Acadian Asset Management Inc

Previous wording

Our overall financial results are dependent on the ability of Acadian to generate earnings.

Current wording

Our overall financial results are dependent on the ability of Acadian LLC to generate earnings.

Previous wording

Substantially all of our revenue generation is dependent on Acadian, who receives the majority of their fees based on the values of assets under management. Substantially all of our cash flows consist of distributions received from Acadian. As a result, our cash flows and ability to fund operations are largely dependent upon the profitability of Acadian.

Current wording

Substantially all of our revenue generation is dependent on Acadian LLC, who receives the majority of their fees based on the values of assets under management. Substantially all of our cash flows consist of distributions received from Acadian LLC. As a result, our cash flows and ability to fund operations are largely dependent upon the profitability of Acadian LLC.

Previous wording

Acadian is required to make certain cash distributions to us under its operating agreement. Distributions to us from Acadian may be subject to Acadian maintaining sufficient working capital, regulatory requirements, claims of creditors of Acadian and applicable bankruptcy and insolvency laws. Any material decrease in profits at, or material reduction in distributions from, Acadian could negatively impact our business and results of operations.

Current wording

Acadian LLC is required to make certain cash distributions to us under its operating agreement. Distributions to us from Acadian LLC may be subject to Acadian LLC maintaining sufficient working capital, regulatory requirements, claims of creditors of Acadian LLC and applicable bankruptcy and insolvency laws. Any material decrease in profits at, or material reduction in distributions from, Acadian LLC could negatively impact our business and results of operations.

Previous wording

Acadian operates under ownership, governance and economic arrangements that we and Acadian negotiated either at inception or during the course of our relationship. Periodically, this arrangement is reviewed and, in some instances, may be renegotiated and revised. Any renegotiation that results in a reduction in our ownership interest in Acadian and/or a revision to the economic arrangements could reduce the economic benefits derived by us from Acadian.

Current wording

Acadian LLC operates under ownership, governance and economic arrangements that we and Acadian LLC negotiated either at inception or during the course of our relationship. Any renegotiation of the economic arrangement could reduce the economic benefits derived by us from Acadian LLC.

Previous wording

Our financial performance is dependent upon our ability to minimize outflows and increase inflows through sound relative investment performance over measured periods of time compared to relevant benchmarks and peer performance results. The performance of our systematic investment strategies, which can be impacted by factors within and/or outside our control, including general market and economic conditions, is critical to retaining existing client assets and investors, including in mutual funds and private funds we advise or sub-advise, and attracting new client and investor assets. Poor performance can be caused by our choices in investing in sectors, industries, companies or assets that do not perform as well as others. Additionally, companies in which we invest may incur negative changes in their financial conditions or suffer other adverse events that could reduce the values of investments in those companies.

Current wording

Our financial performance is dependent upon our ability to minimize outflows and increase inflows through sound relative investment performance over measured periods of time compared to relevant benchmarks and peer performance results. The performance of our investment strategies, which can be impacted by factors within and/or outside our control, including general market and economic conditions, is critical to retaining existing client assets and investors, including in funds we advise or sub-advise, and attracting new client and investor assets. Poor performance can be caused by our choices in investing in sectors, industries, companies or assets that do not perform as well as others. Additionally, companies in which we invest may incur negative changes in their financial conditions or suffer other adverse events that could reduce the values of investments in those companies.

Previous wording

Net flows related to our systematic investment strategies can be affected by investment performance relative to other competing investment strategies or to established benchmarks. Investment management strategies may be rated, ranked or assessed by independent third parties, distribution partners, and industry periodicals and services. These assessments often influence the investment decisions of our clients and investors in mutual funds and private funds we advise or sub-advise. If the performance or assessment of our systematic investment strategies is seen as underperforming relative to peers, it could, among other things, result in an increase in the withdrawal of assets by existing clients and investors in mutual funds and private funds we advise or sub-advise, the termination of us as a sub-adviser to a mutual fund and the inability to attract additional investments from existing and new clients or investors. If a significant portion of clients or investors decides to withdraw their investments or terminate their investment management agreements or sub-advisory agreements, our ability to generate earnings would decline and our results of operations and financial condition would be affected.

Current wording

Net flows related to our investment strategies can be affected by investment performance relative to other competing investment strategies or to established benchmarks. Investment management strategies may be rated, ranked or assessed by independent third parties, distribution partners, and industry periodicals and services. These assessments often influence the investment decisions of our clients and investors in funds we advise or sub-advise. If the performance or assessment of our investment strategies is seen as underperforming relative to peers, it could, among other things, result in an increase in the withdrawal of assets by existing clients and investors and the inability to attract additional investments. If a significant portion of clients or investors decides to withdraw their investments or terminate their investment management agreements or sub-advisory agreements, our ability to generate earnings would decline and our results of operations and financial condition would be affected.

