Ingredion Inc

Previous wording

The demand for food products, including agricultural products developed through biotechnology, is often affected by changes in consumer practices and tastes, national, regional and local economic conditions. For instance, changes in prevailing health or dietary preferences causing consumers to avoid food products that contain sweetener products, including high fructose corn syrup, and genetically modified products, in favor of foods that are perceived as being healthier or pose unknown risks to the environment, have negatively affected our sales and profitability. Increasing concern among consumers, public health professionals and government agencies about the potential health concerns associated with obesity and inactive lifestyles represent a significant cost to some of our customers, including those engaged in the food and soft drink industries, and continue to materially affect demand for our products. Similarly, the increasing availability, use and acceptance of weight loss medications, including the expanded use of medications designed for weight loss in people without diabetes, may reduce sales of food and beverage products that contain our ingredients, since the medications regulate appetite and may reduce the overall amount of food and beverages consumed.

Current wording

Some of our customers, including those engaged in the food and beverage industries, may incur significant costs to address increasing concern among consumers, public health professionals and government agencies about the potential health impacts associated with obesity and inactive lifestyles, which could materially affect price sensitivity and the demand for our products. Similarly, the increasing availability, use and acceptance of weight loss medications, including the expanded use of medications designed for weight loss in people without diabetes, may reduce sales of food and beverage products that contain our ingredients, since the medications regulate appetite and may reduce the overall amount of food and beverages consumed.

Previous wording

In particular, our operations could be adversely affected by actions taken in connection with cross-border disputes by the governments of countries in which we conduct business.

Current wording

Ingredion operates a global manufacturing and sourcing network and relies on agricultural commodities, energy, logistics services, and international customers, suppliers, and other counterparties. Our operations could be adversely affected by actions taken in connection with cross-border actions by the governments of countries in which we conduct business or through which our products may travel. Heightened geopolitical tensions, a perceived reduction in multilateral security cooperation, or changes to geopolitical policies or relationships, could contribute to increased or more volatile energy or freight costs, shortages or delays in raw materials or other inputs, sanctions or export controls, changes in trade policy, currency volatility, and reduced customer demand in certain markets. In addition, these factors may spur secondary or tertiary conflicts with or between other countries or regions, which could increase volatility in the availability and prices of raw materials and energy supplies, create supply chain disruptions or delays, or reduce customer or consumer demand.

Previous wording

Our business may be adversely affected by geopolitical conflicts, including the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, and conflict in the Middle East. Our operations in Russia and Ukraine accounted for less than one half of one percent of our net sales in 2024, but these locations are in regions that provide sources of raw material and energy supplies for both us and some companies whose products we distribute. Economic sanctions and export control measures imposed on Russia and designated Russian enterprises, Belarus and certain regions of Ukraine have resulted in increased volatility in the availability and prices of such raw materials and energy supplies. In addition, sanctions and macroeconomic effects of geopolitical conflicts have contributed to greater volatility in foreign exchange and interest rates that affect our financial results. Developments relating to geopolitical conflicts might result in a continuation of these impacts and in other impacts that could adversely affect our business or results of operations.

Current wording

These developments, together with ongoing conflicts and tensions in other regions, including the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine and the continuing situation in the Middle East, could disrupt international trade flows, energy and commodity markets, transportation networks, and financial markets. Certain of these locations are in regions that provide sources of raw material and energy supplies for both us and some companies whose products we distribute, particularly in our Texture & Healthful Solutions segment and our Pakistan business.

Previous wording

Economic conditions may adversely impact demand for our products, reduce access to credit, affect investment returns and cause our customers and others with whom we do business to suffer financial hardship, all of which could adversely impact our business, results of operations, financial condition and cash flows.

Current wording

Economic conditions may adversely impact demand for our products, reduce our access to credit, affect our investment returns and cause our customers and others with whom we do business to suffer financial hardship.

Previous wording

General business and economic conditions that could affect us include barriers to trade (including as a result of tariffs, duties and border taxes, among other factors), the strength of the economies in which we operate, unemployment, inflation and fluctuations in debt and equity markets. While currently these conditions have not impaired our ability to access credit and equity markets to finance our operations, we are subject to the risk of a further deterioration in the financial markets.

Current wording

General business and economic conditions that could affect us include barriers to trade (including as a result of tariffs, duties and border taxes, among other factors), the strength of the economies in which we operate, unemployment, inflation, interest rates, tighter or uneven credit conditions, and fluctuations in debt and equity markets. While currently these conditions have not impaired our ability to access credit and equity markets to finance our operations, we are subject to the risk of further deterioration in the financial markets, including their impacts on our suppliers, customers, and consumers.

Previous wording

These economic developments could negatively affect our operations through reduced consumer demand for our products, pressure to extend our customers’ payment terms, insolvency of our customers and increased provisions for credit losses, product order delays or cancellations, less attractive supplier finance terms and conditions, and counterparty failures.

Current wording

These economic developments could negatively affect our operations through reduced consumer demand for our products, pressure to extend our customers’ payment terms, insolvency of our customers and increased provisions for credit losses, product order delays or cancellations, less advantageous supplier finance terms and conditions, and counterparty failures.

Previous wording

Of our 2024 net sales, approximately 56 percent were generated by sales to the food industry, approximately 10 percent by sales to the beverage industry, approximately 8 percent by sales to the animal nutrition industry, and approximately 7 percent by sales to the brewing industry. If our customers in any of these industries were to substantially decrease their purchases, our business might be materially adversely affected.

Current wording

Of our 2025 net sales, approximately 58 percent were generated by sales to the food industry, approximately 9 percent by sales to the beverage industry, approximately 7 percent by sales to the animal nutrition industry, and approximately 7 percent by sales to the brewing industry. If our customers in any of these industries were to substantially decrease their purchases, our business might be materially adversely affected.

