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nVent Electric plc

For the period ended Dec 31, 2024. Filed Feb 18, 2025.

View on SEC.gov

About this filing

A company's yearly report to the SEC, with audited financial statements. It is the fullest account a company gives of its business, its finances and the risks it sees.

FY2024 · Filed Feb 18, 2025

NVT$106.22+8.0%Stored close · as of Nov 6, 2026

What changed in Risk Factors?

Read the current filing

Previous report: 10-K

Period ended 2023-12-31; filed 2024-02-20.

0001720635-24-000012

Item 1A. Risk Factors

Current report: 10-K

Period ended 2024-12-31; filed 2025-02-18.

0001720635-25-000018

Item 1A. Risk Factors

The 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 141 previous paragraphs and 136 current paragraphs.

113 unchanged; 23 reworded; 0 added; 3 removed; 2 previous and 0 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.

Removed paragraphs (3)

Previous report

We may not realize the anticipated benefits of the ECM Industries acquisition and any benefit may take longer to realize than we expect.

Previous report

The ECM Industries acquisition involves the integration of ECM Industries’ operations with our existing operations, and there are uncertainties inherent in such an integration. We are required to devote significant management attention and resources to integrating ECM Industries’ operations. Delays or unexpected difficulties in the integration process could adversely affect our business, financial results and financial condition. Even if we are able to integrate ECM Industries’ operations successfully, this integration may not result in the realization of the full benefits of revenue synergies, cost savings and operational efficiencies that we expect, or the achievement of these benefits within a reasonable period of time or at all.

Previous report

In addition, from time to time, the U.S. government has imposed sanctions restricting U.S. companies from conducting business with specified non-U.S. individuals and companies. For example, the U.S. government has imposed sanctions through several executive orders and legislation restricting U.S. companies from conducting business with specified Russian and Ukrainian individuals and companies. The sanctions imposed by the U.S. government may be expanded in the future to restrict or further restrict us from engaging with customers or vendors. If we are unable to conduct business with new or existing customers or vendors or pursue business opportunities in Russia or Ukraine, it could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
Reworded paragraphs (23)

Previous wording

You should carefully consider all of the information in this document and the following risk factors before making an investment decision regarding our securities. Any of the following risks could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations, cash flows and the actual outcome of matters as to which forward-looking statement are made in this document.

Current wording

You should carefully consider all of the information in this document and the following risk factors before making an investment decision regarding our securities. Any of the following risks could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations, cash flows and the actual outcome of matters as to which forward-looking statements are made in this document.

Previous wording

We compete in various geographic regions and product markets around the world. Among these, the most significant are global industrial, commercial and residential, infrastructure and energy markets. We expect to experience fluctuations in revenues and results of operations due to economic and business cycles. Important factors for our business and the businesses of our customers include the overall strength of the global economy and our customers’ confidence in the economy, industrial and governmental capital spending, the strength of commercial and residential and infrastructure markets, unemployment rates, availability of commercial financing, interest rates, inflation rates, and energy and commodity prices. Recessions, economic downturns, inflation, slowing economic growth and social and political instability in the industries and/or markets where we compete could negatively affect our revenues and financial performance in future periods, result in future restructuring charges, and adversely impact our ability to grow or sustain our business. Macroeconomic and political instability caused by global supply chain disruptions, inflation and the strengthening of the U.S. dollar could adversely impact our results of operations. In addition, military conflicts and their impact on economies may adversely impact our results of operations. The businesses of many of our industrial customers are to varying degrees cyclical and have experienced periodic downturns. In addition, demand for a portion of our products and services depends upon the level of capital expenditure by companies in the energy industry, which depends, in part, on prices of oil and gas, which are volatile and declines in such prices may result in suspensions or delays in large capital projects within the energy sector. While we attempt to minimize our exposure to economic or market fluctuations by serving a balanced mix of end markets and geographic regions, any of the above factors, individually or in the aggregate, or a significant or sustained downturn in a specific end market or geographic region could reduce demand for our products and services, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

