for the online collection, use, dissemination and security of data. The scope and interpretation of data privacy and cybersecurity regulations continues to evolve, and we believe that the adoption of increasingly restrictive regulations in this area is likely in the near future within the U.S. at both state and federal levels. The burdens imposed by the U.S. State Privacy Laws and other similar laws that may be enacted at the federal and state level may require us to modify our data processing practices and policies and to incur substantial costs in order to comply with these laws and to investigate, and defend against potential private class-action litigation or litigation brought by regulatory authorities.
Previous wording
Non-payment or late payments of amounts due to us by customers could significantly and negatively affect our business and financial performance. A portion of our customers typically purchase our products on payment terms, and therefore we assume a credit risk for non-payment in the ordinary course of business. We evaluate the credit-worthiness of new customers and perform ongoing financial condition evaluations of our existing customers; however, there can be no assurance that our allowances for uncollected accounts receivable balances will be sufficient. As of December 31, 2023, our allowance for doubtful accounts was $6.5 million. If the volume of sales to enterprise customers continues to grow, we expect to increase our allowance for doubtful accounts primarily as the result of changes in the volume of sales to customers who pay on payment terms.
Current wording
Non-payment or late payments of amounts due to us by customers could significantly and negatively affect our business and financial performance. A portion of our customers typically purchase our products on payment terms, and therefore we assume a credit risk for non-payment in the ordinary course of business. We evaluate the credit-worthiness of new customers and perform ongoing financial condition evaluations of our existing customers; however, there can be no assurance that our allowances for uncollected accounts receivable balances will be sufficient. As of December 31, 2024, our allowance for doubtful accounts was $6.2 million. If the volume of sales to enterprise customers continues to grow, we expect to increase our allowance for doubtful accounts primarily as the result of changes in the volume of sales to customers who pay on payment terms.
Previous wording
From time to time, we may become subject to various legal and regulatory proceedings relating to our business or otherwise. For example, see“Item 3. Legal Proceedings”. Due to the inherent uncertainties of litigation and regulatory proceedings, we cannot determine with certainty the ultimate outcome of any such litigation or proceedings. If the final resolution of any such litigation or proceedings is unfavorable, our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows could be materially affected.
Current wording
From time to time, we may become subject to various legal and regulatory proceedings relating to our business or otherwise. For example, see the discussion of lawsuits brought against us by former warrant holders of the Company and other litigation in“Item 3. Legal Proceedings,”“Note 13 – Commitments and Contingencies” of the notes to the financial statements and “Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial and Results of Operations – Liquidity and Capital Resources”. Due to the inherent uncertainties of litigation and regulatory proceedings, we cannot determine with certainty the ultimate outcome of any such litigation or proceedings. If the final resolution of any such litigation or proceedings is unfavorable, our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows could be materially affected.
Previous wording
Our stock price may be exposed to additional risks because our business became a public company through a “de-SPAC” transaction. There has been increased focus by government agencies on de-SPAC transactions in the last year, and we expect that increased focus to continue, and we may be subject to increased scrutiny by the SEC and other government agencies and holders of our securities as a result, which could adversely affect the price of our Class A Common Stock.
Current wording
Our stock price may be exposed to additional risks because we became a public company through a “de-SPAC” transaction. There has been increased focus by government agencies on de-SPAC transactions in the last few years, and we expect that increased focus to continue, and we may be subject to increased scrutiny by the SEC and other government agencies and holders of our securities as a result, which could adversely affect the price of our Class A Common Stock.
Previous wording
If our existing stockholders sell or indicate an intention to sell substantial amounts of our Class A common stock in the public market, the trading price of our Class A common stock could decline. For example, as of March 1, 2024, the Getty Family Stockholders and Koch Icon Investments, LLC (“Koch Icon”) hold 47.2% and 19.9% of our Class A common stock, respectively. In addition, shares underlying any outstanding options and Restricted Stock Units will become eligible for sale if exercised or settled, as applicable, and to the extent permitted by the provisions of various vesting agreements and Rule 144 of the Securities Act (“Rule 144”). All the shares of Class A common stock subject to stock options outstanding and reserved for issuance under its equity incentive plans were registered under the Securities Act and such shares are eligible for sale in the public markets, subject to Rule 144 limitations applicable to affiliates. If these additional shares are sold, or if it is perceived that they will be sold in the public market, the trading price of our Class A common stock could decline.
