Biggest changeYear Ended December 31, 2024 Compared with Year Ended December 31, 2023 The following represents our consolidated net sales and operating results: (In millions) 2024 2023 Period Change % Change Net sales $ 22,486 $ 18,951 $ 3,535 19 % Cost of products and services sold (16,505) (13,789) (2,716) 20 % Gross margin 5,981 5,162 819 16 % Operating expenses (3,335) (3,002) (333) 11 % Operating profit 2,646 2,160 486 23 % Non-operating income (expense), net (372) (161) (211) 131 % Earnings (loss) before income taxes 2,274 1,999 275 14 % Income tax expense (1,062) (521) (541) 104 % Earnings (loss) from continuing operations 1,212 1,478 (266) (18) % Discontinued operations, net of income taxes 4,496 (38) 4,534 (11932) % Net earnings (loss) 5,708 1,440 4,268 296 % Less: Non-controlling interest in subsidiaries' earnings from operations 104 91 13 14 % Net earnings (loss) attributable to common shareowners $ 5,604 $ 1,349 $ 4,255 315 % Net Sales For the year ended December 31, 2024, Net sales was $22.5 billion, an 19% increase compared with the same period of 2023.
Biggest changeA detailed discussion of the year ended December 31, 2024, compared with December 31, 2023, is not included herein and can be found in the Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations section in the recast of the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024, included within Exhibit 99.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on July 29, 2025, under the heading "Results of Operations," which is incorporated herein by reference. 34 Table of Contents Year Ended December 31, 2025 Compared with Year Ended December 31, 2024 The following represents our consolidated net sales and operating results: (In millions) 2025 2024 Period Change % Change Net sales $ 21,747 $ 22,486 $ (739) (3) % Cost of products and services sold (16,123) (16,505) 382 (2) % Gross margin 5,624 5,981 (357) (6) % Operating expenses (3,452) (3,335) (117) 4 % Operating profit 2,172 2,646 (474) (18) % Non-operating income (expense), net (374) (372) (2) 1 % Earnings (loss) before income taxes 1,798 2,274 (476) (21) % Income tax expense (240) (1,062) 822 (77) % Earnings (loss) from continuing operations 1,558 1,212 346 29 % Discontinued operations, net of income taxes 29 4,496 (4,467) (99) % Net earnings (loss) 1,587 5,708 (4,121) (72) % Less: Non-controlling interest in subsidiaries' earnings from operations 103 104 (1) (1) % Net earnings (loss) attributable to common shareowners $ 1,484 $ 5,604 $ (4,120) (74) % Net Sales For the year ended December 31, 2025, Net sales was $21.7 billion, a 3% decrease compared with the same period of 2024.
A significant increase in the discount rate, decrease in the long-term growth rate or substantial reductions in our end markets and volume assumptions could have a negative impact on the estimated fair value of this reporting unit. 44 Table of Contents Revenue Recognition from Contracts with Customers Revenue is recognized when control of a good or service promised in a contract (i.e., performance obligation) is transferred to a customer.
A significant increase in the discount rate, decrease in the long-term growth rate or substantial reductions in our end markets and volume assumptions could have a negative impact on the estimated fair value of this reporting unit. 45 Table of Contents Revenue Recognition from Contracts with Customers Revenue is recognized when control of a good or service promised in a contract (i.e., performance obligation) is transferred to a customer.
For those income tax positions where it is not more likely than not that a tax benefit will be sustained, no tax benefit has been recognized in the Consolidated Financial Statements. 45 Table of Contents Contingent Liabilities We are involved in various litigation, claims and administrative proceedings, including those related to environmental (including asbestos) and legal matters.
For those income tax positions where it is not more likely than not that a tax benefit will be sustained, no tax benefit has been recognized in the Consolidated Financial Statements. 46 Table of Contents Contingent Liabilities We are involved in various litigation, claims and administrative proceedings, including those related to environmental (including asbestos) and legal matters.
See Note 10 - Employee Benefit Plans, Note 17 - Income Taxes, and Note 23 - Commitments and Contingent Liabilities in the accompanying Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements in this Annual Report for additional information. 43 Table of Contents CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES Our financial statements are prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States.
See Note 10 - Employee Benefit Plans, Note 17 - Income Taxes, and Note 23 - Commitments and Contingent Liabilities in the accompanying Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements in this Annual Report for additional information. 44 Table of Contents CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES Our financial statements are prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States.
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with those accounting principles requires management to use judgement in making estimates and assumptions based on the relevant information available at the end of each period.
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with those accounting principles requires management to use judgment in making estimates and assumptions based on the relevant information available at the end of each period.
Cash flows from continuing financing activities primarily represent inflows and outflows associated with equity or borrowings. Primary activities include debt transactions, paying dividends to shareowners and the repurchase of our common stock. During the year ended December 31, 2024, net cash used in continuing financing activities was $4.6 billion.
Cash flows from continuing financing activities primarily represent inflows and outflows associated with equity or borrowings. Primary activities include debt transactions, paying dividends to shareowners and the repurchase of our common stock. During the year ended December 31, 2025, net cash used in continuing financing activities was $4.7 billion.
