Biggest changeIn order to manage our growth and business strategy effectively relative to the uncertain pace of adoption, we must continue to: 12 Table of Contents • maintain, expand, construct and purchase adequate manufacturing facilities and equipment, as well as secure sufficient third-party manufacturing resources, to meet customer demand, including specifically the expansion of our Silicon Carbide capacity with the opening of a state-of-the-art, automated 200mm capable Silicon Carbide device fabrication facility and an expansion of our materials factory; • manage an increasingly complex supply chain (including managing the impacts of ongoing supply constraints in the semiconductor industry) that has the ability to supply an increasing number of raw materials, subsystems and finished products with the required specifications and quality, and deliver on time to our manufacturing facilities, our third-party manufacturing facilities, our logistics operations, or our customers; • access capital markets to fund our growth initiatives, including our ongoing capacity expansions; • expand the capability of our information systems to support a more complex business, such as our current initiative to implement a new company-wide enterprise resource planning (ERP) system; • be successful in securing design-ins across our end markets, including automotive applications; • expand research and development, sales and marketing, technical support, distribution capabilities, manufacturing planning and administrative functions; • safeguard confidential information and protect our intellectual property; • manage organizational complexity and communication; • expand the skills and capabilities of our current management team; • add experienced senior level managers and executives; • attract and retain qualified employees; and • execute, maintain and adjust the operational and financial controls that support our business.
Biggest changeIn order to manage our growth and business strategy effectively relative to the uncertain pace of adoption, we must continue to: • maintain, expand, construct and purchase adequate manufacturing facilities and equipment, as well as secure sufficient third-party manufacturing resources, to meet customer demand, including specifically the expansion of our silicon carbide capacity with the opening and ramping of a state-of-the-art, automated 200mm capable silicon carbide device fabrication facility in New York, an expansion of our materials factory in Durham, North Carolina, the construction of a new materials manufacturing facility in Siler City, North Carolina, and the planned construction of a new 200mm capable silicon carbide device fabrication facility in Saarland, Germany; • meet our production capacity and delivery commitments to our customers, including those customers who provide us with capacity reservation deposits or similar payments; • manage an increasingly complex supply chain (including managing the impacts of ongoing supply constraints in the semiconductor industry and meeting purchase commitments under take-or-pay arrangements with certain suppliers) that has the ability to supply an increasing number of raw materials, subsystems and finished products with the required specifications and quality, and deliver on time to our manufacturing facilities, our third-party manufacturing facilities, our logistics operations, or our customers; • expand the skills and capabilities of our current management team; • add experienced senior level managers and executives; 12 Table of Contents • attract and retain qualified employees; • expand the capability of our information systems to support a more complex business, such as our current implementation of a new company-wide enterprise resource planning (ERP) system; • be successful in securing design-ins across our end markets, including automotive applications; • realize our expected local, state and federal government incentives, including capital investment reimbursements, property tax reimbursements and sales tax exemptions from state, county and local governments; • confirm our eligibility for and receive the expected benefits from refundable income tax credits and capital grants through the U.S.
The successful development, introduction and acceptance of new products depend on a number of factors, including the following: • qualification and acceptance of our new product and systems designs, specifically entering into automotive applications which require even more stringent levels of qualification and standards; • our ability to effectively transfer increasingly complex products and technology from development to manufacturing, including the transition to 200mm substrates; • our ability to introduce new products in a timely and cost-effective manner; • our ability to secure volume purchase orders related to new products; • achievement of technology breakthroughs required to make commercially viable products; • our ability to convert customer design-ins to sales of significant volume, and, if customer design-in activity does result in such sales, when such sales will ultimately occur and what the amount of such sales will be; • the accuracy of our predictions for market requirements; • our ability to predict, influence and/or react to evolving standards; • acceptance of new technology in certain markets; • our ability to protect intellectual property developed in new products; • the availability of qualified research and development personnel; • our timely completion of product designs and development; • our ability to develop repeatable processes to manufacture new products in sufficient quantities, with the desired specifications and at competitive costs; • our customers’ ability to develop competitive products incorporating our products; and • market acceptance of our products and our customers’ products.
The successful development, introduction and acceptance of new products depend on a number of factors, including the following: • qualification and acceptance of our new product and systems designs, specifically entering into automotive applications which require even more stringent levels of qualification and standards; • our ability to effectively transfer increasingly complex products and technology from development to manufacturing, including the transition to 200mm substrates; • our ability to introduce new products in a timely and cost-effective manner; • achievement of technology breakthroughs required to make commercially viable products; • our ability to convert customer design-ins to sales of significant volume, and, if customer design-in activity does result in such sales, when such sales will ultimately occur and what the amount of such sales will be; • the accuracy of our predictions for market requirements; • our ability to predict, influence and/or react to evolving standards; • acceptance of new technology in certain markets; • our ability to protect intellectual property developed in new products; • the availability of qualified research and development personnel; • our timely completion of product designs and development; • our ability to develop repeatable processes to manufacture new products in sufficient quantities, with the desired specifications and at competitive costs; • our ability to secure volume purchase orders related to new products; • our customers’ ability to develop competitive products incorporating our products; and • market acceptance of our products and our customers’ products.
The methods, estimates and judgments that we use in applying our accounting policies have a significant impact on our results (see “Critical Accounting Estimates” in Item 7, "Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" in this Annual Report).
The methods, estimates and judgments that we use in applying our accounting policies have a significant impact on our results (see “Critical Accounting Estimates” in Item 7, "Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" of this Annual Report).
Allocation and effective management of the resources necessary to successfully implement, integrate, train personnel and sustain our information technology platforms will remain critical to ensure that we are not subject to transaction errors, processing inefficiencies, loss of customers, business disruptions or loss of or damage to intellectual property through a security breach in the near term.
Allocation and effective management of the resources necessary to successfully implement, integrate, train personnel and sustain our information technology platforms will remain critical to ensure that we are not subject to transaction errors, processing inefficiencies, loss of customers or suppliers, business disruptions or loss of or damage to intellectual property through a security breach in the near term.
The capped call transactions are expected generally to reduce the potential dilution to our common stock upon any conversion of the 2028 Notes and/or offset any potential cash payments we are required to make in excess of the principal amount of the converted 2028 Notes, as the case may be, upon conversion of the 2028 Notes.
