Biggest changeManagement believes that the Company’s non-GAAP measures are regarded as supplemental to its GAAP financial results. - 27 - The items affecting comparability are (dollars in thousands, except per share amounts) : Gross Profit Operating Income Net Earnings Attributable to VPG Stockholders Diluted Earnings Per share Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2022 2021 2022 2021 2022 2021 2022 2021 As reported - GAAP 149,602 125,142 43,799 27,372 $ 36,063 $ 20,221 $ 2.63 $ 1.48 As reported - GAAP Margins 41.3 % 39.4 % 12.1 % 8.6 % — — — — Acquisition purchase accounting adjustments (a) 1,550 2,775 1,550 2,775 1,550 2,775 0.11 0.20 Acquisition costs (b) — — — 1,198 — 1,198 — 0.09 COVID-19 impact (c) 138 (66) 138 (574) 138 (574) 0.01 (0.04) Start-up costs (d) 150 3,174 150 3,174 150 3,174 0.01 0.23 Impairment of goodwill and indefinite-lived intangibles — — — 1,223 — 1,223 — 0.09 Restructuring costs — — 1,518 76 1,518 76 0.11 0.01 Foreign exchange (gain)/loss (e) — — — — (3,579) 109 (0.26) 0.01 Less: Tax effect of reconciling items and discrete tax items (f) — — — — (44) 2,596 (0.01) 0.20 As Adjusted - Non GAAP $ 151,440 $ 131,025 $ 47,155 $ 35,244 $ 35,884 $ 25,606 $ 2.62 $ 1.87 As Adjusted - Non GAAP Margins 41.8 % 41.2 % 13.0 % 11.1 % Year ended December 31, 2022 December 31, 2021 Net earnings attributable to VPG stockholders $ 36,063 $ 20,221 Interest Expense 2,269 1,230 Income tax expense 8,535 5,469 Depreciation 11,504 11,684 Amortization 3,849 3,312 EBITDA $ 62,220 $ 41,916 EBITDA MARGIN 17.2 % 13.2 % Impairment of goodwill and indefinite-lived intangibles — 1,223 Acquisition purchase accounting adjustments (a) 1,550 2,775 Acquisition costs (b) — 1,198 Restructuring costs 1,518 76 COVID-19 impact (c) 138 (574) Start-up costs (d) 150 3,174 Foreign exchange (gain) loss (e) (3,579) 109 ADJUSTED EBITDA 61,997 49,897 ADJUSTED EBITDA MARGIN 17.1 % 15.7 % (a) Acquisition purchase accounting adjustments include fair market value adjustments associated with inventory recorded as a component of costs of products sold.
Biggest changeThe items affecting comparability are (dollars in thousands, except per share amounts) : Gross Profit Operating Income Net Earnings Attributable to VPG Stockholders Diluted Earnings Per share Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2023 2022 2023 2022 2023 2022 2023 2022 As reported - GAAP 150,342 149,602 41,954 43,799 $ 25,707 $ 36,063 $ 1.88 $ 2.63 As reported - GAAP Margins 42.3 % 41.3 % 11.8 % 12.1 % — — — — Acquisition purchase accounting adjustments (a) 335 1,550 335 1,550 335 1,550 0.02 0.11 COVID-19 impact (c) — 138 — 138 — 138 — 0.01 Start-up costs (d) — 150 — 150 — 150 — 0.01 Restructuring costs — — 1,560 1,518 1,560 1,518 0.11 0.11 Foreign exchange (gain)/loss (e) — — — — 822 (3,579) 0.06 (0.26) Less: Tax effect of reconciling items and discrete tax items (f) — — — — (1,245) (44) (0.10) (0.01) As Adjusted - Non GAAP $ 150,677 $ 151,440 $ 43,849 $ 47,155 $ 29,669 $ 35,884 $ 2.17 $ 2.62 As Adjusted - Non GAAP Margins 42.4 % 41.8 % 12.4 % 13.0 % Year ended December 31, 2023 December 31, 2022 Net earnings attributable to VPG stockholders $ 25,707 $ 36,063 Interest Expense 3,974 2,269 Income tax expense 12,426 8,535 Depreciation 11,798 11,504 Amortization 3,752 3,849 EBITDA $ 57,657 $ 62,220 EBITDA MARGIN 16.2 % 17.2 % Acquisition purchase accounting adjustments (a) 335 1,550 Restructuring costs 1,560 1,518 COVID-19 impact (b) — 138 Start-up costs (c) — 150 Foreign exchange (gain) loss (d) 822 (3,579) ADJUSTED EBITDA 60,374 61,997 ADJUSTED EBITDA MARGIN 17.0 % 17.1 % (a) Acquisition purchase accounting adjustments include fair market value adjustments associated with inventory recorded as a component of costs of products sold.
Other important assumptions include the anticipated rate of future increases in compensation levels, estimated mortality, and for postretirement medical plans, increases or trends in health care costs. Management reviews these assumptions at least annually. We use independent actuaries to assist us in formulating assumptions and making estimates.
Other important assumptions include the anticipated rate of future increases in compensation levels, estimated mortality, and for - 35 - postretirement medical plans, increases or trends in health care costs. Management reviews these assumptions at least annually. We use independent actuaries to assist us in formulating assumptions and making estimates.
However, if we conclude otherwise, then we are required to perform the quantitative impairment test by calculating the fair value of the reporting unit and comparing it against its carrying amount. We have four reporting units to which goodwill was allocated: steel, on-board weighing, DSI, and DTS.
However, if we conclude otherwise, then we are required to perform the quantitative impairment test by calculating the fair value of the reporting unit and comparing it against its carrying value. We have four reporting units to which goodwill was allocated: steel, on-board weighing, DSI, and DTS.
We have the option to first assess qualitative factors to determine whether it is "more likely than not" that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount as a basis for determining if it is necessary to perform the quantitative goodwill impairment test.
We have the option to first assess qualitative factors to determine whether it is "more likely than not" that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying value as a basis for determining if it is necessary to perform the quantitative goodwill impairment test.
Changes in these estimates and assumptions could have a significant impact on the fair value of the reporting units. If the fair value exceeds the carrying value, no further evaluation is required and no impairment loss is recognized. An impairment charge would be recognized to the extent the carrying amount of goodwill exceeds the reporting unit fair value.
Changes in these estimates and assumptions could have a significant impact on the fair value of the reporting units. If the fair value exceeds the carrying value, no further evaluation is required and no impairment loss is recognized. An impairment charge would be recognized to the extent the carrying value of goodwill exceeds the reporting unit fair value.
In the past several years, we incurred restructuring expense related to closing and downsizing of facilities as part of the manufacturing transitions of our load cell products to facilities in India and China, which marked key milestones in our ongoing strategic initiatives to align and consolidate our manufacturing footprint.
In the past several years, we incurred restructuring expense related to closing and downsizing of facilities as part of the manufacturing transitions of our load cell products to facilities in India, which marked key milestones in our ongoing strategic initiatives to align and consolidate our manufacturing footprint.
