Biggest changeGiven evolving requirements and the associated standards, methodologies, processes, and controls related to sustainability and ESG related requirements and disclosures that may impact us or our clients, diverging requirements across jurisdictions, and distinct definitions and standards for materiality that could result in conflicting disclosures across frameworks, we may make disclosures that are incorrect or incomplete or fail to make required disclosures, which may result in regulatory or reputational consequences or that may directly or indirectly impact our ability to attract and retain clients. 15 Table of Contents Further, fiduciary, anti-competitive, voting power, governance, and other concerns with ESG investment strategies continue to be the subject of legislative and regulatory debate globally, particularly at both the federal and state levels in the U.S., the outcomes of which could impact both our asset management business and our clients, as well as, potentially, our investment activities more broadly.
Biggest changeFurther, fiduciary, anti-competitive, voting power, governance, and other concerns with ESG investment strategies continue to be the subject of legislative and regulatory debate globally, particularly at both the federal and state levels in the U.S., the outcomes of which could impact both our asset management business and our clients, as well as, potentially, our investment activities more broadly.
Retaining highly skilled investment management and other in-high demand personnel is important to our ability to attract and retain our clients. The market for skilled investment management professionals and other key personnel is highly competitive.
Retaining highly skilled investment management and other personnel in-high demand is important to our ability to attract and retain our clients. The market for skilled investment management professionals and other key personnel is highly competitive.
Although we take protective measures, including measures to effectively secure information through system security technology, have many controls, processes, digital backup and recovery processes in place, and seek to continually monitor and develop our systems to protect our technology infrastructure and data from misappropriation or corruption, our technology systems may still be vulnerable to unauthorized access as a result of an external attack, actions by employees or vendors with access to our systems, computer malware or other events that have a security impact and that result in the disclosure or release of confidential information inadvertently or through malfeasance, or result in the loss (temporarily or permanently) of data, applications or systems.
Although we take protective measures, including measures to secure information effectively through system security technology, have many controls, processes, digital backup and recovery processes in place, and seek to continually monitor and develop our systems to protect our technology infrastructure and data from misappropriation or corruption, our technology systems may still be vulnerable to unauthorized access as a result of an external attack, actions by employees or vendors with access to our systems, computer malware or other events that have a security impact and that result in the disclosure or release of confidential information inadvertently or through malfeasance, or result in the loss (temporarily or permanently) of data, applications or systems.
Risks Related to Regulatory and Legal Matters We operate in an industry that is highly regulated in most countries, and any enforcement action or proceeding against us or significant changes in the laws or regulations governing our business or industry could damage our reputation or decrease our AUM, revenues, net income and liquidity.
Risks Related to Regulatory and Legal Matters We operate in an industry that is highly regulated in most countries, and any enforcement action or proceeding against us or significant changes in the laws or regulations governing our business or industry could damage our reputation or decrease our AUM, revenues, net income or liquidity.
We and certain of our subsidiaries have in recent years been subject to various legal proceedings, including civil litigation and governmental investigations and enforcement actions and proceedings. These actions can arise from normal business operations and/or matters that have been the subject of previous regulatory examinations.
We and certain of our subsidiaries have in recent years been subject to various legal proceedings, including civil litigation and governmental investigations and enforcement actions and proceedings. These proceedings can arise from normal business operations and/or matters that have been the subject of previous regulatory examinations.
Certain U.S. officials have suggested that sustainability or ESG related investing practices may result in violations of law, including antitrust laws, and breaches of fiduciary duty. Views on sustainability or ESG practices, particularly those related to climate issues, have also become part of political discourse, which can amplify the reputational risks associated with such allegations.
Certain U.S. officials have suggested that sustainability or ESG related investing practices may result in violations of law, including antitrust laws, and breaches of fiduciary duty. Views on sustainability or ESG practices, particularly those related to climate issues, have also become part of political discourse, which can amplify the reputational and business risks associated with such allegations.
Judgments in civil litigation or findings of wrongdoing by these agencies or authorities against us could affect our reputation, result in damages, fines, penalties or sanctions for which we would be responsible, increase our costs of doing business and/or negatively impact our revenues, any of which could have a material negative impact on our AUM, revenues, net income or liquidity.
Judgments in civil litigation or findings of wrongdoing by these agencies or authorities against us could affect our reputation, result in damages, fines, penalties or sanctions for which we would be responsible and/or increase our costs of doing business, any of which could have a material negative impact on our AUM, revenues, net income or liquidity.
In addition, we offer index tracking investment solutions for our passive products, and any errors or disruptions in our ability to accurately track a subject index could materially adversely affect our business or reputation, which would adversely affect our AUM, revenues, net income, and liquidity. Disclosure requirements and expectations related to sustainability or ESG are increasing and evolving.
In addition, we offer index tracking investment solutions for our passive products, and any errors or disruptions in our ability to accurately track a subject index could materially adversely affect our business or reputation, which would adversely affect our AUM, revenues, net income, and liquidity. Disclosure requirements and expectations related to sustainability or ESG are evolving.
Failure to obtain funds and/or financing, or any adverse change to the cost of obtaining such funds and/or financing, may cause our AUM, revenues and net income to decline, curtail our operations and limit or impede our prospects for growth. Distribution of earnings of our subsidiaries may be subject to limitations, including net capital requirements.
Failure to obtain funds and/or financing, or any adverse change to the cost of obtaining such funds and/or financing, may cause our AUM, revenues and net income to decline, curtail our operations and limit or impede our prospects for growth. Distribution of earnings of our subsidiaries may be subject to limitations, including regulatory net capital requirements.
In addition, market conditions may change during the course of real estate development projects in which our investment products and clients invest that make such developments less attractive than at the time it was commenced and potentially harm the investment returns of our investment products, our clients and, to the extent of our investment in such investment products, us.