Previous wording

Operating difficulties at our manufacturing facilities and liabilities relating to product safety and quality could adversely affect our operating results, financial condition, cash flows and prospects.

Current wording

Operating difficulties at our manufacturing facilities and liabilities relating to product safety and quality could adversely affect our business and harm our reputation.

Previous wording

Producing starches, sweeteners and other food and industrial ingredients is a capital-intensive industry. We conduct preventive maintenance and de-bottlenecking programs at our manufacturing facilities designed to maintain and improve capacity and facility reliability. If we encounter operating difficulties at a facility for an extended period or start-up problems with any capital improvement projects, we may not be able to meet a portion of our sales order commitments and could incur significantly higher operating expenses, either of which could adversely affect our operating results, financial condition, cash flows and prospects and result in adverse publicity. Furthermore, we use boilers to generate steam required in our production processes. An event that impairs the operation of a boiler for an extended period could have a significant adverse effect on the operations of any manufacturing facility in which the event occurred.

Current wording

Producing starches, sweeteners and other food and industrial ingredients is a capital-intensive industry. We conduct preventive maintenance and de-bottlenecking programs at our manufacturing facilities designed to maintain and improve capacity and facility reliability. If we encounter operating difficulties at a facility for an extended period or start-up problems with any capital improvement projects, we may not be able to meet a portion of our sales order commitments and could incur significantly higher operating expenses, either of which could adversely affect our operating results, financial condition, cash flows and prospects and result in adverse publicity. Furthermore, we use boilers to generate steam required in our production processes. An event that impairs the operation of a boiler for an extended period could have a significant adverse effect on the operations of other manufacturing facilities in addition to the facility where the event occurred. If we are unable to contain our operating costs and maintain the productivity and reliability of our production facilities, our profitability and growth could be adversely affected.

Previous wording

A significant portion of our growth depends on innovation in products, processes and services. Our R&D efforts may not result in new products and services at a rate or of a quality sufficient to gain market acceptance. Increasing capabilities from generative artificial intelligence may increase the ability of competitors or customers to identify or develop new solutions that could compete with or reduce demand for our products and services.

Current wording

A significant portion of our growth depends on innovation in products, processes and services. Our R&D efforts may not result in new products and services at a rate or of a quality sufficient to gain or maintain market acceptance. Increasing capabilities from generative artificial intelligence may increase the ability of competitors or customers to identify or develop new solutions that could compete with or reduce demand for our products and services. If our R&D efforts lag those of our competition or do not align to customer or consumer demand, our business might be materially adversely affected.

Previous wording

We operate in a highly competitive environment. Competition in markets in which we compete is largely based on price, quality and product availability. Many of our products compete with virtually identical or similar products manufactured by other companies in the food and ingredients industry. In the U.S., our competitors include divisions of larger enterprises that have greater financial resources than we do. Some of these competitors, unlike us, have vertically integrated their corn refining and other operations. Many of our products also compete with products made from raw materials other than corn, including cane and beet sugar. Fluctuation in prices of these competing products may affect prices of, and profits derived from, our products. In addition, government programs supporting sugar prices indirectly impact the price of corn sweeteners, especially high fructose corn syrup. Furthermore, co-products such as corn oil and gluten meal compete with products of the corn dry milling industry and with soybean oil, soybean meal and other products, the price of some of which may be affected by government programs such as tariffs, duties or quotas.

Current wording

We operate in a highly competitive environment. Competition in markets in which we compete is largely based on price, quality and product availability. Many of our products compete with virtually identical or similar products manufactured by other companies in the food and ingredients industry. In the U.S., our competitors include divisions of larger enterprises that have greater financial resources than we do. Some of these competitors, unlike us, have vertically integrated their corn refining and other operations. Many of our products also compete with products made from raw materials other than corn, including cane and beet sugar. Fluctuation in prices of these competing products may affect prices of, and profits derived from, our products. In addition, government programs supporting sugar prices indirectly impact the price of corn sweeteners, especially high fructose corn syrup. Furthermore, co-products such as corn oil and gluten meal compete with products of the corn dry milling industry and with soybean oil, soybean meal and other products, the price of some of which may be affected by government programs such as tariffs, duties or quotas. If we do not successfully respond to these market forces and developments, our business might be materially adversely affected.

Previous wording

Our finished products are made primarily from corn. Purchased corn and other raw material costs generally account for between 40 percent and 60 percent of our finished product costs. Some of our products are based upon specific varieties of corn that are produced in significantly smaller volumes than yellow dent corn. These specialty grains cost more due to their more limited availability and require planning cycles of up to three years to ensure we receive an adequate supply. We also manufacture certain starch-based products from potatoes. The T&HS segment’s current potato starch requirements constitute a substantial portion of the total available supply of feedstock in the U.S. and Canada. It is possible that, in the long term, continued growth in demand for potato starch-based ingredients and new product development could result in capacity constraints. Also, we utilize tapioca in the manufacturing of starch products, primarily in Thailand, as well as pulses, gum, rice, stevia and other raw materials around the world. A significant supply disruption or sharp increase in prices of any of these raw materials that we are unable to recover through pricing increases to our customers could have an adverse impact on our growth and profitability, especially if such an event disproportionately affects us as compared to our competitors.

