Biggest changeThere are risks inherent in doing business in international markets, including: • Difficulties in staffing and managing international operations; • Compliance with increasing amounts of laws and regulations, including environmental, tax, import/export and anti-corruption laws, which vary from country to country, and the European Union legislation, and over time, increasing the costs of compliance and potential risks of non-compliance; • Varying laws, regulations and other legal protections, uncertain and varying enforcement of those laws and regulations, dependence on local authorities, and the importance of local networks and relationships; • Varying accounting, auditing and financial reporting standards, accountability and protections, including risks related to the lack of access by the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) ("PCAOB") to inspect PCAOB-registered accounting firms in emerging market countries such as China; • Exposure to political, economic and financial instability, including due to the uncertainty associated with the ongoing sovereign debt issues in certain Euro zone countries, which may lead to reduced sales, currency exchange losses and collection difficulties or other losses; Logitech International S.A. | Fiscal 2023 Form 10-K | 23 Table of Contents • Import or export restrictions or licensing requirements that could affect some of our products, including those with encryption technology; • Trade protection measures, custom duties, tariffs, import or export duties, and other trade barriers, restrictions and regulations, including recent and ongoing United States - China tariffs and trade restrictions, including China's 2021 Anti-Foreign Sanctions Law; • Lack of infrastructure or services necessary or appropriate to support our products and services; • Effects of the COVID-19 pandemic that may be more concentrated where we operate internationally; • Exposure to fluctuations in the value of local currencies; • Difficulties and increased costs in establishing sales and distribution channels in unfamiliar markets, with their own market characteristics and competition, including entrenched local competition; • Weak protection of our intellectual property rights; • Higher credit risks; • Variations in VAT (value-added tax) or VAT reimbursement; • Imposition of currency exchange controls; • Delays from customs brokers or government agencies; and • A broad range of customs, consumer trends, and more.
Biggest changeThere are risks inherent in doing business in international markets, including: • Difficulties in staffing and managing international operations; • Compliance with increasing amounts of laws and regulations, including environmental, tax, import/export and anti-corruption laws, which vary from country to country, and the European Union legislation, and over time, increasing the costs of compliance and potential risks of non-compliance; • Varying laws, regulations and other legal protections, uncertain and varying enforcement of those laws and regulations, dependence on local authorities, and the importance of local networks and relationships; • Varying accounting, auditing and financial reporting standards, accountability and protections, including risks related to the lack of access by the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) ("PCAOB") to inspect PCAOB-registered accounting firms in emerging market countries such as China; • Exposure to political, economic and financial instability, including due to the uncertainty associated with the ongoing sovereign debt issues in certain Euro zone countries, which may lead to reduced sales, currency exchange losses and collection difficulties or other losses; • Import or export restrictions or licensing requirements that could affect some of our products, including those with encryption technology; • Trade protection measures, custom duties, tariffs, import or export duties, and other trade barriers, restrictions and regulations, including recent and ongoing United States - China tariffs and trade restrictions, including China's 2021 Anti-Foreign Sanctions Law; • Lack of adequate infrastructure or services necessary or appropriate to support our long-term business strategy, digital transformation and operational efficiency; • Exposure to fluctuations in the value of local currencies; • Difficulties and increased costs in establishing sales and distribution channels in unfamiliar markets, with their own market characteristics and competition, including entrenched local competition; • Weak protection of our intellectual property rights; • Higher credit risks; • Current and future international regulation of AI; • Variations in VAT (value-added tax) or VAT reimbursement; • Imposition of currency exchange controls; Logitech International S.A. | Fiscal 2024 Form 10-K | 24 Table of Contents • Delays from customs brokers or government agencies; and • A broad range of customs, consumer trends, and more.
Further, we have been exposed in the past and may be exposed to fluctuations in the value of the local currency in the countries in which manufacturing occurs. Future appreciation of these local currencies could increase our component and other raw material costs.
Further, we have been exposed in the past and may in the future be exposed to fluctuations in the value of the local currency in the countries in which manufacturing occurs. Future appreciation of these local currencies could increase our component and other raw material costs.
In addition, we rely on channel inventory data from our sales channel partners. If we do not receive this information on a timely and accurate basis, if this information is not accurate, or if we do not properly interpret this information, our results of operations and financial condition may be adversely affected.
In addition, we rely on channel inventory data from our sales channel partners. If we do not receive this information on a timely basis, if this information is not accurate, or if we do not properly interpret this information, our results of operations and financial condition may be adversely affected.
Our effective income tax rate may be affected by changes in or interpretations of tax laws, treaties, rulings, regulations or agreements in any given jurisdiction, or changes in international tax reform by the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development and similar organizations, utilization of net operating loss and tax credit carryforwards, changes in geographical allocation of income and expense, and changes in management’s assessment of matters such as the realizability of deferred tax assets.
Our effective income tax rate may be affected by changes in or interpretations of tax laws, treaties, rulings, regulations or agreements in any given jurisdiction, or changes in international tax reform by the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (the "OECD") and similar organizations, utilization of net operating loss and tax credit carryforwards, changes in geographical allocation of income and expense, and changes in management’s assessment of matters such as the realizability of deferred tax assets.
In addition, Microsoft, Apple, Google, Amazon or other competitors may be able to control distribution channels or offer pricing advantages on bundled hardware and software products that we may not be able to offer, and maybe financially positioned to exert significant downward pressure on product prices and upward pressure on promotional incentives in order to gain market share.
In addition, Microsoft, Apple, Google, Amazon or other competitors may be able to control distribution channels or offer pricing advantages on bundled hardware and software products that we may not be able to offer, and may be financially positioned to exert significant downward pressure on product prices and upward pressure on promotional incentives in order to gain market share.
Our success largely depends on our ability to manage, hire, retain, integrate and motivate sufficient numbers of qualified personnel, including senior leadership. Our strategy and our ability to innovate, design and produce new products, sell products, maintain operating margins and control expenses depend on key personnel that may be difficult to replace.