Previous wording

In addition, assets could be withdrawn for any number of reasons other than poor absolute or relative investment performance, including macro-economic factors unrelated to investment performance, a reduction in market demand for the systematic asset classes, products or strategies we offer, the loss of key personnel, price declines in the securities markets generally, price declines in those assets in which client assets are concentrated or changes in investment patterns of clients, a failure by us to comply with applicable client and regulatory investment guidelines, or factors wholly unrelated to us. Any of these factors could have a negative impact on our results of operations and financial condition.

Current wording

In addition, assets could be withdrawn for any number of reasons other than poor absolute or relative investment performance, including macro-economic factors unrelated to investment performance, a reduction in market demand for the asset classes, products or strategies we offer, the loss of key personnel, price declines in the securities markets generally, price declines in those assets in which client assets are concentrated or changes in investment patterns of clients, a failure by us to comply with applicable client and regulatory investment guidelines, or factors wholly unrelated to us. Any of these factors could have a negative impact on our results of operations and financial condition.

Previous wording

A significant portion of our assets are invested in a limited number of investment strategies. As of December 31, 2023, $44.7 billion, or 43%, of our assets under management were concentrated across three investment strategies: Acadian’s Emerging Markets Equity ($16.8 billion, or 16%), Acadian’s Global Equity ($14.1 billion, or 14%), and Acadian’s All-Country World ex-US Equity ($13.8 billion, or 13%). Consequently, our results of operations are dependent upon our ability to minimize the risk of outflows from these strategies through relatively strong performance over measured periods of time compared to relevant benchmarks and peer performance results. Also, certain investors may evaluate us on the basis of the asset-weighted performance of our assets under management. A relatively small change in the relative performance of one of our largest strategies, such as Acadian’s Emerging Markets Equity, could have a significant impact on the asset-weighted performance of our assets under management. Such volatility could adversely affect our results of operations and investors’ perception of us.

Current wording

A significant portion of our assets are invested in a limited number of investment strategies. As of December 31, 2024, $52 billion, or 45%, of our assets under management were concentrated across three investment strategies: Acadian Global Equity ($19 billion, or 16%) Acadian Emerging Markets Equity ($18 billion, or 16%), and Acadian All-Country World ex-US Equity ($15 billion, or 13%). Consequently, our results of operations are dependent upon our ability to minimize the risk of outflows from these strategies through relatively strong performance over measured periods of time compared to relevant benchmarks and peer performance results. Also, certain investors may evaluate us on the basis of the asset-weighted performance of our assets under management. A relatively small change in the relative performance of one of our largest strategies, such as Acadian Emerging Markets Equity, could have a significant impact on the asset-weighted performance of our assets under management. Such volatility could adversely affect our results of operations and investors’ perception of us.

Previous wording

A significant amount of our assets under management is represented by strategies that invest in securities of non-U.S. companies. Fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates could negatively impact the account values and the investment returns of clients who are invested in these strategies, with a corresponding reduction in management fee income. In addition, an increase in the value of the U.S. dollar relative to non-U.S. currencies could result in a decrease in the U.S. dollar value of assets under management that are denominated in non-U.S. currencies, which in turn would result in lower revenues.

Current wording

A significant amount of our assets under management is represented by strategies that invest in securities of non-U.S. companies. As of December 31, 2024, approximately 80% of our AUM is in non-US denominated currencies. Fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates could negatively impact the account values and the investment returns of clients who are invested in these strategies, with a corresponding reduction in management fee income. In addition, an increase in the value of the U.S. dollar relative to non-U.S. currencies could result in a decrease in the U.S. dollar value of assets under management that are denominated in non-U.S. currencies, which in turn would result in lower revenues.

Previous wording

We depend on the skills and expertise of our key investment and management personnel, and our success and growth depends on our ability to attract and retain key personnel. We rely heavily upon the services of certain key investment and management personnel. The loss of key investment and management personnel for any reason could have an adverse impact upon our business, results of operations and financial condition. Any of our key investment or management personnel could resign at any time, join a competitor or form a competing company. We have entered into non-competition agreements with some, but not all, of our investment and management personnel, but these agreements may not be enforceable or may not be enforceable to their full extent. In addition, we may agree to waive a non-competition agreement applicable to investment or management personnel in light of the circumstances of our relationship with that person. Additionally, key employees have the opportunity to participate in the appreciation in the value of our business. Award documents typically limit a recipient’s right to provide competitive services to our clients or solicit our employees for prescribed periods.