Current wording
If our existing stockholders sell or indicate an intention to sell substantial amounts of our Class A common stock in the public market, the trading price of our Class A common stock could decline. For example, as of March 1, 2025, the Getty Family Stockholders and Koch Icon Investments, LLC (“Koch Icon”) held 46.9% and 19.8% of our Class A common stock, respectively. In addition, shares underlying any outstanding options and Restricted Stock Units will become eligible for sale if exercised or settled, as applicable, and to the extent permitted by the provisions of various vesting agreements and Rule 144 of the Securities Act (“Rule 144”). All the shares of Class A common stock subject to stock options outstanding and reserved for issuance under its equity incentive plans were registered under the Securities Act and such shares are eligible for sale in the public markets, subject to Rule 144 limitations applicable to affiliates. If these additional shares are sold, or if it is perceived that they will be sold in the public market, the trading price of our Class A common stock could decline.
Previous wording
•the right of the board of directors to establish the number of directors and fill any vacancies and newly created directorships;
Current wording
•the right of our Board of Directors to establish the number of directors and fill any vacancies and newly created directorships;
Previous wording
•the right of the board of directors to make, alter, or repeal our Amended and Restated Bylaws; and
Current wording
•the right of our Board of Directors to make, alter, or repeal our Amended and Restated Bylaws; and
Previous wording
In addition, we will continue to be subject to Section 203 of the Delaware General Corporate Law. Section 203 prohibits a publicly held Delaware corporation from engaging in a business combination with an interested stockholder for a period of three years following the date such person becomes an interested stockholder, unless the business combination or the transaction in which such person becomes an interested stockholder is approved in a prescribed manner. Generally, a “business combination” includes a merger, asset or stock sale, or other transaction resulting in a financial benefit to the interested stockholder. Generally, an “interested stockholder” is a person that, together with affiliates and associates, owns, or within three years prior to the determination of interested stockholder status did own, 15% or more of a corporation’s voting stock. The existence of this provision may have an anti-takeover effect with respect to transactions not approved in advance by our board of directors and the anti-takeover effect includes discouraging attempts that might result in a premium over the market price for the shares of our Class A common stock.
Current wording
In addition, we will continue to be subject to Section 203 of the Delaware General Corporate Law (the “DGCL”). Section 203 prohibits a publicly held Delaware corporation from engaging in a business combination with an interested stockholder for a period of three years following the date such person becomes an interested stockholder, unless the business combination or the transaction in which such person becomes an interested stockholder is approved in a prescribed manner. Generally, a “business combination” includes a merger, asset or stock sale, or other transaction resulting in a financial benefit to the interested stockholder. Generally, an “interested stockholder” is a person that, together with affiliates and associates, owns, or within three years prior to the determination of interested stockholder status did own, 15% or more of a corporation’s voting stock. The existence of this provision may have an anti-takeover effect with respect to transactions not approved in advance by our Board of Directors and the anti-takeover effect includes discouraging attempts that might result in a premium over the market price for the shares of our Class A common stock.
Previous wording
Our Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation provides that the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware is the exclusive forum for any derivative action or proceeding brought on our behalf, any action asserting a breach of fiduciary duty, any action asserting a claim against us arising pursuant to the Delaware General Corporation Law, our Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation or Amended and Restated Bylaws or any action asserting a claim against us that is governed by the internal affairs doctrine. These choice of forum provisions may limit a stockholder’s ability to bring a claim in a judicial forum that it finds favorable for disputes with us or our directors, officers or other employees and may discourage these types of lawsuits. This provision would not apply to claims brought to enforce a duty or liability created by the Exchange Act or any other claim for which the federal courts have exclusive jurisdiction. Our Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation provides further that, to the fullest extent permitted by law, the federal district courts of the United States will be the exclusive forum for resolving any complaint asserting a cause of action arising under the Securities Act. However, Section 22 of the Securities Act provides that federal and state courts have concurrent jurisdiction over lawsuits brought under the Securities Act or the rules and regulations thereunder. To the extent the exclusive forum provision restricts the courts in which claims arising under the Securities Act may be brought, there is uncertainty as to whether a court would enforce such a provision. We note that investors cannot waive compliance with the federal securities laws and the rules and regulations thereunder. Furthermore, the enforceability of similar choice of forum provisions in other companies’ certificates of incorporation has been challenged in legal proceedings, and it is possible that a court could find these types of provisions to be inapplicable or unenforceable. While the Delaware courts have determined that such choice of forum provisions are facially valid, a stockholder may nevertheless seek to bring a claim in a venue other than those designated in the exclusive forum provisions, and there can be no assurance that such provisions will be enforced by a court in those other jurisdictions. If a court were to find the exclusive-forum provision contained in our Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation to be inapplicable or unenforceable in an action, we may incur additional costs associated with resolving such action in other jurisdictions, which could harm our business.