Our success largely depends on our ability to manage, hire, retain, integrate and motivate sufficient numbers of qualified personnel, including senior leadership. Our strategy and our ability to innovate, design and produce new products, market and sell products, maintain operating margins and control expenses depend on key personnel that may be difficult to replace.
As a result of the reform, Logitech will incur cash income taxes that will increase over time as the deferred income tax benefit established in connection with the reform diminishes.
As a result of the TRAF reform, Logitech will incur cash income taxes that will increase over time as the deferred income tax benefit established in connection with the reform diminishes.
Our share repurchase programs and dividend policy may be affected by many factors, including general business and economic conditions, our financial condition and operating results, our views on potential future capital requirements, restrictions imposed in any future debt agreements, the emergence of alternative investment or acquisition opportunities, changes in our business strategy, legal requirements, changes in tax laws, and other factors.
Our share repurchase program and dividend policy may be affected by many factors, including general business and economic conditions, our financial condition and operating results, our views on potential future capital requirements, restrictions imposed in any future debt agreements, the emergence of alternative investment or acquisition opportunities, changes in our business strategy, legal requirements, changes in tax laws, and other factors.
If the supply of these products or key components were to be delayed or constrained, impacted by global shortages of semiconductor chips, or if one or more of our single-source suppliers experience disruptions or go out of business as a result of adverse global economic conditions, natural disasters or regional or global pandemics, including COVID-19, we might be unable to find a new supplier on acceptable terms, or at all, and our product shipments to our customers could be delayed, which could adversely affect our business, financial condition and operating results.
If the supply of these products or key components were to be delayed or constrained, impacted by global shortages of semiconductor chips, or if one or more of our single-source suppliers experience disruptions or go out of business as a result of adverse global economic conditions, adverse global or regional geopolitical conditions, natural disasters or regional or global pandemics, such as COVID-19, we might be unable to find a new supplier on acceptable terms, or at all, and our product shipments to our customers could be delayed, which could adversely affect our business, financial condition and operating results.
As a result, our revenues in any quarter depend primarily on orders booked and shipped in that quarter. • A significant portion of our quarterly retail sales typically occurs in the last weeks of each quarter, further increasing the difficulty in predicting quarterly revenues and profitability. • Our sales are impacted by consumer demand and current and future global economic and political conditions, including inflation, foreign currency fluctuations, slowdown of economic activity around the world, in part due to rising interest rates, and lower consumer and enterprise spending, trade restrictions and tariffs, and can, therefore, fluctuate abruptly and significantly during periods of uncertain economic conditions or geographic distress, as well as from shifts in distributor inventory practices and consumer buying patterns. • We must incur a large portion of our costs in advance of sales orders because we must plan research and production, order components, buy tooling equipment, and enter into development, sales and marketing, and other operating commitments prior to obtaining firm commitments from our customers.
As a result, our revenues in any quarter depend primarily on orders booked and shipped in that quarter. • A significant portion of our quarterly retail sales typically occurs in the last weeks of each quarter, further increasing the difficulty in predicting quarterly revenues and profitability. • Our sales are impacted by consumer demand and current and future global economic and political conditions, including inflation, interest rate and foreign currency fluctuations, slowdown of economic activity around the world, and lower consumer and enterprise spending, trade restrictions and tariffs, and can, therefore, fluctuate abruptly and significantly during periods of uncertain economic conditions or geographic distress, as well as from shifts in distributor inventory practices and consumer buying patterns. • We must incur a large portion of our costs in advance of sales orders because we must plan research and production, order components, buy tooling equipment, and enter into development, sales and marketing, and other operating commitments prior to obtaining firm commitments from our customers.
In recent years, the U.S. government has instituted or proposed changes to international trade policy through the renegotiation, and potential termination, of certain existing bilateral or multilateral trade agreements and treaties with, and the imposition of tariffs on a wide range of products and other goods from, China, countries in EMEA and other countries.
The U.S. government has instituted or proposed changes to international trade policy through the renegotiation, and potential termination, of certain existing bilateral or multilateral trade agreements and treaties with, and the imposition of tariffs on a wide range of products and other goods from, China, countries in EMEA and other countries.
See also the other information set forth in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, including in Part I, Item 1 "Business," Part II, Item 7 "Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" and our Consolidated Financial Statements and the related Notes.
See also the other information set forth in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, including in Part I, Item 1 "Business," Part II, Item 1C "Cybersecurity", Item 7 "Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" and our Consolidated Financial Statements and the related Notes.
The success of our product portfolio depends on several factors, including our ability to: • Identify new features, functionality and opportunities; • Anticipate technology, market trends and consumer preferences; • Develop innovative, high-quality, and reliable new products and enhancements in a cost-effective and timely manner; • Distinguish our products from those of our competitors; and • Offer our products at prices and on terms that are attractive to our customers and consumers.
The success of our product portfolio depends on several factors, including our ability to: • Identify new features, functionality and opportunities; • Anticipate technology, market trends and consumer preferences; • Develop innovative, high-quality, and reliable new software-enabled hardware products and enhancements in a cost-effective and timely manner; • Distinguish our products from those of our competitors; and • Offer our products at prices and on terms that are attractive to our customers and consumers.
As we continue our efforts to lower our costs and improve our operational efficiency, we may not fully realize our goals.
As we continue our efforts to scale, lower our costs and improve our operational efficiency, we may not fully realize our goals.
Any announcement of termination or suspension of our share repurchase programs or dividend may result in a decrease in our share price. The share repurchase programs and payment of cash dividends could also diminish our cash reserves that may be needed for investments in our business, acquisitions or other purposes.
Any announcement of termination or suspension of our share repurchase program or dividend may result in a decrease in our share price. The share repurchase program and payment of cash dividends could also diminish our cash reserves that may be needed for investments in our business, acquisitions or other purposes.
