Atmus Filtration Technologies Inc
For the period ended Dec 31, 2024. Filed Feb 21, 2025.
View on SEC.govAbout this filing
A company's yearly report to the SEC, with audited financial statements. It is the fullest account a company gives of its business, its finances and the risks it sees.
FY2024 · Filed Feb 21, 2025
What changed in Risk Factors?
Read the current filingPrevious report: 10-K
Period ended 2023-12-31; filed 2024-02-14.
0001921963-24-000007
Item 1A. Risk FactorsCurrent report: 10-K
Period ended 2024-12-31; filed 2025-02-21.
0001921963-25-000029
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 249 previous paragraphs and 219 current paragraphs.
168 unchanged; 37 reworded; 10 added; 41 removed; 3 previous and 4 current paragraphs rearranged.
Tables are not compared: 0 previous and 0 current tables excluded. Dates, whitespace, punctuation and numbering changes are ignored; changes to financial figures remain significant.
A changed paragraph is not evidence that risk increased or decreased. An unchanged paragraph does not establish that risk stayed the same.
Added paragraphs (10)
Current report
•Increased tariffs or the imposition of other barriers to international trade.
Current report
•Potential indemnification from Cummins may be insufficient to insure Atmus against the full amount of such liabilities;
Current report
•Terms from unaffiliated third parties may have been better than what Atmus received in agreements with Cummins;
Current report
•Atmus’ stock repurchase program may be suspended or terminated at any time.
Current report
•No guarantee of the payment, timing or amount of any dividend.
Current report
In addition, data we collect, store and process are subject to a variety of U.S. and international laws and regulations, such as the European Union's General Data Protection Regulation, which may carry significant potential penalties for noncompliance.
Current report
Increased tariffs or the imposition of other barriers to international trade could impact demand for our products and our competitive position.
Current report
Changes to trade protection measures and import or export licensing requirements; the imposition of new, additional, or retaliatory tariffs, quotas, exchange controls, sanctions, trade barriers or other restrictions (including recent U.S. tariffs imposed or threatened to be imposed by the current U.S presidential administration on China, Canada and Mexico and other countries and any retaliatory actions taken by such countries); and the withdrawal from or modification of trade agreements or the negotiation of new trade agreements, in countries where we operate, particularly in Mexico, Canada, China, and India, could impact the cost of our products, demand for our products and the competitive position of our products. Our largest global manufacturing facility is in San Luis Potosi, Mexico, and it supplies products to our U.S. market. There can be no assurance that the consequences of these actions, given our global operations, will not have a material adverse effect upon our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.
Current report
Our stock repurchase program could affect the price of our common stock and may be suspended or terminated at any time, which may result in a decrease in the trading price of our common stock.
Current report
Our repurchase program does not have an expiration date and we are not obligated to repurchase a specified number or dollar value of shares. Further, our stock repurchase program may be suspended, delayed or discontinued at any time, which could cause the market price of our common stock to decline. Repurchases pursuant to our stock repurchase program could affect our stock price and the existence of our stock repurchase program could also cause our stock price to be higher than it would be in the absence of such a program. There can be no assurance that any stock repurchases will enhance stockholder value because the market price of our common stock may decline below the levels at which we repurchased shares of common stock.
Removed paragraphs (41)
Previous report
•Ineffective internal control over financial reporting.
Previous report
•The loss of Cummins’ reputation, economies of scale, capital base and other resources as a result of the Separation from Cummins.
Previous report
•Actual or potential conflicts of interests for certain of Atmus' executive officers and directors because of their equity interests in Cummins.
Previous report
•Limited liability to Atmus from Cummins and its directors for breach of fiduciary duty.
Previous report
If we fail to design and maintain effective internal control over financial reporting, our ability to timely and accurately report our financial condition and results of operations or comply with applicable laws and regulations could be impaired, which may adversely affect investor confidence in us and, as a result, the value of our common stock.
Previous report
We identified a material weakness in our internal control over financial reporting during the period June 30, 2023 as a result of errors discovered in our financial statements for the three months ended March 31, 2023. These errors principally related to accounting for intercompany and related party transactions and required us to restate our financial statements as of and for the three months ended March 31, 2023 and revise our financial statements as of and for the three months ended March 31, 2022, and as of December 31, 2022 and 2021 and for each of the years ended December 31, 2022, 2021 and 2020. As of December 31, 2023, such material weakness has been remediated.
Previous report
As a public company, we are required to maintain internal control over financial reporting and to evaluate and determine the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting. Beginning with our annual report on Form 10-K as of and for the year ending December 31, 2024, we will be required to provide a management report on internal control over financial reporting, as well as an attestation of our independent registered public accounting firm. As part of this reporting, we will be required to disclose any material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting.
Previous report
A material weakness is a deficiency, or combination of deficiencies, in internal control over financial reporting such that there is a reasonable possibility that a material misstatement of our annual or interim consolidated financial statements will not be prevented or detected on a timely basis.
Previous report
If material weaknesses exist in our internal control over financial reporting, we may have a higher likelihood of becoming subject to shareholder litigation or other litigation. We may lose investor confidence in the accuracy and completeness of our financial reports, the market price of our securities could decline, and we could be subject to sanctions or investigations by regulatory authorities. Further, failure to maintain effective internal control over financial reporting and disclosure controls and procedures could also restrict our future access to the capital markets.
Previous report
Additionally, the ongoing crisis related to Russia’s military operation in Ukraine (the “Russia-Ukraine War”) has resulted in the application of enhanced sanctions against Russia by a number of jurisdictions, including the United States, United Kingdom, and European Union. On March 17, 2022, the Cummins Board of Directors made the decision to suspend all commercial operations in Russia indefinitely, including our operations therein. Additionally, although we seek to comply with all applicable regulations, these laws and regulations are complex, frequently changing, and increasing in number and there is a risk that we will not be compliant with all relevant regulations at all times. Such potential violations could have material adverse effects on our reputation, brand, business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.
Previous report
•the imposition of tariffs, exchange controls, sanctions or other restrictions;
Previous report
In addition, there continues to be significant uncertainty about the future relationships between the U.S. and China, including with respect to trade policies, treaties, government regulations and tariffs.
Previous report
We currently have significant operations in China, including a joint venture and our wholly-owned subsidiary Cummins Filtration China. For the year ended December 31, 2023, total sales in China, including consolidated and non-consolidated sales from our joint venture, were approximately $265.1 million, an increase of $32.1 million compared to approximately $233.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2022. In the first half of 2022, the resurgence of COVID-19 in China led to lockdowns in several cities that negatively impacted the economy and our end markets. Among the cities impacted by these lockdowns was Shanghai, which resulted in the shutdowns of us and our China joint ventures’ Shanghai-based facilities, and the results from our China operations were adversely impacted in 2023 as a result of general market conditions in China. Equity, royalty and interest income from our China joint venture for the year ended December 31, 2023 was $5.9 million, an increase of $0.6 million compared to $5.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2022. In addition, any increased trade barriers or restrictions on global trade, especially trade with China, could adversely impact our competitive position, business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.
Previous report
For example, as a result of the global economic downturn triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic, we experienced a 3.8% decline in net sales during 2020 compared to the previous year. Most economies across the world slowed and, although we saw a recovery in 2021 (16.7% growth in net sales in 2021 compared to 2020), 2022 (8.6% growth in net sales in 2022 compared to 2021) and 2023 (4.2% growth in net sales in 2023 compared to 2022), there is still uncertainty as to whether the recovery will be sustained. If any or all of these major markets that we sell to were to endure a continued slowdown or recession, including as a result of a new outbreak of a global pandemic, other public health crises, economic disruption or otherwise decline, it could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows. Additionally, in response to rising rates of inflation, the Federal Reserve Board increased the benchmark federal funds interest rates multiple times during the year ended December 31, 2023 but has signaled that there may be benchmark federal funds interest rate reductions in 2024. This rate environment and the speed with which it has been occurring, or could occur in the future, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.
