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What changed in Workday, Inc.'s 10-K — 2024 vs 2025

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Paragraph-level year-over-year comparison of Workday, Inc.'s 2024 and 2025 10-K annual filings, covering the Business, Risk Factors, Legal Proceedings, Cybersecurity, MD&A and Market Risk sections. Every new, removed and edited paragraph is highlighted side-by-side so you can see exactly what management changed in the 2025 report.

+347 added−339 removedSource: 10-K (2025-03-11) vs 10-K (2024-03-08)

Top changes in Workday, Inc.'s 2025 10-K

347 paragraphs added · 339 removed · 269 edited across 7 sections

Item 1. Business

Business — how the company describes what it does

58 edited+20 added−17 removed18 unchanged
Biggest changeAs a result, Workday AI helps deliver better employee experiences, increase productivity, improve operational efficiencies, and provide insights for faster, data-driven decision-making. Workday provides organizations with a unified system that can help them plan, execute, analyze, and extend to other applications and environments, thereby helping them continuously adapt how they manage their business and operations.
Biggest changeWorkday Illuminate is built into our platform, allowing us to rapidly deliver and sustain models that can solve countless business problems. As a result, Workday Illuminate helps deliver better employee experiences, increase productivity, improve operational efficiencies, and provide insights for faster, data-driven decision-making.
We encourage and support employee giving and volunteering through programs such as our charitable donation matching gift program, our paid time off benefit for employees to volunteer and give back to their communities, and our team volunteer experience, where employee teams of five or more can volunteer with a charity partner of their choice and receive grants of up to $5,000.
We encourage and support employee giving and volunteering through programs such as our charitable donation matching gift program, our volunteer grant program, our paid time off benefit for employees to volunteer and give back to their communities, and our team volunteer experience, where employee teams of five or more can volunteer with a charity partner of their choice and receive grants of up to $5,000.
These laws and regulations, which may differ among jurisdictions, include, among others, those related to financial and other disclosures, accounting standards, privacy and data protection, intellectual property, AI ethics and machine learning, corporate governance, tax, government contracting, trade, antitrust, employment, immigration and travel, import/export, and anti-corruption.
These laws and regulations, which may differ among jurisdictions, include, among others, those related to financial and other disclosures, accounting standards, privacy and data protection, cybersecurity, intellectual property, AI ethics and machine learning, corporate governance, tax, government contracting, trade, antitrust, employment, immigration and travel, import/export, and anti-corruption.
These included tools and resources related to sleep, healthy eating, and mindfulness, as well as enhancements to our Employee Assistance Program to, among other things, facilitate timely access to culturally responsive mental health support for employees and their family members.
These included tools and resources related to sleep, healthy eating, and mindfulness, as well as our Employee Assistance Program to, among other things, facilitate timely access to culturally responsive mental health support for employees and their family members.
Information contained on or accessible through any website reference herein is not part of, or incorporated by reference in, this Form 10-K, and the inclusion of such website addresses is as inactive textual references only.
Information contained on or accessible through any website referenced herein is not part of, or incorporated by reference in, this Form 10-K, and the inclusion of such website addresses is as inactive textual references only.
Using Workday AI, Career Hub provides workers with suggestions to grow their skills and capabilities and encourages them to build a plan as they explore opportunities for continued career development. Additionally, to foster a strong culture of compliance and ethics, we conduct annual compliance and ethics training of our Code of Conduct for all employees.
Using Workday Illuminate, Career Hub provides workers with suggestions to grow their skills and capabilities and encourages them to build a plan as they explore opportunities for continued career development. Additionally, to foster a strong culture of compliance and ethics, we conduct annual compliance and ethics training of our Code of Conduct for all employees.
Customers We primarily sell to medium-sized and large, global organizations that span numerous industry categories, including professional and business services, financial services, healthcare, education, government, technology, media, retail, and hospitality. We have built a company culture centered around customer success and satisfaction.
Customers We sell to emerging, medium-sized, and large global organizations that span numerous industry categories, including professional and business services, financial services, healthcare, education, government, technology, media, retail, and hospitality. We have built a company culture centered around customer success and satisfaction.
In fiscal 2024, we had a 100% completion rate for our annual Code of Conduct training. Communication and Engagement Our culture and how we treat people are paramount at Workday, and we believe that being transparent and facilitating information sharing are key to our success.
In fiscal 2025, we had a 100% completion rate for our annual Code of Conduct training. Communication and Engagement Our culture and how we treat people are paramount at Workday, and we believe that being transparent and facilitating information sharing are key to our success.
We have done this by establishing a clear philosophy and set of expectations. Every Workmate receives enablement on our performance and growth philosophy, what’s expected of them, and how to leverage these practices to ensure their own personal success and career growth at Workday.
We have done this by establishing a clear philosophy and set of expectations. Every employee receives enablement on our performance and growth philosophy, what’s expected of them, and how to leverage these practices to ensure their own personal success and career growth at Workday.
Additionally, we offer extensive customer training opportunities and a professional services ecosystem of experienced Workday consultants and system integrators to help customers achieve a timely adoption of Workday and enable them to enhance the value of our applications over the life of their subscription.
We also offer extensive customer training opportunities and a professional services ecosystem of experienced Workday consultants and system integrators to help customers achieve a timely adoption of Workday and enable them to enhance the value of our applications over the life of their subscription.
Our Chief People Officer and CEO regularly update our Board of Directors and Compensation Committee on human capital matters and seek their input on subjects such as succession planning, executive compensation, and our company-wide equity programs.
Our Chief People Officer and our CEO regularly update our Board of Directors and the Compensation Committee on human capital matters and seek their input on subjects such as succession planning, executive compensation, and our company-wide people programs.
Central to our purpose is a set of core values – with our employees as number one – along with customer service, innovation, integrity, fun, and profitability. We believe that having happy employees leads to happy customers, and we are committed to helping our customers adapt and thrive in this increasingly dynamic business environment.
Central to our purpose is a set of core values – with our employees as number one – along with customer service, innovation, integrity, profitability, and fun. We believe that happy employees lead to happy customers, and we are committed to helping our customers adapt and thrive in this increasingly dynamic business environment.
Workday offers a set of cloud-based spend management solutions that help organizations streamline supplier selection and contracts, manage indirect spend, and build and execute sourcing events, such as requests for proposals. Additionally, Workday offers an expense management solution that provides users with flexible ways to submit and approve expenses, while providing leaders the ability to set controls and analyze spend.
Workday offers a set of spend management solutions that help organizations streamline supplier selection and contract management, build and execute sourcing events, such as requests for proposals, and manage indirect spend. Additionally, Workday offers an expense management solution that provides users with flexible ways to submit and approve expenses, while providing leaders the ability to set controls and analyze spend.
However, the domain and industry expertise that is required for a successful solution in the areas of financial management, HCM, and analytics may inhibit new entrants that are unable to invest the necessary capital to accurately address global requirements and regulations. We expect continued consolidation in our industry that could lead to significantly increased competition.
However, the domain and industry expertise that is required for a successful solution in the areas of financial management, HCM, and analytics may inhibit new entrants, who may also be unable to invest the necessary capital to accurately address global requirements and regulations. We expect continued consolidation in our industry that could lead to significantly increased competition.
Financial Management: Solutions for the Office of the Chief Financial Officer (“CFO”) In the changing world of finance, Workday helps organizations accelerate their journeys towards becoming truly digital finance operations by giving them the tools they need to manage the strategic direction of their organizations while also supporting growth, profitability, and compliance and regulatory requirements.
Financial Management: Solutions for the Office of the Chief Financial Officer (“CFO”) Workday helps organizations accelerate their journeys towards becoming truly digital finance organizations by giving them the tools they need to manage the strategic direction of their organizations while also supporting growth, profitability, and compliance and regulatory requirements.
These programs go beyond traditional medical benefits and wellness offerings and allow employees to focus on their personal wellness goals as well as their mental health. Our hybrid work model provides flexibility for our employees to work from home, while still bringing people together to foster collaboration and innovation.
These programs go beyond traditional medical benefits and wellness offerings and allow employees to focus on their personal wellness goals as well as their mental health. 6 Table of Contents Our hybrid work model provides flexibility for our employees to work from home, while still bringing people together to foster collaboration and innovation.
Since we introduced Workday Peakon Employee Voice in fiscal 2022, employees have provided over 486,000 confidential comments on the platform through weekly surveys and 95% of our employees have taken part in at least one survey, which reflects strong engagement by our employees.
Since we introduced Workday Peakon Employee Voice in fiscal 2022, employees have provided over 600,000 confidential comments on the platform through weekly surveys and 91% of our employees have taken part in at least one survey, which reflects strong engagement by our employees.
In addition, other cloud companies that provide services in different markets may develop applications or acquire companies that operate in our target markets, and some potential customers may elect to develop their own internal applications.
In addition, other cloud or AI platform companies that provide services in different target markets or industries may develop applications or acquire companies that operate in our target markets or industries, and some potential customers may elect to develop their own internal applications.
Our Capabilities Workday’s suite of enterprise cloud applications addresses the evolving needs of the C-suite across various industries and are designed to be open, extensible, and configurable, allowing integration with other applications and the ability for users to build their own custom applications. Workday offers applications for Financial Management, Spend Management, Human Capital Management (“HCM”), Planning, and Analytics and Benchmarking.
Our Capabilities Workday’s suite of enterprise cloud applications addresses the evolving needs of the C-suite across various industries and is designed to be open, extensible, and configurable, allowing integration with other applications and the ability for users and our partners to build custom applications. Workday offers Financial Management, Spend Management, Human Capital Management (“HCM”), Planning, and Analytics applications.
Workday’s suite of financial management applications, built on the Workday platform with Workday AI at the core, helps enable CFOs to maintain accounting information in the general ledger; manage core financial processes such as payables and receivables; identify real-time financial, operational, and management insights; improve financial consolidation; reduce time-to-close; promote internal control and auditability; and achieve consistency across global finance operations.
Workday’s suite of financial management applications, built on the Workday platform with Workday Illuminate at the core, helps enable CFOs to maintain accounting information; manage core financial processes such as payables and receivables; identify real-time financial, operational, and management insights; perform financial consolidation; reduce time-to-close; promote internal control and auditability; and achieve consistency across global finance operations.
We believe the principal competitive factors in our markets include: • level of customer satisfaction and quality of customer references; • speed to deploy and ease of use; • breadth and depth of application functionality; • total cost of ownership and flexibility of payment terms; • brand awareness and reputation; • adaptive technology platform; • capability for configuration, integration, security, scalability, and reliability of applications; • operational excellence to ensure system availability, scalability, and performance; • ability to innovate and rapidly respond to customer needs; • domain and industry expertise in applicable laws and regulations; • size of customer base and level of user adoption; • customer confidence in financial stability and future viability; and • ability to integrate with legacy enterprise infrastructure and third-party applications.
We believe the principal competitive factors in our markets include: • level of customer satisfaction and quality of customer references; • speed to deploy and ease of use; • breadth and depth of application functionality; • total cost of ownership and flexibility of payment terms; • brand awareness and reputation; • adaptive technology platform; 4 Table of Contents • capability for configuration, integration, security, scalability, and reliability of applications; • operational excellence to ensure system availability, scalability, and performance; • ability to innovate and rapidly respond to customer needs, such as the integration of AI into product offerings; • domain and industry expertise in applicable laws and regulations; • size of customer base and level of user adoption; • customer confidence in financial stability and future viability; • existing relationships with key senior business leaders; and • ability to integrate with legacy enterprise infrastructure and third-party applications.
If we identify differences in pay, we research those differences and, where appropriate, make adjustments to employees’ pay. 3 Table of Contents Belonging and Diversity We strive to be a workplace where all employees are valued for their unique perspectives and where we all collectively contribute to Workday’s success and innovation.
If we identify differences in pay, we research those differences and, where appropriate, make adjustments to employees’ pay. 5 Table of Contents VIBE: Value Inclusion, Belonging, and Equity for All We strive to be a workplace where all employees are valued for their unique perspectives and where we collectively contribute to Workday’s success and innovation.
Workday, the Workday logo, VIBE, Peakon, Zimit, VNDLY, and Opportunity Onramps are trademarks of Workday, Inc., which may be registered in the United States and elsewhere. Other trademarks, service marks, or trade names appearing in this report are the property of their respective owners. 7 Table of Contents
Workday, the Workday logo, Workday Illuminate, VIBE, Peakon, Evisort, HiredScore, VNDLY, and Adaptive Planning are trademarks of Workday, Inc., which may be registered in the United States and elsewhere. Other trademarks, service marks, or trade names appearing in this report are the property of their respective owners. 7 Table of Contents
ITEM 1. BUSINESS Overview Workday is a leading enterprise platform that helps organizations manage their most important assets – their people and money.
ITEM 1. BUSINESS Overview Workday is the AI platform that helps organizations manage their most important assets – their people and money.
With Workday Extend, customers and their developers can build custom applications that can accommodate their unique industry business needs, complete with the same experience, security model, and reliability of the native applications offered by Workday. Product Development At Workday, innovation is a core value.
With Workday Extend, customers and their developers can build custom applications that can accommodate their unique industry business needs, complete with the same experience, security model, and reliability of the native applications offered by Workday.
We strive to make the world of work and business better, and hope to empower customers to do the same through an innovative suite of solutions licensed by more than 65 million users around the world and across industries – from medium-sized businesses to more than 50% of the Fortune 500.
We strive to make the world of work and business better, and hope to empower customers to do the same through an innovative suite of solutions with more than 70 million users under contract around the world and across industries – from emerging and medium-sized businesses to more than 60% of the Fortune 500.
Human Capital Workday was founded with the idea of putting people at the center of enterprise software, which is why employees are our number one core value. As of January 31, 2024, our global workforce consisted of approximately 18,800 employees in 32 countries, of which approximately 65% were located in the U.S. and 35% were located internationally.
Human Capital Workday was founded with the idea of putting people at the center of enterprise software, which is why employees are our number one core value. As of January 31, 2025, our global workforce consisted of over 20,400 employees in 34 countries, of which approximately 63% were located in the U.S. and 37% were located internationally.
Our product development organization is responsible for product design, development, testing, and certification. We focus our efforts on developing new applications and core technologies, as well as further enhancing the usability, functionality, reliability, security, performance, and flexibility of existing applications.
We focus our efforts on developing new applications and core technologies, as well as further enhancing the usability, functionality, reliability, security, performance, and flexibility of existing applications.
Available Information Our Annual Report on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, Current Reports on Form 8-K, and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), and all amendments to these filings, can be obtained free of charge from our website at www.workday.com/sec-filings.
Our Annual Reports on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, Current Reports on Form 8-K, and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), and all amendments to these filings, can be obtained free of charge from our website at www.workday.com/sec-filings as soon as reasonably practicable after we electronically file them with or furnish them to the SEC.
For example, information technology (“IT”) leaders are navigating the complexities of supporting employees in new environments, which requires them to deploy an adaptable, secure architecture to help ensure global continuity and productivity while remaining agile.
For example, information technology (“IT”) leaders are navigating the complexities of supporting employees in new environments, which requires them to deploy an adaptable, secure architecture to help ensure global continuity and productivity while remaining agile. Workday provides applications for analytics and reporting, including augmented analytics to surface insights to the line of business in simple-to-understand stories.
Workday provides more than 10,000 organizations with AI-powered cloud solutions to help solve some of today’s most complex business challenges, including supporting and empowering their workforce, managing their finances and spend in an ever-changing environment, and planning for the unexpected. Our purpose is to inspire a brighter work day for all.
Workday provides more than 11,000 organizations with cloud solutions powered by artificial intelligence (“AI”) to help solve some of today’s most complex business challenges, including supporting and empowering their workforce, managing their finances and spend in an ever-changing environment, and planning for the unexpected.
Sales and Marketing We sell our subscription contracts and related services globally, primarily through our direct sales organization, which consists of field sales and field sales support personnel. The Workday Field Sales team is aligned by geography, industry, and/or customer size.
We plan to continue making these types of strategic investments as opportunities arise that we find attractive. Sales and Marketing We sell our subscription contracts and related services globally, primarily through our direct sales organization, which consists of field sales and field sales support personnel. The Workday Field Sales team is aligned by geography, industry, and/or customer size.
We also face competition from other enterprise software vendors, from regional competitors that only operate in certain geographic markets, and from vendors of specific applications that address only one or a portion of our applications, some of which offer cloud-based solutions. These vendors include Anaplan, Inc.; ADP; Coupa Software Inc.; Dayforce, Inc.; Infor, Inc.; Microsoft Corporation; and UKG Inc.
We also face competition from other enterprise software vendors, from regional competitors that only operate in certain geographic markets, from vendors of specific applications that address only one or a portion of our applications, and from vendors that specialize in specific industries in which we provide services, some of which offer cloud-based solutions.
To support this, Workday delivers weekly product updates in addition to major feature releases twice a year. Through this model, Workday customers are able to deliver and adopt innovations quickly and adapt at a time that fits their business needs. We sell our solutions worldwide primarily through direct sales through our field sales teams.
To support our customers and help them continuously adapt how they manage their business and operations, Workday delivers weekly product updates in addition to major feature releases twice a year. Through this model, Workday customers are able to deliver and adopt innovations quickly and adapt at a time that fits their business needs.
Our sales strategy is focused on both adding new customers and on growing our relationships with our existing customers to expand the adoption of our suite of solutions over time.
We also generate customer leads and transact through our partner ecosystem, including through resellers. Our sales strategy is focused on both adding new customers and on growing our relationships with our existing customers to expand the adoption of our suite of solutions over time.
We also have processes in place to make pay decisions based on internally consistent and fair criteria. Each year, we conduct a company-wide pay equity analysis to help ensure pay equity between men and women as well as a US-based analysis with respect to employees of different ethnicities.
We also have processes in place to make pay decisions based on internally consistent and fair criteria. Each year, we conduct a company-wide pay equity analysis to help ensure pay equity among employees in similar roles.
The SEC maintains an Internet site that contains reports, proxy and information statements, and other information regarding issuers that file electronically with the SEC at www.sec.gov. Workday also uses its blogs.workday.com website as a means of disclosing material non-public information and for complying with its disclosure obligations under Regulation FD.
The SEC maintains an Internet site that contains reports, proxy and information statements, and other information regarding issuers that file electronically with the SEC at www.sec.gov. Workday also uses its websites, including its investor relations website and blogs.workday.com as a means of disclosing information about Workday, including information that could be deemed material by investors.
Employees can take action to update their contributions, capabilities, career, and connections using the quick links provided in the dashboard. 4 Table of Contents Health, Safety, and Wellbeing At Workday, we take a holistic approach to our employees’ health and wellbeing and have created programs that focus on four core dimensions: Physical; Mental and Emotional; Financial; and Social and Flex.
Health, Safety, and Wellbeing At Workday, we take a holistic approach to our employees’ health and wellbeing and have created programs that focus on four core dimensions: Physical; Mental and Emotional; Financial; and Social and Flex.
Our culture encourages out-of-the-box thinking and creativity, which enables us to create applications designed to change the way people work. Our architecture enables us to deploy our solutions rapidly to meet evolving business needs. We invest a significant percentage of our resources in product development and are committed to rapidly building and/or acquiring new applications and solutions.
Product Development At Workday, innovation is a core value, which encourages out-of-the-box thinking and creativity, enabling us to create applications designed to change the way people work. We invest significant resources into product development and are committed to rapidly building and/or acquiring new applications and solutions. Our product development organization is responsible for product design, development, testing, and certification.
We believe that we compete favorably based on these factors. Our ability to remain competitive will largely depend on our ongoing performance in product development and customer support.
We believe that we compete favorably based on these factors. Our ability to remain competitive will largely depend on our ongoing performance in product development and customer support. For more information regarding the competitive risks we face, see “Risk Factors” included in Part I, Item 1A of this report.
Additionally, by extending our go-to-market capabilities globally, we aim to grow our business by selling to new customers in new regions. 5 Table of Contents Partner Ecosystem As a core part of our strategy, we have developed and continue to grow a global ecosystem of partners to both broaden and complement our application offerings and to provide services designed to meet the complex needs of our customers both large and small.
Additionally, by extending our go-to-market capabilities globally, we aim to grow our business by selling to new customers in new regions. 3 Table of Contents Partner Ecosystem As a core part of our strategy, we have developed and continue to grow a global ecosystem of partners that build and sell new applications on the Workday platform, source new business with Workday, and deliver quality services and customer outcomes with Workday.
To grow our unified suite of Workday applications, we primarily invest in research and development, but we also selectively acquire companies that are consistent with our design principles, existing product set, corporate strategy, and company culture. We also manage a portfolio of strategic investments through Workday Ventures, our strategic investment arm.
To grow our suite of Workday applications, we primarily invest in research and development, but we also selectively acquire companies that are consistent with our design principles, existing product set, corporate strategy, and company culture. For example, in fiscal 2025, we acquired HiredScore, Inc. (“HiredScore”), a leading provider of AI-powered talent orchestration solutions, and Evisort Inc.
Belonging and Diversity (“B&D”) helps us cultivate an equitable and inclusive environment for all. Whether it’s through creating resources and initiatives that enable and strengthen our culture, building inclusive products and technology, or hiring and developing diverse talent, our vision is to Value Inclusion, Belonging, and Equity (“VIBE”) for all.
Value Inclusion, Belonging, and Equity for all (“VIBE”) is our vision for cultivating an environment where all employees can thrive. Whether through creating resources and initiatives that enable and strengthen our culture, building inclusive products and technology, or hiring and developing great talent, we are building a vibrant workplace that fuels innovation and collaboration.
We require our employees, contractors, consultants, suppliers, and other third parties to enter into confidentiality and proprietary rights agreements, and we control access to software, documentation, and other proprietary information.
Intellectual Property We rely on a combination of trade secrets, patents, copyrights, and trademarks, as well as contractual protections, to establish and protect our intellectual property rights. We require our employees, contractors, consultants, suppliers, partners, and other third parties to enter into confidentiality and proprietary rights agreements, and we control access to software, documentation, and other proprietary information.
In addition, higher education institutions can deploy Workday’s solutions to manage the e nd-to-end student and faculty lifecycle . Workday also enables its partner ecosystem to build industry-specific solutions.
For example, Workday provides supply chain and inventory solutions to healthcare organizations, allowing them to purchase, stock, track, and replenish their inventory to help support patient care. In addition, higher education institutions can deploy Workday’s solution to manage the end-to-end student and faculty lifecycle. Workday also enables its partner ecosystem to build industry-specific solutions.
Our talent and performance dashboard provides a snapshot view of performance-related tasks, with a visual summary of goals, feedback, and growth opportunities.
Our talent and performance dashboard provides a snapshot view of performance-related tasks, with a visual summary of goals, feedback, and growth opportunities. Employees can take action to update their contributions, capabilities, career, and connections using the quick links provided in the dashboard.
Historically, we have signed a significantly higher percentage of agreements with new customers, as well as renewal agreements with existing customers, in the fourth quarter of each fiscal year due to customer buying patterns. Although these seasonal factors are common in the technology industry, historical patterns should not be considered a reliable indicator of our future sales activity or performance.
Seasonality We have experienced seasonality in terms of when we enter into customer agreements for our services. Historically, we have signed a significantly higher percentage of agreements with new customers, as well as renewal agreements with existing customers, in the fourth quarter of each fiscal year due to customer buying patterns.
We consider our relations with our employees to be very good. Our Chief People Officer, in partnership with our Chief Diversity Officer, is responsible for developing and executing Workday’s human capital strategy, including programs focused on total rewards; belonging and diversity; and employee development, engagement, and wellbeing.
Our Chief People Officer is responsible for developing and executing Workday’s human capital strategy, including programs focused on total rewards; workforce planning and our skills-based hiring approach; employee skills, development, engagement, and wellbeing; and our inclusive, high-performance culture.
We invest primarily in enterprise cloud technology companies that we believe are digitally transforming their industries, improving customer experiences, helping us expand our solution ecosystem or supporting other corporate initiatives. We plan to continue making these types of strategic investments as opportunities arise that we find attractive.
(“Evisort”), a provider of an AI-native document intelligence platform. We also manage a portfolio of strategic investments through Workday Ventures, our strategic investment arm. We invest primarily in enterprise cloud technology companies that we believe are digitally transforming their industries, developing innovative AI-powered technology, improving customer experiences, helping us expand our solution ecosystem or supporting other corporate initiatives.
Analytics and Benchmarking and Workday Cloud Platform: Solutions for the Offices of the Chief Information Officer (“CIO”), CFO, and CHRO Workday helps leaders make sense of the vast amount of data they collect enterprise-wide.
When combined with Workday’s Financial Management and HCM solutions, organizations are able to leverage real-time transactional data to dynamically adjust and recalibrate their plans. 2 Table of Contents Analytics and Reporting and Workday Platform: Solutions for the Offices of the Chief Information Officer (“CIO”), CFO, and CHRO Workday helps leaders make sense of the vast amount of data they collect enterprise-wide.
Spend Management: Solutions for the Office of the CFO Workday provides procurement professionals with tools to support their businesses through the source-to-contract process, including a user experience designed for ease and collaboration.
Our AI-powered capabilities for finance are designed to transform certain accounting, finance, and procurement processes by anticipating and streamlining common actions and workflows to help increase productivity. Spend Management: Solutions for the Office of the CFO Workday helps enable procurement professionals to support their businesses throughout the source-to-contract process, including a user experience designed for ease of use and collaboration.
Planning: Solutions for the Offices of the CFO and CHRO In today’s dynamic environment, businesses are continuously planning to model various scenarios and preparing to quickly respond to change. Workday provides an active planning process that can model across finance, workforce, sales, and operational data, helping organizations make more informed decisions and respond quickly to changing situations.
Workday provides an active planning process that can model across finance, workforce, sales, and operational data, helping organizations make more informed decisions and respond quickly to changing situations. Workday Illuminate assists in creating forecasts that incorporate historical and third-party data, such as economic data and labor statistics.
Competition The overall market for enterprise application software is rapidly evolving, highly competitive, and subject to changing technology, shifting customer needs, and frequent introductions of new products. We currently compete with large, well-established, enterprise software vendors, such as Oracle Corporation (“ Oracle ”) and SAP SE (“SAP”).
We currently compete with large, well-established, enterprise software vendors, such as Oracle Corporation (“ Oracle ”) and SAP SE (“SAP”).
Workday leverages multiple communication channels to engage and inform employees, including company meetings, town halls, internal websites, and social collaboration tools. We also use Workday Peakon Employee Voice to collect feedback in real time from our employees and turn that feedback into dialog and action.
Workday leverages multiple communication channels to engage and inform employees, including company meetings, functional town halls, internal websites, and social collaboration tools. We also encourage regular 1:1 sessions and quarterly check-ins between managers and employees to provide individual performance feedback, and the use of our peer recognition platform.
Workday’s applications serve industries such as financial services, healthcare, higher education, state and local government, and professional services. For example, Workday provides supply chain and inventory solutions to healthcare organizations, allowing them to purchase, stock, track, and replenish their inventory to help support patient care.
Industries: Solutions for the Offices of the CIO, CFO, and CHRO Workday offers businesses flexible solutions to help them adapt to their industry-specific needs and respond to change. Workday’s applications serve industries such as financial services, healthcare, higher education, state and local government, and professional services.
We remain focused on increasing gender equity and representation globally, and continuing efforts to support our underrepresented communities. We believe that talent is everywhere, but opportunity is not. Skills, education, and experience are gained in a variety of ways that are often not recognized in the traditional recruiting process.
We acknowledge that skills, education, and lived and learned experiences are gained in a variety of ways that are often not recognized in the traditional recruiting process, which is why we take a holistic approach to talent acquisition that prioritizes a skills-based approach.
As organizations face changing conditions, we believe the need for an intuitive, scalable, and secure platform that ties finance, people, suppliers, and plans together in one version of truth is more important than ever. Workday’s Artificial Intelligence (“Workday AI”) is built into our platform, allowing us to rapidly deliver and sustain models that can solve countless business problems.
As organizations face changing conditions, we believe the need for an intuitive, scalable, and secure platform that provides unified management of finances, people, suppliers, and planning is more important than ever. In fiscal 2025, we announced Workday Illuminate, the next generation of Workday AI, designed to help our customers accelerate manual tasks, assist their employees, and transform their business processes.
We also offer professional services, as do our Workday Services Partners, to help customers deploy our solutions and continually adopt new capabilities. 1 Table of Contents In fiscal 2024, we announced the new Workday AI Marketplace to help our customers easily find and deploy certified artificial intelligence (“AI”) and machine learning (“ML”) partner solutions to propel their businesses into the future.
We also offer professional services, as do our Workday Services Partners, to help customers deploy our solutions and continually adopt new capabilities. 1 Table of Contents In fiscal 2025, we announced several Workday Illuminate-powered capabilities that are expected to be generally available to customers in fiscal 2026, including a set of new role-based AI agents for recruiting, talent mobility, succession, and optimization, and a new Workday Assistant to help simplify common human resources (“HR”) and finance processes.
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In addition, we announced several new generative AI capabilities that are expected to be available to our customers in fiscal 2025, including capabilities that will help customers generate job descriptions in minutes and analyze and correct contracts for more accurate revenue recognition.
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We sell our solutions worldwide primarily through direct sales by our field sales teams.
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Workday AI Gateway will enable developers to develop customized applications by providing access to Workday AI and ML services.
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Workday Wellness, another new Workday Illuminate-powered solution, will help provide companies with a real-time view into which benefits and wellness offerings their employees want and use and give AI-driven recommendations on how to improve their benefits programs. In February 2025, we announced additional role-based AI agents for contracts, payroll, financial auditing, and policy.
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Human Capital Management: Solutions for the Office of the Chief Human Resources Officer (“CHRO”) In the changing world of human resources (“HR”), Workday helps organizations identify and respond to rapidly changing conditions, whether they stem from shifting talent needs or a focus on belonging and diversity or employee engagement.
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We also announced the Workday Agent System of Record, which is designed to help our customers embrace agentic AI by providing a centralized system for managing, tracking, integrating, and optimizing AI agents that are built by Workday, the customer, or third parties.
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For example, Workday Skills Cloud, one of our most widely-adopted AI use cases, helps organizations make the important shift to a skills-first approach, helping them prepare today for the jobs of tomorrow.
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The Workday Agent System of Record and new role-based AI agents are currently in development and are expected to become available later in fiscal 2026.
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Workday AI assists in creating forecasts that incorporate historical and third-party data, such as economic data and labor statistics. When combined with Workday’s financial management and HCM solutions, organizations are able to leverage real-time transactional data to dynamically adjust and recalibrate their plans.
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Human Capital Management: Solutions for the Office of the Chief Human Resources Officer (“CHRO”) Workday delivers HR solutions to help organizations build a skilled workforce, drive productivity, and create an engaging workplace.
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Workday provides applications for analytics and reporting, including augmented analytics to surface insights to the line of business in simple-to-understand stories, machine learning to drive efficiency and automation, and benchmarks to compare performance against other organizations. 2 Table of Contents Industries: Solutions for the Offices of the CIO, CFO, and CHRO Workday offers businesses flexible solutions to help them adapt to their industry-specific needs and respond to change.
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For example, we are helping organizations manage their total workforce in one seamless experience on Workday through our solutions, including Workday Adaptive Planning, Workday Illuminate-powered recruiting agent, Workday VNDLY, and Workday HCM. Planning: Solutions for the Offices of the CFO and CHRO In today’s dynamic environment, businesses need to continuously plan and model various scenarios to quickly respond to change.
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Our 12 Employee Belonging Councils (“EBCs”) play an integral role in fostering a culture of VIBE.
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The Workday Platform combines both the innovation built by Workday and on Workday by our customers and partners, providing organizations with the flexibility to integrate third-party applications and services directly into Workday. By managing their people and money together on the Workday platform, our customers can gain new possibilities for increased agility, transformation, and performance.
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Our EBCs, including Black @ Workday, Military and Veterans, and Workday for People with Disabilities, among others, provide a designated space for members and allies to advance inclusive business initiatives, enable professional development, promote connections, and bring greater visibility to diverse talent, as well as engage in community outreach activities.
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These relationships include innovation partners, sales partners, and services partners. Together, Workday and our partners help our customers to better manage their people and their money. The Workday Marketplace allows customers to find Built on Workday applications, Industry Accelerators, packaged solutions, and other integrations and solutions that are purpose-built to complement the Workday platform in targeted countries and industries.
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As a part of our ongoing commitment to VIBE, we track progress and plan for the future by using our internally developed B&D products and solutions to assess equity and analyze diversity- and inclusion-related data that informs our VIBE strategy.
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Strategic partnerships with public cloud providers, including Amazon Web Services, Inc. (“AWS”) and Google Cloud, allow our customers to reduce their committed spend on cloud. Our global partnerships with payroll providers, including Automatic Data Processing, Inc. (“ADP”) and Strada, enable integrated and streamlined payroll solutions across the world.
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Through these products, we can assess, measure, benchmark, and manage diversity and inclusion as well as empower our leaders to create B&D plans and measure performance and outcomes across areas such as hiring, development, and employee experience. Looking at our diversity data, we continue to make strides in our representation.
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Our Industry Accelerator program, including 12 new Industry Accelerators announced during fiscal 2025, combines Workday partners, solutions, and services to help speed cloud transformation efforts tailored to solve our customers’ industry-specific challenges.
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As of January 31, 2024, women represented 42% of our global employees and 38% of our leadership positions globally, and underrepresented minorities (defined as those who identify as Alaskan native, American Indian, Black, Latinx, Native Hawaiian, Other Pacific Islander, and/or two or more races) represented 14% of our U.S. employees and 10% of our leadership positions in the U.S.
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In addition, we offer Workday Success Plans, a comprehensive, add-on subscription service that delivers continuous value for our customers through strategic advice, product expertise, adoption resources, on-demand education, and technical guidance.