In addition, market conditions may change during the course of real estate development projects in which our investment products and clients invest that make such developments less attractive than at the time it commenced and potentially harm the investment returns of our investment products, our clients and, to the extent of our investment in such investment products, us.
This results in risks arising from the inclusion of any unauthorized material in the training data for their models, and the effectiveness of the steps these third parties have taken to limit the risks associated with the output of their models, matters over which we may have limited visibility.
This results in potential risks arising from the inclusion of any unauthorized material in the training data for their models, and the effectiveness of the steps these third parties have taken to limit the risks associated with the output of their models, matters over which we may have limited visibility.
As a global company with investment products registered in numerous countries and subject to the jurisdiction of one or more regulators in each country, at any given time our business operations may be subject to review, investigation or disciplinary action.
As a global company with investment products registered and/or regulated in numerous countries and subject to the jurisdiction of one or more regulators in each country, at any given time our business operations may be subject to review, investigation or disciplinary action.
Consequently, significant strengthening of the U.S. Dollar relative to the United Kingdom (U.K.) Pound Sterling, Euro, Chinese RMB, Japanese Yen or Canadian Dollar, among other currencies, could have a material negative impact on our reported financial results.
Significant strengthening of the U.S. Dollar relative to the United Kingdom (U.K.) Pound Sterling, Euro, Chinese RMB, Japanese Yen or Canadian Dollar, among other currencies, could have a material negative impact on our reported financial results.
For example, governmental agencies and authorities regularly make inquiries, hold investigations and administer examinations with respect to the company's compliance with applicable laws and regulations. Lawsuits or regulatory enforcement actions arising out of these inquiries may in the future be filed against the company its subsidiaries and/or its employees.
For example, governmental agencies and authorities regularly make inquiries, conduct investigations and administer examinations with respect to the company's compliance with applicable laws and regulations. Lawsuits or regulatory enforcement actions arising out of these inquiries may in the future be filed against the company, its subsidiaries and/or its employees.
In most jurisdictions, the new minimum tax rules are effective in 2024 with certain aspects of the rules becoming effective in 2025. In addition, in response to the OECD’s minimum tax proposal, Bermuda has enacted a corporate tax regime with a tax rate of 15%, effective January 1, 2025. As a result of these developments, our tax liabilities could increase.
In most jurisdictions, the new minimum tax rules were effective in 2024 with certain aspects of the rules becoming effective in 2025. In addition, in response to the OECD’s minimum tax proposal, Bermuda has enacted a corporate tax regime with a tax rate of 15%, effective January 1, 2025. As a result of these developments, our tax liabilities could increase.
These may include: • risks related to the potential illiquidity, valuation and disposition of such investments; • risks related to emerging and less established companies that have, among other things, short operating histories, not yet achieved or sustained profitability, new technologies and products, nascent control functions, quickly evolving markets and limited financial resources; • construction risks, including as a result of force majeure, labor disputes or work stoppages, shortages of material or interruptions to the availability of necessary equipment; • credit risks, including interest-rate movements and an issuer’s ability to make principal and interest payments on the debt it issues; • risks related to investment in “stressed” and “distressed” securities, including abrupt and erratic market movements, above-average price volatility and bankruptcy; • risks relating to minority equity investments and joint ventures, including limited control over the applicable portfolio investments or joint ventures; • risks associated with a lack of diversification, such that any adverse change in one or a small number of issuers could have a material adverse effect on an investment product’s or client’s investments; • accidents, pandemics, health crises or catastrophic events, climate-related risks, including greater frequency or intensity of adverse weather and natural disasters, that are beyond our control; • personal injury or property damage; • risks relating to reliance on underlying managers and funds to effect fund of funds programs; • risks relating to the use of leverage, including as a result of increasing interest rates or an inability to timely obtain and effectively deploy leverage; • failures on the part of third-party managers, service providers or sub-contractors appointed in connection with investments or projects to adequately perform their contractual duties or operate in accordance with applicable laws; • exposure to stringent and complex foreign, federal, state and local laws, ordinances and regulations, including those related to private fund advisers, financial crime, permits, government contracting, conservation, exploration and production, lending, tenancy, occupational health and safety, employment law and regulation, foreign investment and environmental protection; • environmental hazards; 12 Table of Contents • changes to the supply and demand for properties and/or tenancies; • risks related to the availability, cost, coverage and other limitations on insurance; • the financial resources of tenants or loan counterparties; • contingent liabilities on disposition of investments; and • conflicts of interest related to investments in operating companies.
These may include: • risks related to the potential illiquidity, valuation and disposition of such investments; • risks related to emerging and less established companies that have, among other things, short operating histories, not yet achieved or sustained profitability, new technologies and products, nascent control functions, quickly evolving markets and limited financial resources; • construction risks, including as a result of force majeure, labor disputes or work stoppages, shortages of material or interruptions to the availability of necessary equipment; • credit risks, including interest-rate movements and an issuer’s ability to make principal and interest payments on the debt it issues; • risks related to investment in “stressed” and “distressed” securities, including abrupt and erratic market movements, above-average price volatility and bankruptcy; 12 Table of Contents • risks related to the ability to detect or prevent irregular accounting, employee misconduct or other fraudulent practices by any issuer or portfolio investment; • risks relating to minority equity investments and joint ventures, including limited control over the applicable portfolio investments or joint ventures; • risks associated with a lack of diversification, such that any adverse change in one or a small number of issuers could have a material adverse effect on an investment product’s or client’s investments; • accidents, pandemics, health crises or catastrophic events, climate-related risks, including greater frequency or intensity of adverse weather and natural disasters, that are beyond our control; • personal injury or property damage; • risks relating to reliance on underlying managers and funds to effect fund of funds programs; • risks relating to the use of leverage, including as a result of increasing interest rates or an inability to timely obtain and effectively deploy leverage; • failures on the part of third-party managers, service providers or sub-contractors appointed in connection with investments or projects to adequately perform their contractual duties or operate in accordance with applicable laws; • exposure to stringent and complex foreign, federal, state and local laws, ordinances and regulations, including those related to private fund advisers, financial crime, permits, government contracting, conservation, exploration and production, lending, tenancy, housing affordability, occupational health and safety, employment law and regulation, foreign investment and environmental protection; • environmental hazards; • changes to the supply and demand for properties and/or tenancies; • risks related to the availability, cost, coverage and other limitations on insurance; • the financial resources of tenants or loan counterparties; • contingent liabilities on disposition of investments; and • conflicts of interest related to investments in operating companies.
