Biggest changeFinancial Statements and Supplementary Data — Note 10: Debt" to the consolidated financial statements for further discussion. 39 Table of Contents Our high level of debt could have important consequences, including: • making it more difficult for us to satisfy our obligations with respect to our debt and any failure to comply with the obligations of any of our debt instruments, including restrictive covenants and borrowing conditions, could result in an event of default under the agreements governing other indebtedness; • requiring us to dedicate a substantial portion of our cash flow from operations to the payment of interest and the repayment of our indebtedness, thereby reducing funds available to us for other purposes; • limiting our ability to obtain additional financing to fund future working capital, capital expenditures, business development or other general corporate requirements, including dividends; • increasing our vulnerability to general adverse economic and industry conditions; • making us more highly leveraged than some of our competitors, which may place us at a competitive disadvantage; • restricting us from making strategic acquisitions, engaging in development activities or exploiting business opportunities; • causing us to make non-strategic divestitures; • exposing us to the risk of increased interest rates as certain of our borrowings are and may in the future be at variable rates of interest; • limiting our flexibility in planning for and reacting to changes in the animal health industry; • impacting our effective tax rate; and • increasing our cost of borrowing.
Biggest changeIn addition, our high level of indebtedness could have other important consequences, including: • limiting our ability to obtain additional financing to fund future working capital, capital expenditures, business development or other general corporate requirements; • increasing our vulnerability to general adverse economic and industry conditions; • making us more highly leveraged than some of our competitors, which may place us at a competitive disadvantage; • restricting us from making strategic acquisitions, engaging in development activities or exploiting business opportunities; and • limiting our flexibility in planning for and reacting to changes in the animal health industry.
If our distributors, licensors or we do not prevail in this type of litigation, we may be required to: • pay monetary damages; • obtain a license in order to continue manufacturing or marketing the affected products, which may not be available on commercially reasonable terms, or at all; or • stop activities, including any commercial activities, relating to the affected products, which could include a recall of the affected products and/or a cessation of sales in the future.
If our distributors, licensors or we do not prevail in this type of litigation, we may be required to: • pay monetary damages; • obtain a license in order to continue manufacturing or marketing the affected products, which may not be available on commercially reasonable terms, or at all; and/or • stop activities, including any commercial activities, relating to the affected products, which could include a recall of the affected products and/or a cessation of sales in the future.
In addition, products stolen or unlawfully diverted from inventory, warehouses, plants or while in transit, which are not properly stored or which have an expired shelf life and which have been repackaged or relabeled and which are sold through unauthorized channels, could adversely impact animal health and safety, our reputation and our business.
In addition, products stolen or unlawfully diverted from inventory, warehouses, plants or while in transit; products which are not properly stored or which have an expired shelf life; and/or products which have been repackaged or relabeled and sold through unauthorized channels, could adversely impact animal health and safety, our reputation and our business.
We could be subject to liability for the investigation and remediation of legacy environmental contamination caused by historical industrial activity at sites that we own or on which we operate. The costs associated with future cleanup activities that we may be required to conduct or finance could be material.
We could be subject to liability for the investigation and remediation of legacy environmental contamination caused by historical industrial activity at sites we own or on which we operate. The costs associated with future cleanup activities that we may be required to conduct or finance could be material.
Future acquisitions could also result in potentially dilutive issuances of equity securities, the incurrence of debt, contingent liabilities or amortization expenses related to intangible assets, and increased operating expenses, which could adversely affect our results of operations and financial condition.
Future acquisitions could also result in potentially dilutive issuances of equity securities, the incurrence of debt, contingent liabilities or amortization expenses related to intangible assets and increased operating expenses, which could adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations.
Our ability to make scheduled payments on or refinance our debt obligations depends on our financial condition and operating performance, which are subject to prevailing economic and competitive conditions and to certain financial, business, legislative, regulatory and other factors beyond our control.
Our ability to make scheduled payments or to refinance our debt obligations depends on our financial condition and operating performance, which are subject to prevailing economic and competitive conditions, and to certain financial, business, legislative, regulatory or other factors beyond our control.
Although the impact of generic competition in the animal health industry to date has not typically mirrored that seen in human health, product pricing and the impact of generic competition in the future may more closely mirror human health as a result of changes in industry dynamics, such as channel expansion, consolidation, an increase in the availability and use of pet insurance and the potential for generic competition by established animal health businesses.
Although the impact of generic competition in the animal health industry to date has not typically mirrored that seen in human health, product pricing and the impact of generic competition in the future may more closely mirror human health as a result of changes in industry dynamics, such as channel expansion, customer consolidation, an increase in the availability and use of pet insurance and the potential for generic competition by established animal health businesses.
Certain of our credit facilities contain restrictive covenants that impose significant operating and financial restrictions on us, including restrictions on our ability to pay dividends and make other restricted payments. As a result, capital appreciation, if any, of our common stock may be our shareholders' major source of gain for the foreseeable future.
Certain of our credit facilities contain restrictive covenants that impose significant operating and financial restrictions on us, including restrictions on our ability to pay dividends or to make other restricted payments. As a result, capital appreciation, if any, of our common stock may be our shareholders' major source of gain for the foreseeable future.
If we are unable to generate new products or expand the use of our existing products, our business, financial condition and results of operations could be materially adversely affected. As part of our development strategy, we often hire clinical research organizations to perform preclinical testing and clinical trials for drug candidates.
If we are unable to generate new products or expand the use of our existing products, our business, financial condition and results of operations could be materially adversely affected. Further, as part of our development strategy, we often hire clinical research organizations to perform preclinical testing and clinical trials for drug candidates.
ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS Our business, financial condition and results of operations are subject to various risks, including but not limited to the risks described below. If any of such risks actually materializes, our business, financial condition and results of operations could be materially adversely affected. Risks Related to Elanco's Business and Industry The animal health industry is highly competitive.
ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS Our business, financial condition and results of operations are subject to various risks, including but not limited to the risks described below. If any of such risks actually materializes, our business, financial condition and results of operations could be materially adversely affected. Risks Related to the Animal Health Industry The animal health industry is highly competitive.
In addition, if we are unable to maintain our existing license agreements or other agreements pursuant to which third parties grant us rights to intellectual property, including because such agreements terminate, our financial condition and results of operations could be materially adversely affected.
In addition, if we are unable to maintain our existing license agreements or other agreements pursuant to which third parties grant us rights to intellectual property, including because such agreements terminate, our business, financial condition and results of operations could be materially adversely affected.
To the extent that any of our competitors are more successful with respect to any key competitive factor, or we are forced to reduce, or are unable to raise, the price of any of our products in order to remain competitive, our business, financial condition and results of operations could be materially adversely affected.
To the extent any of our competitors are more successful with respect to any key competitive factor, or we are forced to reduce, or are unable to raise, the price of any of our products in order to remain competitive, our business, financial condition and results of operations could be materially adversely affected.
If we are unable to successfully integrate our systems to support critical business operations and to produce information for business decision-making activities, we could experience a material adverse impact on our business or an inability to timely and accurately report our financial results.
If we are unable to successfully integrate our systems to support critical business operations and to produce information for business decision-making activities, we could also experience a material adverse impact on our business or an inability to timely and accurately report our financial results.
Counterfeit or illegally compounded products are frequently unsafe or ineffective and can be potentially life-threatening to animals. Our reputation and business could suffer harm as a result of counterfeit or illegally compounded products which are alleged to be equivalent and/or which are sold under our brand name.
Counterfeit or illegally compounded products are frequently unsafe or ineffective and can be potentially life-threatening to animals. Our reputation and business could suffer harm as a result of counterfeit or illegally compounded products which are alleged to be equivalent and/or which are sold under our brand name(s).
Minor deviations in our manufacturing or logistical processes, such as temperature excursions or improper package sealing, could result, and have in the past resulted in, delays, inventory shortages, unanticipated costs, product recalls, product liability and/or regulatory action.
Further, minor deviations in our manufacturing or logistical processes, such as temperature excursions or improper package sealing, could result, and have in the past resulted in, delays, inventory shortages, unanticipated costs, product recalls, product liability and/or regulatory action.
Business — Intellectual Property.” Generic competitors are becoming more aggressive in terms of launching products before patent rights expire, and, because of attractive pricing, sales of generic products are an increasing percentage of overall animal health sales in certain regions.
Business – Intellectual Property." Generic competitors are becoming more aggressive in terms of launching products before patent rights expire, and, because of attractive pricing, sales of generic products are an increasing percentage of overall animal health sales in certain regions.
Credit rating agencies also evaluate our industry as a whole and may change their credit ratings for us based on their overall view of our industry. We cannot be sure that credit rating agencies will maintain their ratings on us and certain of our debt.
Credit rating agencies also evaluate our industry as a whole and may change their credit ratings for us based on their overall view of our industry. We cannot be sure that credit rating agencies will maintain their ratings for us or for certain of our debt.
The animal health industry is highly competitive. Our competitors include standalone animal health businesses, the animal health businesses of large pharmaceutical companies, specialty animal health businesses and companies that mainly produce generic products. Several new start-up companies also compete in the animal health industry.
The animal health industry is highly competitive. Our competitors include standalone animal health businesses, the animal health businesses of large pharmaceutical companies, specialty animal health businesses and companies that mainly produce generic products. Several start-up companies also compete in the animal health industry.
If any of our top products experience issues, such as disruptive innovations or the introduction of more effective competitive products, negative publicity, changes to veterinarian or customer preferences, loss of patent protection, material product liability litigation, new or unexpected side effects, manufacturing disruptions and/or regulatory proceedings, our revenue could be negatively impacted, perhaps significantly.
If any of our top products experience issues, such as disruptive innovations or the introduction of more effective competitive products, negative publicity, changes in veterinarian or customer preferences, loss of patent protection, material product liability litigation, new or unexpected side effects, manufacturing disruptions and/or regulatory proceedings, our revenue could be negatively impacted, perhaps significantly.
However, trade partnerships and treaties can be modified by domestic and foreign governments, which could result in new or increased tariffs. Additionally, countries are becoming increasingly protectionist, both to protect local industries as well as to ensure domestic supply chain continuity for key products, such as medicine.
However, trade partnerships and treaties can be modified by domestic and foreign governments, which could result in new or increased tariffs. Additionally, countries are becoming increasingly protectionist, both to protect local industries as well as to ensure domestic supply chain continuity for key products, such as medicines.
Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (the FCPA) and similar non-U.S. laws and regulations; • compliance with foreign labor laws; • compliance with local, regional and global restrictions on banking and commercial activities in emerging markets; • burdens to comply with multiple and potentially conflicting foreign laws and regulations, including those relating to environmental, health and safety requirements and those in emerging markets; • changes in laws, regulations, government controls or enforcement practices with respect to our business and the businesses of our customers, including the imposition of limits on our profitability; • political and social instability, including crime, civil disturbance, terrorist activities and armed conflicts such as the Russia-Ukraine conflict and the related government and other entity responses; • trade restrictions and restrictions on direct investments by foreign entities, including restrictions administered by the Office of Foreign Assets Control of the U.S.
Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (the FCPA) and similar non-U.S. laws and regulations; • compliance with foreign labor laws; • compliance with local, regional and global restrictions on banking and commercial activities in emerging markets; • burdens to comply with multiple and potentially conflicting foreign laws and regulations, including those relating to EHS requirements and those in emerging markets; • changes in laws, regulations, government controls or enforcement practices with respect to our business and the businesses of our customers, including the imposition of limits on our profitability; • political and social instability, including crime, civil disturbance, terrorist activities and armed conflicts such as the Russia-Ukraine conflict and the related government and other entity responses; • trade restrictions and restrictions on direct investments by foreign entities, including restrictions administered by the Office of Foreign Assets Control of the U.S.
In addition, pet owners may substitute human health products for animal health products if human health products are deemed to be lower-cost alternatives. Legislation has also been proposed in the U.S., and may be proposed in the U.S. or abroad in the future, which could impact the distribution channels for our pet health products.
In addition, pet owners may substitute human health products for animal health products if human health products are deemed to be lower-cost alternatives. Legislation has also been proposed in the U.S. and may be proposed in the U.S. or abroad in the future, that could impact the distribution channels for our pet health products.
Our amended and restated articles of incorporation and our amended and restated bylaws contain provisions that are intended to encourage prospective acquirers to negotiate with our board of directors rather than to attempt a hostile takeover, which could deter coercive takeover practices and inadequate takeover bids.
Our Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation and our Amended and Restated Bylaws contain provisions intended to encourage prospective acquirers to negotiate with our Board of Directors rather than to attempt a hostile takeover, which could deter coercive takeover practices and inadequate takeover bids.
Any potential cyber breach could result in the unauthorized access, public disclosure, loss or theft of confidential data, or unauthorized access to, disruption of, or interference with our operations that rely on information systems. Such breach can also have negative consequences, such as increased costs for security measures or remediation costs, and diversion of management attention.
Any potential cyber breach could result in the unauthorized access, public disclosure, loss or theft of confidential data, or unauthorized access to, disruption of or interference with our operations that rely on information systems. Such breach can also have negative consequences, such as increased costs for security measures or remediation costs, and diversion of management attention (see Item 1C.
Further, others may independently and lawfully develop substantially similar or identical products that circumvent our intellectual property by means of alternative designs or processes or otherwise. 28 Table of Contents The illegal distribution and sale by third parties of counterfeit or illegally compounded versions of our products or of stolen, diverted or relabeled products could have a negative impact on our reputation and business.
Further, others may independently and lawfully develop substantially similar or identical products that circumvent our intellectual property by means of alternative designs or processes or otherwise. The illegal distribution and sale by third parties of counterfeit or illegally compounded versions of our products or of stolen, diverted or relabeled products could have a negative impact on our reputation and business.
For example, many of our competitors have relationships with key distributors and, because of their size, the ability to offer attractive pricing incentives, which may negatively impact or hinder our relationships with these distributors.
For example, many of our competitors have relationships with key distributors and, because of their size, an ability to offer attractive pricing incentives, which may negatively impact or hinder our relationships with these distributors.
In addition, concerns about the financial resources of pet owners could cause veterinarians to alter their treatment recommendations in favor of lower-cost alternatives to our products, which could result in a decrease in sales of our pet health products, especially in developed countries where there are higher rates of pet ownership.
In addition, concerns about the financial resources of pet owners 26 Table of Contents could cause veterinarians to alter their treatment recommendations in favor of lower-cost alternatives to our products, which could result in a decrease in sales of our pet health products, especially in developed countries where there are higher rates of pet ownership.
There may be increased risk of product liability claims if veterinarians, farm animal producers, pet owners or others attempt to use our products off-label, including the use of our products in species (including humans) for which they have not been approved.
There may be increased risk of product liability claims if veterinarians, farm animal producers, pet owners or others attempt to use our products off-label, including the use of our products in species 32 Table of Contents (including humans) for which they have not been approved.
These impacts include, but are not limited to: • Reductions in demand or significant volatility in demand for one or more of our products, caused by, among other things: the temporary inability of our customers to purchase our products due to illness, quarantine, travel restrictions, and/or financial hardship; decreased veterinary visits; farm animal processing plant shutdowns; shifts in demand by trading down to lower priced products; or stockpiling activity; • Inability to meet customer needs and achieve cost targets due to disruptions in our manufacturing and supply chains caused by labor constraints or inability to obtain key raw materials, increased transportation costs, or other manufacturing and distribution disruptions; • Failure of third parties on which we rely, including our suppliers, contract manufacturers, distributors, contractors, and other external business partners, to meet their obligations, which may be caused by their own financial or operational challenges; • Limited ability to access the global financial market, which could negatively impact our short-term and long-term liquidity; or • Significant changes in the political environments in the markets in which we manufacture, sell or distribute our products, including lockdowns, import/export restrictions, or other governmental mandates that limit or close operating and manufacturing facilities, restrict travel to perform necessary business functions, or otherwise prevent us or our third-party partners, suppliers or customers from sufficiently staffing operations, including operations necessary for the production, distribution and sale of our products.
These impacts included, and in the event of a future widespread public health concern may in the future include: • Reductions in demand or significant volatility in demand for one or more of our products, caused by, among other things: the temporary inability of our customers to purchase our products due to illness, quarantine, travel restrictions and/or financial hardship; decreased veterinary visits; farm animal processing plant shutdowns; shifts in demand by trading down to lower priced products; or stockpiling activity; • Inability to meet customer needs and achieve cost targets due to disruptions in our manufacturing and supply chains caused by labor constraints or inability to obtain key raw materials, increased transportation costs or other manufacturing and distribution disruptions; • Failure of third parties on which we rely, including our suppliers, contract manufacturers, distributors, contractors and other external business partners, to meet their obligations, which may be caused by their own financial or operational challenges; • Limited ability to access the global financial market, which could negatively impact our short-term and long-term liquidity; or • Significant changes in the political environments in the markets in which we manufacture, sell or distribute our products, including lockdowns, import/export restrictions or other governmental mandates that limit or close operating and manufacturing facilities, restrict travel to perform necessary business functions or otherwise prevent us or our third-party partners, suppliers or customers from sufficiently staffing operations, including operations necessary for the production, distribution and sale of our products.