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Item 1A. Risk Factors

Risk Factors — what could go wrong, per management

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Biggest changeTo the extent that our applications depend upon the successful integration and operation of third-party software in conjunction with our software, any undetected errors or defects in this third-party software, as well as cybersecurity threats or attacks related to such software could prevent the deployment or impair the functionality of our applications, delay new application introductions, result in a failure of our applications, result in increased costs, including warranty and other related claims from customers, and injure our reputation. 14 Table of Contents As Workday Mobile becomes increasingly important to Workday’s customer experience, we also need to continuously modify and enhance our applications to keep pace with changes in third-party internet-related hardware, iOS, Android, other mobile-related operating systems, platforms, and technologies, and other third-party software, communication, browser, and database technologies, as well as with customer expectations.
Biggest changeTo the extent that our applications depend upon the successful integration and operation of third-party software in conjunction with our software, any undetected errors or defects in this third-party software, as well as cybersecurity threats or attacks related to such software could prevent the deployment or impair the functionality of our applications, delay new application introductions, result in a failure of our applications, result in increased costs, including warranty and other related claims from customers, and injure our reputation.
Key employee changes have the potential to disrupt our business, impact our ability to preserve our culture, negatively affect our ability to attract and retain talent, or otherwise have a serious adverse effect on our business and operating results. To execute our growth plan, we must attract, enable, and develop highly qualified talent.
Key employee changes have the potential to disrupt our business, impact our ability to preserve our culture, negatively affect our ability to attract and retain talent, or otherwise have a serious adverse effect on our business and operating results. To execute our growth plan, we must attract, enable, develop, and retain highly qualified talent.
Our ability to compete and succeed in a highly competitive environment is directly correlated to our ability to recruit and retain highly skilled employees, especially in the areas of product development, cybersecurity, senior sales executives, and engineers with significant experience in designing and developing software and internet-related services, including in the areas of AI.
Our ability to compete and succeed in a highly competitive environment is directly correlated to our ability to recruit and retain highly skilled employees, especially in the areas of product development, cybersecurity, senior sales executives, and engineers with significant experience in designing and developing software and internet-related services, including in AI.
We rely on sophisticated information systems and technology, including those provided by third parties, for the secure collection, processing, transmission, storage of confidential, proprietary, and personal information, and to support our business operations and the availability of our applications. In the past several years, supply chain attacks have increased in frequency and severity.
We rely on sophisticated information systems and technology, including those provided by third parties, for the secure collection, processing, transmission, and storage of confidential, proprietary, and personal information, and to support our business operations and the availability of our applications. In the past several years, supply chain attacks have increased in frequency and severity.
In addition to risks related to license requirements, usage of open source software can lead to greater risks than use of third-party commercial software, as open source licensors generally do not provide warranties or controls on the origin of the software.
In addition to risks related to open source license requirements, usage of open source software can lead to greater risks than use of third-party commercial software, as open source licensors generally do not provide warranties or controls on the origin of the software.
In addition, because we use Workday’s financial management application, any problems that we experience with financial reporting and compliance could be negatively perceived by prospective or current customers, and negatively impact demand for our applications.
In addition, because we use Workday’s financial management application, any problems that we experience with financial reporting and compliance could be negatively perceived by prospective or current customers, and negatively impact demand for our applications.
Risks associated with doing business on a global scale that could adversely affect our business, include: • the need to develop, localize, and adapt our applications and customer support for specific countries; • the need to successfully develop and execute on a localized go-to-market strategy; • the need to adhere to local laws and regulations, including those related to data localization, privacy, and anti-corruption; • difficulties in appropriately staffing and managing foreign operations and providing appropriate compensation for local markets; • difficulties in leveraging executive presence and maintaining company culture globally; • different pricing environments, longer sales cycles, and longer trade receivables payment cycles, and collections issues; • new and different sources of competition; • potentially weaker protection for intellectual property and other legal rights than in the United States and practical difficulties in enforcing intellectual property and other rights; • laws, customs, and business practices favoring local competitors; • restrictive governmental actions focused on cross-border trade, such as import and export restrictions, duties, quotas, tariffs, trade disputes, and barriers or sanctions, that may prevent us from offering certain portions of our products or services to a particular market, may increase our operating costs or may subject us to monetary fines or penalties; • compliance challenges related to the complexity of multiple, conflicting, and changing governmental laws and regulations, including employment, tax, privacy, intellectual property, and data protection laws and regulations; • increased compliance costs related to government regulatory reviews or audits, including those related to international cybersecurity and environmental, social, and governance (“ESG”) requirements; • increased financial accounting and reporting burdens and complexities; • the effects of currency fluctuations on our revenues and expenses and customer demand for our services; • restrictions on the transfer of funds; • adverse tax consequences and tax rulings; and • unstable economic and political conditions.
Risks associated with doing business on a global scale that could adversely affect our business, include: • the need to develop, localize, and adapt our applications and customer support for specific countries; • the need to successfully develop and execute on a localized go-to-market strategy; • the need to adhere to local laws and regulations, including those related to data localization, privacy, and anti-corruption; • difficulties in appropriately staffing and managing foreign operations and providing appropriate compensation for local markets; • difficulties in leveraging executive presence and maintaining company culture globally; • different pricing environments, longer sales cycles, and longer trade receivables payment cycles, and collections issues; • new and different sources of competition; • potentially weaker protection for intellectual property and other legal rights than in the United States and practical difficulties in enforcing intellectual property and other rights; • laws, customs, and business practices favoring local competitors; • restrictive governmental actions focused on cross-border trade, such as import and export restrictions, duties, quotas, tariffs, trade disputes, and barriers or sanctions, that may prevent us from offering certain portions of our products or services to a particular market, may increase our operating costs or may subject us to monetary fines or penalties; • compliance challenges related to the complexity of multiple, conflicting, and changing governmental laws and regulations, including employment, tax, privacy, intellectual property, financial services, AI, and data protection laws and regulations; • increased compliance costs related to government regulatory reviews or audits, including those related to international cybersecurity and environmental, social, and governance (“ESG”) requirements; • increased financial accounting and reporting burdens and complexities; • the effects of currency fluctuations on our revenues and expenses and customer demand for our services; • restrictions on the transfer of funds; • adverse tax consequences and tax rulings; and • unstable economic and political conditions.
As a result, a compromise of our applications or systems, or unauthorized access to, acquisition, use, tampering, release, alteration, theft, loss, or destruction of sensitive data, or unavailability of data or our applications, has and could disrupt our operations or impact the availability or performance of our applications; expose us and our customers to regulatory obligations and enforcement actions, litigation, investigations, remediation and indemnity obligations, or supplemental disclosure obligations; damage our reputation and brand; or result in loss of customer, consumer, and partner confidence in the security of our applications, an increase in our insurance premiums, loss of authorization under the Federal Risk and Authorization Management Program (“FedRAMP”) or other authorizations, impairment to our business, and other potential liabilities or related fees, expenses, or loss of revenues.
As a result, a compromise of our applications or systems, or unauthorized access to, acquisition, use, tampering, release, alteration, theft, loss, or destruction of sensitive data, or unavailability of data or our applications, has and could disrupt our operations or impact the availability or performance of our applications; expose us and our customers to regulatory obligations and enforcement actions, litigation, investigations, remediation and indemnity obligations, or supplemental disclosure obligations; damage our reputation and brand; or result in loss of customer, consumer, and partner confidence in the security of our applications, an increase in our insurance premiums, suspension or loss of authorization under the Federal Risk and Authorization Management Program (“FedRAMP”) or other authorizations, impairment to our business, and other potential liabilities or related fees, expenses, or loss of revenues.
The audits we periodically conduct of some of our third-party vendors do not guarantee the security of and may be unable to prevent security events impacting the information technology systems of third parties that are part of our supply chain or that provide valuable services to us, which have resulted and could result in the unauthorized access to data of Workday, our employees, our customers, our third-party partners, or other end users; acquisition, destruction, alteration, use, tampering, release, unavailability, theft or loss of confidential, proprietary, or personal data of Workday, our employees, our customers, our third party partners, or other end users; or the disruption of our operations and our ability to conduct our business or the availability of our applications; or could otherwise adversely affect our business, financial condition, operating results, or reputation. 18 Table of Contents Privacy concerns, evolving regulation of cloud computing, cross-border data transfer, and other domestic or foreign laws and regulations may reduce the adoption of our applications, result in significant costs and compliance challenges, and adversely affect our business and operating results.
The audits we periodically conduct of some of our third-party vendors do not guarantee the security of and may be unable to prevent security events impacting the information technology systems of third parties that are part of our supply chain or that provide valuable services to us, which have resulted and could result in the unauthorized access to data of Workday, our employees, our customers, our third-party partners, or other end users; acquisition, destruction, alteration, use, tampering, release, unavailability, theft or loss of confidential, proprietary, or personal data of Workday, our employees, our customers, our third party partners, or other end users; or the disruption of our operations and our ability to conduct our business or the availability of our applications; or could otherwise adversely affect our business, financial condition, operating results, or reputation. 19 Table of Contents Privacy concerns, evolving regulation of cloud computing, cross-border data transfer, and other domestic or foreign laws and regulations may reduce the adoption of our applications, result in significant costs and compliance challenges, and adversely affect our business and operating results.
In addition, our indebtedness could, among other things: • make it difficult for us to pay other obligations; • make it difficult to obtain favorable terms for any necessary future financing for working capital, capital expenditures, debt service requirements, or other purposes; • adversely affect our liquidity and result in a material adverse effect on our financial condition upon repayment of the indebtedness; 23 Table of Contents • require us to dedicate a substantial portion of our cash flow from operations to service and repay the indebtedness, reducing the amount of cash flow available for other purposes; • limit our flexibility in planning for and reacting to changes in our business; • increase our vulnerability to the impact of adverse economic conditions, including rising interest rates (which can make refinancing existing indebtedness more difficult or costly); and • negatively impact our credit rating, which could limit our ability to obtain additional financing in the future and adversely affect our business.
In addition, our indebtedness could, among other things: • make it difficult for us to pay other obligations; • make it difficult to obtain favorable terms for any necessary future financing for working capital, capital expenditures, debt service requirements, or other purposes; • adversely affect our liquidity and result in a material adverse effect on our financial condition upon repayment of the indebtedness; 24 Table of Contents • require us to dedicate a substantial portion of our cash flow from operations to service and repay the indebtedness, reducing the amount of cash flow available for other purposes; • limit our flexibility in planning for and reacting to changes in our business; • increase our vulnerability to the impact of adverse economic conditions, including rising interest rates (which can make refinancing existing indebtedness more difficult or costly); and • negatively impact our credit rating, which could limit our ability to obtain additional financing in the future and adversely affect our business.
There may also be attacks targeting any vulnerabilities in our applications, internally built infrastructure, enhancements, and updates to our existing offerings, or in the many different underlying networks and services that power the internet that our products depend on, most of which are not under our control or the control of our vendors, partners, or customers.
There may also continue to be attacks targeting any vulnerabilities in our applications, internally built infrastructure, enhancements, and updates to our existing offerings, or in the many different underlying networks and services that power the internet that our products depend on, most of which are not under our control or the control of our vendors, partners, or customers.
As we are both a provider and consumer of information systems and technology, we are at higher risk of being impacted either directly or indirectly by these attacks. The control systems, cybersecurity program, infrastructure, physical facilities of, and personnel associated with third parties that we rely on are beyond our control.
As we are both a provider and consumer of information systems and technology, we are at higher risk of being impacted either directly or indirectly by these attacks. The control systems, cybersecurity program, infrastructure, physical facilities of, and personnel associated with third parties that we rely on or partner with are beyond our control.
We have been subject to such incidents, including through third-party service providers and in connection with acquisitions we have made. In addition, our software development practices have not and may not identify all potential privacy or security issues, and inadvertent disclosures of data have occurred and may occur.
We have been subject to such incidents, including through third-party service providers and in connection with acquisitions we have made. In addition, our software development practices have not and may not identify all potential privacy or security issues, and inadvertent disclosures of data have occurred and may occur again.
We may be subject to audits and investigations relating to our government contracts, and any violations could result in various civil and criminal penalties and administrative sanctions, including termination of contracts, refunding or suspending of payments, forfeiture of profits, payment of fines, and suspension or debarment from future government business.
We may be subject to additional audits and investigations relating to our government contracts, and any violations could result in various civil and criminal penalties and administrative sanctions, including termination of contracts, refunding or suspending of payments, forfeiture of profits, payment of fines, and suspension or debarment from future government business.
Our typical sales cycles for new customers are six to twelve months but can extend for eighteen months or more, and we expect that this lengthy sales cycle may continue or expand as customers increasingly adopt applications across our platform.
Our typical sales cycles for many new customers are six to twelve months but can extend for eighteen months or more, and we expect that this lengthy sales cycle may continue or expand as customers increasingly adopt applications across our platform.
These provisions could also discourage proxy contests and make it more difficult for stockholders to elect directors of their choosing and to cause us to take other corporate actions they desire, any of which, under certain circumstances, could depress the market price of our securities. 27 Table of Contents The exclusive forum provision in our organizational documents may limit a stockholder’s ability to bring a claim in a judicial forum that it finds favorable for disputes with us or any of our directors, officers, or other employees, which may discourage lawsuits with respect to such claims.
These provisions could also discourage proxy contests and make it more difficult for stockholders to elect directors of their choosing and to cause us to take other corporate actions they desire, any of which, under certain circumstances, could depress the market price of our securities. 28 Table of Contents The exclusive forum provision in our organizational documents may limit a stockholder’s ability to bring a claim in a judicial forum that it finds favorable for disputes with us or any of our directors, officers, or other employees, which may discourage lawsuits with respect to such claims.
We are also subject to tax examinations and it is possible that the final determination of any examinations will have an adverse effect on our operating results or financial position. 22 Table of Contents Risks Related to Financial Matters Because we encounter long sales cycles when selling to large customers and we recognize subscription services revenues over the term of the contract, downturns or upturns in new sales will not be immediately reflected in our operating results and may be difficult to discern.
We are also subject to tax examinations and it is possible that the final determination of any examinations will have an adverse effect on our operating results or financial position. 23 Table of Contents Risks Related to Financial Matters Because we encounter long sales cycles when selling to large customers and we recognize subscription services revenues over the term of the contract, downturns or upturns in new sales will not be immediately reflected in our operating results and may be difficult to discern.
Our contracts with federal, state, local, and foreign government entities are subject to various procurement regulations and other requirements relating to their formation, administration, performance, and termination, which could adversely impact our business and operating results.
Our contracts with federal, state, local, and foreign government entities are subject to various procurement regulations and other requirements relating to their formation, administration, and performance, which could adversely impact our business and operating results.
Furthermore, the timing and amount of any repurchases, if any, will be subject to liquidity, market and economic conditions, compliance with applicable legal requirements such as Delaware surplus and solvency tests, and other relevant factors. 26 Table of Contents Delaware law and provisions in our restated certificate of incorporation and amended and restated bylaws could make a merger, tender offer, or proxy contest difficult, thereby depressing the market price of our Class A common stock.
Furthermore, the timing and amount of any repurchases, if any, will be subject to liquidity, market and economic conditions, compliance with applicable legal requirements such as Delaware surplus and solvency tests, and other relevant factors. 27 Table of Contents Delaware law and provisions in our restated certificate of incorporation and amended and restated bylaws could make a merger, tender offer, or proxy contest difficult, thereby depressing the market price of our Class A common stock.
Compliance with applicable laws and regulations regarding personal data may require changes in services, business practices, or internal systems that result in increased costs, lower revenue, reduced efficiency, or greater difficulty competing with foreign-based firms which could adversely affect our business and operating results. 19 Table of Contents Any failure to protect our intellectual property rights domestically and internationally could impair our ability to protect our proprietary technology and our brand.
Compliance with applicable laws and regulations regarding personal data may require changes in services, business practices, or internal systems that result in increased costs, lower revenue, reduced efficiency, or greater difficulty competing with foreign-based firms which could adversely affect our business and operating results. 20 Table of Contents Any failure to protect our intellectual property rights domestically and internationally could impair our ability to protect our proprietary technology and our brand.
However, brand promotion activities may not generate the customer awareness or increased revenues we anticipate, and even if they do, any increase in revenues may not offset the significant expenses we incur in building our brand.
However, brand promotion activities may not generate the awareness or increased revenues we anticipate, and even if they do, any increase in revenues may not offset the significant expenses we incur in building our brand.
Additionally, because much of our sales efforts are targeted at large enterprise customers, we may face greater costs, longer sales cycles, less predictability in completing some of our sales, and varying deployment timeframes.
Additionally, because much of our sales efforts are targeted at large enterprise customers, we face greater costs, longer sales cycles, less predictability in completing some of our sales, and varying deployment timeframes.
If we have a material weakness in our internal controls over financial reporting, we may not detect errors on a timely basis and our financial statements may be materially misstated. 24 Table of Contents The process of compiling the system and processing documentation necessary to perform the evaluation needed to comply with Section 404 is challenging and costly.
If we have a material weakness in our internal controls over financial reporting, we may not detect errors on a timely basis and our financial statements may be materially misstated. 25 Table of Contents The process of compiling the system and processing documentation necessary to perform the evaluation needed to comply with Section 404 is challenging and costly.
Bhusri holds 0.2 million restricted stock units, which will be settled in an equivalent number of shares of Class A common stock. Further, Messrs.
Bhusri holds 0.2 million restricted stock units (“RSUs”), which will be settled in an equivalent number of shares of Class A common stock. Further, Messrs.
Our applications involve the storage and transmission of our customers’ and other users’ sensitive and proprietary information, including personal or identifying information regarding our customers, their employees, job candidates, customers, prospectus, and suppliers, as well as financial, accounting, health, and payroll data. Additionally, our operations and the availability of the services we provide also depend on our information technology systems.
Our applications involve the storage and transmission of our customers’ and other users’ sensitive and proprietary information, including personal or identifying information regarding our customers, their employees, job candidates, customers, prospects, and suppliers, as well as financial, accounting, health, and payroll data. Additionally, our operations and the availability of the services we provide also depend on our information technology systems.
Additionally, in April 2022, we entered into a credit agreement (“2022 Credit Agreement”) which provides for a revolving credit facility in an aggregate principal amount of $1.0 billion. As of January 31, 2024, we had no outstanding revolving loans under the 2022 Credit Agreement. We may incur substantial additional debt in the future, some of which may be secured debt.
Additionally, in April 2022, we entered into a credit agreement (“2022 Credit Agreement”) which provides for a revolving credit facility in an aggregate principal amount of $1.0 billion. As of January 31, 2025, we had no outstanding revolving loans under the 2022 Credit Agreement. We may incur substantial additional debt in the future, some of which may be secured debt.
To the extent recent macroeconomic events adversely affect our business, financial condition, and operating results, it may also have the effect of heightening many of the other risks described in this “Risk Factors” section. We may lose key employees or be unable to attract, train, and retain highly skilled employees.
To the extent recent macroeconomic events adversely affect our business, financial condition, and operating results, it may also have the effect of heightening many of the other risks described in this “Risk Factors” section. We may lose key employees or be unable to attract, enable, and retain highly skilled employees.
Some of our applications include software covered by open source licenses, which may include, by way of example, GNU General Public License and the Apache License.
Our applications include software covered by open source licenses, which may include, by way of example, GNU General Public License and the Apache License.
Bhusri retain a significant portion of their holdings of Class B common stock for an extended period of time, they could, in the future, continue to control a majority of the combined voting power of our Class A common stock and Class B common stock. 25 Table of Contents Our stock price has been volatile in the past and may be subject to volatility in the future.
Bhusri retain a significant portion of their holdings of Class B common stock for an extended period of time, they could, in the future, continue to control a majority of the combined voting power of our Class A common stock and Class B common stock. 26 Table of Contents Our stock price has been volatile in the past and may be subject to volatility in the future.
Repurchasing our common stock will reduce the amount of cash we have available to fund working capital, repayment of debt, capital expenditures, strategic acquisitions or business opportunities, and other general corporate purposes, and we may fail to realize the anticipated long-term stockholder value of the 2022 and 2024 Share Repurchase Programs.
Repurchasing our common stock will reduce the amount of cash we have available to fund working capital, repayment of debt, capital expenditures, strategic acquisitions or business opportunities, and other general corporate purposes, and we may fail to realize the anticipated long-term stockholder value of our share repurchase programs.
Furthermore, existing laws and regulations may apply to us in new ways, the nature and extent of which are difficult to predict and subject to change over time. The risks and challenges presented by these technologies could undermine public confidence in AI, which could slow its adoption and affect our business.
Additionally, existing laws and regulations may apply to us in new ways, the nature and extent of which are difficult to predict and subject to change over time. The risks and challenges presented by these technologies could undermine public confidence in AI, which could slow its adoption and affect our business.
Our failure to accurately identify and address our responsibilities and liabilities in this uncertain environment, and adequately address relevant ethical and social issues that may arise with such technologies and use cases, as well as failure by others in our industry, or actions taken by our customers, employees, or end users (including misuse of these technologies), could negatively affect the adoption of our solutions and subject us to reputational harm, regulatory action, or litigation, which may harm our financial condition and operating results.
Any failure to accurately identify and address our responsibilities and liabilities in this uncertain environment, and adequately address relevant ethical and social issues that may arise with such technologies and use cases, as well as failure by others in our industry, or actions taken by our customers, employees, or end users (including misuse of these technologies), could negatively affect the adoption of our offerings and subject us to reputational harm, regulatory action, or litigation, which may harm our financial condition and operating results.
For example, we leverage software and services for development tools and to deliver applications from many third-party suppliers including AWS and Google LLC. If the operations of these third parties are disrupted, our own operations may suffer, which could adversely impact our operating results.
For example, we leverage software and services for development tools and to deliver applications from many third-party suppliers including AWS and Google Cloud. If the operations of these third parties are disrupted, our own operations may suffer, which could adversely impact our operating results.
We host our applications and serve our customers and users globally from data centers operated by third parties and rely upon third-party hosted infrastructure partners to operate certain aspects of our services. We control our applications and data but we do not control the facilities, operations, and physical security of these locations.
We host our applications and serve our customers and users globally from data centers operated by third parties and rely upon third-party partners to operate certain aspects of our services. We control our applications and data, but we do not control the facilities, operations, and physical security of these locations.
Such repurchases may be made through open market transactions, through privately negotiated transactions, or by other means, including through the use of trading plans intended to qualify under Rule 10b5-1, in accordance with applicable securities laws and other restrictions.
Such repurchases may be made through open market transactions, including through the use of trading plans intended to qualify under Rule 10b5-1, through privately negotiated transactions, or by other means, in each case in accordance with applicable securities laws and other restrictions.
We also face competition from other enterprise software vendors, from regional competitors that only operate in certain geographic markets, and from vendors of specific applications that address only one or a portion of our applications, some of which offer cloud-based solutions.
We also face competition from other enterprise software vendors, from regional competitors that only operate in certain geographic markets, and from vendors of specific applications that address only one or a portion of our applications, some of which offer cloud-based or AI-powered solutions.
Furthermore, from time to time we may introduce or acquire new products, including in areas where we historically have not competed, which could increase our exposure to patent and other intellectual property claims. 20 Table of Contents Some of our applications utilize open source software, and any failure to comply with the terms of one or more of these open source licenses could negatively affect our business.
Furthermore, from time to time we may introduce or acquire new products, including in areas where we historically have not competed, which could increase our exposure to patent and other intellectual property claims. 21 Table of Contents Our applications utilize open source software, and any failure to comply with the terms of one or more of these open source licenses could negatively affect our business.
