If Polestar is unable to remediate these material weaknesses or identifies additional material weaknesses, it could lead to errors in Polestar’s financial reporting, which could adversely affect Polestar’s business and the market price of the ADSs. • Polestar has identified material weaknesses in its internal control over financial reporting.
Polestar has identified material weaknesses in its internal control over financial reporting. If Polestar is unable to remediate these material weaknesses or identifies additional material weaknesses, it could lead to errors in Polestar’s financial reporting, which could adversely affect Polestar’s business and the market price of the ADSs.
Polestar’s and its service providers’ or vendors’ data centers could be subject to break-ins, sabotage and intentional acts of vandalism causing potential disruptions. Some of Polestar’s and its service providers’ and vendors’ systems are not and will not be fully redundant. Further, its disaster recovery planning is not yet fully developed and cannot account for all eventualities.
Polestar’s and its service providers’ or vendors’ data centers could be subject to break-ins, sabotage and intentional acts of vandalism causing potential disruptions. Some of Polestar’s and its service providers’ and vendors’ systems are not and will not be fully redundant. Further, Polestar’s disaster recovery planning is not yet fully developed and cannot account for all eventualities.
The measures Polestar takes to obtain, maintain, protect and enforce intellectual property rights, including preventing unauthorized use by third parties, may not be effective for various reasons, including the following: • Polestar's licensors (including Volvo Cars and Geely) may have developed and may own the intellectual property, and Polestar may enjoy only a license to it without rights to prosecute patent applications, maintain patents, defend the validity of the intellectual property against challenges, or assert the intellectual property against suspected infringers; • any patent application Polestar or its licensors (including Volvo Cars and Geely) files may not result in the issuance of a patent; 36 • Polestar or its licensors (including Volvo Cars and Geely) may not be the first inventor of the subject matter to which it has filed a particular patent application, and/or it may not be the first party to file such a patent application; • the scope of issued patents may not be sufficient to protect the inventions and technology; • issued patents may be challenged by its competitors or other third parties and invalidated by courts or other tribunals; • patents have a finite term, and competitors and other third parties may offer identical or similar products after the expiration of patents that cover such products; • employees, contractors or business partners (and the employees and contractors of business partners such as Volvo Cars and Geely) may breach their confidentiality, non-disclosure and non-use obligations; • competitors and other third parties may independently develop technologies that are the same or similar to Polestar’s or its licensors (including Volvo Cars and Geely); • the costs associated with enforcing patents or other intellectual property rights, or confidentiality and invention assignment agreements may make enforcement impracticable; and • competitors and other third parties may circumvent or otherwise design around Polestar’s or its licensors (including Volvo Cars’ and Geely’s) patents or other intellectual property.
The measures Polestar takes to obtain, maintain, protect and enforce intellectual property rights, including preventing unauthorized use by third parties, may not be effective for various reasons, including the following: • Polestar's licensors (including Volvo Cars and Geely) may have developed and may own the intellectual property, and Polestar may enjoy only a license to it without rights to prosecute patent applications, maintain patents, defend the validity of the intellectual property against challenges, or assert the intellectual property against suspected infringers; • any patent application Polestar or its licensors (including Volvo Cars and Geely) files may not result in the issuance of a patent; • Polestar or its licensors (including Volvo Cars and Geely) may not be the first inventor of the subject matter to which it has filed a particular patent application, and/or it may not be the first party to file such a patent application; • the scope of issued patents may not be sufficient to protect the inventions and technology; • issued patents may be challenged by its competitors or other third parties and invalidated by courts or other tribunals; • patents have a finite term, and competitors and other third parties may offer identical or similar products after the expiration of patents that cover such products; • employees, contractors or business partners (and the employees and contractors of business partners such as Volvo Cars and Geely) may breach their confidentiality, non-disclosure and non-use obligations; • competitors and other third parties may independently develop technologies that are the same or similar to Polestar’s or its licensors (including Volvo Cars and Geely); • the costs associated with enforcing patents or other intellectual property rights, or confidentiality and invention assignment agreements may make enforcement impracticable; and • competitors and other third parties may circumvent or otherwise design around Polestar’s or its licensors (including Volvo Cars’ and Geely’s) patents or other intellectual property.
As long as Polestar continues to qualify as a foreign private issuer under the Exchange Act, Polestar is exempt from certain provisions of the Exchange Act that are applicable to U.S. domestic public companies, including: • the sections of the Exchange Act regulating the solicitation of proxies, consents or authorizations in respect of a security registered under the Exchange Act; • the sections of the Exchange Act requiring insiders to file public reports of their stock ownership and trading activities and liability for insiders who profit from trades made in a short period of time; and 44 • the rules under the Exchange Act requiring the filing with the SEC of quarterly reports on Form 10-Q containing unaudited financial and other specified information, or current reports on Form 8-K, upon the occurrence of specified significant events.
As long as Polestar continues to qualify as a foreign private issuer under the Exchange Act, Polestar is exempt from certain provisions of the Exchange Act that are applicable to U.S. domestic public companies, including: • the sections of the Exchange Act regulating the solicitation of proxies, consents or authorizations in respect of a security registered under the Exchange Act; • the sections of the Exchange Act requiring insiders to file public reports of their stock ownership and trading activities and liability for insiders who profit from trades made in a short period of time; and • the rules under the Exchange Act requiring the filing with the SEC of quarterly reports on Form 10-Q containing unaudited financial and other specified information, or current reports on Form 8-K, upon the occurrence of specified significant events.
The GGI Private Placement Warrants were identical to the GGI Public Warrants sold as part of the GGI public units (consisting of one share of 41 GGI Class A Common Stock and one-fifth of one GGI Public Warrant) except that, so long as they are held by the GGI Sponsor or its permitted transferees: (i) they may not be redeemable by GGI, except as described in the SPAC Warrant Agreement; (ii) they (including the GGI Class A Common Stock issuable upon exercise of these warrants) may not, subject to certain limited exceptions, be transferred, assigned or sold by the GGI Sponsor until 30 days after the completion of an initial business combination involving GGI and one or more businesses; (iii) they may be exercised by the holders on a cashless basis; and (iv) they are subject to registration rights.
The GGI Private Placement Warrants were identical to the GGI Public Warrants sold as part of the GGI public units (consisting of one share of GGI Class A Common Stock and one-fifth of one GGI Public Warrant) except that, so long as they are held by the GGI Sponsor or its permitted transferees: (i) they may not be redeemable by GGI, except as described in the SPAC Warrant Agreement; (ii) they (including the GGI Class A Common Stock issuable upon exercise of these warrants) may not, subject to certain limited exceptions, be transferred, assigned or sold by the GGI Sponsor until 30 days after the completion of an initial business combination involving GGI and one or more businesses; (iii) they may be exercised by the holders on a cashless basis; and (iv) they are subject to registration rights.
