Biggest changeNet Sales by Geography The following table presents net sales by geography and the percentage changes (dollars in millions): Year Ended December 31, 2023 2022 2021 2023 vs. 2022 % Inc 2022 vs. 2021 % Inc/(Dec) United States $ 4,288.8 $ 4,012.4 $ 3,853.9 6.9 % 4.1 % International 3,105.4 2,927.5 2,973.4 6.1 (1.5 ) Total $ 7,394.2 $ 6,939.9 $ 6,827.3 6.5 1.6 Net Sales by Product Category The following table presents net sales by product category and the percentage changes (dollars in millions): Year Ended December 31, 2023 2022 2021 2023 vs. 2022 % Inc 2022 vs. 2021 % Inc/(Dec) Knees $ 3,038.4 $ 2,778.3 $ 2,647.9 9.4 % 4.9 % Hips 1,967.2 1,894.9 1,856.1 3.8 2.1 S.E.T. 1,752.6 1,696.7 1,727.8 3.3 (1.8 ) Other 636.0 570.0 595.5 11.6 (4.3 ) Total $ 7,394.2 $ 6,939.9 $ 6,827.3 6.5 1.6 The following table presents net sales by product category by geography for our Knees and Hips product categories (dollars in millions): Year Ended December 31, 2023 2022 2021 2023 vs. 2022 % Inc 2022 vs. 2021 % Inc/(Dec) Knees United States $ 1,770.6 $ 1,615.0 $ 1,487.6 9.6 % 8.6 % International 1,267.8 1,163.3 1,160.3 9.0 0.3 Total $ 3,038.4 $ 2,778.3 $ 2,647.9 9.4 4.9 Hips United States $ 1,012.3 $ 960.9 $ 921.5 5.4 % 4.3 % International 954.9 934.0 934.6 2.2 (0.1 ) Total $ 1,967.2 $ 1,894.9 $ 1,856.1 3.8 2.1 Demand (Volume/Mix) Trends Changes in volume and mix of product sales had positive effects of 8.1 percent and 7.6 percent on year-over-year sales during the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
Biggest changeNet Sales by Geography The following table presents net sales by geography and the percentage changes (dollars in millions): Year Ended December 31, 2024 2023 2022 2024 vs. 2023 % Inc 2023 vs. 2022 % Inc United States $ 4,439.0 $ 4,288.8 $ 4,012.4 3.5 % 6.9 % International 3,239.6 3,105.4 2,927.5 4.3 6.1 Total $ 7,678.6 $ 7,394.2 $ 6,939.9 3.8 6.5 Net Sales by Product Category The following table presents net sales by product category and the percentage changes (dollars in millions): Year Ended December 31, 2024 2023 2022 2024 vs. 2023 % Inc 2023 vs. 2022 % Inc Knees $ 3,173.5 $ 3,038.4 $ 2,778.3 4.4 % 9.4 % Hips 1,999.1 1,967.2 1,894.9 1.6 3.8 S.E.T. 1,865.7 1,752.6 1,696.7 6.5 3.3 Technology & Data, Bone Cement and Surgical 640.3 636.0 570.0 0.7 11.6 Total $ 7,678.6 $ 7,394.2 $ 6,939.9 3.8 6.5 The following table presents net sales by product category by geography for our Knees and Hips product categories (dollars in millions): Year Ended December 31, 2024 2023 2022 2024 vs. 2023 % Inc 2023 vs. 2022 % Inc Knees United States $ 1,814.7 $ 1,770.6 $ 1,615.0 2.5 % 9.6 % International 1,358.8 1,267.8 1,163.3 7.2 9.0 Total $ 3,173.5 $ 3,038.4 $ 2,778.3 4.4 9.4 Hips United States $ 1,040.0 $ 1,012.3 $ 960.9 2.7 % 5.4 % International 959.1 954.9 934.0 0.4 2.2 Total $ 1,999.1 $ 1,967.2 $ 1,894.9 1.6 3.8 Demand (Volume/Mix) Trends Changes in volume and mix of product sales had a positive effect of 4.2 percent on year-over-year sales growth in 2024.
We review sales by these geographies because the underlying market trends in any particular geography tend to be similar across product categories, because we primarily sell the same products in all geographies and many of our competitors publicly report in this manner.
We review sales by these geographies because the underlying market trends in any particular geography tend to be similar across product categories, because we primarily sell the same products in all geographies and because many of our competitors publicly report in this manner.
We issued senior notes for $499.8 million and used those proceeds to repay amounts outstanding under our existing credit facilities and for general corporate purposes, such that we repaid a net $325.0 million on our various revolving credit facilities and $120.2 million of other debt obligations that were due in the first quarter of 2023.