The 2022 and 2024 Share Repurchase Programs may not enhance long-term stockholder value because the market price of our common stock may decline below the levels at which we repurchased shares and short-term stock price fluctuations could reduce the effectiveness of this program.
Our share repurchase programs may not enhance long-term stockholder value because the market price of our common stock may decline below the levels at which we repurchased shares and short-term stock price fluctuations could reduce the effectiveness of this program.
In addition, our policy may not cover all claims made against us and defending a suit, regardless of its merit, could be costly and divert management’s attention. We depend on data centers and other infrastructure operated by third parties, as well as internet availability, and any disruption in these operations could adversely affect our business and operating results.
In addition, our policy may not cover all claims made against us and defending a suit, regardless of its merit, could be costly. We depend on data centers and other infrastructure operated by third parties, as well as internet availability, and any disruption in these operations could adversely affect our business and operating results.
We do not have employment agreements with our executive officers or other key personnel that require them to continue to work for us for any specified period, and they could terminate their employment with us at any time.
We do not have employment agreements with our executive officers or other key employees that require them to continue to work for us for any specified period, and they could terminate their employment with us at any time.
Our employees, customers, or customers’ employees who are dissatisfied with our public statements, policies, practices, or solutions related to the development and use of AI may express opinions that could introduce reputational or business harm, or cease their relationship with us. 13 Table of Contents Our quarterly results may fluctuate significantly and may not fully reflect the underlying performance of our business.
Our employees, customers, or customers’ employees who are dissatisfied with our public statements, policies, practices, or solutions related to the development and use of AI may express opinions that could introduce reputational or business harm, or cease their relationship with us. Our quarterly results may fluctuate significantly and may not fully reflect the underlying performance of our business.
Stockholders who hold shares of Class B common stock, including our executive officers, directors, and other affiliates, together hold a substantial majority of the voting power of our outstanding capital stock as of January 31, 2024.
Stockholders who hold shares of Class B common stock, including our executive officers, directors, and other affiliates, together hold a substantial majority of the voting power of our outstanding capital stock as of January 31, 2025.
In addition, other cloud companies that provide services in different target markets or industries may develop applications or acquire companies that operate in our target markets or industries, and some potential customers may elect to develop their own internal applications.
In addition, other cloud or AI platform companies that provide services in different target markets or industries may develop applications or acquire companies that operate in our target markets or industries, and some potential customers may elect to develop their own internal applications.
Key cybersecurity risks range from viruses, worms, ransomware, and other malicious software programs, to phishing attacks, to exploitation of software bugs or other defects, to targeted attacks against cloud services and other hosted software, to exploitation of unmanaged software or systems, any of which can result in a compromise of our applications or systems and the data we store or process, disclosure of Workday confidential information and intellectual property, production downtimes, reputational harm, and an increase in costs to the business.
Key cybersecurity risks range from viruses, worms, ransomware, and other malicious software programs, to phishing attacks, to fraud, to credential theft or abuse, to exploitation of software bugs or other defects, to targeted attacks against cloud services and other hosted software, to exploitation of unmanaged software or systems, any of which can result in a compromise of our applications or systems and the data we store or process, disclosure of Workday confidential information and intellectual property, production downtimes, reputational harm, and an increase in costs to the business.
This may allow our competitors to respond more effectively than us to new or emerging technologies and changes in market conditions. 10 Table of Contents Our primary competitors are Oracle and SAP, well-established providers of financial management and HCM applications, which have long-standing relationships with customers and partners.
This may allow our competitors to respond more effectively than us to new or emerging technologies and changes in market conditions. Our primary competitors are Oracle and SAP, well-established providers of financial management and HCM applications, which have long-standing relationships with customers and partners.
A material adverse impact in our consolidated financial statements could occur for the period in which the effect of an unfavorable outcome becomes probable and reasonably estimable. 21 Table of Contents We are subject to risks related to government contracts and related procurement regulations, which may adversely impact our business and operating results.
A material adverse impact in our consolidated financial statements could occur for the period in which the effect of an unfavorable outcome becomes probable and reasonably estimable. We are subject to risks related to government contracts and related procurement regulations, which may adversely impact our business and operating results.
As a result, our business faces current and prospective risks related to increased regulatory compliance costs, government enforcement actions and/or financial penalties for non-compliance, and reputational harm. For example, a new EU-U.S. Data Privacy Framework (“DPF”) is in place under which EU data can legally be transferred to the United States. However, it is expected to face legal challenges.
As a result, our data processing creates current and prospective risks related to increased regulatory compliance costs, government enforcement actions and/or financial penalties for non-compliance, and reputational harm. For example, a new EU-U.S. Data Privacy Framework (“DPF”) is in place under which EU data can legally be transferred to the United States. However, it is expected to face legal challenges.
These vendors include, without limitation: Anaplan, Inc., ADP, Coupa Software Inc., Dayforce, Inc., Infor, Inc., Microsoft Corporation, and UKG Inc. In order to take advantage of customer demand for cloud applications, legacy vendors are expanding their cloud applications through acquisitions, strategic alliances, and organic development.
These vendors include, without limitation: Anaplan, Inc., ADP, Coupa Software Inc., Dayforce, Inc., Infor, Inc., Microsoft Corporation, and UKG Inc. In order to take advantage of customer demand for cloud and AI-powered applications, legacy vendors are expanding their cloud or AI-powered applications through acquisitions, strategic alliances, and organic development.
The existence of the 2022 and 2024 Share Repurchase Programs could cause our stock price to trade higher than it otherwise would and could potentially reduce the market liquidity for our stock.
The existence of our share repurchase programs could cause our stock price to trade higher than it otherwise would and could potentially reduce the market liquidity for our stock.
In addition, acquisitions of our partners by our competitors could end our strategic relationship with such acquired partner and result in a decrease in the number of our current and potential customers. Our partner training and educational programs may not be effective or utilized consistently by partners.
In addition, acquisitions of our partners by our competitors could end our strategic relationship with such acquired partner and result in a decrease in the number of our current and potential customers. 11 Table of Contents Our partner training and educational programs may not be effective or utilized consistently by partners.
Our customers’ renewal rates may decline or fluctuate as a result of a number of factors, including their level of satisfaction with our applications and pricing, their awareness and adoption of the benefits and features of our applications, their ability to continue their operations and spending levels, reductions in their headcount, and the evolution of their business.
Our customers’ renewal rates fluctuate as a result of a number of factors, including their level of satisfaction with our applications and pricing, their awareness and adoption of the benefits and features of our applications, their ability to continue their operations and spending levels, reductions in their headcount, and the evolution of their business.
Incorrect or improper implementation or use of our applications could result in customer and user dissatisfaction and harm our business and operating results. 12 Table of Contents In order for our customers to successfully implement our applications, they need access to highly skilled and trained service professionals.
Incorrect or improper implementation or use of our applications could result in customer and user dissatisfaction and harm our business and operating results. In order for our customers to successfully implement our applications, they need access to highly skilled and trained service professionals.
We expect our operating expenses to increase in the future due to substantial investments we have made and continue to make to acquire new customers and develop our applications, anticipated increases in sales and marketing expenses, employee headcount growth expenses, product development expenses, operations costs, and general and administrative costs.
We expect our operating expenses to increase in the future due to substantial investments we have made and continue to make to acquire new customers and develop our applications, anticipated increases in sales and marketing expenses, product development expenses, operations costs, and general and administrative costs.
Any changes in third-party service levels at data centers or at our hosted infrastructure partners, or any errors, defects, disruptions, or other performance problems with our applications or the infrastructure on which they run, including internet infrastructure, could adversely affect our reputation and may damage our customers’ or other users’ stored files or result in lengthy interruptions in our services.
Any changes in third-party service levels at our hosted infrastructure providers, or any errors, defects, disruptions, or other performance problems with our applications or the infrastructure on which they run, including internet infrastructure, could adversely affect our reputation and may damage our customers’ or other users’ stored files or result in lengthy interruptions in our services.
In the event that portions of our proprietary software are determined to be impacted by an open source license, we could be required to publicly release the affected portions of our source code, re-engineer all or a portion of our technologies, or otherwise be limited in the licensing of our technologies, each of which could reduce or eliminate the value of our technologies and services.
In the event that portions of our proprietary software are determined to be impacted by an open source license, we could be required to publicly release portions of our source code, re-engineer all or a portion of our technologies, or otherwise be limited in the use or licensing of our technologies, which could reduce or eliminate the value of our technologies, products, and services.
Legal requirements related to collecting, storing, handling, and transferring personal data are rapidly evolving at both the national and international level in ways that require our business to adapt to support customer compliance.
Legal requirements related to collecting, storing, handling, retaining, and transferring (collectively, “processing”) personal data are rapidly evolving at both the national and international level in ways that require our business to adapt to support customer compliance.
We also may not achieve the anticipated benefits from an acquisition due to a number of factors, including: • inability or difficulty integrating the intellectual property, technology infrastructure, and operations of the acquired business, including difficulty in addressing security risks of the acquired business; • inability to retain key personnel or challenges in integrating the workforce from the acquired company, including the inability to maintain our culture and values; • acquisition-related costs, liabilities, or tax impacts, some of which may be unanticipated; • difficulty in leveraging the data of the acquired business if it includes personal data; • a failure to maintain the information systems of an acquired business, which could increase the risk of a security breach of such system; • a failure to implement, restore, or maintain controls, procedures, or policies at the acquired company and an increased risk of non-compliance; • multiple product lines or service offerings as a result of our acquisitions that are offered, priced, and supported differently, as well as the potential for such acquired product lines and service offerings to impact the profitability of existing products; • the opportunity cost of diverting management and financial resources away from other products, services, and strategic initiatives; • difficulties and additional expenses associated with synchronizing product offerings, customer relationships, and contract portfolio terms and conditions between Workday and the acquired business; • unknown liabilities or risks associated with the acquired businesses, including those arising from existing contractual obligations or litigation matters; • adverse effects on our brand or existing business relationships with business partners and customers as a result of the acquisition, including integrating acquired technologies and a delay in market acceptance of and difficulty in transitioning new and existing customers to acquired product lines or services; • potential write-offs of acquired assets and potential financial and credit risks associated with acquired customers; • inability to maintain relationships with key customers, suppliers, and partners of the acquired business; • difficulty in predicting and controlling the effect of integrating multiple acquisitions concurrently; • lack of experience in new markets, products, or technologies; • difficulty in integrating operations and assets of an acquired foreign entity with differences in language, culture, or country-specific currency and regulatory risks; • the inability to obtain (or a material delay in obtaining) regulatory approvals necessary to complete transactions or to integrate operations, or potential remedies imposed by regulatory authorities as a condition to or following the completion of a transaction, which may include divestitures, ownership or operational restrictions or other structural or behavioral remedies; and • the failure of strategic acquisitions to perform as expected or to meet financial projections, which may be heightened due to recent macroeconomic events and market volatility. 15 Table of Contents In addition, a significant portion of the purchase price of companies we acquire may be allocated to acquired goodwill and other intangible assets, which must be assessed for impairment at least annually.
We also may not achieve the anticipated benefits from an acquisition due to a number of factors, including: • inability or difficulty integrating the intellectual property, technology infrastructure, and operations of the acquired business, including difficulty in addressing security risks of the acquired business; • inability to retain key personnel or challenges in integrating the workforce from the acquired company, including the inability to maintain our culture and values; • acquisition-related costs, liabilities, or tax impacts, some of which may be unanticipated; • difficulty in leveraging the data of the acquired business if it includes personal data; • a failure to maintain the information systems of an acquired business, which could increase the risk of a security breach of such system; • a failure to implement, restore, or maintain controls, procedures, or policies at the acquired company and an increased risk of non-compliance; • multiple product lines or service offerings as a result of our acquisitions that are offered, priced, and supported differently, as well as the potential for such acquired product lines and service offerings to impact the profitability of existing products; • the opportunity cost of diverting management and financial resources away from other products, services, and strategic initiatives; • difficulties and additional expenses associated with synchronizing product offerings, customer relationships, and contract portfolio terms and conditions between Workday and the acquired business; • unknown liabilities or risks associated with the acquired businesses, including those arising from existing contractual obligations or litigation matters; • adverse effects on our brand or existing business relationships with business partners and customers as a result of the acquisition, including integrating acquired technologies and a delay in market acceptance of and difficulty in transitioning new and existing customers to acquired product lines or services; • risks and challenges presented by the use of innovative technologies that we acquire, such as AI; • potential write-offs of acquired assets and potential financial and credit risks associated with acquired customers; • inability to maintain relationships with key customers, suppliers, and partners of the acquired business; • difficulty in predicting and controlling the effect of integrating multiple acquisitions concurrently; • lack of experience in new markets, products, or technologies; • difficulty in integrating operations and assets of an acquired foreign entity with differences in language, culture, or country-specific currency and regulatory risks; • the inability to obtain (or a material delay in obtaining) regulatory approvals necessary to complete transactions or to integrate operations, or potential remedies imposed by regulatory authorities as a condition to or following the completion of a transaction, which may include divestitures, ownership or operational restrictions or other structural or behavioral remedies; and • the failure of strategic acquisitions to perform as expected or to meet financial projections, which may be heightened due to recent macroeconomic events and market volatility.
If we are not able to successfully hedge against the risks associated with foreign currency fluctuations, our financial condition and operating results could be adversely affected. Our business could be adversely affected if our users are not satisfied with the deployment, training, and support services provided by us and our partners.
If we are not able to successfully hedge against the risks associated with foreign currency fluctuations, our financial condition and operating results could be adversely affected. 12 Table of Contents Our business could be adversely affected if our users are not satisfied with the deployment, training, and support services provided by us and our partners.
Any of the above factors may negatively impact our ability to sell our applications and offer services globally, reduce our competitive position in foreign markets, increase our costs of global operations, reduce demand for our applications and services from global customers, or subject us to legal or regulatory liability.
Certain of the above factors have and may continue to negatively impact our ability to sell our applications and offer services globally, reduce our competitive position in foreign markets, increase our costs of global operations, reduce demand for our applications and services from global customers, or subject us to legal or regulatory liability.
These new technologies could subject us to additional litigation brought by private parties, which could be costly, time-consuming, and distracting to management and could result in substantial expenses and losses. Adverse litigation results could have a material adverse impact on our business.
These new technologies could subject us to additional litigation brought by private parties, which could be costly, time-consuming, and distracting to management and could result in substantial expenses and losses. 22 Table of Contents Adverse litigation results could have a material adverse impact on our business.
As of January 31, 2024, our Co-Founder and Executive Chair, Aneel Bhusri, together with his affiliates, held voting rights with respect to approximately 8 million shares of Class B common stock and 0.3 million shares of Class A common stock. In addition, Mr.
As of January 31, 2025, our Co-Founder and Executive Chair, Aneel Bhusri, together with his affiliates, held voting rights with respect to approximately 8 million shares of Class B common stock and 0.4 million shares of Class A common stock. In addition, Mr.
This may require increasingly costly marketing and sales efforts that are targeted at senior management, and if these efforts are not successful, our business and operating results may suffer.
This has and may continue to require increasingly costly marketing and sales efforts that are targeted at senior management, and if these efforts are not successful, our business and operating results may suffer.
Bhusri has the ability to control the management and affairs of our company as a result of his position as a member of our Board of Directors and an officer of Workday. Mr.
Bhusri has the ability to significantly influence the management and affairs of our company as a result of his position as a member of our Board of Directors and an officer of Workday. Mr.
As the market matures and as existing and new market participants introduce new types of technologies and different approaches that enable organizations to address their HCM and financial needs, we expect this competition to intensify in the future.
As the market matures and as existing and new market participants introduce new types of technologies, such as generative and agentic AI, and different approaches that enable organizations to address their HCM and financial needs, we expect this competition to intensify in the future.
Following the European Union’s (“EU”) passage of the General Data Protection Regulation (“GDPR”), which became effective in May 2018, the global data privacy compliance landscape has grown increasingly complex, fragmented, and financially relevant to business operations.
Following the EU’s passage of the General Data Protection Regulation (“GDPR”), which became effective in May 2018, the global data privacy compliance landscape has grown increasingly complex, fragmented, and financially relevant to business operations.
Risks Related to Legal and Regulatory Matters Unfavorable laws, regulations, interpretive positions, or standards governing new and evolving technologies that we incorporate into our products and services could result in significant cost and compliance challenges and adversely affect our business and operating results.
Risks Related to Legal and Regulatory Matters Unfavorable laws, regulations, interpretive positions, or standards governing new and evolving technologies that we incorporate into our products and services, including those involving AI uses, could result in significant cost and compliance challenges and adversely affect our business and operating results.
We operate on a global scale, and as a result, our business and revenues are impacted by global economic and geopolitical conditions. Global economic developments, geopolitical volatilities, downturns or recessions, and global health crises may negatively affect us or our ability to accurately forecast and plan our future business activity.
We operate on a global scale, and as a result, our business and revenues are impacted by global economic and geopolitical conditions. Global economic developments, including increased tariffs, geopolitical volatilities, downturns or recessions, political instability, and global health crises may negatively affect us or our ability to accurately forecast and plan our future business activity.
Further, our current and future office environments, such as our current hybrid work policies, may not meet the expectations of our employees or prospective employees, and may amplify challenges in recruiting. We believe that a critical component of our success has been our corporate culture and our core values.
Further, our current and future office environments and our current hybrid work policy may not meet the expectations of our employees or prospective employees, and may amplify challenges in recruiting and retention. We believe that a critical component of our success has been our corporate culture and our core values.
Failure to maintain or adapt our culture could negatively affect our ability to attract new personnel or to retain our current personnel and our business and future growth prospects could be adversely affected. The markets in which we participate are intensely competitive, and if we do not compete effectively, our operating results could be adversely affected.
Failure to maintain or adapt our culture could negatively affect our ability to attract new employees or to retain our current employees and our business and future growth prospects could be adversely affected. 10 Table of Contents The markets in which we participate are intensely competitive, and if we do not compete effectively, our operating results could be adversely affected.
In addition, the open source license terms for future versions of open source software that we use might change, requiring us to pay for a commercial license or re-engineer all or a portion of our technologies.
In addition, the license terms for certain previously open source software that we use have changed and the license terms for future versions of open source software that we use might change, requiring us to pay for a commercial license or re-engineer all or a portion of our technologies.
Government certification requirements applicable to our platform, including FedRAMP, may change and, in doing so, restrict our ability to sell into the governmental sector until we have attained the full or revised certification. These laws and regulations provide public sector customers various rights, many of which are not typically found in commercial contracts.
Government certification requirements applicable to our platform may change and, in doing so, restrict our ability to sell into the governmental sector until we have attained the authorization to use or certification. These laws and regulations provide public sector customers with various rights, many of which are not typically found in commercial contracts.
Additionally, acquisitions of our customers by other companies have led, and could continue to lead, to cancellation of our contracts with those customers, thereby reducing the number of our existing and potential customers. The use of new and evolving technologies in our offerings at Workday, including AI, may result in reputational harm and increased litigation.
Additionally, acquisitions of our customers by other companies have led, and could continue to lead, to cancellation of our contracts with those customers, thereby reducing the number of our existing and potential customers. 13 Table of Contents The use of new and evolving technologies in our offerings at Workday, including AI, may result in reputational harm and increased litigation, and adversely affect our operating results.
We already are defending against a lawsuit alleging that our products and services enable discrimination, and although we believe that such claims lack merit, and we succeeded in our initial motion to dismiss the claims, legal proceedings can be lengthy, expensive, and disruptive to our operations (particularly where, as in the present litigation, Plaintiff may seek to also litigate against certain of Workday’s customers).
We already are defending against a lawsuit alleging that our products and services enable discrimination, and although we believe that such claims lack merit, and the majority of the claims have been dismissed, legal proceedings can be lengthy, expensive, and disruptive to our operations and customers (particularly where, as in the present litigation, the plaintiff may seek to also litigate against certain of Workday’s customers).
Developing software applications and related enhancements, features, and modifications is expensive, and the investment in product development often involves a long return on investment cycle.
Developing software applications and related enhancements, features, and modifications, including those involving AI, is expensive, and the investment in product development often involves a long return on investment cycle.
Our information systems may be compromised by computer hackers, employees, contractors, or vendors, as well as software bugs, human error, technical malfunctions, or other malfeasance. 17 Table of Contents Cybersecurity threats and attacks are often targeted at companies such as ours and may take a variety of forms ranging from individuals or groups of security researchers, including those who appear to offer a solution to a vulnerability in exchange for some compensation, to sophisticated hacker organizations, including state-sponsored actors who may launch coordinated attacks, such as retaliatory cyber attacks stemming from the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
Our information systems may be compromised by computer hackers, employees, contractors, or vendors, as well as software bugs, human error, technical malfunctions, or other malfeasance. 18 Table of Contents Cybersecurity threats and attacks are often targeted at companies such as ours and may take a variety of forms ranging from individuals or groups of security researchers, including those who appear to offer a solution to a vulnerability in exchange for some compensation, and insiders, to sophisticated hacker organizations, including state-sponsored actors who may launch coordinated attacks, such as retaliatory cyber-attacks stemming from the Russia-Ukraine conflict or attacks motivated by the type of data that is processed by our customers, including our public sector customers, on our platform.
For example, AI is propelling advancements in technology, but if we fail to innovate and keep up with advancements in AI technology, if Workday AI solutions fail to operate as expected or do not meet customer expectations, or if we do not have sufficient access to development resources and the technologies required to build and improve our applications, such as the datasets required to train our AI models, our business and reputation may be harmed.
For example, AI is propelling advancements in technology, but if we fail to innovate and keep up with advancements in AI technology, if Workday Illuminate solutions fail to be delivered as planned or at all, fail to operate as expected or to meet customer expectations, or if we do not have sufficient access to development resources and the technologies required to build and improve our applications, our business and reputation may be harmed.
Our corporate headquarters are located in Pleasanton, California, and we have data centers located in the United States, Canada, and Europe. The west coast of the United States contains active earthquake zones and the southeast is subject to seasonal hurricanes or other extreme weather conditions.
Our corporate headquarters are located in Pleasanton, California, and we have data centers and partner with public cloud service providers located in the United States and Europe. The west coast of the United States contains active earthquake zones and the southeast is subject to seasonal hurricanes or other extreme weather conditions.
Examples of such risks include: • the availability and cost of low- or non-carbon-based energy sources; • the evolving regulatory requirements affecting ESG standards or disclosures; • the ability of suppliers to meet our sustainability, diversity, and other ESG standards; • our ability to recruit, develop, and retain diverse talent in our labor markets; • the availability and cost of high-quality verified emissions reductions and renewable energy credits; and • the ability to renew existing or execute on new virtual power purchase agreements.
Examples of such risks include: • the availability and cost of low- or non-carbon-based energy sources; • the evolving regulatory requirements affecting ESG standards or disclosures; • the ability of suppliers to meet our sustainability and other ESG standards; • our ability to recruit, develop, and retain diverse talent in our global labor markets; • the availability and cost of high-quality verified emissions reductions and renewable energy credits; and • the ability to renew existing or execute on new virtual power purchase agreements. 17 Table of Contents Standards for tracking and reporting ESG matters continue to evolve.
The markets for enterprise cloud applications are highly competitive, with relatively low barriers to entry for some applications or services.
The markets for enterprise cloud applications, including AI-powered solutions, are highly competitive, with relatively low barriers to entry for some applications or services.
All of these issues may result in increased operational costs, delays in new feature rollouts, customer loss, reputational damage, and legal or regulatory liability, including liability under customer contracts or for losses suffered by our customers. Such issues have, and may in the future, result in certain parties having unauthorized access to data.
All of these issues may result in increased operational costs, delays in new feature rollouts, customer loss, reputational damage, and legal or regulatory liability, including liability under customer contracts. Such issues have, and may in the future, result in certain parties having unauthorized access to data, which could increase the scope of our liability.