Under the Deposit Agreements for the AD securities, if any holders of AD securities do not vote their AD securities, the Depositary will give Polestar a discretionary proxy to vote the Company securities underlying such AD securities at shareholders’ meetings unless: • Polestar has failed to timely provide the Depositary with notice of meeting and related voting materials; • Polestar has instructed the Depositary that it does not wish a discretionary proxy to be given; 49 • Polestar has informed the Depositary that there is substantial opposition as to a matter to be voted on at the meeting; • a matter to be voted on at the meeting would have a material adverse impact on shareholders; or • the voting at the meeting is to be made on a show of hands.
Under the Deposit Agreements for the AD securities, if any holders of AD securities do not vote their AD securities, the Depositary will give Polestar a discretionary proxy to vote the Company securities underlying such AD securities at shareholders’ meetings unless: • Polestar has failed to timely provide the Depositary with notice of meeting and related voting materials; • Polestar has instructed the Depositary that it does not wish a discretionary proxy to be given; • Polestar has informed the Depositary that there is substantial opposition as to a matter to be voted on at the meeting; • a matter to be voted on at the meeting would have a material adverse impact on shareholders; or • the voting at the meeting is to be made on a show of hands.
Any compromise of Polestar’s intellectual property, proprietary information, systems or vehicles or inability to prevent or effectively remedy errors, bugs, 28 vulnerabilities or defects in Polestar’s software and hardware may cause Polestar to suffer lengthy interruptions to its ability to operate its business and its customers’ ability to operate their vehicles, damage to Polestar’s reputation, loss of customers, loss of revenue, governmental fines, investigations or litigation or liability for damages, any of which could materially and adversely affect its business, results of operations, prospects and financial condition.
Any compromise of Polestar’s intellectual property, proprietary information, systems or vehicles or inability to prevent or effectively remedy errors, bugs, vulnerabilities or defects in Polestar’s software and hardware may cause Polestar to suffer lengthy interruptions to its ability to operate its business and its customers’ ability to operate their vehicles, damage to Polestar’s reputation, loss of customers, loss of revenue, governmental fines, investigations or litigation or liability for damages, any of which could materially and adversely affect its business, results of operations, prospects and financial condition.
If Polestar is unable to accurately match the timing and quantities of component purchases to its actual needs or successfully implement 12 automation, inventory management and other systems to accommodate the increased complexity in its supply chain, Polestar may incur unexpected production disruption, storage, transportation and write-off costs, which could have a material and adverse effect on its results of operations and financial condition.
If Polestar is unable to accurately match the timing and quantities of component purchases to its actual needs or successfully implement automation, inventory management and other systems to accommodate the increased complexity in its supply chain, Polestar may incur unexpected production disruption, storage, transportation and write-off costs, which could have a material and adverse effect on its results of operations and financial condition.
In the event that the Chinese government considers that Polestar was or is operating without the proper approvals, licenses or permits, promulgates new laws and regulations that require additional approvals or licenses, or imposes additional restrictions on the operation of any part of Polestar’s business, the Chinese government has the power, among other things, to levy fines, confiscate any of Polestar’s income that it considers illegal, revoke its business licenses and require Polestar to discontinue the relevant business or impose restrictions on the affected portion of its business.
In the event that the Chinese government considers that Polestar was or is operating without the proper approvals, licenses or permits, promulgates new laws and regulations that require additional approvals or licenses, or imposes additional restrictions on the operation of any part of Polestar’s business, the Chinese government has the power, among other things, to levy fines, confiscate any of Polestar’s income that it considers illegal, revoke its business licenses and require Polestar to suspend or discontinue the relevant business or impose restrictions on the affected portion of its business.
Maintaining such confidence may be particularly difficult as a result of many factors, including Polestar’s limited operating history, others’ unfamiliarity with its 15 products, uncertainty regarding the future of electric vehicles, any delays in scaling production, delivery and service operations to meet demand, competition and Polestar’s production and sales performance compared with market expectations.
Maintaining such confidence may be particularly difficult as a result of many factors, including Polestar’s limited operating history, others’ unfamiliarity with its products, uncertainty regarding the future of electric vehicles, any delays in scaling production, delivery and service operations to meet demand, competition and Polestar’s production and sales performance compared with market expectations.
Polestar needs to raise additional funds through the issuance of new debt, equity securities, or otherwise in order to support its current operations, liquidity needs, and business growth. There is no assurance that sufficient financing will be available when needed to allow 16 Polestar to continue as a going concern.
Polestar needs to raise additional funds through the issuance of new debt, equity securities, or otherwise in order to support its current operations, liquidity needs, and business growth. There is no assurance that sufficient financing will be available when needed to allow Polestar to continue as a going concern.
The Several Measures on the Automobile Data Security Management (for Trial Implementation) provide that important data should be stored within the territory of China in 21 accordance with the law, and if it is really necessary to export such data due to business needs, a security assessment organized by the CAC must be passed.
The Several Measures on the Automobile Data Security Management (for Trial Implementation) provide that important data should be stored within the territory of China in accordance with the law, and if it is really necessary to export such data due to business needs, a security assessment organized by the CAC must be passed.
The replacement of any members of Polestar’s senior management team or other key personnel likely would involve significant time and costs and may significantly delay or prevent the achievement of Polestar’s business objectives. 30 Polestar’s future success also depends, in part, on its ability to continue to attract, integrate and retain highly skilled personnel.
The replacement of any members of Polestar’s senior management team or other key personnel likely would involve significant time and costs and may significantly delay or prevent the achievement of Polestar’s business objectives. Polestar’s future success also depends, in part, on its ability to continue to attract, integrate and retain highly skilled personnel.
In addition, Polestar may not be able to obtain or agree on acceptable terms and conditions for all or a significant portion of 34 the government grants, loans and other incentives for which it may apply. Any of the foregoing could materially and adversely affect Polestar’s business, financial condition and results of operations.
In addition, Polestar may not be able to obtain or agree on acceptable terms and conditions for all or a significant portion of the government grants, loans and other incentives for which it may apply. Any of the foregoing could materially and adversely affect Polestar’s business, financial condition and results of operations.