The capped call transactions are expected generally to reduce the potential dilution to our common stock upon any conversion of the 2028 Notes and 2029 Notes and/or offset any potential cash payments we are required to make in excess of the principal amount of the converted 2028 Notes and 2029 Notes, as the case may be, upon conversion of the 2028 Notes and 2029 Notes.
Additionally, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in early 2022 triggered significant sanctions from U.S. and European countries. Resulting changes in U.S. trade policy could trigger retaliatory actions by Russia, its allies and other affected countries, including China, resulting in a potential trade war.
Additionally, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in early 2022 triggered significant sanctions from the U.S. and European countries. Resulting changes in U.S. trade policy could trigger retaliatory actions by Russia, its allies and other affected countries, including China, resulting in a potential trade war.
The Indentures governing the Outstanding Notes require us to repurchase the Outstanding Notes upon certain fundamental changes relating to our common stock, and also prohibit our consolidation, merger, or sale of all or substantially all of our assets except with or to a successor entity assuming our obligations under the Indentures.
The Indentures governing the Outstanding Convertible Notes (the Convertible Notes Indentures) require us to repurchase the Outstanding Convertible Notes upon certain fundamental changes relating to our common stock, and also prohibit our consolidation, merger, or sale of all or substantially all of our assets except with or to a successor entity assuming our obligations under the Indentures.
Our amended and restated bylaws provide that, unless we consent in writing to the selection of an alternative forum, the sole and exclusive forum for all litigation relating to our internal affairs, including without limitation (i) any derivative action or proceeding brought on behalf of Wolfspeed, (ii) any action asserting a claim of breach of a fiduciary duty owed by any director, officer or other employee of Wolfspeed to Wolfspeed or our shareholders, (iii) any action asserting a claim arising pursuant to any provision of the North Carolina Business Corporation Act (the NCBCA), our restated articles of incorporation, as amended, or our amended and restated bylaws, (iv) any action to interpret, apply, enforce, or determine the validity of our restated articles of incorporation, as amended, or our amended and restated bylaws, or (v) any action asserting a claim governed by the internal affairs doctrine, shall be the state courts of North Carolina, or if such courts lack jurisdiction, a federal court located within the State of North Carolina, in all cases subject to the court’s having personal jurisdiction over the indispensable parties named as defendants.
Our amended and restated bylaws provide that, unless we consent in writing to the selection of an alternative forum, the sole and exclusive forum for all litigation relating to our internal affairs, including without limitation (i) any derivative action or 25 Table of Contents proceeding brought on behalf of Wolfspeed, (ii) any action asserting a claim of breach of a fiduciary duty owed by any director, officer or other employee of Wolfspeed to Wolfspeed or our shareholders, (iii) any action asserting a claim arising pursuant to any provision of the North Carolina Business Corporation Act (the NCBCA), our restated articles of incorporation, as amended, or our amended and restated bylaws, (iv) any action to interpret, apply, enforce, or determine the validity of our restated articles of incorporation, as amended, or our amended and restated bylaws, or (v) any action asserting a claim governed by the internal affairs doctrine, shall be the state courts of North Carolina, or if such courts lack jurisdiction, a federal court located within the State of North Carolina, in all cases subject to the court’s having personal jurisdiction over the indispensable parties named as defendants.
We are also subject to other types of risks, including the following: • protection of intellectual property and trade secrets; • tariffs, customs, trade sanctions, trade embargoes and other barriers to importing/exporting materials and products in a cost-effective and timely manner, or changes in applicable tariffs or custom rules; • the burden of complying with and changes in United States or international taxation policies; • timing and availability of export licenses; • rising labor costs; • disruptions in or inadequate infrastructure of the countries where we operate; • the impact of public health epidemics on employees and the global economy, such as COVID-19; • difficulties in collecting accounts receivable; • difficulties in staffing and managing international operations; and • the burden of complying with foreign and international laws and treaties.
We are also subject to other types of risks of doing business internationally, including the following: • protection of intellectual property and trade secrets; • tariffs, customs, trade sanctions, trade embargoes and other barriers to importing/exporting materials and products in a cost-effective and timely manner, or changes in applicable tariffs or custom rules; • the burden of complying with and changes in United States or international taxation policies; • timing and availability of export licenses; • rising labor costs; • disruptions in or inadequate infrastructure of the countries where we operate; • the impact of public health epidemics on employees and the global economy, such as COVID-19; • difficulties in collecting accounts receivable; • difficulties in staffing and managing international operations; and • the burden of complying with foreign and international laws and treaties.
The number of usable items, or yield, from our production processes may fluctuate as a result of many factors, including but not limited to the following: • variability in our process repeatability and control; • contamination of the manufacturing environment; • equipment failure, power outages, fires, flooding, information or other system failures or variations in the manufacturing process; • lack of consistency and adequate quality and quantity of piece parts, other raw materials and other bill of materials items; • inventory shrinkage or human errors; • defects in production processes (including system assembly) either within our facilities or at our suppliers; and • any transitions or changes in our production process, planned or unplanned.
The number of usable items, or yield, from our production processes may fluctuate as a result of many factors, including but not limited to the following: • variability in our process repeatability and control; • contamination of the manufacturing environment; • equipment failure, power outages, fires, flooding, information or other system failures or variations in the 13 Table of Contents manufacturing process; • lack of consistency and adequate quality and quantity of piece parts, other raw materials and other bill of materials items; • inventory shrinkage or human errors; • defects in production processes (including system assembly) either within our facilities or at our suppliers; and • any transitions or changes in our production process, planned or unplanned.
Various jurisdictions in which we do business have implemented, 21 Table of Contents or in the future could implement or amend, restrictions on emissions of carbon dioxide or other greenhouse gases, limitations or restrictions on water use, regulations on energy management and waste management, and other climate change-based rules and regulations, which may increase our expenses and adversely affect our operating results.
Various jurisdictions in which we do business have implemented, 22 Table of Contents or in the future could implement or amend, restrictions on emissions of carbon dioxide or other greenhouse gases, limitations or restrictions on water use, regulations on energy management and waste management, and other climate change-based rules and regulations, which may increase our expenses and adversely affect our operating results.