Current wording

Our finished products are made primarily from corn. Purchased corn and other raw material costs generally account for between 40 percent and 60 percent of our finished product costs. Some of our products are based upon specific varieties of corn that are produced in significantly smaller volumes than yellow dent corn. These specialty grains cost more due to their more limited availability and require planning cycles of up to three years to ensure we receive an adequate supply. We also manufacture certain starch-based products from potatoes. The T&HS segment’s current potato starch requirements constitute a substantial portion of the total available supply of feedstock in the U.S. and Canada. In the long term, continued growth in demand for potato starch-based ingredients and new product development could result in capacity constraints. Also, we utilize tapioca in the manufacturing of starch products, primarily in Thailand, as well as pulses, gum, rice, stevia and other raw materials around the world. A significant supply disruption or sharp increase in prices of any of these raw materials that we are unable to recover through pricing increases to our customers could have an adverse impact on our growth and profitability, especially if such an event disproportionately affects us as compared to our competitors.

Previous wording

In North America countries serviced by our F&II segments, we sell a large portion of our finished products derived from corn at firm prices established in supply contracts typically with a term of one year, though some may be shorter, and some may be multi-year. To minimize the effect of volatility in the cost of corn related to these firm-priced supply contracts, we enter into corn futures and options contracts or take other hedging positions in the corn and soy futures market. These derivative contracts typically mature within one year. At expiration, we settle the derivative contracts at a net amount equal to the change in the price of the commodity from the date we entered the derivative contract, with the intention of offsetting the change in commodity prices from the time we entered the firm-priced supply contracts. The fluctuations in the fair value of these hedging instruments may adversely affect our cash flow. We fund any unrealized losses or receive cash for any unrealized gains on futures contracts on a daily basis. While the corn and soy futures contracts or hedging positions are intended to minimize the effect of volatility of corn costs on operating profits, the hedging activity can result in losses, some of which may be material. In addition, our hedging activities may not be fully successful in limiting the effect of volatility in the cost of corn.

Current wording

In North American countries served by our F&II segments, we sell a large portion of our finished products derived from corn at firm prices established in supply contracts typically with a term of one year, though some terms may be shorter and some contracts have multi-year terms. To minimize the effect of volatility in the cost of corn related to these firm-priced supply contracts, we enter into corn futures and options contracts or take other hedging positions in the corn and soy futures market. These derivative contracts typically mature within one year. At expiration, we settle the derivative contracts at a net amount equal to the change in the price of the commodity from the date we entered the derivative contract, with the intention of offsetting the change in commodity prices from the time we entered the firm-priced supply contracts. The fluctuations in the fair value of these hedging instruments may adversely affect our cash flows. We fund any unrealized losses or receive cash for any unrealized gains on futures contracts on a daily basis. Although the corn and soy futures contracts or hedging positions are intended to minimize the effect of volatility of corn costs on operating profits, the hedging activity can result in losses, some of which may be material. In addition, our hedging activities may not be fully successful in limiting the effect of volatility on the cost of corn.

Previous wording

Our business in the past has been adversely affected by fluctuations in our energy costs, which represented approximately 8 percent of our finished product costs in 2024 and could be negatively affected by such fluctuations in future periods. We use energy primarily to create steam required for our production processes and to dry products. We consume natural gas, electricity, coal, fuel oil, wood and other biomass sources to generate energy.

Current wording

Our business in the past has been adversely affected by fluctuations in our energy costs, which represented approximately 9 percent of our finished product costs in 2025 and could be negatively affected by such fluctuations in future periods. We use energy primarily to create steam required for our production processes and to dry products. We consume natural gas, electricity, coal, fuel oil, wood and other biomass sources to generate energy.

Previous wording

Because we ship products worldwide, our business in the past and has been, and in future periods could be, adversely affected by fluctuations in freight and logistics costs, tariffs, duties, and disruptions in supply channels between parties and locations that include our suppliers, production and storage facilities, tolling and packaging partners, distributors and customers. Risks to our business include impacts from labor strikes or weather-related events that affect transportation by rail, air, shipping or ground.

Current wording

Because we ship products worldwide, our business in the past has been, and in future periods could be, adversely affected by fluctuations in freight and logistics costs, tariffs, duties, and disruptions in supply channels between parties and locations that include our suppliers, production and storage facilities, tolling and packaging partners, distributors and customers. Risks to our business include impacts from labor strikes or weather-related events that affect transportation by rail, air, shipping or ground.

Previous wording

The market prices for our raw materials, supply chain freight and logistics, and energy may vary considerably depending on supply and demand, global economic conditions, trade agreements and tariffs, duties and other factors. We purchase these commodities and services based on our anticipated usage and future outlook for these costs. We may not be able to purchase these commodities and services at prices that we can adequately pass on to customers, which could have an adverse impact on our growth and profitability.

Current wording

The market prices for our raw materials, supply chain freight and logistics, and energy may vary considerably depending on supply and demand, global economic conditions, trade policies and agreements, tariffs, duties and other factors. We purchase these commodities and services based on our anticipated usage and future outlook for these costs. Changes in trade policy, including the imposition of new or increased tariffs, duties or border measures, and retaliatory actions by trading partners, could increase our input and logistics costs or disrupt supply chains. We may not be able to purchase these commodities and services at prices that we can adequately pass on to customers, which could have an adverse impact on our growth and profitability.

Previous wording

An inability to contain costs and working capital could adversely affect our future profitability, cash flows and growth.

Current wording

An inability to contain costs, manage working capital, or achieve budgets, including completing planned maintenance and investment projects on time and on budget, could adversely affect our future profitability or cash flows.

Previous wording

Our future profitability and growth depend on our ability to contain operating costs and per unit product costs and to maintain and implement effective cost control programs, while also maintaining competitive pricing and superior quality products, customer service and support. Our ability to maintain a competitive cost structure depends on continued containment of manufacturing, delivery and administrative costs, as well as the implementation of cost-effective purchasing programs for raw materials, energy and related manufacturing requirements. Our working capital requirements, including margin requirements on open positions on futures exchanges, are directly affected by the price of corn and other agricultural commodities, which may fluctuate significantly and change quickly.