If we fail to accurately anticipate technological trends or our users’ needs or preferences, are unable to complete the development of products and services in a cost-effective and timely fashion or are unable to appropriately increase production to fulfill customer demand, we will be unable to successfully introduce new products and services into the market or compete with other providers.
If we fail to accurately anticipate technological trends or our users’ needs or preferences, are unable to complete the development of software-enabled hardware products and services in a cost-effective and timely fashion or are unable to appropriately increase production to fulfill customer demand, we will be unable to successfully introduce new products and services into the market or compete with other providers.
While we have developed and implemented security measures and processes designed to protect against cyber and other security threats, such measures cannot provide absolute security and may not be successful in preventing future security breaches.
While we have developed and implemented security measures and processes designed to protect against cyber and other security threats, such measures cannot provide absolute security and may not be successful in preventing all security breaches.
We use and store confidential information, including but not limited to our business, financial, legal and governance information, as well as personal information about our employees, members of our Board of Directors and customers.
We use and store confidential information, including but not limited to our business, financial, legal and governance information, as well as personal information about our employees, members of our Board of Directors, customers, and other business partners.
Dollar-denominated sales and earnings. Competitive conditions in the markets in which we operate may also limit our ability to increase prices in the event of fluctuations in currency exchange rates. Conversely, strengthening of currency rates may also increase our product component costs and other expenses denominated in those currencies, adversely affecting operating results.
Competitive conditions in the markets in which we operate may also limit our ability to increase prices in the event of fluctuations in currency exchange rates. Conversely, strengthening of currency rates may also increase our product component costs and other expenses denominated in those currencies, adversely affecting operating results.
As we expand into new markets and product categories and acquire companies, businesses and assets, we must comply with a wide variety of laws, standards and other requirements governing, among other things, health and safety, hazardous materials usage, product-related energy consumption, conflict minerals, packaging, recycling, sustainability, environmental, child labor and human rights matters.
As we expand into new markets and product categories and acquire companies, businesses and assets, our operations and products must comply with a wide variety of laws, standards and other requirements governing, among other things, health and safety, hazardous materials usage, product-related energy consumption, conflict minerals, packaging, recycling, sustainability, environmental, child labor and human rights matters, among others.
Our product portfolio includes current and future products designed for use with third-party platforms or software, such as the Apple iPad, iPod, iPhone and Siri, Android phones and tablets, Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa . Our business in these categories relies on our access to the platforms of third parties, some of whom are our competitors.
Our product portfolio includes current and future products designed for use with third-party platforms or software, such as the Apple iPad, iPhone and Siri, Android phones and tablets, Google Assistant, Zoom, Microsoft Teams and Amazon Alexa . Our business in these categories relies on our access to the platforms of third parties, some of whom are our competitors.
A significant portion of our business is conducted in currencies other than the U.S. Dollar. Therefore, we face exposure to movements in currency exchange rates. Our primary exposure to movements in currency exchange rates relates to non-U.S. Dollar-denominated sales and operating expenses worldwide. For fiscal year 2023, approximately 51% of our revenue was in non-U.S. denominated currencies.
A significant portion of our business is conducted in currencies other than the U.S. Dollar. Therefore, we face exposure to movements in currency exchange rates. Our primary exposure to movements in currency exchange rates relates to non-U.S. Dollar-denominated sales and operating expenses worldwide. For fiscal year 2024, approximately 50% of our revenue was in non-U.S. denominated currencies.
As a result, changes in trade policy and regulations in the United States and other countries as well as changes in trade agreements and tariffs and sanctions imposed on Russia could adversely affect our business, results of operations and financial condition. Our financial performance is subject to risks associated with fluctuations in currency exchange rates.
As a result, changes in trade policy and regulations in the United States and other countries as well as changes in trade agreements and tariffs could adversely affect our business, results of operations and financial condition. Our financial performance is subject to risks associated with fluctuations in currency exchange rates.
As a result of the Federal Act on the Tax Reform and AHV Financing (“TRAF”), the canton of Vaud in Switzerland, where we are incorporated, enacted tax reforms on March 10, 2020 that took effect as of January 1, 2020.
For example, as a result of the Federal Act on the Tax Reform and AHV Financing (“TRAF”), the canton of Vaud in Switzerland, where we are incorporated, enacted tax reforms that took effect as of January 1, 2020.
Summary of Risk Factors Risks Related to our Business • If we fail to innovate and develop new products in a timely and cost-effective manner for our new and existing product categories, our business and operating results could be adversely affected. • If we do not successfully execute on our growth opportunities, or if our growth opportunities are more limited than we expect, our operating results and future growth could be adversely affected. • We purchase key components and products from a limited number of sources, and our business and operating results could be adversely affected if supply were delayed or constrained or if there were shortages of required components. • Our principal manufacturing operations and third-party contract manufacturers are located in China and Southeast Asia, which exposes us to risks associated with doing business in that geographic area as well as potential tariffs, adverse trade regulations, adverse tax consequences and pressure to move or diversify our manufacturing locations. • If we do not successfully coordinate the worldwide manufacturing and distribution of our products, we could lose sales and our business and operating results could be adversely affected. • If we are not able to maintain and enhance our brands, or if our brands or reputation are damaged, our reputation, business and operating results could be adversely affected. • If we do not compete effectively, demand for our products could decline and our business and operating results could be adversely affected. • We rely on third parties to sell and distribute our products, and we rely on their information to manage our business.
