Biggest changeIf the Distribution, together with certain related transactions, fails to qualify as a reorganization under Sections 355 and 368(a)(1)(D) of the Code, Enovis and its stockholders could incur significant tax liabilities, and we could be required to indemnify Enovis for taxes that could be material pursuant to indemnification obligations under the tax matters agreement that we entered into with Enovis on April 4, 2022. 24 The Distribution was conditioned upon, among other things, Colfax’s receipt of a private letter ruling from the IRS and the opinion of Latham & Watkins LLP, tax counsel to Colfax, both of which Colfax received, regarding the qualification of the Distribution, together with certain related transactions, as a reorganization under Sections 355 and 368(a)(1)(D) of the Code.
Biggest changeIf the Distribution, together with certain related transactions, fails to qualify as a reorganization under Sections 355 and 368(a)(1)(D) of the Code, Enovis and its stockholders could incur significant tax liabilities, and we could be required to indemnify Enovis for taxes that could be material pursuant to indemnification obligations under the tax matters agreement that we entered into with Enovis on April 4, 2022.
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 govern our indebtedness restrict our ability to dispose of assets and may restrict the use of proceeds from those dispositions.
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 govern our indebtedness restrict our ability to dispose of assets and may restrict the use of any proceeds from dispositions.
However, our ability to do so will depend on a number of steps, including our ability to: obtain debt or equity financing that we may need to complete proposed acquisitions; identify suitable acquisition candidates; negotiate appropriate acquisition terms; complete the proposed acquisitions; and integrate the acquired business into our existing operations.
However, our ability to do so will depend on a number of steps, including our ability to: identify suitable acquisition candidates; negotiate appropriate acquisition terms; obtain debt or equity financing that we may need to complete proposed acquisitions; complete the proposed acquisitions; and integrate the acquired business into our existing operations.
These registration rights, which pursuant to the agreement will become available to the Rales Holders one year post the Distribution, would facilitate the resale of such securities into the public market, and any such resale would increase the number of shares of our common stock available for public trading.
These registration rights, which pursuant to the agreement will become available to the Rales Holders one year post the Distribution, would facilitate the resale of such securities into public market, and any such resale would increase the number of shares of our common stock available for public trading.
Pursuant to the Separation Agreement, the tax matters agreement, and certain other agreements with Enovis, Enovis has agreed to indemnify us for certain liabilities.
Pursuant to the Separation Agreements, the tax matters agreement, and certain other agreements with Enovis, Enovis has agreed to indemnify us for certain liabilities.
Additionally, some of our hedging activity addresses long-term exposures, such as our net investment in our subsidiaries. If we fail to comply with hedge accounting requirements, the gains or losses on those hedges could be recognized before the offsetting exposure materializes to offset them, potentially causing volatility in our cash or debt balances and therefore our leverage.
Additionally, some of our hedging activity addresses long-term exposures, such as our net investment in our subsidiaries. If we fail to comply with hedge accounting requirements, the gains or losses on those hedges could be recognized before the offsetting exposure materializes to offset them, potentially causing volatility in our earnings, cash or debt balances and therefore our leverage.
Some of our competitors may also have greater financial, marketing and research and development resources than we have or stronger name recognition. As a result, those competitors may be better able to withstand the effects of periodic economic downturns. 17 In addition, pricing pressures could cause us to adjust the prices of some of our products to stay competitive.
Some of our competitors may also have greater financial, marketing and research and development resources than we have or stronger name recognition. As a result, those competitors may be better able to withstand the effects of periodic economic downturns. In addition, pricing pressures could cause us to adjust the prices of some of our products to stay competitive.
Failure to comply with the regulations referenced above or any other regulations could result in civil and criminal, monetary and non-monetary penalties, and any such failure or alleged failure could also damage our reputation, disrupt our business, limit our ability to manufacture, import, export, and sell products and services, result in loss of customers and cause us to incur significant legal and investigatory fees.
Failure to comply with the regulations referenced above or any other regulations could result in civil and criminal, monetary and non-monetary penalties, and any 22 such failure or alleged failure could also damage our reputation, disrupt our business, limit our ability to manufacture, import, export and sell products and services, result in loss of customers and cause us to incur significant legal and investigatory fees.
If our associates represented by trade unions or works councils engage in a strike, work stoppage or other slowdown or if the representation committees responsible for negotiating with such trade unions or works councils are unsuccessful in negotiating new and acceptable agreements when the existing agreements with associates covered by collective bargaining expire, we could experience business disruptions or increased costs.
If our associates represented by trade unions or works councils engage in a strike, work stoppage or other slowdown or if the representation committees responsible for negotiating with such trade unions or works councils are 16 unsuccessful in negotiating new and acceptable agreements when the existing agreements with associates covered by collective bargaining expire, we could experience business disruptions or increased costs.
Moreover, even if we ultimately succeed in recovering from Enovis or such insurance providers any amounts for which we are held liable, we may be temporarily required to bear these losses. Each of these risks could negatively affect our businesses, financial position, results of operations and cash flows.
Moreover, even if we ultimately succeed 23 in recovering from Enovis or such insurance providers any amounts for which we are held liable, we may be temporarily required to bear these losses. Each of these risks could negatively affect our businesses, financial position, results of operations and cash flows.