Previous report
The loss of Cummins’ scale, capital base and financial strength may also prompt suppliers to reprice, modify or terminate their relationships with us, in particular if such suppliers had placed a premium on the Cummins brand or our relationship with Cummins. In addition, Cummins’ reduction of its ownership of us could potentially cause some of our existing agreements and licenses to be terminated. We cannot predict with certainty the effect that the Separation will have on our business, our clients, vendors or other persons, or whether our Fleetguard brand will experience dilution in the marketplace.
Previous report
We also have established or expanded our own tax, treasury, internal audit, investor relations, corporate governance and listed company compliance and other corporate functions. We have been incurring and expect to continue incurring one-time costs to replicate, or outsource from other providers, these corporate functions to replace the corporate services that Cummins historically provided us prior to the IPO. Any failure or significant downtime in our own financial, administrative or other support systems or in the Cummins financial, administrative or other support systems during the transitional period during which Cummins provides us with support could negatively impact our results of operations or prevent us from paying our suppliers and employees, executing business combinations and foreign currency transactions or performing administrative or other services on a timely basis, which could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.
Previous report
Certain of our executive officers and directors may have actual or potential conflicts of interest because of their equity interest in Cummins.
Previous report
A majority of our current directors are employees of Cummins. Any director who is an employee of Cummins will own Cummins common stock or equity awards. Additionally, certain of our executive officers own Cummins common stock or equity awards. The position of such individuals and their ownership of any Cummins equity or equity awards create, or may create the appearance of, conflicts of interest when these individuals are faced with decisions that could have different implications for Cummins than for us.
Previous report
Cummins and its directors and officers will have limited liability to us or you for breach of fiduciary duty.
Previous report
Subject to any contractual provision to the contrary, Cummins has no obligation to refrain from engaging in certain actions that may not be in our best interests.
Previous report
Under our amended and restated certificate of incorporation, neither Cummins nor any officer or director of Cummins, including our directors who are also Cummins employees, except as provided therein, will be liable to us or to our shareholders for breach of any fiduciary duty by reason of any of these activities.
Previous report
We have not yet determined whether or the extent to which we will pay any dividends on our common stock or the timing or amount of such dividends.
Previous report
You should consider an investment in our common stock to be risky and you should invest in our Common Stock only if you can withstand a significant loss and wide fluctuations in the market value of your investment. Some factors that may cause the market price of our common stock to fluctuate, in addition to the other risks mentioned in this section of the Annual Report on Form 10-K, are:
Previous report
•Our announcements or our competitors’ announcements regarding new products, enhancements, significant contracts, acquisitions or strategic investments;
Previous report
•changes in earnings estimates or recommendations by securities analysts, if any, who cover our common stock;
Previous report
•failure to meet external expectations or management guidance;
Previous report
•fluctuations in our quarterly financial results or the quarterly financial results of companies perceived to be similar to us;
Previous report
•changes in our capital structure or dividend policy, including as a result of the Separation, future issuances of securities, sales of large blocks of common stock by our shareholders, including Cummins, or our incurrence of additional debt;
Previous report
•changes in general economic and market conditions in or any of the regions in which we conduct our business;
Previous report
•changes in applicable laws, rules or regulations and other dynamics; and
Previous report
•announcements or actions taken by Cummins as our principal shareholder.
Previous report
In addition, if the market for stocks in our industry or related industries, or the stock market in general, experiences a loss of investor confidence, the trading price of our Common Stock could significantly decline for reasons unrelated to our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows. If any of the foregoing occurs, it could cause our stock price to fall and may expose us to lawsuits that, even if unsuccessful, could be costly to defend and a distraction to management and could also require us to make substantial payments to satisfy judgments or settle litigation.
Previous report
The obligations associated with being an independent, publicly traded company will require significant resources and management attention.
Previous report
We are subject to reporting and other obligations under the Exchange Act, the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act of 2010 and the rules and regulations of the SEC and the NYSE. As an independent, publicly traded company, we are required to:
Previous report
•prepare and distribute periodic reports, proxy statements and other shareholder communications in compliance with the federal securities laws and rules;
Previous report
•have our own board of directors and committees thereof, which comply with federal securities laws and rules and applicable NYSE requirements;
Showing the first 40 of 41 passages. Open the source sections for the rest.
Reworded paragraphs (37)
Previous wording
•Substantially all Atmus' assets being pledged as security for its term loan and revolving credit facility.
Current wording
•Substantially all Atmus' assets pledged as security for its term loan and revolving credit facility.
Previous wording
•Fluctuations in the price of Atmus Common Stock; and
Current wording
•Fluctuations in the price of Atmus common stock.
Previous wording
We have significant customer concentration, with Cummins, PACCAR and the Traton Group respectively accounting for approximately 17.4%, 15.6% and 11.8% of our net sales for the year ended December 31, 2023. The loss of such net sales to any of such significant customers would have a material and adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
Current wording
We have significant customer concentration, with Cummins, PACCAR and the Traton Group respectively accounting for approximately 17.6%,16.5% and 12.2% of our net sales for the year ended December 31, 2024. The loss of such net sales to any of such significant customers would have a material and adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
Previous wording
Cummins is our largest customer. For the year ended December 31, 2023, net sales to Cummins accounted for approximately 17.4% of our net sales. Sales to Cummins joint ventures and to distributors with which Cummins has a relationship also account for a portion of our net sales. A portion of our net sales is dependent upon customer acceptance of, and demand for, Cummins’ engines or generators that use our filters. This customer concentration increases the risk of fluctuations in our operating results and our sensitivity to any material adverse developments experienced by Cummins. While our relationship with Cummins is defined by our first-fit supply agreement and aftermarket supply agreement, we may fail in the future to renew these contracts, and, moreover, even if renewed, Cummins’ purchasing power may give it the ability to make greater demands on us with regard to pricing and contractual terms in general. In addition, Cummins may procure supplemental supply of top volume aftermarket products from alternative suppliers for a limited time if we fail to meet certain delivery performance requirements or if we do not offer a product or similar product for sale.
Current wording
Cummins is our largest customer. For the year ended December 31, 2024, net sales to Cummins accounted for approximately 17.6% of our net sales. Sales to Cummins joint ventures and to distributors that Cummins has a relationship also account for a portion of our net sales. A portion of our net sales is dependent upon customer acceptance of, and demand for, Cummins’ engines or generators that use our filters. This customer concentration increases the risk of fluctuations in our operating results and our sensitivity to any material adverse developments experienced by Cummins. While our relationship with Cummins is defined by our first-fit supply agreement and aftermarket supply agreement, we may fail in the future to renew these contracts, and, moreover, even if renewed, Cummins’ purchasing power may give it the ability to make greater demands on us with regard to pricing and contractual terms in general. In addition, Cummins may procure supplemental supply of top volume aftermarket products from alternative suppliers for a limited time if we fail to meet certain delivery performance requirements or if we do not offer a product or similar product for sale.
