Fortrea Holdings Inc

Previous wording

•Our customer or therapeutic area concentration may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.

Current wording

•Our customer or therapeutic area concentrations may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.

Previous wording

•Our debt and debt covenants may limit cash flow available to invest in our business.

Current wording

•Costs associated with our debt and debt covenants may limit cash flow available to invest in our business.

Previous wording

•insufficient patient enrollment in a trial;

Current wording

•insufficient patient enrollment in a trial, competition for patients and/or insufficient principal investigator recruitment;

Previous wording

•shift of business to a competitor or internal resources;

Current wording

•shift of business to a competitor or internal resources; or

Previous wording

Furthermore, many of our FSP and consulting services are tied to a customer’s annual budgets or ad hoc service requests, which can lead to seasonal variability in revenue and less predictability in future revenues. In addition, many of these service contracts provide our customers with the opportunity to internalize the resources provided under the contract and terminate all or a portion of the services we provide under the contract. Our customers may also decide to shift their business to a competitor. Each of these factors results in less visibility to future revenues and may result in high volatility in future revenues.

Current wording

Furthermore, many of our FSP and consulting services are tied to a customer’s annual budgets or ad hoc service requests, which can lead to seasonal variability in revenue and less predictability in future revenues. In addition, many of these service contracts provide our customers with the opportunity to internalize the resources provided under the contract and terminate all or a portion of the services we provide under the contract. Our customers may also decide to shift their business to a competitor. Each of these factors could lead to less visibility to future revenues and may result in high volatility in future revenues.

Previous wording

Our international operations expose us to risks from potential failure to comply with foreign laws and regulations that differ from those under which we operate in the U.S. In addition, we may be adversely affected by other risks of expanded operations in foreign countries, including, but not limited to, compliance with export controls and trade regulations; changes in tax policies or other foreign laws; compliance with foreign labor and employee relations laws and regulations; restrictions on currency repatriation; judicial systems that less strictly enforce contractual rights; countries that do not have clear or well-established laws and regulations concerning issues relating to drug development services; countries that provide less protection for intellectual property rights; procedures and actions affecting approval, production, pricing, reimbursement and marketing of products and services; changes in international taxes or tariffs; and geopolitical tensions and acts of war. Further, international operations could subject us to additional expenses that we may not fully anticipate, including those related to enhanced time and resources necessary to comply with foreign laws and regulations, difficulty in collecting accounts receivable and longer collection periods, and difficulties and costs of staffing and managing foreign operations. In some countries, our success will depend in part on our ability to form relationships with local partners. Our inability to identify appropriate partners or reach mutually satisfactory arrangements could adversely affect the business and operations.

Current wording

Due to a strategic footprint of primary office locations in five countries with field operations worldwide, our international operations expose us to risks from potential failure to comply with foreign laws and regulations that differ from those under which we operate in the U.S. In addition, we may be adversely affected by other risks of expanded operations in foreign countries, including, but not limited to, compliance with export controls and trade regulations; changes in tax policies or other foreign laws; compliance with foreign labor and employee relations laws and regulations; restrictions on currency repatriation; judicial systems that less strictly enforce contractual rights; countries that do not have clear or well-established laws and regulations concerning issues relating to drug development services; countries that provide less protection for intellectual property rights; procedures and actions affecting approval, production, pricing, reimbursement and marketing of products and services; changes in international taxes or tariffs; and geopolitical tensions and acts of war. Further, international operations could subject us to additional expenses that we may not fully anticipate, including those related to enhanced time and resources necessary to comply with foreign laws and regulations, difficulty in collecting accounts receivable and longer collection periods, and difficulties and costs of staffing and managing foreign operations. In some countries, our success will depend in part on our ability to form relationships with local partners. Our inability to identify appropriate partners or reach mutually satisfactory arrangements could adversely affect our business and operations.

Previous wording

Our embedded and functional outsourcing services could subject us to employment liability, which may cause adverse effects on our business.

Current wording

Embedded and functional outsourcing services associated with our FSP delivery models could subject us to employment liability, which may cause adverse effects on our business.

Previous wording

Our customer or therapeutic area concentration may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.

Current wording

Our customer or therapeutic area concentrations may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.

Previous wording

If any large customer decreases or terminates its relationship with us, our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows could be materially adversely affected. For the year ended December 31, 2023, our top ten customers based on revenue accounted for approximately 47% of our consolidated revenue and our top ten customers based on backlog accounted for approximately 53% of our total backlog. For the year ended December 31, 2023, one customer accounted for approximately 10.6% of revenue. It is possible that an even greater portion of our revenues will be attributable to a smaller number of customers in the future, including as a result of our entering into strategic provider relationships with customers. Also, consolidation in our potential customer base results in increased competition for important market segments and fewer available customer accounts.

Current wording

We experience termination, cancellation and non-renewal of contracts by our customers in the ordinary course of business, and the number and dollar value of cancellations can vary significantly from year to year. If any large customer materially decreases or terminates its relationship with us and we fail to add new customers or expand services to other existing customers to replace lost revenue, our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows could be materially adversely affected. For the year ended December 31, 2024, our top ten customers based on revenue accounted for approximately 53% of our consolidated revenue and our top ten customers based on backlog accounted for approximately 51% of our total backlog. For the year ended December 31, 2024, two customers accounted for approximately 14.3% and 10.5% of revenue. It is possible that an even greater portion of our revenues will be attributable to a smaller number of customers in the future, including as a result of our entering into strategic provider relationships with customers. Also, consolidation in our potential customer base results in increased competition for important market segments and fewer available customer accounts.

Previous wording

The rate at which our backlog converts to revenue may vary over time. The revenue recognition on larger, more global projects could be slower than on smaller, more regional projects for a variety of reasons, including, but not limited to, an extended period of negotiation between the time the project is awarded to us and the actual execution of the contract, as well as an increased timeframe for obtaining the necessary regulatory approvals.

Current wording

The rate at which our backlog converts to revenue may vary over time. The revenue recognition on larger, more global projects could be slower than on smaller, more regional projects for a variety of reasons, including, but not limited to, an extended period of coordination from the time the project is awarded and the actual execution of the contract, as well as an increased timeframe for obtaining the necessary regulatory approvals.