Interest payments related to long-term notes are expected to approximate $420 million per year, reflecting an approximate weighted-average interest rate of 3.5%. Any borrowings from the Revolving Credit Facility are subject to variable interest rates.
Interest payments related to long-term notes are expected to approximate $408 million per year, reflecting an approximate weighted-average interest rate of 3.7%. Any borrowings from the Revolving Credit Facility are subject to variable interest rates.
This discussion should be read in conjunction with Item 8, the Consolidated Financial Statements and the accompanying Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements in this Annual Report.
This discussion should be read in conjunct ion with Item 8, the Consolidated Financial Statements and the accompanying Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements in this Annual Report.
In addition to these macroeconomic factors, among other things, we considered the reporting units’ current results and forecasts, changes in the nature of each business, any significant legal, regulatory, contractual, political or other business climate factors, changes in the industry and competitive environment, changes in the composition or carrying amount of net assets and any intention to sell or dispose of a reporting unit or cease the use of any indefinite-lived intangible assets.
In addition to these macroeconomic factors, among other things, we considered the reporting units’ current results and forecasts, changes in the nature of each business, any significant legal, regulatory, contractual, political or other business climate factors, changes in the industry and competitive environment, changes in the composition or carrying value of net assets and any intention to sell or dispose of a reporting unit or a significant portion of a reporting unit.
We rely on operating cash flows as our primary source of liquidity. In addition, we have access to other sources of capital to finance our strategic initiatives and fund growth. As of December 31, 2024 , we had Cash and cash equivalents of $4.0 billion, of which approximately 44% was held by our foreign subsidiaries.
We rely on operating cash flows as our primary source of liquidity. In addition, we have access to other sources of capital to finance our strategic initiatives and fund growth. As of December 31, 2025 , we had Cash and cash equivalents of $1.6 billion, of which approximately 94% was held by our foreign subsidiaries.
As of December 31, 2024, we had no borrowings outstanding under our commercial paper program or our Revolving Credit Facility. Our short-term obligations primarily consist of current maturities of long-term debt. Our long-term obligations primarily consist of long-term notes with maturity dates ranging between 2025 and 2054.
As of December 31, 2025, we had $325 million and zero borrowings outstanding under our commercial paper program and our Revolving Credit Facility, respectively. Our short-term obligations primarily consist of current maturities of long-term debt. Our long-term obligations primarily consist of long-term notes with maturity dates ranging between 2027 and 2054.
We believe our business segments are well positioned to benefit from favorable secular trends, including the mega-trends of urbanization, population growth and demographic shifts, food security and safety, digitalization, global connectivity and energy efficiency. Coupled with our industry-leading brands and track record of innovation, we continue to provide market-leading solutions for our customers.
We believe our business segments are well positioned to benefit from favorable secular trends, including the mega-trends of urbanization, population growth and demographic shifts, food security and safety, electrification, increasing demand for climate control and accelerated digitalization. Coupled with our industry-leading brands and track record of innovation, we continue to provide market-leading solutions for our customers.
As of December 31, 2024 and 2023, the amount of such restricted cash was $3 million and $1 million, respectively. We continue to actively manage and strengthen our business portfolio to meet the current and future needs of our customers.
As of December 31, 2025 and 2024, the amount of such restricted cash was $2 million and $3 million, respectively. 41 Table of Contents We continue to actively manage and strengthen our business portfolio to meet the current and future needs of our customers.
Since the initial authorization in February 2021, the Company's Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of up to $7.1 billion of our outstanding common stock which includes a $3 billion increase approved in October 2024. As of December 31, 2024, the Company repurchased 70.1 million shares of common stock for an aggregate purchase price of $3.9 billion.
Since the initial authorization in February 2021, the Company's Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of up to $12.1 billion of our outstanding common stock which includes a $5 billion increase approved in October 2025. As of December 31, 2025, the Company repurchased 114.9 million shares of common stock for an aggregate purchase price of $6.8 billion.
As a result, the Company has approximately $3.2 billion remaining under the current authorization at December 31, 2024. Dividends We paid dividends on our common stock of $0.76 per share during the year ended December 31, 2024, totaling $670 million.
As a result, the Company has approximately $5.3 billion remaining under the current authorization at December 31, 2025. Dividends We paid dividends on our common stock of $0.90 per share during the year ended December 31, 2025, totaling $772 million.
On December 6, 2024, the Board of Directors declared a dividend of $0.225 per share payable on February 7, 2025, to shareowners of record at the close of business on December 20, 2024. 42 Table of Contents Discussion of Cash Flows The following table reflects the major categories of cash flows for the following periods: For the Years Ended December 31, (In millions) 2024 2023 Net cash provided by (used in): Continuing operating activities $ 1,571 $ 2,252 Continuing investing activities (11,025) (504) Continuing financing activities (4,611) 4,632 Cash flows from continuing operating activities primarily represent inflows and outflows associated with our continuing operations.