The discount rate at which obligations could effectively be settled and the expected long-term rate of return on plan assets are two - 33 - critical assumptions in measuring the cost and benefit obligations of our pension and other postretirement benefit plans.
The discount rate at which obligations could effectively be settled and the expected long-term rate of return on plan assets are two critical assumptions in measuring the cost and benefit obligations of our pension and other postretirement benefit plans.
Forward-Looking Statements From time to time, information provided by us, including, but not limited to, statements in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2022 or other statements made by or on our behalf, may contain or constitute "forward-looking" information within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.
Forward-Looking Statements From time to time, information provided by us, including, but not limited to, statements in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023 or other statements made by or on our behalf, may contain or constitute "forward-looking" information within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.
Restructuring costs were comprised primarily of employee termination costs, including severance and statutory retirement allowances, and were incurred in connection with various cost reduction programs. Acquisition Costs There were no acquisition costs recorded in our consolidated statements of operations for the year ended December 31, 2022.
Restructuring costs were comprised primarily of employee termination costs, including severance and statutory retirement allowances, and were incurred in connection with various cost reduction programs. Acquisition Costs There were no acquisition costs recorded in our consolidated statements of operations for the year ended December 31, 2023 or December 31, 2022.
Among the factors that could cause actual results to materially differ include: general business and economic conditions; impact of inflation, issues respecting the United States federal government debt ceiling, global labor and supply chain challenges; difficulties or delays in identifying, negotiating and completing acquisitions and integrating acquired companies; the inability to realize anticipated synergies and expansion possibilities; difficulties in new product development; changes in competition and technology in the markets that we serve and the mix of our products required to address these changes; changes in foreign currency exchange rates; political, economic, health (including the COVID-19 pandemic) and military instability in the countries in which we operate; difficulties in implementing our cost reduction strategies, such as underutilization of production facilities, labor unrest or legal challenges to our lay-off or termination plans, operation of redundant facilities due to difficulties in transferring production to achieve efficiencies; compliance issues under applicable laws, such as export control laws, including the outcome of our voluntary self-disclosure of export control non-compliance; significant developments from the recent and potential changes in tariffs and trade regulation; our efforts and efforts by governmental authorities to mitigate the COVID-19 pandemic, such as travel bans, shelter-in-place orders and business closures and the related impact on resource allocations, manufacturing and supply chains; our - 41 - status as a “critical”, “essential” or “life-sustaining” business in light of COVID-19 business closure laws, orders and guidance being challenged by a governmental body or other applicable authority; our ability to execute our new corporate strategy and business continuity, operational and budget plans; and other factors affecting our operations, markets, products, services, and prices that are set forth in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2022.
Among the factors that could cause actual results to materially differ include: general business and economic conditions; impact of inflation; potential issues respecting the United States federal government debt ceiling; global labor and supply chain challenges; difficulties or delays in identifying, negotiating and completing acquisitions and integrating acquired companies; the inability to realize anticipated synergies and expansion possibilities; difficulties in new product development; changes in competition and technology in the markets that we serve and the mix of our products required to address these changes; changes in foreign currency exchange rates; political, economic, and health (including pandemics) instabilities; instability caused by military hostilities in the regions or countries in which we operate (including Israel); difficulties in implementing our cost reduction strategies, such as underutilization of production facilities, labor unrest or legal challenges to our lay-off or termination plans, operation of redundant facilities due to difficulties in transferring production to achieve efficiencies; compliance issues under applicable laws, such as export control laws, including the outcome of our voluntary self-disclosure of export control non-compliance ; significant developments from the recent and potential changes in tariffs and trade regulation; our efforts and efforts by governmental authorities to mitigate the COVID-19 pandemic, such as travel bans, shelter-in-place orders and business closures and the related impact on resource - 43 - allocations, manufacturing and supply chains; our status as a “critical”, “essential” or “life-sustaining” business in light of COVID-19 business closure laws, orders and guidance being challenged by a governmental body or other applicable authority; our ability to execute our new corporate strategy and business continuity, operational and budget plans; and other factors affecting our operations, markets, products, services, and prices that are set forth in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023.
Additional customary fees apply with respect to letters of credit. - 39 - The obligations of the Company under the 2020 Credit Agreement are secured by pledges of stock in certain domestic and foreign subsidiaries, as well as guarantees by substantially all of the Company’s domestic subsidiaries.
Additional customary fees apply with respect to letters of credit. - 41 - The obligations of the Company under the 2020 Credit Agreement are secured by pledges of stock in certain domestic and foreign subsidiaries, as well as guarantees by substantially all of the Company’s domestic subsidiaries.
The sequential increase in revenues was primarily attributable to increased revenues from OEM customers for precision agriculture and construction applications in our Other market segment and higher revenue in our Industrial Weighing market, partially offset by lower sales in the Transportation market.
The sequential increase in revenues was primarily attributable to increased revenues from OEM customers for precision agriculture and construction applications in our Other market segment and higher revenue in our General Industrial market, partially offset by lower sales in the Transportation market.
Financial Condition, Liquidity, and Capital Resources Refer to Item 7. “Financial Condition, Liquidity, and Capital Resources” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2021 for a comparison of the year ended December 31, 2021 to the year ended December 31, 2020.
Financial Condition, Liquidity, and Capital Resources Refer to Item 7. “Financial Condition, Liquidity, and Capital Resources” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022 for a comparison of the year ended December 31, 2022 to the year ended December 31, 2021.
These measures, as calculated by us, may not be comparable to similarly titled measures used by other companies. Our financial condition as of December 31, 2022 is strong, with a current ratio (current assets to current liabilities) of 3.9 to 1.0, as compared to a current ratio of 3.6 to 1.0 at December 31, 2021.
These measures, as calculated by us, may not be comparable to similarly titled measures used by other companies. Our financial condition as of December 31, 2023 is strong, with a current ratio (current assets to current liabilities) of 3.9 to 1.0, as compared to a current ratio of 3.9 to 1.0 at December 31, 2022.
The Company recorded restructuring costs of $1.5 million, $0.1 million, and $0.9 million during the years ended December 31, 2022, 2021, and 2020, respectively, which were comprised primarily of employee termination costs, including severance and statutory retirement allowances. We are evaluating plans to further reduce our costs by consolidating additional manufacturing operations.
The Company recorded restructuring costs of $1.6 million, $1.5 million, and $0.1 million during the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022, and 2021, respectively, which were comprised primarily of employee termination costs, including severance and statutory retirement allowances. We are evaluating plans to further reduce our costs by consolidating additional manufacturing operations.
The financial maintenance covenants include an interest coverage ratio and a leverage ratio. The Company was in compliance with its financial maintenance covenants at December 31, 2022.
The financial maintenance covenants include an interest coverage ratio and a leverage ratio. The Company was in compliance with its financial maintenance covenants at December 31, 2023.
If the initial estimates are too low or too high, the Company could be required to either record additional expense in future periods, or to reverse part of the previously recorded charges. The Company recorded restructuring costs of $1.5 million and $0.1 million during the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively.