Current wording

Our future profitability and growth depend on our ability to contain operating costs and per unit product costs and to maintain and implement effective cost control programs, while also maintaining competitive pricing and superior quality products, customer service and support. Our ability to maintain a competitive cost structure depends on continued containment of manufacturing, delivery and administrative costs, as well as the implementation of cost-effective purchasing programs for raw materials, energy and related manufacturing requirements. Our working capital requirements, including margin requirements on open positions on futures exchanges, are directly affected by the price of corn and other agricultural commodities, which may fluctuate significantly and change quickly. In addition, our future profitability and growth depend on our ability to achieve budgets, including completing planned maintenance and investment projects on time and on budget. If we do not successfully manage these activities, our business might be materially adversely affected.

Previous wording

We are subject to risks associated with the long-term effects of climate change on the global economy and on our industry in particular. Extreme weather and natural disasters that occur around the globe, such as drought, wildfires, storms, changes in ocean currents and flooding, could make it more difficult and costly for us to manufacture and deliver our products to our customers, obtain raw materials from our suppliers, or perform other critical corporate functions. In particular, if such climate change impacts negatively affect agricultural productivity, we may be subject to decreased availability or less favorable pricing from certain commodities that are necessary for our products, including corn, specialty grains, rice, stevia, peas and sugar. Adverse weather conditions and natural disasters could reduce crop size and crop quality, which could reduce our supplies of raw materials, lower recoveries of usable raw materials, increase the prices of our raw materials, increase our costs of storing and transporting raw materials, or disrupt production schedules. Our manufacturing operations also could be adversely affected by reduced water availability resulting from droughts or other interruptions from acute and chronic physical climate events due to climate change, including droughts, heat waves, freezing temperatures, changing precipitation patterns and heat stress.

Current wording

We are subject to risks associated with the long-term effects of climate change on the global economy and on our industry in particular. Extreme weather and natural disasters that occur around the globe, such as drought, wildfires, storms, floods, and changes in ocean currents, could make it more difficult and costly for us to manufacture, store, and deliver our products to our customers, obtain raw materials from our suppliers, or perform other critical corporate functions. In particular, if such climate change impacts negatively affect agricultural productivity, we may be subject to decreased availability or less favorable pricing from certain commodities that are necessary for our products, including corn, specialty grains, rice, stevia, peas and sugar. Adverse weather conditions and natural disasters could reduce crop size and crop quality, which could reduce our supplies of raw materials, lower recoveries of usable raw materials, increase the prices of our raw materials, increase our costs of storing and transporting raw materials, or disrupt production schedules. Our manufacturing operations also could be adversely affected by reduced water availability resulting from droughts or other interruptions from acute and chronic physical climate events due to climate change, including droughts, heat waves, freezing temperatures, changing precipitation patterns and heat stress.

Previous wording

We are or soon will be obligated to comply with new sustainability and climate-related reporting requirements under California climate-related reporting statutes, laws of member states of the European Union implementing the EU Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive, and other laws and regulations. These sustainability reporting requirements, under evolving sustainability reporting frameworks, will require us to provide, at least annually, detailed public disclosures about the greenhouse gas emissions and other climate-related effects our activities produce, the climate-related operating and financial risks we face, and the strategies we pursue to reduce and adapt to the impacts of climate change. We expect to incur substantial costs to prepare these disclosures and implement internal controls for sustainability reporting. If we fail to compile, assess and report the required operating and accounting information in a timely manner and in accordance with mandatory reporting standards, we could be exposed to fines and other sanctions and sustain harm to our reputation.

Current wording

We are or will be obligated to comply with new sustainability and climate-related reporting requirements under California climate-related reporting statutes, laws of member states of the European Union implementing the EU Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive, and other laws and regulations that continue to evolve. These sustainability reporting requirements, under evolving sustainability reporting frameworks, will require us to provide, at least annually, detailed public disclosures about the greenhouse gas emissions and other climate-related effects our activities produce, the climate-related operating and financial risks we face, and the strategies we pursue to reduce and adapt to the impacts of climate change. We expect to incur substantial costs to prepare these disclosures and implement internal controls for sustainability reporting. Changes in the scope, timing, or interpretation of these requirements, and any divergence among reporting regimes across jurisdictions, could increase our compliance costs, create disclosure and control challenges, and expose us to enforcement actions, litigation, or reputational harm. If we fail to compile, assess and report the required operating and accounting information in a timely manner and in accordance with mandatory reporting standards or if public statements regarding sustainability-related matters are alleged to be misleading, we could be exposed to fines and other sanctions and sustain harm to our reputation.

Previous wording

We may not successfully identify and complete acquisitions, divestitures, or strategic alliances on favorable terms or achieve anticipated synergies relating to any acquisitions or alliances, and such transactions could result in unforeseen operating difficulties and expenditures and require significant management resources.

Current wording

If we do not identify and complete acquisitions, divestitures, or strategic alliances on favorable terms or achieve anticipated synergies relating to any acquisitions or alliances, we could experience unforeseen operating difficulties, additional expenses and the diversion of significant management resources from our ongoing business.

Previous wording

We regularly review potential acquisitions of complementary businesses, technologies, services, or products, as well as potential divestitures or strategic alliances. We have completed several such acquisitions and strategic alliances in recent years and the sale of our South Korea business on February 1, 2024. We may be unable to find suitable acquisition candidates, purchasers for operations we may wish to sell, or appropriate partners with whom to form partnerships or strategic alliances. Even if we identify appropriate acquisition, divestiture or alliance candidates, we may be unable to complete acquisitions, divestitures or alliances on favorable terms, on time, on budget, or at all.