If we are unable to identify suitable acquisition candidates, complete any proposed acquisitions or successfully integrate the businesses we acquire, our growth strategy may not succeed and we may not realize the anticipated benefits of our acquisitions . We intend to seek acquisition opportunities both to expand into new markets and to enhance our position in our existing markets.
If we are unable to identify suitable acquisition candidates, complete proposed acquisitions or successfully integrate the businesses we acquire, our growth strategy may not succeed and we may not realize the anticipated benefits of our acquisitions. We intend to seek acquisition opportunities both to expand into new markets and to enhance our position in our existing markets.
These provisions include, among others: • the inability of our stockholders to call a special meeting; • the inability of our stockholders to act by written consent; • rules regarding how stockholders may present proposals or nominate directors for election at stockholder meetings; • the right of the Board to issue preferred stock without stockholder approval; • the division of the Board into three classes of directors, with each class serving a staggered three-year term, and this classified board provision could have the effect of making the replacement of incumbent directors more time consuming and difficult; • provision that stockholders may only remove directors with cause; and 28 • the ability of our directors, and not stockholders, to fill vacancies (including those resulting from an enlargement of the Board) on the Board.
These provisions include, among others: • the inability of our stockholders to call a special meeting; • the inability of our stockholders to act by written consent; 26 • rules regarding how stockholders may present proposals or nominate directors for election at stockholder meetings; • the right of the Board to issue preferred stock without stockholder approval; • the division of the Board into three classes of directors, with each class serving a staggered three-year term, and this classified board provision could have the effect of making the replacement of incumbent directors more time consuming and difficult; • provision that stockholders may only remove directors with cause; and • the ability of our directors, and not stockholders, to fill vacancies (including those resulting from an enlargement of the Board) on the Board.
For example, in 2020, we experienced a decline in customer demand for our products and services as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Any reduced demand could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. The majority of our sales are derived from international operations.
For example, in 2020, we experienced a decline in customer demand for our products and services as a result of the COVID pandemic. Any reduced demand could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. The majority of our sales are derived from international operations.
Costs incurred and sales recorded by subsidiaries operating outside of the United States are translated into U.S. dollars using exchange rates effective during the respective period. As a result, we are exposed to movements in the exchange rates of various currencies against the U.S. dollar.
Costs incurred and sales recorded by subsidiaries operating outside of the United States are translated into U.S. dollar using exchange rates effective during the respective period. As a result, we are exposed to movements in the exchange rates of various currencies against the U.S. dollar.
Risks Related to Shares of Our Common Stock If we are unable to implement and maintain effective internal control over financial reporting in the future, investors may lose confidence in the accuracy and completeness of our financial reports and the market price of our common stock may be negatively affected .
Risks Related to Shares of Our Common Stock If we are unable to maintain effective internal control over financial reporting in the future, investors may lose confidence in the accuracy and completeness of our financial reports and the market price of our common stock may be negatively affected .
Pursuant to that certain registration rights agreement we entered into with Mitchell P. Rales and Steven M. Rales (together, the “Rales Holders”), the Rales Holders and their permitted transferees have registration rights for the resale of certain shares of our common stock.
Pursuant to that certain restriction rights agreement we entered into with Mitchell P. Rales and Steven M. Rales (together, the “Rales Holders”), the Rales Holders and their permitted transferees have registration rights for the resale of certain shares of our common stock.
We rely on information technology networks and systems, including the Internet, cloud-based services and third-party service providers, to process, transmit and store electronic information, personally identifiable information, credit card and other financial information, and to manage or support a variety of business processes and activities, including procurement, manufacturing, distribution, invoicing, collection, communication with our employees, customers, dealers and suppliers, business acquisitions and other corporate transactions, compliance with regulatory, legal and tax requirements, and research and development.
We rely on electronic information systems, including our own and third-party networks, the Internet, cloud-based services and third-party service providers, to process, transmit and store electronic information, personally identifiable information, credit card and other financial information and to manage or support a variety of business processes and activities, including procurement, manufacturing, distribution, invoicing, collection, communication with our employees, customers, dealers and suppliers, business acquisitions and other corporate transactions, compliance with regulatory, legal and tax requirements and research and development.
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. In addition, we conduct our operations through our subsidiaries.
We may not be able to consummate dispositions or to obtain proceeds in an amount sufficient to meet any debt service obligations when due. In addition, we conduct our operations through our subsidiaries.
Continuing political and social attention to the issue of climate change has resulted in both existing and pending international agreements and national, regional or local legislation and regulatory measures to limit greenhouse gas emissions, such as cap and trade regimes, carbon taxes, restrictive permitting, increased fuel efficiency standards and incentives or mandates for renewable energy.
Continuing political and social attention to the issue of climate change has resulted in both existing and pending international agreements and national, regional or local legislation and regulatory measures to limit greenhouse gas emissions, such as cap and trade regimes, enhanced disclosure regimes, carbon taxes, restrictive permitting, increased fuel efficiency standards and incentives or mandates for renewable energy.
We may not be able to compete successfully with our existing competitors or with new competitors. If we fail to compete successfully, the failure may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. Please see “Business—Industry and Competition” for a dditional information about the competitive markets in which we operate.
We may not be able to compete successfully with our existing competitors or with new competitors. If we fail to compete successfully, the failure may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. See Item1. “Business—Industry and Competition” for a dditional information about the competitive markets in which we operate.
We expect to continue to confront efforts by hackers and other third parties to gain unauthorized access or deny access to, or otherwise disrupt, our information technology systems and networks and those of third parties upon which we rely. Any such attacks could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations or liquidity.