Current wording

We compete in various geographic regions and product markets around the world. Among these, the most significant are global industrial, infrastructure and commercial and residential markets. We expect to experience fluctuations in revenues and results of operations due to economic and business cycles. Important factors for our business and the businesses of our customers include the overall strength of the global economy and our customers’ confidence in the economy, industrial and governmental capital spending, the strength of infrastructure and commercial and residential markets, unemployment rates, availability of commercial financing, interest rates, inflation rates, and energy and commodity prices. Recessions, economic downturns, inflation, slowing economic growth and social and political instability in the industries and/or markets where we compete could negatively affect our revenues and financial performance in future periods, result in future restructuring charges, and adversely impact our ability to grow or sustain our business. Macroeconomic and political instability caused by global supply chain disruptions, inflation and the strengthening of the U.S. dollar could adversely impact our results of operations. In addition, military conflicts and their impact on economies may adversely impact our results of operations. The businesses of many of our industrial customers are to varying degrees cyclical and have experienced periodic downturns. While we attempt to minimize our exposure to economic or market fluctuations by serving a balanced mix of end markets and geographic regions, any of the above factors, individually or in the aggregate, or a significant or sustained downturn in a specific end market or geographic region could reduce demand for our products and services, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

Previous wording

In 2023 and 2022, we experienced inflationary increases of raw materials, logistics and labor costs due to availability constraints and high demand. We strive for productivity improvements and implement increases in selling prices to help mitigate cost increases in raw materials, freight, energy, wage and other costs such as pension, health care and insurance. We continue to implement operational initiatives in order to mitigate the impact of this inflation and continuously reduce our costs. However, these actions may not be successful in managing our costs or increasing our productivity. Continued cost inflation or failure of our initiatives to increase prices, generate cost savings or improve productivity could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

Current wording

In 2024 and 2023, we experienced inflationary increases of raw materials, logistics and labor costs. We strive for productivity improvements and implement increases in selling prices to help mitigate cost increases in raw materials, freight, energy, wage and other costs such as pension, health care and insurance. We continue to implement operational initiatives in order to mitigate the impact of this inflation and continuously reduce our costs. However, these actions may not be successful in managing our costs or increasing our productivity. Continued cost inflation or failure of our initiatives to increase prices, generate cost savings or improve productivity could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

Previous wording

Our business is subject to risks associated with global manufacturing and sourcing. We use a variety of raw materials in the production of our products including steel, electronic components, plastics, copper and paints. We also purchase certain electrical and packaging materials from a number of suppliers. During 2022, we experienced inflationary increases of raw materials, logistics, labor and energy costs, and supply chain challenges, including increased lead times due to availability constraints and high demand. During 2023, supply chain challenges moderated, but we continued to experience inflationary increases, primarily related to labor costs. Although we regularly monitor the financial health and operations of companies in our supply chain, and use alternative suppliers when necessary and available, supply chain constraints could cause a disruption in our ability to obtain raw materials or components required to manufacture our products and adversely affect our operations. Significant shortages in the availability of these materials or price increases could increase our operating costs and adversely impact the competitive positions of our products. We rely on materials, components and finished goods that are sourced from or manufactured in locations outside the U.S., including Mexico, China and other countries, and these countries may experience political or trade instability, which could disrupt our supply of products or materials. We rely on our suppliers to produce high quality materials, components and finished goods according to our specifications. Although we have quality control procedures in place, there is a risk that products may not meet our specifications which could impact our ability to ship quality products to our customers on a timely basis.

Current wording

Our business is subject to risks associated with global manufacturing and sourcing. We use a variety of raw materials in the production of our products including steel, copper, aluminum and paints. We also purchase certain electronic components, electrical and packaging materials from a number of suppliers. Although we regularly monitor the financial health and operations of companies in our supply chain, and use alternative suppliers when necessary and available, supply chain constraints could cause a disruption in our ability to obtain raw materials or components required to manufacture our products and adversely affect our operations. Significant shortages in the availability of these materials or price increases could increase our operating costs and adversely impact the competitive positions of our products. We rely on materials, components and finished goods that are sourced from or manufactured in locations outside the U.S., including Mexico, China and other countries, and these countries may experience political or trade instability, which could disrupt our supply of products or materials. We rely on our suppliers to produce high quality materials, components and finished goods according to our specifications. Although we have quality control procedures in place, there is a risk that products may not meet our specifications which could impact our ability to ship quality products to our customers on a timely basis.