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Item 1C. Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity — threats and controls disclosure

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Biggest changeIf a cybersecurity incident is determined to be a potentially material cybersecurity incident, our disclosure controls and procedures define the steps to determine materiality and disclose such a material cybersecurity incident. Our risk management approach is supplemented by external and internal enterprise risk management audits, which are designed to test the effectiveness of our security controls.
Biggest changeIf a cybersecurity incident is determined to be a potentially material cybersecurity incident, our disclosure controls and procedures define the steps to determine materiality and disclose such a material cybersecurity incident. When appropriate, we use external service providers and consultants to assess or monitor the environment or otherwise assist with aspects of our cybersecurity controls and risk assessment process.
The Board and Audit Committee generally receive materials, including a cybersecurity scorecard and other materials indicating current and emerging cybersecurity threat risks, and describing the company’s ability to mitigate those risks, and discuss such matters with our Chief Information Security Officer (“CISO”).
The Board and Audit Committee generally receive materials, including a cybersecurity scorecard and other materials indicating current and emerging cybersecurity threat risks and describing our ability to mitigate those risks, and discuss such matters with our Chief Information Security Officer (“CISO”).
Our cybersecurity program is also supported by a cross-functional leadership team that contributes to our information security and privacy programs and practices, as well as identifies and mitigates security and privacy risks. This team includes our CIO, our Chief Privacy Officer, and our Chief Legal Counsel.
Our cybersecurity program is also supported by a cross-functional leadership team that contributes to our information security and privacy programs and practices, as well as identifies and mitigates security and privacy risks. This team includes our CIO and our Chief Legal Counsel.
Additionally, the Board has delegated to our Audit Committee oversight of cybersecurity risks and processes to manage them. Our Audit Committee is comprised entirely of independent directors who regularly evaluate cybersecurity risks.
Additionally, the Board has delegated to its Audit Committee oversight of cybersecurity risks and processes to manage them. Our Audit Committee is comprised entirely of independent directors who regularly evaluate cybersecurity risks.
As part of this process appropriate disclosure personnel will collaborate with subject matter specialists, as necessary, to gather insights for identifying and assessing material cybersecurity threat risks, their severity, and potential mitigations. 28 Table of Contents We have implemented a variety of cybersecurity processes, technologies, and controls to aid in our efforts to identify, assess and manage such material risks.
As part of this process appropriate disclosure personnel will collaborate with subject matter specialists, as necessary, to gather insights for identifying and assessing material cybersecurity threat risks, their severity, and potential mitigations. 29 Table of Contents We have implemented a variety of cybersecurity processes, technologies, and controls to aid in our efforts to identify, assess and manage such material risks.
We describe whether and how risks from identified cybersecurity threats, including as a result of any previous cybersecurity incidents, have materially affected or are reasonably likely to materially affect us, including our business strategy, financial condition, or results of operations, under the headings “ We depend on data centers and other infrastructure operated by third parties, as well as internet availability, and any disruption in these operations could adversely affect our business and operating results ,” “ If we are unable to successfully integrate our applications with a variety of third-party technologies, our business and operating results could be adversely affected ,” and “ If our information technology systems are compromised or unauthorized access to customer or user data is otherwise obtained, our applications may be perceived as not being secure, our operations may be disrupted, our applications may become unavailable, customers and end users may reduce the use of or stop using our applications, and we may incur significant liabilities ” included as part of our risk factor disclosures included in Item 1A of this report, which disclosures are incorporated by reference herein.
We describe whether and how risks from identified cybersecurity threats, including as a result of any previous cybersecurity incidents, have materially affected or are reasonably likely to materially affect us, including our business strategy, financial condition, or results of operations, under the headings “ We depend on data centers and other infrastructure operated by third parties, as well as internet availability, and any disruption in these operations could adversely affect our business and operating results ,” “ If we are unable to successfully integrate our applications with a variety of third-party technologies, our business and operating results could be adversely affected ,” and “ If our information technology systems are compromised or unauthorized access to customer or user data is otherwise obtained, our applications may be perceived as not being secure, our operations may be disrupted, our applications may become unavailable, customers and end users may reduce the use of or stop using our applications, and we may incur significant liabilities ” in our “Risk Factors” included in Part I, Item 1A of this report, which disclosures are incorporated by reference herein.
This team contributes to the development of the company’s cybersecurity strategy and is periodically updated regarding evolving cybersecurity risks and the in-place responsive actions.
This team contributes to the development of our cybersecurity strategy and is periodically updated regarding evolving cybersecurity risks and the in-place responsive actions.
Our CISO joined Workday in 2010 and has served as our CISO since April 2018. Our CISO has more than 15 years of experience in cybersecurity and information technology risk management, including at a large public company and a recognized consulting firm. He also has a degree in information systems management.
Our CISO has more than 20 years of experience in cybersecurity and information technology risk management, including at a large public company and a recognized consulting firm. He also has a degree in information systems management.
We conduct penetration testing on a periodic basis and have established an external bug bounty program to allow security researchers to help identify vulnerabilities in our systems before they mature into real-world cybersecurity threats.
Our risk management approach is supplemented by external and internal enterprise risk management audits, which are designed to test the effectiveness of our security controls. We conduct penetration testing on a periodic basis and have established an external bug bounty program to allow security researchers to help identify vulnerabilities in our systems before they mature into real-world cybersecurity threats.
Material cybersecurity threat risks are also considered during separate Board and committee meeting discussions of important matters like enterprise risk management, operational budgeting, business continuity planning, and other relevant matters. 29 Table of Contents Our CISO leads all aspects of our global cybersecurity program, including the identification, evaluation, and prioritization of security risks, as well as the company’s response to material security incidents.
Material cybersecurity threat risks are also considered during separate Board and committee meeting discussions of important matters like enterprise risk management, operational budgeting, business continuity planning, and other relevant matters. 30 Table of Contents Our CISO leads all aspects of our global cybersecurity program. Our CISO joined Workday in 2010 and has served as our CISO since April 2018.

Item 2. Properties

Properties — owned and leased real estate

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Biggest changeIn addition, we lease office space in various locations, including North America, Europe, and Asia Pacific, and data center capacity throughout North America and Europe. We believe that our facilities are suitable to meet our current needs.
Biggest changeWe also lease office space in various locations, including North America, Europe, and Asia Pacific, and data center capacity throughout the United States and Europe. We believe that our facilities are suitable to meet our current needs. In the future, we may expand our facilities, add new facilities, or exit facilities as our needs evolve.
ITEM 2. PROPERTIES Our corporate headquarters, which includes operations and product development facilities, is located in Pleasanton, California. It consists of approximately 1.2 million square feet of owned facilities and a 6.9 acre parcel of leased land. The land lease will expire in 2108.
ITEM 2. PROPERTIES Our corporate headquarters is located in Pleasanton, California. It consists of approximately 1.2 million square feet of owned facilities and a 6.9 acre parcel of leased land. The land lease will expire in 2108.
In the future, we may expand our facilities or add new facilities as we add employees and enter new geographic markets, and we believe that suitable additional or alternative space will be available on commercially reasonable terms to accommodate any such growth.
We believe that suitable additional or alternative space will be available on commercially reasonable terms to accommodate any growth.