Previous wording

Our backlog as of December 31, 2023 was $7.4 billion. Although an increase in backlog will generally result in an increase in revenues over time, an increase in backlog at a particular point in time does not necessarily correspond directly to an increase in revenues during any particular period, or at all. The extent to which contracts in backlog will result in revenue depends on many factors, including, but not limited to, delivery against project schedules, scope changes, contract terminations and the nature, duration, and complexity of the contracts, and can vary significantly over time.

Current wording

Our backlog as of December 31, 2024 was $7.7 billion. Although an increase in backlog will generally result in an increase in revenues over time, an increase in backlog at a particular point in time does not necessarily correspond directly to an increase in revenues during any particular period, or at all. The extent to which contracts in backlog will result in revenue depends on many factors, including, but not limited to, delivery against project schedules, scope changes, contract terminations and the nature, duration, and complexity of the contracts, and can vary significantly over time.

Previous wording

We depend on third parties to provide services critical to our business, including, but not limited to, investigators and clinical trial sites, IT services, laboratory services, third-party transportation and travel providers, freight forwarders and customs brokers, drug depots and distribution centers, suppliers or contract manufacturers of drugs for patients participating in clinical trials, and providers of licensing agreements, maintenance contracts, or other services. In addition, we also rely on third-party CROs and other contract clinical personnel for clinical services either in regions where we have limited resources, or in cases where demand cannot be met by our internal staff. In some circumstances, our customers require that we take on responsibility for the performance of these third parties as part of our overall service delivery. The failure of any of these third parties to adequately provide us timely critical support services in accordance with applicable laws and regulations and the terms of our agreements with them could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and reputation.

Current wording

We depend on third parties to provide services critical to our business, including, but not limited to, investigators and clinical trial sites, IT services, laboratory services, third-party transportation and travel providers, freight forwarders and customs brokers, drug depots and distribution centers, suppliers or contract manufacturers of drugs for patients participating in clinical trials, and providers of licensing agreements, maintenance contracts, or other services. In addition, we also rely on third-party CROs and other contract clinical personnel for clinical services either in regions where we have limited resources, or in cases where demand cannot be met by our internal staff. In some circumstances, our customers require that we oversee responsibility for the performance of these third parties as part of our overall service delivery. The failure of any of these third parties to adequately provide us timely critical support services in accordance with applicable laws and regulations and the terms of our agreements with them could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and reputation.

Previous wording

To manage our growth, we must continue to attract and retain top personnel and invest in our operating systems. We believe that maintaining and enhancing both personnel and our systems at reasonable cost are instrumental to our continued growth and success. We may not be able to enhance our current technology or obtain new technology that will enable our systems to keep pace with industry developments and the sophisticated needs of our customers. The nature and pace of our growth introduces risks associated with quality control and customer dissatisfaction due to delays in performance or other problems. In addition, non-U.S. operations involve the additional risks of assimilating differences in non-U.S. business practices, hiring and retaining personnel and overcoming language barriers. Failure to manage our growth effectively could adversely affect our business.

Current wording

To manage our growth, we must continue to attract and retain top personnel and invest in our operating systems. Failure to maintain and enhance both personnel and our systems at reasonable cost may negatively impact our ability to achieve growth and success. We may not be able to enhance our current technology or obtain new technology that will enable our systems to keep pace with industry developments and the sophisticated needs of our customers. The nature and pace of our growth introduces risks associated with quality control and customer dissatisfaction due to delays in performance or other problems. In addition, non-U.S. operations involve the additional risks of assimilating differences in non-U.S. business practices, hiring and retaining personnel and overcoming language barriers. Failure to manage our growth effectively could adversely affect our business.

Previous wording

Access to data is foundational to any CRO and through our unique relationship with Labcorp, as set forth in the Patient and Site Data Agreement, we have access to large datasets relevant to clinical trials. However, the Patient and Site Data Agreement, which has an initial two-year term, may be terminated in certain situations and ultimately will expire. An inability to purchase or access the necessary data (from Labcorp pursuant to the Patient and Site Data Agreement or from other third parties) now, or in the future, on commercially reasonable terms or at all, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Current wording

Access to data is foundational to any CRO, and through our unique relationship with Labcorp we have access to large datasets relevant to clinical trials under a patient and site data agreement (the “Patient and Site Data Agreement”). This Patient and Site Data Agreement is set to expire as of June 30, 2025, if not renewed. In addition, we source data from a number of third parties to support our services. An inability to purchase or access the necessary data (from Labcorp pursuant to the Patient and Site Data Agreement or from other third parties) now, or in the future, on commercially reasonable terms or at all, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Previous wording

We believe that our reporting and control systems are appropriate for a public company. However, we have only been directly subject to the reporting and other requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”) since July 1, 2023. As a result, we are now directly subject to reporting and other obligations under the Exchange Act, including the requirements of Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (the “Sarbanes-Oxley Act”). These reporting and other obligations place significant demands on our management and administrative and operational resources, including our accounting and IT resources. To comply with these requirements, we are dependent on Labcorp’s systems to provide financial reporting and other financial and accounting information for periods prior to the Spin through the end of the relevant transition agreements. We are in the process of (i) replacing or otherwise upgrading our systems, including our IT and enterprise resource planning systems, (ii) implementing additional financial, IT, and management controls, (iii) implementing reporting systems and procedures, and (iv) hiring additional management, IT, accounting, finance, legal, human resources, and other administrative staff and third-party service providers. Transitioning away from our reliance on Labcorp could cost more or take longer than anticipated, especially if we are not able to complete the transition prior to the end of the term of the transition agreements. While we are advancing our efforts to exit from the transition agreements prior to their expiration, the transition process involves coordination between us, third parties and Labcorp, which may be subject to delays or other challenges of working collaboratively in a technology environment, including system accessibility and security. If we are unable to do so in a timely and effective fashion, our ability to comply with our financial reporting requirements and other rules that apply to reporting companies under the Exchange Act could be impaired. Any failure to achieve and maintain effective internal controls could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows.

