ATN International, Inc.
For the period ended Dec 31, 2024. Filed Mar 17, 2025.
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A company's yearly report to the SEC, with audited financial statements. It is the fullest account a company gives of its business, its finances and the risks it sees.
FY2024 · Filed Mar 17, 2025
What changed in Risk Factors?
Read the current filingPrevious report: 10-K
Period ended 2023-12-31; filed 2024-03-15.
0001558370-24-003375
Item 1A. Risk FactorsCurrent report: 10-K
Period ended 2024-12-31; filed 2025-03-17.
0001558370-25-003128
Item 1A. Risk FactorsThe baseline is this issuer’s latest earlier reporting period of the same form that was filed before the current report. A previous 10-Q is a different quarter, not a year-over-year comparison. Amendments are excluded.
Compared 81 previous paragraphs and 72 current paragraphs.
34 unchanged; 29 reworded; 6 added; 12 removed; 6 previous and 3 current paragraphs rearranged.
Tables are not compared: 10 previous and 12 current tables excluded. Dates, whitespace, punctuation and numbering changes are ignored; changes to financial figures remain significant.
A changed paragraph is not evidence that risk increased or decreased. An unchanged paragraph does not establish that risk stayed the same.
Added paragraphs (6)
Current report
Network outages and rising energy costs could have an adverse effect on our business.
Current report
Due to the rural and island locations of our networks, our energy costs tend to be high, and due to the nature of our network on average can be higher than those of our competitors operating in the same markets. We are reliant on the stability of the energy grid in each of our markets to provide services, however, frequent power outages in several of our markets result in our service outages. We are working to shut down certain energy-inefficient parts of our network, such as our copper plants in Guyana, but rising energy costs may offset any efficiencies gained. While generator backups are in place where blackouts are common, generators run on costly fuel which contributes to higher energy costs. Notwithstanding the significant investments that are being made in the US Virgin Islands and in Guyana to upgrade the country's power network, there is no guarantee that the local governments will be able to stabilize the electric infrastructure in the future.
Current report
the Consent Decree and our ongoing RHC Program obligations, any violation of the Consent Decree or other compliance failures may result in additional penalties.
Current report
We may not be able to realize the benefits of our investments in our operating markets.
Current report
Beginning in 2022, we invested in higher-than-average capital expenditures to support our strategies of “First-to-Fiber” and “Glass & Steel™” in our businesses. In 2025, we intend to return to more normalized investment levels. However, our ability to support multiple organic and inorganic growth opportunities across our businesses may be limited by our liquidity resources and require significant oversight from our senior management. Major business initiatives are underway, focusing on improving mobile and other enterprise sales across all markets, digitizing internal processes to enhance response times to customer requirements, modernizing and centralizing existing processes in select markets, and improving operational execution of certain US Telecom businesses. Execution on multiple simultaneous and transformational initiatives requires in-depth management attention in multiple jurisdictions to capitalize on economic growth in Guyana, capture additional operational efficiencies, and develop and grow enterprise revenue streams in our US Telecom segment.
Current report
To support multiple simultaneous growth opportunities, we may need to raise additional capital or incur additional debt to fund our future operations or investment opportunities. We cannot provide any assurances that we will be able to secure additional funding from public or private offerings on terms acceptable to us, if at all. As we exit our planned period of capital investments in various infrastructure projects, particularly upgrading and expanding our fiber network in Guyana, the success of those investments is largely dependent on the business being able to maintain and expand its customer base. We also face execution risk with respect to our planned margin expansion, which relies on reducing operating expenses without compromising service quality or losing revenues. Whether due to increased competition, ineffective sales activity or other market forces, we may fail to achieve our sales targets and cost reduction goals on our upgraded networks.
Removed paragraphs (12)
Previous report
Congress is considering appropriating additional funding to meet the total demand for reimbursement, but we cannot predict whether or when such additional funding will be allocated, or how much, if any, will be allocated. Thus, we cannot predict whether there will be sufficient available funding to reimburse our subsidiaries for all of their approved costs in this context. Any shortfall in available funding could have an adverse impact on our ability to replace, remove, and dispose of covered equipment in satisfaction of our regulatory obligations, on our cash flows, or on our results of operations. Once funds are allocated, recipients can then draw down funds upon proof of actual expenses incurred by filing a request for the reimbursement of specific expenses. We cannot predict whether and to what extent the FCC or the administrator on which it relies to administer the reimbursement program will approve our subsidiaries’ requests for the specific reimbursement of costs. If we are not successful in receiving the amount of funds that is necessary to remove, replace, and dispose of equipment from restricted vendors or are unable to complete the removal, replacement, and disposal within the required timeframes, or have underestimated the cost of replacement, it could adversely impact our ability to operate, maintain or expand our domestic network infrastructure.
Previous report
device lineup or to acquire network technology on a cost effective basis could materially impact our ability to attract new customers and retain existing customers.
Previous report
Competition in the markets in which we operate has increased in recent years due to a number of governmental and economic factors. For instance, several of our competitors are launching 5G services, which is causing us to undertake an analysis as to how much capital is needed to stay competitive.
Previous report
We may not be able to timely and effectively execute on several key initiatives across multiple jurisdictions.