If the initial estimates are too low or too high, the Company could be required to either record additional expense in future periods, or to reverse part of the previously recorded charges. The Company recorded restructuring costs of $1.6 million and $1.5 million during the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
These assumptions are updated periodically to reflect the actual experience and expectations on a plan-specific basis, as appropriate. Our defined benefit plans are concentrated in the United States, Japan and the United Kingdom. Plans in these countries comprise approximately 88% of our retirement obligations at December 31, 2022.
These assumptions are updated periodically to reflect the actual experience and expectations on a plan-specific basis, as appropriate. Our defined benefit plans are concentrated in the United States, Japan and the United Kingdom. Plans in these countries comprise approximately 87% of our retirement obligations at December 31, 2023.
Optimize Core Competence The Company’s core competencies include our innovative deep technical and applications-specific expertise to add value to our customers' products, our strong brands and customer relationships, our focus on operational excellence, our ability to select and develop our management teams, and our proven M&A strategy.
Optimize Core Competence The Company’s core competencies include our innovative deep technical and applications-specific expertise, our strong brands and customer relationships, our focus on operational excellence, our ability to select and develop our management teams, and our proven M&A strategy.
The increase in gross profit margin was primarily due to improved gross profit margins in the Sensors and Measurement Systems reporting segments, partially offset by decreased gross profit margins in the Weighing Solution reporting segment. - 35 - Segments Analysis of revenues and gross profit margins for our reportable segments is provided below.
The increase in gross profit margin was primarily due to improved gross profit margins in the Weighing Solutions and Measurement Systems reporting segments partially offset by decreased gross profit margin in the Sensors reporting segment. - 37 - Segments Analysis of revenues and gross profit margins for our reportable segments is provided below.
Additional information about income taxes is included in Note 6 to our consolidated financial statements. - 34 - Results of Operations – Years Ended December 31, 2022 and 2021 Refer to Item 7, "Results of Operations - Years Ended December 2021, 2020, and 2019 in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2021 for a comparison of the year ended December 31, 2021 to the year ended December 31, 2020.
Additional information about income taxes is included in Note 6 to our consolidated financial statements. - 36 - Results of Operations – Years Ended December 31, 2023 and 2022 Refer to Item 7, "Results of Operations - Years Ended December 2022 and 2021 in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022 for a comparison of the year ended December 31, 2022 to the year ended December 31, 2021.
See the following table for the percentage of cash and cash equivalents, by region, at December 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021: December 31, 2022 2021 Asia 27 % 24 % United States 17 % 13 % Israel 28 % 25 % Europe 13 % 18 % United Kingdom 10 % 12 % Canada 5 % 8 % Total 100 % 100 % We earn a significant amount of our operating income outside the United States, the majority of which is deemed to be indefinitely reinvested in the foreign jurisdictions.
See the following table for the percentage of cash and cash equivalents, by region, at December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022: December 31, 2023 2022 Asia 22 % 27 % United States 8 % 17 % Israel 36 % 28 % Europe 18 % 13 % United Kingdom 5 % 10 % Canada 11 % 5 % Total 100 % 100 % We earn a significant amount of our operating income outside the United States, the majority of which is deemed to be indefinitely reinvested in the foreign jurisdictions.
The following items had the most significant impact on the difference between the statutory U.S. federal income tax rate and our effective tax rate: 2022 • 2.8% increase related to the effects of foreign operations primarily related to the difference between the U.S. statutory rate and foreign tax rates • 1.5% increase related to foreign currency primarily attributable to our operations in India, Israel and Taiwan • 1.4% decrease related to specialty tax credits, such as research credits • 2.2% decrease related to changes in reserves for uncertain tax positions • 3.6% decrease related to changes in valuation allowances 2021 • 8.1% increase related to the effects of foreign operations primarily related to the difference between the U.S. statutory rate and foreign tax rates. • 4.6% decrease related to a decrease in valuation allowance, primarily as a result of the acquisition of DTS • 1.5% decrease related to state income taxes • 1.3% decrease related to specialty tax credits Additional information about income taxes is included in Note 6 to our consolidated financial statements.
The following items had the most significant impact on the difference between the statutory U.S. federal income tax rate and our effective tax rate: 2023 • 6.2% increase related to the effects of foreign operations primarily related to the difference between the U.S. statutory rate and foreign tax rates • 3.3% increase related to changes in valuation allowances • 2.3% increase related to residual U.S. tax on foreign earnings • 1.2% increase related to changes in reserves for uncertain tax positions • 1.4% decrease related to specialty tax credits, such as research credits 2022 • 2.8% increase related to the effects of foreign operations primarily related to the difference between the U.S. statutory rate and foreign tax rates • 1.5% increase related to foreign currency primarily attributable to our operations in India, Israel and Taiwan • 1.4% decrease related to specialty tax credits, such as research credits • 2.2% decrease related to changes in reserves for uncertain tax positions • 3.6% decrease related to changes in valuation allowances Additional information about income taxes is included in Note 6 to our consolidated financial statements.
These alternatives could result in higher tax expense, increased interest expense, or dilution of our earnings. We consider the majority of the undistributed earnings of our foreign subsidiaries, as of December 31, 2022, to be indefinitely reinvested. For the year ended December 31, 2022, we generated adjusted free cash flow of $12.2 million.
These alternatives could result in higher tax expense, increased interest expense, or dilution of our earnings. We consider the majority of the undistributed earnings of our foreign subsidiaries, as of December 31, 2023, to be indefinitely reinvested. For the year ended December 31, 2023, we generated adjusted free cash flow of $30.8 million.
As of December 31, 2022, the Company had provided for a deferred tax liability of $2.1 million of withholding tax associated with unremitted, non-permanently reinvested earnings, including planned cash distributions of $19.6 million. Additional withholding taxes of approximately $24.7 million are estimated to be payable upon the distribution of the remaining unremitted earnings at December 31, 2022.
As of December 31, 2023, the Company had provided for a deferred tax liability of $2.1 million of withholding tax associated with unremitted, non-permanently reinvested earnings, including planned cash distributions of $16.6 million. Additional withholding taxes of approximately $29.2 million are estimated to be payable upon the distribution of the remaining unremitted earnings at December 31, 2023.
Restructuring costs are expensed during the period in which the Company determines it will incur those costs and all requirements for accrual are met. Because these costs are recorded based upon estimates, actual expenditures for the restructuring activities may differ from the initially recorded costs.
Restructuring Costs Restructuring costs reflect the cost reduction programs implemented by the Company. Restructuring costs are expensed during the period in which the Company determines it will incur those costs and all requirements for accrual are met. Because these costs are recorded based upon estimates, actual expenditures for the restructuring activities may differ from the initially recorded costs.
Cash paid for property and equipment for the year ended December 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021 was $21.3 million and $17.1 million, respectively. Capital spending for 2022 was comprised of building projects related to capacity expansion in Israel and Asia, and other projects related to the normal maintenance of business.
Cash paid for property and equipment for the year ended December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022 was $15.2 million and $21.3 million, respectively. Capital spending for 2023 was comprised of building projects related to capacity expansion in Israel and Asia, and other projects related to the normal maintenance of business.