Further, consolidation in the animal health industry could result in existing competitors realizing additional efficiencies or improving portfolio bundling opportunities, thereby potentially increasing their market share and pricing power, which could lead to a decrease in our revenue and profitability and an increase in competition.
Further, consolidation in the animal health industry could result in existing competitors realizing additional efficiencies or improving portfolio bundling opportunities, thereby potentially increasing their market share and pricing power, which could lead to a decrease in our revenue and profitability.
If there is an increased public perception that consumption of food derived from animals that utilize our products poses a risk to human health, there may be a further decline in the production of those food products and, in turn, demand for our products.
If there is an increased 18 Table of Contents public perception that consumption of food derived from animals that utilize our products poses a risk to human health, there may be a further decline in the production of those food products and, in turn, demand for our products.
For example, on average, approximately 75% and 60% of total annual revenue contribution from our higher-margin parasiticide products Seresto and Advantage Family , respectively, occurs in the first half of the year. This dynamic is reflective of the flea and tick season in the Northern Hemisphere.
For example, on average, approximately 75% and 60% of total annual revenue contribution from our higher margin parasiticide products Seresto and Advantage Family , respectively, occurs in the first half of the year, reflective of the flea and tick season in the Northern Hemisphere.
In most markets, pet owners typically purchase their animal health products directly from veterinarians. However, pet owners increasingly have the option to purchase animal health products from sources other than veterinarians, such as online retailers, “big-box” retail stores or other over-the-counter distribution channels.
In most markets, pet owners have historically purchased their animal health products directly from veterinarians. However, pet owners increasingly have the option to purchase animal health products from sources other than veterinarians, such as online retailers, “big-box” retail stores or other over-the-counter distribution channels.
A failure to comply with any of these laws, regulations or requirements could result in civil or criminal legal proceedings, monetary or non-monetary penalties, or both, disruptions to our business, limitations on our ability to import and export products, and damage to our reputation.
A failure to comply with any of these laws, regulations or requirements could result in civil or criminal legal proceedings, monetary or non-monetary 27 Table of Contents penalties, or both, disruptions to our business, limitations on our ability to import and export products and damage to our reputation.
For example, lawsuits seeking actual damages, injunctive relief, and/or restitution for allegedly deceptive marketing have been filed against us arising out of the use of Seresto , a non-prescription flea and tick collar for cats and dogs, based on reports alleging that the collar has caused injury and death to pets. Further, a U.S.
For example, lawsuits seeking actual damages, injunctive relief and/or restitution for allegedly deceptive marketing have been filed against us arising out of the use of Seresto , a non-prescription flea and tick collar for cats and dogs, based on media reports alleging that the collar has caused injury and death to pets.
Competitive pressure could arise from, among other things, more favorable safety and efficacy product profiles, limited demand growth or a significant number of additional competitive products being introduced into a particular market, price reductions by competitors, the ability of competitors to capitalize on their economies of scale, the ability of competitors to produce or otherwise procure animal health products at lower costs than we can and the ability of competitors to access more or newer technology than we can.
Competitive pressures could arise from, among other things, differences in safety and efficacy product profiles, limited demand growth or a significant number of additional competitive products being introduced into a particular market, price reductions by competitors, the ability of competitors to capitalize on their economies of scale, the ability of competitors to produce or otherwise procure animal health products at lower costs than we can and the ability of competitors to access more or newer technology than we can.
For example, shareholder class action lawsuits that were filed against us in 2020 allege, in part, that we and certain of our executives made materially false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose certain facts about our supply chain, inventory, revenue, projections and our relationships with third party distributors and revenue attributable to those distributors.
For 30 Table of Contents example, shareholder class action lawsuits filed against us in 2020 allege, in part, that we and certain of our executives made materially false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose certain facts about our supply chain, inventory, revenue, projections and our relationships with third party distributors and revenue attributable to those distributors.
Our future results of operations could be adversely affected by changes in the effective tax rate as a result of a change in the mix of earnings between U.S. and non-U.S. jurisdictions or among jurisdictions with differing statutory tax rates, changes in our overall profitability, changes in tax laws or treaties or in their application or interpretation, changes in tax rates, changes in generally accepted accounting principles, changes in the valuation of deferred tax assets and liabilities, the results of audits and examinations of previously filed tax returns and continuing assessments of our tax exposures.
Our future results of operations could be adversely affected by changes in the effective tax rate as a result of a change in the mix of earnings between U.S. and non-U.S. jurisdictions or among jurisdictions with differing statutory tax rates, changes in our overall profitability, changes in tax laws or treaties or in their application or interpretation, changes in tax rates, changes in GAAP, changes in the valuation of deferred tax assets and liabilities, the results of audits and examinations of previously filed tax returns and continuing assessments of our tax exposures.
Our credit facilities contain, and any other existing or future indebtedness of ours would likely contain, a number of covenants that impose significant operating and financial restrictions on us, including restrictions on our and our subsidiaries’ ability to, among other things: • incur additional debt, guarantee indebtedness or issue certain preferred shares; • pay dividends on or make distributions in respect of, or repurchase or redeem, our capital stock or make other restricted payments; • prepay, redeem or repurchase certain debt; • make loans or certain investments; • sell certain assets; • create liens on certain assets; • consolidate, merge, sell or otherwise dispose of all or substantially all of our assets; • enter into certain transactions with our affiliates; • substantially alter the businesses we conduct; • enter into agreements restricting our subsidiaries’ ability to pay dividends; and • designate our subsidiaries as unrestricted subsidiaries.