Item 5. Market for Registrant's Common Equity

Market for Common Equity — stock, dividends, buybacks

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Biggest changeThe stock price performance on the following graph is not necessarily indicative of future stock price performance. 31 Table of Contents Company/Index 1/31/2019 1/31/2020 1/31/2021 1/31/2022 1/31/2023 1/31/2024 Workday, Inc. $ 100.00 $ 101.71 $ 125.34 $ 139.38 $ 99.94 $ 160.34 S&P 500 Index 100.00 121.67 142.63 175.83 161.36 194.90 S&P 1500 Application Software Index 100.00 133.60 176.27 195.48 158.36 238.99 Recent Sales of Unregistered Securities None. 32 Table of Contents Purchases of Equity Securities by the Issuer and Affiliated Purchases The table below sets forth information regarding our purchases of our Class A common stock during the three months ended January 31, 2024 (in millions, except number of shares which are reflected in thousands and per share data): Period Total Number of Shares Purchased (1) Average Price Paid per Share Total Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Program (1) Approximate Dollar Value of Shares that May Yet Be Purchased Under the Program (1) November 1, 2023 - November 30, 2023 254 $ 231.93 254 $ 80 December 1, 2023 - December 31, 2023 204 273.53 204 24 January 1, 2024 - January 31, 2024 79 273.43 79 2 Total 537 537 (1) In November 2022, our Board of Directors authorized the 2022 Share Repurchase Program, under which we may repurchase up to $500 million of our outstanding shares of Class A common stock.
Biggest changePurchases of Equity Securities by the Issuer The table below sets forth information regarding our purchases of our Class A common stock during the three months ended January 31, 2025 (in millions, except number of shares which are reflected in thousands and per share data): Period Total Number of Shares Purchased (1) Average Price Paid per Share Total Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Program (1) Approximate Dollar Value of Shares that May Yet Be Purchased Under the Program (1) November 1, 2024 - November 30, 2024 201 $ 258.35 201 $ 850 December 1, 2024 - December 31, 2024 176 269.46 176 802 January 1, 2025 - January 31, 2025 0 0.00 0 802 Total 377 377 (1) In August 2024, our Board of Directors authorized the August 2024 Share Repurchase Program, under which we may repurchase up to $1.0 billion of our outstanding shares of Class A common stock.
The chart assumes $100 was invested at the close of market on January 31, 2019, in our Class A common stock, the S&P 500 Index, and the S&P 1500 Application Software Index, and assumes the reinvestment of any dividends.
The chart assumes $100 was invested at the close of market on January 31, 2020, in our Class A common stock, the S&P 500 Index, and the S&P 1500 Application Software Index, and assumes the reinvestment of any dividends.
For further information, see Note 14, Stockholders’ Equity and Note 21, Subsequent Events , of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in Part II, Item 8 of this report.
For further information, see Note 14, Stockholders’ Equity , of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in Part II, Item 8 of this report. 33 Table of Contents ITEM 6. [Reserved]
In February 2024, our Board of Directors authorized the 2024 Share Repurchase Program, under which we may repurchase up to an additional $500 million of our outstanding shares of Class A common stock.
Prior to the August 2024 Share Repurchase Program, our Board of Directors authorized a $500 million share repurchase program in February 2024, which we completed in the third quarter of fiscal 2025, and a $500 million share repurchase program in November 2022, which we completed in the first quarter of fiscal 2025.
Stockholders As of March 6, 2024, there were 17 stockholders of record of our Class A common stock, including The Depository Trust Company, which holds shares of our common stock on behalf of an indeterminate number of beneficial owners, as well as 65 stockholders of record of our Class B common stock.
Stockholders As of March 7, 2025, there were 16 stockholders of record of our Class A common stock (not including an indeterminate number of beneficial holders of stock held in street name through brokers and other intermediaries) and 60 stockholders of record of our Class B common stock.
Removed
As of January 31, 2024, we were authorized to purchase a remaining $2 million of our outstanding shares of Class A common stock under the 2022 Share Repurchase Program.
Added
The stock price performance on the following graph is not necessarily indicative of future stock price performance. 32 Table of Contents Company/Index 1/31/2020 1/31/2021 1/31/2022 1/31/2023 1/31/2024 1/31/2025 Workday, Inc. $ 100.00 $ 123.24 $ 137.04 $ 98.27 $ 157.65 $ 141.94 S&P 500 Index 100.00 117.23 144.52 132.62 160.20 202.41 S&P 1500 Application Software Index 100.00 131.94 146.32 118.53 178.89 194.28 Recent Sales of Unregistered Securities None.