Risks Related to Litigation and Regulation 31 Polestar is subject to evolving laws and regulations that could impose substantial costs, legal prohibitions or unfavorable changes upon its operations or products, and any failure to comply with these laws and regulations, including as they evolve, could result in litigation and substantially harm its business and results of operations.
Risks Related to Litigation and Regulation Polestar is subject to evolving laws and regulations that could impose substantial costs, legal prohibitions or unfavorable changes upon its operations or products, and any failure to comply with these laws and regulations, including as they evolve, could result in litigation and substantially harm its business and results of operations.
Polestar has encountered and expects to continue to encounter risks and uncertainties frequently experienced by early-stage companies in rapidly changing markets, including risks relating to its ability to, among other things: • successfully launch commercial production and sales of its vehicles on the timing and with the specifications Polestar has planned; • hire, integrate and retain professional and technical talent, including key members of management; 14 • continue to make significant investments in research, development, manufacturing, marketing and sales; • successfully obtain, maintain, protect and enforce its intellectual property and defend against claims of intellectual property infringement, misappropriation or other violations; • build a well-recognized and respected brand; • establish and refine its commercial manufacturing capabilities and distribution infrastructure; • establish and maintain satisfactory arrangements with its strategic partners and suppliers; • establish and expand a customer base; • navigate an evolving and complex regulatory environment; • anticipate and adapt to changing market conditions, including consumer demand for certain vehicle types, models or trim levels, technological developments, as well as changes in competitive landscape; and • successfully design, build, manufacture and market new models of electric vehicles, including in collaboration with its partners, providers, or licensors, in the future.
Polestar has encountered and expects to continue to encounter risks and uncertainties frequently experienced by early-stage companies in rapidly changing markets, including risks relating to its ability to, among other things: • successfully launch and scale-up commercial production and sales of its vehicles on the timing and with the specifications Polestar has planned; • hire, integrate and retain professional and technical talent, including key members of management; • continue to make significant investments in research, development, manufacturing, marketing and sales; • successfully obtain, maintain, protect and enforce its intellectual property and defend against claims of intellectual property infringement, misappropriation or other violations; • build a well-recognized and respected brand; • establish and refine its commercial manufacturing capabilities and distribution infrastructure; • establish and maintain satisfactory arrangements with its strategic partners and suppliers; • establish and expand a customer base; • navigate an evolving and complex regulatory environment; • anticipate and adapt to changing market conditions, including consumer demand for certain vehicle types, models or trim levels, technological developments, as well as changes in competitive landscape; and • successfully design, build, manufacture and market new models of electric vehicles, including in collaboration with its partners, providers, or licensors, in the future.
Polestar and its subsidiaries in China are not classified as “critical information infrastructure operators” or “network platform operators” under the Cybersecurity Review Measures, nor have Polestar and its subsidiaries received any notice from the CAC defining them as the foregoing, which would require Polestar or its subsidiaries to apply for a cybersecurity review with the CAC.
Furthermore, Polestar and its subsidiaries in China are not classified as “critical information infrastructure operators” or “network platform operators” under the Cybersecurity Review Measures, nor have Polestar and its subsidiaries received any notice from the CAC defining them as the foregoing, which would require Polestar or its subsidiaries to apply for a cybersecurity review with the CAC.
Some open source software licenses require those who distribute open source software as part of their own software product to publicly disclose all or part of the source code to such software product or to make available any derivative works of the open source code on unfavorable terms or at no 37 cost, and Polestar may be subject to such terms.
Some open source software licenses require those who distribute open source software as part of their own software product to publicly disclose all or part of the source code to such software product or to make available any derivative works of the open source code on unfavorable terms or at no cost, and Polestar may be subject to such terms.
If Polestar is unable to protect its products, digital sales tools and its service providers’ and vendors’ systems (and the information stored on such platforms) from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, destruction or other breach, such problems or security breaches could have negative consequences for its business and future prospects, subjecting Polestar to substantial fines, penalties, damages and other liabilities under applicable laws and regulations, incurring substantial costs to respond to, investigate and remedy such incidents, reducing customer demand for Polestar’s products, harming its reputation and brand and compromising or leading to a loss of protection of its intellectual property or trade secrets.
If Polestar is unable to protect its products, digital sales tools and its service providers’ and vendors’ systems (and the information stored on such platforms) from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, destruction or other cybersecurity breaches, such problems or security breaches could have negative consequences for its business and future prospects, subjecting Polestar to substantial fines, penalties, damages and other liabilities under applicable laws and regulations, incurring substantial costs to respond to, investigate and remedy such incidents, reducing customer demand for Polestar’s products, harming its reputation and brand and compromising or leading to a loss of protection of its intellectual property or trade secrets.
In the event that Polestar obtains securities or industry analyst coverage, if 47 one or more of the analysts who cover Polestar downgrades their assessment of Polestar or publish inaccurate or unfavorable research about Polestar’s business, the market price and liquidity for the ADSs could be negatively impacted.
In the event that Polestar obtains securities or industry analyst coverage, if one or more of the analysts who cover Polestar downgrades their assessment of Polestar or publish inaccurate or unfavorable research about Polestar’s business, the market price and liquidity for the ADSs could be negatively impacted.
Other factors that may influence the adoption of electric vehicles include: • perceptions about electric vehicle quality, safety, design, performance and cost; • perceptions about the limited range over which electric vehicles may be driven on a single battery charge; • perceptions about the total cost of ownership of electric vehicles, including the initial purchase price and operating and maintenance costs, both including and excluding the effect of government and other subsidies and incentives designed to promote the purchase of electric vehicles; 25 • concerns about electric grid capacity and reliability; • perceptions about the sustainability and environmental impact of electric vehicles, including with respect to both the sourcing and disposal of materials for electric vehicle batteries and the generation of electricity provided in the electric grid; • the availability of other alternative fuel vehicles, including plug-in hybrid electric vehicles; • improvements in the fuel economy of the internal combustion engine; • the quality and availability of service for electric vehicles, especially in international markets; • volatility in the cost of oil, gasoline and electricity; • government regulations and economic incentives promoting fuel efficiency and alternative forms of energy; • access to charging stations and the cost to charge an electric vehicle, especially in international markets, and related infrastructure costs and standardization; • the availability of tax and other governmental incentives to purchase and operate electric vehicles or future regulation requiring increased use of nonpolluting vehicles; and • macroeconomic factors.