Current wording

We depend on the skills and expertise of our key investment and management personnel, and our success and growth depends on our ability to attract and retain key personnel. We rely heavily upon the services of certain key investment and management personnel. The loss of key investment and management personnel for any reason could have an adverse impact upon our business, results of operations and financial condition. Any of our key investment or management personnel could resign at any time, join a competitor or form a competing company. We have entered into non-competition agreements with some, but not all, of our investment and management personnel, but these agreements may not be enforceable or may not be enforceable to their full extent. Additionally, key employees receive equity awards that limit a recipient’s right to provide competitive services to our clients or solicit our employees for prescribed periods. However, we may agree to waive restrictive covenants applicable to investment or management personnel in light of the circumstances of our relationship with that person.

Previous wording

Equity ownership by employees of Acadian is at the level of Acadian and not at the holding company level, although employees of Acadian may acquire our common stock. There may be instances where the interests of Acadian’s key employee equity-holders may not align with ours in effecting a desired outcome.

Current wording

Equity ownership by our employees may be at Acadian LLC or at the holding company level. There may be instances where the interests of equity-holders of Acadian LLC may not align with our stockholders in effecting a desired outcome.

Previous wording

We believe we have strong client and consultant relationships in our core institutional marketplaces, and we depend upon these relationships to successfully market our existing products and strategies and to introduce new products and strategies. As of December 31, 2023, our top five client relationships represented approximately 14% of total run rate gross management fee revenue, and our top 25 clients represented approximately 38% of run rate gross management fee revenue. Total run rate gross management fee revenue reflects the sum for each account at Acadian, of the product of (a) assets under management in each account at December 31, 2023, multiplied by (b) the relevant management fee rate on that account. Any negative changes in these relationships that reduce the number of client or consultant contacts, restrict access to existing or potential clients, or result in negative statements by a consultant, could have an adverse impact on our business and negatively impact our results of operations.

Current wording

We believe we have strong client and consultant relationships in our core institutional marketplaces, and we depend upon these relationships to successfully market our existing products and strategies and to introduce new products and strategies. As of December 31, 2024, our top five client relationships represented approximately 13% of total run rate gross management fee revenue, and our top 25 clients represented approximately 35% of run rate gross management fee revenue. Total run rate gross management fee revenue reflects the sum for each account at Acadian LLC, of the product of (a) assets under management in each account at December 31, 2024, multiplied by (b) the relevant management fee rate on that account. Any negative changes in these relationships that reduce the number of client or consultant contacts, restrict access to existing or potential clients, or result in negative statements by a consultant, could have an adverse impact on our business and negatively impact our results of operations.

Previous wording

Acadian is a U.S. registered investment adviser. Acadian may provide investment advisory services to investment companies registered under the Investment Company Act pursuant to the terms of an investment advisory agreement between Acadian and the applicable U.S. registered investment company. Acadian may also be retained by U.S. registered investment advisers to certain U.S. registered investment companies to provide investment sub-advisory services to U.S. registered investment companies pursuant to the terms of an investment sub-advisory agreement between Acadian and the relevant U.S. registered investment adviser. An investment advisory agreement may be terminated by a client without penalty upon relatively short notice (typically no more than 30 days). In addition, the investment advisory agreements and sub-advisory agreements with respect to registered investment companies generally may be terminated by the registered investment company or, in those instances where Acadian serves as a sub-adviser, the registered investment company’s adviser, without penalty, upon 60 days’ notice and are subject to annual approval by the registered investment company’s board of directors or trustees. Clients may decide to terminate or not renew an agreement for poor investment performance or any variety of reasons which may be beyond our control. A decrease in revenues resulting from termination of an investment advisory agreement or sub-advisory agreement for any reason could have a material adverse effect on our revenue and profits and a negative effect on our results of operations.