The amount charged to expense for research and development aggregated $19.8 million, $17.2 million, and $12.6 million for the years ended December 31, 2022, 2021, and 2020, respectively. Cost Management To be successful, we believe we must seek new strategies for controlling operating costs.
The amount charged to expense for research and development aggregated $20.4 million, $19.8 million, and $17.2 million for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022, and 2021, respectively. - 33 - Cost Management To be successful, we believe we must seek new strategies for controlling operating costs.
Approximately 83% and 87% of our cash and cash equivalents balance at December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively, was held by our non-U.S. subsidiaries.
Approximately 92% and 83% of our cash and cash equivalents balance at December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively, was held by our non-U.S. subsidiaries.
In addition, the Company has historically provided these or similar non-GAAP measures and understands that some investors and financial analysts find this information helpful in analyzing the Company’s performance and in comparing the Company’s financial performance to that of its peer companies and competitors.
In addition, the Company has historically provided these or similar non-GAAP measures and understands that some investors and financial analysts find this information helpful in analyzing the Company’s performance and in comparing the Company’s financial performance to that of its peer companies and competitors. Management believes that the Company’s non-GAAP measures are regarded as supplemental to its GAAP financial results.
Our precision measurement solutions are used across a wide variety of end markets upon which we focus, including industrial, test and measurement, transportation, steel, medical, agriculture, avionics, military and space, and consumer product applications.
Our precision measurement solutions are used across a wide variety of end markets upon which we focus, including test and measurement, industrial, transportation, steel, avionics, military and space, as well as other markets such as agriculture, consumer, and medical.
Net earnings attributable to VPG stockholders for the year ended December 31, 2022 were $36.1 million, or $2.63 per diluted share, compared to $20.2 million, or $1.48 per diluted share, for the year ended December 31, 2021. The results of operations for the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021 include items affecting comparability as listed in the reconciliations below.
Net earnings attributable to VPG stockholders for the year ended December 31, 2023 were $25.7 million, or $1.88 per diluted share, compared to $36.1 million, or $2.63 per diluted share, for the year ended December 31, 2022. - 29 - The results of operations for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022 include items affecting comparability as listed in the reconciliations below.
The change in foreign exchange gains / (losses) for the year ended December 31, 2022, as compared to the prior year period, is primarily due to fluctuations in the Israeli shekel, the Japanese yen and the British pound.
The change in foreign exchange gains / (losses) for the year ended December 31, 2023, as compared to the prior year period, is primarily due to fluctuations in the Israeli shekel, the Canadian dollar and the British pound.
Gross profit as a percentage of net revenues for the Measurement Systems segment was as follows: Years ended December 31, 2022 2021 Gross profit margin 53.6 % 52.2 % For the year ended December 31, 2022, the gross profit margin increased 1.4% from the prior year.
Gross profit as a percentage of net revenues for the Measurement Systems segment was as follows: Years ended December 31, 2023 2022 Gross profit margin 53.8 % 53.6 % For the year ended December 31, 2023, the gross profit margin increased 0.2% from the prior year.
The change in the dollar-shekel exchange rate resulted in a favorable currency exchange impact primarily related to the shekel-denominated lease liability for the Sensors facility in Israel. - 38 - Income Taxes Our effective tax rate for the year ended December 31, 2022 was 18.9%, as compared to 21.1% for the year ended December 31, 2021.
The change in the dollar-shekel exchange rate resulted in a unfavorable currency exchange impact primarily related to the shekel-denominated lease liability for the Sensors facility in Israel. Income Taxes Our effective tax rate for the year ended December 31, 2023 was 32.3%, as compared to 18.9% for the year ended December 31, 2022.
Gross Profit Margin Gross profit as a percentage of net revenues was as follows: Years ended December 31, 2022 2021 Gross profit margin 41.3 % 39.4 % The gross profit margin for the year ended December 31, 2022 increased 1.9% over the prior year.
Gross Profit Margin Gross profit as a percentage of net revenues was as follows: Years ended December 31, 2023 2022 Gross profit margin 42.3 % 41.3 % The gross profit margin for the year ended December 31, 2023 increased 1.0% over the prior year.
Effects of Foreign Exchange Rate on Operations For the year ended December 31, 2022, exchange rate impacts decreased net revenues by $16.1 million and decreased costs of products sold and selling, general, and administrative expenses by $13.3 million.
Effects of Foreign Exchange Rate on Operations For the year ended December 31, 2023, exchange rate impacts decreased net revenues by $2.2 million and decrease costs of products sold and selling, general, and administrative expenses by $9.1 million.
For the year ended December 31, 2021, - 32 - exchange rate impacts increased net revenues by $5.3 million and increased costs of products sold and selling, general, and administrative expenses by $8.7 million. Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates Our significant accounting policies are summarized in Note 1 to our consolidated financial statements.
For the year ended December 31, 2022, exchange rate impacts decreased net revenues by $16.1 million and decreased costs of products sold and selling, general, and administrative expenses by $13.3 million. - 34 - Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates Our significant accounting policies are summarized in Note 1 to our consolidated financial statements.
Statement of operations’ captions as a percentage of net revenues and the effective tax rates were as follows: Years ended December 31, 2022 2021 Costs of products sold 58.7 % 60.6 % Gross profit 41.3 % 39.4 % Selling, general, and administrative expenses 28.8 % 30.0 % Operating income 12.1 % 8.6 % Income before taxes 12.4 % 8.2 % Net earnings 10.1 % 6.4 % Net earnings attributable to VPG stockholders 9.9 % 6.4 % Effective tax rate 18.9 % 21.1 % Net Revenues Net revenues were as follows (dollars in thousands) : Years ended December 31, 2022 2021 Net revenues $ 362,580 $ 317,919 Change versus prior year $ 44,661 Percentage change versus prior year 14.0 % Changes in net revenues were attributable to the following: 2022 vs. 2021 Change attributable to: Change in volume 13.1 % Change in average selling prices 2.6 % Foreign currency effects (5.3) % Acquisitions 3.6 % Net change 14.0 % During the year ended December 31, 2022, net revenues increased 14.0% over the prior year.
Statement of operations’ captions as a percentage of net revenues and the effective tax rates were as follows: Years ended December 31, 2023 2022 Costs of products sold 57.7 % 58.7 % Gross profit 42.3 % 41.3 % Selling, general, and administrative expenses 30.1 % 28.8 % Operating income 11.8 % 12.1 % Income before taxes 10.8 % 12.4 % Net earnings 7.3 % 10.1 % Net earnings attributable to VPG stockholders 7.2 % 9.9 % Effective tax rate 32.3 % 18.9 % Net Revenues Net revenues were as follows (dollars in thousands) : Years ended December 31, 2023 2022 Net revenues $ 355,048 $ 362,580 Change versus prior year $ (7,532) Percentage change versus prior year (2.1) % Changes in net revenues were attributable to the following: 2023 vs. 2022 Change attributable to: Change in volume (3.0) % Change in average selling prices 1.6 % Foreign currency effects (0.7) % Net change (2.1) % During the year ended December 31, 2023, net revenues decreased 2.1% over the prior year.