Other factors that may influence the adoption of electric vehicles include: • perceptions about electric vehicle quality, safety, design, performance and cost; • perceptions about the limited range over which electric vehicles may be driven on a single battery charge; • perceptions about the total cost of ownership of electric vehicles, including the initial purchase price and operating and maintenance costs, both including and excluding the effect of government and other subsidies and incentives designed to promote the purchase of electric vehicles; • concerns about electric grid capacity and reliability; • perceptions about the sustainability and environmental and human rights impact of electric vehicles, including with respect to both the sourcing and disposal of materials for electric vehicle batteries and the generation of electricity provided in the electric grid; • the availability of other alternative fuel vehicles, including plug-in hybrid electric vehicles; • improvements in the fuel economy of the internal combustion engine; • the quality and availability of service for electric vehicles, especially in international markets; • volatility in the cost of oil, gasoline and electricity; • government regulations and economic incentives promoting fuel efficiency and alternative forms of energy; • access to charging stations and the cost to charge an electric vehicle, especially in international markets, and related infrastructure costs and standardization; • the availability of tax and other governmental incentives to purchase and operate electric vehicles or future regulation requiring increased use of nonpolluting vehicles; and • macroeconomic factors.
The CCPA requires covered businesses to provide California residents with new privacy-related disclosures and new ways to opt-out of certain uses and disclosures of personal information. As Polestar expands its 29 operations, the CCPA may increase its compliance costs and potential liability.
The CCPA requires covered businesses to provide California residents with new privacy-related disclosures and new ways to opt-out of certain uses and disclosures of personal information. As Polestar expands its operations, the CCPA may increase its compliance costs and potential liability.
The laws governing licensing of dealers and sales of motor vehicles vary from country to country and, within a country, from state to state, and the application of these local laws to Polestar’s operations can be difficult to predict. Certain jurisdictions require a dealer license to sell new motor vehicles within the country or state.
Additionally, the laws governing licensing of dealers and sales of motor vehicles vary from country to country and, within a country, from state to state, and the application of these local laws to Polestar’s operations can be difficult to predict. Certain jurisdictions require a dealer license to sell new motor vehicles within the country or state.
Polestar’s management team 43 may not successfully or efficiently manage Polestar’s new obligations as a public company, including significant regulatory oversight and reporting obligations under UK companies laws, the federal securities laws and the continuous scrutiny of securities analysts and investors.
Polestar’s management team may not successfully or efficiently manage Polestar’s new obligations as a public company, including significant regulatory oversight and reporting obligations under UK companies laws, the federal securities laws and the continuous scrutiny of securities analysts and investors.
In the future, Polestar may, voluntarily or involuntarily, initiate a recall if any of its electric vehicles or components (including its battery cells) prove to be defective or noncompliant with applicable federal motor vehicle safety standards.
In the future, Polestar may, voluntarily or involuntarily, initiate a recall if any of its electric vehicles or components (including its battery cells) prove to be defective or noncompliant with applicable motor vehicle safety standards.
Polestar will continue to require significant capital investment to support its business, and Polestar may issue additional equity securities or convertible debt securities of equal or senior rank in the future without approval of the holders of the ADSs in certain circumstances.
Polestar will continue to require significant capital investment to support its business, and Polestar may issue equity securities or convertible debt securities of equal or senior rank in the future without approval of the holders of the ADSs in certain circumstances.
In addition, 17 certain components used by Polestar were originally developed for use in vehicles with internal combustion engines, and thus may not offer a similar or satisfactory level of performance in Polestar’s electric vehicles.
In addition, certain components used by Polestar were originally developed for use in vehicles with internal combustion engines, and thus may not offer a similar or satisfactory level of performance in Polestar’s electric vehicles.
This amount may be increased each year during the term of the Equity Plan by up to 0.5% of the total number of Shares outstanding on each December 31 immediately prior to the 48 date of such increase.
This amount may be increased each year during the term of the Equity Plan by up to 0.5% of the total number of Shares outstanding on each December 31 immediately prior to the date of such increase.
In addition, Polestar has implemented a long-term incentive program providing for annual grants of equity-based awards vesting over three years, consisting of awards of (i) 100% PSUs granted to Polestar’s executive management team, and (ii) 50% RSUs and 50% PSUs granted to other eligible Polestar employees, with such RSUs to vest in full based on continued service through the third anniversary of the Business Combination Closing and such PSUs to vest based on achievement of certain Polestar performance metrics (described following) and continued service through the third anniversary of the Business Combination Closing.
In addition, Polestar has implemented a long-term incentive program providing for annual grants of equity-based awards vesting over three years, consisting of awards of (i) 100% PSUs granted to Polestar’s executive management team, and (ii) 50% RSUs and 50% PSUs granted to other eligible Polestar employees, with such RSUs to vest in full based on continued service through the third anniversary of the Business Combination Closing and such PSUs to vest based on achievement of certain Polestar performance metrics (described following) and continued service through the third anniversary of the grant date.
There are substantial uncertainties regarding the interpretation and application of the existing laws, regulations and policies and possible new laws, regulations or policies in China relating to internet-related businesses as well as automotive businesses and companies.
There are also substantial uncertainties regarding the interpretation and application of the existing laws, regulations and policies and possible new laws, regulations or policies in China relating to internet-related businesses as well as automotive businesses and companies.
For more information, also see “ —Risks Related to Polestar’s Business and Industry—Changes in foreign currency rates, interest rate risks, or inflation could materially affect Polestar’s results of operations ”, Item 5 “ Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Key factors affecting performance—Impact of COVID-19 and the Russo-Ukrainian War ,” and Item 5 “ Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Key factors affecting performance—Inflation .” These factors may make the timing, amount, terms and conditions of such financing unattractive or unavailable to Polestar.
For more information, also see “ —Risks Related to Polestar’s Business and Industry—Changes in foreign currency rates, interest rate risks, or inflation could materially affect Polestar’s results of operations ”, Item 5 “ Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Key factors affecting performance—Impact of the Russo-Ukrainian War ,” and Item 5 “ Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Key factors affecting performance—Inflation .” These factors may make the timing, amount, terms and conditions of such financing unattractive or unavailable to Polestar.
If Polestar underestimates its requirements, its strategic partners and suppliers may have inadequate manufacturing capacity and/or inventory, which could interrupt manufacturing of its products and result in delays in shipments and revenues.
If Polestar underestimates its production requirements, its strategic partners and suppliers may have inadequate manufacturing capacity and/or inventory, which could interrupt manufacturing of its products and result in delays in shipments and revenues.