Our credit facilities contain, and any other existing or future indebtedness of ours would likely contain, a number of covenants that impose significant operating and financial restrictions on us, including restrictions on our ability to, among other things: • incur additional debt, guarantee indebtedness or issue certain preferred shares; • prepay, redeem or repurchase certain debt; • pay dividends on or make distributions in respect of, or repurchase or redeem, our capital stock or make other restricted payments; • make loans or certain investments; • sell certain assets; • create liens on certain assets; • consolidate, merge, sell or otherwise dispose of all or substantially all of our assets; • enter into certain transactions with our affiliates; and • substantially alter the businesses we conduct.
Some of our top products such as the Advantage Family , Rumensin , Maxiban , Denagard and Tylan Premix do not have patent protection. Other products are protected by patents that expire over the next several years.
Some of our top products such as the Advantage Family , Rumensin , Maxiban , Denagard and Trifexis do not have patent protection. Other products are protected by patents that expire over the next several years.
Risks Related to Elanco Common Stock We do not anticipate paying dividends on our common stock in the foreseeable future. We do not anticipate paying any dividends in the foreseeable future on our common stock. We intend to retain all future earnings for the operation and expansion of our business and the repayment of outstanding debt.
We do not anticipate paying any dividends in the foreseeable future on our common stock. We intend to retain all future earnings for the operation and expansion of our business and the repayment of outstanding debt.
Potential difficulties that we may encounter in the integration process, including as a result of distraction of our management, include the following: • the inability to realize the anticipated value from various assets of the target company; • the inability to combine the businesses of the acquired company with ours in a manner that permits us to achieve the cost savings or other synergies anticipated as a result of the transaction or to achieve such cost savings or other anticipated synergies in a timely manner, which could result in us not realizing some anticipated benefits of the transaction in the time frame anticipated, or at all; • the loss of key employees; • potential unknown liabilities and unforeseen increased expenses, delays or unfavorable conditions in connection with the closing of the transaction and the subsequent integration; and • performance shortfalls at our or the target company as a result of the diversion of management’s attention from ongoing business activities as a result of completing the transaction and integrating the companies’ operations.
Potential difficulties we may encounter in the integration process include the following: • the inability to realize the anticipated value from various assets of the acquired company; • the inability to combine the businesses of the acquired company with ours in a manner that permits us to achieve the cost savings or other synergies anticipated as a result of the transaction or to achieve such cost savings or other anticipated synergies in a timely manner, which could result in us not realizing some anticipated benefits of the transaction in the time frame anticipated, or at all; • the loss of key employees; • potential unknown liabilities and unforeseen increased expenses, delays or unfavorable conditions in connection with the closing of the transaction and the subsequent integration; and • performance shortfalls at our or the acquired company as a result of the diversion of management’s attention from ongoing business activities.
As such, our ability to effectively manage our business depends on the security, reliability and adequacy of our technology systems and data and the ability of our employees to follow our cyber security policies and protocols. 37 Table of Contents Any actual or perceived access, disclosure or other loss of information or any significant breakdown, intrusion, interruption, cyber-attack or corruption of customer, employee or company data or our failure to comply with federal, state, local and foreign privacy laws or contractual obligations with customers, vendors, payment processors and other third parties, could result in legal claims or proceedings, liability under laws or contracts that protect the privacy of personal information, regulatory penalties, disruption of our operations, and damage to our reputation, all of which could materially adversely affect our business, revenue and competitive position.
As such, our ability to effectively manage our business depends on the security, reliability and adequacy of our technology systems and data and the ability of our employees to follow our cybersecurity policies and protocols. 33 Table of Contents Any actual or perceived access, disclosure or other loss of information or any significant breakdown, intrusion, interruption, cyber-attack or corruption of customer, employee or company data, or our failure to comply with federal, state, local and foreign privacy laws or contractual obligations with customers, vendors, payment processors and other third parties, could result in legal claims or proceedings, liability under laws or contracts that protect the privacy of personal information, regulatory penalties, disruption of our operations and damage to our reputation, all of which could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Similarly, changes in the expected return on plan assets can result in significant changes in the net periodic pension cost in the following years.
Similarly, changes in the expected or actual return on plan assets can result in significant changes in the net periodic pension cost in the following years.
We intend to vigorously defend the claims made in these lawsuits; however, the ultimate resolution cannot be predicted, and the claims raised in these lawsuits may result in further legal matters or actions against us, including, but not limited to, government enforcement actions or additional private litigation.
We are vigorously defending against the claims made in these lawsuits; however, the ultimate resolution cannot be predicted, and the claims raised in these lawsuits may result in further legal matters or actions against us, including, but not limited to, government enforcement actions or additional private litigation.
If any such claims with respect to Seresto or our other products are resolved adversely to us, or if a regulatory agency determines that a recall of any of our products, including Seresto , is necessary, such action could cause harm to our reputation, reduce our product sales, result in monetary penalties and other costly remedies against us, and could therefore have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
However, if any similar claims with respect to our products are resolved adversely to us, or if a regulatory agency determines that a recall or cancellation of registrations of any of our products is necessary, such action could cause harm to our reputation, reduce our product sales, result in monetary penalties and other costly remedies against us, and could therefore have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
It is possible that our costs of complying with current and future environmental, health and safety laws, and our liabilities arising from past or future releases of, or exposure to, hazardous materials could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.