Weighing Solutions Net revenues of the Weighing Solutions segment were as follows (dollars in thousands) : Years ended December 31, 2022 2021 Net revenues $ 125,715 $ 125,390 Change versus prior year $ 325 Percentage change versus prior year 0.3 % Changes in Weighing Solutions segment net revenues were attributable to the following: 2022 vs. 2021 Change attributable to: Change in volume 1.6 % Change in average selling prices 4.1 % Foreign currency effects (5.4) % Net change 0.3 % For the year ended December 31, 2022, net revenues increased 0.3% from the prior year.
Weighing Solutions Net revenues of the Weighing Solutions segment were as follows (dollars in thousands) : Years ended December 31, 2023 2022 Net revenues $ 122,528 $ 125,715 Change versus prior year $ (3,187) Percentage change versus prior year (2.5) % Changes in Weighing Solutions segment net revenues were attributable to the following: 2023 vs. 2022 Change attributable to: Change in volume (4.7) % Change in average selling prices 2.4 % Foreign currency effects (0.2) % Net change (2.5) % For the year ended December 31, 2023, net revenues decreased 2.5% from the prior year.
An interest margin of 0.25% is added to Base Rate loans. Depending upon the Company’s leverage ratio, an interest rate margin ranging from 1.50% to 2.75% per annum is added to the applicable LIBOR or CDOR rate to determine the interest payable on the LIBOR or CDOR loans.
Depending upon the Company’s leverage ratio, an interest rate margin ranging from 1.50% to 2.75% per annum is added to the applicable SOFR rate to determine the interest payable on the SOFR loans.
We define “adjusted free cash flow,” a measure which management uses to evaluate our ability to fund acquisitions, as the amount of cash provided by operating activities ($33.0 million) in excess of our capital expenditures ($21.3 million) and net of proceeds from the sale of assets ($0.5 million). - 40 - The following table summarizes the components of net cash at December 31, 2022 and at December 31, 2021 (in thousands) : December 31, 2022 2021 Cash and cash equivalents $ 88,562 $ 84,335 Third-party debt, including current and long-term Revolving debt 61,000 61,000 Deferred financing costs (201) (286) Total third-party debt 60,799 60,714 Net cash $ 27,763 $ 23,621 Measurements such as “adjusted free cash flow” and “net cash" do not have uniform definitions and are not recognized in accordance with U.S.
We define “adjusted free cash flow,” a measure which management uses to evaluate our ability to fund acquisitions, as the amount of cash provided by operating activities ($45.9 million) in excess of our capital expenditures ($15.2 million) and net of proceeds from the sale of assets ($0.1 million). - 42 - The following table summarizes the components of net cash at December 31, 2023 and at December 31, 2022 (in thousands) : December 31, 2023 2022 Cash and cash equivalents $ 83,965 $ 88,562 Third-party debt, including current and long-term Revolving debt 32,000 61,000 Deferred financing costs (144) (201) Total third-party debt 31,856 60,799 Net cash $ 52,109 $ 27,763 Measurements such as “adjusted free cash flow” and “net cash" do not have uniform definitions and are not recognized in accordance with U.S.
(b) Acquisition costs associated with the acquisition of DTS in 2021. (c) COVID-19 impact is the net impact to the Company of costs incurred as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, net of government subsidies received. (d) Start-up costs in 2022 and 2021 are associated with the ramp up of our new manufacturing facility in Israel.
(b) COVID-19 impact is the net impact to the Company of costs incurred as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, net of government subsidies received. (c) Start-up costs in 2022 are associated with the ramp up of our new manufacturing facility in Israel. - 30 - (d) Impact of foreign currency exchange rates on assets and liabilities.
Gross profit as a percentage of net revenues for the Weighing Solutions segment was as follows: Years ended December 31, 2022 2021 Gross profit margin 34.3 % 36.6 % For the year ended December 31, 2022, the gross profit margin decreased 2.3% as compared to the prior year.
Gross profit as a percentage of net revenues for the Weighing Solutions segment was as follows: Years ended December 31, 2023 2022 Gross profit margin 37.0 % 34.3 % For the year ended December 31, 2023, the gross profit margin increased 2.7% as compared to the prior year.
The gross profit margin for the fourth quarter of 2022 decreased 0.2% compared to the third quarter of 2022, and increased 2.5% from the fourth quarter of 2021. Sequentially, gross profit margins decreased in the Sensors segment, were flat in the Weighing Solutions segment, and improved in the Measurement Systems segments.
The gross profit margin for the fourth quarter of 2023 increased 1.1% compared to the third quarter of 2023, and increased 1.8% from the fourth quarter of 2022. Sequentially, gross profit margins improved in the Sensors segment, decreased in the Weighing Solutions segment, and improved in the Measurement Systems segments.
We expect to continue to expand our position as a leading supplier of precision foil technology - 31 - products. We believe our R&D efforts should provide us with a variety of opportunities to leverage technology, products, and our manufacturing base in order to ultimately improve our financial performance.
We believe our R&D efforts should provide us with a variety of opportunities to leverage technology, products, and our manufacturing base in order to ultimately improve our financial performance.
Net revenues in the Measurement Systems segment of $26.8 million in the fourth quarter of 2022 increased 29.2% from $20.8 million in the third quarter of 2022 and increased 12.8% from $23.8 million in the fourth quarter of 2021. The sequential increase in revenue was primarily attributable to higher sales of Diversified Technical Systems, Inc.
Net revenues in the Measurement Systems segment of $24.8 million in the fourth quarter of 2023 increased 2.0% from $24.4 million in the third quarter of 2023 and decreased 7.5% from $26.8 million in the fourth quarter of 2022. The sequential increase in revenue was primarily attributable to higher sales of Diversified Technical Systems, Inc.
Net revenues in the Weighing Solutions segment of $33.1 million in the fourth quarter of 2022 increased 5.4% compared to revenues of $31.4 million in the third quarter of 2022.
Net revenues in the Weighing Solutions segment of $30.4 million in the fourth quarter of 2023 increased 5.1% compared to revenues of $29.0 million in the third quarter of 2023.
As the functionality of customers products continues to increase, and they integrate more precision measurement sensors and related systems into their solutions, we believe this will offer substantial growth opportunities for our products and expertise. Overview of Financial Results VPG reports in three product segments: Sensors segment, Weighing Solutions segment, and Measurement Systems segment.
As the functionality of customers' products continues to increase, and they integrate more precision measurement sensors and related systems into their solutions, we believe this will offer substantial growth opportunities for our products and expertise.
Another important indicator of demand in our industry is the book-to-bill ratio, which is the ratio of the amount of product ordered during a period compared with the product that we ship during that period.
Therefore, the backlog is not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for future periods. Another important indicator of demand in our industry is the book-to-bill ratio, which is the ratio of the amount of product ordered during a period compared with the product that we ship during that period.
Inflation Normally, inflation does not have a significant impact on our operations as our products are not generally sold on long-term contracts. Consequently, we can adjust our selling prices, to the extent permitted by competition, to reflect cost increases caused by inflation. Recent Accounting Pronouncements See Note 1 to our consolidated financial statements for a discussion of recent accounting pronouncements.