We expect to continue to confront efforts by hackers and other third parties to gain unauthorized access or deny access to, or otherwise disrupt, our information systems and those of third parties upon which we rely. Any such attacks could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations or liquidity.
In addition, our information technology networks and system and those of third parties upon which we rely are subject to security threats and sophisticated cyber-based attacks, including, but not limited to, denial-of-service attacks, hacking, “phishing” attacks, computer viruses, ransomware, malware, employee or insider error, malfeasance, social engineering, or physical breaches, that can cause deliberate or unintentional damage, destruction or misuse, manipulation, denial of access to or disclosure of confidential or important information, either directly or by our employees, suppliers or third-party service providers.
In addition, our information system and those of third parties upon which we rely are subject to security threats and sophisticated cyber-based attacks, including, but not limited to, denial-of-service attacks, hacking, “phishing” attacks, computer viruses, ransomware, malware, employee or insider error, malfeasance, social engineering, vulnerabilities, or physical breaches, that can cause deliberate or unintentional damage, destruction or misuse, manipulation, denial of access to or disclosure of confidential or important information, either directly or by our employees, suppliers or third-party service providers.
In addition, some of our products contain components manufactured by third parties, which may also have defects. Our product liability insurance policies have limits that may not be sufficient to cover claims made. In addition, this insurance may not continue to be available at a reasonable cost.
In addition, some of our products contain components manufactured by third parties, which may also have defects. Our product liability insurance policies have limits that may not be sufficient to cover claims made against us. In addition, this insurance may not continue to be available at a reasonable cost.
The Russian invasion of Ukraine and the sanctions imposed in response to this crisis have increased the level of economic and political uncertainty in Russia. While we continue to closely monitor the situation and evaluate options, we are meeting current contractual obligations while addressing applicable laws and regulations.
The Russian invasion of Ukraine and the sanctions imposed in response have increased the level of economic and political uncertainty in Russia. While we continue to closely monitor the situation and evaluate options, we are meeting current contractual obligations while addressing applicable laws and regulations.
If operations at any of our manufacturing facilities were to be disrupted as a result of a significant equipment failure, natural disaster or adverse weather conditions (including events that may be caused or exacerbated by climate change), power outage, fire, explosion, terrorism, cyber-based attack, pandemic or other contagious outbreak (such as the COVID-19 pandemic), labor dispute or shortage or other reason, our financial performance could be adversely affected as a result of our inability to meet customer demand for our products.
If operations at any of our manufacturing facilities were to be disrupted as a result of a significant equipment failure, natural disaster or adverse weather conditions (including events that may be caused or exacerbated by climate change), power outage, fire, explosion, terrorism, war, civil disobedience, cyber-based attack, pandemic or other contagious outbreak (such as the COVID pandemic), labor dispute or shortage or other reason, our financial performance could be adversely affected as a result of our inability to meet customer demand for our products.
As the manufacturer of equipment for use in industrial markets, we may be subject to product liability claims. Component failures, manufacturing nonconformances, design defects, or inadequate disclosure of product-related risks or product-related information with respect to our products could result in unsafe conditions, injury or death.
As the manufacturer of equipment for use in industrial markets and healthcare facilities, we may be subject to product liability claims. Component failures, manufacturing nonconformances, design defects, or inadequate disclosure of product-related risks or product-related information with respect to our products could result in unsafe conditions, injury or death.
Specifically, from time to time, certain of our independent foreign subsidiaries sell products to companies and entities located in, or controlled by the governments of, certain countries that are or have previously been subject to sanctions and embargoes imposed by the U.S. government, the United Nations or other countries where we maintain operations.
Specifically, from time to time, certain of our independent foreign subsidiaries sell products to companies and entities located in, or controlled by the governments of, certain countries that are or have previously been subject to sanctions and embargoes imposed by the United States government, the United Nations or other countries where we maintain operations.
For example, pursuant to the Separation Agreement, we have agreed to indemnify Enovis for, among other things, the retained asbestos-related contingencies and liabilities related to the sale of Colfax’s FH and AGH businesses.
For example, pursuant to the Separation Agreements, we have agreed to indemnify Enovis for, among other things, the retained asbestos-related contingencies and liabilities related to the sale of Colfax’s FH and AGH businesses.
For example, from 2016 through 2020, one of our foreign subsidiaries engaged in certain transactions, a limited number of which included U.S. origin goods, either directly or indirectly through distributors, involving sales to specially designated nationals and/or to the Crimea region of Ukraine, which may have been made in violation of relevant trade sanctions or export control laws.
For example, from 2016 through 2020, one of our foreign subsidiaries engaged in certain transactions, a limited number of which included United States origin goods, either directly or indirectly through distributors, involving sales to specially designated nationals and/or to the Crimea region of Ukraine, which may have been made in violation of relevant trade sanctions or export control laws.
Because certain of our independent foreign subsidiaries may have contact with and transact limited business in certain U.S. sanctioned countries, including sales to enterprises controlled by agencies of the governments of such countries, our reputation may suffer due to our association with these countries, which may have a material adverse effect on the price of our common stock and our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Because certain of our independent foreign subsidiaries may have contact with and transact limited business in certain United States sanctioned countries, including sales to enterprises controlled by agencies of the governments of such countries, our reputation may suffer due to our association with these countries, which may have a material adverse effect on the price of our common stock and our business, financial condition and results of operations.