It is possible that our costs of complying with current and future EHS laws, and our liabilities arising from past or future releases of, or exposure to, hazardous materials could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Any further downgrades could result in requirements to pay additional interest under the senior unsecured notes. Moreover, any decision to downgrade our ratings could restrict our access to, and negatively impact the terms of, current or future financings and trade credit extended by our suppliers of raw materials or other vendors.
Any further downgrades could result in requirements to pay additional interest under the 4.900% Senior Notes due 2028. Moreover, any decision to downgrade our ratings could restrict our access to, and negatively impact the terms of, current or future financings and trade credit extended by our suppliers of raw materials or other vendors.
Any one of these consequences could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. In addition, we will not be able to market new products unless and until we have obtained all required regulatory approvals in each jurisdiction where we propose to market those products.
Any one of these consequences could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. In addition, we will not be able to market new products unless and until we have obtained all required regulatory approvals or equivalent notices in each jurisdiction where we plan to market those products.
Further, labor-related issues, including at our suppliers or CMOs, could cause a disruption of our operations, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations, potentially resulting in cancelled orders by customers, unanticipated inventory accumulation or shortages and reduced revenue and net income.
Further, labor-related issues, including at our suppliers or CMOs, could cause a disruption of our operations, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations, potentially resulting in cancelled orders by customers, unanticipated inventory accumulation or shortages and reduced revenue and net income. Economic, Market and Financial Risks We have substantial indebtedness.
This trend has been demonstrated by the significant shift away from the veterinarian distribution channel in the sale of flea and tick products in recent years. Pet owners also could decrease their reliance on, and visits to, veterinarians as they rely more on internet-based animal health information.
This trend has been demonstrated by the significant shift away from the veterinarian distribution channel in the sale of flea and tick products and has been accelerated by the increased consumer preferences toward e-commerce in recent years. Pet owners also could decrease their reliance on, and visits to, veterinarians as they rely more on internet-based animal health information.
In addition, a number of factors could cause production interruptions, including: • the failure of us or any of our vendors or suppliers, including logistical service providers, to comply with applicable regulations and quality assurance guidelines; • mislabeling; • construction delays; • equipment malfunctions; • shortages of materials; • labor problems; • natural disasters; 33 Table of Contents • power outages; • criminal and terrorist activities; • changes in manufacturing production sites and limits to manufacturing capacity due to regulatory requirements, changes in types of products produced, shipping distributions or physical limitations; and • the outbreak of any highly contagious diseases.
In addition, a number of factors could cause production interruptions, including: • the failure of us or any of our vendors or suppliers, including logistical service providers, to comply with applicable regulations and quality assurance guidelines; • mislabeling; • construction delays; • equipment malfunctions; • shortages of materials; • labor problems; • delays in receiving required governmental authorizations or regulatory approvals; • natural disasters and/or adverse weather conditions; • power outages; • criminal and terrorist activities; • changes in manufacturing production sites and limits to manufacturing capacity due to regulatory requirements, changes in types of products produced, shipping distributions or physical limitations; and • the outbreak of any highly contagious diseases.
Rising costs or reduced income for our customers could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. We rely on third parties to source many of our raw materials and to manufacture products that we distribute. For more information, see "Item 1.
Rising costs or reduced income for our customers could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. We also rely on third parties to source many of our raw materials and to manufacture products that we distribute.
Our international operations could be limited or disrupted by any of the following: • volatility in the international financial markets; • changes in the value of foreign currencies relative to the U.S. dollar or high inflation; • compliance with governmental controls; • difficulties enforcing contractual and intellectual property rights; • parallel trade in our products (importation of our products from EU countries where our products are sold at lower prices into EU countries where the products are sold at higher prices); • compliance with a wide variety of laws and regulations, such as the U.S.
Our international operations could be limited or disrupted by any of the following: • volatility in the international financial markets; • compliance with governmental controls; • difficulties enforcing contractual and intellectual property rights; • parallel trade in our products (importation of our products from EU countries where our products are sold at lower prices into EU countries where the products are sold at higher prices); • compliance with a wide variety of laws and regulations, such as the U.S.
Department of the Treasury and the EU, in relation to our products or the products of farmers and other customers; • government limitations on foreign ownership; • government takeover or nationalization of business; • changes in tax laws and tariffs; • imposition of anti-dumping and countervailing duties or other trade-related sanctions; • costs and difficulties and compliance risks in staffing, managing and monitoring international operations, including in the use of overseas third-party goods and service providers; • corruption risk inherent in business arrangements and regulatory contacts with foreign government entities; • longer payment cycles and increased exposure to counterparty risk; • continued uncertainty, potential instability and volatility due to the withdrawal of the U.K. from the EU; and 36 Table of Contents • additional limitations on transferring personal information between countries or other restrictions on the processing of personal information.
Department of the Treasury and the EU, in relation to our products or the products of farmers and other customers; • government limitations on foreign ownership; • government takeover or nationalization of business; • changes in tax laws and tariffs; • imposition of anti-dumping and countervailing duties or other trade-related sanctions; • costs and difficulties and compliance risks in staffing, managing and monitoring international operations, including in the use of overseas third-party goods and service providers; • corruption risk inherent in business arrangements and regulatory contacts with foreign government entities; • longer payment cycles and increased exposure to counterparty risk; and • additional limitations on transferring personal information between countries or other restrictions on the processing of personal information.
In addition, if one or more of our pet health distributors discontinues or modifies their relationship with us, our business, financial condition and results of operations may be materially adversely affected.
Any of these events could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. In addition, if one or more of our pet health distributors discontinues or modifies their relationship with us, our business, financial condition and results of operations may be materially adversely affected.