Previous wording

Our backlog is comprised of the portion of firm signed purchase orders or other written contractual commitments received from customers that we have not recognized as revenue. Backlog may increase or decrease based on the addition of large multi-year projects and their subsequent completion. Backlog may also be favorably or unfavorably affected by foreign currency rate fluctuations. The dollar amount of backlog as of December 31, 2023 was $639.1 million. The timing of our recognition of revenue out of our backlog is subject to a variety of factors that may cause delays, many of which, including fluctuations in our customers’ delivery schedules, are beyond our control. Such delays may lead to significant fluctuations in results of operations from quarter to quarter, making it difficult to predict our financial performance on a quarterly basis. Further, while we have historically experienced few order cancellations and the amount of order cancellations has not been material compared to our total contract volume, if we were to experience a significant amount of cancellations of or reductions in purchase orders, it would reduce our backlog and, consequently, our future sales and could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

Current wording

Our backlog is comprised of the portion of firm signed purchase orders or other written contractual commitments received from customers that we have not recognized as revenue. Backlog may increase or decrease based on the addition of large multi-year projects and their subsequent completion. Backlog may also be favorably or unfavorably affected by foreign currency rate fluctuations. The dollar amount of backlog as of December 31, 2024 was $749.3 million. The timing of our recognition of revenue out of our backlog is subject to a variety of factors that may cause delays, many of which, including fluctuations in our customers’ delivery schedules, are beyond our control. Such delays may lead to significant fluctuations in results of operations from quarter to quarter, making it difficult to predict our financial performance on a quarterly basis. Further, while we have historically experienced few order cancellations and the amount of order cancellations has not been material compared to our total contract volume, if we were to experience a significant amount of cancellations of or reductions in purchase orders, it would reduce our backlog and, consequently, our future sales and could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

Previous wording

Our future revenue and overall results of operations require us to successfully bid on new contracts and, in particular, contracts for large greenfield projects, which are frequently subject to competitive bidding processes. Our revenue from major projects depends in part on the level of capital expenditures in some of our principal end markets, including the energy, chemical processing and power generation industries. The number of such projects we win in any year fluctuates, and is dependent upon the number of projects available and our ability to bid successfully for such projects. Contract proposals and negotiations are complex and frequently involve a lengthy bidding and selection process, which is affected by a number of factors, such as competitive position, market conditions, financing arrangements and required governmental approvals. If negative market conditions arise, or if we fail to secure adequate financial arrangements or required governmental approvals, we may not be able to pursue particular projects or win new contracts, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

Current wording

Our future revenue and overall results of operations require us to successfully bid on new contracts and, in particular, contracts for large greenfield projects, which are frequently subject to competitive bidding processes. Our revenue from major projects depends in part on the level of capital expenditures in some of our principal end markets, particularly in the infrastructure vertical, which includes our data solutions and power utilities businesses. The number of such projects we win in any year fluctuates, and is dependent upon the number of projects available and our ability to bid successfully for such projects. Contract proposals and negotiations are complex and frequently involve a lengthy bidding and selection process, which is affected by a number of factors, such as competitive position, market conditions, financing arrangements and required governmental approvals. If negative market conditions arise, or if we fail to secure adequate financial arrangements or required governmental approvals, we may not be able to pursue particular projects or win new contracts, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

Previous wording

Sales outside of the U.S. for the year ended December 31, 2023 accounted for approximately 34% of our net sales. Further, our business obtains some products, components and raw materials from non-U.S. suppliers. Accordingly, our business is subject to the political, regulatory, economic and other risks that are inherent in operating in numerous countries. These risks include:

Current wording

Sales outside of the U.S. for the year ended December 31, 2024 accounted for approximately 28% of our net sales. Further, our business obtains some products, components and raw materials from non-U.S. suppliers. Accordingly, our business is subject to the political, regulatory, economic and other risks that are inherent in operating in numerous countries. These risks include:

Previous wording

•the imposition of tariffs, sanctions, duties, exchange controls, currency restrictions or other trade restrictions;

Current wording

•changes in diplomatic and trade relationships, as well as the imposition of tariffs, sanctions, duties, exchange controls, currency restrictions or other trade restrictions;

Previous wording

We test goodwill and other indefinite-lived intangible assets for impairment on at least an annual basis, and more frequently if circumstances warrant, by comparing the estimated fair value of our reporting unit to its respective carrying values on its balance sheets. As of December 31, 2023, our goodwill and intangible assets were $4.1 billion and represented 66% of our total assets. Changes in economic and operating conditions impacting the assumptions used in our impairment tests could result in future goodwill and intangible asset impairment expense.

Current wording

We test goodwill and other indefinite-lived intangible assets for impairment on at least an annual basis, and more frequently if circumstances warrant, by comparing the estimated fair value of our reporting unit to its respective carrying values on its balance sheets. As of December 31, 2024, our goodwill and intangible assets were $3.8 billion and represented 57% of our total assets. Changes in economic and operating conditions impacting the assumptions used in our impairment tests could result in future goodwill and intangible asset impairment expense.