Previous report
Major business initiatives are underway with respect to improvement in mobile and other retail sales in all markets, digitization of internal processes to allow for quicker response time to customer requirements, modernization of existing internal processes in select markets and revising the strategy of some of our US Telecom businesses to develop additional revenue streams, including the substantial construction and support undertakings of the FirstNet project and the Replace and Remove program. Each of these requires significant oversight from senior management to aid in-market teams, and many of these projects are underway simultaneously in different locations. Execution on multiple simultaneous and transformational initiatives will require in-depth management attention in multiple jurisdictions to capitalize on growth in the US Virgin Islands, economic growth in Guyana, and the ongoing shift in business focus in US Telecom.
Previous report
We may have difficulty funding multiple opportunities across our businesses.
Previous report
Beginning in 2022, we invested in higher-than-average capital expenditures to support our strategies of “First-to-Fiber” and “Glass & Steel™” in all our businesses. We have made a strategic decision to reduce capital investments in 2024 and return to more normalized levels beginning in the 2025 year. Our ability to support multiple organic and inorganic growth opportunities may be limited by our liquidity resources. How and when we deploy our balance sheet capacity will figure prominently in our longer-term growth prospects and stockholder returns. To support multiple simultaneous growth opportunities, we may need to raise additional capital or incur additional debt to fund our future operations or investment opportunities. We cannot provide any assurances that we will be able to secure additional funding from public or private offerings on terms acceptable to us, if at all. If we are unable to obtain the requisite amount of financing, we may have to forgo opportunities to strategically grow our business.
Previous report
The Rural Health Care program in Alaska is being audited by USAC, and we may be subject to forfeiture or fine.
Previous report
Alaska Communications participates in the Universal Service Administrative Company’s (“USAC”) Rural Health Care universal service fund (“USF”) program and received inquiries and requests for information from USAC, which
Previous report
administers the program, in connection with both current funding requests and, beginning with a letter dated June 2, 2017 from USAC’s auditors, prior period support payments. After Alaska Communications responded to the initial request for information about support payments prior to 2017, USAC’s auditors asked Alaska Communications to comment on some preliminary audit findings, and it responded with a letter dated December 21, 2018. On February 24, 2020, Alaska Communications received a draft audit report from USAC that alleges violations of the FCC’s rules for establishing rural rates and urban rates, the provisioning and billing of ineligible services and products, and violations of the FCC’s competitive bidding rules.
Previous report
Alaska Communications also received a Letter of Inquiry on March 18, 2018, from the FCC Enforcement Bureau requesting historical information regarding its participation in the FCC’s Rural Health Care program. In response, Alaska Communications produced voluminous records throughout 2018 and into the first quarter of 2019. On November 5, 2019 and January 22, 2021 Alaska Communications received additional letters from the FCC Enforcement Bureau requesting additional information, to which it responded. To date, Alaska Communications has been working with the FCC Enforcement Bureau to provide it the information it is seeking, and has engaged in discussions with respect to the investigation.
Previous report
Similar audits and investigations of other companies have resulted in the FCC recouping certain previously awarded support funds, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial position, results of operations, and liquidity. Any adverse outcome with respect to the FCC Enforcement Bureau’s inquiry may have an adverse impact on our business, financial condition, results of operations, or liquidity.
Reworded paragraphs (29)
Previous wording
be no assurance that we will be able to successfully prevent a material security breach stemming from future cyberattacks or avoid major outages caused by such an attack or breach. Our inability to operate our network, facilities and back-office systems as a result of such events, even for a limited period of time, may result in significant expenses and impact the timely and accurate delivery of our services or other information. There has been an increase in ransomware attacks in recent years. Telecommunications providers, including vendors to providers, are increasingly being targeted by cyber criminals. These attacks are not always seeking data about their own business, but access to the data of market participants in potentially more lucrative industries. Disruptions in our networks and the unavailability of our services or our inability to efficiently and effectively complete necessary technology or systems upgrades, or conversions could lead to a loss of customers, damage to our reputation and violation of the terms of our licenses and contracts with customers. Additionally, breaches of security may lead to unauthorized access to our customer or employee information processed and stored in, and transmitted through, our IT systems. We may be required to expend significant additional resources to modify our protective measures or to investigate and remediate vulnerabilities or other exposures arising from operational and security risks, including notification under data privacy laws and regulations, and we may be subject to litigation, regulatory penalties and financial losses. These failures could also lead to significant negative publicity.
Current wording
We are highly dependent on our information technology (“IT”) systems for the operation of our network, our facilities, delivery of services to our customers and the compilation of our financial results. Telecommunications providers, including vendors to providers, are increasingly being targeted by cyber criminals. These attacks do not always target data specific to our business but often seek access to the data from market participants in more lucrative industries. Disruptions in our networks and the unavailability of our services or our inability to efficiently and effectively complete necessary technology or systems upgrades, or conversions could lead to a loss of customers, damage to our reputation and violation of the terms of our licenses and contracts with customers. Additionally, breaches of security may lead to unauthorized access to our customer or employee information processed and stored in, and transmitted through, our IT systems. We may be required to expend significant resources to protect our IT and operational networks and may need to expend additional resources to modify our protective measures or to investigate and remediate vulnerabilities or other exposures arising from operational and security risks. There can be no assurance that we will be able to successfully prevent a material security breach stemming from future cyberattacks or avoid major outages caused by such an attack or breach. These failures could also lead to significant negative publicity, and we may be subject to litigation, regulatory penalties and financial losses.