In 2023, we issued senior notes for $499.8 million and used those proceeds to repay amounts outstanding under our existing credit facilities and for general corporate purposes, such that we repaid a net $325.0 million on our various revolving credit facilities and $120.2 million of other debt obligations that were due in the first quarter of 2023.
Our business is seasonal in nature to some extent, as many of our products are used 29 in elective surgical procedures, which typically decline during the summer months and can increase at the end of the year once annual deductibles have been met on health insurance plans.
Our business is seasonal in nature to some extent, as many of our products are used in elective surgical procedures, which typically decline during the summer months and can increase at the end of the year once annual deductibles have been met on health insurance plans.
The reduction in royalty expense was partially the result of agreements we entered into to acquire intellectual property through the buyout of certain licensing arrangements, which are recognized as intangible assets and result in additional intangible asset amortization expense instead of royalty expense.
The reduction in royalty expense was partially the result of agreements we entered into in 2023 to acquire intellectual property through the buyout of certain licensing arrangements, which are recognized as intangible assets and result in additional intangible asset amortization expense instead of royalty expense.
Our latest estimates indicate that we will be near the low end of that range, and the full benefits will not be realized until we complete the closure of a manufacturing facility, which is expected of occur in 2025.
Our latest estimates indicate that we will be near the low end of that range, and the full benefits will not be realized until we complete the closure of a manufacturing facility, which is expected to occur in 2025.
Goodwill and Intangible Assets - We evaluate the carrying value of goodwill and indefinite life intangible assets annually, or whenever events or circumstances indicate that the fair value is below its carrying amount. We evaluate the carrying value of finite life intangible assets whenever events or circumstances indicate the carrying value may 36 not be recoverable.
Goodwill and Intangible Assets - We evaluate the carrying value of goodwill and indefinite life intangible assets annually, or whenever events or circumstances indicate that the fair value is below its carrying amount. We evaluate the carrying value of finite life intangible assets whenever events or circumstances indicate the carrying value may not be recoverable.
In March, May, August and December 2023, our Board of Directors declared cash dividends of $0.24 per share. We expect to continue paying cash dividends on a quarterly basis; however, future dividends are subject to approval of the Board of Directors and may be adjusted as business needs or market conditions change.
In March, May, August and December 2024, our Board of Directors declared cash dividends of $0.24 per share. We expect to continue paying cash dividends on a quarterly basis; however, future dividends are subject to approval of the Board of Directors and may be adjusted as business needs or market conditions change.
As discussed in Note 17 to our consolidated financial statements, the IRS has issued proposed adjustments for years 2010 through 2012, for years 2013 through 2015, and for years 2016 through 2019. We have disputed these proposed adjustments and intend to continue to vigorously defend our positions.
As discussed in Note 17 to our consolidated financial statements, the IRS has issued proposed adjustments for years 2013 through 2015 and for years 2016 through 2019. We have disputed these proposed adjustments and intend to continue to vigorously defend our positions.
Percentages presented are calculated from the underlying unrounded amounts. The following discussion, analysis and comparisons generally focus on the operating results for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022.
Percentages presented are calculated from the underlying unrounded amounts. The following discussion, analysis and comparisons generally focus on the operating results for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023.
Of this amount, $55.0 million is denominated in U.S. Dollars and, therefore, bears no foreign currency translation risk. The remaining amount is denominated in currencies of the various countries where we operate. As discussed in Note 17 to our consolidated financial statements, we generally intend to limit distributions such that they would not result in significant U.S. tax costs.
Of this amount, $59.3 million is denominated in U.S. Dollars and, therefore, bears no foreign currency translation risk. The remaining amount is denominated in currencies of the various countries where we operate. As discussed in Note 17 to our consolidated financial statements, we generally intend to limit distributions such that they would not result in significant U.S. tax costs.
Under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, we have a $206.2 million liability remaining from a one-time tax on the mandatory deemed repatriation of post-1986 untaxed foreign earnings and profits (“transition tax”) for the deemed repatriation of unremitted foreign earnings.
Under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, we have a $154.6 million liability remaining from a one-time tax on the mandatory deemed repatriation of post-1986 untaxed foreign earnings and profits (“transition tax”) for the deemed repatriation of unremitted foreign earnings.
Our ETR in future periods could also potentially be impacted by: changes in our mix of pre-tax earnings; changes in tax rates, tax laws or their interpretation, including the European Union adoption of Pillar Two proposals which will begin to take effect in 2024; the outcome of various federal, state and foreign audits, appeals, and litigation; and the expiration of certain statutes of limitations.