Similarly, we have the ability to add, consolidate, or remove distributors. We typically recognize revenue on products sold to distributors when the item is shipped and title passes to the distributor (sell-in method). Certain distributors have limited rights to return inventory under stock rotation programs and have limited price protection rights for which we make estimates.
Similarly, we have the ability to add, consolidate, or remove distributors. We typically recognize revenue on products sold to distributors when the item is shipped and title passes to the distributor (sell-in method). Certain distributors have limited rights to return inventory under stock rotation programs and have limited price adjustment rights for which we make estimates.
If we are unable to effectively develop, manage and expand our sales channels for our products, our operating results may suffer. We sell a portion of our products to distributors, including a distributor that represented more than 10% of our revenue in fiscal 2022.
If we are unable to effectively develop, manage and expand our sales channels for our products, our operating results may suffer. We sell a portion of our products to distributors, including a distributor that represented more than 10% of our revenue in fiscal 2023.
Even if we are successful in defending against these claims, litigation could result in substantial costs and be a distraction to management and other employees. Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments Not applicable. 24 Table of Contents
Even if we are successful in defending against these claims, litigation could result in substantial costs and be a distraction to management and other employees. Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments Not applicable. 26 Table of Contents
As inventory levels and product return trends change or we make changes to our distributor roster, we may have to revise our estimates and incur additional costs, and our gross margins and operating results could be adversely impacted. 17 Table of Contents As a result of our continued expansion into new markets, we may compete with existing customers who may reduce their orders.
As inventory levels and product return trends change or we make changes to our distributor roster, we may have to revise our estimates and incur additional costs, and our gross margins and operating results could be adversely impacted. As a result of our continued expansion into new markets, we may compete with existing customers who may reduce their orders.
We may not be able to engage in hedging transactions in the future, and, even if we do, foreign currency fluctuations may still have a material adverse effect on our results of operations. Our operations in foreign countries expose us to certain risks inherent in doing business internationally, which may adversely affect our business, results of operations or financial condition.
We may not be able to engage in hedging transactions in the future, and, even if we do, foreign currency fluctuations may still have a material adverse effect on our results of operations. 11 Table of Contents Our operations in foreign countries expose us to certain risks inherent in doing business internationally, which may adversely affect our business, results of operations or financial condition.
In the past, we have experienced decreases in our production yields when suppliers have varied from previously agreed upon specifications or made other modifications we do not specify, which impacted our cost of revenue. Additionally, the inability of our suppliers to access capital efficiently could cause disruptions in their businesses, thereby negatively impacting ours.
In the past, we have experienced decreases in our production yields when 15 Table of Contents suppliers have varied from previously agreed upon specifications or made other modifications we do not specify, which impacted our cost of revenue. Additionally, the inability of our suppliers to access capital efficiently could cause disruptions in their businesses, thereby negatively impacting ours.
The distributors’ internal target inventory levels vary depending on market cycles and a number of factors within each distributor over which we have very little, if any, control. Distributors also have the ability to shift business to different manufacturers within their product portfolio based on a number of factors, including new product availability and performance.
The distributors’ internal target inventory levels vary depending on market cycles and a number of factors within each distributor over which we have very little, if any, control. Distributors also have the ability to shift business to different manufacturers 17 Table of Contents within their product portfolio based on a number of factors, including new product availability and performance.
We rely on arrangements with independent shipping companies for the delivery of our products from vendors and to customers both in the United States and abroad. The failure or inability of these shipping companies to deliver products or the 15 Table of Contents unavailability of shipping or port services, even temporarily, could have a material adverse effect on our business.
We rely on arrangements with independent shipping companies for the delivery of our products from vendors and to customers both in the United States and abroad. The failure or inability of these shipping companies to deliver products or the unavailability of shipping or port services, even temporarily, could have a material adverse effect on our business.
If we are not able to increase our production capacity at our targeted rate, if there are unforeseen costs associated with increasing our capacity levels, or if we are unable to obtain advanced semiconductor manufacturing equipment in a timely manner, we may not be able to achieve our financial targets.
Currently, we are focusing on increasing production capacity. If we are not able to increase our production capacity at our targeted rate, if there are unforeseen costs associated with increasing our capacity levels, or if we are unable to obtain advanced semiconductor manufacturing equipment in a timely manner, we may not be able to achieve our financial targets.
Historically, our common stock has experienced substantial price volatility, particularly as a result of significant fluctuations in our revenue, earnings and margins over the past few years, and variations between our actual financial results and the published expectations of analysts.
Our stock price may be volatile. Historically, our common stock has experienced substantial price volatility, particularly as a result of significant fluctuations in our revenue, earnings and margins over the past few years, and variations between our actual financial results and the published expectations of analysts.
General trade tensions between the United States and China have been escalating, and any economic and political uncertainty caused by the United States tariffs imposed on goods from China, among other potential countries, and any corresponding tariffs or currency devaluations from China or such other countries in response, has negatively impacted, and may in the future, negatively impact, demand and/or increase the cost for our products.
General trade tensions between the United States and China continue, and any economic and political uncertainty caused by the United States tariffs imposed on goods from China, among other potential countries, and any corresponding tariffs or currency devaluations from China or such other countries in response, has negatively impacted, and may in the future negatively impact, demand and/or increase the cost for our products.
If the value of such awards does not appreciate, as measured by the performance of the price of our common stock or if our stock-based compensation otherwise ceases to be viewed as a valuable benefit, our ability to attract, retain and motivate employees could be weakened, which could harm our business and results of operations. 22 Table of Contents Our stock price may be volatile.
If the value of such awards does not appreciate, as measured by the performance of the price of our common stock or if our stock-based compensation otherwise ceases to be viewed as a valuable benefit, our ability to attract, retain and motivate employees could be weakened, which could harm our business and results of operations.
As a result, we may be unable to realize the anticipated benefits of the transaction. Our failure to realize the anticipated benefits of the transaction would adversely impact our financial condition and could limit our ability to pursue additional strategic transactions.
As a result of these risks, we may be unable to realize the anticipated benefits of the transaction. Our failure to realize the anticipated benefits of the transaction would adversely impact our operations, financial condition and business and could limit our ability to pursue additional strategic transactions.