Current wording

Acadian LLC is a U.S. registered investment adviser. Acadian LLC may provide investment advisory services to investment companies registered under the Investment Company Act pursuant to the terms of an investment advisory agreement between Acadian LLC and the applicable U.S. registered investment company. Acadian LLC may also be retained by U.S. registered investment advisers to certain U.S. registered investment companies to provide investment sub-advisory services to U.S. registered investment companies pursuant to the terms of an investment sub-advisory agreement between Acadian LLC and the relevant U.S. registered investment adviser. An investment advisory agreement may be terminated by a client without penalty upon relatively short notice (typically no more than 30 days). In addition, the investment advisory agreements and sub-advisory agreements with respect to registered investment companies generally may be terminated by the registered investment company or, in those instances where Acadian LLC serves as a sub-adviser, the registered investment company’s adviser, without penalty, upon 60 days’ notice and are subject to annual approval by the registered investment company’s board of directors or trustees. Clients may decide to terminate or not renew an agreement for poor investment performance or any variety of reasons which may be beyond our control. A decrease in revenues resulting from termination of an investment advisory agreement or sub-advisory agreement for any reason could have a material adverse effect on our revenue and profits and a negative effect on our results of operations.

Previous wording

Pursuant to the Advisers Act, investment advisory agreements between Acadian, who is a U.S. registered investment advisers and their clients are not assignable without the consent of the client. As required by the Investment Company Act of 1940, or the Investment Company Act, investment advisory agreements and sub-advisory agreements between Acadian and investment company clients and/or the investment advisers to those investment companies terminate upon their assignment. Assignment, as generally defined, includes direct assignments as well as assignments that may be deemed to occur, under certain circumstances, upon the direct or indirect transfer of a “controlling block” of the voting securities of Acadian. A transaction is not deemed an assignment under the Advisers Act or the Investment Company Act, however, if it does not result in a change of actual control or management of Acadian.

Current wording

Pursuant to the Advisers Act, investment advisory agreements between Acadian LLC, who is a U.S. registered investment advisers and their clients are not assignable without the consent of the client. As required by the Investment Company Act of 1940, or the Investment Company Act, investment advisory agreements and sub-advisory agreements between Acadian LLC and investment company clients and/or the investment advisers to those investment companies terminate upon their assignment. Assignment, as generally defined, includes direct assignments as well as assignments that may be deemed to occur, under certain circumstances, upon the direct or indirect transfer of a “controlling block” of the voting securities of Acadian LLC. A transaction is not deemed an assignment under the Advisers Act or the Investment Company Act, however, if it does not result in a change of actual control or management of Acadian LLC.

Previous wording

If anyone acquires, or is deemed to have acquired, a controlling block of our voting securities in the future, the contractual anti-assignment and termination provisions of the investment advisory and sub-advisory agreements between Acadian and its clients may be implicated. If an assignment of an investment advisory or sub-advisory agreement is deemed to occur, and clients do not consent to the assignment or, with respect to investment company clients, enter into a new agreement with Acadian, which may require the approval of the investment company’s stockholders in addition to its board of directors or trustees, our results of operations could be materially and adversely affected.

Current wording

If anyone acquires, or is deemed to have acquired, a controlling block of our voting securities in the future, the contractual anti-assignment and termination provisions of the investment advisory and sub-advisory agreements between Acadian LLC and its clients may be implicated. If an assignment of an investment advisory or sub-advisory agreement is deemed to occur, and clients do not consent to the assignment or, with respect to investment company clients, enter into a new agreement with Acadian LLC, which may require the approval of the investment company’s stockholders in addition to its board of directors or trustees, our results of operations could be materially and adversely affected.

Previous wording

Furthermore, a shift in the mix of assets under management from asset classes or products that generate higher fees to those that generate lower fees may result in a decrease in revenues while aggregate assets under management remain unchanged or increase. Such shifts can occur as various investment strategies go in and out of favor due to competition in the industry or as a result of movements between asset classes or certain products no longer being available to investors. In addition, in the event current or future Affiliates have or develop a focus on strategies that generate lower fees, a decrease in revenues may result. A decrease in revenues without a reduction in expenses will result in reduced net income.

Current wording

Furthermore, a shift in the mix of assets under management from asset classes or products that generate higher fees to those that generate lower fees may result in a decrease in revenues while aggregate assets under management remain unchanged or increase. Such shifts can occur as various investment strategies go in and out of favor due to competition in the industry or as a result of movements between asset classes or certain products no longer being available to investors. In addition, in the event Acadian LLC has or develops a focus on strategies that generate lower fees, a decrease in revenues may result. A decrease in revenues without a reduction in expenses will result in reduced net income.