Our ETR in future periods could also potentially be impacted by: changes in our mix of pre-tax earnings; changes in tax rates, tax laws or their interpretation, including the continued adoption of Pillar Two proposals which began to take effect in 2024; the outcome of various federal, state and foreign audits, appeals, and litigation; and the expiration of certain statutes of limitations.
Further, there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional financing on terms favorable to us, if at all. Sources of Liquidity Cash flows provided by operating activities from continuing operations were $1,581.6 million in 2023 compared to $1,356.2 million in 2022.
Further, there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional financing on terms favorable to us, if at all. Sources of Liquidity Cash flows provided by operating activities from continuing operations were $1,499.4 million in 2024 compared to $1,581.6 million in 2023.
We place our cash and cash equivalents in highly-rated financial institutions and limit the amount of credit exposure to any one entity. We invest only in high-quality financial instruments in accordance with our internal investment policy. As of December 31, 2023, $343.4 million of our cash and cash equivalents were held in jurisdictions outside of the U.S.
We place our cash and cash equivalents in highly-rated financial institutions and limit the amount of credit exposure to any one entity. We invest only in high-quality financial instruments in accordance with our internal investment policy. As of December 31, 2024, $436.8 million of our cash and cash equivalents were held in jurisdictions outside of the U.S.
(Sports Medicine, Extremities, Trauma, Craniomaxillofacial and Thoracic); and Other. This sales analysis differs from our reportable operating segments, which are based upon our senior management organizational structure and how we allocate resources toward achieving operating profit goals.
(Sports Medicine, Extremities, Trauma, Craniomaxillofacial and Thoracic); and Technology & Data, Bone Cement and Surgical. This sales analysis differs from our reportable operating segments, which are based upon our senior management organizational structure and how we allocate resources toward achieving operating profit goals.
Expenses as a Percent of Net Sales Year Ended December 31, 2023 2022 2021 2023 vs. 2022 Inc/(Dec) 2022 vs. 2021 Inc/(Dec) Cost of products sold, excluding intangible asset amortization 28.2 % 29.1 % 28.7 % (0.9) % 0.4 % Intangible asset amortization 7.6 7.6 7.8 - (0.2) Research and development 6.2 5.9 6.4 0.3 (0.5) Selling, general and administrative 38.4 39.8 41.6 (1.4) (1.8) Goodwill and intangible asset impairment - 4.2 0.2 (4.2) 4.0 Restructuring and other cost reduction initiatives 2.1 2.8 1.8 (0.7) 1.0 Quality remediation - 0.5 0.8 (0.5) (0.3) Acquisition, integration, divestiture and related 0.3 0.2 - 0.1 0.2 Operating Profit 17.3 10.0 12.6 7.3 (2.6) Cost of Products Sold and Intangible Asset Amortization Cost of products sold, excluding intangible asset amortization, increased in 2023 compared to 2022 primarily due to higher sales.
Expenses as a Percent of Net Sales Year Ended December 31, 2024 2023 2022 2024 vs. 2023 Inc/(Dec) 2023 vs. 2022 Inc/(Dec) Cost of products sold, excluding intangible asset amortization 28.5 % 28.2 % 29.1 % 0.3 % (0.9) % Intangible asset amortization 7.7 7.6 7.6 0.1 - Research and development 5.7 6.2 5.9 (0.5) 0.3 Selling, general and administrative 38.2 38.4 39.8 (0.2) (1.4) Goodwill and intangible asset impairment - - 4.2 - (4.2) Restructuring and other cost reduction initiatives 2.9 2.1 2.8 0.8 (0.7) Quality remediation - - 0.5 - (0.5) Acquisition, integration, divestiture and related 0.3 0.3 0.2 - 0.1 Operating Profit 16.7 17.3 10.0 (0.6) 7.3 Cost of Products Sold and Intangible Asset Amortization 32 Cost of products sold, excluding intangible asset amortization, increased in both amount and as a percentage of net sales in 2024 compared to 2023.
The following table sets forth the factors that contributed to the gross margin changes in each of 2023 and 2022 compared to the prior year: Year Ended December 31, 2023 2022 Prior year gross margin 63.3 % 63.5 % Lower average selling prices (0.2 ) (0.3 ) Manufacturing costs (0.1 ) (0.9 ) Volume, product and market mix and other 1.4 0.6 Inventory charges (0.5 ) (0.1 ) Changes in foreign currency exchange rates 0.3 0.3 Intangible asset amortization - 0.2 Current year gross margin 64.2 % 63.3 % Operating Expenses Research & development (“R&D”) expenses increased in both amount and as a percentage of net sales in 2023 compared to 2022.