If, however, the market price per share of our common stock, as measured under the terms of the capped call transactions, exceeds the cap price of the capped call transactions (currently $212.04), there would nevertheless be dilution and/or there would not be an offset of such potential cash payments, in each case, to the extent that such market price exceeds the cap price of the capped call transactions.
If, however, the market price per share of our common stock, as measured under the terms of the capped call transactions, exceeds the cap price of the capped call transactions (currently $212.04 for the 2028 Notes and $202.538 for the 2029 Notes), there would nevertheless be dilution and/or there would not be an offset of such potential cash payments, in each case, to the extent that such market price exceeds the cap price of the capped call transactions.
We have outstanding debt which could materially restrict our business and adversely affect our financial condition, liquidity and results of operations.
General risk factors We have outstanding debt which could materially restrict our business and adversely affect our financial condition, liquidity and results of operations.
Brand value could diminish significantly due to a number of factors, including adverse publicity about our products (whether valid or not), our corporate name change from "Cree, Inc." to "Wolfspeed, Inc.," a failure to maintain the quality of our products (whether perceived or real), the failure of our products to deliver consistently positive consumer experiences, the products becoming unavailable to consumers or consumer perception that we have acted in an irresponsible manner.
Brand value could diminish significantly due to a number of factors, including adverse publicity about our products (whether valid or not), a failure to maintain the quality of our products (whether perceived or real), the failure of our products to deliver consistently positive consumer experiences, the products becoming unavailable to consumers or consumer perception that we have acted in an irresponsible manner.
We are often involved in litigation, primarily patent litigation. Defending against existing and potential litigation will likely require significant attention and resources and, regardless of the outcome, result in significant legal expenses, which could adversely affect our results unless covered by insurance or recovered from third parties.
Defending against existing and potential litigation will likely require significant attention and resources and, regardless of the outcome, result in significant legal expenses, which could adversely affect our results unless covered by insurance or recovered from third parties.
The establishment and operation of a new manufacturing facility or expansion of an existing facility involves significant risks and challenges, including, but not limited to, the following: • design and construction delays and cost overruns; • issues in installing and qualifying new equipment and ramping production; • poor production process yields and reduced quality control; and • insufficient personnel with requisite expertise and experience to operate a Silicon Carbide device fabrication facility.
The establishment and operation of a new manufacturing facility or expansion of an existing facility involves significant risks and challenges, some of which we have experienced and may experience in the future, including, but not limited to, the following: • design and construction delays and cost overruns; • issues in installing and qualifying new equipment and ramping production; • poor production process yields and reduced quality control; and • insufficient personnel with requisite expertise and experience to operate an automated silicon carbide device fabrication facility and a materials manufacturing facility.
The inability to obtain adequate financing from debt or capital sources in the future could force us to self-fund strategic initiatives or even forego certain opportunities, which in turn could potentially harm our performance. 10 Table of Contents We are subject to risks related to international sales and purchases.
The potential inability to obtain adequate funding from debt or capital sources in the future could force us to self-fund strategic initiatives or even forego certain opportunities, which in turn could potentially harm our performance. We are subject to risks related to international sales and purchases.
We generally purchase these sole or limited source items with purchase orders, and we have limited guaranteed supply arrangements with such suppliers. Some of our sources can have variations in attributes and availability which can affect our ability to produce products in sufficient volume or quality.
We generally purchase these sole or limited source items with purchase orders, and we have limited guaranteed supply arrangements with such suppliers, including take-or-pay arrangements and capacity reserve deposit agreements. Some of our sources can have variations in attributes and availability which can affect our ability to produce products in sufficient volume or quality.
If we choose to enter into such strategic transactions, we face certain risks including: • the failure of an acquired business, investee or joint venture to meet our performance and financial expectations; • identification of additional liabilities relating to an acquired business; • loss of customers due to perceived conflicts or competition with such customers or due to regulatory actions taken by governmental agencies; • that we are not able to enter into acceptable contractual arrangements in connection with the transaction; • difficulty integrating an acquired business's operations, personnel and financial and operating systems into our current business; • that we are not able to develop and expand customer bases and accurately anticipate demand from end customers, which can result in increased inventory and reduced orders if we experience wide fluctuations in supply and demand; • diversion of management attention; • difficulty separating the operations, personnel and financial and operating systems of a spin-off or divestiture from our current business; • the possibility we are unable to complete the transaction and expend substantial resources without achieving the desired benefit; • the inability to obtain required regulatory agency approvals; • reliance on a transaction counterparty for transition services for an extended period of time, which may result in additional expenses and delay the integration of the acquired business and realization of the desired benefit of the transaction; • uncertainty of the financial markets or circumstances that cause conditions that are less favorable and/or different than expected; and • expenses incurred to complete a transaction may be significantly higher than anticipated.
If we choose to enter into such strategic transactions, we face certain risks including: • the inability to realize the expected benefits, both from a timing and amount perspective, from our ongoing and planned capacity expansions, including the construction of a new materials manufacturing facility in Siler City, North Carolina and the planned construction of a new 200mm capable silicon carbide device fabrication facility in Saarland, Germany; • the failure of an acquired business, investee or joint venture to meet our performance and financial expectations; • identification of additional liabilities relating to an acquired business; • loss of customers due to perceived conflicts or competition with such customers or due to regulatory actions taken by governmental agencies; • that we are not able to enter into acceptable contractual arrangements in connection with the transaction; • difficulty integrating an acquired business's operations, personnel and financial and operating systems into our current business; • that we are not able to develop and expand customer bases and accurately anticipate demand from end customers, which can result in increased inventory and reduced orders if we experience wide fluctuations in supply and demand; • diversion of management attention; • difficulty separating the operations, personnel and financial and operating systems of a spin-off or divestiture from our current business; • the possibility we are unable to complete the transaction and expend substantial resources without achieving the desired benefit; • the inability to obtain required regulatory agency approvals; • reliance on a transaction counterparty for transition services for an extended period of time, which may result in additional expenses and delay the integration of the acquired business and realization of the desired benefit of the transaction; • uncertainty of the financial markets or circumstances that cause conditions that are less favorable and/or different than expected; and • expenses incurred to complete a transaction may be significantly higher than anticipated.