Previous wording

Acadian may serve as general partner, managing member or their equivalents for investment products that are organized as partnerships or other commingled vehicles. As such, we may be exposed to liability in the limited liability company, partnership or investment vehicle or required to undertake certain obligations under applicable law that we or they otherwise would not be required to undertake as a holding company or investment adviser. In addition we may be deemed to be a control person of Acadian as that term is defined in various U.S. federal and state statutes and, as such, potentially liable for the acts of Acadian or its employees. Consequently, if under such circumstances Acadian incurs liabilities or expenses that exceed its ability to pay, we may be directly or indirectly liable for its payment to the extent provided in the governing documents of the limited liability company, partnership or investment vehicle or under applicable law. While we maintain errors and omissions and general liability insurance in amounts believed to be adequate to cover certain potential liabilities, we cannot be certain that claims will not be made against us that exceed the limits of available insurance coverage, that the insurers will remain solvent and will meet their obligations to provide coverage or that an adequate amount of insurance coverage will continue to be available to us at a reasonable cost. A judgment against us in excess of available insurance coverage could have a material adverse impact on our business and financial condition.

Current wording

Acadian LLC may serve as general partner, managing member or their equivalents for investment products that are organized as partnerships or other commingled vehicles. As such, we may be exposed to liability in the limited liability company, partnership or investment vehicle or required to undertake certain obligations under applicable law that we or they otherwise would not be required to undertake as a holding company or investment adviser. In addition we may be deemed to be a control person of Acadian LLC as that term is defined in various U.S. federal and state statutes and, as such, potentially liable for the acts of Acadian LLC or its employees. Consequently, if under such circumstances Acadian LLC incurs liabilities or expenses that exceed its ability to pay, we may be directly or indirectly liable for its payment to the extent provided in the governing documents of the limited liability company, partnership or investment vehicle or under applicable law. While we maintain errors and omissions and general liability insurance in amounts believed to be adequate to cover certain potential liabilities, we cannot be certain that claims will not be made against us that exceed the limits of available insurance coverage, that the insurers will remain solvent and will meet their obligations to provide coverage or that an adequate amount of insurance coverage will continue to be available to us at a reasonable cost. A judgment against us in excess of available insurance coverage could have a material adverse impact on our business and financial condition.

Previous wording

As of December 31, 2023, we had approximately $41 million committed to seed capital, which is currently invested in five products. The amount we commit to, or invest in, seed capital could change materially from time to time in our discretion based on the needs of the business. The capital utilized in the seed portfolios may be subject to liquidity constraints over certain time periods and is subject to market conditions. A decline in the value of our seed capital would adversely impact our results of operations or financial condition.

Current wording

As of December 31, 2024, we had approximately $90 million committed to seed capital, which is currently invested in seven products. The amount we commit to, or invest in, seed capital could change materially from time to time in our discretion based on the needs of the business. The capital utilized in the seed portfolios may be subject to liquidity constraints over certain time periods and is subject to market conditions. A decline in the value of our seed capital would adversely impact our results of operations or financial condition.

Previous wording

As of December 31, 2023, we had $275 million of long-term bonds outstanding. For additional information regarding our long-term bonds, see “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Capital Resources and Liquidity—Working Capital and Long-Term Debt.”

Current wording

As of December 31, 2024, we had $275.0 million of long-term bonds outstanding. For additional information regarding our long-term bonds, see “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Capital Resources and Liquidity—Working Capital and Long-Term Debt.”

Previous wording

We may be unable to obtain sufficient capital and liquidity to meet the financing requirements of our business.

Current wording

We may be unable to obtain sufficient capital and liquidity to meet the requirements of our business.

Previous wording

In July 2016 we issued an aggregate of $400 million of long-term bonds, $125 million of which we redeemed in January 2022. On August 20, 2019, we entered into a $450 million senior unsecured revolving credit facility with third party lenders. In February 2021, we assigned this credit facility to Acadian and the available borrowings were decreased to $125 million in connection with the assignment. Accordingly, this credit facility is no longer available to us at the holding company level for future borrowings. Our ability to finance our operations, strategic initiatives and maturing obligations under our long-terms bonds is therefore dependent on future issuances of long-term bonds and our future operating performance. Any future inability to obtain financing on reasonable terms and with reasonable restrictions on the operation of our business could impair our liquidity, have a negative impact on our growth and negatively impact our financial condition.

Current wording

Our ability to finance our operations, strategic initiatives and maturing obligations under our long-terms bonds is dependent on future issuances of long-term bonds or other financing options and our future operating performance. Any future inability to obtain financing on reasonable terms and with reasonable restrictions on the operation of our business could impair our liquidity, have a negative impact on our growth and negatively impact our financial condition.