Previous wording

Changes in U.S. and foreign government administrative policy, including changes to existing trade agreements and U.S government sanctions, could have a material adverse effect on us.

Current wording

Changes in U.S. and foreign government administrative policy, including the imposition of or increases in tariffs and changes to existing trade agreements could have a material adverse effect on us.

Previous wording

As a result of changes to U.S. and foreign government administrative policy, there may be changes to existing trade agreements, greater restrictions on free trade generally, significant increases in tariffs on goods imported into the U.S. particularly tariffs on products manufactured in China, Canada and Mexico, among other possible changes.

Current wording

As a result of changes to U.S. and foreign government administrative policy, there may be changes to existing trade agreements, greater restrictions on free trade generally, the imposition of or significant increases in tariffs on goods imported into the U.S. particularly tariffs on products manufactured in China, Canada and Mexico, and adverse responses by foreign governments to U.S. trade policies, among other possible changes. The U.S. administration has announced it intends to implement or increase tariffs and it remains unclear what the U.S. administration or foreign governments will or will not do with respect to tariffs or trade agreements and policies. A trade war, other governmental action related to tariffs or trade agreements, changes in U.S. social, political, regulatory and economic conditions or in laws and policies governing foreign trade, manufacturing, development and investment in the territories and countries where we currently purchase, manufacture and sell products, and any resulting negative sentiments towards the U.S. as a result of such changes, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

Previous wording

The U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act and similar anti-corruption laws in other jurisdictions generally prohibit companies and their intermediaries from making improper payments to government officials or other persons for the purpose of obtaining or retaining business. We operate in many parts of the world that are recognized as having governmental and commercial corruption and in certain circumstances, strict compliance with anti-bribery laws may conflict with local customs and practices. Because many of our customers and end users are involved in infrastructure construction and energy production, they are often subject to increased scrutiny by regulators.

Current wording

The U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act and similar anti-corruption laws in other jurisdictions generally prohibit companies and their intermediaries from making improper payments to government officials or other persons for the purpose of obtaining or retaining business. We operate in many parts of the world that are recognized as having governmental and commercial corruption and in certain circumstances, strict compliance with anti-bribery laws may conflict with local customs and practices. Because many of our customers and end users are involved in infrastructure construction, they are often subject to increased scrutiny by regulators.

Previous wording

Climate change is receiving ever increasing attention worldwide. Many scientists, legislators and others attribute global warming to increased levels of greenhouse gases, which has led to significant legislative and regulatory efforts to limit greenhouse gas emissions. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency ("EPA") has published findings that emissions of carbon dioxide, methane, and other greenhouse gases ("GHGs") present an endangerment to public health and the environment because emissions of such gases are, according to the EPA, contributing to the warming of the earth's atmosphere and other climate changes. Based on these findings, the EPA has implemented regulations that require reporting of GHG emissions, or that limit emissions of GHGs from certain mobile or stationary sources. In addition, various federal, state and international regulatory agencies have considered other legislation and regulatory proposals to reduce emissions of GHGs, and many have already taken legal measures to reduce emissions of GHGs, primarily through the development of carbon tax, GHG inventories, GHG permitting and/or regional GHG cap-and-trade programs. It is uncertain whether, when and in what form a federal mandatory carbon dioxide emissions reduction program, or other state or international programs, may be adopted. To the extent our customers, particularly our energy and industrial customers, are subject to any of these or other similar proposed or newly enacted laws and regulations, we are exposed to risks that the additional costs incurred by customers to comply with such laws and regulations could impact their ability or desire to continue to operate at similar levels in certain jurisdictions as historically seen or as currently anticipated, which could negatively impact their demand for our products and services. These actions could also increase costs associated with our operations, including costs for raw materials and transportation. Because it is uncertain what laws will be enacted, we cannot predict the potential impact of such laws on our future financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