Such changes have imposed, and are likely to continue to impose, new compliance costs and/or capital requirements or impact us in other ways that could have a material adverse impact on our AUM, revenues, net income or liquidity.
Such matters have imposed, and are likely to continue to impose, new compliance costs and/or capital requirements or impact us in other ways that could have a material adverse impact on our AUM, revenues, net income or liquidity.
In addition, if we sell substantial amounts of our common stock in the public market, or there is a perception that such sales may occur, the market price of our common stock could be negatively impacted. 20 Table of Contents MassMutual has the ability to significantly influence our business, and MassMutual’s interest in our business may be different from that of other shareholders.
In addition, if we sell substantial amounts of our common stock in the public market, or there is a perception that such sales may occur, the market price of our common stock could be negatively impacted. MassMutual has the ability to significantly influence our business, and MassMutual’s interest in our business may be different from that of other shareholders.
Substantial risk and uncertainties are associated with the introduction of new products and services, including the implementation of new and appropriate operational controls and procedures, shifting client and market preferences, the introduction of competing products or services and compliance with regulatory requirements.
Substantial risk and uncertainties are associated with the introduction of new products and services, including the implementation of new and appropriate operational controls and procedures, technology integration, shifting client and market preferences, the introduction of competing products or services and compliance with regulatory requirements.
Our inability to meet these requirements and expectations could cause regulatory or reputational harm and affect our ability to attract and retain clients. Requirements and expectations related to commitment to and disclosures around sustainability or ESG topics continue to increase globally.
Our inability to meet these requirements and expectations could cause regulatory or reputational harm and affect our ability to attract and retain clients. Requirements and expectations related to commitment to and disclosures around sustainability or ESG topics continue to evolve globally.
Regulators in the U.S., U.K. and EU have expressed concern that the daily redeemability features of these funds may create a “liquidity mismatch” with the assets in which they invest, and that can give rise to investor dilution and systemic risk, especially in times of financial market stress.
Financial regulators in the U.S., U.K. and EU have periodically expressed concern that the daily redeemability features of these funds may create a “liquidity mismatch” with the assets in which they invest, and that this mismatch can give rise to investor dilution and systemic risk, especially in times of financial market stress.
See Item 7, “Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Critical Accounting Policies - Goodwill” and “- Intangibles,” for additional details of our impairment analysis process.
See Part II, Item 7, “Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Critical Accounting Policies - Goodwill” and “- Intangibles,” for additional details of our impairment analysis process.
If any indebtedness under the revolving credit agreement were subject to accelerated repayment, and if we had at that time a significant amount of outstanding debt under the revolving credit agreement, we might not have sufficient liquid assets to repay such indebtedness in full.
If any indebtedness under the Credit Agreements were subject to accelerated repayment, and if we had at that time a significant amount of outstanding debt under the Credit Agreements, we might not have sufficient liquid assets to repay such indebtedness in full.
Our revolving credit agreement borrowing rates are tied to our credit ratings. A reduction in our long-term credit ratings could increase our borrowing costs, could limit our access to the capital markets and may result in outflows, thereby reducing AUM, revenues and net income.
Our Credit Agreements borrowing rates are tied to our credit ratings. A reduction in our long-term credit ratings could increase our borrowing costs, could limit our access to the capital markets and may result in outflows, thereby reducing AUM, revenues and net income.
Certain institutional investors using money market products and other short-term duration fixed income products for cash management purposes may shift these investments to direct investments in comparable instruments in order to realize higher yields. These redemptions would reduce AUM, thereby reducing our revenues and net 10 Table of Contents income.
Certain institutional investors using money market products and other short-term duration fixed income products for cash management purposes may shift these investments to direct investments in comparable instruments in order to realize higher yields. These redemptions would reduce AUM, thereby reducing our revenues and net income.
Moreover, adapting or developing the existing technology systems we use to meet our internal needs, as well as client needs, industry demands and new regulatory requirements, is also critical for our business. The introduction of new technologies, such as our State Street Alpha platform, presents new challenges and new potential risks to us.
Moreover, adapting or developing the existing technology systems we use to meet our internal needs, as well as client needs, industry demands and new regulatory requirements, is also critical for our business. The introduction of new technologies, such as our Alpha/Hybrid investment platform, presents new challenges and new potential risks to us.
Item 1A. Risk Factors Risks Related to Market Dynamics and Volatility Volatility and disruption in global or regional capital and credit markets, as well as adverse changes in the global economy, could negatively affect our AUM, revenues, net income and liquidity. In recent years, capital and credit markets have experienced substantial volatility.
Item 1A. Risk Factors Risks Related to Market Dynamics and Volatility Volatility and disruption in global or regional capital and credit markets, equity, debt, private and commodity markets, as well as adverse changes in the global economy, could negatively affect our AUM, revenues, net income and liquidity. In recent years, capital and credit markets have experienced substantial volatility.
We recorded a non-cash impairment of $1,248.9 million related to our indefinite-lived intangible assets related to acquired management contracts of U.S. retail mutual funds during the year ended December 31, 2023, and we may not realize the full value of our remaining goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets.