On December 3, 2025, the Board of Directors declared a dividend of $0.24 per share payable on February 9, 2026, to shareowners of record at the close of business on January 20, 2026. 43 Table of Contents Discussion of Cash Flows The following table reflects the major categories of cash flows for the following periods: For the Years Ended December 31, (In millions) 2025 2024 Net cash provided by (used in): Continuing operating activities $ 2,089 $ 1,571 Continuing investing activities (343) (11,025) Continuing financing activities (4,672) (4,611) Cash flows from continuing operating activities primarily represent inflows and outflows associated with our continuing operations.
The components were as follows: For the Year Ended December 31, (In millions) 2024 2023 Non-service pension benefit (expense) $ (1) $ (1) Interest expense (580) (306) Interest income 209 146 Interest (expense) income, net (371) (160) Non-operating income (expense), net $ (372) $ (161) Non-operating income (expense), net includes the results from activities other than normal business operations such as interest expense, interest income and the non-service components of pension and post-retirement obligations.
The components were as follows: For the Year Ended December 31, (In millions) 2025 2024 Non-service pension benefit (expense) $ (10) $ (1) Interest expense (458) (580) Interest income 94 209 Interest (expense) income, net (364) (371) Non-operating income (expense), net $ (374) $ (372) Non-operating income (expense), net includes the results from activities other than normal business operations such as interest expense, interest income and the non-service components of pension and post-retirement obligations.
On October 1, 2024, we divested CCR, a global supplier of turnkey solutions for commercial refrigeration systems and services. The results of CCR are excluded from our Consolidated Financial Statements subsequent to the divestiture date. The transaction reduced Net Sales by 8% for the year ended December 31, 2024, and is included in Acquisitions and divestitures, net.
On October 1, 2024, we divested CCR, a global supplier of turnkey solutions for commercial refrigeration systems and services. The results of CCR are excluded from our Consolidated Financial Statements subsequent to the divestiture date. The transaction is included in Acquisitions and divestitures, net as part of the year-over-year change.
We are committed to comply with these regulations and to environmental stewardship. As a result, we have set goals to invest over $4 billion by 2030 to develop intelligent climate and energy solutions that reduce environmental impacts.
As a result, we have set goals to invest over $4 billion by 2030 to develop intelligent climate and energy solutions that reduce environmental impacts.
Interest expense is affected by the amount of debt outstanding and the interest rates on that debt. For the year ended December 31, 2024, interest expense was $580 million, a 90% increase compared with the same period of 2023.
Interest expense is affected by the amount of debt outstanding and the interest rates on that debt. For the year ended December 31, 2025, interest expense was $458 million, a 21% decrease compared with the same period of 2024.
The components of the year-over-year change were as follows: Net sales Organic / Operational (1) % Acquisitions and divestitures, net (8) % Total % change (9) % The organic decrease in Net sales of 1% was primarily driven by volume reductions within certain end-markets compared with the prior year.
The components of the year-over-year change were as follows: Net sales Organic / Operational (1) % Foreign currency translation — % Total % change (1) % The organic decrease in Net sales of 1% was driven by volume reductions within certain end-markets compared with the prior year.
During the year ended December 31, 2024, we completed the sale of CCR and recognized a gain on the sale of $318 million. In addition, we recognized a $46 million gain associated with our share of United Technologies Corporation's conclusion of certain income tax matters from their 2017 and 2018 tax audit with the Internal Revenue Service ("IRS").
In addition, we recognized a $46 million gain associated with our share of United Technologies Corporation's conclusion of certain income tax matters from their 2017 and 2018 tax audit with the Internal Revenue Service ("IRS").
The components of the year-over-year change were as follows: 2024 Organic / Operational 3 % Acquisitions and divestitures, net 16 % Total % change 19 % Organic sales for the year ended December 31, 2024, increased by 3% compared with the same period of 2023.
The components of the year-over-year change were as follows: 2025 Organic / Operational (1) % Foreign currency translation 1 % Acquisitions and divestitures, net (3) % Total % change (3) % Organic sales for the year ended December 31, 2025, decreased by 1% compared with the same period of 2024.
Refer to "Segment Review" below for a discussion of Net sales by segment. 35 Table of Contents Gross Margin For the year ended December 31, 2024, gross margin was $6.0 billion, a 16% increase compared with the same period of 2023.
Refer to "Segment Review" below for a discussion of Net sales by segment. Gross Margin For the year ended December 31, 2025, gross margin was $5.6 billion, a 6% decrease compared with the same period of 2024.
The components were as follows: For the Year Ended December 31, (In millions) 2024 2023 Selling, general and administrative $ (3,197) $ (2,607) Research and development (686) (493) Equity method investment net earnings 231 211 Other income (expense), net 317 (113) Operating expenses $ (3,335) $ (3,002) Percentage of net sales 14.8 % 15.8 % For the year ended December 31, 2024, Selling, general and administrative expenses were $3.2 billion, a 23% increase compared with the same period of 2023.