Current wording

Climate change is receiving ever increasing attention worldwide. Many scientists, legislators and others attribute global warming to increased levels of greenhouse gases, which has led to significant legislative and regulatory efforts to limit greenhouse gas emissions. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency ("EPA") has published findings that emissions of carbon dioxide, methane, and other greenhouse gases ("GHGs") present an endangerment to public health and the environment because emissions of such gases are, according to the EPA, contributing to the warming of the earth's atmosphere and other climate changes. Based on these findings, the EPA has implemented regulations that require reporting of GHG emissions, or that limit emissions of GHGs from certain mobile or stationary sources. In addition, various federal, state and international regulatory agencies have considered other legislation and regulatory proposals to reduce emissions of GHGs, and many have already taken legal measures to reduce emissions of GHGs, primarily through the development of carbon tax, GHG inventories, GHG permitting and/or regional GHG cap-and-trade programs. It is uncertain whether, when and in what form a federal mandatory carbon dioxide emissions reduction program, or other state or international programs, may be adopted. To the extent our customers, particularly our industrial customers, are subject to any of these or other similar proposed or newly enacted laws and regulations, we are exposed to risks that the additional costs incurred by customers to comply with such laws and regulations could impact their ability or desire to continue to operate at similar levels in certain jurisdictions as historically seen or as currently anticipated, which could negatively impact their demand for our products and services. These actions could also increase costs associated with our operations, including costs for raw materials and transportation. Because it is uncertain what laws will be enacted, we cannot predict the potential impact of such laws on our future financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

Previous wording

Further, we are subject to additional federal, state, international and national European and U.S. regulations relating to climate and environmental risk, which are continually evolving. Regulators in Europe and the U.S. have focused efforts on increased disclosure related to climate change and mitigation efforts. The European Union recently adopted the European Sustainability Reporting Standards and the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive ("CSRD") that will impose disclosure of the risks and opportunities arising from social and environmental issues, and on the impact of companies’ activities on people and the environment. Similarly, the State of California recently passed the Climate Corporate Data Accountability Act and the Climate-

Current wording

Further, we are subject to additional federal, state, international and national European and U.S. regulations relating to climate and environmental risk, which are continually evolving. Regulators in Europe and the U.S. have focused efforts on increased disclosure related to climate change and mitigation efforts. The European Union adopted the European Sustainability Reporting Standards and the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive ("CSRD") that imposes disclosure of the risks and opportunities arising from social and environmental issues, and on the impact of companies’ activities on people and the environment. Similarly, the State of California recently passed the Climate Corporate Data Accountability Act and the Climate-Related Financial Risk Act that will impose broad climate-related disclosure obligations on certain companies doing business in California, including us, starting in 2026. We will likely need to be prepared to contend with overlapping, yet distinct, climate-related disclosure requirements in multiple jurisdictions. Compliance may significantly increase compliance burdens and associated regulatory costs and complexity, and the failure to comply with such legislation and regulations could result in fines to us, and could affect our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

Previous wording

As investors and other stakeholders are increasingly focused on ESG matters, and as stakeholder ESG expectations and standards are evolving, we may not be able to sufficiently respond to these evolving standards and expectations. Furthermore, we could be criticized for the accuracy or completeness of the disclosure of our ESG initiatives. If we are unable to meet our targets or successfully implement our strategy, or our ESG reporting is inaccurate or incomplete, then we could suffer from reputational damage and incur adverse reaction from investors and other stakeholders, which could adversely impact the perception of our brands and our products and services by current and potential investors and customers, which could in turn adversely impact our business, results of operations or financial condition.

Current wording

As investors and other stakeholders are increasingly focused on sustainability matters, and as stakeholder sustainability expectations and standards are evolving, we may not be able to sufficiently respond to these evolving standards and expectations. Furthermore, we could be criticized for the accuracy or completeness of the disclosure of our sustainability initiatives. If we are unable to meet our targets or successfully implement our strategy, or our sustainability reporting is inaccurate or incomplete, then we could suffer from reputational damage and incur adverse reaction from investors and other stakeholders, which could adversely impact the perception of our brands and our products and services by current and potential investors and customers, which could in turn adversely impact our business, results of operations or financial condition.

Previous wording

Cybersecurity threats from user error to attacks designed to gain unauthorized access to our systems, networks and data are increasing in frequency and sophistication. These threats pose a risk to the security of our systems and networks and the confidentiality, availability and integrity of the data we process and maintain and pose a risk of theft to our assets. Establishing systems and processes to address these threats and changes in legal requirements relating to data collection and storage may increase our costs. We have experienced cybersecurity incidents, and, although we have determined such cybersecurity incidents to be immaterial and such incidents have not had a material adverse effect on our business strategy, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows, there can be no assurance of similar results in the future. Should future attacks succeed, it could expose us and our employees, customers, distributors and suppliers to the theft of assets, misuse of information or systems, the compromising of confidential information, manipulation and destruction of data, product failures, production downtimes and operations disruptions. The occurrence of any of these events could have a material adverse effect on our reputation, business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. In addition, such cybersecurity incidents could result in litigation, regulatory action and potential liability and the costs and operational consequences of implementing further cybersecurity measures.