Previous wording

A significant portion of our operations relies heavily on the secure processing, storage and transmission of confidential and other information as well as the monitoring of a large number of complex transactions. Like many other financial institutions, we have been subject to cyber-attacks and will continue to be subject to an increasing risk of cyber incidents from these activities. Cyber-attacks are growing in sophistication and come from a variety of sources, including criminal hackers, hactivists, state-sponsored intrusions, industrial espionage, personnel or the personnel of third parties, and insider threats. We are required to expend significant resources in an effort to protect against security incidents and may be required or choose to spend additional resources or modify our business activities, particularly where required by applicable data privacy and security laws or regulations or industry standards. While we have implemented security measures, our technology systems, and those of our vendors, contractors, and other third-party partners who process information on our behalf, may still be vulnerable to security incidents, disruptions, cyber-attacks or similar events such as unauthorized access, computer malware, phishing attacks and other forms of social engineering, denial-of-service attacks, ransomware attacks, or other events that have a security impact, such as an authorized employee or vendor inadvertently causing the release of confidential information or third-party unauthorized access or account takeovers, which could materially damage our operations or cause the disclosure or modification of sensitive or confidential information. Breach of our technology systems through cyber-attacks, or failure to manage and secure our technology environment, could result in interruptions or malfunctions in the operations of our business, loss of valuable information, liability for stolen assets or information, remediation costs to repair damage caused by a breach, additional costs to mitigate against future incidents and litigation costs resulting from an incident. Moreover, accidental or unlawful destruction, loss, alteration, unauthorized disclosure of, or access to, personal data and confidential client information could harm our reputation and subject us to liability under the laws that protect personal data and confidential information, resulting in increased costs or loss of revenues. A successful attack could result in significant adverse consequences, including

Current wording

A significant portion of our operations relies heavily on the secure processing, storage and transmission of confidential and other information as well as the monitoring of a large number of complex transactions. Like many other financial institutions, we have been subject to cyber-attacks and will continue to be subject to an increasing risk of cyber incidents from these activities. Cyber-attacks are growing in sophistication and come from a variety of sources, including criminal hackers, activists, state-sponsored intrusions, industrial espionage, and insider threats. We are required to expend significant resources in an effort to protect against security incidents and may be required or choose to spend additional resources or modify our business activities, particularly where required by applicable data privacy and security laws or regulations or industry standards. While we have implemented security measures, our technology systems, and those of our vendors, contractors, and other third-party partners who process information on our behalf, may still be vulnerable to security incidents, disruptions, cyber-attacks or similar events such as unauthorized access, computer malware, phishing attacks and other forms of social engineering, denial-of-service attacks, ransomware attacks, or other events that have a security impact, such as an authorized employee or vendor inadvertently causing the release of confidential information or third-party unauthorized access or account takeovers, which could materially damage our operations or cause the disclosure or modification of sensitive or confidential information. Breach of our technology systems through cyber-attacks, or failure to manage and secure our technology environment, could result in interruptions or malfunctions in the operations of our business, loss of valuable information, liability for stolen assets or information, remediation costs to repair damage caused by a breach, additional costs to mitigate against future incidents and litigation costs resulting from an incident. Moreover, accidental or unlawful destruction, loss, alteration, unauthorized disclosure of, or access to, personal data and confidential client information could harm our reputation and subject us to liability under the laws that protect personal data and confidential information, resulting in increased costs or loss of revenues. A successful attack could result in significant adverse consequences, including regulatory inquiries or litigation, increased costs and expenses including costs related to insurance and remediation of any security vulnerabilities, reputational damage, lost revenue, and fines or penalties.

Previous wording

We routinely execute transactions with counterparties in the financial industry and for the provision of services that are important to the business, and we may engage in transactions with counterparties as part of our corporate finance management function and for the provision of services, including insurance protection. As a result, we and our clients have exposure to the credit, operational and other risks posed by such counterparties, including the risk of default by or bankruptcy of a counterparty. Additionally, we hold insurance policies which cover historical tax benefits relating to certain of our deferred tax assets. The insurers of the policies are considered a significant counterparty to us. The failure of a counterparty to meet its obligations or provide the services or insurance protection we depend on for these or other reasons could adversely affect our ability to conduct our business and result in loss of client assets and potential liability.

Current wording

We routinely execute transactions with counterparties in the financial industry and for the provision of services that are important to the business, and we may engage in transactions with counterparties as part of our corporate finance management function and for the provision of services, including insurance protection. As a result, we and our clients have exposure to the credit, operational and other risks posed by such counterparties, including the risk of default by or bankruptcy of a counterparty. The failure of a counterparty to meet its obligations or provide the services or insurance protection we depend on for these or other reasons could adversely affect our ability to conduct our business and result in loss of client assets and potential liability.