Item 7. Management's Discussion & Analysis

Management's Discussion & Analysis (MD&A) — revenue / margin commentary

80 edited+35 added−41 removed35 unchanged
Biggest changeYear Ended January 31, 2024 GAAP Share-Based Compensation Expenses Employer Payroll Tax-Related Items on Employee Stock Transactions Amortization of Acquisition-Related Intangible Assets Non-GAAP Operating income (loss) $ 183 $ 1,416 $ 66 $ 75 $ 1,740 Operating margin 2.5 % 19.5 % 0.9 % 1.1 % 24.0 % Year Ended January 31, 2023 GAAP Share-Based Compensation Expenses Employer Payroll Tax-Related Items on Employee Stock Transactions Amortization of Acquisition-Related Intangible Assets Non-GAAP Operating income (loss) $ (222) $ 1,295 $ 52 $ 85 $ 1,210 Operating margin (3.6) % 20.8 % 0.9 % 1.4 % 19.5 % 39 Table of Contents Year Ended January 31, 2022 GAAP Share-Based Compensation Expenses Employer Payroll Tax-Related Items on Employee Stock Transactions Amortization of Acquisition-Related Intangible Assets Non-GAAP (2) Operating income (loss) $ (116) $ 1,112 $ 76 $ 78 $ 1,150 Operating margin (2.3) % 21.6 % 1.6 % 1.5 % 22.4 % Other Income (Expense), Net Other income (expense), net consisted of the following (in millions): Year Ended January 31, 2024 2023 2022 Total other income (expense), net $ 173 $ (38) $ 132 Other income, net in fiscal 2024 was primarily due to interest income of $296 million on our marketable debt securities from higher investment balances and rising interest rates, offset by interest expense of $114 million related to our Senior Notes and net losses of $24 million on our equity investments.
Biggest changeYear Ended January 31, 2025 2024 2023 Operating income (loss) $ 415 $ 183 $ (222) Share-based compensation expense (1) 1,511 1,416 1,290 Employer payroll tax-related items on employee stock transactions 76 66 50 Amortization of acquisition-related intangible assets 79 75 86 Acquisition-related costs 21 1 3 Restructuring costs 84 0 40 Non-GAAP operating income $ 2,186 $ 1,741 $ 1,247 Operating margin 4.9 % 2.5 % (3.6) % Share-based compensation expense (1) 17.9 % 19.5 % 20.8 % Employer payroll tax-related items on employee stock transactions 0.9 % 0.9 % 0.8 % Amortization of acquisition-related intangible assets 0.9 % 1.1 % 1.5 % Acquisition-related costs 0.2 % 0.0 % 0.0 % Restructuring costs 1.1 % 0.0 % 0.6 % Non-GAAP operating margin 25.9 % 24.0 % 20.1 % (1) The Share-based compensation expense lines in the GAAP to non-GAAP reconciliation tables above exclude share-based compensation expense of $8 million in fiscal 2025 related to restructuring initiatives.
We expect costs of professional services as a percentage of total revenues to continue to decline as we continue to rely on our service partners to deploy our applications and as our subscription services revenues continue to grow as we expand both our customer base and our footprint within our existing customers.
We expect costs of professional services as a percentage of total revenues to continue to decline as we rely on our service partners to deploy our applications and as our subscription services revenues continue to grow as we expand both our customer base and our footprint within our existing customers.
Similar to share-based compensation expenses, this tax expense is dependent on our stock price and other factors that are beyond our control and do not correlate to the operation of the business. • Amortization of acquisition-related intangible assets . For business combinations, we generally allocate a portion of the purchase price to intangible assets.
Similar to share-based compensation expense, this tax expense is dependent on our stock price and other factors that are beyond our control and do not correlate to the operation of our business. • Amortization of acquisition-related intangible assets . For business combinations, we generally allocate a portion of the purchase price to intangible assets.
Although we exclude the amortization of acquisition-related intangible assets from these non-GAAP financial measures, we believe that it is important for investors to understand that such intangible assets were recorded as part of purchase accounting and contribute to revenue generation.
Although we exclude the amortization of acquisition-related intangible assets from these non-GAAP financial measures, we believe that it is important for investors to understand that such intangible assets were recorded as part of purchase accounting and contribute to revenue generation. • Acquisition-related costs.
Subscription revenue backlog may fluctuate from period to period due to a number of factors, including the timing of renewals and overall renewal rates, new business growth, average contract duration, and seasonality. Costs and Expenses Costs of subscription services revenues .
Subscription revenue backlog may fluctuate from period-to-period due to a number of factors, including the timing of renewals and overall renewal rates, new business growth, average contract duration, business combinations, and seasonality. Costs and Expenses Costs of subscription services revenues .
For the reasons set forth below, we believe that excluding these components provides useful information to investors and others in understanding and evaluating our operating results and prospects in the same manner as management, in comparing financial results across accounting periods and to those of peer companies, and to better understand the long-term performance of our core business. • Share-based compensation expenses.
For the reasons set forth below, we believe that excluding these components provides useful information to investors and others in understanding and evaluating our operating results and prospects in the same manner as management, in comparing financial results across accounting periods and to those of peer companies, and to better understand the long-term performance of our core business. • Share-based compensation expense.
Income Taxes We record a provision for (benefit from) income taxes for the anticipated tax consequences of the reported results of operations using the asset and liability method.
Income Taxes We record a provision for, or benefit from, income taxes for the anticipated tax consequences of the reported results of operations using the asset and liability method.
Investing Activities Cash used in investing activities for fiscal 2024 was $1.8 billion, which primarily resulted from a cash outflow of $1.6 billion from the timing of purchases and maturities of marketable securities and total capital expenditures of $232 million for data center and office space projects, offset by proceeds of $144 million from sales of marketable securities.
Cash used in investing activities for fiscal 2024 was $1.8 billion, which primarily resulted from a net cash outflow of $1.6 billion from the timing of purchases and maturities of marketable securities and capital expenditures of $232 million for data center and office space projects, offset by proceeds of $144 million from sales of marketable securities.
The amount of the allocation is based on estimates and assumptions made by management and is subject to amortization. The amount of purchase price allocated to intangible assets and the term of its related amortization can vary significantly and are unique to each acquisition and thus we do not believe it is reflective of ongoing operations.
The amount of the allocation is based on estimates and assumptions made by management and is subject to amortization. The amount of purchase price allocated to intangible assets and the term of the related amortization can vary significantly and are unique to each acquisition and thus we do not believe it is reflective of our ongoing operations.
The table below includes our material contractual obligations, excluding imputed interest, as of January 31, 2024 (in millions). For further information, see the associated Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in Part II, Item 8 of this report referenced in the table below.
The table below includes our material contractual obligations, excluding imputed interest, as of January 31, 2025 (in millions). For further information, see the associated Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in Part II, Item 8 of this report referenced in the table below.
We determined the period of benefit by taking into consideration our customer contracts, our technology, and other factors. Periodically, we review whether events or changes in circumstances have occurred that could impact the period of benefit.
We determined the period of benefit by exercising judgment, taking into consideration our customer contracts, our technology, and other factors. Periodically, we review whether events or changes in circumstances have occurred that could impact the period of benefit.
We believe information regarding free cash flows provides investors and others with an enhanced view of cash flow generation from the ongoing operations of our business. Limitations on the Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measures A limitation of our non-GAAP financial measures of non-GAAP operating income, non-GAAP operating margin, and free cash flows is that they do not have uniform definitions.
We believe information regarding free cash flows provides investors and others with an enhanced view of cash flow generation from the ongoing operations of our business. 43 Table of Contents Limitations on the Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measures A limitation of our non-GAAP financial measures of non-GAAP operating income, non-GAAP operating margin, and free cash flows is that they do not have uniform definitions.
In the case of share-based compensation, if we did not pay out a portion of compensation in the form of share-based compensation, the cash salary expense included in operating expenses would be higher, which would affect our cash position. 43 Table of Contents We compensate for these limitations by reconciling the non-GAAP financial measures to the most comparable GAAP financial measures.
In the case of share-based compensation, if we did not pay out a portion of compensation in the form of share-based compensation, the cash salary expense included in operating expenses would be higher, which would affect our cash position. We compensate for these limitations by reconciling the non-GAAP financial measures to the most comparable GAAP financial measures.
See “Liquidity and Capital Resources—Free Cash Flows” for a reconciliation from the most comparable GAAP financial measure, net cash provided by (used in) operating activities, to the non-GAAP financial measure, free cash flows, for fiscal 2024, 2023, and 2022. Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates Our consolidated financial statements are prepared in accordance with GAAP.
See “Liquidity and Capital Resources—Free Cash Flows” for a reconciliation from the most comparable GAAP financial measure, net cash provided by operating activities, to the non-GAAP financial measure, free cash flows, for fiscal 2025, 2024, and 2023. Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates Our consolidated financial statements are prepared in accordance with GAAP.
Determining whether products and services are distinct performance obligations that should be accounted for separately or combined as a single performance obligation may require significant judgment that requires us to assess the nature of the promise and the value delivered to the customer. Our primary performance obligations consist of subscription services and professional services.
Determining whether products and services are distinct performance obligations that should be accounted for separately or combined as a single performance obligation may require significant judgment that requires us to assess the nature of the promise and the value delivered to the customer. 44 Table of Contents Our primary performance obligations consist of subscription services and professional services.
See “Results of Operations—Operating Income (Loss) and Operating Margin” for reconciliations from the most directly comparable GAAP financial measures of GAAP operating income (loss) and GAAP operating margin, to the non-GAAP financial measures of non-GAAP operating income and non-GAAP operating margin, for fiscal 2024, 2023, and 2022.
See “Results of Operations—Operating Income (Loss) and Operating Margin” for reconciliations from the most directly comparable GAAP financial measures of GAAP operating income (loss) and GAAP operating margin, to the non-GAAP financial measures of non-GAAP operating income and non-GAAP operating margin, for fiscal 2025, 2024, and 2023.
Further, share-based compensation expenses are not reflective of the value ultimately received by the grant recipients. • Employer payroll tax-related items on employee stock transactions . We exclude the employer payroll tax-related items on employee stock transactions in order to show the full effect that excluding share-based compensation expenses has on our operating results.
Further, share-based compensation expense is not reflective of the value ultimately received by the grant recipients. • Employer payroll tax-related items on employee stock transactions . We exclude the employer payroll tax-related items on employee stock transactions in order to show the full effect that excluding share-based compensation expense has on our operating results.
The following discussion of our financial condition and results of operations covers fiscal 2024 and 2023 items and year-over-year comparisons between fiscal 2024 and 2023.
The following discussion of our financial condition and results of operations covers fiscal 2025 and 2024 items and year-over-year comparisons between fiscal 2025 and 2024.
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS The following discussion of our financial condition and results of operations should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included elsewhere in this report. The following discussion contains forward-looking statements that reflect our plans, estimates, and beliefs.
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS The following discussion of our financial condition and results of operations should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included included in Part II, Item 8 of this report. The following discussion contains forward-looking statements that reflect our plans, estimates, and beliefs.
Discussions of fiscal 2022 items and year-over-year comparisons between fiscal 2023 and 2022 that are not included in this Form 10-K can be found in “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” in Part II, Item 7 of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 31, 2023, that was filed with the SEC on February 27, 2023.
Discussions of fiscal 2023 items and year-over-year comparisons between fiscal 2024 and 2023 that are not included in this Form 10-K can be found in “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” in Part II, Item 7 of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 31, 2024, that was filed with the SEC on March 8, 2024.
Components of Results of Operations Revenues We derive our revenues from subscription services and professional services. Subscription services revenues primarily consist of fees that give our customers access to our cloud applications, which include related customer support.
Components of Results of Operations Revenues We derive our revenues from subscription services and professional services. Subscription services revenues primarily consist of fees that give our customers access to our cloud applications, which include related customer support. Professional services revenues include fees for deployment services, optimization services, and training.
Financing Activities For fiscal 2024, cash used by financing activities was $268 million, which was due to $423 million of repurchases of common stock under the 2022 Share Repurchase Program, offset by proceeds of $155 million from the issuance of common stock from employee equity plans.
Cash used in financing activities for fiscal 2024 was $268 million, which was due to repurchases of common stock of $423 million under our share repurchase programs, offset by proceeds of $155 million from the issuance of common stock from employee equity plans.
To date, we have concluded that professional services included in contracts with multiple performance obligations are generally distinct as the professional services are not interrelated with subscription services nor do they result in significant customization of the subscription service.
To date, we have concluded that professional services included in contracts with multiple performance obligations are generally distinct as the professional services are not interrelated with subscription services nor do they result in significant customization of the subscription service. As such, we view professional services as a performance obligation to the customer.
Our long-term future capital requirements depend on many factors, including the effects of macroeconomic trends, customer growth rates, subscription renewal activity, headcount growth, the timing and extent of development efforts, the expansion of sales and marketing activities, the introduction of new and enhanced services offerings, the timing and costs associated with the construction or acquisition of additional facilities, and our investment and acquisition activities.
Our long-term future capital requirements depend on many factors, including the effects of macroeconomic trends, customer growth rates, subscription renewal activity, headcount growth, the timing and extent of development efforts, the expansion of sales and marketing activities, the introduction of new and enhanced services offerings, infrastructure development, and our investment and acquisition activities.
While we expect share-based compensation expense to grow in absolute dollars as we expand our global workforce, we expect it to continue to decline as a percentage of total revenues.
Equity compensation is an important element of our compensation philosophy. While we expect share-based compensation expense to grow in absolute dollars as we expand our global workforce, we expect it to continue to decline as a percentage of total revenues.
Liquidity and Capital Resources As of January 31, 2024, our principal sources of liquidity were cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities totaling $7.8 billion, which were primarily held for working capital purposes.
Liquidity and Capital Resources As of January 31, 2025, our principal sources of liquidity were cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities totaling $8.0 billion, which were primarily held for working capital and general corporate purposes.
We have financed our operations primarily through customer payments, issuance of debt, and sales of our common stock. 40 Table of Contents We believe our existing cash, cash equivalents, marketable securities, cash provided by operating activities, unbilled amounts related to the remaining term of contracted noncancelable subscription agreements, which are not reflected on the Consolidated Balance Sheets, and, if necessary, our borrowing capacity under our 2022 Credit Agreement that provides for $1.0 billion of unsecured financing, are sufficient to meet our working capital, capital expenditure, and debt repayment needs over the next 12 months and beyond.
We believe our existing cash, cash equivalents, marketable securities, cash provided by operating activities, unbilled amounts related to the remaining term of contracted noncancelable subscription agreements, which are not reflected on the Consolidated Balance Sheets, and, if necessary, our borrowing capacity under our 2022 Credit Agreement that provides for $1.0 billion of unsecured financing, are sufficient to meet our working capital, capital expenditure, share repurchase, and debt repayment needs over the next 12 months and beyond.
Our cash flows for fiscal 2024, 2023, and 2022 were as follows (in millions): Year Ended January 31, 2024 2023 2022 Net cash provided by (used in): Operating activities $ 2,149 $ 1,657 $ 1,651 Investing activities (1,751) (2,506) (1,607) Financing activities (268) 1,204 110 Effect of exchange rate changes (1) (1) (1) Net increase (decrease) in cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash $ 129 $ 354 $ 153 Operating Activities Cash provided by operating activities was $2.1 billion and $1.7 billion for fiscal 2024 and 2023, respectively.
Our cash flows were as follows (in millions): Year Ended January 31, 2025 2024 2023 Net cash provided by (used in): Operating activities $ 2,461 $ 2,149 $ 1,657 Investing activities (1,781) (1,751) (2,506) Financing activities (1,150) (268) 1,204 Effect of exchange rate changes 0 (1) (1) Net increase (decrease) in cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash $ (470) $ 129 $ 354 Operating Activities Cash provided by operating activities was $2.5 billion and $2.1 billion for fiscal 2025 and 2024, respectively.
Non-GAAP Operating Income and Non-GAAP Operating Margin We use the non-GAAP financial measures of non-GAAP operating income and non-GAAP operating margin to understand and compare operating results across accounting periods, for internal budgeting and forecasting purposes, for short- and long-term operating plans, and to evaluate our financial performance.
Prior period amounts have been recast to conform to this presentation. Non-GAAP Operating Income and Non-GAAP Operating Margin We use the non-GAAP financial measures of non-GAAP operating income and non-GAAP operating margin to understand and compare operating results across accounting periods, for internal budgeting and forecasting purposes, for short- and long-term operating plans, and to evaluate our financial performance.
For further information, see Note 17, Income Taxes , of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in Part II, Item 8 of this report.
For further information, see Note 14, Stockholders’ Equity , of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in Part II, Item 8 of this report.
Share-based compensation expenses are determined using a number of factors, including our stock price, volatility, and forfeiture rates, that are beyond our control and generally unrelated to operational decisions and performance in any particular period.
Although share-based compensation is an important aspect of the compensation of our employees and executives, this expense is determined using a number of factors, including our stock price, volatility, and forfeiture rates, that are beyond our control and generally unrelated to operational decisions and performance in any particular period.
As such, we view professional services as a performance obligation to the customer. 44 Table of Contents At contract inception, we evaluate whether two or more contracts should be combined and accounted for as a single contract and whether the combined or single contract includes more than one performance obligation.
At contract inception, we evaluate whether two or more contracts should be combined and accounted for as a single contract and whether the combined or single contract includes more than one performance obligation.
Free Cash Flows We define free cash flows as net cash provided by (used in) operating activities minus total capital expenditures. We use free cash flows as a measure of financial progress in our business, as it balances operating results, cash management, and capital efficiency.
We use free cash flows as a measure of financial progress in our business, as it balances operating results, cash management, and capital efficiency.
Subscription services revenues were $6.6 billion for fiscal 2024, compared to $5.6 billion for fiscal 2023, an increase of $1.0 billion, or 19%.
Subscription services revenues were $7.7 billion for fiscal 2025, compared to $6.6 billion for fiscal 2024, an increase of $1.1 billion, or 17%.
The purchase price allocation process requires us to make significant estimates and assumptions related to the fair value of identifiable intangible assets, deferred tax asset valuation allowances, liabilities related to uncertain tax positions, and contingencies.
The purchase price allocation process requires us to make significant estimates and assumptions related to the fair value of identifiable intangible assets.
Payments Due by Period Total Short-term Long-term Reference Senior Notes (1) $ 3,679 $ 110 $ 3,569 Note 11 Third-party hosted infrastructure platform obligations 1,857 180 1,677 Note 13 Operating leases 359 100 259 Note 12 Other purchase obligations 463 120 343 Note 13 $ 6,358 $ 510 $ 5,848 (1) Consists of principal and interest payments on the Senior Notes. 42 Table of Contents Non-GAAP Financial Measures Regulation S-K Item 10(e), “Use of non-GAAP financial measures in Commission filings,” defines and prescribes the conditions for use of non-GAAP financial information.
Payments Due by Period Total Short-term Long-term Reference Senior Notes (1) $ 3,568 $ 110 $ 3,458 Note 11 Third-party hosted infrastructure platform obligations 1,593 306 1,287 Note 13 Operating leases 433 115 318 Note 12 Other purchase obligations 550 161 389 Note 13 Total $ 6,144 $ 692 $ 5,452 (1) Consists of principal and interest payments on the Senior Notes. 42 Table of Contents Non-GAAP Financial Measures Regulation S-K Item 10(e), “Use of non-GAAP financial measures in Commission filings,” defines and prescribes the conditions for use of non-GAAP financial information.
The increase in sales and marketing expenses included increases of $191 million in employee-related expenses, including share-based compensation, primarily due to higher average headcount, $51 million related to marketing programs, $21 million in facilities and IT-related expenses, and $21 million in travel expenses.
The increase in sales and marketing expenses included increases of $180 million in employee-related expenses, including share-based compensation, primarily due to higher average headcount, $37 million in amortization of deferred sales commissions due to increased sales, $30 million related to marketing programs, and $25 million in facilities and IT-related expenses.
Costs of professional services revenues consist primarily of employee-related expenses associated with these services, subcontractor expenses, and travel expenses. Product development expenses . Product development expenses consist primarily of employee-related expenses associated with our efforts to add new features and applications, increase functionality, and enhance the ease of use of our cloud applications. Sales and marketing expenses .
Product development expenses consist primarily of employee-related expenses associated with our efforts to add new features and applications, increase functionality, and enhance the ease of use of our cloud applications, as well as expenses related to data center capacity. Sales and marketing expenses . Sales and marketing expenses consist primarily of employee-related expenses, sales commissions, marketing programs, and travel expenses.
If the economic uncertainty continues, we may also experience a negative impact on customer renewals, customer collections, sales and marketing efforts, customer deployments, product development, or other financial metrics. Any of these factors could harm our business, financial condition, and operating results.
Further, we have provided, and may continue to provide, certain customers with more flexible payment terms. If the economic uncertainty continues, we may also experience additional negative impacts on customer renewals, customer collections, sales and marketing efforts, customer deployments, product development, or other financial metrics. Any of these factors could harm our business, financial condition, and operating results.
General and Administrative General and administrative expenses were $702 million for fiscal 2024, compared to $604 million for fiscal 2023, an increase of $98 million, or 16%. The increase in general and administrative expenses included increases of $77 million in employee-related expenses, including share-based compensation, primarily due to higher average headcount and $11 million in travel expenses.
General and Administrative General and administrative expenses were $820 million for fiscal 2025, compared to $702 million for fiscal 2024, an increase of $118 million, or 17%. The increase in general and administrative expenses included increases of $73 million in employee-related expenses, including share-based compensation, primarily due to higher average headcount, and $36 million in professional services expenses.
Our cash equivalents and marketable securities are composed of, in order from largest to smallest, corporate bonds, U.S. treasury securities, commercial paper, money market funds, and U.S. agency obligations.
Our cash equivalents and marketable securities are primarily composed of, in order from largest to smallest, corporate bonds, U.S. treasury securities, money market funds, U.S. agency obligations, commercial paper, and asset-backed securities. We have financed our operations primarily through customer payments, issuance of debt, and sales of our common stock.