Current wording

We regularly review potential acquisitions, joint ventures, or strategic alliances with candidates who possess complementary businesses, technologies, services, or products. In addition, we regularly review potential divestitures based on our strategic priorities, benefits, impacts, and opportunities of such transactions. We have completed several such divestitures in recent years such as the sale of our South Korea business in February 2024, for which we are still receiving consideration payments. In September 2025, we entered into a definitive agreement to sell a 51 percent ownership interest in the Pakistan business, which we amended in December 2025 to grant Nishat Group an option to purchase additional shares for commensurate consideration per share. We may be unable to find suitable acquisition candidates, purchasers for operations we may wish to sell, or appropriate partners with whom to make investments, form partnerships, joint ventures or strategic alliances. Even if we identify appropriate acquisition, divestiture, investment or alliance candidates, regulatory reviews may prevent a transaction from being consummated, or we may be unable to complete acquisitions, divestitures, investments or alliances on favorable terms, on time, on budget, or at all.

Previous wording

The failure to consummate proposed transactions may result in the diversion of substantial resources, including management time and cash used for transaction-related expenses, that otherwise would be available for developing our ongoing business. Due diligence performed before an acquisition may fail to identify a material liability or an issue that could have an adverse impact on our reputation or reduce or delay the anticipated benefits resulting from the acquisition. In addition, the process of integrating an acquired business, technology, service, or product into our existing business and operations, or of divesting certain operations or businesses, may result in unforeseen operating difficulties and expenditures, including with respect to the retention of strategic talent, systems integration, and internal control effectiveness. Integration of an acquired company or transitioning a divested business or operations may also require significant management resources that otherwise would be available for developing our ongoing business. Moreover, we may not realize the anticipated benefits of any acquisition, divestiture or strategic alliance and may have to record impairment charges on goodwill or other write-offs. Future acquisitions or divestitures could also require us to issue equity securities, incur debt, assume contingent liabilities or amortize expenses related to intangible assets, any of which could harm our business.

Current wording

The failure to consummate proposed transactions may result in the diversion of substantial resources, including management time and cash used for transaction-related expenses, which otherwise would be available for developing our ongoing business. Due diligence performed before a transaction may fail to identify a material liability or an issue that could have an adverse impact on our reputation or reduce or delay the anticipated benefits resulting from the transaction. In addition, the process of integrating an acquired business, technology, service, or product into our existing business and operations, or of divesting certain operations or businesses, may result in unforeseen operating difficulties and expenditures, including with respect to the retention of strategic talent, systems integration, and internal control effectiveness. Integration of an acquired company or transition of a divested business or operations to a new owner may also require significant management resources that otherwise would be available for developing our ongoing business. Moreover, we may not realize the anticipated benefits of any acquisition, divestiture, investment or strategic alliance and may have to record impairment charges on goodwill or other write-offs. Future acquisitions, divestitures or investments could also require us to issue equity securities, consolidate financial statements of variable interest entities, incur debt, assume contingent liabilities or amortize expenses related to intangible assets, any of which could harm our business.

Previous wording

Additionally, we participate in several joint ventures, some of which are intended to be long-term investments, in which we have limited control over governance, financial reporting, and operations. As a result, we face operating, financial, legal and other risks relating to these investments, including risks related to the financial strength of our joint venture partners or their willingness to provide adequate funding for the joint venture, differences in objectives between us and our partners, legal and compliance risks relating to actions or omissions of the joint venture or our partners, and the risk that we will be unable to resolve disputes with the joint venture partners. As a result, these investments may contribute significantly less than we anticipate to our earnings and cash flows.

Current wording

In addition, we participate in several joint ventures, some of which are intended to be long-term investments, in which we have limited control over governance, financial reporting, and operations. As a result, we face operating, financial, legal and other risks relating to these investments, including risks related to the financial strength of our joint venture partners or their willingness to provide adequate funding for the joint venture, differences in objectives between us and our partners, legal and compliance risks relating to actions or omissions of the joint venture or our partners, and the risk that we will be unable to resolve disputes with the joint venture partners. As a result, these investments may contribute significantly less than we anticipate to our earnings and cash flows.

Previous wording

We have operated in foreign countries and with foreign currencies for many years, and our results are subject to foreign currency exchange fluctuations. We primarily sell products derived from world commodities. Historically, we have been able to adjust local prices relatively quickly to offset the effect of local currency depreciation versus the U.S. dollar, although we may not be able to do so in the future. If the strength of the U.S. dollar continues, it could take us an extended period to fully recapture the impact of a loss of foreign currency value versus the U.S. dollar. We may hedge transactions that are denominated in a currency other than the currency of the operating unit entering into the underlying transaction. Our hedging activities may not be fully successful in limiting the adverse impacts of our currency risks.

Current wording

We sell products to, purchase inputs from, and operate in foreign countries where we transact with foreign currencies, and where our results are subject to foreign currency exchange fluctuations. Historically, we have been able to adjust local prices relatively quickly to offset the effect of local currency depreciation versus the U.S. dollar, although we may not be able to do so in the future. If the value of the U.S. dollar changes versus a foreign currency, it could take us an extended period to offset the impact of any such changes. We may hedge transactions that are denominated in a currency other than the currency of the operating unit entering into the underlying transaction. Our hedging activities may not be fully successful in limiting the adverse impacts of currency movements.