The following table sets forth the factors that contributed to the gross margin changes in each of 2024 and 2023 compared to the prior year: Year Ended December 31, 2024 2023 Prior year gross margin 64.2 % 63.3 % Impact from selling prices 0.2 (0.2 ) Manufacturing costs (1.2 ) (0.1 ) Volume, product and market mix and other 0.7 1.4 Inventory charges 0.1 (0.5 ) Changes in foreign currency exchange rates (0.1 ) 0.3 Intangible asset amortization (0.1 ) - Current year gross margin 63.8 % 64.2 % Operating Expenses Research & development (“R&D”) expenses decreased in both amount and as a percentage of net sales in 2024 compared to 2023.
We have three reporting units with goodwill assigned to them. During our annual goodwill impairment testing in the fourth quarter of 2023, for two of these reporting units their estimated fair values exceeded their carrying values by more than 50 percent. We estimated the fair value of these reporting units using the income and market approaches.
We have four reporting units with goodwill assigned to them. During our annual goodwill impairment testing in the fourth quarter of 2024, for the three reporting units we quantitatively tested their estimated fair values exceeded their carrying values by more than 30 percent. We estimated the fair value of these reporting units using the income and market approaches.
We recognized expenses of $151.9 million and $191.6 million in 2023 and 2022, respectively, primarily related to employee termination benefits, sales agent contract terminations, and consulting and project management expenses associated with these programs.
We recognized expenses of $219.0 million and $151.9 million in 2024 and 2023, respectively, primarily related to employee termination benefits, sales agent contract terminations, and consulting and project management expenses associated with these programs.
The following discussion and analysis is presented on a continuing operations basis unless otherwise noted. The following discussion and analysis should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and the corresponding notes included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
See Note 3 to our consolidated financial statements for additional information. The following discussion and analysis is presented on a continuing operations basis unless otherwise noted. The following discussion and analysis should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and the corresponding notes included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
In addition, we had $1.0 billion available to borrow under a 364-day revolving credit agreement that matures on July 5, 2024, and $1.5 billion available under a five-year revolving facility that matures on July 7, 2028. The terms of the 364-day revolving credit agreement and the five-year revolving facility are described further in Note 13 to our consolidated financial statements.
In addition, we had $1.0 billion available to borrow under a 364-day revolving credit agreement that matures on June 27, 2025, and $1.5 billion available under a five-year revolving facility that matures on June 28, 2029. The terms of the 364-day revolving credit agreement and the five-year revolving facility are described further in Note 13 to our consolidated financial statements.
As of December, 31, 2023, $51.6 and $154.6 million of this amount is recorded in current income tax liabilities and non-current income tax liabilities, respectively, on our consolidated balance sheet. As discussed in Note 21 to our consolidated financial statements, we are involved in various litigation matters.
As of December, 31, 2024, $68.7 million and $85.9 million of this amount is recorded in current income tax liabilities and non-current income tax liabilities, respectively, on our consolidated balance sheet. As discussed in Note 21 to our consolidated financial statements, we are involved in various litigation matters.
The 2021 Restructuring Plan is expected to result in total pre-tax restructuring charges of approximately $180 million by the end of 2024, of which approximately $170 million was incurred through December 31, 2023.
The 2023 Restructuring Plan along is expected to result in total pre-tax charges of approximately $120 million by the end of 2025, of which $114 million was incurred through December 31, 2024.
We expect to reduce gross annual pre-tax operating expenses by $175 million to $200 million relative to the 2023 baseline expenses by the end of 2025 as program benefits under the 2023 Restructuring Plan are realized.
We expect to reduce gross annual pre-tax operating expenses by $175 million to $200 million relative to the 2023 baseline expenses by the end of 2025 as program benefits under the 2023 Restructuring Plan are realized. The 2021 Restructuring Plan was completed by the end of 2024, resulting in $169 million of total pre-tax charges.
These estimated payments related to these agreements could range from $0 to $440 million. 35 CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES The preparation of our financial statements is affected by the selection and application of accounting policies and methods, and also requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period.
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES The preparation of our financial statements is affected by the selection and application of accounting policies and methods, and also requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period.
Cash flows used in investing activities from continuing operations were $778.9 million in 2023 compared to $522.0 million in 2022. Instrument and property, plant and equipment additions reflected ongoing investments in our product portfolio, including new product introductions, optimization of our manufacturing and logistics networks, investments in enterprise resource planning software and a new corporate jet.
Cash flows used in investing activities from continuing operations were $888.1 million in 2024 compared to $778.9 million in 2023. Instrument and property, plant and equipment additions reflected ongoing investments in our product portfolio, including new product introductions, optimization of our manufacturing and logistics networks, and investments in ERP software.