Summary of Risk Factors Risks Related to our Business • If we fail to innovate and develop new products in a timely and cost-effective manner for our new and existing product categories, our business and operating results could be adversely affected. • We use artificial intelligence ("AI") in our business, and challenges relating to the development and use of AI, including generative AI, could result in competitive harm, reputational harm, and legal liability, and adversely affect our results of operations. • If we do not successfully execute on our growth opportunities, or if our growth opportunities are more limited than we expect, our operating results and future growth could be adversely affected. • We purchase key components and products from a limited number of sources, and our business and operating results could be adversely affected if supply were delayed or constrained or if there were shortages of required components. • Our principal manufacturing operations and third-party contract manufacturers are located in China and Southeast Asia, which exposes us to risks associated with doing business in that geographic area as well as potential tariffs, adverse trade regulations, adverse tax consequences and pressure to move or diversify our manufacturing locations. • If we do not successfully coordinate the worldwide manufacturing and distribution of our products, we could lose sales and our business and operating results could be adversely affected. • If we are not able to maintain and enhance our brands, or if our brands or reputation are damaged, our reputation, business and operating results could be adversely affected. • If we do not compete effectively, demand for our products could decline and our business and operating results could be adversely affected. • We rely on third parties to sell and distribute our products, and we rely on their information to manage our business.
Risks Related to Confidential Information, Cybersecurity, Privacy, and Intellectual Property • Losses or unauthorized access to or releases of confidential information could adversely affect our business and result in significant reputational, financial and legal consequences. • The collection, storage, transmission, use and distribution of personal data could give rise to liabilities and additional costs of operation as a result of laws, governmental regulation and risks of data breaches and security incidents. • Claims by others that we infringe their proprietary technology could adversely affect our business.
Risks Related to Confidential Information, Cybersecurity, Privacy, and Intellectual Property • Losses or unauthorized access to or releases of confidential information could adversely affect our business and result in significant reputational, financial and legal consequences. • The collection, storage, transmission, use and distribution of personal data could give rise to liabilities and additional costs of operation as a result of laws, governmental regulation and risks of data breaches and security incidents.
In addition, while we carry cyber insurance, we cannot be certain that our insurance will be sufficient to cover losses and liabilities resulting from cyberattacks, security breaches and incidents, or other interruptions, that insurance will continue to be available to us on economically reasonable terms, or at all, or that any insurer will not deny coverage as to any future claim, any of which could have a material adverse effect on our business, including our financial condition, results of operations and reputation.
Logitech International S.A. | Fiscal 2024 Form 10-K | 28 Table of Contents In addition, while we carry cyber insurance, we cannot be certain that our insurance will be sufficient to cover losses and liabilities resulting from cyberattacks, security breaches and incidents, or other interruptions, that insurance will continue to be available to us on economically reasonable terms, or at all, or that any insurer will not deny coverage as to any future claim, any of which could have a material adverse effect on our business, including our financial condition, results of operations and reputation.
Disruption of our relationship with these channel partners, changes in or issues with their business practices, their failure to provide timely and accurate information, changes in distribution partners, practices or models, conflicts among our channels of distribution, or failure to build and scale our own sales force for certain product categories and enterprise channel partners could adversely affect our business, results of operations, operating cash flows and financial condition. • If we do not accurately forecast market demand for our products, our business and operating results could be adversely affected. • Our business depends in part on access to third-party platforms or technologies, and if access thereto is withdrawn, denied, or is not available on terms acceptable to us, or if the platforms or technologies change without notice to us, our business and operating results could be adversely affected. • Our success largely depends on our ability to manage, hire, retain, integrate and motivate sufficient numbers of qualified personnel, including senior leadership.
Disruption of our relationship with these channel partners, changes in or issues with their business practices, their failure to provide timely and accurate information, changes in distribution partners, practices or models, conflicts among our channels of distribution, or failure to build and scale our own sales force for certain product categories and enterprise channel partners could adversely affect our business, results of operations, operating cash flows and financial condition. • If we do not accurately forecast market demand for our products, our business and operating results could be adversely affected. • Our business depends in part on access to third-party platforms or technologies, and if access thereto is withdrawn, denied, or is not available on terms acceptable to us, or if the platforms or technologies change without notice to us, our business and operating results could be adversely affected.
Logitech International S.A. | Fiscal 2023 Form 10-K | 26 Table of Contents As a result of changes in tax laws, treaties, rulings, regulations or agreements, or their interpretation, of Switzerland or any other country in which we operate, the loss of a major tax dispute or a successful challenge to our operating structure, intercompany pricing policies or the taxable presence of our key subsidiaries in certain countries, or other factors, our effective income tax rates may increase, which could adversely affect our net income and cash flows.
As a result of changes in tax laws, treaties, rulings, regulations or agreements, or their interpretation, of Switzerland or any other country in which we operate, the loss of a major tax dispute or a successful challenge to our operating structure, intercompany pricing policies or the taxable presence of our key subsidiaries in certain countries, or other factors, our effective income tax rates may increase, which could adversely affect our net income and cash flows.
Dollar-denominated countries and on sales of products that include components obtained from suppliers in non-U.S. Dollar-denominated countries could be adversely affected by currency exchange rate fluctuations. In some circumstances, for competitive or other reasons, we may decide not to raise local prices to fully offset the U.S. Dollar’s strengthening, which would adversely affect the U.S. Dollar value of our non-U.S.
Dollar-denominated countries could be adversely affected by currency exchange rate fluctuations. In some circumstances, for competitive or other reasons, we may decide not to raise local prices to fully offset the U.S. Dollar’s strengthening, which would adversely affect the U.S. Dollar value of our non-U.S. Dollar-denominated sales and earnings.
While our overall distribution relationships are diffuse, in fiscal year 2023 and 2022 our gross sales were concentrated with three customers - Amazon Inc., Ingram Micro and TD Synnex - and their affiliated entities. We do not have long-term commitments with those customers.
While our overall distribution relationships are diffuse, in fiscal years 2024 and 2023 ou r gross sales were concentrated with three customers - Amazon, Ingram Micro and TD Synnex - and their affiliated entities. We do not have long-term commitments with those customers.
As we do so, we face an increased risk that claims alleging we infringe the patent or other intellectual property rights of others, regardless of the merit of the claims, may increase in number and significance.