Previous wording
For the year ended December 31, 2023, net sales to PACCAR and the Traton Group accounted for approximately 15.6% and 11.8%, respectively, of our net sales. We cannot guarantee that PACCAR or the Traton Group will always choose to purchase our products. The loss or substantial reduction of sales to PACCAR or the Traton Group could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.
Current wording
For the year ended December 31, 2024, net sales to PACCAR and the Traton Group accounted for approximately 16.5% and 12.2%, respectively, of our net sales. We cannot guarantee that PACCAR or the Traton Group will always choose to purchase our products. The loss or substantial reduction of sales to PACCAR or the Traton Group could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.
Previous wording
We earn equity, royalty and interest income from our joint venture in China — Shanghai Fleetguard Filter Co. Ltd., where we indirectly hold 50% of the economic interest. We also earn equity, royalty and interest income from our joint ventures in India — Fleetguard Filter Private Ltd. (“FFPL”), where we directly hold 49.491% of the economic interest (and 50% of the voting interest), and Filtrum Fibretechnologies Pvt. Ltd., where we hold, directly or indirectly, 49.75% of the economic interests (25% directly and 24.75% indirectly through our proportionate ownership of FFPL’s 50% ownership interest). For the year ended December 31, 2023, we recognized $33.6 million of equity, royalty and interest income from investees, compared to $28.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2022 and $32.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2021. Of these amounts, $21.5 million, $17.1 million and $16.4 million, respectively, were from our joint venture in India — FFPL. Although a significant percentage of our net income is derived from these unconsolidated entities (which were approximately 19.6% for the year ended December 31, 2023, approximately 16.4% for the year ended December 31, 2022 and 19.0% for the year ended December 31, 2021, of which approximately 12.6%, approximately 10.0% and approximately 9.6% were from FFPL for the year ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively), we do not unilaterally control their management or their operations, which puts a substantial portion of our net income and cash flow through dividend payments at risk from the actions or inactions of these entities. A significant reduction in the level of contribution by these entities to our net income would likely have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.
Current wording
We earn equity, royalty and interest income from our joint venture in China — Shanghai Fleetguard Filter Co. Ltd., where we indirectly hold 50% of the economic interest. We also earn equity, royalty and interest income from our joint ventures in India — Fleetguard Filter Private Ltd. (“FFPL”), where we directly hold 49.491% of the economic interest (and 50% of the voting interest), and Filtrum Fibretechnologies Pvt. Ltd., where we hold, directly or indirectly, 49.75% of the economic interests (25% directly and 24.75% indirectly through our proportionate ownership of FFPL’s 50% ownership interest). For the year ended December 31, 2024, we recognized $34.3 million of equity, royalty and interest income from investees, compared to $33.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2023 and $28.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2022. Of these amounts, $21.8 million, $21.5 million and $17.1 million, respectively, were from our joint venture in India — FFPL. Although a significant percentage of our net income is derived from these unconsolidated entities (which were approximately 18.5% for the year ended December 31, 2024, approximately 19.6% for the year ended December 31, 2023 and 16.4% for the year ended December 31, 2022, of which approximately 11.7%, approximately 12.6% and approximately 10.0% were from FFPL for the year ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022, respectively), we do not unilaterally control their management or their operations, which puts a substantial portion of our net income and cash flow through dividend payments at risk from the actions or inactions of these entities. A significant reduction in the level of contribution by these entities to our net income would likely have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.
Previous wording
In particular, our continued success will depend in part on our ability to retain the talents and dedication of key employees. As of December 31, 2023, we employed approximately 350 total technical employees. As of December 31, 2023, 45% of our technical employees were employed outside the United States, in India, China and France, many of whom we consider key employees. If enough key employees terminate their employment or become ill or otherwise cannot work, our business activities may be adversely affected and our management team’s attention may be diverted. In addition, we may not be able to locate suitable replacements for any key employees who leave.
Current wording
In particular, our continued success will depend in part on our ability to retain the talents and dedication of key employees. As of December 31, 2024, we employed approximately 350 total technical employees. As of December 31, 2024, 47% of our technical employees were employed outside the United States, in India, China and France, many of whom we consider key employees. If enough key employees terminate their employment or become ill or otherwise cannot work, our business activities may be adversely affected and our management team’s attention may be diverted. In addition, we may not be able to locate suitable replacements for any key employees who leave.
Previous wording
We are actively evaluating potential strategic acquisitions or investment opportunities and consider divestitures of non-strategic business lines and the filtration business has historically pursued and undertaken certain of those opportunities. For example, in 1987 and 1994, our filtration business established our joint ventures in India and China, respectively, for our entry into those two markets, and has continued to explore additional joint ventures since then. Acquisitions, joint ventures and strategic investments could negatively impact our profitability and financial condition due to operating and integration inefficiencies, the incurrence of debt, contingent liabilities and amortization of expenses related to intangible assets. There are also a number of other risks inherent to acquisitions, including the potential loss of key customers and suppliers of the acquired businesses or adverse effects on relationships with existing customers and suppliers; the inability to identify all issues or potential liabilities during diligence; difficulties or delays in integrating and assimilating the acquired operations and products or in realizing projected efficiencies, growth prospects, cost savings and synergies; the loss of key employees; the potential increase in exposure to more onerous or costly legal and regulatory requirements and the diversion of management’s time and attention away from other business matters, which may prevent us from realizing the anticipated return on our investment. Additionally, we may require substantial additional capital, which could be raised pursuant to debt or equity financings, to pursue acquisitions and other business ventures, if any, in the future. We cannot assure you that we will be able to raise such additional capital on commercially reasonable terms, or at all. Divestitures may involve significant challenges and risks, such as difficulty separating out portions of our business or the potential loss of revenue or negative impacts on margins. Divestitures may also result in ongoing financial or legal proceedings, such as retained liabilities, which could have an adverse impact on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. Further, during the pendency of a proposed transaction, we may be subject to risks related to a decline in the business, loss of employees, customers or suppliers and the risk that the transaction may not close, any of which could adversely impact our business. Additionally, because acquisitions, divestitures, joint ventures, strategic partnerships and other similar arrangements are inherently risky, any such transaction may not be successful and may, in some cases, harm our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows. Failure to complete any such planned transaction may adversely impact our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.
Current wording
We are actively evaluating potential strategic acquisitions or investment opportunities and consider divestitures of non-strategic business lines, and the filtration business has historically pursued and undertaken certain of those opportunities. For example, in 1987 and 1994, our filtration business established our joint ventures in India and China, respectively, for our entry into those two markets, and has continued to explore additional joint ventures since then. Acquisitions, joint ventures and strategic investments could negatively impact our profitability and financial condition due to operating and integration inefficiencies, the incurrence of debt, contingent liabilities and amortization of expenses related to intangible assets. There are also a number of other risks inherent to acquisitions, including the potential loss of key customers and suppliers of the acquired businesses or adverse effects on relationships with existing customers and suppliers; the inability to identify all issues or potential liabilities during due diligence; difficulties or delays in integrating and assimilating the acquired operations and products or in realizing projected efficiencies, growth prospects, cost savings and synergies; the loss of key employees; the potential increase in exposure to more onerous or costly legal and regulatory requirements and the diversion of management’s time and attention away from other business matters, which may prevent us from realizing the anticipated return on our investment. Additionally, we may require substantial additional capital, which could be raised pursuant to debt or equity financings, to pursue acquisitions and other business ventures, if any, in the future. We cannot assure you that we will be able to raise such additional capital on commercially reasonable terms, or at all. Divestitures may involve significant challenges and risks, such as difficulty separating out portions of our business or the potential loss of revenue or negative impacts on margins. Divestitures may also result in ongoing financial or legal proceedings, such as retained liabilities, which could have an adverse impact on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. Further, during the pendency of a proposed transaction, we may be subject to risks related to a decline in the business, loss of employees, customers or suppliers and the risk that the transaction may not close, any of which could adversely impact our business. Additionally, because acquisitions, divestitures, joint ventures, strategic partnerships and other similar arrangements are inherently risky, any such transaction may not be successful and may, in some cases, harm our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows. Failure to complete any such planned transaction may adversely impact our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.