However, we have had some success in reducing the negative effects of pricing due to internal initiatives and being able to pass some inflationary impacts on to customers. 30 Foreign Currency Exchange Rates In 2023 and 2022, changes in foreign currency exchange rates had negative effects of 1.0 percent and 5.0 percent, respectively, on year-over-year sales.
However, we have had success in offsetting negative effects of pricing pressure due to internal initiatives and being able to pass some inflationary impacts on to customers. Foreign Currency Exchange Rates In 2024, changes in foreign currency exchange rates had a negative effect of 1.0 percent on year-over-year sales.
As of December 31, 2023, $155.8 million remained authorized under this program. An additional 0.5 million shares were repurchased in early January 2024 for $64.1 million. As discussed in Note 5 to our consolidated financial statements, we are executing on a 2023 Restructuring Plan, a 2021 Restructuring Plan and a 2019 Restructuring Plan.
As of December 31, 2024, $1,250.0 million remained authorized under this program. As discussed in Note 5 to our consolidated financial statements, we are executing on a 2023 Restructuring Plan, a 2021 Restructuring Plan and a 2019 Restructuring Plan.
However, we do not believe these purchase commitments are material to the overall standing of our business or our liquidity. We have entered into development, distribution and other contractual arrangements that may result in future payments dependent upon various events such as the achievement of certain product R&D milestones, sales milestones, or exclusive rights to distribute a product.
We have entered into development, distribution and other contractual arrangements that may result in future payments dependent upon various events such as the achievement of certain product R&D milestones, sales milestones, or exclusive rights to distribute a product.
Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations On March 1, 2022, we completed the spinoff of our spine and dental businesses into ZimVie.
Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations On March 1, 2022, we completed the spinoff of our spine and dental businesses into ZimVie. The historical results of our spine and dental businesses have been reflected as discontinued operations in our consolidated financial statements in our 2022 results through the date of the spinoff.
Commitments and Contingencies - We are involved in various ongoing proceedings, legal actions and claims, including product liability, intellectual property, stockholder matters, tax disputes, commercial disputes, employment matters, whistleblower and qui tam claims and investigations, governmental proceedings and investigations, and other legal matters that arise in the normal course of our business.
These differences will be reflected as increases or decreases to income tax expense in the period in which they are determined. 37 Commitments and Contingencies - We are involved in various ongoing proceedings, legal actions and claims, including product liability, intellectual property, stockholder matters, tax disputes, commercial disputes, employment matters, whistleblower and qui tam claims and investigations, governmental proceedings and investigations, and other legal matters that arise in the normal course of our business.
However, as a percentage of net sales intangible asset amortization in 2023 was similar to 2022 as amortization expense and net sales increased by a similar percentage. We calculate gross profit as net sales minus cost of products sold and intangible asset amortization. Our gross margin percentage is gross profit divided by net sales.
We calculate gross profit as net sales minus cost of products sold and intangible asset amortization. Our gross margin percentage is gross profit divided by net sales.
Discussion, analysis and comparisons of the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021 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 year ended December 31, 2022.
Discussion, analysis and comparisons of the years ended December 31, 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 Exhibit 99.1 to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed on August 7, 2024.
Due to the complexity of some of these uncertainties, the ultimate resolution may result in a payment that is materially different from our current estimate of the tax liabilities. These differences will be reflected as increases or decreases to income tax expense in the period in which they are determined.
Due to the complexity of some of these uncertainties, the ultimate resolution may result in a payment that is materially different from our current estimate of the tax liabilities.
Material Cash Requirements from Known Contractual and Other Obligations At December 31, 2023, we had outstanding debt of $5,767.9 million, of which $900.0 million was classified as current debt.
Material Cash Requirements from Known Contractual and Other Obligations At December 31, 2024, we had outstanding debt of $6,204.6 million, of which $863.0 million was classified as current debt that matures on April 1, 2025.
In February 2016, our Board of Directors authorized a $1.0 billion share repurchase program effective March 1, 2016, with no expiration date. In 2023, we executed share repurchases to return cash to investors as well as to limit ownership dilution from the issuance of common stock under our share-based compensation programs and in connection with our acquisition of Embody, Inc.
In 2024, we executed share repurchases under this new repurchase program as well as a previous program in an aggregate amount of $868.0 million to return cash to investors as well as to limit ownership dilution from the issuance of common stock under our share-based compensation programs and in connection with our acquisition of Embody, Inc.
The increase in 2023 was primarily driven by higher earnings, lower restructuring-related payments and lower tax payments. These favorable items were partially offset by higher investments in inventory in 2023 when compared to 2022, as well as higher bonus payments in 2023.
The decrease in 2024 was primarily due to a higher volume of accounts payable payments near the end of 2024 relative to 2023 as well as higher bonus, income tax and restructuring-related payments. These unfavorable items were partially offset by lower inventory investments in 2024 when compared to 2023.