As we do so, we face an increased risk that claims alleging we infringe the patent or other intellectual property rights of others, including as a result of our use of AI, and regardless of the merit of the claims, may increase in number and significance.
If online sales grow as a percentage of overall sales, we expect that we will become even more reliant on Amazon. While we believe that we have good relationships with Amazon, Ingram Micro and TD Synnex, any adverse change in those relationships could have an adverse impact on our results of operations and financial condition.
If online sales grow as a percentage of overall sales, we expect that our reliance on Amazon would increase. While we believe that we have good relationships with Amazon, Ingram Micro and TD Synnex, any adverse change in those relationships could have an adverse impact on our results of operations and financial condition.
Premature announcements or leaks of new products, features or technologies may exacerbate some of these risks by reducing the effectiveness of our product launches, reducing sales volumes of current products due to anticipated future products, making it more difficult to Logitech International S.A. | Fiscal 2023 Form 10-K | 16 Table of Contents compete, shortening the period of differentiation based on our product innovation, straining relationships with our partners or increasing market expectations for the results of our new products before we have had an opportunity to demonstrate the market viability of the products.
Premature announcements or leaks of new products, features or technologies may exacerbate some of these risks by reducing the effectiveness of our product launches, reducing sales volumes of current products due to anticipated future products, making it more difficult to compete, shortening the period of differentiation based on our product innovation, straining relationships with our partners or increasing market expectations for the results of our new products before we have had an opportunity to demonstrate the market viability of the products.
As we introduce new or enhanced products, integrate new technology into new or existing products, or reduce the overall number of products offered, we face risks including, among other things, disruption in customers’ ordering patterns, excessive levels of new and existing product inventories, revenue deterioration in our existing product lines, insufficient supplies of new products to meet customers’ demand, possible product and technology defects, and a potentially different sales and support environment.
As we introduce new or enhanced products, integrate new technology into new or existing products, or reduce the overall number of products offered, we face risks including, among other things, disruption in customers’ ordering patterns, excessive levels of new and existing product inventories, revenue deterioration in our existing product lines, insufficient supplies of new products to meet customers’ demand, possible product and technology Logitech International S.A. | Fiscal 2024 Form 10-K | 16 Table of Contents defects, and a potentially different sales and support environment.
Unauthorized use of our technology may result in the development of products that compete with our products. Our future success depends in part on our proprietary technology, technical know-how and other intellectual property.
We may be unable to protect our proprietary rights. Unauthorized use of our technology may result in the development of products that compete with our products. Our future success depends in part on our proprietary technology, technical know-how and other intellectual property.
Our manufacturing operations at third-party contractors could be adversely affected by contractual disagreements, by labor unrest, by natural disasters, by regional or global pandemics, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, by wars and armed conflicts, by strains on local communications, trade, and other infrastructures, by competition for the available labor pool or manufacturing capacity, by increasing labor and other costs, and by other trade customs and practices that are dissimilar to those in the United States and Europe.
Logitech International S.A. | Fiscal 2024 Form 10-K | 18 Table of Contents Our manufacturing operations at third-party contractors could be adversely affected by contractual disagreements, by labor unrest, by natural disasters, by regional or global pandemics, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, by wars and armed conflicts, by strains on local communications, trade, and other infrastructures, by competition for the available labor pool or manufacturing capacity, by increasing labor and other costs, and by other trade customs and practices that are dissimilar to those in the United States and Europe.
Any loss of a major partner or distribution channel or other Logitech International S.A. | Fiscal 2023 Form 10-K | 19 Table of Contents channel disruption could make us more dependent on alternate channels, increase pricing and promotional pressures from other partners and distribution channels, increase our marketing costs, or adversely impact buying and inventory patterns, payment terms or other contractual terms, sell-through or delivery of our products to consumers, our reputation and brand equity, or our market share.
Any loss of a major partner or distribution channel or other channel disruption could make us more dependent on alternate channels, increase pricing and promotional pressures from other partners and distribution channels, increase our marketing costs, or adversely impact buying and inventory patterns, payment terms or other contractual terms, sell-through or delivery of our products to consumers, our reputation and brand equity, or our market share.
In addition, our growth and increased frequency and sophistication of cyber and product security attacks may increase the likelihood of our becoming a target of complex and damaging attacks that substantially disrupt operations and expose sensitive data.
In addition, our growth and increased frequency and sophistication of cyber and product security attacks, especially leveraging "deepfakes" and other AI techniques may increase the likelihood of us becoming a target of complex and damaging attacks that substantially disrupt operations and expose sensitive data.
Some of these growth categories and opportunities are also characterized by short product cycles, frequent new product introductions and enhancements and rapidly changing and evolving consumer preferences with respect to design and features that require calculated risk-taking and fast responsiveness and result in short opportunities to establish a market presence.
Some of these growth categories and opportunities are also characterized by short product cycles, frequent new product Logitech International S.A. | Fiscal 2024 Form 10-K | 17 Table of Contents introductions and enhancements and rapidly changing and evolving consumer preferences with respect to design and features that require calculated risk-taking and fast responsiveness and result in short opportunities to establish a market presence.
Companies must develop an expanded set of metrics and measures, data collection and processing, controls, and reporting processes in order to meet regulatory requirements and stakeholder expectations. Failure to promptly and accurately meet these expectations and requirements may result in reputational and brand damage, regulatory penalties and litigation among other things.
As a result, companies are required to develop an expanded set of metrics and measures, as well as data collection, controls, and reporting processes in order to meet regulatory requirements and stakeholder expectations. Failure by us to promptly and accurately meet these expectations and requirements may expose us to reputational and brand damage, regulatory penalties and litigation among other things.
As we expand the number of platforms and software applications with which our products are compatible, we may not be successful in launching products for those platforms or software applications, we may not be successful in establishing strong relationships with the new platform or software owners, or we may negatively impact our ability to develop and produce high-quality products on a timely basis for those platforms and software applications or we may otherwise adversely affect our relationships with existing platform or software owners.