The COVID-19 pandemic initially caused an economic slowdown, and the continued spread of COVID-19 and its variants could contribute to or exacerbate a global economic slowdown or recession, which could have a material adverse effect on demand for our products and on our financial condition and results of operations.
The COVID-19 pandemic initially caused an economic slowdown, and the continued spread of COVID-19 and its variants or future outbreaks of infectious diseases or similar public health events could contribute to or exacerbate a global economic slowdown or recession, which could have a material adverse effect on demand for our products and on our financial condition and results of operations.
Additionally, actions taken by the option counterparties in the capped call transactions entered into in connection with our 0.25% convertible senior notes due February 15, 2028 (the 2028 Notes) may affect our stock price, including the potential modifications of their hedge positions by entering into or unwinding various derivatives with respect to our common stock.
Additionally, actions taken by the option counterparties in the capped call transactions entered into in connection with the 2028 Notes and the 2029 Notes may affect our stock price, including the potential modifications of their hedge positions by entering into or unwinding various derivatives with respect to our common stock.
We cannot be sure that these efforts will be successful or that the confidentiality agreements will not be breached.
We cannot be sure that these efforts will be successful 20 Table of Contents or that the confidentiality agreements will not be breached.
In the fourth quarter of fiscal 2022, we opened a new Silicon Carbide device fabrication facility in Marcy, New York to complement the materials factory expansion underway at our United States campus headquarters in Durham, North Carolina.
In the fourth quarter of fiscal 2022, we opened a new silicon carbide device fabrication facility in Marcy, New York to complement the materials factory expansion underway at our United States campus headquarters in Durham, North Carolina. We also commenced work on our new materials manufacturing facility in Siler City, North Carolina in the first quarter of fiscal 2023.
Restrictions on access to our manufacturing facilities or on our support operations or workforce, or similar limitations for our vendors and suppliers, and restrictions or disruptions of transportation, such as reduced availability of air transport, port closures, and increased border controls or closures, could limit our ability to meet customer demand, lead to increased costs and have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.
Restrictions on access to our manufacturing facilities or on our support operations or workforce, or similar limitations for our vendors and suppliers, and restrictions or disruptions of transportation, such as reduced availability of air transport, port closures, and increased border controls or closures in connection with the COVID-19 pandemic or future outbreaks of infectious diseases or similar public health events could limit our ability to meet customer demand, lead to increased costs and have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.
These fluctuations have also been characterized by higher demand for key components and equipment used in, or in the manufacture of, our products resulting in longer lead times, supply delays and production disruptions.
These fluctuations have been characterized by lower product demand, production overcapacity, higher inventory levels and aggressive pricing actions by our competitors. These fluctuations have also been characterized by higher demand for key components and equipment used in, or in the manufacture of, our products resulting in longer lead times, supply delays and production disruptions.
We may face challenges with government regulators, our customers and our suppliers if we are unable to sufficiently verify that the metals used in our products are conflict free. Our most recent disclosure regarding our due diligence was filed on May 31, 2022 for calendar year 2021. General risk factors Catastrophic events and disaster recovery may disrupt business continuity.
We may face challenges with government regulators, our customers and our suppliers if we are unable to sufficiently verify that the metals used in our products are conflict free. Our most recent disclosure regarding our due diligence was filed on May 31, 2023 for calendar year 2022.
Also, because issuance of a valid patent does not prevent other companies from using alternative, non-infringing technology, we cannot be sure that any of our patents, or patents issued to others and licensed to us, will provide significant commercial protection, especially as new competitors enter the market. 19 Table of Contents We periodically discover products that are counterfeit reproductions of our products or that otherwise infringe on our intellectual property rights.
Also, because issuance of a valid patent does not prevent other companies from using alternative, non-infringing technology, we cannot be sure that any of our patents, or patents issued to others and licensed to us, will provide significant commercial protection, especially as new competitors enter the market.
We are subject to a number of risks associated with the sale of our former LED Products segment, and these risks could adversely impact our operations, financial condition and business. On March 1, 2021, we completed the sale of our former LED Products segment to SMART pursuant to the Asset Purchase Agreement dated October 18, 2020 (the LED Purchase Agreement).
We are subject to a number of risks associated with the sale of our former LED Products segment, and these risks could adversely impact our operations, financial condition and business. On March 1, 2021, we completed the sale of our former LED Products segment to SMART Global Holdings, Inc.
The adoption of or changes in government and/or industry policies, standards or regulations relating to the efficiency, performance, vehicle range or other aspects of our products and the products in which they are utilized or integrated may impact the demand for our products. For example, efforts to change, eliminate or reduce industry or regulatory standards could negatively impact our business.
The adoption of or changes in government and/or industry policies, standards or regulations relating to the efficiency, performance, vehicle range or other aspects of our products and the products in which they are utilized could impact the demand for our products. 21 Table of Contents The adoption of or changes in government and/or industry policies, standards or regulations relating to the efficiency, performance, vehicle range or other aspects of our products and the products in which they are utilized or integrated may impact the demand for our products.
Our future effective tax rates may be affected by a number of factors including: • the jurisdiction in which profits are determined to be earned and taxed; • potential changes in tax laws proposed by the Biden administration and Democratic controlled Congress or alterations in the interpretation of such tax laws and changes in generally accepted accounting principles, for example interpretations and U.S. regulations issued as a result of the significant changes to the U.S. tax law included within the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 (the TCJA) and the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act of 2020; • the imposition of the proposed global corporate minimum tax rate; • the resolution of issues arising from tax audits with various authorities; • changes in the valuation of our deferred tax assets and liabilities; • the ongoing restructuring of our existing legal entities, including the restructuring of our Luxembourg holding company; • adjustments to estimated taxes upon finalization of various tax returns; • increases in expenses not deductible for tax purposes, including impairment of goodwill in connection with acquisitions; • changes in available tax credits; • the recognition and measurement of uncertain tax positions; • variations in realized tax deductions for certain stock-based compensation awards (such as non-qualified stock options and restricted stock) from those originally anticipated; and • the repatriation of non-U.S. earnings for which we have not previously provided for taxes or any changes in legislation that may result in these earnings being taxed, regardless of our decision regarding repatriation of funds.