Previous wording

Our international operations are subject to political, economic and other risks. There has been and continues to be significant political instability in some countries in which we operate, and the U.S. government has altered its approach to international trade policy, including a review of long standing North America free trade agreements, both generally and with respect to matters directly and indirectly affecting agricultural commodities such as corn, sugar and soy. Unilateral actions affecting trade, protectionist trade measures, renegotiation of existing bilateral or multi-lateral trade agreements, the formation of new agreements or treaties with or between foreign countries, potential retaliatory actions by countries, and consequences from market uncertainty related to any of these events could adversely impact our operations, earnings and cash flows. Resulting tariffs, duties, levies, or import or export licensing requirements could also adversely affect our results of operations. Economic changes, terrorist activity and political unrest may result in business interruption or decreased demand for our products. Country capital controls, such as those imposed in Pakistan and Argentina, may prevent the repatriation of dividends or payments due to us from our subsidiaries in countries that impose such controls.

Current wording

Our international operations are subject to political, economic and other risks. There has been and continues to be significant political instability in some countries and regions in which we operate. Additional uncertainties have resulted from changes in the U.S. government’s approach to international trade policy, including a review of long standing free trade agreements, both generally and with respect to matters directly and indirectly affecting agricultural commodities such as corn, sugar and soy. Unilateral actions affecting trade, protectionist trade measures, renegotiation of existing bilateral or multi-lateral trade agreements, the formation of new agreements or treaties with or between foreign countries, retaliatory actions by countries, and consequences from market uncertainty related to any of these events could adversely impact our operations, earnings and cash flows. Resulting tariffs, duties, levies, or import or export licensing requirements could also adversely affect our results of operations. Economic changes, terrorist activity and political unrest may result in business interruption or decreased demand for our products. Country capital controls, such as those imposed in Pakistan and Argentina, may prevent the repatriation of dividends or payments due to us from our investments and subsidiaries or transfer of consideration payments for divestitures, such our pending agreement to sell an interest in our Pakistan business, in countries that impose such controls.

Previous wording

We have employees domiciled in the U.S. and in other countries who belong to labor unions. Strikes, lockouts or other work stoppages or slowdowns involving our unionized employees or attempts to organize for collective bargaining purposes among non-unionized employees, could have a material adverse effect on our business. For example, from September 2022 to January 2023, we experienced a strike involving approximately 103 employees at our production facility in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, although this incident did not have a material impact on our business.

Current wording

We have employees domiciled in the U.S. and in other countries who belong to labor unions. Strikes, lockouts or other work stoppages or slowdowns involving our unionized employees or attempts to organize for collective bargaining purposes among non-unionized employees could have a material adverse effect on our business. The collective bargaining agreement that we have at our Cedar Rapids, Iowa facility, which experienced a strike from September 2022 to January 2023 involving approximately 103 employees, covers approximately 120 employees and expires on August 1, 2026.

Previous wording

Changes in our labor markets and those of our vendors as a result of pandemics, immigration, and other socioeconomic and demographic changes have increased the competition for hiring and retaining talent. As a result of this competition, we may be unable to continue to attract, develop, retain, motivate and maintain good relationships with suitably qualified individuals at acceptable compensation levels who have the managerial, operational, and technical knowledge and experience to meet our needs. Furthermore, any failure by us to manage internal succession or to effectively transfer knowledge from departing employees to others in the organization could adversely affect our business and results of operations. Even if we succeed in hiring new personnel to fill vacancies, lengthy training and orientation periods might be required before new employees are able to achieve acceptable productivity levels. Any failure by us to attract, develop, retain, motivate and maintain good relationships with qualified individuals could adversely affect our business and results of operations.

Current wording

Changes in our labor markets and those of our vendors as a result of pandemics, migration, and other socioeconomic and demographic changes have increased the competition for hiring and retaining talent. As a result of this competition, we may be unable to continue to attract, develop, retain, motivate and maintain good relationships with suitably qualified individuals at acceptable compensation levels who have the managerial, operational, and technical knowledge and experience to meet our needs. Furthermore, any failure by us to manage internal succession or to effectively transfer knowledge from departing employees to others in the organization could adversely affect our business and results of operations. Even if we succeed in hiring new personnel to fill vacancies, lengthy training and orientation periods might be required before new employees are able to achieve acceptable productivity levels. Any failure by us to attract, develop, retain, motivate and maintain good relationships with qualified individuals could adversely affect our business and results of operations.

Previous wording

We may from time to time become involved in legal and regulatory proceedings, lawsuits, claims, and investigations in the ordinary course of business, some of which could be material. The outcome of such legal matters, including failure to comply with applicable laws and regulations, workplace and labor matters, asbestos related claims, environmental proceedings, product liability, tort, and commercial claims, may differ from our expectations because the outcomes of such legal matters may be difficult to predict with certainty. Various factors and developments could lead us to change current estimates of liabilities and related insurance receivables, where applicable, or permit us to make such estimates for matters previously not susceptible to reasonable estimates, such as a significant judicial ruling or judgment, a significant settlement, or unfavorable development could result in material charges. The occurrence of any of the foregoing matters could adversely affect our operating results, financial condition, cash flows and prospects and could require us to devote significant resources to rebuild our reputation.

Current wording

We may from time to time become involved in legal and regulatory proceedings, lawsuits, claims, and investigations in the ordinary course of business, some of which could be material. The outcome of such legal matters, including failure to comply with applicable laws and regulations, workplace and labor matters, asbestos related claims, environmental proceedings, and product liability, tort, and commercial claims, may differ from our expectations because the outcomes of such legal matters may be difficult to predict with certainty. Various factors and developments could lead us to change current estimates of liabilities and related insurance receivables, where applicable, or permit us to make such estimates for matters previously not susceptible to reasonable estimates, such as a significant judicial ruling or judgment, a significant settlement, or unfavorable development, any of which could result in material charges. The occurrence of any of the foregoing matters could adversely affect our operating results, financial condition, cash flows and prospects and could require us to devote significant resources to rebuild our reputation.