Previous wording
As of December 31, 2023, we employed approximately 4,500 persons worldwide. As of December 31, 2023, approximately 53% of our employees worldwide were represented by various unions under collective bargaining agreements. Among these collective bargaining agreements, those for the employees in Mexico, Brazil and France are renewed annually after compensation negotiations, while the collective bargaining agreement for the Cookeville, Tennessee plant typically has a four- to five-year term. The collective bargaining agreement for Brazil is in place and active and the compensation negotiations for a new annual term on the collective bargaining agreements for Mexico and France were recently concluded. These collective bargaining agreements have terms that will expire between December 2024 and February 2025. The collective bargaining agreement for the Cookeville, Tennessee plant is expiring at the end of its four year term on February 29, 2024 and negotiations for its renewal started in January 2024. While we have no reason to believe that we will be materially impacted by work stoppages or other labor matters, there can be no assurance that future issues with our labor unions will be resolved favorably or that we will not encounter future strikes, work stoppages, or other types of conflicts with labor unions or our employees. For example, during periodic collective bargaining in 2020, the United Auto Workers union representing manufacturing employees at the Cookeville, Tennessee site conducted a strike for six weeks after failing to accept modified terms and conditions offered by the company. Any of these consequences may have an adverse effect on us or may limit our flexibility in dealing with our workforce. In addition, many of our customers and suppliers have unionized work forces. Work stoppages or slowdowns experienced by us, our customers or suppliers could result in slowdowns or closures that would have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.
Current wording
As of December 31, 2024, we employed approximately 4,500 persons worldwide. As of December 31, 2024, approximately 53% of our employees worldwide were represented by various unions under collective bargaining agreements. Among these collective bargaining agreements, those for the employees in Mexico, Brazil and France are renewed annually after compensation negotiations, while the collective bargaining agreement for the Cookeville, Tennessee plant typically has a four- to five-year term. Collective bargaining for Brazil Annual Profit Sharing will take place on February 19, 2025. Annual term collective bargaining for Mexico and France were recently successfully completed. These collective bargaining agreements have terms that will expire between December 2025 and February 2026. Contract negotiations at the Cookeville, Tennessee plant took place in February of 2024 resulting in a new four year contract that will expire at the end of its four year term on February 29, 2028. While we have no reason to believe that we will be materially impacted by work stoppages or other labor matters, there can be no assurance that future issues with our labor unions will be resolved favorably or that we will not encounter future strikes, work stoppages, or other types of conflicts with labor unions or our employees. For example, during periodic collective bargaining in 2020, the United Auto Workers union representing manufacturing employees at the Cookeville, Tennessee site conducted a strike for six weeks after failing to accept modified terms and conditions offered. Any of these consequences may have an adverse effect on us or may limit our flexibility in dealing with our workforce. In addition, many of our customers and suppliers have unionized work forces. Work stoppages or slowdowns experienced by us, our customers or suppliers could result in slowdowns or closures that would have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.
Previous wording
to the year ended December 31, 2022 (23.0%) as a result of our material and freight costs increasing at a faster rate than the increase in net sales. Additionally, higher material and commodity costs around the world may offset our efforts to reduce our cost structure. Economies around the world have also generally seen significant inflationary pressures since 2021. Although those inflationary pressures began to abate towards the end of 2023, we are still subject to the risk of material and commodity cost increases and there can be no assurances that such cost increases do not return in 2024 and beyond. As of the date of this Annual Report on Form 10-K, we have not entered into any hedging arrangements or agreements with respect to the purchase of the commodities used in our products. While we customarily have contractual pricing adjustment mechanisms with our first-fit customers that attempt to address some of these risks (notably with respect to steel and resins), there can be no assurance that material and commodity price fluctuations will not adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows. In addition, while the use of contractual pricing adjustments may provide us with some protection from adverse fluctuations in commodity prices, we potentially forego the benefits that might result from favorable fluctuations in costs. As a result, higher material and commodity costs, as well as hedging these commodity costs during periods of decreasing prices, could result in declining margins.
Current wording
Our business establishes prices with our customers in accordance with contractual timeframes; however, the timing of material and commodity market price increases may prevent us from passing these additional costs on to our customers through timely pricing actions, which may lead to an adverse impact on our profit margins. Additionally, higher material and commodity costs around the world may offset our efforts to reduce our cost structure. Economies around the world have also generally seen significant inflationary pressures since 2021. Although those inflationary pressures began to abate towards the end of 2023 and stabilize by the end of 2024, we are still subject to the risk of material and commodity cost increases and there can be no assurances that such cost increases do not return in 2025 and beyond. As of the date of this Annual Report on Form 10-K, we have not entered into any hedging arrangements or agreements with respect to the purchase of the commodities used in our products. While we customarily have contractual pricing adjustment mechanisms with our first-fit customers that attempt to address some of these risks (notably with respect to steel and resins), there can be no assurance that material and commodity price fluctuations will not adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows. In addition, while the use of contractual pricing adjustments may provide us with some protection from adverse fluctuations in commodity prices, we potentially forego the benefits that might result from favorable fluctuations in costs. As a result, higher material and commodity costs, as well as hedging these commodity costs during periods of decreasing prices, could result in declining margins.
Previous wording
While we have not experienced significant global surges or declines in demand, for much of 2022, overall demand exceeded our ability to fully meet such demand, resulting in an elevated level of backlog. For 2023, the level of backlog that accumulated during 2022 reduced and stabilized. As we move into 2024, there has been a reduction in these backlogs from peak levels, and we expect further stabilization in the first half of 2024.
Current wording
While we have not experienced significant global surges or declines in demand, for much of 2022, overall demand exceeded our ability to fully meet such demand, resulting in an elevated level of backlog. During 2023 and 2024, the level of backlog reduced and stabilized from peak level.
Previous wording
Three customers each accounted for 10% or more of our net sales in 2023, 2022 and 2021. Cummins is one of our key customers and accounted for approximately 17.4% of our net sales in 2023. While our relationship with Cummins has been secured through our first-fit supply agreement and aftermarket supply agreement, both of which have an initial term of five years (except with respect to certain new products under the first-fit supply agreement, for which a five-year term commences from the date of the start of production), Cummins operates in both global off-highway and on-highway industries and is subject to the cyclicality of those industries. A number of our other customers, including PACCAR and the Traton Group, are also concentrated in similar cyclical industries, including off-highway industries such as construction, agriculture, mining, oil and gas and power generation, as well as on-highway industries such as truck, bus, vocational and recreational vehicles. This exposes our business to additional risk based on our customers’ respective economic conditions. Our success is also dependent on retaining key customers, which requires us to successfully manage relationships and anticipate the needs of our customers in the channels in which we sell our products. Changes in the economic conditions could materially and adversely impact our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.