Consequently, we can adjust our selling prices, to the extent permitted by competition, to reflect cost increases caused by inflation. Recent Accounting Pronouncements See Note 1 to our consolidated financial statements for a discussion of recent accounting pronouncements.
Other The following table analyzes the components of the line “Other” on the consolidated statements of operations (in thousands) : Years ended December 31, 2022 2021 Change Foreign exchange gain/(loss) $ 3,579 $ (110) $ 3,689 Interest income 401 252 149 Pension expense (241) (468) 227 Other (181) 96 (277) $ 3,558 $ (230) $ 3,788 Foreign currency exchange gains and losses represent the impact of changes in foreign currency exchange rates.
Other The following table analyzes the components of the line “Other” on the consolidated statements of operations (in thousands) : Years ended December 31, 2023 2022 Change Foreign exchange gain/(loss) $ (822) $ 3,579 $ (4,401) Interest income 1,651 401 1,250 Pension expense (52) (241) 189 Other (321) (181) (140) $ 456 $ 3,558 $ (3,102) Foreign currency exchange gains and losses represent the impact of changes in foreign currency exchange rates.
Sensors Net revenues of the Sensors segment were as follows (dollars in thousands) : Years ended December 31, 2022 2021 Net revenues $ 152,221 $ 127,861 Change versus prior year $ 24,360 Percentage change versus prior year 19.1 % Changes in Sensors segment net revenues were attributable to the following: 2022 vs. 2021 Change attributable to: Change in volume 23.9 % Change in average selling prices 2.0 % Foreign currency effects (6.8) % Net change 19.1 % For the year ended December 31, 2022, net revenues increased 19.1% as compared to the prior year, due to higher sales of precision resistors in the Test and Measurements market and higher revenue of our advanced sectors products, primarily in Other markets (mainly for consumer applications) and in the General Industrial market.
Sensors Net revenues of the Sensors segment were as follows (dollars in thousands) : Years ended December 31, 2023 2022 Net revenues $ 139,783 $ 152,221 Change versus prior year $ (12,438) Percentage change versus prior year (8.2) % Changes in Sensors segment net revenues were attributable to the following: 2023 vs. 2022 Change attributable to: Change in volume (8.4) % Change in average selling prices 0.9 % Foreign currency effects (0.7) % Net change (8.2) % For the year ended December 31, 2023, net revenues decreased 8.2% as compared to the prior year, due to lower sales of precision resistors in the Test and Measurement market, and lower sales of advanced sensors products primarily in our Other markets (mainly for consumer applications), partially offset by increases in precision resistor sales in the AMS market.
Net revenues in the fourth quarter of 2022 increased 3.2% compared to $32.1 million in the fourth quarter of 2021 mainly due to increased revenues from OEM customers for precision agriculture applications in our Other market segment.
Net revenues in the fourth quarter of 2023 decreased 8.0% compared to $33.1 million in the fourth quarter of 2022 mainly due to lower revenues in our Industrial Weighing market and lower revenues from OEM customers for precision agriculture applications in our Other market segment.
The Sensors reporting segment is comprised of the foil resistor and strain gage operating segments. The Weighing Solutions segment is comprised of specialized modules and systems used to precisely measure weight, force torque, and pressure. The Measurement Systems reporting segment is comprised of highly specialized systems for steel production, materials development, and safety testing.
Overview of Financial Results VPG reports in three product segments: Sensors segment, Weighing Solutions segment, and Measurement Systems segment. The Sensors reporting segment is comprised of the foil resistor and strain gage operating segments. The Weighing Solutions segment is comprised of specialized modules and systems used to precisely measure weight, force torque, and pressure.
We use an operationally diversified strategy and structure to be close to our customers and to leverage our high-level engineering expertise to optimize and enhance the performance of our customers' solutions.
Operationally Diversified Each of VPG's business segments maintains and deploys distinct go-to-market strategies, technical expertise, capital requirements, and acquisition opportunities. We use an operationally diversified strategy and structure to be close to our customers and to leverage our high-level engineering expertise to optimize and enhance the performance of our customers' solutions.
Our net cash provided by financing activities for the year ended December 31, 2022 was $3.6 million, as compared to net cash used for financing activities of $18.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2021, which included the borrowing on the 2020 credit facility for the acquisition of DTS.
Our net cash used in financing activities for the year ended December 31, 2023 was $35.9 million, which included a pay down on the 2020 credit facility of $29.0 million, as compared to $3.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2022.
("DTS") products to the Transportation and AMS markets and higher sales of KELK and Dynamic Systems Inc. ("DSI") to Steel markets. The year-over-year increase in revenues was primarily attributable to higher sales of DTS products to the AMS and Transportation markets, and higher KELK and DSI steel-related sales.
The year-over-year decline in revenues was primarily attributable to lower sales of DSI and KELK products to the steel market and lower sales of DTS products to the Transportation market, which was partially offset by higher sales of DTS products to the AMS market.
Our cash provided by operating activities for the year ended December 31, 2022 was $33.0 million as compared to $33.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2021.
Our cash provided by operating activities for the year ended December 31, 2023 was $45.9 million as compared to $33.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2022. Our net cash used in investing activities for the year ended December 31, 2023 was $15.1 million, compared to $20.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2022.
Measurement Systems Net revenues of the Measurement Systems segment were as follows (dollars in thousands) : Years ended December 31, 2022 2021 Net revenues $ 84,644 $ 64,668 Change versus prior year $ 19,976 Percentage change versus prior year 30.9 % Changes in Measurement Systems segment net revenues were attributable to the following: 2022 vs. 2021 Change attributable to: Change in volume 14.6 % Change in average selling prices 1.3 % Foreign currency effects (2.7) % Acquisitions 17.7 % Net change 30.9 % For the year ended December 31, 2022, net revenues increased 30.9% as compared to the prior year, primarily due to the addition of revenue from DTS, which was acquired on June 1, 2021, in our AMS and Transportation markets and higher revenue of our KELK and DSI steel-related businesses.
Measurement Systems Net revenues of the Measurement Systems segment were as follows (dollars in thousands) : Years ended December 31, 2023 2022 Net revenues $ 92,737 $ 84,644 Change versus prior year $ 8,093 Percentage change versus prior year 9.6 % Changes in Measurement Systems segment net revenues were attributable to the following: 2023 vs. 2022 Change attributable to: Change in volume 9.2 % Change in average selling prices 1.8 % Foreign currency effects (1.4) % Net change 9.6 % For the year ended December 31, 2023, net revenues increased 9.6% as compared to the prior year, primarily due to increased revenue in the Steel market and higher sales of DTS products in the AMS market.
The year-over-year increase in revenues was primarily attributable to an increase in sales of precision resistors in the Test and Measurement market, and higher sales of our advance sensors products primarily in the AMS market and General Industrial markets.
The year-over-year decrease in revenues was primarily attributable to lower sales of advanced sensors in our Other markets for consumer applications, and in our Avionics, Military and Space ("AMS") market, and in our General Industrial market, which offset higher sales of precision resistors in the Test and Measurement market.