Previous wording

Pandemics, such as the coronavirus pandemic in 2020 and subsequent years, have had, and could continue to have, negative impacts on our business, including by causing significant volatility in the commodity and currency markets, changes in consumer demand, behavior or preference, disruptions in our supply chain and manufacturing capacity, limitations on our employees’ ability to work and changes in the economic or political conditions in markets we serve, some of which could constrain or halt shipments from suppliers or to customers. Emerging epidemics such as H5N1 (avian influenza) could mature into a future pandemic and regardless could affect the demand for and pricing of our co-products or products. These risks individually and in the aggregate could have a material effect on our operating results, financial condition, cash flows and prospects.

Current wording

Pandemics, such as the coronavirus pandemic in 2020 and subsequent years, have had, and could continue to have, negative impacts on our business, including by causing significant volatility in the commodity and currency markets, changes in consumer demand, behavior or preference, disruptions in our supply chain and manufacturing capacity, limitations on our employees’ ability to work and changes in the economic or political conditions in markets we serve, some of which could constrain or halt shipments from suppliers or to customers. Future epidemics or pandemics could affect the demand for and pricing of our co-products or products.

Previous wording

The recognition of impairment charges on goodwill or long-lived assets could adversely impact our future financial position and results of operations.

Current wording

The recognition of impairment charges on long-lived assets, goodwill or investments could adversely impact our future financial position and results of operations.

Previous wording

We perform an annual impairment assessment for goodwill and our indefinite-lived intangible assets and as necessary for other long-lived assets. If the results of such assessments were to show that the fair value of these assets were less than the carrying values, we could be required to recognize a charge for impairment of goodwill or long-lived assets, which could be material.

Current wording

As of December 31, 2025, our intangible assets and goodwill, net had a combined carrying value of $1,269 million, representing approximately 16 percent of our total consolidated assets. We perform an annual impairment assessment for our indefinite-lived intangible assets and goodwill and as required for investments and other long-lived assets. If the results of such assessments were to show that the fair value of these assets were less than the carrying values, we could be required to recognize a charge for impairment of long-lived assets, goodwill or investments, which could be material.

Previous wording

The future occurrence of a potential indicator of impairment, such as a significant adverse change in the business climate that would require a change in our assumptions or strategic decisions made in response to economic or competitive conditions, could require us to perform an assessment prior to the next required assessment date of July 1, 2025.

Current wording

The future occurrence of a potential indicator of impairment, such as a significant adverse change in the business climate that would require a change in our assumptions or strategic decisions made in response to economic or competitive conditions, could require us to perform an assessment prior to the next required assessment date for our indefinite-lived assets and goodwill of July 1, 2026.

Previous wording

Political events, trade and international disputes, war, threats or acts of terrorism, natural disasters, monetary and fiscal policies, tariffs, duties, laws and regulations, public health issues, including pandemics such as COVID-19, and other activities of the U.S. and foreign governments, agencies and similar organizations, may have an adverse effect on our business. These conditions include, among others, changes in a country’s or region’s economic or political conditions, modification or termination of trade agreements or treaties promoting free trade, creation of new trade agreements or treaties, trade regulations affecting production, pricing and marketing of products, tariffs, duties, local labor conditions and regulations, including regulations regarding child labor, reduced protection of intellectual property rights, changes in the regulatory or legal environment, restrictions on currency exchange activities, currency exchange rate fluctuations, burdensome taxes, tariffs and duties, and other trade disputes or trade barriers. In general, changes in general government policy, law, or regulation and costs of legal compliance, including compliance with environmental regulation, and international risks and uncertainties, including changing social and economic conditions as well as terrorism, political hostilities and war, could limit our ability to transact business in certain markets and could adversely affect our operating results, financial condition, cash flows and prospects.

Current wording

Political events, trade and international disputes, war, threats or acts of terrorism, natural disasters, monetary and fiscal policies, tariffs, duties, laws and regulations, public health issues, including pandemics such as COVID-19, and other activities of the U.S. and foreign governments, agencies and similar organizations, may have an adverse effect on our business. These conditions include, among others, changes in a country’s or region’s economic or political conditions, modification or termination of trade agreements or treaties promoting free trade, creation of new trade agreements or treaties, trade regulations affecting production, pricing and marketing of products, local labor conditions and regulations, including regulations regarding child labor, reduced protection of intellectual property rights, changes in the regulatory or legal environment, restrictions on currency exchange activities, currency exchange rate fluctuations, burdensome taxes, tariffs and duties, and other trade disputes or trade barriers. In general, changes in general government policy, law, or regulation and costs of legal compliance, including compliance with environmental regulation, and international risks and uncertainties, including changing social and economic conditions as well as terrorism, political hostilities and war, could limit our ability to transact business in certain markets and could adversely affect our operating results, financial condition, cash flows and prospects.

Previous wording

The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (the “OECD”), an international association of countries including the United States, is continuing discussions regarding fundamental changes in allocation of profits among tax jurisdictions in which companies do business, as well as the implementation of a global minimum tax, referred to as the “Pillar One” and “Pillar Two” proposals. Many countries, including countries in which we have operations, have enacted or are in the process of enacting laws based on the Pillar Two proposals. Our effective tax rate and cash tax payments could increase in future years as a result of these changes.

Current wording

The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (the “OECD”), an international association of countries including the United States, is continuing discussions regarding fundamental changes in allocation of profits among tax jurisdictions in which companies do business, as well as the implementation of a global minimum tax, referred to as the “Pillar One” and “Pillar Two” proposals. Many countries, including countries in which we have operations, have enacted or are in the process of enacting laws based on the Pillar Two proposals. While the Pillar Two minimum tax requirement did not have a material impact on our current effective tax rate, we continue to monitor developments and administrative guidance in addition to evaluating the potential impact on our consolidated financial statements for future periods.