The failure to successfully integrate acquired businesses in a timely manner, or at all, or the incurrence of significant unanticipated expenses associated with integration activities, including information technology integration fees, legal compliance costs, facility closure costs and other restructuring expenses, could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
The failure to successfully integrate acquired businesses in a timely manner, or at all, or the occurrence of significant unanticipated expenses associated with integration activities, including information technology integration fees, legal costs, compliance costs, facility closure costs and other restructuring expenses, could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operation.
We submitted a voluntary disclosure report to relevant U.S. government agencies regarding these transactions. On March 26, 2021 and August 26, 2021, Colfax received letters from BIS and OFAC, respectively, warning Colfax against future violations, and closing their respective matters without further action. No further communications from any other relevant U.S. government agencies have been received.
We submitted a voluntary disclosure report to relevant United States government agencies regarding these transactions. On March 26, 2021 and August 26, 2021, Colfax received letters from BIS and OFAC, respectively, warning Colfax against future violations, and closing their respective matters without further action. No further communications from any other relevant United States government agencies have been received.
The California Privacy Rights Act, which went into effect in January 2023, amended the CCPA to provide for additional privacy protections. Similar legislation has been adopted in Virginia, Colorado, Utah and Connecticut, all of which will go into effect in 2023.
The California Privacy Rights Act, which went into effect in January 2023, amended the CCPA to provide for additional privacy protections. Similar legislation has been adopted in Virginia, Colorado, Utah and Connecticut, all of which came into effect in 2023.
Actual or alleged violations of these laws could lead to substantial fines or other sanctions which could result in substantial costs. In addition, Syria, Sudan and Iran and certain other sanctioned countries currently are identified by the U.S. State Department as state sponsors of terrorism and have been subject to restrictive sanctions.
Actual or alleged violations of these laws could lead to substantial fines or other sanctions which could result in substantial costs. In addition, Syria, Sudan and Iran and certain other sanctioned countries currently are identified by the United States State Department as state sponsors of terrorism and have been subject to restrictive sanctions.
In addition to the environmental, health, safety, anti-corruption, export control, privacy, data protection, data security and other regulations noted above, our businesses are also subject to extensive regulation by U.S. and non-U.S. governmental and self-regulatory entities at the supranational, federal, state, local, and other jurisdictional levels.
In addition to the environmental, health, safety, anti-corruption, export control, privacy, data protection, data security and other regulations noted above, our businesses are also subject to extensive regulation by United States and non-United States governmental and self-regulatory entities at the supranational, federal, state, local and other jurisdictional levels.
The separation and certain other agreements with Enovis, which we entered into with Enovis on April 4, 2022 in connection with the Separation (the “Separation Agreement”), provides for, among other things, indemnification obligations (for uncapped amounts) designed to make us financially responsible for all liabilities that Enovis may incur or may exist relating to our business activities (as currently and historically conducted) and those of Colfax’s divested FH and AGH businesses, whether incurred prior to or after the Separation.
The separation and certain other agreements with Enovis, which we entered into with Enovis on April 4, 2022 in connection with the Separation (collectively referred to as the “Separation Agreements”), provide for, among other things, indemnification obligations (for uncapped amounts) designed to make us financially responsible for all liabilities that Enovis may incur or may exist relating to our business activities (as currently and historically conducted) and those of Colfax’s divested FH and AGH businesses, whether incurred prior to or after the Separation.
Our ability to engage in equity transactions could be limited or restricted in order to preserve, for U.S. federal income tax purposes, the qualification of the Distribution, together with certain related transactions, as a reorganization under Sections 355 and 368(a)(1)(D) of the Code.
Our ability to engage in equity transactions could be limited or restricted in order to preserve, for United States federal income tax purposes, the qualification of the Distribution, together with certain related transactions, as a reorganization under Sections 355 and 368(a)(1)(D) of the Code.
If the Distribution is ultimately determined not to so qualify for tax free treatment, the Distribution could be treated as a taxable disposition of shares of ESAB stock by Enovis and as a taxable dividend or capital gain to Enovis’s stockholders for U.S. federal income tax purposes.
If the Distribution is ultimately determined not to so qualify for tax free treatment, the Distribution could be treated as a taxable disposition of shares of ESAB stock by Enovis and as a taxable dividend or capital gain to Enovis’s stockholders for United States federal income tax purposes.
If any of these factual assumptions, representations, or undertakings are incorrect or not satisfied, Enovis may not be able to rely on the private letter ruling or opinion, and Enovis and its stockholders could be subject to significant U.S. federal income tax liabilities.
If any of these factual assumptions, representations, or undertakings are incorrect or not satisfied, Enovis may not be able to rely on the private letter ruling or opinion, and Enovis and its stockholders could be subject to significant United States federal income tax liabilities.
Certain of our independent foreign subsidiaries have conducted and may continue to conduct business in countries subject to U.S. sanctions and embargoes or may engage in business dealings with parties whose property or property interests may be blocked under non-country-specific U.S. sanctions programs.
Certain of our independent foreign subsidiaries have conducted and may continue to conduct business in countries subject to United States sanctions and embargoes or may engage in business dealings with parties whose property or property interests may be blocked under non-country-specific United States sanctions programs.