Current wording

As a public company, we are required to maintain internal controls over financial reporting and to report any material weaknesses in such internal controls. In addition, beginning with this Annual Report on Form 10-K, our independent registered public accounting firm is required to express an opinion as to the effectiveness of our internal controls over financial reporting. These reporting and other obligations place significant demands on our management and administrative and operational resources, including our accounting and IT resources. We were previously dependent on Labcorp’s systems to provide financial reporting and other financial and accounting information for periods prior to the Spin and through the period ending December 31, 2024. To fully separate ourselves from our Former Parent, we have (i) replaced / upgraded our systems, including our IT and enterprise resource planning systems, (ii) implemented additional financial, IT, and management controls, (iii) implemented new reporting systems and procedures, and (iv) hired additional management, IT, accounting, finance, legal, human resources, and other administrative staff and third-party service providers. If we are unable to achieve and maintain effective internal controls, our business, financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows could be materially adversely affected.

Previous wording

We cannot predict the impact of this rebranding on our business. However, if we fail to establish, maintain and/or enhance brand recognition associated with the “Fortrea” name, it may affect our relations with investigator sites or customers, which may adversely affect our ability to generate revenues and could impede our business. Additionally, the costs and the dedication of time and effort associated with the rebranding may negatively impact our profitability.

Current wording

Building awareness of our brand is an ongoing initiative as we continue to conduct our business under the name Fortrea and certain associated brands, with the potential for new names and systems. Maintaining and continually enhancing the value of our brands is critical to the success of our business. Brand value is based in large part on customer perceptions. Success in promoting and enhancing brand value depends in large part on our ability to provide high-quality products. We may not improve upon the brand recognition associated with Labcorp and its historical or associated brands with customers, sites, suppliers, employees and candidates. If we fail to maintain and/or enhance brand recognition associated with the “Fortrea” name, it may affect our relationships with investigator sites or customers, which may adversely affect our ability to generate revenues and could impede our business in a highly competitive industry. Damage to our brand, reputation or loss of customer confidence in our brand or products could result in decreased demand for our products and have a negative impact on our business, results of operations or financial condition.

Previous wording

Pandemics, such as COVID-19, and associated economic repercussions have adversely impacted our business and results of operations, and may do so in the future.

Current wording

Epidemics, pandemics, or widespread public health crisis, such as COVID-19, and associated economic repercussions have adversely impacted our business and results of operations, and may do so in the future.

Previous wording

Pandemics, including the COVID-19 pandemic, and associated economic repercussions have significantly impacted, and may impact, our business and our operations. The possibility of pandemics, including the spread of COVID-19 variants, could continue to adversely impact our business and results of operations in a number of ways, including, but not limited to:

Current wording

Pandemics, including the COVID-19 pandemic, and associated economic repercussions have significantly impacted our business and our operations. Other epidemics, pandemics, or widespread public health crises may impact our business and operations in the future. The possibility of epidemics or pandemics, including the spread of variants, could continue to adversely impact our business and results of operations in a number of ways, including, but not limited to:

Previous wording

These and other impacts of a pandemic could also have the effect of heightening many of the other factors described in these “Risk Factors” and other parts of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. The ultimate impact depends on the severity and duration of a pandemic, including the emergence and spread of COVID-19 variants, the continued availability and effectiveness of vaccines and treatments, and actions taken by governmental authorities and other third parties in response to the pandemic, each of which is uncertain, rapidly changing and difficult to predict. Any of these disruptions could adversely impact our business and results of operations.

Current wording

These and other impacts of a pandemic could also have the effect of heightening many of the other factors described in these “Risk Factors” and other parts of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. The ultimate impact depends on the severity and duration of a pandemic, including the emergence and spread of variants, the continued availability and effectiveness of vaccines and treatments, and actions taken by governmental authorities and other third parties in response to the pandemic, each of which is uncertain, rapidly changing and difficult to predict. Any of these disruptions could adversely impact our business and results of operations.

Previous wording

Enactment of, or changes in the interpretation of, tax legislation or income tax rates globally could materially impact our financial statements. Our effective tax rate and deferred income taxes could be impacted by changes in tax legislation globally. Recent changes in the U.S. include the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 (the “IRA”), enacted August 16, 2022, which, among other items, imposes a 15% alternative minimum tax on corporations with three-year average annual adjusted financial statement income exceeding $1 billion and introduces or extends a number of tax credits to promote clean energy development. We continue to monitor the effects of the IRA and other regulatory developments on our financial condition, operating results, and income tax rate.

Current wording

Enactment of, or changes in the interpretation of, tax legislation or income tax rates globally could materially impact our financial statements. Our effective tax rate and deferred income taxes could be impacted by changes in tax legislation globally. The Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 (the “IRA”), enacted August 16, 2022, which, among other items, imposes a 15% alternative minimum tax on corporations with three-year average annual adjusted financial statement income exceeding $1 billion and introduces or extends a number of tax credits to promote clean energy development. We continue to monitor the effects of the IRA and other regulatory developments on our financial condition, operating results, and income tax rate.

Previous wording

We have not accrued for income taxes on the undistributed earnings of most non-U.S. subsidiaries, because those earnings are intended to be indefinitely reinvested in the operations of those subsidiaries. Certain tax legislation within those foreign jurisdictions could potentially have a material income on our income tax expense.

Current wording

We have cumulatively accrued $3.6 million for income taxes on a portion of the undistributed earnings of our non-U.S. subsidiaries that are not considered permanently reinvested. Certain tax legislation with those foreign jurisdictions could potentially have a material impact on our income tax expense.

Previous wording

In October 2021, the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (the "OECD") announced the OECD/G20 Inclusive Framework on Base Erosion and Profit Shifting (the "Framework"), which agreed to a two-pillar solution to address tax challenges arising from digitalization of the economy. In December 2021, the OECD released Pillar Two Model Rules defining the global minimum tax rules, which contemplate a minimum tax rate of 15%. To date, various jurisdictions have enacted, or are in the process of enacting, legislation on these rules, and the OECD continues to release additional guidance. While it is uncertain whether the U.S. will enact legislation to adopt the minimum tax directive, certain countries in which we operate have adopted legislation, and other countries are in the process of introducing legislation to implement the minimum tax directive. Further, the OECD issued administrative guidance providing transition and safe harbor rules that could delay the impact of the minimum tax directive. We will continue to monitor the implementation of the Framework by the countries in which we operate. We currently do not expect the Framework to have a material impact on our effective tax rate or our consolidated results of operation, financial position, and cash flows.