From time to time, Polestar may be subject to claims, lawsuits, government investigations and other proceedings involving product liability, consumer protection, competition and antitrust, intellectual property, privacy, securities, tax, labor and employment, health and safety, its direct distribution model, environmental claims, commercial disputes, corporate and other matters that could adversely affect its business, results of operations, cash flows and financial condition.
From time to time, Polestar may be subject to claims, lawsuits, government investigations and other proceedings involving product liability, consumer protection, competition, antitrust and anti-subsidy, intellectual property, privacy, securities, tax, labor and employment, health and safety, its direct distribution model, environmental claims, commercial disputes, corporate and other matters that could adversely affect its business, results of operations, cash flows and financial condition.
Risks Related to Financing and Strategy Transactions • Polestar will require additional capital to support business growth, and this capital might not be available on commercially reasonable terms, or at all. • Polestar’s financial results may vary significantly from period to period due to fluctuations in its operating costs, product demand and other factors.
Risks Related to Financing and Strategy Transactions , such as, Polestar will require additional capital to support business growth, and this capital might not be available on commercially reasonable terms, or at all; Polestar’s financial results may vary significantly from period to period due to fluctuations in its operating costs, product demand and other factors.
Certain issues or transfers 38 of securities to depositories or into clearance systems may be charged at a higher rate of 1.5%, unless an election has been made and maintained by the depository or clearance system under section 97A of the UK Finance Act 1986. Polestar is not aware of any such election having been made.
Certain transfers of securities to depositories or into clearance systems may be charged at a higher rate of 1.5%, unless an election has been made and maintained by the depository or clearance system under section 97A of the UK Finance Act 1986. Polestar is not aware of any such election having been made.
A data handler in the industry and information technology field in the PRC shall submit its catalog of important data and core data to the local industrial regulatory department for recordation. Since Polestar is not registered manufacturer in PRC but cooperating with its Original Equipment Manufacturer (“ OEM ”) suppliers, the legal obligations are mainly with the OEM suppliers.
A data handler in the industry and information technology field in the PRC shall submit its catalog of important data and core data to the local industrial regulatory department for recordation. Since Polestar is not registered manufacturer in PRC but cooperating with its Original Equipment Manufacturer (“OEM”) suppliers, the legal obligations are mainly with the OEM suppliers.
Based on the current and projected composition of the Company’s income and assets, the Company does not believe it was classified as a PFIC for its most recent taxable year ended on December 31, 2022 and does not expect to be classified as a PFIC for the current taxable year or, to the best of its current estimates, for subsequent taxable years.
Based on the current and projected composition of the Company’s income and assets, the Company does not believe it was classified as a PFIC for its most recent taxable year ended on December 31, 2023 and does not expect to be classified as a PFIC for the current taxable year or, to the best of its current estimates, for subsequent taxable years.
There can be no assurance, therefore, that there will not be some components sourced from suppliers subject to sanctions against Russia nor that the resulting disruption to the supply chain will not have an adverse impact on Polestar's business and results of operations.
There can be no assurance, therefore, that there will not be some components sourced from suppliers subject to sanctions against Russia nor that the resulting disruption to the supply chain will not have an adverse impact on Polestar’s business and results of operations and financial condition.
Notwithstanding these measures, there can be no assurance that such systems and measures will not be compromised as a result of intentional misconduct, including by employees, contractors or vendors, as well as by software bugs, human error or technical malfunctions.
Notwithstanding these measures, there can be no assurance that such systems and measures will be adhered to or will not be compromised as a result of intentional misconduct, including by employees, contractors or vendors, as well as by software bugs, human error or technical malfunctions.
The determination of foreign private issuer status is made annually on the last business day of an issuer’s most recently completed second fiscal quarter, and, accordingly, the next determination will be made with respect to Polestar on June 30, 2023.
The determination of foreign private issuer status is made annually on the last business day of an issuer’s most recently completed second fiscal quarter, and, accordingly, the next determination will be made with respect to Polestar on June 30, 2024.
No condition, stipulation or provision of the Deposit Agreements or ADSs 50 serves as a waiver by any holder or beneficial owner of ADSs or by Polestar or the Depositary of compliance with any provision of U.S. federal securities laws and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder.
No condition, stipulation or provision of the Deposit Agreements or ADS serves as a waiver by any holder or beneficial owner of ADSs or by Polestar or the Depositary of compliance with any provision of U.S. federal securities laws and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder.
If Polestar’s efforts are not successful or other material weaknesses or control deficiencies occur in the future, Polestar may be unable to report its financial results accurately on a timely basis or help prevent fraud, which could cause its reported financial results to be materially misstated and result in the loss of investor confidence or delisting and cause the market price of Polestar’s AD securities to decline.
If Polestar’s efforts are not successful or other material weaknesses or control deficiencies occur in the future, Polestar may be unable to report its financial results accurately on a timely basis or help prevent fraud, which could cause its reported financial results to be materially misstated and result in the loss of investor confidence or delisting and cause the market price of Polestar’s ADSs to decline.
Some observers have noted that the CCPA could mark the beginning of a trend toward more stringent privacy legislation in the United States. Additionally, effective in most respects on January 1, 2023, the California Privacy Rights Act (“ CPRA ”) has significantly modified the CCPA, including by expanding California residents’ rights with respect to certain sensitive personal information.
Some observers have noted that the CCPA could mark the beginning of a trend toward more stringent privacy legislation in the United States. Additionally, effective in most respects on January 1, 2023, the California Privacy Rights Act (“CPRA”) has significantly modified the CCPA, including by expanding California residents’ rights with respect to certain sensitive personal information.
For example, recent U.S. legislative efforts, including the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 (“ IRA ”), may reduce or eliminate federal tax incentives available for purchasers of Polestar vehicles, thereby diminishing the competitiveness of Polestar in the U.S. market. Further, any uncertainty or delay in collection of the government subsidies may also have an adverse impact on Polestar’s financial condition.
For example, recent U.S. legislative efforts, including the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 (“IRA”), may reduce or eliminate federal tax incentives available for purchasers of Polestar vehicles, thereby diminishing the competitiveness of Polestar in the U.S. market. Further, any uncertainty or delay in collection of the government subsidies may also have an adverse impact on Polestar’s financial condition.
Transfers of ADSs representing underlying Company securities that have been deposited with the depository, which will take place in book entry form through the Depository Trust Company (“ DTC ”), currently do not attract a charge to stamp duty or SDRT in the U.K., provided no written instrument of transfer is used to effect the transfer.
Transfers of ADSs representing underlying Company securities that have been deposited with the depository, which will take place in book entry form through the Depository Trust Company (“DTC”), currently do not attract a charge to stamp duty or SDRT in the U.K., provided no written instrument of transfer is used to effect the transfer.