Previous wording
Network outages could have a material adverse effect on our business and can be caused by a myriad of incidents, including aging or faulty infrastructure, natural disasters, and third party outages, such as power loss. Risk for network outages increases with increased reliance on cloud-storage providers, which may themselves be subject to cybersecurity breaches, capacity limitations, software defects and more. In addition, much of our underlying physical infrastructure (particularly in Guyana and Alaska), including buildings, fleet vehicles and related systems and equipment, has been in service for an extended period of time. We may not be able to adequately fund the maintenance and replacement of this infrastructure on a basis timely enough to avoid material outages, or accurately predict equipment failure rates, or be able to locate replacement parts or spares to repair existing equipment due to its age. Any network outage could negatively impact our operations, including the provision of service to our customers, and could result in adverse effects to our financial condition and reputation. These outages could also lead to significant negative publicity.
Current wording
Network outages could have a material adverse effect on our business and can be caused by a myriad of incidents, including aging or faulty infrastructure, natural disasters, and third-party outages, such as power loss or subsea cable outage. Much of our underlying physical infrastructure (particularly in Guyana and Alaska), including buildings, fleet vehicles and related systems and equipment, has been in service for an extended period of time. In addition, our aging network exposes us to increased energy consumption and costs may expose us to additional cybersecurity risks as we maintain out-of-date software to maintain these systems. We may not be able to adequately fund the maintenance and replacement of this infrastructure on a basis timely enough to avoid material outages, accurately predict equipment failure rates, or be able to locate replacement parts or spares to repair existing equipment due to its age.
Previous wording
Many of the areas in which we operate have experienced severe weather conditions including hurricanes, tornadoes, blizzards, fires, damaging storms, floods and earthquakes. Such events may materially disrupt and adversely affect our business operations. Major hurricanes have hit the US Virgin Islands, Bermuda, and Cayman several times in the past decade, causing damage to our network and to the infrastructure on the islands. Guyana and Cayman have each suffered from severe rains and flooding in the past as well. In Alaska, our operations face earthquake, volcanic, fire and winter storm risk. These types of events can also cause major disruption and harm to the communities and markets we serve and where our employees live. This risk to our company is heightened by the fact that many of our service areas have limited emergency response assets and may be difficult to reach in an emergency situation which may delay service restoration in a critical time following a natural disaster or other disruptive event. In addition, the impacts of climate change may exacerbate the risk of significant damage in the areas in which we operate if the frequency or duration of more intense weather events increase. We cannot be sure that these types of events will not have an impact in the future or that we can procure insurance coverage against these types of severe weather and geological events under reasonable business terms and conditions, or that any insurance coverage we are able to maintain will fully fund the replacement of assets and adequately compensate us for all damage and economic losses resulting from natural catastrophes. In addition, it may take significant time to return to pre-disaster levels following any such meteorological or geological event. If we are unable to restore service on a timely and cost-effective basis, it could harm our reputation and have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations through continued loss of revenue and customer attrition to our competitors.
Current wording
Many of the areas in which we operate have experienced severe weather conditions including hurricanes, tornadoes, blizzards, fires, damaging storms, floods and earthquakes. Such events may materially disrupt and adversely affect our business operations. Major hurricanes have hit the US Virgin Islands, Bermuda, and Cayman several times in the past decade, causing damage to our network and to the infrastructure on the islands. Guyana and Cayman have each suffered from severe rains and flooding in the past as well. In Alaska, our operations face earthquake, volcanic, fire and winter storm risk. This risk to our company is heightened by the limited emergency response resources in many of our service areas, which may be difficult to access during an emergency situation, potentially delaying service restoration during critical times following a natural disaster or other disruptive event. In addition, the impacts of climate change may exacerbate the risk of significant damage in the areas in which we operate if the frequency or duration of more intense weather events increase. We cannot be sure that these types of events will not have an impact in the future or that we can procure insurance coverage against these types of severe weather and geological events under reasonable business terms and conditions, or that any insurance coverage we are able to maintain will fully fund the replacement of assets and adequately compensate us for all damage and economic losses resulting from natural catastrophes. If we are unable to restore service on a timely and cost-effective basis, it could harm our reputation and have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations through continued loss of revenue and customer attrition.
Previous wording
We rely on a limited number of key suppliers and vendors for the timely supply of handsets, accessories, equipment and services relating to our network or facility infrastructure. Changes in import tax policy or trade relations, interruptions in our supply chain or increased commodity or supply chain costs could adversely affect our results of operations.
Current wording
We rely on a limited number of key suppliers and vendors.