We recorded a non-cash impairment of $1,794.9 million related to our indefinite-lived intangible assets related to acquired management contracts of U.S. retail mutual funds during the year ended December 31, 2025, and we may not realize the full value of our remaining goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets.
In the event of any such default, lenders that are party to the revolving credit agreement could refuse to make further extensions of credit to us and require all amounts borrowed under the revolving credit agreement, together with accrued interest and other fees, to be immediately due and payable.
In the event of any such default, lenders that are party to the Revolving Credit Agreement could refuse to make further extensions of credit to us and require all amounts borrowed under the Credit Agreements, together with accrued interest and other fees, to be 19 Table of Contents immediately due and payable.
In addition, certain of our officers and directors reside in countries outside the U.S. A substantial portion of the company's assets and the assets of these officers and directors are or may be located outside the U.S.
In addition, certain of our officers and directors reside in countries outside the U.S. A substantial portion of the company's assets and the assets of these officers and directors are or may be 24 Table of Contents located outside the U.S.
Moreover, certain legal or regulatory changes could require us to modify our strategies, businesses or operations, and we may incur other new constraints or costs, including the investment of significant management time and resources to satisfy new regulatory requirements or to compete in a changed business environment.
Moreover, certain legal or regulatory changes could require us to modify our strategies, businesses, product portfolios or operations, and we may incur other new costs or impacts, including the investment of significant management time and resources, to satisfy new regulatory requirements or to compete in a changed regulatory environment.
If we were to experience a man-made or natural disaster, severe weather event, health crisis or pandemic, such as new variant of COVID-19, or other business continuity problem, our continued success will depend, in part, on the availability of our personnel, our office facilities and the proper functioning of our computer, telecommunication and other related systems and operations.
If we were to experience a man-made or natural disaster, severe weather event, health crisis or pandemic, or other business continuity problem, our continued success will depend, in part, on the availability of our personnel, our office facilities and the proper functioning of our computer, telecommunication and other related systems and operations.
If the updated or new systems, such as our State Street Alpha platform, do not operate as anticipated or if other unforeseen issues arise with the transition to the new or updated systems, our business may be adversely affected.
If the updated or new systems, such as our Alpha/Hybrid investment platform, do not operate as anticipated or if other unforeseen issues arise with the transition to the new or updated systems, our business may be adversely affected.
The revolving credit agreement also contains customary affirmative operating covenants and negative covenants that, among other things, restrict certain of our subsidiaries' ability to incur debt and restrict our ability to transfer assets, merge, make loans and other investments and create liens. The breach of any covenant could result in a default under the revolving credit agreement.
The Credit Agreements also contain customary affirmative operating covenants and negative covenants that, among other things, limit certain of our subsidiaries' ability to incur debt and restrict our ability to transfer assets, merge, make loans and other investments and create liens. The breach of any covenant could result in a default under the applicable Credit agreement.
AI models, particularly generative AI models, may produce output or take action that is incorrect or outdated, that result in the release of personal, confidential or proprietary information, that reflect biases included in the data on which they are trained or introduced during the training or fine tuning process, that infringe on the intellectual property rights of others, or that is otherwise harmful.
If not appropriately governed, managed and controlled, AI models, particularly generative AI models, may produce output or take action that is incorrect or outdated, that result in the release of personal, confidential or proprietary information, that reflect biases included in the data on which they are trained or introduced during the training or fine tuning process, that infringe on the intellectual property rights of others, or that is otherwise harmful.
As with all investment management companies, our activities are highly regulated in nearly every country in which we conduct business. The regulatory environment in which we operate frequently changes, and in recent years we have seen a significant increase in both regulatory changes and enforcement actions and proceedings brought by governmental agencies and self-regulatory authorities against financial services companies.
Like other investment management companies, our activities are highly regulated in nearly every country in which we conduct business. The regulatory environment in which we operate frequently changes, and in recent years we have observed a significant increase in both regulatory changes and enforcement actions and proceedings brought by governmental agencies and self-regulatory authorities against financial services companies.
Our revolving credit agreement imposes operating covenants that impact our ability to conduct certain activities and, if amounts borrowed under it were subject to accelerated repayment, we might not have sufficient assets or liquidity to repay such amounts in full. Our revolving credit agreement requires us to maintain specified financial ratios, including maximum debt-to-earnings and minimum interest coverage ratios.
Our Credit Agreements impose operating covenants that impact our ability to conduct certain activities and, if amounts borrowed under our Credit Agreements were subject to accelerated repayment, we might not have sufficient assets or liquidity to repay such amounts in full. Our Credit Agreements require us to maintain specified financial ratios, including maximum debt-to-earnings and minimum interest coverage ratios.
In the EU, recent amendments to the Undertakings for the Collective Investment in Transferable Securities (UCITS) and Alternative Investment Fund Managers (AIFMD) directive frameworks introduce new rules regarding the use of certain liquidity management tools (e.g., swing pricing and side pockets) by UCITS funds and AIFs.
In the EU, recent amendments to the Undertakings for the Collective Investment in Transferable Securities (UCITS) and Alternative Investment Fund Managers directive frameworks introduce new rules regarding the use of certain liquidity management tools by UCITS funds and AIFs.
Federal Trade Commission, Department of Justice and/or U.S. banking regulators and the potential for antitrust regulators to promulgate regulations limiting common ownership of competitive companies by a single fund or by affiliated funds in a single fund complex.
Federal Trade Commission, Department of Justice and/or U.S. banking regulators before we acquire securities for the accounts of our clients, and the potential for antitrust regulators to promulgate regulations limiting common ownership of competitive companies by a single fund or by affiliated funds in a single fund complex.
Any loss of confidence in a product type could lead to withdrawals, redemptions and liquidity issues in such products, which could have a material adverse effect on our AUM, revenues and net income or liquidity.