The following table shows net revenues, gross profit margin, the end-of-period backlog, the book-to-bill ratio, and the inventory turnover for our business as a whole during the five quarters beginning with the fourth quarter of 2021 and through the fourth quarter of 2022 (dollars in thousands) : 4th Quarter 1st Quarter 2nd Quarter 3rd Quarter 4th Quarter 2021 2022 2022 2022 2022 Net revenues $ 90,017 $ 87,665 $ 88,618 $ 90,057 $ 96,240 Gross profit margin 38.7 % 40.2 % 42.1 % 41.4 % 41.2 % End-of-period backlog $ 150,500 $ 170,600 $ 171,400 $ 171,700 $ 155,000 Book-to-bill ratio 1.06 1.25 1.08 1.08 0.76 Inventory turnover 2.82 2.69 2.52 2.47 2.63 - 29 - 4th Quarter 1st Quarter 2nd Quarter 3rd Quarter 4th Quarter 2021 2022 2022 2022 2022 Sensors Net revenues $ 34,149 $ 37,750 $ 40,280 $ 37,879 $ 36,312 Gross profit margin 32.1 % 37.8 % 44.3 % 40.5 % 37.6 % End-of-period backlog $ 72,900 $ 81,300 $ 84,200 $ 80,600 $ 75,900 Book-to-bill ratio 1.11 1.27 1.17 0.99 0.76 Inventory turnover 3.53 3.54 3.20 3.04 2.91 Weighing Solutions Net revenues $ 32,071 $ 32,768 $ 28,459 $ 31,399 $ 33,089 Gross profit margin 34.0 % 36.9 % 33.7 % 33.3 % 33.4 % End-of-period backlog $ 41,800 $ 43,600 $ 43,000 $ 43,000 $ 38,300 Book-to-bill ratio 0.98 1.06 1.03 1.05 0.82 Inventory turnover 2.63 2.61 2.33 2.48 2.72 Measurement Systems Net revenues $ 23,797 $ 17,147 $ 19,879 $ 20,779 $ 26,839 Gross profit margin 54.7 % 51.8 % 49.9 % 55.5 % 55.9 % End-of-period backlog $ 35,800 $ 45,700 $ 44,200 $ 48,100 $ 40,800 Book-to-bill ratio 1.08 1.56 0.98 1.27 0.70 Inventory turnover 2.18 1.68 1.90 1.68 2.11 Net revenues for the fourth quarter of 2022 increased 6.9% from the net revenues of $90.1 million reported in the third quarter of 2022, and increased 6.9% from $90.0 million for the comparable prior year period.
The following table shows net revenues, gross profit margin, the end-of-period backlog, the book-to-bill ratio, and the inventory turnover for our business as a whole during the five quarters beginning with the fourth quarter of 2022 and through the fourth quarter of 2023 (dollars in thousands) : 4th Quarter 1st Quarter 2nd Quarter 3rd Quarter 4th Quarter 2022 2023 2023 2023 2023 Net revenues $ 96,240 $ 88,864 $ 90,802 $ 85,854 $ 89,528 Gross profit margin 41.2 % 41.9 % 42.6 % 41.9 % 43.0 % End-of-period backlog $ 151,400 $ 146,800 $ 139,700 $ 128,800 $ 117,300 Book-to-bill ratio 0.76 0.94 0.94 0.90 0.84 Inventory turnover 2.63 2.39 2.34 2.20 2.27 - 31 - 4th Quarter 1st Quarter 2nd Quarter 3rd Quarter 4th Quarter 2022 2023 2023 2023 2023 Sensors Net revenues $ 36,312 $ 36,726 $ 36,266 $ 32,532 $ 34,259 Gross profit margin 37.6 % 41.2 % 40.1 % 35.9 % 40.2 % End-of-period backlog $ 72,300 $ 66,200 $ 58,900 $ 52,400 $ 49,000 Book-to-bill ratio 0.76 0.82 0.84 0.83 0.85 Inventory turnover 2.91 2.62 2.55 2.38 2.36 Weighing Solutions Net revenues $ 33,089 $ 31,859 $ 31,261 $ 28,970 $ 30,438 Gross profit margin 33.4 % 34.9 % 38.7 % 38.7 % 35.6 % End-of-period backlog $ 38,300 $ 35,400 $ 34,300 $ 30,800 $ 28,800 Book-to-bill ratio 0.82 0.90 0.97 0.89 0.91 Inventory turnover 2.72 2.63 2.41 2.18 2.46 Measurement Systems Net revenues $ 26,839 $ 20,279 $ 23,275 $ 24,352 $ 24,831 Gross profit margin 55.9 % 53.9 % 51.8 % 53.6 % 56.0 % End-of-period backlog $ 40,800 $ 45,200 $ 46,500 $ 45,600 $ 39,500 Book-to-bill ratio 0.70 1.21 1.06 0.98 0.73 Inventory turnover 2.11 1.70 1.94 1.94 1.87 Net revenues for the fourth quarter of 2023 increased 4.3% from the net revenues of $85.9 million reported in the third quarter of 2023, and decreased 7.0% from $96.2 million for the comparable prior year period.
Gross profit as a percentage of net revenues for the Sensors segment was as follows: Years ended December 31, 2022 2021 Gross profit margin 40.1 % 35.6 % For the year ended December 31, 2022, the gross profit margin increased 4.5% as compared to the prior year. Volume increases were partially offset by wage increases, and labor inefficiencies.
Gross profit as a percentage of net revenues for the Sensors segment was as follows: Years ended December 31, 2023 2022 Gross profit margin 39.4 % 40.1 % For the year ended December 31, 2023, the gross profit margin decreased 0.7% as compared to the prior year primarily due to volume decreases and manufacturing inefficiencies, which were partially offset by favorable foreign currency exchange rates.
If demand falls below customers’ forecasts, or if customers do not control their inventory effectively, they may cancel or reschedule the shipments that are included in our backlog, in many instances without the payment of any penalty. Therefore, the backlog is not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for future periods.
We include in our backlog only open orders that have been released by the customer for shipment in the next twelve months. If demand falls below customers’ forecasts, or if customers do not control their inventory effectively, they may cancel or reschedule the shipments that are included in our backlog, in many instances without the payment of any penalty.
Gross profit margin is clearly a function of net revenues, but also reflects our cost-cutting programs and our ability to contain fixed costs. End-of-period backlog is one indicator of potential future sales. We include in our backlog only open orders that have been released by the customer for shipment in the next twelve months.
Gross profit is generally net revenues less costs of products sold, but could also include certain other period costs. Gross profit margin is clearly a function of net revenues, but also reflects our cost-cutting programs and our ability to contain fixed costs. End-of-period backlog is one indicator of potential future sales.
In the Weighing Solutions segment, the decrease in g ross profit margin was primarily due to higher material costs and unfavorable foreign currency exchange rates, partially offset by higher volume and selling price increases.
In the Weighing Solutions segment, the increase in g ross profit margin was primarily due to increased selling prices, favorable foreign currency exchange rates, and manufacturing efficiencies, partially offset by lower volume. In the Measurement Systems segment, gross profit margin increased reflecting higher volume and favorable product mix.