Current wording
Three customers each accounted for 10% or more of our net sales in 2024, 2023 and 2022. Cummins is one of our key customers and accounted for approximately 17.6% of our net sales in 2024. While our relationship with Cummins has been secured through our first-fit supply agreement and aftermarket supply agreement, both of which have an initial term of five years from the date of our IPO (except with respect to certain new products under the first-fit supply agreement, for which a five-year term commences from the date of the start of production), Cummins operates in both global off-highway and on-highway industries and is subject to the cyclicality of those industries. A number of our other customers, including PACCAR and the Traton Group, are also concentrated in similar cyclical industries, including off-highway industries such as construction, agriculture, mining, oil and gas and power generation, as well as on-highway industries such as truck, bus, vocational and recreational vehicles. This exposes our business to additional risk based on our customers’ respective economic conditions. Our success is also dependent on retaining key customers, which requires us to successfully manage relationships and anticipate the needs of our customers in the channels in which we sell our products. Changes in economic conditions could materially and adversely impact our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.
Previous wording
Our products are subject to recall for performance or safety-related issues. Product recalls subject us to reputational risk, loss of current and future customers, reduced revenue and product recall costs. Product recall costs are incurred when we decide, either voluntarily or involuntarily, to recall a product through a formal campaign to solicit the return of specific products due to known or suspected performance or safety issues. For example, in 2017, quality issues were identified with a particular application of a fuel heater, which primarily impacted one customer, resulting in a recall campaign beginning in 2020. See Note 11, Product Warranty Liability, to the consolidated financial statements for additional details. Any significant product recalls could have material adverse effects on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. Additionally, any significant returns or warranty claims, as well as the timing of such returns or claims, could result in significant additional costs to us and could adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.
Current wording
Our products are subject to recall for performance or safety-related issues. Product recalls subject us to reputational risk, loss of current and future customers, reduced revenue and product recall costs. Product recall costs are incurred when we decide, either voluntarily or involuntarily, to recall a product through a formal campaign to solicit the return of specific products due to known or suspected performance or safety issues. Any significant product recalls could have material adverse effects on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. Additionally, any significant returns or warranty claims, as well as the timing of such returns or claims, could result in significant additional costs to us and could adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.
Previous wording
Such an event could result in physical damage to and complete or partial closure of one or more of our headquarters, manufacturing facilities or distribution centers, temporary or long-term disruption in the supply of component products from some local and international suppliers, disruption in the transport of our products to customers and disruption of information systems. Prior to the IPO, Cummins’ existing insurance coverage, and following the IPO, the insurance coverage we entered into, may not provide protection for all costs that may arise from any such event. Any disruption in our operations could have an adverse impact on our ability to meet our customer needs or may require us to incur additional expenses in order to produce sufficient inventory. Certain unexpected events could adversely impact our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.
Current wording
Such an event could result in physical damage to and complete or partial closure of one or more of our headquarters, manufacturing facilities or distribution centers, temporary or long-term disruption in the supply of component products from some local and international suppliers, disruption in the transport of our products to customers and disruption of information systems. The insurance coverage we have entered into, may not provide protection for all costs that may arise from any such event. Any disruption in our operations could have an adverse impact on our ability to meet our customer needs or may require us to incur additional expenses in order to produce sufficient inventory. Certain unexpected events could adversely impact our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.
Previous wording
As a result of the Separation, we lost Cummins’ reputation, economies of scale, capital base and other resources and may experience difficulty operating as a standalone company.
Current wording
As a result of the Separation, we may experience difficulty operating as a standalone company.
Previous wording
Further, because we have limited experience operating as a standalone company following the Separation, we may encounter difficulties doing so in the future. For example, if we do not accurately estimate the level of resources required to operate as a standalone company, we may need to acquire additional assets and resources, which could be costly, and in connection with the Separation, may also face difficulty in separating certain aspects of our business from Cummins, including incurring accounting, tax, legal and other professional services costs, recruiting and relocation costs associated with hiring or reassigning our personnel, costs related to establishing a new brand identity in the marketplace and costs to separate information systems and creating standalone administrative units in our business post-separation. Our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows could be materially adversely affected if we have difficulty operating as a standalone company.
Current wording
Because we have limited experience operating as a standalone company following the Separation, we may encounter difficulties doing so in the future. For example, if we do not accurately estimate the level of resources required to operate as a standalone company, we may need to acquire additional assets and resources, which could be costly, and in connection with the Separation, may also face difficulty in separating certain aspects of our business from Cummins, including incurring accounting, tax, legal and other professional services costs, recruiting and relocation costs associated with hiring or reassigning our personnel, costs related to establishing a new brand identity in the marketplace and costs to separate information systems and creating standalone administrative units or distribution centers in our business post-separation. For example, we established our own standalone warehouse in Belgium in November 2024, and we have not yet realized normal operating levels. Our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows could be materially adversely affected if we have difficulty operating as a standalone company.
Previous wording
Our products are subject to many laws and regulations in the jurisdictions in which we operate. We routinely incur costs in order to comply with these laws and regulations. We may be adversely impacted by new or changing laws and regulations that affect both our operations and our ability to develop and sell products that meet our customers’ requirements. The discovery of noncompliance issues could have a material adverse impact on our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.
Current wording
Our products are subject to many laws and regulations in the jurisdictions in which we operate. We routinely incur costs to comply with these laws and regulations. We may be adversely impacted by new or changing laws and regulations that affect both our operations and our ability to develop and sell products that meet our customers’ requirements. The discovery of noncompliance issues could have a material adverse impact on our reputation, brand, business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.
Previous wording
We operate our business on a global basis and changes in international, national and regional trade laws, regulations, and policies affecting and/or restricting international trade, including sanctions resulting from Russia’s military operation in Ukraine, could adversely impact the demand for our products and our competitive position.
Current wording
We operate our business on a global basis and changes in international, national and regional trade laws, regulations, and policies affecting and/or restricting international trade could adversely impact the demand for our products and our competitive position.
Previous wording
We manufacture, sell and service products globally and rely upon a global supply chain to deliver the raw materials, components, systems and parts that we need to manufacture and service our products. Changes in laws, regulations and government policies on foreign trade and investment can affect the demand for our products and services, causing customers and end-users to shift preferences toward domestically manufactured or branded products and impact the competitive position of our products or prevent us from being able to sell products in certain countries. Our business benefits from free trade agreements, such as the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement, the U.S. trade relationships with China, Brazil and France and the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement between India and South Korea. Efforts to withdraw from, or substantially modify such agreements or arrangements, in addition to the implementation of more restrictive trade policies, such as more detailed inspections, higher tariffs (including, but not limited to, additional tariffs on the import of steel or aluminum and imposition of new or retaliatory tariffs against certain countries, including based on developments in U.S.-China, U.S.-Russia and EU-Russia relations), import or export licensing requirements, and exchange controls or new barriers to entry, could limit our ability to capitalize on current and future growth opportunities in international markets, impair our ability to ship media from our plant in South Korea directly to our joint venture partners, impair our ability to expand the business by offering new technologies, products, and services, and could adversely impact our production costs, customer and end-user demand and our relationships with customers and suppliers. Any of these consequences could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.