Clinical trials and procedures are inherently uncertain and there can be no assurance that these trials or procedures will be enrolled or completed in a timely or cost-effective manner or result in a commercially viable product or indication. Failure to do so could have a material adverse effect on our prospects.
Clinical trials and procedures are inherently uncertain and there can be no assurance that these trials or procedures will be enrolled or completed in a timely or cost-effective manner or result in a commercially viable product or indication. Failure to achieve positive clinical trial and/or testing results could have a material adverse effect on our prospects.
Business — Manufacturing and Supply Chain." We have and may continue to experience cost increases in certain raw materials or other components required to manufacture our products due to increased shipping costs and other inflationary pressures. This may have a material adverse impact on our financial results if we cannot pass on such increases to our customers.
Additionally, we have and may continue to experience cost increases for certain raw materials or other components required to manufacture our products due to increased shipping costs and other inflationary pressures. This may have a material adverse impact on our financial results if we cannot pass on such increases to our customers.
Our business has been and may continue to be negatively impacted by human disease outbreaks, epidemics, pandemics or other widespread public health concerns, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, including its variants, and the related travel restrictions and governmental mandates.
Our business has been, and may continue to be, negatively impacted by human disease outbreaks, epidemics, pandemics or other widespread public health concerns, such as the COVID-19 pandemic and its variants.
There are two classes of antibiotics used in animal health: shared-class, or medically important, antibiotics, which are used to treat infectious disease caused by pathogens that occur in both humans and animals; and animal-only antibiotics, which are used to treat infectious disease caused by pathogens that occur in animals only. For more information, see “Item 1.
There are two classes of antibiotics used in animal health: shared-class, or medically important, antibiotics, which are used to treat infectious disease caused by pathogens that occur in both humans and animals; and animal-only antibiotics, which are used to treat infectious disease caused by pathogens that occur in animals only.
The instruments that will govern our indebtedness may restrict our ability to dispose of assets and may restrict the use of proceeds from those dispositions and may also restrict our ability to raise debt or equity capital to be used to repay other indebtedness when it becomes due.
Further, our debt instruments may restrict our ability to dispose of assets and may restrict the use of proceeds from those dispositions and may also restrict our ability to raise debt or equity financing to be used to repay other indebtedness when it becomes due.
In the event of an event of default under our credit facilities, it is expected that the lenders: • will not be required to lend any additional amounts to us; • could elect to declare all borrowings outstanding, together with accrued and unpaid interest and fees, to be due and payable and terminate all commitments to extend further credit; • could require us to apply all of our available cash to repay these borrowings; or • could effectively prevent us from making debt service payments on the notes (due to a cash sweep feature). 41 Table of Contents Such actions by the lenders could cause cross defaults under our other indebtedness, including our senior unsecured notes.
In the event of an event of default under our credit facilities, it is expected that the lenders: • will not be required to lend any additional amounts to us; • could elect to declare all borrowings outstanding, together with accrued and unpaid interest and fees, to be due and payable and terminate all commitments to extend further credit; 25 Table of Contents • could require us to apply all of our available cash to repay these borrowings; or • could effectively prevent us from making debt service payments on the notes (due to a cash sweep feature).
Our insurance policies may be insufficient to protect against all potential hazards or litigation claims. We rely on a combination of insurance and self-insurance, and changes in predictions, assumptions, and interpretations could affect our operations. Insurance policies include limits and may be insufficient to protect against all potential hazards and risks or litigation claims.
We rely on a combination of insurance and self-insurance, and changes in predictions, assumptions and interpretations could affect our operations. Insurance policies include limits and may be insufficient to protect against all potential hazards and risks or litigation claims. Our product liability insurance policy may not fully cover our potential liabilities.
Even after a product reaches market, we may be subject to re-review and may lose our approvals. For example, pending claims have been asserted in a lawsuit against the FDA's approval of Experior™ , which was one of our eight new product launches in 2021 .
Even after a product reaches market, we may be subject to re-review and may lose our approvals. For example, pending claims have been asserted in a lawsuit against the FDA's approval of Experior, a product launched in 2021 .
In recent years, there has been a trend toward the concentration of veterinarians in large clinics and hospitals. In addition, farm animal producers, particularly swine and poultry producers, and our distributors have seen recent consolidation in their industries.
In recent years, there has been a trend toward the concentration of veterinarians in large clinics and hospitals. We have also seen recent consolidation among farm animal producers, particularly swine and poultry producers, and among our distributors.
A third party may sue us, or our distributors or licensors, or otherwise make a claim alleging infringement or other violation of such third-party’s patents, trademarks, trade dress, copyrights, trade secrets, domain names or other intellectual property rights.
The actual or purported intellectual property rights of third parties may negatively affect our business. A third party may sue us, or our distributors or licensors, or otherwise make a claim alleging infringement or other violation of such third-party’s patents, trademarks, trade dress, copyrights, trade secrets, domain names or other intellectual property rights.
Because we market our pet health prescription products primarily through the veterinarian distribution channel, any significant decrease in visits to veterinarians by pet owners could reduce our market share for such products and materially adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Because we market our pet health prescription products primarily through the veterinarian distribution channel, in the event of a significant decrease in visits to veterinarians by pet owners, our market share for such products could be reduced, materially adversely affecting our business, financial condition and results of operations.
If we are deemed by a governmental or regulatory agency to have engaged in the promotion of any of our products for off-label use, such agency could request that we modify our training or promotional materials and practices, and we could be subject to significant fines and penalties, and the imposition of these sanctions could also affect our reputation and position within the industry.
If we are deemed by a governmental or regulatory agency to have engaged in the promotion of any of our products for off-label use, such agency could request that we modify our training or promotional materials and practices, and we could be subject to significant fines and penalties.