Furthermore, hackers may in the future attempt to gain unauthorized access to, modify, alter and use Polestar’s vehicles, products, and digital sales tools and Polestar’s and its service providers’ or vendors’ systems to (i) gain control of, (ii) change the functionality, user interface and performance characteristics of or (iii) gain access to data stored in or generated by, such vehicles, products, digital sales tools and systems.
Furthermore, hackers may in the future attempt to gain unauthorized access to, modify, alter, disable, and use Polestar’s vehicles, products, and digital sales tools and Polestar’s and its service providers’ or vendors’ systems to (i) gain control of, (ii) change the functionality, user interface and performance characteristics of or (iii) gain access to sensitive or proprietary data stored in or generated by, such vehicles, products, digital sales tools and systems.
Any such events or failures of Polestar’s vehicles, battery packs or warning systems could subject Polestar to lawsuits, product recalls, or redesign efforts, all of which would be time consuming and expensive.
Any such events or failures of Polestar’s vehicles, battery packs or warning systems could subject it to lawsuits, product recalls or redesign efforts, all of which would be time consuming and expensive.
Specifically, the Cyber Security Law provides that China adopt a multi-level protection scheme (“ MLPS ”), under which network operators are required to implement security protection measures to ensure that the network is free from interference, disruption or unauthorized access, and prevent network data from being disclosed, stolen or tampered with.
Specifically, the Cyber Security Law provides that China adopt a multi-level protection scheme (“MLPS”), under which network operators are required to implement security protection measures to ensure that the network is free from interference, disruption or unauthorized access, and prevent network data from being disclosed, stolen or tampered with.
Polestar’s vehicles are designed with the advanced driver assistance system (“ ADAS ”) hardware, and Polestar expects to launch automation functionalities and additional capabilities, including autonomous driving (“ AD ”), over time. ADAS/AD technologies are emerging and subject to known and unknown risks, and there have been accidents and fatalities associated with such technologies.
Polestar’s vehicles are designed with the advanced driver assistance system (“ADAS”) hardware, and Polestar expects to launch automation functionalities and additional capabilities, including autonomous driving (“AD”), over time. ADAS/AD technologies are emerging and subject to known and unknown risks, and there have been accidents and fatalities associated with such technologies.
Recently, the Cyberspace Administration of China (the “ CAC ”) has taken action against several Chinese Internet companies in connection with their initial public offerings on U.S. securities exchanges, for alleged national security risks and improper collection and use of the personal information of Chinese data subjects.
Recently, the Cyberspace Administration of China (the “CAC”) has taken action against several Chinese Internet companies in connection with their initial public offerings on U.S. securities exchanges, for alleged national security risks and improper collection and use of the personal information of Chinese data subjects.
The Class C ADSs will be exercisable for the Class A ADSs, which would increase the number of AD securities eligible for future resale in the public market and result in dilution to its shareholders.
The Class C ADSs will be exercisable for the Class A ADSs, which would increase the number of ADSs eligible for future resale in the public market and result in dilution to its shareholders.
While the outcomes of these incidents were determined not to have had an impact on the safety or security of Polestar’s customers or their personal data, it nonetheless highlights the risk that Polestar faces by being partly reliant on external IT systems.
While the outcomes of these incidents were determined not to have had a material impact on the safety or security of Polestar’s customers or their personal data , it nonetheless highlights the risk that Polestar faces by being partly reliant on external IT systems.
In addition, some members of the U.S. federal government, including certain members of Congress and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (“ NHTSA ”), have recently focused attention on automotive cybersecurity issues and may in the future propose or implement regulations specific to automotive cybersecurity.
In addition, some members of the U.S. federal government, including certain members of Congress and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (“NHTSA”), have recently focused attention on automotive cybersecurity issues and may in the future propose or implement regulations specific to automotive cybersecurity.
Additionally, the Cyber Security Law of the People’s Republic of China (“ Cyber Security Law ”) that came into effect in June 2017 requires companies to take certain organizational, technical and administrative measures and other necessary measures to ensure the security of their networks and data stored on their networks.
Additionally, the Cyber Security Law of the People’s Republic of China (“Cyber Security Law”) that came into effect in June 2017 requires companies to take certain organizational, technical and administrative measures and other necessary measures to ensure the security of their networks and data stored on their networks.
These regulations include those promulgated by the EPA, NHTSA, other federal agencies, various state agencies and various state boards (including the California Air Resources Board (“ CARB ”)), and compliance certification is required for each new model year and changes to the model within a model year.
These regulations include those promulgated by the EPA, NHTSA, other federal agencies, various state agencies and various state boards (including the California Air Resources Board (“CARB”)), and compliance certification is required for each new model year and changes to the model within a model year.
Examples of some of these recalls were due to (i) a risk of certain high voltage battery cells overheating when the battery is fully charged, which could lead to a thermal event inside the battery, increasing the risk of fire, (ii) the mal-production of seatbelts which could result in the early activation of the locking feature used to tightly secure a child restraint system, (iii) the too high adjustment of headlamps which could result in excessive glare for oncoming traffic, (iv) a software error causing an internal reset in the Battery Energy Control Module, resulting in the control unit opening the high voltage connectors during driving (which caused two recalls), (v) a supplier design issue known as “tin whiskers,” which caused a short circuit inside the front and rear inverters, (vi) an error resulting in displayed velocity of the vehicle being lower than the actual velocity, and (vii) an incorrect message shown on display when the vehicle is placed in reverse mode.
Examples of some of Polestar’s recalls were due to (i) a risk of certain high voltage battery cells overheating when the battery is fully charged, which could lead to a thermal event inside the battery, increasing the risk of fire, (ii) the defective production of seatbelts which could result in the early activation of the locking feature used to tightly secure a child restraint system, (iii) headlamps adjusting at too high an angle which could result in excessive glare for oncoming traffic, (iv) a software error causing an internal reset in the battery energy control module, resulting in the control unit opening the high voltage connectors during driving (which has caused two recalls), (v) a supplier design issue known as “tin whiskers,” which caused a short circuit inside the front and rear inverters, (vi) an error resulting in displayed velocity of the vehicle being lower than the actual velocity, and (vii) an incorrect message shown on display when the vehicle is placed in reverse mode.
In addition, organizations that provide information to investors on corporate governance and related matters have developed ratings processes for evaluating companies on their approach to environmental, social and governance (“ ESG ”) matters. Such ratings are used by some investors to inform their investment and voting decisions.