Changes in foreign currency exchange rates had negative effects of 0.8 percent and 1.3 percent on 2023 Knees and Hips net sales, respectively. S.E.T. net sales increased by 3.3 percent in 2023 when compared to 2022. Changes in foreign currency exchange rates had a negative effect of 0.5 percent on 2023 S.E.T. net sales.
Product Categories In 2024, our Knees and Hips net sales increased by 4.4 percent and 1.6 percent, respectively, when compared to 2023 due to market growth and new product introductions. Changes in foreign currency exchange rates had negative effects of 0.8 percent and 1.4 percent on 2024 Knees and Hips net sales, respectively.
The majority of countries in which we operate continue to experience pricing pressure from local hospitals, health systems, and governmental healthcare cost containment efforts.
Pricing Trends Global selling prices had a positive effect of 0.6 percent on year-over-year sales growth in 2024. The majority of countries in which we operate continue to experience pricing pressure from local hospitals, health systems, and governmental healthcare cost containment efforts.
The 2019 Restructuring Plan is expected to result in total pre-tax restructuring charges of approximately $370 million by the end of 2025, of which approximately $320 million was incurred through December 31, 2023.
We estimate gross annual pre-tax operating expenses were reduced by approximately $190 million relative to the 2021 baseline expenses by the end of 2024. The 2019 Restructuring Plan is expected to result in total pre-tax restructuring charges of approximately $400 million by the end of 2025, of which $368 million was incurred through December 31, 2024.
The 2023 International net sales increase was similarly driven by recovery in surgical procedures as COVID-19 caused fewer disruptions across most of our major markets, but volume increases were partially offset by the negative impacts of changes in foreign currency exchange rates of 2.1 percent.
Internationally, net sales increased by 4.3 percent in 2024 when compared to 2023. The 2024 International net sales increase was similarly driven by market growth in most of our international markets, but volume increases were partially offset by the negative impacts of changes in foreign currency exchange rates of 2.3 percent.
In addition, in 2023 we incurred losses of $38.9 million on our fixed-to-variable interest rate swaps compared to losses of $4.0 million in 2022. Our effective tax rate (“ETR”) on earnings from continuing operations before income taxes was 4.0 percent and 27.9 percent for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
Our effective tax rate (“ETR”) on earnings from continuing operations before income taxes was 12.7 percent and 4.0 percent for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively.
We 34 believe we can satisfy these debt obligations with cash generated from our operations, by issuing new debt and/or by borrowing on our committed revolving credit facilities. For additional information on our debt, including types of debt, maturity dates, interest rates, debt covenants and available revolving credit facilities, see Note 13 to our consolidated financial statements.
We believe we can satisfy these debt obligations with cash generated from our operations, by issuing new debt and/or by borrowing on our committed revolving credit facilities.
Segment Operating Profit Operating Profit as a Net Sales Operating Profit Percentage of Net Sales Year Ended December 31, Year Ended December 31, Year Ended December 31, (dollars in millions) 2023 2022 2021 2023 2022 2021 2023 2022 2021 Americas $ 4,624.1 $ 4,295.5 $ 4,102.1 $ 1,948.9 $ 1,819.7 $ 1,726.9 42.1 % 42.4 % 42.1 % EMEA 1,592.4 1,456.6 1,477.2 524.6 404.1 405.9 32.9 27.7 27.5 Asia Pacific 1,177.7 1,187.8 1,248.0 422.6 419.6 418.3 35.9 35.3 33.5 Americas In the Americas, operating profit increased, but operating profit as a percentage of net sales decreased, in 2023 compared to 2022.
Segment Operating Profit Segment Profit as a Net Sales Segment Profit Percentage of Net Sales Year Ended December 31, Year Ended December 31, Year Ended December 31, (dollars in millions) 2024 2023 2022 2024 2023 2022 2024 2023 2022 Americas $ 4,794.8 $ 4,624.1 $ 4,295.5 $ 2,577.0 $ 2,487.1 $ 2,282.4 53.7 % 53.8 % 53.1 % EMEA 1,691.1 1,592.4 1,456.5 585.8 538.2 416.1 34.6 33.8 28.6 Asia Pacific 1,192.8 1,177.7 1,187.8 457.6 432.3 429.1 38.4 36.7 36.1 Americas In the Americas, operating profit increased, but operating profit as a percentage of net sales slightly decreased, in 2024 compared to 2023.
Based on foreign currency exchange rates at the end of 2023, we expect foreign currency to negatively affect year-over-year net sales by approximately 0.5 percent. We estimate operating profit will increase in 2024 when compared to 2023 due to higher net sales, leverage from fixed operating expenses and savings from our restructuring plans.