Any loss of confidence in a product type could lead to withdrawals, redemptions and liquidity issues in such products, and may also increase regulatory focus and compliance costs, which could have a material adverse effect on our AUM, revenues and net income or liquidity.
We cannot predict whether volatility in the markets will result in substantial or sustained declines in the markets generally or result in price declines in market segments in which our AUM are concentrated. Any of the foregoing could negatively impact the market value of our AUM, revenues and net income. Redemptions and other withdrawals from, or shifting among, client portfolios.
We cannot predict whether volatility in the markets will result in substantial or sustained declines in the markets generally or result in price declines in market segments in which our AUM are concentrated. Any of the foregoing could negatively impact the market value of our AUM, revenues and net income.
Further, regulators across borders can coordinate actions against us as issues arise resulting in impacts on our business in multiple jurisdictions. Judgments or findings of wrongdoing or non-compliance with applicable law or regulation by governmental authorities, or in private civil litigation against us, could affect our reputation, increase our costs of doing business and/or negatively impact our revenues.
Further, regulators across borders can coordinate actions against us resulting in impacts on our business in multiple jurisdictions. Judgments or findings of wrongdoing or non-compliance with applicable laws or regulations by governmental authorities or industry self-regulatory authorities, or in private civil litigation against us, could affect our reputation, increase our costs of doing business and/or negatively impact our revenues.
The asset management industry is facing transformative pressures and trends from a variety of different sources, including increased fee pressure; a continued shift away from actively managed fundamental equities and fixed income strategies towards alternatives, passive index and smart beta strategies; increased demands from clients and distributors for client engagement and services; a trend towards institutions concentrating on fewer relationships and partners and reducing the number of investment managers they work with; increased regulatory activity and scrutiny of many aspects of the asset management industry, including ESG practices and related matters, transparency/unbundling of fees, inducements, conflicts of interest, capital, liquidity, solvency, leverage, operational risk management, controls and compensation; addressing the key emerging markets in the world, such as China and India, which often have populations with different needs, preferences and horizons than the more developed U.S. and European markets; advances in technology and digital wealth and distribution tools and increasing client interest in interacting digitally with their investment portfolios; and growing crypto asset markets that remain subject to substantial volatility and significant regulatory uncertainty.
The asset management industry is facing transformative pressures and trends from a variety of different sources, including increased fee pressure; a continued shift away from actively managed fundamental equities and fixed income strategies towards alternatives, passive index and smart beta strategies; increased demands from clients and distributors for client engagement and services; a trend towards institutions concentrating on fewer relationships and partners and reducing the number of investment 11 Table of Contents managers they work with; consolidation among distributors and competitive pricing pressures; growth in private markets and alternatives requiring new capabilities; increased regulatory activity and scrutiny of many aspects of the asset management industry, including ESG practices and related matters, transparency/unbundling of fees, inducements, conflicts of interest, capital, liquidity, solvency, leverage, operational risk management, controls and compensation; divergent global regulatory requirements and evolving sustainability disclosure mandates; addressing the key emerging markets in the world, such as China and India, which often have populations with different needs, preferences and horizons than the more developed U.S. and European markets; advances in technology and digital wealth and distribution tools and increasing client interest in interacting digitally with their investment portfolios; cybersecurity, data privacy, and integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into investment and client service processes; and growing digital asset markets that remain subject to substantial volatility and significant regulatory uncertainty.
Department of Treasury’s Outbound Investment Screening Rule that became effective earlier this year, may impede our ability to provide certain products and add complexity to our compliance program with heightened regulatory requirements. • Regulations pertaining to the privacy and use, security, transfer and management of personal data with respect to clients, employees and business partners.
Department of Treasury’s Outbound Investment Security Program Rule that became effective in 2025, may impede our ability to provide certain products and/or make certain investments and add complexity to our compliance program with heightened regulatory requirements. • Regulations pertaining to privacy and the use, protection, transfer and management of personal data with respect to clients, employees and business partners.
We also have definite-lived intangible assets on our balance sheet that are subject to impairment testing. Goodwill and intangible assets totaled $8,318.1 million and $5,749.3 million, respectively, at December 31, 2024.
We also have definite-lived intangible assets on our balance sheet that are subject to impairment testing. Goodwill and intangible assets totaled $8,477.1 million and $3,927.3 million, respectively, at December 31, 2025.
The recent advancements in and increased use of AI present risks and challenges that may adversely impact our business. We or our third-party vendors, clients or counterparties have developed, and may continue to develop or incorporate AI technology in certain business processes, services or products.
We or our third-party vendors, clients or counterparties have developed and may continue to develop or incorporate AI technology in certain business processes, services or products. The development and use of AI present a number of risks and challenges to our business.
We depend on information technology, and any failures of or damage to, attack on or unauthorized access to our information technology systems or facilities, or those of third parties with which we do business or that facilitate our business activities, including as a result of cyber-attacks, could result in significant limits on our ability to conduct our operations and activities, costs and reputational damage.
Counterparty defaults could result in financial losses for us or our clients, regulatory scrutiny, and reputational harm. 16 Table of Contents We depend on information technology, and any failures of or damage to, attack on or unauthorized access to our information technology systems or facilities, or those of third parties with which we do business or that facilitate our business activities, including as a result of cyber-attacks, could result in significant limits on our ability to conduct our operations and activities, costs and reputational damage.
Any failure to maintain strong business relationships with these intermediaries due to any of the above-described factors would impair our ability to sell our products, which in turn could have a negative effect on our AUM, revenues and net income.
Any failure to maintain strong business relationships with the consultant community would impair our ability to sell our products, which in turn could have a negative effect on our AUM, revenues and net income.
These evolving laws and regulations could require changes in our implementation of AI technology, increase our compliance costs and the risk of non-compliance, and restrict or impede our ability to develop, adopt and deploy AI technologies efficiently and effectively.