Previous wording

The future application of EU-based legislation to the investment management industry in the U.K and the EU will ultimately depend on how the U.K. renegotiates the regulation of the provision of financial services within and to persons in the EU. There can be no assurance that any renegotiated terms or regulations will not have an adverse impact on us and our investments, including our ability to achieve our investment objectives. Brexit may result in significant market dislocation, heightened counterparty risk, an adverse effect on the management of market risk and, in particular, asset and liability management due in part to redenomination of financial assets and liabilities, an adverse effect on our ability to manage, operate and invest, and increased legal, regulatory or compliance burden for us, each of which may have a negative impact on our operations, financial condition, returns or prospects.

Current wording

Beginning January 1, 2021, EU laws ceased to apply in the U.K. Brexit has resulted in increased complexity to our operations, including the ability of our UK subsidiary to access the European Economic Area. Future EU or U.K.-based legislation or agreements enacted in response to Brexit may have a further adverse impact on us or our investments. Brexit also may result in significant market dislocation, heightened counterparty risk and an adverse effect on the management of market risk, particularly asset and liability management due in part to redenomination of financial assets and liabilities, an adverse effect on our ability to manage, operate and invest and increased legal, regulatory or compliance burden for us, each of which could have a negative impact on our operations, investments, financial condition, returns or prospects.

Previous wording

Acadian is subject to extensive regulation in the U.S. through its primary regulator, the SEC, under the Advisers Act. To the extent Acadian acts as investment adviser or sub-adviser to registered investment companies, it must also comply with the terms of the Investment Company Act and the rules thereunder. The Advisers Act imposes numerous obligations on registered investment advisers, including fiduciary, record keeping, advertising and operational requirements, disclosure obligations, and prohibitions on fraudulent activities. The Investment Company Act regulates the structure and operations of registered investment companies and imposes additional obligations on advisers to registered investment companies, including detailed disclosure and regulatory requirements applicable to the registered investment companies and additional compliance responsibilities which must strictly be adhered to by the funds and their advisers. Acadian may also be subject to the rules and regulations adopted by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission, under the Commodity Exchange Act; by the Department of Labor, under ERISA; the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, Inc., or FINRA; and state regulators.

Current wording

Acadian LLC is subject to extensive regulation in the U.S. through its primary regulator, the SEC, under the Advisers Act. To the extent Acadian LLC acts as investment adviser or sub-adviser to registered investment companies, it must also comply with the terms of the Investment Company Act and the rules thereunder. The Advisers Act imposes numerous obligations on registered investment advisers, including fiduciary, record keeping, advertising and operational requirements, disclosure obligations, and prohibitions on fraudulent activities. The Investment Company Act regulates the structure and operations of registered investment companies and imposes additional obligations on advisers to registered investment companies, including detailed disclosure and regulatory requirements applicable to the registered investment companies and additional compliance responsibilities which must strictly be adhered to by the funds and their advisers. Acadian LLC may also be subject to the rules and regulations adopted by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission, under the Commodity Exchange Act; by the Department of Labor, under ERISA; the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, Inc., or FINRA; and state regulators.

Previous wording

Developments in the regulatory environment in the U.S. may include heightened and additional examinations and inspections by regulators and the imposition of additional reporting and disclosure obligations. Regulators also may take a more aggressive posture on bringing enforcement proceedings which could result in fines, penalties and additional remedial activities.

Current wording

Developments in applicable regulatory environments may include heightened and additional examinations and inspections by regulators and the imposition of additional reporting and disclosure obligations. Regulators also may take a more aggressive posture on bringing enforcement proceedings which could result in fines, penalties and additional remedial activities.

Previous wording

Failure to comply with applicable laws or regulations could result in fines, suspension or revocation of Acadian’s registration as an investment adviser, suspensions of individual employees, revocation of licenses to operate in certain jurisdictions or other sanctions, which could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. Even if an investigation or proceeding did not result in a fine or sanction, or the fine or sanction imposed against us or our respective employees by a regulator were small in monetary amount, the adverse publicity relating to an investigation, proceeding or imposition of a fine or sanction could cause us to suffer financial loss, harm our reputation and cause us to lose business or fail to attract new business which would have a direct adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Current wording

Failure to comply with applicable laws or regulations could result in fines, suspension or revocation of Acadian LLC’s registration as an investment adviser, suspensions of individual employees, revocation of licenses to operate in certain jurisdictions or other sanctions, which could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. Even if an investigation or proceeding did not result in a fine or sanction, or the fine or sanction imposed against us or our respective employees by a regulator were small in monetary amount, the adverse publicity relating to an investigation, proceeding or imposition of a fine or sanction could cause us to suffer financial loss, harm our reputation and cause us to lose business or fail to attract new business which would have a direct adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Previous wording