If we expand the number of platforms and software applications with which our products are compatible, we may not be successful in launching Logitech International S.A. | Fiscal 2024 Form 10-K | 21 Table of Contents products for those platforms or software applications, we may not be successful in establishing strong relationships with the new platform or software owners, or we may negatively impact our ability to develop and produce high-quality products on a timely basis for those platforms and software applications or we may otherwise adversely affect our relationships with existing platform or software owners.
As a result, fluctuations in currency exchange rates could affect and have in the past adversely affected our business, operating results and financial condition. Moreover, these exposures may change over time. Logitech International S.A. | Fiscal 2023 Form 10-K | 25 Table of Contents We are subject to risks related to our environmental, social and governance ("ESG") activities and disclosures.
As a result, fluctuations in currency exchange rates could affect and have in the past adversely affected our business, operating results and financial condition. Moreover, these exposures may change over time. We are subject to risks related to our environmental, social and governance ("ESG") activities and disclosures.
Acquisitions could also result in the assumption of known and unknown liabilities, product, regulatory and other compliance issues, dilutive issuances of our equity securities, the incurrence of debt, disputes over earn-outs or other litigation, and adverse effects on relationships with our and our target’s employees, customers and suppliers.
Acquisitions could also result in the assumption of known and unknown liabilities, product, regulatory and other compliance issues, dilutive issuances of our equity securities, the incurrence of debt, disputes over earn-outs or other litigation, and adverse effects on relationships with our and our target’s Logitech International S.A. | Fiscal 2024 Form 10-K | 22 Table of Contents employees, customers and suppliers.
Logitech International S.A. | Fiscal 2023 Form 10-K | 17 Table of Contents Our principal manufacturing operations and third-party contract manufacturers are located in China and Southeast Asia, which exposes us to risks associated with doing business in that geographic area as well as potential tariffs, adverse trade regulations, adverse tax consequences and pressure to move or diversify our manufacturing locations.
Our principal manufacturing operations and third-party contract manufacturers are located in China and Southeast Asia, which exposes us to risks associated with doing business in that geographic area as well as potential tariffs, adverse trade regulations, adverse tax consequences and pressure to move or diversify our manufacturing locations.
Our brands and reputation are also dependent on third parties, such as suppliers, manufacturers, distributors, retailers, product Logitech International S.A. | Fiscal 2023 Form 10-K | 18 Table of Contents reviewers and the media as well as online consumer product reviews, consumer recommendations and referrals. It can take significant time, resources and expense to overcome negative publicity, reviews or perception.
Our brands and reputation are also dependent on third parties, such as suppliers, manufacturers, distributors, retailers, product reviewers and the media as well as online consumer product reviews, consumer recommendations and referrals. It can take significant time, resources and expense to overcome negative publicity, reviews or perception.
In addition to the extra costs and regulatory burdens of our dual regulatory obligations, the two regulatory regimes may not always be compatible and may impose disclosure obligations, operating restrictions or tax effects on our business to which our competitors and other companies are not subject.
In addition to the extra costs and regulatory burdens of our dual regulatory obligations, the two regulatory regimes may Logitech International S.A. | Fiscal 2024 Form 10-K | 26 Table of Contents not always be compatible and may impose disclosure obligations, operating restrictions or tax effects on our business to which our competitors and other companies are not subject.
If our effective income tax rate increases in future periods, our net income and cash flows could be adversely affected. We maintain cash and cash equivalents at financial institutions and are exposed to credit risk in the event of default by such financial institutions.
If our effective income tax rate increases in future periods, our net income and cash flows could be adversely affected. Logitech International S.A. | Fiscal 2024 Form 10-K | 27 Table of Contents We maintain cash and cash equivalents at financial institutions and are exposed to credit risk in the event of default by such financial institutions.
Logitech International S.A. | Fiscal 2023 Form 10-K | 15 Table of Contents • We may be unable to protect our proprietary rights. Unauthorized use of our technology may result in the development of products that compete with our products.
Logitech International S.A. | Fiscal 2024 Form 10-K | 15 Table of Contents • Claims by others that we infringe their proprietary technology could adversely affect our business. • We may be unable to protect our proprietary rights. Unauthorized use of our technology may result in the development of products that compete with our products.
As previously disclosed, we have invested significantly in manufacturing facilities in China and Southeast Asia. Given our manufacturing principally in those countries, and our lack of manufacturing elsewhere, policy or regulations changes in the United States or other countries present particular risks for us. We are constantly evaluating our manufacturing footprint globally including beyond Asia.
As discussed in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, we have invested significantly in manufacturing facilities in China and Southeast Asia. Given our manufacturing principally in those countries, policy or regulations changes in the United States or other countries present particular risks for us. We are constantly evaluating our manufacturing footprint globally including beyond Asia.
Privacy Shield and we are now required to put in place additional privacy Logitech International S.A. | Fiscal 2023 Form 10-K | 28 Table of Contents protective measures for transfer of data of people in the European Union to certain countries outside of the European Economic Area. In the United States, several states have adopted broad privacy laws.
Privacy Shield and we are now required to put in place additional privacy protective measures for transfer of data of people in the European Union to certain countries outside of the European Economic Area. In the United States, several states have adopted broad privacy laws.
Our strategy and our ability to innovate, design Logitech International S.A. | Fiscal 2023 Form 10-K | 14 Table of Contents and produce new products, sell products, maintain operating margins and control expenses depend on key personnel that may be difficult to replace. • As we focus on growth opportunities, we are divesting or discontinuing non-strategic product categories, or pursuing strategic acquisitions and investments, which could have an adverse impact on our business. • As we continue our efforts to lower our costs and improve our operational efficiency, we may not fully realize our goals. • Product quality issues could adversely affect our reputation, business and operating results.