The components were as follows: For the Year Ended December 31, (In millions) 2025 2024 Selling, general and administrative $ (3,092) $ (3,197) Research and development (625) (686) Equity method investment net earnings 229 231 Other income (expense), net 36 317 Operating expenses $ (3,452) $ (3,335) Percentage of net sales 15.9 % 14.8 % For the year ended December 31, 2025, Selling, general and administrative expenses were $3.1 billion, a 3% decrease compared with the same period of 2024.
Our operations are classified into two segments: HVAC and Refrigeration. Through our performance-driven culture, we anticipate creating long-term shareowner value by investing strategically to strengthen our product position in homes, buildings and across the cold chain in order to drive profitable growth.
Our operations are classified into four segments: Climate Solutions Americas, Climate Solutions Europe, Climate Solutions Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa and Climate Solutions Transportation. Through our performance-driven culture, we anticipate creating long-term shareowner value by investing strategically to strengthen our product position in homes, buildings and across the cold chain in order to drive profitable growth.
Income Taxes 2024 2023 Effective tax rate 46.7 % 26.1 % The effective tax rate for the year ended December 31, 2024, was higher than the statutory U.S. federal income tax rate.
The effective tax rate for the year ended December 31, 2024 was higher than the Company's statutory U.S. federal income tax rate.
Portfolio Transformation On June 2, 2024, we completed the divestiture of Access Solutions for cash proceeds of $5.0 billion. On July 1, 2024, we completed the divestiture of Industrial Fire for cash proceeds of $1.4 billion. On October 1, 2024, we completed the divestiture of CCR for cash proceeds of $679 million, subject to customary working capital and other adjustments.
Baa1 P-2 Positive Portfolio Transformation On June 2, 2024, we completed the divestiture of Access Solutions for cash proceeds of $5.0 billion. On July 1, 2024, we completed the divestiture of Industrial Fire for cash proceeds of $1.4 billion. On October 1, 2024, we completed the divestiture of CCR for cash proceeds of $679 million.
In addition, we paid $62 million to repurchase shares of our common stock. Summary of Other Sources and Uses of Cash Rapid changes in legislation, regulations and government policies, including with respect to regulations intended to combat climate events, affect our operations and business in the countries, regions and localities in which we operate and sell our products.
Summary of Other Sources and Uses of Cash Rapid changes in legislation, regulations and government policies, including with respect to regulations intended to combat climate events, affect our operations and business in the countries, regions and localities in which we operate and sell our products. We are committed to comply with these regulations and to environmental stewardship.
Our portfolio includes industry-leading brands such as Carrier, Viessmann, Toshiba, Automated Logic and Carrier Transicold that offer innovative heating, ventilating and air conditioning ("HVAC"), refrigeration and cold chain transportation solutions to help make the world safer and more comfortable. We also provide a broad array of related building services, including audit, design, installation, system integration, repair, maintenance and monitoring.
Our portfolio includes industry-leading brands such as Carrier, Viessmann, Toshiba, Automated Logic and Carrier Transicold, among others, that offer innovative heating, cooling and cold chain solutions to enhance the lives we live and the world we share. We also provide a broad array of related building services, including audit, design, installation, system integration, repair, maintenance and monitoring.
Based upon our qualitative analysis, we determined that our goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets were not impaired. For the remaining goodwill test, we elected to perform a quantitative test to determine if it was more likely than not that the fair value of our Refrigeration reporting unit was below carrying value.
Based upon our qualitative analysis, we determined that our goodwill was not impaired. For the remaining goodwill test, we elected to perform a quantitative test to determine if the fair value of our Climate Solutions Europe reporting unit was below carrying value.
We considered macroeconomic factors including global economic growth, general macroeconomic trends for the markets in which our reporting units operate and where the intangible assets are utilized and the forecasted growth of the global industrial products industry.
This constitutes the entire Climate Solutions Europe segment. We considered macroeconomic factors including global economic growth, general macroeconomic trends for the markets in which our reporting units operate and the forecasted growth of the global industrial products industry.
Goodwill and Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets In accordance with the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") 350, Intangibles - Goodwill and Other ("ASC 350"), goodwill and other indefinite-lived intangible assets are tested and reviewed annually for impairment or whenever there is a material change in events or circumstances that indicate that the fair value of the asset is more likely than not less than the carrying amount of the asset.
Goodwill In accordance with the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") 350, Intangibles - Goodwill and Other ("ASC 350"), goodwill is tested and reviewed annually for impairment on July 1 or whenever there is a material change in events or circumstances that indicates that the fair value of the reporting unit may be less than its carrying value.
Repurchases occur in the open market or through one or more other public or private transactions pursuant to plans complying with Rules 10b5-1 and 10b-18 under the Exchange Act.
Share Repurchase Program We may purchase our outstanding common stock from time to time subject to market conditions and at our discretion. Repurchases occur in the open market or through one or more other public or private transactions pursuant to plans complying with Rules 10b5-1 and 10b-18 under the Exchange Act.
Combined, we incurred make-whole premiums of $14 million in Interest expense, wrote off $17 million of unamortized deferred financing costs in Interest expense and recognized a net gain of $97 million in Interest income . During 2023, we entered into several financing arrangements in connection with the acquisition of the VCS Business and capitalized $105 million of deferred financing costs.