Current wording

In October 2021, the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (the "OECD") announced the OECD/G20 Inclusive Framework on Base Erosion and Profit Shifting (the "Framework"), which agreed to a two-pillar solution to address tax challenges arising from digitalization of the economy. In December 2021, the OECD released Pillar Two Model Rules defining the global minimum tax rules, which contemplate a minimum tax rate of 15%. An additional “top-up” tax would be incurred in instances where the 15% minimum tax rate is not achieved. To date, various jurisdictions have enacted, or are in the process of enacting, legislation on these rules, and the OECD continues to release additional guidance. While it is uncertain whether the U.S. will enact legislation to adopt the minimum tax directive, certain countries in which we operate have adopted legislation, and other countries are in the process of introducing legislation to implement the minimum tax directive. Further, the OECD issued administrative guidance providing transition and safe harbor rules that could delay the impact of the minimum tax directive. We will continue to monitor the implementation of the Framework by the countries in which we operate. We have calculated and accrued an additional top-up tax under the Pillar Two Framework in certain jurisdictions where the effective tax rate fell below the minimum threshold of 15%. This amount was not significant to the 2024 income tax provision for the Company.

Previous wording

In addition, implementation of healthcare reform legislation that adds costs could limit the profits that can be made from the development of new drugs and medical products and devices. This could adversely affect R&D expenditures by such companies, which could in turn decrease the business opportunities available to us both in the U.S. and other countries. New laws or regulations may create a risk of liability, increase our costs or limit our service offerings.

Current wording

In addition, implementation of healthcare reform legislation that adds costs could limit the profits that can be made from the development of new drugs and medical products and devices. This could adversely affect R&D expenditures by such companies, which could in turn decrease the business opportunities available to us both in the U.S. and other countries. New laws or regulations may create a risk of liability, increase our costs or limit our service offerings. At this time, it is unclear exactly how the new U.S. presidential administration will impact the healthcare reform measures of the previous Biden Administration or whether the new Trump Administration could impose other reform efforts, including what, if any, impact such changes could have on our business. The Trump Administration has recently relied on executive orders in lieu of federal legislation to implement regulatory policy and objectives. We may be unable to anticipate changes in regulatory regimes of the U.S. federal government administration and, therefore, be unable to make timely operational or other changes, assuming we are in a position to effectively respond to any such change, which may not be the case, or to ensure compliance with federal regulations or orders. Executive orders or regulatory priorities issued or rescinded by the U.S. federal government administration may require additional capital expenditures or additional costs and may cause a delay or the abandonment of projects which could adversely affect our results of operations or financial condition.

Previous wording

We also are subject to the California Consumer Privacy Act, or the CCPA, which became effective as of January 2020, and creates individual privacy rights for California consumers and increases the privacy and security obligations of entities handling certain personal information. The CCPA provides for civil penalties for violations, as well as a private right of action for data breaches that is expected to increase data breach litigation. While the majority of provision went into effect on January 1, 2023, the enforcement of the California Privacy Rights Act, or the CPRA, began as of July 1, 2023, in California. The CPRA imposes additional data protection obligations on covered businesses, including additional consumer rights processes, limitations on data uses, new audit requirements for higher risk data, and opt outs for certain uses of sensitive data. It also creates a new California data protection agency authorized to issue substantive regulations and could result in increased privacy and information security enforcement. As such, additional compliance investment and potential business process changes may still be required. Similar laws have passed in Delaware, Indiana, Iowa, Montana, Oregon and Tennessee, and have been proposed in other states and at the federal level, reflecting a trend toward more stringent privacy legislation in the U.S. The enactment of such laws could have potentially conflicting requirements that would make compliance challenging. In the event that we are subject to or affected by the CCPA, the CPRA, or other domestic privacy and data protection laws, any liability from failure to comply with the requirements of these laws could adversely affect our financial condition.

Current wording

In the past few years, numerous U.S. states—including California, Virginia, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maryland, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, Oregon, Rhode Island, Tennessee and Texas—have enacted or proposed comprehensive privacy laws, reflecting a trend toward more stringent privacy legislation in the U.S. For example, the California Consumer Privacy Act (“CCPA”), which became effective as of January 2020, creates individual privacy rights for California consumers and increases the privacy and security obligations of entities handling certain personal information. The CCPA provides for civil penalties for violations, as well as a private right of action for data breaches that is expected to increase data breach litigation. While the majority of provision went into effect on January 1, 2023, the enforcement of the California Privacy Rights Act (the “CPRA”) began as of July 1, 2023, in California. The CPRA imposes additional data protection obligations on covered businesses, including additional consumer rights processes, limitations on data uses, new audit requirements for higher risk data, and opt outs for certain uses of sensitive data. It also creates a new California data protection agency authorized to issue substantive regulations and could result in increased privacy and information security enforcement. As such, additional compliance investment and potential business process changes may still be required. The enactment of such laws could have potentially conflicting requirements that would make compliance challenging. In the event that we are subject to or affected by the CCPA, the CPRA, or other domestic comprehensive privacy and data protection laws, any liability from failure to comply with the requirements of these laws could adversely affect our financial condition.

Previous wording

We may also be required to comply with the data privacy and security laws of other countries in which we operate or with which we transfer and receive data. For example, in the European Economic Area, we are subject to the EU General Data Protection Regulation, and in the U.K., we are subject to the U.K. data protection regime consisting primarily of the GDPR and the U.K. Data Protection Act 2018, which include a range of compliance obligations for subject companies and imposes penalties for noncompliance of up to the greater of €20 million or 4% of worldwide revenue. We have established processes and frameworks to manage compliance with the GDPR. Potential fines and penalties in the event of a violation of the GDPR could have a material adverse effect on our business and operations. In addition, similar data protection regulations addressing access, use, disclosure and transfer of personal data have been enacted or updated in regions where we do business, including in Asia, Latin America, and Europe. We expect to make changes to our business practices and to incur additional costs associated with compliance with these evolving and complex regulations.