In some cases, we supplement our consulting teams by subcontracting resources from our service partners and deploying them on customer engagements. As the Workday-related consulting practices of our partner firms continue to develop, we expect these partners to increasingly contract directly with our subscription customers for services engagements.
As the Workday-related consulting practices of our partner firms continue to develop, we expect these partners to increasingly contract directly with our subscription customers for services engagements.
We expect costs of subscription services will continue to increase in absolute dollars as we improve and expand our technical operations infrastructure, including our data centers and computing infrastructure operated by third parties.
We expect costs of subscription services will continue to increase in absolute dollars as we improve and expand our technical operations infrastructure, including computing infrastructure operated by third parties. Costs of Professional Services Costs of professional services were $803 million for fiscal 2025, compared to $740 million for fiscal 2024, an increase of $63 million, or 9%.
Financial Results Overview The following table provides an overview of our key metrics (in millions, except percentages, basis points, and headcount data): As of and for the Years Ended January 31, 2024 2023 Change Total revenues $ 7,259 $ 6,216 17 % Subscription services revenues $ 6,603 $ 5,567 19 % GAAP operating income (loss) $ 183 $ (222) 182 % Non-GAAP operating income (1) $ 1,740 $ 1,210 44 % GAAP operating margin 2.5 % (3.6) % 610 bps Non-GAAP operating margin (1) 24.0 % 19.5 % 450 bps Operating cash flows $ 2,149 $ 1,657 30 % Free cash flows (1) $ 1,917 $ 1,293 48 % Total subscription revenue backlog $ 20,924 $ 16,448 27 % 12-month subscription revenue backlog $ 6,623 $ 5,512 20 % 24-month subscription revenue backlog $ 11,656 $ 9,677 20 % Cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities $ 7,813 $ 6,121 28 % Headcount 18,824 17,744 6 % (1) See “Non-GAAP Financial Measures” below for further information.
Financial Results Overview The following table provides an overview of our key metrics (in millions, except percentages, basis points, and headcount data): As of and for the Years Ended January 31, 2025 2024 Change Total revenues $ 8,446 $ 7,259 16 % Subscription services revenues $ 7,718 $ 6,603 17 % GAAP operating income $ 415 $ 183 127 % Non-GAAP operating income (1) $ 2,186 $ 1,741 26 % GAAP operating margin 4.9 % 2.5 % 239 bps Non-GAAP operating margin (1) 25.9 % 24.0 % 190 bps Operating cash flows $ 2,461 $ 2,149 15 % Free cash flows (1) $ 2,192 $ 1,917 14 % Total subscription revenue backlog $ 25,056 $ 20,924 20 % 12-month subscription revenue backlog $ 7,631 $ 6,623 15 % Cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities $ 8,017 $ 7,813 3 % Headcount 20,482 18,824 9 % (1) See “Non-GAAP Financial Measures” below for further information.
Pricing for our applications varies based on many factors, including the complexity and maturity of the application and its acceptance in the marketplace. New products or services offerings by competitors in the future could also impact the mix and pricing of our offerings.
Pricing for our applications varies based on many factors, including the complexity and maturity of the application and its acceptance in the marketplace.
Costs of Professional Services Costs of professional services were $740 million for fiscal 2024, compared to $704 million for fiscal 2023, an increase of $36 million, or 5%. The increase in costs of professional services included an increase of $38 million in employee-related expenses, including share-based compensation, primarily due to higher average headcount.
Product Development Product development expenses were $2.6 billion for fiscal 2025, compared to $2.5 billion for fiscal 2024, an increase of $160 million, or 7%. The increase in product development expenses included an increase of $158 million in employee-related expenses, including share-based compensation, primarily due to higher average headcount.
For contracts billed on a time and materials basis, revenues are recognized over time as the professional services are performed. For contracts billed on a fixed price basis, revenues are recognized over time based on the proportion of the professional services performed.
Our professional services consulting engagements are billed on a time and materials or fixed price basis. We generally invoice our customers in arrears for our professional services. For contracts billed on a time and materials basis, revenues are recognized over time as the professional services are performed.
Subscription Revenue Backlog As of January 31, 2024, our total subscription revenue backlog was $20.9 billion, with $6.6 billion and $11.7 billion expected to be recognized in revenues over the next 12 and 24 months, respectively.
As of January 31, 2024, our total subscription revenue backlog was $20.9 billion, with $6.6 billion expected to be recognized in revenues over the next 12 months. The increase in subscription revenue backlog was primarily driven by expansion within our existing customer base, sales to new customers, and timing of renewals for existing customers.
General and administrative expenses consist of employee-related expenses for finance and accounting, legal, human resources, information systems personnel, professional fees, and other corporate expenses. 36 Table of Contents Results of Operations Revenues Our total revenues for fiscal 2024, 2023, and 2022, were as follows (in millions): Year Ended January 31, 2024 2023 2022 Subscription services $ 6,603 $ 5,567 $ 4,546 Professional services 656 649 593 Total revenues $ 7,259 $ 6,216 $ 5,139 Total revenues were $7.3 billion for fiscal 2024, compared to $6.2 billion for fiscal 2023, an increase of $1.0 billion, or 17%.
Results of Operations Revenues Our total revenues were as follows (in millions): Year Ended January 31, 2025 2024 2023 Subscription services $ 7,718 $ 6,603 $ 5,567 Professional services 728 656 649 Total revenues $ 8,446 $ 7,259 $ 6,216 36 Table of Contents Total revenues were $8.4 billion for fiscal 2025, compared to $7.3 billion for fiscal 2024, an increase of $1.2 billion, or 16%.
The increase in costs of subscription services included increases of $62 million in employee-related expenses, including share-based compensation, primarily due to higher average headcount, $44 million in third-party expenses for hardware maintenance and data center capacity, and $16 million in facilities and IT-related expenses, offset by a decrease of $89 million in depreciation expense due to the change in useful lives of data center equipment.
The increase in costs of subscription services included increases of $132 million in employee-related expenses, including share-based compensation, primarily due to higher average headcount, $44 million in data center capacity expenses, and $39 million in depreciation.
Further, the non-GAAP financial measures of non-GAAP operating income, non-GAAP operating margin, and free cash flows have certain limitations as they do not reflect all items of expense or cash that affect our operations and are reflected in the corresponding GAAP financial measures.
Our definitions will likely differ from the definitions used by other companies, including peer companies, and therefore comparability may be limited. Further, these non-GAAP financial measures have certain limitations as they do not reflect all items of expense or cash that affect our operations and are reflected in the corresponding GAAP financial measures.
Professional services revenues include fees for deployment services, optimization services, and training. 35 Table of Contents Subscription services revenues accounted for approximately 91% of our total revenues during fiscal 2024, and represented 97% of our total unearned revenue as of January 31, 2024.
Subscription services revenues accounted for approximately 91% of our total revenues for the fiscal year ended January 31, 2025, and represented 97% of our total unearned revenue as of January 31, 2025.
Costs and Expenses Our costs and expenses for fiscal 2024, 2023, and 2022, were as follows (in millions): Year Ended January 31, 2024 2023 2022 Costs of subscription services $ 1,031 $ 1,011 $ 796 Costs of professional services 740 704 632 Product development 2,464 2,271 1,879 Sales and marketing 2,139 1,848 1,462 General and administrative 702 604 486 Total costs and expenses $ 7,076 $ 6,438 $ 5,255 Total costs and expenses were $7.1 billion for fiscal 2024, compared to $6.4 billion for fiscal 2023, an increase of $638 million, or 10%.
Costs and Expenses Our costs and expenses were as follows (in millions): Year Ended January 31, 2025 2024 2023 Costs of subscription services $ 1,266 $ 1,031 $ 1,007 Costs of professional services 803 740 703 Product development 2,626 2,464 2,247 Sales and marketing 2,432 2,139 1,842 General and administrative 820 702 599 Restructuring 84 0 40 Total costs and expenses $ 8,031 $ 7,076 $ 6,438 37 Table of Contents Total costs and expenses were $8.0 billion for fiscal 2025, compared to $7.1 billion for fiscal 2024, an increase of $955 million, or 13%.
We may provide certain customers flexible payment terms and the timing of revenue recognition may differ from the timing of invoicing to our customers. Our professional services consulting engagements are billed on a time and materials basis or a fixed price basis. We generally invoice our customers in arrears for our professional services.
Our subscription contracts typically have a term of three years or longer and are generally noncancelable. We generally invoice our customers annually in advance for subscription services. We may provide certain customers flexible payment terms and the timing of revenue recognition may differ from the timing of invoicing to our customers.
We define free cash flows, a non-GAAP financial measure, as net cash provided by (used in) operating activities minus total capital expenditures. See “Non-GAAP Financial Measures” below for further information. Free cash flows improved to $1.9 billion for fiscal 2024, compared to $1.3 billion for fiscal 2023.
Free Cash Flows In evaluating our performance internally, we focus on long-term, sustainable growth in free cash flows. We define free cash flows, a non-GAAP financial measure, as net cash provided by operating activities minus capital expenditures. See “Non-GAAP Financial Measures” below for further information.
Sales commissions for new revenue contracts are capitalized and amortized on a straight-line basis over a period of benefit that we have determined to be five years. General and administrative expenses .
Marketing programs consist of advertising, events, corporate communications, brand awareness, brand ambassador campaigns, and product marketing activities. Sales commissions are considered incremental costs of obtaining a contract with a customer. Sales commissions for new revenue contracts are capitalized and amortized on a straight-line basis over a period of benefit that we have determined to be five years.
Business Combinations, Goodwill, and Acquisition-Related Intangible Assets We allocate the purchase consideration of acquired companies to tangible and intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on their estimated fair values at the acquisition date, with the excess recorded to goodwill.
Changes in the recognition or measurement of uncertain tax positions could result in material increases or decreases in our provision for (benefit from) income taxes in the period in which we make the change. 45 Table of Contents Business Combinations, Goodwill, and Acquisition-Related Intangible Assets We allocate the purchase consideration of acquired companies to tangible and intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on their estimated fair values at the acquisition date, with the excess recorded to goodwill.
We expect general and administrative expenses will continue to increase in absolute dollars as we invest in our general and administrative organizations to support business growth. 38 Table of Contents Share-based compensation Costs and expenses include share-based compensation expenses as follows (in millions): Year Ended January 31, 2024 2023 2022 Costs of subscription services $ 120 $ 106 $ 86 Costs of professional services 116 111 113 Product development 653 619 543 Sales and marketing 282 249 216 General and administrative 245 210 154 Total share-based compensation expenses $ 1,416 $ 1,295 $ 1,112 Percentage of total revenues 19.5 % 20.8 % 21.6 % Share-based compensation expenses increased by $121 million during fiscal 2024, primarily due to additional grants to new and existing employees, partially offset by the $28 million impact of the vest date change in fiscal 2023.
Share-based compensation Costs and expenses include share-based compensation expense as follows (in millions): Year Ended January 31, 2025 2024 2023 Costs of subscription services $ 145 $ 120 $ 105 Costs of professional services 114 116 111 Product development 670 653 616 Sales and marketing 310 282 248 General and administrative 272 245 210 Restructuring 8 0 5 Total share-based compensation expense $ 1,519 $ 1,416 $ 1,295 Percentage of total revenues 18.0 % 19.5 % 20.8 % Share-based compensation expense increased by $103 million during fiscal 2025, primarily due to additional grants to new and existing employees.
Provision For (Benefit From) Income Taxes The provision for (benefit from) income taxes consisted of the following (in millions): Year Ended January 31, 2024 2023 2022 Provision for (benefit from) income taxes $ (1,025) $ 107 $ (13) The income tax benefit for fiscal 2024 was primarily attributable to the $1.1 billion release of our valuation allowance related to all U.S. federal and state deferred tax assets, excluding certain state tax credits.
Provision For (Benefit From) Income Taxes The provision for (benefit from) income taxes was as follows (in millions): Year Ended January 31, 2025 2024 2023 Provision for (benefit from) income taxes $ 112 $ (1,025) $ 107 The income tax provision for fiscal 2025 was primarily attributable to an increase in our U.S. pretax income and income tax expenses in profitable foreign jurisdictions.
Product Development Product development expenses were $2.5 billion for fiscal 2024, compared to $2.3 billion for fiscal 2023, an increase of $193 million, or 8%.
Sales and Marketing Sales and marketing expenses were $2.4 billion for fiscal 2025, compared to $2.1 billion for fiscal 2024, an increase of $294 million, or 14%.
As of January 31, 2023, our total subscription revenue backlog was $16.4 billion, with $5.5 billion and $9.7 billion expected to be recognized in revenues over the next 12 and 24 months, respectively.
ARR is a non-GAAP financial measure and should be viewed independently of, and not as a substitute for or combined with, revenue and unearned revenue. Subscription Revenue Backlog As of January 31, 2025, our total subscription revenue backlog was $25.1 billion, with $7.6 billion expected to be recognized in revenues over the next 12 months.
Share Repurchase Programs In November 2022, our Board of Directors authorized the 2022 Share Repurchase Program, under which we may repurchase up to $500 million of our outstanding shares of Class A common stock.
Prior to the August 2024 Share Repurchase Program, our Board of Directors authorized a $500 million share repurchase program in February 2024, which we completed in the third quarter of fiscal 2025, and a $500 million share repurchase program in November 2022, which we completed in the first quarter of fiscal 2025.
Demand for our products remains strong, we continue to achieve solid new subscription bookings, and our near-term revenues are relatively predictable as a result of our subscription-based business model.
Demand for our products remains strong, we continue to achieve solid new subscription bookings, and our near-term revenues are relatively predictable as a result of our subscription-based business model. 34 Table of Contents We have experienced, and may continue to experience, a moderation of revenue growth rates due to deal scrutiny and the lengthening of certain sales cycles, particularly within net new opportunities, and reduced growth in headcount level commitments upon renewals of existing customers.
We expect our product development, sales and marketing, and general and administrative expenses as a percentage of total revenues will decrease over the longer term as we grow our revenues, and we anticipate that we will gain economies of scale by increasing our customer base without direct incremental development costs.
As a result of our focus on expanding operating margin, we expect our product development, sales and marketing, and general and administrative expenses as a percentage of total revenues will decrease over the longer term as we grow our revenues and invest in a disciplined manner to support our long-term growth objectives.
This improvement also included a $93 million, or 1.3% of revenues, benefit from the change in useful lives of data center equipment. Reconciliations of our GAAP to non-GAAP operating income (loss) and operating margin were as follows (in millions, except percentages). See “Non-GAAP Financial Measures” below for further information.
The increase was primarily due to our revenue growth outpacing headcount growth and moderation of operating expenses. 39 Table of Contents Reconciliations of our GAAP to non-GAAP operating income (loss) and operating margin were as follows (in millions, except percentages). See “Non-GAAP Financial Measures” below for further information.
This improvement also included a $93 million, or 1.3% of revenues, benefit from the change in useful lives of data center equipment. Non-GAAP operating income increased from $1.2 billion, or 19.5% of revenues, in fiscal 2023 to $1.7 billion, or 24.0% of revenues in fiscal 2024, primarily due to our revenue growth outpacing headcount growth and moderation of operating expenses.
The improvement was primarily due to our revenue growth outpacing headcount growth and moderation of operating expenses, including share-based compensation, partially offset by restructuring expenses recognized in the current fiscal year. Non-GAAP operating income was $2.2 billion, or 25.9% of revenues, in fiscal 2025, compared to $1.7 billion, or 24.0% of revenues in fiscal 2024.
Operating Income (Loss) and Operating Margin GAAP operating income (loss) increased from $(222) million, or (3.6)% of revenues, in fiscal 2023 to $183 million, or 2.5% of revenues, in fiscal 2024, primarily due to our revenue growth outpacing headcount growth and moderation of operating expenses.
Operating Income (Loss) and Operating Margin GAAP operating income was $415 million, or 4.9% of revenues, in fiscal 2025, compared to $183 million, or 2.5% of revenues in fiscal 2024.
We expect product development expenses will continue to increase in absolute dollars as we improve and extend our applications and develop new technologies. Sales and Marketing Sales and marketing expenses were $2.1 billion for fiscal 2024, compared to $1.8 billion for fiscal 2023, an increase of $291 million, or 16%.
We expect product development expenses will continue to increase in absolute dollars as we improve and extend our applications and develop new technologies, including costs incurred for hardware maintenance, data center capacity, facility costs, and IT-related expenses.
Cash used in investing activities for fiscal 2023 was $2.5 billion, which primarily resulted from purchases of marketable securities, net of maturities, of $2.2 billion using the proceeds from the Senior Notes offering, total capital expenditures of $364 million for data center and office space projects, and purchases of $23 million for non-marketable equity and other investments.
Investing Activities Cash used in investing activities for fiscal 2025 was $1.8 billion, which primarily resulted from a net cash outflow of $667 million related to marketable debt securities activities, cash consideration, net of cash acquired, of $522 million and $303 million for the acquisitions of HiredScore and Evisort, respectively, and capital expenditures of $269 million for data center and office space projects.
Our diverse customer base includes medium-sized and large, global organizations within numerous industry categories, including professional and business services, financial services, healthcare, education, government, technology, media, retail, and hospitality. We have achieved significant growth since our inception in 2005.
Our diverse customer base includes emerging, medium-sized, and large global organizations within numerous industry categories, including professional and business services, financial services, healthcare, education, government, technology, media, retail, and hospitality. With Workday, our customers have an AI-powered platform that can help them deliver better employee experiences, increase productivity, improve operational efficiencies, and provide insights for faster, data-driven decision-making.
The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (“OECD”) released Pillar Two model rules defining a 15% global minimum tax for large multinational corporations. The OECD continues to release additional guidance and countries are implementing legislation with widespread adoption of the Pillar Two Framework expected in the near future.
The OECD continues to release additional guidance and countries are implementing legislation, with widespread adoption of the Pillar Two Framework expected in the near future. Pillar Two rules are at varying stages of adoption across the jurisdictions where we operate. The specific rules and timeline to implement these rules vary by jurisdiction.
Reconciliation of our GAAP net cash provided by (used in) operating activities to non-GAAP free cash flows is as follows (in millions): Year Ended January 31, 2024 2023 2022 Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities $ 2,149 $ 1,657 $ 1,651 Less: Total capital expenditures (1) (232) (364) (435) Free cash flows $ 1,917 $ 1,293 $ 1,216 (1) Total capital expenditures consists of Capital expenditures, excluding owned real estate projects of $228 million, $360 million, and $264 million for fiscal 2024, 2023, and 2022, respectively, and Owned real estate projects of $4 million, $4 million, and $171 million for fiscal 2024, 2023, and 2022, respectively.
Reconciliation of our GAAP net cash provided by operating activities to non-GAAP free cash flows is as follows (in millions): Year Ended January 31, 2025 2024 2023 Net cash provided by operating activities $ 2,461 $ 2,149 $ 1,657 Less: Capital expenditures (269) (232) (364) Free cash flows $ 2,192 $ 1,917 $ 1,293 Share Repurchase Programs In August 2024, our Board of Directors authorized the August 2024 Share Repurchase Program, under which we may repurchase up to $1.0 billion of our outstanding shares of our Class A common stock.
The increase in product development expenses included increases of $148 million in employee-related expenses, including share-based compensation, primarily due to higher average headcount, $22 million in third-party expenses for hardware maintenance and data center capacity, and $15 million in facilities and IT-related expenses.
The increase in operating expenses included increases of $555 million in employee-related expenses, including share-based compensation, primarily due to higher average headcount, $84 million in restructuring expenses primarily related to the Fiscal 2026 Restructuring Plan, $57 million in facilities and IT-related expenses, $56 million in data center capacity expenses, $46 million in subcontractor expenses, $44 million in professional services expenses, $38 million in depreciation, $37 million in amortization of deferred sales commissions due to increased sales, and $31 million related to marketing programs.
The amounts and estimated useful lives assigned to acquisition-related intangible assets impact the amount and timing of future amortization expense. 45 Table of Contents We test goodwill and acquisition-related intangible assets for impairment on an annual basis, or more frequently if a significant event or circumstance indicates impairment, by considering qualitative and quantitative factors.
The amounts and estimated useful lives assigned to acquisition-related intangible assets impact the amount and timing of future amortization expense.
Subscription services revenues are recognized over time as services are delivered and consumed concurrently over the contractual term, beginning on the date our service is made available to the customer. Our subscription contracts typically have a term of three years or longer and are generally noncancelable. We generally invoice our customers annually in advance for subscription services.
New products or services offerings by competitors in the future could also impact the mix and pricing of our offerings. 35 Table of Contents Subscription services revenues are recognized over time as services are delivered, beginning on the date our service is made available to the customer.
Our measures of non-GAAP operating income, non-GAAP operating margin, and free cash flows meet the definition of non-GAAP financial measures.
Our measures of non-GAAP operating income, non-GAAP operating margin, and free cash flows meet the definition of non-GAAP financial measures. Change in Non-GAAP Financial Measures Effective beginning fiscal 2025, we exclude certain acquisition-related costs and restructuring costs from our non-GAAP results as they may vary from period-to-period independent of the operating performance of our business.
In fiscal 2024, the improvement in cash flow provided by operating activities was primarily due to an increase in sales and the related billings, strong cash collections, interest received from marketable debt securities, and a one-time intellectual property transfer tax payment made in fiscal 2023.
In fiscal 2025, the improvement in cash flow provided by operating activities was primarily the result of higher cash collections of $868 million due to increased sales and additional interest income received of $112 million from marketable debt securities, offset by increased employee-related payments of $465 million primarily due to higher average headcount and increased supplier payments of $171 million to support our continued growth.
As we continue to leverage our expanding partner ecosystem, we expect that professional services revenue will continue to decline over time as a percentage of total revenues. 34 Table of Contents Impact of Current Economic Conditions Recent macroeconomic events including higher inflation and interest rates, as well as geopolitical factors including the Russia-Ukraine and Israel-Hamas conflicts, have negatively impacted the global economy and created continued uncertainty, volatility, and disruption of financial markets.
Impact of Current Economic Conditions Recent macroeconomic events including increased tariffs, elevated inflation, and fluctuating interest rates and foreign currency exchange rates, as well as geopolitical instability, continue to impact the global economy and create uncertainty, volatility, and disruption of financial markets.
The increase in total costs and expenses was primarily due to an increase of $516 million in employee-related expenses, including share-based compensation.
The increase in costs of professional services included increases of $46 million in subcontractor expenses and $12 million in employee-related expenses.
For fiscal 2023, cash provided by financing activities was $1.2 billion, which was primarily due to proceeds of $3.0 billion from borrowings on the Senior Notes, net of debt discount of $22 million, and $152 million from the issuance of common stock from employee equity plans, offset by the principal payment of $1.15 billion in connection with the conversion of our 0.25% convertible senior notes (“2022 Notes”), repayment of $694 million for the term loan under the credit agreement entered into in April 2020 (“2020 Credit Agreement”), and $75 million of repurchases of common stock under the 2022 Share Repurchase Program. 41 Table of Contents Beginning in April 2024, we intend to fund withholding taxes due on employee equity awards by net share withholding, rather than our current approach of selling shares of our common stock on our employees’ behalf to cover taxes upon vesting of such awards.
This primarily includes investments in our office facilities to support our continued growth. 41 Table of Contents Financing Activities Cash used in financing activities for fiscal 2025 was $1.2 billion, which was due to repurchases of common stock of $700 million under our share repurchase programs and taxes paid of $636 million related to net share settlement of equity awards, offset by proceeds of $186 million from the issuance of common stock from employee equity plans.