Global divergence in AI regulations and evolving standards could create conflicting requirements across jurisdictions, increase compliance costs, and heighten enforcement risk. These evolving laws and regulations could require changes in our implementation of AI technology, increase our compliance costs and the risk of non-compliance, and restrict or impede our ability to develop, adopt and deploy AI technologies efficiently and effectively.
This issuance may limit our ability to obtain additional financing for working capital, capital expenditures, debt service requirements, acquisitions and general corporate or other purposes, may restrict our ability to pay dividends to holders of common shares in certain circumstances, may increase our vulnerability to general economic and industry conditions, and will require a significant portion of cash flow from operations to make required dividend payments to preferred shareholders. 19 Table of Contents Failure to maintain adequate corporate and contingent liquidity may cause our AUM, revenues and net income to decline, as well as harm our prospects for growth.
This issuance may limit our ability to obtain additional financing for working capital, capital expenditures, debt service requirements, acquisitions and general corporate or other purposes, may restrict our ability to pay dividends to holders of common shares in certain circumstances, may increase our vulnerability to general economic and industry conditions, and will require a significant portion of cash flow from operations to make required dividend payments to preferred shareholders.
Our financial performance depends, in part, on our ability to develop, market and manage new investment products and services. The development and introduction of new products and services requires continued innovative efforts on our part and may require significant time and resources as well as ongoing support and investment.
The development and introduction of new products and services requires continued innovative efforts on our part and may require significant time and resources as well as ongoing support and investment.
If market events lead to instances where an ETF trades at prices that deviate significantly from the ETF’s NAV or indicative value, or trading halts are invoked by the relevant stock exchange or market, investors may lose confidence in ETF products and sell their holdings, which may cause our AUM, revenue and net income to decline.
If market events lead to instances where an ETF trades at prices that deviate significantly from the ETF’s NAV or indicative value, or trading halts are invoked by the relevant stock exchange or market, investors may lose confidence in ETF products and sell their holdings, which could result in reputational harm and cause our AUM, revenue and net income to decline. 18 Table of Contents The recent advancements in and increased use of AI present risks and challenges that may adversely impact our business.
We issued perpetual preferred stock having a value of approximately $4 billion, which could adversely affect our ability to raise additional capital and may limit our ability to fund other priorities. We issued approximately $4 billion of 5.9% fixed rate perpetual preferred stock in connection with the acquisition of OppenheimerFunds Inc.
We issued perpetual preferred stock having a value of approximately $4 billion, of which approximately $2.5 billion remains outstanding, which could adversely affect our ability to raise additional capital and may limit our ability to fund other priorities.
Our access to equity and debt markets on reasonable terms may be limited by adverse market conditions, including tax and interest rates, a reduction in our long- or short-term credit ratings, or changes in government regulations.
Our access to equity and debt markets on reasonable terms may be limited by adverse market conditions, including tax and interest rates, a reduction in our long- or short-term credit ratings, or changes in government regulations. Inadequate liquidity could force us to sell assets at unfavorable prices or limit our ability to invest in growth initiatives.
If we are unable to adapt our strategy and business to adequately address 11 Table of Contents these trends and pressures, we may be unable to satisfactorily meet client needs, our competitive position may weaken, and our AUM, revenues, and net income may be adversely affected.
If we are unable to adapt our strategy and business to adequately address these trends and pressures, we may be unable to satisfactorily meet client needs, our competitive position may weaken, and our AUM, revenues, and net income may be adversely affected. Competitive pressures may force us to reduce the fees we charge to clients, which could reduce our profitability.
Furthermore, the fees we earn vary with the types of assets being managed, with higher fees earned on actively managed equity and balanced accounts, alternative asset products, and lower fees earned on fixed income, stable value accounts and passively managed products. Our revenues and net income may decline further if clients continue to shift their investments to lower fee accounts.
Furthermore, the fees we earn vary with the types of assets being managed, with higher fees earned on actively managed equity and balanced accounts, alternative asset products, and lower fees earned on fixed income, stable value accounts and passively managed products.
Although our estimates contemplate current conditions and how we expect them to change over the life of the investment portfolio, it is possible that actual conditions could be worse than anticipated, which could cause our revenues and net income to decline. 13 Table of Contents We may be unable to develop new products and services, and the development of new products and services may expose us to additional costs or operational risk.
Although our estimates contemplate current conditions and how we expect them to change over the life of the investment portfolio, it is possible that actual conditions could be worse than anticipated, which could cause our revenues and net income to decline.
The increasing size and market influence of certain distributors of our products and of certain direct competitors may have a negative impact on our ability to compete at the same levels of profitability in the future.
Failure to achieve scale or operational efficiencies in response to these pressures could further compress margins and negatively impact profitability. The increasing size and market influence of certain distributors of our products and of certain direct competitors may have a negative impact on our ability to compete at the same levels of profitability in the future.
Cyber security incidents and cyber-attacks have been occurring globally at a more frequent and severe level. Our status as a global financial institution and the nature of our client base may enhance the risk that we are targeted by such cyber threats.
Our status as a global financial institution and the nature of our client base may enhance the risk that we are targeted by such cyber threats.
We adjust these liabilities periodically due to changes in interpretations of tax laws, status of tax authority examinations and new regulatory or judicial guidance that could impact the relative merits and risks of tax positions.
We accrue tax liabilities for certain tax issues based on our estimate of whether, and the extent to which, additional taxes may be due. We adjust these liabilities periodically due to changes in interpretations of tax laws, status of tax authority examinations and new regulatory or judicial guidance that could impact the relative merits and risks of tax positions.
The largest component of our net assets, revenues and expenses, as well as our AUM, is presently denominated in U.S. Dollars. However, we have a large number of subsidiaries outside of the U.S. whose functional currencies are not the U.S. Dollar. As a result, fluctuations in the exchange rates to the U.S. Dollar impact our reported financial results.