Current wording

Cybersecurity threats from user error to attacks designed to gain unauthorized access to our systems, networks and data are increasing in frequency and sophistication. These threats pose a risk to the security of our systems and networks and the confidentiality, availability and integrity of the data we process and maintain and pose a risk of theft to our assets. The risk of cybersecurity attacks may increase as artificial intelligence capabilities improve and are increasingly used to identify vulnerabilities and construct increasingly sophisticated cybersecurity attacks, with the possibility of additional vulnerabilities being introduced through our own use of artificial intelligence and its use by our stakeholders, including vendors and customers. Establishing systems and processes to address these threats and changes in legal requirements relating to data collection and storage may increase our costs. Previous cybersecurity incidents have not materially affected us, including our business strategy, results of operations or financial condition. There can be no assurance of similar results in the future. Should future attacks succeed, it could expose us and our employees, customers, distributors and suppliers to the theft of assets, misuse of information or systems, the compromising of confidential information, manipulation and destruction of data, product failures, production downtimes and operations disruptions. The occurrence of any of these events could have a material adverse effect on our reputation, business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. In addition, such cybersecurity incidents could result in litigation, regulatory action and potential liability and the costs and operational consequences of implementing further cybersecurity measures.

Previous wording

We collect and store data that is sensitive to us and our employees, customers, dealers and suppliers. A variety of state, national, foreign and international laws and regulations apply to the collection, use, retention, protection, security, disclosure, transfer and other processing of personal and other data. Many foreign data privacy regulations, including the General Data Protection Regulation (the “GDPR”) in the European Union and the U.K., are more stringent than federal regulations in the United States. Within the United States, many states are considering adopting, or have already adopted privacy regulations, including, for example, the California Consumer Privacy Act. These laws and regulations are rapidly evolving and changing, and could have an adverse effect on our operations. Companies’ obligations and requirements under these laws and regulations are subject to uncertainty in how they may be interpreted by courts and governmental authorities. The costs of compliance with, and the other burdens imposed by, these and other laws or regulatory actions may increase our operational costs, and/or result in interruptions or delays in the availability of systems. In the case of non-compliance with these laws, including the GDPR, regulators have the authority to levy significant fines. In addition, if there is a breach of privacy, we may be required to make notifications under data privacy laws or regulations, or could become subject to litigation. The occurrence of any of these events could have a material adverse effect on our reputation, business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

Current wording

We collect and store data that is sensitive to us and our employees, customers, distributors and suppliers. A variety of state, national, foreign and international laws and regulations apply to the collection, use, retention, protection, security, disclosure, transfer and other processing of personal and other data. Many foreign data privacy regulations, including the General Data Protection Regulation (the “GDPR”) in the European Union and the U.K., are more stringent than federal regulations in the United States. Within the United States, many states are considering adopting, or have already adopted privacy regulations, including, for example, the California Consumer Privacy Act. These laws and regulations are rapidly evolving and changing, and could have an adverse effect on our operations. Companies’ obligations and requirements under these laws and regulations are subject to uncertainty in how they may be interpreted by courts and governmental authorities. The costs of compliance with, and the other burdens imposed by, these and other laws or regulatory actions may increase our operational costs, and/or result in interruptions or delays in the availability of systems. In the case of non-compliance with these laws, including the GDPR, regulators have the authority to levy significant fines. In addition, if there is a breach of privacy, we may be required to make notifications under data privacy laws or regulations, or could become subject to litigation. The occurrence of any of these events could have a material adverse effect on our reputation, business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

Previous wording

As of December 31, 2023, we had $1.8 billion of total debt on a consolidated basis. Our indebtedness increased materially in connection with the ECM Industries acquisition. We funded the ECM Industries acquisition with borrowings under the 2023 Term Loan Facility and net proceeds from the issuance of the 2033 Notes (described more fully in ITEM 8, Note 9 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements), together with cash on hand and borrowings under our revolving credit facility, for an aggregate amount of approximately $900.0 million of new indebtedness in connection with the ECM Industries acquisition. We and our subsidiaries may incur additional indebtedness in the future, subject to limitations in our debt agreements. This increase and any future increases in our level of indebtedness will have several important effects on our future operations, including, without limitation:

Current wording

As of December 31, 2024, we had $2.2 billion of total debt on a consolidated basis. We and our subsidiaries may incur additional indebtedness in the future, subject to limitations in our debt agreements. This increase and any future increases in our level of indebtedness will have several important effects on our future operations, including, without limitation:

Previous wording

Sales outside of the U.S. for the year ended December 31, 2023 accounted for approximately 34% of our net sales. Our financial statements reflect translation of items denominated in non-U.S. currencies to U.S. dollars. Therefore, if the U.S. dollar strengthens in relation to the principal non-U.S. currencies from which we derive revenue as compared to a prior period, our U.S. dollar-reported revenue and income will effectively be decreased to the extent of the change in currency valuations and vice-versa. For the year ended December 31, 2023, foreign currency translations did not have an impact on our net sales. Fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates, most notably the strengthening of the U.S. dollar against the euro, could have a material adverse effect on our reported revenue and income in future periods.

Current wording

Sales outside of the U.S. for the year ended December 31, 2024 accounted for approximately 28% of our net sales. Our financial statements reflect translation of items denominated in non-U.S. currencies to U.S. dollars. Therefore, if the U.S. dollar strengthens in relation to the principal non-U.S. currencies from which we derive revenue as compared to a prior period, our U.S. dollar-reported revenue and income will effectively be decreased to the extent of the change in currency valuations and vice-versa. For the year ended December 31, 2024, foreign currency translations did not have an impact on our net sales. Fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates, most notably the strengthening of the U.S. dollar against the euro, could have a material adverse effect on our reported revenue and income in future periods.

Previous wording

In the normal course of our business, we may access credit markets for general corporate purposes, which may include repayment of indebtedness, acquisitions, additions to working capital, repurchase of shares, capital expenditures and investments in our subsidiaries. Although we expect to have sufficient liquidity to meet our foreseeable needs, our access to and the cost of capital could be negatively impacted by disruptions in the credit markets, which have occurred in the past and made financing terms for borrowers unattractive or unavailable. These factors may make it more difficult or expensive for us to access credit markets if the need arises. In addition, these factors may make it more difficult for our suppliers to meet demand for their products or for prospective customers to commence new projects, as customers and suppliers may experience increased costs of debt financing or difficulties in obtaining debt financing. Disruptions in the financial markets in the past have had adverse effects on other areas of the economy and have led to a slowdown in general economic activity that may adversely affect our businesses. One or more of these factors could adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

Current wording

In the normal course of our business, we may access credit markets for general corporate purposes, which may include repayment of indebtedness, acquisitions, additions to working capital, repurchase of shares and capital expenditures. Although we expect to have sufficient liquidity to meet our foreseeable needs, our access to and the cost of capital could be negatively impacted by disruptions in the credit markets, which have occurred in the past and made financing terms for borrowers unattractive or unavailable. These factors may make it more difficult or expensive for us to access credit markets if the need arises. In addition, these factors may make it more difficult for our suppliers to meet demand for their products or for prospective customers to commence new projects, as customers and suppliers may experience increased costs of debt financing or difficulties in obtaining debt financing. Disruptions in the financial markets in the past have had adverse effects on other areas of the economy and have led to a slowdown in general economic activity that may adversely affect our businesses. One or more of these factors could adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

Previous wording

While we believe that we should be able to maintain a worldwide effective corporate tax rate that is competitive in our industry, we cannot give any assurance as to what our effective tax rate will be in the future, because of, among other things, uncertainty regarding the tax policies of the jurisdictions where we operate. Our actual effective tax rate may vary from our expectation and that variance may be material. Also, the tax laws of the U.S., the U.K., Ireland and other jurisdictions could change in the future, and such changes could cause a material change in our worldwide effective corporate tax rate. For example, several countries in which we operate, including the U.K., have begun to enact legislation to implement the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development's international tax framework, including the Pillar II Model Rules for a global 15.0% minimum tax regime with effect from January 1, 2024 or later. We expect the Pillar II global minimum tax regime will negatively impact our effective tax rate and results of operations beginning in 2024. In addition, legislative or administrative action could be taken by the U.S., the U.K., Ireland or the European Union which could override tax treaties or modify tax statutes or regulations upon which we expect to rely, limit the availability of tax benefits or deductions we currently claim or otherwise affect the taxes imposed on our worldwide operations and materially adversely affect our effective tax rate. We cannot predict the outcome of any specific legislative proposals. If proposals were enacted that had the effect of disregarding our incorporation in Ireland or limiting our ability as an Irish company to maintain tax residency in the U.K. and take advantage of the tax treaties among the U.S., the U.K. and Ireland, we could be subject to increased taxation, which could materially adversely affect our financial condition, results of operations, cash flows or our effective tax rate in future reporting periods.