Previous wording
Like other companies globally, we continued to face major supply chain disruptions across our business in early 2023, which led to increased costs and delays. While supply chain reliability improved during 2023, we continue to monitor other supply chain risks such as inflationary trends, availability of materials and services based on the subsidized dollars available for telecommunications companies in the US. We depend on a limited number of suppliers for equipment and services relating to our network infrastructure, mobile handset lineup, and our back-office IT systems infrastructure. If these suppliers experience interruptions or other problems delivering equipment to us on a timely basis, our subscriber or revenue growth and operating results could suffer significantly. In addition, our retail wireless businesses depend on access to compelling handset devices at reasonable prices on the primary and secondary markets. The size of our business relative to many of our competitors puts us at a disadvantage in terms of whether we will get access to the newest technologies at the same time as our competitors, as well as a financial disadvantage in terms of the ability to achieve economies of scale and receive commensurate discounts that may be available to our competitors. Our inability to provide a competitive retail
Current wording
As a telecommunications service provider, we depend on a limited number of suppliers for equipment and services relating to our network infrastructure, mobile handset lineup, and back-office IT systems infrastructure. If these suppliers experience interruptions, price increases due to tariffs, including those imposed or that may be imposed by the new US administration, or higher inflation, or other problems delivering equipment to us on a timely and cost-effective basis, our subscriber or revenue growth and operating results could suffer significantly. For instance, our retail wireless businesses depend on access to compelling handset devices at reasonable prices on the primary and secondary markets. The size of our business, relative to many of our competitors puts us at a disadvantage in terms of whether we will get access to the newest technologies at the same time as our competitors, as well as a financial disadvantage in terms of the ability to achieve economies of scale and receive commensurate discounts that may be available to our competitors.
Previous wording
A large portion of our equipment is sourced, directly or indirectly, from outside the United States, and major changes in tax policy or trade relations, such as the disallowance of tax deductions for imported products or the imposition of additional tariffs or duties on imported products, could also adversely affect our business, results of operations, effective income tax rate, liquidity and net income. The increase in geopolitical tensions only heightens the risk of supply chain shortages and delays, especially with respect to sourcing equipment from Europe or the Middle East.
Current wording
A large portion of our equipment is sourced, directly or indirectly, from outside the United States. Major changes in tax policy or trade relations, such as the disallowance of tax deductions for imported products or the imposition of higher tariffs or duties on imported products imposed or that may be imposed by the new US administration , could also adversely affect our business, results of operations, effective income tax rate, liquidity and net income. We continue to monitor other supply chain risks such as the increased cost and impact of tariffs, inflationary trends, availability of materials and services based on the subsidized dollars available for telecommunications companies in the US.
Previous wording
The success of our business depends on the ability of our executive officers and the officers of our operating units to develop and execute on our business plan, and to identify and pursue new opportunities and product innovations, as well as on our ability to attract and retain these officers and other highly qualified technical and management personnel. We believe that there is, and will continue to be, strong competition for qualified personnel in the communications industry and in our markets and we cannot be certain that we will be able to attract and retain the personnel necessary for the development of our business. The shift to remote work, precipitated by the COVID-19 pandemic, seems to have exacerbated that competition and may continue to impact the labor pool and labor costs in many of our markets. We have found that remote work creates added challenges and costs with respect to employee engagement and productivity. Nonetheless, as labor demands in certain key markets exceed the supply of eligible workers, we may increasingly need to rely on remote workers to fill open positions.
Current wording
The success of our business depends on the ability of our executive officers and operating unit leaders to develop and execute our business plan, identify and pursue new opportunities and product innovations, and attract and retain these leaders along with other highly qualified technical and management personnel. We believe that there is, and will continue to be, strong competition for qualified personnel in the communications industry and in our markets and we cannot be certain that we will be able to attract and retain the personnel necessary for the development of our business.
Previous wording
We rely heavily on local management to run our operating units. Many of the markets in which we operate are small and remote, and in some cases are subject to government restrictions on granting work visas, which could make it difficult for us to attract and retain talented and qualified managers and staff in those markets. The loss of key personnel or the failure to attract or retain personnel with the sophistication to run complicated communications equipment, networks and systems could have a material adverse effect on our ability to maintain effective internal controls, and on our business, financial condition and results of operations. Given the current labor economy, it may become increasingly difficult to find the right people to fill management roles. We do not currently maintain “key person” life insurance on any of our key employees and none of the executives at our parent company have executed employment agreements requiring a specified time period of service.
Current wording
We rely heavily on local management to run our operating units. Many of the markets in which we operate are small and remote, and in some cases are subject to government restrictions on granting work visas, which could make it difficult for us to attract and retain talented and qualified managers and staff in those markets. While the Company has consolidated certain key management roles, particularly in our international segment, reducing the risk associated with filling and maintaining fewer positions, it also increases the need for effective change management and continuity planning. The loss of key personnel or the inability to attract or retain individuals with the expertise to operate complex communications equipment, networks and systems could have a material adverse effect on our ability to maintain effective internal controls, and on our business, financial condition and results of operations. We do not currently maintain “key person” life insurance on any of our key employees and none of the executives at our parent company have executed employment agreements requiring a specified period of service.
Previous wording
We are reliant on government funding to execute on the FCC’s Replace and Remove program.
Current wording
We are reliant on government funding to execute on the FCC’s Remove and Replace program.