Based on foreign currency exchange rates at the end of 2024, we expect foreign currency to negatively affect year-over-year net sales by approximately 1.5 percent to 2.0 percent.
S.E.T. net sales growth was primarily driven by growth in CMFT, sports medicine and upper extremities products of 12.9 percent, 10.6 percent and 9.4 percent, respectively, partially offset by a 5.5 percent decline in trauma. S.E.T.’s performance was also negatively impacted by unfavorable changes in reimbursement for certain restorative therapy products.
S.E.T. net sales increased by 6.5 percent in 2024 when compared to 2023. S.E.T. net sales growth was primarily driven by net sales growth in CMFT, sports medicine and upper extremities products of 14.0 percent, 13.1 percent and 6.0 percent, respectively, partially offset by a 0.5 percent decline in net sales of trauma products.
The increases were driven by higher personnel-related costs, higher spending on our initial compliance with the European Union Medical Device Regulation, additional R&D expenses from acquisitions we made in 2023, and other R&D investments. Selling, general & administrative (“SG&A”) expenses increased in amount, but decreased as a percentage of net sales in 2023 compared to 2022.
The decreases were driven by lower spending on our initial compliance with the EU MDR as we continue to make progress on the approvals of our products, and savings from our 2023 Restructuring Plan. Selling, general & administrative (“SG&A”) expenses increased in amount, but decreased as a percentage of net sales in 2024 compared to 2023.
Asia Pacific In Asia Pacific, operating profit and operating profit as a percentage of net sales increased in 2023 when compared to 2022. In Asia Pacific, changes in foreign currency exchange rates have had a larger impact on our results than in our other operating segments.
Asia Pacific In Asia Pacific, operating profit and operating profit as a percentage of net sales increased in 2024 when compared to 2023.
We estimate the total liabilities for all litigation matters was $244.1 million as of December 31, 2023. We expect to pay these liabilities over the next few years. In the normal course of business, we enter into purchase commitments, primarily related to raw materials.
We expect to pay these liabilities over the next few years. In the normal course of business, we enter into purchase commitments, primarily related to raw materials. However, we do not believe these purchase commitments are material to the overall standing of our business or our liquidity.
The 2019 Restructuring Plan has an objective of reducing costs to allow us to invest in higher priority growth opportunities. We also have other cost reduction and optimization initiatives that have the goal of reducing costs across the organization.
In December of each of 2023, 2021 and 2019, we initiated global restructuring programs (the “2023 Restructuring Plan,” the “2021 Restructuring Plan” and the “2019 Restructuring Plan,” respectively). We also have other cost reduction and optimization initiatives that have the goal of reducing costs across the organization.
However, operating profit as a percentage of net sales decreased in 2023 due to higher carrying expenses from inventory at consigned locations, and continued investments in R&D, including personnel-related costs, which were partially offset by lower royalty expenses as a result of agreements we entered into to acquire intellectual property through the buyout of certain licensing arrangements.
The increase in operating profit in 2024 was primarily due to higher net sales driven by market growth and new product introductions, coupled with lower royalty expense as a result of agreements we entered into in 2023 to acquire intellectual property through the buyout of certain licensing arrangements.
The expenses were higher in 2022 when compared to 2023 primarily due to additional expenses related to the 2021 Restructuring Plan that had just been initiated at the end of 2021. We expect restructuring and other cost reduction initiatives expense to increase in 2024 as we further implement our 2023 Restructuring Plan.
The expenses were higher in 2024 compared to 2023 primarily due to additional expenses related to the 2023 Restructuring Plan that had just been initiated at the end of 2023 and additional expenses related to our U.S. and Canada ERP implementation. For more information regarding these expenses, see Note 5 to our consolidated financial statements.
The increase in expenses was due to selling and distribution costs that are variable expenses which increase as net sales increase. Additionally, personnel-related costs were higher due to additional headcount investments and annual merit increases, and travel and entertainment costs were higher as we have increased these activities from lower pandemic levels.
The increase in expenses was due to selling and distribution costs that are variable expenses which increase as net sales increase.
Our net sales in 2023 were tempered by a negative 1.0 percent effect from changes in foreign currency exchange rates. Our net earnings from continuing operations were $1,024.0 million in 2023 compared to $290.2 million in 2022. Our net earnings increased in 2023 driven by the higher net sales, favorable tax settlements and lower operating expenses.
For the full year 2024, we estimate this ERP implementation had less than a one percent impact to our net sales. In addition, our net sales in 2024 were tempered by a negative 1.0 percent effect from changes in foreign currency exchange rates. Our net earnings were $903.8 million in 2024 compared to $1,024.0 million in 2023.