During 2024, we incurred make-whole premiums of $14 million in Interest expense, wrote off $17 million of unamortized deferred financing costs in Interest expense and recognized a net gain of $97 million in Interest income .
Segment Review We conduct our operations through two reportable segments: • The HVAC segment provides products, controls, services and solutions to meet the heating, cooling and ventilation needs of residential and commercial customers while enhancing building performance, health, energy efficiency and sustainability. • The Refrigeration segment includes transport refrigeration and monitoring products, services and digital solutions for trucks, trailers, shipping containers, intermodal and rail.
Segment Review We have four operating segments: • Climate Solutions Americas provides products, controls, services and solutions to meet the heating, cooling and ventilation needs of residential and commercial customers in North and South America while enhancing building performance, health, energy efficiency and sustainability. • Climate Solutions Europe provides products, controls, services and solutions to meet the heating, cooling and ventilation needs of residential and commercial customers in Europe while enhancing building performance, health, energy efficiency and sustainability. • Climate Solutions Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa provides products, controls, services and solutions to meet the heating, cooling and ventilation needs of residential and commercial customers in Asia Pacific, the Middle East and Africa while enhancing building performance, health, energy efficiency and sustainability. • Climate Solutions Transportation includes global transport refrigeration and monitoring products, services and digital solutions for trucks, trailers, shipping containers, intermodal and rail.
Primary activities include net earnings from continuing operations adjusted for non-cash transactions, working capital changes and changes in other assets and liabilities. The year-over-year decrease in net cash provided by continuing operating activities was primarily driven by an increase in working capital balances compared with the prior period.
Primary activities include net earnings from continuing operations adjusted for non-cash transactions, working capital changes and changes in other assets and liabilities. The year-over-year increase in net cash provided by continuing operating activities was primarily driven by an increase in net earnings and distributions from equity method investments. In addition, cash conversion on long-term contracts further benefited operating cash flow.
In addition, prior year results include a $16 million benefit recognized in connection with a favorable tax ruling at a minority owned joint venture. 36 Table of Contents Other income (expense), net primarily includes the impact of gains and losses related to the sale of businesses or interests in our equity method investments, foreign currency gains and losses on transactions that are denominated in a currency other than an entity's functional currency and hedging-related activities.
Other income (expense), net primarily includes the impact of gains and losses related to the sale of businesses or interests in our equity method investments, foreign currency gains and losses on transactions that are denominated in a currency other than an entity's functional currency and hedging-related activities.
For the year ended December 31, 2024, Operating profit in our Refrigeration segment was $715 million, a 67% increase compared with the same period of 2023.
For the year ended December 31, 2025, Segment operating profit was $444 million, a 5% decrease compared with the same period of 2024.
As a result, gross margin as a percentage of Net sales decreased by 60 basis points compared with the same period of 2023. Operating Expenses For the year ended December 31, 2024, operating expenses, including Equity method investment net earnings , was $3.3 billion, a 11% increase compared with the same period of 2023.
These costs had a 130 basis point unfavorable impact on the prior period gross margin as a percentage of Net sales . Operating Expenses For the year ended December 31, 2025, operating expenses, including Equity method investment net earnings , was $3.5 billion, a 4% increase compared with the same period of 2024.
Improved inventory levels and lower customer receivable balances were more than offset by lower accounts payable balances. Cash flows from continuing investing activities primarily represent inflows and outflows associated with long-term assets. Primary activities include capital expenditures, acquisitions, divestitures and proceeds from the sale of fixed assets.
These increases were partially offset by changes in working capital balances compared with the prior period. Cash flows from continuing investing activities primarily represent inflows and outflows associated with long-term assets. Primary activities include capital expenditures, acquisitions, divestitures and proceeds from the sale of fixed assets.
During the year ended December 31, 2024, net cash used in continuing investing activities was $11.0 billion. The primary driver of the outflow related to the acquisition of the VCS Business, which totaled $10.8 billion, net of cash acquired. Additional investing outflows include $264 million related to settlement of derivatives and $519 million of capital expenditures.
The primary driver of the outflow related to the acquisition of the VCS Business, which totaled $10.8 billion, net of cash acquired. Additional investing outflows include $264 million related to settlement of derivatives and $519 million of capital expenditures. These outflows were partially offset by net proceeds of $634 million related to divestitures.
These outflows were partially offset by net proceeds of $634 million related to divestitures. During the year ended December 31, 2023, net cash used in continuing investing activities was $504 million. The primary driver of the outflow related to $439 million of capital expenditures.
During the year ended December 31, 2025, net cash used in continuing investing activities was $343 million. The primary driver of the outflow related to $392 million of capital expenditures offset by $105 million related to settlement of derivatives. During the year ended December 31, 2024, net cash used in continuing investing activities was $11 billion.
In connection with the acquisition of the VCS Business, we recognized an $86 million loss on the mark-to-market valuation of our window forward contracts associated with the expected cash outflows of the Euro-denominated purchase price.