Our future effective tax rates and our ability to obtain future tax credits may affect our results and financial condition due to a number of factors, including: • the jurisdiction in which profits are determined to be earned and taxed; • potential changes in tax laws or alterations in the interpretation of such tax laws and changes in generally accepted accounting principles, for example interpretations and U.S. regulations issued as a result of the significant changes to the U.S. tax law included within the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 (the TCJA), the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act of 2020 and the Inflation Reduction Act (the IRA); • changes in available tax credits, including the eligibility for or the receipt of the expected benefits from refundable investment tax credits obtained through the CHIPS Act; • the implementation of international tax and profit shifting rules in countries in which we operate, as recommended by the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development’s Base Erosion, including the establishment of a minimum tax of 15% on global income; • the resolution of issues arising from tax audits with various authorities; • changes in the valuation of our deferred tax assets and liabilities; • the ongoing restructuring of our existing legal entities, including the restructuring of our Luxembourg holding company; • adjustments to estimated taxes upon finalization of various tax returns; • increases in expenses not deductible for tax purposes, including impairment of goodwill in connection with acquisitions; • the recognition and measurement of uncertain tax positions; • variations in realized tax deductions for certain stock-based compensation awards (such as non-qualified stock options and restricted stock) from those originally anticipated; and • the repatriation of non-U.S. earnings for which we have not previously provided for taxes or any changes in legislation that may result in these earnings being taxed, regardless of our decision regarding repatriation of funds.
The tariffs imposed on Chinese goods, among other potential countries and any corresponding tariffs from China or such other countries in response has, and may in the future, negatively impact demand and/or increase the costs for our products.
For example, the United States has imposed significant tariffs on Chinese-made goods, which the Biden administration has largely left in place. The tariffs imposed on Chinese goods, among other potential countries and any corresponding tariffs from China or such other countries in response has, and may in the future, negatively impact demand and/or increase the costs for our products.
For example, current global financial markets continue to reflect uncertainty, which has been heightened by the COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing military conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Given these uncertainties, there could be further disruptions to the global economy, financial markets and consumer confidence.
For example, current global financial markets continue to reflect uncertainty, including recent bank failures in the United States, the ongoing military conflict between Russia and Ukraine and the COVID-19 pandemic. Given these uncertainties, there could be further disruptions to the global economy, financial markets and consumer confidence.
Our ability to comply with our loan covenants and the provisions of the Indentures governing the Outstanding Notes may also be affected by events beyond our control and if any of these restrictions or terms is breached, it could lead to an event of default 23 Table of Contents under our line of credit or the Outstanding Notes.
Our ability to comply with the provisions of the 2030 Senior Notes Indenture, the Convertible Notes Indentures, and the CRD Agreement may also be affected by events beyond our control and if any of these restrictions or terms is breached, it could lead to an event of default under the 2030 Senior Notes, the Outstanding Convertible Notes, and the CRD Agreement.
If our customers alter their purchasing behavior, if our customers’ purchasing behavior does not match our expectations or if we encounter any problems collecting amounts due from them, our financial condition and results of operations could be negatively impacted.
If our customers alter their purchasing behavior, if our customers’ purchasing behavior does not match our expectations or if we encounter any problems collecting amounts due from them, our financial condition and results of operations could be negatively impacted. Our revenue is highly dependent on our customers’ ability to produce, market and sell more integrated products.
We expect that revenue from international sales will continue to represent a significant portion of our total revenue. As such, a significant slowdown or instability in relevant foreign economies or lower investments in new infrastructure, could have a negative impact on our sales. We also purchase a portion of the materials included in our products from overseas sources.
In fiscal 2023, 80% of our revenue was from outside the United States and we expect that revenue from international sales will continue to represent a significant portion of our total revenue. As such, a significant slowdown or instability in relevant foreign economies or lower investments in new infrastructure could have a negative impact on our sales.
These constraints may be eliminated or delayed by legislative action, which could have a negative impact on demand for our products. Our ability and the ability of our competitors to meet evolving government and/or industry requirements could impact competitive dynamics in the market. Changes in our effective tax rate may affect our results.
For example, efforts to change, eliminate or reduce industry or regulatory standards could negatively impact our business. These constraints may be eliminated or delayed by legislative action, which could have a negative impact on demand for our products. Our ability and the ability of our competitors to meet evolving government and/or industry requirements could impact competitive dynamics in the market.
Our line of credit requires us to maintain compliance with an asset coverage ratio. In addition, our line of credit contains certain restrictions that could limit our ability to, among other things: incur additional indebtedness, dispose of assets, create liens on assets, make acquisitions or engage in mergers or consolidations, and engage in certain transactions with our subsidiaries and affiliates.
In addition, the 2030 Senior Notes Indenture contains certain restrictions that could limit our ability to, among other things: incur additional indebtedness, dispose of assets, create liens on assets, make acquisitions or engage in mergers or consolidations, and engage in certain transactions with our subsidiaries and affiliates.
A default, if not cured or waived, may permit acceleration of our indebtedness. In addition, our lenders could terminate their commitments to make further extensions of credit under our line of credit.
A default, if not cured or waived, may permit acceleration of our indebtedness. In addition, our lenders could terminate their commitments to make further loans under the 2030 Senior Notes Indenture or the CRD Agreement.
We depend on a limited number of customers, including distributors, for a substantial portion of our revenue, and the loss of, or a significant reduction in purchases by, one or more of these customers could adversely affect our operating results.
We depend on a limited number of customers, including distributors, for a substantial portion of our revenue, and the loss of, or a significant reduction in purchases by, one or more of these customers could adversely affect our operating results. 16 Table of Contents We receive a significant amount of our revenue from a limited number of customers and distributors, two of which individually represented more than 10% of our consolidated revenue in fiscal 2023.
Additionally, outside parties may attempt to access our confidential information through other means, for example by fraudulently inducing our employees to disclose confidential information. We actively seek to prevent, detect and investigate any unauthorized access, which sometimes occurs. To date, we do not believe that such unauthorized access has caused us any material damage.
Additionally, outside parties may attempt to access our confidential information through other means, for example by fraudulently inducing our employees to disclose confidential information. We actively seek to prevent, detect and investigate any unauthorized access, which sometimes occurs and is usually not recognized until after it has occurred.
Risks related to sales, product development and manufacturing We face significant challenges managing our growth strategy. Our potential for growth depends significantly on the adoption of our products within the markets we serve and for other applications, and our ability to affect this rate of adoption.