See “Business—Legal Proceedings.” In connection with the Separation, Enovis agreed to indemnify us for certain liabilities. However, there can be no assurance that such indemnity will be sufficient to insure us against the full amount of such liabilities, or that Enovis’s ability to satisfy its indemnification obligations will not be impaired in the future.
See Item 3. “Legal Proceedings.” In connection with the Separation, Enovis agreed to indemnify us for certain liabilities. However, there can be no assurance that such indemnity will be sufficient to insure us against the full amount of such liabilities, or that Enovis’s ability to satisfy its indemnification obligations will not be impaired in the future.
With the exception of the U.S. sanctions against Cuba and Iran, the applicable sanctions and embargoes generally do not prohibit our foreign subsidiaries from selling non-U.S.-origin products and services to countries that are or have previously been subject to sanctions and embargoes.
With the exception of the United States sanctions against Cuba and Iran, the applicable sanctions and embargoes generally do not prohibit our foreign subsidiaries from selling non-United States-origin products and services to countries that are or have previously been subject to sanctions and embargoes.
However, our U.S. personnel, each of our domestic subsidiaries, as well as our employees of foreign subsidiaries who are U.S. citizens, are prohibited from participating in, approving or otherwise facilitating any aspect of the business activities in those countries or with persons prohibited under U.S. sanctions.
However, our United States personnel, each of our domestic subsidiaries, as well as our employees of foreign subsidiaries who are United States citizens, are prohibited from participating in, approving or otherwise facilitating any aspect of the business activities in those countries or with persons prohibited under United States sanctions.
Certain of our gas control products are classified as medical devices that are subject to regulation by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and under the European Union Medical Device Regulation, as well as by other federal and local governmental agencies, and by certain accrediting bodies.
Certain of our gas control products are classified as medical devices that are subject to regulation by the United States Food and Drug Administration and under the European Union Medical Device Regulation, as well as by other federal and local governmental agencies and by certain accrediting bodies.
This could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition, or results of operations and result in a diversion of the time and resources of our management and Board of Directors. 29
This 27 could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition, or results of operations and result in a diversion of the time and resources of our management and Board of Directors. 28
In addition, volatility in commodity prices can negatively affect the level of these new activities and can result in postponement of capital spending decisions or the delay or cancellation of existing orders.
In addition, volatility in commodity prices can negatively affect the level of these new activities and can postpone capital spending decisions or the delay or cancellation of existing orders.
In addition, certain U.S. states and municipalities have enacted legislation regarding investments by pension funds and other retirement systems in companies that have business activities or contacts with countries that have been identified as state sponsors of terrorism and similar legislation may be pending in other states.
In addition, certain states and municipalities within the United States have enacted legislation regarding investments by pension funds and other retirement systems in companies that have business activities or contacts with countries that have been identified as state sponsors of terrorism and similar legislation may be pending in other states.
Failure to comply with these laws could harm our business by subjecting us to sanctions by the U.S. government, including substantial monetary penalties, denial of export privileges and debarment from U.S. government contracts.
Failure to comply with these laws could harm our business by subjecting us to sanctions by the United States government, including substantial monetary penalties, denial of export privileges and debarment from United States government contracts.
Additional tariffs imposed by the United States on a broader range of imports, or further retaliatory trade measures taken by China or other countries in response, could result in an increase in supply chain costs that we may not be able to offset or otherwise adversely impact our results of operations.
Additional tariffs imposed by the United States on imports from China or other countries, or retaliatory trade measures in response, could result in an increase in supply chain costs that we may not be able to offset or otherwise adversely impact our results of operations.
These risks include: economic or political instability; partial or total expropriation of international assets; limitations on ownership or participation in local enterprises; trade protection measures by the United States or other nations including China, including tariffs or import-export restrictions or licensing requirements, and other changes in trade relations; currency exchange rate fluctuations and restrictions on currency repatriation; inflation; labor, employment and environmental, health and safety laws and regulations that may be more restrictive than in the United States; changes in laws and regulations, including taxation policies, or in how such provisions are interpreted or administered difficulties in enforcing our rights outside the United States, including intellectual property rights; difficulties in hiring and maintaining qualified staff and managing geographically diverse operations; the disruption of operations from natural disasters or adverse weather conditions (including events that may be caused or exacerbated by climate change), world health events, including the COVID-19 pandemic, labor or political disturbances, terrorist activities, insurrection or war; the imposition of additional foreign governmental controls or regulations on the sale of our products; 11 increased costs of transportation or shipping; the transition away from LIBOR to the Secured Overnight Financing Rate as a benchmark reference for short-term interests; and uncertainties arising from local business practices and cultural considerations.
These risks include: economic or political instability; partial or total expropriation of international assets; limitations on ownership or participation in local enterprises; trade protection measures by the United States or other nations, including tariffs or import-export restrictions or licensing requirements and other changes in trade relations; currency exchange rate fluctuations and restrictions on currency repatriation; inflation; labor, employment and environmental, health and safety laws and regulations that may be more restrictive than in the United States; changes in laws and regulations, including taxation policies, or in how such provisions are interpreted or administered; difficulties in enforcing our rights outside the United States, including intellectual property rights; difficulties in hiring and maintaining qualified staff and managing geographically diverse operations; the disruption of operations from natural or man- 11 made disasters or adverse weather conditions (including events that may be caused or exacerbated by climate change), world health events, including COVID, labor or political disturbances, terrorist activities, insurrection or war; the imposition of additional foreign governmental controls or regulations on the sale of our products; increased costs of transportation or shipping; and uncertainties arising from local business practices and cultural considerations.