In addition, organizations that provide information to investors on corporate governance and related matters have developed ratings processes for evaluating companies on their approach to environmental, social and governance (“ESG”) matters. Such ratings are used by some investors to inform their investment and voting decisions.
Specifically, such PSUs will vest based on Polestar’s level of achievement with respect to each of the following metrics through December 31, 2024: 25% with respect to value creation relative to a selected group of peer companies; 25% with respect to unleveraged free cash flow; 20% with respect to ESG achievement measured based on yearly greenhouse gas emissions; and 30% with respect to the achievement of certain operational milestones.
Specifically, such PSUs will vest based on Polestar’s level of achievement with respect to each of the following metrics : 25% with respect to value creation relative to a selected group of peer companies; 25% with respect to unleveraged free cash flow; 20% with respect to ESG achievement measured based on yearly greenhouse gas emissions; and 30% with respect to the achievement of certain operational milestones.
For example, Polestar is subject to laws, regulations and regulatory agencies like EU Regulation 2018/858 in the EU, the Environmental Protection Agency (“ EPA ”) and NHTSA in the United States and the Provisions on the Administration of Investments in the Automotive Industry in China.
For example, Polestar is subject to laws, regulations and regulatory agencies like EU Regulation 2018/858 in the EU, the Environmental Protection Agency (“EPA”) and NHTSA in the United States and the Provisions on the Administration of Investments in the Automotive Industry in China.
To the extent such transfer is effected by a written instrument of transfer, then any such duty must be paid (and the relevant instrument of transfer stamped by HM Revenue & Customs (“ HMRC ”)) before the transfer can be registered in the register of members of the Company.
To the extent such transfer is effected by a written instrument of transfer, then any such duty must be paid (and the relevant instrument of transfer stamped by HM Revenue & Customs (“HMRC”)) before the transfer can be registered in the register of members of the Company.
If Polestar’s product development or commercialization is delayed, its costs and expenses may be significantly higher than it currently expects. Because Polestar will incur the costs and expenses from these efforts before it receives any incremental revenues with respect thereto, Polestar expects its losses in future periods will be significant.
If Polestar’s product development or commercialization is delayed, its cash flow generation may also be delayed and its costs and expenses may be significantly higher than it currently expects. Because Polestar will incur the costs and expenses from these efforts before it receives any incremental revenues with respect thereto, Polestar expects its losses in future periods may be significant.
Failure to comply with applicable laws or regulations or to secure personal information could result in investigations, enforcement actions and other proceedings against Polestar, which could result in substantial fines, damages and other liability as well as damage to Polestar’s reputation and credibility, which could have a negative impact on revenues and profits.
Failure to comply with applicable laws or regulations or to secure personal information could result in investigations, violations of data privacy laws, enforcement actions and other proceedings against Polestar, which could result in substantial fines, damages and other liability as well as damage to Polestar’s reputation and credibility, which could have a negative impact on revenues and profits.
Stamp duty or stamp duty reserve tax (“ SDRT ”) is imposed in the U.K. on certain transfers of chargeable securities (which include securities in companies incorporated in the U.K.) at a rate of 0.5% of the consideration paid for the transfer.
Stamp duty or stamp duty reserve tax (“SDRT”) is imposed in the U.K. on certain transfers of chargeable securities (which include securities in companies incorporated in the U.K.) at a rate of 0.5% of the consideration paid for the transfer.
Accordingly, under the generally applicable U.S. federal income tax rules, the Company, which is incorporated under the laws of the U.K., would be classified as a non-U.S. corporation (and, therefore, not a U.S. tax resident) for U.S. federal income tax purposes.
Accordingly, under the generally applicable U.S. federal income tax rules, the Company, which is incorporated under the laws of England and Wales, would be classified as a non-U.S. corporation (and, therefore, not a U.S. tax resident) for U.S. federal income tax purposes.
Polestar does not expect the Company to be treated as a U.S. corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes or otherwise be subject to unfavorable treatment as a surrogate foreign corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes as a result of the Business Combination.
Polestar does not believe the Company should be treated as a U.S. corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes or otherwise be subject to unfavorable treatment as a surrogate foreign corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes as a result of the Business Combination.
The Exchange Act and UK companies laws require that Polestar file an annual report with respect to its business and financial condition. In addition, it intends to publish certain results on a quarterly basis as press releases, distributed pursuant to the rules and regulations of Nasdaq.
The Exchange Act and UK companies laws require that Polestar file an annual report with respect to its business and financial condition. In addition, Polestar publishes certain results on a quarterly basis as press releases, distributed pursuant to the rules and regulations of Nasdaq.
Polestar relies on its and Volvo Cars’ IT systems, and such systems are vulnerable to damage or interruption from, among other adverse effects, fire, terrorist attacks, natural disasters, power loss, telecommunications failures, computer viruses, 27 computer denial of service attacks or other attempts to harm its systems.
Polestar relies on its and Volvo Cars’ IT systems, and such systems are vulnerable to damage or interruption from, among other adverse effects, fire, terrorist attacks, natural disasters, power loss, telecommunications failures, computer viruses, computer denial of service attacks, targeted cybersecurity threats, or other attempts to harm its systems.
In addition, even if the Company is not treated as a U.S. corporation, it may be subject to unfavorable treatment as a “surrogate foreign corporation” in the event that, following the Business Combination, ownership attributable to former GGI stockholders exceeded a threshold amount.
In addition, even if the Company is not treated as a U.S. corporation, it may be subject to unfavorable treatment as a “surrogate foreign corporation” in the event that, following the Business Combination, ownership attributable to former GGI stockholders and certain other U.S. investors exceeded a threshold amount.
Particularly COVID-19 and the Russo-Ukrainian War have led to increased inflationary pressures on prices of components, materials, labor, and equipment used in the production of Polestar vehicles. Increases in battery prices due to the increased prices of lithium, cobalt, and nickel are expected to lead to higher inventory and costs of goods sold.
The Russo-Ukrainian war led to increased inflationary pressures on prices of components, materials, labor, and equipment used in the production of Polestar vehicles. Increases in battery prices due to the increased prices of lithium, cobalt, and nickel are expected to lead to higher inventory and costs of goods sold.
As a result, expenses associated with share-based compensation may increase, which may have an adverse effect on Polestar’s business and results of operations. Specifically, as of the date of this Report, Polestar has implemented equity programs under the Equity Plan providing for awards of restricted stock units (“ RSUs ”), performance stock units (“ PSUs ”) and Bonus Shares.