Our potential for growth depends significantly on the adoption of our products within the markets we serve and for other applications, and our ability to affect this rate of adoption.
The restrictions imposed by our line of credit and by the Indentures governing the Outstanding Notes could limit our ability to plan for or react to changing business conditions, or could otherwise restrict our business activities and plans.
The restrictions imposed by the 2030 Senior Notes Indenture, the Convertible Notes Indentures, and the CRD Agreement could limit our ability to plan for or react to changing business conditions, or could otherwise restrict our business activities and plans.
Additionally, our large upfront investment in the facility to increase capacity does not guarantee we will need the capacity and we may experience lower than expected capacity once the facility is in production, which could result in further margin pressures. In addition, our efforts to improve quoted delivery lead-time performance may result in corresponding reductions in order backlog.
Additionally, our large upfront investment in the facility, or any other new facility, to increase capacity does not guarantee we will need the capacity and we may experience lower than expected capacity once the facility is in production, which could result in further margin pressures.
If our future operating results or margins are below the expectations of stock market analysts or our investors, our stock price will likely decline. Speculation and opinions in the press or investment community about our strategic position, financial condition, results of operations or significant transactions can also cause changes in our stock price.
Speculation and opinions in the press or investment community about our strategic position, financial condition, results of operations or significant transactions can also cause changes in our stock price.
If any of these or other similar factors becomes problematic, we may not be able to deliver and introduce new products in a timely or cost-effective manner. Variations in our production could impact our ability to reduce costs and could cause our margins to decline and our operating results to suffer.
If any of these or other similar factors becomes problematic, we may not be able to deliver and introduce new products in a timely or cost-effective manner.
If our indebtedness is accelerated, we cannot be certain that we will have sufficient funds to pay the accelerated indebtedness or that we will have the ability to refinance accelerated indebtedness on terms favorable to us or at all. The capped call transactions may not prevent dilution of our common stock upon conversion of the 2028 Notes.
If our indebtedness is accelerated, we cannot be certain that we will have sufficient funds to pay the accelerated indebtedness or that we will have the ability to refinance accelerated indebtedness on terms favorable to us or at all.
We also maintain compliance programs to address the potential applicability of restrictions against trading while in possession of material, nonpublic information generally and in connection with a cyber-security breach.
In addition, we are subject to data privacy, protection and security laws and regulations, including the European General Data Protection Act (GDPR) that governs personal information of European persons. We also maintain compliance programs to address the potential applicability of restrictions against trading while in possession of material, nonpublic information generally and in connection with a cyber-security breach.
Continued economic slowdowns or recessions and inflationary pressures could have a negative impact on our business, including decreased demand, increased costs, and other challenges. Government actions to address economic slowdowns and increased inflation, including increased interest rates, also could result in negative impacts to our growth.
Additionally, increased inflation around the world, including in the United States, applies pressure to our costs. Continued economic slowdowns or recessions and inflationary pressures could have a negative impact on our business, including decreased demand, increased costs, and other challenges.
Risks associated with cybersecurity, intellectual property and litigation We may be subject to confidential information theft or misuse, which could harm our business and results of operations.
Our failure to realize the anticipated benefits of the transaction would adversely impact our financial condition and could limit our ability to pursue additional strategic transactions. Risks associated with cybersecurity, intellectual property and litigation We may be subject to confidential information theft or misuse, which could harm our business and results of operations.
We may not be able to adequately address these risks or any other problems that arise from our prior or future acquisitions, investments, joint ventures, divestitures or spin-offs. Any failure to successfully evaluate strategic opportunities and address risks or other problems that arise related to any such business transaction could adversely affect our business, results of operations or financial condition.
We may not be able to adequately address these risks or any other problems that arise from our prior or future acquisitions, investments, joint ventures, divestitures or spin-offs.
We might be unaware of any such access or unable to determine its magnitude and effects. In addition, these threats are constantly evolving, thereby increasing the difficulty of successfully defending against them or implementing adequate preventative measures.
In addition, these threats are constantly evolving, thereby increasing the difficulty of successfully defending against them or implementing adequate preventative measures.
In connection with the pricing of the 2028 Notes, we entered into privately negotiated capped call transactions with the option counterparties.
The capped call transactions may not prevent dilution of our common stock upon conversion of the 2028 Notes or the 2029 Notes. In connection with the pricing of the 2028 Notes and the 2029 Notes, we entered into privately negotiated capped call transactions with the option counterparties.
We are subject to a number of risks associated with this transaction, including risks associated with: • the restrictions on and obligations with respect to our business set forth in the transition services agreement and the Wafer Supply and Fabrication Services Agreement (the Wafer Supply Agreement), in each case between us and CreeLED; • any required payments of indemnification obligations under the LED Purchase Agreement for retained liabilities and breaches of representations, warranties or covenants; and • the ability of SMART to pay the unsecured promissory note issued to us as the earnout payment. 18 Table of Contents As a result of these risks, we may be unable to realize the anticipated benefits of the transaction, including the total amount of cash we expect to receive.
We are subject to a number of risks associated with this transaction, including risks associated with: • the restrictions on and obligations with respect to our business set forth in the Wafer Supply Agreement between us and CreeLED; and • any required payments of indemnification obligations under the LED Purchase Agreement for retained liabilities and breaches of representations, warranties or covenants.
As customer demand for our products changes, we must be able to adjust our production capacity to meet demand. We are continually taking steps to address our manufacturing capacity needs for our products. Currently, we are focusing on increasing production capacity.
Our results of operations, financial condition and business could be harmed if we are unable to balance customer demand and capacity. As customer demand for our products changes, we must be able to adjust our production capacity to meet demand. We are continually taking steps to address our manufacturing capacity needs for our products.
As of June 26, 2022, our indebtedness consisted of $575.0 million aggregate principal amount of our 1.75% convertible senior notes due May 1, 2026 (the 2026 Notes and collectively with the 2028 Notes, the Outstanding Notes) and $750.0 million aggregate principal amount of the 2028 Notes and potential borrowings from our revolving line of credit.