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Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

Market Risk — interest-rate, FX, commodity exposure

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Biggest changeInterest Rate Risk on our Investments We had cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities totaling $7.8 billion and $6.1 billion as of January 31, 2024, and 2023, respectively. Cash equivalents and marketable securities were invested primarily in U.S. treasury securities, U.S. agency obligations, corporate bonds, commercial paper, money market funds, and marketable equity investments.
Biggest changeInterest Rate Risk on our Investments We had cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities totaling $8.0 billion and $7.8 billion as of January 31, 2025, and 2024, respectively. Cash equivalents and marketable securities were invested primarily in U.S. treasury securities, U.S. agency obligations, corporate bonds, commercial paper, money market funds, and asset-backed securities.
The cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities are held primarily for working capital purposes. Our investment portfolios are managed to preserve capital and meet liquidity needs. We do not enter into investments for trading or speculative purposes. Our cash equivalents and our portfolio of debt securities are subject to market risk due to changes in interest rates.
The cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities are held primarily for working capital and general corporate purposes. Our investment portfolios are managed to preserve capital and meet liquidity needs. We do not enter into investments for trading or speculative purposes. Our cash equivalents and our portfolio of debt securities are subject to market risk due to changes in interest rates.
As a result, our operating results and cash flows are subject to fluctuations due to changes in foreign currency exchange rates. As of January 31, 2024, our most significant currency exposures were the euro, British pound, Canadian dollar, and Australian dollar.
As a result, our operating results and cash flows are subject to fluctuations due to changes in foreign currency exchange rates. As of January 31, 2025, our most significant currency exposures were the euro, British pound, Canadian dollar, and Australian dollar.
An immediate increase or decrease of 100 basis points in interest rates would have resulted in an approximately $29 million market value reduction or increase in our investment portfolio as of January 31, 2023. This estimate is based on a sensitivity model that measures market value changes when changes in interest rates occur.
A hypothetical increase or decrease of 100 basis points in interest rates would have resulted in an approximately $57 million market value reduction or increase in our investment portfolio as of January 31, 2024. This estimate is based on a sensitivity model that measures market value changes when changes in interest rates occur.
An immediate increase or decrease of 100 basis points in interest rates would have resulted in an approximately $57 million market value reduction or increase in our investment portfolio as of January 31, 2024.
A hypothetical increase or decrease of 100 basis points in interest rates would have resulted in an approximately $89 million market value reduction or increase in our investment portfolio as of January 31, 2025.

Other WDAY 10-K year-over-year comparisons