As a result, expenses associated with share-based compensation may increase, which may have an adverse effect on Polestar’s business and results of operations. Specifically, as of the date of this Report, Polestar has implemented equity programs under the Equity Plan providing for awards of restricted stock units (“RSUs”), performance stock units (“PSUs”) and Bonus Shares.
Polestar and its service providers’ and vendors’ systems have in the past and may in the future be affected by security incidents.
Polestar and its service providers’ and vendors’ systems have in the past and may in the future be affected by cybersecurity incidents.
Also, on August 20, 2021, the Standing Committee of China’s National People’s Congress passed the Personal Information Protection Law of the People’s Republic of China (“ Personal Information Protection Law ”), which became effective on November 1, 2021.
Also, on August 20, 2021, the Standing Committee of China’s National People’s Congress passed the Personal Information Protection Law of the People’s Republic of China (“Personal Information Protection Law”), which became effective on November 1, 2021.
In the course of auditing Polestar’s financial statements as of and for the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021, Polestar and its independent registered public accounting firm identified material weaknesses in Polestar’s internal control over financial reporting as well as other control deficiencies.
In the course of preparing Polestar’s financial statements as of and for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, Polestar and its independent registered public accounting firm identified material weaknesses in Polestar’s internal control over financial reporting as well as other control deficiencies.
See Item 5 “ Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Key factors affecting performance—Impact of COVID-19 and the Russo-Ukrainian War ” and “ Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Key factors affecting performance—Inflation. ” Further, fluctuations in currency rates, interest rate hikes and existing and expected rates of inflation in the U.S. and other jurisdictions, including as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russo-Ukrainian War, have resulted in extreme volatility in the global financial markets, which has increased Polestar’s cost of capital and may limit its ability to access financing when needed.
See Item 5 “ Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Key factors affecting performance—Impact of the Russo-Ukrainian War ” and “ Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Key factors affecting performance—Inflation. ” Further, fluctuations in currency rates, interest rate hikes and existing and expected rates of inflation in the U.S. and other jurisdictions have resulted in extreme volatility in the global financial markets, which has increased Polestar’s cost of capital and may limit its ability to access financing when needed.
Increases in costs, disruption of supply or shortage of materials, in particular for lithium-ion cells or semiconductors, could harm Polestar’s business. Polestar will need to maintain and significantly grow its access to battery cells, including through the development and manufacture of its own cells, and control its related costs.
(See Item 3.D “ —Increases in costs, disruption of supply or shortage of materials, in particular for lithium-ion cells or semiconductors, could harm Polestar’s business. Polestar will need to maintain and significantly grow its access to battery cells, including through the development and manufacture of its own cells, and control its related costs .”).
Polestar is and will be subject to anti-corruption, anti-bribery, anti-money laundering, financial and economic sanctions, and similar laws and regulations in various jurisdictions in which it conducts activities, including the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (“ FCPA ”), the United Kingdom Bribery Act 2010 (“ Bribery Act ”) and other applicable anti-corruption laws and regulations.
Polestar is and will be subject to anti-corruption, anti-bribery, anti-money laundering, financial and economic sanctions, and similar laws and regulations in various jurisdictions in which it conducts activities, including the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (“FCPA”), the United Kingdom Bribery Act 2010 (“Bribery Act”) and other applicable anti-corruption laws and regulations.
If Polestar is unable to access or develop localized supply chains in the regions where it or its partners already have or develop manufacturing facilities with the quality, costs and capabilities required, Polestar could be required to source components from distant suppliers, which would increase its logistics and manufacturing costs, increase the risk and complexity of Polestar’s supply chain and significantly impair Polestar’s ability to develop cost-effective manufacturing operations, which could have a material and adverse effect on Polestar’s business, results of operations and financial condition.
If Polestar is unable to access or develop localized supply chains in the regions where it or its partners already have or develop manufacturing facilities with the quality, costs and capabilities required, Polestar could be required to source components from distant suppliers, which would increase its logistics and manufacturing costs as well as greenhouse gas emissions, increase the risk and complexity of Polestar’s supply chain and significantly impair Polestar’s ability to develop cost-effective manufacturing operations, which could have a material and adverse effect on Polestar’s business including its sustainability goals, results of operations and financial condition.
The European Union adopted the General Data Protection Regulation (“ GDPR ”), which became effective on May 25, 2018, and as a result of the withdrawal of the United Kingdom from the European Union on 31 January 2020 the United Kingdom now has its own data privacy regime comprised of the United Kingdom General Data Protection Regulation and Data Protection Act 2018 (collectively, the “ UK GDPR ”) (the GDPR and UK GDPR together referred to as the “ GDPR ”) and California adopted the California Consumer Privacy Act of 2018 (“ CCPA ”), which became effective in January 2020.
The European Union adopted the General Data Protection Regulation (“GDPR”), which became effective on May 25, 2018, and as a result of the withdrawal of the United Kingdom from the European Union on 31 January 2020 the United Kingdom now has its own data privacy regime comprised of the United Kingdom General Data Protection Regulation and Data Protection Act 2018 (collectively, the “UK GDPR”) (the GDPR and UK GDPR together referred to as the “GDPR”) and California adopted the California Consumer Privacy Act of 2018 (“CCPA”), which became effective in January 2020.
China has implemented new rules relating to data protection, and the new Data Security Law of the People’s Republic of China (“ Data Security Law ”) took effect in September 2021.
China has implemented new rules relating to data protection, and the new Data Security Law of the People’s Republic of China (“Data Security Law”) took effect in September 2021.
Risks Related to Tax • Unanticipated tax laws or any change in the application of existing tax laws to Polestar or Polestar’s customers may adversely impact its profitability and business. • Transfers of ADSs or the underlying Company securities may be subject to stamp duty or stamp duty reserve tax in the U.K., which would increase the cost of dealing in the Company’s securities. • The Company may be classified as a passive foreign investment company for U.S. federal income tax purposes, which could result in adverse U.S. federal income tax consequences to U.S.
Risks Related to Tax , such as, unanticipated tax laws, changes in the application or interpretation of existing tax laws to Polestar or Polestar’s customers, changes to tax rates or challenges to Polestar's tax positions may adversely impact its profitability and business; transfers of ADSs or the underlying Company securities may be subject to stamp duty or stamp duty reserve tax in the U.K., which would increase the cost of dealing in the Company’s securities; the Company may be classified as a passive foreign investment company for U.S. federal income tax purposes, which could result in adverse U.S. federal income tax consequences to U.S.