We reassessed our ability to realize our U.S. deferred tax assets during 2022 and have concluded that realization of those deferred tax assets is still not "more likely than not".
Our effective tax rate was higher in 2023 compared to 2022 primarily due to increases in valuation allowances, increases in reserves for uncertain tax positions and changes in our geographical mix of income. - 40 - We reassessed our ability to realize our U.S. deferred tax assets during 2023 and have concluded that realization of those deferred tax assets is still not "more likely than not".
These key financial measures and metrics include net revenues, gross profit margin, end-of-period backlog, book-to-bill ratio, and inventory turnover. - 28 - Gross profit margin is gross profit shown as a percentage of net revenues. Gross profit is generally net revenues less costs of products sold, but could also include certain other period costs.
Financial Metrics We utilize several financial measures and metrics to evaluate the performance and assess the future direction of our business. These key financial measures and metrics include net revenues, gross profit margin, end-of-period backlog, book-to-bill ratio, and inventory turnover. Gross profit margin is gross profit shown as a percentage of net revenues.
The decrease in the Sensors segment gross profit margin was primarily due to a decrease in volume and temporary manufacturing inefficiencies. In the Weighing Solutions segment, gross profit margin was flat as higher volume was offset by unfavorable foreign currency exchange rates.
The increase in the Sensors segment gross profit margin was primarily due to higher volume and improved manufacturing efficiencies. In the Weighing Solutions segment, gross profit margin decreased due to a reduction in inventory and unfavorable product mix, partially offset by higher volume.
In the Measurement Systems segment, gross profit margin increased slightly reflecting higher volume which was partially offset by unfavorable product mix and foreign exchange rates. - 30 - Compared to the fourth quarter of 2021, gross profit margins increased in the Sensors and Measurement Systems segments and decreased in the Weighing Solutions segment.
In the Measurement Systems segment, gross profit margin increased reflecting higher volume and favorable product mix. - 32 - Compared to the fourth quarter of 2022, gross profit margins increased in all of the reporting segments.
Higher revenue coming from DTS and our KELK and DSI steel-related businesses coupled with lower purchase accounting adjustments related to the DTS acquisition were partially offset by an unfavorable product mix, higher material costs and unfavorable foreign currency exchange rate impacts.
Higher revenues coupled with lower purchase accounting adjustments related to the DTS acquisition were partially offset by higher material costs and higher manufacturing costs.
Additionally, COVID-19 subsidies were received in 2021 that did not continue in 2022. - 37 - Selling, General, and Administrative Expenses Selling, general, and administrative (“SG&A”) expenses were as follows (dollars in thousands) : Years ended December 31, 2022 2021 Total SG&A expenses $ 104,285 $ 95,273 as a percentage of net revenues 28.8 % 30.0 % SG&A expenses for the year ended December 31, 2022 increased $9.0 million as compared to the prior year due to SG&A expenses related to the acquisition of DTS, higher personnel costs including wage increases and travel costs, and other fees.
Selling, General, and Administrative Expenses Selling, general, and administrative (“SG&A”) expenses were as follows (dollars in thousands) : Years ended December 31, 2023 2022 Total SG&A expenses $ 106,828 $ 104,285 as a percentage of net revenues 30.1 % 28.8 % SG&A expenses for the year ended December 31, 2023 increased $2.5 million as compared to the prior year due to higher personnel costs, including increases in headcount, wages and travel costs, higher IT costs and higher commissions. - 39 - Impairment of Goodwill and Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets For the years ended December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, as a result of our annual impairment tests performed on goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets there was no impairment on goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets.
The volume increase was mainly from sales of products into Other Markets, for precision agriculture and construction applications, and sales of products into the General Industrial market, partially offset by lower sales of products in the Transportation market.
Increased sales of load cells in our Other markets for precision agriculture and construction applications and transducer systems in our Industrial Weighing market, - 38 - were offset by lower sales of our load cell products in our Industrial weighing market. The overall volume decline was only partially offset by higher average selling prices.
Net revenues in the Sensors segment of $36.3 million in the fourth quarter of 2022 decreased 4.1% from $37.9 million in the third quarter of 2022, and increased 6.3% from $34.1 million in the fourth quarter of 2021.
Net revenues in the Sensors segment of $34.3 million in the fourth quarter of 2023 increased 5.3% from $32.5 million in the third quarter of 2023, and decreased 5.7% from $36.3 million in the fourth quarter of 2022. Sequentially, the increase in revenues primarily reflected higher precision resistor sales in the Test and Measurement market.
We believe acquired businesses will benefit from improvements we implement to reduce redundant functions and from our current global manufacturing and distribution footprint. Research and Development Research and development will continue to play a key role in our efforts to introduce innovative products to generate new sales and to improve profitability.
Research and Development Research and development will continue to play a key role in our efforts to introduce innovative products to generate new sales and to improve profitability. We expect to continue to expand our position as a leading supplier of precision foil technology products.
In the Sensors segment, the increase in gross profit margin was primarily due to an increase in volume and average selling prices.
In the Sensors segment, the increase in gross profit margin was primarily due to favorable foreign exchange rates and improved manufacturing efficiencies, which offset the impact of lower volume.
In recent years, we widened our acquisition strategy to include a broader set of precision measurement systems and product companies. We expect to expand our expertise, and our acquisition focus, outside our traditional vertical approach to other precision measurement solutions, including in the fields of measurement of force, weight, pressure, torque, tilt, motion, and acceleration.
We expect to expand our expertise and our acquisition focus to other precision measurement solutions, including in the fields of measurement of force, weight, pressure, torque, tilt, motion, and acceleration. We believe acquired businesses will benefit from improvements we implement to reduce redundant functions and from our current global manufacturing and distribution footprint.
For the year ended December 31, 2021, we recorded acquisition costs in our consolidated statements of operations of $1.2 million in connection with the acquisition of DTS. Other Income (Expense) Interest Expense The Company recorded interest expense of $2.3 million, and $1.2 million for the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively.
Other Income (Expense) Interest Expense The Company recorded interest expense of $4.0 million, and $2.3 million for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. Interest expense was higher in 2023 compared to 2022 mainly due to higher borrowing rates during 2023.
Net revenues for the year ended December 31, 2022 were $362.6 million compared to net revenues of $317.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2021.
The Measurement Systems reporting segment is comprised of highly specialized systems for steel production, materials development, and safety testing. Net revenues for the year ended December 31, 2023 were $355.0 million compared to net revenues of $362.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2022.
Capital expenditures for 2023 are expected to be approximately $18.5 million, which includes approximately $10.4 million in capital equipment for capacity expansion in the Sensors reporting segment and expected building projects of approximately $5.9 million for capacity expansion, mainly in Asia. As of December 31, 2022 and 2021, we did not have any off-balance sheet arrangements.
Capital expenditures for 2024 are expected to be approximately $15.0 million. As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, we did not have any off-balance sheet arrangements. Inflation Normally, inflation does not have a significant impact on our operations as our products are not generally sold on long-term contracts.