Current wording

While we believe that we should be able to maintain a worldwide effective corporate tax rate that is competitive in our industry, we cannot give any assurance as to what our effective tax rate will be in the future, because of, among other things, uncertainty regarding the tax policies of the jurisdictions where we operate. Our actual effective tax rate may vary from our expectation and that variance may be material. Also, the tax laws of the U.S., the U.K., Ireland and other jurisdictions could change in the future, and such changes could cause a material change in our worldwide effective corporate tax rate. For example, the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development introduced an international tax framework under Pillar II (the "Pillar II framework") which includes a global minimum tax of 15%. The Pillar II framework has been implemented by several jurisdictions, including jurisdictions in which we operate, with effect from January 1, 2024, which resulted in an increase to our effective tax rate in 2024. In addition, legislative or administrative action could be taken by the U.S., the U.K., Ireland or the European Union which could override tax treaties or modify tax statutes or regulations upon which we expect to rely, limit the availability of tax benefits or deductions we currently claim or otherwise affect the taxes imposed on our worldwide operations and materially adversely affect our effective tax rate. We cannot predict the outcome of any specific legislative proposals. If proposals were enacted that had the effect of disregarding our incorporation in Ireland or limiting our ability as an Irish company to maintain tax residency in the U.K. and take advantage of the tax treaties among the U.S., the U.K. and Ireland, we could be subject to increased taxation, which could materially adversely affect our financial condition, results of operations, cash flows or our effective tax rate in future reporting periods.

Previous wording

•the operating and share price performance of other comparable companies;

Current wording

•the operating and share price performance of other comparable companies or of companies in industries that are our customers;

Previous wording

If operations at any of our manufacturing facilities or those of our suppliers were to be disrupted as a result of significant equipment failures, natural disasters, earthquakes, power outages, fires, explosions, terrorism, military conflicts, cybersecurity incidents, adverse weather conditions, labor disputes, public health epidemics or other catastrophic events or events outside of our control, we may be unable to fill customer orders and otherwise meet customer demand for our products. In addition, these types of events may negatively impact consumer, commercial and industrial spending in impacted regions or, depending on the severity, globally. As a result, any of such events could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. Interruptions in production, in particular at our manufacturing facilities, could increase our costs and reduce our sales. Any interruption in production capability could require us to make substantial capital expenditures to fill customer orders. We maintain property damage insurance that we believe to be adequate to provide for reconstruction of facilities and equipment, as well as business interruption insurance to mitigate losses resulting from any production interruption or shutdown caused by an insured loss. However, any recovery under our insurance policies may not offset the lost sales or increased costs that may be experienced during the disruption of operations, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

Current wording

If operations at any of our manufacturing facilities or those of our suppliers were to be disrupted as a result of significant equipment failures, natural disasters, earthquakes, power outages, fires, explosions, terrorism, military conflicts, international hostilities, cybersecurity incidents, adverse weather conditions, labor disputes, public health epidemics or other catastrophic events or events outside of our control, we may be unable to fill customer orders and otherwise meet customer demand for our products. In addition, these types of events may negatively impact consumer, commercial and industrial spending in impacted regions or, depending on the severity, globally. As a result, any of such events could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. Interruptions in production, in particular at our manufacturing facilities, could increase our costs and reduce our sales. Any interruption in production capability could require us to make substantial capital expenditures to fill customer orders. We maintain property damage insurance that we believe to be adequate to provide for reconstruction of facilities and equipment, as well as business interruption insurance to mitigate losses resulting from any production interruption or shutdown caused by an insured loss. However, any recovery under our insurance policies may not offset the lost sales or increased costs that may be experienced during the disruption of operations, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
Rearranged previous paragraphs (2)

Previous report — wording carried elsewhere

Changes in U.S. social, political, regulatory and economic conditions or in laws and policies governing foreign trade, manufacturing, development and investment in the territories and countries where we currently manufacture and sell products, and any resulting negative sentiments towards the U.S. as a result of such changes, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

Previous report — wording carried elsewhere

Related Financial Risk Act that will impose broad climate-related disclosure obligations on certain companies doing business in California, including us, starting in 2026. The SEC has included in its regulatory agenda potential rulemaking on climate change disclosures. We will likely need to be prepared to contend with overlapping, yet distinct, climate-related disclosure requirements in multiple jurisdictions. Compliance may significantly increase compliance burdens and associated regulatory costs and complexity, and the failure to comply with such legislation and regulations could result in fines to us, and could affect our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.