Current wording
We manufacture, sell and service products globally and rely upon a global supply chain to deliver the raw materials, components, systems and parts that we need to manufacture and service our products. Changes in laws, regulations and government policies on foreign trade and investment, including as a result of the recent change in U.S. presidential administration, can affect the demand for our products and services, causing customers and end-users to shift preferences toward domestically manufactured or branded products and impact the competitive position of our products or prevent us from being able to sell products in certain countries. Our business benefits from free trade agreements, such as the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement, the U.S. trade relationships with China, Brazil and France and the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement between India and South Korea. Efforts to withdraw from, or substantially modify such agreements or arrangements, in addition to the implementation of more restrictive trade policies, such as more detailed inspections, higher tariffs (including, but not limited to, additional tariffs on the import of steel or aluminum and imposition of new or retaliatory tariffs against certain countries, including based on developments in U.S.-China, U.S.-Mexico, U.S.-Canada, U.S.-Russia and EU-Russia relations), import or export licensing requirements, and exchange controls or new barriers to entry, could limit our ability to capitalize on current and future growth opportunities in international markets, impair our ability to ship media from our plant in South Korea directly to our joint venture partners, impair our ability to expand the business by offering new technologies, products, and services, and could adversely impact our production costs, customer and end-user demand and our relationships with customers and suppliers. Any of these consequences could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.
Previous wording
We are subject to income taxes in the U.S. and numerous international jurisdictions. Our income tax provision and cash tax liability in the future could be adversely affected by the adoption of new tax legislation, changes in the amounts or composition of earnings in countries with differing statutory tax rates, changes in the valuation of deferred tax assets and liabilities and the discovery of new information in the course of our tax return preparation process. Additionally, we may be subject to tax audits. These audits can involve complex issues, which may require an extended period of time to resolve and can be highly judgmental. Tax authorities may disagree with certain tax reporting positions taken by us and, as a result, assess additional taxes against us. We may have to engage in litigation to achieve the results reflected in our tax estimates, and such litigation may be time consuming and expensive. We regularly assess the likely outcomes of any audits in order to determine the appropriateness of our tax provision. The amounts ultimately paid upon resolution of these or subsequent tax audits could be materially different from the amounts previously included in our income tax provisions and accruals, which could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.
Current wording
We are subject to income taxes in the U.S. and numerous international jurisdictions. Our income tax provision and cash tax liability in the future could be adversely affected by the adoption of new tax legislation, changes in the amounts or composition of earnings in countries with differing statutory tax rates, changes in the valuation of deferred tax assets and liabilities and the discovery of new information in the course of our tax return preparation process. Additionally, we have been subject to tax audits. These audits can involve complex issues, which may require an extended period of time to resolve and can be highly judgmental. Tax authorities may disagree with certain tax reporting positions taken by us and, as a result, assess additional taxes against us. We may have to engage in litigation to achieve the results reflected in our tax estimates, and such litigation may be time consuming and expensive. We regularly assess the likely outcomes of any audits in order to determine the appropriateness of our tax provision. The amounts ultimately paid upon resolution of these or subsequent tax audits could be materially different from the amounts previously included in our income tax provisions and accruals, which could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.
Previous wording
The U.S. Congress, government agencies in non-U.S. jurisdictions where we and our affiliates do business, and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (“OECD”) have recently focused on issues related to the taxation of multinational corporations. One example is in the area of “base erosion and profit shifting,” where profits are claimed to be earned for tax purposes in low-tax jurisdictions, or payments are made between affiliates from a jurisdiction with high tax rates to a jurisdiction with lower tax rates. The OECD has released several components of its comprehensive plan to create an agreed set of international rules for addressing base erosion and profit shifting. As a result, the tax laws in the United States and other countries in which we do business could change on a prospective or retroactive basis, and any such changes could adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.
Current wording
The U.S. Congress, government agencies in non-U.S. jurisdictions where we and our affiliates do business, and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (“OECD”) have recently focused on issues related to the taxation of multinational corporations. One example is in the area of “base erosion and profit shifting,” where profits are claimed to be earned for tax purposes in low-tax jurisdictions, or payments are made between affiliates from a jurisdiction with high tax rates to a jurisdiction with lower tax rates. The OECD has released several components of its comprehensive plan to create an agreed set of international rules for addressing base erosion and profit shifting. As a result, the tax laws in the United States and other countries in which we do business could change on a prospective or retroactive basis, including as a result of the recent change in U.S. presidential administration, and any such changes could adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.
Previous wording
Due to the international scope of our operations, we are subject to a complex system of commercial regulations around the world. Recent years have seen an increase in the development and enforcement of laws regarding trade compliance, as well as new regulatory requirements regarding privacy and data protection, such as the European Union General Data Protection Regulation. For example, in January 2024, the Tax Administration Service in Mexico amended the customs requirements for transactions between a maquiladora in Mexico shipping its manufactured goods to a domestic Mexican company, and to-date maquiladoras in Mexico, including our manufacturing facility in San Luis Potosi, have responded by exporting manufactured goods outside of Mexico and then re-importing them back into Mexico for delivery to domestic purchasers, resulting in increased costs for our Mexican operations. Our foreign subsidiaries and affiliates are governed by laws, rules and business practices that differ from those of the U.S. The activities of these entities may not comply with U.S. laws or business practices or our Code of Business Conduct. Violations of these laws may result in severe criminal or civil sanctions, could disrupt our business and result in an adverse effect on our reputation, business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows. We cannot predict the nature, scope or effect of future regulatory requirements to which our operations might be subject or the manner in which existing laws might be administered or interpreted.
Current wording
Due to the international scope of our operations, we are subject to a complex system of commercial regulations around the world. Recent years have seen an increase in the development and enforcement of laws regarding trade compliance, as well as new regulatory requirements regarding privacy and data protection, such as the European Union General Data Protection Regulation. For example, in January 2024, the Tax Administration Service in Mexico amended the customs requirements for transactions between a maquiladora in Mexico shipping its manufactured goods to a domestic Mexican company resulting in increased costs for our Mexican operations. Our foreign subsidiaries and affiliates are governed by laws, rules and business practices that differ from those of the U.S. The activities of these entities may not comply with U.S. laws or business practices or our Code of Business Conduct. Violations of these laws may result in severe criminal or civil sanctions, could disrupt our business and result in an adverse effect on our reputation, business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows. We cannot predict the nature, scope or effect of future regulatory requirements to which our operations might be subject or the manner in which existing laws might be administered or interpreted.
Previous wording
We are subject to national and international anti-corruption laws and regulations laws, such as the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (“FCPA”), the U.K. Bribery Act (the “Bribery Act”) and export controls and economic sanctions programs, including those administered by the U.S. Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (“OFAC”), relating to our business and our employees. As part of our business, we deal with state-owned business enterprises, the employees of which are considered foreign officials for purposes of the FCPA’s prohibition on providing anything of value to foreign officials for the purposes of obtaining or retaining business or securing any improper business advantage. In addition, the provisions of the Bribery Act extend beyond bribery of foreign public officials and also apply to transactions with individuals that a government does not employ. Some of the international locations in which we operate lack a developed legal system and have higher than normal levels of corruption.
Current wording
Foreign Assets Control (“OFAC”), relating to our business and our employees. As part of our business, we deal with state-owned business enterprises, the employees of which are considered foreign officials for purposes of the FCPA’s prohibition on providing anything of value to foreign officials for the purposes of obtaining or retaining business or securing any improper business advantage. In addition, the provisions of the Bribery Act extend beyond bribery of foreign public officials and also apply to transactions with individuals that a government does not employ. Some of the international locations in which we operate lack a developed legal system and have higher than normal levels of corruption.