Previous wording

We continue to issue debt securities to finance capital expenditures, working capital and acquisitions, and for other general corporate purposes. An increase in interest rates in the general economy could result in an increase in our borrowing costs for these financings, as well as under our revolving credit facility, which bears interest at an unhedged floating rate.

Current wording

We continue to issue debt securities to finance capital expenditures, working capital and acquisitions, and for other general corporate purposes. Sustained or higher interest rates, tighter or uneven credit conditions, and capital market volatility could increase our cost of borrowing, constrain our access to liquidity, and heighten refinancing risk as debt maturities approach. An increase in interest rates in the general economy could result in an increase in our borrowing costs for these financings, as well as under our revolving credit facility, which bears interest at an unhedged floating rate. We have senior notes with $499 million principal, net of discounts, which incur interest at 3.2 percent annually, that mature on October 1, 2026. If we are unable to secure refinancing of these notes at a favorable interest rate, our financial results and cash flows could be adversely affected.

Previous wording

Our operations rely on certain key information technology systems, which are dependent on services provided by third parties and provide critical data connectivity, information and services for internal and external users. These interactions include, among others, ordering and managing materials from suppliers, risk management activities, converting raw materials to finished products, inventory management, shipping products to customers, processing transactions, summarizing and reporting results of operations, human resources benefits and payroll management, complying with regulatory, legal and tax requirements, and other processes necessary to manage our business. Increased information technology security and social engineering threats and more sophisticated cyber crime, including advanced persistent threats, pose potential risks to the security of our information technology systems, networks and services, as well as the confidentiality, availability and integrity of our third-party and employee data.

Current wording

Our operations rely on certain key information technology systems, which are dependent on services provided by third parties and provide critical data connectivity, information and services for internal and external users. These interactions include, among others, ordering and managing materials from suppliers, risk management activities, converting raw materials to finished products, inventory management, shipping products to customers, processing transactions, summarizing and reporting results of operations, administering human resources benefits and payroll management, complying with regulatory, legal and tax requirements, and other processes necessary to manage our business. Increased information technology security and social engineering threats and more sophisticated cyber crime, including advanced persistent threats, pose potential risks to the security of our information technology systems, networks and services, as well as the confidentiality, availability and integrity of our third-party and employee data. Threat actors increasingly leverage AI, including deepfakes and other tools, to enhance phishing and social‑engineering attacks, which may make it more difficult for us to prevent, detect and respond to cybersecurity incidents. We also face risks from zero‑day vulnerabilities, supply‑chain attacks, and cybersecurity incidents involving third‑party service providers, cloud platforms, or software vendors upon which we rely. In addition, evolving cybersecurity and privacy regulations, including tighter incident reporting timelines and increased enforcement, may increase our compliance costs and potential liability, and our insurance coverage for cybersecurity‑related losses may be unavailable, insufficient, or subject to increased premiums, retentions or exclusions.

Previous wording

If our information technology systems are breached, damaged, or cease to function properly due to any number of causes, such as catastrophic events, power outages, security incidents, or cyber-based attacks, and if our cybersecurity response plans and disaster recovery and our cyber incident response plans do not effectively mitigate the risks on a timely basis, we may encounter significant disruptions that could interrupt our ability to manage our operations, cause loss of valuable data, and damage our reputation. Any such incidents also could subject us to government investigations or private litigation. These factors may adversely impact our operating results, financial condition, cash flows and prospects. We could also experience delays in reporting our financial results.

Current wording

If our information technology systems are breached, damaged, or cease to function properly due to any number of causes, such as catastrophic events, power outages, security incidents, or cyber-based attacks, and if our cybersecurity response plans and disaster recovery and our cyber incident response plans do not effectively mitigate the risks on a timely basis, we may encounter significant disruptions that could interrupt our ability to manage our operations, cause loss of valuable data, and damage our reputation. Any such incidents also could subject us to government investigations or private litigation.

Previous wording

The third-party data management providers and other vendors that we rely upon may have or develop security problems or security vulnerabilities which may also affect our systems or data. A data security or privacy breach of their systems or other form of cyber-based attack may occur in the future. In addition, we use external vendors to perform security assessments on a periodic basis to review and assess our information security. We utilize this information to audit ourselves, monitor the security of our technology infrastructure, and assess whether and how to prioritize the allocation of scarce resources to protect data and systems. However, these security assessments and audits may not identify or appropriately categorize relevant risks or protect our computer networks against security intrusions. Although we require our third-party vendors contractually to maintain a level of security that is acceptable to us and work closely with key vendors to address potential and actual security concerns and attacks, all confidential, proprietary, or personal information may not be protected on their systems.

Current wording

The third-party data management providers and other vendors that we rely upon may have or develop security problems or security vulnerabilities which may also affect our systems or data. A data security or privacy breach of their systems or other form of cyber-based attack may occur in the future. In addition, we use external vendors to perform security assessments on a periodic basis to review and assess our information security. We utilize this information to audit ourselves, monitor the security of our technology infrastructure, and assess whether and how to prioritize the allocation of scarce resources to protect data and systems. These security assessments and audits, however, may not identify or appropriately categorize relevant risks or protect our computer networks against security intrusions. Although we require our third-party vendors contractually to maintain a level of security that is acceptable to us and work closely with key vendors to address potential and actual security concerns and attacks, not all confidential, proprietary, or personal information may be protected on their systems.

Previous wording

We may not continue to pay dividends, repurchase shares of our common stock, or to pay dividends or repurchase shares of our common stock at the same rate we have paid in our most recent fiscal quarters.

Current wording

We may not continue to pay dividends, repurchase shares of our common stock, or to pay dividends or repurchase shares of our common stock at the same rate as paid in our most recent fiscal quarters.