Previous wording
The FCC’s governmental restrictions on the procurement of equipment from certain vendors has resulted in a costly network replacement build in our western United States operations that is funded in part by the FCC’s Replace and Remove Program. In July 2022, the FCC approved our eligible subsidiaries’ participation in the program but also announced that the total amount of approved costs for which reimbursement was sought by all applicants was far in excess of the amount appropriated by Congress. Because demand for program support exceeded available funding, the FCC was required by statute to implement a prioritization scheme and allocate funding on an equal but prorated basis. Accordingly, per its rules, the FCC developed a pro-rata allocation factor of approximately 40%.See US Federal Regulation – FCC Replace and Remove Program.
Current wording
The FCC’s governmental restrictions on the procurement of equipment from certain vendors has resulted in a costly network replacement build in our western United States operations that is funded in part by the FCC’s Replace and Remove Program. In July 2022, the FCC approved our eligible subsidiaries’ participation in the program but also announced that the total amount of approved costs for which reimbursement was sought by all applicants was far in excess of the amount appropriated by Congress. In December 2024 this program was fully funded for reimbursement to the Company of up to approximately $517 million.See US Telecom Segment – Mobility Services –Replace and Remove Program.
Previous wording
Companies that were awarded funding must complete the removal, replacement, and disposal of Covered List equipment and services in their networks within a year of their initial funding disbursements. All of our participating subsidiaries one-year project completion deadlines are in 2024. However, delays due to factors such as supply-chain issues, delayed approval of reimbursement requests, the underfunding of the program, and other external circumstances could prevent our subsidiaries from meeting these timelines. Under the FCC’s rules, program participants can seek extensions of their deadlines, or the FCC can grant a blanket extension for all participants. Because of the prevalence of Chinese vendor equipment in our US network, we believe meeting this time based requirement will be difficult without additional time to complete, especially if the FCC is unable to lessen or eliminate the shortfall in reimbursement funding.
Current wording
Companies that were awarded funding must complete the removal, replacement, and disposal of Covered List equipment and services in their networks within a specified project completion deadline. However, delays due to factors such as supply-chain issues, delayed approval of reimbursement requests, the underfunding of the program, and other external circumstances could prevent our subsidiaries from meeting these timelines.
Previous wording
We cannot predict whether and to what extent the fund administrator will approve our subsidiaries’ requests for the specific reimbursement of costs, whether we will obtain additional necessary extensions, or whether we can complete our participation in the program within the timelines set by the FCC.
Current wording
We cannot predict whether and to what extent the fund administrator will approve our subsidiaries’ requests for the specific reimbursement of costs, whether we will obtain additional necessary extensions of the completion deadlines, or whether we can complete our participation in the program within the timelines set by the FCC.
Previous wording
Finally, there is a risk that the FCC may continue to enumerate requirements or change stated rules. For example, if the FCC were to add a new company to the Covered List of foreign companies whose telecommunications equipment are subject to usage restrictions that has provided a significant amount of equipment to our subsidiaries, we cannot predict how our business will be impacted or what sort of adverse consequences may result.
Current wording
Finally, there is a risk that the FCC may continue to enumerate requirements, change stated rules, or delay or withhold funding, including as result of changes to governmental policies and programs, including loans, grants, guarantees and other subsidies. For example, if the FCC were to add a new company to the Covered List of foreign companies whose telecommunications equipment is subject to usage restrictions that has provided a significant amount of equipment to our subsidiaries, we cannot predict how our business will be impacted or what sort of adverse consequences may result.
Previous wording
We are increasingly reliant on government funding which brings compliance obligations and a risk that a change in federal or state funding could materially and adversely impact the financial position and results of operations of certain of our subsidiaries.
Current wording
We are reliant on government funding which brings compliance obligations and risk of change in federal or state funding, including as a result of changes to governmental policies and programs.
Previous wording
We are increasingly focused on winning or obtaining government awards and funding. In the western United States, we are using government awards to both enable our expanded carrier service initiative and grow the footprint of our network. We receive federal and state universal service revenues to support our wireline operations in high-cost areas in Alaska, the US Virgin Islands, and in the western United States. We receive US government funding and awards from numerous other sources, including: ACP, E-rate, EACAM, RHC program, Tribal Broadband Connectivity, CAF II, and RDOF. Each government award or support imposes explicit conditions regarding operational requirements, timelines and deployment of service, and required reporting, each that require strict compliance. Administrative and operational expertise is required to meet the growing number of government award programs that we have been awarded. If we are unable to meet the terms of the awards, our funding may be subject to claw back in addition to other consequences. There can be no assurance that we will continue to meet our myriad of government obligations in a capital-efficient manner. For example, under the USF, if we fail to meet our buildout and service obligations, or if we require substantial additional capital expenditures in order to meet the obligations under the timeline required, or if the relevant government agencies reduce funding availability, our revenue, results of operations, and liquidity may be materially adversely impacted. Finally, there is uncertainty regarding any future levels of these revenues, as the government may choose to decrease or cease funding certain programs. For example, the ACP program is currently slated to end in the second quarter of 2024. ACP funding subsidizes the cost of our broadband services for low-income consumers, so some of our customers may be unable to afford services after the end of this program and we may lose subscribers in our US markets. There can be no assurance that government support will continue at its current levels and decreases or loss in certain programs may have a materially adverse impact on our revenues.