Previous wording
Our continued expansion outside the United States, including in China, India and developing countries, and our development of new partnerships worldwide, could increase the risk of FCPA, OFAC or Bribery Act violations in the future. Despite our policies, procedures and compliance programs, our internal control and compliance systems may not be able to protect it from prohibited acts willfully committed by our employees, agents or business partners that would violate such applicable laws and regulations. Additionally, there can be no assurance that our policies and procedures will effectively prevent us from violating these regulations in every transaction in which we may engage or provide a defense to any alleged violation. For example, actions taken by OFAC in response to the Russia-Ukraine War have included the imposition of export controls and broad financial and economic sanctions against Russia, Belarus and specific areas of Ukraine. Any violation or alleged violation of these laws and regulations, even if prohibited by our policies, could result in criminal or civil sanctions, reputational damage or other substantial costs and penalties, any of which could adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows. In particular, we may be held liable for the actions that our joint venture partners take inside or outside of the United States, even though our partners may not be subject to these laws. Any such improper acts could damage our reputation, subject us to civil or criminal judgments, fines or penalties, and could otherwise disrupt our business.
Current wording
Our continued expansion outside the United States, including in China, India and developing countries, and our development of new partnerships worldwide, could increase the risk of FCPA, OFAC or Bribery Act violations in the future. Despite our policies, procedures and compliance programs, our internal control and compliance systems may not be able to protect from prohibited acts willfully committed by our employees, agents or business partners that would violate such applicable laws and regulations. Additionally, there can be no assurance that our policies and procedures will effectively prevent us from violating these regulations in every transaction in which we may engage or provide a defense to any alleged violation. For example, actions taken by OFAC in response to the Russia-Ukraine War have included the imposition of export controls and broad financial and economic sanctions against Russia, Belarus and specific areas of Ukraine. Any violation or alleged violation of these laws and regulations, even if prohibited by our policies, could result in criminal or civil sanctions, reputational damage or other substantial costs and penalties, any of which could adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows. In particular, we may be held liable for actions that our joint venture partners take inside or outside of the United States, even though our partners may not be subject to these laws. Any such improper acts could damage our reputation, subject us to civil or criminal judgments, fines or penalties, and could otherwise disrupt our business.
Previous wording
While we continually work to safeguard our information technology environment and mitigate potential risks, there is no assurance that these actions will be sufficient to timely detect or prevent information technology security threats, such as security breaches, computer malware, ransomware attacks and other cyber-attacks, which are increasing in both frequency and sophistication, along with power outages or hardware failures. These threats could result in unauthorized access, use, modification, disclosure, loss or theft of information, including intellectual property, costly investigations, remediation efforts, notification requirements, privacy or data protection-related compliance obligations, legal claims or proceedings, government enforcement actions, civil or criminal penalties, fines, diversion of management attention, operational changes or other response measures, loss of customer confidence in our security measures, loss of business partners, and negative publicity that could adversely affect our brand, reputation, business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows. While we expect to obtain cyber insurance coverage, our cyber insurance policies may not cover, or may cover only a portion of, any potential claims related to such events or may not be adequate to indemnify us for all or any portion of liabilities that may be imposed or defense costs incurred. We also cannot be certain that we will be able to maintain insurance coverage, on acceptable terms or in amounts sufficient to cover the potentially significant losses that may result from a security incident or breach or that the insurer will not deny coverage of any future claim.
Current wording
While we continually work to safeguard our information technology environment and mitigate potential risks, there is no assurance that these actions will be sufficient to timely detect or prevent information technology security threats, such as security breaches, computer malware, ransomware attacks and other cyber-attacks, which are increasing in both frequency and sophistication, along with power outages or hardware failures. These threats could result in unauthorized access, use, modification, disclosure, loss or theft of information, including intellectual property, costly investigations, remediation efforts, notification requirements, privacy or data protection-related compliance obligations, legal claims or proceedings, government enforcement actions, civil or criminal penalties, fines, diversion of management attention, operational changes or other response measures, loss of customer confidence in our security measures, loss of business partners, and negative publicity that could adversely affect our brand, reputation, business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows. Our cyber insurance policies may not cover, or may cover only a portion of, any potential claims related to such events or may not be adequate to indemnify us for all or any portion of liabilities that may be imposed or defense costs incurred. We also cannot be certain that we will be able to maintain insurance coverage, on acceptable terms or in amounts sufficient to cover the potentially significant losses that may result from a security incident or breach, or that the insurer will not deny coverage of any future claim.
Previous wording
We conduct operations in many areas of the world involving transactions denominated in a variety of currencies. We are subject to foreign currency exchange rate risk to the extent that our costs are denominated in currencies other than those in which we earn revenues. In addition, since our financial statements are denominated in U.S. dollars, changes in foreign currency exchange rates between the U.S. dollar and other currencies have had, and will continue to have, an impact on our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows. For example, 41% of our net sales in 2023 were denominated in a currency other than the U.S. dollar. Additionally, the appreciation of the U.S. dollar against foreign currencies has had and could continue to have a negative impact on our consolidated results of operations due to translation impacts. Although we did see a slightly favorable impact on our results of operations in the second half of 2023, we expect that the overall negative impact may continue in 2024. Cummins has a hedging program to mitigate foreign currency exchange rate risk across its businesses, which included foreign currency exchange rate risk faced by the filtration business. Although we have implemented certain aspects of our own hedging program, we are still evaluating other aspects, such as cash flow hedges, and there can be no assurances that we will be able to establish the same program as Cummins or at similar costs.
Current wording
We conduct operations in many areas of the world involving transactions denominated in a variety of currencies. We are subject to foreign currency exchange rate risk to the extent that our costs are denominated in currencies other than those in which we earn revenues. In addition, since our financial statements are denominated in U.S. dollars, changes in foreign currency exchange rates between the U.S. dollar and other currencies have had, and will continue to have, an impact on our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows. For example, 39% of our net sales in 2024 were denominated in a currency other than the U.S. dollar. Additionally, the appreciation of the U.S. dollar against foreign currencies has had and could continue to have a negative impact on our consolidated results of operations due to translation impacts. We currently manage exchange rate and other related risks through the selective use of derivatives, but there can be no assurance that fluctuations in exchange rates and other related risks will not have a material adverse effect upon our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.
Previous wording
•changes in general economic and political conditions, including changes in relationship with the U.S., in countries where we operate, particularly in China, India and other emerging markets.
Current wording
•changes in general economic and political conditions, including changes in relationship with the U.S. in countries where we operate, particularly in Mexico, Canada, China, India and other emerging markets.
Previous wording
Disruption of the global financial and credit markets may have an effect on our long-term liquidity and financial condition. For example, the closures of Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank in March 2023 and their placement into receivership with the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation created financial institution liquidity risk and concerns. Our operations, investment opportunities, access to capital and ability to enforce the obligations of counterparties may be adversely affected by disruptions to the banking system and other financial market volatility. There can be no assurance that the cost or availability of future borrowings will not be impacted by future capital market disruptions. Our term loan agreement and revolving credit facility each contain covenants to maintain certain financial ratios that, under certain circumstances, could restrict our ability to incur additional indebtedness, make investments and other restricted payments, create liens and sell assets.
Current wording
Disruption of the global financial and credit markets may have an effect on our long-term liquidity and financial condition. Our operations, investment opportunities, access to capital and ability to enforce the obligations of counterparties may be adversely affected by disruptions to the banking system and other financial market volatility. There can be no assurance that the cost or availability of future borrowings will not be impacted by future capital market disruptions. Our term loan agreement and revolving credit facility each contain covenants to maintain certain financial ratios that, under certain circumstances, could restrict our ability to incur additional indebtedness, make investments and other restricted payments, create liens and sell assets.
Previous wording
We have substantial indebtedness, consisting of the term loan and the revolving credit facility, and may incur substantial additional debt from time to time, which may impact our ability to service all our indebtedness and react to changes in our industry and limit our ability to seek further financing on favorable terms.