In connection with the acquisition of the VCS Business, we recognized an $86 million loss on the mark-to-market valuation of our window forward contracts associated with the expected cash outflows of the Euro-denominated purchase price. 36 Table of Contents Non-Operating Income (Expense), net For the year ended December 31, 2025 , Non-operating income (expense), net was $374 million, a 1% increase co mpared with the same period of 2024.
Refrigeration Segment For the year ended December 31, 2024, Net sales in our Refrigeration segment was $3.5 billion, a 9% decrease compared with the same period of 2023.
For the year ended December 31, 2025, Segment operating profit was $2.2 billion, a 7% decrease compared with the same period of 2024.
The increase was primarily driven by a net tax charge of $650 million related to a re-organization of the VCS Business and a non-deductible loss of $86 million on the mark-to-market valuation of our window forward contracts associated with the expected cash outflows of the Euro-denominated purchase price of the VCS Business, partially offset by the lower effective tax rate on the $318 million gain on the sale of CCR and $44 million of foreign tax credits generated and utilized in the current year. 37 Table of Contents The effective tax rate for the year ended December 31, 2023, was higher than the statutory U.S. federal income tax rate.
The increase was primarily driven by a net tax charge of $650 million related to a re-organization of the VCS Business and a non-deductible loss of $86 million on the mark-to-market valuation of the Company's window forward contracts associated with the expected cash outflows of the Euro-denominated purchase price of the VCS Business.
The components of the year-over-year change were as follows: Operating profit Organic / Operational 2 % Foreign currency translation (1) % Acquisitions and divestitures, net (4) % Restructuring 3 % CCR gain on sale 74 % Other (7) % Total % change 67 % 39 Table of Contents The increase in operational profit of 2% was primarily driven by favorable productivity initiatives and price improvements compared with the prior year.
The components of the year-over-year change were as follows: Segment operating profit Organic / Operational (7) % Foreign currency translation 1 % Acquisitions and divestitures, net (2) % Other 1 % Total % change (7) % The segment decrease in operational profit of 7% was primarily driven by volume reductions in certain end-markets.
We continue to invest in our business, take pricing actions to mitigate supply chain and inflationary pressures, develop new products and services in order to remain competitive in our markets and use risk management strategies to mitigate various exposures. 33 Table of Contents We are actively monitoring recent trade policy and tariff announcements including the three executive orders issued by the President in February 2025 directing the United States to impose new tariffs on imports from Canada, Mexico and China and the subsequent announcement that the Administration intended to pause tariffs on Canada and Mexico for a month.
We continue to invest in our business, take pricing actions to mitigate supply chain and inflationary pressures, develop new products and services in order to remain competitive in our markets and use risk management strategies to mitigate various exposures. 33 Table of Contents We continue to actively monitor evolving macroeconomic conditions and recent trade policy announcements.
We test our reporting units and indefinite-lived intangible assets for impairment annually as of the first day of our third quarter, or more frequently if events or circumstances occur. ASC 350 provides entities with an option to perform a qualitative assessment (commonly referred to as “step zero”) to determine whether a quantitative analysis for impairment is necessary.
ASC 350 provides entities with an option to perform a qualitative assessment (commonly referred to as “step zero”) to determine whether a quantitative analysis for impairment is necessary.
We recognized a gross gain on the sale of $318 million, which is included in Other income (expense), net on the accompanying Consolidated Statement of Operations during the year ended December 31, 2024. The net proceeds received are subject to working capital and other adjustments provided in the stock purchase agreement.
During the year ended December 31, 2025, we finalized the working capital and other adjustments provided in the stock purchase agreement governing the sale of CCR and recognized gains on sale of several equity method investments. During the year ended December 31, 2024, we completed the sale of CCR and recognized a gain on the sale of $318 million.
See Note 7 - Borrowings and Lines of Credit in the accompanying Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information regarding the terms of our long-term debt obligations. 41 Table of Contents Scheduled maturities of long-term debt, excluding amortization of discount, are as follows: (In millions) 2025 $ 1,252 2026 $ 70 2027 $ 1,284 2028 $ 803 2029 $ 19 Thereafter $ 8,938 The following table presents our credit ratings and outlook as of December 31, 2024: Rating Agency Long-term Rating (1) Short-term Rating (2) Outlook (2) (3) S&P BBB A2 Positive Moody's Baa2 P2 Positive Fitch Ratings BBB+ F1 Stable (1) The long-term rating was upgraded by Moody's to Baa2 on May 13, 2024.
See Note 7 - Borrowings and Lines of Credit in the accompanying Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information regarding the terms of our long-term debt obligations. 42 Table of Contents Scheduled maturities of long-term debt, excluding amortization of discount, are as follows: (In millions) 2026 $ 108 2027 $ 1,309 2028 $ 903 2029 $ 43 2030 $ 2,019 Thereafter $ 7,169 Our credit ratings are periodically reviewed by the major independent debt-rating agencies.