As many of our subsidiary operations are located outside of the U.S. and have functional currencies other than the U.S. Dollar, changes in the exchange rates to the U.S. Dollar impact our reported financial results. The largest component of our net assets, revenues and expenses, as well as our AUM, is presently denominated in U.S. Dollars.
Additionally, these factors could impact our ability to realize the carrying value of our goodwill and other intangible assets. • Illiquidity and/or volatility of the global or regional risk asset markets could negatively affect our ability to manage investment products in which client and company assets are invested or client inflows and outflows or to timely meet client redemption requests. • Uncertainties regarding geopolitical developments, such as nation state sovereignty, border disputes, diplomatic developments, social instability or changes in governmental policies, can produce volatility in global financial markets and regulatory environments.
Additionally, these factors could impact our ability to realize the carrying value of our goodwill and other intangible assets and have impacted the carrying value of our intangible assets in the past. • Illiquidity and/or volatility of the global or regional risk asset markets could negatively affect our ability to manage investment products in which client and company assets are invested or client inflows and outflows or to timely meet client redemption requests. • In the event that market values of companies involved directly in AI or exposed to AI trends, including those that are part of the Nasdaq-100 Index, decline, we may suffer declines in AUM and revenue, particularly relating to products we advise that track the Nasdaq-100 Index, such as the Invesco QQQ Trust and the Invesco NASDAQ 100 ETF. • Uncertainties regarding geopolitical developments, such as nation state sovereignty, border disputes, diplomatic developments, social instability or changes in governmental policies, can produce volatility in global financial markets and regulatory environments.
The legal and regulatory environment relating to AI is uncertain and rapidly evolving, in the U.S., and internationally, and includes regulation targeted specifically at AI technology, as well as provisions in intellectual property, privacy, consumer protection, employment and other laws applicable to the use of AI.
The legal and regulatory environment relating to AI is rapidly evolving, in the U.S., E.U., and internationally, and includes regulation targeted specifically at AI technology, including the EU AI Act, portions of which have already come into force with more to follow this year and in future years, as well as provisions in intellectual property, privacy, consumer protection, employment and other laws applicable to the use of AI.
We meet these requirements in part by holding cash and cash equivalents. This retained cash can be used for general business purposes in the European sub-group in the countries where it is located. Due to the capital restrictions, the ability to transfer cash between certain jurisdictions may be limited.
This retained cash can be used for general business purposes in the European sub-group in the countries where it is located. Due to the capital restrictions, the ability to transfer cash between certain jurisdictions may be limited. In addition, transfers of cash between international jurisdictions may have adverse tax consequences.
Following the completion of a strategic acquisition, we may have to rely on the seller to provide administrative and other support, including financial reporting and internal controls, to the acquired business for a period of time. There can be no assurance that such sellers will do so in a manner that is acceptable to us.
Following the completion of a strategic acquisition, we may have to rely on the seller to provide administrative and other support, including financial reporting and internal controls, to the acquired business for a period of time.
This volatility, including volatility arising from tensions between the U.S. and China, may impact the level and composition of our AUM and also negatively impact investor sentiment, which could result in reduced or negative flows. • Changes to tax, tariff and import/export regulations and economic sanctions may have a negative effect on global or regional economic conditions, financial markets and our business.
This volatility, including volatility arising from tensions between the U.S. and China, may impact the level and composition of our AUM and also negatively impact investor sentiment, which could result in reduced or negative flows.
Investors may have difficulty effecting service of process within the U.S. on our directors and officers who reside outside the U.S., even though the company has appointed an agent in the U.S. to receive service of process. 24 Table of Contents Further, it may not be possible in Bermuda or in countries other than the U.S. where the company has assets, to enforce court judgments obtained in the U.S. against the company based on the civil liability provisions of U.S. federal or state securities laws.
Further, it may not be possible in Bermuda or in countries other than the U.S. where the company has assets, to enforce court judgments obtained in the U.S. against the company based on the civil liability provisions of U.S. federal or state securities laws.
We cannot predict the full impact of legal and regulatory changes, changes in the interpretation of existing laws and regulations or possible enforcement actions or proceedings on our business.
Developments in these laws and regulations and their application to our business could impede our ability to provide certain products or limit the AUM of certain investment strategies that we provide. We cannot predict the full impact of legal and regulatory changes, changes in the interpretation of existing laws and regulations or possible enforcement actions or proceedings on our business.
Additionally, we have investments, including collateralized loan obligations (CLOs), real estate-related loans, commercial loans and seed capital in fixed income funds, the valuation of which could vary with changes in interest and default rates. Declines in the values of AUM could lead to reduced revenues and net income as management fees are generally calculated based upon the size of AUM.
Additionally, we have investments, including collateralized loan obligations (CLOs), real estate-related loans, commercial loans, income based products inclusive of private strategies, and seed capital in fixed income funds, the valuation of which could vary with changes in interest and default rates as well as credit quality deterioration.
Investment products and clients can have exposure to lower-rated instruments and securities, which generally reflects a greater possibility that adverse changes in the financial condition of the borrower or in general economic conditions (including, for example, a substantial period of rising interest rates or declining earnings), or both, may impair the ability of the borrower to make payment of principal and interest.
Investment products and clients can have exposure to lower-rated instruments and securities, which generally reflects a greater possibility that adverse changes in the financial condition of the borrower or in general economic conditions, including rising interest rates, inflation, geopolitical instability, or sector-specific stress, may impair the ability of the borrower to make payment of principal and interest. 13 Table of Contents Current and future market and economic developments may increase default and delinquency rates and negatively impact the quality of the credit portfolio.