Current wording
Our Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation provides that the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware is the exclusive forum for any derivative action or proceeding brought on our behalf, any action asserting a breach of fiduciary duty, any action asserting a claim against us arising pursuant to the DGCL, our Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation or Amended and Restated Bylaws or any action asserting a claim against us that is governed by the internal affairs doctrine. These choice of forum provisions may limit a stockholder’s ability to bring a claim in a judicial forum that it finds favorable for disputes with us or our directors, officers or other employees and may discourage these types of lawsuits. This provision would not apply to claims brought to enforce a duty or liability created by the Exchange Act or any other claim for which the federal courts have exclusive jurisdiction. Our Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation provides further that, to the fullest extent permitted by law, the federal district courts of the United States will be the exclusive forum for resolving any complaint asserting a cause of action arising under the Securities Act. However, Section 22 of the Securities Act provides that federal and state courts have concurrent jurisdiction over lawsuits brought under the Securities Act or the rules and regulations thereunder. To the extent the exclusive forum provision restricts the courts in which claims arising under the Securities Act may be brought, there is uncertainty as to whether a court would enforce such a provision. We note that investors cannot waive compliance with the federal securities laws and the rules and regulations thereunder. Furthermore, the enforceability of similar choice of forum provisions in other companies’ certificates of incorporation has been challenged in legal proceedings, and it is possible that a court could find these types of provisions to be inapplicable or unenforceable. While the Delaware courts have determined that such choice of forum provisions are facially valid, a stockholder may nevertheless seek to bring a claim in a venue other than those designated in the exclusive forum provisions, and there can be no assurance that such provisions will be enforced by a court in those other jurisdictions. If a court were to find the exclusive-forum provision contained in our Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation to be inapplicable or unenforceable in an action, we may incur additional costs associated with resolving such action in other jurisdictions, which could harm our business.
Previous wording
As of December 31, 2023, we had outstanding options to purchase up to an aggregate of 27,790,625 shares of our Class A common stock, 8,735,236 outstanding Restricted Stock Units (“RSUs”) and 963,000 outstanding Performance Stock Units (“PSUs”) outstanding. We also have the ability to initially issue up to 51,104,577 shares of Class A common stock under the 2022 Equity Incentive Plan, 5,000,000 shares of Class A common stock under the ESPP, 6,000,000 shares of Class A common stock under the Earn Out Plan (as defined below).
Current wording
As of December 31, 2024, we had outstanding options to purchase up to an aggregate of 25,599,000 shares of our Class A common stock, 5,427,000 outstanding Restricted Stock Units (“RSUs”) and 1,319,167 outstanding Performance Restricted Stock Units (“PSUs”) outstanding. We also have the ability to initially issue up to 51,104,577 shares of Class A common stock under the 2022 Equity Incentive Plan, 5,000,000 shares of Class A common stock under the ESPP, 6,000,000 shares of Class A common stock under the Earn Out Plan. Further, in connection with Shutterstock Merger Agreement, we will issue additional shares of Class A common stock.
Rearranged current paragraphs (2)
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
Ukraine and the Middle East continue, there can be no certainty regarding whether such governments or other governments will impose additional sanctions or other economic or military measures against Russia, Hamas or others. We cannot provide assurance that current sanctions or potential future changes in sanctions will not have an adverse impact on our operations. Expanding our international focus may subject us to risks that we have not faced before or increase risks that we currently face, certain of which are described elsewhere in these “Item 1A. Risk factors,” including risks associated with:
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
In addition, there could be infringement claims by third parties regarding any of our trademarks or our use of other intellectual property that could damage our reputation and brand, prove costly to defend irrespective of their validity, and, if such claims are ultimately validated, materially and adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations.
Rearranged previous paragraphs (2)
Previous report — wording carried elsewhere
•the development and use of AI generated content;
Previous report — wording carried elsewhere
Further, the New York SHIELD Act became effective on March 21, 2020, the VACDPA became effective on January 1, 2023; the CPA and CTDPA both became effective on July 1, 2023; the UCPA became effective on December 31, 2023 (UCPA, together with the CCPA, CPRA, VACDPA, and CTDPA, the “U.S. State Privacy Laws”). The Florida Digital Bill of Rights, Montana Consumer Data Privacy Act, Oregon Consumer Data Privacy Act, and the Texas Data Privacy and