The market price and trading volume of our common stock has fluctuated substantially and may continue to do so due to a number of factors, some of which may be beyond our control, including: • our quarterly or annual earnings, or those of other companies in our industry; 23 • the failure of securities analysts to cover our common stock; • actual or anticipated fluctuations in our operating results; • changes in earnings estimated by securities analysts or our ability to meet those estimates; • the operating and stock price performance of other comparable companies; • changes to the regulatory and legal environment in which we operate; • the effects of COVID-19; • overall market fluctuations and domestic and worldwide economic conditions; and • other factors described in these “Risk Factors” and elsewhere in this Form 10-K.
The market price and trading volume of our common stock has fluctuated substantially and may continue to do so due to a number of factors, some of which may be beyond our control, including: • our quarterly or annual earnings, or those of other companies in our industry; • the failure of securities analysts to cover our common stock; • actual or anticipated fluctuations in our operating results; • changes in earnings estimated by securities analysts or our ability to meet those estimates; 25 • the operating and stock price performance of other comparable companies; • changes to the regulatory and legal environment in which we operate; • the impact of global conflicts, natural or man-made disasters or global health events; • overall market fluctuations and domestic and worldwide economic conditions; and • other factors described in these “Risk Factors” and elsewhere in this Form 10-K.
A failure of or breach in information technology security of our own systems, or those of our third-party vendors, could expose us and our employees, customers, dealers and suppliers to risks of misuse of information or systems, the compromise of confidential information, denial of access to, manipulation or destruction of data, defective products, production downtimes and operations disruptions.
A failure of or breach in information technology security of our own systems, or those of our 14 third-party vendors, could expose us and our employees, customers, dealers and suppliers to risks of unauthorized access, exfiltration, loss, disclosure or misuse of our, customer, employee or other third-party information or systems, the compromise of confidential information, denial of access to, manipulation or destruction of data, defective products, production downtimes and operations disruptions.
We are subject to specific risks associated with international operations. In the yea r ended December 31, 2022, we derived 78% of our sales from operations outside of the United States and, as of that date, we had principal manufacturing facilities in 25 countries in addition to the United States.
We are subject to specific risks associated with international operations. In the year ended December 31, 2023, we derived 78% of our sales from operations outside of the United States and, as of that date, we had principal manufacturing facilities in 13 countries in addition to the United States.
See “Description of Certain Indebtedness.” This debt could have important, adverse consequences to us and our investors, including: • requiring a substantial portion of our cash flow from operations to make interest payments; • making it more difficult to satisfy other obligations; • increasing the risk of a future credit ratings downgrade of our debt, which could increase future debt costs and limit the future availability of debt financing; • increasing our vulnerability to general adverse economic and industry conditions; • reducing the cash flow available to fund capital expenditures and other corporate purposes and to grow our businesses; • limiting our ability to pay dividends; • limiting our flexibility in planning for, or reacting to, changes in our businesses and industries; and • limiting our ability to borrow additional funds as needed or take advantage of business opportunities as they arise, pay cash dividends or repurchase shares of our common stock. 14 The instruments governing the debt financing contain restrictive covenants that limit our ability to engage in activities that may be in our long-term interest, including for example EBITDA-based leverage and interest coverage ratios.
See “Description of Certain Indebtedness.” This debt could have important, adverse consequences to us and our investors, including: • requiring a substantial portion of our cash flow from operations to make interest payments; • making it more difficult to satisfy other obligations; • increasing the risk of a future credit ratings downgrade of our debt, which could increase future debt costs and limit the future availability of debt financing; • increasing our vulnerability to general adverse economic and industry conditions; • reducing the cash flow available to fund capital expenditures and other corporate purposes and to grow our businesses; • limiting our ability to pay dividends; • limiting our flexibility in planning for, or reacting to, changes in our businesses and industries; and • limiting our ability to borrow additional funds as needed or take advantage of business opportunities as they arise, pay cash dividends or repurchase shares of our common stock.
These information technology networks and systems may be susceptible to damage, disruptions or shutdowns due to failures during the process of upgrading or replacing software, databases or components, power outages, hardware failures or computer viruses.
These information systems may be susceptible to damage, disruptions or shutdowns due to failures during the process of upgrading or replacing software, databases or components, power outages, hardware failures, computer viruses or other cybersecurity incidents.
In such case, Enovis and its stockholders that are subject to U.S. federal income tax could incur significant U.S. federal income tax liabilities.
In such case, Enovis and its stockholders that are subject to United States federal income tax could incur significant United States federal income tax liabilities.
As of December 31, 2022, approximately 34% of our associates were represented by a number of different trade unions and works councils. Further, as of that date, we had approxim ately 7,800 associates, representing approximately 87% of ou r worldwide associate base, in foreign locations.
As of December 31, 2023, approximately 38% of our associates were represented by a number of different trade unions and works councils. Further, as of that date, we had approxim ately 7,700 associates, representing approximately 86% of ou r worldwide associate base, in foreign locations.
Significant disruptions in, or breaches in security of, our information technology infrastructure or data can adversely affect our business and financial statements.
Significant disruptions in, or breaches in security of, our electronic information systems or data can adversely affect our business and financial statements.
For the year ended December 31, 2022, our operations in Russia represented approximately 6% of our total revenue, and approximately $20 million in Net income. Russia also had approximately 5% of our total net assets as of December 31, 2022.