Current wording

We may also be required to comply with the data privacy and security laws of other countries in which we operate or with which we transfer and receive data. For example, in the European Economic Area, we are subject to the EU General Data Protection Regulation, and in the U.K., we are subject to the U.K. data protection regime consisting primarily of the GDPR and the U.K. Data Protection Act 2018, respectively, which include a range of compliance obligations for subject companies and imposes penalties for noncompliance of up to the greater of €20 million or 4% of worldwide revenue. We have established processes and frameworks to manage compliance with the GDPR. Potential fines and penalties in the event of a violation of the GDPR could have a material adverse effect on our business and operations. In addition, similar data protection regulations addressing access, use, disclosure and transfer of personal data have been enacted or updated in regions where we do business, including in Asia, Latin America, and Europe. We expect to make changes to our business practices and to incur additional costs associated with compliance with these evolving and complex regulations.

Previous wording

In addition to data protection laws and regulations, government agencies are considering (or are adopting) other laws, regulations and guidelines that impact the processing of personal information. For example, the evolving landscape surrounding the use of AI and online advertising may lead to additional compliance costs and could increase our overall risk.

Current wording

In addition to data protection laws and regulations, government agencies are considering (or are adopting) other laws, regulations and guidelines that impact the processing of personal information. For example, the evolving landscape surrounding the use of AI and online advertising may lead to additional compliance costs and could increase our overall risk. Our employees and personnel may use generative AI technologies to perform their work, and the disclosure and use of personal data in generative AI technologies is subject to various privacy laws and other privacy obligations. Governments have passed and are likely to pass additional laws regulating generative AI. Our use of this technology could result in additional compliance costs, regulatory investigations and actions, and lawsuits. If we are unable to use generative AI, it could make our business less efficient and result in competitive disadvantages.

Previous wording

Anti-corruption laws in the countries where we conduct business, including the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, or the FCPA, U.K. Bribery Act 2010, or the Bribery Act, and similar laws in other jurisdictions, prohibit companies and their intermediaries from engaging in bribery including improperly offering, promising, paying or authorizing the giving of anything of value to individuals or entities for the purpose of corruptly obtaining or retaining business. We operate in some parts of the world where corruption may be common and where anti-corruption laws may conflict to some degree with local customs and practices. We maintain an anti-corruption program including policies, procedures, training and safeguards in the engagement and management of third parties acting on our behalf. Moreover, we continue to evolve business processes, as regulations and business opportunities require, so that compliance risks are appropriately measured, mitigated, and effectively managed in alignment with appropriate risk tolerances. Despite these safeguards, we cannot guarantee protection from corrupt acts committed by employees or third parties associated with us. Violations or allegations of violations of anti-corruption laws could have a significant adverse effect on our business or results of operations.

Current wording

Anti-corruption laws in the countries where we conduct business, including the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (the “FCPA”), U.K. Bribery Act 2010 (the “Bribery Act”), and similar laws in other jurisdictions, prohibit companies and their intermediaries from engaging in bribery including improperly offering, promising, paying or authorizing the giving of anything of value to individuals or entities for the purpose of corruptly obtaining or retaining business. We operate in some parts of the world where corruption may be common and where anti-corruption laws may conflict to some degree with local customs and practices. We maintain an anti-corruption program including policies, procedures, training and safeguards in the engagement and management of third parties acting on our behalf. Moreover, we continue to evolve business processes, as regulations and business opportunities require, so that compliance risks are appropriately measured, mitigated, and effectively managed in alignment with appropriate risk tolerances. Despite these safeguards, we cannot guarantee protection from corrupt acts committed by employees or third parties associated with us. Violations or allegations of violations of anti-corruption laws could have a significant adverse effect on our business or results of operations.

Previous wording

Part of our strategy involves deploying capital to investments that enhance our business, which includes pursuing strategic acquisitions to strengthen our scientific capabilities and enhance therapeutic expertise, enhance global drug development capabilities, and increase presence in key geographic areas, or to enter into and consummate other strategic transactions, such as joint ventures, collaborations or divestitures. However, we may not be able to identify acquisition targets that are attractive to us or that will have a meaningful impact on our operating results or to conduct other strategic transactions on terms that are acceptable to Fortrea, or at all. Furthermore, the successful closing and integration of a strategic acquisition entails numerous risks, including, among others:

Current wording

Part of our strategy involves deploying capital to investments that enhance our business, which includes pursuing strategic acquisitions to strengthen our scientific capabilities and enhance therapeutic expertise, enhance global drug development capabilities, and increase presence in key geographic areas, or to enter into and consummate other strategic transactions, such as joint ventures, collaborations or divestitures. However, we may not be able to identify acquisition targets or other strategic arrangements that are attractive to us or that will have a meaningful impact on our operating results or to conduct other strategic transactions on terms that are acceptable to Fortrea, or at all. Furthermore, the successful closing and integration of a strategic acquisition entails numerous risks, including, among others:

Previous wording

Current or future acquisitions, if any, or any related integration efforts may not be successful, and we cannot provide assurance that our business will not be adversely affected by any future acquisitions, including with respect to revenues and profitability. Similarly, any potential gains from other strategic transactions, such as cost savings or other operational efficiencies may also not be realized. Even if we are able to successfully integrate the operations of businesses that we may acquire in the future, we may not be able to realize the benefits that we expect from such acquisitions.

Current wording

Current or future acquisitions or other strategic transactions, if any, or any related integration efforts may not be successful, and we cannot provide assurance that our business will not be adversely affected by any future strategic transactions, including with respect to revenues and profitability. Similarly, any potential gains from strategic transactions, such as cost savings or other operational efficiencies may also not be realized. Even if we are able to successfully integrate the operations of businesses that we may acquire in the future, we may not be able to realize the benefits that we expect from such acquisitions.