Current wording
In the western United States, we are using government awards to both enable our expanded carrier service initiative and grow the footprint of our network. We receive federal and state universal service revenues to support our wireline operations in high-cost areas in Alaska, the US Virgin Islands, and in the western United States. We receive US government funding and awards from numerous other sources, including E-rate, EACAM, RHC program, Tribal Broadband Connectivity, CAF II, RDOF, and state funding. Each government award or support imposes explicit conditions regarding operational requirements, timelines and deployment of service, and required reporting, each that require strict compliance. Administrative and operational expertise is required to meet the growing number of government award programs that we have been awarded. If we are unable to meet the terms of the awards, our funding may be subject to claw back in addition to other consequences. For example, on May 8, 2024, we entered into a Consent Decree with the FCC Enforcement Bureau, regarding both the USAC and FCC Enforcement Bureau’s investigation with respect to our compliance with Rural Healthcare Program Rules in the 2017 year and agreed to (i) pay a settlement amount of approximately $6.3 million, and (ii) enter into a three-year compliance agreement in connection with Alaska Communication’s continued participation in the RHC Program. While we believe that we are in material compliance with
Previous wording
Increased competition may adversely affect growth, require increased capital expenditures, result in the loss of existing customers and decrease our revenues.
Current wording
Increased competition may require increased capital expenditures or result in the loss of existing customers.
Previous wording
Over the last decade, an increase in competition in many areas of the telecommunications industry has contributed to a decline in prices for communication services, including mobile wireless services, local and long-distance telephone service and data services.
Current wording
Over the past decade, an increase in competition in many areas of the telecommunications industry has contributed to a decline in prices for communication services, including mobile wireless services, local and long-distance telephone services and data services. This is exacerbated by declining or stagnant population trends and changes in the local business environment in certain island markets where we operate, notably Bermuda. Thus, the growth of our retail businesses relies on our ability to upsell our existing customer base with new or higher quality products while decreasing operating expenses. Increased competition, whether from new market entrants or heightened capital investment by our competitors in their existing networks, will make it more difficult for us to attract and retain customers in our small markets, which could result in lower revenue and cash flow from operating activities.
Previous wording
Historically, we have funded our capital expenditures and transactional matters from a combination of cash on hand, cash from operations, and limited incurrence of debt. With our strategy of increased and focused capital expenditures across our business, and the acquisitions of Alaska Communications and Sacred Wind, over the last three years we have substantially decreased our cash reserves and increased our leverage on a consolidated basis.
Current wording
Historically, we have funded our capital expenditures and transactional matters from a combination of cash on hand, cash from operations, and debt. With the acquisitions of Alaska Communications and Sacred Wind and our investment in our “First-to-Fiber” and “Glass & Steel™” strategies, we have substantially decreased our cash reserves and increased our leverage on a consolidated basis.
Previous wording
Rapid and significant technological changes in the telecommunications industry may adversely affect us.
Current wording
Rapid and significant technological changes and advancements in the telecommunications industry may adversely affect us.
Previous wording
Our industry faces rapid and significant changes in technology that may directly impact our business, including the introduction of new telecom delivery platforms. For example, Starlink has started offering direct-to-consumer products which in some locations in our markets is a direct competitive alternative to our new fiber offerings in certain locations, such as in Alaska and Guyana. Given the high capital investments we have already made in the new fiber offerings, this competition may adversely impact our anticipated return on investment.
Current wording
Our industry faces rapid and significant changes in technology that may directly impact our business, including the introduction of new telecom delivery platforms. For example, Starlink began offering direct-to-consumer products which in some locations in our markets is a direct competitive alternative to our new fiber offerings in certain locations, such as in Alaska and Guyana. Given the high capital investments that we have already made in the new fiber offerings, this competition may have an adverse impact on our anticipated return on investment.
Previous wording
For us to keep pace with these technological changes and remain competitive, at a minimum we must continue to make capital expenditures to add to our networks’ capacity, coverage and technical capability. We cannot predict the effect of technological changes on our business. Alternative or new technologies may be developed that provide communications services superior to those available from us, which may adversely affect our business. Failure to provide these services or to upgrade to new technologies on a timely basis and at an acceptable cost, or to secure any necessary regulatory approvals
Current wording
For us to keep pace with these technological changes and advancements and remain competitive, at a minimum we must continue to make capital expenditures to add to our networks’ capacity, coverage and technical capability. We cannot predict the effect of technological changes and advancements on our business. Alternative or new technologies, including artificial intelligence technologies, may be developed that provide communications services superior to those available from us, which may adversely affect our business. Failure to provide these services or to upgrade to new technologies on a timely basis and at an acceptable cost, or to secure any necessary regulatory approvals to roll out such new technologies on a timely basis, all could have a material adverse effect on our ability to compete with carriers in our markets and may expose us to additional risks. For example, failure to implement the right artificial intelligence technologies could lead to poor customer experience or brand damage. Any problems with our implementation or use of artificial intelligence or other technological advancements could also negatively impact our business or results of our operations.