As of June 25, 2023, our indebtedness consisted of $575.0 million aggregate principal amount of our 1.75% convertible senior notes due May 1, 2026 (the 2026 Notes), $750.0 million aggregate principal amount of our 0.25% convertible senior notes due February 15, 2028 (the 2028 Notes), $1,750.0 million aggregate principal amount of our 1.875% convertible senior notes due December 1, 2029 (the 2029 Notes) (collectively, the Outstanding Convertible Notes) and $1,250.0 million aggregate principal amount of senior secured notes due 2030 (the 2030 Senior Notes).
In addition, production could be disrupted by the unavailability of the resources used in production such as water, silicon, electricity and gases. Future environmental regulations could restrict supply or increase the cost of certain of those materials. We operate in industries that are subject to significant fluctuation in supply and demand and ultimately pricing, which affects our revenue and profitability.
Our operating margins could be significantly affected if we are not able to pass along price increases to our customers. In addition, production could be disrupted by the unavailability of the resources used in production such as water, silicon, electricity and gases. Future environmental regulations could restrict supply or increase the cost of certain of those materials.
Our failure to realize the anticipated benefits of the transaction would adversely impact our operations, financial condition and business and could limit our ability to pursue additional strategic transactions. We are subject to risks associated with the sale of our former Lighting Products business unit, and these risks could adversely impact our financial condition.
As a result of these risks, we may be unable to realize the anticipated benefits of the transaction, including the total amount of cash we expect to realize. Our failure to realize the anticipated benefits of the transaction would adversely impact our operations, financial condition and business and could limit our ability to pursue additional strategic transactions.
Abrupt political change, terrorist activity and armed conflict pose a risk of general economic disruption in affected countries, which could also result in an adverse effect on our business and results of operations. Risks related to the effects of COVID-19 and other potential future public health crises, pandemics or similar events.
Abrupt political change, terrorist activity and armed conflict pose a risk of general economic disruption in affected countries, which could also result in an adverse effect on our business and results of operations. Risks related to sales, product development and manufacturing We face significant challenges managing our growth strategy.
Additionally, we face these same risks if we fail to allocate and effectively manage the resources necessary to build, implement, upgrade, integrate and sustain appropriate technology infrastructure over the longer term. 13 Table of Contents Our operating results are substantially dependent on the acceptance of new products.
Additionally, we face these same risks if we fail to allocate and effectively manage the resources necessary to build, implement, upgrade, integrate and sustain appropriate technology infrastructure over the longer term. Variations in our production could impact our ability to reduce costs and could cause our margins to decline and our operating results to suffer.
On May 13, 2019, we closed the sale of our former Lighting Products business unit to IDEAL Industries, Inc. (IDEAL). We are subject to risks associated with this transaction, including risks associated with any required payments of indemnification obligations under the Purchase Agreement with IDEAL for retained liabilities and breaches of representations, warranties or covenants.
We are subject to risks associated with this transaction, including risks associated with any required payments of indemnification obligations under the Purchase Agreement with IDEAL for retained liabilities and breaches of representations, warranties or covenants. 19 Table of Contents As a result, we may be unable to realize the anticipated benefits of the transaction.
For example, we have current and prospective customers that create, or plan to create, power and RF products or systems using our substrates, die, components or modules.
Our revenue depends on getting our products designed into a larger number of our customers’ products and in turn, our customers’ ability to produce, market and sell their products. For example, we have current and prospective customers that create, or plan to create, power and RF products or systems using our substrates, die, components or modules.
Our ability to pay interest and repay the principal for any outstanding indebtedness under our line of credit and the Outstanding Notes is dependent upon our ability to manage our business operations and generate sufficient cash flows to service such debt. There can be no assurance that we will be able to manage any of these risks successfully.
Our ability to pay interest and repay the principal for any outstanding indebtedness under the Outstanding Convertible Notes, the 2030 Senior Notes and the CRD Agreement (if applicable) is dependent upon our ability to manage our business operations and generate sufficient cash flows to service such debt.
If economic conditions deteriorate unexpectedly, our business and results of operations could be materially and adversely affected. For example, our customers, including our distributors and their customers, may experience difficulty obtaining the working capital and other financing necessary to support historical or projected purchasing patterns, which could negatively affect our results of operations.
For example, our customers, including our distributors and their customers, may experience difficulty obtaining the working capital and other financing necessary to support historical or projected purchasing patterns, which could negatively affect our results of operations. 10 Table of Contents Recent global economic slowdowns could continue and potentially result in certain economies dipping into economic recessions, including in the United States.
In addition, as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, the increased prevalence of employees working from home may exacerbate the aforementioned cybersecurity risks. Our business could be subject to significant disruption and we could suffer monetary or other losses.
In addition, the increased prevalence of employees working from home may exacerbate the aforementioned cybersecurity risks. Our business could be subject to significant disruption and we could suffer monetary or other losses. Our disclosure controls and procedures address cybersecurity and include elements intended to ensure that there is an analysis of potential disclosure obligations arising from security breaches.
The recognition of a significant charge to earnings in our consolidated financial statements resulting from any impairment of our goodwill or other assets could adversely impact our results of operations. 20 Table of Contents The adoption of or changes in government and/or industry policies, standards or regulations relating to the efficiency, performance, vehicle range or other aspects of our products and the products in which they are utilized could impact the demand for our products.
The recognition of a significant charge to earnings in our consolidated financial statements resulting from any impairment of our goodwill or other assets could adversely impact our results of operations.
In our fabrication process, we consume a number of precious metals and other commodities, which are subject to high price volatility and the potential impacts of increased inflation. Our operating margins could be significantly affected if we are not able to pass along price increases to our customers.
We may also be adversely affected by an increase in freight surcharges due to rising fuel costs, oil costs and added security. In our fabrication process, we consume a number of precious metals and other commodities, which are subject to high price volatility and the potential impacts of increased inflation.
We continue to prepare for production using 200mm substrates and if we are unable to make this transition in a timely or cost-effective manner, our results could be negatively impacted. 14 Table of Contents Our results of operations, financial condition and business could be harmed if we are unable to balance customer demand and capacity.
In addition, our ability to convert volume manufacturing to larger diameter substrates can be an important factor in providing a more cost-effective manufacturing process. We continue to prepare for production using 200mm substrates and if we are unable to make this transition in a timely or cost-effective manner, our results could be negatively impacted.