Previous wording

On March 9, 2024, we, together with our wholly-owned subsidiary, Fortrea Inc. (“Seller”), entered into an Asset Purchase Agreement (the “Purchase Agreement”) with Endeavor Buyer, LLC (“Buyer”), an affiliate of Arsenal Capital Partners, with respect to the sale of certain assets relating to our Enabling Services segment, including the sale of equity interests of Fortrea Patient Access Inc. and its subsidiaries and Endpoint Clinical, Inc. and its subsidiaries. We are subject to a number of risks associated with this transaction, including risks associated with:

Current wording

On March 9, 2024, we, together with our wholly-owned subsidiary, Fortrea Inc. (“Seller”), entered into an Asset Purchase Agreement (the “Purchase Agreement”) with Endeavor Buyer, LLC (“Buyer”), an affiliate of Arsenal Capital Partners, with respect to the sale of certain assets relating to a segment of our business we referred to as our Enabling Services segment, including the sale of equity interests of Fortrea Patient Access Inc. and its subsidiaries and Endpoint Clinical, Inc. and its subsidiaries. The transaction closed during the second quarter of 2024. We are subject to a number of risks associated with this transaction, including risks associated with:

Previous wording

•the separation of these businesses from the businesses we are retaining and the operation of our retained business without these businesses and transitioned employees;

Current wording

•the separation of the Enabling Service businesses from the businesses we retained and the operation of our retained business without the Enabling Service businesses and transitioned employees;

Previous wording

Our operations and success depend on the efficient and uninterrupted operation of our IT systems. Despite measures we have taken to ensure the availability of our IT systems, the potential threat of physical or electronic break-ins, computer viruses or similar disruptions still exists. In addition, we may experience system failures or interruptions as part of integrating the IT systems of any recent acquisitions. Sustained system failures or interruption of our systems in one or more of our operations could disrupt our ability to perform operations. A failure of the network or data-gathering procedures could impede the processing of data, delivery of services and day-to-day management of the business or could result in the corruption or loss of data. While certain operations have appropriate disaster recovery plans in place, there currently are not redundant facilities everywhere in the world to provide IT capacity in the event of a system failure. Despite any precautions we may take, damage from fire, floods, hurricanes, geopolitical events, governmental action, power loss, telecommunications failures, computer viruses, break-ins, cybersecurity breaches and similar events at our various computer facilities could result in interruptions in the flow of data to the servers and from the servers to customers. In addition, any failure by the computer environment to provide required data communications capacity could result in interruptions in service. In the event of a delay in the delivery of data, we could be required to transfer data collection operations to an alternative provider of server-hosting services. Such a transfer could result in delays in the ability to deliver products and services to customers. Additionally, significant delays in the planned delivery of system enhancements or improvements, and inadequate performance of the systems once they are completed could damage our reputation. Failure of our IT systems could adversely affect our business, profitability and financial condition.

Current wording

Our operations and success depend on the efficient and uninterrupted operation of our IT systems. Despite measures we have taken to ensure the availability of our IT systems, the potential threat of physical or electronic break-ins, computer viruses or similar disruptions still exists. In addition, we have established and are continuing to deploy standalone financial, IT and other systems in connection with our exit from the Transition Services Agreement with our Former Parent, which is nearly complete, and may experience system failures or interruptions from part of this process, as well as in connection with transitioning systems and data in connection with the divestiture of the Enabling Services segment or in integrating any IT systems if we complete any future acquisitions. Sustained system failures or interruption of our systems in one or more of our operations could disrupt our ability to perform operations. A failure of the network or data-gathering procedures could impede the processing of data, delivery of services and day-to-day management of the business or could result in the corruption or loss of data. While certain operations have appropriate disaster recovery plans in place, there currently are not redundant facilities everywhere in the world to provide IT capacity in the event of a system failure. Despite any precautions we may take, damage from fire, floods, hurricanes, geopolitical events, governmental action, power loss, telecommunications failures, computer viruses, break-ins, cybersecurity breaches and similar events at our various computer facilities could result in interruptions in the flow of data to the servers and from the servers to customers. In addition, any failure by the computer environment to provide required data communications capacity could result in interruptions in service. In the event of a delay in the delivery of data, we could be required to transfer data collection operations to an alternative provider of server-hosting services. Such a transfer could result in delays in the ability to deliver products and services to customers. Additionally, significant delays in the planned delivery of system deployments, enhancements or improvements, and inadequate performance of the systems once they are completed could damage our reputation. Failure of our IT systems could adversely affect our business, profitability and financial condition.

Previous wording

We have experienced and expect to continue experiencing attempts by threat actors to attack our environment. We have also been informed of and expect to continue to experience similar attempts to attack and penetrate the systems of third-party suppliers and vendors to whom we have provided data. While these attempts have not resulted in any material breaches, such attempts, if successful, could result in the misappropriation or compromise of personal information or proprietary or confidential information stored within our systems or within the systems of third parties, create system disruptions or cause shutdowns. Outside parties may also attempt to fraudulently induce our staff to take actions, including the release of confidential or sensitive information or to make fraudulent payments through illegal electronic spamming, phishing, spear phishing, or other tactics. We have information security procedures and other safeguards in place, which we update in response to threat information from public and private sector sources and public announcements of attempted or successful breaches at other companies. However, because the techniques used to obtain unauthorized access, disable or degrade service, or sabotage systems change frequently and often are not recognized until launched against a target, we may be unable to anticipate all of these techniques or to implement adequate preventive measures. In addition, as cyber threats continue to evolve, we may be required to expend additional resources to continue to enhance our information security measures or to investigate and remediate any information security vulnerabilities. Our remediation efforts may not be successful and could result in interruptions, delays or cessation of service. This could also impact the cost and availability of cyber insurance to us. Breaches of our or third parties' security measures and the unauthorized dissemination of personal, proprietary or confidential information about us or our customers or other third parties could expose customers’ private information. Such breaches could expose customers to the risk of financial harm or identity theft or expose us or other third parties to a risk of loss or misuse of this information, result in litigation and potential liability for us, damage our brand and reputation or otherwise harm our business. Any of these disruptions or breaches of security could have a material adverse effect on our business, regulatory compliance, financial condition and results of operations.