Previous wording
We are subject to US federal, state, and local regulations and foreign government regulations, all of which are subject to change. As new laws and regulations are issued or discontinued, we may be required to materially modify our business plans or operations. We cannot be certain that we can do so in a cost-effective or timely manner. The interpretation and implementation of the various provisions of the Communications Act and the FCC rules implementing the Communications Act continue to be heavily debated and may have a material adverse effect on our business.
Current wording
We are subject to US federal, state, and local regulations and foreign government regulations, all of which are subject to change, including as a result of the new administration in the US. As new laws and regulations are issued or discontinued, we may be required to materially modify our business plans or operations. We cannot be certain that we can do so in a cost-effective or timely manner. The interpretation and implementation of the various provisions of the Communications Act and the FCC rules implementing the Communications Act continue to be heavily debated and may have a material adverse effect on our business.
Previous wording
FCC regulatory activity has increased in 2023 and 2024, particularly in connection with broadband. We cannot predict how increased regulatory activity at the FCC will impact our businesses.
Current wording
FCC regulatory activity has increased since 2023, particularly in connection with broadband. We cannot predict how increased regulatory activity at the FCC will impact our businesses.
Previous wording
Our operations and performance depend on worldwide economic conditions. These conditions have been adversely impacted by continued global economic concerns over inflation, supply chain disruptions, a potential recession, outbreak of war and other monetary and financial uncertainties. Continued inflation may adversely affect our liquidity, business, financial condition and results of operations by increasing our overall cost structure. The existence of inflation
Current wording
Our operations and performance depend on worldwide economic conditions. These conditions have been adversely impacted by continued global economic concerns over inflation, supply chain disruptions, a potential recession, outbreak of war and other monetary and financial uncertainties. Continued inflation may adversely affect our liquidity, business, financial condition and results of operations by increasing our overall cost structure. The existence of inflation in the economy has resulted in, and may continue to result in, higher interest rates and capital costs, supply shortages, increased costs of labor, components, manufacturing and shipping, as well as weakening exchange rates and other similar effects. Increased interest rates and additional debt have resulted in increased interest expenses.
Previous wording
Any failure to comply with the restrictions of the credit facilities or any subsequent financing agreements may result in an event of default. Such default may allow our creditors to accelerate the repayment of the related debt and may result in the acceleration of the repayment of any other debt to which a cross-acceleration or cross-default provision applies. In addition, these creditors may be able to terminate any commitments they had made to provide us with further funds.
Current wording
Failure to comply with the restrictions of the credit facilities or any subsequent financing agreements may result in an event of default. Such default may allow our creditors to accelerate the repayment of the related debt and may result in the acceleration of the repayment of any other debt to which a cross-acceleration or cross-default provision applies. In addition, these creditors may be able to terminate any commitments they have made to provide us with additional funding.
Previous wording
As we have taken on more debt in the last three years to fund our planned higher-than-normal capital expenditures, the additional debt coupled with higher interest rates has increased our interest rate burden.
Current wording
As our debt levels have increased over the last three years to fund our higher-than-normal capital expenditures, the higher debt levels coupled with higher interest rates has increased our interest expense burden and negatively impacted our earnings, cash flow and financial condition.
Previous wording
of December 31, 2023, nearly 60% of its workforce is represented by the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (“IBEW”). The collective bargaining agreement (“CBA”) between Alaska Communications and the IBEW, which was extended through mid-2025, governs the terms and conditions of employment for all IBEW represented employees working for Alaska Communications and has significant economic impacts on it as the CBA relates to wage and benefit costs and work rules. We believe Alaska Communications’ labor costs are higher than our competitors who employ a non-unionized workforce because Alaska Communications is required by the CBA to contribute to the IBEW Health and Welfare Trust and the Alaska Electrical Pension Fund (“AEPF”) for benefit programs, including defined benefit pension plans and health benefit plans, that are not reflective of the competitive marketplace. Furthermore, work rules under the existing agreement limit Alaska Communications’ ability to efficiently manage its workforce and make the incremental cost of work performed outside normal work hours high. In addition, Alaska Communications may make strategic and operational decisions that require the consent of the IBEW. In all of our markets, the local union may not provide consent when needed to execute upon strategic new initiatives or cost saving measures, it may require additional wages, benefits or that other consideration be paid in return for its consent, or it may call for a work stoppage against our operating companies. Any deterioration in the relationship with our local unions could have a negative impact on our operations and on our ability to achieve our plans for growth.
Current wording
Our four largest markets all have some unionized labor pools. Alaska Communications presents a particular operating challenge that differs from those that we have in other markets given the remote location of operations and the extent of the unionized workforce. Labor costs are a significant component of Alaska Communications’ expenses and, as of December 31, 2024, approximately 59% of its workforce is represented by the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (“IBEW”). The collective bargaining agreement (“CBA”) between Alaska Communications and the IBEW, which was extended through mid-2025, governs the terms and conditions of employment for all IBEW represented employees working for Alaska Communications and has significant economic impacts on it as the CBA relates to wage and benefit costs and work rules. We believe Alaska Communications’ labor costs are higher than our competitors who employ a non-unionized workforce. In addition, Alaska Communications may make strategic and operational decisions that require the consent of the IBEW. In all of our markets, the local union may not provide consent when needed to execute upon strategic new initiatives or cost saving measures, it may require additional wages, benefits or that other consideration be paid in return for its consent, or it may call for a work stoppage against our operating companies. Any deterioration in the relationship with our local unions could have a negative impact on our operations and on our ability to achieve our plans for growth.