These favorable items were partially offset by higher excess and obsolete inventory charges, inflationary cost pressures and lower average selling prices. 31 Intangible asset amortization expense increased in 2023 when compared to 2022 due to acquisitions we made in 2023, including intangible assets acquired from the buyout of certain royalty-related licensing agreements as described above.
Intangible asset amortization expense increased in amount and as a percentage of net sales in 2024 when compared to 2023 due to acquisitions we made in 2024 and 2023, the buyout of certain royalty-related licensing agreements as described above and other technology-based asset purchases in 2024.
Other (Expense) Income, net, Interest Expense, net, and Income Taxes In 2023, we incurred a loss of $9.3 million in our other (expense) income, net compared to a loss of $128.0 million in 2022.
Acquisition, integration, divestiture and related expenses increased in 2024 when compared to 2023 due to the acquisitions made in 2024 as well as the fact that the 2023 acquisitions only had a partial year of integration costs in 2023. 33 Other Expense, net, Interest Expense, net, and Income Taxes In 2024, we incurred a loss of $31.1 million in our other expense, net compared to a loss of $9.3 million in 2023.
In addition, in 2023 we paid $134.9 million related to acquisitions and $86.4 million to acquire intellectual property through the buyout of certain licensing arrangements. Cash flows used in financing activities from continuing operations were $763.5 million in 2023 compared to $775.7 million in 2022.
In addition, in 2024 we paid $276.3 million related to acquisitions and $153.0 million to acquire the ownership rights or gain access to various technologies that were recognized as intangible assets. Cash flows used in financing activities from continuing operations were $484.5 million in 2024 compared to $763.5 million in 2023.
However, as a percentage of net sales costs of products sold, excluding intangible asset amortization, declined in 2023 compared to 2022. This decline was primarily due to volume and mix shift to higher margin products and markets, higher hedge gains recognized in the current year period as part of our hedging program and lower royalty expense.
The increase in amount was primarily due to a higher volume of net sales. The increase as a percentage of net sales was due to higher manufacturing costs from inflation and other cost pressures. The manufacturing cost increase was partially offset by lower royalty expense, volume and mix shift to higher margin products and markets, and improved pricing.
Other product category net sales increased by 11.6 percent in 2023 when compared to 2022 primarily due to higher net sales for our ROSA robot.
Technology & Data, Bone Cement and Surgical product category net sales increased by 0.7 percent in 2024 when compared to 2023 primarily due to higher net sales for our ROSA robot in the first half of the year, but was partially offset by the operational challenges from our ERP system implementation.
Of our current debt, $850.0 million of senior notes mature on November 22, 2024 and the remaining $50.0 million is outstanding under an uncommitted credit facility which we expect to repay during 2024.
In 2024, we issued senior notes for $1,436.3 million and used the proceeds, along with cash on hand, to repurchase $868.0 million of our common stock, redeem $850.0 of our senior notes and repay a net $50.0 million under an uncommitted credit facility.
EMEA In EMEA, operating profit and operating profit as a percentage of net sales increased in 2023 when compared to 2022. The increases were due to higher net sales driven by continued recovery of elective surgical procedures and 33 improved pricing, lower bad debt charges and operating profit leverage from certain costs that do not increase as net sales increase.
However, operating profit as a percentage of net sales decreased slightly due to investments in instruments to support new product introductions and higher bad debt-related charges in 2024. EMEA In EMEA, operating profit and operating profit as a percentage of net sales increased in 2024 when compared to 2023.
We expect our provision for income taxes will increase in 2024 when compared to 2023 due to the European Union adoption of Pillar Two and the non-reoccurrence of favorable tax settlements. RESULTS OF OPERATIONS We review sales by two geographies, the United States and International, and by the following product categories: Knees; Hips; S.E.T.
However, we estimate these favorable items may be partially offset by higher intangible asset amortization, higher net interest expense due to higher interest rates and a higher estimated effective tax rate due to favorable 2024 adjustments that are not expected to recur. 30 RESULTS OF OPERATIONS We review sales by two geographies, the United States and International, and by the following product categories: Knees; Hips; S.E.T.
Geography The 6.9 percent net sales growth in the U.S. in 2023 when compared to 2022 was primarily driven by recovery in surgical procedures as COVID-19 caused fewer disruptions, especially in the Knees and Hips categories. Internationally, net sales increased by 6.1 percent in 2023 when compared to 2022.
Geography The 3.5 percent net sales growth in the U.S. in 2024 when compared to 2023 was driven by market growth in our Knees, Hips and S.E.T. product categories. However, net sales in the U.S. were negatively impacted by the implementation of our new ERP system which caused operational challenges in fulfilling customer orders.