Current wording

Our information systems are integral to the efficient operation of our business and handle sensitive customer and clinical data, as well as employee records and key financial and operational results and statistics. It is critical that the data processed by these systems remains secure. To that end, we have information security procedures and other safeguards in place which we update in response to threat information from public and private sector sources and public announcements of attempted or successful breaches at other companies. While, like most companies, we have experienced and expect to continue experiencing attempts by threat actors to attack our environment, and we have also been informed of and expect to continue to experience similar attempts to attack and penetrate the systems of third-party suppliers and vendors to whom we have provided data, these attempts have not yet resulted in any material losses of data or materially affected our business results. Nonetheless, such attempts, if successful, could result in the misappropriation or compromise of personal information or proprietary or confidential information stored within our systems or within the systems of third parties, create system disruptions or cause shutdowns. Outside parties may also attempt to fraudulently induce our staff to take actions, including the release of confidential or sensitive information or to make fraudulent payments through illegal electronic spamming, phishing, spear phishing, or other tactics. It is difficult to fully protect against the possibility of power loss, telecommunications failures, cyber-attacks, ransomware and other cyber incidents in every potential circumstance that may arise. Because the techniques used to obtain unauthorized access, disable or degrade service, or sabotage systems change frequently and often are not recognized until launched against a target, we may be unable to anticipate all of these techniques or to implement adequate preventive measures. In addition, as cyber threats continue to evolve, we may be required to expend additional resources to continue to enhance our information security measures or to investigate and remediate any information security vulnerabilities. Our remediation efforts may not be successful and could result in interruptions, delays or cessation of service. This could also impact the cost and availability of cyber insurance to us, or such cyber insurance may not sufficiently cover all types of losses or claims that may arise. Breaches of our or third parties' security measures and the unauthorized dissemination of personal, proprietary or confidential information about us or our customers or other third parties could expose customers’ private information. Such breaches could expose customers to the risk of financial harm or identity theft or expose us or other third parties to a risk of loss or misuse of this information, result in litigation and potential liability for us, damage our brand and repu…

Excerpt shortened here; the source contains the full paragraph.

Previous wording

AI is an emerging technology that is expected to fundamentally impact the support of clinical research. We have made investments in various AI initiatives and will continue to incorporate AI into our offerings when appropriate and beneficial. This AI may be developed by the Company or others. We expect these elements of our business to grow. AI presents risks and challenges that could affect its adoption, and therefore our business. AI algorithms may be flawed. Datasets may be insufficient or contain biased information. Content generated by AI systems may be offensive, illegal, or otherwise harmful. Ineffective or inadequate AI development or deployment practices by the Company or others could result in incidents that impair the acceptance of AI solutions or cause harm to individuals or society. These deficiencies and other failures of AI systems could subject us to competitive harm, regulatory action, legal liability, and brand or reputational harm. Some AI scenarios present ethical issues or may have broad impacts on society. New laws regulating AI may reduce the ability to use AI within our business or reduce the value of our investments in technology. If we enable or offer AI solutions that have unintended consequences or are controversial because of their impact on human rights, privacy, employment, or other social issues, we may experience brand or reputational harm that could adversely affect our business, financial condition or results or operations.

Current wording

AI is an emerging technology that is fundamentally impacting and expected to further impact the clinical research industry. In 2024, we continued to develop and deploy AI and machine learning (“ML”) technologies that are intended to drive speed, agility, quality and enhanced patient safety in clinical research, and we are exploring ways to incorporate AI into our offerings when appropriate and beneficial. This AI may be developed by us or others. We expect these elements of our business to increase over time. AI presents risks and challenges that could affect its adoption, and therefore our business. AI algorithms may be flawed. Datasets may be insufficient or contain biased information. Content generated by AI systems may be offensive, illegal, or otherwise harmful. Ineffective or inadequate AI development or deployment practices by us or others could result in incidents that impair the acceptance of AI solutions or cause harm to individuals or society. These deficiencies and other failures of AI systems could subject us to competitive harm, regulatory action, legal liability, and brand or reputational harm. Some AI scenarios present ethical issues or may have broad impacts on society. We have developed policies governing the use of AI to help protect against such harm, but such policies may not be adequate to address all of the foregoing risks. Additionally, new laws regulating AI may reduce the ability to use AI within our business or reduce the value of our investments in technology. If we enable or offer AI solutions that have unintended consequences or are controversial because of their impact on human rights, privacy, employment, or other social issues, we may experience brand or reputational harm that could adversely affect our business, financial condition or results or operations.

Previous wording

We have an aggregate principal amount of indebtedness of approximately $1,624.7 million, which consists of borrowings under senior secured term loan facilities and senior secured notes. We also have borrowing capacity in the form of a $450 million senior secured revolving credit facility, from which we have borrowed and repaid $164.0 million during the year ended December 31, 2023 and an accounts receivable purchase program, or ARPP, from which $17.5 million of receivables were sold with net proceeds of $17.3 million during the year ended December 31, 2023. The ARPP establishes a receivables purchase facility that provides for up to approximately $80 million in funding based on the availability of certain eligible receivables and the satisfaction of certain conditions.

Current wording

We have an aggregate principal amount of indebtedness of approximately $1,142.0 million, which consists of borrowings under senior secured term loan facilities and senior secured notes. We also have borrowing capacity in the form of a $450.0 million senior secured revolving credit facility, from which we have borrowed and repaid $826.5 million during the year ended December 31, 2024, and an accounts receivable securitization program from which $300.0 million of receivables were sold for net proceeds of $297.9 million during the year ended December 31, 2024. Under this program, Fortrea Inc. conveys receivable balances to a wholly-owned, bankruptcy-remote special purpose entity (“SPE”), who in turn may sell receivables to a third-party financial institution in exchange for cash. The Company entered into this three-year, $300.0 million program on May 6, 2024.

Previous wording

The capital and credit markets may experience extreme volatility or disruptions that may lead to uncertainty and liquidity issues for both borrowers and investors. As noted above, we have incurred indebtedness as of December, 31, 2023 in an aggregate principal amount of approximately $1,624.7 million, which consists of borrowings under senior secured term loan facilities and senior secured notes. We also have available $348.4 million under a senior secured revolving credit facility as of the year ended December 31, 2023. In the event of adverse capital and credit market conditions, we may be unable to obtain capital market financing on favorable terms, or at all, and changes in credit ratings issued by nationally recognized credit-rating agencies could adversely affect our ability to obtain capital market financing and the cost of such financing. Any of these risks could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, financial condition and cash flows.