For the year ended December 31, 2023, our operations in Russia represented approximately 6% of our total revenue, and approximately $12 million in Net income. Russia also had approximately 4% of our total net assets as of December 31, 2023.
For information about our business in Russia, see also “—Our operations in Russia are exposed to risks related to the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the international response to the invasion.” Our efforts to comply with U.S. and other applicable sanction and embargo laws may not be effective, and as a consequence we may face enforcement or other actions if our compliance efforts are not or are perceived as not being wholly effective.
For information about our business in Russia, see also “ Our operations are exposed to risks related to the Russian invasion of Ukraine and could be impacted by other wars and geopolitical turmoil .” Our efforts to comply with United States and other applicable sanction and embargo laws may not be effective, and as a consequence we may face enforcement or other actions if our compliance efforts are not or are perceived as not being wholly effective.
We could be subject to environmental liabilities in the future as a result of historic or current operations that have resulted or will result in contamination. The occurrence of any of the foregoing could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
We could be subject to environmental liabilities in the future as a result of historic or current operations, including historic operations at properties we acquire from third parties, which have resulted or will result in contamination. The occurrence of any of the foregoing could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
As of December 31, 2022, we have approximately $1.2 billion of outstanding indebtedness with the ability to borrow incremental $500 million under the credit facility and an additional $77 million of indebtedness pursuant to certain uncommitted credit lines. This indebtedness could adversely affect our businesses and our ability to meet our obligations and pay dividends.
As of December 31, 2023, we have approximately $1 billion of outstanding indebtedness with the ability to borrow increment al $718 million under the credit facility and an additional $78 million pursuant to certain uncommitted credit lines. This indebtedness could adversely affect our businesses and our ability to meet our obligations and pay dividends.
Continuing ownership of shares of Enovis common stock and equity awards could create, or appear to create, potential conflicts of interest if we and Enovis face decisions that could have implications for both Enovis and us. 25 In addition, one of Enovis’s former executive officers is a member of our Board, and two members of Enovis’s board of directors serve on our Board, any of which could create, or appear to create, potential conflicts of interest when we and Enovis encounter opportunities or face decisions that could have implications for both companies or in connection with the allocation of such director’s time between Enovis and us.
In addition, one of Enovis’s former executive officers is a member of our Board, and one member of Enovis’s board of directors serves on our Board, any of which could create, or appear to create, potential conflicts of interest when we and Enovis encounter opportunities or face decisions that could have implications for both companies or in connection with the allocation of such director’s time between Enovis and us.
As a result, pension funds and other retirement systems may be subject to reporting requirements with respect to investments in companies such as ESAB or may be subject to limits or prohibitions with respect to those investments that may have a material adverse effect on the price of our common stock and our business, financial condition and results of operations. 20 If we fail to comply with export control regulations, we could be subject to substantial fines or other sanctions, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
As a result, pension funds and 20 other retirement systems may be subject to reporting requirements with respect to investments in companies such as ESAB or may be subject to limits or prohibitions with respect to those investments that may have a material adverse effect on the price of our common stock and our business, financial condition and results of operations.
See “Business—Legal Proceedings” and “Note 19 Commitments and Contingencies.” 19 For purposes of our financial statements, we have estimated the future claims exposure and the amount of insurance available based upon certain assumptions with respect to future claims and liability costs.
Note 19, “Commitments and Contingencies.” For purposes of our financial statements, we have estimated the future claims exposure and the amount of insurance available based upon certain assumptions with respect to future claims and liability costs.
The markets we serve are highly competitive and some of our competitors may have superior resources. If we are unable to respond successfully to this competition, this could reduce our sales and operating margins. Our business operates in highly fragmented and competitive markets.
The markets we serve are highly competitive. If we are unable to respond successfully to this competition, this could reduce our sales and operating margins. Our business operates in highly fragmented and competitive markets.
We and our business are subject to international, federal, state and local environmental and safety laws and regulations, including laws and regulations governing emissions of regulated air pollutants and greenhouse gases; discharges of wastewater and storm water; storage and handling of raw materials; the use, manufacture, handling, storage and disposal of hazardous materials; generation, storage, transportation and disposal of regulated wastes; and laws and regulations governing worker safety.
We and our business are subject to international, federal, state and local environmental and safety laws and regulations, including laws and regulations governing emissions of regulated air pollutants and greenhouse gases; discharges of wastewater and storm water; storage and handling of raw materials; the use, manufacture, handling, storage and disposal of hazardous materials; generation, storage, transportation and disposal of regulated wastes; and laws and regulations governing worker safety. 21 These requirements impose certain responsibilities on our business, including the obligation to obtain and maintain various environmental permits.
See “Business—Legal Proceedings.” We have done and may continue to do business in countries subject to U.S. sanctions and embargoes. Failure to comply with various sanction and embargo laws may result in enforcement or other regulatory actions.
See Item 3.”Legal Proceedings.” We have done and may continue to do business in countries subject to United States sanctions and embargoes. Failure to comply with various sanction and embargo laws may result in enforcement or other regulatory actions.
Our operations in Russia are exposed to risks related to the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the international response to the invasion. The Russian invasion of Ukraine has significantly escalated tensions among the United States, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (“NATO”) member states, and Russia, and has led to macroeconomic and geopolitical instability.