Previous wording
For the three months prior to March 15, 2024, the average daily trading volume of our Common Stock was approximately 94,000 shares. As a result, our stockholders may have difficulty selling a large number of shares of our Common Stock in the manner or at a price that might be attainable if our Common Stock were more actively traded. In addition, the market price of our Common Stock may not be reflective of its underlying value.
Current wording
For the three months prior to March 17, 2025, the average daily trading volume of our Common Stock was approximately 83,000 shares. As a result, our stockholders may have difficulty selling a large number of shares of our Common Stock in the manner or at a price that might be attainable if our Common Stock were more actively traded. In addition, the market price of our Common Stock may not be reflective of its underlying value.
Previous wording
Our subsidiaries and affiliates are typically private companies whose securities are not traded in any public market. In the past, we have partnered with other equity investors as well, and may have majority or minority holdings in certain investments. Investment agreements for both our majority and minority held subsidiaries often contain investor rights and obligations, such as rights of first refusal, co-sale, and “drag along” provisions related to liquidity events and transfers that may force us to sell or exit our holdings at times or on terms that are not optimal or limit our ability to sell or exit our holdings when we would like to. The illiquidity of our investments may make it difficult for us to quickly obtain cash equal to the value at which we record our investments if the need arises to satisfy the repurchase of such investments from our other equity investors in the event such company desires, or in the case of our Alaska Transaction and Sacred Wind Transaction, may be required to repurchase such securities pursuant to contractual arrangements. Such illiquidity could also cause us to miss other investment opportunities. There can also be no assurance that our investments will appreciate in value or that it will have the opportunity to divest such investments at acceptable prices or within the timeline envisaged. If any of the above circumstances arise, it could result in impairments to such investments, and could have a material adverse impact on our earnings, cash flow and financial condition.
Current wording
Our subsidiaries and affiliates are typically private companies whose securities are not traded in any public market. In the past, we have partnered with other equity investors as well and may have majority or minority holdings in certain investments.* *Investment agreements for both our majority and minority held subsidiaries often contain investor rights and obligations, such as rights of first refusal, co-sale, and “drag along” provisions related to liquidity events and transfers that may force us to sell or exit our holdings at times or on terms that are not optimal or limit our ability to sell or exit our holdings at our discretion. The illiquidity of our investments may make it difficult for us to quickly obtain cash equal to the value at which we record our investments if the need arises to satisfy the repurchase of such investments from our other equity investors in the event such company desires, or in the case of our Alaska Communications and Sacred Wind entities, may be required to repurchase such securities pursuant to contractual arrangements. Such illiquidity could also cause us to miss other investment opportunities. There can also be no assurance that our investments will appreciate in value or that we will have the opportunity to divest such investments at acceptable prices or within the timeline envisaged. If any of the above circumstances arise, it could result in impairments to such investments, and could have a material adverse impact on our earnings, cash flow and financial condition.
Rearranged current paragraphs (3)
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
Any network outage could negatively impact our operations, including the provision of service to our customers, and could result in adverse effects to our financial condition and reputation.
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
Further, there can be no assurance that we will continue to meet our various government obligations in a capital-efficient manner. For example, if we fail to meet our buildout and service obligations, or if we require substantial additional capital expenditures to meet the obligations under the timeline required, or if the relevant government agencies reduce funding availability, our revenue, results of operations, and liquidity may be materially adversely impacted.
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
Finally, there is uncertainty regarding any future levels of these revenues, as the new US administration may choose to decrease or cease funding certain programs, and the constitutionality of the federal universal service program is currently under judicial review. There can be no assurance that government support will continue at its current levels and decreases, losses, or disruptions in the funding of certain programs may have a materially adverse impact on our revenues.
Rearranged previous paragraphs (6)
Previous report — wording carried elsewhere
We are highly dependent on our information technology (“IT”) systems for the operation of our network, our facilities, delivery of services to our customers and the compilation of our financial results. Failure of these IT systems, through cyberattacks, breaches of security, human error or otherwise, may cause disruptions to our operations. There can
Previous report — wording carried elsewhere
Network outages could have an adverse effect on our business.
Previous report — wording carried elsewhere
Increased competition, whether from new entrants or increased capital investment by our competitors in their existing networks, will make it more difficult for us to attract and retain customers in our small markets, which could result in lower revenue and cash flow from operating activities.
Previous report — wording carried elsewhere
to roll out such new technologies on a timely basis all could have a material adverse effect on our ability to compete with carriers in our markets.
Previous report — wording carried elsewhere
in the economy has resulted in, and may continue to result in, higher interest rates and capital costs, supply shortages, increased costs of labor, components, manufacturing and shipping, as well as weakening exchange rates and other similar effects. Increased interest rates and additional debt have resulted in increased interest expenses.
Previous report — wording carried elsewhere
Our four largest markets all have some unionized labor pools. Alaska Communications presents a particular operating challenge that differs from those that we have in other markets given the remote location of operations and the extent of the unionized workforce. Labor costs are a significant component of Alaska Communications’ expenses and, as