Current wording

The capital and credit markets may experience extreme volatility or disruptions that may lead to uncertainty and liquidity issues for both borrowers and investors. As noted above, we have incurred indebtedness as of December 31, 2024, in an aggregate principal amount of approximately $1,142.0 million, which consists of borrowings under senior secured term loan facilities and senior secured notes. We also have available $450.0 million under a senior secured revolving credit facility as of the year ended December 31, 2024. In the event of adverse capital and credit market conditions, we may be unable to obtain capital market financing on favorable terms, or at all, and changes in credit ratings issued by nationally recognized credit-rating agencies could adversely affect our ability to obtain capital market financing and the cost of such financing. Any of these risks could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, financial condition and cash flows.

Previous wording

Any further deterioration in the macro-economic economy or financial services industry could lead to losses or defaults by our partners or vendors, which in turn, could have a material adverse effect on our current and/or projected business operations and results of operations and financial condition. For example, a partner may fail to make payments when due, default under their agreements with us, become insolvent or declare bankruptcy, or a vendor may determine that it will no longer deal with us as a customer. In addition, a partner or vendor could be adversely affected by any of the liquidity or other risks that are described above as factors that could result in material adverse impacts on us, including but not limited to delayed access or loss of access to uninsured deposits or loss of the ability to draw on existing credit facilities involving a troubled or failed financial institution. Any partner or vendor bankruptcy or insolvency, or the failure of any partner to make payments when due, or any breach or default by a partner or vendor, or the loss of any significant vendor relationships, could result in material losses to us and may have a material adverse impact on our business.

Current wording

Any deterioration in the macro-economic economy or financial services industry could lead to losses or defaults by our partners or vendors, which in turn, could have a material adverse effect on our current and/or projected business operations and results of operations and financial condition. For example, a partner may fail to make payments when due, default under their agreements with us, become insolvent or declare bankruptcy, or a vendor may determine that it will no longer deal with us as a customer. In addition, a partner or vendor could be adversely affected by any of the liquidity or other risks that are described above as factors that could result in material adverse impacts on us, including but not limited to delayed access or loss of access to uninsured deposits or loss of the ability to draw on existing credit facilities involving a troubled or failed financial institution. Any partner or vendor bankruptcy or insolvency, or the failure of any partner to make payments when due, or any breach or default by a partner or vendor, or the loss of any significant vendor relationships, could result in material losses to us and may have a material adverse impact on our business.

Previous wording

As a public company, we are subject to the reporting requirements of the Exchange Act, the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, and the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act of 2010 and are required to prepare our financial statements according to the rules and regulations required by the SEC. In addition, the Exchange Act requires that we file annual, quarterly, and current reports. Our failure to prepare and disclose this information in a timely manner or to otherwise comply with applicable law could subject us to penalties under federal securities laws, expose us to lawsuits, and restrict our ability to access financing. In addition, the Sarbanes-Oxley Act requires that, among other things, we establish and maintain effective internal controls and procedures for financial reporting and disclosure purposes. Beginning with our second required Annual Report on Form 10-K, which will be filed in 2025, we intend to comply with the applicable sections of Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, which will require annual management assessments of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting and a report by our independent registered public accounting firm on the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting. Internal control over financial reporting is complex and may be revised over time to adapt to changes in our business, or changes in applicable accounting rules. We cannot provide assurance that our internal control over financial reporting will be effective in the future or that a material weakness will not be discovered with respect to a prior period for which we had previously believed that internal controls were effective. If we are not able to maintain or document effective internal control over financial reporting, our independent registered public accounting firm will not be able to certify as to the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting.

Current wording

As a public company, we are subject to the reporting requirements of the Exchange Act, the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, and the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act of 2010 and are required to prepare our financial statements according to the rules and regulations required by the SEC. In addition, the Exchange Act requires that we file annual, quarterly, and current reports. Our failure to prepare and disclose this information in a timely manner or to otherwise comply with applicable law could subject us to penalties under federal securities laws, expose us to lawsuits, and restrict our ability to access financing. In addition, the Sarbanes-Oxley Act requires that, among other things, we establish and maintain effective internal controls and procedures for financial reporting and disclosure purposes. Beginning with this Annual Report on Form 10-K, the applicable sections of Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act require annual management assessments of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting and a report by our independent registered public accounting firm on the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting. Internal control over financial reporting is complex and may be revised over time to adapt to changes in our business, or changes in applicable accounting rules. We cannot provide assurance that our internal control over financial reporting will be effective in the future or that a material weakness will not be discovered with respect to a prior period for which we had previously believed that internal controls were effective, and in the past (as discussed in Item 9A to this Annual Report on Form 10-K), we have identified material weaknesses in our internal controls, which have since been remediated. We cannot assure you that the measures we have taken to date, or any measures we may take in the future, will be sufficient to avoid potential future material weaknesses and the existence of future material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting could have a material adverse effect on our business or our reputation.

Previous wording

Natural disasters, such as adverse weather, fires, floods and earthquakes; power shortages and outages; geopolitical events, such as terrorism, war, political instability, political unrest, including the current conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East or other conflicts; criminal activities; public health crises; and other disruptions or events outside of our control or the escalation or expansion of any of the same, could delay or disrupt our ability to conduct clinical trials or other business, endanger our personnel, or cause other project delays or loss of clinical trial materials or results. Long-term disruptions in the infrastructure and operations caused by such events (particularly involving locations in which we have operations), could harm our operating results.

Current wording

Natural disasters, such as adverse weather, fires, floods and earthquakes; power shortages and outages; geopolitical events, such as terrorism, war, political instability, political unrest, including the current conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East or other conflicts; criminal activities; public health crises; and other disruptions or events outside of our control or the escalation or expansion of any of the same, could delay or disrupt our ability to conduct clinical trials or other business, endanger our personnel, damage our facilities or cause other project delays or loss of clinical trial materials or results. Long-term disruptions in the infrastructure and operations caused by such events (particularly involving locations in which we have operations, which would be difficult to replace in a short period of time), could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows.

Previous wording

The market price and trading volume of our common stock may be volatile and investors may not be able to resell their shares of Fortrea common stock at or above the initial market price of our common stock following the spin.

Current wording

The market price and trading volume of our common stock may be volatile and investors may lose all or part of their investments in Fortrea common stock.