Given the volatility of exchange rates and despite the mitigating impact of foreign currency forward or option derivative contracts we enter into in order to reduce the effect of fluctuating currency exchange rates in future periods, there is no guarantee that we will be able to effectively manage currency transaction and/or translation risks, which could adversely affect our results of operations.
Given the volatility of exchange rates and despite the mitigating impact of foreign currency forward or option derivative contracts we enter into to reduce the effect of fluctuating currency exchange rates, there is no guarantee we will be able to effectively manage currency transaction and/or translation risks, which could adversely affect our results of operations. See Part II, Item 7A.
We have certain defined benefit pension plans, predominantly in Germany and Switzerland, in which our employees participate that are either dedicated to our employees or where the plan assets and liabilities that relate to our employees were legally required to transfer to us at the time of our separation from Lilly.
We have certain defined benefit pension plans, predominantly in Germany and Switzerland, that are either dedicated to our current or past employees or where the plan assets and liabilities related to our current or past employees were legally required to transfer to us at the time of our separation from Lilly (see Note 17.
Litigation matters and regulatory investigations, regardless of their merits or their ultimate outcomes, are costly, divert management’s attention and may materially adversely affect our reputation and demand for our products. We cannot predict with certainty the eventual outcome of pending or future legal matters.
Litigation matters and regulatory investigations, regardless of their merits or ultimate outcomes, are costly, divert management’s attention and may materially adversely affect our reputation and demand for our products. We cannot predict with certainty the eventual outcome of pending or future legal matters. An adverse outcome of litigation or legal matters could result in us being responsible for significant damages.
Our subsidiaries may not be able to, or may not be permitted to, make adequate distributions to enable us to make payments in respect of our indebtedness. Each subsidiary is a distinct legal entity and, under certain circumstances, legal, tax and contractual restrictions may limit our ability to obtain cash from our subsidiaries.
Our subsidiaries may not be able to, or may not be permitted to, make adequate distributions to enable us to make required debt repayments. Each subsidiary is a distinct legal entity and, under certain circumstances, legal, tax and contractual restrictions may limit our ability to obtain cash from them.
Our business could be materially adversely affected by labor disputes, strikes or work stoppages. Some of our employees are members of unions, works councils, trade associations or are otherwise subject to collective bargaining agreements in certain jurisdictions, including the U.S. As a result, we are subject to the risk of labor disputes, strikes, work stoppages and other labor-relations matters.
Some of our employees are members of unions, works councils, trade associations or are otherwise subject to collective bargaining agreements in certain jurisdictions. As a result, we are subject to the risk of labor disputes, strikes, work stoppages and other labor-relations matters.
In addition, international transactions may involve increased financial and legal risks due to differing legal systems and customs, as well as restrictions and sanctions that may be imposed on one or more jurisdictions, including those arising from the recent crisis in Ukraine.
In addition, international transactions may involve increased financial and legal risks due to differing legal systems and customs, as well as restrictions and sanctions that may be imposed on one or more jurisdictions.
Public loss of confidence in the integrity of vaccines and/or pharmaceutical products as a result of counterfeiting, illegal compounding or theft could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Public loss of confidence in the integrity of vaccines and/or pharmaceutical products as a result of counterfeiting, illegal compounding or theft could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. The misuse or off-label use of our products may harm our reputation or result in financial or other damages.
In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, we are increasingly dependent on our information technology systems as our office workers, who are primarily working remotely, rely on third-party applications to perform their job duties and are processing information through our network via their home networks, which may be less secure.
We are increasingly dependent on our information technology systems as many of our office workers who work partially or primarily remotely, rely on third-party applications to perform their job duties and are processing information through our network via their home networks, which may be less secure.
As of December 31, 2022, for pension plans with projected benefit obligations in excess of plan assets, the projected benefit obligation was $301 million with plan assets of $150 million.
As of December 31, 2023, for pension plans with projected benefit obligations in excess of plan assets, the projected benefit obligation was $343 million with plan assets of $168 million.
Inventory levels at our distributors and retailers increase or decrease as a result of various factors, including end customer demand, new customer contracts, heightened competition, required minimum inventory levels, our ability to renew distribution contracts with expected terms, our ability to implement commercial strategies, regulatory restrictions, unexpected customer behavior, proactive measures taken by us in response to shifting market dynamics, and procedures and environmental factors beyond our control, including weather conditions or an outbreak of infectious disease such as COVID-19 or diseases carried by farm animals such as African Swine Fever.
Inventory levels at our distributors and retailers increase or decrease as a result of various 22 Table of Contents factors, including end customer demand, new customer contracts, heightened competition, required minimum inventory levels, our ability to renew distribution contracts with expected terms, our ability to implement commercial strategies, regulatory restrictions, unexpected customer behavior, proactive measures taken by us in response to shifting market dynamics and procedures and environmental factors beyond our control.
Changes in our credit rating could increase our interest expense and restrict our access to, and negatively impact the terms of, current or future financings or trade credit. Credit rating agencies continually revise their ratings for the companies that they follow, including us.
We have pledged a significant portion of our assets as collateral under our credit facilities. Changes in our credit ratings could increase our interest expense and restrict our access to, and negatively impact the terms of, current or future financings or trade credit. Credit rating agencies continually revise their ratings for the companies they follow, including us.
Increased or decreased inventory levels in our distribution channels can lead to fluctuations in our revenues and variations in payment terms extended to our distributors can impact our cash flows. In addition to selling our products directly to veterinarians, we sell to distributors and retailers who, in turn, sell our products to third parties.
Increased or decreased inventory levels in our distribution channels can lead to fluctuations in our revenues and levels of inventory on-hand. In addition to selling our products directly to veterinarians, we sell to distributors and retailers who, in turn, sell our products to third parties.