Our strategy and our ability to innovate, design and produce new products, market and sell products, maintain operating margins and control expenses depend on key personnel that may be difficult to replace. • As we focus on growth opportunities, we may divest or discontinue non-strategic product categories, or pursue strategic acquisitions and investments, which could have an adverse impact on our business. • As we continue our efforts to scale, lower our costs and improve our operational efficiency, we may not fully realize our goals. • Product quality issues could adversely affect our reputation, business and operating results.
There also are risks associated with retaliatory tariffs and resulting trade wars. We cannot predict future trade policy and regulations in the United States and other countries, the terms of any renegotiated trade agreements or treaties, or tariffs and their impact on our business. A trade war could have a significant adverse effect on world trade and the world economy.
New or increased tariffs could adversely affect more or all of our products. There also are risks associated with retaliatory tariffs and resulting trade wars. We cannot predict future trade policy and regulations in the United States and other countries, the terms of any renegotiated trade agreements or treaties, or tariffs and their impact on our business.
In addition, our competitors may offer customers terms and conditions that may be more favorable than our terms and conditions and may require us to take actions to maintain or increase our customer incentive programs, which could impact our revenues and operating margins.
In addition, our competitors may offer customers terms Logitech International S.A. | Fiscal 2024 Form 10-K | 19 Table of Contents and conditions that may be more favorable than our terms and conditions and may require us to take actions to maintain or increase our customer incentive programs, which could impact our revenues and operating margins.
The weakening of currencies relative to the U.S. Dollar adversely affects the U.S. Dollar value of our non-U.S. Dollar-denominated sales and earnings. If we raise international pricing to compensate, it could potentially reduce demand for our products, adversely affecting our sales and potentially having an adverse impact on our market share. Margins on sales of our products in non-U.S.
If we raise international pricing to compensate, it could potentially reduce demand for our products, adversely affecting our sales and potentially having an adverse impact on our market share. Margins on sales of our products in non-U.S. Dollar-denominated countries and on sales of products that include components obtained from suppliers in non-U.S.
In addition, as a consumer electronics company, our websites are an important presentation of our company, identity and brands and an important means of interaction with and source of information for consumers Logitech International S.A. | Fiscal 2023 Form 10-K | 27 Table of Contents of our products.
In addition, as a consumer electronics company, our websites are an important presentation of our company, identity and brands and an important means of interaction with and source of information for consumers of our products.
Without dividends, the trading price of our shares must appreciate for investors to realize a gain on their investment. Logitech International S.A. | Fiscal 2023 Form 10-K | 31 Table of Contents ITEM 1B. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS None.
Without dividends, the trading price of our shares must appreciate for investors to realize a gain on their investment. ITEM 1B. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS None.
Compliance with such requirements will also require additional expenditures by us or our suppliers, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, financial condition and cash flows. In addition, ESG reporting and disclosure requirements continue to evolve, with increasing global regulation and heightened investor expectations.
Compliance with such requirements will also require additional expenditures by us or our suppliers, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, financial condition and cash flows.
Any claims or proceedings against us, whether meritorious or not, could be time consuming, result in costly litigation or the diversion of significant operational resources, or require us to enter into royalty or licensing agreements, any of which could materially and adversely affect our business and results of operations. We may be unable to protect our proprietary rights.
Any claims or proceedings against us, whether meritorious or not, could be time consuming, result in costly litigation or the diversion of significant operational resources, or require us to enter into Logitech International S.A. | Fiscal 2024 Form 10-K | 29 Table of Contents royalty or licensing agreements, any of which could materially and adversely affect our business and results of operations.
As we expand into new product categories and markets in pursuit of growth, we will have to build relationships with new channel partners and adapt to new distribution and marketing models.
Logitech International S.A. | Fiscal 2024 Form 10-K | 20 Table of Contents As we expand into new product categories and markets in pursuit of growth, we will have to build relationships with new channel partners and adapt to new distribution and marketing models.
In addition, discontinuing product categories, even categories that we consider non-strategic, reduces the size and diversification of our business and causes us to be more dependent on a smaller number of product categories.
Divestitures may also involve warranties, indemnification or covenants that could restrict our business or result in litigation, additional expenses or liabilities. In addition, discontinuing product categories, even categories that we consider non-strategic, reduces the size and diversification of our business and causes us to be more dependent on a smaller number of product categories.
Our share repurchase programs do not obligate us to repurchase all or any of the dollar value of shares authorized for repurchase. The programs could also increase the volatility of the trading price of our shares. Similarly, we are not obligated to pay dividends on our registered shares.
Our share repurchase program does not obligate us to repurchase all or any of the dollar value of shares authorized for repurchase. The program could also increase the volatility of the trading price of our shares.
Logitech International S.A. | Fiscal 2023 Form 10-K | 22 Table of Contents While we maintain reserves for reasonably estimable liabilities and purchase liability insurance, our reserves may not be adequate to cover such claims and liabilities and our insurance is subject to deductibles and may not be adequate to cover such claims and liabilities.
While we maintain reserves for reasonably estimable liabilities and purchase liability insurance, our reserves may not be adequate to cover such claims and liabilities and our insurance is subject to deductibles and may not be adequate to cover such claims and liabilities.
Because our operating results are difficult to predict, our results may be below the expectations of financial analysts and investors, which could cause the price of our shares to decline.
Because our operating results are difficult to predict, our results may be below the expectations of financial analysts and investors, which could cause the price of our shares to decline. Our gross margins can vary significantly depending on multiple factors, which can result in unanticipated fluctuations in our operating results.
Logitech International S.A. | Fiscal 2023 Form 10-K | 29 Table of Contents Risks Related to our Financial Results Our operating results are difficult to predict and fluctuations in results may cause volatility in the price of our shares.
Risks Related to our Financial Results Our operating results are difficult to predict and fluctuations in results may cause volatility in the price of our shares.