Subsidiaries operating in the EU and the products and services they provide are mainly regulated by the Commission de Surveillance du Secteur Financier in Luxembourg, the Central Bank of Ireland, the Bundesanstalt für Finanzdienstleistungsaufsicht in Germany and the European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA).
Subsidiaries operating in the EU and the products and services they provide are mainly regulated by the Commission de Surveillance du Secteur Financier in Luxembourg and Central Bank of Ireland, and by the European Securities and Markets Authority. Such subsidiaries are also subject to various EU Directives, which generally are implemented by member state national legislation and by EU Regulations.
Privacy regulations such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in Europe have strengthened privacy rules for organizations handling personal data, granted individuals more rights and control over the use of their personal data, and greatly increased penalties for non-compliance.
General Data Protection Regulation, U.S. state privacy laws and financial sector regulations, India’s Digital Personal Data Protection Act, China’s Personal Information Protection Law and Bermuda's Personal Information Protection Act, have strengthened privacy requirements for organizations handling personal data, granted individuals more rights and control over the use of their personal data and greatly increased penalties for non-compliance.
Investors, particularly in the institutional market, rely on external consultants and other third parties for advice on the choice of investment manager. These consultants and third parties tend to exert a significant degree of influence over their clients' choices, and they may favor one of our competitors over us as better meeting their particular clients' needs.
These consultants and third parties tend to exert a significant degree of influence over their clients' choices, and they may favor one of our competitors over us as better meeting their particular clients' needs. There is no assurance that our investment products will be among their recommended choices in the future.
In addition, changes in individual and corporate income tax rates, including the capital gains and dividend tax rates, could cause investors to view certain investment products we manage less favorably and reduce investor demand for the products and services we offer, which could have an adverse effect on our AUM, revenues and net income. 23 Table of Contents Examinations and audits by tax authorities could result in additional tax payments for prior periods.
However, if unfavorable legislation were to be enacted, or if modifications were to be made to certain existing tax treaties, the consequences could have a materially adverse impact on the company, including increasing our tax burden, increasing the cost of our tax compliance or otherwise adversely affecting our future net income and liquidity. 23 Table of Contents In addition, changes in individual and corporate income tax rates, including the capital gains and dividend tax rates, could cause investors to view certain investment products we manage less favorably and reduce investor demand for the products and services we offer, which could have an adverse effect on our AUM, revenues and net income.
A substantial portion of the products and services we offer in the U.S. are regulated by the SEC, Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, Commodity Futures Trading Commission, the National Futures Association, Department of Labor (DOL) and/or the Texas Department of Banking and in the U.K. are regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), and in Hong Kong and China are regulated by the Securities Futures Commission of Hong Kong (SFC) and the China Securities Regulatory Commission, respectively.
Failure to comply with these evolving requirements could result in enforcement actions, reputational harm, and restrictions on our ability to operate in certain jurisdictions. 21 Table of Contents A substantial portion of the products and services we offer in the U.S. are regulated by the SEC, Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, Commodity Futures Trading Commission, National Futures Association, Department of Labor and Texas Department of Banking, in the U.K. are regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and in Hong Kong, China, and Japan are regulated by the Securities and Futures Commission of Hong Kong, the China Securities Regulatory Commission, and the Financial Services Agency, respectively.
Our financial condition or liquidity could be adversely affected if certain of our subsidiaries are unable to distribute funds to us. All of our regulated European Union (EU) and U.K. subsidiaries are subject to capital requirements under applicable EU and U.K. requirements, and we maintain capital within this European sub-group to satisfy these regulations.
All of our regulated European Union (EU) and U.K. subsidiaries are subject to capital requirements under applicable EU and U.K. requirements, and we maintain capital within this European sub-group to satisfy these regulations. We meet these requirements in part by holding cash and cash equivalents.
In addition to our use of AI technologies, we are exposed to risks arising from the use of AI technologies by bad actors to commit fraud and misappropriate funds and to facilitate cyberattacks. Generative AI, if used to perpetrate fraud or launch cyberattacks, could result in losses, liquidity outflows, or other adverse effects at a particular financial institution or exchange.
In addition to our use of AI technologies, we are exposed to risks arising from the use of AI technologies by bad actors to commit fraud and misappropriate funds and to facilitate cyberattacks.
Any payments to us by our subsidiaries could be subject to statutory, regulatory or contractual restrictions and are contingent upon our subsidiaries' earnings and business or regulatory considerations. For example, certain of our subsidiaries are required under applicable laws and regulations to maintain appropriate levels of capital.
Any payments to us by our subsidiaries could be subject to statutory, regulatory or contractual restrictions and are contingent upon our subsidiaries' earnings and business or regulatory considerations. Our financial condition or liquidity could be adversely affected if certain of our subsidiaries are unable to distribute funds to us.
These regulations have materially impacted the asset management industry in the EU and U.K. In particular, the integration of sustainability risks, the disclosure of information on the ESG characteristics of EU products and the integration of investors’ ESG preferences at the point of sale have had a significant impact on the features of EU products and on investment management activities.
These regulations have materially impacted the asset management industry in the EU and U.K in recent years. In particular, these regulations have required the integration of sustainability risks within investment management processes and imposed enhanced disclosure requirements on the ESG characteristics of EU and U.K. investment products.
If we are unable to successfully recover from a man-made or natural disaster, severe weather event, health crisis or pandemic or other business continuity problem, we could suffer material financial loss, loss of human capital, regulatory actions, reputational harm or legal liability.
These needs could present operational issues or require significant capital and may require us to reevaluate the current value and/or expected useful lives of the technology we use, which could negatively impact our AUM, revenues, net income and liquidity. 17 Table of Contents If we are unable to successfully recover from a man-made or natural disaster, severe weather event, health crisis or pandemic or other business continuity problem, we could suffer material financial loss, loss of human capital, regulatory actions, reputational harm or legal liability.