Consistent with our capital allocation strategy, the net proceeds will be used to fund repayment of debt, investments in organic and inorganic growth initiatives and capital returns to shareowners as well as for general corporate purposes. Share Repurchase Program We may purchase our outstanding common stock from time to time subject to market conditions and at our discretion.
On December 2, 2024, we completed the divestiture of the CRF Business for cash proceeds of $2.9 billion. Consistent with our capital allocation strategy, the net proceeds were to fund repayment of debt, investments in organic and inorganic growth initiatives and capital returns to shareowners as well as for general corporate purposes.
However, the results of the VCS Business included inventory step-up, backlog amortization and intangible asset amortization resulting from the recognition of acquired assets at fair value. These costs had a 260 basis point unfavorable impact on gross margin as a percentage of Net sales .
As a result, gross margin as a percentage of Net sales decreased by 70 basis points compared with the same period of 2024. The prior period included inventory step-up and backlog amortization resulting from the recognition of acquired assets of the VCS Business at fair value which are now fully amortized.
For our 2024 goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets impairment tests, we elected to perform qualitative step zero assessments for all tests (except one) to determine if it was more likely than not that the fair values of our reporting units and indefinite-lived intangible assets were below carrying value.
If impairment indicators are present after performing step zero, we would perform a quantitative impairment analysis to estimate fair value. For our 2025 goodwill impairment tests, we elected to perform qualitative step zero assessments for all tests, except for our Climate Solutions Europe reporting unit, to determine if the fair values of our reporting units were below carrying value.
The components were as follows: (In millions) 2024 2023 Net sales $ 22,486 $ 18,951 Cost of products and services sold (16,505) (13,789) Gross margin $ 5,981 $ 5,162 Percentage of net sales 26.6 % 27.2 % Gross margin increased by $819 million compared with the year ended December 31, 2023.
The components were as follows: (In millions) 2025 2024 Net sales $ 21,747 $ 22,486 Cost of products and services sold (16,123) (16,505) Gross margin $ 5,624 $ 5,981 Percentage of net sales 25.9 % 26.6 % 35 Table of Contents Gross margin decreased by $357 million compared with the year ended December 31, 2024, primarily due to lower volumes in certain end-markets partially offset by our continued focus on productivity initiatives.
The components of the year-over-year change were as follows: Net sales Organic / Operational 5 % Acquisitions and divestitures, net 21 % Total % change 26 % The organic increase in Net sales of 5% was driven by continued strong results in the segment.
The components of the year-over-year change were as follows: Net sales Organic / Operational 4 % Foreign currency translation 1 % Acquisitions and divestitures, net (22) % Total % change (17) % The organic increase in Net sales of 4% was primarily driven by volume growth within certain end-markets compared with the prior year.
The components of the year-over-year change were as follows: Operating profit Organic / Operational 23 % Acquisitions and divestitures, net 3 % Amortization of acquired intangibles (24) % Restructuring (2) % Other 1 % Total % change 1 % The operational profit increase of 23% was primarily attributable to ongoing customer demand and pricing improvements in certain end-markets compared with the prior year.
The components of the year-over-year change were as follows: Segment operating profit Organic / Operational (7) % Foreign currency translation — % Total % change (7) % The operational profit decrease of 7% was primarily attributable to volume reductions in certain end-markets compared with prior year.
Non-Operating Income (Expense), net For the year ended December 31, 2024 , Non-operating income (expense), net was $372 million, a 131% increase co mpared with the same period of 2023.
For the year ended December 31, 2025, Segment operating profit was $448 million, a 4% decrease compared with the same period of 2024.
Research and development costs relate to new product development and new technology innovation. Due to the variable nature of program development schedules, year-over-year spending levels can fluctuate. In addition, we continue to invest to prepare for future energy efficiency and refrigerant regulation changes and in digital controls technologies.
In addition, the current year also included $56 million of acquisition and divestiture-related costs compared with $95 million during the year ended December 31, 2024. Research and development costs relate to new product development and new technology innovation. Due to the variable nature of program development schedules, year-over-year spending levels can fluctuate.
As of the petition date, KFI was deconsolidated and its respective assets and liabilities were derecognized from our Consolidated Financial Statements. 34 Table of Contents RESULTS OF OPERATIONS This discussion summarizes the significant factors affecting our consolidated results of operations, financial condition and liquidity for the year ended December 31, 2024, compared with December 31, 2023 .
All prior period comparative information has been recast to reflect the revised segment structure. RESULTS OF OPERATIONS This discussion summarizes the significant factors affecting our consolidated results of operations, financial condition and liquidity for the year ended December 31, 2025, compared with December 31, 2024.
During the year ended December 31, 2023, net cash provided by continuing financing activities was $4.6 billion. The primary driver of the inflow related to the issuance of the USD Notes and the Euro Notes related to the acquisition of the VCS Business. The inflow was partially offset by the payment of $620 million in dividends to our common shareowners.
The primary driver of the outflow was related to repurchases of our common stock totaling $2.9 billion. In addition, we made long-term debt repayments of $1.2 billion and dividend payments of $772 million to our common shareowners. During the year ended December 31, 2024, net cash used in continuing financing activities was $4.6 billion.