In fiscal year 2023, we were impacted by adverse mac roeconomic and geopolitical conditions including but not limited to inflation, foreign currency fluctuations, and slowdown of economic activity around the world, in part due to changes in interest rates, and lower consumer and enterprise spending. In addition, the war in Ukraine increased global supply chain, logistics, and inflationary challenges.
In fiscal year 2024, we were impacted by adverse macroeconomic and geopolitical conditions including Logitech International S.A. | Fiscal 2024 Form 10-K | 23 Table of Contents but not limited to inflation, foreign currency fluctuations, and slowdown of economic activity around the world, in part due to changes in interest rates, and lower consumer and enterprise spending.
Price increases may not successfully offset cost increases or may cause us to lose market share and in turn adversely impact our operations. All these and other global and regional economic and geopolitical factors can materially adversely affect our business, results of operations and financial condition.
Price increases may not successfully offset cost increases or may cause us to lose market share and in turn adversely impact our operations.
We allocate significant resources to maintain our information technology systems and deploy network security, data encryption, training and other measures to protect against unauthorized access or misuse.
We allocate significant resources to maintain our information technology systems and implement technical and organizational measures recognized as “best practice” to protect against unauthorized access or misuse.
Discontinuing products with service components may cause us to continue to incur expenses to maintain services within the product life cycle or may adversely affect our customer and consumer relationships and brand. Divestitures may also involve warranties, indemnification or covenants that could restrict our business or result in litigation, additional expenses or liabilities.
We regularly review our product portfolio and update our non-strategic product categories and products. Discontinuing products with service components may cause us to continue to incur expenses to maintain services within the product life cycle or may adversely affect our customer and consumer relationships and brand.
Implementation of any material change in tax laws or policies or the adoption of new interpretations of existing tax laws and rulings, or termination or replacement of our tax arrangements with the canton of Vaud, by Switzerland or the canton of Vaud could result in a higher effective income tax rate, or a decreased tax asset, a charge to earnings and an accelerated pace of increase in our effective income tax rate, or a combination of such impacts, on our worldwide earnings and any such change will adversely affect our net income.
Implementation of any material change in tax laws or policies or the adoption of new interpretations of existing tax laws and rulings, or termination or replacement of our tax arrangements with the canton of Vaud may adversely affect our net income.
As a result, such regulations may have the effect of limiting our growth and market share in China, and disrupting manufacturing and operations in the region. For example, on June 10, 2021, the National People’s Congress Standing Committee of the People’s Republic of China passed China's new Anti-Foreign Sanctions Law.
As a result, such regulations may have the effect of limiting our growth and market share in China, and disrupting manufacturing and operations in the region.
Such variance may affect our growth, our previous outlook and expectations, and comparisons of our operating results and financial statements between periods. • We are continuously attempting to simplify our organization, to control operating costs through expense and global workforce management, to reduce the complexity of our product portfolio, and to better align costs with our current business.
Logitech International S.A. | Fiscal 2024 Form 10-K | 30 Table of Contents • We are continuously attempting to simplify our organization, to control operating costs through expense and global workforce management, to reduce the complexity of our product portfolio, and to better align costs with our current business.
For additional information, see "Competition” in Item 1 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. We rely on third parties to sell and distribute our products, and we rely on their information to manage our business.
We rely on third parties to sell and distribute our products, and we rely on their information to manage our business.
The effectiveness of our marketing and sales efforts is uncertain and it is difficult to predict whether our marketing and sales efforts will result in increased sales. • The COVID-19 pandemic has led to evolving changes in our supply, operations, logistics and related expenses and use patterns and demand for certain of our products that may not recur or be sustainable in future periods. • We engage in acquisitions and divestitures, and such activity varies from period to period.
The effectiveness of our marketing and sales efforts is uncertain and it is difficult to predict whether our marketing and sales efforts will result in increased sales. • We engage in acquisitions and divestitures, and such activity varies from period to period.
Changes in our effective income tax rate may also make it more difficult to compare our net income and earnings per share between periods. We operate in multiple jurisdictions and our profits are taxed pursuant to the tax laws of these jurisdictions.
We operate in multiple jurisdictions and our profits are taxed pursuant to the tax laws of these jurisdictions.
We file Swiss and foreign tax returns. We are frequently subject to tax audits, examinations and assessments in various jurisdictions.
As many countries have proposed or enacted Pillar Two legislation in jurisdictions in which we operate, we continue to monitor the relevant developments. We file Swiss and foreign tax returns. We are frequently subject to tax audits, examinations and assessments in various jurisdictions.
We may find it difficult to provide competitive equity incentives, and our ability to hire, retain and motivate key personnel may suffer.
We may find it difficult to provide competitive equity incentives, and our ability to hire, retain and motivate key personnel may suffer. As we focus on growth opportunities, we may divest or discontinue non-strategic product categories, or pursue strategic acquisitions and investments, which could have an adverse impact on our business.
Any of these risks could adversely affect our business, financial condition and operating results. Sales growth in key markets, including China, is an important part of our expectations for our business.
Any of these risks could adversely affect our business, financial condition and operating results. In addition, the increasingly strict and numerous regulations in China may create a more challenging environment for foreign companies operating in the region.
Logitech International S.A. | Fiscal 2023 Form 10-K | 20 Table of Contents In addition, market demand remains less predictable and more volatile than pre-COVID-19, partially due to the current macroeconomic and geopolitical conditions.
In addition, market demand remains less predictable and more volatile than before the COVID-19 pandemic.
Concerns over climate change have resulted and may in the future result in new or additional legal, legislative and regulatory requirements to reduce or mitigate the effects of climate change on the environment, which could result in future tax, transportation and other cost increases that could adversely affect our business.
Concerns over climate change have resulted in increased regulatory requirements and reporting frameworks designed to reduce or mitigate the effects of climate change on the environment. However, the lack of harmonized regulatory requirements and reporting frameworks exposes companies to navigate myriad different requirements, which has led to challenges in ESG reporting.