Our operations are exposed to risks related to the Russian invasion of Ukraine and could be impacted by other wars and geopolitical turmoil. The Russian invasion of Ukraine has significantly escalated tensions among the United States, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (“NATO”) member states and Russia and has led to macroeconomic and geopolitical instability.
A number of countries where we do business, including the United States and many countries in the European Union, have implemented, and are considering implementing, changes in relevant tax, accounting and other laws, regulations and interpretations. Additionally, longs tanding international tax norms that determine each country’s jurisdiction to tax cross-border international trade are subject to potential evolution.
A number of the countries where we operate have implemented, and are considering implementing, changes in relevant tax, accounting and other laws, regulations and interpretations. Additionally, longstanding international tax norms that determine each country’s jurisdiction to tax cross-border international trade are subject to potential evolution.
Some of our products manufactured or assembled in the United States are subject to the U.S. Export Administration Regulations, administered by the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security (“BIS”), which require that an export license is obtained before such products can be exported to certain countries, and the U.S.
Some of our products manufactured or assembled in the United States are subject to the United States Export Administration Regulations, administered by the United States Department of Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security (“BIS”), which require that an export license is obtained before such products can be exported to certain countries, and the United States Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control’s (“OFAC”) trade and economic sanctions programs.
In connection with the Separation, we agreed to indemnify the Former Parent for, among other things, the retained asbestos-related contingencies and liabilities related to these businesses.
In connection with the Separation, we agreed to indemnify the Former Parent for, among other things, the retained asbestos-related contingencies 19 and liabilities related to these businesses. See Item 3. “Legal Proceedings” and Part II, Item 8.
Accordingly, the historical financial information for periods prior to the Separation included in this Form 10-K does not necessarily reflect the financial condition, results of operations or cash flows that we would have achieved as a separate, publicly traded company during the periods presented or those that we will achieve in the future primarily as a result of the factors described below: • prior to the Separation, our businesses were operated by Colfax as part of its broader corporate organization, rather than as a separate, publicly traded company.
Accordingly, the historical financial information for periods prior to the Separation included in this Form 10-K does not necessarily reflect the financial condition, results of operations or cash flows that we would have achieved as a separate, publicly traded company during the periods presented or those that we will achieve in the future.
While local and global supply chains have been impacted by the conflict, particularly with respect to the sourcing and cost of certain raw materials, our supply chain has not been materially adversely impacted as of the date of this Form 10-K.
While local and global supply chains have been impacted by the conflict, particularly with respect to the sourcing and cost of certain raw materials, our supply chain has not been materially adversely impacted as of the date of this Form 10-K. Further, we have incorporated applicable sanctions and export controls into our existing screening and monitoring procedures in Russia.
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 be unable to maintain a level of cash flows from operating activities sufficient to permit us to pay the principal and interest on our indebtedness. 15 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.
In addition, under various federal, state and local laws, regulations and ordinances, and, in some instances, international laws, relating to the protection of the environment, a current or former owner or operator of real property may be liable for the cost to remove or remediate contamination on, under, or released from such property and for any damage to natural resources, such as soil or groundwater, resulting from such contamination. 21 Similarly, a generator of waste can be held responsible for contamination resulting from the treatment or disposal of such waste at any off-site location (such as a landfill), regardless of whether the generator arranged for the treatment or disposal of the waste in compliance with applicable laws.
In addition, under various federal, state and local laws, regulations and ordinances, and, in some instances, international laws, relating to the protection of the environment, a current or former owner or operator of real property may be liable for the cost to remove or remediate contamination on, under, or released from such property and for any damage to natural resources, such as soil or groundwater, resulting from such contamination.
We are subject to a variety of increasingly stringent environmental and health and safety laws for which compliance, or related liabilities, could be costly.
Moreover, if we fail to comply with these laws and regulations, we could be subject to fines and other penalties. We are subject to a variety of increasingly stringent environmental and health and safety laws for which compliance, or related liabilities, could be costly.
Additionally, political and economic instability and changes in government regulations in China and other parts of Asia or any pandemics or other contagious outbreaks (such as the COVID-19 pandemic), could affect our ability to continue to receive materials from suppliers there.
Additionally, changes in government regulations, any pandemics or other contagious outbreaks, or political and economic instability could affect our ability to continue to receive materials from suppliers in the impacted region.
These requirements impose certain responsibilities on our business, including the obligation to obtain and maintain various environmental permits. If we were to fail to comply with these requirements or fail to obtain or maintain a required permit, we could be subject to penalties and be required to undertake corrective action measures to achieve compliance.
If we were to fail to comply with these requirements or fail to obtain or maintain a required permit, we could be subject to penalties and be required to undertake corrective action measures to achieve compliance.
Each plan’s funding position is affected by the investment performance of the plan’s investments, changes in the fair value of the plan’s assets, the type of investments, the life expectancy of the plan’s members, changes in the actuarial assumptions used to value the plan’s liabilities, changes in the rate of inflation and interest rates, our financial position, as well as other changes in economic conditions. 16 Furthermore, since a significant proportion of the plans’ assets are invested in publicly traded debt and equity securities, they are, and will be, affected by market risks.
Each plan’s funding position is affected by the investment performance of the plan’s investments, changes in the fair value of the plan’s assets, the type of investments, the life expectancy of the plan’s members, changes in the actuarial assumptions used to value the plan’s liabilities, changes in the rate of inflation and interest rates, our financial position, as well as other changes in economic conditions.