In addition, we made payments totaling $1.9 billion to repurchase shares of our common stock and dividend payments of $670 million to our common shareowners. These outflows were partially offset by the proceeds of borrowings used to fund the cash portion of the acquisition of the VCS Business and the November 2024 issuance of our 3.625% notes due 2037.
The primary driver of the outflow was due to repayments of long-term debt of $5.3 billion. In addition, we made payments totaling $1.9 billion to repurchase common stock and dividend payments of $670 million to our common shareowners.
In addition, volume growth in certain end-markets further benefited the segment. These amounts were partially offset by volume reductions in certain other end-markets. Amounts reported in Other represent $10 million of divestiture-related costs associated with the sale of CCR. In addition, the prior year includes a $24 million gain on the sale of a business within the Transport business.
In addition, costs associated with warranty-related issues further impacted the segment. These amounts were partially offset by favorable productivity initiatives, lower selling, general and administrative costs and higher volumes in certain end-markets. However, the higher volumes led to an unfavorable mix in the segment. Amounts reported in other represent a gain on the sale of equity method investments.
Investments over which we do not exercise control, but have significant influence, are accounted for using the equity method of accounting. For the year ended December 31, 2024, Equity method investment net earnings were $231 million, a 9% increase compared with the same period of 2023.
In addition, we continue to invest to prepare for future product innovations and digital controls technologies. Investments over which we do not exercise control, but have significant influence, are accounted for using the equity method of accounting.
Transport results decreased (down 8%) compared to the prior year primarily due to lower end-market demand in North America. The reduction was partially offset by higher volumes in Asia and Europe. Results in the Container business (up 24%) was primarily driven by strong end-market demand and improved pricing.
Container results increased (up 31%) due to ongoing end-market demand and improved price. These results were partially offset by our global truck and trailer business (down 3%) as lower end-market demand in Asia and Europe more than offset modest growth in North America.
We utilized a discounted cash flow method under the income approach to estimate the fair value of the reporting unit. The approach relies on our estimates of future cash flows, long-term growth rates, discount rates and income tax rates and explicitly addressed factors such as timing, growth and margins with due consideration given to forecasting, market and geographic risk.
We utilized a discounted cash flow method under the income approach to estimate the fair value of the reporting unit.
Growth in the Americas (up 9%) was primarily driven by our Commercial and Residential businesses which benefited from ongoing customer demand and pricing improvements. Moderate growth in our Light Commercial business was due to improved pricing compared with the prior year. EMEA (down 1%) continues to be impacted by reduced volumes in residential markets.
Lower volume in our residential business (down 9%) was primarily due to reduced end-market demand and distributor destocking. In addition, lower volume in our light commercial business (down 20%) further impacted segment results. These results were partially offset by growth in our commercial business (up 23%) primarily driven by ongoing customer demand and improved price.
The organic increase was primarily driven by our HVAC segment due to improved end-markets in the Americas, which more than offset reduced end-markets in EMEA and Asia. Results in our Refrigeration segment were down compared to the prior year as each of the segment's businesses experienced challenges in certain end-markets.
The organic decrease was primarily due to our Climate Solutions Americas segment as reduced demand in certain end-markets resulted in lower volumes. In addition, lower end-market demand in both Climate Solutions Europe and Climate Solutions Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa further impacted results. These amounts were partially offset by improved end-market demand in our Climate Solutions Transportation segment.
The following table contains several key measures of our financial condition and liquidity: As of December 31, (In millions) 2024 2023 Cash and cash equivalents $ 3,969 $ 9,852 Total debt $ 12,278 $ 14,293 Total equity $ 14,395 $ 9,005 Net debt (total debt less cash and cash equivalents) $ 8,309 $ 4,441 Total capitalization (total debt plus total equity) $ 26,673 $ 23,298 Net capitalization (total debt plus total equity less cash and cash equivalents) $ 22,704 $ 13,446 Total debt to total capitalization 46 % 61 % Net debt to net capitalization 37 % 33 % 40 Table of Contents Acquisition of VCS Business On April 25, 2023, we announced that we entered into an Agreement to acquire the VCS Business.
The following table contains several key measures of our financial condition and liquidity: As of December 31, (In millions) 2025 2024 Cash and cash equivalents $ 1,555 $ 3,969 Total debt $ 11,833 $ 12,362 Total equity $ 14,128 $ 14,395 Net debt (total debt less cash and cash equivalents) $ 10,278 $ 8,393 Total capitalization (total debt plus total equity) $ 25,961 $ 26,757 Net capitalization (total debt plus total equity less cash and cash equivalents) $ 24,406 $ 22,788 Total debt to total capitalization 46 % 46 % Net debt to net capitalization 42 % 37 % Borrowings and Lines of Credit We maintain a $2.0 billion USD-denominated facility and a $500 million Euro-denominated facility as part of an unsecured, unsubordinated commercial paper program which we can use for general corporate purposes, including the funding of working capital and potential acquisitions.