As of February 14, 2024, Paulson & Co. Inc. (“Paulson”) owns 23.11% of our common stock. This concentration of ownership may have the effect of delaying or preventing a change in control of us or discouraging others from making tender offers for our common stock. It also may make it difficult for other stockholders to replace management and may adversely impact the trading price of our common stock because investors often perceive disadvantages in owning common stock in companies with significant stockholders. Additional repurchases of our common stock could, without any action by Paulson, further increase Paulson’s concentration of ownership. Additionally, Paulson has the right to appoint one director so long as it holds at least 7% of our outstanding common stock. Paulson also has the right to transfer this appointment right to a transferee that acquires from Paulson the foregoing percentage of our common stock, at which point such unknown third party may have a meaningful ability to influence our business.

Current wording

As of February 14, 2025, Paulson & Co. Inc. (“Paulson”) owns 23.9% of our common stock. This concentration of ownership may have the effect of delaying or preventing a change in control of us or discouraging others from making tender offers for our common stock. It also may make it difficult for other stockholders to replace management and may adversely impact the trading price of our common stock because investors often perceive disadvantages in owning common stock in companies with significant stockholders. Additional repurchases of our common stock could, without any action by Paulson, further increase Paulson’s concentration of ownership. Additionally, Paulson has the right to appoint one director so long as it holds at least 7% of our outstanding common stock. Paulson also has the right to transfer this appointment right to a transferee that acquires from Paulson the foregoing percentage of our common stock, at which point such unknown third party may have a meaningful ability to influence our business.

Previous wording

We have recorded goodwill and intangible asset impairments in the past and could incur such charges in the future as acquisitions occur and we take on more goodwill. We review the carrying value of goodwill and intangible assets not subject to amortization on an annual basis, or more frequently if indications exist suggesting that the fair value of our intangible assets may be below their carrying values. We test the values of intangible assets subject to amortization whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. Should such review indicate impairment, a write-down of the carrying value of goodwill or the intangible asset could occur, resulting in a non-cash charge that may, in turn, affect our reported results of operations, financial condition and shareholders’ equity.

Current wording

We have recorded goodwill and intangible asset impairments in the past and could incur such charges in the future if acquisitions occur and we take on more goodwill. We review the carrying value of goodwill and intangible assets not subject to amortization on an annual basis, or more frequently if indications exist suggesting that the fair value of our intangible assets may be below their carrying values. We test the values of intangible assets subject to amortization whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. Should such review indicate impairment, a write-down of the carrying value of goodwill or the intangible asset could occur, resulting in a non-cash charge that may, in turn, affect our reported results of operations, financial condition and shareholders’ equity.

Previous wording

Any declaration of dividends will be at the discretion of our Board of Directors, and will depend on our financial condition, earnings, cash needs, regulatory constraints, capital requirements and any other factors that our Board of Directors deems relevant in making such a determination. However, our ability to make such distributions will be subject to our operating results, which are impacted by the ability of Acadian to make distributions to us, cash requirements and financial condition, the applicable provisions of Delaware law that may limit the amount of funds available for distribution, our compliance with covenants and financial ratios related to existing or future indebtedness, including under our notes and our credit facilities, and our other agreements with third parties. In addition, we are dependent upon the ability of Acadian to generate earnings and cash flows and distribute them to us so that we may pay dividends to our stockholders. As a consequence of these various limitations and restrictions, we may not be able to make, or may have to reduce or eliminate, the payment of dividends on our common stock.

Current wording

Any declaration of dividends will be at the discretion of our Board of Directors, and will depend on our financial condition, earnings, cash needs, regulatory constraints, capital requirements and any other factors that our Board of Directors deems relevant in making such a determination. However, our ability to make such distributions will be subject to our operating results, which are impacted by the ability of Acadian LLC to make distributions to us, cash requirements and financial condition, the applicable provisions of Delaware law that may limit the amount of funds available for distribution, our compliance with covenants and financial ratios related to existing or future indebtedness, including under our notes and our credit facilities, and our other agreements with third parties. In addition, we are dependent upon the ability of Acadian LLC to generate earnings and cash flows and distribute them to us so that we may pay dividends to our stockholders. As a consequence of these various limitations and restrictions, we may not be able to make, or may have to reduce or eliminate, the payment of dividends on our common stock.