Current wording
We have substantial indebtedness and may incur substantial additional debt from time to time, which may impact our ability to service all our indebtedness and react to changes in our industry and limit our ability to seek further financing on favorable terms.
Previous wording
We have approximately $600 million of outstanding indebtedness consisting of the term loan and amounts drawn under the revolving credit facility as of December 31, 2023. See “Description of Material Indebtedness of Atmus.”
Current wording
We have approximately $592.5 million of outstanding indebtedness consisting of proceeds of the term loan as of December 31, 2024. See “Description of Material Indebtedness of Atmus.”
Previous wording
If our cash flows and capital resources are insufficient to fund our debt service obligations, we could face substantial liquidity problems and could be forced to reduce or delay investments and capital expenditures or to dispose of material assets or operations, alter our dividend policy, seek additional debt or equity capital or restructure or refinance our indebtedness. We may not be able to effect any such alternative measures on commercially reasonable terms or at all and, even if successful, those alternative actions may not allow us to meet our scheduled debt service obligations. The instruments that will govern our indebtedness may restrict our ability to dispose of assets and may restrict the use of proceeds from those dispositions and may also restrict our ability to raise debt or equity capital to be used to repay other indebtedness when it becomes due. We may not be able to consummate those dispositions or to obtain proceeds in an amount sufficient to meet any debt service obligations when due.
Current wording
If our cash flows and capital resources are insufficient to fund our debt service obligations, we could face substantial liquidity problems and could be forced to reduce or delay investments and capital expenditures or to dispose of material assets or operations, alter our dividend policy, seek additional debt or equity capital or restructure or refinance our indebtedness. We may not be able to affect any such alternative measures on commercially reasonable terms or at all and, even if successful, those alternative actions may not allow us to meet our scheduled debt service obligations. The instruments that will govern our indebtedness may restrict our ability to dispose of assets and may restrict the use of proceeds from those dispositions and may also restrict our ability to raise debt or equity capital to be used to repay other indebtedness when it becomes due. We may not be able to consummate those dispositions or to obtain proceeds in an amount sufficient to meet any debt service obligations when due.
Previous wording
Our common stock has a limited trading history and there may be wide fluctuations in the market value of our common stock as a result of many factors. From our IPO through February 13, 2024, the sales price of our common stock as reported by the New York Stock Exchange (the “NYSE”) has ranged from a low sales price of $18.21 on November 1, 2023 to a high sales price of $25.39 on December 15, 2023. Factors that may cause the market price of our Common Stock to fluctuate, some of which may be beyond our control, include:
Current wording
There may be wide fluctuations in the market value of our common stock as a result of many factors. Factors that may cause the market price of our common stock to fluctuate, some of which may be beyond our control, include:
Previous wording
We have not yet determined whether or the extent to which we will pay any dividends on our common stock. The declaration, amount and payment of any future dividends will be at the discretion of our board of directors in accordance with applicable law. Our board of directors may take into account general economic and business conditions, our financial condition and operating results, our available cash and current and anticipated cash needs, capital requirements, contractual, legal, tax and regulatory restrictions and implications on the payment of dividends by us to our shareholders or by our subsidiaries to us, and such other factors as our board of directors may deem relevant. Our ability to pay dividends will depend on our ongoing ability to generate cash from operations and on our access to the capital markets. We cannot guarantee that it will pay a dividend in the future or continue to pay any dividends if it commences paying dividends.
Current wording
We have no obligation to continue paying a quarterly cash dividend to holders of our common stock, and our dividend policy may change at any time without notice to our stockholders. The payment of any dividends in the future to our stockholders, and the timing and amount thereof, will fall within the discretion of our board of directors. Our board of directors’ decisions regarding the payment of dividends will depend on many factors, such as our financial condition, earnings, capital requirements, debt service obligations, restrictive covenants in the agreements governing our indebtedness, general economic business conditions, industry practice, legal requirements and other factors that our board of directors may deem relevant. Our ability to pay dividends will depend on our ongoing ability to generate cash from operations and on our access to the capital markets. We cannot assure you that we will pay our anticipated dividend in the same amount or frequency, or at all, in the future.
Previous wording
•advance notice requirements regarding how our shareholders may present proposals or nominate directors for election at shareholder meetings (except for Cummins’ designation of persons for nomination by the board of directors);
Current wording
•advance notice requirements regarding how our shareholders may present proposals or nominate directors for election at shareholder meetings;
Previous wording
•after Cummins no longer owns a majority of the outstanding shares of our Common Stock, the inability of shareholders to call special meetings of shareholders and the requirement that all shareholder action be taken at a meeting rather than by written consent;
Current wording
•the inability of shareholders to call special meetings of shareholders and the requirement that all shareholder action be taken at a meeting rather than by written consent;
Previous wording
•after Cummins no longer owns a majority of the outstanding shares of our Common Stock, our directors may be removed only for cause and only by a 75% shareholder vote; and
Current wording
•our directors may be removed only for cause and only by a 75% shareholder vote; and
Previous wording
•Our historical consolidated financial statements reflect the direct and indirect costs for the services historically provided by Cummins. Following the completion of the IPO, Cummins currently provides some of these services to us on a transitional basis pursuant to the Transition Services Agreement. Our historical consolidated financial statements do not reflect our obligations under the various transitional agreements we entered into with Cummins in connection with the Separation. At the end of the transitional periods specified in these agreements, we will need to perform these functions itself or hire third parties to perform these functions on its behalf, and these costs may exceed the comparable expenses we have incurred in the past;
Current wording
•Our historical consolidated financial statements reflect the direct and indirect costs for the services historically provided by Cummins. Following the completion of the IPO, Cummins currently provides some of these services to us on a transitional basis pursuant to the Transition Services Agreement. Our historical consolidated financial statements do not reflect our obligations under the various transitional agreements we entered into with Cummins in connection with the Separation. At the end of the transitional periods specified in these agreements, we will need to perform these functions ourselves or hire third parties to perform these functions on our behalf, and these costs may exceed the comparable expenses we have incurred in the past;
Rearranged current paragraphs (4)
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
•Difficulty operating as a standalone company.
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
•The designation of the Court of Chancery in the State of Delaware and the federal district courts for the District of Delaware as exclusive forums provision in Atmus’ amended and restated certificate of incorporation.
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
•Atmus’ historical consolidated financial statements are not necessarily representative of the results that would have been achieved as a standalone company.
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
We are subject to national and international anti-corruption laws and regulations laws, such as the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (“FCPA”), the U.K. Bribery Act (the “Bribery Act”) and export controls and economic sanctions programs, including those administered by the U.S. Treasury Department’s Office of
Rearranged previous paragraphs (3)
Previous report — wording carried elsewhere
Our business establishes prices with our customers in accordance with contractual timeframes; however, the timing of material and commodity market price increases may prevent us from passing these additional costs on to our customers through timely pricing actions, which may lead to an adverse impact on our profit margins. For example, our gross margin decreased by 1.3% from the year ended December 31, 2021 (24.3%)
Previous report — wording carried elsewhere
Our association with Cummins has contributed to the relationships we have with certain significant customers and suppliers due to the relationship those customers and suppliers had with Cummins. Cummins cooperated in selling our products to Cummins’ customers. After the Separation, we may not be able to attract new customers of Cummins, or retain existing customers, without Cummins’ support. If this occurs, it could result in reduced sales of our products.
Previous report — wording carried elsewhere
The price of our common stock may fluctuate substantially.